The Merthyr Express

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THE CHRONICLES OF CARTOONIA. By JojiN BRIND. (Author of "Household Sketches," "Marmoii Hall," "Short History of Bedwellty Church," etc., etc.) SECOND CHRONICLE. Tilers exiitd^I considerabia unea-inezs through- out Cartoonia respecting juvenile education, and the Minister of Instruction had been very much exercised in his mind as well as troubled officially in the House of Representatives by the doubts cast upon the efficacy of the educa- tional machinery of the State. The human boy of Cartoonia—as State taught, State fed. and State clothed—had not turned out a suc- cess. All parties agreed that there was some- thing wrong- in the educational produce, and many stated op?n!y that the expenditure in that particular branch of the Cartconian Budget re- quired vigorous inquiry and rigid retrenchment. It was in vain that the Minister of Instruc- tion defended himself against these growing ex- pre. ions of dissatisfaction and adverse criticisms by explaining that the condition of the young Cartoonian had greatly improved physically, in- tellectually, and morally. He pointed out the system of free meals that had been adopted for necessitous children, the free clothing depart- ment, the free education, frea medicaJ attend- ance but carpers, while willing to acknowledge these benefits given at the State expense, con- sidered that they had determined the true re- sponsibilities of parents and guardians, and had inculcated a false spirit of independence among the slate juveniles themselves that would de- vciope in later years to seeking as a right from the country privileges that ought to be gained by individual efforts and skill. Other carpers went further and stated that if they graduated at all in educational attainments, they also ,ra graduated with tremendous pre-eminence in other qualities, and referred to the recent re- ports of the Minister of the Guardians of the Peace, who declared that many of the youthful Cartoonians had become expert burglars at the age of fourteen, while a regular system of petty piILages had grown with an impetus that abso- lutely bscarne alarming. And as if to clinch these damaging charges, re-er the Representative of the Fourth Eetata open- ly declared his conviction that education as taught under the authority of the Minister of Instruction was ineffectual, diverse, and non- sensical, of little practical use to the commercial interests of the State, and that disciplinary measures had given way to a suasion that would render the future generation irrespon- sibly independent, irrationally ignorant, and uncontrollably governable. This declaration settled the matter, and the Minister of Instruc- tion, after a public speech wherein he called the Representative of the Fourth Estate all manner of political names not usuaJly applied to men of probity and acumen, reluctantly con- sented to a Commission of Inquiry, and to have the whole matter thoroughly sifted. At the same time, he offered to produce a splendid specimen of the boy genus at the inquiry which he guaranteed to state would entirely refute all the arguments and charges that had been made against his office, and show the country how well his department had done its duty. How far King Affabel of Cartoonia had inter- ested himself in the coming inquirv was not exactly stated, but it is well known that while the Royal equippuge one day wiw passing through the capital. an exuberant, and independ- ent youth shouted out "Good old Affy!" and procecd?d to shy a snowball at the Royal foot- men hanging on behind, which happ?ned to catch one of them on that part of his anatomy where Nature intended him to rest. Such an act as this, some years before. would have re- sulted, probably, in annihilation to any adven- turous youth daring to show such exuberance of spirits in the presence of royalty; but un- fortunately for its consideration of Royal re- spect. the crowd actually laughed and cheered, and took it as a good and daring joke. It was even rumoured that a celebrated musical saloon syndicate had offered the new-born hero an en- gagement on its boards for a fabulous sum a week, but how far this is true my chronicle does not say, although it was well known the syndi- cate had on more than one occa^iotf engaged sparkling notorieties from the streets" The great day of inquiry was fixed, and the audience hall of the great House of Represent- atives was selected for the commission to sit. The Minister of Instruction, outwardly calm and confident, took his place .beside a Noble Lord, whose qualifications to supervise the in- quiry and hold an Impartial view of the pros, ajjd cons. for the purpose of balancing the issues and give judgment on the case, consisted of a high and long lineage without possessing any pronounced abilities that would be likely to give him a prejudiced view on the score of erudition. The Representative of the Fourth Estate was also a member selected on the Com- mission. and his grave, impassive face as he seated himself some distance from the others seemed doubly serious on this occasion. Th? other members consisted of the Director of Na- tional Commerce; the Supervisor of Profession- able Interests, and several leading supervisors on the staff of