Glamorgan Free Press

"DICCING DUSKY DIAMONDS." The Experiences of a Cilfynydd Miner What Britisher worthy the name does not admire bravery and courage? Are we not all proud of the gallant fellows whose daring deeds by land and sea. have shed unquenchable lustre on British arms and the British flag? Yet, when one visits the hives of industry which dot the South WaJes coalfields, one can- Hot, help remembering that we have in our very midst, engaged in the arts of peace, men who day after day unflinchingly face perils as great as "those of war itself. These reflections were forced upon me (writes a "Glamorgan Free Press" reporter) as I drove to the mining village of Cilfynydd on Friday evening last. On my way thither I passed scores of "nightshift" miners walking in groups towards the Albion Colliery, which is one of the most important of the Rhondda collieries. As these brave chaps strode along, most of them enjoying a pull at the favourite "cutty," they relieved the tedium of the tiresome jour- ney by singing snatches of popular airs, and even choruses from standard works. And as I watched them swinging along so cheerily- some, perhaps, to meet their fate hundreds of feet below the green sward-I could only ad- mire the heroism, aye, heroism, of these men and boys who eke out a living by "digging dusky diamonds underneath the ground." They know that each time they descend the shaft. they carry their lives in their hands. But the call of Duty is equally sacred whether it leads to the battlefield or to the coal-mine, and they do not hesitate to obey. I could not help pic- turing them as they toil in the gloomy mine, their grimy, shadowy figures faintly limned against a background of inky blackness, the scene here and there illumined by the yellow glimmer of the Davy lamp, the silence broken only by the clink, clink. of the mandril. But all this is by the way. Let me explain the object of my visit to Cilfynydd. Having heard that Mr John Holland, of 25, William street, had been brought back to health and vigour under almost miraculous circumstances I determined to make a personal investigation and to lay the result before the readers of the "Glamorgan Free Press." Arrived at No. 25, I asked if Mr Holland lived there, and found that the tall, athletic figure before me was Mr Holland himself. Broad of shoulder and lithe of limb, he looked the very picture of health. lffr. John Holland. I Mr Holland, who stands six feet in his socks, is 26 years of age, single, and a native of Stan- toa-on-Wye, Herefordshire. About three and a half years ago he came to Cilfynydd and ob. tained employment as an assistant-ripper at the Albion Colliery. Two years ago he was at- tacked by influenza, and from that time until two months ago his experience was one of great suffering. For eighteen months he was too ill to do any work, but in March last he was in- duced to try Dr Williams' Pink Pills for Pale People, and after taking two or three boxes of these he was able to resume work, his wonted good health having been fully restored to him. On my stating the reason of my visit, Hol- land's face brightened up and he most readily complied with the request for the story of his experiences. Asked if he had any objections to the interview being published, he quickly re- plied, "No, none whatever, as I think it is only my duty to let people know what Dr WiL liams' Pink Pills have done for me." "What was the nature of your illness, Mr -Holland?" "I felt weak—so weak that life seemed a bur. den to me. As I lay in bed I perspired so freely that the bed and bedclothes were wring- ing wet, and you could see the steam rising to the ceiling. The doctor had a very poor opin- ion of my case, and told some of my friends that he believed my illness would surely turn to consumption, as I was in a dangerous age." "What was this weakness the result of?" "Well, about two years ago I started going about after a pretty sharp attack of influenza. But although the influenza had left me I became gradually weaker, until I could scarcely drag one foot before the other. You will see what a state I was in when I tell you that one day I crawled down to the barber's shop and fainted whilst being shaved." A person who waa present during the inter- view here interposed that he recollected the in- cident very clearly. "Nø," replied Holland to my question, "I had no pain whatever, only I got so very weak that life had become a burden to me, and I feared that I would never be well again. I took bottle after bottle of medicine, but without any improvement. It was while I was in this low state, having lost all hope of recovery, that someone suggested I should try a box of Dr Williamd Pink Pills. I hadn't much faith in the pills, but I said "All right," thinking to my- self that I could try them as a last resource. Well, a box was sent for, and before I had taken all the pills in it I began to feel better. Now, after taking two or three boxes, I feel as strong and healthy as ever I did in my life. Ia fact, I do not wish to have better health than I now enjoy." "Amd you attribute your recovery solel v to Dr Williams' Pink Pills?" "Yes, indeed I do. As I told you, I took me end of medicine, without getting any better; hut directly I took some of these pills I felt ■ayself gradually getting stronger. Why, I was in such a state that I oould eat scarcely any fcod, but now I can eat all I can get hold of." "Yon're right," waa the good-humoured com- ment of another person in tho group who were listening to the conversation. "The other day I was telling Holland that if he took any more of these pills he would not be able to earn enough to keep himself in food!" "I was awfully thin," continued Holland, "but mow I'm as fit as ever. "And"—as ho rolled mp his shirt-sleevee—"I'm not ashamed for any- one to see those arma now." "V ()tI would scarcely believe the difference that has taken place in him," observed HoL kind's landlady. "He was as pale as death. Oh, he was frightful! He was like a. man risen from the grave. But after he had taken the first box we could see the colour coming back to his hands and face." Holland went on to say that so assured was he that the cure had been effected by Dr WiL liami? Pink Pills, that 00 now recommended them to all. Several friends of his had started taking them as a result of what they knew of his ease and of what he had told them. As I rose to leave he once more expressed his deep gratitude for the cure which Dr Williams' Pink Pills had effected, and again consented to the licahon of the interview and his photograph.

