The Merthyr Express

ABERDARE. DON'T FORGET that Friday' next, January 7th. is the first day of the Great Winter Sale at R. T. JONES & Co.. Drapers, etc.. Market Square, Merthyr Tydfil. Every Department will be offering Object Lessons in Economy. AMBULANCE,-The members of the Aberdare Fanciers' Society are to be complimented upon the steps which they are taking towards fur- thering the cause of ambulance work in the district. They have decided to hold ambulance competitions during the annual Dog and Poul- try Show in the town in Easter week. Drs. E. J. Trevor Jones and G. Morris, Mardy, will ad- judicate. Further particulars will appear later in our advertisement columns. SUNDAY SCitooi--At the annual meeting and prize distribution in connection with the Aber- dare Sunday School, in the unavoidable absence (through illness) of the Superintendent—Mre. (Rev.) J. M. Jones—the pastor (Rev J M. Jones) presided On behalf of lis wife, he thanked the officials and teachers of the school for their faithfulness during the year. The Sec- retary (Mr. D Lawrence) then reported that five of the children had made the full attend- ance -during the year, while a number of others had only missed once. The collections and at- tendances showed an increase during the year Mrs. Jones was re-elected superintendent of the school for the forthcoming year, and the Treas- urer (Mr. E. H. Evans) and Secretaries (Messrs. D. Lawrence and T. Morgan) were also re- eleoted. A vote of thanks was accorded to the officers and teachers for their services during the past year. ODDFELLOWSHIP.-The Aberdare District of the Independent Order of Oddfellows, Man Chester Unity, held its annual meeting on Mon- day, at Mr. Pugsley's Temperance Hotel, under the presidency of Bro. Stephen Lloyd, assisted by Deputy Grand Master David Lewis as vice- chairman, and the corresponding secretary (Mr. J., R. Jones). The district trustees present were Bros: Lewis John and David Davies, with a full complement of delegates. Bro. Thomas Williams (Bruce Lodge) was appointed Tiler for the day. Cash receivers appointed were Bros. Thomas Morris (Temple of Love Lodge) and the two trustees. The district secretary read the report of June and September meet- ings, which were accepted and confirmed. Three delegates were allowed to remain in the meet- in? instead of those appointed by their lodges. Bros. David Phillips (Harlech-place) and G. Robbling were appointed tellers during the vot- ing. After a very keen contest Bro. William Jenkins, of Tudor-terrace, was declared to be the Deputy Grand Master for the ensuing year in place of the Deputy, David Lewis, who has been raised to the position of Grand Master. Bro William Richards, Cwmaman, was ap- pointed junior auditor of district accounts. It was decided that P.P.G.M.'s Stephen Lloyd, 434, Cardiff-road, Aberaman, and Lewis John, Hawthorn-terrace, should represent this district at the next A.M.C., which will be held during Whitsun week at Southampton. It was agreed that the two delegates to the A.M.C. should attend a conference of South Wales and Mon- mouthshire delegates at Swansea in May next. The sum of 22 10s. each was granted from the auxiliary fund to Bros. William Jones, Fern- dale, and Morgan Thomas, Trecynon. A com mittee was appointed to arrange for a general demonstration during the present year, which will be the Centenary of the Unity. ORATORIO PERFORMANCE.—For years past, the choir at Calfaria Baptist Chapel have been in the habit of giving excellent performances of some work once a year. On Boxing Day, in ad- dition to the oratorio, "The Prodigal Son" (by Sullivan) in the evening, an organ recital was given in the afternoon by Mr. W. H. Webb, organist of St. Elvan's Church, Aberdare, while Miss Mary Lund and Mr. John Prout rendered vocal solos at intervals during the performance. Mr Webb's manipulation of the fine organ was very fine, and elicited the warm encomiums of enthusiastic musicians present County Coun- cillor D Hughes presided. In the evening, Councillor Hughes again presided, and the Cal- faria Choral Society (under the conductorship of Mr. Dan Griffiths) grve a very fine rendering of Sullivan's "Prodigal Son." The perform- ance was opened with a fine instrumental intro- duction by Mr. W H. Webb, introducing the wonderful chorus, "There is joy in the presence of the Angela of God," which was given with great effect bv the choir. Mr. D. Ellis then rendered the solo, "A certain man had two sons," with fine effect. This was followed bv the recitative, "My son, attend to my words, and the air, "Trust in the Lord," by Mr. J. Prout, whose fine baritone voice was much ad- mired. The recitative, "And the younger son," was then rendered by Miss M. Lund very artis- tically. The solo and chorus, "Let us eat and drink," was then rendered by Mr. Ellis and the choir, after which a fine rendering of the recit- ative and chorus, "Woe unto me," was given by Miss. Strangeway6 and choir, followed by a very sweet rendering of the song, "Love not the world," by Miss Strangewavs; the recitative, "And when he had spent all"; and the air, "0 that thou hadst hearkened to my command- ments," by Miss Lund. The solo, "How many hired servants," by Mr. Ellis (in the character of the "Prodipal Son"), was followed by a very fine rendering of the chorus, "The Sacrifices of Cod," by the cboir; the recitative and duett. "And he arose and came to his father"; and "Father, I have sinned." by Miss Lund, Mr. Ellis, and Mr Prout The latter then followed with a charming rendering of the recit. and air, "Bring forth the best robe," and "For this my son was dead," after which the choir sang, "0 that men would praise the Lord." Mr Ellis's fine renderings of the recitative, "No chasten ing," and the air, "Come, ye children." was followed by the quartette, "The Lord is Nigh," by the Misses Lund and Strangewaye, Messrs. Ellis and Prout, the whole clsoing with a superb rendering of the chorus, "Thou, 0 Lord, art our Father," by the choir. The choir and conductor (Ir: Griffiths) are to be lughly com- plimented on the splendid performance given.

I MAD WITH ITCHING I suffered from eczema for over two years. r It commenced with a slight rash on my neck, and rapidly spread to other parts of my body. It was on my neck, under my arms and on my legs and abdomen. At times it would burn as if I' had been scalded and at other times the itching nearly drove me mad. I was under the care of my own medical man for some time but got no better. Then I tried several other remedies which were recommended to me but I gradually got worse. I have had to leave my family at meal times, and at other times too, and shut myself up in a room and walk about for an hour at a time, wishing I could hide myself from everyone or that I were dead. A friend advised me to go to a skin-hospital. This I did for some months but I derived no benefit whatever. I was given up in despair. One day I happened to read of a case which I was very similar to my own and that had been completely cured by the Cuticura Remedies. I resolved to give them a trial. I shall be thankful all my life that, I did so, as after using the Cuticura Soap, Cuticura Ointment and Cuticura Pills for six months I am now II entirely free from this most horrible' disease. Mr3. E. H. Read, 12, Anson St., London Rd., Liverpool, England, Dec. 22, 1908, and Mar. 14, 1908,"

