The Carmarthen Journal and South Wales Weekly Advertiser

NOTES OK AGRICULTURE. | [BY MR. EVAN JONES, M.A., T.C., OLD COLLEGE SCHOOL, CARMARTHEN ] Tut a..Ax i' It is very important 10 a'! °iir Welsti ta: nicrs that they should know something about the proper and successful cultivation of the crop in question. Adverse weather and agricultural depression during the last few years have almost ruined hundreds of those who devote their lives entirely to the improvement of the soil. Un- doubtedly, foreign competition and increase of population have forced us all to adapt ourselves to our environments, and have caused an immense reduction in every department of commercial and agricultural pursuit. In the face of all these difficulties every son of the soil ought to make himself acquainted with the secrets and mysteries of nature, in order to cope with the distressing times. No farmer is capable of growing an excellent crop of wheat, unless he knows what soils will suit that crop best, what manures must be applied, and what varieties of wheats can be cultivated en our soils. The scientist may cry- look at nature, and listen to a lecturer"—when we know by experience that both have often fallen short, and mocked our anxious expectations. Before the farmer can do anything to his satis- faction he must possess a fair knowledge of both the practice and the theory; yet, intuitive knowledge, close observation, and years of experience have often proved faithful guides. It is generally admitted that wheat is only an improved grass brought to its present state by the incessant labour and care of man. All the wheats which we are familiar with may be divided into two classes, viz., the white and the 'red varieties. The red wheats are hardier, more suitable to poor soils, rougher in nature, and less liable to disease than the white species. This classification is very wide and infinite, yet, it includes all the varieties of wheats found in Europe. Some contend that the best known species are the following The Sheriffs Bearded wheat, the Hunter's wheat, and the King Richard's wheat. Each differ in appearance and quality. Now, I shall mention few points which may benefit the reader, and must be carefully observed to secure an excellent crop of wheat. THE STATE OF THE SOIL FOR WHEAT. The soil must be well prepared, because we learn by experience that the wheat crop requires a firm seed-bed — "not hard, nor tough, but firm and steady." If the soil be naturally loose in character, it can be made firm by means of a heavy roller, and similar implements. The farmer must take precaution not to harden the soil too much, or else the roots will not be able to penetrate deeply enough for food, support, and nourishment. There is another very practical way of consolidating the soil the growth of clover. This crop has a very strong tendency to bind the soil, render it firm, especially so it the animals be allowed to feed on the field. The soil will naturally acquire firmness by being constantly trampled upon. THE TIME TO SOW THE SEED. The farmer must not disregard the right time of sowing. Some species must be sown in the autumn, others in the spring. The former is the general custom among the Welsh farmers of the hilly districts. In not observing the proper time and the suitable seed, the result would be detrimental in the extreme. The hard and severe weather would kill the one, and the other would not get sufficient time to become ripe. The wheat is a native of the temperate zone. THE MODES OF SOWING. Care must be taken not to sow the seed too deeply in the ground, because such a custom (though often followed) impedes germination. Our best farmers are of opinion that the seed should be buried some two inches or a little less below the surface, if the soil be a heavy one. There are two modes of sowing very prevalent in our country, viz., the 'broadcast' and the 'drill' systems. The 'broadcast' system is generally followed among the ordinary class of farmers, especially so if the soil be very strong, and the farmer unable to buy the best working implements. True, it has its disadvantage be- cause the growth must be irregular and uneven. The advantages of the 'drill system can be gathered from the following quotation — 'Drilling seed' (1) secures an equal distance of seed, and so equal growing room to each plant in the soil and air (2) The seeds are sown at equal depths, and therefore we get an equal growth (3) The work being done in straight rows, the horse hoe may be used, and the land cleaned during the growth of the plant (4) A clean stubble is secured, because the weeds may be got rid of during the growth of the crop by means of