The Carmarthen Journal and South Wales Weekly Advertiser

CONSERVATISM AT ABERYSTWITH. Tuesday, April 23rd, will always be remembered. as a red letter day in the history of Aberystwith Conservatives. In the afternoon at three p. ru., the members of the Primrose League Habitation 636, met together in the library of the Con- servative Club, New-street. There was a com- paratively good attendance. Dr. Rice Williams presided, and was supported by Mrs Bonsai, Captain Jones Parry, Colonel Davies-Evans (Lord Lieutenant of Cardiganshire), Mr W. H. Meredyth, Mr Powell (Nanteos), Mrs Powell, Mra Morgan, Mrs W. H. Jones, Mrs Cousens, Miss Weinyss, etc., etc. Mrs Morgan was elected Ruling Councillor for the ensuing year. Mr B. E. Morgan was unanimously re-elected secretary of the Habitation. Captain Jones-Parry (District Agent of the Primrose League), then delivered an able and exhaustive speech, He could not refrain from stating that in his opinion considerable apathy existed in Aberystwith. Their Habitation, be- ing the oldest, should be the largest in Cardigan- shire. It was moreover in one of the most populous districts of the county, unlike the Llanybyther Habitation which had nearly 1,200 members in a most scattered part of the county. There were few Conservative Clubs in Cardigan- shire, and the Primrose League might be described as the missing link betvre- the Clubs and the Association. It fulfilled cat want, and he could not understand the reason for the prejudice which existed in some quarters. He believed most firmly that some day their teach- ing would be felt in the country. An organisation consisting of nearly one million followers must have some effect. He was a Conservative be- cause he considered the principles they were teaching, the best for Great Britain. Let them take heart and work on. Their reward would come, and so far as he (Captain Parry) was con- cerned he would always be ready to devote his best energies and abilities to the work, because his heart was in the Primrose League (applafise). Col. Davies-Evans then addressed the meeting. He described the progress of his own Llanybyther Habitation and the encouraging manner in which his efforts had been responded to by the people around. Lately he had been engaged in a con- test tor two seats on the County Councils. That Contest had resulted in victory (cheers). While it was in progress, he had occasion to come into contact with the way in which registration was worked. He thought that the Primrose League could do a great deal in registration, and 0 he wished to see efficient help rendered by the Primrose League to the Association in preparing for this year's registration (applause). He was glad that the Aberystwith Habitation had made a fresh start, and he cordially hoped to see it a powerful and hard-working Habitation. He would always be glad to assist in bringing about this result (cheers). Mr W. H. Meredyth said that he was anxious to be present that afternoon, because he wished to testify to the perfect unanimity and friendship which existed between the Primrose League and Conservative Associations. In fact, he would give expression to a certain feeling of grati- -tude which he entertained towards the Primrose League, for during the recent bye-elections in which he had taken part, he found that the Prim- rose League was an immense power for good (cheers). It was especially powerful because it had enlisted the ladies, and they all knew the enormous influence which ladies could exert during elections. Lord Randolph Churchill, in 1885, was a minister of the Crown, and could not very well take part in an election, but he sent his wife, and her presence was so efficient that Lord Randolph was returned by a large majority. Again, in the Doncaster and Gorton elections, ladies had been most valuable, and had contri- buted towards the increase of the Conservative vote (cheera). He (Mr Meredyth) was convinced that at the next election the counties would return to their old Conservative allegiance, and he wished to see Wales participate in this result. So far from being despondent they ought to try to add the county of Cardigan to the list of loyal constituencies, and he was sanguine enough to believe that victory was not so far off as some seemed to suppose (cheers). The meeting concluded with a hearty vote of thanks to the Chairman for presiding. 0 BANQUET AT THE ASSEMBLY-ROOMS. At 7.15 Col. Davies-Evans took the chair at the annual banquet of the Conservative Working Men's Club. The Lord-lieutenant was supported by Mr W. H. Meredyth, Capt. Jones-Parry, Rev Prebendary Williams, Mr B. E. Morgan, Mr Thomas Griffiths, Mr H. Hughes, Rev W. D. Jenkins, Dr. Harris, Capt. Wemyss, Mr E. P. Wvnne, Mr Oliver L. Roberts, Mr A. Perry, Mr J. Lewis, Rev. Mr Evans, &c. Nearly 100 members sat down to an excellent repast pro- vided by Mrs Smith. Col. Davies-Evans proposed the Queen," which was toasted with the usual musical honours. Col. Evans also proposed The Prince and Princess of Wales, and the Bishop and Clergy." Rev Prebendary Williams responded to this toast, and said the Church of England was essentially the working man's Church. It was in no way an alien Church, but thoroughly national and in touch with the people. He had no hesita- tion in saying that year by year the Church was growing in numbers and in popularity (applause). Rev Mr Evans also briefly responded. Rev Mr D. W. Jenkins said that it was a misnoma to call the Welsh Church the Church of England in Wales. They might rather say the