South Wales Daily News

MOTHER-IN-LAW'S RELUCTANCE. Yesterday, at the Barry Dock Police Court Eliza Gardner, who has been too ill to attend for about a fortnight in consequence of injuries alleged to have been inflicted upon her by her son-in-law, James Davies, appeared to give evi- dence against the latter on a charge of unlawful wounding. Prosecutrix on a former occasion was very reluctant to give her evidence, according to which it appeared that on the 13th of May, when she was quarrelling with her daughter, prisoner came up,and after she bad struck him he nicked up a stone and put it against her head." This caused a severe wound upon the forehead, which Dr. O'Donnell described as being a triangular wound an inch in length. Prisoner's wife said when her husband picked up a stone she took hold of his hand, and it fell on his mother's head, i i.e Bench eventually decided to dismiss the i*5i.

PRUSSIAN SEAMEN STRIKE. StaLtiJ). Friday.—The sailors here have struck work for an increase of wages, and have left their ships. A number of them have already taken their departure from Stettin. The others remain quiet. The chief of police has called a meeting of the captains and oldest hands among the men on strike in order to arrive at some agreement.

I LOCAL COMMISSIONS. The London Gazette of Friday night contains the following War Office, May 26. Line Battalions.—Royal Welsh Fusiliers-The undermentioned lieutenants to be captains :— Charles Clobell. adjutant, vice C. E. Willes seconded for service as adjutant of Volunteers; Ralph A. Berners to complete establishment; Second Lieutenant G, J. P- Geiger to be lieutenant vice R. A. Berners dated 22nd Feb- ruary last Welsh Ikaiment-Second Lieutenant G. H. Stevenson to be lieutenant vice R. T. Tope seconded dated 20th alt. Brevet-Captain C. M. Dobell, Royal Welsh Fusiliers, to be major in recognition of his services during the occupation of Crete dated 8th March last.

ALLEGED INDECENT ASSAULT AT CADOXTON. John O'Brien, who was brought up in custody on remand at Barry Dock Police Court yesterday charged with indecently assaulting his sister- in law, a girl named Bridget Fleming, Art 11, Church-road. Gadoxton- Barry, was committed for trial at the Assizes. The evidence has already been briefly published of the two offences aJIeged to have been 1 committed in the absence of the prisoner's wife, in Ireland. Mr F. P/Jonee-Lloyd appeared for proecution, and Mr Alfred dotoAoqO the Bail refuse^.

TO THE EDITOB. Sir,—At the risk of being called a bigot and a faddist, I for one intend this year boycotting the Eisteddfod. The drink demon is so much in evidence than it behoves men of thought to be up and doing. If the national institution is going to be a under the ban cf the brewers let it fall, and the sooner the better.—I am. &c., WEST WALES.

HUMOURS OF THE COUNTY COURT: At; the Mountain Ash County Court on Weduesday Jade Gwllym Williams had a long list of judgment summonses to deal with. One woman came up, and was asked what were her husband's earnings. "I don't know," was the reply. Doesn't he give you all?" asked his Honour. No, that he don't; he spends a lot himself," was the answer. Well, now, I think the best thing will be for you and I to put our heads together, aDd see that if he doesn't pay up he shall go where he won't have a chance to spend his earnings," was the consolation given. To another woman who did not know the amount of her husband's wages he said, It is time for you to know ask him to take you into his confidence." One woman pleaded that she had II children all too young to work, and taking compassion on her the Judge reduced the instal- ments to 3s a month. The next pleaded for a like reduction, when the following colloquy took place :—" How many children have you ?" Four." Why. the last woman bad U you are a long way behind her." I may have 11 in time," was the answer. No doubt you may if you persevere," was'.the retort, but meantime yon go on paying." In another case a small child was sent to answer for her father. The Judge was horrified, and called out to the bailiff, Send that little child home. The idea of sending a little imp like that here to learn to tell lies I" Later on, while a well-known solicitor was labouring his cross-examination to but little purpose, the Judge pulled him up with the observation that he was endeavouring to make bricks without straw.

A COMPACT WITH SATAN. An extraordinary case of alleged blackmailing, extending over a period of four years, came before the Chatham Stipendiary Magistrate on I Thursday. The accused, Clara Phoebe McCullum, alias Jones, was said to have extorted over X40 from Eliza Harriet Owen, a poor widow, aged 70, and to have terrorised her by threats of the terrible spell that would be worked against her by a fortune-teller whom prosecutrix once con- sulted. Prisoner was alleged to have impressed 'prosecutrix with the belief that the fortune-teller had supernatural powers by reason of a compact with Satan. Pending inquiries his Worship re- manded the prisoner.

THE CHURCHES. Arrangements have been made with the Rector of Penarth to furnish supplies for All Saints' Church until Jone 28th in consequence of the resignation of the vicariate of the church by the Rev. W. S. Heathcote. It was anticipated that the latter would have visited Penarth again to preach his farewell sermon, and also to receive from the parishioners a presentation, but the churchwardens have received a letter from him to the effect that he will not be coming to Penarth for the purpose named. Now that Lord Windsor is in the neighbourhood it is expected that a new vicar will be appointed at an early date.

DISTRICT COUNCILS. Gelligaer and Rhigoa.—At the meeting on Thursday at Hengoed, Mr D. S. Jones, J.p., chairman, presiding, Mr C. Seymour, Neath, was appointed temporary assistant surveyor to pre- pare plans, &c., in connection with the new scheme of sewerage. The chairman subsequently entertained the members to dinner at the Junction Hotel. Briton FeM.-The District Council on Thurs- day evening made a rate of 2a 6d in the £ for the current half-year. Aberdare.—The District Council yesterday, Mr R. H. Rhya, J.P., in the chair, received the report of "the Cabs Committee that they had ex- amined 222 cabs and 55 omnibuses, and bad passed 2L1 and 48 respectively, to whom licences were ordered to be granted. The application of the British Electrical Traction Company for permission to construct a light railway in the district was referred to the Roads and Streets Committee. Risca.-A special meeting of the Council on Thursday appointed as medical officer Dr. N. Cullinan, M.D., Risca, who was the only applicant for the post. He was deputy medical officer previously in connection with Dr. Istance. a Mr Martin Edwards, solicitor, Risca, was ap- pointed clerk in place of Sir W. C. Painresignect. Portheawl.-On Wednesday evening, at the meeting of the Council, it was notified that the Local Government Board had eanctioned a loan of kZ,098 for completing drainage works. It was decided to apply to the Public orka,Loaa Com- 1 miajionera for the raguev.

GREAT IS CARMARTHEN! RIVALLING EPHESUS. ABSURD CONDUCT AT A PUBLIC MEETING. A public meeting of the inhabitants was held in the large Assize Court of the Shire Hall, Car- marthen, last night. The proceedings were so boisterous as to be regarded as a. disgrace to the borough. The object mainly was to protest against the proposed expenditure on a concrete cycling track in the new Recreation Grounds, and consequently enthusiastic wheel- men were greatly in evidence. The building was crowded from end to end. The Mayor, Mr J. Lewis, presided. Mr W. J. Rickard favoured public places of resort in every part of the town, but he endeavoured to show that Carmarthen could not afford luxuries any more than a poor man could afford roast beef and plum pudding every day of the week. He was patiently listened to until he got to his proposal, and then there was a howl. The proposal was, That this meeting of ratepayers of the borough of Carmar- then strongly protests against the proposal of the Town Council to spend 1760 upon a cycle track in the recreation ground, which will probably be increased to £1,000 before its completion, and as the appointment of the present town surveyor was made and his salary was fixed in view of the extra work involved in an increased water supply, it is premature to give or promise him any increase of salary." Mr David Williams, the working man magistrate, rose to second, but no atoner had he intimated his intention than he was loudly hooted. The Mayor was a long time in quelling the disturbance. When supporters of the resolution were called for they made no appearance. This pleased the crowd, who significantly called for J. F. Morris," a solici- tor and town councillor, who, it is believed, knew a thing or two about the agitation. The Rev. A. Fuller Mills stepped to the front. His presence was wrongly interpreted, and he was greeted with hisses. This nettled him. His annoyance becoming apparent the assembly was silenced. When it transpired that he favoured a cycle track the enthusiasm knew no bounds. Heulso said he would like to see the time come when the Cor- poration would take over the Gas Company. There was tremendous cheering, because the chairman, vice-chairman, and other directors of the Gas Company were present. Complaints are very fre- quent as to the quality and price of the gas. Mr W. Spurrell defended the action of the Council, and in so doing failed to read his notes. This, the assembly insinuated, amidst roars of laughter, was due to the gas, and advised him to go close to it. He proved that a concrete track would be cheaper than a cinder path in the long run. Alderman C. W. Jones, the chair- man of the Gas Company, rose, and was jeered and hooted, and some minuses elapsed before he could be heard. He agreed that the Gas Company shouli not be the monopoly of lighting the borough, and was giving his reasons for the belief when it was necessary for the Mayor to interpose as the hissing and hooting precluded the possibility of a hearing. If there was money to be made out of it, added the alderman in the hearing of the Press, the direc- tors were prepared to transfer the Gas Company to-morrow if the ratepayers wished. Mr Bland Davies essayed to submit an amend- ment, and was greeted with tremendous cheers. Not until the gathering had sung For he's a jolly good fellow" was he a;ble to meve That this meeting of the inhabitants of the borough of Carmarthen heartily approves of the action of the Town Council in deciding to construct a concrete cycling track in the Recreation Ground." This proposal was cheered again and again, and the cheering was renewed when it was announced that there were a number of gentlemen who were prepared to relieve the Corporation of any debt connected with the cycle track for the next 25 years. Mr Henry Howell, J.P., seconded the amend- ment, and again there were vain calls for J. F. Morris." Mr Rickards's rising was the signal for great hooting, and many feared a disturbance in the gallery, which the police would be unable to cope with. The Mayor put the amendment, which was carried amidst prolonged cheers, about six voting against it. There was then an endeavour to divide the original motion. The first part was lost, only Mr Rickard voting for it. Ultimately it was agreed amidst a good deal of hubbub that that part which related to the surveyor should be recon- sidered by the Council. Mr Henry Howell proposed a vote of thanks to the Mayor. Mr Kichard, in seconding, said If you take one hint from me I would say you might copy his behaviour with great advantage." This was greeted with great laughter, during which the meeting broke up.

