South Wales Daily News

RUuBY FOOTBALL. THE SUSPENSION OF THE HUD- DERSFIELD CLUB. Despite the angry feeling aroused in Hudders- field at the suspension passed by the Rugby Union Committee upon the Huddersfield Club, the impression is gaining ground that the club had better not show resentment, but submit to the inevitable. The stitl-nce was, generally speaking, lighter than had been anticipated, in faci of the seriousness evidently attached tc the matter by the Rugby Union authorities. Had more severe measures been adopted other York- shire clubsuaghtjitisrumoured, have bt-en induced to support Huddersfield in defying the Union. It is felt that as matters stand there is little to fight about. The decision with regard to playing members bears somewhat harshly upjn some dis- members bears somewhat harshly upjn some dis- trict clubs, particularly the Old Almonburians Club, in which the Rev. F. Marshall is deeply interested, and of which the majority of the playing members belong to the Huddersfield Club. Tha committee of the latter have agrebd to sup- port n, memorial to the Rugby Union, asking fur special exemption in the case of the former body. At the meeting of the executive committee, Mr H. Beardsell, who was present in London during the inquiry, stated that he was pledged to secrecy and could say nothing. The committee had an idea of preparing a statement embodying the most, interesting correspondence, but they are legally advised that the letters are the property of the senders. Mr W. Hirst, the other hon. secre- tary of the Huddersfield Club, hasresigned his hon. secretaryship of the Yorkshire Union, feeling deeply that the club has been unfairly dealt with in this inquiry. With a view to calm down the feeling prevailing, the committee have decided not to calla special general meeting until Saturday, December 211d a.t which date a full statement of the whole case will be laid before the members. At one time, most people* clamoured for energetic measures, but cooler and wiser cuunsels have pre- vailed, and it is hoped that by the time the mo-t- ing is held members may be able to give calm and dispassionate consideration to the committer's ?as"' t^,e which has been received rrotn Mr Rowland Hill, hon. sec. of the Rugby union, the Huddersfield Club are informed that they will be mulcted in the costs of the inquiry.

LOCAL COMMISSIONS. The London Gazette of Friday night contains the following WAR OFJ-ICE, Nov. 17th. MILITIA INFANTRY.—3rd Battalion Royal Welsh Fusiliers: Lieut. Wood to be captain: dated 18ch November inst. Second Lieut. A. R. Bright to be lieutenant dated 18th November inst. VOLUNTEER RIFI..Es-2nd Volunteer Battalion Royal Welsh Fusiliers.—The undermentioned second lieutenants to be lieutenants: A. W. Jones and F. A. Dew dated 18th November inst. 2nd Volunteer Battalion South Wales Borderers Captain Nettleford resigns his commission 3 dated 18th November inst.

ANY Doctor will tell you" there is no better Cough Medicine than Keating's Lozenges. One gives relief; if you suffer from cough try them but once; they will cure, and they will not injure your health they contain only the purest and simplest drugs, stiflully combined. Sold everywhere in 13%d tins.

ADJUDICATIONS, &c. [FROM FRIDAY NIGHT'S "LONDON GAZETTE.") PARTNERSHIP DISSOLVED. F. P. Holway and Thomas McKim, trading as Holway and McKim, and F. P Holway, at Swansea, con- tractors and builders. T. McKim retiros. RECEIVING ORDERS. Joseph Golly, Brook street, Blaenrhondda, Glamor- ganshire, labourer. Charles Pritchard, High-street, Pontypridd, china dealer. John Thomas, Upper House, Marian-street, .Clydach Vale, Glamorganshire, stoker. Thomas Williams, Brook-street, Blaen-Rhondda, Gla- morganshire, underground fitter. Sarah Kvans, Alltwen Hill, Pontardawe, Glamorgan- shire, grocer. Frederick John Snow, Alfred-street, Neatli, late grocer. John Evans, Beahive Shop, Oxford-street, Ponty- cymmer, grocer. Wiiliam St. Helyar, Knole-street-, formerly Francis- street, both Grangctown, Cardilf, baker. FIRST MEETINGS AND DATES OF PUBLIC EXAMINATIONS. George Abraham, Dean-street, Aberdare, ba.nk manager. Fir.-t meeting, November 24, at noon, at the Official Receiver's, Mertbyr public examination, December 11, at 10.30 a.m., at the Temperanca-hall, Aberdare. Isaac Williams, of Mount Pleasant-street, Trecynon, Aberdare, licensed victualler. First meeting, Novembar 27th, 2 p.m., at the Official Receiver's, Merthyr public examination, December 18th, 10.20 a.m., at the Temperance-hall, Aberdare. Henry E. Tom; ins. High-street, Cowbridge, Glamor- ganshire, innkeeper. First meeting, November 30th, li a.m., at the Official Receiver's, Cardiff; public examination, December 18th, 10 a.m., at the Town- hall, Cardiff. Thomas Evans, of the Parrog Arms, Newport, Pem- brokeshire, licensed victualler First meeting, November 25th, 2 p.m., a the Official Receiver's. Carmarthen public examination, November 25th, 10 a.m., at the Gitildliall, Carmarthen Thomas Jones, Albert-street, Canton, and lately Wel- lington-street, Cardiff, coal dealer. First meeting, November 27th, at 11.0 a.m. at the Official Re- ceiver's, Cardiff public examination December 18th at 10.0 .I..m., at the Town-ball, Cardiff. David Pugh, Cat-, i-phili y-s tree t, East Moors.Glamorgaa- shire, late Diana-street, Roath. and also Castle- road, Cardiff, mechanical engineer. First, meeting November 3:)th, at 11.30 a.m., at the Official Re- ceiver's, Cardiff. Public examination December 18th, at 10 a.m at the Town-hall, Cardilf. David Williams, Middle road. Cwmbwrla, Swansea, I gasman. First meeting. November 25th, noou, at ) the Official Receiver's, Swansea public examina tion, December 1st, 11.30 a.m., at the Town-hall. \V'U\P' Richard Davies, Rhondda-streef, Swansea, manager of a foundry, lately of other addresses in Swansea, licensed victualler and iroafounder. First meeting, November 24th, noon, at the Official iteceiver's, Swansea public examination, December 1st, 11.30 a.m., at the Town-hall, Swansea. David Williams, Court-street, Llwynpia, and Dun- raven-street, Tonypandy, auctioneer. First meeting November 24th, at 3 p.m., at the Official Receiver's. Merthyr public examination December 5th, at 2 p.m., at the Court-house, Pontypridd. George Powell, late Shawbury, Salop, farmer. First meeting November 28tli, 11.30 a.m., at the Official Receiver's, Shrewsbury. Public exainitiafion December 12th, 11.30 a.m., at the Shirehall, Shrews- bury. David P. Gwynne, Hamilton-terrace, Gorse-Iane, and Orchard-street, Swansea, painter and decorator. First meeting, November 27th, at noon, at the Official Receiver's, Swansea public examination, December 1st, at 11.30 a.m., at the Toiirn,httllo Swansea. NOTICES OF DIVIDENDS. William J. Havard and Henry A. Havard, trading as W. J. Ilavard and Co. at Llwydarth-road, Maesteg, Glamorganshire, brass and iron founders. First and final dividend, 4s 7d in the £ pavable November 2iiid at the Official Receiver's, Cardiff. Edward Bufton, of Dunraven-street, Tonypandy, hay and corn merchant. First, and final dividend, 5s lid in the S, pktyable Nov. 24th, at the Official Receiver's, Merthyr Tydftl. James Evans, trading as H. Evans and Co., at Ashton- terrace, Merthyr-road, Pontvpnqd, ironmonger and commission agent. 1'ir t and final dividei d 3d in tl a £ payable same time and place. Michael Skye, cf North-road, Porth, egg merchant First and final dividend is 7%d in the £ payable same time ana place. ADJUDICATIONS. William Roberts, of Llanddoget, Denbighshire, school- master. 1 Sarah Evans, of Alltwen-hill, Pontardawe, Glamorgan- shire, grocer, Frederick J Snow, of Alfred-street. Neath, lategrocer. Thomas Gelly, Brook-street, Blaenrhpndda, Glamor ganshire, underground labourer ° deale3r PritChard' U,gh"street- Pontypridd, china John Thomas, of Marian-street, Clydach Vale, Glamor- ganshire, stoker. John Evans, of Oxford-street, Pontycymmer, Glamor- ganshire, grocer. William Helyar, of Knole-street, Grangetown, for- merly Francis-street, Grangetown, both Cardiff, baker. J Thomas Williams, Brook-street, Blaenrhondda, Gla- morgansbire, undewtround fitter.

