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------CAIO CELEBRITIES.t
CAIO CELEBRITIES. t THE REV. ELIEZER WILLIAMS, M.A., Sometime Vicar of Caio with Llansawel and Lampeter, author of the English Works," &c. "Oerld anwyl i'w gyd-ddymon, Anwyl yw yn nheulu Ion Hulllu y nef llawen ynt, O'i roddi'n gymmar iddynt. From his memorial tablet in St. Peter's Church, Lampeter. More durable than monuments of marble, more eloquent than the panegyrics of men is the subtle influence of a virtuous and noble life, which awakens in the mind southing memories and a worthy desire of emulations. Indeed this is the sum total of what biography should do to us, namely, to entertam and instruct the mind, teach useful lessons, as well as to rouse up the desire of emulating the good qualities delineated. This, we are afraid, our pen has not the power to perform here, even if time and space were allowed us, not that the lobject of our sketch has insufficient merit-far from it—but because that has been most ably and lovingly done in an intere-tti.jg memoir of this good man by his son, the Rev St. George Armstrong Williams, M.A., in a collection of his father's writings, entitled, Williams' English works." To this excellent book we are mainly indebted for much that is contained in this sketch of the eventful and virtuous life of the Rev Eliezer Williams, which abounds with adventure, and the materials of an immaterial monument,—that of a useful, sweet, and saintly life, whose pure and soothing frag- rance will never cease. As L mgfellow aptly says :— Lives of noble men remind us, We can mike our lives sublime, And departing leave behind us Footprints on the sands of time.— And if we in this short memoir were able to raise a longing in any youthful breast, and a determination to follow in the flowery paths of Eliezer Williams our object would have been fulfilled. It is indeed a j 'y and a privilege to make the excellencies of a boloved man, formed as he was to bless and to be blessed, more generally known and To retrace (As in a map, the voyager his course) The windings of his way through many years." The subject of our memoir, Eliezjr Williams, was born at Llandevaelog, Caermarthenshire, in 1754. He was the eldest child of the Rev Peter Williams, author of the well-known Welsh Commentary on the Bible a copy of which is found in nearly every home in Wales, and which in the early days of our fathers was a been and a treasure, when Welsh commentaries were un- heard of. Eliezer Williams was educated at the Free Grammar school at Caermarthen, having been previously educated at home in the rudi- ments of Latin and Greek. In this school, then under the superintendence of the Rev William Higgs Barker, M.A., Vicar of Caermartheu, he seems to have made considerable progress, being a lad of bright talents and diligent habits. His fondness for study did not deter him from reasonably indulging in juvenile recreations, and he appears to have been a general favourite with his schoolfellows and instructors. Daring the time he was at school, a circumstance occurred which exhibits an instance of his sensible courage One night, about twelve, as he was busy at his books, a tall figure, wrapped in a white sheet, stalked into his room, wearing a hideous mask, while it uttered frightful and unearthly sounds. Young Eliezer was at first frightened, but taking in the situation he snatched a missile, and hurled it at the appar- ition with such unerring aim, as to bring it to the ground, and to prove that it was no un- earthly being. When, on relating the adventure, Mr Williams was asked why he felt no alarm, he said that he had just been reading the account in Homer, of Dolon's excursion to the Grecian camp, and the cowardice of that despicable spy had produced such an effect on his nerves as to make him proof against every kind of intimidation. At school he seemed to have excelled in athletics, especially swimming- being able to float down the river Toivy for several miles without landing. To this valuable accomplishment he was indebted for having been the means, under Providence, of rescuing two of his schoolfellows from a watery grave. While yet at school-in the year 1770— he assisted his excellent father in preparing for publication his annotations on the Welsh Bible, and his Welsh concordance. About the years 1771 and 1772 he formed an intimate acquaintance with the eminent Welsh scholar and bard, the Rev Evan Evans (leum Brydydd Hir), who had charge of the poatical department in the Eurgrawn Cymrei," of which the Il-sv Pe'er Williams and another were the joint editors. Here some of the poetical effusion of the subject of this sketch found a place. Having completed his classical Studies under Mr Barker he went to Oxford, and was admitted commoner of Jesus College in the year 1773. Here he distinguished himself in the public examinations, and by his manly inde- pendence of mind became an object of universal respect. In 1777 he became curate of Trelech, having been ordained deacon by Doctor Yorke, then Bishop of St. David's. Having for a few months served this curacy, much to the satis- faction of his fl he removed by the advice of Dr Hoar, Principal of Jesus College, to a similar position at Tetsworth, in Oxfordshire, and on Sunday, 20 December, 1778, he was admitted to -priest's orders in Christ Church Cathedral by Dr Edward Soulhwell, Bishop of Oxford. A short time after he was chosen second master of the Grammar School at Wal- lingford, in Berkshire, and in addition to that office he undertook the cure of Acton, a village in the Neighborhood. Here he made the ac- quaintance of Dr Shute Barrington, at that time Bishop of who offered him the chaplaincy, which was declined owing to his hav- ing other objects in view. In 1780, heing desirous of seeing the world, he accepted the office of chaplain an board His Majesty's ship, Cambridge, then under the command of Admiral Keith Stewart, and became tutor to Lord Garlies, afterwards Earl of Galloway, who was the nephew of the Admiral, and midshipman on board the ship. After Weing two or three years at sea, which period was full of adventures —notably the relief of Gibraltar under Admiral Howe, and the loss of the Royal George at Spithead, in both of which events he was an eye-witness as well as in many others, he gave up the chaplaincy, and at the request of Lord Galloway he