The Carmarthen Weekly Reporter

CARMARTHEN UNDER THE SEARCH-LIGHT. Come, come, and sit you down you shall not budge You shall not go, till I set you up a glass Where you may see the inmost part of you." SHAKESPEARE. The holidays arc unholy days. .x, -$ The beer drunk in Carmarthen during the last week would float a battleship or pay for a torpedo-boat. It is a peculiar fact in anthropology that the people whom Providence has blessed with the least amount of brains seem readiest to muddle that little on the slightest provocation. Shylock was annoyed by the "vile squeaking of the wry-necked fife." Carmar- then househnlders have been annoyed of late until the small hours of the morning with the vile wheezing of the asthmatic rnclodeon. The iiiclodcoii is so called because it is the most unmelodious con- trivance ever produced by the diabolical ingenuity of a misguided inventor. We hear a good deal about the insatiable clamour of the Turkish rabble for bachsheesh"; but I think even the Oriental would in an open competition be defeated in sheer importunity by the droves cf lazy and frowsy mendicants who swarm our streets like locusts on the morning of the ist January. There is a line irony in being wished a Happy New Y CJ. r" under such circumstances. *»'" If you open your door on the "happy morn," your premises will be over-run with a swarm of unwashed tatterdemallions belching foul alcoholic vapours and who dcmalld (not beg) lhcir "calenig." "Calenig" I may esplain fur the benefit of uninitiated Saxons is the Welsh for "backsh\csh. If you don't open the door the probability is that like Bishop Ilatto's rats they would come "down through the ceiling and up through the floor. Why an intelligent community like the Carmarthen public allows itself to be over-run by a crew of this kind passes all compre- hension. It is a pleasant idea to celebrate the New Year by making presents to friends or to those who deserve any consideration at one's hands. But the plague we have to put up with is a far more serious matter. The imperious demands made on New Year's day emanate on the whole from those who are not of the slightest use to themselves or to anybody else. Why will apparently sensible people be bullied into giving away money for no other reason than that the foul scum of society may be enabled to go reeling about the streets before dinner-time to the great accentuation of its already far too patent foulness ? Perhaps the saddest spectacle of all the I saturnalia is to see little children going about in droves, and one drove comparing notes with the other as to where the best hauls arc to be made. It was no uncommon sight under the circumstances to see children of the Standard IV." type dragging about little mites under three years old 011 their cadging expeditions. What will be the inevitable outcome of a training which at such a tender age initiates mere babies into all the "wrinkles" of the professional mendicant? People who encourage such practices are not only not doing good they are committing a grave offence against society. J # The Temperance friends, I see, have been consoling themselves with the fact that Canon Williams is with them and that, therefore, the attitude of the" Press" does not matter. Far be it from me to do anything to minimise the importance of the influence of such a popular and accomplished ecclesiastic as I know the worthy Canon to b; but his personality has nothing to do with the case. The Israelites had the "Lord in a pillar of a cloud leading them in the desert but they did and said some very foolish things there all the same. A fortiori the Temperance Party cannot consider them- selves as infallible because they boast of support in quarters howevei exalted. %T- Put all these petty sneers at the Press are very very small. The Press is open to the Temperance Party as well as to their critics but whenever a representative of that party has come forward—in my experience-he runs away before the question is thoroughly b thrashed out. I should really like to hear what is to be said for temperance crochets— as opposed to temperance advocacy-- apart from mere sweeping assertions made on a temperance platform where there is practically no field for free discussion. .t I should very mud. like to goad, the Temperance Party into DOING .SOMETHING rather than that they should continue to talk louder and louder and louder as a substitute for work. We can afford to leave "unsettled such pitifully small questions as the paupers' annual pint until we do something to put down such disgraceful scenes as took place on New Year's Day, If the Temperance Party want work instead of talk let them call a public meeting in the Town Hall and propose a resolution calling upon the magistrates to bring pressure to bear on the b publicans to close their premises on New Year's Day This would be an act worthy of a Temperance Party. On Saturday the licensed houses were not required to be open for the accommodation of market people and their being shut would have prevented the disgusting spectacles which were to be encountered at every turn. No publican would ever dare to defy the magistrates. The Temperance Party would thus "let their light shine before men instead of wasting it all in illuminating each other. What is the matter with St. Peter's Church that it is never decorated like so many other sacred edifices in the town on the occasion of Christmas and of harvest festivals ? Personally I regard it to be as easy to be devotional on the mountain top as in a Gothic cathedral but when people believe in decoration and are asked from the pulpit to do it, and only do it in a very shabby way there is evidently a screw loose somewhere. Where ? However, one may agree with the senti- ments expressed in Mr Daniel Jones' letter last week, rc the New Year's market, one cannot but regret that stress was laid on the fact that certain people were foreigners." The law knows no such distinction. When the rates are levied, the foreigners have to pay their share as well as other people; and we do not object to take the subscrip- tions and the help of foreigners for any local object. There may be good reason for criticising people's actions 011 the ground that they are ill-advised but none because they are foreigners. If an Englishman is a foreigner in Carmarthen, then numbers of Carmarthen men must be foreigners in England. I Nationality has got nothing whatever to do 1 with abstract questions. Every nation has its great men," said a celebrated ancient; and it might be added "every nation has its medio- crities and its