I CARDIFF. 8 ABB ATAMAN ls>—At the weekly meet-, i'lg the* St. Paul's Congregational Church (Neville-street) Literary Society, on Thursday night, the members discussed the important sub- 5 j¡;ct, "Shouid museums, art galleries, free libraries, &c\, be opened on Sundays V Voting followed, with the Irollowil)g "Stlic :-For (jpei- lug, 8 against, 17. t AVKSLEYAN I*O-UERGN MISSIONS.—Anniversary meetings will be hell m connection with theabove at Roath-road Chapel to-morrow and Monday, i as announced in the advertising1 columns Tne 1 Rev. E. R. Young, missionary to the North American Indians, will conduct the service on 1 Sunday, and wili be the principal speaker on Monday evening. PAt-K HALL SERVICES.—T he last of the Pres- byterian services at the Park Hall wiil ba held to-morrow morning and evening. J. D. Watters will preach, the evening subject biug The Belief of Sceptics." CABLYLEAN SOCIKTY.—The first social evening for this season of the Cariyiean Society took place on Thursday at the Gladstone-hall. W After light refreshments, a most enjoyable entertain- ment, consisting of nigger whimsicalities and musical selections, was given by Mr Newt and party. Mr W. M. Davies recited t litiiiioroiis poem, Look at the CIO(!] A galvanic battery and a set of stereoscopic slides, kindly lent by Mr John Storrie, afforded considerable amusement to the younger portion of the company. The pro- ceedings concluded with a dance. CHARLES-STREET OOA'GRF.GA'IIOXAL CHURCH.— The anniversary services of tin above Ceurcri will be held to-morrow (Sunday), wh>n the Rey. T. A. Penry, of Aberysi wyth, will officiate. Foe particulars see advertisement. TRKDEGAUVILLB BApmr CHURCH. — The services will be conducted to-morrow by the Rev. Sandy Kent, of Bradford, as announced in the advertising c..lu;n liS. THE NEWPORT TEMPIIRAXCE CHOITt AT CARDIFF. This choir and the Cardiff Blue Ribbon Choir, having arranged to change places this (Satuvdav) evening1, the attention of our readers is directed to all advertisement announcing that the New- port choir will give a grand musical evening in Wood-street Chapel, commencing at half-past seven. The local committee is anxious that there will be a large attendance to give a hearty welcome to the Newport Choir. PARK HALL SFRVICEI. The promoters of these services have been fortunate enough to eniist the aid of the Rev. Elvet Lewi.-?, Llanelly, for an address to morrow afternoon. Mr Elvet Lewis has already taken a lead- ing place in Welsh Nonconformity, and his hearers have a treat in store for them. He a1w preaches morning and evening at Hannah-street ChapeL The cnoir will, Its usual, render a chorus, and Sternda!e B.nnett's beautiful bass solo. Whosoever drinketh," will also be snug. Sacred selections will be played on the great organ at 2.30, the service commencing at 3 p.m. The chair on this occasion will be taken by Mr T. H. Stephens. LLANDAFF CATHEDRAL --The 25th Sunday after Trinity. In residence, the Very Rev. the Deaii and the Veu. the Archdeacon of Llandaff. Holv Communion, 8 a.m. orning--preacher, the Archdeacon Tours in F Litany hymns. 164 and 194. Afternoon — preacher, the Rev. J. R. Buckley Tours In F Le&,d, Kindly Light (Sta.i7 !.ym1 224, 305.

NEWPORT. THE DEMOLITION OF CROMWELL HorsE.—Tiit contractor's men were in such a hurry to demolish the building in which the Protecun-is -lilltici to have slept, that they gut it level almostwlth the round before the photographer appeared on the scene, with the intention of getting a negative or two of the well-known old place. It cannot be said after this that the local Tory esecutiv.3 who directed the demolition have the bunip of veneration for the priceless legacies of the past. THE INFLUENZA.—A young married man, a carter, employed by a leading firm in the Alexan- dra Dock", died on Wednesday evening from con- gestion of the lungs, following on an attack of influenza. He leaves a widow and several young children. The troublesome malady has been visiting people rather extensively. In one thorough- fare, which, for its high position, ought to he one of the healthiest, several heads of families are down" with it, and the other members of the households are threatened with its prostratiw attack.

BLAINA. A BATCH OF VAGRANTS.—At Blaina Police court yesterday, John Kenney, John Davies, Thomas Jenkins, Thomas Jones, and Georgt Smith, tramping labourers, were charged witt vagrancy at Ebbw Vale that morning, whert they were appreuended by P.C. Rees and othel constables at an early hour at the coke ovens of the Ebbw Vale Company.—Mr W. N. Wilputte^ on behalf of the company, said prisoners werf reputed loafers at. the works, and coiriplainl- were continually being made about their stealing the workmen s food.- A penalty of 10s and coste were imposed in each case, but prisoners tool the alternative of 14 days' hard labour.

LATE SHIPPING. [LLOYD'S TELEGRAMS.] The ketch Alert, of Bridgwater, from Cardift for Plymouth, sprang a Inak on the 7th inst., and was abandoned on the 11th, off Scilly. Crew landed at Plymouth. The schooner Ann, from Carnarvon for SiJ. lotb, with slates, has been towed into Whitehaven 111 a sinking condition.

