The Carmarthen Journal and South Wales Weekly Advertiser

AMMANFORD JOTTINGS. [By IOTA.] Nothing is ever so apparent at Ammanford, as the solemn way in which the inhabitants of this important town take their amusements. I have been wondering for a long time whether the place had a sort of dual existence—half sleeping, while the rest watched. However, this winter things have been a little livelier, and we ought to be thankful even for small mercies. The Debating .Society of whose proceedings I have seen some notice in THE JOURNAL has, in lIpite of all difficulties, carried out its programme, not only with commendable energy, but with increasing success. The meetings have been characterised by large attendances, ladies being in great force, and the quality of the speeches if not equal to the level of the debates in Parliament yet has been such as to impart a modicum of instruction combined with a lot of amusement. V The subject of Novel-reading was recently dis- cussed, Mr Gwyn Jones, the worthy secretary, asserting that it was beneficial, while Mr Robert Collard, held that it was not. After an interest- ing debate, Mr Jones carried his point. Councillor Jones contributed a most interesting item to the syllabus in the shape of a paper on County Roads and Bridges, a subject on which he is eminently qualified to speak, owing to his opportunity for acquiring knowledge coupled with his desire to master the subject for the benefit of his constitu- ents. His paper was lucid and thorough, and was listened to with great interest. » I Another debate was occasionei by Mr Griffith Elias affirming that Theatrical amusements are prejudicial to Society, Mr Ivor Morris denying that they are. Mr Elias made an effective attack on the theatre, but did not sufficiently distinguish between the Theatre and the Music Hall, a point of which his opponents were not slow to take advantage. The whole tone of the debate was characterised by good taste and brought out one or two effective speakers from the Gwynfryn scholars. In the end Mr Elias lost his motion by the casting vote of the Chairman, Mr Phillips, Parcyrhun, who admitted that the good he had got from visiting good theatres, and seeing good plays far counter balanced any evil influences. Perhaps the most interesting evening's amuse- ment so far was last Friday, when Miss Pritchard read a paper on the Poetry: of Music. A large attendance especially of ladies served to give the lady encouragement, and a very able and enter- taining paper was the le ult. Miss Pritchard had evidently bestowed attention, rl search, and intellect, on the very excellent little paper, and everyone present must have carried away lots to think about. Mrs Phillips (Madame Martha Harries) contributed not a little to the success of the paper by an illustration of one of the points, a Welsh song so charmingly sung as to evoke the greatest enthusiasm. Mr Ivur Morris and Mr Walters also contributed illustrations, the Difydd y garreg wen," of the latter being much admired. At the close it was announced that the paper to be read by Mr James, of Swan- sea, on March 3rd, would be on the History of the Welsh Eisteddfod. # # The Niagers or as they call themselves The Ammanford Minstrels, have given their first performance, and after allowing for some trifling shortcomings mnst be congratulated on their success. A most ex ellent stage with dressing rooms behind had been contrived at the end of the Ivorites' Hall, leaving the whole of the orchestra end for a balcony. I would recommend the worshipful club of Ivorites to take a hint from this, and alttr the structure of their hall, which is at I r, s mt a most inconvenient structure. # # The programme consisted of two parts. The first included songs and choruses, interspersed with the usual lively jokes, and the second part included a stump oration, a step dance, and a very laughable farce. The programme of the first part was as follows :—Plantation song, Walking for dat cake," Mr Gygge Lamps ballad, Maggie with soft brown I hair," Mr Whatho Johnny comic SlOg, "Dinah she said Yah Mr Stratton Rodney ballad, Some- body whispered so sweetly," Mr Donovan Dailo negro song, Keep in de middle ob de road," Mr Jerry JeFsai-ny plantation melody, "Way down upon the Swaunee Ribber," Mr Tin Joephus comic song, "The Merry Laughing Man," Mr M. O. Byd part song, Come where my love lies dreaming' negro melody, "Poor old Joe," Mr G. Robert; walk round, "St. Patrick's Day Parade," Mr Whatho Johnny. # The first part suffered much from disappoint- ments at the last moment. Big Ianto was advertised, but a telegram sent off at fix p. m. announced sudden illness and inability to attend. A wedding kept two of the troupe away, and as they had promised faithfully to attend, and had undertaken important parts, this was a serious drawback. I understand that in future marriages are barred until after the nigger season is over. Owing to these disappointments, and the fact that another of the troupe was lying ill in bed, and his part had to be taken at a moment's notice, it would be unfair to criticise the per- formance too severely, but honest praise can be bestowed on most of the singers, G. Roberts and Tim Joephus perhaps deserving the lion's share still all did their best, and at the least satisfied the audience, which was a very large one. The jokes cracked were too many and too short, and owing to the dropping of the voices none too well heard. This fault should be rectified next time, Mr Stratton Rodney opened the second part with a stump oration on politics. He com- menced by reading telegrams apologising for non- attendance—from among other-, Mr Gladstone, Mr Parnell, Mr Balfour, Mr 'iowyn Jones and Lord Salisbury. He was very imperfectly heard at the back of the room, which was a pity, as his speech was very funny and remarkably well delivered. # In the absence of Big lanto, a step dance was undertaken at short notice by Mr F. Dark, who did very well. The farce was entitled, "Who died last 1" and was admirably rendered by the following caste: — "Mr Jones," Mr Stratton Rodney Mre Jones," Mr Whatho Johnny "Mr Smith," Mr Johnson; Mrs Smith," Mr Donovan Dailo. The get up of these gentlemen was very good indeed, very few of the large audience being able to identify them. When Mrs Jones came on the stage, it was some minutes before the audience could sufficiently control their laughter, to enable the piece to pro- ceed. The spirit of fun was rampant, and the acting very good, so the piece ran well. "God save the Queen" wound up a most creditable performance. A word of puise is due to Mr Ivor Morris for his training and his accompaniments. He must have had a lot of work to do, and ho did it well. I hear the troupe intend visiting Llandovery, Brynamman, Cwmamman, and giving another performance at Ammanford later on.

