The Merthyr Express

The Premier, speaking at Crieff, on Satur- day, reviewed the Government's record, and criticised the latest Tory claims with regard Old AGE Peasionsi,

T MERTHYR BOROUGH's! ANSWER. l OFFICIAL LIBERAL HEADS THE POLL. I f | MR, HARDIE RETAINS HIS SEAT. 'I f¡ GREAT VICTORY FOR I FREE TRADE. TARIFF REFORM CONDEMNED. Polling took place in the Merthyr Parlia- mentary Borough on Wednesday. The votes were counted at Merthyr Town Hall, on Thurs- day, the result being declared in the afternoon as follows:- I RESULTS: I I EDGAR JONES (L.) 15,448 i. K. HARDIE (Soc.) 13,841 A. C. FOX-DAVIES (C) 4,756 W. P. MORGAN (L) 3,639 I -——= I

I EAST GLAMORGAN. THE CHANCELLOR'S MESSAGE. BUDGET LAND CLAUSES. ii ■■ P GROTESQUE MISREPRESENTATIONS CORRECTED. Last week a circular was issued by the Con- servatives in East Glamorgan declaring that thousands of working men who owned their houses would be bit by the land clauses of the Budget. A copy of this pamphlet was sent to Mr. Lloyd George by a Pontypridd elector, who | received the appended reply en Wednesday. Those who have been given any anxiety on account of these misrepresentations ought to know that the Finance Bill contains a clause completely exempting from the incidence of the increment value duty all small dwelling houses (within certain fixed limits of value) occupied by their owners, whether those owners are members of tha working class or of any oilier class of the community. You tell me further that the considerable class of persons who own one or two small houses in addition to the one they occupy are also being misled as to the effect of the Bud- get on their properties. I cannot conceive how, with the greatest ingenuity, our critics can succeed in alarming such persons. If they would look at the Bill they would dis- cover, first, that there i* no new duty im- they would look at the Bill they would dis- cover, first, that there is no new duty Ün. posed on present values. Secondly, as these I houses are let on weekly, monthly, or yearly tenancies, the reversion duty does not apply to them. As regaxds increment value duty, they would only be payable if tho site value of the land on which the house stands had increased by more than 10 per cent, of the present value. No duty, of course, would be leviable on any increase in the value of the house itself. Consequently, duty would only be payable in cases where, on the occasion of a sale, or passage on death, a considerable and unex- pected profit had accrued, owing to some ex- traneous cause affecting the value of the land, what has been aptly called a "windfall." In uch cases I submit the beneficiary would I be perfectly willing to pay what is, after all, I only a small tol to the State; and the State will certainly be wiser to take its toli in such a manner than to levy it, as our opponents I suggest, on the same man's bread and butter. I FINAL RALLY FOR SIR ALFRED THOMAS. Tbe campaign in East Glamorgan will con- elude on Saturday night, when a great Liberal demonstratiou will be held at the Town Hail, Pontypridd. The large and scattered constituency is one difficult to organise thoroughly and an appeal is made to friends of the Progressive cause for their assistance from now until polling day t on Monday. Conveyances to bring voters to ¡ the poll are greatly needed, and friends of Sir Alfred Thomas and those in sympathy with the creat principles he is upholding in this election Ware asked for their good offices in providing f as many vehicles as possible, and io this end to j communicate with Mr. Charles Morgan, the; i agent, Pontvpridd. I —^

| Caerphilly Collier Killed. An inquest was opened at Cardiff op Men- day on John White, a coiiier, a singl-i suaii, who lived at White-street, Caerphilly, it :ip- peared thAt while deceased was at, work m tho Windsor Colliery, Abertridwr, a stone fe l taion him from the roof, fracturim- his leg and in- jtiring his back and chest. He wai conveyed to Cardiff Infirmary, where li# ditd from shock consequent upon ilw» inj-.irlss.— Mr. R. H. Walters, the fireman, si-atied that the day prior to the accident he gave' orders that tho post was not to he removed from the p!a« from which the stone 'fe.i! unl'>'s double tini- bering was put in. Next f'ay the leading col- lie?, named Cros<. the P' "t without putting in double timbei; Mr. jH;;Lv.r: Jen- kins (miners' agent1* asked for nn adjournment in ord r that a collier named Nurse, who was injured at the same time as deceased, might i be ealisd, and,the was gt^atgd.,