the horse hoe (5) The quantity of seed used can be carefully regulated; and (6) because of the stronger and more equal growth which results from the adoption of this system, the produce is increased in weight and quality." The reader can judge for himself which is the better of the two systems. THE DISEASES TO WHICH THE WHEAT CROP IS SUBJECT. Everything in the vegetable kingdom is subject to a disease. The wheat crop is mostly attacked by the bunt" the 'rust,' and the 'mildew.' Each of these are quite familiar to the farmer, and their deteriorating effects ire too well-known during the last three or four years The bunt' works so powerfully on the wheat crop that the grain is transformed into a kind of black powder, and is entirely robbed of its albumen. This disease can be detected by its disagreeable odour. The rust' is more extensive in its operations than the 'bunt,' and affects the whole of the plant. The stem and the leaves are marked with white spots, and at times get quite black. By close examination we find that the straw is brittle, and the amount of grain is greatly lessened. The mildew affects the wheat crop in the same way as the rust,' and consequently it would be useless to describe it at present. THE TIME OF CUTTING THE WHEAT CROP. Some ignorant people are very apt to believe that the wheat crop ought to be thoroughly ripe before introducing the sickle or the machine into the field. Experience teaches us that some of the grain will fall to the ground by the blow of the sickle or the machine, and that the quality will be reduced in value. The best plan is to cut the wheat" hile it still retains a 'greenish tint.' The result is evident when we know that the skin' of the wheat in that state ceases to thicken that the bran in consequence is finer; and that the flour is increased in quantity. In order to secure a good and strong seed-wheat, the farmer ought to allow it to get thoroughly ripe. THE CHARACTER OF THE WHEAT-STRAW. Under this head I cannot satisfy the reader better than by quoting the remarks of Professor Tanner on the subject. He says As we find variations in the form and character of seed, so do we find variations in the straw. These differences arise from a series of causes. The seed-wheat used, primarily influences the character of the straw it may predispose it to be along straw, a white or a red (tinted) straw. The climate' also exerts its influence, for it may encourage or cheek the progress. The soil also may prevent a straw predisposed to be strong, really becoming so, by reason of some necessary material being absent. On the other hand, the soil may give z, unusual strength to a naturally weak straw. The quality of wheat- straw differs with the degree of ripeness at the time of cutting, for any nourishment remaining in the straw, instead of being drawn into the grain, necessarily adds to the feeding value of the straw. Hence we tind, as a very general rule, that those conditions of climate which favour the corn-producing powers of the wheat crop yield the poorest feeding straw. On the other hand, if the climate favours the grassy character of the plant, and only feebly assists the production of the grain, then we find wheat-straw which is often quite as good for feeding purposes as any oat-straw." It behoves every farmer at the end of the 19tli century to give a liberal education to his children. A theoretical and a practical knowledge of farm- ing are very essential to tight the battle of life. SAPO-LINI," containing Linseed Jelly, is a per- fumed Emulsive Toilet Soap, 4d.; post free, 6d. Of Chemists.

TYSSULIAN TRIFLES. BY "PUCK." OUR SOCIAL CLUB. Puck" regrets that, a-- erltlt, be la8t eek ,.h, .nided as a a dte" iy Miss Lizzie Ttioiuas what was, re.ally;t d"cutssioti on' Is ii,,v el-readitig bviieficial I' The affirmative was taken by Miss Thomas, the negative by "Mrs" S. J. Evans. Papers of exceptional merit were prepared by both, and a good discussion ensued. Novel-reading still survives—the ladies voting almost en masse (!) in its favour, few being bold enough to oppose them. r It is impracticable, owing to considerations of space, to give other than a brief note of the proceedings. The meetings are really first-rate, and Puck advises those who have not joined to do so without delay. One little point should, however, receive comment. Why should the ladies and gentlemen be relegated to different sides of the room ? This is unsociable, and "Puck" would gladly initiate a reform-but feels shy! During the course of the month, Dr. Enoch Davies is to entertain the society with an account of his trip to Egypt, and it has been suggested that the general public should be