LAMPETER VELFHEY. SCHOLARSHIP.—At a congregation of the Senate of Trinity College, Dublin, holden on the 10th inst., the degree of Bachelor of Arts was conferred upon Mr William Lewis, Tavernspite School. After thirteen years of successful educational work, Mr Lewis has beet offered by Bishop Worthing on, of Nebraska, U.S.A., an important post in his dioce ic.

If SAPo.LINI." containing Linseed Jelly, is a per- fumed Emulsive Toilet Soap, 4d.; post free, 6J. Of Chemists. LACTINA" for calves prevents scour, needs no I oiling, 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. KAY'S COMPOUND Essence of Linseed, Aniseed, Senega, Squill, Tolu, &c., with Chlorodyne, 9id 131d, &e. The Judge of the County Court in Vel mont granted nineteen divorces the other day at a single sitting. The Judge coolly remarked that )1 »h n a husband and wife had concluded that j they could not live together, the law might as well separate them.

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

LLANSADWRN CONCERT. To the Editor of THE JOURNAL. Sip.In my report of the above concert which appeared in the last week's issue of your valuable paper, I erroneously substituted the name of Miss Poole, of Brecon, for that of Miss Neames, Church House, Llangadock, as one of the accompanists. Mrs Dowen, of Llansadwrn, was also omitted, as having rendered valuable assistance in decorating the rooms for the occasion. I regret the error and omission, and trust you will give this publicity. Thanking you in anticipation, I am, youra, &c GWRDA."

LLANDOVERY PETry SESSIONS. To the Editor of THE JOURNAL. SIR, In the account in your last paper of the meeting of justices at Llandovery and the G'assalt poaching case on Friday week, you have attributed words to me which I did not use. I did not tell Mr Nicholas that his conduct was "insulring." I merely said with respect to the witness, J olle". Do not repeat his name, Mr Nicholas." Nor in addressing the defendants in Welsh did I make the extraordinary statement that gentlemen preserved the game and did not go there themselves." Requesting you will publish these corrections this week. I am, Sir, your obedient servant, EDWARD JONES. Yelindre, Llandovery, October 9th, 1891.

MR. D. RANDELL, M P. To the Editor of THE JOURNAL. SIR,-Accordinc, to The Tunes of the 10th inst., Mr Randell is represented to have expressed a pocr opinion of the County Court judges of the Princi- pality. He is reported to have said that with one exception they have not any knowledge whatever of the English language. I venture to suggest that their acquaintance with the Welsh language is even less than with the English. Yours, &c., T. P.

CARDIGANSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL THE ABERAYRON BRIDGE RETAINING WALL. To the Editor of THE JOURNAL. SIB,—I shall feel much obliged to you for mak- ing room in your columns for the following letters The reason for their publication will be obvious to those whom it may concern. I am, yours truly, J. M. HOWELL. February 9th, 1891. 3, Market-street, Aberayron, January 31st, 1891. SIR,-In a report of the proceedings of the meet- ing of the Cardiganshire Main Roads Committee held at Lampeter last Wednesday, which appeared in THE JOURNAL dated January 30th, page 5, you are represented to have said, "That the Council voted money for work to protect the bridge, but the money had been spent to improve public and private property, which was a fact not to the credit of the members for that district." You will pardon me for saying that I had always thought that you had that spirit of fairness, which would not allow you to bring an accusation against colleagues, who lay claim, at any rate, to be actuated in all their public doings by an honourable motives as yourself in their absence. I have heard you speak strongly in condemnation of imputing motives, but in the above quoted passage you im- I pute motives of a disreputable nature. You know very well that you cannot erect a groin, or retain- ing wall by sea or river for a definite purpose of protection, without affording protection, and con- ferring benefits on interests other than those which it was sought to protect, and which bore the cost. In this instance other interests may have been benefited in the erection of the retaining wall, but does that fact justify any one in saying, "That the money was spent to improve public and private property." You were not member of the Main Roads Committee during the time the question of this expenditure was discussed. I therefore ap- pend a correct sequential account of the whole transaction. Resolution of the County Council, Nov. 7. 1889. Agenda, page 11. "That a retaining wall immediately above the Aberayron Lower Bridge, on the left bank of the river, be built at a cost not exceeding £ 45." Neither I nor my colleague, Mr J. H. Jones, nor either of the members of the sub-commitee, subse- quently appointed, had anything to do directly or indirectly with this initiatory resolution, which was introduced first of all at a meeting of the lower district committee, at which no member from this district was present. Resolution of County Council, February 13, 3890. Agenda, page 11. "That a local sub-committee be appointed, con- sisting of Councillors Morgan Evans, J. M. Howell, J. H. Jones, and Alderman Major Price Lewes, to receive tenders and confer with reference to the expenditure of .£45 for the erection of a retaining wall immediately above the Aberayron lower bridge, on the left bank of the river Aeron." This resolution was again passed, first of all at a meeting of the Lower District Committee, in the absence of the four persons named in the resolution. Resolution of Council, May 8, 1890. Agenda, Page 11. "That the report of the local sub-committee appointed at the last meeting to supervise the expenditure of .£45 for the erection of a retaining wall above the Aberayron lower bridge, recom- mending an extension of the said wall at a further cost of 145 10s, be adopted." This resolution also was first passed at a meeting of the Lower District Committee. Not one of the members of the sub-committee was present. Resolution of County Council, August 12, 1890. Page 11. "That payment bo made to the contractor for retaining wall by Aberayron bridge upon the surveyor's certificate of .£i9 for the first contract and .£21 on account of the second." Resolution of County Council, Nov. 7, 1890. Agenda, pages 8-9. "That the surveyor's estimate of expenditure for the quartei ending December 31st be allowed, which included river wall at Aberayron X20 10s balance." & a Ion wijj, i tuinir, admit that the above resolu- tions and facts will benr out the statement that the members for the district" did not act as people who had any motive for spending money voted by the Council for improving public and private property." They simply made a report making a certain recommendation; that recom- mendation passed through the inquisitions of the Lower District Committee of the Main Roads Committee and of the Council, thus incur- ring every possible scrutiny before the ex- penditure was authorized to be undertaken. I am therefore unable to see the justice, leave alone the fairness, of your remarks in reference to a payment which had been duly authorised after full discus- sion. What I have written proves that we do not deserve the strictures which you passed on us at the meeting of the Main Roads Committee. The reason why the members from this district were not present at that committee was that the meet- ing was held on our market day. However, if we knew that the subject was to be handled, I should have endeavoured to be there. When it is borne in mind that the sum of X20 10s balance was embodied in the surveyor's report for the quarter ended December 31st, 1890, and that that report was adopted by the Council held on Nov. 9th, 1890 (see Agenda, pages 8 and 9), we, being uninitiated in the mysteries of municipal procedure, may be excused for having concluded that the matter had been done with. Waiting the favour of your reply. I am, yours truly, JOHN M. HOWELL. Alderman C. M. Williams. Aberystwyth, February 6tb, 1891. Dear Mr Howel1,-I beg to acknowledge the receipt of your favour, and regret the spirit in which it was written. The passage to which you refer to in THE JOURNAL appears to be a very con- densed report of what I really did say, and con- sequently do not convey accurately the meaning of my remarks. Taken as a whole, what I said could not in any way be construed to reflect on the motives of the Aberayron members as you suggest in your letter. Yours truly, C. M. WILLIAMS. J. M. Howell, Esq Aberayron, Feb. 7th, 1891. Dear Sir,—I be„ to acknowledge the receipt of your letter, dated Feb. 6th. I find that you com- plain of the tone of my letter, but that complaint will vanish if you will only just for one moment put yourself in the place of one of the Aberayron district members of the County Council, and put the words complained of, say, in my mouth. You now say that those words do not accurately represent what you said. I am sure you will not abject to giving the sauce publicity to your explana- tion as has been given to the report. I am, Yours truly, JOHN M. HOWKLL. C. M. Williams, Esq.