THE ELECTIONS, j The fallowing are the returns declared up to Thursday. i LONDON. Gains. Constituency. L. Lab. C. Maj. L. Lab. C. Battersea 1 — — 555 — — Bethnal Green :— N.E. 1 — — 1264 — — i 8,W. 1 — — 978 — — — i Bermondsey 1 — -r- 969 1 — I Bow and Bromley — — 1 740 — — 1: Brixton — 1 1058 — — 1 j Camber well, N. 1 — — 1082 — — Chelsea — 1 1562.- — 1 j Citv of London — — 2 12679 — — — Clapham — — 1 1981 — — —: Deptford 1 522, — — i Dulwich — 1 2413 — — -7 Finsbury, E. 1 — — 86 — — — Finsburv, C — — 1 372 — 1 Fulham" — — 1 1929 — 1 Greenwich — — 1 1201 — — — Hackney, C 1 — — 576 — — — j Hackney, S 1 — — 2995 — — — j Hackney, N — — 1 847 — 1 j Haggerston 1 — — 456 1 — — Hammersmith — — 1 1126 — — — Hampstead — — 1 2279 — — I Holborn — 1 2585 — — Hoxton 1 — — 533 1 — Islington. E. 1 — — 330 — — Islington, N 1 — — 31 — — — Islington, S. 1 — — no — — — i Islington. W. 1 — — 254 — — — j Kennington 1 — 381 — — — i Kensington, N. — — 1 532 — — Kensington, S. — — 1 4470 — — — Lambeth. N. — — 1 550 — — 1 Lewisham — — 1 3730 — — — Limehouse 1 — — 431 — — — j Marylebone, W. — — 1 1377 — — — j Mile End — — 1 57 — — 1 Newington, W. 1 — 412 — — — Norwood — — 1 1778 — — —; Paddington, N. — — 1 1229 — — — j Paddington, N. — — 1 393 — — 1 Paddington, S. — — 1 2258 — — — Peckham — — 1 83 — — — < Poplar 1 1057 — Rotherhithe 1 — — 924 — — — St. George's, Hanover Sq. — — 1 3914 — — — St. George's, East 1 — — 43.4 — — — St. Pancras, N. 1 — — 1367 — — — St. Pancras, S. — — 1 325 — — 1 St. Pancras, E. 1 — — 690 — — — Southwark — 1 164 — — 1 Stepney — — 1 236 — — — j Strand — 1 5213 — — — j Walworth 1 — — 1190 — — — j West Ham. N. 1 — — 890 — — — Whitechapel 1 — — 561 — — — Woolwich — — 1 295 — — 1 BOROUGHS. Ashton-under-Lyne 1 — — 293 — — — Aston Manor — — 1 5441 — — — Bath — 2 161 — — Barrow-in-Furness — 1 — 1006 — — — Bedford — — 1 169 — — 1 Birkeuhead 1 — — 144 — — — Birmingham, C. — — 1 4304 — — — Birmingham, W. — — 1 —— — — — Birmingham, S. — — 1 3731 — — — Birmingham, N. — 1 4201 — — Birmingham, E. — 1 4502 — — — Birmingham:— Bordesley — — 1 5566 — — — Edgbaston — — 1 5101 — — — Blackburn 2 — — 2758 — — Bolton 2 — — 4326 — — — j Boston — — 1 260 — — 1 Bradford, E 1 — — 2695 — — — I Bradford, W — 1 — 4419 — — — I Bradford, C. 1 — — 1641 — — — Brighton — — 2 40&1 — — 2 i Bristol, N 1 — — 1346 — — — Bristol, S 1 — — 271 — — — Bristol, W 1 — — 1273 — — — Bristol, E. 1 — — 2771 — — — Bury 1 — — 608 — — I Burnley — — 1 95 — — 1 Burton — — 1 —— — — Cambridge — — 1 585 — — 1 Cardiff 1 — — 155o — — Carmarthen Boro, 1 — — 2212 — — — Carlisle 1 — — 455 — — — Chatham — 1 1281 — — 1 Cheltenham — — 1 133 — — 1 Chester — — 1 20H — 1 Christchurch — — 1 731 — — 1 Colchoster — — 1 791 — — 1 Coventry — — 1 21(, — — 1 Darlington 1 — — 2H 1 1 — Denbigh 1 — — 3 — — — Dewsbury 1 — — 3135 — — — Dei by 2 — — 2720 — — Devonport — — 2 329 — — 2 Dover — — 1 1758 — — — Dudley 1 — — 193 — — — Dundee 1 1 — 6395 — — — Durham (Mid) — 1 — —— — — — Edinburgh, C. 1 — — 1984 — — Edinburgh, E. 1 — — 2289 — — —! Edinburgh, S. 1 — — 2334 — — Edinburgh, W. — — — 450 — — —j Elgin Burghs 1 — — 1797 — — — Exeter — — 1 26 — — 1 Flint Borough 1 — — 427 — — Gateshead 1 — — 477 1 — Glasgow:— Bridgeton 1 — — 1797 — — 1 College 1 — 702 — — Blackfriaa 1 — 1700 — — St. Rollox 1 — 3198 — — Tradeston 1 — — 193 1 — — Carnlachie — — 1 524 — — — Central — — 1 665 — — — Gloucester — 1 126 — — 1 Gravesend — — 1 674 — — — Great Yarmouth — — 1 461 — — — Greenoch 1 — 1610 — — — Grimsby 1 — — 322 1 — — Halifax 2 — — 4750 — — — Hanlev 1 3997 — — — Hartlepool 1 — — 777 — — — Hawick Burghs 1. — — 993 — — — Hastings — — 1 801 — — — Hereford — 1 787 — — Huddersfield 1472 — — — Hull, C — 1 20 — — — Hull, E 1 — — 1936 — — — Hull. w. 1 — 1797 — — Hythe — — 1 1792 — — — Ipswich 2 — — 370 — — — Kidderminster — — 1 367 — — 1 Kings Lynn 1 — — 262 — — — Lancashire:— Accrington 1 — — 2513 — — — Middleton 1 — — 1403 — — — Stretford 1 — — 2291 — — — Lincoln 1 — — 2166 — — — Leeds, C. 1 — — 621 — — — Leeds, E — 1 — 3065 — — — Leeds, N. 1 1611 — — Leeds. S. 1 — — .4366 — — Leeds, W. 1 — — 3315 — — — Leicester 1 1 — 6095 — — — Leicestershire— Melton 1 — — 123 — — — Liverpool:— Abercrombie — — 1 526 — — — Everton, W. — — 1 1706 — — — Exchange 1 — — 161 — — Kirkdale 1 223 — — — Scotland Nationalist 2167 — — — Toxteth, E. — — 1 185 — — — Toxteth, W. — — 1 1019 — — — Walton — 1 1114 — — — West Derbv — — 1 1508 — — Maidstone 1 247 — — — Manchester, E. — 1 1028 — 1 — Manchester, N.E. — 1 — 1478 — — — Manchester, N.W. 1 — — 783 — — — Manchester, N. 1 — — 1259 — — — Manchester, S. 1 — — 2452 — — — Manchester, S.W. — — 1 107 — — 1 Middlesex (Hornsey)— — 1 3381 — — — Middlesborough 1 — — 2914 — — — Monmouth Borough 1 — — 1145 — — — Morpetb 1 — — 2865 — — — Newcastle-under- Lyne L 1 — — 1368 — — — Newcastle-on-Tyne 1 1 — 4712 1 — — Northampton 2 — — 829 — — — Norwich 1 1 — 2847 — — — Nottingham, W. 1 — — 2303 — — — Nottingham, E. — — 1 152 — — 1 Nottingham, S. — — 1 382 — — 1 Oldham 2 — — 5790 — — — Oxford — — 1 1211 — — — Paisley 1 — — 2921 Pembroke and Hav- erford West 1 — — 705 — — — Penrhvn and Falmouth — — 1 181 — — 1 Perth 1 — — 738 — — — Peterborough 1 — — 433 — — — Plymouth 2 — — 423 — — — Portsmouth — — 2 4380 2 Preston — 2 1987 2 Reading 1 207 Rochdale 1 1428 Rochester — — 1 132 — — 1 8a 1 ford, N. 857 — Salford, S. 1 — — 316 — — — Salford, W. 1 978 — Salisbury — — 1 318 — — — Scarborough 1 — — 292 — — — Sheffield Q Attercliffe — 1 — 1676 — — — Brifhtside 1 — 1956 — Central — — — 389 — — Eccleshall — — 1 211 — — — Hallam — — 1 216 — — — Shrewsbury — — 1 602 — — —, Southampton 2 — — 996 — — 1 South Shields 1 — — 4236 — — St. Helens 1 795 — Stafford 1 — 85 — — — Stalvbriclge — 1 57 — — — Stockpori 1 1 — 1414 — — — Stockton 1 — — 1113 1 — — Stoke-on-Trent 1 — — 1991 — — Swansea Town 1 — 1645 — — Swansea District 1 — 6073 — — — Sunderland 2 805 2 j Taunton — 1 368 — — j Tynemouta 1 — 494 — — I Wakefield — — 1 513 — — Walsall — 1 545 — 1 Warrin.sir.jj 1 — loo — — — j Warwick itad Leamington — 1 8M — Wednesbury — 1 461 West Bromwijli — 1 7a5 — 1 Whitehaven — 1 33'j 1 V,vi 1 1 Windsor .1 iot — W»..u.ior — — 1 oo:l — — — Wolver'iarop-on, E. 1 — 814 — WoiverVampton, S — 1 376 — — — Wolverhampton^ W — — 1 592 — — Yi. mxmm*k. US& h: Gains. Coiistitcenry. L. Lab. C. Maj. L. Lab. C. York 1 1 Yorkshire, Elland 1 2783 Yorkshire, Otley 1 1901 UNIVERSITIES AND SPEAKER. Cambridge Univer. — — 2 —— — — — Dublin University — — —— — — — Oxford University — — 2 —— — — — Penrith (Speaker) — — 1 —— — — — IRELAND. Gains, j Constituency. N. C. Mi j. N. C. Armagh (Mid) 1 — — — Armagh, N i — — — Antrim, Mid 1 — — — Antrim, E. 1 — — — Belfast, E. 1 — — — Cavan 1 — — — Clare, E 1 — — — Cork • 1 — — — Cork, S. 1 — — — — Donegal, N 1 — — — — Donegal, S 1 — — — Dublin, St. Patrick 1 Dublin Harbour 1 — Dublin County, N. 1 Galway City 1- — — — — Ivildare, N 1 — — — — Kilkennv 1 — — — — K-w>-y, W 1 — — — — ivh-kre, S 1 — — — — fe'*v-g's County 1 — — — — | liiag's County—Birr 1 — — — — Kilkenny, N 1 — — :— — Leitrini, N. 1 — — — — Leitrim, S 1 — — — — Limerick, W. 1 Londonderry I. 1 — — — Longford, N. 1 — — — — Louth, S 1 Meath, ij 1 Mayo, E. 1 — — — — Mayo, W 1 — — — — Newrv 1 — — — — Roscommon, S 1 — — — — Sligo, N. 1 — — — — Sltgo, S 1 — — — — Tipperary, S 1 — — — — Tipperarv, E. 1 Waterford I. 1 Waterford. E. 1 West Meath, S 1 — — — — Wexford, S. 1 — — — .— Wexford, N 1 — — — — Wicklow, E, 1 — — Wickiow, W 1 — —