Church of Wales in England (cheers). In proposing the Army, Navy, and Reserve Forces, Col. Evans claimed for the Army that it had m no way deteriorated in valour or discipline. He would like to see a powerful Volunteer Artillery corps established in Aber- ystwith (loud cheers). He was certain that it could speedily be made one of the best corps in South Wales (applause). Capt. Jones-Parry responded. He said that he had served in three different armies, and had seen the realities and horrors of war. If the people of this country only realised what war meant, they would not grudge the £ 21,000.000 to be spent on the Navy. The way to ensure peace was to be too powerful for a foreign nation to interfere with us (cheers). He also alluded to the desirability of establishing a Volunteer corps for Aberystwith. The gallant Captain concluded an able speech amid loud applause. Dr. Harris responded for the Navy and Capt. Wemyss for the Militia. The Vice-Chairtnan proposed the Houses of Lords and Commons." He said that this toast was well received by all true Englishmen and Welshmen. He had great pleasure in coupling with it the name of a gentleman well known in Cardiganshire and South Wales, Mr W. H. Meredyth (cheers). He hoped soon to see Mr Meredyth in St. Stephen's (cheers). In responding, Mr Meredyth thanked the pro- poser for the kind way in which he had alluded to him. He would deal, firstly, with the House of Lords. It was an assembly composed of some of the ablest orators and statesmen in the world, and had earned the reputation of talking little and working much. Of the House of Commons the same could not be said (laughter). There were rather too many obstructionists and self- advertisers, in that House, who composed the minority. But there was also a nrajurity-a majority of Conservatives and Unionists who did manage to legislate for the country in spite of obstruction (loud cheers). He hoped the country was taking note of what occurred in the House of Commons. If so, he was confident that the country would support Mr Arthur Balfour and Lord Salisbury (cheers). It was pleasant in one respect to be a Gladstonian. They had such easy and elastic consciences, which must save them a deal of trouble. Upon any public question they were always quite prepared to alter their opinions at their leader's bidding (laughter). Take, for instance, the recent events at Hawarden Castle (laughter). It was a singular piece of irony to find the impassioned denouncer of evictions and Irish landlords resorting to exactly the same means of asserting his rights (cheers). He (Mr Meredyth) did not wish to allude to this matter, because Mr Gladstone had said that it was entirely private and personal (laughter). To put it in a Gladstonian way he would only draw a comparison, and that com- parison between Mr Gladstone and Irish land- lords (cheers and laughter). On Lord Lansdowne's estate immense sums had been spent in improve- ments. On Mr Gladstone's, according to his own showing, only a small and insignificant sum (cheers). Irish land fetched only 17s. and 18s. per acre. Mr Gladstone appears to have been charging between £ 2 and £ 3 per acre (cheers). Evicted tenants in Ireland can re-enter as care- takers, and are given a reasonable time to find another abode for themselves and families. On Mr Gladstone's estate the tenants have no such provision, and must go where and how they can (cheers). So that Mr Gladstone had absolutely no right to charge Irish landlords with harshness, when they were far more liberal than their accuser (cheers). The Special Commission was uppermost in everyone's mind. The only solace their Gladstonian friends possessed was Richard Pigott," and he (Mr Meredyth) wished them joy in their possession (laughter). Who was Richard Pigott 1 Why, an Irish professional patriot-one of Mr Parnell's staunchest friends (cheers and laughter). He was formerly editor of the Flag of Ireland, which was now United Ireland, edited by Mr William O'Brien, who was, therefore, Richard Pigott's suc- cessor (cheers). In 1885, Pigott sold copies of a pamphlet, of which he was the author, to Lord Richard Grosvenor, then Mr Gladstone's chief whip in the House of Commons, and they were scattered over the land in support of Gladstonian candidates (cheers). Referring to Mr O'Brien, Mr Meredyth disposed of the so- called grievances and showed how absurd they were. He wished every Conservative to deny that Mr Balfour was governing Ireland by coercion. By Lord Ashbourne's Act, and by other measures tending to benefit the Irish farmer, Mr Balfour was conciliating and winning over the Irish people (loud cheers). A con- tented Ireland would mean a loyal Ireland (cheers). Mr Meredyth concluded an eloquent speech by appealing to all those present to dis- place their Gladstonian representative, and to send to Parliament a supporter of the prosperity and integrity of the British Empire (loud cheers). Other toasts followed, and Mr Perry com- plained of the absence of the county gentlemen, and hoped they would attend on future occasions. They ought to support the working men (cheers). A most successful and interesting programme of music and songs, was ably carried out. The assembly broke up soon after midnight with cheers for Colonel Evans.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR. The Editor does not hold himself responsible for opinions expressed under this heading. All contribu- tions must be verified by the real name and address of the writer as a guarantee of good faith.