NEW YORK PRICES. [Renter's Telegrams.1 New York, Friday.—Stocks opened strong on moderate London and outside buying iuduced by yesterday's rise, then became unsettled by a break in specialties, a reduction in the quarterly divi- dend of the Consolidated Gas Company, and a consequent break of 10 points in its Btock also exerted a chilling influence. The market, how- ever, closed firm on renewed buying of Railroads, and mostly at net gains. Government Bonds and Railioad Bonds were irregular. Governor Roose- velt has signed the amended Franchise Tax Bill, S'lich therefore becomes law. Atchison Preferred vanced New Jersey, Louisville, and Union Pacific, i North-Western Preferred declined 1 Cleveland Ordinary, Delaware Hudson, and Wabash Common, J; and Lackawanan, 3. Money easy. Sterling Exchange steady. Silver bars 3: lower. Grosa earnings during the week on all Erie Railroads, 2,694,000 dollars Atchison Rail- ways, 3,235,000 dollars. Cotton declined on longs and shorts selling and closed barely steady spot steady. Cotton oil steady—crude, 2l £ c.; yellow, 25. to 26c. Petro- leum firm at the recent advance. lard-cash easy, but unchanged. Wbaat weak and lower on liquidating spot weak. Flour steady. Corn declined in sympathy with wheat and closed weak spot steady. Sugar firm and unchanged. Coffee declined on adverse foreign advices and closed steady spot dull. Tin dull. Iron quiet. Copper quiet at 124 points fall. May 26 May 25 Call Money U.S. Gov. Bonds p. 2% p. Ditto, other Securities 2% p.. ExchftngeonXjondon.SOdaya'sight 4.85>4 4.85% Ditto, Cable Transfers J-88 4M'A Exchange PariB, 60 days' sight 5.18% 5.19% Exchange od BorUn„Days-— 94$3*}i Four per Cent. U.S. Funded I»oau 115% 113>a Western Union Telegraph Shares 91^ 91 Atchison Topekft, and S. Fe 18 18 Do. I)o. 4 p.c. Mor 102% \02% Do. Do, 5 p.c. Proterr. 55% 54% Bp,l timore and Ohio 54% 68)4 Do. Do. 3.W. 4 p.c ]09 109 Canada Soni-harn Shares 53 53J4 Canadian Paci/ic — — SS% Central New Jersey 113! 113 Central Pacific Shares 52% 52% Chesaoeake and Ohio Common. 24>4 25 Chicago, Burlington and Quineev 130% 130 Chicago and North-Western Ord. 151M 151}$ Chicago and N-Western Preferred 19i IS2 Chicago, Milwaukee, and St. Paul 123% 12334 Chicago and Rock Island 109% 109% Clevel'd, Cin., Ch, & St. Ls. 0.:<1. 52 52% Belaware and Hudson .I. 117^ lis Belaware Lackawaua 1. 165 163 Benver and Bio Grande Shares. 22% 22% Beaver Preferred 76 76 IHinoia Central Sha.res 113 113 Lake Shore & Michigan Southern 203 203 Louisville and Nashville Shares-. 66% 65 Michigan Central Shares 113 113 Missouri Kansas, and Texas 12 12% Missouri Pacific 11 41 New York.LakeErie.aud Western 12^ 1.2 D'tto, Lien — 72% New York Central andHndsonRiv 131% 131 New York Ontario &Western,Ord 24% 25 Northern Paeiflc Common 48% QV'A Northern Pacific Preferred 76j 76 Nerfolk and Western Preferred. 67% 57 Pennsylvania and Philadelphia 63C g23 £ Philadelphia and Beading Shares 20 19% PhiladelphiaJfcBeading5p.cJBbI-uc 55% 55^ Do. do. 4 p.c. Mor S8% 88% Union Pacific Shares 4 41% Do. Preferred 74% 74% Wabash, St. Louis, and Pacific 7 7% Wabash. St. Louis, etc. Ptef. Shrs 20% 20% Silver Bullion 61% COTTON AND PBODUCE H,¡<.J(:T, Cetton, day'sreceipfcs at U.S. pori*i 3, >00 3.XO Cetton,day'sreceiptsatGulfporbs 2,03': 2,0 Cetton,day's export to G.Brifcaiu 4,000 5.000 Cotton, day's export to Confclne i 10,000 7,000 Co. «n future Jtme delivery 5.85 5.87 Cotton future Ang. delivery 5.89 5.92 Cotton middling upland N. Yö; 6% 6% Cotton middling New Orleans 5J4 5% Petroleum, reifned, in cases 7.95 7.95 Pe troleum.sta'dard White N Y rk 7 7 Petroleum,st'dwhitePhiiaa0'lp ,ia 7.15 7.15 Petroleum, Pipe Line Carts 113 513 Spirits of Turpentine.» 42^ 42% Lard, Wilcox's snot. 5.30 5.30 Tallow, Prime City 4^ j 4% Sugar, fair refiningMcwcovtiSos^ 4% 4% Do. 96 p.c. Centrifugal 4M 4% Cern.-Newnnxed, Westemapox. 40% <0% Corn futures May 39% 395; Do. July 38>$38«i String Wheat, No. 1 spot S3% 85% wheat, 1 ed winter an the soot 83% 24% Wheat delivery May 81^ 83 Wheat delivery July 80% ai->' Coffee Rio No. 7 6^ 6% j" 1 Ord. June. 5 j 5 Ceffee ditto delivery A.ug 5.10 S.20 Flour ex State ShippiogBiands. 2.75 2.75 Iran, No. 2 Northern 15J8 15J8 Tin, Australian 25.70 25.70 copper umh 13.50 Steel Bails 25 25 Freight Grain Liven^oi'^t'e^ets l%d l«d Fr" lit Grain ateolners LoadoiuL 2d 2%d Freight, Cotton to Li-, erpoo A hi Wheat, Chicago, July delivery. 7534 76* Cera, Chicago, July delivery 33 33% Turfeatine,Savannah 40 48

THE ROYAL VISIT TO TENBY. A JOURNALISTIC CRIME." At yestexday's Council meeting the High Sheriff (Mr E. Laws), in acknowledging a vote of thanks for his having gone in person to Sir Francis De Winton respecting certain hostile paragraphs circulated, and referring to tho-ie paragraphs, said what had been done was nothing less than a journalistic crime and a prostitution of journalism for private spite.

EPSOM RACES. The Great Western Railway will run excursion trains to these popular. races on Wednesday I' morning next from Bridgend, Cardiff, and Newport. For further particulars intending excursionists should see bills and pamphlets } issued by the company.

Cleaning Silver."—All difficulty in keening silver, electro-plate. &c. untarnished and with a bril limit polish may be obviated by using Goddard's >Ton- Mercurial Plate Powdor. Sold everywhere* j,o boxes 11», 28 64, and 4s Sd, Sis Ctoid

ABERTILLERY. Dastardly Assault.—Thomas Tarley, colli°r, Newbridge, was sentenced to four months' hard labour for asssintting a married woman, Eliza Jane Rugman, at the Rolling Mill Inn. She went to fetch her husband, and defendant knocked two of her teeth oat. Travelling Without Tickets.—James Williams and Thomas Buck, colliers, were fined 12 15a 6d or 14 days for travelling on the G.W.R. to Aber- tillery without tickets. Cruelty to a Horse.-William Ford. round- abouts proprietor, Brynmawr, was mulcted in -95 and costs for working a horse in an unfit oon- ditton at Newbridge.

