The Merthyr Express

THE CHRONICLES OF CARTOONIA. BY JOHN BRIND. 'Author of "Household Sketches," "Marmon Hall," "Short History of Bedwellty Church," etc., etc.) CHRONICLE THE FIFTH. t A wave of prudery once swept over Car- •oonia, and like most waves thai come with un- expected force and violence, when it receded left wie land exposed to o sediment of a very un- Pleasanj nature and malefic odour. It appears "iar certain persons in high places in society IVlth superabundant opinions on the moral in- fluences of propriety and boundless conscious- ness of theii own worth, suddenly discovered I superfluity of naughtiness among the people, Arid to pit,. it plainly, considered that the nation -if it, did not oon mend its ways-would go to the doga only they didn't say dogs—they (aid something else. A tremendous stir was raised, and a multi- tude of new born societies, with moral-fetching titles, began to crop up under the patronage of ttraight-laced propriety ladies and godly heads of religion, and a regular bombardment was tuade affainst evils that before had never been thought to exist, and yet had now been dis- covered lying seething ai, the foot of the na- jion'& progress and stability The House of Representatives were soon flooded with peti- tions on the awful ovil that seemed so extant, Mid Acts were demanded with the usual ve- hemence and heated excitomera of extremists to mend or end the latent moral iniquities that Pervaded Cartoonia. Descriptive accounts of these evils were given in all the aakcd language of plain vernacular by men and women from platforms, that made 3ne wonder at the means they must have adopi ed to gain their fund of information and the locjetles issued pamphlets and leaflets by the •ocjeties issued pamphlets and leaflets by the thousand among the people, to such an extent that decent persons began seriously to consider whether it would be worth while to appear in public a, all foi fear of cpmmg under the noses of these sniffers of moral deliquencies, and "hethei it would be safe to visit one's friends mless accompanied by a pnest or a guardiaji Of the peace. No place of business seemed safe from the prying eyes of the new societies, no place of amusement- but, was visited surrepti- tiously by some bland male moral reformer or mittened spectacled female on the look-out for avidence of naughtiness, no meeting of a mix- ed assembly, however decorous the object, but ovas vigilantly scrutinised and sifted, and as for balls, picnics, and socials generally, they Were simply condemned en bloc, and openly declared to be the chief wholesale departments of the Prince of Darkness for the storage of his Own particular provisions. The Grand Society of Pruderies organised a Caa,as meeting in one of the large open spaces Of the capital of Cortoonia for the purpose of forcing the hand& of the Houses of Represen- tatires to recognise the claims of a new moral law upon the nation, and to force measures of Public remedies through their hands that would effectually stay the growth of evils and wicked- nesses that threatened to overwhelm the land with degenerate influence. II. was a mighty tneeting, and the Hypatians, that new order of Women who had suddenly arisen to emulate tnan's power and authority in all governmental departments of the nation, came out in strik- ing force with shrieking declamations to aid the cause. The crowd, unfortunately foi the seriousness of the object of the Grand Society of Pruderies, and probably acting under the influence of that superfluity of naughtiness so vehemently condemned by the reformers, chose to look upon the whole concern with levity, which certainly showed, prima facie, a total dis- regard for the uplifting of a national standard of morality. Every item met with queries as to how the knowledge was obtained, and vollevs of suggestions were hurled from the crowd for I the single ladies to find husbands and the mar- fled ones divorces. A bland, solemn looking pnest amid the speakers, here strode to the front of the plat- form, and in stentorian tones began, "My be- loved people He got no further, for an equally stentorian *oice from the crowd queried, "You mean the women, don't you? Tnese are ail 'beloved' by us." XV, hen the roars of laughter died away the priest continued, "We must have a change in the social life of Cartoonia "All right, governor," yelled the same voice from the crowd, 'I'll swop wives with you, if you like Laughter and confusion here inter- rupted the proceedings, and as the guardians of the peace now began to assume an attitude of concern in the affairs of the meeting, a hasty resolution was proposed from the platform, and declared carried, and the Society of Pruderies retreated amid the outbursts of suggestions and remarks from the crowd that left no doubt in the minds of the reformers as to the awful state of moral degeneracy that existed among their hearers. In the meantime, the House of Representa- tives became very much exercised in their minds over this new wave of reformation, and several members having their hands considerably forc- ed by their constituents, began to bring in Bills on prudery and morsl reform that were debat- ed with heat and inconsequential issues. The development of political epithets multiplied with astonishing originality, and the Chief Minis- ter had much ado to stave off a. riotous conclu- eion to the debate.. At last the Representative of the Fourth Es- tate moved that the House adjourn for mental repairs so that it might find a fit state of mind to discuss dispassionately so important a ques- tion as fixing a national standard of morality. A.s the dinner hour was near, and the weather hot, notwithstanding the importance of the debate, the motion was carried. (Fifth Chronicle to be continued.) ]