HONOUR TO WHOM HONOUR IS DUE. To the Editor of THE JOURNAL. SIR,—It will interest your Llanybyther and Pencader readers to learn that J. Jones, Esq.— better known as loan Goch-of Teifyside Hall, about whom a well deserved laudatory paragraph appeared in THE JOURNAL a snort time ago, has announced his intention of regaling with a sumptuous tea, the Capel Nonni and Nazareth Sunday Schools. Mr Jones's liberality and catholicity of spirit are unbounded. No sooner is any want made known to him than-to use Tennyson's words- He grants the asking with a smile, Like wealthy men who care not how they give." It psisq seldom that the, really deserving get their due need of praise, that it was refreshing to come across the paragraph in THE JOURNAL of a few weeks back, which, under the heading" Jubilee Rejoicings," spoke so well of loan Goch. It is more men of his stamp that we Conservatives need. Mr Jones's modesty is proverbial. But, I am sure, he will pardon me for mentioning that he will shortly at his country residence, Teifyside Hall, deliver a lay sermon to the young of both sexes, on the words, "Train up a child in the way he should go." No man is better qualified to speak on the subject, and I anticipate an overflowing meeting. He will, a day or twe afterwards, invite to his home the leading clergy and dissenting ministers of the county to discuss the question of social purity. He has, it is rumoured, a well considered scheme for the social regeneration of man. Success and long life attend him Take him for all in all, We ne'er shall look upon his like again." COLLEGE GLEN.

BIRDS' NESTS. To the Editor of THE JOURNAL. SIR,-The time for birds' nests is come, for eggs, and birdlings, and boys. For as sure' as birds are led by nature to build their nests; so sure are boys led by savage instinct to rob them. It has ever been so since the world began. I believe there was an Act of Parliament passed some years ago for the protection of wild birds during breeding time. I must have heard some- thing of it at the time-not since. But we cannot expect school boys to know of Acts of Parliament —their provisions and penalties. May I suggest that our magistrates, as a con- tribution to the education of the young and the prevention of cruelty and crime, should send a circular on the subject to the schoolmasters of their districts. This might save them the pain of degrading a child by inflicting a penalty, or the greater pain of seeing one, for the want of teaching, breaking the law of the land. I am sure all schoolmasters would be only too glad to explain the provisions of the law, and to give interesting and harmonizing letters on the sub- ject if they had their attention directed to it, and as the thing is not in the Ten Command- ments fastidious School Boards would probably not interfere. April 23rd. D. J.

SAPO-LINI," or Linseed Soap, a perfumed Emul- sive Toilet Soap. Of Chemists, &c. Three Birmingham excursionists on Easter Monday, while boating, ventured too near a weir in the River Ivon, opposite Warwick Castle, and their craft was drawn over and capsized. Joseph Stanley and Joseph Webster were drowned. The third man-Ernest Lewis—held on to some moss until rescued.

