Glamorgan Free Press

Fire at the Craig Schools. Prompt Action of the Police. Shortly after ten o'clock on Thursday night, a fire broke out in one of the class-rooms of the Gralg Board Schools. P.O. Thomas, who was in the vicinity, promptly arrived upon the scene, immediately followed by P.C. Griffiths, who with admirable promptitude, at once ob- tained a few buckets of water from the neigbr bourhood, and soon overcame the flames. Messra J McGregor and Mr John Harris, hearing the alarm, soon obtained a hose from Mr D. Oliver Lewis, master of the workhouse, and established a connectioa with the fire, hydrant, but in this short interval the fire "had been extinguished. A crowd soon gathered around the schools, and in a few minutes several members of the Pontypridd Fire Brigade, headed by Lieutenant Tom Cule, appeared on the scene, out fortunately their services were not required. It appears that an evening con- tinuation class was to have been held in this class room on Thursday evening, and conse- quently the fires of the heating apparatus, the boilers of which were situated underneath, were not extinguished. By some means or another tie pipes became overheated, and ogmtea tne woodwork af t £ e wainscotting. Owing to the absences of air the flames did not burst out,and the police found no great difficulty in extinguish- ing the fire. A large quantity of pap»r,wn'a\ was near, caugEfc fire, but was promptly put out- Mr D. Milton Jones, clerk of the School Board, was soon in attendance, and was gratified to find the damage was not extensive.

TDistriet News relating to Ynysybwl, Abercynon Treharris, and Pentyrcli is printed on page 3.]

Pontypridd. C,LR.M&L, PONTYPRIDD.-HarveitThanksgiving Service next Sunday, October 23rd. Order ot Services Devotional at 11, Sermon at 6. [A80B The second of a series of Lectures in Welsh oil Th Second Coming of our Lord will be given at the Old Town Hall, Pontypridd, on Thursday next, the 27th inst., at 7.30 p.m. All are invited-Admission free. B86 PovrrpaiDD FOHWABD MOVEMENT Next Sunday, October 23rd, Mr. Jcnes. Cardiff. will preach at 11 a.m., 3 and 6 p.m. Violin solo by Mr. F. Southwood. Duet (violin and piano) by Mr F. Southwood and Miss Polly Jones, A.L.C.M. 4370 On Wednesday, Messrs Howard and King conducted a sale of property at the Colliers' Arms Hotel, Pontypridd. Lot 1, consisting of "1 dwelling-housee at New road, Senghenydd, was sold to Mr Griffiths, Queen's Hotel, Pre Ystrad, for £ 670. Lots 2 and 3, dwelling- houses in Station terrace, Sengbenydd, and a cottage at Daranddu, Pontypridd, did not reach the reserve price. Messrs Walter Morgan, Bruce, and Co., were the solicitors in the mat- ter. For Best and Cheapest Working Boots at 3s lid, 4a 6d 4s lid, and 5s lid, go to Davies, FREE PKESS Buildings, 23, Taff street, Pontypridd. 4307 For all kinds of Game go to FBNNELI/S, 12, Market street, Pontypridd (opposite the post Office). You can see with half an eye that PRANK TmomAs (" My Hatter,") sells the best 3/9 Hat. 2838 On Thursday Mr Charles Richards, auctioneer offered for sale the furniture and effects of the Pontypridd Liberal Club, which was closed in Jane. Most of the furniture, including the billiard tables, were bought by Councillors Watkin Williams, 15. R. Evans, and F. G. Edwards, the two tables realising £ 53 and = 10s respectively. W arc informed that a. syndicate Has Teen formed to restart the club oil new lines. For Dancing and Dress Shoes of all description GO to Davies's FREE PJlESS Buildings, 23, Taff Street, Pontypridd. 4284 DURING THE STEIKE Dr. Tibbies' Vi-Cocoa redue-d to 5d. and 7!d. per tin at W. H. Key's, The Peo,.Ie's Chemist, 90, Taff street, Ponty- pridd. 4225 NPRSEBY HATS-WASH promotes/he growth of the hair and keeps it free from nits, &c. 6d per bottle, or post free 9d.-Key, The People's Chemist, Pontypridd. -125-2 The Pontypridd Coachbuilding Company (prize winners for carriages) are now doing and are prepared to undertake the best class of work in the trade; carriage trimming a speciality. Showrooms are now open.-Carriage Works, Morgan street, Pontypridd. 4123

Treforest. Nos Iau, cawsom gyngherdd ardderchog yn nghapel Libanus gan Male Voice Party y lie, it dan arweiniad y medrus a'r gailmog arweinydd, D. Davies, F.T.S.C., Glyntaf. Teimlwm yn dra ,cliolchgar i'r cor Wr arweinydd am fod mor jgaredig a rhoddi eu gwasanaeth yn rhad er cynorthwyo yr achoa gwan yn Libanus. Cadeir- iwyd gan J. Crockett, Ysw., Pontypridd, yn ei ddull doniol arferol. Cyfarfodydd Diolchgarwch.—Cynaliwyd cyf- arfodydd yn Libanus nos Lun, n6s Fawrfch, a nos Fercher, er diolch am gjraauaf gwerthfawr y flwyddyn horn. Daeth Ifawer yn nghyd beb 90s. Nos Fawrtb cawsom anerchiad rhagorol gan y Parch D. G. Evans, Rhydfelen. Arwein- ydd y cyfarfodydd, Parch T. Davies, Libanus.— Tin o'r Lie.