NEATH. A Tramp Thief.—At the County Police Court John Bryant, a tramp, was sent to prison for two months' hard labour for breaking into a house at Crynant and stealing a quantity of eatables. A Landlady Fined.—Mrs Ann Harris, land- lady of the Seven Sisters Hotel, Seven Sioi-ers, was charged with permitting drunkenness on her premises on May 13th. Mr A. J. Jeftreys appeared for the police and Mr W. fI. David defended. Two men were drunk on the premises. The de- fence was that the men did not appear to be drunk. The Bench imposed a nominal penalty of JE1 and costs, and directed that the licence should not be endorsed.—David Morgan Jones was fined 5s and costs for having been drunk on the premises. Alleged Sunday Trading.—David Rees, land- lord of the Halfway House, Glyn-Neath, was sum- moned for opening his premises for the sale of intoxicating liquor on Sunday, May 14th. Mr A. J. Jeffreys appeared for the police, and Mr W. H. David defended. A man named Wm. Price was found in the kitchen with a measure half- filled with beer in front of him. It was proved that Price had brought some medicine from Dr. Dykes to the landlord, who is an invalid, and that there had been no sale of the liquor. The Bench dismissed the case.

TENBY. Charge of Bicycle Stealing.—Florence Price (22) was charged with stealing a bicycle from Mrs Ace, the Sports Depot. Prisoner hired the machine for two hours on the 23rd instant, and not returning was arrested at Pembroke Dock on the following evening. Committed for trial, and bail allowed, prisoner in 410 and two sureties of £5 each.

TRADE REPORTS. SCOTCH IRON. Glasgow, Friday.—There is great activity in the Scotch iron and steel trades, and the pig iron market has this week been very strong, with a very decided revival of speculative business for hematite pig iron. The demand has been specially strong, and Cumberland warrants have advanced in the course of the week 2s 8d per ton. There has been more demand than usual for Cleveland warrants, which are Is 7d higher. Scotch warrants, on the other hand, have beeu in more request, and the highest prices of the week have not been maintained. It may be pointed out, however, that Scotch iron is still relatively higher than English pigs. An additional furnace has been put in blast at Carn- broe Iron Works to make ordinary pig iron. There are now 41 furnaces producing hematite, 36 ordinary, and 6 basic iroD, the total of 83 thus blowing in Scotland comparing with 80 at this time last year. Scotch hematite is quoted by merchants 67s 6d foi delivery at the steel works. The prices of Scotch makers' ircn are all higher. Govan and Monkland No. 1 see quoted (at Glasgow) 65s 6ci; No. 3, 64s to 65s Wisham and Carnbroe, 67s and 64s; Clyde, 69s and 65s; Shotts, 69a and 66s; Gartsherrie, Summerlee, Calder, and Coltness, 713 and 66s Glengarnock (at Ardrossan), Eglinton (at Ardrossan or Troon), and Dalmellington (at Ayr), 66s 6d and 64s. The stock of pig iron in the Glasgow warrant stores has been reduced 284 tons. The finished iron and steel tiades are very busy, and there has been a considerable number of fresh inquiries in the market. A circular letter was addressed yesterday to members of the Scottish Pig Iron Trade Associa- tion suggesting the adoption of a rule to put an end to corners in the market. The proposal is on the lines adopted by the London market, where oversold operators have written for an extension of time to deliver warrants. The proposal does not find general acceptance, says the Press Association Glasgow correspondent, as being too much couched in favour of bears."

THE IRON TRADE. A BIG SCOTTISH FAILURE. A Glasgow correspondent telegraphs On Fri- day a circular was issued calling a meeting of the creditors of Messrs Neilson Bros. The great iron and steel firm had caught a bear of pig iron previous to the cotnet, and had also sold ship plates at ncb lower prics$tb&u now ruling. The failure has caused a sensation in Scotzh iron and steel circles. The Press Association Glasgow correspondent, "0 telegraphin2 with reference to the suspension, states that Glasgow pig iron brokers will not suffer from the failure, as the firm's commitments in the iron ring have been arranged. Ship- builders and steel smelters will be the chief losers. RUINED BY A CORNER." The Glasgow correspondent of the Press Association, telegraphing later, says :—The an- nouncement made on Friday by circular, which I have seen, of the suspension of Neilson Bros., has caused great sensation in the Scotch iron and steel trades, notwithstanding that the suspension had been looked for by those in the inner circles. The firm have long beared Glasgow pig iron, and were heavily over-sold when the corner in warrants was engineered. It is calculated that during the past year the firm has dropped a quarter of a million sterling. The firm were the largest dealers in ship plates in Scotland, and were heavily committed forward at low rates. They have all along also taken the lead in Scotch iron and steel, being the largest exporters. The total liabilitiesof the firm are not yet known, but the books have beeu placed in the hands of ac- countants.

THE QUEEN AND THE « DEAR OLD DOG." Travellers via Paddington Station,whose atten- tion may from time to time have been called to Tim, the railway collecting dog, will have noticed that for some time past he has put on an air of dignitv and importance in striking contrast to his hitherto modest and unassuming demeanour. Tim has some grounds for this, for he has gone through the ceremony of presentation to the Queen. It appears that on the Queen's arrival in I town, Tim, with his collecting box for the Widows and Orphqna'Fand attached to his collar, wari standing by tha side of him master, Inspector Bush, at a respectful distance from the Royal cn'- riage. It seems that Tim, who is in no wise back- ward in coming forward where an ordinary train Tim, the Great Western Railway Dog. j is concerned, invariably retires to the background when a Royal train comes into the station. On this occasion, however, he was noticed by Sir John McNeill, who drew the attention of the Princess Beatrice to the sagacious canine. The Princess spoke to her Majesty, who desired that the dog should be brought to her. Inspector Bush thereupon formally presented his four- focted friend to the Queen, who smilingly re marked that he was a dear, old dog," while the Princess dropped a sovereign into hie collecting box, for which Tim returned thanks in his usual way no less than three times. Tim is a half-bred Irish and Airedale terrier, he is eight years old, and has won a cup in a special class for charity dogs. Daring the seven years he has been collecting be has taken lag. and has never had a blank day, although once he only secarsd the insignificant sum of 9d. He has, however, reached the sum of 27;; 6d in one day, a record which was only beaten on the day when th e Queen's sovereign was added to his contribution box.

ALLEGED STAMP THIEF. Harry Frank (29), who described himself as a wood-carver, living at 1, Cannon-street-road, E., was charged at the Guildhall on Thursday with being concerned with a man not in custody in breaking and entering on the 18th inst. 75. Little Britain, and stealing therefrom a cash-box containing, among other things, about 20,000 foreign and colonial used and unused postage stamps, total value about X110, the property of Henry Ross Shields. On Wednesday morning Constable Staff, of the H Division,saw the prisoner offering some stamps for sale at a second-hand shop. Asked how he came by the stamps, he replied that he had been saving them for years, and that they came from his numerous correspondents in New York and Johannesburg. Staff removed him to Lernan- street Police Station, where about 4,000 stamps were found on him. The alderman remanded him for a week.

The Finest OBEY BUTTER is only lOd per I lIb. at all Direct Trading Company's Branches. Ladaers -Ladders for builders, painters plas- terers, farmers, prtvate use, Cotteell s old-established j Manufactory. Bapfe-st, Bristol. TOWpJ¡oao4J. 11 i

CARDIFF. Visit of Dr. Downes.—At the anniversary services iu connection with Charles-street Wesley Sunday School, which will be held at the Park Hall to-morrow. Dr. Downes, the editor of Great Thoughts, will preach in the morning at 11 and in the evening at 6.30. Tredegarville Baptist Church.—The services to-morrow will be conducted by the Rev. A. J. Edwards, of Salisbury. Llandaff Cathedral. Trinity Sunday. In residence the Rev. Canon Roberts. Holy Com- munion, 8 a.m. and midday. Morning—Stainer in E flat; anthem, In Humble Faith" (Garrett) hymn, 160; preacher. Canon Roberts. Afternoon—3 p.m., Litany 3.30 p.m., Williams in F anthem, I saw the Lord (Stainer) hymns, 161 and 169; preacher, the Rev. Minor Canon Price. Offertories for cathedral expenses ) and choir fund.

SWANSEA. An Exhibition.- -A large number of the leading inhabitants of the town have inspected the new Volker incandescent mantle and burner which is now on exhibition at the Castle Hotel, and which was fully described in these columns a fortnight ago.