THE MAGAZINES. The Century contains a second portion of "Talleyrand's Memoirs," his relations with the Emperor Napoleon being the chief topic. Many instances are given of the inordinate ambition and vanity of the latter, and of the unscrupulous way in which he managed to get his intentions executed. M. Talleyrand's own character is a strange medley; he-relates most naively the way in which he, while still professing to be Napoleon's servant, was endeavouring to thwart his schemes, excusing himself cn the plea that what he did was for the good of France and Europe generally. The e memoirs are undoubtedly interesting and a great gain to historic literature, throwing floods I I of new light upon old stories. The frontispiece is "A portrait of Talleyrand" from a painting by Greuze, and we can discern in it some of the conceit and self-satisfaction which come out so clearly in the memoirs. California again occu- pies many interesting pages, the full history being given of the first discovery of gold, and of the rush that ensued from all parts of the globe. Many beautiful specimens of his paintings are given in the paper on "Theodore Rousseau and the French Landscape School," and the story of the artist's life and criticism of his style is of general interest. The paper on The Georgia Cracker in the Cotton Mills," which opens the magazine, is very fully illustrated, and gives an account of a curious race, with strange ways and customs, who seem to have been much neglected by the American Government. Fiction is well represented in the current number. The sad little story of Sister Dolorosa" is brought to a tragic conclusion; and "Colonel Carter of Cartersville" still amuses the reader with his tshildish absurdities aud pretensions while a new tale begins with much promise, called "The Faith Doctor." The short stories are of decided merit, and written in the crisp, bright style that seems to distinguish American tales. In "Topics of the Time" and "Open Letters," the subject of Woman finds a conspicuous place, the opening of The John Hopkins Medical School to Women bringing forth a variety of letters from people of all denominations and descriptions on women as medical students and doctors. The Gomhill Magazine opens with three chapters of Mr Conau Doyle's new story, "The White Company," a vivid picture of life in olden days in England and closes with the monthly instalment of "Eight Days." The story of the mutiny and how it affected the town of Khizrabad and its English inhabitants is very graphically told, and the half-forgotten dangers and tragedies of that dreadful time come once more distinctly before us. "A Phantom Portrait" is a short story which leaves us in doubt as to whether or not we, too, have been gulled. "Illustrations of Animal Life in Tennyson brings out how keenly the poet laureate notices little traits and ways of living creatures. We should also mention as worthy of notice "Ischia and its Earthquake" and "The Castle of Alnwick." The Sunday Magazine contains instalments of Miss Doudney's and Misi L. T. Meade's serial tales. A second paper on Westminster Abbey," by Archdeacon Farrar, is beautifully illustrated, and by the reader the venerable pile ought to be henceforth more appreciatively admired and a visit to it more thoroughly enjoyed. Mr W. T. Stead contributes a second paper on General Booth, which we could wish were written a little more impartially. "Across the Folgeior" is an interesting experience in Norwegian travel, by the Rev. John Beveridge. Coming to more decidedly religious contributions, the Bishop of Ripon's sermon on The Sanctity of the Body takes a first place. St. Pa'ul and His Lady Helps," in which Lydia is taken as the text, is a good short article by Mrs James Martin and the children's Sunday evening portions, "The Brotherhood of Mercy," are bright and attractive. Good Words provides us with much interesting reading, and holds well its place among the crowd of serials. Mrs Oliphant's story is in her usual pleasant style, the narrative flowing on and the characters developing without any great incident hitherto. "The Little Minister" is a first-rate story of Scottish life and character.. Carmen Sylva (the Queen of Roumania) contributes a pretty fantastic tale of the Carpathian mountains and also fanciful and poetical, but with a deeper meaning, is The Sin of the Red Angel," by the Bishop of Ripon. Mr R. E. Prothero's paper on "John Wesley is readable and well illustrated, which also may be said of Candida Casa," under which ancient title Sir Herbert Maxwell writes of the beautiful old ruins of St. Ninian's Pr;ory at Whithorn in Galloway. Very helpful and wise counsel to parents is given in the Bishop of Winchester's four short sermons for the month, "The Home" being the subject of these Questions of the Christian Life." From the Church of England Sunday School Institutewehave received "TheChurch Worker," in which there are always grod papers, and useful y C, notes and comments upon what is going on around us The Church Sunday School Maga- zine," a valuable compendium of help for teachers, both in the way of notes and lessons and in suggestions for the management of classes and "The Boys' and Girls' Companion," a bright little paper for the children, full of stories and useful reading, and Scripture puzzles to exercise their wits. We have also received "The St. David's Diocesan Directory for 1891," a tastefully not up little volume, which reflects great credit on printer, publisher and compiler. It gives a most full and accurate statement of all that concerns the diocese, and much ecclesiastical information besides, as for instance, the statistics of the Anglican Church. It is further furnished with a calendar with table of lessons, and is embellished by an engraving from a photograph of the pre- sent Bishop of St. David's, and as frontispiece, with a view of the Cathedral, which is beautiful as a work of art. It is safe to say that no pains have been spared to make this a most thoroughly useful and attractive guide to the diocese.

TRADE REPORT. South Wales is again the victim of one of those conflicts between capital and labour, which are doing so much to injure commerce. It is difficult tc say whether the strike at the Cardiff Docks is more senseless or criminal in its action. It seems as if the men employed in shipping wanted to transfer to Eugiish soil the battle which recently waged in Australia on thj subject of freedom of labour, and wrought such damage to the interests, not only of the commercial classes, but even more so of the men. The right of men to combine for the protection and amelioration of their position is incontestible; but the right, both legal and moral, of every individual to sell his labour at what rate and to whom he pleaseq, without let or hindrance, is also incontestible. What is the position that the Cardiff dockers have taken up? They have broken their contracts with their employers, and are doing their utmost to bring the trade of the port to a deadlock, simply because certain ship- owners happen to employ men who are not members of the Sailors Trades Union. It really seems as if freedom of contract is going to become a dead letter in this so-called free country; but we cannot help thinking that if the Unions proceed in their, unlawful courses-.tnd it is only on their proceed- ings when they transgress the letter of the law that we are reflecting—they will find in the long run that they will array against them a force more powerful than themselves, that of Public Opinion, and that ultimately they will be the chief sufferers. The present is not a propi'ious time for these struggles, because the tide of prosperity is very much oa the ebb, with the exception of coal it is true; but we shall be much surprised if the tendency in this branch of industry d)es not soon run in the same directions, and though, if left to itself, it will not run down the hill very Tast for some time to come, yet anything which may tend to further enhance the value, temporarily, will not unlikely have a rather {opposite result in the end. The new Dowlais furnaces at Cardiff, which were opened last week with such a flourish of trumpets, nre already thi-eateued with idleuess, owing to a strike for higher wages on the part of a certain section of the labourers, and the proprietors, rather than give way in these times, threaten to close the work. The great strike in Scotland is apparently drawing to a close, and it will probably result in a limiteu number of the furnaces being blown in, accompanied by a reduction (not an advance) in wages of 15 to 20 per cent. Pig iron is, no doubt, very bad, prices showing further decline, and if the makers cannot get relief in reductions iu materials and wages, several furnaces in England must go out of blast. The furnaces above mentioned as being on the point of restarting in Scotland are only for the purpose of making special brands, which are becoming exhausted. Steel and manufactured iron are dull, with no marked change in prices. Tinplates maintain the same position as last week. As we anticipated last week, the railway returns just i sued show aamanerproltto the shareholders than they did a year ago, with the single exception of the Midland. The Great Westeru and London and North Western declare t per cent., and the North Eastern 4 pjr cent, less than for the corres- ponding period of 1889; and the Furness Railway, a line entirely dependent on the iron trade, is down from 5 per cent. to :H per cent. In the oase of the Great Western, the increase of expenditure over receipts is jei4-,075, and of the North Eastern no less than £ 18,000. It is dangerous to prophesy unless you know, but we think that this time next year will show a heavier drop in railway dividends than is shovii by the return of 1890 as compared with 1S89. Prices may be quoted as follows, with slight daily variittions:-Ilig iron, Scotch, 46s Gd; hema- I ite, 50s 9J Middlcsborough, IdsGd; tinplate bar<— Bes-emer, X5 10, Siemens, £5 7s 6d; tinpates-- Bessemer, 17s Gd to 17s 9d iron cokes, 17s 6J tin, £ 90 7s 6.1.