Hawthorn. One. of those pleasant incidents which tend trJ brighten and to promote good fellowship took place recently at Hawthorn Schools on the oocasion of the resignation of the mistress, Mrs T. Price, who has carried on her duties at those schools most sucoessfully during the last seven years. A very pretty and valuable present, in the form of a cake-basket, was pre- sented to her by the teachers and scholars,who, while they regretted losing her from their midst wished her a happy time in her retirement.— Mrs Price was formerly mistress at the Graig Schools, and also at Llantwit, where she was highly esteemed.

Trealaw. On Wednesday an inquest was held on the body of Elizabeth Edwards (60), 0f 155, Ynys- cynon road,who, with a man named Dreece, on Saturday nikht fell over a. wail in the yard of the Glamorgan Coal Company,Llwynypia, to the siding below.She died shortly after.The man is in a precarious condition. Verdict, "Acci- dental death."

Tonypandy. Ja.mes Evans (14), 201, Court street, Tony- jwwidy, at the Clydach Vale Colliery, on Wed- nesday afternoon was caught between two trams and sustained abdominal injuries which it is feared will prove fatal.

As T R 0 Loa Y.- Your Future Foretold, I Marriage, Children, Ciauges in Circum- stances, Journeys, Legacies, etc. Send date of hirth. 12 ptamps and sbampQd envelopp.- Mr ('OLE, 30, Cheltenham Place, Brighton. Sussex. 13" Ch I ,& ;V

Ystrad. On Wednesday, William Godard, labourer, of 14, Ynysgau Street, had his right foot severely crushed and his left leg broken through a heavy piece of cast-iron falling off a trolley at the Ystrad Gasworks. Godard came to Wales a fortnight ago from Wiltshire.

Ystrad Iftondda. On Monday week, the Sunday School tea m ccnnectioil with the Jerusalem Wesleyan Chapel, Gelligaled, was held, when a large gathering of scholars and friends partook of an excellent lepast of the usual delicacies provided on such occasions, which were laid out on nicely decora- ted tables, presided over by the following la- dles :-Mrs Pickford anl Miss Davies, Mrs W. Jenkyns end Mrs W. Lewis, Mrs Shaw, and friend; Mrs Jenkyn, Mrs Gilman, and Mrs Rendley, otherwise assisting. At 7.30 a mis- cellaneous entertainment was held, under the presidency of the Rev R. Kennedy, Penygraig, and Mr D. Coleman, superintendent of the school. Addresses were ably delivered by Messrs J. James and Rev R. Kennedy. Solos and recitations were nicely rendered by Miss B. Rendley, Miss E. Emmerson, Miss Gillett, Mr E. Lewis, and Miss Slade

Ton. Great disappointment was caused in the upper part of the Rhondda when it became known that Mr W. Llewelyn Williams, B.A., barrister-at-law, Temple Court, London, had cancelled the engagement as to lecturing on Tuesday evening before the Rhondda Cymrod- orion Society, Being laid up with a severe cold his medical officer has requeste3 him not to leave his room for some days. But we find from the secretary, Mr Tom Davies, that Mr Wil- liams, will visit this society aa soon as he is about. We all wish Mr Williams a speedy re- covery.

Pentre. We understand that our old friend, F. G. Gould, the genial landlord of the Bridgend Hotel, is about to leave the district, for Swan- sea. We are sorry to lose Mr Gould end his worthy lady from our midst, but we wish them happiness and prosperity in their new sphere of life. The Sunday School anniversary services in connection with the English Primitive Metho- dist Cliapel, Windsor Street, Pentre, were held on Sunday last, the services being conducted bv Mr G. Rule, Pentre. Recitations, dialogues, solos, duets, and addresses were given by the scholars and teachers, which were much appre- ciated by those present. The choir, under the able conductorship of Mr 50. Davies, rendered several anthems in a masterly manner. On Monday, the annual tea was held. In the even- ing an inSespSting entertainment was held, over which fir W. Perry presided. Recitations, duets, and solos were giyen by the Sunday School scholars, and addresses by the teachers. Mc W. H. Bevan presided at the organ with his usual efficiency. Mr H. Davies was the con- ductor. The proceeds were devoted to the building fund.