Tjl^r.AND'S OLORY MVTOTfHS. Save the or PRIZES t°S. J MORBLA.ND anrf SONS. England Glorr Match Works, Gloucester. T' e above brand of •Matches are made entirely by BEITI.TT LA rot*?? 21lV j

INTERMEDIATE EDUCATION. The Claims of the RI\or\dda. Important Proposal by Councillor R. Morris. CLEAR STATEMENT OF THE CASE. Councillor Richard Morris, Pentre, that ar- dent educationist and pushing representative, has given notice of the following motion, which it is his intention to submit to the Glamorgan County Couneil at its next meeting: — "That it be an instruction from this County Council to the Technical Instruction Committee to consider the claims of the Rhondda Valley to further provide for Intermediate Education, with the view, if deemed necessary, to further provide for the increasing requirements of that populous district." The following figures point strongly to the fact that the Rhondda. has a very strong claim in- deed to increased educationaJ facilities, so that the motion of Councillor Morris has much to commend it to the favourable consideration of his colleagues: STATEMENT BEARING UPON THE FINANCIAL RELATIONS (EDUCATIONAL) BETWEEN THE PARISH OF YSTRAD- YFODWG AND THE COUNTY COUNCIL OF GLAMORGAN. Total Assessment of County £2,495,034- Do. of Ystradyfodwg to County zC442,575 Equal to say 18 per cent. Exchequer Contributions to County P,7,852 11 6 County Intermediate School Rate at id. £5,100 9 S County Technical Instruction Rate at Id. 210,267 2 11 £ 23,220 4 2 ESTIMATED RECEIPTS BY YSTRADY- FODWG. £ s. d. (1) Towards maintenance of Porth Int-erniediate School 900 0 0 (2) Do. Balance of Residue 592 0 0 (3) Towards Technical Instruction Classes. (Grants to Local Com- mittees) (a) Treherbert £ 17 0 0 (b) Ystrad 52 15 0 (c) Mid-Rhondda 9 10 0 (d) Porth 41 5 0 (e) Ferndale 68 2 10 188 12 10 (4) Studentships tenable at Cardiff University College 240 0 0 (5) Cookery Studentship 30 0 0 £ 1950 12 10 ESTIMATED PAYMENT BY YSTRADY- FODWG TO COUNTY. (1) Proportion of Exchequer Con- tributions 1413 7 2 Do. County Intermediate Rate 918 0 0 Do Technical Instruction Rate 1848 0 0 £ 4179 7 2 Excess of Payments over Receipts j62228 14 4

A PARK FOR TqE HONDD. tyaqdsome Gift to te People. GEN-ER, US ACTION BY THE BAILEY ESTATE. At last the people of Upper Rhondda have within their reach the realisation of their fond- est wish—a public park. As our readers are aware, the District Council and a few prominent gentlement have worked hard to induce wealthy landowners to dedicate a portion of their land to the public service. But until now these efforts have been of none effect. Recently the Rhon- dda Chamber of Trade decided to again use their persuasive powers, and a deputation repre- senting that body waited upon Mrs Gordon Can- ning and Mrs Curre, the owners of the estate of the late Mr Crawshay Bailey. The deputation, of which the chairman was Lieut. R. C. Dyke, a.sked that a grant might be made of about twenty or thirty acres of land, par tof the Main- dy or Ton farms, and it is a matter for congratu- lation that their request has been practically conceded to. The solicitors to the estate have written Alderman W. BJ. Morgan, clerk to the Rhondda District Council, to the effect that, as a result of the deputation's visit, and in order to commemorate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee, Mrs Gordon Canning and Mrs Curre are willing to give a plot of land, 25 acres in extent, and part of Ton Farm. This site, it may be mentioned, has been selected by Mr G.H. Smith, the agent to the estate, and Lieut, Dyke, and is one eminently suited for the pur- poses of a park. The plot is situated at the rear of Ton Church, and is easily reached, the hill- side at the point sloping very gradually, whilst the site itself is very level. The offer is made subject, of course, to certain conditions. One of these is that the land must be kept as a pub- lic park and is not to be used for any other purpose; whilst another is that no portion ot the park shall be used for the purpose of selling intoxicating liquors without the consent of the donors. It is estimated that such a park as th3 one proposed will prove an immense boon to more than 30,000 people. This offer, it should be added, is only another instances of the generosity of the Bailey Estate, who not long since contributed E40,000 to assist the tenants on the Rhondda- portion of the estate in defray- ing the costs of street improvements The offer wtil come before the Rhondda Dis- trict Council at their meeting to-day (Friday), and we have no doubt it will be unanimously accepted. Every locality in the Rhondda is now loudly clamouring for recreation grounds, and we have no reason to think that any part of the urban district will demur to contributing a share of the cost of maintaining the proposed park at Ystrad. The success of the Rhondda Chamber should stimulate other public bodies to renewed exertions, in the hope that some other spots in the once beautiful valley may yet be rescued from the unholy touch of the ubiquitous builder.

Te Bathirjg Fatality at Barry Island. BODY RECOVERED. On Saturday morning, the body of John Ken- vin (18), of Carpenters' Row, Ynyshir, who was drowned whilst bathing in Whitmore Bay, Barry Island, on Bank Holiday, was recovered, and conveyed home. On Tuesday the funeral took place, when the mortal remains of the unfortun- ate young man were interred at Lledrddu Ceme- tery. The funeral was attended by a very large number of workmen, the National Colliery, where deceased had been employed, being idle for the day.

"I Am Coing For a Stroll." STORY OF A MISSING LODGER. Thomas Emmanuel, labourer, of no fixed place of abode, and a character well-knowu to the police-there were several convictions recorded against him-appeared before Alderman R. Lewis and Councillor D. Thomas, at Ystrad on Monday, to answer a charge of purloining 23s 6d, the property of Matthew Samuel, a Trealaw labourer. The evidence showed that the prosecutor and the prisoner lodged at the house of a Mrs Oakley at Trealaw. At about 6.15 on the even- ing of the 26th ult. prosecutor went to work, leaving prisoner, who was to go to work next morning, in the kitchen. The prosecutor left his Sunday clothes hanging on the door of the bedroom upstairs, and in his outside breast pocket were two purses, containing 20s and 3s 6d respectively. When he returned from work the following morning he searched hit clothes, and found that the purses and the money had gone. Prisoner had not been in the house on the night of the 26th ult. after eight o'clock. Mrs Oakley said that when prosecutor left the house to go to work on tho night in question prisoner was in the kitchen. Some time after- wards the latter washed, and went upstairs and changed his clothes. She heard him in her father's bedroom. Prisoner left the house abrmt eight o'clock and did not return. She asked him as he was leaving the house where he was going. He replied, "I am going for a stroll." The prisoner had not since returned. P.C. Hall said that on the morning of the 8^h he arrested the defendant in William street, Ystrad. Just as he was going t) lay hold of I prisoner the latter said, "I was just going to give myself CP-" On being charged with the I u it?it pnsoner said, I took it; there were two p irses there was El in one, and 7s in the other I spent some of them in Pontypridd. I lost cne of the purses, and gave the other to my brother." 3 P.isoner pleaded guilty, and was sent to J prOJl fcr three months with hard litcur.