nincompoops," Carmarthen has had its great men but then Shakespeare was something above the average too and i he came from Warwickshire. Patriotism is an excellent servant; but a bad master. If it leads us to take a pride in, and to endeavour to emulate our great men, it is a benefit: if it closes our eyes to the fact that there is a world beyond Johnstown and Abcrgwili, then it is a great evil. The old narrowness has gone to a great extent; but there are a few of us who would not receive the Evangel from Paul of Tarsus because he was not a St. Peter's boy." At the same tunc it is a great pity that the townspeople can seldom agree upon some united plan of action in regard to the closing or the opening of the shops on holidays, We have learned a good deal of late but it is yet easier for us to move individually rather than collectively. The difference between corporate and individual action is exactly that between an army and a crowd. P.S. Harries has added yet one more achievement to his record. On Thursday evening last week he discovered that the pigs in the styes of the Ivy Bush were in imminent danger from the flood. They were not long however left in their peril. The worthy Sergeant had them removed higher up in the Push, which probably prevented them ulti- mately finding themselves up a tree. There is no doubt that part of the site of the proposed railway station was under water last week. But they know little of engineer- ing who imagine that the plans are con- demned thereby. The permanent way between Carmarthen Station and the Junction was liable to flooding but on its being raised a few inches the difficulty was got oyer. Railways—like some men- seem able to defy any amount of wet by means of a little judicious elevation. The shed for the accommodation of the fire-escape has been completed to all intents and purposes. The Corporation can move with commendable promptitude in some cases. But what about the new lights which were to be provided in various parts of the town ? In a few months more they will not be required. I daresay plenty of excuses could be given for the delay. It would be better, however, to have the lamps than the excuses. The soup kitchen opens to-day (Friday); and will be open every Tuesday and Friday until further orders. The Mayor (Mr H. B. White) carries out very assiduously the work of orgaiiisatioii and receives subscriptions for this most deserving charity. Mr J. Howells, the G.W.R. to'n porter, has been astonishing the natives with a New Year's surprise in the shape of a luggage trolley. Carmarthen has lately made great advances in the matter of hansom-cabs and similar vehicles and it was only meet that the advent of iSy8 should be celebrated by the introduction of a handsome newly- designed and brightly-lettered luggage trolley, which will be an ornament in front of a business house instead of the dingy barrows on which the luggage of "commercial gents" is so often piled. < I was greatly disappointed with the meet of the hounds on Saturday. I was led to expect—now that the Corporation own blood- horses-that the Supt. of Police and the Borough Surveyor would throw aside for a day the cares of officialdom and—bestriding the municipal mounts—revel in the delights I of the chase. But a screw is evidently loose somewhere. Has a long course of scavenging tamed the wild spirit of the fiery Arabian steeds? Or were the quadrupeds quite so blooded in the first place as a confiding public were led to believe ? No reformatory boy or prowling Saxon tramp having marred the Arcadian simplicity of Carmarthen for the last three months, the business of the Quarter Sessions consisted on Monday of the Recorder and the foreman of the Grand Jury exchanging the compliments of the season. Happy town in which a Rccordership is a sinecure ifr llalf the drapers' shops were open on Saturday; but one by one they closed, until in the afternoon only one remained and defied the general somnolence. And this one remained open until the last I am urgently requested by one interested in the work of the Parish of St. Peters to enquire for information regarding the follow- ing institutions reported as missing :— I (1) Temperance meetings. (2) Welsh weekly prayer meeting. (3) Mother's meetings.. t (t) Hoys' Friendly Society. (•3) Bible class. (6) Towyside Band of llope. (7) Ptiory-street Band of Hope. (8) Penny BiDk in connection with same. (9) Band of Mercy. (10) Children's flower show. Any information will be thankfully received by the undersigned. I lave you heard, Miss X," asked a conversationalist of a Modern Education damsel on Tuesday evening, that Mr Rees Davies, M.P., has been appointed Attorney- General for the Bahamas." Indeed who arc they was the innocent response. You may hunt up a dozen books of etiquette before you learn what to say 011 an occasion like this. During the evening service at the Taber- nacle Chapel 011 Sunday last, Miss R. Thomas, of Mountain Ash, gave an excellent rendering of 0, ye that love the Lord," the test piece at the Newport National Eisteddfod, in which Miss Thomas proved successful. Miss Ihomas was accompanied on the piano- forte by Mr A. J. Hodges. Afterwards the respected pastor, Rev E. U. Thomas, preached a very impressive funeral sermon on the late Mrs Saph, of Johnstown, who was for many years a faithful member of the Tabernacle. "Ashes must not be deposited here," is the legend which decorates one of the entrances to a court in the centre of the town. And on Monday a nice little barrow- load of cinders confronted the passers-by, and testified to a healthy coiitenipt-oi, the part of someone for vexatious rules and regulations. A popular and esteemed public man was seen on New Year's Day carrying a gun and n going for his usual sport towards Llangunnor- 0 road. When about the middle of the Car- marthen Town Bridge he made a sudden stop, turned half way round, raised his gun and aimcd-but did not fire—in the direction of Mr Joseph's sawmills. There was neither game nor crows to be seen about. Perhaps he intended to give the old sawmills the first shot, and cause an accidental death with the view of getting the G.W.R. Company to replace same with the proposed new station. Privates William Morrish and Harry Williams—two butchers of the Army Service Corps who were on furlough in Carmarthen 0 —were re-called by telegraph on Monday, and proceeded forthwith to headquarters. This sudden order is believed to be connec- ted with the forward movement in Egypt. 0 The usual distribution of bread was made to the poor on New Year's day at St. Peter's Church. ALETKEIA. *— —■