Mr. Edgar Jones at Aberdare. ENTH["SIASTIC MEETING. The first meeting of the electors of Aberdaro addressed by Air Edgar Jones, the official Liberal contiidntc, was held at the Market Hall, last Friday, and was a most enthusiastic gather- ing, reminding those old enough to remember of the enthusiasm displayed at the meetings held in suppor' of Mr Henry Richard, the first Nonconformist member for Wale. in 1868. The chair was occupied by the Rev. J. Morgan Jones, the prfwident of Aberdare Liberal Association, who was supported by the candi- date; W. F Roell, M.P for Pembroke- shire; neva, James Griffiths, Calfaria; R. E. Williams (Twrfab), Ynyslwyd; J. Hathren Da- vies, Cefn; AJd. D. W. Jones, Merthyr (presi- dent of the Merthyr Liberal Federation), Coun- ty Councillor Morgan J Harries, Councillor T. Walter Williams, Aberdare; Councillor Isaac Edwards, Dowlais (secretary of the Merthyr Liberal Federation and election agent), Messrs. D. W. Evans, secretarv of the Blaengwawr Ward Liberal Federation, D. Williams, chair- man of the same WaTd Association. F J. Cal- dicott, secretary of tho Aberdare Liberal As- sociation J LJoyù, Merthyr; D. Stephens; Evan Jones, secretary of the Cwmbach and Aberaman Cooperative Society, D. Williams, Neville-street. *idtys Aubrey Roberts, County School; E. S. faU, etc. N SHAM FIGHT. The Chairman, in opening the proceedings, "Aid it was his proud privilege to come there that evening as the president of the Aberdare Liberal Association, to introduce officially Mr. Edgar Jones, the candidate selected by the-Fed- eration (loud applause). He then dealt at some length with the presnt political situation, and said that at last the Liberal Party was engaged in a fight with the House of Lords (applause). It had not come a moment too soon (hear, hear). He then dealt with the doings of the House of Lords and with the Budget. Tho pre- sent fight was not a sham fight. They had too long been playing with politics, but at last the fight had been opened in real earnest (cheers). The speeches of the Prime Minister, of Mr. Lloyd George, and the other leaders had put heart, in the party—(hear, hear)—and in their candidate they had a young man filled with the spirit of Welsh Nationalism, who had also en- tered upon the fight in earnest (loud applause). Alderman D W Jones, Merthyr, said he felt it his duty, as president of the Association, to speak. In that capacity, he was proud to be be present to support the candidature of Mr. Edgar Jones. The Association had been for- tunate in securing the services of such a dis- tinguished young Welshman, and he ventured to predict that Mr. Jones had a brilliant future before him. Mr Aubrey Roberts proposed a resolution ap- proving of the candidature of Mr. Jones, and said that Mr. Jones, if returned, would prove a Valuable acquisition to the Liberal Party (ap- plause). Dealing with tite issues of the fight, the speaker said that if they lost control of finance, they would lose their liberty. If Tariff Reform won, he predicted that within a few years a revolution would out in the coun- try, the like of which had never been seen before.—Mr. David Willisw Gadlv. seconded the resolution. THE CANDIDATE'S SPEECH. Ir, Edgar Jones, who was received with cheers, referred to the honour which had been conferred upon him by the Association The Liberal Party, he said, were making history— like the Magna Charta made history—making history with the name of "George" at the head (loud applause). The cause of Liberalism was a great one. He was not going to say anything about the other candidates in the field, and he hoped his supporters would not do so. He felt that when a man appeared before a mining community, and talked about the benefits of Protection, he ought, to be given a fair hearing (laughter) The speaker proceeded to em- phasise the absurdity of a tariff on ijnports. After a brief reference to the Old Age Pension scheme, the candidate said that when the Budget was passed and the House of Lords re- moved—(heai, hear)—the first thing that the Liberal Party would go in for would be a establishment Bill for Wales. Mr. Fox-Da vies had remarked that he was at a loss to see how a Bill of this kind could benefit Wales. That was becaiae Mr Fox Davies's national educa- tion was deficient (laughter and cheers). He then dealt with the question of Disestablish- ment at- great length, rousing his hearers to a pitch of enthusiasm, after which he passed on to deal with the Budget. LORDS AND THE LAND. I Mr. W, F. Roch, M.P who was accorded a warm welcome, said that four years ago they met, as they were doing that night, on th.e occa- sion of the death of a Government. On the former occasion, however, the Tory Govern- ment was dying of senile decay—(laughter)— whereas the present Government was full of life and vigour when it succumbed to the treacher- ous attack of the Lords. The Liberal Govern- ment had, out of the wreck of South Africa, added a province to the Empire (hear, hear). He dealt with their record, and referred es- pecially to the Old Age Pensions and the Bud- get. As to the possibility of obtaining the money for Old Age Pensions without having recourse to Tariff Reform, the Budget was a complete answer. Mr. Balfour, a Free Trader with mental reservation in favour of Tariff Re- form, had, in a telegram sent to Shropshire, tried to show it was impossible, but the answer of Mr. Lloyd George in the Budget was com- plete (loud applause). He then dealt with the various clauses in the Budget. The great fault of the Budget, in the opinion of the Lord" was that it touched land. The Lords owned one;third of the land of the country, and wished to govern the whole (laughter). It was said that the House of Lords passed three resolu- tions. The first was the earth is the Lord's— (laughter)—the second was, He provideth for His saints; and the third, we are His saints (re- newed lauchter). A Liberal Government would never again take office under the condition that the House of Lords could kill a Budget (loud applause). He pointed out that 402 members of the House of Lords owned 14 million acres of land, and someone cried out, "Mr. Roch's father owns land in Pembrokeshire." Mr. Roch smartly replied, "My father is in Heaven, I hope, looking to more just laws than land" (applause) The fight, he continued, was not against land ownership, nor for the destruction of property. As to the charge that the Liberals were in favour of a single chamber, he said we had been living for twenty years under a single chamber. Questions were then invited, and Mr. Jones proved himself a well-versed politician in the prompt manner he dealt with every question sent up. He said he was m favour of the aboli- i tion of the present poor law system, and in some respects would go beyond the report of the minority on the Commission. He also dealt with education and Disestablishment, but ob- jected to a religious census. He was in favour of leasehold enfranchisement and the removal of the pauper disqualification in the case of Old Age Pensions, and also in favour of the reduc- tion of the age limit. He was in favour of the Shop Hours Act and of Home Rule for Ireland, as well a8 votes for women. As to the Osborne case, he would' support a Bill legalising the payment of Parliamentary levies, but would like to see the Bill before committing himself to details in Reference thereto. The vote of confidence in Mr. Jones was then passed, with only two dissentients*