the Department of Instruction. It is not my purpose to enter into opening speeches of the inquiry. The chronciles as eup plied to me contain but very little re- ference to them beyond that they were the usual long-winded, tedious, and platitudinisin-g harangues always associated with matters Repre- sentative. The impression of the inquiry and the main issue, it wa'3 felt, wholly depended on the influential and actual factor of the whole business— the model boy witness himself. When the time came for his appearance before the Commissi013' considerable interest began to be manifested among the assembly. The confid- ent aff?urance of the Minister of Instruction and his colleagues in the course of the preliminary inquiry oo the marked improvement his depart- ment had made on the State scholar had had evident effect upon the assembly, and more than usual interest was. displayed when he en- tered the hall and proceeded to his place before the grave inquirers who were to adjudicate whether his attainments and general bearing bor-e out the eulogies of his State instructors d justified the national expenditure on his hp halt He was a E.'™. open-faced lad, fairly 11 brassed. His air was confident, his man- Ter unabashed, and he slung up to the s?at laced for him with the bearing of total in- difference to the surroundings. "Morning, gents! I hear you wish to exam- me and coolly tossing his cap on the floor i;1g£ prQ, sa.tçhel f | he carried, and take out some books. A grim look came to the face of the Noble Lord who presided. "Your name, standard, and age, young gen- tleman," he asked quidly "Sam Scorcher, staJJdard six, aged twelve and a half. Who's that old josser in the frame up yonder?" lie added jauntily as he pointed to a life-sized portrait of a well-known but now dc: funct Representative. Several of the members began to bl0w their noses with vigour. The Noble Lord eyed him with sudden fixity, while the Representative of the Fourth Estate wd. denly sat up as if awakened to an immediate sense of danger. "You are here to answer questions—not ask them," was the stern admonition. "That's just where you make a mistake, gov ernor," replied the unabashed examinee. "Our teachers always impresses us with the fact that to increase our stock of knowledge we must ask questiens everywhere and everywhen. One of the rules of modern eddication," and he loung- ed back in the chair with amazing confidcnce. "I see," was th grim rcply, "and what have you learnt during your course of instruction, 8am Scorcher?" "Everything," was the glib answer. "I've got here some specimens of my work-drorin, painting, ruler work, specimens of nature study, and science. I'm a dabster on science," he added, looking up and around the faces about him, "and I think the experiments grand!" "No doubt. You can read, and write, and cipher as well, I presume?" was the quiet ques- tion that followed. "Cipher?" exclaimed the youngster in aston- i-shment. "What's that?" "Why. the adding, subtracting, and so forth of figures." replied the Noble Lord in a semi- play ful tone that certainly belied his attitude of fixed sternness. "Oh! you mean 'rithmetic, I suppose? Lor', I never heard it called that name before. Yes. we do a little when we get the time." "Can you spell pretty W<3I1? Let. me heH you spell 'elephant?' The youngster instant- ly dived into his satchel and produced a book. "Did you hear me?" continued hi-s inquirer; "I said, can you spell 'elephant?' I a-looking for it, governor? Give a fellow time. Blow me, if I can rccollect whether it's spelt with an 'h' or not," and he proce2ded to rapidly turn over the leaves. "I sec. you need the aid of a dictionary," was the grim comment. "Of course, I do. Wot's tlr* use of learning to spell when you have a dictionary with you alwaYR? Saves a lot of bother in learning," and the model specimen continued turning over the loaves in qut of the "e1.ephant." "You need not trouble to look further for it. Sam Scorcher. You are acquainted. I presume, with geography and history ?" "Ra-ther!" wa> the grinninp reply of the young hopeful. "I know all about the kina and the cakes. The White Ship. where the crew got boozed, and the chap with the clonl, who made a doormat of it for Queen—Queen somebody. Oh, yes; I know history pretty well "So I should imaging. Your geographical knowledge, no doubt, is equally trood. Can you give us a list of Cartoonia's Colonies? Where is Mapleland R;tuated 1" "Her?, I say, governor, who are you getting at?'' was the startling reply. "Wot do I want to know of Mapleland if I don't live there?" "Oh, I see. Your knowledge is confined to your own country. Well, what ii th chief town of Cartconi?" "Slumton-on-t he Slush," was the reply. "Nonssnse! Where on earth is that place, boy?" "Why. where I live, of course! It's the chief town to me in Cartooni;¡. The Noble Lord leaned back in his state-chair and faid wearily, "If any member would care to ask this young gentleman any questions, he can do so." The Director of Commerce instantly rose, and said, "If you were seeking a situation, how would you proceed about it?" "Look out. for a place with the least work and the biggest scr9w," was die grinning and easy reply. "That's father's motto, now. Can't do better than follow your