PORTH COUNTY SCHOOLS. Principal's Annual Report. Mr E. Samuels, B.A., the headmaster of Porth County School, will at the next meeting of the Governors, present his first annual report. This statement indicateswith great clearness that the instruction is thorough, and quite in accord with the spirit of the splendid Welsh Intermed- iate Scheme, of which all true educationists in the Principality are justly proud. The following extracts from the report will undoubtedly prove of much interest: — "The attendance during the last twelve months was the largest in the County of Glamorgan. "Average age, 13.5 years. "Number of boys to girls is in ratio of 9 to 8. Average percentage attendance, 85.6. "The headmaster recommend that the Gov- ernors make a test to guarantee that any pupil admitted has really reached the fifth standard. Religious Instruction.—No parent has desired the exemption of any pupil from attending pray- er or religious instruction. SUBJECTS TAUGHT. Reading, writing, arithmetic, geography, his- tory, English grammar and composition, drawing, mathematics, Latin, French, Welsh, chemistry, physics, mechanics, and vocal music' physical drill and cookery to girls; instruction in piano- forte playing has been -iven. FOREIGN LANGUAGES. "Messrs Schofield and Holmes are organising a correspondence ij'hich will be opened in Sep- tember between the more advanced boys and pupils in secondary schools in France. One of these schools is at Le Mans, and the other at Toulouse. English letters written by French boys will be corrected by Porth boys, and the latter will have their letters in French corrected by the former. "One student has passed the University of Edinburgh Matriculation Examination in Latin to qualify himself as a medical student "If the more ADVANCED PUPILS were to continue at seiiool until June next, there would be several prepared to sit for the London and Welsh Matriculation Examinations."

♦ OTES FROM PORTHCAWL. Once more the holiday season has brought its usual influx of Rhondda visitors to this justly popular little watering place. Of course, there are visitors here from London, Birmingham, and many English towns; but the familiar "iaith yr hen wlad" is highly conspicuous. The sad fatality to William Stephens, fireman, Cilfynydd, brought forth ready Welsh sympathy. There are some very striking facts in connection with the lamentable accident. The deceased had just taken his two children back from the water to the mother. He returned, and five minutes afterwards had disappeared, and found a watery grave in the presence of his wife and children. A brave but futile attempt was made to find him. It is said that the deceased had escaped from two colliery explosions, the last one bein? at Cilfynydd. Though having thus escaped the hazards of a miner's toil, it is sad to think he lost his life on a holiday! Bathers, unfortunately, are too venturesome, and year after year adds 10 the number of those who find a watery grave while seeking health. Mr E. It. Davies, J.P., Pentre, deserves praise for his services. He saw that the widow wanted nothing, and the visitors, by means of collecting books and concerts collected over EZO. Young Powell, of Treherbert, the boy preacher created an unusually favourable impression by his two excellent sermons at the Baptist Chapel, which was quite unable to seat the crowds who wanted to hear him. He read the lessons well, and offered a most appropriate prayer; his sermon was a most happy one in conception and delivery; while hisd modest charmed all. His father is a signalman on the T.V.R., and young Powell attended Mr M. O. Jones's school first and afterwards went to the Ystrad Higher Grade and Organised Science School, the able master being Mr Llew. Jones. Let us hope that Divine Providence will rise young Powell to be a strong power in the pulpit of our land. already renowned for its excellent preaehers. Among the visitors, besides Mr E. H. Davies, is the Rev J. Thomas, M.A., Myrtle Grove, Liverpool, whose career from a collier boy to f be first class M.A. of London University, is truly a marvellous one; while his pulpit oratory has charmed thousonds of our English friends over the border. The sermon he delivered at the Baptist Union meetings may be read in "The Baptist" for last week, and is, like all his ser- mons, well worth a close study. Mrs Thomas is with him, as well as Mrs D. W. Davies, Maesy- ffynon, his mother-in-law. We are glad to see that he has recovered so well from his long ill- new. A goodly number of the teaching fraternity of Rhondda are here, as also Mr and Mrs Geo. Knill, Mrs Dan Evans, Llwynypia- Mrs Ham- mond, Clvdach Vale; Mr J. W. Richards, chem- ist, and a lot of old inhabitants from Rhondda with peculiarities that would be well worth men- tioning if space and time permitted.

CAERPHILLY DISTRICT COUNCIL. Seven Days' Notice to the Rhondda Sewerage Board. The ordinary meeting of the Caerphilly Sani- tary Authority was held on Tuesday under the chairmanship of Alderman H. Anthony, J.P. There were also present Councillors W. Thomas, (vice-chairman), Captain T. H. Dowdeswell, Eli Jenkins, D. Jones, J. Charles, A. Jones, L. Will- liams, together with the Clerk (Mr D. Lewis), the surveyor (Mr A. 0. Harpur), and the sani- tary inspector (Mr E. T. Morgan). A SENGHENiDD DEPUTATION. In consequence of the refusal of the Council to grant a certificate -or habitation of nineteen houses, the property of a building club at Seng- henydd, a. deputation from the above club waited on the Council to ascertain what were the reasons assigned by the Council for the refusal. The deputation consisted of Mr Josiah Morgan, Porth; Mr Evans, Mountain Ash, and two other gentlemen. Alderman Anthony said the reason for the refusal was that the club had not done the metalling necessary for the completion of the road leading to the houses. The Clerk explained that the Club had not entered into an agreement for the metalling < i the road, but that Lord Windsor had agreed to do so. The deputation having retired, and after some discussion, Mr D. Jones moved and Mr J. Charles se- conded, that a certificate be granted for the habitation of the houses, and that the Clerk be instructed to write to Juord Windsor requesting his Lordship to fulfil the agreement THaT ETERNAL MANHOLE NUISANCE. Mr Eli Jenkins called the attention of the Council to the effluvia arising out of manholes on the main sewer of the Taffs Well district. He thought that steps should be taken at once to compel the Rhondda Sewerage Board to abate this nuisance. Mr A. Jones said that this complaint was general, and he moved that fourteen days' no- tice be given to the Rhondda. Sewerage Board to abate the nuisance. Mr Eli Jenkins proposed that seven days' notice be given thd Rhondda Sewerage Board to abate this nuisance, which was abominable, and that unless the work is done within that time, legal proceedings be taken against them without further notice. The question of the drainage of the district was adjourned in order to have a special meet- ing of the Council, to be held on Thursday next. TENDERS. The tenders, for the catch water drain at Pen- capel reservoir were considered, and that of Mr Mesach Williams, Caerphilly, at 2s d per yard, was accepted.