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Dowlais Sunday School Union. ANNUAL MEETING AND DISTRIBUTION OF PRIZES. On Sunday the annual meeting of the Dow- lais Auxiliary of the London Sunday School Union was held at Elizabeth-street Presbyter- ian Church, and there was a crowded aud- ience. The service was introduced by ,the Rev. T. (S. i/Avies, Ifor ChapeJ, and after the Children s Choir had sung one of their pieces, the new president. Mr. W H. Oliver, English YVesleyan Chapel, gave the opening address. He said that he was pleased to find such a splendid attendance at the annual meeting, and proceeding to review the work of the Sun- day Schools for the past year, he stated that although good and lasting results had been achieved, yet it was a matter for regret that fewer scholars sat at the recent examination than in previous years. He made a powerful appeal to aU interested in Sunday School work to join and take a hand in making it a greater success. Another chorus and the anthem, "King of Kings," were both rendered in very good style by the choir. The Rev. R: Garbett, superintendent of the Merthyr English Western Circuit, then de- livered an excellent address, and in a very able and instructive manner, spiced with apt illustrations. greatly appreciated by the mixed audience of children and elder scholars, he dwelt upon the three great weapons with which the teachers can best make the Sunday School effective, i.e., patience, tact, and love. After fuither contributions by the choir, Mrs. Prosser Davies, of Beulah School, distributed the prizes of books and certificates to the fol- lowing successful scholars in the recent annual Scripture Examination Senior Gertrude M. Price, Beulah- l&t pnze 10s. 6d.), 1st cer- tificate, to marks (whose paper will be submit- ted for competition in tho "All England" Scrip- ture Examination); Mary A. Searles, Weslev- an, 2nd class certificate, 39 marks.—Upper Mid- dle: Isabel Cook, Wesleyan, 2nd prize (6s.), 1st class, po marks; VVilJiaro Lewis, Wesleyan, 4tb prize (3s.), 1st class, 74 marks, Ada James, Weseyan, 2nd class—Lower Middle: John A. Oriel, Beulah, 2nd prizef(4-s. 6d.), 1st class, 97 marfo; Emma Whitney, Beulah, 3rd prize (3s. 6d.), 1st class, 96 marks; W. Gordon Evans, Beulah, 1st cla^s, 94 marks; Rosie Williams, Elizabeth-street, 1st clas*, 90 marks; John Vic- tor Cousins, Ivor, 1st class, 30 marks; Florrie Thornas. Ivor, 1st class, 81 marks; Jane A. Lewis, AVe-leyan, 1st class 78 marks; Mabel R. Davies, Wesieyan, 1st class, 78 marks; George Luscombe, Ivor 1st class, 78 marks; Dagmar Jones, Elizabeth-street, 1st cla-ss, 76 marks; Jane Lewis. Ivor 1st class, 76 marks; Amy Lewis, Ivor, 1st class, 75 marks; Arthur Jen- kins, Elizabeth-street, ht class, 71 marks.— Junior: Edgar R. Evans, BeuJah, 1st prize I (4s. 6d.). Ist class, 97 marks (All England); Annie WhItney. Beulah, 2nd prize (3s.), 1st class. 96 marks; Frank Lucas, Beulah, 3rd prize (2:5. 1st class, 95 marks. Lizzie M. Thorne. Beulah, 4th prize (Is. 6d.), 1st class. 94 marks: Nana Harris, Beulah. 1st class. 93 marks: Alun Williams, Elizabeth-street, 1st class, 91 n-rkg; Priscilla Lewis, Ivor, 1st class, 90 maxk-s; Brinlew Williams. Beulah, 1st class, 87 marks; H. R. Whittock. Wesleyan, 1st class, 86 marks;; Willie J. Mullins, Ivor, 1st cI, I 81 marks; Henry Ewart Rees, Ivor, 1st class. 00 marks; Horace H. Sweet, Wesleyan, 2nd class, 59 marks. Mr. l>- Williams, Elizabeth-street, the hon. secretary, having read the report and made some remarks, and the Merthyr secretary added his word of. praise, another of Sankey's solos was sung, and the Benediction was pro- le nounced by the Rev. James Williams, Beulah. The singing was under the conductorship of Mr. J. Hubert Harris (precentor of Beulah), who ngt only prepared the massed choir case- fully at rehearsal, but did his work well at the festival, and Mr. Brinley Morgan (Eliza- beth-street) presided at the organ and played the accompanlInents.

New offices for the Government of Queens- land were formally opened on Monday at 409, Strang The Queen returned to London on Tuesday, after an absenoe of six weeks abroad. Among those who welcome Her Majesty were the King, the Prince, cutd Piincesa of ?Jnd those who welcome Her Majesty were the King, the Prince, and Piincesa of d Mt. A4

) DOWLAIS. ( AN INTEBESTING DISPLAY.—HOW "K" Boots are made, and what, they are made of. M7e are exhibit- ing in om windows a choice selection of tine skins of black and brown leather, as used in the tnanu- facture of "K" Boots and Shoes. Nolo Address, W R. WILLIAMS. 51A, High-street, Merthyr. J. JEKEMIAH, Plumber, Gas Filter, and Hous? Decorator, 5, Norlh-strect-, Dowlais. Lowest prices compatible with good workmanship and materials. A trial solicited. Also open to negotiate lor the sale or purchai-cot property privately..Note the address, 5, North-street, Dowlais. GREAT SHOW OF CLOTHING for Spring Wear at W. MORGAN DAVIES, 115. lligh-street, Dowlais. Boys', Youths', and Men's Suits in great variety. An inspection invited. Hats, Caps, etc., in the newest shapes. Ye Housemaids and Wives, why bother your lives In nibbing your tables and chairs r Your slrcnglIi do not waste, use BAGLEY'S "Y GORU" paste, Such lalwur and worry it, spares. ) By rubbing all day, no wonder you say Your bodies are reeking with pain; Now take the advice we give without price— Don't rub without Bagley's "Y Goreu" again. PONTSARN PAVILION AND GROUNDS for tea parties and picnics. Terms moderate.-A -pply, Penrhiwglais Farm, Pontsarn, Merthyr. HELP to raise the fallen. Street collection for Rescue Home, on Saturday next. THEFT.—At Aboravon Police Court on Sat- urday, Florence McCarthy, of Dowlais, charg- ed with stealing a pair of boots, value 5s., from Messrs. Cash and Co., was sentenced to two months' imprisonment with hard labour. MUSICAL.—Mr. W. George Evans (deputy or- ganist of Ivor Congregational Chapel), son of Mr. John Evans, bootmaker, etc., High-street, gave a successful organ recital at Duckpooi- road Baptist Church, Newport, on Thursday evening. His selections included numbers from the pen of the great musical composers, which he interpreted with skill and to the manifest ap- preciation of the large congregation. HOMING SOCIETY—The 1909 programme of the Dowlais and District Homing Pigeon So- ciety was opened on Saturday with a "sweep" from Shrewsbury (71 miles). Forty competing birds were liberated at 8.15 a.m., with the fol- lowing results. 1, E. G, Williams, velocity 1,207, 2, Edwin Richards, 1,180; 3, Aeron Davies, 1,159; 4, Owen Price, 1,147; 5, Benja- min Williams, 1,137. Other fanciers were well up THE COLLIERIES.