became tutor to his family at Galloway House. He was after- wards, through the interest of his lordship pre- sented, by Lord Chancellor Thuilow, to the liv- ing of Caio with Llansawel in 1784. We regret we cannot give our Caio readers but very little account of his stay here, but from what can be gathered from the older parishioners whose parents remembered him, Mr Williams seems to have been a most exemplary Christian gentle- man. We learn from his memoir that he de- voted the proceeds of his living at Caio to the education of his brother at Oxford. About this time he assisted Lord Galloway in investigating the pedigree of his ancestors for the purpose of establishing his claim to the English peerage, and ultimately his labours were crowned with success. In 1794, he published a pamphlet en- titled a genealogical account of Lord Galloway's family. Soon after, three other works on the same subject appeared from his pen, which were highly praised for acuteness and ingenuity. About this time he married an accomplished French lady named Anne Adelaide Grebert, a native of L rraiue, one of the Royalist fugitives of 17!IO. After a short but happy married life she died in 1796. Previous to her death he was lecturer at All Hallows, Lombard-street, and chaplain and secretary to a gentleman named Blakeney. Here he met hi3 second wife, Jane Amelia Nu«ent daughter of St. George Armstrong, Esq., of Aunaduft, of whom he had several children, hav- ing been married to her in the year 17HI,. Her death in 1811 was a heavy paralysing hlow to her husband, and but for his loving trust in the Dis- penser of All he would not have been able to bear her loss. It is worthy of note that his first thought after her death when his mind was sufficiently composed was to gather his children together, and to pour out his heart in prayer and to acknowledge the rod and Him who ap- j pointed it." It seems that he had h s full share uf sorrows for j "His fond paternal heart had built a nest III blindness, all too new the water's edge." ¡ Cpon the death of his friend aud patron, Mr Blakeney, in 1799, he removed to Chadwick in Essex, of which parish he became curate and held in addition the chaplaincy of Tilbury Fort. At this time he published his" NautIcal Odes," which met with a favourable reception, being favourably noticed in all the reviews. This work in a quarto volume did not increase his finances. He was also a frequent writer in the "Cambrian Register," the" Gentleman's Magazine," and other publications. When at- tacks were made on Christian principles, he was among the foremost to buckle on his atmour and go forth to the great conflict. In some of the ephemeral literature of the times, he exposed the ignorant flippancy of Paine's Age of Reason." He also took part in the memorable controversy with Dr. Priestley as to the doctrines of the early Christian Church. In 1805, he was collated to the vicarage of Lampeter, to which place he removed with his family, and had not been long there before he opened a Grammar School, which seminary young men in conformity with stated regulations were admitted at the usual age into hold orders, and the school soon gained a high reputation. In a way the now famous St. David's College may be said to have been founded on this school. In the year 1822 the foundation stone (If S. D. C. was laid by the venerable Bishop Burgess, an ep"ch in the history of Wales, to which Mr Williams had often with pleasure looked forward, but which he was never destined to see. To the Seren Gomer" he contributed much in poetry, &c.—deeming it a policy for Churchmen to write occasionally to the secular and democratic press, so as to refute false arguments and watch its contents as to statements respecting the Church. At this time he became acquainted with the famous bard, the Rev Daniel Evans, M.A. (" Daniel Ddn ") to whom he sub- mitted some of his Welsh compositions in the Mesurau Caethion for correction, and who judged his elegy on the death of Sir Thomas Picton as being worthy of him as a scholar, aud as beautiful a piece of composition as any in the British language He also wrote a poem on the Crucifixion." As a schoolmaster he was very successful and in promoting the educational wel- fare of his pupils, taking care that they should not get into a habit of careless reading, and that their advancement in actual learning should keep pace with any vain ambitious wish that might spring up in their bosom to outstrip one another. Here is a little anecdote il!ustrative of this. A big, dull boy, having finished a Latin author, asked permission, as he had "gone over" that book to begin another. "Gone over it, indeed. C -me hither, Mark," said Mr Williams to his youngest little boy, at the same time placing the book on the tloor; "jump over that." When the chi'd had performed the feat, he added, There, sir he has gone over it as much as you have Whatever profe sion or calling his puoils embraced, or whenever their preparatory s'udies closed, they were always sure of his benediction and his prayers:- He gave them good advice, Bless'd them and bade them prosper." In the year 1816, the Bishop, in a very hand- some and flattering manner, offered him the prebend of Llanddewi Aberarth, which was accepted not for its pecuniary value, but as a sta- tion of honour. It appears that he was appointed judge of the prize compositions at the Carmar- then National Eisteddfod of 1819, in conjunction with the eminent lolo Morganwg. Hitherto, we have imperfectly followed his career in public life, which was throughout an even and honour- able course. His virtue, learning, and accom- plished manners procured for him an entrance into the highest society, and he reckoned among his friends the most eminent men ard women of the age, among whom was Lord Warren, with whom he sometimes corresponded in Latin. In any siciety whatever he would never suffer religion to be attacked or offensive language of any kind to be used without manifesting his dis- pleasure. In his pastoral circle he was the friend and confidant of all, the aged and infirm flocked to him to seek the aid of his -skill and kindness, and to their appeals his ear was never closed He watch'd and wept, he pray'd and felt for all." His regard for religion and his Master's work was intense. Writing to his brother, who proposed taking Holy Orders, he says. "I will not