Llwynypia. On Wednesday evening last, under the auspices of the Evening Continuation School, and under the presidency of Mr J. Lewis, a most interesting and instructive lecture on "Phrenology" was given by Professor J. Valant Williams (Ap Valant) at the Llwynypia Board Schools The lecturer ably described, by means of a diagram model designed for the purpose— the intellectual faculties and moral character of art individual by the magnitude and forms of the several parts of the skull, which were divi- ded into 35 sections. There was a very large audience, and all, both young and old, enjoyed the interesting facts so ably put by Professor Williams, more especially the public and accur- ate delineations at the close. On Thursday afternoon last, amidst manifes- tations of the most profound respect and regret, were laid to rest at Lledrddu Cemetery, Tre- alaw, the mertal remains of the late Mr Milson White, Llwynypia, whose death took plaoe as last week reported. The deceased had been a contractor ei the Glamorgan Coal Company for many years, but owing to indifferent health be had more recently held the responsible position of night-watchman under the company. Mr White's bright and cheerful presence will be sorely niissed by a large circle of friends, as well as in the homp where he was so greatly loved. He was a prominent and faithful sup- porter of the Mid-Rhondda Conservative Club. The esteem with which Mr White was regarded was shown by the beautiful wreaths covering the coffin, as well as by the large number of mourners. Wreaths were sent by the members of the Conservative Club, Mr J. Gilmour, M.E., Glamorgan Coal Company; Mrs Jones, Llwyny- pia; Mrs Collins (Hendre), Mon.; Mr Gains, Bristol; Mrs Brimfield, Llwynypia, and a mag- nificent cross by the Misses Cassie and Tilley Wilkins, Llwynypia. At the house the Rev J D. Jamea, Vicar of LIwynypia, offered up prayer, after which the hymn "For ever with tile Lord," was sung with sympathetic feeling The order of the procession was as follows: — General public, Lodge of Foresters, Ledge of Shepherds, coffin and mourners; 1st carriage, Mrs White (widow), Mrs Cullis, Hendre (daugh- ter), Mrs Jenkyns, Cardiff ece), Mrs James, Talaway (cousin), Mrs James, Bristol (niece), Mrs Hall, Tonypandy (cousin); 2nd carriage, Mr John Oriel (son-in-law), Mrs Oriel and grandchildren; Mrs M. White (neice), Mrs J. Daniels, Blaina; Mrs Harris, Pencoed (niece), 3rd carriage, Mr and Mrs Edward Jenkyn, Uwynypia; Mra Wilkins, Llwynypia; Mrs Lewis, Wain Court; Mrs Lewis, De Winton Field; Mrs Waldon, Primrose Hill. The male relatives, who followed on foot were: —Mr Willie White (son), Mr Cullis (son-in-law), Mr P. James, Mountain Ash (brother-in-law), Mr James White (nephew), Mr Gaswallen White dopted son), Mr Talley Jenkyns (nephew), Mr Edward WHlliams, Bteenavon (nephew), Mr John Lewis and Brothers, Blaina (cousin). The Vicar officiated at the graveside. The funeral arrangements were carried out by Mr Williams, undertaker, the coffin being black with massive bings furniture.

Treorky. At the presentation meeting in connection with the Treorky Technical Classes, held at the Institute on Monday week, Mr W. H. Owen, assistant master, Treorky Schools, was pre- sented with the following certificafes as the result of Science and Art Examinations, 1898: 2nd Class, stage A. Theoretical Mechanics; 2nd Class, stage A, Magnetism and Electricity; and 1st Class, stages 1, 2, and 3, Advanced MaHlcmatics. Such results are distinctly en- couraging, and we extend Mr Owen our compli- ments.

Maerdy. Mardy Quadrille crass are organising a Cin- derella Dance, to be held at the David's Hall, Mardy, on Thursday next (to-morrow), at which the Tylorstown String Band will be in attend- ance. We understand this is in aid of the band as a return for their kind assistance ro the Relief Dances held during the summer. A good programme has been provided, and dancing will be kept up until one o'clock.

Tylorstown. A meeting of the creditors of John Edward Jones, grocer, Hendrefadog House, Tylorstown, was held on Friday at. Mertbyr. The gross lia- bilities were entered at £ 4,680 3s 10d., but of this sum only £ 988 was expected to rank for dividend. The assets, with preferential claims deducted, were BUS 4s 6d., the deficiency thus being L814 15s lOd.

Ferndale. Mr W. T. Bevan took first prize at Wrexham a few days ago with his famous mare, Princess Maud. When we state that there were up- wards of 1,500 horses at the show, our readers may guess what winning a first must mean. The annual Sunday School anniversary of &e North street Congregational Church was held last Sunday, when the Rev W. G. Jenkins, B.A. Pontypridd, preached three eloquent sermnos. The singing of the Nterth street choir is well known, but it surpassed any thing previously attempted. Numerous solos and choruses were rendered. Miss Max Morgan presided at the organ. Mr Davies (of Hodges and Co.) was the leader of the orchestra. Great credit is due to the ahle conductor (Mr Tom Morris) for the excellent way the whole arrangements were carried out. Every meeting was crowded.

