Glamorgan Free Press

Pontypridd's Water supply. More Complaints. DISCUSSION AT THE DISTBICT COUNCIL. REPORT BY THE MEDICAL OFFICER. Mr P. Gowan, J.P., presided over Tuesday's meeting of the Pontypridu District Council, -when the following letters were received from Dr J. Shaw Lyttle, Cilfynydd, with regard to the water supply at his house, "Dundella," Cil- fynydd:- "Dear Sir,—I notice that at the last meeting a letter was read from the secretary of the Water Works stating theat Dundela has had a constant supply, but owing to the drought the pressure was not sufficient to reach the top of the house for a short period.' This statement is entirely contrary to fact, and as I see the matter hILs been referred to by the members for Cilfyn- and Coedpenmaen, I t)eg to enclose for their information copy of a letter I have sent to Mr Morgan. When he speaks of 'the top of the house' he is not quite accurate, as we have no water higher than the first floor." The following is the copy of the letter sent ta r Morgan Morgan, referred to above: — "Dear Sir,—I cannot refrain from expressing my amazement on reading in the "Free Press" that at the last meeting of the District Council a letter was read from you stating that 'Dun- dela has had a constant supply, but owing to the drought the pressure haa been sufficient to reach the top of the house for a short period.' I have to give the statement that we have had a constant supply a most emphatic denial, as it was entirely contrary to fact, and considering my frequent complaints, and that you yourself wrote to me on the 24th of August that your directors had intimated you to inform me 'that the intermittent supply has been dne to the drought,' it is really astonishing that such a statement has been made. I have now to repeat that it was a frequent occurrence for the water t) lie off on the ground floor as well as upstairs, but it is true that I complained more of the latter owing to the intolerable inconvenience and annoyance caused thereby. "You say that we bad not water at the top of the Eouse for 'a short period.' The 'short per- iod' lasted, I believe, from tke 7th July to the 25th August, exactly seven weeks, during which time the servants were obliged to carry water upstairs to flush the drains and fill the tank, the alternative to the latter being to dispense with a fire in the range.—Yours truly, (Signed). J. Shaw Lyttle." The letters were referred to the members of the Cilfynydd aDd Trallwn wards. The Sanitary Inspector produced two samples of water taken at Pwllgwaun and Hafod, which were anything but olear. A third sample was produced, the colour of which closely resembled that of whisky. The Chairman pUoted that he had never seen the water in such a state as during the last week or nine days. It was simply a disgrace to have water that the Water Company sent out in the state they did. He did not th;nk it was filtered. Mr H. Bramwell also condemned the water which was to be found in the taps in the Bhondda ward. Mr James Roberts thought the water sup- plied to the Rhondda. and Treforest must come from different sources, as there was no cause for complaint at the latter place. The medical officers of health, Dr Howard Da- Ties, presented the following report on the water supply of the district: "I have again to complain of the water as supplied to your district by the Pontypridd Waterworks Company. In the pre- sent instance I have not to complain of the scarcity of water supplied to the inhabitants, but of the quality of the same. During the past week and up till to-day (Tuesday) the colour of the water bas been of a brownish colour, and the same upon standing for a short while leaves a sediment of peaty material. This fact clearly indicates that the water is not properly and efticiently filtered prior to its entrance into the mains for distribution to the public. This tur- pidity of the public supply is of such frequent occurrence that it is high time it should be put a stop to Your Council should insist upon hav- ing all the water supplied to the inhabitants of yeur district by the Pontypridd Water Works properly, thoroughly and efficiently filtered by the said company prior to allowing it to enter the mains at their waterworks at Maerdy. Mr James Roberts: Do you deal with the whole water supply for the district? Dr Davies: It would be very difficult to deal with the whole. Mr Roberts: It is partial then? Dr Davies: It is the greater part of the dis- trict, including the Rhondda ward and Town ward tspeciamy. Mr Roberts: We must be getting our water from adifferent source then t Treforest. Mr Watkin Williams said the water at Trefor- est was the same as at Trallwn. They had failed to drink it at his house. T\ I InAn • T.j- l~ia a h.n.- _I"T\0,0_4- nT'\ -4-ill 1/1 Ita!LV UArO u. wuovauu .P v.&& w day. Every day last week and up till to-day it, has been of a bad colour. The Chairman: It is your wish to have the samples analysed? Mr Bramwell: I don't think it is necessary; it speaks for itself. Dr Davies: Mrs Llewelyn, the Grove, had to send up to Graigwen for water. Mr Bramwell: I don't quite agree with the doctor's report; he mentioned a week. I am quite oortain it has been going on during the whole summer. Dr Davies stated thaft the tanks in his houses were covered with an inch and a half of peat, and only a month ago they were cleaned out. Several of the members thought the water did not go through t!1. filter beds at the reservoir, but Mr Roberts pointed out that the beds have been dose away with, and patent filters adopted. It was resolved to have the sample taken by the inspector in the presence of the Waterworks official analysed, and the clerk was instructed to write to the Company asking Tf the sample taken was a specimen of their filtered water.