ABERDARE. Association Football Club, On Thursday evening, at a banquet at Constitutional Hall, the Aberdare Association team—the champion team iof the South Wales and Monmouthshire League —were presented with the League medals recently won by them. The chair was occupied by Mr C. M. Lewis, manager of the London and Provincial Bank, the president of the club and the vice- chair by Alderman J. W. Evans. one of the vice- presidents, who were supported by Colonel T. Phillips (Aberdare), Messrs T. Sandiford (the president of the South Wales and Monmouthshire League), E. W. Wather. (the secretary), D. Hughes (high constable of Miakin Higher), F. W. Mander (Glanynys), A. S. Picace, D. J. Gwyn (Metropolitan Ban k), J. H. James, J. Harries, A. El Price Jones, Ac. Mr Caldicot, the secretary of the team, mentioned that out of 36 games played Aberdare had won 28, lost five, and drawn three. In goals their record was 128 to 28, Mr David Hughes, the high constable, presented the medals. School Board.—The board yesterday, Mr D. P. Davies, J.P., in the chair, adopted a scheme for the advance of salaries of the head teachers. The scheme, which includes provision for the teachers receiving one-fourth of the grant when the higher grant of 20s 6d is earned and one-fifth when the lower grants are earned, will mean an immediate increase in salaries of some JElM 10s per annum and a prospective increase of another £ 126. Rev. W. James was unanimously elected to represent the board on the Court of Governors of the Aberdare County School, and for the position of lady governor Mrs W. Lloyd, High- iand-place, and Mrs D. M, Richards, Wenalit, were nominated, and the former was elected by five votes to four.

MOUNTAIN ASH. Oratorio.-On Wednesday and Thursday, at the new Public Institute, Handel's masterpiece, the Messiah," was admirably rendered by the Mountain Ash Choral Society, conducted by Mr T. Glyndwr Richards. The Caegarw Orchestra, augmented by some professional players, led by Mr E. T. Roberts, Cardiff, performed the instru- mental music with precision. The large hall was densely crowded on both nights, The choir is numerically strong, and the different choruses were attacked with spirit. The best effort was the Hallelujah Chorus," which produced a deep im- pression. The soloists were Miss Lewis, soprano, who possesses a sweet voice, and whose most successful effort was I know that my Redeemer liveth Miss R. Thomas, contralto, who save a splendid rendering of the pares allotted to her Mr W. Trevor Evans, tenor, whose delivery of the passion music left nothing to be desired and Mr D. Jones, who was in good form, and gave a most meritorious rendering of Why do the Nations ?"

MERTHYR. Royal National Lifeboat Institution.—A meet- ing in support of this institution, convened by Mr Joseph Owen, J.P., the high constable, was held at the Temperance Hall last night. Mr E. H. Johnson, organising secretary, was present. Mr D. A. Thomas, M.P., and Mr Pritchard Morgan, M.P., sent cheques fur one guinea each I towards the Merthyr Tydfil Lifeboat Fund, and other subscribers included the High Constable and Col. D. Rees Lewis, V.D. Mrs Rogers, Advanced Girls' School, notified that she would co-operato in the matter. The proceedings were adjourned.

ABERYSTWYTH. Primrose League Meeting.—On Thursday evening a well-attended meeting of members of the Primrose League local habitation took place in the old Assembly Rooms. Mr Harford, of Falcondale, presided, and he was supported by Mr Pettifer, of London, and Dr. T. B. Beddoes, the local hon. sec. In his speech Mr Harford referred to the growth of the Primrose League in Aberystwyth and the northern part of the county of Cardigan. He was sure that they living far- ther south must feel ashamed at the poor advance they made compared with the good work done in the north. An address was also delivered by Mr Pettifer, and songs, etc., filled up the rest of the progiamme.

DEAN FOREST. A Collier Killed.—Late on Wednesday even- ing Jonathan Hart, a middle-aged collier, of Ellwood, was fatally injured whilst following his employment at the Union Colliery, near Parkcnd. A quantity of stuff fell upon him, and he died shortly afterwards. The particulars I have been forwarded to Mr M. F. Carter (Coroner), and an inquest will be held. Swine feve,- has broken out on the premises of Mr Alfred Butler, Blakenev, and eight animals have consequently been slaughtered.

CAERPHILLY. English Congregatioufd Church.—A new church has been built a Van-road, Caerphilly, and was opened the other day. Divine services were held in the Board School for ten months until the new church was ready. The new edifice will seat nearly 400 persons, and has cost from £ 450 to £ 500. At the opening services the Rev. D. Richards, pastor, offered the dedicatory prayer. The special preachers were :-The Rev. Arnold Thomas, M. A., of Bristol; the Rev. J. Williamson, M.A.. of Cardiff the Rev. Gwilym Jones, of Penarth and the Rev. Sinclair Evans, of Swansea. The Rsv. T. Davies, of Cwmbran The Rev. Mon Evans, Rhywderin and the Rev. Mr Jenkins, B.A., of Merthyr. conducted devo- tional services. Including collection, the amount contributed to the Building Fund reached nearly £200.

LTJWYDCOED. Amateur Theatrioo1.On Thursday evening au amateur theatrical performance in aid of the St. James's Church, Llwydcoed, was given in the Bowen Jenkins Memorial Hall, Aberdare. '• Orange Blossoms," a comedietta"in one ac was performed Oy Messrs P. T. Rhys, solicitor, er- dare F. G. Crawshav, Cyfarthfa, Merthyr P. E. Malyon, secretary to the Bwllfa and Merthyr Dare Colliery Company, Limited; Miss Edwards, Fedwhir; Miss Be van, St. Pagans Vicarage; and Mrs (Dr.) I. Bankes, Trecynon. This was followed bv solos by Muriel Price, Maesv- ffynon; "and Miss Sarvis, Castle Hotel, Merthyr; and a selection by Mr J. Arkite Phillips's orchestral band. Mrs W T. Rees, Maesyffynon, accompanied the soloists. The popular farce "lei on Parle Francais" was then given by Messrs Tudor Edwards, Fedwhir; P. T. Rhys, F. G. Craw- shay, Miss Beava,n, Miss Edwards, and Miss Ethel Edwards, Fedwhir and Mrs .Bankes. The performance was well attended, the acting was very good, and the staging was capitally done.

FERN DALE, Horse Show,-In Tuesday's report of the above show the first prize in Class 3 was awarded to Mr Thomas Butcher, Ferndale, not to Mr Sam Evans, Penygraig, as stated.

GOODWICK (PEM.). Appointment of Stationmaster, Mr T Richards, of Glogue, has been appointed station- ma.ster for the new station at Goodwick, and which will be open on June ]2th.

CILGERRAN. Illness of a Minister.—The Rev-. J<*n injster the well-known Calvinistic Metboow ljme jS) of this pla.ee, who has been ill for orecarious we regret to leitrn, lying in a ve state.

BRITON ^FERR' on Poor Rate.—At a ves y tf.e £ was mac[0 morning a poor rate ox for the ensuin sIX moD s. =-

A MAMMOTH AEROLITE. Helsingfora, Friday-—Pieces 0f the aerolite wSfell at Bjurholm some time ago bave been sent here and placed in the Geological Museum. The laargest piece is said to weigh 206 Russian pounds, while all the parts together weigh 850 pounds.—Renter.

I GOLF. AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIP. AN EXCITING FINISH. The final tie in the Amateur Golf Chanh pionship was entered upon at 10 o'clock yes- terday, Lieutenant F. G. Tait (Black Watch) and Mr John Ball, jnn. (Hoylake) being the contestants. The weather was ideal, and over 1,000 spectators followed the players over the course. The Scotsman ,got the first hole in 4, and the second in a beautiful 3. The third, fourth, and fifth were halved in 4. Ball secured the sixth in 4, the seventh going to Tait in 3. He also secured the eighth and ninth, and he Scotsman stood 4 up at the turn. The next two were halved, Ball gaining the twelfth and thirteenth, while the fourteenth went to Tait. Ii Ball getting the fifteenth and seventeenth, the first round ended Tait 3 up. Totals—Tait, 79; Ball, 81. The second round created great interest, and close upon 2,000 people followed the pair round. Ball wiped off the deficit at the twelfth hole and got one ahead at he thirteenth, the match being squared at the fifteenth. Ball won the sixteenth, but Tait agam drew level and tied. The extra hole was won by Ball.