—The official report of the South Wales Conciliation Board proceedings. handed to the Press representatives on Satur day by Mi Gasgoyne Dalziel, the owners' sec- retary, contained the follow 'ng:The work- men's representatives also complamed that Messrs. Guest, Keen, and Nettlefolds had, on the 1st inst., given notices to the workmen at Fochriw No. 1 Pit, and contended that these notices were a breach of the agreement. The owners' representatives said that the company had given notice because they were unable to carry on the colliery under present conditions of working, a dispute at the colliery having been referred to two representatives of the Board, and these representatives having failed to agree." OBITUARY. We have to record the death at Nant Morlais Villa, Caeracca, of Mrs. Ann Wil- liams, wife of INIR Thomas Williams. The de- ceased was taken ill suddenly, and succumbed to an attack of pneumonia. The late Mrs. Wil- liams. who was 66 years of age, had resided in the district all her life, and was one of the old- est members at Gwernllwvn Welsh Congrega- tional Church, with which place of worship she had been icientified for upwards of half-a-cen- tury, and was connected with some of the oldest families of Dowlais The funeral took place on Thursday, and the large cortege which assem- bled testified to the esteem in which the de- ceased was held generally. The Gwernllwvn Choir sang hymns en route to Pant Cemetery. The officiating ministers were the Revs. Edward Jones and J. II. Hughes (Penywern), both of whom spoke impressively in sympathetic terms. Deceased leaves a husband, two daughters, and three sons. DEATH OF MR. J. LUMLF.Y.—It is with regret that we record the dea.th of Mr. John Lumlev, The Stores, Pengarnddu, at the comparatively early age of fifty-one, after a short illness. De- ceased, who was a native of the place and a member of an old established familv will be greatly missed in the many spheres "of life in which he moved. His gentle and unostentatious manner made him beloved of all who came in contact with him, yet he was energetic and thorough in all he undertook. He died on Thursday (Ascension Day), and was buried on Monday, at Pant Cemetery. A large number of friends and neighbours attended to pay the last tribute to his mortal remains. The service at the house was taken by the Rector (Rev. LI M. Williams), and the Rev. E. R. Davies (Welsh Church), assisted also by the Rev T. Twynog Davies, Cardiff. At the church the choir sang the 39th Psalm, the Rector and the Rev. W. H. Davies, Pengarnddu, ta.king the service. The hymns, "Mae'n cvfeillion adre'n myned" and "0 fryniau Caersalem" were sung Before the cortege left the church the "Dead March in Saul was played by Mr. D. Powell (organist) On the way to Pant several hymns wete sung with feeling and effect. The service at the graveside was conducted by the Rector and the Rev. D. Evans, Vicar of Penydarren. After the blessing had been pronounced, the large1 assembly sang the appropriate and well-known hymn, "Bydd myrdd o ryfeddodau." P.aESENT-kTION, -Apart from the handsome public testimonial made to the Rev. H. Morice Jones, curate of Christ Church, Pant, at the Dowlais Central Schools on Thursday evening. under the chairmanship of the Rev Llewelyn lVl: Williams, R.D. (Rector), the rev. gentleman, who leaves for Llangattock, on Monday, after 15 years' residence in the parish, was, on Monday evening, at the Pant Council School, the guest at an enjoyable social gathering ar- ranged by the Pant Church Choir. An excel- lent spread was prepared by the lady members of the choir, and altogether about 50 persons sat down to tea. A musical programme, di- rected by Mr. James Evans (choirmaster), who presided, was contributed to by Mr. D. H. Wil- liams (organic), Mr. Wm._ Price, Master Stan- ley Thomas, and the chairman. The presen- tation of a beautiful silver pocket communion I "L 1\ oc"'ce (siutatuy lnscnueaj was made to the rev. gentleman on behalf of the choir by Miss Larbara Jenkins. The following also spoke in the highest praise of Mr. Jones: Miss M. A. Thomas and Messrs. J. Evans (choirmaster), D- H. Williams (organist), W. Allen, J. H. 1 eters, T. R. Walters, and T. Cornish. The rev. gentleman having acknowledged the presen- tation, the proceedings terminated with the singing of "Auld Lang Syne." On Tuesday evening the members of the Pant Church Band of Hope presented the Rev. H. Morice Jones with a beautiful engraved inkstand. Mr. James Evans (choirmaster) made the presentation. OBITUARY.—Mr. Thomas Powell, mason, 11, Broad-street, passed away on Sunday morning in his 67th year. He enjoyed good health throughout his life until the past winter, when his family and fri-ends at Libanus Welsh C.M. Chapel noticed that be did not maintain that ruddy appearance so characteristic of him. Af- ter exertion by walking he was often seen sit- ting- in the porch to compose himself before en- tennR" the sacred edifice. The end, however, came very suddenly. On Friday he was at work as usual, and even on Saturday he donned his working clothes. It was soon discovered that he suffered from an attack of pneumonia, to which he succumbed in a very short time despite the efforts of his medical adviser (Dr. H. Lewis Hughes) and those of his family. His powerful voice and knowledge of sacred music were re- cognised by the Church, and especially at the week-night services, where a good leader is es- sentiaJ. When about 20 years ago a vote was taken for the election of a few precentors, Mr. Powell was chosen one of their number. He set to work to learn off by heart the popular tunes, 3 -II s fame as .a pitcher" was maintained up till the end. His continued efforts in connec- tion with the Welsh Calvinistic Methodists "Gy- manfa Ganu" of Merthyr, Dowlais, and district were rewarded two years ago when he was chosen president for the year, a position he filled to the satisfaction of all. When the chapel was renovated three years ago the late Mr. Powell took a great interest in the proceedings, and said on his death-bed that he had hoped to live to see the debt paid off, His last message to the church, which was conveyed by one of the dea- cons, was, "Cofiwch fi at y brodyr" (give my ac re £ ards to the brethren)). These instances suffice to show his devotion to the cause, and his love towards his fellow members. There remain to mourn his loss two daughters. Mrs. Albert Cornish, Hirwain, and Mrs. Tom Jenkins, Broad-street, with whom he lived, and a son, Mr. James Powell; also a brother, Mr. Rees Powell, Francis-street, who is a few years his senior. lie funeral took place on Thursday afternoon at Pant Cemetery, and a large cor- tege followed the remains of the deceased to their last resting place. The officiating minis- ters were Revs. W. Ceinfryn Thomas, Hebron, and Dr. H. D. Jones, Hermon. "A number of his favourite hymns were sung en route to the cemetery by the Libanus Choir, whose members attended Ln strong numbers to pay a tribute to their precentor's memory.

