Rhondda Leader Maesteg Garw and Ogmore Telegraph

Clydach Vale. The deacons and members of Libanus (O.M.) Church will shortly show their appreciation of their pastor's services on the occasion of his departure for Swansea. The Rev. T. E. Davies leaves Libanus at the end of January. A meeting to further the candidature of Mabon in the coming Parliamentary election was held on Tuesday evening at Saron Vestry. The Conservative candi- date has already opened a committee room in Clydach Road. An opportunity will soon be afforded the inhabitants of this district to sup- port Mr. Brinley Price, who succeeded in obtaining a County Council Scholar- ship at Ruskin College, Oxford. A cine- matograph lecture is to be o'lven on his behaJ.. The Welsh Glee Singers paid their annual visit to Angelton Asylum, Bridg- end, on Friday last, and gave an enter- tainment to the lunfortunate inmates which was greatly enjoyed. The singers were afterwards entertained to supper, and were congratulated upon their excel- lent concert by Dr. Findlav chief medical superintendent. The costs of the visit were defrayed by County Councillor Jas. Evans.

I N' Behind every Pair of NORWELLS 11 Perth Boots. Is a firm with over too years' repu- tation for making good solid reliable, „ all leather, boots, for the hard wear and tear of the Agriculturist and n The Perth Farmer » Hi H V (on the Farm) 161- fl 1 The Kirk or Market 1 sA Farmer, 13/9 fM>( X } The Perth Ploughman, Watertight, 10/6 Writ" to-day for our free Illus- r 3 fated Price List No, ^3 j awTou!4 haPi/y-footed customers. I Established over see year*. NOKwaiis, PEKTH.N-B. :'II. will not cure everything. But for 80 years it has had unrivalled success as a remedy for Coughs & Colds, Asthma, Chronic Bronchitis, and Weakness of Lungs, It's healing efficacy in Consumption has been abundantly proved by hundreds of testimonies published in recent years. CONGREVE'S BALSAMIC ELIXIR for Diseases of the Lungs is sold by all Chemists at 1/1%, 1/9, 4/6 and xx/- per bottle. Mr.Congreve's well-known book on Consumption and other Diseases of the Lungs will be sent post free for Sixpence, on application to Coombe Lodge, Peckham, London, S.E.

Ystrad Rhondda. The funeral of Mrs. M. E. Hughes, wife of Mr. T. J. Hughes, 7, Cross St., Ystrad-Rhondda (whose death was re- ported in our last week's issue), took place on Wednesday afternoon of last week amidst manifestations of respect and sym- pathy at Llethrddu Cemetery, Trealaw. Deceased was 34 years of age. and a faithful member of Bethel (C.M.) Chapel, Ystrad. She was also a Sunday School teacher and a very prominent figure in local musical circles. The Rev. Thomas Lloyd (pastor) officiated, assisted by the Rev. D. G. Evans, Bryn Seion, Gelli. The mourners were: -Mr. T. J. Hughes (hus- band) Mr. and Mrs. John Lewis Jones (brother and sister-in-law); Mr. and Mrs. Rd. James Jones (brother and sister-in- law) Miss Annie J. Jones (sister); Mr. and Mrs. John Jones (uncle and aunt); Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Edwards, (uncle and aunt); Mr. Ellis Williams, Rarry .uncle); Mrs. Susannah Morgan, Barry (aunt); Mrs. Evan Davies, Treorchy (aunt); Mr. Thomas Hughes (father-in-law); Mr. Dd. Hughes (brother-in-law); Mr. Ed. Parry (brother-in-law); Mr. and Mrs. John Lewis, Ynyshir; Mr. and Thomas Lewis, Trehafod; Mr. David Williams; Mrs. John Borth Williams and sons; Mr. and Mrs. Evan Lewis, Tylorstown; Mrs. Erasmus, Treorchy; Mrs. John Hughes, Tonypandy; Mrs. Moses Morgan, Treher- bert; Mrs. Jones, Treherbert; Rev. Rd. Jones, Pencoed; Rev. Thomas Jones, Pwll Llanelly; Rev. Enoch Jones Car- diff University; Mr. Dd. Jones, Mardy; Messrs. Thomas and John Pugh, Treher- bert, and Miss S. A. Edwards, Clydach Vale (cousins); Mr. Thomas Lewis, Miss Catherine M. Morgans, Ystrad; Mrs. Thomas Jones, Ton; Mrs. Isaac Francis; Mr. Thos. Bowen, Pentre: Mrs. Isaac Hopkins, and Mrs. Richards:, Cardiff Arms Hotel, Treorchy (nephews and nieces). A beautiful wreath was sent by the Ystrad- Rhondda Glee Singers, of which deceased was a member. At the graveside the choir gave a rendering of "Ar lan'r Iorddonen ddofn" (Gabriel), conductel by Mr. Richard Evans, Tyntyla Road.