LAWN TENNIS. THE IRISH CHAMPIONSHIPS. The competitions were continued yesterday in Dublin, favoured by fine, bright weather, with a good attendance of spectators. R. Doherty easily disposed of Ball Green in the final of the All Comers. A splendid match between the Riseleys and Mahony and Boyd resulted in the Clifton pair winning. Mahony played a splendid game. Another good match between Mrs Dur- lacher and Miss Golding resulted in a win for the former. Details:— All Comers', Single.—Final round—R. P. Doherty (All England) beat G. C. Ball Greene (Fitzwilliam), 6.3, 7-5, 6-2. All Comers', Doubles.—Semi-final—A. H. and F. L. Riseley beat H. T. Mahony and W. H. Boyd, 6-4, 6-4, 7-9, 61. Ladies' Championship, Singles. Semi-final round-Mrs N. Durlaeher beat Miss Golding, 6-1, 9-7. Ladies' Championship Doubles,-Semi-final Round.—Miss Robb and Miss Hodson beat Mise, Cooker and Miss E. C. Pinckney, 4-6, 6-4, 6-4. Mrs N. Durlacher and Mhs Martin beat Mrs Westcott and Miss Golding, 6-0, 6-1. Fitzwilliam Purse.—First round—J. S. Twigg beat N. Durlaeher, 6-2, 6-3. G. A. Caridia beat F. W. Payn, 7-9, 6-4, 6-2. Semi-final—A. H. Riseley beat J. S. Twigg, 6.4, 6-0. G. A. Caridia beat R. A. Pringle, 6-2, 7-5. Ladies Plate Handicap.—Third round-Miss Hodson (owes 15) beat Miss Garfitt (scratcb),4.6, 7-5, 5-2. Miss Cooper (owes 30) beat Miss Gold- ing (5-6tbs), 7-5, 6-1. Miss A. Durlacher (ow" 15-3) beat Miss E. Martin (5-6ths), 6-4, 6-3. Semi- firml-Miss Hodson beat Miss Westcott (15), 6- 6-3. Fitzwilliam Plate Handicap.—Second round — J. Twigg (4-6ths) beat G. A. Caridia (owes 3 6ths), 6-3, 6-1. Third rotllld-K. "Arly" (15) beat Count Voss (owes 3-6ths), 3 6, 6-3, 6-3. W. St. G. Perrott (3-6ths) beat P. N. Goodwille (5-6ths), 6-2, 6-3. E. Paul (15-3) beat L. Swanzy (15-1), 6-4, 6-3. A. H. Riseley (I.6th) beat J. S. Twigg (4-6ths), 6-4, 6.2. Semi-fixt&I-E. Paul beat «■ St. G. Perrott, 6-4, 6-2. Mixed Doubles Championship.-Semi-fmal-- W. V. Eaves and Miss Hodson beat G. C. Ball Greene and Miss Pinckney, 6-1,6-4; R. F. Doherty and Miss Cooper beat F. W. Riseley and Miss Martin, 5-8, 9-7, 6-4.

ROWING. A. CARTER v. T. BULLMAN FOR £100. In the meeting of these young London sccllers over the Thames championship course from Putney to Mortlake yesterday a good deal of interest was centered. They both have the dis- tinction of having won Dogget's coat and badge, but though they have met in several of the below bridge regattas it was their first match over the long and trying coarse. Bullman was made the favourite, and on winning the toss and securing the Middlesex station, which afforded him some shelter from the wind, odds of 6 to 4 were laid on him. They got away to a good start, but though they both rowed 31 for the first minute BnllmaD was the smarter at the start, and early took the lead. It was a fine race for a mile and a half. Though Bullman was showing the way Carter stuck to him, and there was not a great deal in it when Bullman reached the mile post io 5min. 4sec. Afterwards Carter went up rapidly, aad going past his rival off Harrod's Stores be always had the race at his mercy. At Hammer- smith Bridge, which he reached in lOmin. 22see.. he had secured a commanding lead, and Boll- man, despite one or two spurts, couid make as impression on him afterwards. Carter; on reach" ing Chiswick Church in 15min. 42sec., was thoo Msec, in front, and after passing Barnes Bridge, in 20min. 40sec., he finally won as he liked íØ 24iqin. 30sec., Bullman's time for the full cooo being 24min. 58sec.

WELSH VOLUNTEERS AT PLYMOUTH. Lieut.-Col- Fowler, commanding the eastern section of the Royal Artillery, yesterday morning inspected the 1st and 2nd Glamorg an Volun- teer Artillery, encamped on Staddon Heights, Plymouth. The colonel wag much pleased with the appearance of the men, who have experienced rough weather. Later on H.M.S. juraveller and the brigades were 'brought into Hamoazeto witness the gun drill on board H.M.S' Cambridgs Gunnery School Ship, Subsequently they visited H.M.S. Nile port guardship. To-day the camp disperses. The 2nd Glamorgan leave Plymouth at 3.5b p-m. for Cardiff, and the 1st Glamorgan for Swansea at 7.5 p.m. Lieutenant- Colonel Sir Edward Hill, at the invitation of the HNaval Commander-in-Chief (Admiral Hon. Sir E. R. Fremantle) went in the torpedo destroyer Batt to the Manacles to view the wreck of the Paris. The Admiral and Sir Edward returned to Devonport at night.