M1LFORD HAVEN. THE MILFOKD HAVEN MYSTERY.—An inquest was held on Monday at South Hook Farm, Milford Haven (before Mr Ivor Evans, coroner for North Pembrokeshire), touching the death of Mr B jnjamin Thomas, tenant of the same farm, who mysteriously disappeared from home on the 13ch of Jaattary, aud whoso body was found on Saturday last. After identification of the body by Mr Joseph Philpin, brother-in-law of the deceased, the evidence of Sergi ant Headson, South Hook Fort, was taken. Witness stated that the deceased came to the fort on the 13th of January on business about seven o'clock. He was at that time under the influence of drink, and, although he was not directly served from the canteen, be was of opinion that before he left for home the deceased was in a worse condition than when he came, and, therefore, must have obtained drink by paying a soldier friend, who ob ained beer for him. The night was dark and stcrmy, and, in his opinion unsafe for the deceased to go home alone. Although he had requested to be allowed to stay at the fort, hi was compelled to refuse him, as it was contrary to military regula lations. He closed the canteen at 9 30, after which he did not see the deceased, who was accompanied on the way home (as he learnt the following morn ing) by Gunners Chedzey and White. The two men in question were in at roll-call at 10 p m.— John Meade, sentry on duty, nas next called, and stated that the men were in barracks at ten p.m The evidence of Gunners Chedzey and White went to corroborat e the statement of Sergeant Headson. —William Powell and Howard Powell, farm laboureis in the service of deceased, also gave evidence. The former stated that he found the hat of deceased, and the latter said he found Is 41 in coppers 71 yards from where the hat was found. -Polie -constable Phillips stated, that after the discovery of the body, in the presence of Police- sergeant Evans, the pockets were examined, and contained a cheque of Dr. George Griffiths for .£17 10s, and one Mr Palmer, Lord Nelson Hotel, for £10; and also two half-sovereigns and one sbilling in the inside waistcoat pocket.-The evi- dence of Drs. Griffiths and Wilson went to prove that certain wounds on the head and other parts of the body were received after death.—The jury immediately returned a verdict of "Foun I drowned."