parents' advicc." "But, surely, you are preparing yourself for some occupation in the future? What work would you like to be engaged in?" "Well, being conSdent like. I'll tell you. I should like to servo in a cookshop! Plenty to eat, and no end of tips. My oodsin Bob is in one, and he says it's prime! By the way," ha added suddenly, "talking of vittles, do I have a luncheon provided as well as my expenses?" The Representative of the Fourth Estate here suddenly rose and said, "With the per- mission of the Noble Lord, I would like to un- dertake tho care of providing refreshment for this young gentleman when you have done with him." The Noble Lord looked at the speaker very steadfastly for a moment, and then nodded, while for the first time a glimmer of a twinkle in his eye and a little smile appeared. "That's right," put in the irrepressible model jauntily. "My special is kidney pie washed down with a pint of cold forps. Don't forget, governor," and he looked knowingly at the Representative of tho Fourth Estate. "I won't forget, you may depend," was the answer. The examination of the Model Juvenile Wit- ness was soon concluded, and that young gen- tleman being made acquainted with the fact, rose promptly, and seizing his cap from the floor waved a cheerful ealute with it to the as- sembly, and with a gay "So long!" lounged easily towards the door, where the Represent- ative of the Fourth Estate was awaiting him. The Representative, it was noticed, had fixed his hat with more than usual firmness on hie head. had buttoned his coat more closely than was his wont, and was waving rather playfully a long, supple walking can. "Nice young "en, tleman, I must admit! You are quite a credit to everyone connected with your uprearing," and hs softly plao?d his hand in a. patting man- ner on the young hopeful's shoulder. "Oh, we're alright. we are. Schooling is ver" different to what, it was in father's time," was the easy reply. "Plenfy of stick in thos-a days. I'd like to see 'em do that little dodge with me!" and the young Model Scholar squar- ed his shoulders with an asuumption of defiance that brought a smile to the Representative's face. "How do, hop-pole?" the irrepressible Model continued, as he passed by a tall State janitor in uniform, who saluted the Representative. "Find it cold up there?" and he winked archly. "I'm taking this young gentleman for some refreshments, janitor," said the Representative. "After he has been refreshed. I shall want your attendance at the State coach-yard to see him off safely to his destination." "Very good, sir—I'll be there," replied the janitor as he eyed the Model Juvenile curious- ly. The pair proceeded down a short passage, and turning down an opening to the left they entered a long, wide corridor. They had pro- ceeded nearly to its full length when the Re- presentative suddenly paused. "Kidney pie, I think, you said you preferred? Let mo see, how many helpings do you usually indulge in at that meal ?" "Sometimes two, sometimes three, 'specially if I'm hungry. And I may say I'm desperate hungry after those old jossers' Questions to- day," and the Model Hopeful smacked his lips. "Hot or cold?" was the calm inquiry. "Hot, of course Cold pie has no particular flavour about it worth tasting." "Hot, you shall have it then, my modern model !=cholar!" and. to the amazement and alarm of the juvenile, he was suddenly seized by the collar lifted from the ground, and after a vigorous shake that rattled every tooth in his head, a tremendous switch of the cane descesd ed upon the seat of his trousers. "First help," the Representative as his victim gave a gasp of pain, and then emitting a yell that rang through the deserted corridor. "Here, wot d'ye mean? I'll have the law if you. see if The second helping followed, likewise the third, each progressive in weight and vigour. Then he was suddenly dragged through the corridor into a yard, and notwithstanding his verbal imprecations and struggling remon- strance, the modern model Echolar was lifted bodily and soused effectually in a large horse- trough. '"Now, you've had your 'cold forps' as well as your kidney pi0, hot," said the Representa- tive, as he placed the new shivering, subdued, and whimpering wreck of a model on the tive, as he placed the new shivering, subdued, and whimpering wreck of a model on the ground. "Here, janitor, take this young speci- men of modern education to the outer gate, hand him over guardian of the peace you meet, with strict injunction's from me as the Representative of the Fourth Estate, to hav<e him conreyed instantly from the city to his home on titp penalty of an indefinite deten- tion in the State House of Correction if found in this city one hour after be receives my in- structions." "So much for my first move in reforming the Minister of Instruction's Department," and the Fourth Estate Representative re-arranged his cuffs, adjusted his hat to the proper angle, and welked cheerfully back to the State Repre- sentative dining-rooms. The next day the Minister of Instruction re- signed his office, the resolution of the Repre- sentative of the Fourth Estaf-e in the House to reduce that official's salary by £10 having been carried by a large majority. (To be continued.) 1