WELSH POLLS. I SWANSEA TOWN (12,935). 1 Alfred Mond (L) 6020 Col. J. R. NVrig-ht (C.) 4375 Ben Tillett (Lab.) I 1451 Majority over C. 1645 No change. 1906: Sir George Newnes (L.). 5,535; Col. Wright (C.), 4081; Liberal majority, 1454. 1900: Sir G. Newnes (L.), 4318; Sir J. T. Llewelyn 3203; Liberal majority, 1115. SWANSEA DISTRICT (12,983). Sir D. Brynmor Jones (L.) 8488 R. Campbell (Con.-Lab.) 2415 Liberal majority 6073 No change. 1906: D. Brynmor Jones, K.C. (L.), unoppos- ed. 1900: Liberal unopposed. CARDIFF DISTRICT (28,723). D. A. Thomas (L.) 13,207 Lord Crichton-Stuart (C.) 11,652 Liberal majority 1,555 No change. 1906: Hon. Ivor Guest (L.), 12,434; Sir J. F. Flannery, Bart (L.U.), 9.429; Liberal ma- jority, 3,005. 1900: Liberal majority, 801. CARMARTHEN DISTRICT (6,772). W. L. Williams (L.) 4,197 Viscount Tiverton (C.), 1,965 Liberal majority 2,232 No change. 19G6: W. L. Wiljiams (L.). 3,902; Hon. V. Ponsonby (L.U.), 1,808; Liberal majority, I 2,094. 1900: Liberal majority, 790. DENBIGH DISTRICT (5,130). Hon. W. Ormsby-Gore (C.) 2,438 C. Edward (L.) 2,430 Conservative majority 8 1906: C. Edwards (L.), 2.533; Hon. G. T. Kenyon (C.), 1,960; Liberal majority, 573. 1300: Conservative majority, 110. FLINT DISTRICT (4,060). J. W. Summers (L.) 2,150 H. A. Tilby (C.) 1,723 Liberal majority 427 No change. 1906: T. H. W. Idris (L.), 1,899; J. F. Bankes, K.C. C.), 1,523; Liberal majority, 376. 1900: Liberal majority, 347. MONMOUTH BOROUGH. L. Haslam (L.) 6496 Sir Charles Cayzer (C.) 5351 Liberal majority 1,141 No change. 1906: L. Haslam (L.), 4,531; E. E. Nicholls (C.), 3.939; J. Winstone (L.R.C.), 1,678; Lib- eral majority, 592. 1900: Conservative majori- ty, 688. — STATE OF PARTIES. THURSDAY MORNING. Lib. & Lab. Unionist Nationalist. la6 126 43