Eisteddfod at Aberdare. On Christmas Day a well-attended Chair Eis- teddfod was held at Soar Welsh Congregational Chapel, Aberdare. The chair WM occupied, in the unavoidable absence of Mr. D. A. Thomas, M.P by Mr. D. M. Richards. The adjudicator for poetry, recitations, etc., was the Rev. T E. Nicholas, of Glais, who also acted as conductor. Mr W E. Davies (Gwilym Towy), Hlrwain, and the accompanist Mr. Haydn Jones, Aber- da,re. The secretarial work was efficiently car- ried out by Mr. James Hughes, 4, Graig-street, the treasurer being Mr. Arthur Davies, ,64, Monk-street. The following were the prize- winners in the various contestsGirls' solo, "hfi sy'n magu'r baban". 1, Miss Blodwen Evans, Aberaman: 2, Miss Maggie Abraham, Aberdare. Recitation for children under 10: Miss Agnes Evans, Aberdare. Boys' solo, "Dacw Gymru yn y Golwg": Master Evan Williams Hushes, Aberaman. Recitation for those under 14 (own selection): 1, Miss Lizzie Evans, 15. Brook-street, Aberaman; a second prize being divided between Miss Maggie May Williams, Cwmaman, and William H Atkins, Mountain Ash. Soprano solo, "Y Gardotes Fach': Mrs. Annie Evans, Gadlys. Stanza (englvn), "Salm" Mr. J T. Davies (Glan Dulais). Pianoforte solo, "May Day" (S. Claud Ridley): Mr. T. J Morris, Abercrave. A mag- nificent oak chair was offered for the best poem in the free metres (prvddest), of between 200 and 30G lines, on "Bugeiljaid Bethlehem. Of the four poems sent in, that bearing the nom- de-pilue, "Calon Wrfcb Galon, 1 was adjudicated the best. On being called, it transpired that the winner was Mr. D. Jenkins (Darrenfab), Trecynon, who was duly chaired with the full bardic honours, and was congratulated with poetic effusions of varying merit by the. bards present. The chairing song was given by Mr. Roger Williams, Godreaman. Results of other competitions were: Bass solo, LY Bachgen Devr": Mr. John Jones. Gadlys. Poem (tel- yn^.sr): The prize was divided" between Mr. W. Rowlands, Cwmaman. and Gweledydd," Aber- crave. Tenor solo, "Cartref" Mr. Regor \v II- liams, Godreaman. Recitation (own selection) Mr. James Williams. Aberdare. A prize of £1 10s and a. silver challenge cup value £1 15s. were offered for the best rendering by a, male voice party, numbering from 20 to 30. of j Codwn Hwvl" (Dr. Parry. Four parties com- peted. viz.. Sharon Glee Society, Aberaman (con- ductor, Mr. Gwilym Evans). Aberdare L/iberal Club. Glee Party (Mr J. O. Jones). Meibion Graicr Glee Party (Mr. Dan Davies, A.C.). and the Trecynon Party (Mr. T: H<?nry Ha rries), the' prize being awarded to the Aberdare Liber- al Club Party. The party, accompanied by the conductor, proceeded to the Liberal .Club, where they were warmly received and congratu aied on victory. Here the rw-rty fortn'al.'y pre- sfn: d the <-hallert"<' cup to tlv c:onanvti-rf in turn, presented it to .the Club, to be kept I there as a memorial of theii .victory.

ABERDARE POLICE COURT. WEDNESDAY.—Before Messrs. D. P. Davies (chairman), D. W Jones, and L. N. Williams. CHIMNEY ON FIRE.—Wiliam Thomas John, of Aberaman, was summoned at the instance of P C. Walsh for allowing his chimney to be on fire,uuA line of 2s. 6(1. was imposed. TtLEFT OF COAL.—John Cornwall and John Howelis were charged with stealing coal, the property of the Bwlch Colliery Coy., Hirwain. :'Ifr, W. Tvensholo prosecuted. P.C. Lewis, llinvain, said that on the 18th ulf. he saw the defendants in Hirwain. They had bags of coal in their possession. Questioned by the wit- ness, they said they had got it from the Steam Coal siding, but they eventually admitted that they took it from the Bwkh Colliery. Mr. J. E. Sladen, the secretary of the colliery, valued the coal at sixpence. Both defendants pleaded guilty, and were fined 15s. each. PERSISTENT CRUELTY. —William Turner was summoned by his wife, Margaret, for persist- ent cruelly. Complainant said she had been married to defendant two years. There were two children. She left him three weeks ago on account of his conduct. —An order for 10s. j a week was made. POLICE ASSAULT.—Robert Jones was sum- moned for being drunk, and also for assault- ing a police constable, and also for damaging a helmet. P.C. Harbottle said he saw the de- fendant in a drunken condition in Penrhiw- ceiber-road, Penrhiwceiber. Witness took his name and address. Shortly afterwards defend- ant came back to where witness was standing. He threw two stones at him, neither of which, however, did any damage. He threw another stone, which struck witness's helmet and made a hole in ir, and his head was badly bruised as a consequence. The damage done to the helmet. amounted to 7s. 6d.-Defendant was fined 10s. and costs for being drunk, JE5 or one month for the Il6sault, and he was ordered to pay 7s. 6d. for the damage done to the hel- met TELEFT OF BEEF.—John Gould was charged with stealing a piece of beef, the property of Evan Williams, butcher, Abernant. Prosecut- or said he had a mea.t stall at the Aberdare Market. The defendant was brought to him. He had a piece of beef in his possession, which he recognised as his. John Harris said he saw the defendant take the piece of beef in question from Mr. Williams's stall.—P.C. Williams gave evidence of arrest. — Defendant pleaded guilty, and was fined JB1. THEFT OF A HARE. — Josiah Llewelyn was charged with stealing a hare, the property of Thomas Watkin Thomas. Thomas said he went to the Fothergill Arms, and had a hare in his possession, which was placed on the seat by his side. Later he missed it.—P.C. Beva.n gave evidence of arrest.—Defendant, in reply to the charge, said Thomas handed him the hare, and told him to sell it for him.—A fine of 15s. was imposed. CLOSING ORDERS.—Col. T. Phillips. clerk to the Aberdare District Council, applied for clos- ing orders in respect of 3 to 9, Incline Row, Cwmaman, houses beloneing to Mrs. Phillips, wife of Rev. T. C. Phillips, Vicar of Skewen and a Mrs. Jones, of Towyn. Mrs. Phillips was represented by her husband, and Mrs. Jones by her son (Rev. Jones, Mountain Ash). Col. Phillips said that notices had been served on Mrs. Phillips and Mrs. Jones, but nothing had been done by them. — Mr. Ben Lewis, sanitary inspector, testified to serving the notices.—Dr. M. J. Rees, medical officer, said that the houses were badly in need of repair. The masons were at work last week there. Notices were given in July, and nothing was done until September. —Replying to the Rev. T. C. Phillips, witness saId that the houses were very dangerous ad were also unhealthy. — Mr. Phillips protested against the strong language which appeared in the three clauses in the notice. The houses, he said, were not unhealthy.—The Clerk, replied, and said that in accordance with the law they had to frame the clauses in the way they ap- peared in the notice.—The Bench ordered that the houses should be closed until such time as the necessary alterations mid improvements had boon carried out SERVANTS can easily be obtained by the use of a small Want Ad. in these colurfins. State your requirements, and you will be sure to got suited at once.