LANGLAND BAY HOTEL.—Special Terms for tha Winter eason. Hot an cold sea water baths on every fioor. Every comfort; liberal cuisine.—Apply at the Hotel to C. W. Stemland, Manager, late of the Grand Ho: el, Trafalgar-square. 2797 WANTED, Bishops, Curates, Lawyers, Doctors, Musicians, Artists, Poets, Tinkers, Tailors, Candle- stick-makers, and members of the other recognised professions, who yearn for a little joyous recreation after the labours of the day, to book early for The Lady Slavey. HAH HIS. Metihyr, is noted all over Wales for Oil Portraits and Photography. 1011

WANTICD, Queens Princesses, Duchesses. Coun. tesses, Baronesses, and all other High-born Beauties to witness the ups and downs of that third-class aristocrat, The Lady Slavey. THE LASS THAT LOVED A MINER." A brilliant new aerial story under this title commences in the Cardiff i iuic*## SotMn Waifls Weekly NewiI" to-day fc5iiturday)i

HOUSE OF LOR.DS. FF.IDAY. The Lord Chancellor took his seat on the wool. sack at a quarter past four o'clock. The Earl of KIMBERLKY moved that the House should assent to the Commons amendment in the Madras and Bombay Armies Bill. The Marquis of SALISBURY said that however much might be argued in favour of the pro- vision in question, he did not, after consulting Lord Roberts and other peers, consider it so important as to be worth while insisting upon it in opposition to the other House. The Earl of KIMBERLEY said that he had received a letter from Lord Roberts reoommend- ing that the provision should not be insisted upon. The Commons amendment was then agreed to. The Savings Banks Bill passed tlxough Com- mittee on the motion of the LORD CHANCELLOR. SIX lords were appointed to act with a similai number of members of the House of Commons as a Joint Committee on the Merchant Shipping Bill. The House adjourned at a quarter to five o'clock. e

HOUSE OF COMMONS.—FRIDAY.3 The benches were only sparsely occupied when the Speaker took the chair at five minutes past three. Notices had been given of 24 questions. NATIONAL TELEPHONE COMPANY. Mr A. MOHLEY informed Captain Bagot that he could not say on what day it would be possible to lay the terms of the agreement between the Post- ufticp. and the Nationa l Telephone Company before the House. There were still some points out- standing between the Post. office and the company. THE VICTORIA FUND. Mr ROBERTSON, in reply to a question by Mr Kearley, said the Admiralty had no control over the patriotic fund. The reason why immediate relief to relatives of the seamen who were drowned in the Victoria disaster was not granted out of the Mansion House Fund was because immediate, full, and adequate relief was granted out of local funds raised at Ports- mouth, Devonpurt, etc., as well as by the Admiralty. The claims of all the widows and orphans had now been investigated and dealt ¡ with. From the first of this month allowances irom the JVlansiion House r und commenced, and those from the local funds ceased. Air KEARLEY asked the hon. member whether he was aware that the allowances made by the Patriotic Fund Coinmissioners were only 3s 6d a week for widows and Is a week for eteli orphan. He also wished to know whether the Government were prepared to exercise any supervision over the administration of the fund (Hear, hear.) Mr ROBERTSON said he was not in a position to confirm the first part of the question. As he had stated, the Admiralty had no control over the fund. THE CHARTERED COMPANY. Mr LABOUCHERE addressed a long question to the' Under Secretary of State regarding the intention of the Chartered Company of "South Ahica to hold a meeting, at which the shareholders of the company were to be asked to double its capital by the purchase from its founders and promoters of that portion of contingent profits from commis- sions conferred by royal charter, which they reserve tc themselves. The hon. member wished to know whether her Majesty's Government con- templated giving their consent to this arrange- Ulent. Mr BUXTON said, without expressing any opinion on the unfounded assumptions contained in the question, he might say that the creation of fresh capital by the company in the way proposed did not appear to violate any of the provisions of the Charter, or require the consent of her Majesty's Government. Mr LABOUCHERE What are the assumptions contained in the question? Mr BUXTON replied that hon. members could read the question through and see for themselves. Mr L BOUCHERE But where are the un- founded" assumptions? Mr BUXTON: Did I use the word "un- foundod"' ? I meant to say "unproved." (Loud laughter.) THE CHRISTIAN BROTHERS SCHOOL. Mr T. W. RUSSELL asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether the Governmenthad resolved to alter the fundamental principle oi the national scheme of education in order to admit the schools of the Christian Brothers to the momentary advantages of the connection with theNationa Board Education- Mr MORLEY said the Irish Government had this important subject under their consideration, but they had not yet arrived at any solution. THE NAVY. Lord GEORGE HAMILTON asked the First Lord of the Treasury if he would undertake that,before the Hom" adjourned,a statement should be made by the official representatives of the Admiralty as to the scope and the cost of the new shipbuilding programme. Mr GLADSTONE could find no reason for a departure from the usual practice by which the estimates prepared by the department were sub- mitted to the House early in the year on the responsibility of the Government. Neither the House nor the country need entertain, under the existing circumstances, the slightest apprehension that the estimates would not be framed with the intention of maintaining the distinct naval supremacy of Great Britain. (Cheers.) MR MORLEY ANT) THE HOUSE OF LORDS. Mr WINGFIELD DIGBY asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether he was correctly reported in having said in his speech at Man- chester, on the 8th November, alluding to the House of Lords, We are dealing with a vast and overwhelm- ing preponderance, a huge dead weight of prejudice and passion of bigotry and party spirit, unpenetrable by argument, un- movable by discussion beyond the reach of reason, and only to be driven from its hereditary and antiquated entrenchment, not by argument, reason, or discussion, but by force." Each phrase of the quotation, as it was read by the hon. member, was punctuated by boisterous cheers irom tne Rationalists, wnicti was renewed on Mr Morley rising to reply. Mr AIORLJIY I am not quite sure that every word is exactly what I said, but substantially it is correct. (Ministerial cheers.) Mr W INGFIKLP DIGBY In consequence of the answer of the righo hon gentleman—(laughter)—I beg to give notice—(a Nationalist member Move the adjournment ")—that I shall next week ask the First Lord of the Treasury a further question in connection with this subject. (Hoar, hear and laughter.) NATIONALISATION OF MINES. Mr KEIB HABDIE brought in a Bill to nationalise the mines and miners of Great Britain and Ireland. The Bill was read a first time.