CwmparK* The Workmen's Compensation Act v. Con- tracting Out was the subject of an interesting debate at Park Hall, Cwmpark, on Friday evening, October 7th, under the presidency of Mr E. Middleton. Mr J. L. Rowlands read a lucid paper in favour of the former, and Mr Tom Evans ably responded, explaining the ground of his preference to the latter. The subject of diseusaien at the Cwmpark De- bating Society's meeting last Friday evening was, "Should we support Foreign Missions?" The chair was taken by Mr Tom Evans Mr John Evans led with the affirmative, giving several instances of the good results of these missions, how they had bean the means of abol- ishing the horrible customs of savages and changing their uncouth life to one of decency and good behaviour. Dealing with the moral and spiritual aspect, he thought it was of para- mount importance that the pure light of the Christian religion should shine in their homes, so that the inner man might be transferred from an unthinking brute to a thinking and respon- sdflle creature. Mr W. Pugh, who had under- taken the negative side, objected to the support of foreign missions on the ground that the re- sults of such missions were not favourable. He read extracts from a recent number of the "Legos Standard," and commented upon by the editor of the "South Wales Daily News" a, few months ago. It was to the effect that Christian missionaries had done little or no progress in Africa, while during the same time Mohamme- dan missionaries bad converted 60,000,000 of the inhabitants. Another plea against support- ing foreign missions was that it was opposed to the grand old maxim of "Charity begins at Home." He strongly deprecated the conduct of such people as one of Dickåifs characters, of whom it was said, "So she sent preserved tomato To the tribes beyond the equator, But her husband ate potato, Ani so did she." Li Hung Chang's evidence with regard to for- eign missions was read and received with inter- est. During his recent visit io England, Mr Maxim, the head of the world-famed firm of the Maxim-Nordenfeldt Company, had a pro- tracted interview with him. The conversation turned on the question of missionaries, a subject which Mr Maxim has made a special study of. He ventured to remark that the sending of Christian missions to China worked more mis- chief than good, and herein the Chinese Viceroy agreed with him entirely; adding that he and his people would always welbome physicians to look after their bodies, but that they would pre- fer looking after their own souls themselves. The voting at the close W86 as follows: For supporting Foreign Missions, 15; against, 14; majority, 1.

Penrhiwceiber. It, is pleasant to state that things are begin- ning to look up here both secularly and re- ligiously. The pit is working at full swing, and flhe underground toilers are once more earning their daily bread, but the effects of the pro- longed strike will last for a long time. Our churches are deriving the benefit resultant from commencement of working operations, and we trust that they will soon reach their normal strength and number. The Evening Continuation Classes have cem- menoed for the winter season, and we are glad to say they are having a good start. We hope that the young people and others will avail themselves of the opportunity. The teachers are Mr Ambrose, head-master, and Mr R. C. Williams, assistant master. We wish thein every suae ess. The Workmen's Committee have decided to raise their levy for the doctors fund from 2d in the £ to 3d. in the £ owing to their inability to contribute during the strike. We are sure that our esteemed medical man, Dr R. W. Jones, M.B., is very worthy of this sign of the workmen's appreciation of his services, as he has proved himself to be as attentive to the requirements of his patients during the strike as at any time; and we consider that the work- men are honouring themselver. by this act.

Llaqtwit Fardre. At the recent examination for degrees in Arts in connection with the Durham University, Mr Dan Bryant, a student at Hatfield Hall, was successful in passing the Intermediate B.A. Examination. Mr Bryant headed the First Division list, and was awarded the Gisborne Scholarship, of the value of £30, by the ex- aminers.

REPLIES TO CORRESPONDENTS. A Workman.-We tannot see that any good purpose would be served by inserting your re- marks on the Co-operative Stores at Llan- bradach. The movement in our opinion is for the good of the workmen generally, and it is unfair to suggest, as you seem to, that the promoters or any of tEefi" supporters are actuated by selfieE motives.