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The word "nett" is a commercial adaptation of neat which comes from a Latin word mean- ing shining, clear. "Nett" means clear, pure, genuine, unadulterated. Hence, to bring as clear produce to acquire as a neat or clean ad- vantage or profit, clear of all deductions or dis- I count. In commerce, it means the weig-t of a pure commodity ^ioce, without the Qask, bagr> e,t& r~

DOWLAIS. J JEREMIAH, Plumber, Gas Fitter, and House Decorator, 5, North-street, Dowlais. Lowest prices compatible with ffood workmanship and materials. A trial solicited. Also open to negotiate for the sale or purchase of property privately. Note the address, 5, North-street, Dowlais. GREAT SHOW OF CLOTHIKG for Winter Wear at W. MORGAN DAVIES, 115. High-street, Dowlais. Boys', loutlis, and Men's Suits in ureal variety. An inspection invited. Hats, Caps, ec, ill the newest siiapes. Ye Housemaids and Wives, why bother your lives In rubbing your tables and chairs? Your strength do not waste, use BAGLEY'S "Y GOREU" pa.s'e, Such labour and worry it spares. By rubbing all day, no> wonder you say l our bodies are reeking with palll; Now take the advice we give without price— Don't, rub without Bagiey's "Y Goreu" again. THE WORKS.—Owing to a dispute, the Sie- men's furnacemen, smelters, etc., are idle, hav- ing ceased work on the expiration of notices tendered by them. It it hoped that a settle- ment will soon be made. PERSONAL.—Mrs. T. Griffiths (daughter of the famous cancer curer, the late Mr John Howells, Gwter Fawr), "hoe cfticacious treatment of skin diseases i, al50 well known, has removed to Maesvii'ynon, The Walk, Merthyr, owing to Mr. T. Uriffiihs's appointment necessitating his residing in a. more convenient centre. A.S.R.S SOIREE.—With the object of aug- menting the Widows' and Orphans' Fund of the Amalgamated Societv of Railway Servants, a social and dance, which woro largely patronised, took place under the auspices of the local branch of the Society at the Dowlais Central School on Good Friday evening. EASTERTIDE.—The highest expectations for a glorious Easter Monday were raised after the fine weather of Good Friday and Saturday. The ■mdden change and heavy rains upset all cal- culations, and created bitter disappointment to hundreds of would-bo excursionists. In the town itself there were no attractions, but the Irish Natiojnal Foresters had a. daneo in the evening at the Central Schools. GWERNI.I.WYN CHAPEL.—The closing meeting of the session in connection with the Mutual Improvement, Society was held on Good Friday evening, when the proceedings took the form of a social evening. Delicacies were provided bv the members of the Society, and afterwards all present indulged in various games, etc. The Society has had- a very successful season, the attendance and interest of the members being retained to the end. PRESENTATION.—On tha eve of breaking up for the Eastertide Holidays, Miss Jane Thomas. of the Dowlais Bovs' School, was presented with a valuable silver tea service, subscribed for by the members of the staff. The presentation was made by the head-teacher (Mr R. G. Price) and complimentary references were made to the faithful and kind services rendered by Miss Thomas during the period she has been con- nected with the school. Mr. R. H. Rees, Car- diff (the late headmaster), who forwarded a handsome contribution towards the gift, wrote in blowing terms of the many good qualities ot Miss Thomas, and his remarks were warmly en- dorsed by the members of the staff, who hold Miss Thomas in very high esteem. DOWLAIS LATHES' CHOIR.—For a first appear- ance in competition the recently-formed Lad-es' Choir, under the oTlductorship of Mr. Wm. Hughes, acquitted themselves excellently at the Abergavenny Eisteddfod on Easter Monday. Altogether five choirs made" an appearance, and the local organ nation gave so admirable a per- formance of the test piece, "Gentle Spring." that they secured the second prize, with 74 points to their credit. How near t.hey came to sharing premier honours with the Troedvrh'w Choir will be better appreciated when it i? mentioned that the winners wero only awarded one point more (75). In congratulating the choir upon their initial success, we trust that further distinctions may be theirs in the near future. EATEn SERVICES .—The usual services were held in all the cthurch of the parish, commenc- ing with a celebration of the Holy Communion at the Parish Church at 6 a.m. There were eleven celebrations altogether, and the congre- gations were very larsrf. The churches had been tastefully decorated, and the singing by the various choirs showed signs of careful train- ing. A beautiful niemoria! alms dish was dedi- cated at St. Luke's. GeilifaeloET, in memory of the lat Mr. David Rees and his wife. Mrs. Eleanor Rees. The sanctuary had also been beautified at the expense of the donors of the alms dish, Mr. D. Daniel Rees and Mrs. Rees. Castle-street. A new bell was also used for the first time, and the choir boys were-robed in cassocks and surplices. The whole of th3 money for these objects had been raided through the efforts of Mr. Daniel Davies. Mr. T. Sims, the hard-working choirmaster, Mr. D. D. Rees, and others. "THE GBNTLE SHEPHKED."