Leave was given on Monday to swear the death of a lady who passed away 156 years ago.

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Free Churchmen and Roman Catholic Schools. I COUNCILLOR EDWARDS AND HIS CRITICS. HAVE THE NON-PROVIDED SCHOOLS BEEN FAIRLY TREATED? A special meeting of the Dowlais Council of Evangelical Free Churches was held at Eliza- i beth-street Chapel, when Mr. D. M. Oriel (the president) occuoicd the chair.—The Rev. Ed. Jones, late pastor of Gwernllwyn Welsh Con- gregationa-1 Church, wrote expressing his most sincere thanks for the resolution appreciative of the work done by him for the Council from time to time, and for the kind wishes for his future welfare. He wished the Council every success in the future. At the outset the hon. secretary (Mr. D R. Davies) read a letter from the Rev Thomas Bowen, who expressed reg-ret at his unavoidable absence through illness and strongly hoped that whatever resolution was passed it would not come shori. of strict adherence to the policy the Council had adopted all along the line. He deprecated the attitude taken up by Noncon- formist Councillors who would treat the Non- Provided Schools like the Council Schools, which are under the Council's full control. He further stated that he could not take up any attitude other than an uncompromising stand against the Nou-Provided Schools being treat- ed like Council Schools. The next business was to declare the Coun- cil's policy with regard to the non-provided schools under the Merthyr Education Author- ity. The President referred to the existing resolutions in favour of the Welsh National I Policy, and he invited discussion, as to whethex they were still of the same opinion.—Several speakers mentioned that, as far as they could see, the Merthyr Council carried 'out the Welsh National Policy. A DENIAL. Councillor Isaac Edwards said he would have been pleased if the President, who bad introduced the question, had taken up a stronger attitude in this matter,* as although tho item on the agenda simply stated that they were there to "declare the policy of the Dow- lais Free Church Council towards the non- provided schools under the Merthyr Education Authority," everybody in the room, reading between the lines, u'nderstood that this was more or less an attack upon himself. In the first place. he (Councillor Edwards) wished to make it clear that although he never asked the Council officially to support him at the recent municipal elestion, still he would concede at once that there was a close conncction between the Council and himself, his continuous inter- est in its work justifying any criticism. It had been stated by some persons indirectly in- terested in this matter that sinca he had been en the Council there had been a direct effort made to get the Council to repudiate the Welsh national policy. He wished to deny that statement, and to take the opportunity of replying to thone critics who had rushed anonymously into print and who had given public utterance to messages complaining of the attitude of certain Nonconformist coun- cillors in this matter. His attitude was that while advocating complete popular control in educational matters, he wanted to see the Ll fullest measure of fair play given to all non- provided schools, and was utterly opposed to sweating those schools and making a profit upon them to the relief of the rates. Since he entered the Council, he had discovered that the grants received from the State for the pur- pose of maintaining and managing the Dow- lais Roman Catholic Schools were not being spent upon those schools, and he submitted that the money earned by those schools should 1>3 solely spent in meeting the cost, of educat- ing the children attending them, He had en- deavoured to get to the bottom facts in this matter, and from such figures as were avail- able, he found that the income received from the Dowlais Roman Catholic Schools was baing used to benefit other non-provided schools in the district, and after their deficits had been made good, what was left was used in relief of the rates. He considered that if it was obnoxious tc Free Churchmen to pay for Roman Catholic teaching, it was equally ob- noxious to Roman Catholics to pay for Protest- ant teaching. If the Welsh national policy was to be carried out—no rate-aid for non- provided schools then common justice d-e., manded that each school should receive the full benefit of the money given by Parliament for that particular institution. Still, the que-so tion they were considering that night was whether or not the non-provided schools in the Borough were on the rates. Some suggested that they were; others said the\ were not. If they were on the rates, then the Welsh na- tional policy was being ignored, and anyone who urged that further public monies should be spent upon those schools was going con- trary to that policy. If they were not, then it was well for the public to know it. He felt quite confident him-elf that the members of the Dowlais Free Church Council did not wish to adopt a policy of petty persecution, find although Free Churchmen in the past had suffered ser.ous disadvantages when they were in a minority, now that they were in a major- ity on the local authority, they did not want to turn tyrants and persecute any other minor- ity with whose opinions they differed. PROFIT ON CATHOLIC SCHOOLS. The earliest figures he bad been able to secure were a summary of receipts and ex- penses for the financial year ending-the 28th February, 1905, issued by the Education Auth- ority. and they showed that whereas the Dow- lais Roman Catholic Schools earned in the period a grant of JE946 16s. 8d., only £ 738 14s. 10s. was expended on them, leaving a profit of £ 208 Is. 10d., there being also another item of profit from the Merthyr Roman Catholic School. This joint balance was, in the first place, used to wipe off the deficit upon St. Davids (Merthyr), Pentrebach, and Graig- berthlwyd Schools: and after doincr that, there still remained a profit to the Committee on the years working on the five schools of jS241 16s. Id. further, the Local Government Audi- tor had stated in a report to the Council that for the financial year ending 1907 the whole of the five schools had been managed, with the result that there had been E204 profit made out of the grants. It should be borne in mind that in the ca*e of the Roman Cath- olic Schools a sum of £100 had been deducted by the Board of Education because of the refusal of the Authority to properly staff and maintain the schools, which meant that the schools had been penalised by the Local Auth- ority. The Board of Education went a step further in reducing the grant which should have been given them for the maintenance of this school by £100. To come up to date, Councillor Edwards submitted an income and expenditure account for the year ended 31st March, 1909, in which be showed that after taking into account the items of expenditure for that year, and deducting the same from the grants and other earnings in respect of that school, there still remained a balance over and above of B138 7s. If it was right and proper that no moneys should come from the rates to pay for those schools, he asked, then was it not equally right and proper for all moneys gained in grants by the Catholic schools to be spent upon these schools (hear, hear). With reference to the Local Government Auditor's report. Councillor Edwards gave an illustra tion or the difference in the amount spent upon provided schools and non-provided schools, the figures showing that the sum spent per child in certain provided schools was nT !r' ,and ln certain non-provided schools v.