oppose your entering the Church, if you prefer it, but this requires serious deliberation, deep study, and much prayer for it is an office of the reÜest responsibility and importance — a function, which I fear, too many in the presen' day most odiously embrace from mercenary motives, forgetting the great ends of the pro- fession, wid the solemn account which they must give of their charge to the Chief Shepherd of souls." In another letter he writes Knowledge and learning, combined with religion, arethebest moans of being useful in the world and, when exercised with a humble and prayerful mind, may be expected to be wa'ered with the heavenly dew "f God's blessing. Some great and good man has remarked that study wi'hout prayer is atheism,' and that 'prayer without ttudy is presumption Complain not of the world which was a paradise until man polluted it; but grieve for KS inhabitants, and bo thankful it is not past, redemption. Is it not bought with a Saviour's blood ? and made the road to happier mansions ? Is it not the laboratory, if I may so called it, in which we are prepared for better things ? His words uttered with his dying breath to a young man about to be ordained as a missionary are worth quoting Learning," said he, unless devoted to the best of purposes, to the glory of God and salvation of souls, will be an encumbrance to you in your heaven—directed pilgi image. With such words to others present this good mall fell asleep in Jesus on the 20th of January, 1820, aged 66. In the Parish -Church of Lampeter a handsome tablet of marble was erected to his honour by his admiring pupils, on which is incribed the following lines — "Erga homines benevolentia, Discipuli sui, quos sibi Paterno amore dpvinx it, Hoc marmor statuerunt." Mr Williams was an indefatigable worker as is proved by his numerous writings, written amidst the c Ir and worries attendant on a schoolmaster and vicar of a lare parish. His English writings were collected and published by his son in 1840, in one volume, 8 vols, with the following title, The English Works of the late Rev Eliezer Williams, M.A., with a memoir of his life," which contains (1) An historical essay on the manners and customs of the Ancient Celtic Tribes, particularly their marriage ceremonies"; (2) An historical essay on the taste, talents, and literary acquisitions of the Druids, and the ancient Celtic bards" (3) Historical anecdotes relative to the energy, beauty, and melody of the Welsh language, and its affinity to the Oriental languages, and those of the South of Europe (4) An inquiry into the situation of the gold mines of the Ancient Britons — the last named treatise has shed more light on the Ogofau mines, near Dolaucothy, and on the antiquities of the parish of Caio than anything that has ever been written on the subject. All the above essays are written with much taste, and literary acumen. They exhibit a wide knowledge of philology, archioologv and history. His "Works," copies of which are now very rare, are ranked among the standard literature of the age. We have en- deavoured to give a bare outline of his eventful life, but we are at the same time conscious that we have given a very imperfect picture of him as an active and exemplary Christian gentleman of culture and refinement, loving and beloved in his connection with his dear family, pupils and parishioners. May our fatherland be gifted by many more such as he honoured of God and men Before concluding we cannot refrain from noting a singular conincidence with regard to the recent introduction of a WTelsh page to THE JOURNAL. It seems that the same innovation was proposed by one J. Roberts, Tremeirchion, near St. Asaph, for in a communication to Mr Williams, dated August 2nd, 1814, he says I have been thinking of proposing to the proprietor of the North Wales Gazette' to enlarge his paper, and appropriate a page to Welsh the CARMARTHEN JOURNAL, too, may be capable of such an alteration in its plan." It speaks well for THE JOURNAL that as far back as the year 1815 it seems to have been then as now the chief local organ. It figures largely in Mr Williams' correspondence in quotations of its reports of amateur dramatics at his Grammar School at Lampeter. A. S. THmIAS (" Anellydd.") Crugybar.
CARMARTHENSHIREI
CARMARTHENSHIRE I AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. A committee meeting of the Agricultural Society was held at thb Boar's Head Hotel, Car- marthen, on Saturday afternoon, the members in .attendance being :—Dr. Lawrence, Waungron, chairman Mr W. W. Prosser, Alltyferin Mr T. Morris, Coomb Mr R. Waters, Sarnau; Rev R. G. Lawrence Mr J. Howell Thomas and Mr W. Vincent Howell Thomas, Starling Park Mr D. II. Thoma. Derllys Major Ll. Lloyd Lloyd, Glangwili Mr John Francis, Myrtle Hill Mr D. E. Stephens, Trawsmawr Mr J. Lloyd Thomas, Tanlan; Mr H. Cadle, Half Moon Hotel; Mr Marsh, Penybedd Mr D. Griffiths, Llwynpiod Mr H. Davits, Typicca Mr Phillips, Caerlleon Mr Harries, Pilroath and Mr David Prosser, Bryn-derwen, secretary. THE RESIGNING SECRETARY. Mr Waters, before the business of the meeting was proceeded with, and said — I tiust you will excuse me, as a very old member of the com- mittee, if I exptess, on behalf of the committee. the very ureat regret we feel at the loss of thp services of our secretary, Mr David Prosser. I need not expatiate upon his good qualities or upon the ability and success with which he has always conducted the doings of this Society, but I think an expression of our regret at lodnghis services should be added on the minutes of this meeting. If that is agreed to, I think it would be a graceful act on the part of the committee if it encouraged the getting up of a testiiUIlIial from the Society and the agricultural community generally, as both have received able and willing assistance from Mr Prosser (hear, hear). For upwards of 40 years he has conducted the pro- ceedings of this Society in an admirable manner, and we could not show our appreciation of Ins services in a more effectual manner than by pro- moting a testimonial to him (hear, hear). If there is no objection, I think we should ask our incoming secretary to act as secretary for the pro- posal. I would also suggest that the next annual ireeting of the Society would be a most desirable opportunity for presenting the testimonial (hear, hear). On being asked, Mr Waters framed his resolution as follows:- That the committee of the Carmarthenshire Agricultural Society express their great regret at losing the services of their able and esteemed secretary, Mr Prosser, who f >r so many years, forty I believe, so ably and efficiently fulfilled his arduous duties that the committee should subscribe to a testimonial to Mr Prosser in recognition of the valuable services rendered hy him to the Society, and that the secretary should he requested to organise the getting up of the testimonial and act as hon. sec. to the proposal. The next annual meeting of the Society would be a titting occasion fur the presentation." — Major Lloyd seconded, and the resolution was carried unanimously.