admitted on this occasion. Puck thinks it bad policy to make an invidious distinction between the various gentlemen who deliver addresses. If, however, there be any special reason why this meeting should be open, then at least a charge should be made for admission, otherwise what araileth it to be a member. ♦ # Puck wonders who it was that staggered into the Teify at Penpwll a few nights ago, and, in some inexplicable manner, managed to scramble across. Truly there is a special Providence for drunken men—and small boys "Puck" cannot understand why there should be so much bad blood amongst his fellow-townsmen over matters political. Several people here regard each other with feelings far from brotherly, for no earthly reason other than that they differ in political opinions. When the leaders of the various parties are in many instances warm personal friends, it seems absurd that the hangers- on should be at daggers-drawn. Rhydd i bob dyn ei farn, ac i bob barn ei llafar." Puck smiles. Were half the energy that is wasted over the Salisbury v. Gladstone question and the county councillorships—storm in a tea cup !-expended on local improvements, what a paradise our little town would soon become. Owin to the apathy of the inhabitants the Townhall fell before it was erected and waterpipes have not yet been carried through the town The Intermediate School question proved that when they set about a thing in earnest, the sons of Tyssul are invincible. Why not go in hot and strong for a Local Board 1 # The streets are still abominably dirty, and one is tempted to believe that tenders for their improvement should be made "by the gallon." In some places they are literally flowing with water and mud. Add to this an inky darkness that is heightened rather than diminished by our lamps-which we commend to the notice of the light committee—and it is little wonder that we Tyssuliatis are an indoor lot. If that scavenger does not look sharp in turning up, "Puck" intends organizing a volunteer scavenging brigade as things now go, he is unable to take his best girl out. Where, Oh where, is that sanitary officer ? Fragrant odours assail Puck's" nostrils when- ever he braves the mud and ventures forth. Stagnant pools, refuse heaps, pigstyes, slaughter- houses, etc., are permitted within a few yards of dwelling-houses. Drainage did you say ? Don't mention it We scorn the idea. Llandyssul is healthy—in spite of itself. # What came over the church bells last Sunday ? Puck" imagines that he was summoned to the morning service considerably earlier than usual. :II: In reference to "Ieuan Tyssul's" statement in your last issue that a certain gentleman thought it infra dig to play second fiddle to Dr. Evans in the matter of the chairmanship of Tregroes concert, "Puck" wonders whether it was a case of second fiddle at all. Was it not rather one of common courtesy ? # Another thing of note was a row which took place in the neighbourhood of Pendre. On Monday evening the people of the main street were very much startled by seeing a man running at a terrible speed down the street towards the bridge. On enquiry, it was found that he was an energetic "young husband" running for the police officer. "Puck" thinks that the man must have been rather excited before he would run so fast, for it seems that there was only a chucking-outat a certain public. "Puck" would like to know the speed that the young-busband would travel if lives were in danger. :II: PucK hopes to continue his notes at short intervals. Scarcity of topics preclude the possibility of a weekly budget. He might dilate on the social union-or the necessity for local improvements, but constant harping on the same string is apt to become monotonous.

AMMANFORD AMUSEMENTS. While Jocko's contribution was being written last week, and perhaps at the very moment when he was describing the dangers of the new Bettws Bridge, another accident was happening, which might have proved very serious. The daughter of Mr Wm. Griffiths, nailer, got into the river owing to the insecure planks, and would have had a narrow escape from drowning had she not managed to cling to a rope. Her screams were, fortunately, heard at the village, and rescue was promptly at hand. This is the second case. Is it not time some- one was called to account ? # Jocko thinks, if any life is lost, the committee will be guilty of manslaughter. They should not be allowed to throw the blame on ignorant and irresponsible underlings. They should see for themselves that foot-passengers should have a safe crossing. # While on the war-path against the powers that be, Jocko would like to know who gave the Ammanford Colliery Company