PARISH COUNCIL BILL. The committee stage on this Bill was resumed. The discussion upon Sir Chas. Dilke's proposal, the object of which was to enable parish meetings to be extended to parishe-i which, though nomin- ally urban, were in reality rural, was proceeded with, and the amendment was eventually with. drawn, the mover stating that he should be con- tent if the matter were dealt with by application in particular cases being made either to the Local Government Board or the County Council. Mr GRANT LAWSON proposed to substitute for I the first sub-section words making it optional instead of compulsory for a rural parish to have a parish council. Mr H. FOWLER confessed that he had a mania for representative institutions. He believed in I them, and understood the House, In accepting the principle of the Bill, sanctioned the institution of parish councils for rural parishes having a cer- tain population. The Guvernment considered elected parish councils an important part of the Bill, and it was proposed to grant them on as wide a basis as possible to rural communities. The Government were prepared to alter the limit of population at which the institution of a parish council was made compulsory from 300 to 200, but the county council would have power, if it saw fit, to say that their should be a parish council where the population wa.s less than 200. Sir MICHAKL HICKS-BEACH could not agree that in supporting unanimously the second read- ing of tho Bill the House voted in favour of representative institutions. The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER was rather puzzled to know whether the right hon. gentle- man wished it to be implied that he did not accept the principle of representative institu- tions. (Hear, hear.) The questions with which the localities would be entrusted under the Bill could not be dealt with in an omnium gatherum meeting of parishioners. (Hear, hear.) Mr STANSFELD, whiie desiring that more elasticity should be given to the clause, thought it clear that it would bo impossible for the Government to accept the amendment. Parishes iim-t be organised, and this amendment was not consistent with that organisation. Mr W. LoNG wanted to know what had become of the theory that the rural parishes were longing for parish councils when the Government were afraid to trust them to say whether they would have a parish council or not. (Hear, hear.) Mr W. LAWSON opposed the amendment. Mr HANBURY pointed out that in the United States very large townships were governed by parish meetings, and the chairman of the Duchy of Lancaster, in his well-known work, expressed an opinion that this was the cheapest and most efficient system of local government existing in America. Sir C. DILKE objected to the amendment that it was unlimited as to population. At the same time he desired to enter a caveat against the general compulsion of parishes, although he ad- mitted that in some cases it might be necessary. Mr BALFOUR said that no practical arguments had been urged against the amendment. Mr BRYCE saId they were not on that occasion discussing the advantage of parish meetings. The expenenoe of the United States was in favour of the appointment of parish councils, because in America it had been almost universally found necessary to have executive officers for the town- ships, and these officers were only the parish council under another name. M WHITMORK supported the amendment. Mr EVERETT thought it should be left to the parishioners themselves to say whether they desired to manage their affairs in parish meeting or would prefer to select a small body to act as an executive committee. Sir RICHARD TEMPLE considered it little short of tyrannical to coerce parishes into having councils. After further discussion the committee then divided, when there were— For the amendment 99 Against 179 Majority 80 The amendment was therefore negatived. Mr HOBHOUSE then proposed to omit. the word "shall," with a view to insert the word may," in the provision requiring that there shall be a parish council in every rural parish with a population of 200 or upwards. His object was i j :o render the appointment of a parish council optional and not compulsory. Mr FOWLEB said that what the Government proposed was that a parish with a less population j than 200 should have an option in regard to a parish council. Mr LONG said he was convinced that in many villages with a population of less than 500 there would be no desire to have a parish council. Mr STANSFELD said that the election of a parish council was a mere matter of convenience. Where the area and the population of a parish were so small that it was possible to have direct government of the people by the people, there was no advantage in appoint- ing a council. No doubt in larger parishes it would be necessary to have such a council, but he thought it would be a fair proposal to confine the compnlsory appointment of a parish council to parishes with a population exceeding 500. The management of the affairs of a parish by a parish meeting would not prevent that body from appointing an executive committee responsible to itself. After a long discussion a division was chal- lenged, with the result that the amndment was defeated by 158 to 38 majority, 120. Mr H. FOWLER proposed to alter the limit of population at which a parish council should be compulsory from ZOO to 200. Mr GRANT LAWSON opposed the amendment M the interest of small parishes that did not want councils. Mr HENEAGE thanked the right hon. gentleman for reducing the 300 limit, but would have been better pleased it it had been brought down to 100. Mr STANLEY LEIGHTON wou!d rather have seen the figure increased. The hon. member was arguing against the amendment at 12 o'clock, when in accordance with the Standing Order pro- gress was reported. THE COAL SETTLEMENT. On the motion for the adjournment of the House. Mr MCNDELLA, who rose amidst cheers, said he had been requested by the Prime Minister to communicate the terms of settlement of the coal dispute. The i-ight hon. gentleman then read at ength the terms of the agreement, and loud cheeia followed the announcement that the men would resume work at once at the old rate of wages, and were renewed when Mr Mundella concluded his st tement by saying that he was sure the Houge would rejoice at the termination of this most disastrous conflict. The House adjourned at 12.5.

SOUTH WALES COAL TRADE. MABON ON A LIVING WAGE. A meeting, convened in support of the Amalgamated Society of Colli, ry Workmen of South Wales and Monmouthshire, was held iast evening at the Public-hall, Cwmaman. Mr D. Morgan, miners' agent, occupied the chair, and he was supported by Mr W. Abraham, M.P. (Mabon), and Mr T. Daronwy Isaac, the newly- appointed secretary of the association. Mr Philip Casey also attended to appeal to the colliers on behalf of the strikers in Yorkshire and other parts of the North of England. There was a good attendance. The CHAIRMAN repeated that he was prepared to meet Mr Brace or any of the advocates of the Federation in a public debate at C.vmaman if it was the wish of the people at Cwmaman. He did not issue this as a challenge, for he bad no desire to issue challenges, but he was ready to meet Mr Brace if the people wished it. (Hear, hear.) Councillor T. DARONWY ISAAC having addressed thrt meeting, Mr W. ABRAHAM (Mabon) M.P., who was accorded an enthusiastic reception, said that tho re-organisation of the Welsh miners had become a matter of the utmost importance. If asked on what plan, his answer was—do not let them discuss the plan, but first of all let them become thoroughly organised, and they could then discuss the principles. It was untrue that they never had an organisation in South Wales. They had excellent organisa- tions, although not on the lines of what some of their friends might wish. (Hear, hear.) Recently several catching pfarases had come into vogue. and one of these was the term living wages. Some of these phrases were used as if they were quite new. Now there was at present a con- sensus of opinion that this living wage might be maintained by fixing a minimum to a sliding- scale. (Hear, hear.) Then this was Ilnt anew question; it was a question which was much more alive eighteen years ago; and in the first sliding-scale of 1875 a minimum was fixed; but their experience then was this, that it was not always piacticable to maintain these plausible principles. In two years the employers came to them, and in order to maintatn the principle of the minimum they lent the employers five per cent. In six months they came to them again and asked for a further concession, and the leaders agreed, subject, to the men's de- cision, to lend another 7 per cent., but the men refused to do so, and the result was a strike of a few weeks. In order to enable them to live the idea of a living wage had to go—(hear, hear) —and although as one of their leaders he was prepared to revive it, yet it was quite possible it would be found impracticable. The sliding- scale had given South Wales and Mon- mouthshire colliers 17% per cent. once above the Midlands, and his advice to them was that when discussing the merits and demerits of the aliding-aottle and Federation let them do it by the light of their experience. In the Midlands their friends, in order, to'maintain their 40 per cent., had to resort to various expedients. They tried a fort night stop, which failed at the end of the week, after the day men and colliers had lost: week's wages. This should be considered in considering the wages in South Wales and the Midlands. The next attempt was to work five days a week, and this utterly failed because of its injustice to the day men. Taking these matters into consideration, he ventured to say that while the South Wales miners had an average wage of 2% per cent. above that of the Midlands, this would make it much more. (Hear, hear.) He pointed out that Mr Samuel Woods had revealed in an interview with a newspaper representative, that 80,000 colliers only earned 10s a week. Mr Abraham then strongly advocated the forming of local organisations, concluding with an eloquent appeal. After a vote of thanks to the speakers, Mr Casey addressed the meeting.