FRIENDLY SOCIETIES. 8 ODDFELLOWS' A.M.O. A WELSHMAN ELECTED GRAND MASTER. Middlesbiough, Friday.—The session of the Annual Movable Committee of the Manchester Unity of Oddfellows was continued in the Town Hall, Middlesbrough, to-day. Grand Master T. Edmondson, Skipton, presiding. ELECTION OF GRAND MASTER AND DEPUTY GRAND MASTER. Mr Tom Hughes, of Llanelly, was unanimously elected Grand Master of the Order for the ensuing year. There were two candidates for the office of Deputy Grand Master, the vote resulting as follows R. Rnehton, Accrington, 292 R. W. Moffrey, North London, 140. The election of Mr Rushton was received with prolonged cheering. I THE NEXT A.M.C. Portsmouth was selected as the next place of meeting with 339 votes. Norwich received 132. Eastbourne 74, and Newcastle-on-Tyne 34. I' THE AGED POOR COMMITTEE. The Corresponding Secretary announced that the Board of Directors bad received a letter from the secretary of the Select Committee on the Aged Deserving Poor, asking if there were any points on which the secretary wished to give evi- dence which would be useful for the purposes of inquiry, and, if so. whether some representatives of the society would be willing to come before the Committee if called as witnesses. The Grand Master said the members of the board of direc- tors had not had time to fully consider this com- munication, but at an informal meeting they had discussed it aud thought it best to suggest to the meeting that it be referred to the first meeting of the new board. The suggestion of the Grand Master was adopted without discussion. THE ST. HELEN'S DISASTER. The Grand Master said he had received a letter from the St. Helen's district to the effect that in the recent disaster in the town two m ambers were literally thrown to pieces and two other members maimed. One of the unfortunate men who lost their lives was P.Prov.G.M. Fred Faram, and was a deputy to the last annual meeting at Oxford. The St. Helen's district had given S30, and the lodges would also vote a sum of money. Bro. Spittle. Stepney, moved that the meeting make a grant of S,25 R.G.M. Rust, King's Lynn, seconded the proposition. P.G.M. Walton, Southampton, said he was not going to oppose that proposed grant, but he could bring forward a much stronger case from the south. He regretted to say that a large number of members of the Southampton district were lost in the Stella disaster, The captain of that ship was a sub- scribing member of one of the lodges, and they expected that the full death roll would be either nine or ten. He did not ask for a contribution to these, as the Mayor of Southampton's fund had already realised 110,000 in aid of the sufferers, but if they were inclined he thought they might vote a sum to this fund, and the grant having been unanimously made, Bro. Stott, Grand Master of the St. Helen's district, thanked the meeting on behalf of the relations of the unfortunate men. On the proposition of Bro. Burbridge. Southampton, a sum of .£25 was also voted to the fund of the Mayor of Southamp- ton for the sufferers by the Stella disaster. WORKMEN'S COMPENSATION ACT. Bro. Carden (North London) proposed That this meeting is of opinion that any attempt on the part of the Manchester Unity to assure the liabilities under the Workmen's Compensation Act of any persons who are employers of any members of this Order, will be beset with diffi- culties which we have no right to incur, while to endorse the principle of contracting out of the Act will affect but a small proportion of our members, and will by any such action cause the Unity to become a competitor with the ordinary insurance societies, thereby stultifying itself in its main principle of co-operative insurance as opposed to commercial insurance. He considered it very I undesirable that the Unity should enter into competition with insurance companies for an un- certain liability of this character. The proposi- 'I tion was carried. INSTALLATION OF THE GRAND MASTER. I At the conclusion of the business of the meeting Grand Master Hughes was installed in office as Grand Master of the Order. In placing the chain on the shoulders of his successor the Past Grand Master said he was sure no one worthier ever wore the chain than Brother Hughes—(cheers)— and he felt that when the time came that he would have to divest himself of the chain and place it on his successor's shoulders it would be as free from tarnish as it was at that moment. (Cheers.) The Grand Master-Elect, who was reeeived with long-continued cheers, said Deputy Grand Master, Bro. Edmondson, and Brethren,—I do I not think I need say that this is the proudest moment of my life. It is something to be proud of to be able to boast that you occupied the position of Grand Master of the Manchester Unity. It is no slight task I have to go through during the coming year. I know that the posi- tion has been held by distinguished men who have upheld nobly the credit of the Man- chester Unity. I shall endeavour during my year of office to sustain, as far aa I can, the noble name that has been made by those who have occu- pied the position of Grand Master of our great Unity. We have had men of high intellectual attainment, men of unquestioned literary ability, whose writings and whose speeches have been listened to with a great deal of attention in all parts of the country. I shall endeavour as far as I can to do eveiything in the same direction, although, perhaps, not as successfully as those who have gone before me. But I will, at any rate, devote myself as diligently and as closely to the work as any of my predecessors. I feel it I %n honour to the Principality of Wales. (Cheers.' I should like to address this meeting in Welsh I (Cheers and cries of Do so.") I know there are t few in the audience who would be able to understand me, and I may tell you I have been somewhat successful in my efforts to educate at least one director in the Welsh language. I do aot say I am going to devote much of the time I sught to devote to the office I uow hold to the further perfection of his education. t trust that having started him in the acquisition of another language that he will now be able to go alone. I do not know that I have anything to say except to thank you from the bottom of my heart, and I trust the words that have fallen from the lips of Bro. Edmondson that I shall sustain the position to the end of my term of office in a creditable manner, and I shall be able to hand this chain to my successor untarnished— that every word of that will be carried out to the letter. I only hope 1 shall have strength. 1 need not tell you I shall devote myself diligently to the work, and I only hope when my year of office is olosed I shall have the satisfaction of knowing that my efforts for the upholding of an institution having for its objects the up-lifting and elevating of the citizens of this Empire will meet with your approval. (Loud cheers). In response to loud demands for a few words in Welsh, the new Grand Master, addressing his in Welsh. the new Grand Master, addressing his brother Welshmen, said Dear brethren, thanks for the honour you have done me to-day. There was one Welshman in the chair before. Who will be the third ?" The Welsh deputies then sang Land of My Fathers." BIOGRAPHICAL. Mr Tom Hughes, J.P., the Grand Master of the Manchester Unity of Oddfellows for the eusuing year, is a prominent figure in the public life of Llanelly, where he was born in 1850. He is therefore in the prime of life. Mr Hughes is a self-made man. When 14 years of age he was apprenticed to his brother, a builder, at Llanelly. Subsequently he gained experience in London and Bristol, and then returned to his native town, where for the lost quarter of a century he has carried on a flourishing business as a builder and contractor. Early in his career Mr Hnghes became prominent as a public man, and 12 ycars ago was elected a member of the Llanelly Local Board of Health and the Llanelly Harbour Com- mission. Since then he has sat continuously on these bodies, and to him belongs the honour of having been the last chairman of the Local Board and the first chairman of the Urban Dis- trict Council. He is also an active member of the Llanelly Intermediate School managing body. For 15 years he occupied a position of usefulness on the committee of the Llanelly Mechanics' Institution, which was converted last year into a Free Library, of the committee of which Mr Hughes is chairman. In 1892 he was placed upon the commission of the peace, and he has also been a shining light in political and musical spheres in the town and I district. Mr Hughes waa a member of the í famous Caradog'a Choir, and for years was treasurer of Mr R. C. Jenkins a Cho:r. He con- ducted for a time the Hall-street Wesley an Choir. He possesses rare vocal powers. He is one of ths leaders of the Liberal party, has been president of the Llanelly Liberal Association, and a vice- president of the Llanelly Liberal Club, and he has been one of the chief local speakers at political meetings for many years. He is a splendid fighter both in municipal and Parlia- mentary elections, for he possesses great powers of organisation, and is a fluent speaker. His connection with Friendly Societies commenced about 28 years ago, when he was made a member of the Prince of Wales Lodge of Oddfellows, and about eight years later he was initiated into the Order of Foreisterii, and nubsoqaently became a FreemMQOi tang, ftt 404- t WMWRM;. Master of the latter society. Mr Hughes quickly passed through all the offices in the Order of Odd- fellows, until he became a Grand Master of the district. He has for a number of years past repre- sented the Llanelly district at the A.M.C., and four years ago he was elected to a position on the directorate of theOder, wbich he continues to hold. At the Oxford A.M.C. last year he was nominated for the Grand Mastership, and was elected by a large majority, and he naturally succeeds to the chief office for the ensuing year. Mr Hughes, although an advanced politician of Liberal con- victions, is popular with all classes, his geniality, public service, and good nature having made friends for himself among rich and poor alike. During the coming year Mr Hughes will perforce spend much of his time out of Llanelly, for the I Grand Mastership of the Manchester Unity is no sinecure, and in order that he may worthily fulfil the duties of his new position his native town will no doubt relax many of the claims upon his time and capabilities which would otherwise be made upon him. MR TOM HUGHES INTERVIEWED. Middlesbrough, Friday Night.—Mr Tom Hughes, of Llanelly, the new Grand Master of the Manchester Unity, is the second Welshman who has filled the presidential position of the Manchester Unity. Immediately upon his elec- I tion to office, he had an interview with our corres- pondent at Middlesbrough with reference to the I' questions of public interest affecting the present position and future prospects of the Friendly Society movement. Respecting the present position and future pros- pects of the Unity, Mr Hughes said I think we can face the future with every confidence, for in spite of difficulties arising from increasi ng sickness and the generous recognition of the claims of the older members, we are able to show a steady and continuous advancement in the direction of attaining the financial solvency we ace striving for. The latest valuation shows a substantial reduction in the number of deficiency lodges and in the aggregate amount of the net deficiency. This redaction has also been accom- panied by an increase in the number of lodges possessing surplus funds, which the members have been able to utilise for the increase of their benefits. The improvement which is manifested in this latest valuation I believe to be still oper, ating throughout the Order to the financial advantage of its members." Have you anything to say with respect to the most recent development of Friendly Society work—the extension of the membership to females ?" I am heartily in sympathy with the extension of the privilege of membership to the female population of the country. I believe it to be a move in the right direction. There was a press- ing need, especially in the large towns, for provi- sion for sickness on the part of the female workers. It has in the past been a reproach against the larger Friendly Societies that they have refused the privileges of membership to the female portion of our population, and I greatly fear that the absence of such provision is to some extent responsible for the arger number of females who have been forced to seek poor law relief." What has been the effect of recent legislation on the workers generally, and the aged workers in particular ?" Undoubtedly the result of the Workmen's Compensation Act has been to bring about the dismissal of a large number of workmen a little advanced in years engaged in occupations where the risks of accident can be minimised by the employment of young and more vigorous men. Though I believe this to be the effect of the Act towards the aged workers, it must not be sup- fosed that I am opposed to it. On the contrary, I am in entire sympathy with any legislation having for its object the protection of human life. The dismissal of aged workmen, however, has a tendency to still further intensify the difficulties of Friendly Societies with reference to the neces- sity of making some more effective provision for the maintenance of our aged workers." This naturally raises the question of old age provision ?" Yes and on that point I think the only pos- sible solution is for the Friendly Societies to act jointly with the State. For instance, if the Man- chester Unity could provide a permanent old age benefit of 2s 6d per week for all members who had attained 65 years of age, the State might be aaked to contribute a further 28 6d a week. I believe such a combination would result in a large accession of membership to all the Friendly 'I Societies, as it would prove to young men that the Government were prepared to assist those who were endeavouring to help themselves." GRAND UNITED ORDER OF ODDFELLOWS. The annual conference of the Grand United Order of Oddfellows was concludsd at Birming- ham yesterday. Mr C. Postlethwaite, South Cheshire, was installed Grand Master for the ensuing year, and Mr Matkin Burton Deputy- Grand Master. On behalf of the Darlington district a pension scheme was submitted, which provided the fund should be voluntary in its application and that annuities should be paid oat of it when claimed, but should not be paid from funds raised for anv other purpose that a member should be allowed to commence con- tributing who was over 45, and no deposit to be less than one shilling. Among the benefits pro- posed to be paid were a pension of 5s for life to any male member who had X112 7s standing to his credit at the age of 65. and 5s to a female member who had JE120 5s standing to her credit at 65. The scheme was rejected by 150 votes to three. The incoming Grand Master, in his address, said the old age pensions question was one for statesmen, and could not be solved for the working classes by actuaries.