Nantymoel. Advent of New Year.—The passing of the old year and the entry or tHe urem was characterised at Nantymoel bv carol singing and blowing of hooters, ao. M large number were abroad until midnight.. and the custom of watching the new you in seems to gain in popular estimations I _A..¡i Social Tea.—To mark the success of their performance of the opera, Ali Ba-Ba, or The Forty Thieves," the Gilead Juvenile Band of Hope Choir were enter- tained to an excellent tea at Gilead Vestry on New Year's Eve. The choir, which numbers 150 voices, with their popular conductor, Mr. W. Hugh Jones, thoroughly merit the compliment paid them, and the large company present enjoyed a most pleasant social evening. Obituary.—We much regret to record the death on New Year's Day of Miss Ayres, Ogwy Street, Nantymoel. The deceased lady belonged to an old and highly esteemed family of the Ogmore Valley, and her demise is generally mourned. Musical Success.—At the recent Bridg- end Eisteddfod, in the pianoforte solo competition, Danse Valaque," Miss Ceridwen Morgan, Commercial Street, Nantymoel, was awarded the first prize, and the adjudicators spoke very ej/jgis- tically of her powers as a pianist. Miss Morgans, who is yet quite young, is to be complimented upon her brilliant attain- ments. Billiard Tournament.—The billiard tournament promoted by the committee of the Nantymoel Workmen's Hall and Institute proved an unqualified success. The competitors numbered over 80 and were divided in three classes. Seven prizes—ranging from one guinea to five shillings—were offered in each class. The competition proved most interesting and keen..The successful competitors in order of merit were:—First Class: Messrs. Dd. Owen, Tan John, W. J. Rogers, Evan Williams, George Lloyd. Alf. Owen and Charles Thomas; biggest break prize, Mr. T'an John (29). ,Second Class: Messrs. M. L. Thomas, Charles Berryman, Tom Webster, Tom David, Fred Davies, Jas. Jones and Jas. Evans; biggest break prize, Mr. Jas. Evans (28). Third Class: Messrs. Tom Owen Phil Woolford, Percy I Hancock, William Evans, George Ryall,

0Try the big 2^. tablet. nnte" « £ 3 Soap 1 S? THOMAS. BRISTOL$S SaiuniHiiiiitiNiK

Wm. Jno. Davies and Stewart McDonald; biggest break prize, Mr. P. Hancock (26). Biggest break in tournament (cue and case, value one guinea), Mr. Geo. Lloyd (32). > Rechabites.—At the annual meeting of the Nantymoel Rechabite Tent, Mr. Dd. Williams, G.T.S.C., who has been a most diligent worker of the Tent for upwards of 19 years, was unanimously elected to the office of trustee. NEW YEAR'S PRESENTS. I will send you on receipt of P.O. 7/6 one of my cele brattd Hart z mountain rollers singing; selected birds 10/6 and 12/6 each. Norwich Canaries, prize winners. 1st and special at Plymouth, October 19tb, 1909 1st Bristol October 27th, 1909; two 2nd's Frome, November 11th, 1909, under specialist judges in the keenest all-England Competition. Matched birds and single birds of this strain now on sale at reasonable prices. The largest stock of Parrots, Cockatoos, Parakeets, Love Birds, Foreign and British Birds in South Wales. Animals, birds, fishes, &c., stuffed and mounted in artistic style. For over 20 years we have pleased others, and can please you.—J. H. Ormond, Naturalist and Taxidermist, 25, Wyndham Arcade. Cardiff. 5033