.t- NEW YORK PRICES. [RENTER'S TELEGETAMS.) NEW YOBK, Friday.—Money easy. Sterling Exchange stronger. Stocks, after an hour or two of dulness, with some advances, professional selling was resumed on a email scale; neither movement, however, had substantial influence on the market. A deadlock, at slightly lower prices, marked the close. Philadelphia and Reading declined 2 points. Cotton declined early on weak cables, but subsequently rallied on reported settlement of English coal strike and closed firm spot quiet and unchanged. Cotton oil steady — prime new crude, 30c; prime new yellow, 36c. Petroleum steady. Lard #icinues weak owing to active liquidation. Wheat ,a clined on liquidating sales, finished weak. Flour was weak and unchanged. Corn was again a weak market, consequent upon renewed liquidating. Sugar steady, at a reduction of n. Coffee closed steady, but rates are lower, owing to weak advices from Brazil spot weak, and down. Tin closed firmer. Iron quiet, without alteration. Copper dull. Nov 17 Nov. 16. all Money U.S. GOY. Bonds l'/t I IY2 ;>.e Ditto, other Securities IY<> p.e l' p Exchange on London, 60 days siglit H.$3 Ditto. Cable Transfers.. 4.86 4.85 I Exchange Paris, 60 days' sigh I g ',0% 5-211/4 Exchange on Berlin Days 94% 04% Pour per Cenc. U.S. Funded Loan 112% i\2 Western Union Telegraph Share* !6% B6V, Atchison Topeka, <t S. Fe 19% 19 Do. Do. 4 p.e. Mor 70^ 70 Do. Do. 5p.e. Income.. 37V. 371; Baltimore <fc Ohio f 69 Canada Southern Sha.res ¡ 43 49% Canadian Pacific 73% 73. Central of New Jersey 115 115 Central Pacific Shares ]* 18l/« I8V4 Chesapeake & Ohio Common" IS1/, lye,* Chicago, Burlington & Quincey.. 7g%a >0% CUicago & North-Western, Ord 102'/» lCi2»4 Chicago & N. Western Preferred. 133 13d' Chicago, Milwaukee, arid St. 1'au) 63 63 Chicago & Rock Island £ 6 6& Cleveld, Cin., Ch., & tjt. Ls. Ord. 34% 35% Delaware & Hudson 131 131 Vs Delaware Lackawana :65l4 163 Denver & Rio Gi an de Shares 10 JOlla DenverPreferred. 301/2 301;. Illinois Central Shares 92 81% Lake Shore & Michigan Southern 127 128 Louisville & Nashville Shares 47% ¡;7;¡ Michigan Central Shares S»9lX} 99U Missouri, Kansas, and Texas ^,2 Missouri Pacific 24 ^4% New York, Lake Erie, & Western 13% 13% Ditto,SocondMortgageBonds.. bsl/s 68 New YcrkCentraldr Hudson River I¡; K-1% New York. Ontario& Western, Ord 16vt 16'v„ Northern Pacitic Common 6'4 b% Northern Pacific, Preferred 23% 21l/» Norfolk & Western Preferred 2 20 Ohio and Mississippi Onb Shares 1S1/* 15 Pennsylvania and Philadelphia 49% 5C Philadelphia and Reading Shares 20:ji 22'/s Philadelphia •& Reading 5p.c.ls(,Ine 31% 36% Do. Ao 4 p.e. Mor "1 71% Union Pacific Shares 17% 17% Wabash, St Louis, & Pacific 7% Wabash St Louis &c. Pref, Srs 15% 15 COTTON AND PRODUCE M &1U, E Cotton, day's receipts at U.Sts.pori 38,093 32,091 Cotton, day's ree'pts at Gulf Porte 23,000 21,HT) Cotton, day's export to GtBrit,n.. 29^000 Cotton, day's expt to Continent.. 15, 1 0 2.(V> Cotton future Dec delivery P.9 fe.00 Cotton futures, Feb Del cry 8.11 8.10 Cotton,middlinguplandNew York 8PQ 5% Cottoi; middling New Orie 7-pa 7% Petroleum, crud" at New Y I k 5.60 6.65 Petroleum, sta'dard while, N. y, rl. 515 5.15 Petro"um,t!ù whIte,Phil"delpllh 5.10 .1 Petroleum, Pipe Line Certs Dec 75% 70V4 Spiiifcsot Turoentine 30l/4 ?0% Lard Wilcox's Spot 9.W) S-20 fallow, Prime City SV4 5% Sugfir, fair refining Muscovados 21. Do 9ft :p.c, Centrifugal. 3'/4 C jrn, New mixed, Western spi t lióVs 45% em futures, Dec 45'/o 45% Corn iuttires May 45% 45',2 Spring W neat, No. 1, spot 69 fa 69V« W'heat, red winier, 011 the spot Go 66% Wheat,delivery Dec 66 66% Wheat, delivery Feb 68% 69% Coffee, Ri". No.7 i<5 I Coffee, Kio, No. 7, Low Or d Dec '6.55 16.80 Coffee ditto Feb delivery: 16.15 16.40 Flour, ex Stat,eSiiippingbri,uds.. 2 35 2 25 Iron, No. l,Coltness £ 1.50 £ 1.50 Tin, Austraoan 20.41 SUM Copper, July 1).0Q lO.GO Steel Rails 22 2S Freight Grain Liverpool steamers 31 3d Freight GrainsteamersL ,-jon t;.¡ 3%.I Fre'ghtCotU n to Live, pool Il-64ths ll-6tths Silver Bullion 70,.c 701/4C Wheat, Chizago, Nov delivery. 60% 60% I' Corn, Chicago, Dec Del ■ ery 3.iY.i 3 Turpe.ir.ine.'Saviuina'i 27 al ex div. (b) ex int. (c> npm. (d) price asked. (e)2 days