The Soutli Wales Art Society. The South Wales Art Society will opan a new gallery in Queen street, Cardiff, opposite the Taff station, on Saturday, October 1st. The ad- mission until October 3rd will be by members' and season tickets only. Season tickets can be obtained at three shillings each, and these will admit bearers to oonversazione on the opening day. From Monday, October 3rd, until Novem- ber 27th, the exhibition will be open to the pub- lic, the charges being a shilling up to six p.m., and sixpence from six to ten.

ASTROLOGY .—Your Future Foretold, Marriage, Children, Changes in Circum- stances, Journeys, Legacies, etc. Send rtst-e f birth. 12 stamps and stamped envelope.— Mr COLE, 30, Cheltenbam Place, Brie ton, ftuKXf D1.

Granolithic v. Native Stone. + THE SCHOOL BOARD AND THE MASONS. Granolithic nteans a Saving. Architect's Action Up-held. Mr James Richards >re Veo over an «>or- dinary meeting of the Pon' jV' '-d School Hoard on Tuesday, when the complaint of the masons of Pontypridd as to vhe of granolithic hioie for steps and landings ai, the La. W< od and Cilfynydd schools was consnk/ed. the last meeting the. lk"rd ha", receive., the fulli •• ing letter from the rtcretzkrv ot the P Master Build us' Associat:in:— "Gentlemen,—At a meeting of the Pontypridd Master Builders' Association, held on the 17th inst., attention was drawn to a report which ap- peared in the local press of the discussion at your Board re the granolithic steps which are being used at present in schools now in course of erec- tion under your Board in place of stone steps. My Association has instructed me to write and point out to your Board the error made in re- gard to the specification, the Board being under the impression that local stone is specified,where- as, as a matter of fact, it is Forest of Dean. And no doubt, when the specification was draf- ted, the architect very wiseTy took into con- sideration two very important points (1) The very great cost of local stone when properly dressed, which would mean at least one hundred per cent. above the cost of that which is at pre- sent used, and serve no better purpose. (2) The nature of our local quarries being such that it is open to very grave doubt if stone could be quarried sufficiently large enough for the steps and as for the landings no such sizes are to be got at Pontypridd. With regard to local labour. If Forest of Dean stone had been adhered to as specified the contractors would have had a right (if so disposed) to bring into the building all the steps and landings already dressed at the Forest of Dean quarries, and consequently local labour would have been dispensed with precisely in the same manner as is the case with granolithic steps. Further, grano- lithic steps are far superior to Forest of Dean steps, being much harder, and consequently more durable, besides being much cheaper. And we are of opinion that it is the duty of the Board as the representatives of the general public (and not a small section of them) to consider these, and also the best possible means of saving the rates, which are already far too heavy." Mr Phillip Jones: Hear, hear. The letter of the masons had been sent to Mr A. O. Evans, the architect, who had replied to the Board -"I am obliged for yours of the 8th with enclosures. I shall be glad to meet the Board to discuss the matter of concrete steps. My only object in doing this was to save money. I may say that I am satisfied that the work is quite as good, and also had the steps been made of stone, they would not have been worked in the district, but come in ready sawn, so that it does not deprive any local persons of employ- ment." The Chairman: I should like to know if you consider this granolithic to be equal to our home stone here? Mr A. O. Evans: Yes, I do, sir, for steps, and I may say- The Chairman: And you ceiksider it better than Forest of Dean? Mr Evans: They are harder and wear longer. Mr Phillip Jones did not see what business anyone had in sending letters here. Suppose they were to pass a resolution to employ only Welshmen, how would that wEfrk? There was no common sense in that. It was their duty as a Board to do what was just to the mtepayer and get it as cheaply as possible, but if local stone were as good and pretty near the price of granolithic then he would say get the native stone. To listen to people who perhaps did not pay a penny towards the rates was abaird. The Board should do their duty without listen- ing to any society or anyone else. The Chairman: Do you mean to say grano- lithic is cheaper? Mr A. 0. Evans said he would give the figures. But first he would like to read the following extract from the rules of the Pontypridd Opera- tive Masons' Society: "That ready dressed stone be allowed to be brought into the town fromany district not pay- ing a lesser rate of wages than this town, ex- cept sawn or dressed steps, landings, and cham- fered copings, which may be brought in from any district." The stones specified, continued Mr Evans, ware Forest of Dean steps, so that under any circum- stances the steps would have been sawn and chamfered in the quarry. He really failed to see where any cause for complaint came in. He had never used these steps before, but thinking there might be a saving he wrote to several firms. The price for two granolithic steps for Cilfyn- ydd was JM7 8s lOd, the contractors' price being ;ciso. The Chairman: Then it is a loss to you per- sonally ? Mr Evans: Yes, I lose the commission, of course. For the Lan Wood the contractors' price was £ 102 15s 5!d, and Messrs Wards for granolithic was 968 3s Od; a difference of £52. Assuming there would be a little for contingent cies in fixing he thought there would be a total saving of C120 in the end. Rev Lloyd Davies: Is there any danger of slipping ? Mr Evans: No, I don't think so. This firm, Burgess, make a point of the fact that they arc not slippery, and Ward guarantee they will not wear slippery. Mr Jones Powell: What did the stairs cost from top to bottom? Mr Evans: The Lan Wood was £ 102 15s 5id, and the Cilfynydd JB150 for the stone stairs. The granolithic for the Lan cost jE68 3s, and Cilfynydd t87 8s 10s, all complete, no extras. Mr Jones Powell said he did not dispute Mr Evans; he thought he had done the best for the Board; but he was informed at the last meet- ing that no alterations could be made without ing that no alterations could be made without the sanction of the Board, and he did not like to see a Board in their position ignored at all. He knew something of granolithic, and he held an opposite opinion to Mr Evans, and they would find his words come true, that the steps in a few years would become most dangerous. They had had to pay compensation to a boy who was caught in some barbed wire, and very likely the Board would have to pay the same penalty in this ease. He thought the Clerk should call a special meeting to consider any alterations, as they were the representatives of the ratepayers. He said it was an insult to the Board that these things should be done without the matter being brought before it. There was a very large com- mission on granolithic, and he supposed the Board would derive that benefit? Mr Evans: This is the price given to the con- tractor. Mr Powell stated that there was a commission of about 40 per cent., and he hoped the Bbard would get the benefit of the commission. The Chairman said the Board had always allowed the architect to make alterations. He did not remember that the architect had brought anything before them unless it 'was of great importance. Under the circumstances, and after what they had heard from Mr Evans, and what the merchants said respecting this stone, he thought Mr Evans had made the best bargain for the Board. Mr Powell pointed out that granolithic wore quicKly. He had heard of a lady fall down and break her leg. Forest of Dean stone wore as it was. Mr Phillip Jones: That could happen any- where. The Chairman: Suppose it wears quickly; could it be roughed. The Architect: It could be, sir. Rev Joshua Thomas: Is it a stone that doesn't wear at all ? Mr Jones Powell: It wears and cracks and chips, and has to be mended very often. Mr Phillip Jones thought it was the duty of the Board to save this £120. The architect explained that on every occasion on which there was an extra required he had never spent money without bringing it before the Board, but a qase of this sort came within the jurisdiction exercised by the architect. What ho had dene, he had done honestly with the best intent to the Board and the public. Rev Joshua Thomas thought the architect had done the best thing possible for the Board. Mr Jones Powell said that he would move a resolution later on that the specifications be not deviated from without a resolution of the Board. Mr W. M. Jones was of the opinion that the architect had done very well, and was inclined to think he was to be commended for his action. The architect was afterwards informed that his explanation was accepted, and that he had done the best under the circumstances.