ABERAYRON. BOARD OF GUARDIANS.-—-A correspondent has favoured us with a full report of the proceedings of the last meeting of this board, as well as those of the Highway Board, held subsequently to it. We do not publish reports that have appeared a week previously in one of our local contemporaries. We see nothing in the present case to lead us to depart from this role.Ei). W HE the controversy on the decline of Metho- dism in Wales is proceeding between Mr Owen Owens, of Oowestry, and Dean Owen, of St. Asaph, in the Times, it is interesting to find Mr J. M. Howell so out-spoken in a Society" on Thursday night, February 1st. Mr Howell told the "frawdoliaeth" that he had been cou rting the con- gregation iu their chapel on S inday mornings for some time, anl thi' on the Sunday before Christ- mas there were 81 present, of whom 20 were children the Sunday after 91, of whom 21 were children ;and the following 104, of whom 29 were children. When it is remembered that the "Taber- nacle" was built to accommodate about 1000 people, and that on special occasions as many as 1,500 have been iuside its wa 1j—tho force of Mr Howells remarks will be seen. It would give De; n Owen& Mr Owen Owens a good idea what value to put on statistics if it could be ascertained how mary hundreds arc entered in the official list against this chapel. It was noticed that Mr H )well had his diary in hand again last Sunday, and, no doubt, we will soon get farther revelations. If in every Methodist chapel in Wales we bad another Mr Howells, it would soon settle the problem which the two Owens seem as far as ever of solving. READING Room.-The annual meeting of the members of the Aberayron Public Reading Room was held on Friday evening, the 6th inst, when there was a large number present. The minutes of the last meeting having been read and signed, the treasurer read his quarterly report, which was as follows — Balance from last quarter, f7 5s lOd amount of subscriptions for the quarter £4 7s 9d last sale of papers, £017s 4d; total receipts, E12 10s lid. The expenses amounted to jE6 18s Id., so that there is a balance in hand at present of £5 12s lOd. This was considered very satisfactory, as the quarter just expired was an expensive one, owing to the heavy bill fo- coal and oil. The following gentlemen were appointed officeri for the present year — President, Dr Daties vice-presidents, Mr Munro Hughes, and the Rev Morgan Evans, Llanddewi Aberarth. The I treasurer (Mr E. Lima Jones) and the secretary (Mr J. B. Davies) were re-appointed. The secretary consented to collect the following quarter's subscriptions, and a vote of thanks was accorded him for collecting than during the previous quarter. It was decided to take in the following additional pal ers, Black and White," Reynold's newspaper, and also the "Geninen." It was only at the last quarterly meeting that it was resolved to give up taking" Reynolds," but now there was a majority of one in favour of having it again. A vote of thanks was unanimously accorded to the donors of papers during the past year, viz., Mr Maddy (Times); Mr Gold (Alliance) and Capt. D. Jones, Sydney (late of Mydroilyn), who regularly sends the Argus," a paper published at Melbourne. The quarterly sale of papers realized the sum of £ 1 7s Id, being 10s more than the proceeds of the last sale. A vote of thanks to the treasurer and secretary for their work during the past ytar having been passed, the meeting ended. MARRIAGE OF THE RECTOR OF LLANDDEWI'S SON. -The marriage of the Rev E. James Evans, Rector of Cefn, and Miss Violot Everard Hutton, daughter of Major Evtrard Hutton, 7, Circus, Bath, was solemnised on the 4th inst., at St. James's Church, Paddington. Punctually at the hour of one o'clock the carriages drove up to the Church, and the sun, which had hitherto been hidden behind the clouds, shone brightly forth- an omen of happy augury. The ceremony was performed by the Ven. Archdeacon Watkin Williams, assisted by the Rev John Evans, R.D., vicar of Llandovery, uncle of the bridegroom. The bride was conducted to the chancel step, where the first part of the service was performed, by her father, who subsequently gave her away. She wore a costume of pale grey royal s;lk with steel embroidery and girdle, with bonnet to match, and carried a po3y of white exotics, the gift of the bridegroom. The bridesmaids were Miss Everard Hutton, Miss Maud T. Everard Hutton and Miss Alma Everard Hutton, sisters of the bride. The Rev E. M. Roderick, domestic chaplain to the Bishop of St. Asaph, at- tended the bridegroom as best man. Amonu the presents were — Pearl spray brooch and gold watch chain, the gift of the bridegroom cheque, Major Everard Hutton, father of the bride cheque, Rev M. Evans, father of the bridegroom p'a- ed tea service and tea tray, the Misses Everard Hutton horse and carriage, the Rev and Mrs John Evans, uncle and aunt of the bridegroom dinner service, Mrs Evan Evans, sister of the bridegroom pearl bangle, Mrs John Evans; cheque, the Lord Bishop of St. Asaph and Mrs Edwards; case of silver mounted carvers, Rev E. M. Roderick cheque, Rev W. Edwards drawing room easy chair, Mrs Williams-Wynn silver salt cellars, the Very Rev Dean of St. Asaph salad h"l\'l and servers, Mr Henry Blencowe plated breakfast dish, Mrs Bannatyne cheque, Sir Charles and Lady Shakesley stationery case, penholder and blotting book, the members of the oil and water colour painting club lamps, servants of No. 7, Circus, Bath pair of drawing room lamps, Miss N. St. John photograph frame, Miss Barbara St. John china tea service, Miss Everard Hutton folding chairs, Miss Maud T. Everard Hutton; single tea service, Miss Alma Everard Hutton cheque, Mra Carleton old china, Mrs vaughan hall lamp, Miss Tylden; sardine dish and servers, Miss Ellen Tylden reading lamp, Mr and Mrs Luxmoore china, Miss Fenton dozen silver tea spoons, Mr Charles Coates, M.D. china, Mr and Mra Llewellyn Heaton old red print, Miss E. Munro silver muffineers, Mr and Mrs Walter Bryiner silver candlesticks, Mrs Stratford Dugdale silver mustard pot, Miss Alma Everard Hutton tea table and cloth, Mrs Burton plated breakfast dish, Dr. and Miss Tumour china, MissBesthon plated inkstand, Mr and Mrs Carnegie Japanese cabinet, Miss L. Jones silver sugar basin and tongs, Rev and Mrs E. W. L. Davies pair cf oil paintings, Rev D. Griffith china, the M sses Jeffreys case of dozen silver te:1 spoons, Miss Boyle and Miss Carleton painting, the Misses Lloyd Williams; pair of candlesticks, Mrs Peacock pair of grape scissors, Major and Mrs Birch; Cairo-embroidery, Miss Birch crumb-scoop, Major Forrest flower pot, Miss Bunbusy silver salt cellars and muffineers, Mrs Gal way screen and two fancy tables, Miss Maud T. Everard Hutton calendar frame, Captain Gataker paper knife, Miss Devenish; drawing-room chair, Miss Griffith; ornamental basket, Mr and Mrs Walter Jenkins butter dish and knife, Miss Barbara Roberts biscuit box, Mr Joseph Jones flower pot, Miss Fanshaw work box, Miss Peto.