- u "l. Taking £ 2 18s. as a fair figure which should be paid in a year for the educa- tion of a child, he stated that in the non- provided school, the teacher spent half-an-hour each morning and afternoon in religious in struction, which meant one hour a day. The school hours were five hours a day, so that four-fifths of the time was given to code work au- w io to relig'ous instruction. Dividing this £ 2 18s. in that proportion, it meant that to treat equally the child in the non-prov;ded school with the child in the provided school- from a purely secular educational point of view, leaving out all questions of religious te-bing-the child in the non-provided school should have at least four-fifths of JS2 18s. (which amounted to J62 6s. Sd) spent upon it by the authority. SUGGESTED ARRANGEMENT. With regard to any possible claim of the Roman Catholic School Managers for a full tour-fifths of the money earned by them to be given to them for the management of their schools, he pointed out that before that could u ne» *^e teachers in the non-provided schools must be freed from religious tests. In conclusion, Councillor Edwards said he was proud of the fact that the Nonconformists of L Dowlais and Penydarren stood by him in his election, in spite of the mis-statements which had been made. He repeated also the figures which had been given as to the proportion of the hours spent respectively in religious and code teaching in the non-provided schools, ar stated that in his opinion the only fair and equitable mode of treatment was the standard- isation of the teaching staff in all schools, and then to pay each teacher according to services rendered to the Education Authority For in- stance, if a Council teacher wa-s worth £ 100 a year for 25 hours of Government code educa- tional work each week, then a non-provided school teacher of equal merit should have JB80 a year for the same teaching limited to twenty hours a week, and the difference, viz., the pay- ment due to that teacher for the five hours spent in religious teaching per week, should be paid at the same rate of wages by the managers of the non-provided school, who were responsible for such work. The managers, probably, would contend that they found this difference in the rent which was due to them in respect "of their schools, which rent they would allege they did not receive in cash but in kind. To have that point made clear, he would advocate that in each case a sum be fixed as the correct figure to be charged as rent for each school premises, and this sum the man- agers should be given to allot to their staff as they thought fit. Other speakers having addressed the meet- ing. Councillor Isaac Edwards replied to the criticisms made. The policy of the Welsh National Council, he said, and. in fact, that of the Free Church Council;; of Great Britain, had been to withhold rate aid, but to allow the tail Exciiaousx graatq to be pspA & S0 £ "Pr_-i' » vided schools, and he contended that in to far as the Dowlais Roman Catholic Schools went, that policy had not been exceeded. He alleg- ed that it was unfair and unjust to keep from those schools the whole of the moneys earned k o by them. He had urged that in two cases certificated teachers who applied for advances should be given those advances, and, at the most, such advances, if granted, would not have exceded £ 25 in the year. If these resolu- tions had been passed, there would have been still left over £ 100 profit upcn the schools. At the close. the following resolution was carried by an almost unanimous vote:—"That this meeting reaffirms its fait.h in the Welsh National Policy of "No rate aid to non-provid- ed schools.' and expresses its appreciation of the fact thai according to Councillor Edwards' statement, the Merthyr Education Authority lias not, departed therefrom."—Councillor Ed- statement, the Merthyr Education Authority has not, departed therefrom."—Councillor Ed- wards heartily thanked for his able ad- dress. and a vote of confidence in him was unanimously passed. Sunday trading was next djscussod. and Mr. D. M. Oriel, Mr. J. Edwards, and Mr. H. Jones were appointed to interview the Chief Constable upon the matter. RESCUE HOME, MERTHYR TYDFIL. Street Collection on Saturday next. Look out for the boxes. Piease help in this good work. s 1

Dowlais Man's Death in the States INTERESTING CAREER. I MINERS' LEADER—LAWYER—LABOUR COMMISSIONER. The "Drych," the Welsh-American paper, re- cords the death, after a brief illness at Cleve- land, of Mr. W. T. Lewis, of Columbus, Ohio. Deceased, who was born at Dowlais in 1861, emigrated with his parents to the States at a very early age, and commenced working in a Pennsylvanian mine when only seven years of '[ age- He continued working in the mine until he attained his twenty-second year. During bls, coal-cutting days he was a diligent student, and, had set his mind on becoming a lawyer. He was called to the bar in 1888. For a number of years he occupied the position of president of the Miners' Federation of Ohio, as well as other important positions in the Trades Union move- ) ment. Latterly, however, he was a Labour commissioner, and it was his duty in connec- tion with the Free Public Employment Bureau which took him to Cleveland a week or so be- fore his death. During his stay at the latter place the town was visited by a tornado, ac- companied by hail and torrential rains. The storm became so fierce that it was dangerous to walk the streets, and everybody fled to a place of safety. Deceased, who had found re- fuge, seeing a poorly.clad woman being merci- lessly beaten by hail and the torrential rain, braved the elements, and took the unfortunate woman to a place of safety. During this ordeal, however, he was drenched to the skin, and suf- fered considerably from the cold, and in a few hours pneumonia set in, terminating fatally in a couple of days. Deceased was married to a Blaenavon lady, a daughter of the late David J. and Mary Jones. DON'T SPOIL YOUR WHITSUN HOLIDAY by go- ing away without a camera. You can buy one for as small a sum as 5s. from Henry M. Lloyd, Chemist, Victoria-street, Merthyr. —