Driving Without Reins. A LLANHARRAN LABOURER FINED. In the neighbourhood of Llantrisant, it is quite a common practice for farmers and others to drive their horses and wagons without having reins attached to his quadruped, and this being r "onrce of danger to the travelling public, the police make every effort to cure those offenders of their neglectful way. Consequently when P.C. 416 saw William Howells, labourer, Llan- harran, driving a two-horse wagon in this iaeninn, ne promptly summoned mm ro appear at the Llantrisant Police Court on Friday, to show cause why he should not be punished for so doing. Howells had probably a high opinion of the intelligence of his animals, for he told the constable that he did not require reins. He did r,c t appear to answer the charge, and the Efli lb..J LLui 7/6.

The doings of John Cantwell, Llantrisant. The adjourned case against John Cantwell, labourer, Llantrisant, was again heard at the Llantrisant police court on Friday. A fortnight ago the defendant was charged with using obscene language in High street, Llantrisant, on the 3rd July, but Cantwell did not then put in an appearance, his mother alleging that he had gone away to look for work and had not received the summons, consequently the case was adjourned until Friday. Nor on this occasion did he ap- pear to answer the charge against him, so the case was heard in his absence. After deliber- ating for some time the Bench imposed a fine of 10s upon the defendant.

+ Llantrisant Woman in Trouble. A QUARREL WITH HER BROTHER. Catherine Burke, a Llantrisant charwoman, was summoned at the Llantrisant police court on Friday for using obscene language on the 27th July. P.S. Davies gave evidence to the effect that he saw the defendant quarrelling with her brother in High street, Llantrisant, on the day in question. She was using most obscene language which was totally unfit to be repeated. Witness had written down a few samples of Catherine's eloquence which he now handed to the Bench with the idea of assisting them to properly appreciate the enormity of the offence. The defendant, however, denied the author- ship of the words attributed to her, and stated that the sergeant had greatly exaggerated them. She admitted having given vent to her feelings in a forcible manner, as she was in a passion owing to her brother having ill-used her. Her brother was a perfect brute and unfit to be among human beings. He had illtreated his mother and had wandered about the place like a madman. The defendant also added that she had black and blue marks on her through abuse. She often had to walk twenty miles a day to earn her living, and it was really too bad that she should be summoned for relieving her feelings when in anger, whilst her brother was allowed to go free. It was he who should have been summoned. After receiving excellent advice from the Bench she was fined 10s.

Speech by Mabon, M.P. THE COMPENSATION BILL. A mass meeting of the workmen of the Pen- rhiwceiber Colliery was held on Saturday, under the presidency of Mr James Benboe, to consider grievances which had arisen among the surface men and to hear an address by Mr W. Abraham, M.P. The hon. member said he, like many others, was very sorry that the Compensation Bill had been impaired by the House of Lords. But, notwithstanding that, the Bill would give many benefits which had not been enjoyed before (cheers). With regard to his remarks at the Cambrian Association monthly meeting at Pontypridd, which had been so severely criti- cised by some people, the hon. member observed that though there was no time then to fully explain the reason he recommended, he was certain the meeting would agree with him if they knew fully the real facts of the case (ap- plause). However, since that time the Bill had passed. The obstacles he had in his mind and the danger he conceived of losing the Bill had been removed. So that with regard to the agitation respecting the coatrolling of the out- put they were exactly on the same ground as they were prior to the day on which he made that speech (.cheers). Mr Abraham concluded by remarking that he would give an explanatory statement of his position in regard to the out- put scheme at the miners' conference to be held at Cardiff this week (cheers). After further references by Mabon in respect to the surface men's grievances, the meeting decided to recon- struct the Works' Committee and give a larger representation to them. A cordial vote of thanks to Mr Abraham brought the proceedings to a close.

4, ODDFELLOWSHIP AT PONTYPRIDD. Anniversary of the "Loyal Fraternity" Lodge. SIXTY-ONE YEARS OF USEFUL EXIST- ENCE. During the period mentioned many a veteran of the Friendly society movement in our town has been gathered unto his fathers; but their mantles have fallen on worthy shoulders, as is evidenced by the enthusiasm. On Saturday, the members of the Loyal Fraternity Lodge of Oddfellows, Manchester Unity, assembled to- gether at their magnificent club-room, in the Park Hotel, for the purpose of celebrating their sixty-first anniversary day. There was a fairly good attendance of the members, many of whom do not experience the pleasure of meeting each other for social enjoyment except on the feast day. A procession was formed at one o'clock, headed by the Volunteer Band, the Oddfellows wearing full regalia, and carrying the metallic symbols of the Order. The procession took its course along Taff street, and along some of the other principal streets of the town, returning by way of Gelliwastad road, and Mill street, to their tastefully arranged lodge-room, where a dipner, which fully sustained the splendid repu- tation of the house, awaited them, and to which ninety-eight sat down. Among the honorary members present were Bro. William Seaton, of Tyvica Crescent, and Bro. William Jones Powell, District Councillor, of Gelliwastad road. Letters regretting ina- bility to attend owing to other pressing engage- ments, were received from'Alderman W. H. Mor- gan, Forest House, Treforest; County Council- lor H. S. Davies, Mr L. G. Lenox, Ynysangharad and Dr J. L. Leckie. In the evening a public meeting was organised, and on a proposition made by Bro. Josiah Lewis Bro. William Seaton was unanimously chosen as the presiding officer of the day, a duty which he very satisfactorily performed. In a short opening address, the Chairman stated that he had been connected with the Manchester Unity for nearl" forty years, and when a young man, living in town away from home, he found much pleasure and benefit from that connection, although he had not thought proper to draw any sick-pay curing his life-time when in bad health. (Hear, hear). He strongly recommended the Friendly Societies to the sym- pathetic attention of the trauesmen of the town, as deserving of their financial support. (Ap- plause). In response to a call from the chair for a few remarks regarding the lodge, The Secretary stated that the lodge was still in a flourishing condition, and was steadily ad- vancing especially in regard to its finances. There were 160 members, with an accumulated capital of I.CE30,756-a large sum for a club to gather together in small amounts, and that too in a mining district, after meeting all liabilities fully and promptly during the career of over sixty years. (Hear, hear). Well might it be said that the lodge has stood the battle and the breeze, while many societies of a similar nature, during that time, in our town, fallen to pieces, and the old members left to the cold charity of the world. Regarding the Manchester Unity he stated that strong and prosperous lodges were to be found in all our colonies. In those lodges many a young emigrant had found a welcome, and in some degree a home, when far away from Motherland. Even in Johannesburg, Trans- vaal, there was a Manchester Unity Lodge of Oddfellows, consisting of nearly 300 members. (Hear, hear) In the towns of the United States situated on the Atlantic Sea coast, there were lodges which had a total membership of nearly 7,000 in sound financial condition. The harmony of the evening was considerably enhanced by the artistic services of Mr Edwards, the popular musician of Hopkins town, who presided at the piano. A clarionet solo by Mr Llewelyn, a member of the Volunteer Band, was loudly encored. Many pleasing songs were given, and were interspersed with short ad- dresses given by Bros. Edmund Dawkins, George Williams, and Richard Martin, of the Hope Lodge, on the advantage to the country of the Friendly Society movement, and on the duty of those ratepayers, who occupy good positions in life to look with more favour on institutions which we are told, by no less an authority than Mr Goschen himself, saved at least one shilling in the pound of poor-rates. (Applause). After a hearty vote of thanks to the Host and Hostess for the excellent dinner provided, a pleasant meeting was brought to a close by sing- ing the National Anthem, i-ro. Edmund Daw- kins rendering the solo.