It pays you to bake at home with Paisley Flour —the sure raising powder — The cost is less than shop made, and you know that all the in- gredients are sound and good. By mixing i part Paisley Flour with 8 parts ordinary flour you have a perfect baking flour, much more economical than cake mixtures.

Ferndale. A crowded meeting was held at North Street Schools to support the candidature of Mr. W. Abraham (Mabon) M.P., at the forthcoming election. Mr. Jabez Davies (checkweigher) presided. Several excellent speeches were delivered, and at the close a strong committee of enthu- siastic workers was appointed.

Pontygwaith. The supporters of Mabon sallied enthu- siastically to a meeting held at the Soar Hall n Friday evening last. The senti- ments of the meeting throughout were, Trusted, Tried and True." A social was held at the Council Schools on New Year's Eve, under the auspices of St. Mary Magdalene Church. An interesting meeting was held at the Forward Movement Hall on New Year's Eve the object of which was to give a hearty reception to Mrs. Evans, wife of the Rev. D. J. Evans. Speeches were made by Messrs. D. Ashton. D. Williams, G. Jones, and Mrs. D. Williams. Mr. G. Evans, Wattstown, presided. Solos and recitations were given durine the meeting by Miss K. Phillips, Mr. Bert Eaves, Mr. W. Noble, and Miss M. A. Jones. The meeting was followed by a supper. The local Free Church Council held a meeting at Seion (C.M.) on Tuesday even- ing.

EMPIRE vlmE?,Is? TONYPANDY. Proprietors The Tonypandy Empire Theatre of Varieties, Ltd. General Manager Mr. WAL EE, WRIGHT Assistant Manager H Mr. WILL PEARSON Special NTotioej SATURDAY, JANUARY 29, 1910, Special Matinee Performance for Local Talent of all Varieties. N.B.—Competitors must send in their names and addresses, together with their business, to the Management, not later than Jan. 22nd. iiW A Lady and Gentleman will be selected to act as Judges, and their decision will be final. Prizes will be given, and Professional Engagements should result. See Special Bills. 016 For DELICIOUS BREAKFAST BACON, 9d. per lb. For THE BEST BUTTER obtainable, 1/2 per lb. For GOOD BUTTER, Guaranteed Pure, 1/- per lb. For TEA, Unequalled at the Price, 1/6 per lb. For CEYLON TEA, a Real Treat, 2/- per lb. For DOCTOR'S CHINA TEA, 2/6 per lb. For GOOD TASTY CHEESE, 6d. per lb. I < For CANDLES, 3 lb. Packets, Sid. each I For SUGARS at Lowest Possible Prices, GO TO xw m: As Co., The Cash Grocers, 17 18, Dunraven Street, TONYPANDY