—Mr David Prosser I beg to pro- pose an amendment respecting a testimonial to me (cries of It is too late" and "it down, Mr Pi >sser.")—Mr Piosser (laughingly): Well, I want to say a word or two to thank Mr Waters for his proposal. I have been well paid for my services—at least, as much as the Society could afford. I would rather you would not think of a testimonial. My brother was made the recipient of a costly testimonial lately—(cries of "You are not your brother.") Well, I am glad to be able to state that. I leave the Society in a more flourishing state than it has ever been in at least, during my term of oiffce, since I was ap- pointed secretary in 1852 (hear, hear). Lord Cawdor and Mr Waters are the only two geutle- men now alive who wete on the committee then. At that time, his lordship took a warm interest in the Society, and attended all its meetings Therefore, he may remember the couditon the funds were then ill-the balance was on the wrong sid", and many "f the prizes due were left unpaid. But now, in afl iitiou to being amore POi ular institution «uh three flourishing shows, in which the public take an interest as proved by the money taken for admission, it has a balance of £85 odd in its favour at the Balik (heir. hear), and also valtnble plant, including 220 poultry pen, 120 pigeon pens (which cost the Society together with timber for the cattle stalls at the September show and about two dozen hurdles. Still there is room for further improvement and development, and I trust tha.t, the new secretary, ill whose hands the care of the Society will he placed, will carry out successfully those further improvements for which some of the committee have already shown a desire. At any rate, the new secretary will n >t be able to plead a heavy handicap, and 1 shali always he most happy to lend him assistance, which, from my experience, I may be able to give (hear, hear). I again beg to thank you for the kindnl sa you have shown me and your for- bearance with an old man for so many years. I should rather you not to think of a testimonial— (Chairman: "Sit down, you will not be seconded ") — The committee would not hear of any objection against the testimonial, and Mr Prosser had to sit down. A DISPUTED PRIZE. The next business was to consider the two objections made by Mr F. Cavill, Carmarthen, and Mr J E. Jones, Tyrheol, Neath, against the awarding of the silver cup for the best dog ill the last show to the black greyhound, "Turk," tho property of Mr D. Williams, Brynhafod.— The chief objection raised was that the Is. entrance fee for the special class was paid on the morning of the exhibition instead of on the 28th November,the last day of entry, but as the com- mittee thought that it was eligible for a owner to euter his dog for the special cup prize on the morning of judging, the original award of the judges was upheld, and the objections quashed. THE NEW SECRETARY. Mr T. Morris, Coomb, proposed, and Major Lloyd seconded, that Messrs Edward Francis, Penygrai_r, and D. H. Thomas, junior, Derllys, be appointed joint secretaries to the vacant post. — Mr Waters said he would be sorry to promote any dissension in that day's proceedings, but he must propose a gentleman, who, he thought, would certainly answer all their hopes and ex- pectations, viz., Mr Vincent Thomas, Starling Park. He had had yreat experhnce of meetings, was a very successful in local and English shows, and knew the ins and outs of the getting up of meetings he was a good man of business, had attended the Society's meetings regularly, and had acted with yreat ability and tact as judge for the Society. They required an experienced man to carry on the duties in such an efficient manner as they had hitherto been by Mr Prosser. Again, one secretary was as much as they required. There was nothing in the rales of the Society to justify the appointment of two, and, therefore, Mr Morris's motion fell to the ground owing to informality with the rules.—Mr Griffiths, Llwynpiod, seconded Mr Vincent Thomas's appointment. —Mr T. Morris said that as the rules would not admit of two secretaries he would withdraw Mr Francis's name, and propose Mr D. H. Thomas, junior, alone.—On being put to the vote seven voted for Mr Vincent Thomas, and nine for Mr D. H. Thomas. The latter was accordingly appointed. Several gentlemen abstained from voting. — Mr Vincent Thomas said he wished to make one re- mark. If he had known that his cousin was go- ing to apply for the post personally, he (the speaker) would not have opposed him. It was hardly fair that he should go in for it jointly at first and then singly, but as long as his cousin had put himself in jointly he thought he had a riyht to apply himself Again, there were about half-a-dozen present that day who were present at the last meeting when it was absolutely decided that the appointment should take place on the 3rd Tuesday in January, and now it was the 4th Saturday in January. What was the reason the meeting was not held Oll the fixed date? He simply made this remark, and they could think whatever they liked of it. — Mr Prosser I did not know that we fixed upon the 3rd Tuesday in January. What difference does it make ?—Mr Vincent Thomas You know very well, Mr Prosser, that it makes a difference of a lot of votes to me. — Mr Prosser Name some- body that heard it mentioned ? — Mr Thomas You told me yourself on the market. Excuse me, I only said what I did casually. — A vote of thanks to the Chairman having been passed, the meeting terminated.
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LINun OATH A JIT TCUM Pa,r>.s. agreeably aperisnt, Of all Chemists. I
THE "ALIEN" CHURCH.