The Central Stores. In Taff rtreefc. Pontypridd For groceries and provisions take tb« W-vf' AbU

THE COLLIER'S PIPE. BREACH OF SPECIAL RULES AT LLANBRADACH. MAGISTRATES TAKE A LENIENT VIEW OF THE CASE. At the Caerphilly Police Court on Tuesday- before Alderman H. Anthony (in the chair), Dr Edwards, and Mr J. Williams—a Caerphilly collier named Robert French was summoned for taking a pipe into the Llanbradach Colliery on the 29th ult. Defendant pleaded guilty. Mr S. Ray, manager, said that the manage- ment did not wish to press the charge, and if a small fine were imposed it would meet the case. The defendant, in answer to the Bench, said that he was not aware that the pipe was in hi& pocket. He had been working in the garden the previous evening, and must have placed the pipe in his pocket and carried it unknowingly to the colliery. The Bench imposed a fine of Is and costs.

/[ Change of Air. WHY IS IT NECESSARY, AND HOW TO BENEFIT BY IT. "Oh! for a change!" is the cry from town and country, and packing for the annual visit to the seashore or the Wells is the oirder of the day. The various health resorts are frequented not so much by those who are actually invalids as by those who wish to be protected from becoming so. The routine of every-day life, the close application to business or study, the pressure of home cares, all tend more or less to put the system out of tone, and to make a change neces- sary. And it should be remembered that it is in the "change" the chief benefit lies* ■ is true that the osone-laden breezes of the coast, the matutinal dip in the sea, and the orthodox drinking of the mineral waters, have their uses, but the benefit derived from them is greatly en- hanced by the "chartge" the health-seeker under- goes-the change that is of air, of scene, of diet, and of habits of life. Neither is this all that is necessary. Most experienced medical men now-a-days advise the taking during the change of a course of some good tonic medicine—as, for instance, that popu- lar preparation "Gwilym Evans' Quinine Bit- ters," which has secured the approval of many leading physicians, and whose praises are sung by most people who have tried it. As a remedy for Weakness, Nervousness, In- digestion, Low Spirits, Sleeplessness, and Chest Affections, it has no equal. Gwilym Evans' Quinine Bitters, the Vegetable Tonic, is sold in bottles at 2s 9d and 4s 6d each, and can be ob- tained from all chemists and patent medicine vendors, or, carriage free, by parcel post, direct from the proprietors: The Quinine Bitters Manufacturing Company, Limited, Fouth Wak-s. P.evar» of T-nifanions. tin' name "Gwi'yu- Evans ou LiWcl, ..¡oj, .B;¡'e.

PONTYPRIDD DISTRICT COUNCIL. The fortnightly mooting of the Council was held on Tuesday. Councillor James Roberts, J.P., "resided, and there were also present: Councillors P. Gowan (vice-chairman), Wat—n Williams, F. G. Edwards, W. Jones-Powell, T B. Evans, W. H. Gronow, R. T. Richards, H. Bramwell, R. L. Phillips, Hopkin Morgan, T. Taylor, with the clerk, Col. Grover, and the deputy-clerk, Mr J. Sprague. THEATRICAL LICENCE FOR THE TOWN HALL. An application was received from Mr Thomas Davies, on behalf of the Pontypridd Markets' Company, asking the Council to grant him a theatrical licence for the New Town Hall on November 15th, 16th, and 17th,and December 8th 9th, 10th, and 11th. On the proposition of the Chairman it was decided not to holdthe next fortnightly meeting, but to postpone it for a month to suit the con-' venience of those members who were on theii holidays. The application of Mr Davies was, therefore, adjourned until then. THE ISOLATION HOSPITAL. A letter was read from Messrs Morgan and Bruce, solicitors, stating that their clients, the Messrs Crawshay, had decided to accept the terms of the Council with regard to the site for the proposed Isolation Hospital. The matter was [referred to the Hospital Committee. INSPECTORSHIPS. Superintendent Coles wrote thanking the, Council for the recent appointment of inspector of hackney carriages, petroleum, and lodgings houses, conferred upon him by the Council, and stated that the Chief Constable allowed him to accept it. COLONEL GROVER'S HEALTH. The Chairman referred to the presence of their Clerk, Colonel Grover, and said he was glad tb see him back in his old chair again. He was sure that everyone of them werctglad indeed to see him,for now they had a certain weight taken off their minds. Colonel Grover thanked the Council for the kindness and good feeling shewn towards him. They had been patient, and it was now eight months since he had attended a meeting, during which time he had been ill. He was much obliged for the good feeling shewn him, and this was very cheering to him. (Hear, hear). PWLLGWAUN BRIDGE. The Clerk reported that on Thursday last the Local Government Board inspector held an in- quiry into the application of the Council for per- mission to borrow the sum of £ 350 for the pur- pose of erecting a. bridge over the river Rhondda, and the enquiry passed off favourably. DIPHTHERIA Sx READING. The Sanitary Inspectors reported 22 cases of diphtheria in the district, five of which had ter- minated fatally; and five cases of scarlatina. WIDENING BERW BRIDGE. The question of accepting the offer of the Taff Vale Railway Company to widen the Berw Bridge, conditionally upon the Council subscrib- ing the sum of £1,400 towards the cost, was dis- cussed at some length, and it was ultimately decided to offer the Taff Company 21,250. "LACK OF to iSTEM." Councillor Watkin Williams proposed that the chairmen of the various committees be asked to draft out rules for the better carrying out of their work. He complained that the work was greatly delayed owing to the lack of system. The Chairman said that this would mean that the whole business would have to be re- arranged, and it would be necessary for Mr Wil- liams to give notice of motion. THE STATE OF MARKET SQUARE. Mr Jones-Powell desired to call the attention ot the Council to the present state of Market Square. The tradesmen were allowed to leave their goods on the pavements to the danger of the public. Such a state of things was disgrace- ful-he hoped he was not treadinv on any- body's corns—and if anyone received an injury through that cause the Council might have to suffer. The Chairman said this matter had been before the Council several times previously, but they could do nothing. The Market Company en- joyed certain privileges, and he did not know that the Council had any remedy. The remedy proposed some time ago was to buy the Market Company's property, but that fell through. Mr Jones-Powell: Have the Market Com-any the leasehold rights of the streets? The Clerk explained that some time ago the opinion of a most eminent counsel was taken on this matter, and that was that they could not interfere with the Market Company in -.cir market rights. Mr Powell: And we keep the roads in repair ? The Clerk: Oh! yes. The matter then dropped.