Tom Thomas Tackled. By a Leader" Pressman. An Interview with the Famous Fighter. [SPECIAL.] During the course of an interview which was kindly extended to a Leader" Pressman by Mr. Tom Thomas, the middle-weight champion of Great Britain, whq, is this week appearing at the Empire, Tonypandy, under the management of Mr. Dan Armstrong, we were enabled to glean some interesting traits and an insight into the character of one of Wales' greatest exponents of the manly art. As is perhaps generally known, Mr. Thomas hails from Penygraig. TOM THOMAS. On mentioning the word interview," Tom was at first rather reluctant to speak about himself, but by a little gentle per- suasion the reluctance was finally over- come, and Mr. Thomas entered into a narrative of his own career, which is at once romantic, and, above all, interesting. As in many instances greatness has only been discovered by accident, and so it proved Tom's case. "It all happened in this way, Tom remarked. After finishing my ordinary Board School education at about the age of 14, my father and mother suggested I should have a little more knowledge instilled into me. Before sending me away to school I was taken to Cardigan- shire for a holiday, where I met an uncle, who suggested a Grammar School at New Quay, where I could reside with him. All arrangements had been made to start, when something inspired me to run away, so I tramped all the way to Car- marthen-a distance of 30 to 40 miles- meeting some gipsies on the way. These wandering Nimrods showed fight and began to set about me in a cowardly fashion, severely slashing me with a whip. It is owing to this hiding I then received that inaugurated the pugilistic spirit that had hitherto lain dormant within me. Ultimately I found myself at home, whence I was sent to school again, where my scholastic career was a very short one, owing to my thrashing other school lads who used to pick quarrels with me, finally finishing up on my uncle's farm as a ploughboy. On coming home again, I bought a set of boxing gloves, which I 18 carried about with me, inviting anyone to have a couple of rounds with me. MEETING AN AWKWARD CUSTOMER. One day I met a big burly fejJoVv off my father's farm, who wa§ picking black- berries, find I isviied him to don the hair vugs. Of course, he accepted the offer with alacrity, and we had a bout of fisti- cuffs there and then. Jabbing him a bit hard on the face, my big opponent lost his temper, and, landing me a terrific blow in the stomach, he completely knocked the wind out of me and sent me rolling in the hedge side. When I came to a bit, I wanted to continue, but my opponent was generous enough to cry off to another and more opportune time, see- ing the state I was in. After this drubbing I began to train a little, and a short time after he turned up again, and so we had another set-to, this time in the barn. This time I turned the tables, and the big chap had to quit quickly. I boxed with all Ae lads around the district, until I covlRf get no one to tackle me. One of my spareft partners I used to practise with ha4 the misfortune of only having one leg, his other being arti- ficial. He was an exceptional man with the gloves, but on one occasion his arti- ficial leg gave way, and it was only after a considerable time had been spent in searching for tools to patch up his leg that he was able to walk home again. I was by now anxious to go in for the fighting ring so I entered a heavy-weight competition at Ystrad, which I won out- right. Subsequently I entered a competi- tion at the National Sporting Club, where I lost to the winner of the competition in the first series on points, my opponent being fortunate enough to catch the judge's optics. My partner in this com- petition was the heavyweight amateur champion of England, and he won the competition right out. Although in this instance I lost on points, it does not in any way belittle my fighting' record. Entering a middle-weight competition, I won easily, knocking out my men in the first or second rounds." (To he continue d\

A Novelty for the Nursery. A dainty little article for the nursery and incidentally for the toilet that is just now being placed before the public, is called The Fulford Powder. Many superior features are claimed for this toilet article. freedom from grit, and the possession of an extremely delicate perfume; besides which it is sold in novel patent boxes, with combined dredger and downy puff and finished with such taste as to merit a place on the "dressiest" toilet table. A child can play with the box without the danger of spilling the contents-this in itself a useful novelty in containers. The Fulford Powder ought to come in very useful for delicate skins during the coming winter, and claim is made that it soothes the skin after shaving. The pro- prietors of this latest adjunct to youthful- ness are the well-known manufacturing chemists, C. E. Fulford, Limited, Leeds and London.

m/tg BAKE with the assurance 1 jBff of SUCCESS by using M FBORWICK'SJ f BAKING POWDER. J| DALE, FORTY & Co. Pianos at Popular Prices Give your Child a chance to become a great Pianist. Book of Information on PIANOS and ORGANS All Eminent Makers represented in Our Stock. Sole Agent for AUTO PIANOS TEL ELECTRIC PIANO PLAYERS. DALE, FORTY & Co., Ltd., High Street and Castle Arcade CAtMMFF. 3711