New Tredegar police Court. WEDNESDAY.—Before Mr. E, Jones Williaitis (in the chair),* Mr. D. W. Evans and Mr. J. Haie. TIPPING IN THE STREET.—The Bedwellty District Council summoned Mary Jane Hopkins, married, New Tredegar, for putting ashes on the highway. Mr. T. J. Thomas read the clause which showed this to be an indictable offence, the maximum penalty for which was 40s. Sanitary Inspector Hyman proved the offence and defendant was fined 10s. A DROP OF WHISKY.—Elizabeth Williams, married woman, New Tredegar, was charged with stealing a gold watch, gold ring, a sealskin bag and 5s. in money, the property of Mary Jane Hallett, married woman, Abertysswg. The value of the articles was stated to be f2 15s.—Complainant said that she met the defendant and they had tea together, and also some whisky. They the went to the railway station where complainant fell asleep, and on waking she discovered that the defendant had gone and the article, mentioned had disappeared.—Defendant said We both got drunk togetber.P.S. Humphreys said that on the 4th inst.. the day following the theft he arrested the prisoner at her house, in Powell's terrace. She was wearing the ring produced and had the watch and chain and other articles in her possession. On being charged with stea,lingthem she said the articles were given her. As the things were recovered the Chair- man said the case would be dismissed, as it was, through a drop of whisky. ASSAULT.—Samuel Hobhs, collier, Fleur-de- Lis, was charged with assaulting ErnestWilliams, a railway porter, at New Tredegar station.— Mr. W. F. Wallace (of Messrs. Lyndon Moore and Cooper, Newport) stated that on the 10th January the complainant was on duty at the New Tredegar station when the signalman called attention to the defendant, who went round to the back of the station buildings and jumped the railings. He then attempted to enter the train belonging to another colliery company's workmen, a thing which was too f requeat, for the charge had to be borne by the company in whose train the workmen travelled, as both the Tredegar Iron Co. and the Powell Duffryn Co. had trains for their own workmen. When the complainant, in the exercise of his duty, obstructed the defendant jl the latter struck him several times in the face. —Complainant bore out Mr. Wallace's statement and defendant was lined 40s. and 21s. costs. I DESEBTIOK.—Sarah Elizabeth Sinker sum- moned her husband, Henry Sinker, for desertion. —Complainant said her husband left her on the 1st January without cause.—The husband said 1st January without cause.—The husband said his wife refused to come and live where he wanted to, but when asked by the Magistrate whether he was willing to take her back now he said: "I' won't say that, exactly."—The Bench then ordered defendant to contribute 7s. 6d. u. week to his wife's maintenance, and j 8s. costs.. i,LIIi'E NOTV E TOO Lose.—George Porter (38),! labourer, Now Tredeatar, was charged with I attempting to c ommit suicide i-y haaigin.? J- himself.—P.S. Num^hrpys said arrested i prisoner at his l,ou»'e. and that l.-oncr, in reply to the-charge, said air. 1 was worric-d.The police state.' x\ Pendant j had eea mu<-L worried. c- said' The longest life li i yc. to repeat ti.Ls :;oTv; •sliVN-Pa this •assoi\ico U.e a so v- as «:> re .DESERTING HERD&v les, | married, of AI)eriiar.oeil, wM vhArged with I ber, and thus allowing them to lecome charge- able to the Bedwellty Union. The Relieving Officer stated that the cost to the Guardians had been £16.-A police constable stated that on the 5th September he was informed of the case and went to 23, Church.street, and broke the door in. The defendant lw¿ not been to see the children since.—Defendant said her husband left her and she went away leaving the children in charge of another woman. She denied that she went away wi.th a lodger. She went to her sister's at Pontypridd.—Defendant was bound over in the sum of f5 to come up for judgment when called upon. VARIOUS.—Thomas Watkins and Benjamin Jones, colliers, of Rhymney, were fined 4Cs. tor using obscene language in the streets.— Walter Ellis, 23, collier, Abertysswg, was similarly fined for a like offence on the 27th December, and also 1Cs. for riotous conduct on the highway, on the 1st January.—l^or riotous conduct the following were fined:—Wm. Harris (34), collier, Princetown, 10s. Richard Rowlands, (23) collier, Rhymney, 20s. David Williams (31), collier Aberbargoed, 10: Joseph Hawks (27), collier, Abertysswg, 20s. 1 C. Mantle (28), and Wm. Morris (30), colliers, New Tredegar, 10s. each Fredk. Wiltshire (19), and Edward John Hope (20), colliers, New Tredegar, lOs, each; Daniel Davies, 10s. j For lighting with a man named Weekes, who was lined 10s. at the court last month, Richard Rowlands was fined 20s. Wm. Rees and David Hopkins, of Rhymney. were fined for fighting, 20s. each, and for a similar ofience James Morgan ann Wm. Evans, of Abertysswg, were fined lOs, each.—For being drunk Joseph Jenkins (60), Cwmsyfiog, was fined 10s.—For taking coal from a Powell Duffryn tip, John Parker (55) and Henry Stratford (44), ostlers, Aber- iswg, were fined 10s. each. j

Brynmawr District Council. SAVING UNDER THE NEW LIGHTING SYSTEM. The monthly meeting of the Brynmawr District Council was held on Wednesday evening and there were present:—Alderman W. Roberts (chairman), Messrs. J. Bloor, D. Owen, R. Jones, R. Swales, R. Evans, R. Eddy, G. Morgan, T. Jones, T. Judge, J. Thomas (Clerk), W. G. Lane (Surveyor), and W. Evans (Collector). The Medical Officer of Health (Dr. J. L. Thomas) reported as follows:—The vital statistics for the month are: Births, 43 (21 males, 22 females), giving a birth-rate of 73.2 per 1000 per annum; deaths, 15 (1 of misad- venture), giving a death rate of 24 per 1000 per annum. During the same period the ollowing cases of zymotic diseases were notified —Scarlatina, 3 diphtheria, 1 puerperal fever, 3. The usual precautions were ordered to be taken in these cases, with a view to prevent the spreading of the diseases. Mr. W. G. Lane, the Surveyor, reported as follows :—During the past month 24 interments have taken place at the cemetery, 12 from out- side the urban area, and 12 from within the district. I feel that it is necessary for me to point out to you that arrangements should soon be made to level and drain a further portion of the cemetery grounds. There are at present about 140 sites inside the existing boundary, and as, during the past year, there were 197 inter- ments, it is probable that the enclosed space will be full before next winter. Under those circumstances I think it advisable for you to adequately drain and lay out the remain der of the ground during the coming summer It will probably be within the recollection of the Members of the Council, that I reported upon theunsatisfaptory condition of 5 and6, Somerset- street, on December 16th, 1908. Since that date the tenants have been removed from the premises, and the roof has been taken off. I have made a careful examination of the structure as it now stands, and I am of opinion that it is in such a ruinous and dangerous condition that lit may, and most probably will, collapse, and should any pedestrians be passing at the time the results would be serious. I would ask you to at once exercise tho powers conferred upon you under the "Towns Improvement Clauses Act, 1849," or under the Town Planning Act, 1909. I beg to draw attention of the Council to the number of rain water gutters and down spouts that are in a bad condition in the town, and I regret to say that the greatest offenders are the owners of business premises in Beaufort street, although the nuisance is by no means confined to that portion of the Town. I think that it will have been noticed by all of the Members present that after a shower of rain most people prefer to walk in the road, rather than on the footway, owing to the tremendous amount of water falling from the roofs on the pathway. I would suggest that you instruct me to serve preliminary notices upon all offen- ders, and to report the result at the next meeting of the Council, with a view to exercising the provisions of the Act. I have very much pleasure in presenting to you the figures con- nected with the street-lighting account, for the purpose of drawing a comparison between the old and the new systems. The consump- tion of gas during the quarter ending Sept. 30th last was 111,079 cubic feet, £27 15s,; the corresponding quarter last year the consumption was 118,084 cubic feet, £2910s. for the quarter ending December 31st last the consumption was 449,144 cubic feet, £112 5s. 6d. It will therefore be seen that during the first four months of lighting we saved JE35 14s. 6d. under our new system, and I think that you will agree that the result is most satisfactory, when we take into consideration the fact that no allowance has been made in the above figures for the five additional lamps we have fixed this year. Plans have been submitted for your approval, for four houses to be erected by Mr. R. Eddy, in Greenland-road; and for new cookery kitchen and class-room in King-street, for the Breconshire Education Committee. Having perused the plans I recommend them f or your approval. With regard to the cemetery, it was agreed on the proposition of the Chairman, to defer this matter to a future meeting, and in the meantime to meet at the cemetery.—Instructions were given to the Surveyor to carry out the suggestions in his report as to the defective water spouts, and the dangerous condition of property in Somerset-street.—Plans presented for the erection of four houses in Greenland-road were passed, also those for the new cooksry kitchen and class-room in King.street school. -Sergeant Price reported that he had inspected the lodging-houses and slaughter-houses and found everything satisfactory.