The (fates of Pontypridd. ♦ Rateable Value Greatly Reduced. OVERSJiERS WAIT ON THE SCHOOL BOARD AND GtfARDIANS. At the special meeting of the Pontypridd School Board held on Tuesday, Mr James Rich- ards (chairman), presiding, Messrs William Jones, F. Hill, and John Lewis, overseers, and Mr Joseph David, assistant overseer, waited upon the Board to explain the position they, as overseers, found themselves in in consequence of the disastrous strike. Mr William Jones explained that they were just preparing their new rate, and were anxious to keep it down, if possible, if not so low as last time, at least nearly so. They found in making the rate there was a loss in the rateable value of the parish of £ 8,000 at present, but he might tell the Board they had only in that rate to con- sider three months of the strike, but when their sticcessois came to deal with the six months fol- lowing there would be a loss of £13,000, and the five months strike would affect three of the forthcoming rates. The overseers were an- xious, if possible, to issue a lesser rate for that reason, more particularly because they thought the general body of ratepayers would be far bet- ter able to pay six montihs hence than in the "mmediate future. They would be glad if the Board could see their way clear to issue a pre- cept less than the previous one. The last was 93,300. The overseers had not received the pre- cept, but they were expecting it every day. A precept which was £ 600 larger than the preced- ing one. They purposed seeing the Finance Committee of the Guardians the following day to lay their case before them. One thing they wished to point out: they did not wish the Board to issue a lesser precept now and then issue a larger one for the succeeding six months- They wished to point that out very forcibly, be- cause they thought the rateaEle value would be much less than it was now, but if the Board could see their way clear to reduce their expen- diture then they hoped to levy a rate somewhat similar to the last six months. They would like to point out that that had been done by other rating authorities, and the County Council had done so. If the Board could take the overseers' position into consideration, and help them in their difficult task they would bo very grateful. The Chairman said there were buildings in course of construction, and they could not curtail in that respect. He could assure the overseers that the Board would not spend a penny more then. they were bound to. That had been their motto during the past 12 months. He would say that matters did not look so gloomy for the next six months, because there were certain rail- ways which would be able to meet a good por- tion of what had been lost during the strike, by a-.i increase of rates. Mr F. Hill and Mr Joseph David also spoke. Mr J. W. John: Have you any suggestions to make? Mr Joseph David: If you hove intended any extra expenditure we would be glad if you would kindly save them for a Eime. Weare anxious to meet your preoept. The Clerk said that their last precept was for £!500. It would be impossible to work the Board for the next half year without calling £ 3,5000, because they were already overdrawn. He thought if the Board were to call £ 3.000 with grants of 2500, that would do very well. Mr Wiliam Jones said that the loss of re- venue, assuming the next rate to be Is 6d,would be £ 604-, and the following half year having to consider the full length of the strike, the loss would be £ 1,007. So that the suggestion of the Clerk would materially assist the overseers, if when their revenue was lower the Board would be asking for 500 less. The Chairman: It is to be hoped we will be able to do that. After the deputation withdrew, the Clerk was instructed to write to the head teachers in the various schools asking them to curtail expenses as much as possible. < AT THE GUARDIANS. On Wednesday Mr Joseph David waited upon the Finance Committee of the Guardians to make the same request to them, but he was in formed by Mr E. H. Davies that the Guardians could not see their way clear to accede to their request. Mr David Fenwick said that application would apply to every parish in the Union, and it would make matters very complicated if t-bat applica. tion were entertained then. Mr E. H. Davies said they had reason to be- lieve that the rateable value would be diminished by P.70,000 or £ 80,000 unless the increased out- put of coal they were now having would com- pensate for it. Mr David was informed that the application could not be entertained.