Cwmparc. Eisteddfodic meetings are apparently coming back into favour at Cwmparc, for Park Hall was the scene of yet another on Saturday last. It was held under the auspices of the Park Chapel Young People's Society, and there was a very attractive list of events, although the, audience was not as large as was deserved.* The adjudicators were Mr. W. Howell, G.T.S.C., Porth (music) and District Councillor W. P. Thomas, Treorchy (literature and elocution). The hon. pre- sident was Alderman E. H. Davies, J.P., Pentre. Following is a list of awards: — Alto solo, divided between Mrs. Roderick (Cwmparc) and Master William Thomas (Treorchy); soprano solo, Miss Jenkins IGelli); tenor solo, Mr. E. J. Davies jNantymoel); bass solo, Mr. Wm. Morris CTon); recitation (under 16), divided be- tween Miss Jones (Rees Street, Treorchy) aiiV, recitation (adults), Miss Sally George (Cwmparc); essay, Mr. David Davies (Owmparc); stanza, Mr. JLom Parry (Treorchy) • children's choir, tJwmparc Juveniles (conductress, Miss Hannah Owen, Cwmparc Schools); prin- ,(Jipal chorus, Dyddiau Dyn," Park Choir (conductor, Mr. Lewis J. Lewis Owm- pare). We regret to record the death of Mrs. Morgan, Tallis Street, at the age of 69. Deceased was the widow of a one-time .well-known Cwmparcian, Shon Mor- i gan, one of the first colliers to descend Rark Pit. Mrs. Morgan had undergone great suffering during the last few weeks, out bore it with Christian exemplarinese. She leaves a large family, of grown-up! sons and daughters, to whom we tender our sympathy. The funeral takes place on Saturday. The ceremonies will be conducted by the Rev. James Davies, balem, ot wlic^e church deceased had been a. faithful and valuable member. After the season of peace and good- will come the days of much palaver and wordy strife. The General Election is dose upon us, and the Park Hall is this week to be the scene of oratorical orgies by Mabon and Mr. Harold Lloyd. Mabon is naturally first to hold the ear of the willing collier and for once, says Howell John, the first" shall not be the last when the day of reckoning comes. A successful social was held on New Year's Eve at Park Schools by the lady teachers of the Infante and Girls' Depart- ments. There was good feasting and much merry-making, certain local young bloods being to the fore with seasonable quips and cranks and much excellent fooling. The New Year was, of course, heralded to the tune of "Auld Lang Syne" and clasped hands; but concerning subsequent mysterious osculatory ceremonies and crude carolling, report preferreth to main- tain a discreet and dignified silence. The Rev. James Davies, Salem, who has received and accepted a call to a church in North Wales, has been asked by his congregation, who voted unanimously to this effect on Sunday last, to reconsider his decision. We are glad to say there is a strong probability that, after all, his valuable services will not be lost to the neighbourhood.

Tonypandy. The concert season now appears to be in full swing if one may judge from the tiumber that have been held recently, and the many preliminary announcements of forthcoming events which meet one's gaze at every turn. No season, however, would be complete without the annual oratorio concerts of the Ebenezer Choral Society, and though unusually late in making their announcement, we are pleased to note that there is to be no break in the series. The Society are, we learn, making active and progressive preparations for this year's treat, which will take place as usual at the end of February. The work to be performed is that by one of our greatest living comnosers, Sir Edward Elgar, and entitled The Banner of Saint George." Eminent artistes are being .engaged, and doubtless this year's per- formance will be of the usual high stan- dard of excellence of the past.

FIRE. Why run risk of loss by fire Private Houses and their contents are covered by the Sun Insurance office at the low annual premium of 1/6 per E100-Agent, W. D. Jones, Rhondda Leader" Office, Excelsior Buildings, Tonypandy. c76142