leave to break up the road leading from Nantmelyn to Bettws, and to leave it in a dangerous state without a night watchman over the Christmas holidays. # One more question. Who is responsible for the filthy state of Bettws lane? Would Mr Evan Jones, Glancennen, mind walking over it some wet day ? J ock has been honoured with a private view of a beautiful work of art that has just been pre- sented to Mr Ivor Morris. It is a well executed picture of a rehearsal of the Ammanford minstrels, all excellent likenesses, including the worthy conductor himself. Among perfection, perhaps, the most perfect are Stratton, Bendy and Johnny. The expression on these faces is life-like, and the attitudes so natural that one can imagine one hears the harmony proceeding from their months. Mr Morris will, doubtless, value at its proper worth such an interesting memento of the late lamented and ever to be re- gretted Ammanford minstrels. Some one was on the bend-eh 1 on Monday night. Whom was Johnny mashing ? There is a talk of starting a newspaper at Ammanford, and Jocko has been favoured with a sight of the draft prospectus. Among the directors are Aps (chairman), Stratton (vice- chairman), Mari (the sleeping beauty), and Messrs Dain Ewin, Abel, Spofforth, Mate, Gym, Daytum, the Boss and the King. Mr Johnny is secretary (pro. tern.), and Mr Bendy, treasurer. # The following are a few extracts from the prospectus: "This company is formed for the purpose of acquiring the valuable properties of the Ammanford Times,' the Bettws Mercury and the Cwmprwmpws Advertiser,' and amalgamating the three into one huge und successful paper to be called. The Corner Gang Sentinel.' One of the special features will be a daily bulletin of the rate of progress of Bettws Bridge, with full accounts (including reports of coroner's inquests) of all accidents happening there. Another feature will be daily depths of mud on Bettws lane, and reports as to the passability or otherwise of the road from Ammanford to Pontamman. The leading articles will be in the hands of a Nonconformist divine (subject to one being obtainable who will eschew politics). The paper will be strictly non- political, non-sectarian and non-sensical." How's that for high ? # # Jocko has received several letters this week on various subjects. His correspondents will find all their letters dealt with, and so they must excuse his not publishing them in full. In fact, he dare not publish one on the subject of Bettws Bridge as an action for libel would surely follow —not that it would be sustained, as all the statements could be justified in a Court of Law. Still, Jocko is a peaceful man, and does not want even a successful law-suit. • A symposium occurred here the other night. Who was it 1 Jocko was present, and dis- tinctly remembers the following incidents. The chairman spent his evening very enjoyably. He first read an ode wishing his hearers Happy New 'Ears. Some of them did not like his calling at- tention in public to the length of their aural ap- pendages. After this his occupation consisted of calling out in persuasive tones, Who is next 1" Adiscussion ensued on 'gravity,' but frivolity pre- vailed, and the subject was prematurely with- drawn, causing a loss to society at large of several ponderous sermons. Councillor Jones, however, managed to fire one off, but Jocko is informed it was not original. Joe's song, Afraid of a spill," was gre-it, but he went up too high, and got it (the spill). Mr Harries then opened a discussion as to whether a dog's mother should be called a Mrs Dog' or other- wise. Mr. Lloyd made a short speech in American, which was much admired. It is pro- bable this will soon appear in book form. Taken all in all, Mr Wm. Phillips' speech was the best of the evening, and Mrs Phillips' kindness in singing relieved the monotony of one of the dreariest evenings Jocko ever has spent. What was the discussion about monkeys that went on in the back seats ? # # Jocko has a communication handed to him as he is writing, about a Local Board for Amman- ford. He will deal with this next week. JOCKO THE JESTER.