—On Good Friday evening a large audience attended Bryn Sion Chapel to hear the performance of the sacred cantata, "The Gentle Shepherd" (Challinor), and the miscellaneous programme which pre- ceded it. The Band of Hope Choir were as- sisted by Miss Annio Rees, sopraao; Miss Tyd- fil Brown, contralto; and Master Arthur P. Hughes, solo pianist and accompanist. The conductor was Mr. P. Davies, who made his debut. He is to be congratulated upen the success which attended his labours in the pre- paration of the work. The book may be said to be one of the best of its kind, the music throughout beinr of a high order without being too difficult, and of a very devotional charac- ter. All tha choruses were sung in a manner that reflected much credit upon all concerned. Miss Rees sang- with her usual ease, and her beautiful voice never failed to please, whilst Miss Brown sang with clear enunciation, beau- tiful expression, and dramatic force. The mis- cellaneous items were:—Duet, "Over the Haw- thorne Hedge" (Glover), Miss Rees and Miss Brown; song, "Lead, kindly Light" (Pughe Evans), Mr. Bateman, who sang in place of Mr. Tom Hughes owing to the latter's depar- ture to London; recit and solo, "With Ver- dure Clad" (Haydn), Miss Rees; song, "My Ships (Barrett), Miss Brown, and solo piano, "Rondo in C Minor" (Beethoven), Master A. P. Hughes. The concert was enjoyed immensely, xhe chair was occupied by Aid. Ifor Abraham. Mr. J. T. Williams was the secretary. COMPETITIVE CONCERT.—A successful competi- tive concert was held in Bethania Schoolroom, Gellifaelog, on Good Friday evening, and many of the scholars took part. The chair was occu- pied by Mr. Evan Thomas, precentor and chief superintendent of the Bethania branch Sunday Schools, who did his work well. The adjudi- cators were:—Music, Mr. D. W. Davies (organ. ist of Bethania); recitations, Mr. T. J. Jones (Darrenog), Penydarren. The concert was opened by Mr. J. Jones, who sang "Bwthyn bach melyn fy nhad," and was loudly applaud- ed. Appended is the list of awardsRecita tion, under 10 years: 1, Maudie Pricc, Gas- TOW; g, A. A. Owens, Brynhyfryd; 3, Doris Thomas, Thomas' Cottages. Solo, under 10 years: 1, Ma.y Thomas, Awelfryn; 2, M. A. Davies, Wyndham-street; 3, Doris Thomas. Recitation, under 20: 1, Mr. P. M. Owens, llrynhyfryd; 2, Miss Jenny Price; 3, Miss M. D. Davies, Wyndham-street. Debate, "P'un ni Athraw neu Ymofynwr sydd fwyaf defnydd;ol I Ysgol Sul" Four parties entered, the prize- winners being Messrs. D. J. Thomas (Dewi), Penydarren, and Evan John Jones. Gellifaelog. Two parties entered the choral contest, "Duw Cariad Yw" (Webber), all the members being from the school. The conductors were Mr. Titus Thomas and Mr. Stephen Thomas respec- tively. The prize was awarded to tho party con- ducted by the latter. During the proceedings, Mr. John Roes delivered an address appealing for greater unity and opportunities for the children to develop and display thir talents. Englynion on the occasion were read by "Dewi" (Penydarren). 'I'IKSEED CoifPOUKD' with warm water is an ex. cellent carglo for sore throat. t

Welsh Baptist Festival at Dowlais. The annuaJ "gymanfa" in connection with the Sunday School and Bands of Hope of the following Baptist churches: Caersalem and Moriah (Dowlais), Elim (Penydarren), Panty- waun, and Pontsticill, was held on Easter Tues- day at Gwernllwyn Congregational Chapel, Dowlais (kindly lent for the occasion), in con- sequence of the Oddfellows' Hail being un- available. As in previous years, a specially- prepared programme was arranged for the fes- tival and rehearsals had been actively engaged in for some time previous to the event. The tunes for the most part had been selected from the Sunday School Hymn-book of the denomin- ation, and an anthem from the pen of Mr. J. T. Jones, G.T.S.C., Dowlais, was also introduced. The final rehearsals took place on Sunday at 2 o'clock in Moriah Chapel, the conductor being Mr. Tom JOrloe8. Elim, and the chairman Mr. William Morgan, Pantywaun. In the evening, at 8 o'clock, at Gwernllwyn Chape), the condua tor being Mr. B. T. Davies (Moriah) and the chairman Mr. Richard Jones (Moriah). There were large congregations present, and the sing- ing throughout promised well for the "gy- manfa." itself. The conductor on the festival day was Mr. David Thomas. Pontypridd, who did his work exceedingly well. He held the massed choralist.s in splendid control, and un- der his'skilled baton they rendered the various numbers with great impressiveness, joyful spiritedness, and intense fervour, as the items expressly demanded. In the afternoon gather- ing at 2.30 o'clock. Mr. David Thomas (Elim) presided; and in the evening, at 6.30 o'clock, Mr. John Griffiths (Caersalem) occupied the chair, the sacreti edifice being thronged on both occasions. Mr. T. D. Morgan, Gwernllwyn, presided at the organ, and played the accom- paniments. the choirs being greatly assisted thereby. Solos were rendered durin the meet- ings by Mr. M. Thomas (Elim), Miss Mary Watts (Caersalem). a.nd Miss Rhoda Thomas, and n. trio was given by Mr. D. J. Jones and friends. The committee responsible for the ar- rangements were :—Chairman, Mr. John Grif- fiths, Caersalem; treasurer. Mr. David Harris. Elim; and secretaries, Messrs. David Jonos Moriah, and J. Edwards, Caersalem, who charged their duties most satisfactorily.