KIDWELLY. ENTERTAINMENTS. A most successful and highly interesting series of entertainments held at the National School in connection with St. Mary's Church, Kidwelly, were brought to a brilliant conclusion on Monday and Tuesday evenings last, by the production of the well known story of "Dick Whittirgton and his Cat," arrangol in play form by Miss Corner, and performed by a party of 17 young people who had been trained almost to perfection in their various parti by Miss Dunn. The principal actors the play being as followsDick Whittington," Master Willie Davies "Alderman Fitzwarren," Master John Jones; "Thomas," a footman, Master R. Sydney Davies Captain Jones of the good ship Adventure," Master Willie Gravell "Tom Bowling," a sailor, Master Vincent Lewis; "Robert Hod^e," a countryman, Ma-ter Allan |Dunn "Alice," Fitzwarren's daughter, Miss Lizzie Rltndell Mary," the cook, Miss Hannah Davies "Dame Homely," Master Johnny Lewis. In addition to theie, four little girls as fairies and four litt'e boys as sailors took part. The dresses for all the characters were simply superb, some appearing in a different costume three or four times. All the dresses were designed and made by Miss S. U. Dunn, assisted by a few lady fiiends. It would be obvious to mention any of the actors as excelling others, but we may say that Miss Hannah D ivies is a bortilactress, We have seen her in many parts now, and this time in her character as the cross-grained cook, she was simply perfection. All the other characters were excellently well taken, and great praise is due to Miss Dunn for the great pains she takes in teaching the children. Previous to the play a musical programme was gone through, which was as follows Piano solo, Miss Harries, Velliidre song, "Fiddle and I," Miss Lizzie Williams.' Llanelly piano duett, "Alpine Bells," Master Bertie Davies, and Miss S. B. Dunn; song, "Just a little Sunshine," Miss Isabtl Harris; song, "One of the Rank aud File," Mr E. Lewis; son^, "Esanuetta," Miss Williams, Llanelly. The vicar presided on Monday evening, and there was on that evening a crammed and most appreciative house. It is the intention of the committee during Lent to give one or two concerts of a semi-sacred nature, and we hope they will meet with the patronage they richly deserve

All contributions for this column shbuld be addressed to the Organising Secretary, Mr. Daniel Watkins, 13, Guildhall-square, Carmarthen, and be in hand by Wednesday in each week.