Aberdare Territorioh The following is a complete list of the prizes won by the members of the Aberdare Terri- torials m the recent shooting competitions, as well as a list of the donors. The report ap- peared in our last issue:- The Marquis of Bute,£3 3s. Donors of £1 Is. — Sir W, T. Lewis; the High Constable; Colonel Phillips, Colonel Evan Jones; Messrs. J. E. Elliott; Powell Duffryn Colliery Co.; W. Thomas (OakhilJ); U. Uanri; L. Oregor; F. W, Mander: D, P. Davies, Capt. Malyon. H. C Lewis, £ i. Donors of 10s. 6d.. Mr Rees Williams: Mr. D. A. Thomas, Workmen's Club, Mr. J. D. Hughes; Mr. G. T. Davies, Band Institute,; lIlr, Rees Llewellyn, Mr. C. Kenshole. Dr. Rhys. Mr. W. F. P. De Winton. Mr. C. M Lewis; Mr L. N Williams, Constitutional Club; Mr. E. M Hann; Mr. D. Hughes; Mr. R. L. Rhys (coroner), Dr. Davies; Mr R. T. Rees. Donors of 5s. Rev. C. A. H. Green; Mr. E. L. Jones. Messrs. Watkins and Lane; Mr. D. E. Davies, Dr. Scale. Father O'Reilly; lr. D. W. Jones, Mr. D. p, Jones; Ir. F. Stenchcombe; Mr G. Tudor Wiliams; Mi. McLaren; Mr. D. Davies. r G, H Rake; Mr Reddoe: Mr. G. Tuckfield: Mr. H. T Morgan, Dr Gwyn Jones; Dr. Finney; Mr. D. C. Davies (Swan); Mr. Jaync, Mr. Ben Jones, grocer, Dr. Banks; Mr. J H. Powell; M R. David (Grange); Mr. Rees Rees; Dr. R. F. Thomas; rr. J. Jones, builder, Aberaman: Mr. Roberts; Mr. C. Edwards, Mr. F Harrison Donors Thomas; Mr. T. Davies, Cwmbach. Donors of 2s. 6d.: W. Langman; J. H. Evans; Mr. Shannon, D R. Llewellyn, D. Phillips; D. Williams; S. Jones; Mr. Lloyd; V. H. Jones, M. Isaac; Mr. Harmston: J. Crowley, Michael Thomas. Mrs Baker; Pugh and Rowlands; W Comnton, J W. Thomas, draper; T, J. Owen; D. Rees, Tre- cynon; Mrs. Williams; C. H Elford; Rev. R Jones; J. R. Smith. Mr. E. A. Lewis; W Whit- ing: Ir, Edwards, grocer: Mr Watkins; E. Pugh; A. Phillips. Trecynon, S. W. Isles; A. V. Churchill; M. Phillips, erocer: D. James. Cwmbach: Dr. Murphv; D. M. Richards-, iur. Morris. Cartref; D. Gordon; Fforchneol Arm?. Mr. Beecham, Sergt. Chivers; Rev. Powell, Aberaman; Ben Lewis, manager. Mr. Temple; T. Rees, Broad Oak; J Dumayne; T. Roberts: Mr. Collier, Dr. Hoffatt: Cwmneol Inn; Marti/i. Donors of 2s. F. T. George. Mr. Goldstone; Mr. Oxenham; W. Reynolds; Mr Vickery; Lloyd. tobacconist; W. J. Evans, Commercial-street: Taliesin James; Mr Scott; B. Grant; Mr. Pugsley: Mr. Paddock; InsDector N'ott; Queen's Hotel: Coun. T. Lewis, G. Thomas; J. Jones: J. L. Jenkins; D. B. Jonps: Thomas Bros.; D J. Jones; Mrs. Evans: D. Bowen; D.M.John; R.Owens: M. Leigh: Mount Pleasant: Aberaman Hotel; Masons Anns:. Do- nors of Is. 6d.: D. W. Davies: A. Friend. Donors of Is,: J. Lloyd; T. Edwards; Silas Evans; Z, Davies: Mrs. Johns; M. Lewis; Griffin Inn, T. Davies; A. WykeA. Phillins: Mr. Fine; D. Phillips: G. Strickland: D. Davies: D. II, Da. vies, Talbot Inn: D. Lane. Mrs. Cochrane: D. Thomas: T. Evans; Miss A. Jones; J. George: Castle, Cwmdare- Collier's Arms; Tom Llwyd, Railway Inn: E. Morris: T. G. Evans; Mr. liish- OP: G. Matthews, Mrs. Allen. Mrs. Parr, Gd.; H. ■ Phillips"3d" LIST OF PRIZE WINNERS. Serst. Price, £2 10s.; CoL-Senn, Fowler, £2 5s., Mr. Twissel's teapot and jug, Mr. Evans, grocer, j lb. of tea; Corpl. Mosle.v, £ 2, Major walking stick, Hopkins, ironmonger, value 2s. 6d.: Pte. Humphreys. £1 155" Lloyd. grocer, ?, Ih, of tobacco; Pte. C. Chislett, £1 Mr. Ruther brace of pheasants, Lewis, Aheraman. 1 lb. of tea. Pte. W. Burford, £ 1 7s. 6d.. London Warehouse umbrella. Thomas, Gadlvs, muffler; Pte. W. J. Lewis. £ 1 5s., Pte. G. Richards, £1 2s. 6d.; Pte E. M. Gray, £1. Mr. Caunt's prize; Pte, W, Hemlock, 15s., Davies, i ironmonger, lamp, R. Jones. jeweller, value 2s. 6d., Corpl. J Davies picture. Har- ris. chemist, one bottle of perfume: Pte. F. Allen, 15s.. Black Lion Hotel, value 5s. 3d., 1 lb. toffee. Mr. Roberts; Pte. M. Billingham. 12s. 6<:1,. Mrs. Evans leg of mutton. Moses, urocer, 1 lu, tea, Pte. D. R. Mr. Churchill nair of leggings, Parr, Aberaman, hook Pte. D C Cmer Mr Waring value 5s 3d., Thomas. Gadlys. bullock's heart: Pte T.Humphreys. 10s., Mr. War- ing value 5. 3d., Handley. bullock's heart, Pte D. Pte. W J. Morgan, 10s.. Mr. Waring value 5s. 3d., Mr. Morris, tinsmith, prize: Pte. Ti. Rees. 9s.. Mr. Waring, value 5s. 3d.; Mr. P. Pennington, 9s.. Mr. Grace joint of mutton; Major W. D. Phillins, Mr. A. D. Jones fancy box of cigarettes: Pte. T. Lewis. 9s., Mr. Lloyd, Commercial-street, value 5s., Mr. Picker- Pte. W, A, Lewis, 8s., Mr Evans hat. value 5s.. Roberts, grocer. Cwmbacil. value 2s. 6d,; Pte. H. Edwards. Pte. W. G. Robin- son, 8s., Mr. Miles joint of meat. Mr. F. Price pipe, Pte. J. Evans. 8s., Rhos, Wenalit. prize, value 4s. 6d.; Pte. T. Pugh, 78,. Commercial Inn prize, value 5s.: Pte.G.Miner. ís" Phil Thomas pipe, Mr. Bey- non a pair braces; Pte. J. J. Williams. Worthing. ton's prize, Mr. Griffiths boots. D. W. Mills, value 55.; Bugler C. Brayshaw, 7s., Williams. box cig- arettes, E. Da vies bullock's heart, Pte. W. Wal. ters. 7s" Mr. Cadogan's pnze. Prince of Wales, Aberaman, Mr. Hiley. value 2s.; Pte. A. ,heen, IS., Mr. Pardoe's prize, Freemason's Arms prixc: Pte. J. Webb, 7s.. Mr. Doult box of cigarettes; T. Mor- gan pipe- Pte. J. O. Jacob's medal; Pte. R, Whitbread, Mrs. Use hie clock. Black Lion Hotel, value 5, 3d,; Pte. R. Hicks, 6s.: Pte. J. Hemlock. Mr. Halewood pair of boots, Mr. Evans, grocer. Cwmaman. ] Ih. of tea; Corpl. P. Thomas, Mr. Harris, B. and W. photo, value 21s" J. W. Morris, value 2s. lid.: Pte. L. Owens, Dr Trevor .1011(" clock. Mr Bentiy, Crown Hotel, value 4s. 6<:1.; W Moseley, 6:< New Inn. value 5s.. Ptc. W. R. Pt, S. Blliott, Mr. Reed's lamp: Pte. C Jones. Mr. Walters, optician, pair field glasses, value 21; Mr" Mills box of chocolate; Pte. C. Hamments, 5s.. Prince of Wales bottle of port, Pte. T. Jones, Oliver's boots, Owen's, confectioner, cake: Pte. J. Allen, Thomas, jeweller, clock, Cambrian Hotel, value 5s.; Pte. J. Jones Cash Companv boots, l armer's Arms bottle sherrv Lieut. R Williams, Smith, stationer, foun- tain pen: Pte. S. Wilkins Lieut. Williams' biscuit barrel, Mason's Arms prize, Pte. A. Thomas, Allsops prize. Cow bridge Arms prize; Pte. R. J. Thomas, 5s., Mr. Perrott hox of tea; Pte. T. H. Humphreys, 58., Ben Evans J lb. tobacco: value 5s,; Pte. J. Davies. 5s. Pte. R. James, my BrewervV prize. J. W Hart hare: Pte. M. Ellis, Pte. W. Edwards, 4s.; Pte. E. J. Gray. Emlyn Morris umbrella, tleathcock Inn, value 5s.; Pt, W. Davies, Major Phillips teapot. Butcher's Arms value 5s.; Pte. D. G. Davies, 4s:. Eastrtian's joint of meat, Pte. F Parsons. 4s.. King's Head hóttle of rum: Pte. R. J. Camery, Lieut. Manders crnet stand, Mr. Ha.vter's cake; Pte. C. Davies, 38.; Pte. E. Price. 3s., Waynes Arms. bottle port. Pte. E.Jenkins, Lieut/Hannah's cruet stand, Mr. Robins clock-; Pte P. Evans. Masters' prize Ids. 6d.. Rock Inn value 58.; Pte. T. Jones. 2s. 6d., Railway Bar value 5.; Pte. J.; Davies. George Brewery prim, Mr. Bick, Bugler. 1. Hayter Mr Hal''pair of pictures, box of sweets, Miss Thomas; Pte. R. Walters. 2s.6ù" Blaengwawr value 5s.; Pte. D. A. Jones, 2s. 6d" Greyhound Inn oottle zinger hrandy: Pte. T. W. Thomas, mark Liçm Brewery value 5s. 3d.. Central Hotel botfle ginger brandy, F. Hull, Mr. Hodges prlí Pte. G. j&tHLion Brewerv value 5s. 3d.. Mr i"l Pte, M--E, 2, L -«<e «. Ti/oi-.a. Mr.. "FIOOK« itiiibre.ia. V'V ;.„ir of bracts; Pte. J. -J Lewis, 2: mt; IS. Xa^ior, 4| Jfc, vjyi fif r«b!)il6.