WANTED an intelligent Lad, about 13 years cf age as an Apprentice to the Printing trade. One that understands Welsh preferred. A splendid opportunity afforded to learn all branches. Apply to the Manager, Hcpvrtcr Office.

Tabernacle Annual New Year's Concert. One of the most successful concerts ever held at the above chapel vas given on Saturday evening last by lour of ihe most popular artistes of the day, each and all of whom was in the best of form, namely, Miss Drinkwater, medallist and winner of the Saniton Dolby ptixe in the Royal Academy of r897 (soprano) the contralto being Miss R. Thomas, of Mountain Ash, the popular and rising contralto, who won the contralto prize at the National Eisteddfod, 1897 tenor, Mr D. Lloyd, Llangennech, an artist well known in South Wales, and winner of the challenge silver cup of Wales bass, Mr 1). Chubb, who won the bass and baritone solos at the Newport National Eisteddfod, 1897 accompanist and conductor, Mr T. S. Fuddicombe; recitations, Mr G. J. Hodges. The concert was advertised to commence at 7.50, but long before that hour the sacred edifice was crowded to its utmost capacity with a respectable and appreciative audience. Punctually, the respected pastor of the church, Rev E. U. Thomas, made a short opening address, introducing the artistes, and called upon the conductor to proceed with his programme. The first item on the programme was the quartette, "Sweet and Low," by Barnby, which was very sweetly sang, the four voices being very evenly balanced. This was followed by Mr D. Chubb singing in grand style Benedict's "Rage thou Angry Stoim." Mr Chubb possesses a very powerful and sweet voice, and we predict for him a grand future. Miss R. Thomas then gave very effectively "When the Heart is Young" (Dudley Buck). She received a well-deserved encore, and gave in response Kathleen Mavournecn in beautiful style. This lady possesses a marvellous voice, and no doubt, with due care, she will become one of the leading stars in her profession. Mr D. Lloyd then sang, by special desire, Yr Hen Gerddor" (Pughe Evans) very effectively, and in response to an encore sang Children's Home very sweetly. Mr Lloyd was followed by the Carmarthen favourite pianist, who played "Mose in Egitto." He was, of course, encored, and Mr Puddicombe responded with his favourite piece, Home sweet Home." Mr Gertrude Drinkwater then appeared, and sang "Mia Piccirella" (Gomez). This Italian song was excellently rendered, and in response she gave Nobody knows." This lady possesses a rich and sweet powerful voice, and is now in the front rank of her profession. The programme was now varied by Mr G. J. Hodges giving a recitation, "Christmas Day in the Work- house" (G. R. Sims). Mr Hodges was in grand form, and his effort.was enthusiastically received. Miss R. Thomas then sang Gwlad y Delyn," for which she received an encore, and responded 'with Fy Mam very effectively. The first part concluded by the singing of Randegger's trio, Navigante," which was excellently rendered by Miss Drinkwater and Messrs Lloyd and Chubb. The second part of the programme opened with the stirring duet, "Mae Cymru yn barod," sang by Messrs Lloyd and Chubb, and the splendid rendering evoked an encore, and in response they favoured with repeating the last verse. Mr D. Lloyd afterwards sang "Margarita" excellently, and was followed by Miss Drinkwater giving a fine rendering to 0 Divine Redeemer (Gounod), and in response to an encore sang Killarney." Mr Hodges then recited by special desire, "Trouble in the Amen Corner," and in response to an undeniable encore re-appeared and gave The Grave-digger's Story," which was received with roars of laughter. Miss Thomas next sang Gwlad fy Mebyd" in good style, and in response to an encore sang "Caller herring." She was followed by Mr Chubb, who gave Dydd y Frwydr (by Alaw Ddu), and had a well-deserved encore, and sang Deigryn ar Fedd fy Mam very sweetly and effectively in response. Miss Drinkwater then gave a Welsh song, "0 na byddai'n Haf o hyd," which was vociferously encored, and she gave in return N\'Iio'll buy my Lavender." The concert concluded with the beautiful quartette, In this Hour of softened Splendour" (Pinsuti), which was rendered very sweetly. "God Save the Queen "—Miss Drinkwater singing the solo —brought the concert to a close. Owing to the crowded state of the building, and the success of the artistes in the concert, it was thought advisable to hold a sacred concert on the Sunday evening following. Mr Chubb was unable to remain, but an excellent substitute was found in Mr Lewis Giles. The concert was held in the chapel, and the building was again crowded. It was acknowledged to be the most impressive and enjoyable night held in Carmarthen for a long til-ric. The success of the concert is entirely due to the indefatigable and energetic efforts of Mr George Morgan, Albert House, superin- tendent of the Sunday School, and Mr G. J. Hodges, Francis-terrace, who spared neither time or expense to make it the great success which it undoubtedly proved to be.