Bedwellty Board of Guardians. The fortnightly meeting was held at Bedwellty Workhouse, Tredegar, on Wednesday, Major E. J. Morris presiding.—On the motion of Mr. J. L. Herbert, seconded by Mr. S. Arrowsmith, and supported by Mr. J. Emlyn Evans, a vote of sympathy was passed with Mr. J. Cameron, a member of the Board, in his accident. The Building Committee recommended that the resolution of the Board that notice be given I to Messrs. Lewis and Fletcher, consulting electrical engineers, to terminate their engage- ment with the Board, be rescinded.—Mr. Eaglesome wished to know the ground upoa which the recommendation was made.—Mr. Arrowsmith said there was no reflection upon anyone, but they considered that the plant was a modern one, and it was highly important that they should have a consulting engineer to attend to the plant in the event of a breakage. They considered that it would be money well spent.—Mr. Burrows and Mr. E. Carter opposed, on the ground that no other Unions had con- sulting engineers.—Mr. T. A. Francis pointed out that all big works had consulting engineers. —Mr. J. L. Herbert suggested that amended terms be made with Messrs. Lewis and Fletcher. —The recommendation was adopted.—The Building Committee were requested to consider the question of amended terms and report to the Board. Deputations were appointed to wait upon Tredegar and Abertillfery District Councils, requesting them to provide more housing accommodation in their respective districts. The Building Committee reported that they had met Mr. H. R. Williams, Local Government Board Inspector, and Mr. H. B. Kitohen, Local Government Board Architect, with regard to the provision of additional temporary accom- modation, and that it was decided that accom- modation be provided for 75 by extending the existing iron building for 25, and erecting new iron buildings to provide for 50 beds and bed- rooms. The Local Government Board officials could not authorise the Board to proceed with the erection of committee-rooms and clerks' and officers' accommodation, as there was no urgent necessity for them.—The necessary instructions were given for the preparation of the plans for the temporary buildings. A committee was appointed to consider the provision of additional accommodation for the children, the cottage homes being over- crowded. Dr. vV. L. Pritchard, Brynmawr, was re- appointed medk&I officer of the Nantyglo and Blr.i: ;i district.

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EBBW VALE NOTABILIA. 1 ["SAPEUDR."] I How is it that the railway stations at Ebbw Vale and its neighbouring towns are so badly lighted ? In these days, or perhaps I should say in these nights of the present time, when electricity has entered so largely with its illuminating powers into most of our towns, it certainly does seem as if the big railway com- panics are endeavouring to perpetuate ye ancient lights of the tallow-candle illuminant, j to the detriment of the safety of the waiting possengers at their stations. At Beaufort station, for instance, passengers may cross the rails from one side of the line to the other in dense gloom, while trains are in waiting op both lines, up and down, and if not careful in groping their way across will find themselves blundering into an engine or a carriage before they know where they are. I suppose nothing short of a calamity and a coroner's inquest will move the powers that be to improve the lighting arrangements of their stations; but if my humble note of warning will only attract the railway authorities to what I call indifference to the safety of the travelling public, the dread I necessity of a catastrophy to awaken them to their responsibilities will be aver Led. In the adjacent column of the Express of last week which recorded the glowing eulogies of the benefits of elementary education appeared a sad commentary of juvenile depravity, under the heading of police news, that ought to awaken the interest and energy of all persons engaged .in advancing and improving the moral status of the young. Four boys from Victoria and a young girl from Beaufort, before the Magistrates for wilful damage and theft, is indeed a severe indication of the looseness of someone's super- vision in the training of those children. Unfor- vision in the training of those children. Unfor- tunately, these cases of child delinquents have lately become as prevalent among many of the districts about here, that unless some I stringent measures are taken to get at the root of the evil, incalculable harm will ensue to the future generation. Character and self-respect will be blunted by familiarity with police prosecutions, and the ranks of crime will run parallel with the ranks of unemployed in num- bers, to the general danger of the community. Had I my way in matters of this kind I would have an authoritative investigation of the homes of these children, and inquire if proper parental supervision had been taken, and that example and precept obtained as it should obtain in every family household in the training of these children. The wild harum-scarum antics of the children out late in the streets of our I town reflect everything but credit to their parents and guardians, and although I am the last person in the world to support any grand- motherly laws that may seem to interfere with the liberty of the subject, I am positive that a public warning to the parents of these embryo hooligans would mitigate if not eradicate the growing nuisance and annoyance that fill our streets in the night. It would certainly elimin- ate the temptation to evil and juvenile crime. I am afraid although the Cwm section in the doctor's dispute case has obtained an injunction against the Ebbw Vale Company, respecting the deduction of contributions to the fund, it will not by any means terminate the friction and trouble that exist. A general fund, unques- tionably, must prove more bonefkial to the workmen than sectional ones, and it is to be hoped that measures will be taken lo mutually arrange the difficulties that exist, difficulties, as far as I can see, that threatev. the whole stability of providence and insurance against sickness and accidents among the workmen. The girl and boy preachers, Miss Maggie Bevan and Master Stanley Thomas, seem to be doing a tour of evangelism through the valleys. At curiosities in human nature they are no doubt attractive, but these freak exhibitions of immature eloquence cannot fail to impress all sensible and serious persons with the incongruity of the dictation of theological opinions from children utterly inexperienced and imperfectly trained in a subject that engages the best and most brilliant scholars of the Bible nearly all their lives to sift and thoroughly understand. The Great Master Himself never attempted such a task as preaching till he arrived at full manhood, and if He with His divine power did not deem it necessary to commence His work when a child, I hardly see the reason for modern children, however clever they may be verbally, taking on a public duty that invites a criticism on presumption and vanity. I I Arc you looking for anything? If so, a Want Ad. in our columns will get it for you. 11