GOOD TEMPLARY IN WALES VISIT OF THE GRAND LODGE TO TOWYN. On Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday meet- ings in connection withtbe Grand Lodge of Good Templars were held at Towyn, when there were present delegates from all parts of the Princi- pality, numbering in all not much short of a hundred. The reception given to them at Towyn was of a cordial character. The chair at all the meetings was taken by the Rev. Rees Evans, Llanwrted. The Grand Chief Templar, Mr Evans, in his annual report said the year's work had been successful. Lodges had been opened at Gaerwen, Barry, Troeayrhiw, Maesteg, Glvn- corwg, and one was in course of being opened at Pontypridd. From a legislative point of view the outlook was dark whilst the present Government remained in power. He hoped, however, that some good would come from the Royal Commis- sion on the Liquor Traffic. The report was adopted. It was stated that throughout Wales the children's lodges bad greatly increased. A resolution Vias passed condemning those trades- men who sold tobacco to children, it being argued that children should not be supplied with either drink or tobacco. It was unanimously decided to ask the Executive Committee of the Good Templar Eisteddfod to offer a. prize for the best catechism suitable for the lodges. A protest was passed against the action of the Cardiff National Eisteddfod in deciding to allow drink to be sold on the Eisteddfod ground.

INTERESTING PRESENTATION AT CARDIFF. Yesterday afternoon at the Imperial Hotel, Cardiff Docks, there was a large assemblage of Cardiff Dock Boys," the occasion being the presentation of a beautifully chased silver punch bowl and an address with the names of sub- scribers to Mr Walter Pyman, son of Mr J. W. Pvman, of the firm of Messrs Pyman, Watson, and Company, coal exporters and shipowners, Cardiff, Newport, and Port Talbot, on the occasion of his forthcoming marriage with Miss Strana- ghan, of Penarth. Mr Dan Griffin presided, and made the presentation in a happily conceived speech. Complimentary speeches were made by Messrs Dan Radcliffe. H. G. Jones, S. ChurchilL H. J. Hill, M. Proctor, and others. Mr Pyman made feeling response. On Thursday the staff of Messrs Pyman, Watson, and Co., through Mr Dan Griffln, presented Mr Pyman with a lovely silver epergne as a token of tneir regard and esteem.

SLEEP FOR SKIN-TORTURED BABIES and rest for Tired Mothers in a warm bath with Cuticuba Soap, and a single anointing with Cutictjba, purest of emollient skin cures. This treatment will afford instant relief, permit rest and sleep to both parent and child, and point t* a speedy, permanent, and economical cure in the most distressing forms of itching, burning, scaly, and crusted skin and scalp humours, witb loss of hair, wtoa aikeJa&fwifc

6WANSEA CHAMBER OJF COMMERCE. SIR JOHN JENKINS ON TELEPHONE I REFORM. The monthly meeting of the Swansea Chamber of Commerce was held yesterday afternoon, Sir John Jones Jenkins, M.P., presiding. The Secretary (Mr E. P. Jones) gave an inter- esting resume of the proceedings which took place between Mr Hanbury and representatives of several of the leading Chambers on the I question of nationalising as opposed to munici- palising the telephone service. The Chairman said he should not like to express a strong opinion against the Government measure, because the desire was to carry out the work at the least possible cost rather than to now buy out at great cost the National Company's interest, which will be obtainable by lapse of licence in 12 years' time. Personally he was strongly in favour of urging on the Government to take the telephones into their own hands. If the Government thought the firet step in this direction should be by granting municipal authorities licences, he should like to go a little further and know really by what means they would convey the messages from the different municipalities to other parts of the country-whether the Post Office authorities would have a supervision, so that in that way there might be developed a national telephone communication under the control of the Govern- ment. He thought they ought to bring as much pressure as they possibly could on the Govern- ment to obtain possession of the whole telephone system of the country. He did not know whether it would be possible to enter into an arrangement with the National Telephone Company but he thought it might be, seeing that their licence will finally cease in 1911. He proposed :—" That the Chamber, while affirming its opinion as to the desirability of the nationalisation of the telephone service in the hands of the Govern- ment at the earliest possible moment that such may become practicable, is not prepared to oppose the proposal of the Government to authorise the establishment of telephone ex- changes by municipalities." Mr T. R. Robinson seconded, and Miss Dillwyn and the Hon. Odo Vivian supported, the latter contrasting our service with that of Switzerland, and saying if the Government controlled the telephone service as it does the Post Office it could be worked much more cheaply. The motion was carried. SHIPOWNERS AND THE PILOTAGE BOARD. With reference to the action of the Chamber in affirming the desirability of extending to ship- owners the tight of direct representation upon the local pilotage authority, the Board of Trade wrote stating that they were advised that in view of the terms of Sec. 577 of the Merchant Shipping Act, 1894, provision cannot be made by provi- sional order for the representation of shipowners unless at the same time further provision is made for the representation of pilots. Copies of the rules and regulations governing applications for pilot- age orders were forwarded to the Chamber, from which it as seen that no formal steps can now be taken in the matter before November next. The Secretary said the Board of Trade overlooked the fact that the pilots already have representation, while shipowners have not. Mr T. R. W. Mason suggested that such ports as Newport and Bristol should be asked what had been done in their case, while Mr Moffat said it was absurd to give the pilots representation and none to the shipowners. Sir John Jenkins suggested that the Harbour Trust might be willing, when it next went to Parliament, to introduce a clause to meet the wishes of the shipowners. Eventually it was decided to communicate with the authorities of other ports on the subject.

SOCIAL WORK IN CARDIFF. PROPOSED LABOUR HOME. The Mayor of Cardiff (Alderman Morel) pre- sided over a meeting of focal clergy and laymen at the Town Hall on Friday aiternoon convened for the purpose of hearing an address from the Rev. W. Carlile on the.social work and labour home system of the Church Army. Among those pre- sent were Canon Thompson, the Rev. T. T. Jones (rector of Gelligaer), Rev. J. E. Dawson, Rev. Dr. Nicholson, Rev. A. G. Russell, Rev. T. Davies, Captain Schuyler, and others. Letters of apology for absence and expressing sympathy with the objects of the meeting were read from Lord Tre- degar, Rev. J. R. Buckley. Rev. G. A. Jones, Mr J. M. Maclean, Sir W. T. Lewis, Archdeacon Bruce, Mr J. Coke Fowler (Swansea stipendiary), and others. The Mayor, in opening the proceed- ings, said the prominent men of Cardiff had scarcely time to think of the responsibilities of their position as wealthy men. All the local institutions needed levelling up, and one which required their attention was the Church Army. Hear, hear.) Swansea and Gloucester had labour homes and were doing exceedingly good work. At present, however, there was no home in Cardiff, and those who were rescued here had to be senteither to Bristol or to Swansea. The Church Army was able to do an excellent work because, by the influence of its members, they were able to obtain employment for the people who came under their charge. It therefore be- hoved them to establish a labour home in Cardiff which would no doubt result in an immense amount of good. (Applanse.) Rev. W. Carlile gave a detailed account of the working of the labour and lodging home system, and said there were at present 29 lodging homes at which they sought to reclaim outcasts and criminals. Hav- ing admitted them, they ware put to work, such as sawing and chopping wood, for which they were paid at piecework rates. At the end of each week they deducted 6s from the earnings for board and lodging, and what remained was placed to their credit on the books of the home. It was a melancholy fact, he said, that there were to-dr.y about 87,COO criminals in the country and about 100,000 bordering on that state. Educa- tion, it was true, had reduced the number of criminals—(hear, hear)—but it had not reduced the number of criminalities. Last year the various homes yielded DZ,000, and no less than Z7,000 had been collected from the very classes whom they sought to benefit. In conclusion the speaker appealed for funds to establish a labour home at Cardiff. I Captain Owen, who has charge of the mission van in Wales, and Captain Brooks, superinten- dent of a home at Bristol, also gave a short account of their work. C,,mon Thompson then proposed a resolution in favour of establishing a labour home and lodg- ing-house in Cardiff. In doing so the rev. gentle- man referred to the good work done by the Prison Gate Mission in Cardiff, and said their past experience in connection therewith was that they should have more general support. A labour home in his opinion was greatly needed in Cardiff to supplement the work already in hand, and he ha.d great, pleasure in joining with others to carry on a movement of that kind. (Applause.) Captain Schuyler, governor of the Cardiff Gaol, seconded, and referred to the amendments which bad recently been enforced in the treatment of prisoners while undergoing sentence. He looked forward to good results from the establishment of such a home in Cardiff. Rev. A. G. Russell and Mr T. Hughes sup- ported the resolution, which was unanimously carried. On the proposition of the Ven. Archdeacon Edmondes the following committee, with power to add to their number, was appointed to carry out the arrangements for establishing a home in Cardiff, viz., Mr F. W Brett, Ven. Archdeacon Edmondes, Rev. J. R. Buckley, Mr J. Howard, Rev. Canon Thompson, Rev. J. E Dawson, Rev. T- Davies; General Lee, the Chaplain of the Cardiff Union, Rev. A. G. Rnssell, Rev. J. Baker, Rev. Alex. Henderson, Mr Geoige David, Mr H. Watson, Captain Schuyler, Alderman Morel, and Mr A. A. Howard.