Retirement After Twenty-five Years' Management. INTERESTING PRESENTATION TO MR. H. W. MARTIN, J.P. LONG AND HONOURABLE CONNECTION WITH DOWLAIS COLLIERIES. The retirement recently of Mr Henry W. Martin, J.P., from the active management of the Dov/lais Collieries of Messrs. Guest, Keen and Nett.'efolds, Ltd., which he has held for so, extended a. period, prompted a. movement amongst the colliery workmen generally to pay loyal testimony to oue whom, as chief, tney highly esteemed, the occasion boin" regarded as exceedingly opport une. Widespread gratifica- tion. however, was felt that Mr. Martin was not wholly severing the close ties which bind him to his native place, and that he was con- tinuing his connection in the capacity of con- sulting mining expert, and still retaining the superintendence of the farms and the local estate. It must be with a deep pnternal pride that Mr. Henry Martin has watched the gradual rise of his three sons to positions of great re- sponsibility and trust—Mr. G. Foster Martin, manager for some years oast to the Dlaen- avon Iron and Steel Works; Mr. Stan- ley Martin, as chief of the Workington and Pennistone Works, Sheffield, of Messrs. Cammell, Laird, and Company, Limited, a.nd more recently, in August, last,, the import- ant managerial appointment of Mr. IJ, Stuart Martin, his deputy ha the Dowlais coalfield, to the famous Rand Gold Mines of Messrs. Wern- her. Beit, and Co. The testimonial to Mr. H. W. Martin was taken up with spontaneity and great. heartiness by the miners, a.nd the presentation, which had for its officers Mr. Isaac Lewis (chairman), Mr. Alfred Williams (vice-chairman), Mr. Thomas Powell (treasurer), and Messrs. Alec Lewis and Stephen Stephens (joint hon. secretaries) was made at a gathering which throneed the Wim- borne Hall, Dowlais, on Easter Monday. The chair was occupied by Mr. Isaac Lewis, who was supported by Mr. and Mrs. Martin, Mr. John Vaughan (chief engineer, Dowlais and Abercynon Collieries), Mr. D. T. Owen-Davies, Merthyr (late private secretary to Mr. Martin), etc., and the proceedings were most enthusi- astic throughout. A HAPPY COINCIDENCE In his introductory address, the chairman congratulated his fellow-workmen upon the fact that the presentation would be actually con- summated that day, although it occasioned feel- ings of pleasure mingled with regret. When manifesting their tangible tribute of goodwill to Mrs. Pringle (nee Miss Muriel Martin) and Mr. Stuart Martin, they little thought at the time that circumstances would have so afforded themselves an opportunity of bearing practical testimony to Mr. Henry Martin himself, who had spent the greater part of his life in their midst, (applause). When Mil. Martin undertook the management of the Dowlais Collieries a quarter of a century ago, vastly different con- ditions of working prevailed. With his ad- vent the state of things very materially im- proved, and notwithstanding the course of years the pits still ranked amongst the foremost in the South Wales coalfield (hear, hear). They, too, as workmen, by their sympathy and cor- dial co-operation, had contributed as far as it possibly lay in their power, to the develop- ment of the local mining- industry, and rejoiced therefore that Mr. Martin had attained to such a position of eminence and authority in the min- ing world (applause). It was a happy coinci- dence that another Dowlais boy in the person of Mr. Howell Jones had succeeded Mr. Martin in the management in chief of tho Dowlais Col- lieries, and he enjoyed their utmost confidence and best wishes for a success equally pronounc- ed (loud cheers). At. this juncture the Dowlais Male Choir, who were in attendance under the conductorship of Mr W. J. Watkins, F.R.C.O., gave a spirited rendering of "Comrades in Arms." Miss Annie Rees delighted the audience with "Gwlad y Delyn," and as an encore sang with equal suc- cess. "Make new friends, but keep the old"— a very appropriate, contribution. Mr. James John Lewis followed with "Baner ein Gwlad," givD in good style. Mr. Alec. Lewis (joint hon. secretary) then read the statement of accounts with regard to the testimonial, which showed that upwards of J380 had been contributed by workmen, and in- asmuch as the average subscription was 6d. per head, it proved that practically every miner had readily and freely given a quota (cheers). The presentation consisted of a magnificent set of massive flower epergnes, chastely design- ed in solid silver. In asking Mr. Martin's ac- ceptance of the gift. Mr. William Bowen-, one of the oldest colliery workmen, in a touching speech, said that he had followed with keen interest ihe career of Mr. Martin from his boy- hood days up to the present time, a.nd testified warmly to the consideration which the work- men always received at. his hands, and the great improvements wrought, by him in divers ways. Mr. Evan Davies and Mr. Ted Connelly (re- presenting the night workmen) endorsed Mr. Bowen's remarks; and Mr. Alfred Williams re- ferred specially to the distress relieved bv Mrs. and Miss Martin, and their good service at the local soup kitchens during the great coal strike in South Wales. Some stanzas composed for the occasion, and set to the music of "The Soldier's Farewell." were then sung by the author. Mr. Myall Williams, and elicited a round of ap- plause. CONNECTION WITH DOWLAIS. Mr. Martin, on rising to acknowledge the pre sentation, was received with prolonged cheers. He said: "I am exceedingly obliged to you for your very kind words and good wishes voiced by men who have known me and worked under me for many years. I also thank you more than I am able to express for your kindness in pre- senting to me to-day this very handsome lot of silver. It is a present I shall always value and feel proud of. Proud, too, that I can hand it down to my children as a proof of the respect and esteem in which I was held by my old workmen after labouring with them fo-r many years-(chers)-and after twenty-five years' service a-s