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PONTLOTTYN. BETHLEHEM.—On Thursday evening, at Beth- lehem Schoolroom, Mr. T. J. Jams, Chapel House, read a paper on "The Relation between Christianity and Socialism." The address wai much appreciated. This was the assay for which Mr. Jones Was awarded tha prize at th.0 Pontlottyn Eisteddfod three years ago. Mr. W. Saunders presided. ST. TTFAJEIOG.—A monstre tea and concert, under the auspices of the Church Dramatic Society, were held on Monday evening a.t the St. Tyfaeiog Schoolroom, when the icar (Rev. T. Rees) was chairman. The programme con- sisted of illustrated songs and limelight viewer and concluded with the screaming absurdity, "Paddy and the Ghost." The concert was un- der the management of Mr. David Hughea. Mr. Joseph Greening manipulated the lantern, and Mr. Jack Prosser presided at the piano. The secretarial duties were performed by. Messre. James Daviea and E. Minhinnick. PRIZE DISTRIBUTION.—On Tuesday the menu bars of the Pontlottyo Company of the Church Lads Brigade were awarded their annual prizea at the company's headquarters—St. Tyfaelog Schoolroom. Capt. J. E. Jones's prizes for the best attendance, physical exercises, rboot, ing, and cleanliness were awarded to (1st) Sergt. J. Rees Evans and (2nd) Bugler Jervia Pearce. The silver medal (recruits' prize) WM awarded to Private J. Humphreys. Silver medals were also given to Bugler T. Lewis, Corporal P. Richards, Bugler J. Pearce, and Private J. Humphreys. Capt. J. E. Jonca made the presentations, and urged the lads to put greater enthusiasm into the drills. He hoped, with a little financial assistance, to giw every lad a prize this year. The Rev. A. Jukes (curate) also addressed the company. Votes of thanks were accorded Sergt.-Instruc- I tor Veraall. Corres.-Lieut. Charles Morris, and also to the treasurer, Mr. Sidney Pearce.

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Conciliation Board. THE W AGREEMENT. FULL TEXT OF THE PROPOSALS. OFFICIAL REPORT. The following- joint- official report was handed to the press by Mr. W. Gaseoyne DaJziel, the OWNERS' secretary:— A meeting of the Conciliation Board for the foal trade of Monmouthshire and South Wales -{iIi'as held a.t Cardiff on Wednesday. In the absence IJF MR. F. L. Davis. Mr. W. J. tIeppell presided ever the owners' side. Mr. W. Brace occupying like position on the workmen's side in the ab- sence of Mr. W Abraham. The Joint Board was informed that the re- spective proposals of the owners' and the work- men's representatives for the revision the Conciliation; "Board AGRE^FAENT" "had? been ex- changed on Saturday last. The only other subject mentioned at the meeting- WAR the question of the workmen's in- timation of .'1:. intention to claim payment for small coal as a counterclaim to the OWNERS' claim to a right to damages for the workmen's breach cf Clause 3 of the Eight Hours Act with regard to the working of the extra 60 hours per annum. This subject having been discussed, it was agreed to adjourn fche meeting until to- morrow a.t 10.30. The following is the full text of the proposals: 15th January, 1910. Heads of the proposals of the owners' represen- tatives on the Conciliation Board for a re- vision of the Conciliation Board Agreements of the 11th December, 1905, and 30th June, 1909. 1. That the minimum be reducedto 20 per cent, with an equivalent selling price of 12s. 4d. per ton. That th maximum remain at 60 per cent. 2. That the following clause shall be substi- tuted for Clause 2 of the Agreement of the fcOth Juno, 1909. "The owners shall. due regard being had to safety, have the right of working their re- spective collieries in such manner, and by 'such hifts, whether for working coal or for other purposes, as they may deem necessary to suit the circumstances of the different col- lieries. This to include the right of the own- ers of introducing an afternoon shift of any olasa of workmen required, the payment to be for the actual number of SHIFTS worked." 3. That the workmen b& required to work 'the additional 60 hours provided for in Section iS of the Coal Mines Regulation Act, 1908, re S iioura. 4. That tho) payment of 6 turns for 5 nights forked where now paid, and all bonuses, be abolished. 5. That at all collieries where the Sunday "BRIGHT shift is required, such shift shall be of 'teight duration and only one turn b9 d for such shift. 6. That the workmen's house coal as now applied ehall in future be charged for at tne (tate of 10s. per ton. 7. That in future the legal position under VIE Workmen's Compensation Act shall be ADOPTED as regards the supply of house coal to jured workmen. 8. That fortnightly pays be adopted at all fediieiries. 9. That Clause 15 of the Conciliation Board ment as to "customs" shall be amended TO AS to substitute a. more recent date than mber. 1879, to govern the customs and Conditions. 10. That in view of the owners' obligations TODER the Workmen's Compensation Act, in /egard to industrial diseases, all workmen new- ly applying for work shall be medically EXAM- INED before being engaged. 11. That provision be made for a more strict kdherenoe to the latter part of Clause 12 of •BE Conciliation Board Agreement as io the orkmen resuming work after thoe general holi- DAYS, and for a greater regularity of working y the workmen generally a.t the collieries. 12. That six representatives outside of the ^Conciliation Board be appointed on each side TO take up disputes on behalf of the Board, that such additional representatives are not )0 sit with the Joint Board. 13. That on the passing of any future Act cf parliament affecting the fundamental principles f any new agreement, either side of the jBoard shall be at liberty to give notice to ter- minate the agreement. In the event of the toarties disagreeing upon the question, as to whether or not such Act, affects the agreement, £ HALL be referred to the Independent Chairman appointed by the whole Board. 14. That, subject to the other clauses being agreed to, the period of the new Agreement be longer than that of the present Agree- tnent. (Signed) W. J. HEPPEII., Chairman. (Signed) W. GASCOYNE DUZIEL, Secretary. WORKMEN'S Proposals for amending the Con- ciliation Board Agreement. 1. Minimum and Maximum.—That the mini- mum be raised from 3C per cent. to 40 per cent. and the present maximum be deleted. 2. Payment for Small Coal.—That we pro- pose that there shall be an amendment of Clause 7 of the present Agreement to provide that payment shall be made the collier for small coal. 3. Abnormal Piaoea. — That the following proposals be AMENDED to enahle representatives Ðf the workmen and the officials to be parties to THE removal of workmen from one place to nother "In the event of a collier having conditions in his working place which prevent him earning a fair wage on the Price List, he ahall receive such an allowance as he and the "Management agree upon, it being under- Stood that the allowance to be so made shall be such as to make the wages paid to the collier equivalent to the wages he would 'tarn if his working place was in a normal • CONDITION. Provided that if the Manage laaent and the collier fail to AV.IAE as to v. hat jjthe condition of the working place is, or as to TITHE amount of the ALLOWANCE to bè paid, the ■ Idanagement shall in that event pay to each (llier employed in the working place, if more 'than one collier shail be so employed, a standard wage of noi Jess than 4S. 9d. per day, ut if one oollier and a. helper thall be employed then cfie coilier a standard (Swage of not less than 4?. 9d. per day, AND ,b helper a standard wage of not less than "As. per day Provided that if the Management a.11 at any time become dissatisfied with the done by the collier in any such working place the Management shall, after complaint shall have been made to the collier, have the right to remove a collier to a working place in the same colliery, wåere the conditions arc normal, but until such removal shall be actu- ally made the terms and provisions of this Clause shall continue and have effect." 4. Payment for Night Work.—That the work- ■RFLEN employed on the afteraon or night shifts thall he paid a wage rate equal to the payment of 6 days pay for 5 shifts worked. 5. Low rates of Payment.—That the w\1!e;: WORKMEN employed in and about the Collier.' Who are in receipt of wages less than 3s. 4d. VIFOU the Standard shall be raised to that amouni. 6. Independent Chairman.—To propose that to all matteia of dispute at the Collieries re- ferred to the Conciliation Boaith in which failure to agree by the parties is reported, an INDEPENDENT Chairman shall be appointed to finally decide the matter, whose decisions shall be adopted by the employers and the work- men. 7. Weekly Pays.—That the wages of all the Workmen employed at the. Collieries shall be paid weekly. 8. Hours of Work.-—That the words from the BEGINNING to "and" in line 2 of Clause 1 of .-the Agreement of the 3Gth June, 1909. be de- leted- (Signed) THOMAS RICHARDS, to 5th January, 1910. General Secretary.