I OUR LAUGHARNE LETTER. (Jh AI}EI;CORKAN). Laugharne, Tuesday. EASTi;it lias come and gone. The numerous services held at St. Martin's Church during Holy week were thoroughly well attended throughout. The preacher on Monday even- ing was the Rev Canon Williams, vicar of All Saint's, Llanelly. The rev gentleman preached an excellent sermon from the text. We, then, as workers together with Him, beseech you also that yc receive not the grace of God in vain, 6th chapter, 2 Epist. Corinthians, 1st verse. TUB Easter day services commenced with an -eat-ly choral celebration of the Holy Eucharist, the celebrant being the Rev W. H. Harrison, assisted by the Rev. J. M. Jones. At the 6.30. a.m., service there were 67 COlU- municants, and, at the mid-day celebration 33, making a total of 100. The service at ev en- ing on Easter day was full choral, the pieces being sung by the Rev W. H. Harrison, B.A. Elvey's Easter Anthem, "Christ is risen," was very praiseworthily rendered by the choir, Mrs Matthew Jones ably presiding at the zn organ. The congregations on Easter day were exceptionally large: in fact, I have seldom, if ever, seen a larger number of people at Eastertide than were present at Church on Sunday last. I must not omit to mention here that the churchyard, or Gods' Acre," had been very carefully cleaned up for Eastertide. The custom which prevails here of cleaning up the graves and tomb-stones of relatives, frienels- n aye, and sometimes strangers, is scrupulously I ZD adhered to, and deserves commendation. On Good Friday there was Divine Service iu Brook School-Church at 10 a.m.: and in Llansadurnen Church at 4 p.m. On Easter day there was a celebration of Holy Communion in Llansadurnen Church at 10.30. a.m. and Choral Evensong at 3 p.m. in Brook School Church. St. Clears was en fete on Easter Monday last. Hearing a good report of the eisteddfod held at this town last year, I thought I would run over this year and judge for my- self. I went, I saw, I appreciated. The day was gloriously fine and warm, and the spacious marquee was fairly well filled. I did not hear much of the eisteddfod for it was sumewhat late in the day when I appeared upon the scene. What I heard, however, impressed me favourably, and induced me to stay for the grand concert to be held in the eisteddfod marquee in the evening. In con- sequence of the serious illness of an uncle, the President (Mr J. Bagnall Evans, M.A.), was prevented from being present, and Mr J. H. 0 Thomas, of Derry, presided. The concert opened with a pianoforte solo by Mr T. S. Puddicombe. It will suffice to say that Mr Puddiconibe (who also accompanied through- out) is a perfect master of the instrument, and his manipulation was something to be ad- mired. Mrs S. Rees (Llinos Taf) sang Alone on the Raft," very sweetly and pleasantly. Mr J. H. Davies' comic song, "Just in Timeaud "Only One," afforded much amusement. Miss Adela Bona's rich and sweet contralto voice was heard to great effect in The last regret," and Matrimonee," The duet Maying" sung by Miss Jones- Morewood and Eos Morlai¡: was a rich musical treat. Mr Ivor A. Davies' comic songs, So it was," etc., fairly brought down the house. This gentleman is an inimitable comic, and he possesses a very pleasing voice. In the song Six o'clock in the Bay" (S. Adams), and Simon the Cellarer," Mr T. Conwil Evans' capital baritone voice was heard to great ad- vantage. <! Daddy and Auntie," were feelingly and sweetly sung by Miss Emma Hughes. Eos Morlais evoked a vociferous encore after his admirable rendering of Gwlad y delyn," and to which lie readily responded. In the songs Heaven and Earth" (Pinsuti), and Cyda Wawr (Jno. Thomas), Miss Jones-More wood was warmly encored. Eos Morlais sang Mona with splendid and telling effect. With the sing- ino- of Hen Wlad fy Nhadau," the concert was brought to a close. On Easter Monday—being Bank holiday- all the business houses in the town were closed, and the day observed as a general holiday. The Easter vestry was held in the vestry room of St. Martin's Parish Church, on Tuesday, the 23rd inst. The Rev W. H. Harrison presided, and there were also present Messrs Thomas David (Churchwarden), The Pynes; Thomas Richards (Churchwarden) Grove House; W. H. Saer; Frederick Williams; E. J. Perrott; Thomas Griffiths; and Edward Jenkins. The accounts of the Churchwardens for the year ending Easter 1889, showing a balance due to them of Lg 17s. 8d. were examined and passed. The vicar nominated Mr Thomas Richards (Grove House), as his Churchwarden tor the coming year. Mr F. Williams proposed, and Rev. W. fl. Harrison seconded, that Mr Thomas David be appointed Churchwarden for the township for the coming year. Mr T. Richards proposed, and Mr Frederick Williams seconded, that Mr David Edmunds be appointed Churchwarden for the parish. Mr Thomas David proposed, and Mr I. Williams seconded, that Messrs Edward Howell; Richard Griffith William Evans Maurice Williams and Richard Owen be re- appointed sidesmen. All these motions were agreed to. The publishers of Great Thoughts have 6 just announced the result of the" Penmanship Competition," and it is with pleasure that I record the fact that to a Laugharne boy has Z5 the prize (one guinea's worth of books) been awarded. Thomas H. Davies (son of Mr Morgan P. Davies, Gosport-street) is at the top of the list. The lad is a pupil attending the National Schools at Laugharne, and Mr 0 W. H. Saer (master) is to be congratulated ZD upon the success of his pupil; the result speaks volumes for both teacher and taught. 1 ■ ]