LAMPETER. WATCHNIGHT AT WESLEYAN CHAPEL.—On New Year's Eve the annual competitive meeting and watchnight were held at the above chapel, and were very largely attended. The meeting was presided over by the minister, the Rev. Mr Hughes, and the duty of adjudicating upon the re- citations, speeches, music, &c., devolved upon the Rev. Evan Evans, Soar Messrs Wm. Davies, solicitor, and Timothy Richards, Emporium. Mr S. D. Jones, Emporium, who in conjunction with Mr D. Roberts, Bridge-street, was secretary, also acted as conductor, while Mr Tom Rees, Mark Lane Stores, took charge of the cash. At a few minutes before 12, the proceedings were suspended until the advent of the New Year. The follow- ing was the order of the programme and the successful competitors :—For the best answers te 5 questions given out of the 1st chapter of Genesis. The 1st prize was divided between E. W Thomas, Stafford House, and J H Evans, Emporium.—Recitation, "The child's first grief," by children under 8 years of age, 1st, Grace Evans, Peterwell-terrace 2nd, John W Davies, Peterwell-terrace and 3rd, Tommy Davies, Peterwell-terrace. For singing at first sight, notes given on the modulator, to children under 15. Best, Evan Evans, Harford-row.—Solo (boy or girl under 12), best, Maggie Jane Price, Bridge-street.—Recitation, "The Village Black- smith," to children under 15, 1st, Mary Anne Jones, Peterwell-terrace 2nd, Herbert C Jones, Peterwell-terrace 3rd, Hector Grant.—Singing at first sight The prize divided between E W Thomas, Stafford House, Evan Davies, Soar House, and David Jones, Llettycybi. At. this stae of the proceedings a party of 8 young boys stepped on to the platform, and under the leader- ship of Evan Evans, Harford Row, produced a very sweet rendering of an English musical piece. They were encored, and reappeared with the 1st verse of the same piece. The programme was -then proceeded with. Reading a piece with- out stops, divided between David Alexander Lloyd, Dolgwm House, and E W Thomas speech on the "Best means for making Lampeter a resort for visitors," best, E Jones, Coedmore, Pencareg solo, Bradwriaeth y don,' J. Davies, Llettycybi For the best rendering of "Mi welaf adgof," by a party of 8 males. Best, the party whose nom de plume was Married men', under the leadership of Mr Rees Davies, saddler, College-street impromptu speech, Mr J Hughes Evans, Emporium duett, Y ddau Forwr,"the prize was divided between J Jones and David Jones, Dremddu and E W Thomas and Evan Davies, Cwmanne bass solo, best, Mr Evan Davies, Soar House. The meeting terminated at quarter past 12. LAMPETER SOIREE.—The annual soiree of the Working Men's ConservativeClub, was held at the Peterwell-terrace Schoolroom, on the 1st instant, under the management of a committee, consisting of Messrs D F Lloyd, Peterwell; S D Jones, Emporium William Davies, Cambrian Factory William Davies, S.D.C., E W Richards, T D Lloyd, Dolgwm House and David Fox, Old Bank. It again proved a success, and a happy and pleasant evening was spent. The refreshments' department were entrusted to Miss Herbert, College-street, and we must congratulate the caterer on the variety and quality of her con- fectionaries and other delicacies of the season. The Lampeter brass band, conducted by Mr Davies-Jones, supplied the music, and gave general satisfaction, while Miss Hughes very kindly acted as accompanist. The spacious room which had been very tastefully bedecked with evergreens and banners, gave ample room for card playing and other games amongst the non- daticers. The proceedings commenced at 8 p.m., and dancing was kept up till the small hours of the morning. The only drawback during the evening was the scarcity of male partners, but it must be admitted that the few present worked hard to maintain the success of the entertainment. Mr E W Richards as M.C., was the life and soul of the evening. He performed his arduous part to the satisfaction of all. The programme consisted of: Polka, waltz, quadrille, schottische, mazurka, waltz, lancers, polka, quadrille, Highland schot- tische, waltz, polka, schottische, lancers, mazurka, quadrille, interspersed with songs and games. In the matter of songs, the company were favoured by Mr Evan Drvies, a member of the band, with The gallant 24th," in his deep bass voice, which was rendered with effect. Mr T. Davies, chemist, Llanybyther, sang the lively old song of There never was a coward where the Shamrock grows." Mr T D Lloyd, Dolgwm House, gave "Yr hogyn" in grand style, and Evan Walter Thomas, Stafford House, sang Cathleen," with a chorus by the male voice party. The following were among the company present Councillor Roderick Evans and Mrs Evans Councillor Thomas Lloyd and Mrs Lloyd Miss Barrow. Bridge-street and Miss C A Davies Misses Williams, Derry Row Miss Jones, Teify Villa, and Miss Jenkins, Tanlan Miss Edwards, 8, College-street Miss Jones, Ivy Bush Misses Hughes and Misses Owen, Station-terrace Miss Lloyd, Dolgwm House Miss Sarah Herbert, College-street Miss Jones, Blaenpant Miss Davies, Fountain Inn Misses Davies, Mile End House; Miss Polly Davies, Bridge-street Miss Richards, Bridge-street Miss Maggie Thomas, College-street Miss Timothy, Temple-terrace Miss Marsden, Dyffrin; Miss