agent of the Dowlais and DowI3is-Ca.rdiff Collierie6-a period of good 8J1d bad times, but throughout, even when opinions differed, I had the best you could give—your trust in me and your respect (applause). When t question of your desire to make me th;s present was first. mentioned to me, it was with some reluctance declined, because I felt you had already done so much for members of my family, first upon the occasion of my daughter's marriage, and more recently when my son, Stuart, left Dowlais to take up an important appointment in South Africa, where, I am sure. you will be glad to know he and his family are very happy and doing well (applause). But being pressed by you to reconsider the matter, I accepted your kindness, and I am here to thank you one and all for what you have done: and if my warde of thanks are few, they are no less sincere, for I find it difficult to say all 1 feel. If I do not weary you. I would like to say a few words about my family's connection with Dowlais and my working career (cheers). Going back to very old times, many of you, I think, remember tliat my late father, Mr. George Martin, was born in Pen- ydarren, and that when quite young ho com- menced work at Dowlais, and spent the whole of his good life here at the collieries and mines, well known and greatly respected, especially by many of your fathers and grandfathers, who in those days were the colliers and miners at Dow- lais. As you already know, my brother, Mr. E. P. Martin, served his apprenticeship in these works, and afterwards, for nearly twenty-five years, was the general manager or both Dow- lais and Cardiff-Dowlais Works, the latter of which he built (hear, hear). My lato brother, Mr. Arthur Martin, commenced work here, and, as many of you know, was the furnace manager for many years. Like my brother, I was born in Dow. lais, and in 1859 I commenced work by enter- ing the pattern shop in the Ivor Works cIORoe by, my work being valued at 5s. per week. In those days, the turn commenced at 6 a.m. and finished at 6 p.m., unless I worked overtime, as I often did, when I was paid 2jd. per quarter turn. From the pattern shop and drawing office, I went to the Dowlais Penydarren Col- lieries. then to the Dowlais Collieries, and afterwards to the mine pits till September, 1867, when I left Dowlais to spend nearly two years in Sir George Elliot's Collieries, in the county of Durham. Then he appointed me as manager to a couple of his collieries in the Aberdare Valley, known as the Powell Duffryn Collieries, where I remained until October. 1873, when, with my family, I left for Japan as col- liery engineer under the Japanese Government, where I served for seven years, and returned home owing to ill-health in 1880. Within a week of my landing in Liverpool, I was again working in the Aberdare Valley, Sir George Elliot having appointed me agent of the Lower Duffryn, Middle Duffryn, and Blough Collieries. In 1884 I was appointed agent lor the whole of the Dowlais Company's Collieries—a position I held until very reoendy, when, with some re- gret, I resigned, feeling that after fifty years strenuous work I was fairly entitled to ease off to some extent—(applause)—and I now find my self still waiting for the ease I expected. From what I have told you, you will, I think, agree with me that for the past eighty years or so, my family have been very closely connected with Dowlais and Dowlais workmen (cheers). As all things change, so from time to time come changes even in the management of the Dowlais Collieries, and I would take this oppor- tunity of saying I believe your new agenta, Mr. Howell Jones and Mr. Bruce Jones (both old pupils a.nd managers of mine. and both Dowlais boys) are thoroughly experienced and are well known to you, and'that they will both do all in their power for the best interests of employ- ers and workmen, and in doing their part you will do yours, so that the kind feeling which has always existed will continue (hear, hear). Although I have cased to be your manager, we remain as of old, the best of friends; and ew my duties require me to pay frequent visits to Dowlais we shall often meet, and are spared I trust for a long time from sayng 'Good-bye.' All I can now say is—thank you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the way you have always worked fairly and squarely with me. rhank you for the kind and handsome way you have treated me to-day, and accept my best wishes for your happiness and the prosperity of (loud applause). The Dow!a.is Male Choir again won the warm annrecation of the company with the chorus. "Fair Flora decks"; Miss Annie Rees's ren- 3eri £ S .8 £ "Gogfl-bye, wag 1

J. S. DAVIES & COt'S COLUMN. Great SPRING SHOW THIS WEEK AT J. S. DAVIES & Co., 118, 172, 173, 176, High Street, Dowlais. < ■ MILLINERY DEPARTMENT-AN APOLOGY. J. S. DAVIES & Co. regret that through the great rush of trade previous to Easter, so many Customers went unserved. They wish to point out the desirability of their Patrons placing their ORDERS EARLY IN THE WEEK, as the subsequent pressure of business makes it difficult to cope with their requirements. < V i 9 Special Show OF LADIES' COSTUMES ,>. For Spring Trade, All Garments beautifully Cut and Tailored, « Ladies' Millinery FASHION'S LATEST VERSIONS. A. Choice Selection of the Latest Models of Smart and Up-to-date Millinery, HATS, TOQUES & BONNET& Representing the Choicest Products from leading Parisian audi London Houses. Copies and adaptations of real Parisian at moderate prices. Profuse variety of -c FLOWERS, FEATHERS, TIPS & ORNAMENTS, Ladies' own ideas carried out in best style. c- CHILDREN'S MILLINERY A SPECIAL= All Millinery TRIMMED FREE OF CHARGE by Expert Milliners of wide London. Experience, The DRESS DEPARTMENT Is replete with all the NEWEST FABRIM Our CLOTHING DEPARTMENT, j At No. 118, has been entirely RE-STOOKEDF since our very successful Sale. J. S. DAVIES & Co., I.i&l. II Tre.m Terminus is opposite the Door. "All Trams bring Customers to DAVIES S."