THE "ALIEN" CHURCH. There is a chapel situated not 50 miles from Carmarthen, and belonging to the Calvinistic Methodists—a big red brick chapel with a slate roof and round headed windows, where some- times the preacher refers to the Church as the alien Church or the old alien and at other times these same expressions are heard at politi- cal nll e inps, which are held in this same red brick chapel. Now, are we to suppose that these preachers—for there are more than one comivg round to preach in this chapel—that these min- isters of the Gospel are saying what they know to be false when they talk in this way ? No, we will not suppose anything of the kind, but we will try to believe that they are honestly, but blindly, fighting for their owu hand, which they sincerely believe is the cause of their country and their kindred. We can but wonder at the vast extent of their ignorance, but in these days of political activity it will not do to wonder in blank amazement we must set to work to help these reverent teachers and doctors to get on to the high road of truth and fact. Before a travel- ler wishes for a good firm road it is morally necessary that he should realise that tramping through the swamp is undesirable, otherwise he wiil go on ontentedly with wet feet, and will w I, certainly lose himself in the mist. We shall see that these elders who denounce the Church as "alien "-are floundering in the mire of fiction, and losing themselves in the mists of self- deception. As for the political agitators who write NI.P. after their names, or aspire to do so at the next election, we cannot deal thus leniently with them If a Member of Parliament, or a candidate, does not know that he is uttering a falsehood when he calls the Church in Wales alien he has no excuse whatever for his igno- rance, unless he can prove conclusively that he was born an idiot, or has become one at some later period of his existence through some grievous visitation. A man has no right at all to agitate and speak and vote on a question of vital importance to the spiritual and moral welfare of his country and of the whole realm to which he belongs without carefully searching out and read- ing up, at all events, the principal and leading facts of the subject he has no right to shut his eyes to all history, and to base his operations on the assertions of those as ignorant though proba- bly more sincere than himself. The mis-state- ments he makes—-at least such glaring ones as that the Church in Wales is alien — must be reckoned to him as wilful, for he mixes with educated people more, and is bound to read and hear more than the average Nonconformist preacher, and cannot for the most part plead defective education in other matters than the history of his own country. If it were to a man's interest to insist that the moon was green, and if he would never look at it for fear of seeing that it was not, but went about asserting that it was, he would be reckoned by other folks to be a "fabricator of a gross misstatement," and when a member of Parliament or a Parliamentary can- didate says that the Church in Wales is an alien Church he is no more to be excused. Let us look into this charge of alienism and stop the nonsense as far as the readers of THE JOURNAL are concerned. We have la ely read a paper written by a Nonconformist on the dis- establishment side, in which the writer endea- vours to hedge on the point, for not beitiv entirely ignorant as to the facts of the case, and yet wishing to press the charge of "alienism" against the Church, he tries to make out that it I k is not so much that the Church has not always bee I in Wa'es as that the doctrines and methods of the Church are alien to the spirit of Welsh religion. We will put this charge along with the other and repel them both. The Christian religion came into Britain when the Romans were m isters of the island. It may be as well here to remind those who have forgotten the fact that the Christian religion—in other words, the Church—is older than Calvin or Brown or the 'ee, ding Methodists older than any form of dissent existing in this country. We have the clearest proof that the Church was in working oi-, I ei- in Britain in the year 314 with its Bishops" Priests, and Deacons, for three Bishops -Elori u,,q of York, Re-ttlllus of London, and Adelfius of another see, which has not been. identified (Colonia Londinensium) with Sacerdos, a Priest, and Arminius, a Deacon, attended the Church Council at Aries in the South of France. It is not likely that all the British Bishops were able to travel so far. Probvbly a larger number stlyed here, and were represented by their three brethren. Tuis old British Church taught exactly the same as the Church does now, and thr e Bishops just named went to Arles to help to put down a heresy or dissent which was gain- ing uromid in the North of Africa. Our Church is still iuled by the decision of this Council. This was while the Romans were still in the land, but they withdrew their soldiers in 410, and then the fierce and wicked Saeson came, and by degrees the Cyrnry were killed and driven back, and at last only remained in Wales as an independent. Church and people. When things began to settle down a bit in Wales four Bishop- rics were founded. 1. St. David's by St. David, who lived from about the year 520 to 601. 2. Bangor by Deiniol, who died about 584. 3. St. Asaph by Kentigern. who died about 612- St. Asaph was the second Bishop of this See. 4. L'andaff by Dyfrig, who died about the same time as Kentigern and 5, Llanbadarn, which was afterwards merged in the Bishopric of St. St. David's. St. David's, Bangor, St. Asaph, and Llandaff are still the four Bishoprics of Walea after 1300 years. This looks like an "alien Church," does it not ? It has only been so- tled in the land- ahollt 1300 years. Truly, if it i still "alien" the preachers and political agit Itors are right in calling it the "old" alien, for no one can doubt that it is ancient. That the Church in Wales taught the same as it teaches now we know. Gildas, the son of Caw, who was born about 516, wrote a hi-tory, which tells us a good deal about those early times, and evil time* they were before the influence of the Church had spread through this wild country and Augustine the first Archbishop of Canterbury, who came to England in 597, only disagreed with the Welsh Bishops because they would not submit to his authority. The differences between him and them were only on such points as the right day on which to keep Easter and the way in which to cut their hair, and on a certain way of perform- ing baptism, things quite unworthy to keep two branches of the Church apart. But they re- mained apart for about 400 years. Of course, if the Church in Wales is "alien" now it was "alien" then," for it has changed very little, and that for the better. Do these Nonconformist ministers, we won'der, call it "alien" because it derived its teaching from Jerusalem (which is not situated at Tre- vecca) from the Founder of Christianity and his Apostles, whose creed spread over the continent and came to Wales from France certainly before the year 300? Is the Church called "alien" because its creel, its government, and its ritual were not manufactured in the big seat of the red brick chapel, or in the dissenting training col- lege ? It is a strange name to give to an institu- tion to which Wales owes all that is good in the character of her people, the preservation of her language and Christianity itself. In a future article this "alienism" will be further pursued. -POINT.