Letters to the Editor. The Editor, while welooming letters on all public topics, does not hold himself respon- sible for the opinions contained therein. Con- tributors must write on one side of the paper only, and letters brief and to the point have preference for insertion. All communications must be accompanied by the correct name and address of the writer, not necessarily for pub- lication, but as a guarantee of good faith.

Sir,—Passing the Tumble last night about half-past seven, I heard shocking language fall- ing from the lips of a man who was evidently drunk. His main purpose was to interrupt the open-air meeting that was being conducted there by the friends from the Graig Forward Move- ment Hall. The meeting was delayed. The question comes: Where were the police? As per usual, anywhere but in the right place. The man at last assumed a threatening attitude to- wards the preacher, and I was glad to see a fine tall gentleman step forth from the crowd, bare his head, and turn to the preacher, with the words, "Go on, my friend, I will stand by you,' 'and he stood by him until the end of the meeting. When the meeting was finished, of course a policeman put in an appearance, but he was not wanted then. I suppose someone slipped down to where two or three of them were having a committee, and informed them as to what had taken place. I think the attention of the public should be drawn to this matter. One would be inclined to think that our constables had no rounds to walk and no duty to per- form. Trusting that someone interested in this matter will take it up,—I am, etc., LOVBR OF PEACE.

4— Tfie Pontypridd Municipal Offices. AN ASTONISHED. RATEPAYER. Sir,—In your valuable paper of last week, you reported a matter which Mr Jones Powell Hrought before the Council with relation to the said offices, and-which, I should say at once, it was a very proper thing to do, and I am glad to see that one or two others to some extent ap- proved of his action; but what I cannot under- stand is why he should not be supported by the whole Council, when a proposal is made to save the rates of the town, which many of us feel to be a heavy burden, and which unfortunately, I fear, is likely to increase, and now I would like to protest in the strongest possible manner against the conduct of our Council, who, know- ing that 960 a year was being wasted, took no steps to prevent this waste of money, and who when it was brought to their notice passed it by as a matter of little or no consequence. Now, Sir, is not the game of waiting a childish business? For suppose we wait twelve months, and make seven hundred and ten pounds, instead of seven hundred pounds now, we shall have gained ten pounds and lost sixty, so we shall be just in the position of the lucky man, who lost 2s 6d and found a sixpenny loaf! Now, Sir, as a ratepayer of this district, and speaking on behalf of my fellow ratepayers, I would ask the members of our Council to con- sider this matter, and to act promptly, and it they have no interest in such matters, will they kindly resign, and pass on the work to those who are willing, and able, to do it, and just here I would like to know what other waste and extra- vagance is gomg on, and for which, we shall be called upon to pay, and shall thank any member of the Council to bring such matbers to the light. It is impossible for us to know these things, and I consider it the duty of our councillors to bring these things to our notice. It may be that some of them may think we are aslung too much; but I would remind them of their promises when they sought our support at the election, and would also warn them that we shall remember these matters when the polling day comes back to us again, And now waiting anxiously to see what steps may be taken in this matter at the next meeting of the Council, I remain, Yours respectfully, Pontypridd. A RATEPAYER.

-+- Things Theatrical. CLARENCE THEATRB, PONTYPRIDD. The "Belle of the West" t this popular place of amusement is going well this week, Colonel Bruce astonishing the audience with his remark- able feats with his rifle. The artistes sustain their parts with much spirit. The scenery is most effective, and the interest of the audience is sustained from the start to the finish of this romantic drama. Arizona Joe's highly trained dogs and horses impart intense realism to the general effect of the play. The sensational bridge scene, in which horse and rider are pre- cipitated some 15 feet, is very thrilling. Next week Mr Walter Kellson brings us his No. 1 Company in Dion Boucicault's great drama "After Dark." This is. perhaps, the first drama which the late gifted author scored as a success, and led him to the highroad to fame The company reproduce the play exactly the same in every detail as in London at "The Adel- phi." A visit to our local theatre will be amply repaid during the company's visit. THEATRE ROYAL, CARDIFF. "Charley's Aunt" occupies the boards of the TKheiatre Boyal, iCardiff, this week. Being played by Mr W. S. Penley's No. 1 Company, it need not be said that tfie performance is one of high merit. It the part of Fancourt Babber- lev Mr Spencer Trevor brings out in rollicking style all the old lady manneristiM of the supposed Donna Lucia. Mr Charles langley is capital as tha oourtly Sir Francis Chesaey, while Mr Ar- thur Withy and Mr Langdon Bruce as Jack Chesney and Charles Wykeham respectively are in capital form. Miss Phyllis Selbourne as Kitty Verdon, and Miss Kathleen Gordon as Ela Delahay, and Miss Helen PaJgrave as Donna Lucia, act their several parts to perfection. Next week the celebrated actor, Mr Wilson Barrett will appear in "The Manxman," "The Silver King, and "The Sign of the Cross."