Important and Useful Information, If you ask the best physicians in any country— what is the best remedy for indigestion, nervous disorders, and a host ot ailments resulting from them, such as billiorsness, sick headaches, heartburn, swelling of the stomach after meals, drowsiness, shooting pains about the heart, depression of spirits, bronchitis, asthma, spitting of blood, &c., they will immediately reply—"Quinine is the best." Again enquire, "what other substance is a remedy for indigestion, liver complaints, fevers, &e. ? and they will answer — Dandelion." If you then ask, what are the most reliable to purify the blood, and remove the ill effects of impure blood ? and they will tell you that Sarsaparilla and Quinine are best adapted for that purpose. If you then desire to know what will strengthen the appetite for food, the answer will generally be—Gentian and Quinine. Therefore, when all these medicinal ingredients are united with others which possess like properties as remedial agents, funning a combination of all the most renowned n edicinal plints of this and other countries, and known as Gvvilym Evans' Quinine Bitters, we have such a combination of powerful curative agents, that no weakness, debility, or any symptoms of the above named diseases are able to withstand its healing effects. Gwilytn Evans' Quinine Bitters, the Vegetable Ionic, is Bold in bottles at 2s Ud and 4s (id.

LLANGELER. BENEFICE FOR THE PRINCIPAL OF LAMPETER. The London Gazette of Tuesday night contained the following AVhitehall, January 3rd, 1898. The Queen has been pleased to direct letters patent to be passed under the Great Seal of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland for presenting the Rev George William Gent, M.A., principal of St. David's College, Lam- peter, to the sinecure rectory of IJangeler, in the County ot Carmarthen and Diocese of St. David's, vacant by the promotion of Dr John Owen to the bishopric of St, David's.