Gelli. At Bethany Vestry, Gelli, on Saturday, a. splendid social was held under the auspices of the Bethany Glee Society, and .was largely attended. The usual order was reversed on this occasion, the re- quirement. being supplied by bachelors, who had charge of the tables. The fol- lowing presided at the tables:-Messrs. M. Bennett, J. Mantle, D. J. Lukey, J. .Jones, Dd. Williams, D. Evans, assisted by Masters J. J. Roberts, R. O. Wigley, Stanley Rees, H. Lewis, O. Mantle, Walter Stephens, Dicky Bennett, Ed. Jones; also Messrs. D. Mills, B. Lewis, W. Richards; Evan Evans, T. Orrells, Masters T. Bennett, G. Britton and D. Jervis attended to the fires, bread and cake cutting, &o. The superintendent-in- chief was Mr. Dan Davies, and the secre- tarial duties devolved upon Mr. W. Madley. At the meeting which followed, a splendid programme was gone through. The chair was taken by Mr. Thos. Roberts, who in a low appropriate remarks con- gratulated the Glee Society upon the success of its first social. The Society rendered several choruses during the evening, whilst musical items were given by Mr. Eben. Bumford, Mr. Ben Lewis, Mr. W. Richards, Master J. Owen; stump speeches by Masters E. Jones and D. Evans; and a sketch by Messrs. Stanley Rees, J. Lowe and 0. Bumford. The choir was conducted by Mr. David Mills, whilst Mr. D. J. Lukey ably pre- sided at the piano.

Mardy. Post Free, a marvel of accurate time- keeping, Gent's American Lever Watch, Stem Wind, Stem Set and fully warranted 3/11. Money will be returned in full if not satisfied. Packed in a strong wooden box, post free. J. Barnes (talk of theTown), Mardy.

,J io^^uSS BH RE61STEHEP BH Pas-sin* on,&,O=a PACW- Archer's Golden Returns '19; Whm Perfection ot Pipe VobaM* w 0001." Dnn, L- ]fm«wuBg> T -=-= -r

Ton. At the Co-operative Hall, Ton, on New Year's Eve, the Star of the Valley" Lodge, I.O.G.T., held two socials—one for children and the other for adults. The children, after having tea, indulged in games, under the guidance of Bros. E. Lewis. Ralph Pomeroy T. J. Richards, and several others. A splendid programme was gone through at the adult meeting. A well-attended meeting was held at the Bailey Street Boys' School on Friday last in support of the candidature of Mr. W. Abraham (Mabon), M.P. The candi- date was not himself present, being engaged in addressing a similar gathering at Treorchy. The district was arranged in sections, and workers chosen to canvass same. Excellent speeches were delivered by Messrs. Ed. Jones, D.C., Hill (Mill- w-ard), LI. Jones, B.A., T. Millward and T. Cousins. Mr. Dd. Thomas (check- weigher) presided.

Ths space is reserved for the MANNI NA (Trade Mark) HERBAL OINTMENT. CUKE FOR CANCER, &c. MANNINA is made up in three different strengths as No. I. Full. Cancer, &o., cure., at, 2/9, 4/6, and 8/6 per pot. No. II. Medium. For all poisoned wounds, at 1/11, 2/9, and 4/6 per pot. No. III. Mild. For all skin diseases, at 11Il, 2/9, and 4/6 per pot. j It is sold by the following Dispensing Chemists: J. DAVIES. 14, bunraven Street, Tonypandy T. DAVIEQ. Bridge Pharmacy Porth D. B. DAVIES, Treorchy. EMRYS EVANS, Aberdare. OLIVER DAVIES, Mill Street, Pontypridd D, GEORGE, 153, Bute Strest Treherbert DAVID GEORGE, M.R.P.S., Ph. 0., Central Drug Stores, Pentre. Or can be obtained direct from the Sole Proprietors: THE MANNINA HERBAL OINT- MENT COMPANY, Main Street. Fishguard. Note.-Please write for free "Booklet." 3580

Tylorstown. I A meeting in connection with the Examiners' Association was held at the Queen's Hotel on Saturday last, when Mr. W. E. James occupied the chair. A discussion followed on The Position of the Examiners under the Present System," which was opened by the chairman, fol- lowed by the members. A vote of thanks to the chairman terminated the meeting. Horeb Children's Choir, on Wednesday and Thursday last, gave two good per- formances of The Giant's Castle," under the conductorship of Mr. Tom Evans, A.C. The accompanists wert, Miss Gertie Davies, and Messrs. J. C. James and Tom Thomas. The concerts were pre- sided over by Mr. Tom John, M.E., and Mr. Stephen Davies, M.E. On New Year's Eve, a social was held at Horeb (W.B.) Chapel, followed by an entertainment.