qarvest Thanksgiving Services. PONTYPRIDD. Harvest thanksgiving services were held at the Wesley Church, Pontypridd, on Sunday,and were conducted by the Rev A. Duerryhouse Smart both morning aiid evening. The build- ing had been most tastefully decorated by the lady members of the church, whose efforts were well Vpa?, by the effective picture the sacred edifice presented. There were large congrega- tions present, especially at the evening service, and the Rev Mr Smart eloquently delivered an appropriate sermon on each occasion. Suitable hymns were nicely sung by the choir, under the direction of Mr M. Julian, the Te Deum being given at the morning service, while the anthem, "Is it not wheat harvest?" was very creditably rendered in the evening, the principal soloist being Miss Ethel Morris, who acquitted herself admirably, the other parts being taken by Miss L. Houghton, Miss P. Julian, and Miss M. Singer. Professor E. P. Mills, L.R.A.M., pre- sided at the organ wlfli s usual ability. In the afterneon Mr Smart also gave an address in the schoolroom. On Monday evening another service was held, when the Rev W. Maltby (chairman of the Cardiff and Swansea district), gave a splendid discourse The inclement weather prevented a very large attendance, but the rev. gentleman's remarks were well worth braving the elements for, and were attentively listened to by those present. The choir again rendered the anthem, Mr Julian very ably pre- siding at the organ. The collections made at aN the services were in aid of the circuit funds. PONTYPRIDD FORWARD MOVEMENT, GRAIG HALL, RICKARD STREET. The harvest thanksgiving services last week were a grand success. The following took part, and rendered valuable aid to the proceedings: Evangelist J. H. Owen preached in the morning on "Give us this day our daily bread. It was truly a message'in season. At 3 in the after- noon Prof. Young Evans, M.A., of Trevecca, was the speaker, and Mr J. B. Roberts, Ponty- pridd Academy, was chairman. In the evening Dr J. R. Roberts ana Ald. J. Jones Griffiths preached to crowded congregations. On Mon- day evening Mr Edwin Burgess was the speaker Etod Mr W. J. Teague the chairman, both of the Pontypridd Academy. After the services the fruit was sold: proceeds for Building Fund. TREFOREST. Thanksgiving services are to be held at the Wesley Church, Treforest, lwzt Sunday. Thanksgiving. ervices were held at Saron (C.M.) Chapel, on Thursday, when there were large congregations present at each service. ENGLISH WESLEYAN CHAPEL, PENTRB The annual harvest thanksgiving servioes in connection with the English Wesleyan Chapel, Pentre, were held on Sunday and Monday last. Or Sunday, at 11 and 6, eloquent sermons were preached by Mr T. James, of Llwynypia, and in the afternoon at 2.30 the Rev E. W. Davies, Hebron, Ton, preached an excellent sermon to a large congregation; on Monday tvening, the Rev G. Makin, pastor, occupied the pulpit. The church was decorated in a manner which reflec- ted the greatest credit on the ladies of the above place of worship. At the close of these services a sale of fruit, vegetables, etc., took place, the proceeds of which were devoted to the Chapel Fund. ) CAERPHILLY. On Wednesday and Thursday evenings, the 12th and 13th inst., special harvest festivals were held at St. Martin's Church, Caerphilly, when two powerful sermons were preached by the Revs Mr Morgan, Penmark, and Bowen, M.A and R.D., Llangattock, respectively. The church, which was prettily decorated with fruits, vegetables, earn and flowers, was crowded at each service, which were intoned by the Rev J. Harris, B.A., curate, and the Rector, D. Lewie, R.D. Special Psalms and hymns were sting, and festal responses. The anthem was, "I will sing of Thy Power" (Sullivan). Per- cessiocal and retrocessional hymns were sung. The tenor solo in the anthem was sang by Mr Dan Lloyd, who possesses a very rich voice, with great care, precision, and pathos. The second service on Thursday evening was also highly successful, When Tour's service in F was effectually rendered by the choir. "0 taste and gee," was the anthem by the same author, which was melodiously sung. Collections were made at the different services in aid of the Church Pastoral Aid Society. Similar servibe was heM the following Thursday evening at Pwllypant Church, wlien the Rev Theopbilas Re, vicar of Pontlotfyn, officiated. Collections were made at this service in aid of the same society. TREORKY. The annual harvest thanksgiving services were held on Wednesday and Thursday last at St. Dyfodwg Welsh Church, Treorky. On Wednes- day evening, the Rev T. R. Thomas, Ynyshir, preached in the unavoidable absence of the Rev Samuel Jones, Vicar of Ynyshir. On Thursday at 11, the Rev B. D. Johns (Periander),Llwyny- pia. delivered an eloquent sermon to a large congregation, and in the evening at 7 the Rev D. Bankes Williams, B.A., Vicar of Cwmavon, occupied the pulpit, and preached an eloquent sermon to an overflowing congregation. The church was beautifully decorated for the occa- sion with fruit, vegetables, etc. The lessons were read 6y the Rev T. M. Raymond, Ton, Pentre, the rest. of the service being conduoted by the Sev David Lewis, B.A. (curate in obarge), and the Rev J. E. Davies, B.A., Tre- orky. The musical portion of the service was admirably rendered. The services were con- tinued on Sunday last, when the Rev John Rees, Vicar of Treherbert, preached excellent sermons both morning and evening, to very large con- gregations. CoITections were made in aid of the Additional Curates' Society. ST. MARY'S CHTJRCH, TREHERBERT. The annual harvest services were held at the above church on Thursday last, October 13th, when the Rev J. R. Buckley, B.D., R.D., Vicar of Llandaff, preached. The services were con- tinued on the following Sunday, when sermons were preached in the morning by the Rev Pre- centor Lewis, R.D., Vicar of Ystradyfodwg, ia the afternoon, the Rev W. M. Morris, St. Alban's, Tynewydd. and in the evening, the Rev T. Harris, B.A., Vicar -of Cwmpark. The choir, under the leadership, of Mr D. Gwilym, gave an excellent rendering of the anthem, "The Lord is Loving." The solos were taken by Messrs D. Gwilym, J. Harding, F. Daniels. and the Misses AIA and Annie Clarke. Great praise is due to those who took part in the church decorations, which were very tastefully carried out. fl. TREHARRIS Harvest thanksgiving services were conducted at Brynhyfryd Welsh Baptist Chapel during the whole of last week. The Rev Jason James Pendarren, Merthyr, preached on Tuesday even- ing.

+ Coqgregatioqalisni in East Glantergan. MEETINGS AT PORTHCAWL. The quarterly meetings of the eastern division of the English Union of Glamorgan and Car- marthenshire were held at Porthcawl on Mon- day and Tuesday. On Monday the Revs J. Gwilym Jones, Penarth, and W. Silas Charles, Ferndale, preached to a large congregation. On Tuesday morning the business conference took place under the presidency of the Rev J. Wil- liamson. New churches at Aberaman and Caer- philly were received into the Union. At the afternoon service applications for aid from the Forward Movement Fund for building purposes were considered, and it was resolved to vote £ 50 to Roath Park and £ 20 to Caerphilly. The Rev J. Williamson, U.K., -was elected presi- dent; Mr W. Powell, Bridgend, treasurer; and at urgent request the Rev J. Gwilym Jones, Penarth, consented to act as secretary. As a result of a special appeal om behalf of the For- ward Movement Fund upwards of 9120 were raised at the meeting.