GOOD NEWS FOR PORT TALBOT. NEW DOCK AND RAILWAY. A CROSS-COUNTRY LINE. OPENING OUT ANOTHER COAL AREA, ROUTE OF NEW RAILWAY FEOM PORT TALBOT TO MAESTEG AND THE GARW VALLEY. We learn that a new enterprise, backed by a powerful syndicate, has been undertaken, having for its object the development of Port Talbot. Other schemes, formerly projected, have dealt solely, or chiefly, with Port Talbot itself, and have not made due provision to ensure the for- warding of traffic to that part of the coast. But the project which we have this morning to announce is comprehensive, and whilst it will enable the port to compete with the larger shipping centres for coal and other exports by PROPOSED NEW DOCK ETC., AT PORT TALBOT. steamers of the highest class, it will also, by the construction of a railway extending into a quite new part of the county, furnish such facilities of access that coal traffic must, because of the inseparable advantages, find its way to the new dock. The proposal is to construct at Port Talbot a dock and the acces- sories of piers and breakwater and to connect these with a line of railway which sball extend i from Aberavon across the Margam estate into the Llynvi Valley. Passing Maesteg, the line will I go into the Garw Valley, and join the Great I -It.J:.&IInI Western branch just below Pontycwmmer. One part of this region of the coalfield is altogether undeveloped, and these portions worked in the Llyuvi and Garw Valleys will have in the new line a much nearer route to the sea, with, of course, considerable reduction in the cost of carriage. In the case of one colliery, which baa a very large output, the difference is estimated to amount to 230,000 or £ 40,000 per annum and to others, a reduction of 5d per ton can be offered m the cliarge3 they at present have to pay. It is anticipated that, with this conspicuous advantage, the new under- taking will secure the hearty support of colliery owners and freighters generally and indeed assurances of support have been already received. The Margam estate of 32,000 acres in a ring fence will be made easily accessible, and there is the consequent probability of its early development as a. mineral property. The capital required is about £600,000; and, whilst the promoters may offer some portion to the public, we understand that the requisite financial provision is ensured. With the diagrams here published it is not requisite to onter upon a description of the route of the railway or of the new dock. The latter will have an area of 12 acres, and will give, it is proposed, 25 feet of water. The entrance channel will be formed between piers, and the sandbanks will be dredged to any required depth, and afterwards kept clear by flushing from the great area of back-water-300 acres in extent. The new undertaking may prove of distinct advantage to that of the Rhondda and Swansea Bay Company, inasmuch as it would (assuming arrangements made) give that company access to the coalfield which the new line will open up and would give them a quite new source of traffic, mineral being brought from the Garw and Llynvi Valleys and handed over at Aberavon to the RI-ondda and Swansea Bay Company for con- veyance to Swansea. > There is, as will be seen from the diagrams, amplelarea for future extensions at the port. The engineers are Messrs Meik & McConnochie, the latter gentleman being well-known in this district as the brother of the late engineer to the Bute Docks Company.

CIVIC RECEPTION OF DYFED AND THE LADIES' (JHOIR. CONGRATULATIONS AND COMPLI- MENTS. A HEARTY HOME-COMING. The members of the Welsh Ladies' Choir, together with the Rev. E. Rees (Dyfed), wore ytisterday evening officially welcomed back home by His Worship the Mayor of Cardiff. The pro- -lings took the form of a reception at the Town- i ii, where a large number of ladies and gentle- men from all parts of Sduth Wales gathered to pay honour to the successful singers and the distinguished bard, The Mayor (Councillor W. J. Trounce), wearing his robe and cham of office, entered the Assembly-room, accompanied by Miss Trounce (who carried a beautiful bouquet of chrysancfhemuns), with tho town clerk and Dyfcd, where li-S Worship formally received'the members of the choir and a large I number of their friends. Mrs Clara Noveilo I Davies, on entering the hall, was presented by Miss Trounce with her floral tribute, and a cordial round of applause greeted the talented conductress of the Ladies' Choir. After chorus bad been sung by the choir, The MAYOR expressed intense pleasure on behalf of himself, his colleagues, and the inhabitants of Cai-diff-indeed, he might say the whole of Wales —in congratulating the Welsh Ladies' Choir and Dyfed on the success they had achieved in Chicago, and in most warmly we.coming them back to the hearths and homes of beloved Wale3. He telt that the choir had entered upon a most difficult expedition in going so far away to win those laurels. They had made themselves known throughout the world, and brought honour and dignity upon Wales itself. He proposed the following resolution That this meeting of the Cymmrodorion Society and fellow-townsmen of Cardiff desires to congiatnlate Dvfotl on his success ia winning the chair toge: her with the chief bardic prize at the Chicago Eisteddfod, aud trusts he may enjoy long life to servu his country and enrich its literature. Professor POWELL, M.A., seconded the resolu- tion. He called attention to the gratifying circumstance of a reception being given by the chief magistrate of one of the chief ports of the world to representatives of that which was most characteristic of the Welsh nation—viz., poetry and music. He hoped that this innovation was an augury of a new state of tilings among Welshmen, and that it would encourage his fellow-countrymen to be more aggressive, and make themselves felt in circles that through no fault but their own had but little knowledge of Welsh inner life. Speaking of Dyfed, he passed a high euiogy of his personal character, and his attainments as a preacher, poet, and adjudicator. and prophesied that he has a mission to the Welsh nation which would result in Wales taking its place as a land that will produce gems that will sparkle as long as classical literature was read. (Applause.) Dr. RHYS GRIFFITHS supported the motion, which was carried with acclamation. DYFED, in responding, caid that although congratulatory meeting* had been rather numerous recently, he would bu less than human if he did not express his deep feeling at receiving such a reception in his adopted town, and at the instance of its popular new mayor. He said that he was satisfied that his humble efforts had given the utmost satisfaction to nineteen-twentieths to his fellow-countrymen, and the twentieths he supposed were of Providence to act as a kind of thorn in the flesh to prevent him (becoming excessively vain. However, it was impossible for every competitor to secure a prize, and, that being so, it would always happen that certain croakers would exist. Poetry, to him, was an irresistible impulse, and whether he ever competed again or not, he was certain that he would never deny himself the pleasure of coveting the Welsh muse. Mr Councillor MUNN proposed a similar con- gratulatory resolution to the Welsh Ladies' Choir, which was seconded by the Rev. JAMES DAVIES, and carried, a suitable and humorous acknowledgment being made by Judce GWILHf WILLIAMS. The after-proceedings were of social character.

HWFA MON ON DYFED'S ODE. Although somewhere about two moiiths have elapsed since the Welsh Eisteddfod was held at the Chicago World's Pair, the discussion con- cerning the award of the prize of £100 and a gold medal for the best ode (Awdl) on Jesus of Nazareth" is still carried on in the Welsh periodicals and as only but a week or two ago the official pronouncement of the adjudicators wascouiineiice(I to be published, it may be that the summary which Hwfa Mon makes at the conclusion of his criticism of the productions is interesting in the form of an English free rendering. "Our oUjeot," he says, rnferring to interesting in the form of an English free rendering. "Our oUjeot," he says, rnferring to his criticism on Dyfed's ode, in making the quotations we have dune was to exhibit the lino the bard pursued in loolring at his subject, and not with a view to exhibit the gems of the ode, because there are in it gems of greater brilliancy than those we have quoted. This ode indicate. graat labour and also a strong energetic intellect. Its phraseology is eloquent and polished, and its alliteration skilful and compact. But in stating there is much excellence in this ode, it must also be said there are many defects, and those are clearly discernible in the unevenness and disproportion- ateness of its plot. The author has 160 lines describing the temptation of Jesus in the desert, but without one line to describe the angels coming from heaven to minister to Him after the temptation If the bard took such time in describing the angel of hell tormenting Jesus, lie should have t;Lkn time to describe the heavenly angels coming to minister to Him. The bard has 335 lines describing the scenes in the Garden of Gethsetiiane, but not a line of mention of the Holy Suppw. The bard should have curtailed the traitor Judas's soliloquy in order to make room for the Holy Supper. The bard I has 100 lines describing the resurrection of Jesus from the grave, but without a line about His interviews with the apostles after His resurrection. The bard I should have remembered that the resurrec- tion of Christ from the dead is the great founda- tion of Christianity. Besides this, not a word did the bard mention about the second coming of Christ to the last judgment. The plot of Cyreniad's ode (Tudno Jones's) is more com- pact and Scriptural, and more harmonious in expression and assonance than Lazarus's (Dyfed's) ode, and because of that it is more pleasing (melus) to read. But our concern now is to endeavour to find out which of these two odes is the best as regards the true poetical wealth of the theme, and after long studying, comparing, and weighing, perfectly fairly, we conjointly adjudge that in Lazarus's' ore is to be found the wealthiest poetical feeling, and in consequence we adjudge him to be the best, and that he deserves the Chicago International Eisteddfod Chair in the year 1893."