Richards, Red Lion Miss Bevan, College-street Miss Mary Ellen Jones, Bridge- street Councillor J Ernest Lloyd and Mr D F Lloyd, Peterwell Mr D Jones, Old Bank Mr S D Jones, Emporium Mr Willie Davies, Cam- brian Factory Mr Thomas Davies, chemist, Llanybyther Mr William Davies, St. David's College Mr Evan Davies, Mile End House Mr I David Nun Davies, London House Gunner T Lyons, R.A., and Gunner E S Davies, R.A. Mr T D Lloyd, Dolgwm House Mr Grace, ) Station-terrace Mr David Fox, Old Bank Mr Willie Bevan Mr J Simon Jones Mr T F Davies and others. ST. PETER'S CHURCH WELSH SUNDAY SCHOOL. —The annual treat of the above school came off on the 30th inst, at the Old Grammar School. An excellent repast of good things was provided for the occasion, and great praise is due to Mrs D. B. Davies, College-street (who had the management of the affair) for the able manner in which she provided the refreshments. At 4.30 p.m., the members of the school sat down, and eagerly partook of the sweet things laid on the table. At (5.30 p.m. the annual concert took place. The Vicar was voted to the chair, and was supported by the Rev W. J. Evans and Mr Roderick Evans. After a brief but eloquent address from the chairman, the programme was proceeded with very creditably — Recitation, "The Three Kittens," by Mr D. Jones, Wesley House dialogue, "The Sunday School," by Misses Mary Jenkins and Mary Evans; song, by Miss Deborah Morgans impromptu speech, subject being Christmas." There were several competitors after very interesting speeches the first prize was adjudged to Mr William Davies, Common, and the second to Mr W. Evans, Troedyrhiw Here a very pleasant duty was entered upon, namely, of awarding prizes for attendance at school for the out-going year. It would be necessary, perhaps, to say that the prizes were awarded by the teachers to their individual classes. Such encouragement as this to their pupils might be followed by other teachers, and that with great advantage. After the awarding of the prizes, the programme was proceeded with :—Song byMrE. Davies, Mile End dialogue, The two maids," by Misses Lizzie Davies, Morfa Cottage, and M. A. Evans, Ivy Bush recitation, The Village Blacksmith," by Mr D. Thomas. Plough Inn; impromptu dialogue, subject, Which is best, Summer or Winter." There were two parties competing, namely, Mr S. V. Davies, and Miss Lloyd, Dolgwnj House, and Misses L. Davies and M. A. Evans. After very interesting and comical reasons from both sides of the two parties, the prize was divided between both. Duet, Larboard Watch by Messrs Herbert Evans and D. Alban. The chairman next called upon the superintendent (Councillor R. Evans) to ad- dress the meeting, and after a few remarks from him the Rev W. J. Evans, B.A., addressed a few words to those present. The programme had now drawn to a close, and after the usual vote of thanks, the meeting terminated by singing the National Anthem. After the younger members had retired, those of riper age remained in order to amuse themselves for another hour or two in innocent games. Thus a very pleasant evening terminated, and all seemed to have thoroughly enjoyed themselves. The school had been very tastefully decorated for the occasion by the undermentioned ladies and gentlemen :— Miss Davies, 2, Station Terrace Miss Edwards, College-street Miss Jones, Ivy Bush Miss Davies, Fountain Inn; Miss Davies, School House; Miss Jenkins, Pleasant Hill Miss Evans, Troedyrhiw; Mr E. Davies, B.A., Mile End Mr H. Evans, S.D.C. Mr E. T. Evans L. D. and D. J. Davies, 2, Station terrace. TOWN COUNCIL.—At a meeting of the Town Council, held on Saturday, the 2nd inst., there were present :—Aldermen J W Evans (in the chair) David James, Whitehall ThoinasOwen, Station-terrace Councillors John Williams, Hen- faes House John Jones, Hope John Davies, Cambrian Factory J Ernest Lloyd, solicitor Roderick Evans, chemist Samuel Davies, Emporium Charles Evans, Mark Lane Stores Thomas Lloyd, solicitor David Lloyd, clerk Thomas Moore, inspector and William Davies, rate-eollector. The plans and estimates of the proposed sewerage and pavement scheme were laid before the Council, and the clerk was directed to forward the same to the Local Govern- ment Board for approval.—The clerk reported that he had written to the county road sur- veyor as directed at the last meeting, but that the roads had not been repaired. The clerk was directed to write again to the surveyor, that unless the roads are repaired in 7 days proceed- ings will be commenced against him.—Alderman J W Evans gave notice that at the next rreeting he will call the attention of the Council to the state of Peterwell-terrace. Estimates for rates were laid before the Council and rates were made as follows — (1), General district rate, 2s 6d in the £ (2), Water rate, 6d in the £ (3), Highway rate, 3d in the