Weddirig at Pontypridd. A very pretty wedding came off at Carmel on Tuesday morning, the bride being the eldest daughter of our respected townsman Mr W. Harris, Southern Rubber Establishment and the bridegroom Mr Idris Griffiths, The officiat- ing minister was the Rev E. E. Probert, pastor of Carmel Church. The bride, who was very neatly attired, and appeared quite charming, entered tYte sacred edifice leaning upon the arm of her father. The duties of bridesmaid were discharged by Miss Ethel Harris (sister of the bride), whilst the best man was Mr W. Grif- fiths (brother of the bridegroom). Upon leaving the church Mr and Mrs Griffiths were the recipi- ents of hearty congratulations and showers of rice. The wedding party then drove to the residence of the bride's parents, where a sump- tuous breakfast was provided. The presents were numerous, useful, and valuable. A

« Pontypridd. For Best and Cheapest Working Boots at 3s lid, 4s 6d, 4s lid, and 5s lid, go to Davies, FREE Pmtss Buildings, 23, Taff street, Pontypridd. 4307 FENNELL'S, 12, Market street, Pontypridd (opposite the Post Office). Call and see Fine Display of Fish. Anniversary services were held at Sardis Chapel, Pontypridd, on Sunday and Monday. when the Rev B. Davies, Trelech, and Rev E. Evans, Llanbedr, preached to large congrega- tions. DURING THE STRIKE Dr. Tlbbles' Vi-Cocoa reduced to 5d. and 7-1d. per tin at W. H. Key's, 2 The People's Cnemist, 90, Taff street, Ponty- pridd. 4226 NURSERY HAIR-WASH promotes the growth of the hair and keeps it free from nits, &e. 6d per bottle, or post free 9d.—Key, The People's Chemist, Pontypridd. 4225--2 A new feature which comes into operation this session in connection with the Trinity Col- lege of Music Examination is a new preparatory grade for children. The fee is 10s 6d. All par- ticulars may be obtained of the local secretary, Mr E. P. Mills. The Pontypridd Coachbuilding Cempany (prize winners for carriages) are now doing and are prepared to undertake the best class of work iu the trade; carriage trimming a speciality. Showrooms are now open.—Carriage Works, Morgan street, Pontypridd. 4123 Few dozen pairs of Ladies' and Gent's Tennis Shoes to clear below cost at DAVIES'S, Free Press Buildings, 23, Taff street, Pontypridd. 4284 "You can see with half an eye that KKANK faoHAS (" My Hatter,") sells the best 3/9 Hat. 2838

Treforest. Mr Alan Dummer, Treforest, is to be congra- tulated on the excellent manner he accompanied the various choruses, solos, etc., at the concert given by the Treforest Bands of Hope at Cal. vary Baptist Chapel on Thursday last. We wish our young friend every success in the fu- ture.

Porth. A fire broke out at the residence of Mr John Evans, 109, Birchgrove, Porth, about 1.30 on Thursday morning. Much damage was caused to the furniture and the rear portion of the house. The fire brigade arrived on the spot about 15 minutes after the outbreak, and ren- dered good service in putting out the fire. The damage is estimated at £100. The mmates were in bed when the alarm was raised. On Friday, September !6fE, a man named William Morgan, labourer (64), of No. 1, Glyn street, Cymmer, died suddenly from heart di- sease while at work at the chaff-room belonging to the Lewis Merthyr Colliery.

Cymmer. We are sorry that in our report last week of the presentation meeting to Mr F. H. Pride, Cymmer Collieries, we omitted to mention that 111be Cymmer Colliery Brass Band, under the cohductorship of Mr Matyn, rendered several selections during the evening, which were greatly appreciated by the audience. We feel more sorry for the omission as Mr Pride had been a mem- ber of the band for several years.

