The Merthyr Express

MOUNTAIN ASH. TOTT can search round the whole world, but can- Jot beat our prices.—IDRIS EYNON. Jliskin Supply Stores. POPULAR GUARDIAN. — Mr. T. Richards, cashier at Messrs. Nixon's, has been returned unopposed for the Board of Guardians. BILLIARDS —In the Mountain Ash tourna) ment Ball (scratch) and German (receives 195 provided a capital game, the scores being 750, German G45. DEATH OF A COUNCILLOR'S SON.—We have to record the death of the second son of Councillor John Powell, which took place on Monday evening, at the Cottage Hospital..Great sympathy is felt for the family in their sad bereavement. "WESTERN MAIL" MUSICAL SCHOLARSHIP.— Will all those interested in the candidature of hfjE Annie Rees, Dowlais, kindly send all coupons, No, n. to D B. Evans, 40, Bronheu- log, Penydarren, before, Xhureday, next, March lBt,; 1\Ïiss Rees ■ w the xiatighter of. a st.eei- >oork«iiqi(br ^ewis^IUjfis, 8- Russe,Il-street, Dow- lais. mnd'is-iuU^ d^rviHg of your, support. COTTAGE HOSPITAL.—A meeting of the com- mittee was held on Saturday, at the Ffrwd Offices, Capt. F. N. Gray in the chair. Oply minor affairs were discussed.—Mr. D. T. Evans proposed that thanks bo accorded the G.W.R. Co. for handbills showing excursions from various parts into Mountain Ash for Easter Monday Eisteddfod. The same gentleman feeling'y touched upon the sad loss which had befallen one of their committee-men (Mr. Ben Ashton), whose daughter died very suddenly on Saturday last.—The Chairman, Capt. Gray, also spoke most sympathetically of the sad event, and asked all present to show their deep regret by rising. This was done. PALM SUNDAY.—In accordance with the Csual custom, crowds of people were to be seen Ending their way to the cemeteries on Sunday last. From an early hour hundreds flocked towards the two burial grounds, carrying wreaths, crosses, harps, etc. Beautiful blooms in pots seemed to predominate. In the after- noon the many hundreds of visitors to the cemetery were charmed with the beauty of taste and colouring that the flowers presented. By far the greater number of people were to be seen at the old cemetery, the new one only recently having been opened. Everything that love and labour could do had been done, and the result more than justified their la bours. ELECTION MEETING.—An enthusiastic meeting was held at Bethania Hall, on Friday evening, in support of the candidature of Capt. F. N Gray for a seat on the Board of Guardians.—Mr. Tom Narbett, as president; gave a stirring Speech in support of Capt. Gray, and on Mr. Gray rising to speak he was accorded a. hearty reception. The candidate gave an excellent account of his stewardship as Guardian for the past nine years, and said that he had implicit confidence that the electors of the Duffryn Ward would once again return him on the day of the poll. Messrs. John Christopher and W. Y. Phillips were elected joint, secretaries, and the J electors present were formed into a committee to select canvassers, etc. A hearty vote of thanks to the chairman was proposed by Mr. Ed. Williams, seconded by Capt. G. A. Evans, and supported by the candidate, which brought the Meeting to a close. ST. PATRICK'S DAY.—On Thursday last the children of St. Mary's Roman Catholic Schools were given a holiday in honour of the Patron Saint of Ireland, St. Patrick. A crowded con- gregation attended the early morning service, when the Rev. Father Irvine delivered a very eloquent scrwon appropriate ot the day. In the evening a miscellaneous concert was given by Ihe school children, at the Young Men's Rooms, Napier-street, and again there was a crowded Audience, and right well did the little ones Acquit themselves. The eight little maids, tI.8 Japanese girls from the Mikado took all hearts by storm. The little mites ranged from to 7 years old. The costumes of the six Little Snowflakes" were particularly sweet, to were the little singers themselves. It would be unwise to single out one item for special Mention. Praise is due to Father Irvine and all who generously helped him towards making the evening such a perfect success. The stage was very prettily arranged, the scenery, which bad been painted by the head-mistress, Miss Hales, was much commented upon- At the earnest request of a number of friends, th# nttle ones will give a second performance on nLut-Monday:

:Mountain Ash District Council. RAILWAY CROSSING TO BE IMPROVED. The meeting of the Mountain Aah District Council was held on Tuesday, under the presa- dfincy of Mr. W Millar The members present -ere Messrs. Thomas Jones (Dr.), R. D. Mor- D. Rogers, J. Bruoe Jones, Griffith Rev. E. V. Tidman, Messrs. John KYT T W Jones, William Evans, G. A. J.P., Evan Morris, Silaa Williams, Geo. Wai, > William Lamburn, William Daviee, as S* Messrs. H. P. Linton (cleric), Fred (accountant), and W G-. Thomas (sur- vey011), Dr E. P. Evans (medical officer), and £ 1 Harry Jones (sanitary inspector), of L Council further considered the question the contract for the erection of the Ynysy- electricity sub-station, and whether pen- nies should "be enforced against the oontr&o- j"8- It was stated that there had been delay :? carrying out the work, but Mr. Linton said j y had extended' the time before and there- wre they would not have much of a. caee.— lr- Silas Williams said the building was an ^cellent one. There migfct have been delay *0 sending some of the things which were ne- T^ary. No one would blame the contractors.— **fter some discussion Mr. Silas Williams Proved that the balance due to the contractors Daid and that the penalties be not imposed. ~~Dr. Morgan seconded, and the motion was to. The Medical Officer reported in reference to Cubical space per person in each dwelling house, pointed out that 250 cubic feet would be vPPle- Replying to Mr Silas Williams, the radical Officer eaid minus the furniture it be about 300 cubic feet. -lenders received for various purposes for the ending March 31st, 1911, were next opeo- When the tenders for scavenging in the gbercynon Ward were being considered Mr. **va0 Morris referred to the horses used for *his work. — The Surveyor confessed that he T'a? not an authority on horses, but he had fisted that all horses used for the work be not less than fourteen bands, and weigh not less than 14 cwts. He would Jfaroine all horses before they were put into shafts, fp ^he secretary of the Abercynon Chamber of *rade wrote that it had always been the wish Jv the Chamber that private street works ehould be carried out in Honey Hill, Aber- J^OD.—On the motion of Mr. W. Jones, it decided that the Clerk should communi- with Mr Morgan, the agent of the Ynya- •kfurig Estate, with regard to a certain agree- n?k relating to this street. The Chairman proposed a vote of condolence "WJth Coun. John Powell on the death of his Mr. Millar remarked that Mr Powell was in indifferent health.—Mr. John Charles, yho seconded, said that all felt extremely sorry °r their colleague in his bereavement. The was carried, all the members standing. « communication was read from Messrs. C r°d W. Kenshole, solicitors, Aberdare, call- attention to surface damage done to pro- Berty belonging to Mr. John Morgan, of Tai- parm, Hinvain, in sinking trial holes SSr the proposed reservoir at Penderyn.—The ~leik was instructed to reply to the effect that he Council would be prepared to entertaixj a when the trial holes were finished. fho Surveyor reported that it was the inten- of the G.W.R. Company to improve the S,ridge crossing over their railway near the ,°wn Hall He had met the Company's en- gineers on the bridge, and they bad explain- eel to him the way in which the work was to be parried out. The engineers had also referred fp. the Council's mains, which passed oyer the b*ldge. He thought that the Council should attend to these, and do what was necessary. £ s to who should pay for this the Clerk would able to say.—The Clerk replied that this de- ^nded entirely upon what terms were made when the mains were laid down.—It was 4e- that the Clerk should communicate with Company. r W Phillips, the assistant overseer, wrote gating that at the last County Council meeting **e was able to get a reduction in the county ^<»te assessment of £ 5,673, which was equiyilant *an annual saving of £ 240 in the raijes. In his, Aid. W. Jones. Mountain Ash, had contin- uously interested himself.—A vote of thanks was accorded to Mr. Phillips and Aid- Jones.