Fatal Fight at Ystradgynlais COLLIER CHARGED WITH MANSLAUGHTER. DECEASED MAN A NATIVE OF DOWLAIS. A serious affray, resulting fatally, occurred at Ystradgynlais on Monday afternoon be- tween two collier?- About half-past four the row started outside the Mason's Arms. A collier, named John Williams, 37, of Cardigan- row, a native of Dowlais, appeared to have engaged in a fight with an antagonist, and a couple of men who saw the fight state that Williams wa< struck several blows, one forcing his head against a wall, and another being received over the region of the heart. He im- mediately collapsed, and on being picked up it was found that he was dead. The affray 'was witnessed by very few persons. The man alleged to be conc3rned did not attempt to escape, and Sergeant Jarrett, of Ystradgynlais, very shortly afterwards arrett- ed him in the Mason's' Arms. He was a colliet named Gwilym Jones, 43, whom the policy charged with manslaughter. He is a married man with five children, and lives in Susannah-street, Cwmtwrch. Dr. Walsh, who examined the bodv of the deceased, could not find any external marh of injury. It is stated that a few blows were struck, and that Williams staggered and fell and died immediately. Information was given to the police, and the body was taken to the Masons' Arms. Deceased it is said, suffered from heart disease. Two cyclists, named John Edward Cox and Thomas Rich- ards, both of Ystalyfera, saw deceac-sd in the fight. Deceased was a native of Dowlais. INQUEST AND VERDICT. At Ystradgynlais Police Station (Swansea I Valley) on Tuesday, Coroner Dr. W. R. Jones, of Brecon, held an inquiry into tire death of Williams.—Rees Thomas, a young collier, said that at 4 o'clock on Monday he and a friend cycled up Gored-road, towards Ystradgynlais. when they saw the prisoner Jones and dc- ceasixL Another man held the prisoner, who wanted to fight deceased. Witness afterwards went up the road, and met the men running down. Witness and his friend saw deceased on the ground, and the prisoner and two other men walking away. Deceased was lying on his back. He was not dead then. Deceased said something, in reply to a question, which, witness did not understand. When he first* passed deceased was frightened, for lie was "slinking" away from prisoner. He heard one of the men with the prisoner say, "Got up, Jack; you ain't knocked out yet. I'll back you up." The Coroner: Did you tell the police-ser- geant yesterday that prisoner said, "Let the b- lie there until a motor car runs over him" ?—No. Are you quite sure?—Yes. Prisoner walked away without offering any help tc the dia. ceased. Gwilym Morgan, a boy of 14, said he saw two men fighting. Prisoner was hitting de- ceased on the chest. Deceased's head went against the waU, and as he got up prisoner again hit him in the stomach, and he fell on his back. The witness added that so far as he could see it was a regular fight between the two men. Thomas Jones, Susannah-street. Cwmtwrch. collier, said that he, William EdwaTdj, and prisoner were at the Ynyscedwyn Arms. They went from there towards the Masons' Arms. When hajfway down they met deceased, who asked prisoner, "How are you, Gwilym, you coward?" and with that gave prisoner a blow. Prisoner hit him back, and deceased fell on his back on the road. The Coroner: You only say a blow?—Wit- ness: Well, two or three, no more. That was all that passed. I went to pick de- ceased up. but not receiving any answer I felt him there and we went down to the Masons. I was a little under the influence of drink, so also was William Edwards and the prisoner. We had drinks afterwards in the Masons. The Coroner: Did you speak about it in the M asons ?—No. Did you know deaceased was dead? Yes; somebody told us. I heard the sergeant speaking to prisoner, but did not give any in- formation. The Coroner: Do you not consider it a most shameful thing to do to leave a man dead on the road and not to volunteer a statement when you knew all about it? William Edwards, Cwmtwrch, gave similar evidence, adding that he only saw two blows given. He went away a short way and then returned to pick deceased up. He thought deceased was only stunned at the time. William Edwards, re-called, said he held pris- oner after he had received a blow from de- ceased. Prisoner broke from him and g&ve him a blow, from which deceased fell. Sergt. Jarrett said that when charged, the prisoner (Jones) made the following statement: Sergt. Jarrett said that when charged, the. prisoner (Jones) made the following statement: -"I met John Williams, the deceased, about mid-way between the Masons and the Ynys- cedwyn Arms. I was going towards home, and Williams was coming to meet me. I asked him what was the reason he called me a b about public houses. Williams then struck me at once. I did the best I could afterwards, and he fell, but not with my blow. Williams was drunk and if he was soblr this wouJd not have occurred, and I left him lying on the road and went away." The sergeant add- ed he had ngt reeeived any assistance from the witnesrses. Dr. WaJsh, Ystradgynlais, said he made a post-mortem examination in company with Dr. Riordon. The cause of death was syncope.- The Coroner: Was the death due to a natural cause?—I cannot say. The Coroner: We have had a post-mortem examination, and you are asked here to help the jury.—Witness replied that it wa, impos- sible for any man to find the cause of death if it was due to syncope caused by excite- ment. Would any violence accelerate death?—Yes, and excitement and death might be due to either or both. The Coroner, in summing up, aid if this had been an accidental occurrence, it might have been expected the men chiefly concerned would have been ready to explain the matter, but their conduct was against, them. He thought, the cause of death should have been found. If the prisoner had accelerated death, then they would find prisoner guilty of manslaugh- [ ter, and death from syncope could be acceler- ated either from violence or excitement. If the jury came to a conclusion apainst prisoner Jones, then they could not help finding against Thomas Jones and William Edwards as acces- sories. The jury found that the blow sriven bv Gwilym Jones was the cause of Williams" death. and that Thomas Jones and William Edwards were accessories after the fact.—The tliree men. were committed to the next Brecon Assizes.