Pentre. The Rev J. Thomas, Pcntrhydyfen. has re- ceived and accepted a unanimous call to the pastorate of Siloam Baptist Chapel, Gelli, Rhon- dda. The rev. gentleman commenced his min- isterial duties 'on Sunday last, when excellent sermons were preached to very large congrega- tions. The harvest thanksgiving services in connec- tion with St. David's Church, Ton, will be con- tinued on Sunday next, when the order of the services will be as follows:—8.30 a.m., Holy Communion; 11 a.m. matins and sermons; 2.30 p.m., an address to the Sunday School scholars; 6 p.m., matins and sermons. The preacher will be the Rev William Thomas, vicar of Porth and Cymmer. A. United Choir has been formed at Pentre for the object of holding concerts for the poor of the place. The first practice was held on Wednesday evening last at the Assembly Hall, Pentre, when a large number of singers were present. The conductor is Mr Howell Howells, A.C., Pentre. These practices will be held every Wednesday evening at the Assembly Hall, when all lovers of music are earnestly requested W be present. On Thursday afternoon last, the 15th inst., the annual Sunday School treat in connection with St. Peters' Churoh, Pentre, was held in glorious weather, when a large number of friends availed themselves of the treat. The scholars met at the schoolroom at 3 o'clock, when all sat down to partake of an excellent tea and cake, which were thoroughly enjoyed by all present. After full justice had been done to the things- provided the scholars adjourned to the church grounds to indulge in the usual games until dusk, when all were dispersed after a most enjoyable treat.

Ynyshir. About seven o'clock on Sunday evening a little gini, named May Carden. the tbree-year-old daughter of Mr George Carden, agent at the Ynyshir House Coal Colliery, was playing along- sIde a feeder near the Old Farm, Ynyshir, when .she accidentally fell in, and before any assistance oould be procured the unfortunate child was drowned. In the list of successes at the musical exami- r.ation held at Pontypridd recently in connection with the Victoria College of Music, London, we notice the name of Miss Rachie Maud Davies, of South street, Ynyshfr, who was complimented upon the high standard of her playing (piano- forte), by the examiner, Dr J. H. Lewis, Lon- don. Having succeeded in obtaining the highest number of marks—coming- within a few of the maximum, 100—Miss Davies will receive the special book-prize awarded by the college to the most distinguished candidate, in addition to ch she will be placed in the "Honours' divi- sion, and awarded the Honours Certificate as- oordingly. This speaks highly of the efficient manner in which she was prepared by her popu- lar teaohar, Mr T. D. Edwads. professor of music, Pontypndd.

Wattstown. On Tuesday, September 20th, an essay con- test was held, under the auspices of the United Kingdom Prize Committee, between members of the Wattstown Temperance Society, and friends. The meeting was ably presided over by the Rev M. H. Jones, and the following gentlemen acted as adjudicators: Dr T. H. Morris, C.C.,I, Tv,lorst-own; Rev O. H. Hughes, Tylorstown; Rev John Morgan, Ynyshir. The contest proved to be of a high order, and was well appreciated by the audience, and won the judges' unqualified praise and commendation. The first prize, a beautiful silver medal, was awarded to Mr D. R. Davies, the winner of the second prize being Mr W. H. Jones.

Groeswen. The many friends of Mr John Edwards will be pleased to learn that he has been appointed Superintendent for the London, Edinburgh, and Glasgow Insurance Company. The District is a large and important one, but we are confident that it will receive every attention at the hands of Mr Edwards, who well knows the district under his supervision.

Caerphilly. The English.Baptist have just had a concert and tea, and the Welsh Baptists have held their preaching anniversary, when the Revs J. D. Hughes, Dowlais; Jones, Cwmpark, and Cornelius Griffiths, Cardiff, officiated. The meetings were well-attended ,and the preaching was of the highest order. The newly formed English Independent Church which meets for worship at the Board Schools, seems to be making headway, and contemplate building a new chapel on the Van ere long. We deeply regret to record the death, on the 16th inst., of Mr Daniel Phillips, relieving sig- nalman, on the Rhymney Railway. His death was very sudden, as he was present the previous Wednesday night at the services at Tonyvehn Welsh Baptist Church. The funeral took place on Tuesday at Llanfabon Church.

Abercynoq. At the Mountain Ash Urban District Counoil, on Monday, Mr J. Powell, J.P., in the chair, Sergeant Davies was appointed lighting inspector inspector of the extinguishing apparatus, and inspector of explosives. The annual church parade of the Abercynon branch of the Amalgamated Society of Railway Servants took place on Sunday. All the mem- bers and friends of the branch and members of other branches were iiwited to attend, and a pro- cession was formed opposite the club-room, Navi- gation Hotel, at one p.m. The procession was headed by the Abercynon Brass Band, together wit,n the Abercynon section of the Mountain Ash Volunteer Corps, and, having paraded the prin- cipal streets, it wended its way to St. Donate Church, where a special sermon was preached by the Rev Gomer Davies, curate. On Monday evening the annual concert in aid of the Wiuows' and Orphans' Fund was held at thj Board School. All the artistes gave their services free, and the large audience was de- lighted with their capital renderings. Miss Polly Jones, of Merthyr, presided at the piano. The artistes included Mr Iorwerth Davies, Mr D. Evans, Mr J. Long, Mr P. L. Blake, of Aber- cynon; Miss Kendry, and Miss Morgan, Pen- rhiweeiber. Miss Watts, Cardiff, Miss Lewis, Merthyr, and others. We are given to under- stand that a substantial sum has been realised.