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"HEALTH & HAPPINESS" are largely dependent upon wholesome food tud dr-nk. Tea holding the principal place among our daily beverages, it is of th utmost importance that it should be perfectly pure. The valuable properties which prove so refreshing and grateful to all tea drinkers, are found in llorniman's Pure Tea, because it consists exclusively of the young and choice spring crops gathered from India, China and Ceylon, imported in a pure state, and supplied to the consumers in sealed packets only, by (3.000 Agents in the United Kingdom. Always good alike." Prices 2s, 2s 4d., 2s 8d, 3s and 3s 4d per lb. Every packet bears the signature of W. H. & F. J. Horniman & Co., Ltd., Importers of Pure Tea from Indi >, China and Ceylon. List of Agents:—Carmar- then, J. P. Richards, Manufacturing Chemist, Lammas-street; Arthur, Priory-street; Francis, chemist; Holding & Co.. 19, Queen-street: Treharn?, grocer, Priory-street. Llanelly, Rees, Bookseller. Llandilo, Lewis, Compton House. Swansea, Evans, Chemist; Jones, Chemist; Parlby Chemist. Kidwelly, Davids, Tea Dealer. Pembroke Dock, Tucker, Couimercia'-row. AJeri hyr, Stephens, Chemist, flighslreet. B :rvy Badger.Stationer Randall & Sons, Supply Stores, and at Llaaeliy.
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LLANDYSSILIAN TRIFLES. By PUCK." OUR SOCIAL CLUB.—This club lately held what is termed a "Test meeting," the object of which was to ascertain how much benefit the young members have actually derived from their I platform practice. "Puck" learns that the senior members were exceedingly pleased at the result, and consequently urged the promising young orators to continue their researches and study the laws of elocution together with those appertaining to temperament. The imprompcn debate was therefore a grand success. "Puck" deems it advisable to withhold any details bearing on the subjects given on the night in question, but, to say the least, he can assure the public at large that they were undoubtedly of a superlatively social nature. The maiden members present having picked their respectiv subjects from the bag, and appeared pleased with them, blushed and sat down. Tue meeting held on the 13th inst was favoured with a brilliant address on "Wonders of nature by our well known naturalist and spiritualist, T. A. W. R'3e, Est]. Remarkable to note, our marvellous naturalist found the Wonders of nature in divers species of insects, &c., whereis "Puck" could not for a moment have enter- tained an idea of finding Wonders of nature in no other species than in the fair sex," How- ever, the meeting was well attended, and several strange faces were observable among the audience. oj« Not with little interest Mr Richard's address on Welsh Fairy Mythology" is looked forward to by the members. A rumodr is current that this gentleman has cleared out all books of note treating on the above subject, both in Llandyssul and Carmarthen bookstalls. On this occasion, Puck believes the doors will be thrown open to the public on a nominal admission fee of 2s 0d. The proceeds are to be handed over to the funds of the society. # The following letter which "Puck" quotes verbatim, has come to hand: Dear 'I'iiek,' In your next jottings, please urge Llandyssilians to avail themselves of the advantages derivable from a course of Aberystwyth College extension lectures. At the request of a local committee, the college authorities will weekly send down one 11 y of their professors to deliver a course of lectures on any branch of popular science. To the best of my knowledge, the only fees charged by the college are the lecturer's expenses. Several towns have availed themselves of this privilege, so why not Llandyssil ? Particulars may be obtained from the Registrar of the college." A very good suggestion, and "Puck begs to thank his correspondent for it Surely there are sufficient go-a-head men in our town to form a committee ? Will some one make a move ? Perhaps it is too late for this winter, it is not too early, however, to make proper enquiries into the matter and make arrangements for next winter. # "Puck" would be glad to receive any suggestions, which he will attend to, and, if practicable, incorporate in his notes. All such communications should be addressed Puck" care of Editor of THE JOURNAL, who will see that they are forwarded. # # CALAX HEN C )NCERT which comes off annually as regularly as clockwork, and which "Puck" thinks should be a feature of the loeftl almanacks —has passed off once more. A marked feature in it was the preponderance of good classical singing over the comic element. "Puck" rejoices in this an I hopes it will continue so in future. Last year's concert would have done credit to a fourth rate music hall, indeed the I singing was hardly up to that mark" Puck" thinks the managers should nukn it a rule to elevate the taste of their audiences and create a demand for true music never should they play down to the audience that is, of course, supposing that tho audience requires to be played down to, which "Pjck greatly questions. We have had some really good Cilati Hen" concerts in past years, but latterly they have seemed to