Learn to attend strictly to youj own business Yu, U»i>0 £ kat poigt 1. J. S. DAVIES & CO.'S COLUMN. Great Exhibition! Every Day until Whitsun. J. S. DAVIES & Co. |. Milliners, Drapers, Costumiers, &c., 118, 172, 173,176, High Street, Dowlais. 0 pr 1 w* ILa. MILLINERY DEPARTMENT. I J. S. DAVIES & Co. wish to point out the desirability of I their Patrons placing their ORDERS. EARLY IN THE | WEEK, as the subsequent pressure of business makes it | difficult to cope with their requirements. 1 —————————————————————————————- :f"" MANTLES AND COSTUMES.—COSTUMES of all descriptions in, various shades of PLAIN CLOTHS, also TWEEDS and CREAM SERGES. A great variety of Lustre and Alpacca COATS, in. the Newest Styles, and perfect fit and finish, from 8/U. CLOTH COATS in endless variety, beautifully Tailored and Trimmed, at( all prices. BLOUSE ROBES in Zephyrs, Cambrics, Muslins, and Embroidery. I Our selection of COSTUMES for this season eclipses all our previous efforts for variety of Designs, exclusiveness in Style, and moderation in price. LADIES' AND CHILDREN'S MILLINERY.-rThe Choicest Products of the leading Parisian and London Houses. Ladies should visit oorl Showrooms and inspect the Latest Models. Here are seen the pro- ducts of the most Noted Designs of the day, and we inv&e yoati inspection. Every Creation is unsurpassed for beauty and originality.' Immense variety of Flowers, Feathers, Tips and Ornament«L.hy faJ the largest and richest choice in the neighbourhood. We are known experts in INFANTS' MILLINERY and COSTUMES. BLOUSES AND SKIRTS.—Women are Connoisseurs when it-comes^ BLOUSES and SKIRTS. If there is one thing the gentle sex a ok joy in common, it is a desire for Blouse Smartness and Skirt BeautW We are now demonstrating how thoroughly prepared we are to satisty every desire for becoming garments. An unprecedented assembfatgaf of New Creations awaits early inspection, Immense Variety of WHITE EMBROIDERED MUSLIN1 BLOUSES, perfect in Fabric and Fashion. DELAINE and COTTON STRIPED BLOUSES, from 1111% DRESS GOODS.-In this Department is a profusion of New Goods, NeW Fabrics, and New Patterns. The Goods on our counters should J thoroughly inspected. We are sure of pleasing our customers. Laces, Gloves, Sunshades, Hosiery, Neckwear, &c. MEN'S DEPARTMENT.—At No. n8is fully stocked with'Mèn'Yfuith and Boys' Suits, Hats, Caps, Hosiery, Ties, Collars, Silk Handker- chiefs, &c. Tram Terminus is ODDosite the Door. ii All Trams bring Customers to DA VIES S." SEWING MACHINES To suit every pocket. New Lockstitch Machines, 42s. Best V.S. Machines, with polished cover, 65s., with all the latest improvements. You may pay double the price, but cannot get a better machine. r7'i;r'10f1l'V1"5"jr'ia REPAIRS ALL MAKES; don't be persuaded that your old machine is worked out, bring it along to JAMES, who will make it work as new, having over 20 years' practical experience at your disposal. OILS, NEEDLES, and parts stocked for all kinds of Sewing Machines. JAMES, 15, North Street, Dowlais.

Aged Athlete's Sudden Death. The inquest touching the death of Edward Powell (56), underground smith, 2, Old Pit Cottages, Cwmbargoed, who died on Tuesday week, as recorded in our columns, was con- ducted by Mr. R. J. Rhys (district coroner) at the Merthyr Police Station on Friday. Do- ceased complained of pains in the region of the heart, and died 6uddenly in the evening.— Dr. Davies, Fochriw, said there was distinct evidence of cardiac failure. What surprised the doctor was deceased's stamina and ability to stand the experiences of the past few years. Powell was of an athletic turn of mind, and as recently as last Easter ran in a sixty yards' handicap at Pontypridd.—A verdict in accord- ance with the medical evidence was returned. The funeral, which was very largely attend- ed, took place on Saturday afternoon at Pant Cemetery, where the Rev. E. R. Davies, curate-in-charge of St. Mary's Welsh Church, assisted by Cupt. Roberts (Church Armvi offici- ated.