.o- YSTRAD HOUNDS. Puppy Show at Clydach Court. HAPPY SPEECH BY LORD TREDEGAB. A representative company assembled on the grounds of Clydach Court, Trealaw, the resid- ence of Mr J. D. Williams, J.P., master of th" Ystrad Fox Hounds, on Monday afternoon- when the puppy show of the Ystrad Hunt wa4 held. The judges were Lord Tredegar and Mr John Lawrence, Llangybi, but the interesting event was delayed for some time as the judges lost the Rhondda train at Cardiff and drove from Pontypridd. Upon arriving at Clydach Court the company proceeded to the kennels, where the judging was immediately proceeded with. Thtf hounds, 27 in number, were brought to the en- closure in various classes, according to their pedigree, and were greatly admired by the judges and spectators. The animals were closely examined by Lord Tredegar and his colleague, and after half-a-dozen were brought out for inspection the second time, the first prize for the best dog and bitch was awarded to Dash- wood (dog) and Damsel (bitch). Their dam wae Darling, and sire Lord Tredegar's Wagoner. The dog, the winner of the first prize, a cup, value two guineas, was "walked" b-- Mr William Wil- liams, Taff's Well, and the bitch, the winner of a similar prize, by Mr Cooper, Lewis's Arms, Tongwynlais. After this the old pack, compris- ing l6 couples, were brought to the open field for inspection, and the company then adjourned to the Royal Hotel, where a sumptuous lun- cheon was laid., The chair was occupied by Mr J. D. Williams, M.F.H., and those present includedLord Tre- degar, Mr John Lawrence, Alderman J. Blandy Jenkins, J.P., Mr J. Ignatius Williams, Stipen- diary magistrate; Colonel H. O. Fisher, Radyr; Major Rigg, Whitchurch (joint secretary of the hunt); Alderman W. Morgan, J.P., Aldernaso Richard Lewis, J.P., Mr Ivor Williams, J.P., Duffryn-ffrwd; Alderman waiter H. Morgan, Forest House; Messrs H. Porcher, magistrates* clerk; R. J. Rhys, coroner; R. A. Lewis, Pont- ypridd (treasurer to the hunt); George Evang, Pontypridd; J. G. Jones ((Ap Caradog), Ponty- pridd; Taliesyn Morgan and Hawkins, Llantri- sant; D. Davies, Maesyffynon; Hopkin Wil- liams, Llangybi; G. Davies, Gollifaelog; G. H. Smith, Maindy Hall; T. Williams, Tvntyla Farm; Thomas, Pantygorad; W. Morgan, auc- tioneer; G. Davies, Gellifaelog; Howsll Llew- el In Hammond, Clydach Vale; Dr Jones, Cly i- ac'i Vale; T. Morgan, Mainly Fa-m- J. WIl- iiams, Penrhys Farm; T. Willi,i-is, Pandy; J. D. Hughes, Thistle Hotel; Thos. Llcwellm, Goitrefawr; Rev Job Davies, Gaordfa Vicarage', and others. The usual loyal toasts having hem lion(-.iired, the toast of "The Judges" .ora. eiven hy Mr J- Blandy Jenkins, J.P., and •nt'i'n.a>i:.ca)Jy re- ceived. Lord Tredegar, in the couise of a speech which provoked much merriment, said that the decisions of a judge were r.atu-4.1y liable to criticism, it matter not whe^'i.^r he "as the Lord Chancellor in his wig pleslliog at tha Crurt. of the Exchequer or any other ccurt, or wae+her he was an adjudicator at an eisteddfod -(langhter).-whdher he w\3 the j;: ige of the srwing in a lady's skirt- -(r.Mi>v/r,d laughter)— or whether he was judging the respective merit* of two or three choirs, the Merthyr Choir amongst them. (Loud laughter). Judges of foxhounds were also liable to criticism, but judging from the enthusiastic way in which the company had received the toast ho didn't think that up to that time they found fault with their decisions. (Hear, hear). Later on, however, when they got a little more merry, or a little more quarrelsome —(laughter)—probably they would find fault with the judging. (Laughter). By that time each of them would have imagined a particular pup which they would think should have won. (Laughter). He hoped that Mr Lawrence and himself would have left before then. (Renewed laughter). He had had great pleasure in going to Clydach Court to judge the hounds of that distinguished pack, and they probably knew their merits better than himself. They knew that tradition had it that the pedigree of the Welsh hound was lost in the myth of antiquity. which someone said was. a most extraordinary place, because many things had been lost there. (Laughter). It was a very rich place, and he felt sure it waa a splendid place for foxhounds, because lie had lost a lot of foxes there.. (Laugh- ter). He did not know whether the celebrated Ystrad Hunt had lost them or not; if so, Mr Williams would expect to find them there when- ever he went there. (Loud laughter.) He had always been told when reading poetry that the proper study for mankind was man. (Mr Law- rence Hear,hear).If Mr Lawrence went on mak- ing remarks like that, he would have to say what Mabon said the other day, "A oes hedd- wch?" (Loud cries of "oes" ana laughter). Hat supposed the company had been backing Mr Lawrence against himself. (Laughter). Thai was why he asked the question. During the last seven or eight days he had a splendid op- portunity of studying mankind, and it had bees the greatest possible relief for him to go to Clydach Court to study hounds. (Loud laugh- ter). He had no quarrel with man, in the aggregate; indeed, he moved with his fe..ow- creatures very much, but sometimes they got weary of them, and it was a relief to stand on a nice Teen field on the mountain side, especially after the tension of studying the human race for seven or eight days. (Renewed laughter). Pro- ceeding, the noble Lord said that their president had an admiraoie pack—(cheers)—and insteaa of starting for home he should like very much to start with 25 couples to hunt on the mountain side for whatever micht happen to be there. (Laughter). His Lordship then referred to the healthy exercise of hunting and said that Mr Lawrence was greatly indebted for hia longevity to fox hunting. (Cheers). His colleague would probably give them the reasons why they had arrived at their decision; it was his (the noble Lord's) principle never to do so, because his de- cisions were very often right and his ressoni( very often wrong. (Laughter). In conclusion,, his Lordship wished every success to the hunt, and hoped that the hounds would act up to lueir merits. (Applause). Mr Lawrence also responded. Mr G. H. Smith gave the toast of "The Land- owners over whose estates the Ystrad Hounds hunt," and Col. Fisher and Mr Ivor Williams, J.P., responded. Mr Ivor Williams, Dyffryn. Ffrwd, Nantgarwy gave "The Farmers," and Mr W. Davies (Court Villa, Rhondda). Mr George- Daviea (GeHifeil- ioe). and Mr Thomas Williams (Tyntyla) re- sponded. "The supporters of the Ystrad Hunt" was given by Mr Smith, of the Bailey's estate, and was acknowledged by Mr George Evans (Plasy- derwyn), Mr Hairbottle (Whit-church), and Me Thomas Llewellyn (Goetre Fawr). Mr W. Morgan, auctioneer, Pontypridd and Trealaw, proposed "The Secretaries,' and Mr Gwilym Trehame, solicitor, Pentre, and Dr, Jones, Clydach Vale, responded. "Walkers of the Hounds" was given by Mil Taliesin Morgan, and responded to by Mr W. Williams (Taff's Well) aM Mr Caoper (Lewis Arms, Tongwynlais). "The Master of the Hounds" was proposed W Mr Ivor Williams, and ably responded to by J. D. Williams, Clydach Court. During the evening, Mr Ivor Foster, R.A.M.; our Mid-Rhondda champion baritone, delighted his audience by the rendering of several familiar, songs, and Mr William Morgan (Ap Sioncyn) captivated all present with his beautiful manipu- lation of the harp. Mr E. Phillips, Dynever Arms, Taff's Well, who is of a bardic disposition, and "felt highly delighted to take the prize to his part of the country," as he put it, got upon his feet, and in the following manner addressed the chair: "Os nad wyf yn camsyniad Mor wir ar dydd y'm gajied, Ni fu yn aco snac yn mhell, 'Rwy'n siwr ddim gwell bytheuad. Mae Dashwood mwyn yn gi mor hardd, Nes peri'r bardd i ganu Nad oes ei ail yn Clydach Court Er rhoddi sport eleni."