Salt is among the oldest of our manufactures. < The brine-springs in Cheshire have been used for industrial purposes since the days of the Saxon kings. Droitwich, in Worcestershire, also is an ancient seat of the salt industry. Wich" is the old name of all places where salt was manufactured, and still survives in the names Northwich," Nantwich," and the like. In 816 Kenulph, king of the Mercians, gave « Hamilton, and ten houses in Wich," to the church at Worchester, and in 906 King Edwy bestowed on the same establishment Jepatone and five salt furnaces." EPPS'S COCOA. GRATEFUL AND COMFORTING By a thorough knowledge of the natural laws which govern the operations of digestion and nutrition, and by a careful application of the fine properties of well-selected Cocoa, Mr Epps has pro- vided our breakfast tables with a delicately flavoured beverage which may save us many heavy doctors' bills. It is by the judicious use of such articles of diet that a constitution may be gradually built up until strong enough to resist every tend- ency to disease. Hundreds of subtle maladies are floating around us ready to attack wherever there is a weak point. We mayescapp many a fatal shaft bd keeping plirselvA.3 well fortified with pure blood any 1 a properly nourished irame." Civil Service Gazette. —Made simply with boilng water or milk. Sold only in packets, by Grocers, labelled—" JAMES Epps & Co. Homoeopathic Chemists, London."—Also makers of Epps's Afternoon Chocolnto Essouce.

DEATH OF MH. WILLIAM SPUR HELL, J.P., CARMARTHEN. It is our painful duty this week to chronicle the death of our respected townsman, Mr W. Spurrell, J.P., printer, publisher, and bookseller, King- street, which took place on Easter Monday after- noon (22nd inst.), at the advanced age of 75 years. For several months past he had been confined to his bed, and was known to be gradually sinking; and within the last few days his death had been almost hourly expected. The deceased gentleman was the third son of the late Mr Richard Spnrrell, who held the post of Clerk to the County Magistrates, and other public offices in the town. He was born on the 30th of July, 1813 thus it will be seen that he was within a few months of his 7Gth birthday. At the age of seven-and-a-half he entered Queen Elizabeth's Grammar School, Car- marthen, the head master being the Rev. Thomas Hancocke, but who was soon succeeded by his usher, Rev. David Archard Williams, afterwards Vicar of St. David's and Arcbdeacon of Carmarthen. At 16 Mr Spurrell left school, and was appren- ticed in the following year to Mr J. P. Davies, printer, King-street, with whom he remained for a term of five years, when he removed to London. Shortly after settling in the Metropolis he became engaged to the well-known publishers, Messrs. Bradbury & Evans, where he was employed, amongst other works, upon the first editions of Dickens's" Pickwick Papers," "Nicholas Nickleby," and Disraeli s Henrietta Temple," and 11 Venotia," from the two authors' own copies. Although not a pledged teetotaller, he was a strict total abstainer during his connection with the printing office of the above firm, and distinguished himself by his constant and persistent opposition to all trade abuses and misappropriation of funds and before he left, he was the means of carrying a resolution to abolish the drinking customs of the office. We recollect hearing the deceased more than once re- marking that he witnessed the procession in con- nection with the coronation of our present sovereign, and that he stood within a few yards of the Queen as she was about entering Westminster Abbey. In 1839, at the death of his mother, Mr Spurrell returned to Carmarthen, and started business as printer and bookseller on his own account in the following year. He very soon distinguished him- self as an author, for in 1850 he issued the first edition of his English-Welsh Dictionary. Owing to the simple characters used in indicating the pro- nunciation of English words, and the excellent remarks at the beginning of the volume on The Elementary Sounds of the English Language," together with the copious supply of Welsh synonyms, the dictionary soon became popular as a book of reference; and as a result two enlarged editions have since appeared. This volume was preceded by his Welsh-English Dictionary, which was issued in 1848, of which four editions have appeared. Amongst the author's other productions may be mentioned his Welsh Grammar (1848- three editions); "Lessons in Welsh" (1881—two editions), based upon Mr Thomas Prendergast's system of learning to speak a language; English and Welsh Primer;" with several smaller books and pamphlets. But, perhaps, the work upon which he bestowed the greatest amount of labour was bis last issue of Carmarthen and its Neigh- bourhood, a book we have no hesitation in describ- ing as an excellent specimen of judicious compila- tion, accuracy, arrangement of matter, and typography. On its appearance from the press some