Mountain Ash Water Bill. PROTECTION OF EXISTING RIGHTS- In the House of Commons last Thursday the Creat Western Railway General Powers Bill Qnd the Mountain Ash Water Bill were read a Second time. On the motion of Mr. Stanier it was agreed that it be an instruction to the Committee on the Mountain Ash Water Bill that they have Power to inquire whether the promoter^ have tnauc adequate provision by the Bill for the Supply of water at reasonable rates to the agri- cultural community within the area of supply and to any person or persons from whom any Existing or natural supply is or may be with- drawn owing to the works or undertakings authorised by the Bill, and they further have Jower to insert in the Bill such clause or Causes as they think necessary to impose upon the promoters the obligation to provide such Supply. IF YOU HAVE DEFECTIVE EYESIGHT, coosolt the experienced EYesiht Testing Expert in Mer- Mr. HENRY M. LLOYD, Ophthalmic Optician q Checjisti Merihyr (opposite Market doors).

Mountain Ash Annual Eisteddfod. The Mountain Ash Cottage Hospital sixteenth annual eisteddfod again pronùse to be a. mag- nificent success. The preparations necessary, are well in hand, and it is expected that this year's proceedings will excel the very high standard which has been attained in all previous years. The organisation of this eisteddfod reflects great credit upon the committee and its officials, and is the result, of much thought and hard work and of unity of action, in which all are inspired and encouraged by the fact that the successful issue of their labours will result in something tangible being achieved for a high purpose, namely, the relief of the suffering, for the proceeds will be devoted towards furthering the work of the Cottage Hospital at Mountain Ash. Fifty-two choirs and bands have entered. The entries in the various other competitions 1 lumber About €00. The. chief choral compete tíon..#in arouse- A great deal of interests aSucli renowned choirs aa- Khy'mfiey, Nowpctrb Co- operative, Gwmavon, Pontvewmmer, Llanid- loes, and Aberdare, have entered, and it is anticipated that the singing will be of a very high order, and that the competition will be a very close one The chief male voice com- petition will be a great event, Birmingham Kenfig Hill, Pontardawe and Mountain Ash Male choirs having entered and keep interest is manifested. The juvenile choir competition will be, as usual, very interesting. The juvenile voices of the present will be the voiccs for the male voice and chief chorals of the future, and the committee act very wisely in the inteserst, of the eisteddfod in giving this competition an important place In the second male voice competition Birmingham Midland Gleemen, Tredegar Glee Singers, Abercynon Glee Singers, and Bethania Glee Singers arc among the competitors. Here, again, a very keen com- petition is expected. The brass band contest of the Mountain Ash Easteir Eisteddfod is to-day the premier band contest. in Wales. It is recognised at the Belle Vue of Wales. Nintecn of the leading bands of England and Wales have entered, among them being the famour Foden's Wagon Works Band, the warmers at last ypar's Belle Vue contest, and a. first-class contest is expected. In all the other competitions—Ambulance, mining, liter- ary, instrumental and vocal solos, etc., entries have been received from all parts of the country, including Birmingham, Staffordshire, Liverpool, North Wales, Bristol, etc. Numbers of famous solo cpmpetitors have this year entered the lists. The chairing ceremony will take place at 3.30 sharp. The eisteddfod meetings will start at 9.30 a.m. sharp, and from that time until 6.30 p.m. everything will go briskly forward with a good swing. The committee has been fortunate in securing the services of Dr. H. Walford Da vies, London, as chief adjudicator, with Mr. W. W. Goodworth, Mus. Bac., London, and Mr. H. C. Morns, B.A., F.R.C.O., St. David's, as prelimin- ary adjudicators. The band contest adjudi. cator is Mr. W. Heap, Bradford. The success of this year's eisteddfod is well assured. It is growing in popularity every year. About 10,000 tickets have already been sold, and it is anticipated that there will be an attendance of about 20,000 at the meetings on Monday next. The entry this year is the second greatest ever received. If the success continues it is certain that the committee will have to decide upon holding the eisteddfod upon two days. The standard of the various1 competitions is getting higher and higher every year, and the committee, besides assisting in the relief of the suffering by striving to make the eisteddfod a financial success, is, by its careful selection of the music for the various competitions, promoting the art of music in Wales,

PENRHIWCEIBER. RECEIVING ORDER. A receiving order in banldfoptcy has been made against Alfred Evan Williams, 9, Main-street, Mathewatown, Pen- rhiwoeiber, baker and confectioner.