I TROEDVRHIW. PRESENTATION.—A pleasing and very inter- esting function took placj at a "mokerP held at the Masons' Arms, Troooyrbiw, on Thurs- jday last, presided over by Mr. W. Hopkins (agent). Mr. D. J Williams, the retiring presi- dent of the Merthyr Vale and Trcedyrhiw Jfirancb of Colliery Engiriemen, Stokers', and Burfaoe Craftsmen's Association, was presented with a handsomely-framed emblem on the oc- casion of his retirement from office, which had -been awarded as but a SLIGHT token of respect lor invaluable services rendered to the branch for nearly two years. Mr. Hopkins dwelt at 'length on the efficacy of THE branch, and eulo- gised the recipient upon the results achieved ILARNIG his tenure of office, as revealed by re- turns received at headquarters. Mr. Williams, AN accepting the gift of the branch, feelingly referred to the honour conferred upon him in enr.-ustLng such a responsible poõt to his care, jMid assured all present of his continued un- swerving devotion to the cause. Messrs. Llew. Jones, Robt. Watkins, D. Phillips, and THE (Agent contributed to the harmony of the meet- in C. Several selections were attentively listen- to on the gramophone, manipulated and kindly lent by Mr. D. J. Picton, hairdresser: wh:1st Mr. W. Walsh acted as accompanist and ttiechaj-gad his duties in a creditable manner. Votes of thanks to the Chairman and artistes fconcluded A very enjoyable meeting.

Sudden Death at Ebbw Vale. Mr. J. B. Walford, district coroner, held an inquest at the Ebbw Vale police station, on Tuesday .evening, touching the death of George Dudley, a labourer, who was found dead in a chair at his lodgings in Lloyd's-court, on Sunday.—William Wren said he lived at No. 1, Lloyd's-court, Ebbw Vale. The deceased had ¡ lodged with him for about 12 months. He was a labourer and was a widower, and belonged to Malvern. Witness never saw him the worse for drink. On Saturday night he saw him at ten o'clock. Witness went to bed and left deceased in an arm-chair by the lire. He was quite sober and said he would soon go to bed. He never complained about being ill, and worked up to 5.30 that day. He partook of beef and bread about quarter to six, and ate heartily. He had some tea with his supper, and later on had a share of a quart of beer. Witness found him in the arm-chair on the following morning, at 8 o'clock. He was quite stiff and cold.—inspector Price said he saw the deceased in a sitting position in the chair, with I his head a little on one side, as though he Are asleep. He had been vomiting. Deceased mother died suddenly at Malvern.—The jury returned a verdict of Death from Natural Causes."

II MERTHYR VALE. EARNEST JONES AND CO. For Suits to measure and aJI manner of Men's Clothing.—Commerce House, Aberfan. CALFARIA CHURCH M.I,S,-The weekly meet- ing of this society w^s held on Tuesday evening, when Mrs. D. P. Evans read an excellent paper on the late Lleurwg." Miss £ A. Jones also 1read an able paper on "Frances Ridley Haver- gal." Both ladies were accorded a hearty vote I of thanks, which was supported by Rev. D. P. Evans, J. J. Lloyd, R. T. Davies, and E. E. George. Mr. G. Evans presided. Miss Maggie Bevan, the young talented evangelist of Caer- philly, has conducted mission services at the above church, the sacred edifice being well filled each evening. Special hymna were sung for the occasion. LIBERAL MKETINC.- A crowded public meet- ing was held at the Aberfan Hall, on Wednes- day evening, in support of the candidature of Sir Alfred Thomas. The meeting was presided over by Mr W. R. Edmunds, supported by Dr. J. C. Edwards (Merthyr Vale), Dr. Jones (Mountain Ash). Professor Chalk (Porth), ,and several others. A resolution was read condemn- ing the action of the House of Lords in inter- fering with the finance of the country, also assuring the Chancellor of" the Exchequer of the meeting's unabated confidence in his grand Budget, and their determined effort to return Sir Alfred Thomas e\ Monday next. The resolutions were suppc bv Dr. Jones, Pro- fessor Chalk, and Mr. John 1 ;"ds (Lib.), Lou- don. The greatest enthusiast joreva'led throughout th« meeting.