degenerate. An occasional comic song is all very well, but that they should form the backbone of a programme, as they sometimes do, shows very decidedly that there is something woefully rotten in the state of Denmark." Puck would like to know very much, what the last pari of the programme of the concert was ctll,-d--W,t;,i it called a farce or what ? Perhaps its right name is fiasco. My Newcastle Emlyn friends are welcome to keep it at home at any rate. Notwithstanding the dreariness of the farce, it was observable th it there were two young gentle- men who seemed very pleased with their positions. The one, a fussy official st Luding opposite his darling, and the other, a tall and rather bold yotiii, gentleman who, sitting on one of the front seats, seemed all along to be paying more attention to the young ladies than to what was going on. "Puck" hopes that he did not mouopo'.ise them all in going home that evening. Regardless of its drawbacks, the entertainment wound up grandly by a pianoforte duett by Messrs Samuel Thomas, National School, and Daniel Howells, the stage manager. « Why can't we have more concerts, &c., during the winter season so as to enliven the monotony of the dull, dreary evenings ? Why not get up psnny reidings or some such entertainments ? The social union goes far to till up a long felt want, but that is not sufficiently generally made use of. Alas that our troupe "f Christy Minstrels died o it. Could it not be resurrected There is quite a number of juvenile" niggers" in the town, and, if "Puck" mistakes not, there are also some of the old hands available. All that is required is a leader. Who will lead? There are several good voices in the town, and with a little eft' rt a good united choir could be raised. Oh for a leader • Tue post is one that will ensure the popularity of its occupier and will secure to him the good opinion of his fellow-townsmen more easily and more thoroughly than any amount of political prominence ever would. To the light committee discharging a thank- less yet highly necessary duty, Puck would respectfully make the following suggestion. Pending the coming of g «s, or the electric light, would it not be practicable and advisable to supply the existing lamps with reflectors? In very few instances is a four-sided light required, and the fourth side could be conveniently utilized for the fixing of the reflecting surface, thus markedly improving the illuminating power of the lamp. Who is the present lamplighter and who contracts for the lamp glasses ? Surely the consideration of a few extra shillings should not be a sufficiently weighty reason for incon- veniencing the whole town. # # Puck in his next communication hopes to draw attention to several additional improvements that are sadly needed. # Through pressure on our space we have been compelled to leave out the greater part of these this ;veek.-Ei). Mits. PE-cli." Maeut hwy yn dyweyd nad ydyw y gyngherdd fawreddog a izynnaliwyd yn Tregroes yn diweddar wedi troi allan fel ydymunai rhai or cyfeillion, ond nid ydyw Mrs Puck" yn meddwl y dylent achwyn, gan fod y derbyniadau yn ddigon i gyfarfod y treuliau. # Maent hwy yn dyweyd (er mwyn gwella pethau) fod cyfarfod cystadleuol i gael ei t, orytial yno yn fuan. Nid ydyw "Mrs Puck" yn gallu deall pa ham na allesid (er mwyn y cyhoedd) roddi rheolau y Social Improvement Society" o'r neilldu nos Fercher diweddaf, fel maent wedi cael eu rhoddi braidd bob nos Fercher oddi ar yr Hydref. ii Maent hwy yn dyweyd fod yn well gan y tri brawd (the non-musical trio) bob peth na. chanu. Trueni mawr *#* j Kiss in the ring" mae Billy yn galw y gymdeithas, ond mai "Puck" yn gwadu hyn, gan ddyweyd fod y mynywod ar un ochr i'r ty, ar gwrywod at- yr ochr arall, a bud dyn rhyngddynt, sef y cadeirydd. Felly mae Billy yn ivrony. Maent hwy yn dyweyd nad oes bosibl cael gwell aelodau ar y bwrdd ysgol na'r rhai preseniiol, fod eu penau bob amser yn glir, ddim byth yn cael eu trwblu gan "Algebra" nac unrhyw ebra arall. *#* Maent hwy yn dyweyd fod y dwrgwn (otters) 1 wedi Iladd tua dwsin a hanner o eogiaid o fewn milldir i Landyssul yn y pythefnos diweddaf. Mae hyn yn gosod herwhelwyr Dyffryn Clettwr yn y cysgod. Maent hwy yn dyweyd ein bod i gad etholiad yn mis Mawrth nesaf. Mae yn lied debyg 'nawr mai dau Htxdicctl (Aristocrat a Democrat) fydd yr mai dau Htxdicctl (Aristocrat a Democrat) fydd yr ymgeiswyr yn y north division, a ditto yn y south. Cysgu fel arfer mae y Toriaid 1 # Maent hwy yn dweyd nad ydyw pethau yn gwella gyda'r Radicals yma. Mae Dafydd yn benderfyool os iia chaiff ef ei wneyd yn Henadur ar ol yr etholiad mis Mawrth, y bydd yntau yn cychwyn cymdeithas newydd, ac y bydd yu sicr o gael m%,ry o ganlynwyr na Mr Bobol anwyl, beth ddaw o hyn oil ? to Maent hwy yn dyweyd fod dau drucked o geryg catch wedi dod i'r station er ei dodi ar y ftyrdd sydd wedi ei cymeryd drosoddgan y cynghor strol. Gobeithio ar ol hyny y gallaf fyn'd allan yn mraich "Puck" ambell waith. Mae hyny allan o'r cwestiwn yn awr, os na fydd genyf ddress a par o sanau yn barod er newid ar ol myn'd i'r ty. [Diolch yn fawr i Mrs. Puck am ganlyn esampl dda ei gwr. Gobeithio y cawn y fraint o glywed oddi wrthi yn amI. -GOL.] "H;
LAUGHARNE.