Carmarthenshire Fox Hounds. I NEW YEAR'S DAY MEET. j These hounds met as is the general custom for the opening run of the new year in Guildhall-square at 11 o'clock. The day turned out to be a very satisfactory one from a hunting point of view and the consequence was that a great number were mounted for the day's sport. It was thought that this was the largest meet that has been witnessed on this particular day. Amongst the most con- spicuous absentees was the respected M.F.H. whose wife's dangerous illness prevented his attendance. Amongst those present were :— Capt. Grismond Philipps, Capt. E. J. Evans, and Miss Evans, Ystrad Dr Carver; Mr J. Francis, Myrtle Hill; Mr Jack Francis Mr R. R. Carver and. Miss Carver, Mr J. Carver, Trecadw-an Mr Hugh Waddle, Llanelly Mr Henry Bath and Misses Bath Miss Lily Francis; Miss Gwen Powell; Major Lloyd, Court Henry; Mr David Lewis, Pantglas; Mr J. F. Rees, M.R.C.V.S., Mr John Anthony, Cilveithy; Messrs Harry, Gwyn, Ivor, and Owen Anthony Mr and Miss Morris, Coomb Mr D. H. Thomas, Starling Park; Mr Percy Thomas, Derllys, &c., &c. A carriage party from Alltyferin, Cwmgwilly, and Mrs Olive, Boar's Head Hotel, attended the meet. THE RUN. Soon after eleven o'clock a start was made and the hounds proceeded to Trebersed, which was drawn blank, as was also Cwmmau- bach, where they generally succed in finding, the disappointment in not finding being a surprise. The hounds were then taken to Ffynsaint, were a couple of foxes were found at home. Both started away and made for ground at Cwmcennin, from which after a short wait, they were bolted by the terriers. The hounds then settled down on one, and made as if going towards Talog, then bore on to the right for Conwil, then round to the right again, and then to Nanty- bwla, where he was rolled ever in the open, after a good spin of about two-and-a-half hours. A fresh start was not made and the hounds were then taken home. The mask was presented to Major Lloyd, of Court Henry, and the brush to Miss Lily Francis, Myrtle Hill, who it is worthy of mention was the first to enter the field in which the fox was killed, which speaks well of her pluck and horsemanship.

Carmarthen Borough Police Court. MONDAY.—Before the Mayor (Mr H. B, White); Mr T. Davies, the Quay and Mr John Lewis, Johnstown. A SEASONABLE GREETING. Before commencing the usual business, the Mayor thanked his colleagues for their kindly co-operation during the past year; b and trusted that the same happy relations would continue during 1898. GEORGE RAY'S NEW YEAR. George Ray was brought up on the usual charge. P.C. Lodwick said About 10.45 p.m. on Saturday I saw the defendant down Mill-st. He was very drunk; he was very noisy -cursing and swearing—with a crowd round him. As he refused to go away when requested, I locked him up. Ray said he was very sorry. He would sign the pledge that day, and asked for another chance." Supt. Smith said that this was the forty- third time defendant had been up before their worships. Ray said he would never come up again he asked them to give him a chance lie had never" hé d a chance right." He had lately been to the Infirmary because he had split his tongue through. He asked for another chance, because it was the New Year. The Bench passed sentence of seven days' hard labour.

Carmarthen Borough Quarter Sessions. MONDAY.—Before the Recorder (Mr Arthur Lewis); the Mayor (Mr H. B. White) and Mr John Lewis.

THE GRAND JURY. The following grand jurors answered to their names:—Messrs Alcwyn C. Evans (foreman) W. J. Williams, Cambray House; O. J. Davies, Sheaf Inn; D. D. Jones, Guildhall Villa; Harry Reeves, King-street; John R. Bland, Richmond- lerrace; Arthur B. Woodman, Parade House J. Thresh, The Parade; W. Davies, The Parade; A. 0. Norton, Penllwyn Park C. Horatio Carpenter, King-street; George Phillips, Hall-street Daniel Lewis, 58, King-street; George Tew, King-street; P. D. Lewis, Nott- square; and LI. Rees Jones, Market Hall. The Recorder, aftor congratulating the Grand Jury on the fact that there was no business to come before them, wished them a happy new year—a sentiment which was reciprocated by the foreman, on behalf of his fellow-jurors.