CASTLE BREWERY COMPANY v. CORNISH. This was an application by Mr R. H. March, of Cardiff, liquidator of the above company,formerly carrying on its business at Caerphilly, to compel Miss Annie M. Cornish, of the Globe Hotel, Cardiff, to pay the sum of £ 100 in lespect of certain shares alleged to have been allotted to her by the directors of the con'pany on the 7th July, 1890. There was a cross-summons by Miss Cornish to remove her name from the list of shareholders. Mr Brarnwell Davies, of the Chancery Bar (instructed by Mr J, II. Jones, of Cardiff), appeared for the liquidator, and Mr Ivor Bowen (instructed by Mr James Morgan, of Car- diff), appeared for Miss Cornish, before his Honour Mr Registrar Emden in the companies' winding-up branch of the High Court of Justice on Wednesday. Evidence was called on both sides. Miss Cornish proved that she had never authorised any person to apply for shares on her behalf. Mr Wm. Edwards said that he had taken out the shares ;IJ the above-named company, hoping to induce Miss Cornish to become a share- holder, but that she had never authorised him to apply for her. Mr Morgan Rees, solicitor, of Cardiff (formerly secretary), and Mr John, of the Snip and Pilot Hotel (a director), also gave evidence for the liquidator. After a lengthy inquiry, his Honour ordered Miss Cornish's name to be struck off the list of contributories, and awarded hei LZO costs. Several other applica- tions were settled by consent.

SMITH v. PONTYPRIDD & RHONDDA VALLEY TRAMS COMPANY. The hearing of the summons taken out for the purpose of having it determined whether or not Mr Pollard, a solicitor, was entitled to a sum of money in court standing to the credit of the action on account of an amount due for costs was resumed yesterday—before Mr Justice North-in the Chancery Division of the High Court of Justice.—Mr Cozens Hardy, O.C., resumed his statement of the facts, and contended that he was entitled to the usual solicitor's lien for the amount of costs that had soliciter's hen for the amount of costs that had accrued. That there were costs due to Mr Pollard from the tramways company in 1888 respondent did not dispute, and there were sub- sequent costs.Ilr Murly appeared with Mr Ward for Mr Pollard.-Mr Biddall, who, with Sir Richard Webster, Q.C., appeared for the tramways company, submitted that mere possession did not give a solicitor a lien. The only question was whether Air Pollard had a lieu or not. Even if Mr Pollard had ever had ft lieu as against the company, he had given it up. A creditor who had a security by pressing for the full amount of his debt, had given in his security.—The hearing was adjourned until to- day.

LIQUIDATION OF THE WELSH AN. THRACITE COLLIERIES COMPANY, LIMITED. The meeting of the creditors and shareholders of this company, in liquidation, was held at the Company Winding Offices, Carey-street, Lon- don, yesterday, Mr A. S. Culley, assistant receiver, being in the chair. Mr H. T. Simpson appeared on behalf of the Gloucester Railway and Carriage Company, Limited, creditors for £ 1,771. —The Chairman stated that the figures on the statement of affairs showed a favourable prospect for the creditors, the assets being returned at the sumof £ 46,827, as againstunsecured debts. £ 5,189, and,debenture bonds to the amount of J617 995 tun- ing provided for, there was a surplus of L2,1 00). The history of the company was an interest.i;g one. It was promoted by a Mr George Simpson in June, 1892. At the time Mr Simpson had a lease of the International Collieries, which he sold to a Welsh Company for £ 50,000, and afterwards disposed of to a French company for the sum of £ 55,000. The purchase price was to be satisfied by £40,000 of shares, and L15,000 debentures in the French company. Had it been carried through the Welsh company would have profited largely. What took place after that was in dispute. The Welsh company wanting money Mr Simpson arranged 'to sell ;610,000 worth of debentures in the French company for £ 7,000 in cash. LII,000 of debentures were issued, but only £2,000 wore taken up by a French syndicate for £ 1,400, of which a sum of £ 900 only found its way to the solicitor of the Welsh company. Mr Simpson bad repudiated that arrangement, the company's solicitor, however, alleging that it was entered into with his full knowledge. This transaction, the chairman stated, would have to be closely investigated. It was believed that sufficient would be realised eventually to nay the creditors and debenture holders in full. The company was now being worked at a profit by the French com- pany. Mr G. Simpson stated that in the event of the French syndicate failing to find £ 2,500 of the French syndicate failing to find £2,500 deposit on the £ 7,000 cash to be paid for the £ 10,000 of debentures, the French company wero liable to issue the full amount of the £ 15,000 worth of debentures.— The company was left in the hands of the liquidator with a committee of inspection, composed of Messrs Joyce, Comin?, and Jekyll.

I THE AMERICAN CONSUL AT DOWLAiS. BAN QU ETTED3IN HIS NATIVE PLACE. The Hon. Anthony Howells, the United States Consul at Cardiff, was present at a grand banquet given in his honour at Dowlais, his native town, on Thursday evening. The proposal to entertain Mr Howells on his appointment was broach'd by the Dowlais Chamber of Trade and was warmly taken up, over 130 tickets being disposed of in little more than a week. The table" for the banquet were laid in tlH Oddtellows'-hall, which had been most artistically decorated for the occasion. The caterers were Messrs M. A. George and Son, Card iff. Ttie strains of "Hail, Columbia," greeted the entrance of Mr Anthony Howells. During the festivities music was played at intervals by an olchestra conductpd by Mr Harry Evans, A.C.O., the leader of the Dowlais Philharmonic Sicieiy. On the removal of the cloth Mr E. P. Martin took the chair, and Mr J. King Price (president of the chamber of trade), the vice chairman, The toast list included "The Clergy," pr,,p(;sed by Mr H. A Radclnfe, and acknowledged by the Rev. L. M. Williams; "The Army and Navy," given by Mr David Jones, and replied to by Colonel Cresswell Success to DOWlaF." submitted by Dr. Joseph Parry (Cardiff), and spoken to by Mr E. P. Martin and Our Guest," proposed by Col. D. Rees Lewis. The last-named sentiment was honoured with the greatest enfchusiam. and Mr Anthony Howells, who met with an ovation, replied in appro- priate and heartfelt terms. H« remarked that it was more than 43 years ago since he left Dow- lais and gone to Arnericit-.t stranger amongst strangers, and with no other aid than his hands aud his brain. Yet there he was with them again, holding an oiffce, which lie mieht tell them, he had coveted for more than 20 years. (Loud applause.) Mr Howells then went on to speak of some of his old companions in Dowlais School, when that institution was carried on in the old "Carpenter's Shop," and gave an interesting picture of school life in those early da.ys. Among his old schoolfellows were Mr John Robert Jones Mr Benjamin Jones, Mr David James, and Mr Wm. Morgan, Pant, and he was glad to find amongst those present that night his dear old schoolmaster, Mr Matthew Hirst. (Chests,)