LAUGHARNE. CHRISTMAS TREE.—This annual and popular event came off in the infants' schoolroom on Thursday last, when an interesting and enjoy- able entertainment was given by the little one under the able management of the mistress -Miss R. E. Huband. The Rev W.* H. Harrison, B. A., presided, and there was a goodly gathering of the parents of the children, the elders entering heartily into the efforts put forth for their amusement by the younger ones. The following deserve honourable mention they having recited their several pieces very nicely indeed :-Gladys Jeremy, Jarvis Edwardes, and Archie Edwardes. We herewith append the programme Song, The dolls' house," children introduction, Jarvis Edwardes carol, Carol, sweetly carol," chilldren carol, "Hark, what means those holy voices," children song, Railway train," children; recitation, What I know," Willie David Swinging song," children Pretty Kit," children recitation, A merry mouse," Archie Edwardes song, Little laundresses," children song, "The Bells," children; song, "I wish my doll's house," children recitation, "Meddlesome Matty," Gladys Jeremy song, Dolly's nurse," children Marching ong," children song, Lightly row," children recitation, Boy's rights," Tom Oweus song, "Birdies ball" children; song, "Nelly's doll," children; song, "Dolly's dresses," two girls; dialogue, Mrs Jones and Dr. Longcoat T. Owens and C. Davies; song, Christmas tree," children finale, "God save the Queen."—The Christmas tree proved an immense attraction to the children, being very prettily dressed and brilliantly lighted. This was an occasion of "all prizes and no blanks,'for each scholar was the recipient of a present as soon as the tree was stripped of its treasures. To the girls were given useful garments, as well as dolls, toys, etc., and the boys received woollen scarves, hand- kerchiefs, toys, etc. Miss Huband was assisted by Mr W. H. Saer, and Miss Nora Williams. The Rev W. H. Harrison pointed out to the children the necessity for regular attendance at school. They should try to do everything well, and be thorough in all they did. Mr W. H. Saer ably responded for Miss Huband. The proceedings then terminated. As the getting up of the Christmas tree means an expenditure of much time, energy, and perseverance, we congratulate Miss Huband upon the success of Thursday afternoon's entertainment.
LLANGADOCK.
LLANGADOCK. SCHOOL BOARD. A meeting of this board was held on the 20th inst, the gentlemen present being Mr Ll. D. Jones, chairman Miss Jenkins vice-chairman Messrs T. Phillips, J. Allen, W. Davies, W. Morgan, D. Morgans, and P. W. Edwards. The minutes of the last meeting were read and coiifirraed.-It was decided to instruct the teachers to send stringent letters to those parents who neglected to send their children regularly to school. -The salaries of the officers under the board were revised.—It was resolved that a',sliei.be built over the pump at Gwynfe Board School, and z, coal house erected on the grounds. The disputed point between the board and Mr Owen Ivor Evans, contractor, was amicably settled. J
MANORDEILO.
MANORDEILO. MEASLES.—The majority ol the young children in the district are confined tc their beds by the measles. So far the district ha* luckily escaped the dreaded effects of the InfAienza epidemic. ACCIDENT. --On Saturday night last, Mr Johr. Walters, of Penrhiwhir, sustained a severe injury, which resulted in a compound fracture of the right leg, about two inches above the ankle. The accident arose through Mr Walters slipping whilst putting his spring cart in the coach- house. BURGLARY.—The lower hamlet of Manordeilo was all astir on Friday morning last, when an attempt at burglary was reported to have taken place at the Red Lion Hotel on the previous night about 12 o'clock, by some person who is alleged to have visited the house earlier in the evening. Mrs Davies, the landlady, was aroused from her slumbers by a noise at the back of the house. Opening the bedroom window, she beheld a man, busily engaged, trying to break into the house through the cellar window. Mrs Davies now roused a neighbour, Mr Giffard, who lives under the same roof by knocking the partition dividing their house. Mr Giffard, on going to his window, addressed the man, but at first had no reply. At last the alleged burglar said that he demanded shelter as it was so awfully wet out- side, and that unless he could get admission he would force himself through and rob the house, when Mr Giffiard threatened to shoot him. This had the desired eflect, and the man decamped, leaving behind two sharp knives, two medium sized files, and an old blue apron. A good deal of the woodwork which supported the window fastener was found to have been cut by him. No. arrest had been made at the time our correspon* dent wrote. IMPROVEMENTS.—Progression has been the order- of the day here of late. The company contem- plates extensive alterations at the railway station next spring. The County Council in response to the untiring solicitations of Lieut. General Sir J. Hills-Johnes will also, it is expected, improve the Station-road, and enable the public to pass to and fro during wet weather dry shod. The postal authorities have accepted the tender of Mr T. Jones, Brunant Arms, Cayo, to run the mail service between here and Pumpsaint, instead of as heretofore from Llandilo. Places to be served en I'onte will be the following, viz Llansadwrn Porthyrhyd, Cayo, Crugybar, and Pumpsaint. The Talley and Llansawel mail ba^s will be rnn from Llandilo as heretofore. The new service will commence on the 1st prox. We anticipate a very important postal office at Llanwrda. No wonder the genial postmaster is at present up the boughs." when he can foresee a valuable increase to his stipend. In order to render every facility to the anticipated heavy business, his offices are being thorouglhy repaired in the most modern style.
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"LACTINA" for calves prevents scour, needs no boiling, and costs one-half the price of milk. It is easily digested, and highly relished by the young animal. Apply Lactina & Co., Suffolk House, Canon-street, London, E C. [850 Pirnted and Published hy the "The Journal" Co., Limited, at 3. Guildhall-square, in the County of the Borough of Carmarthen.—Friday, Jan. 29, 1W2.