RHYMNEY VALLEY SCHOOLS. MEETING OF MANAGERS. The monthly meeting of the Managers of th, Rhymney Valley Group of Schools was held at Rhymuey on Monday afternoon, there being present:—Messrs. John Edwards, W. Nashf Dr. Hall Redwood, Messrs. W. Price, B. Joneq, and R. Harris, with the Deputy-clerk, Mr. R. Langmaid. Mr. W. S. Nash drew attention to the f&ct that the schools at Fengam were closed several weeks before the Christmas holidays, th. Aberbargoed Schools for eight weeks, th< Fleur-de-Lis Schools for seven weeks and th4 Fairview School for four weeks, owing to th< prevalence of measles. He referred to thi statement made by the Bedwellty Medic a*. Officer at a Council meeting some weeks ago that the closing of schools for measles in suck, a district as this, where the children would com4 in contact with each other in other ways and places than at school, was quite unnecessary, and that schools were not closed because of at epidemic, but because the attendance fell s< low as to imperil the Government grant. Thes.' schools, Mr. Nash reminded the Managers were costing Y,300 a month in salaries, and, by reason of the inconvenicnce caused by theij being so long closed, parents were sending the if children to Blackwood. He (Mr. Nash) did not blame the Medical Officer of the county, but he feared that the blame rested with tlig county committee, who seemed to be in a t renzy to make up attendances.—The Chairman said he did not think anyone wanted to clos,, the schools unless absolutely necessary, and thf county officers seemed to be of the same opinion as Dr. Evans, of Bedwellty.—Mr. Nash Dr. I Evans puts quite a different complexion on th' circumstances in his statement to the Bedwelltj Council.—Th« Deputy-Clerk read C orrespondenc: on the sub> -vt, which had passed between tht Committee and the Medical Officer, in which Dr. Wade stated that he visited the Aberbargoed schools on the 9th November, and ordered their Icing closed. He again visited them or the 13th November, and found that the infanta' department had not been closed.—On thf motion of Mr. Nash, it was decided to recom, mend that the monthly half-holiday be sua. pendod, having regard to the time the school had Lee;,t closed. Lea\e of absence for three months was givec to Mrs. Edwards, head-mistress of the Rhymnej Infants' School, in consequence of the state cf her heaitli. In recommending this, and tho.1 her salary be paid during that time, the Chair man (and others) referred to her faithfulness ai a teacher. A letter was read from the secretary of th< Rhymney United Choir, stating that by a reparl in the papers of the last meeting of the Managers permission had been granted to the Gweni Choral Society to use the middle Rhymnej schools on Wednesday evenings, and pointins out that since 1906 the use of this school hM been granted to the United Choir. The replJ sent by the Clerk was to the effect that th' agreement referred to was only for three months, I and although the schools had been used aft« that term had expired, no request had beer made for the renewal of the agreement.—A further letter was read from Mr. A. S. Griffith? pointing out that there were two rival choir; in Rhymney, and be did not think that eithei the Managers or the Clerk wished to show am preference to either. In 1906 the parties me1 at Ccnivtou House (Councillor J. Edwards') and an ayreeiGent was arrived at, which was know? as the Compton House agreement.—Mr. B Jones It reminds one of Lord Lansdowne'd house (laughter).—The Deputy Clerk: Before they went to the House of Lords (laughter). By this agreement the Rhymney United Choij were to have the use of the school on Wednesday evenings, and this was observed up to Novembei last. In view of this, the letter continued, it appeared strange that the other society haJ I' been given the use of the schools.—Mr. IJ* Harris said that so far as was known the Rhym- ney United Choir had nothing on at present, but the Gwent Choral Society were practising for the performance of the Messiah," ifl February.—After further discussion it was agreed, on the motion of Mr. W. S. Nash, to allow the Gwent Choral Society the use of the school until next meeting, when the subject should come up for further consideration. Are you looking for anything? If so, a Want Ad. in our columns will set it for you. Have you anything" to Sell? Advertise in our Want Columns, and it is as good as solei. 0

It is safe to say that never in the history of the Borough has the result of an election given rise to greater speculation than on the present occasion. There was never any doubt in the minds of those best able to form an estimate as to who would head the poll. The official Liberal candidate, Mr. Edgar Jones, it was felt certain, would come first, but so compli- cated was the position that doubts existed as to who would come second—whether Mr. Prit- chard Morgan, tho Independent Liberal: Mr. Keir H.ardie, the Socialist, or Mr. Fox-Davies, the Tariff Reformer. The supporters of each candidate professed to be sanguine as to the candidate professed to be sanguine as to the result. There were forty-two polling stations, and in the various parts of the constituency polling throughout the day was fairly steady. All the candidates were well supplied with conveyances to fetch voters to the polling booths, though Mr. Fox-Davies appeared to be the best off in Mr. Fox-Davies appeared to be the best off in this respect. Gaily decorated motor cars ran to and fro, and in the afternoon a char-a-banc was placed at the service of Mr. Edgar Jones. I' No effort was spared to get voters to the sta- tions, they were fetched from the Merthyr Hos- pital to record their votes. Party colours were freely displayed, red and blue predominating. At all the stations there were the uuusal checkers. From the first, Mr. ii-L I Morgan attacked Socialism strongly, and Mr. Hardie's supporters realised that ir, was lie they had ipost to fear. It is stated that as the I day advanced they began to fear their candi- da.te would be out, and those stationed at the polling booths, therefore, advised voters to "plump for Hardie." The Conservatives of Merthyr, too, it is said, had decided to plump for their man. I' Slight, showers fell at intervals during the day, but the evening was fine, and large crowds col- lected in the streets of Merthyr. Aberdare, and Mountain Ash and discussed the chances of the rival candidates. Amusing incidents took place at some of the polling pooths. An illiterate man presented him- self at one station, and when asked for vvhorn he wished to vote he said he wanted to "kill" one of tho candidates. A paper was given to him, and the names read out, and he then made a heavy cross opposite the name of the candidate he wished to "kill," remarking, I'll kill him." Another illiterate man, when asked for whom he desired to vote, replied, The two centre men." two centre men." Ladies wearing party colours were in evi- Gcnce in all parts of the constituency, and bands cf children paraded the streets singing election songs. A decorated motor wagon, flying the Conservative candidate's colours, was running near!y all day in Merthyr carrying bands of merry children, who distributed election leaflets as they wfent from street to street. The candidates visited all portions of the con- stituency during the day, and were heartily cheered by their respective supporters. In the early part of the day thero was not much com- motion, but later on, and especially in the even- j ing, there was a great deal of excitement. i Thanks, however, to the excellent arrangements made by the police in both valleys, good order was maintained. The ballot boxes were conveyed to the Mer- thyr Town Hall, and the counting began about nine o'clock on Thursday morning, the result being announced ab<^ut five o'clock in the afternoon. A large crowd had collected in front of the Town Hall, and in the adjaoent streets, j and there was much cheering and booing as the figures were read out by the Mayor of Merthyr (C-oun. F. T. James), the returning officer.