Death of Mr. Richard Powell, Aberdare. A well-known figure in Aberdare passed away on Thursday morning last, in th9 person of Mr Richard Powell, College-street, Aberdare, for over forty-one years agent to Messrs. Stephen- son Clarke and Co., the well-known coal ex- porters of London. Deceased was a native of Aberdare, and was at the Park School ("Yegol Commin," as it was then known) in the days of the iate Mr. Oan Laac Davies. when Sir T. Marchant Williams, Mr. John Rees, H.M. In- spector of Schools, Mr. John Giles, now cashier at Nantmelin Colliery, and others, who have since held di8tinguishsd positions in life, were pupils and pupil teachers at the school. Since he became connected with Messrs. Stephenson Clarke and Co" he has iu his busins capac. y come into contact with most of the coalowners and colliery officials throughout the district, and his genial disposition, coupled with his strict integrity in business, had made him a favourite with his ,employen, as well as whom he came in contact with. The deceased leaves a widow and three sons. I The funeral took place on Monday last, and although the hour was an unusually early one and the weather was most unfavourable, a large lJumbr of residents attended ÎO pay their last tribute to his memory, thus proving that deceasetj was held in high esteem. The offici- ating clergyman was the Rev. K. 0, Carter, M.A., and the undertaker Mr. Fred. D. E. George. Among those present wore:—Messrs. I F. Sarvis; A. Wilson, Prince of Wales; Levi 0. Morris; T. Lloyd, grocer; C. Preece, traffic, manager, P.D., Aberaman; It. Preece, Aber- aman; J. J. Jones, traffic manager, Abernant; — Jones (of Jones Bros., tailors', Bridgend; Prance Williams; — Prance (Oliver's Boot Stores), Aberdare; C. Botting, ex-G.W.R. loco' inspector E. Edmunds, G.W.R. loco' inspector; Inspectors Irving and Davies, G.W.R.. Aber- dare; W. Hughes, M.E., Abernant: W. Tho- mas, Werfa; T. Evans, Cremona House; Geo. Thomas, inspector (T.V.R.), College-street, Aberdare; James Jones; John Evans, Com- mercial Hotel; John Davies, E. Shannon, S. Lewis, D. Davies, H. Phillips, Alexandra- terrace; R. Williams, College-street; Rowland Pritchard, Thomas Williams, W. Lanman, G. W. Price, Abraham Richards, W. Jones, L. Evans, County Councillor John Howell, W. Eaton, D. Davies, J. Morgan, D. Peters, W. Farley; John James, Tudor-terrace; Charles Taylor, Co liege-street, etc. Following the gen- eral public came the hearse, in which was placed the remains of the deceaared in a solid oak coffin, bearing his nime and age. The coffin was covered by some magnificent wreaths sent by the following:—Widow; Mrs. D. J. Jones, niece, .Llwynypia; Mr. Morris, Dany- coed, Aberdare; Messrs. Stephenson and Clarke, London; Mr. Chambers (Stephenson and Clarke). Cardiff; Officials and Employees of the G.W.R., Aberdare. The following were the mourners :—First coach: Mrs. Powell, widow; Messrs. Richard Powell, Tom Charles Powell, and Elliot Powell, ons; Mrs. Colcomb, mother-in-law; Mrs. Charles Powell, sister-in- law, Second coach; Mrs. D. J. Jones, Llwyny- pia, niece; Mrs. W. Jones, Clydach Vale, sister- in-law; Mr. T. Wirley, Cambrian Combine; Mrs. W. Colcomb, Trowbridge; Mr. William Coloomb, Clydach Vale, brothers-in-law. Third coach: lr. C. Preece, traffic manager, P.D. Company, Aberaman Mr. Giles, cashier, Bwllfa Collieries; Mr. Edwards, Aberdare; Mr. D. M. Richards, Aberdare. After the hearse came the followingMessrs. Charles Powell, Tvlors- town, brother; Richard Powell, T'lorstown, nephew; Mr. Gwilym Griffiths, Glynneatb, nephew; Mr. John Williams. Pontardawe, brother-in-law; Mr. D. C. Williams, Pontar- dawe. nephew; Mr. D. Jones, Clydach Vale; Mr. D. J. Jones, Llwynypia; Messrs. D. Camp- bell, William Price, Harry Colcomb. Clydach Vale: Mr. David Powell, Caerau; Mr. D. P. Morgan. Merthyr, agent for Stephenson and Clarke (representing the firm).