Sengfjertydd. On Friday last a meeting was held at the Gwern-y-Milwr Assembly Rooms for The purpose of forming a debating society in this small but up-to-date town. Upon the question being asked, "Who called the meeting?" Mr D. Jones, B.A.,curate (who was unanimously chosen chair- man), said that that honour was due to Mr M. E. Price, chemist, as being the initiator in the movement. The Chairman, in an excellent ad- dress on "Dabating Societies," said they had generally done a vast amount of good to both the young and old of this country, and he felt sure, by seeing so many there that night, that it would also benefit the inhabitants of Senghen- ydd, Mr M. E. Price endorsed the chairman's remarks, and hoped the class would beoome a credit to the place. After several gentlemen had spoken, a committee was formed, consisting of the following gentlemen: Mr D. Jones, B.A., curate, president; Messrs J. E. Lloyd, T. J. Thomas, Thomas Nicholas, vice-presidents; and Messrs M. E. Price and J. F. Evans secretary and treasurer respectively.

Clydack Vale, The Welsh Wesleyans (Tabernacle) held their anniversary meetings on Sunday and Monday last, when very powerful sermons were delivered. On Thursday evening, at the Clydach Vale Hotel, Dr John David was presented with a testimonial on the occasion of his leaving Clyd. ach Vale for Mountain Ash. Mr Roberts (chair- man) made a very effective speech at the opeu- iiig, and *was followed by Mr D. Deere, who ex- pressed his great regard for Dr David and his family, and wished them every success in their future home. Addresses were also delivered by Dr Edwards, Dr Rocyn Jones, Dr Gabe Jones, Mr Trvero Pripe, Mr D. W. Thomas, and Mi- Morgan Davids. Dr T. LI. Morgan, who was deputed to make the testimonial, in his address spoke in eulogistic terms op Mr David, and said that though a rival professionally the rivalry was a very pleasant one, and that he could be reckoned as one of Dr David's most sincere friends. Friendship of this description is not made in a day, but each day adds to its weight and he further said, "I can testify to the warm reception that Dr David receives at the hands of his friends and patients at this place. Dr Morgan then read the engraving on the pendant. "Presented to Dr and Mrs John David, together with a purse of L30, by their friends, upon their departure from Clydach Vale, September 15th, 1898, and continued: "This, I believe, is the second testimonial that you carry, and this simple token, when held in your hand, will carry you back to those generous people who gave it to you. Successes and failures must come to each one of us. Let success be an encourage- ment to further effort, and not an inducement h rest upon the laurels gained here to-night. Let failure not dishearten you, but rathar stimu- late your energies to follow it with success, and if at times you feel despondent, do not listen and give way to despair. Go forth into your future kome without fear or favour, but with a manly resolution to do your best. I now, sir, in the name of the committee and your friends, hand ever to you this purse of gold ( £ 30) along with this pendant as a token of their friendship in a tangible form. May I ask you to be guided by Providence, and trust in Him for your future success and welfare throughout life. Dr David suitably Responded. The following artistes took part, andihelped to amuse the company: —Messrs Ben Davies (pianist), Llew Bedw, Charles Weld- ing, G. Williams, T. Walters, Arthur Walt-ere (Harmonica), Richard Jones, Tom Thomas, John Ellis, and Mr and Mrs W. Michael. Votes of thanks terminated a very pleasant evening. Mr Trevor Price (secretary) deserves credit for the arrangements and success of the movement. An inquest was held on Monday, at the Clyd- ach Vale Hotel, before Mr Coroner Rees on the body of Joseph Radford, who met his death at the Clydach Vale Pit. A verdict of "Accidental death" was returned. Mr Dyer Lewis (Inspector of Mines), Mr Trevor Price (representing the Cambrian Collieries), and Mr Evan Williams (representing the Workmen's Committee )were present.

Ystrad Myqachi Mr William Williams, late landlord of ths Royal Oak, Ystrad Mynach, died on Friday, after a very short illness, at the age of 72 years. He was a very old resident of the district, and was well-known for several miles around. In early life he was employed on the Tredegar es- tate.

New tyill. Between twelve and one o'clock on Saturday mght, a baker by the name of Thonras bad a narrow escape from drowning at, New Mill. It appears that he was fetching a bucket of water from the Mill feeder for a horse stabled Yeqj, by, It being dark he had a light in one hand and the bucket in tfie other, and being unable to balance himself when stooping fell headlong into the water. A neighbour named Bart !ett who lived close by, hearing his cries for help, go-, out of bed without waiting to dress, ran 4n the spot, and with great difficulty rescued the poor fellow from his perilous position. Although very exhausted he was able to walk with assistance to his lodgings. Had it not been for the timely assistance of Bartlette, Thomas would no doubt have been drowned, being of nervous tempera- ment and delicate constitution.