Shocking Fatality to a Dowlais Roadman. On Tuesday afternoon, Mr. R. J. Rhys, cor- oner, held an inquest at the Clarence Hotel, Dowlais, on Thomas Jones. a roadman (67), of 14, Berry-square, Dowlais, who was killed on Good Friday evening at. South Tunnel Pit of Messrs. Guest, Keen and Nettlefolds, Ltd. The body Wl- terribly mangled, recognition being difficult. There were present at the inquiry: HTM. Inspector of Mines, Mr. Sant; Mr. J. II. Jones, deputy colliery manager; and Mr. John Davies, J.P., miners' agent. The first witness called was Benjamin Llew- ellyn, a brother-in-l&w, a collier, living in Bar- goed, who gave evidence of identification. Dd. Evans, a rider in the same pit, said that he worked the main rope in the main drift. Deceased was a roadman in the main drift; he was killed on Friday afternoon. He (Evans) took a full journey in and out of the drift. and saw T. Jones sitting in the manhole when tak- ing the journey in, but did not speak to him, they simply raised their hands to one another. He was 500 yards from the parting, and hitched on the full journey, riding on the sixth shackle which was between the sixth and seventh tram; there were 18 in the journey. Tom Summers was also riding on the fifth shackle, rifht. in front of witness. He felt a jerk, and thought it was a stone, or a lump of coa.1, and found it was Thomas Jones lying in the middle of the road. The journey had passed over the deceas- ed, and the other man took the journey to the top of the drift. Deceased would have to go to the top of the drift for his clothes, which was 90 yards off. He (T. Jones) had a shovel with him, which was found a.t the manhole, but his lamp and cap were three yards from the man- hole. This journey was not feiie last one, and was going four to five miles an hour. ol Mr. John Bevan, overman of South Tunnel Pit, said that he was coming behind the jour- ney up the drift, and it had passed him (wit- ness). He did not see Thomas Jones until Dd. Evans called him, and Jones was then quite dead. His lamp and cap were three or four yards below where his body was found. and his shovel was found by the manhole. He did not think deceased was hard of hearing. He would finish his work at five o'clock. He worked the upper part of the drift. Mr. J. H. Jones, deputy manager, on pro- ducing the plan, was sworn. He said the road was ten feet wide by nine feet high roughly, there are ten feet girders in the arching; two feet eleven inches inside the rails; two feet six inches and three feet six inches between the sides and rails. Deceased had worked that road for fifteen years to his knowledge, and it was a first-class road of flat steel sleepers, which are three feet apart and fifteen inches space be- tween the axles and the sleepers. After the Coroner had made a few remarks, the jury returned a verdict of "Accidertal death."

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lent voice and taste and Mr. David Price gave a Welsh selection the accompanists being Mr. W. J Watkins and Mr. Tom Phillips. In moving- a vote of thanks to the Chairman, to Mr. Watkins and the Choir, and'to the ar- tistes for so kindly contributing to the harmony of the proceedings, Mr. Martin declared that he hoped to hear more in the near future of so promising a young songstress as Miss Annie Rees, whose career he would follow with great interest. The vote having been seconded by Mr. J. Vaughan, and duly accorded, a pleasant meeting terminated with the singing of "Hen Wlad fy Nhidaii" and "God Save the King." Mr. Evan Rees Evans sang the solo. 'CO.\GULYXE,' 'KI.INX,' 'TENASITINE.'—Cement* for mending all things.