Football. ST. PETER'S INSTITUK R. LAMPETER TOWN. This match was played at the Railway Tavern field on New Year' Day. before a fair attendance. St. Peter's kicked off, and after some central play, Lampeter worked the ball to the St. Peter's 25, before they were stopped. After some exciting play here the Churchmen worked the ball back again to the centre, where Alban placed the homesters 011 the offensive by a neat kick. The Lampeter forwards with a combined rush took the ball to the other end, and Strand Jones tried a drop, which went wide, St. Peter's conceding. Half-time score Lampeter, one minor St. Peter's, nil. Lampeter re-started and forced the homesters to touch down. After this, St. Peter's got the ball, and made tracks for the line, before Strand Jones picked up, and landed into touch. A neat bout of passing by St. Peter's took play to the other end, Lampeter conceding. A lot of central play followed, but the homesters rushed down, but were robbed of a score by a fine kick of S. H. Evans. Final score Lampeter, two minors St. Peter's, one minor. CARMARTHEN v. AMMANFORD. This match was played at the same time and date on the Morgan Arms field. Carmarthen turned out a very unrepresentable team, six of their usual players being absent. Carmarthen forced the pace at the outset, and A. O. Williams scored an unconverted try. Ammanford rushed to the other end, and scored a try which was not improved upon. Alcwyn Jones now obtained, and planted the leather between the uprights, scoring a try, which he converted. With a lead of five points, the visitors kicked over the line, and D. J. Lewis scored a try, which was not converted. Carmarthen then pressed for a long time, and W. J. Phillips scored, I). J. Davies placing a goal. Final score Ammanford, one goal, two tries Carmarthen, one goal, one try.

Trap Accident at Carmarthen. 1. A trap accident attended with rather serious consequences occurred at Carmarthen on New Year's Day. James Griffiths, groom, and Thomas Jones, a labourer, both employed at Derllys Court, together with Thomas Davies, a manservant, from Llwynpiod, left town in the direction of Johnstown about one o'clock in a trap drawn by a pony. They were driving at a good b rate, and when approaching Starling Park b -1 the pony swerved from the road, and made a dash for the carriage drive leading to that residence, with the result that the conveyance came into violent collision with the stone wall near the gate, throwing the three occupants into the road. Griffiths sustained a nasty scalp wound, which had to be stitched, and Davies had to be conveyed to the infirmary, where he still remains, suffering from concussion of the brain. Jones escaped with slight damage to his wrist.

J-- Principal Evans and the School Board, li) tlic Editor of the Carmarthen Weekly Reporter. SIR,-It is with regret that many of us have read of the withdrawal of Principal Evans from the Carmarthen School Board. To my mind it would have been a gracefu) act on the part of any of the new members if they had withdrawn in favour of Principal Evans, who for so many years has filled the chair so impartially. However, Principal Evans can rest assured that his work on the Board has been fully appreciated, and may the time be not far distant when he will return with unabated zeal to his old post. Yours faithfully, PROGRESSIVE.

Nonconformist Statistics for 1897. To the Editor ti,f tlte Carmarthen Weekly Reporter. SIR,-Allow me to point out that the Baptist statistics for 1897, given by you under the above heading in your last issue, arc radically wrong. The Baptist Handbook." from which the figures have been taken, does not hold good for Wales. Welsh Baptist statistics should be taken from the Llaiolyfr Ulldeb Bedyddwyr Cymyu." The true summary of statistics for '97 shows not a decrease of 92, but an increase of 1,162 not a total number of 101,699. but of 106,260 members. Fiat justitia ruat coelum. Yours, I A. M. D.

Welsh Disestablishment Close By. 10 the Editor of the Carmarthen Weekly Reporter, SIR,To me, as a Welsh Churchman, the Disestablishment aud Disendowmeut of the Welsh Church is close at hand, if we are to read the signs of the times. Let us take a glance to the diocese of St. Asaph. What do we see there ? Do we see the Person of the Prince of Peace prevailing in the hearts I of Welsh Churchmen ? No, I say, but wars and rumours of war. Christianity has inspired mankind with glorious anticipations of its ultimate moral achievements, but all of it has fallen on barren ground in the above diocese. Nothing has pained me more than the assertions and, contradictions, by." ministers of the Gospel in the dailies of Cardiff! If a poor layman had a finger in the pie, what an object of pity he would be with these servants of God If laymen had a voice in the government of the Church (which they ought to have), this wrangling would soon be put down, and it is high time that the Archbishop of Canterbury stepped in, and put down these disgraceful proceedings. When the editor of the Standard reads the Cardiff dailies for this week, he will not be so bouncy as he was on Saturday, and say "that NVales has risen to the occasion/' and that the Church of England in Wales is not likely to be exposed to any further attack just at present of a serious nature but, if she were, she would have a position to fall back upon which is growing stronger every day." What is her position to-day in the diocese of St. Asaph ? The very persons who gets the loaves and fishes of the endowments wrangling ar.d quarrelling What a pity that the great printing establish- ment of the Welsh Church at Lampeter hath not its door open If the fight at St. Asaph is severe, we shall, sooner or later, have a fiercer one-" Laity versus Cleric —anent the Church Press in Wales. There again there is nothing but rumours of war. Yours, &c., A DISGUSTED CHURCHMAN.