CONWIL CAIO. ENTERTAINMENT.—A very pleasant and success- ful entertainment was given by the Church Sunday School and a few other kind friends at the Board Schools on the evening of New Year's Day, under the presidency of Lieut. General Sir James Hills-Johnes, K.C.B., V.C. A novel and most interesting feature in the proceedings was the performance, in character by the children, of well known nursery rhymes, such as Little Bo-peep,"| Buy a broom," What can the matter Where are yon going to, my pretty maid," "King Cole," etc., which in all numbered twenty. The children were very prettily got up in dresses suitable to each character—evidently Mrs Chidlow had spared no expense and trouble in this matter and in teach- ing their "parts" to them. It would be invidious to draw coins arisons, for all the young "actors "acquitted themselves most creditably. The programme was as follows :—Address by the Chairman; song, Sweet Home," Miss Cookman —a very sweet rendering and well received by the audience recitation, Agnes Dicks; dnet, "Morgan a Shan," Mr and Miss Evans, both in character, Mr Evans being dressed like a Welsh gentleman of the olden time, while Miss Evans appeared in the true old Welsh costume. This duett describing the tiffs" of a married couple occasioned much merriment accompanist, Mrs Chidlow. Song, "They all love Jack," Mr A. S. Thomas (" Anellydd,") accompanied by Miss Cookman. Next came the nursery rhymes, all the accompaniments being played by Mrs Chidlow. Song and chorus, "Father come home," Catherine James recitation, Catherine Davies; song, "Gates of the west," Miss Margaret Davies—a sweet and pathetic render- ing of this beautiful song song, Miss Enid M. Chidlow. This little lady has wonderful voice capabilities for one of such tender years and santf her pretty little sona so well as to elicit repeated encores from the delighted audience, which were responded to. Sonvr, "The Farmer's Boy" (Welsh version), Mr William George; song, Mae Robin yn swil" (Robin is shy), Miss Lizzie Thomas, dressed in Welsh costume, sugar- loaf hat and all She sang her pretty little song very sweetly knitting a stocking at the same time with charming naivete. She was accorded a rapturous encore. Duet, "Betty Wyn fy nghariad," (Betty Wynne my lore), Messrs Evans and George enthusiastically encored. This terminated a rather short programme The sinking of the National Anthem brought to a close a most enjoyable evening. We understand that the only complaint with regard to the con- cert is that it was too short. The room had been tastefully decorated by Miss Evans, Maes- glas Miss Lizzie Thomas, Crugybar, and Miss Jane George, Garreg, the draping of art muslin and evergreens at the back of the platform giving a very pretty effect. With the exception of one song, Mrs Chidlow played all the accompani- ments.

LLANWENOG. PLOUGHING MATCH.—This annual ploughing match took place on Thursday, the 31st ult., in a field on Llanfechan farm. The weather turned out very favourable. There were not so many competitors as usual, but the work was done well, and showed some improvement. The prizes were awarded as follows — Champion class opento all comers—1st, Mr William Jones, Crossgwenllian, Llanwenog 2nd, Mr Henry Davies, Maes, Llanllwni. First class — 1st, Mr Enoch Thomas, Dolwlff 2nd and 3rd prizes were divided between Mr Thomas Davies, Esgeringlis, and Mr Jenkin Jones, Pantmawr 4th, Mr William Jones, Cwmsgawen Ystrad. Second class.—1st, Mr John James, Llwyn- celynbach. The adjudicators were Messrs Jenkin Howells, Dyfnant, Talysarn Thomas Davies. Beilycoch, Pencarreg John Evans, Red Lion, Llanwnen, all of whom carried out their duties very satisfactorily.

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EDWINSFORD (LLANSAWEL). SEASONABLE BENEVOLENCE. On Christmas Eve, in accordance with an old established custom of the noble house of Edwinsford for generations past, Sir James and Lady Williams-Drummond distributed a lare quantity of prime beef amongst the estate workmen and others enabling up- wards of seventy families to make Christmas a festal season indeed. TEA TREAT AND CHRISTMAS TREE.—On the same evening, the same worthy baronet and his yood lady entertained the scholars of the Talley and Llansawel Board Schools with a tea treat and Christmas Tree. Notwithstanding numerous absences through sickness, especially on the part of Talley, there were close upon two hundred children present, who, it is almost needless to say, enjoyed themselves immensely.