ST. DAVID'S, PONTYPRIDD. On Sunday next, the 23rd inst., the Rev J. S. Roose, the new pastor, will officiate. On Thursday, the 27th inst., at 8 p.m., a very inter- esting lecture will be delivered by the Rev Thos. Evans, subject, "Sermon tasters, Deacons, and Doctors." TON. The anniversary meetings in connection with Jerusalem Welsh Calvinistic Methodist Chapel, Ton, were held on Saturday, Sunday, and Mon- day last, when powerful sdrmona were delivered Rev D. Lloyd Jvnes, M.A., Llandinam, and the Rev J. Griffiths. Shrewsbury.

DR. HANS RICHTER'S VISIT TO CARDIFF. Our musical correspondent "Ap Iorwerth., writes anent the above as foIIows: -Through the instrumentality of Mr W. A. Morgan, of Cathedral Road, Cardiff, a treat of the highest order is in store for all music lovers on Wednes- day evening next,, the 26th inst., when the celebrated Richter Orchestra is announced to give a grand orchestral concert at the Park Hall, Cardiff. We have just received an an- notated programme of this important event—a neatly get up little volume, giving bars of music of the leading themes of the items to be per- formed, and explaining at length the entire programme. We would advise all who intend Presenting themselves upon this occasion, to ob- tain beforehand a copy of this little work—to be had at the booking office, price sixpense each-the careful perusal of which enables the reader to more thoroughly understand and en- joy the performance. The programme, which has been specially compiled for the occasion, consists almost entirely of some of the most re. markable excerpts frvm the music dramas of the great Wagner, whose music has lately been the rage in London. But as a special feature the late Tschaikowsky's wonderful and much- spoken of "SymphonTe Pathetique" is included. This last symphony of the renowned Russian composer is acknowledged to be one of the! greatest orchestral compositions of modem times, and "has oaused a tremendous sensation in l the musiaaJ world ever since its first perform- ance in England at the Philharmonic Society's concerts m February and March, 1894. We can assure our mnsical readers that it would be well worth a visit to Cardiff to hear this great or. chestraJ work only, The Wagnerian items in the programme are the overture to "The Flying Dutcjimanj, "Vorspiel and Leibestod" from "Tristan and Isoffle;" "The Ride of the Valky- ries," from "Dei Walkure;" "The Funeral March" frem "Gotterdammerung;" and the overture to "Tannhauser"-truIy a fine selec- tion. In the circular issued by him, Mr W. A. Morgan informs us that Dr Hans Riehter and his famous orchestra are only fulfilling a brief tour of the British Provinces. The forced brevity of the trip necessarily reduces the se- lection of towns to a very narrow limit, and none but the most important musical centres can possibly be included in the itinery. It is, therefore, graitfying to know that Cardiff is now included amongsF them. The near- est town to Cardiff which Dr Richter will visit on this tour is Birmingham. It is to be hoped, therefore that those of our readers who are interested in the most beautiful of all arts, viz., music, will avail themselves of this opportunity to welcome so distinguished an organisation in our midst, and to hear the afore- mentioned works performed under the master- ly guidance of the great Viennese conductor. Dr Hans Richter has received the highest com- mendation that the public, press, and musical critics are able to bestow. He is also acknow- ledge to be the greatest interpreter of Wagner's music living. We should not forget to add that his orchestra consists of 93 of the very best instrumentalists in the country. The well- known concert promoter, Mr W. A. Morgan, is to be commended for the excellent treats he is continually providing to music lovers of Car- diff and South Wales generally by securing the best talent available to give concerts, recitals, etc. Further particulars of the Richter Con- cert will be seen in our advertising columns. The Taff Vale Railway Co. will issue tickets to those holding concert tickets at single fare, and a quarter from all stations on their line.

Smart Capture of Burglars by the Tonypandy Police Some weeks ago the premises of Mr Edwards, jeweller, Perrott Street2 Treharris, were broken into, and an amount of jewellry, watches, etc., to the value of about t250 stolen. Several I arrests have been made in the Merthyr district. 08 Monday evening last, from information re- i ceived. Inspector Hoyle, accompanied by P.C.'s 430, 43, and 356, swooped down upon a house, situate at Hendregwilym, Penygraig, occupied by a John Harris and his wife. It appears that this family had recently come into the district from Merthyr. The Inspector and constables thoroughly searched Che premises, and in the chimney of the front room discovered, hidden away, three boxes containing 25 watches (gold and silver), 50 gold wedding and keeper rings, and several gold and silver alberts, amounting in value to about £200. Hidden away in the same place were about 50 pawntickets for various articles of the plunder pawned in Tre- herbert, Pentre, Tonypandy, Penygraig, Porth, and Pontypridd. On Tuesday Inspector Hoyle handea prisoners John Harris and wife over to Sergeant Davies, of the Treharris Police, with property recovered. On Thursday they were brought before the Merthyr magistrates and remanSed.