years ago, Notes and Queries thus remarked of the compiler" The author, printer, and publisner appear to be combined in one person, and it is pleasant to say that in each capacity he has done his work admirably." Mr Spurrell also introduced from time to time translations of useful English works, amongst which are-" Y Ffermwr" (The Farmer) • Cyfarwyddwr Meddygol Teuluaidd" (The Family Doctor); Y Meddyg lhad" (Handbook of Health) Awyriad Anneddau" (Ventilation of Dwellings). An edition of 8,000 of the last was sold out in the course of a few months; and although its price was, only 2d., it was dedicated by permission to the lite Connop Thirlwall, D.D., Bishop of St. David's. Welshmen generally are greatly indebted to Mr Spurrell for enriching their literature by the republishing of several classical books, such as "Orych y Prif Oesoedd," by Theophilus Evans; "Y Ffydd Ddiffuant," "Gwdedig Jethau y BarJd Cwsg," "Gwirionedå y Giefydd Gristionogol," by Grotius; "Gwaith Prydyddol Edward Richard," "Pregetbau Yinarferol," "Tlysau Barddoniaeth Seisoneg" (Gems of English Verse), "Llythyraeth yr Iaith Gymraeg," and a collection of popular Welsh hymns for Church of England worship. Mr Spurrell was entrusted with the printing of many other important works, amongst them being "The works of Gwallter Mechain," in three handsome volumes; "Epitome of Anglican Church History," by Miss Ellen Webiey-Parry; a posthumous volume of Bishop Thirlwall's Welsh sermons. For some years he Had been engaged upon a compre- hensive dictionary of the Welsh language, by the Rev. D. Silvan Evans. B.D. This is unquestionably the most extensive work of its kind ever printed. Some idea may be formed of the magnitude of the book when we say that the first part, embracing the letter A only, contains 420 pages of closely printed matter. This work is still proceeding. In 1857 the Haul, the oldest Welsh magazine, was transferred from Llandovery to Carmarthem, and Mr Spurrell was proprietor and printer up to 1885, when it was transferred to the present pro- prietors. The "Cyfaill Eglwysig," another Church magazine, was started by Mr Spurrell in 1862. It is beyond doubt that the cause of the Welsh Church has been greatly advanced by the publica- tion of these two magazines; For many years the Haul stood alone in defending the Church against the continual attacks made upon her by her enemies. Being a practical printer, the deceased took a lively interest in everything calculated to save compositors' time. He arranged a "plan" of the composing case, which has been adopted in several printing offices. By it the letters which the compositor picks up oftenest are placed nearest to the hand, thereby saving time. Mr Spurrell often contributed to the trade publications, and was well-known as an able correspondent upon several knotty questions in connection with the printing trade. The Printers' Register of October 6th, 1886, in prefacing his letter in that journal on the uni- formity of types, or what is more generally known as the "point system," thus speaks of him.- Mr Spurrell, of Carmarthen, is a very experienced printer, and his excellent practical suggestions for improvement in several details of the printer's art, have appeared from time to time in our pages dur- ing the last twenty years." In the preceding number he was spoken of by the editor as one of the earliest contributors to the journal. Messrs Caslon, the oldest firm of type-founders in the country, in their trade circular of this year, note that Mr Spurrell has a reputation for taking an intelligent interest in all improvements con- nected with our trade, and is the originator of many valuable changes in the printer's cases and lay of type." As an English writer, we believe that Mr Spurrell was about the most terse and condensed, yet clear writer we have known. As a proof of this we need only refer to his chief work, the History of Carmarthen." It is difficult to find anything more compact and compressed than the account of the If Restoration of Sir Rhys ap Thomas's Monument" (pp. 33-36) the execution of Edward Higgins; the account of the Rebecca Riots in 1843; or the assassination of Mr Johnes, of Dolaucothi. Mr Spurrell was a staunch Churchman, but perfectly free from all religious bigotry, for he would gladly join Nonconformists in any good cause; and in connection with temperance, his roice was heard from time to time in several N..n jonformist chapels at public meetings. In politics, e wasan unswerving Conservative, an active member jf the Primrose League, and one of the founders of the Emlyn Habitation, yet perfectly fair and liberal towards those who held opposite views. In 1875 he was appointed Justice of the Peace for the Borough of Carmarthen, and it is well-known that he was invariably attentive to the duties devolvivg upon him in that capacity. He also took a deep interest in the welfare of his native town, and always supported any movement tending to its improvement. lie was one of the founders of the Literary and Scientific Institution in King-street, and continued throughout an active member of its committee. He leaves a, widow and a large number of children to mourn his loss. The funeral takes place to-day (26th), the place of interment being St. David's Churchyard.