Ferndale. The result of the recent scholarship examina- tion held at Porth in connection with the Rhon- dda County School is most gratifying. The candidates from the Ferndale Boys' and Girls' Schools were all drawn from the 5th standard- the highest standards in these schools—and were, therefore, to some extent handicapped, for they had to compete with the pupils of the 6th and 7th standards of the other elementary 841hools of the parish, and also those of the Ystrad Higher Grade School. Yet we find the Femdale pupils head the lists of successful can- didates, both boys and girls. Again, out of the 12 scholarships offered for girls, one-third were taken by Ferndale, whereas of the 16 scholar- ships offered to boYS, n. less than 8 were car- ried off by Ferndale, a success which reflects very creditably upon the teachers of these schools. The following is a list of the successful I pupils from Ferndale: --Girls: Ethel G. David- son, Ada L. Evans, and Lizzie Walters. Bevs: William Henry Stevenson, Walter M. Triomas, David Powell, Watkin Rees, Edward Jones, Thomas PJriIliPSl William Frank Tbomas. and Evan David Williams.

Ynysybwl. Several months ago at a "Gymanfa Ganu" held at Tabernacle Chapel, a. suggestion was thrown out in favour of holding a united singing festival here. As an outcome of this, an appeal was sent by the Rev. J. C. Lloyd to the various Wefth chapels in the locality asking for co-operation, the result being that. two representatives were selected from each church (viz. Tabernacle (C), Noddfa (B), Jerusalem (C.M), and Ebenezer (W), Ynysybwl; and Bethfl (TM), Llanwnprio), to form a committee. This committee net for the second on Sunday l.tst, when conaidera'^l" headway was made towards the holding cf the festival. The Rev. J. C. Lloyd was elected chairman of the committee, Mr Edw. Williams (Cribyn Dy), treasurer, and Mr John Davies (Draper), secretary. It was decided to hold the f<.<ival on December the 26th, and six hymns from the several denominational hymn b oks were selected. The following two anthems are also to be sung Daw'r gareg odd. Orew (Rhedynog Price), and O'r dyndt r y iiefais" (W. T. Samuels). The conductor of the festival will be Mr William Thomas (conductor of the Treorky Royal Male Voice Party), and the accompanist, Master Dd. Davies, A.C. (Noddfa). Mr George Jones (Tabernacle), has been appointed conductor of the rehearsals. I' has been decided to hold three meetingE, viz., morning, afternoon, and evening, which will be presided over by the Revs. J. D. Jones. Thea. Jones, and Idris Thomas respectively. A sad accident occurred on the 15:ÍJ ii.st. to Mr William Jones, hitchcr, one of the oldest workmen at the Lady Windsor (Ocean) Colliery. He was crushed between two trams c." c >alt oausing serious injuries to which he suocambed I a few hours later. An inq est was heJt at the Robert Town Assembly Rooms on tlip following Monday, when a verdict of "accidental death" was returned On Tuesday, a funeral ervice was held at Jerusalem chapel, when t" Rev. J. D. Jones, Theophilus Jones, anC: .J. C. Lloyd, Ynysybwl and J. Owen Jones, Cemmaef took part, after which the mouri.iu1. cortege (which was a very large one) wended its way to the Ynysybwl Cemetery,singing the hymn "Maen nghyfeiilion adre'n myup,d to tune "Lau^^ni. Messrs E. Williams, E;nmaauel Llewellyn and Evan Evans, conducting. A short s-rvict! Has held at the graveside, at which Reve. j. C. Lloyd, and J. D. Jones, officiated. The body was then interred amidst deep manifestations ot sorrow and sympathy.

Births, Marriages- and Deaths. BIRTHS. BALLIGER. nn September 14th, at 13, PIaa- turton Gardens, Cardiff, the wife of John Ballinger, of a son. MARRIAGES. KlSEY-laUFFITHS.-SeptelBber 13th, at Weslevan Chapel. Criekkowell. by the Rev John Roberts. Thomas Kinsey, Provision Merchant. Tonypandy, to Maggie, second daughter of the late Samuel Griffiths, M.B., Nantyglo. .9 LOWRIE—VALETTE.—On the 13th inst., at the Parish Church. Raciyr, by the Rev D. Phillips, M.A.. Alfred Herbert, youngest sen f the late William Lowrie. ftadyr Farm, to Marguerite Marie Danver^ne, elder daughter of J. V. Valette. of Pierrefort, Radyr. LOVELL—SMITH.—At Tabernacle Chapel* Whiichurch. by the Rev W. T. Jones, pastor, assisted by Revs H. M. Hughes. B.A. (Cardiff), and D. G. Rees, on the 15th inst., Thomas Lovell. Cardiff, to Mary Smith. Whitchurch. DEATHS. JENKINS.—On September 12t.h, at 19, The Avenue. Merthyr Tydfil. Rose, the beloved wife of Thomas Price Jenkins, Deeply re- gretted. JOSES.-On September 15th. very suddenly, the Rev Samson Jones, Baptist minister, Tre- forest. JONES.—On September 16th, at Cemetery road, Aberdare. Rev nL Jor.es, Baptist minister, Llwvdcoed, Aberdare. RICHARDS.—On 21st inst., Elizabeth, wife of Eli Richards, explosives agent, and daughter of the late Mr Morgan Edwards. Morgan street. Pontypridd. Funeral at Carmel Chapal, Saturday, at 3. No flowers. WILLIAMS.—On September 16th, at Galileo Cottage, Ystrad Mynacii, William WDliams (late Royal Oak, Ystrad .111-1-