All Skin diseases can be cured by using Dr. Douglas' Ointment, Is. „ Soap, 7gd. Sole Agent—JOHN DAVIES; The Cash Chemist, TONYPANDY.

Llwynypia. J The Sunday School pupils and teachers and the members of the Band of Hope at Beulah (W.B.), Tyntyla Road, enjoyed a social evening on New Year's Eve. Ample justice was done to the good things pro- vided. The following ladies presided at the tables:—Mrs. E. J. Reynolds, Mrs. D. J. Griffiths, Mrs. Charles, Mrs. Jones, and the Misses Katie Davies, R. A. Lewis, and Phillips; while Mr. Stephen Ivins, Mrs. D. W. Davies, Mrs. D. Phillips, Mrs. W. Powell, Mrs. Cable, Mrs. Thomas, and Mrs. J. Davies attended to the other duties. Recitations and musical selections followed. A number of the young people of Salem met together at the Aberystwyth Res- taurant on the same evening, and partook of a splendid repast prepared by the hostess, Mrs. T. Richards. A very plea- sant and entertaining evening was spent.

Ogmore Vale. Conservative Meeting.—The postponed Tariff Reform meeting, under the auspices of the Mid-Glamorgan Conservative Asso- ciation, was held at the Aber School on Wednesday night, the 29th ult. Dr. R. A. Williams, J.P., presided over a good gathering. The speaker, Mr. W. Dyson ("Will Workman," of "The People"), apologised for his inability to be present on the previous occasion, having been snowed-up in Yorkshire, and proceeded to deliver an address on Tariff Reform as it affected the working man. Socials.—The annual social festivity in connection with Calvary (E.B.) Chapel was held on New Year's Eve, and proved a decided success. An excellent spread of delicacies was provided, followed by a competitive meeting, presided over by Mr. Alf, Palfreman. The last night of the old year was also very enjoyably spent by Bethania (W.C.) Church. Early in the evening a social tea, organised by the choir, was held, and a good number partook of the fine array of delicacies. Tea over, the remaining hours of the old year were devpted to indoor amusements, admirably organised by Mr. Tom Lucas, A.C. (miners' agent). Musical selections were played on Mr. Will Rees' gramophone. Another social similar to the above was held the same evening at Wesl§y Church. Conversazione.—The Ogmore Vale Ladies' Hockey Club held a very success- ful conversazione at Nantymoel Work- men's Hall on New Year's night, and there was an excellent attendance. Re- freshments were provided, while dancing, cards. &c. were indulged in. Music was supplied by Mr. W. H. Capel (piano) and Mr. J. Davies (violin). Mr. Jack Davies made an efficient M.C. A successful whist drive was held. with Misses A. Jones and T, Edwards supervising. Hockey Match.—Ogmore entertained the newly-formed Nantymoel Wanderers team on the Crossing Field on Wednesday last. The visitors came one short, while the homesters were minus six of their regular players. An interesting though unscientific game was the result, neither side displaying any combination. Ogmore finally ran out winners by, 3 goals to 2. Cole (2) and Thomas scored for the home- sters, while Lloyd and Gregory notched the visitors' two points.

Big Blaze at Ton. A fire broke out at the shop of Mr. Albert Hughes, ironmonger, Church Jtoad, Ton-Pentre, on Wednesday evening com- pletely destroying the m-emises. Smoke was first seen issuing from the windows by some passers-bv, and the alarm was given. The Fire Brigade, under Captain Newbery, with hose and reel, were soon in attendance, and played upon the flames for upwards of half-an-hour, when the fire was got under way. The police, under Inspector Edwards, performed valuable services in keeping back the large crowd that had gathered to watch the outbreak. Damage is estimated at about £ 500.