In consequence of urgent representations ad- dressed to them last Monday night, the Government have consented to introduce the Ministry of Agriculture Bill as soon as Parliament reassembles. It is at present understood that it will be brought in next Thursday week, the 2nd of May. Immediately after the termination of the races at Watford on Monday Harrey George, aged 21, was set upon on the field by a number of roughs, all strangers to the town, and was so severely handled that he gave signs of being fatally hurt. He staggered to the road, and there fell down, I before the arrival of Dr. Brady, who pronounced life extinct. The roughs got off before anyone could be arrested.

LLANELLY. Goop I<K.IDA\.—Services were held as usual at All Saints', St. Peter's, the Parish Church, St. Paul's, Christ Church, and St. John's. The decorations of the churches with flowers were very pretty aud tasteful, All Saiuts' Church and St. Peter's Church arrangements being the fore- most. Many of the inhabitants availed them- selves of the holiday to drive to Burry Port, Kidwelly, See., and the demand for carriages exceeded by far the supply. THE annual meeting of the Llanelly Local Board was held on Tuesday at the Town-hall, Mr John Bourne presiding.—Mr Joseph Maybery was unanimously elected chairman for the ensu- ing year;-A hearty vote of thanks was accorded to the ex-chairman (Mr Bourne) for the excellent manner in which he had conducted the business of the board during the last two years.—Mr Bourne briefly responded, and the meeting termi- nated. THE first meeting of the newly-elected Llallelly p y Harbour Commission was held at the Town-hall on Tuesday, Mr John Bourne presiding. -Messrs R. Waddell, Ernest Trubshaw, and G. F. Blake attended as a deputation to urge the com- mission to give additional facilities at the Carmarthenshire Dock to Mr Waddell, so that he might ship the anthracite coal yielded by the colliery at the Tumble at Llanelly, instead of at Swansea, as at present.—Mr Trubshaw said that the additional income accruing to the commission by this trade would be £2,500 per annum, which was a matter worthy of their most serious con- sideration. -Mr Waddell followed, and explained what was needed at the spot. —The Chairman, iu reply, stated that they had already given an order for a dredger to clear inside the habour light- house, and they had under consideration the hir- ing of a dredger from the Great Western Railway Company until their own was ready.—As the result of subsequent discussion it was decided to hire a dredger at once for the Great Western Railway Company for six weeks, at the expira- tion of which time Mr Waddell thought the necessary work for accommodation of ship of 600 tons burthen at this stage would be com- pleted. RACE. Previou's to the football match at Stradey, Llanelly, there were some races run. The first was 100 yards between three Llanelly football team and three of the Leeds team, and there was much excitement as to whom would be first. The Llanelly men were Tom Morgan, Percy Lloyd, and Pritchard Leeds-Broadbent, and A. Tetley. On the start Lloyd failed to leave with the others. Morgan pushed to the front, and increased his lead, but Broadbent, whe was closely following him, put on a spurt, until at the winning post he only lost by a foot, but was a good second, Morgan taking first prize. The race for boys was won by—1, John Morgan; 2, W. Matthews; 3, John Lewis. The donkey race was an easy win for Mr Watt's (Victoria-road) donkey. FOOTBALL.—On Saturday the Dewsbury foot- ball team, who had arrived at Llanelly on Thurs- day night, met Llanelly at Stradey Ground. Having in their team such men as Lockwood, the champion half-back of the world, Stadden, the three-quarter champion back of South Wales and England, it was freely said that the record of Llanelly would be broken. The gate was one of the best of the season, and on the grand stand we noticed visitors from Cardiff, Swansea. &c. and gentlemen from Llanelly who have never visited the matches before, which only shews that football is becoming more popular than ever. Dewsbury played down with the slope in their favour, and appeared bent on scoring. With a rush they followed up their kick-off, and Roberts the full back, failing to hold, they crossed the line, Gee having obtained a try. The home team, who had taken matters rather cool to the annoyance of their supporters, pulled themselves together, while