Christmas Day at the Industrial School. On Christmas Day the children at the Indus- trial School and Cottage Homes at Trecynon, numbering close upon 200, had a most enjoy- able time. At noon a. sumptuous Christmas dinner of roast beef and plum pudding was par- taken of in the dining-room, which had been beautifully decorated by the officers, under the superintendence of the Master and Matron (Mr and Mrs. Owen). During the dinner hour, Mr. John Prowle (chairman of the Training School Committee), Mrs. D. M. Richards (vice-chair- man), and the Rev. W. S. Davies (ex-chairman of the committee), visited the school and ex- pressed themselves very pleased with the ar- rangements. In the afternoon, games, etc., were indulged in, after which a sumptuous tea was partaken of—Christmas cake, fruit, etc., in plenty being provided, after which the beautiful Christmas Tree was stripped of its pretty gifts, each child being supplied with one. Councillor Frank T. James, Mayor of Merthyr (clerk to the Board of Guardians) had very kindly sent a substantial cheque to supplement the Christ- mas Tree, and this enabled the Master to pur- chase a hobby horse for the babies, a football for the boys, and some games for the girls. Twelve library books were also purchased and distributed among the Cottage Homes. In the evening the children gave a performance of "Dick Whittington," which was thoroughly en- joyed.

Feature of the Year. AN ABERDARE PASTOR'S REVIEW. The Christmas service at the Tabernacle Con- gregational Church, on Sunday evening, was a musical one, the choir, under the conductorship of Mr. R. Hopkins, having prepared a some- what elaborate musical programme. Mr. E. Moses presided at the organ After a hymn had been sung, a portion of Scripture was read by the minister, after which a carol, "The Birth of Christ." was sung. A portion from Ecclesi- astes on "Famous Men", followed as the second lesson, after which the choir sang "Sweet, Happy Tidings." and a prayer was offered. The anthem, "There were shepherds," was then sung by the choir, after which the hymn, "Brightest and best of the sons of the morn. ing," was sung by the choir and congregation. The pastor (Rev. J. M. Jones), without taking a special text, then spoke on "The great events of the past year and their lessons." He said the year had great memories from the past. great triumphs in tlJe present, and awakened great hopes for the future. This year was notable for being the centenary of the birth of Charles Darwin, Lord Tennyson, Oliver Wendel Holmes, Abraham Lincoln, and William Ewart Glad- stone, as well as the fourth centenary of the birth of John Calvin. The year had witnessed the wonderful triumph of man over nature in f he discovery of the North Pole, the practical introduction into use of wireless telegraphy, and the practical conquest of the air. In all this we found that the king of the world was man. Politically, the year would be very memorable for four great events—the introduc- tion of old a.ge pensions, the Children's Char- ter, the Budget which their great fellow-coun- tryman, Mr. Lloyd George, had prepared, and the issue of the report of the Royal Commission on the Poor Law. Whatever else the Budget had done, it now made clear the great fact that in future Budgets something more than the mere financial aspect would have to be con- sidered. A more human element was intro- duced into income and expenditure. Although there was still the dark blot of immense outlay upon instruments of destruction and war scares continued, there remained the great fact of the entrance of a fuller appreciation of the prin- ciples of common humanity in the world's affairs. The Christmas carol, "Those Christmas Bells." was then sung by the choir, after which the hymn, "A thousand years have come and gone," was sung, and the Benediction offered. TRECYNON. ANNIVERSARY SERVICES.—On Christmas Day and Sunday, anniversary services in connection with Ebenezer Chapel were held. The preachers were Rev. B. Davies (Panteg), H. M. Hughes (Cardiff), and W. Oscar Owen (Cymmer). There were good congregations. PERFORMANCE. — On Christmas Day, two splendid performances of the cantata, "The Sherwood Company, Ltd.. or Duty First," were given at the Public Hall by the Soar Baptist Choir, Llwydcoed, under the conductorship of Mr. William Evans. The chair was occupied by Mr David Edwards. There was a good at- tendance at both of the performances. The principal characters were sustained by the fol- lowing:—"Robin Hood," Mr. Thomas Davies: "Chinaman," Mr. John Hopkins; "Admiral." Mr. D. Rees Morgan; "Sandy," Mr. James Evane; "Pat," Ir. Thomas Demas; "Railway Guard," Ir. Henry Burton; "Jack Tar," Mr. D. J. Edwards; "Red Riding Hood." Miss Rachel Mary Evans: "Maid Marion," Madame Mary LI. Evans; "Flora," Miss M. A. James; "Kate Dalrymple." Madame S. P. Morgan; "Witch." Miss Maggie Morris; "Schoolgirl." Miss Martha Beddoe; "Madge" (fish girl), Miss Maud Powell. The accompanists were Mrs. W. Price. The hes, and Mr. E. T. Edwards, A.L.C.M., Gadlys. The stage manager was Mr. William Evan?. Proceeds were in aid of the funds of Soar Chapel. Mr. D. Rees Mor- gan was the secretary, and the treasurer was Mr. John Hopkins. EISTEDDFOD.—On Boxing Day, the second an- nual Eisteddfod in connection with Heolyfelin Chapel was held. The chairman-and conductor was Rev. W. Cynog Williams. The adjudicators were: Music, Mr. John H. Davies. Llwydcoed: literary, Mr. William Jenkins, Meirinydd. and the Chairman. Prize bags, Mrs. Davies and Mrs. Williams. Darning. Mr. David John. Accompanist, Miss Ethel Clarke. Awards:— Solo for boys under 12, Maldwyn Jenkins; solo for firls under 12, Beatrice May Jenkins; re- .citation for children under 12, divided between Misses Ceinwen Thomas and Gwladys Evans, alto solo. Master E. D. Reed; consolation prize, W. J. Davies; tenor solo, Mr Sam Barber; duet, Messrs. J. Davies and H Williams: im- promptu singing, Tommy Jenkins; jnoetry, Mr. Edward Isaac Rees: treatise "Noncon- formitv," Mr Tom Williams: History of Samuel..Miss Esther A. Edwards: translation, William Evans; open recitation. Miss Mnv "1'1" Gfldlj-s; drning ccnlr"tition" L)avid D"ivios; prize bags. Mrs. Lewis; ini- i omntu dialottitej Mesara. Ebenezer^ Owes and