-A- RHOISDDA AND SWANSEA BAY RAILWAY EXTENSION. ISSUE OF NEW STOCK. The Rhondda and Swansea Bay Railway Com- pany, in accordance with the resolution of the annual meeting of August 27th, 1892, has authorised the Metropolitan Bank (of England and Wales) to receive a for 15,000 5 per tent, preference shares, of J310 each, payable as follows £ 1 per share on application, £ 2 on allotment, J32 on the 1st February, 1894-, and the balance in calls of not more than £ 2 at intervals of not less than two months. The object of the company is to obtain capital for the completion of the lines connecting Swansea and Neath with their system, by which an independent and direct route will be established, which will not only afford better facilities required for the Rhondda traffic, but also serve to further develop the rich coalfield of the Avon Valley, The work is already in active progress, and through traffic to Briton Ferry may be expected by the end of this year. By May next the whole of the works are to bo complete, the contractors having entered into an agreement to hand the line over to the company by the 1st of May. On the completion of the Neath river bridge and railway, which forms a chief part of the extension, the Great Western Railway Company will have running powers over it, and as it joins two parts of that company's system a large, increase in traffic is anticipated in consequence. There is every reason to expect that the already excellent position of the company will be further improved when the new line is open to Swansea, and its earnings should compare favourably with those of other local railways. The total cost of the works in progress is set down at £ 170,000, and there are unexercised borrowing powers to the extent of 2340,000. Further particulars are adver- tised in cur business columns.

PETTY SESSIONAL COURT FOR CYMMER. THE APPLICATION GRANTED. An application was made on Friday to the Neath county bench of magistrates to form a petty sessional court at Cymmer. The following magistrates were present:—Mr John Henry Rowland, Mr Wm. Leyson, Mr Osborne Shep- pard, Mr G. H. Davey, and Mr J. Edwards Edward Powell, who introduced an influential deputation, said that for the greater convenience of a populous district it was desired to have a court at Cyimner, which would serve the whole of the district covered by the Glyncorrwg Local Board, or, in other words, the whole of the watershed to Nantyfar. In the last year the parish of Glyncorrwg had furnished 200 ca ee to the Neath Court. Those cases were from Glyncorrwg alone, and then there, WRf a portion of Abergwynfi, which was really a portion of the district of Neath, but the cases from which, owing to certain police arrangements, were now sent to Bridgend. These cases could be estimated at from 30 to 40 a year.— After hearing several other gentlemen the bench retired to consider the question, and on returning the Chairn,an said they had decided to grant the application, and their clerk would see that the summonses were properly drawn up. The first court would be held at Lloyd's Hall Cymmer, on Thursday, the 30th inst.

A SWANSEA CREW SHIP- WRECKED. The schooner Thedahas stranded at Fleetwood, and the crew, who belong to Swansea, have been landed by a Fleetwood lifeboat. The vessel is breaking up.

NELSON (LLANCAIACH). PRIMROSE LEAGUE MEETING.—A meeting in connection with Ystradmynach Habitation of the Primrose League was held in the National School here on Thursday evening, when Captain Morgan Lindsay, J.P., Ystradmynach Mansion, presided. Addresses were delivered by the chair- man, Mr Richard Wright (delegate from grand council) and others. Later on a vocal and instrumental concert was given.

GELL!GAER. FUNERAL OBSEQUIES.—On Wednesday after- noon the mortal remains of the late Mr William R.itcliffe, aged 70 years," were interred in thE Gelligaer Parish Churchyard in the presence of a very large number of friends, who attended to pay their last tribute of respect to an old resident in the district.

BLACKWOOD. MUSICAL SUCCESS. — Among the successful candidates in the recent examination held at the candidates in the recent examination held at the Newport centre by the London College of Music was Miss Mabel Stewart, Sunny Bank, Black. wood, who passed m honours in the senior section in pianoforte playing and theory, winning a certificate ot merit and a silver medal. Mis! Stewart was a pupil of Mr Edward Dean, c) Newport. IHE WELSH LADIES' CHOIR.—On Thursdaj night the Chicago Welsh Ladies' Choir held s successful concert at the Drill-hall, Blackwood, most of the young ladies being dressed in Welsh costume. Tile reception of Madame Clara Novello D-vies and her pupils was most cordial. Two of the competitive pieces at Chicago were sung, and several members of the choir were encored.

LYDNEY. THE PARISH COUNCILS BILL.-A public meet. ing was held in the Baptist Sunday School al I.ydney 011 Thmsdoy evening—Mr" John Rowt Smale presiding—when Mr R. Beaumont Thomas read an interesting paper on The Parish Councils Bill." Many members of the Lydney Liberal Women's Association attended the meeting.—Mr Thomas very lucidly explained the proposed working of the Act, which he said would do very much to simplify the labyrinth of the present local government laws.—There was a long discussion on the pap r, and Mr Thcmal moved a resolution pledging the meeting tc take steps to petition the Local Government Board to increase the number of guardians 4roix three, as at present, to seven, to which he con- tended they were entitled.—Mr Wm. Jones, Cookson terrace, i-econded, and the motion wa, Cirried with applause.—On the motion of the Chairman, seconded by Mr W. J. Smith, M; Thomas was heartily thanked for his address.-A similar compliment was paid the chairman on thf motion of Mr Thomas, secunded by Mr Smitb.

LLANTRISANT POLICE-COCRT.—Yesterday, at the police-court Mr John James Murphy, Liantwit Vardre, wai fined £ 1 for failing to report that his pigs wer* suffering from di-seae.-Johr Cantwell, collier, of Llantrisant, who has just completed a month's imprisonment, was chained with a breach of th( peace by fighting. The defendant did no' nppear, and a warrant was issued for his arrest.- There were six persons summoned for not sending their children regularly to school, and were fined sums varying from Is 6d to 5s.

FERNDALE. THB FBRNDALE LITERARY SOCTWY.- Ot Thursday evening Dr. Morris, of Tylorstown, gave a lantern entertainment in th« English Wesleyan Schools, to a large and ap preciative audience. Mr T. Bevan (cashier) Dre, sided.

FERRYSIDE. FOUND DEAD IN HIS HAMMOCK.—A sailor, on board the s.s. Tivyaide, named James Jones. from Llangranog, Cardiganshire, was found dead in his bed yesterday morning. The vessel had been laying in the river over night, and the man had gOlle to rest in his usual health, but wa« found dead about six o'clock in the morning A coroner's jury found that Death was due to heart disease,

SERIOUS FIRE IN BRADFORD. Last evening, about five o'clock, a fire broke out in a large warehouse in Gordon-street, radford, occupied by Mr Hirst, wool merchant. 9 £ auso of the outbreak is not known, but whatever the origin the flames rapidly spread J all over the building. Although the tire brigade promptly got six jets to work the roof fell in at 5-30, and the whole building was gutted. The damage is not known as yet. There was a large stock of wool in the building.