Pontypridd Shop Assistants. VISIT OF MISS BOND FIELD. At the Paiish Rooms on Monday evening a public meeting was held under the auspices of the local branch of Shop Assistants to hear an address by Miss Margaret Bondfielfl, assistant secretary of the National Union of Shop Assist- ants. In spite of the very unfavourable weather there was a goodly number present, when Coun- cillor Fred G. Edwards, the chairmen, opened the proceedings. Miss Bondfield, who was heartily received, took as her subject "Shop Life Reform." The objects of the National Union, she-said. were threefold, viz., the reform of shop life. the establishment of a Provident Fund, and the establishment of a Benevolent Fund. The lat- te was for the purpose of assisting those who were dependent upon members of the Union,but who were not entitled to be on the Providem Fund, which was to enable members to receive assistance when required, and so enable them to maintain a certain amount of independence and to ticTe over stormy days. Among the re- forms needed in shop life were (1) the abolition of the living in system; (2). abolition of fines and deductions; (3), payment of fair wages; (4), the establishment of a labour bureau; (5). legal assistance for members; (6), a system of true references; (7), adequate time for meals; and (8), the reduction in the hours of labour. The living in system was a growing evil, and was beginning to tell upon the moral and men- tal calibre of the workers. n. was neither ne- cessary or right. A great number of assistants were labouring under the impression that the living in system was something which the em- ployers gave them, and something which they (the assistants) did not fto anything for. They considered tney were paid for their laboui by a.t they got in wages, but the living in system was a part of their wftge, and it was for the assistants to consider what part it represented, and what value It was to them as individuals, end not what the convenience of it was to their employers. (Hear, hear). Again, the Jiving in system caused the assistants to be so much under the employers' control, and they were unable to get away from their environments. This helped, to weaken their independence and self-respect, and they had little chance of soli- tude. If they wished to develope themselves morally and mentally they must have time for thought. Fines and deductions were growths which had been thrust upon them. The speaker strongly condemned the system, and added that the imfliction of a fine for being five minutes late did net tend to improve the employee, but served to rob him of his self-respect. The abolition of this system would be a step towards raising <he standard of work in the shops. (Hear, hear). Dealing with the payment of a fair wnge, Miss Bondfield said the Union had collected some statistics on the subject, and found that in London tEe rate of wages for women was from 10. to 3d. an hour. In the provinces she had been unable to obtain the figures, because the women refused to state what amount they earned, but the theory she formed was that in the provinces they were paid a little less than in London. Why was their laboar so poorly paid? Was it of as much value to the community as that of the nan who kept the streets clean or that of the man who built tTlcir houses? If they would care. fully consider the matter, they would find they were a very useful section of the communitv, and people could not well manage without them, in fact, it would be absolutely impossible in the present day to do without shop assistants. The men who kept the streets clean in London did not receive less than sixpence an hour. and the mason's labourer, an unskilled workman, re- ceived more than 4d, an hour; the shop assist- 2 ants, therefore, must be the most unpaid class of labour in the present day, and in spite of this they had to keep up a good appearance and dress up to the proper standard. In addi- tion they had to have other qualifications to sell te customers things they did not want. (Laughter). The speaker condemned the system of paying a small salary and commission, and stated that the latter never yielded as much as they were led to e^>ect. The amount of com- mission was entirely problematic; the only cer- taintf was the salary, and she was aware of firms where even that was not a certainty. (Laughter). The assistants desired to have a minimum wage below which no-one could be paid (Hear, hear). She had hopes of seeing the time when shop assistants would be paid lOd or Is an hour like the other labouring sections of the community. (Hear, hear). The Union was desirous of establishing a labour bureau in every district. As matters now stood assistants frequently got out of a bad berth only to go to a worse. By* the establishment of a laobur bureau they would be able to get reliable infor- mation about any house, and by this means they could, if necessary, boycott any bad employers who did not treat their assistants humanely. They found that assistants were being duped all over the country, because they were ignor- ant at legal matters, and did not know their position under the law. Of course, there was very little law for them, cause they were largely a disenfranchised section of the commu- nity, but the intention was to provide all ad. vice in legal matters for assistants, and if neces- sary, to test their case in a court of law. The question of references was a very vexed one. An employer demanded references from an assistant's previous employer, and the latter could, if he thought fit, with-held it. Again. an employer could damage their future pros- pects by a stroke of the pen. and as such a document was privileged and might not be pro- duced in a court of law, the assistant had no redress. They should see that, as long as em- ployers demanded references, they were com- pelled to give them. The Union proposed to get a Bill, if they could get anyone to introduce it. to register the references containing certain straightforward questions to employers, which would be answered by them, and should not at any future time be altered. This system was in vogaie in Germany and France, and there was no reason why it could not be adopted here. Referring to the question of giving adequate time for meals. Miss Bondfield said this was one of the things the workers had allowed to become part and parcel of their employment. An en- ergetic protest a few years ago would have effectually prevented the growth of this system, and they now found it was much harder to get rid of it than before. It was a perfectly simple matter to arrange if only a little thought were applied to the subject. The assistants could go to meals in turns, or. if the work was too great to allow this. the staff should be increased. Two Bills were being introduced into the House of Commons to reduce the hours of labour of assistants. One was Sir John Lubbock's and th > other Sir Charles" Di'kc's. She detailed the contents of the former and considered it unsatis- factory, inasmuch as there was nothing to com- pel all employers to close at a stated hour. There was something defimto about Sir Charles Dilke's Bill. "All shops shall be closed at a given time," it stated, and further, "no person shall be employed in or about, the shop after hall an hour utter closing time, unless due no- tice has been given." And this oveiltime could only be worked on 20 occasions during the year. The dominant note aoout that Bill wai "shall;" there was nothing perniiive about it. She advised them to exert their influence, if pos- sible, in favour of Sir Charles' Bill, because ft was one likely to be of benefit to all classes ei workers. The speaker further dwelt upon their duties as Trades' Unionists, and condemned the apathy shewn by some of them to all ques- tions concerning shop life reform. Some of them imagined they were superior to other sec- tions of the community because they bad to dress well, and some delighted in considering their calling a trade. She reminded them that they were "workers," and as workers they had no right to hold aloof from organisations tend- ing to promote their welfare, but they should see fhiey were represented on local 'bodies, trades' councils, and ntailcipal bodies, and, bye and bye, in Parliament. (Loud applause). Addresses were defivered by the chairman, Mr E. Bloomer, and Mr W. H. Harris, after -which a vote of thanks, proposed by Mr A. W. Walters, and seconded by Mr Jeremy, termina- ted the proceedings, which had been enlivenefl at intervals with songs by Miss Maggie Mills, Mr David Dstvies. and Mr Walter Chick.