Llandilo Guardians and the Poor. I To the Editor oj the Carmarthen Weekly Reporter, SIR,-—Allow me a small space in your valuable paper to call the attention of the ratepayers and the public of the parish of Llandilofawr to their sense of duty. Really it is high time that we should awake and arouse the public—especially the ratepayers of the parish—to see and open their eyes at the injustice which is carried on by those who are sent to represent us on the Board of Guardians of Llandilofawr. I should like to ask one question here. Since when has it become the law of England to allow the Jewish tribe to take of the parish relief? Not only that, I should like to know since when have these people got the privilege of having more relief money per week than those that have been bred and born in the very parish, and have spent-- and their forefathers before them—their life- time in the parish. It is time the public should look into this important matter, and compare the figures of each individual accor- ding to their circumstances, and they will b not be long before coming to the same decision as the writer, that there is too much disparity carried on. However, I trust that no Jewish, nor any other tribes, are made burdens upon the pockets of the poor farmers, &c., &c., of Llandilofawr. If it be the case, the sooner the better for those in authority to see for themselves, because at the next election of guardians this and many other important facts will be brought to the front. I shall conclude now, Mr. Editor, by wishing you, Sir, and the Staff a happy New Year and a prosperous year for old Gwalia. Yours, &c., INTERESTED.

FE RRYS I]) E. ON NEW YEAR'S DAY a dinner was given at the White Lion Hotel to the Ferryside Lifeboat crew by Mr A. R. Gery, of Oxford-street, London, who has a residence at this place In his after-dinner speech he said that no place charmed him so much as Ferryside. Mr Gery was supported by Mr R. A. Nevill and Dr Lewis Williams.

EXTRACT FROM A LECTURE ON :FOODS AND THEIR VALUES," BY Du. ANDREW WINDSOR, F. R. SE., etc.—" If any motives—first, of due regard for health, and second, of getting full food-value for money expended—can be said to weigh with us in choosing our feods, then I say that Cocoa (Epps s being the most nutritious) should be made to replace tea and coffee without hesitation. Cocoa is a food tea and coffee are not foods. This is the whole science of the matter in a nutshell, and he who runs may read the obvious moral of the etory."

LLANBOIDY. RENT REDUCED.—Mr G. P. Roch, the young squire of Maesgwynne, has with the characteristic liberality of the family, allowed the tenants on the Maesgwynne estate a reduction of 10 per cent on their re nts fo the vear.

B R Y N A M M A N BRASS BAND CONTEST.—On New Year's Day a brass band contest was held at Bryn amman on the occasion of the opening o the new Public Hall and Library. Five bands competed, viz., Ystalyfera, Llansamlet, Pontyberem, Brynamman, and Gwauncae- gurwen. Mr George T. H. Seddon, of London, adjudicated. The results were as follows: Chorus, "The Hea\ens are Telling (Wright and Round)-ist and 2nd prizes of j £ xo and £ 4 equally divided between Ystalyfera and Gwauncaegurwen 3rd prize, jQ2, Brynamman. March, own selection, Ystalyfera. The Rev J. Morlaii Jones was conductor.

CROSS HANDS. CONCERT.—A large audience assembled at the Tabernacle Chapel on New Year's Eve on the occasion of a concert for the Male Voice Party's Fund, under the presidency of the Rev E. H. Davies. The artistes were Miss Edith Edwards and Miss Maggie Edwards, of the Royal Welsh Ladies' Choir, and Mr George Harries, with Tom James as accompanist. The party, under the conductorship of Mr W. Lewis, Board Schools, acquitted themselves creditably. The concert proved a great musical treat.

WHITE MILL. PARTY AT ALLTYGOG.—On Tuesday, the 28th ult., the scholars of the British School spent a most enjoyable morning. The occasion was a very cordial request from the greatly respected residents at Alltygcg, Mr and Mrs Mazuchelli, inviting all the school children to their mansion, where they would be heartily welcomed and entertained. Consequently the scholars, under the superintendence of Miss Jones, their mistress, and Mrs Harries, the Mill assembled in school, whence a start was made for the beautiful residence. The street was lined with scores of spectators, On their arrival the children sat down to a very sumptuous repast. Before dispersing they sang several of their school songs, which judging from the evident appreciation, gave Mr and Mrs Mazuchelli immense pleasure. Before their departure, Miss Jones, on behalf of the children, tendered sincere thanks to the much esteemed benefactors for their generosity. Alter the singing of the National Anthem, the scholars with bright and pleasant faces returned home.