AL I STOPPED PREVENTED BY I HANDY, BREATHEABLE MEDICINE. ê §| MUCH suffering and heavy mortality from lung || disease in large industrial centres- is due to SSBS constantly inhaling dust, smoke, grit, and fine H particles of foreign matter in factr ^ies and work. |^||h8 H shops. Also, those sudden changes of temperature l||fl§R | to which workers are subject in early morning and H late night, soon take hold of the throat and chest. f§j Usually it is not until chronic bronchitis, asthma, or some P&w||9 §§l other constitutional chest, weakness has set In that the worker H begins to think of remedies. The regular use of the breathe- BESsjgfl H able Peps is the best safeguard. Every worker should take a gjafgBg §§ Peps tablet at night on leaving work, to clear the lungs and ESMSM g throat of accumulated impurities, and protect them against tBBSB the cold-germ." ê If lung-mischief has already made Its appearance, a Peps SBtHBaW ê tablet should be taken whenever an attack of coughing, throat SHnflBv W irritation, or difficulty In breathing comes on. The bandy flHKflBH t H form of Peps makes them particularly suitable for this NStBN M |= purpose, and, as Peps are entirely free from opium, chloral, HBRSBJ H or other harmful drugs, they do not injuriously affect the ë working powers, or upset the stomach. Regularly used, Peps will ensure a life of freedom from throat and chest troubles to workers of all classes. miimfniniii COLDS & QUINSY MR-RGTH°s.f & flBH FOR IS YEARS. Fforchaman Road. Cwaman. Aberdare. s, writes: While following my work as a miner S.Wale ret I often pass quite suddenly from a warm atmosphere to a cold one, and for years I suffered severely frDm colds. cluinsy, and catarrh. I was constantly in the hands, and was often compelled to stay away from work. For something like fifteen years I experimented with tre2tMents of every kind. but I was never benefited in the least, After a short trial with Peps. however. I thought better of them than anything else I had ever tried. Peps cleared out the breathing passages, and in some magic way brougbt some wonderful strength to my throat and chest. Now cold:catching is a thing of the past. and since I began to take Peps I haveClot had an attack of quinsy." rW PEPS aim an idaal and handy thrmat |HB9 sjssiaySff^^ C y j n and chaai medicine. Sold at 11h i f fi and 2/9 par box, ot all Chemists, J J ] 1 or direct from Papa, Carlton Hill, < JMjk Loada (2i9 size contains naarly 3 times the aize). A Pine Forest in Every Home."

Mr. Pritchard Morgan at Abercwmboi. On Wednesday evening, Mr. i.'Yitchard Mor- gan, the independent Liberal candidate, ad- dressed his first public meeting at Abercwmboi. Mr. D. J. Evans presided. In opening the pro- ceedings the Chairman said that he had been asked on the way to the meeting to preside, in place of another gentleman who could not be present. He quite agreed with Mr. Morgan's political views. He was delighted to find such a flame of enthusiasm burning in the Liberal ranks all over the country. Democracy had awakened, and he hoped that there would be no hesitation or drawing back until a smash- ing blow had been dealt the existing hereditary principle. Mr. Pritchard Morgan, who was cordially received, contended that he had a perfect right to become a candidate at the election. True, he was not a nominee of the Liberal Federation, but he was in the field before the Association was formed. He was not in favour of a three- cornered contest. In this borough, however, the fight could not be described as a three-cor- nered one. Referring to his defeat a* the 1900 election he attributed it to the deliberate false- hoods which were circulated down the coal, pits on the eve of that election to the effect that he was interested in coal mines in China, and charging him with paying his workmen at the rate of sixpence per ton. "That lie," continued Mr. Morgan, "came out too late to enable him to refute it." He declared upon his word of honour that he was never interested directly or indirectly in any coal mine in China, and had never employed any man there either for a dear or a cheap wage. He was part proprietor of a gold mine in Australia, and his workmen there received 15s. a day as wages. His only mission in China was an attempt to open up trade and commerce with England, and he partly succeeded. Referring to the present crisis Mr. Morgan spoke in eulogistic terms of the Budget. The land clauses he advocated 20 years ago, but instead of the term "Increment tax" he then used "betterment tax," He was anxious to belong to the great Liberal Party in the House of Commoni-the Party that needed no other Party as a driving force behind it. Liberal leaders of the past moved on without being driven. Mr. Asquith and Mr. Lloyd George were quite capable of going on without the so-called third party to drive them on. In reply to questions, Mr. Morgan said he ad- vocated the abolition of the hereditary princi- ple, but was not a believer in a single chamber system. He also declared in favour of the Mi. nority Report of the Poor Law Commission.

FREE TO WOMEN. ANN BROWN'S FEMALE SYRUP has ob- tained wonderful results in the cure of all fe- male irregularities. I will send any woman a trial bottle free on receipt of two stamps to pay postage and packing, if "Merthyr Express" is mentioned. Do not ueglect this offer, but write me to day.—Ann Brown, 21, Stfttion Parade, I SoatJjIields, Lend«Oj,

i ABERCWMBOI. TYWTSOGES WAYNE MORGAN LODGE. Tn. winning numbers in connection with this Chrisfr mas drawing appears in the advertising coi unins on our front page this week. SMOKER.—Continuing their excellent series o4 smoking concerts, the members of the Aber- aman Band Institute spent an enjoyable tim* on Christmas Eve. Two special comedians hall# been engaged for this occasion, viz., Mr. T Rees, Llwynci Porta, and Mr. Trevot Evans ("Ap Dig, Mr. Tommy Ree Cwmaman, Dd. James Davies, Mr Morgan and Thomas Morgan, all of Aberaman, and others. also contributed to the programme. Mr J Abraham was the chairman, and the accompani ists were Messrs. R. S. Howells and Tom Sage. The lion, secretary was Mr J. H. Jones. --NI.I.S.-At the meeting of the Bethlehem Society on Friday evening last, 1r. John Da.. vies, Cwmpennar, occupied the chair. Threa papers were read by the fcllowing (1) Mr. Isaac Isaacs on "Is the Bible an adequate rule of life?" (2) Miss S. Davies, Cwmpennar. on "What we owe to the Bible"; and (3) Mr Wm. James Davies, "The claim of the Bible upon the church." Comments were afterwards deliv- ered by Miss Maud Jones, Messrs. Jno. Hugh Davies, W R. Griffiths (secretary), John Evans, Rees Davies, Meredith Evans, Philip Rees, A.C., Jno. Davies (chairman), and tne Rev. J. B. Davies, pastor QUARTERLY MEETINGS.—The Sunday School quarterly meetings were held at Bethesda Bap- tist Church, on Sunday, Mr. D. John Thomas, superintendent, presiding over the morning service. Mr. John Morgan recited the second Psalm, and Mr. Wm. Morris followed with prayer. The following took part:—Recitations^ Misses Sarah Davies, Annie H. Davies, Lizzie M. Lambert, Mary Lambert, Beatrice M. Jones, Bella Wills, Emily A. Lewis. Hilda M. Jones and Olwen Davies, Messrs. W. R. Ward, Dd. John Lambert and Phillip Wills. Solos, Miss Jane Morgan and Miss Gwen Wills. Mr. W C. Edmunds catechised the children on the plagues of Egypt, and their answers bore evi- dence of having been thoroughly rehearsed. Two marches were rendered by the choir under the conductorship of Mr. E. T. Evans. The evening service was presided over by the pastor (Rev. M. Jenkins). The 7th Psalm was recited by Mr. W. R. Ward, and prayer was offered b) Mr. Samue! Ward. The following contributed to all excellent pro.- ram me :-Recitations, Misses Annie H. Davies, Gwladys Wills, Emily A, Lewis, Annie Morris, Mary H. Ellis, Jane Paul, Magsrio H. Neil, Beatrice M, Jones, Messrs. Phillip Willis, W R. Ward, and W C. Edmunds. Solos. Misses Lizzie Edmunds, Gwen Wills, Messrs. Wm. Evans and E. T. Evans. Appropriate marches were rendered at inter- vals by the Band of Hope Choir. Collections were made in aid of Sunday School fund BETHESDA (B.).—Special preaching services were held on Christmas Day, the officiating minister being the Rev W Cynog Williams, Aberdare. The morning subject was, "He that hath the- Son hath the life." The rev. gentle- man said that a large number of church mem- bers to-day had just enough religion to make them miserable. They did not feel at home in the music hall or theatre, nor. at the prayer meeting. They no longer enjoyed the perusal of cheap novels, neither was the reading of the Bible very palatable to them. They were trav- elling third-class, like the Israelites, preferring the "wilderness to the land of Cananite "The Lord Jesus came that ye may have life and have it abundantly." Why not enter into this abun. dant life? the life of certainty, the life of ser- vice and devotion, the life of conquest and the life of joy. The assurance that their souls were saved' should be tn the possession of all Chris- tian people. No man was born again without knowing it. When a converted Irishman was asked how be knew that he had been "born again," he replied, "Shure, master, I happened to be there at the time." In the afternoon', the speaker dwelt upon the power of the Christian Church. He quite agreed with Socialism in so far as it endeavo.ured to ameliorate suffering and want, in its agitation for better wages and san- itation, but whilst Socialism only attempted to obliterate the effect, the Christian church tried to get deeper and remove the cause of the evil.