Light Wanted. At the Llantrisant police court on Friday, John Davies, a driver, residing near Pendoylan, was summoned for driving without lights on the 14th ult. P.C. Lucas stated that he saw the defendant driving a horse attached to a spring cart through Pontyclun at 10.15 p.m., on the date mentioned. He had no light whatever, and his horse had presumably to feel its way in the dark. Fined 5s.

THE COMMON AS A PARK. Another Discussion by the District Council. SENSIBLE MOTION BY MR F. G. EDWARDS. TRENCHANT CRITICISM OF THE CHAM- BER OF TRADE'S RESOLUTION. OPPONENTS TO THE COMMON SCHEME SHOWN UP. THE PEOPLE WHO DON'T WANT A PARK AT ALL. At Tuesday's meeting of the Pontypridd Dis- trict Council, Mr James Roberts, J.P., presiding, a letter was read from Mr George Marehant, secretary of the Pontypridd Chamber of Trade, stating that at a recent meeting of the Chamber a resolution waa passed asking the Council to endeavour TO PURCHASE LAND on Ynysangharad for the purpose of a public park. Mr F. G. Edwards said lie would like to move a resolution on this question, and asked to be allowed to. do so now. Permission having been granted, Mr Edwards moved that the Clerk e instructed to write to the trustees of the Llanover estate asking- the price per acre of the Llanover fields or any por- tion thereof, that they would be prepared to sell. His first object was to CLEAR THE GROUND for a better discussion on the question of provid- ing a park for Pontypridd. In the first place he thought that before they pledged themselves to any particular spot they should know something of the initial cost. He was himself not pledged to any particular scheme, but he thought the least thing the Chamber could have done before condemning the proposal of the Council to lay out money on the Common would have been to suggest asking the price of land on Ynys- angharad instead of condemning the spending of any money on the Common, as tihey did. In this resolution sent to the Council the Chamber did not condemn the laying out of money on the Common altogether. There was no reason why they should have proceeded in the manner they did. He was under the impression that it waa proposed to convert the Common into a park. but he was afraid he had been misled, because he noticed at the last meeting of the Chamber of Trade one gentleman said it was impossible TO RAISE A POTATO on the Common. (Laughter). He did not l.u..nk they intended making a market garden of the place. Mr Jones-Powell: I don't think anything of the kind has been said. Mr Edwards: Then he has been mis-reported. Mr Jones-Powell: Not a word was said about it. The Chairman: Mr Edwards is referring to the meeting of the Chamber of Trade and not to the Council meeting. Mr Jones-Powell: I understand it now then. Mr Edwards, continuing, said that it was stated on the same authority that the land on Ynysangharad could be purchased at the same price for park purposes as it was offered for the County Offices by the trustees. He hoped THE PROPHETIC GENIUS who made this statement was right on this occasion; but he had reason to remember the same gentleman making the statement that the land in Gelliwastad would be given free for the County Offices. Enquiries had been made as to -is site, but they found they would have to pay a pretty high price for the land there. He thought that before they were asked to form an opinion on these speculatiozis--for those sug- gestions were pure speculations—they should have facts and figures before them. The rate- payers would then be able to JUDGE FOR THEMSELVES between the two sites, and he thcught they would then have common sens9 enough to know how to spend the money on the right spot. Mr Hopkin Morgan seconded. Mr Jones-Powell desired to say a few words on the matter. He had no objection to having Ynysangharad laid out as a park. It would cost a considerable sum of money to lay out either the Common or Ynysangharad; but, be- fore carrying out any such proposals, he thought there were other things which WERE MORE NECESSARY. He bcliaved the public would appreciate other things being done before they entered into a discussion with regard to a park for Pontypridd He thought they should spend money in making a bridge across the Berw, where the public wanted it. He considered that they should attend to tho requirements of the public first before taking up the park question. The Chairman: Then you consider it ia pre- mature to have a park? Mr Powell: Yes, I do. The Chairman: I must say I am miles away from you in that respect. I am of the opinion that it ought to have been done 20 years ago. Mr Watkin Williams: Mr Powell is mistaken with regard to the Berw Bridge. We are wait- ing a reply from Mr Crawshay. We intend carrying out the work immediately. The Chairman: I must say this: I think the Council ought to have some idea of the acreage of the place before asking the price. He sug- gested they should ask the price of 25 acres. Mr Edwards pointed out that his resolution simply asked for the price of the land, but they wcire now able to see that there were certain people OBJECTING TO HAVING OPEN SPACES. for Pontypridd. Mr Watkin Williams: Some of them said that they were in favour of a park. Mr Jones Powell asked what had become of the report the Council had received from the expert with regard to the Common. The Chairman: I don't know that we have had it. Mr Sprague confirmed this statement. Mr Powell I beg your pardon. On being put to the vote, the resolution was carried.