SANGER'S CIRCUS AT CARDIFF. The veteran circus manager Lord George Sanger is once more at Cardiff with his far- famed show. It is close upon nine years since his last visit to the Welsh Metropolis, and the arrival of the hippodrome yesterday was quite a popular event. The immense travelling show is located in the Sophia Gardens Field, where it will re- main until Tuesday night, as the Cardiff en- gagement is to cover foiir show days of two per- formances each. Lord George Sanger's, Ltd. —for Mr Sanger is no longsr sole proprietor— has erected upon the fields what is practically a large canvas town. The circus has attached to it close upon 300 people, and of horses and other animals there is legion. The performance yes- terday afternoon was preceded by the customary outdoor pageant, whioh passed through the principal streets of the town soon after midday, and was viewed by thousands of spectators. In addition to a magnificent collection of horses and wild beasts, the pageant included some striking reproductions of the gunboats which did such effective service in the Soudan cam- paign. Both performances yesterday were well attended, and it was the universal opinion that the reputation of the circus for variety, skill, and splendour was more than sustained, the enter- prismg proprietary having enhanced the attractive- ness of the programme by the introduction of a number of new and striking features. Nearly 30 items were embodied in each performance. Four exquisite piebald horses gave an excellent account of themselves in the hands of Mr Harry Austin, whose horsemanship won general admira- tion. As an equestrienne MdUe. Montero dis- closed extraordinary skill and power, especially when riding the celebrated buck jumping thoroughbred Bellesario, whose caperiuga were hugely diverting. Of great interest also was the double jockey performance of Harry and George Austin. Splendid horsemanship was ex- hibited, and the acrobatic feats of the riders while the horses were going at a good canter were skilful to a degree. Mdlle. Zetts. fully justified her claim to the title of the Female Blondin," as her achievements on the tight rope were wonderfully clever, and in a flying trapeze performance Mons. George and Mdlle. Florence gained golden encomiums. A programme of bewildering versatility was brought to a close with a Spectacular representation of the Der- vishes last stand at Omdurman.

NATIONAL EISTEDDFOD AND INTOXICANTS. TO THE EDITOR. Sir,—From to-day's isare of your paper I see that the Rev. H. M. Hug-hes, B.A., ill withdrawing from this paper controversy. Under the circum- stances I feel that it would be somewhat undig- nified on my part to pursue a vanquished foe. With your kind permission, Mr Editor, I should like to remark that the members of the Cardiff Eisteddfod Committee may well pray to be delivered from their friends. Writers under bardic and assumed names, by their letters to the Welsh Press, are rendering the opposition most valuable assistance. The Welsh people evi- dently are not so easily persuaded that things are in Cardiff as they are represented to be by these writers. Can it be possible that these writers themeselves believe in their heart that < agitation is simply something trivial promoted by what they are pleased to call teetotal fanatics ?" Whatever that may mean to them, to us it is complimentary. I want to assure the local Eisteddfod Com- mittee that the opposition is no mean effort to damage the Cardiff meetings, but it represents the almost united demand of the Welsh people- non-abstainers as well as abstainers—that intoxi. cants be for ever banished from the premises of our national institution. Will the committee con- tinue to treat with contempt the overwhelming desire of the Welsh nation as represented by the large religious gatherings, Church and Dissent, musical festivals, and temperance demonstrations already held and others advertised to be held during the next few weeks ? Can it be said that large representative gatherings, each representing from 13,000 to 316,000, simply want to dissociate intoxicating drinks from the Eisteddfod as a were fad to damage the Cardiff meetings ? Is the Calvinistic Methodist Assembly to be regarded as an association of "teetotal faddists "? Is the Baptist Union or the Congregational Union of Wales, the one or the other, a nursery for faddists who are opposed to the time-honoured National Eisteddfod ? Is it simply a whim on the part of such bodies as Wesleyan Synods, Free Churches Councils, County Unions, quarterly and monthly meetings, Parish and District Councils to oppose the sale of intoxi- cants on the Eisteddfod grounds ? If the Welsh people are not sincere would we have such men as the Rev. W. Thomas, Whitland, chairman of the Welsh Congregational Union, and the chairman of other august bodies writing in the following strain :— I am glad that you and others have taken up this matter so energetically. There is no doubt at all that the indiscretion of the committee is widely condemned by our fellow-countrymen. It is not too late for them to rectify the error. I wish success to the protest movement from the bottom of my heart." ™ Permit me to thank you and the friends at Cardiff for the noble stand you have taken against turning the Eisteddfod into a tap room. If the Eisteddfod cannot be carried on without intoxicants the game is not worth the candle." I am ashamed to think that any Welsh deno- minational paper can lend ita columns to support the beer." Hundreds of similar quotations could be given from the protests of representative men whose sincerity and devoteaness to the Eisteddfod no sane man (an expression very much used by some writers) could dispute. Much as I should like to be able to believe it, I am afraid that the teetotal fanatics make up but a small proportion of the membership of the various bodies that have protested. Still the non- teetotalers heartily join in the demand for the banishment of intoxicants for ever from the Eisteddfod grounds. Will not the Cardiff Com- mittee honour themselves and the nation by re- scinding the objectionable resolution and making it possible for the Welsh people to patronise this year's Eisteddfod by the thousand ? As I intend this to be my last contribution to the public Press on this matter, I have to thank you, sir, for your courtesy. Until the matter is finally settled I shall be true to my trust and shall call upon public bodies to continue to send in their resolutions in a dignified and straight- forward mannei." If the committee will rescind their resolution, the teetotal fanatics will ren- der all the assistance they can in bringing the crowds together in July.—I am, &c., J. TERTIUS PHILLIPS. U.K.A. Office, St. John's-square, Cardiff, May 26th, 1899.

TO THE EDITOR. Sir,—Referring to the correspondence between Revs. J. Tertins Phillips and B. M. Hughes, the fact that a small majority of the executive has decided that intoxicants shall be sold in the giouud does not really dispose of the question as some of the members seem to think. Because pro- tests are being made they impute mean and un- worthy motives and prejudice against Cardiff. This view is a childish one. It is indisputable that there is a feeling of indignation abroad—not confined to teetotal faddists-against what is likely to prove the suicidal action of the com- mittee. It cannot be put down to prejudice or jealousy, as it is found north, south, east, and west, not excepting Cardiff itself. Now, If the committee, notwithstanding these protests, doggedly persist in their course and financial calamity ensues, they can only blame themselves. They will have courted it with their eyes open. We are jealous of the reputation of the national institution, and have no desire to trail it in the mire. The noblest themes are sung by songster and poet, and should not be accompanied by debauchery, which from past experienCEliniably follows where liquors are sold. Visitors from Ireland, Brittany, America, and probably other parts of the world will be there. Let not any facilities be given which may create scenes disgraceful to the nation.-I am. &c., W. JONES THOMAS. Penarth, May 26th, 1899.

SWANSEA. Charges of Persistent Cruelty.—William Humphreys seaman, of 7, Maliphant-street, was bound over to be of good behaviour for three months because of alleged persistent cruelty to his wife.—Evan Rees, a boilermaker, was summoned for a like offence. The case was adjourned.

BRIDGEND. Chamber ofTrade.-At a meeting on Thursday evening it was reported that the Federated Chambers of Trade would visit Bridgend at the latter end of June. Arrangements were made for welcoming them. Drainage Scheme.—The surveyor's plans for draining Bridgend have been submitted, and the estimated cost is close upon £ 12,000. This is independent of the I'enybont main drainage scheme.

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QUOITS. MONMOUTHSHIRE ASSOCIATION. The Gold Medal Competition was decided o £ Tneeday on Crumlin Quoit Gcooiul. Two nied^ "woro given by tbe n namritw. tinlt* ■ t Jot J by members of the association. Sixteen players 1 competed, and a well-contested game ended in an easy win for Taly wain. Jones and Lewis secured the two medals. They were in brilliant form. There was a good attendance. The association is in a position to offer a prize again to be competed for this year, and seeing that it ia only in its second year it is satisfactory to note that it is giving two silver caps to be played for by affiliated clubs. The players and representa- tives adjourned after Tuesday's contest to the Viaduct Hotel, where Mr J. B. Jones, of Talf- wain, presided at the meeting which was held. and complimentary speeches were delivered.

OTTER HUNTING IN SOUTH WALES. A meeting of the subscribers to Mr Hastings Clay's otter hounds was held at the Westgate Hotel, Newport, on Friday. Mr W. H. p. Jenkins presided. The report presented by Mr Stanton, the hon. secretary, showed that the expenditure for the year was X247 3s 5d, and the income was not sufficient to meet the outgoings by £82, 3s lid, but there were unpaid subscrip- tions amounting to 470 lis 6d. Mr Hastings Clay, in replying to a vote of thanks for his services as master of the pack, said that the spot' provided was far better than when they started two years ago, otters being much more plentifal- The Usk and its contribntaries were full of otters. and there were good reports from the Glamorgisyll Hereford, and Somerset districts which the pack visited.

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