Servant (who has been sent to chastise a stray cat for stalking chickens) "I couldn't catch 'im, mum, for the nearer I got to 'im the farther 'e go' away Mrs. Smith was engaging a new servant, and sat facing the latest applicant. "I hope," said she, "that you had no I anry words with your last mistress before leaving?" "0. dear, no, mum; none whatever," was the reply, with a toss of her head. "While she was having her bath I just locked the bathroom door, took all my things, and came away as quiet as possible. I

TO CIGARETTE SMOKERS. Whether or no it is the beneficient effect of the fragrant weed, there is this to be said for the average smoker-he is a man open to con- viction. If demonstration of ihis were required, there is the case of Gallaher's 'Park Drive' Cig- arettes. Accustomed for so long to pay 3d. or at lease 2jd. for his packet of 10 cigarettes, your smoker had come to a sort of conclusion that this was the lowest price at which a reliable article could be got. Then 'Park Drives' come along 'Park Drives' at 'Ten for Two Coppers' (exemplified by surely the two most genial and irrepressible 'Copper' who ever lived 1) -and mark the result. Thousands—perhaps hundreds of thousands- of your 10 for 3d. men are open-minded enough to give 'Park Drives' a trial, and 'Park Drives' —splendid value that they undoubtedly arc- jump into amazing popularity all at once. Nor it is a matter for wonderment that this popularity is swiftly increasing day by day, for when at 1C for'3d. you can get a cigarette guaranteed pure, a cigarette of fine Virginia, devoid of dust or other deleterious substance, a cigarette that. with a full, rich aroma, burns evenly- and slowly throughout, providing gen- uine enjoyment all the time, rest assured your true smoker will not be very loin: before hit finds it out. So, naturally, tobacconists are eeJJjjiij; 'Park Drive by. tbemilhoD.,

William Evans. Mr. David Evans sang some verses, entitled "Merched Heolyfelin," which had been composed by Mr. Lewis Samuel. The secretarial duties were carried out by Mr. Lewis Samuel. COMPETITIVE MEETING.-—A competitive meet- ing was held at Bryn Sion Chapel on Christ- mas night, under the presidency of the pastor, Rev. John Morgan. The adjudicators were: Music, Mr. D. Tawe Jones; recitations, Messrs, David Jenkins and E. Ll. Humphries; draw- ing and writing, Mr. James Thomas; accom- panists, Messrs. Thomas Davies and W. D. Williams. Mr. Llew. Williams was the secre- tary, and the treasurer was Mr. Griffith Williams. Awards: recitation for children under ten, Liewela, Williams; recitation for children under 15, Evan Parker; recitation (open), Mr. T. Parker; writing for children under 12, William Davies; writing for those in school, Thomas Davies; writing for those out of school, T. Prosser; freehand drawing for children under 12, Evan Parker; drawing of Bryn Sion Chapel, Thomas Davies; paraphras- ing, T Parker; verses to Mr Lloyd George, divided between Messrs. Llew. Williams and W. Parry; solo for boys under 15, Evan Parker; solo for girls under 15, Llewela Williams; soprano solo, Miss Marion Morgan tenor solo, divided between Messrs. Llew. WilL'^ms and E. R. Edwards, bass solo, t divided ,etween Messrs. D. J. Rees and T. Gwyn Davies, solo for men over 40, Mr. T. Gwyn Davies; solo for ladies over 40, Mrs. M. Williams, harmonium solo, divided between Messrs. W. G Williams and Thomas Davies; choral competition, Mr. W. J. Rees's party. MARRIAGE.—On Christmas morning, at Car- mel Calvinistic Methodist Chapel, Trecynon, Mr. William Williams, of Myrtle House, Llan- wtryd Wells, was united in the bonds of holy matrimony to Miss Gertrude Stephens, daugh- ter of the Rev IL T. and Mrs. Stephens, The Manse, Trecynon. The Revs. Rees Evans, of Llanwrtyd, and John Morgan, Bryn Sion, offici- ated. The bride, who was charmingly attired in a dress of crepe the chine, with a lovely pic- ture hat to match, was given away by her father. The bridesmaid, Miss Nina Stephens (sister of the bride) was handsomely gowned in biscuit-coloured crepe de chine. Mr. Arnold L. Griffiths, L. and P Bank, Woolwich, acted as best man. The bride is very much respected in the district, and is well known in musical circles, she having for some years acted as organist at Carmel, and has officiated at a number of cymanfaoedd in the district. A great number of friends were present in the sacred edifice. Mr. W. Bsddoe Stephens, bro- ther of the bride, and organist of Bethania C.M. Chapel, played the "Wedding March" (from "Lohengrin") after the ceremony. The wedding breakfast was partaker of at the resi- dence of the bride's parents. Amongst. those present were:—Mr. T (t, Williams and Mre, Williams, brother and sister-in-law, Morriston; Mr., Mrs., and Master Lyn Morgan, Tonyr- efail; Mr. and Mrs. Williams, Swansea; Mr. and Mrs. Richards. Llandilo; Mr and Mrs. W. Beddoe Stephens; Rev. Rees Evans, Rev. John Morgan, etc., etc. A number of costly and useful presents were received. The honeymoon is being spent in London.