"THE GROCERS' MONTHLY." A New and Useful Trade Organ. One of the finest trade journals that have ever come before our notice is "The Grocers' Monthly and Provision Trades Reporter," a new venture which was launched on the 2nd inst. The edi- tors of this remarkably well got up production claim that "The Grocers' Monthly" will occupy a field by itself, inasmuch as the hundred thou- sand odd grocers and provision dealers of the United Kingdom have no other monthly techni- cal journal and review as distinguished from a newspaper. "There are several really excellent newspapers for grocers that give the trade news, and these "The Grocers' Monthly' has no desire and will make no endeavour to supplant, al- though it is hoped in some respects to supple- ment their work. It may fairly claim to be unique both in appearance and contents. The reading matter will include all the news; but it will be given in the most condensed form. These news notes will be supple- mented by a large number of photographic re- productions of interesting events and incidents— in fact, both the camera and the pencil will be used very freely to show pictorially what is tak- ing place in the trade. Articles of permanent value and interest, written by experts, will form another prominent feature. In brief, every effort will be made to produce a useful, interest- ing, and up-to-date magazine of more than passing interest, and one that shall serve and be worthy of the great grocery trade." The magazine is evidently produced regardless of expense, and, apart from all other considera- tions, is a splendid specimen of the perfection which the art of printing has attained. The articles, which are as varied as they are numer- ous, are written in a bright, entertaining style, and to those engaged in the trade must surely prove a source of great pleasure and instruction. Considerable space is this month devoted to a full descriptive, and charminelv illustrated report of the seventh annual congress of the Federa- tion of Grocers' Associations. The Pontyoridd delegates to the Federation are given as Messrs J. Bowen, G. Davies, J. Griffiths, D. Morgan, A. Richards, and W. Williams. The report is illustrated with the counterfeit presentments of a large number of committee members, and amongst these we find a perfect photograph of our well-known and enterprising townsman, Mr Isaac Prothero, who is a member of the General Purposes Committee. In our limited space it would be absolutely impossible to mention a tenth of the interesting pictures upon which the eye loves to linger, or of the chatter and bright- ly written articles which enchain the interest, from start to finish. All we can do is to advise every shop-keeper and every assistant in the provision trades to secure a copy of the i'he Grocers' Monthly."

Daring Theft at Senghenydd. A WIDOW SENT TO PRISON. Elizabeth Hughes, widow, of no fixed place of abode, appeared before Alderman H. Anthony, and other magistrates at the Caerphilly Police Court on Tuesday to answer a charge of pur- loining articles of wearing. apparel, and a. watch and chain, of the total value of £ l l7s, the pro- perty of Evan Jones, a Senghenydd collier. The evidence showed that the prisoner, who is well-known to the police, had stayed for three weeks at the house of the prosecutor, and on the 3rd inst. she left the house rather suddenly. The prosecutor at the tune was at work, and on his returning he was informed that she had taken with her a parcel, and that she had gone in the direction of Pontypridd. He searched the house and found that his watch and chain, together with a pair of trousers, had vanished. He traced the prisoner to Pontypridd, and found her in a pawnshop, on the point of pledging the property. On his appearing she offered to re- turn the goods, and she then accompanied him to Senghenydd, and she waa given in charge to the police. P.C. Hopkins said that he arrested the prison- er, who, when charged, admitted the theft. In answer to the Bench, she said I am 9orry; I did it in mv drink. The Bwch scut her to, r:?{'n f.:r = c with u ia.j^ur.

Praised by the People.—Dr Williams' Pinlc Pilla are praised by all classes of people from the lowest to the highest In the land for the way in which they have cured paralysis locomotor ataxy, rheumatism, and sciatica; also all diseases arising from impoverishment of th0 blood, scrofula, rickets, chronic erysipelas, con- sumption of the bowels and lungs, anaemia, paltf and sallow complexion, general muscular weak- ness loss of appetite, palpitations, pains in the back, nervous headache and neuralgia, early decay all forms of female weakness, and hys- teria. These Pills are a tonic, not a purgative,- They are genuine only with the full name, Ds Williams' Pink Pills for Pale People, and are sold by chemists and by Dr Williams' Medicine Company, 46, Ho'born Viaduct, London, E.C., at 2s 9d a box, or ''x boxes for 138 9d. Pink Pills sold loose or from -lass jars are not Dr Williams' rink P^s which cured a Cilfynydd miner, as rpwr'^l this tweept them only in tLe. piisi i-y-cu us atfote described.