FOCHRIW. CLOTHIKG AND BOOTS.-You will find at T. Fine and Co.'s the largest and most comprehensive Stock of Clothing and Boots in Wales. Men's suits from 16s. lid. to 45s.; Youths' suits from 12s. 6d. to 26s. lid., well-tailored and well-fitting garments; always something new in Fancy Suits, for httle boys, at moderate prices.—T FINE & Co,, Pontlottyn. ORDERS for Printing of every description may be left with Mr. J C. Payne, 7, Railway- terrace, the local representative of the "Mer- thyr Express." BAZAAR.—Great preparations are in progress for the bazaar which will be held at the Church Hall on Wednesday and Thursday in Whitsun week, in aid of St. Mary's Church building fund. Various amusements will be provided inside and out, and the articles, &c., will be sold at moderate prices. It is to be hoped that the bazaar will prove successful in every respect. I.O.G.T.—The weekly meeting of the Star of Focbriw" lodge of the International Order of Good Templars was held at the Baptist Vestry on Thursday evening week. The programme for the evening was Gleanings from this Quarter's Programme," in which the following took part:—Sisters M. A. Lewis, secretary, Bronwen Ballard, V.T., Elizabeth Evans, Ceridwen Thomas, F. Sec., Bros. Wm. Griffiths, D.C.T. Daniel Rowlands, Thomas Thomas, treasurer, Wm. Jones, C.T., James Williams, chaplain, and Charles Payne, L.P. The meeting was presided over by Chief Templar Bro. Wm. Jones. There were a good number present and an interesting evening was spent. SOIREE.—The C.M. annual soiree was held at the Council School on Tuesday. The tables were beautifully laid out, and there was a splendid spread. The following ladies presided at the tables:—Mrs. T. Roberts, Mrs. Elias Davies, Mrs. (Capt.) Jones, Mrs. Maggie Davies, Miss Ellen Davies, Miss Kato Lawrence, Mrs. Maggie Pugh, Miss Elizabeth Ann Parry. They were assisted by the following :-Miss Mary Rees, Miss Mary Lawrence, Mrs. Edgar, Miss Maggie Slimmons, Miss Sophie Slimmons, Miss Katie Jones-Davies, Miss Doris Davies, Miss Mary Jane Angell, Miss Jennie Jones, Mrs. J. M. Jones, Mrs. Evans (Williams'-row), Mrs. Evans, Mrs. Williams, Mrs. Budd, Mrs. Jones, Mrs. Parry. The following gentlemen renderesd assistanc e :— Messrs. John Lawrence, Tom Pugh, Rod. Jones, Peter Jones, Elias Davies, James Lawrence. — — —— —

HORTON'S I.X.L. PILLS Are Guaranteed to cure Private Cases, Dis- charges and Complications of the Urinary and Sex- ual Organs, in cither sex. whether acquired or con- i. stitutional. also Gravel and Pains in the Back; warranted free from Mercury. Sold in boxes 4s. each. Sent post free by the Proprietor, G. D. HOR- TON (late Chief Dispeiiser, from the Birmingham General Hospital) (Dept. 29), Aston Road, North, Birmingham. LETTERS ANSWERED. HAVE I NEVER BEEN KNOWN TO FAIL. N.B.-Can- <<iiii>^MMjttotMbgw[had^rom^othet>^hej^isU;MM^^ Organ & Pianoforte Tuning ft Repairing. HANDEL EVANB, Late 01 Mr. W. BuRR, 29. Broad Street and Beethoven House, DOWLAIS. MODERATE CHARGES. r CHEAP WOOD WORKS. 1 I .M < .*> Steam Saw Wills. Timber, < Joinery and all kinds of Building Materials. Cots of all kinds in sections orpnt together. Light Rafters and Boards, 5a. 100 feet. Solid Rainwater Shoots, 4d. ft., hold up against snow. Illustrated Price List. Id. stamp. Carriage paid anywhere. TILNEY, ch^ORKSood Abertillery. • • mmtmm • I DON'T LOSE ANY MORE I QUARTERS. I Get One of our ALARMS; It will fetch I you up with a jump I I And it will wear and keep time for 10 yean, 1 1 Challenge Alarm 3-9 I Repeating Wake-up Alarm 4 6 |] 1 Early Riser Alarm, rings 15minutes 6 11 ■ gee our Name on the Dial. I Delivered Free 4d. Extra. I J. ELLIOT & Co., & The Hayes, I 0 Oomer of Royal Arcade CARDIFF. V; • i • mmtrnm • m mamm • i SPECIAL OFFER! EASTER WEDDINGS are the chief topic in many homes aD the moment. Are yon to be married at Easter ? If so read an if not—well then your friend who is. HARRI S'S. The Pioneer Cash Furnishers, IN NEWPORT MARKET, Are offering some marvellous tBARGAINS IN SMART FURNITURE At unheard of Prices For Instance- Solid Oak DINING-ROOM SUITES, well upholstered in good patent leather, at £4 5s. Od. the complete suite. Sideboard to match, also Mirror in stylish frame. Burr Walnut BEDROOM SUITE, the latest London design, with side mirrors, handsome glass door Wardrobe with rQomy drawers, price com. plete-9 Guineas. Entire furnishing for SITTING RQOM, cboica suite in tapestry or silk velvet, ruby plush, velvet or saddlebags; dainty cabinet, with bevelled mirrors, plush lined cupboards, oarbriole legs j hand paipted screen all braes kerb, and brasses to match Axminster carpet, square and hearth. rug to match ormulo clock, and ornaments to match cornice pole, pair lace curtains, the whole lot for 16 Guineas, delivered free anywhere in Monmouthshire, in our own vans. Massive brass-mounted Bedstead and Bedding, complete for Fifty Shillings. Come and see this marvellous line. Cheaper than Birmingham or London. All brass Bedstead— £ 3 15s. Charming mahogany Bedroom Suite, with double glass doors to Wardrobe, fine finished throughout, oxidised handles; Dressing Table with reflex mirrors, three jewel drawers, two short drawers, three long drawers, landscape glass, all bevelled plates, locksand keys fitted to all drawers; Royal St. Anne's marble top Washstand, with mirror over, art tiles in back, reversing towell airers, six drawers in washstand, locks and keys, pedestal cupboard. This is the very latest 1909 design, and is offered for 13 Guineas, complete, delivered free, N.R —Tram fare paid. Luncheon and Tea provided ttfit on furnishing order. E. E. HARRIS, THE MARKET HALL, DOCK STREET, NEWPORT. SERVANTS can easily be obtained by ] the use of a small Want Ad. in thessi i columns. State your requirements, and 4 Yom will be our* to get suited at on 9,