CHURCH OF ENGLAND PURITY SOCIETY. H About four years ago a Diocesan Branch of this Society was formally enrolled under the President- ship of the Lord Bishop cf the Diocese, who appointed as his representative on the Central Conncil the present bnn, sec. of the Diocesan Branch. At the present time this still remains the Role Diocesan organization, all members who have joined the Society being enrolled in the central body. B-lt certain local branches have been started, of which the most important are the St. David's College, Lampeter, Branch, and the White Cross Gllild at Llanelly. The amount of work done by the Society in the Diocese has, however, been not inconsiderable, meetings for men having been held' in about 10 different places, and the Society has done not a little to help on the work of the Woman's League, which is the Society for carrying on the same work amongst women. The great object of the Society is to influence all rather than to form small branches of members, hence it advocates branches of the Young Men's Friendly Society or any o'her organization which is likely to help men to live manly and Christian lives. But since its work is thus without many visible signs of its existence, it is therefore too little supported, its help is sought, and its benefits are pretty generally recognized; but few help on the work by joining the Society or subscribing to its funds. Up to the present time the whole expense of the work in this Diocese has fallen upon two or three of the members. During February the Society is to provide speakers at about 50 meetings, and it is hoped that many will help on this work by their offerings. No one can fail to see the necessity for the work who has been imbued with the Church teaching with regard to Holy Baptism. Such an one looks on all who have been baptized as members of Christ and temples of the Holy Ghost, and therefore, be must grieve when he sees that sacred body and those consecrated temples defiled again and again by sins | of the flesh (I Cor. vi.) He knows that youug men f and women siu thoughtlessly, whilst they thus defile that which is sacred, but he knows that thoughtlessly too meu spat on Christ's body in the Judgmeut Hall. H-nc(,- we call on Christian men to join us and help us in our work. The true man, the noble-minded man, will not injure the weak. Hence we call on men to join us and preserve our sister from vile and cowardly treatment. The true man knows and values his moral and rational nature, which exalts him above the beasts. Hence we call on men to join us and keep themselves and others pure, so that they may not sink down into sensual lives, which degrade them and place them even lower than the beasts. The annual meeting of the Liverpool Diocesan C.E.T.S. was held on Friday last. The meeting was presided over by the Lord Bi3hop of Liverpool, andamopg those present were the Bishop of New- castle and the Bishop of St. Asaph. The Bishop said, as Bishop of the diocese, he desired to express his entire sympathy witbt the movement of the C.E.T.S., and as long as ho had health and strength, and as long as the Society was conducted on its present principles, he would always give it his hearty and ungrudging support (applause). They wanted to raise the standard of feeling among people about the siu of intemperance. It was not a sin to be laughed at, and if they could do some- thing to check that levity they would have done soii-letbing in the matter of intemperance. Look at the way in which this great sin was spoken of in the Holy Scriptures, and then mark how laughingly, jestingly, and carelessly it was spoken of in many of the papers of the present day. Adultery and theft were sins, and so also was drunkenness a sin for which people would one day have to give an account. Men at a distance pointed to Liverpool as the black spot on the Mersey, but he doubted whether there was any diocese which could show as large a number of churches thrown open last Sunday for sermons preached on behalf of Temperance. Out of 200 churches in the diocese no fewer thau 167 were thrown open for that purpose, altogether in churches and mission-halls 250 Temperance sermons were preached (applause). He was convinced they were making progress, committals were getting fewer year after year, and from one end of the diocese to the other people were getting more deeply convinced that there was a great work to be dune and a great evil to be checked (loud applause). The Bishop of Newcastle said it was no child's play to stand up against thin great evil and come forward against an enormous vrsted interest like that of the liquor interest in this country. Their characters would be assailed and unkind things would be said about them if they ventured to attack Satan in one of his greatest strongholds—intemperance (hear, hear). There was, however, much to cheer them. They were on the side of (ruth, of earnestness, and of righteousness, and in the end that side would uin (applause). He asked them not to underrate this evil; let them redise the gravity of the subject they had in hand, With regard to their children, how was it possible for any country to be strong, or true, or free unless their children were being brought up in habits of Temperance, and of probity, and of sobriety ? They wanted some greater legislation upon this subject. He knew the time-honoured foolishness that they could not make men sober by Act of Parliament. As a matter of fact they could (hear, hear.) There was no more healthy Jand temperate body of men and wotneil than those who occupied her Mnjesty's gaols, and who became s.ber by Act of Parliament the moment they crossed the threshold (apptause). He wanted the voters of England to use their power of voting, so that some day in the halls of legislature at Westminster they might at least repress, if they did not remove, a great part of the evil (applause). Why should they not do here as in ('anada, where the publichotises were closed from seven o'clock on Saturday night until eight o'clock on Monday morniug ? (applause). The Lord Bishop concluded by moving the adoption of the report and the election of officers and committee.—The Bishop of St. Asaph referring to the Sunday Closing Act said: There was one recommendation in the Sunday Closing Act Committee's report which caire home to them in Wales; that was that The renewal of a licence should be refused to houses of less annual value than jfil 2. It was a fact that in Wales these small publichouses did more mischief than any kind of public-house, and he should be glad to see some change in regard to this and the bona fide traveller question. ABERYSTWYTH (HOLY TRINITY). On Monday a public meeting presided over by the vicar, the Rev Preb. Williims was held at the Board School, when an adult branch was formed. The meeting was addressed by the vicar, the Orgauising Secretary, and Professor Davies, U.C. W Mr Colby was also present with his magic latiteiu, and gave most interesting and instructive dissolving views. LLANBADARNFAWR -On Wednesday and Thurs- day evenings of last week, the Organising Secretary addressed public meetings held in connection with the Llanbadarn and Commiuscoch branches. The Llanbadain meeting, which was presided over by the vicar, the Rev J. Pugh, was also addressed by the vicar, and the curate, the Rev J. Y. Evans. LLANFIHANGEL-CROYDDYN. A very successful public Temperance meeting, under the presidency of the vicar (the Rev J. P. Evans), was held on Tuesday evening the 3rd inst at the schoolroom, when a branch of the C.E.T.S. was formed. The meeting was addressed by the Rev T. Phillips, vicar of Tregaron, and the Organising Secretary. PENRYNCOCH.—A meeting in connection with this branch, presided over by the vicar the Rev W. Morgan, was held on Friday evening last, and was addressed by the Organising Secretary, the Rev Alexander Williams, vicar of Elerch, and the Rev J, M. Griffiths, vicar of Llanfihangel Geneurglyn. ELERCH.—On Saturday evening a public meeting was held by this branch at the National School. The Band of Hope under the leadership of the vicar (nev A Williams), very ably rendered a few temperance songs, Miss Spurway acting as accompanist on the harmouium. The meeting was also addressed by the Organising Secretary. This branch is in a most efficient stale of organisation, and is doing excellent work. The vicar, all tue church officerf, superintendent of the Sunday Schcol, and all the teachers are with one exception, active members and total abstainers. THE NEW DRINK CRUSADE AT SWANSEA.—At Swansea Police Court, on Monday last, David Jones, landlord of the White Hart, Oxford-street, was fined t5 and costs for supplying intoxicating liquor to drunken persons. The new Duchess of Bedford, hitherto the Marchioness of Tavistock, is, like her sister, Lady Henry Somerset, a strict teetotaler. The Medical Officer for Manchester estimates that 70 per cent. of the deaths amongst infauts in that city are due to ill-treatment arising from drink.

The Leeds coroner, alluding to the inquests held by hin during last year, mentions that the juries in twenty.six cases retured a verdict that death had been caused by intoxication, and adds that others might have been placed in the same cate- gory. COLMAN'S SINAPISM. —The Improved Patent Mustard Plaster. Wholly of Pille flour of Mustard. Cleanly in use; safe for young children and delicate women. Does not scorch or blister, and ready at a moment's iiotice. Sol,i by all Chemists and Grocers, or Post, seven penny stamps, for packet of three, to CoLEMAN s 108, Cannon Street, London. THE DETROIT FREE PRESS during its ten years' life in Great Britain has won for itself the position of the brightest and most original and entertaining of family papers. Its staff includes some of the cleverest writers on both sides of the water. The Christmas Number containing a story by Budyard Kiplin-, most brilliant of rising authors—ran rapidly through three editions, and Mr Kipling is now contributing regularly to its columns. The DETROIT FREE PRESS thoroughly deserves the success it has achieved.