LLANEGWAD. AN INCIDENT OF THE RECENT FLOOD.— The following is an incident of last week's flood:-Four colts, owned by Mr Davies, Typicca, Llanegwad, had a hard struggle ior life. The Towy overflowed, and the colts, driven from pillar to post by the rising water, took their last stand on a mound about half- a-mile from the farmhouse. They were seen by several people, but the rush and depth of the flood made approach impossible. Higher came the water, and closer together the terrified animals. They stood almost without moving, shoulder to shoulder, so to speak, until the water had reached their girths. The situation was now serious-th colts neighed and snorted till they could v, stand their ground no longer. Then one started the inevitable swim. The other three followed, and made full-speed ahead for Typicca, which they reached after a long and hard struggle, quite exhausted. Those who saw the incident say it was the most exciting, yet pitiful, they had witnessed for many day.

FOR THE BLOOD 18 THE LIFE. "-Clarke's world famed Blood Mixture is warranted to cleanse the blood from all impurities, from whatever cause arising For scrofula, scurvy, eczema, skin and blood diseases, pimples, and gores of all kinds, its effects are ma." vellous. Thousands of testimonials. In bottles, 2s 9d and lis each, of all chemists. Proprietors, Lincolu and Midland Counties Drug Company Lincoln. Ask for Clarke's Blood Mixture, and do not be persuaded to take an imitation.

L L A N 1) 0 V E R Y LLWYNYDRAIN FOXHOUNDS.—'The meet took place at Llandovery Market-plaee on New Year's Day, the squire of Llwynybrain and his lady being present. CLUB AUDITS.—The audit in connection with the Ivorities' Friendly Society took place at Three Horse Shoes Inn on New Years's Eve. The result showed the society to be in a healthy state. The number of members is 76, and the total value of the society is ^767 16s rod. The audit being over, the company, including the three trustees (Messrs James Williams, William Lloyd, and Henry Havard), the president (Mr J, Williams), the vice- president (Mr R. W. Walters), the two stewards (Messrs Morgan and Roberts), the two auditors (Councillor J. R. James and Mr H. Williams), and the secretary (Mr John Rces) adjourned to the long room, where an excellent supper had been prepared by the hostess and treasurer (Miss Jones). The Town Band were also enter- tained to supper at the same table at the expense of the mayor (Mr D. Saunders Thomas). ANCIENT BRITON SOCIETV.—This is a very successful club, as was shown by the recent audit, the number of members being about 50, and the total value of the club ^623 12s 4-}d.

ENGLAND'S GLORY MATCHES. Save the E DOZEN WRAPPERS and send for particulars of PRIZES to S. J. MORELAND and Sons, England Glory Match Works, Gloucester. The above brand of matches are made entirely of BRITISH LABOUR

A M M A NFORD. NEW COLLIERY.—A new colliery is to be started on the Clyntai Farm, belonging to Councillor W. N. Jones, by the newly- formed Tirydail Coal Company. CATHOLICISM.—The Roman Catholics have, it appears, (writes a correspondent), an eye on Ammanford as one among other places where they intend establishing a mission NEW BRIDGE.—The proposed new bridge over the river Amman, near Pant- yffynon, has not yet been commenced. NEW EDIFICES.—The old and unsightly buildings attached to the Cross Inn Hotel have at last been removed, and the work of erecting decent structures is now in progress. ErsTEDDFon.-A successful Eisteddfod was held at Moriah, Tycroes, near Amman- ford, on New Year's Day. The adjudicators were-Music, Seth P Jones, Penclawdd prose, &c., Rev E Garmon Thomas (C), Tycroes, who also acted as conductor. Rev T Lloyd (C.M.), Hendre, presided. The sacred edifice was well filled throughout the day. The following awards were made :— Chief choral, Caersalem Choir, conducted by Mr G. V. Davies, the Park second choral, Brynffcrws, conducted by Mr Wrn. Morgan, Penybanc juvenile, the Caer- salem Choir, conducted by Mr David V. Davies duett, J. P. Hendre, and friend bass solo, Rus Morgan, Penygroes tenor solo. J. P. Jones, Hendre soprano solo, S. Griffiths, Penygroes;. contralto, S. Morris, Llandilo recitation, divided between M. E. Lewis and T. Evan Roderick, Cais, Llandovery poetry divided between E. Morgan, Saron, and T. Evans, Ammanford. A concert was given in the evening. CARMARTHEN Printed and Published by the Proprietress, M. LAWUEXC.S, at her Oliiaea, 3 Blue-street, FBIDAY, January 7tb, 1896,