Llantrisant School Board. To the Editor. Dear Sir,—In the report of the Llantrisant School Board in your issue of October 8th, I find that Mr Arthur, the head master, bringa a general charge of inefficiency against me. Since I was not present at the Board meeting I think it but fair that I should reply to his charge through the columns of your paper. Everyone admits that a person charged with in- efficiency should have some chance of defending himself by some means or other. In the first place it should be remembered that Mr Arthur charges his assistant with in- efficiency at the very time when he himself is charged with the same thing. lIe evidently prefers such a charge in order to save himself somehow. At the Board meeting Mr Arthur's incon- sistency was pointed out. After making the charge of inefficiency, he was reminded that on a previous occasion Tie admitted (in a public meeting) that he was quite satisfied with the staff he had, which referred to the staff he at present has. Whence, then, the present charge? He states that the school at Tonyrefail has suffered owing to the illness of some of the teachers from time to time. But. does not ill- ness occur in the case of some feacben in all schools? He deals here with the inevitable. And I doubt whether anyone with deep human feelings would ever refer to such a matter. Be- sides, the place of any teacher absent through illness can be filled by a temporary arrange- ment, every chance for such an arrangement having been given in the instance under con- sideration. But, after all. the weakest part of Mf Arthur's defence before the Board is the following: -"I know that the assistant masters the Board have put in my school are not worth a "rap." Surely, a felicitous and refined ex- pression for an educationist! Tfflhie statement was made in ueply to a query whether it was not a fact that no assistant master could main- tain discipline in the Tonyrefail School. Now, if it is- a fact that none of the assistant masters a; Tonyrefail have not been worth a "rap," how can the statement be consistent with the well-known fact that some of these assistants have gained honourable positions in other schools ? Following the history of these Bangor men and their successes, surely they can com- pare favourably with the Carmarthen man who charges them. Personally. I may say that when I came Tonyrefail I found Mr Arthur in troublous waters, in which, I understand, he has been for a number of years. At present Mr Arthur tries to excuse himself by making a charge of inefficiency against me. It is a consolation that others have shared similar unprovc T f bargee.; I am not the only one who h) i r- l this treatment..—I am, etc., Tonyrefail. GOMB IIEES.

Grievance at Llantrisant. To the Editor. Dear Sir,-We have had the water works at Llantrisant a little over twelve months against the desires of some of the inhabitants. Just as they were about laying the pipes in each housa they stopped the well at South Cete. called Ffynon Gollen, those in authority saying it would be unsuitable to drink. But all through tin summer people were obliged to drink it as it runs through a pipe to the field belonging to the late Mr Williams, Fairfield. Others get their water from some kind neighbour, as the water works water is not fit to drink. It is yellow in colour, nasty to the taste, and not very pleasant to smell. The people living near the Talbot. Arms could not drink the water supplied by the water works. The pump has been repaired, and we. the inhabitants at South Gate, would hp extremely obliged if our old well could be opewed again, which has supplied the inhabitants for years. There is but one instance of any person su<"ffring ill effects by drinking it. If the District Council represent the ratepayers. I hope they will grant our reasonable request to have onr pure water again.—I am. etc.. A RATEPAYER.

vegetaimamsm. The Vegetarian Society of Cardiff and dis- trict. who hold with Plutarch that "it is best to accustom ourselves to eat no flesh at all, fer the earth affords plenty enough of things not only fit for nourishment, but enjoyment ard delight," will hold a public meeting at Andrew's Hall, St. Mary Street, Cardiff, on Monday, the 24th inst., at 7.3D p.m., when some interesting addresses wiB be delivered by the president anil secretary of the society. SPajor Richardson, of the Order of Danielites. and other gentlemen from London and the provinces, who are promi- nent advocates of an anti-flesh dietary. Alder- man Bevan, ex-mayor of Cardiff, will preside.