TALLEY. A SEASON OF TERROR.—Sickness and death may be said to have been reigning supreme in this locality of late, and so terrible have the results been that almost every countenance is sad and awestruck. The following deaths have all but one occurred after very short illness—Influenza, it is said, accompanied or followed by inflammation of some organ—and mo^tjof the victims it might he observed were seemingly strong, hearty men, com- paratively young:—On the 18th ult., Mr J Jones, y y r, of Abercrymlyn, age ) 45 years on the 20th, Mr David Evans ("Di-wi Dawel,") Cwmdu, rather sud- denly from old age and weakness, aged 78 years on the 26th, Mrs A.nne Griffiths, of Penihiwgeingen, aged 77 years ..0 the 30th, Mr Daniel Thomas, Parkbach, near Cwmdu, Talley, aged 61 years on the 31st, Mr William D ivies, Ddaugleision, aged 52 years on the 1st inst., Mr L Lewis, Danycapel, ed 49 years on the 2nd, Mr David Thomas, Llwyncelyn. Es^ernant, aged 60 years and on the 3rd, Mr William Williams, Galltygog, Cwmdu, aged 74 years. Several others, who have been perilously ill, are now happily convalescent. CIIRISTMAS.The very general prevalence of sickness throughout this locality caused this joy- fvl season to be anything but joyful to, perhaps the majority. Still, efforts were made to hold all the usual meetings. At early morning—six o'clock, according to the custom of ages past, the service called Plygain was held at the village hall, but with largely diminished attendance. THE PARISH CHURCH.—At 8 a.m., and again at 10.30., there were services, and the Holy Communion administered. Special hymns and the anthem "Glory to God in the highest (Pergolesi) had been prepared for the occasion. but owing to absences through illness amongst the choir and congregation, could not be all performed. Owing to Mrs Long-Price's absence through indisposition, Mrs Dudley Drummond kindly presided at the harmonium. There was also a Welsh service in the evening. The sacred edifice had as usual been tastefully decorated for the occasion. ES(.IEIINANT (C.M.)CIIAPEL.In the morning there was a service and sermon by the Rev J. Cunllo Davies, Caio. In the afternoon there was a united meeting of the Sunday School branches, when the eleventh chapter of the Epistle to the Romans was recited and catechised upon. This was followed by the inevitable treat of tea, cake, &e. In the evening, again, there was a competitive meeting, limited to the adherents of the chapel and Sunday Schools. The Rev J. Cunllo Davies occupied the chair, and also did duty as conductor while Mr T. Melinddwr Davies, Llansawel, assisted by Mr Parry, Board School, Caio, did satisfactory work as adjudi- cator. The programme was long and varied, but contained no item calling for particular mention. Everything may be said to have passed off, on the whole, successfully, but not a little disgust is expressed at the liberty allowed the young element present, and the boisterous way it manifested its plaudits.

LLANDEBIE. SEASONABLE BENEVOLENCE. Through the generosity and kind consideration of Mr Alan Stepney-Gulston, of Derwydd, the poor of the district have been presented with a New Year's Gift. The distribution was made through the hands of the Vicar of the parish.

CILYCWM. THE ANNUAL TREAT.—On New Year's Day, through the usual liberality of Mr D. Lloyd Jones, of Yeovil, Somerset (late of Penybont, Llandovery),the day and Sunday school children, together with the parents and the inhabitants of the village, were regaled with sumptuous tea and cake at the schoolroom of the above place. The number attending the treat this year far exceeded that of former years. After tea, the children, under the able superintendence of Mr Evans, the schoolmaster, recited and sang several pieces, some bearing upon the liberality of the donor. The Vicar, in a closing speech, enumerated Mr Lloyd Jones' previous liberality; amongst others, the gift of 6 tons of coal to the poor, which he and the churchwarden (Mr. Morgan) distributed on the 24th ult. A vote of thanks was proposed to the generous donor, and three hearty cheers were given him. Votes of thanks were also given to Mr Evans, the school- master, and those who assisted Miss Evans, of the Vicarage, with the tea. After singing the National Anthem, all returned home having spent a most enjoyable evening.