Lockwood made a poor attempt to convert the try. Up went the ball, only to be returned, then it travelled swiftly from one end to the other. Down came the visitors with a very ugly rush, which Bowen stopped. Percy Lloyd to the rescue, worked the ball up again. Bowen by a fine doggy run almost got in° but the visitors were offering a firm defence, but Daniel Griffiths got through. Tom Morgan, from an awkward angle but a good attempt, failed at goal. Some give and take play followed, until the ball was down again at the home line, but the home team were as determined as the visitors, and relief was soon brought. Half-time scores were equal. In the second half, playing down, Llanelly pressed at once, and on the visitors' line determined efforts were made to cross, but the line could not be broken. The ball was worked out, and Morgan, getting possession, ran well and passed back to Lloyd, who brought several visitors down and grounded the ball be- hind. The goal, at an easy angle, was converted by Bowen. Some rough play then took place. Easier play resulted in several free kicks, but no advantage was gained until Gitto passed out to Bowen, who in a second dropped a goal; such a beauty that the cheering was immense on both sides. This was the last point scored, Llanelly winning by two goals, one try, to one try there were also several minors scored. Llanelly's record of being the only football team in South Wales unbeaten on their own ground has, therefore, not been broken so far. -On Easter Monday the last football match of the season was played at Stradey, Llanelly. Leeds Parish Church were the visitors. This team is strictly composed of men belonging to Leeds Parish Church, aud the number of mem- bers is over 2,000 so it will be seen that the team had a large number to select from. Leeds kicked off in the presence of a large number of spectators, and shortly afterwards compelled Llanelly to touch down. Gitto then, from some loose play, got a try. Morgan converted; Oddy's kick out was a poor one. Barrett got marked, and the visitors captain (Oddy) also got free kick no advantage gained, but the visitors pressed the home team on their line, and very tight scrimmages followed. The home team were compelled to touch down. Steady visitors) passed to Broad- bent, who kicked behind, and a minor was registered. The oval was worked up when half time was called, the score being—Llanelly one goal, two minors. Leeds-Two minors. In the second half Llanelly set off with a rush. Morgan passed to Richards, but only a minor was scored. Gitto got a mark. Morgan took kick, but although a good attempt, no goal was obtained. David Samuel then got a try for the home team, but was not converted. Percy Lloyd, by a grand run, secured another try, but no goal. The visitors now made desperate attempts to score, when Bowen got injured. A Leeds doctor, who travelled with the team, attended him, and he was shortly after able to play. The game became very fast. Barllet got a free, but no result. The ball was worked to visitors' quarters, who played all they knew to get relief, but Llanelly would not be denied. Gitto got possession, and passed to dowen. The visitors expected him to drop a goal, or pass to Lloyd, and were watching him, but instead he dodged five men, and got in, and another try was obtained. The score stood Llanelly, two goals, two tcies, and two minors, to Leeds four minors. Llanelly, therefore, are the only unbeaten team on their own ground in South Wales, and have scored more than any other team this season.

MERTHYR, CARMARTHEN. TILE annual Easter vestry was held on Monday in the vestry-room of the Parish Church, under the presidency of the rector, the Rev J. D. Jones The churchwardens' accounts were passed, and showed a more favourable balance than has been for many years. The vestry re-elected Mr W. Evans, Llechlwyd the people's warden, and the following gentlemen were Ton*! w ™e^Mes8rs Jonah Williams, T. Mr T T' ^Ps» J- Davies, and E. Evans, elector °ne3' FtyBiousaint, was elected lay

TENBY. TiiE annual vestry for the election of parish officers, &c., was held in the Town-hall on Mon- day, the rector in the chair. Mr W. Williams was re-appointed by the rector his warden, and on the motion of Mr Robert Lock, seconded by Mr David Lewis, Mr R. J. H. Parkinson was re-elected parish warden. Mr Parkinson was also elected to represent Tenby at the dioccsan conference at Carmarthen in October,