Penrikyber Navigation Colliery Co. Mr. Richard Cory presided at the 20th annual general meeting of the shareholders of the Penrikyber Navigation Colliery Co., Ltd., held last Friday at the Angel Hotel, Cardiff. The report) showed that the profit for the year amounted to £33,780, leaving (after paying Debenture interest of £3,75.> £30,030, which, added to the sum brought forward from the last report, made a total of £50,095. The directors recommended a dividend of 5 per cent. on the Preference Shares and 7!- per cent on the Ordinary, making, with the interim dividend 71 and 10 per cent. respectively for the year, and leaving £20,095 to be earned forward to the next account. The chairman said the shareholders would join in the directors' ex- pression 01 regret at the severe loss sustained by the death of his esteemed brother, the late chair- man, who had been connected with the company from ita inception. He much appreciated the honour in being appointed as his sucoeasor. During the year several improvements in the equipment of the colliery had been made. The electrical generating plant had been completed by the addition of a 1,260 kilowatt turbo alternator, and the colliery was now in a position to pruduce electrical power at an exceedingly low cost. The report and statement of accounts were adopted. Messrs. F. C. Yeo and Isaac T. Glaabrook were re-elected directors, and Mr. Kenelm Goes was re-elected auditor.

ABERCYNON. The MEBTHYH EDITION of the "Merthyr Ex- §re«s" is 00 sale at Mrs. Richards, Newsagent, tafcion-street, every Friday morning. MKBTING.—On Friday evening, a meeting was held at the Lesser Hall, when Mr. T. W. Jones gave an account of his stewardship during his period of office on the Mountain Ash District CounpiS. Mr. E. H- Battram presided. COFFEE SUPPER.—The annual coffee supper of the Forward Movement Hall was held at the Tabernacle Vestry (kindly lent) on Wednesday evening last. The secretarial duties were car- ried out by Mr W. J. Price. A pleasant even- ingwas spent. CHRISTIAN ENDEAVOR.—A very interesting1 entertainment in connection with the Christian Endeavour Society of the English Congrega- tional Church, was held on Thursday evening. The following items were given: Pianoforte solo, Miss Nelly Surge; reoit., Miss Thomas; solo, piss Jones; impromptu speech, Mr. Wil- fred Bowden; recitation, Mr. Wilfred Bowden; best story for children under 14: 1, G. A. Jones; 2, Lie Davie#. Mias E. Blomley was the adjudicator. TEA..—On Thursday evening a tea and com- petitive meeting were held at Caifana Welsh Baptist Qhurch. At the competitive meeting, the adjudicator was Mr. W. Wigley, and the following awards were made-Singillg com- petition for children under 15, R. O. Thomas; recitation under 15, divided between Etta Mor- gan and Maria Richards; soprano solo, Miss Lizzie Howells; contralto solo, Miss Jones; ba$s solo, divided between Mr. W D. Edwards and Mr. J. Morgan; tenor solo, Mr. Thomas Thomas. The Rev. B. flowells presided, and Miss Bessie Thomas accompanied. The secre- tarial duties were carried out by Mr. W. Evans. WHIST DIVE AND DANCE.—On Thursday evening the first annual shop assistants whist drive and dance took place at the Workmen's Hall. The whist drive terminated at 9.30 p.m., and dancing was indulged in until 2.36 a.m. The winners of the whist prize were: Ladies, 1, Miss S. Keel; consolation, Miss G. Jones. Gentlemen: 1, Mr. E. Morgan; consolation, Mr. Richards. The M.C. for the whist drive was Mr. Wm. Wyndjiam, M.C. for dancing was Mr. D. Roberts. The committee were Messrs. W N. Wyndham, G. Hunt, T. Evans, H. Thomas, W Keel, J. Martin, E. Powell, H. Middlemen (treasurer), D. Roberts (secretary). Delightful dance music was played by Mr. Dd. Harris. SACJU&D CoifCEBT. — On Sunday evening a Mcred concert was held at the Workmen's Hall in aid of the Dowlais-Cardiff Colliery Work- men's Distress Fund. Mr. Bruoe Jones pre. sided, and the following items were given: Part song, "Crugybar," by the Orpheus Male Glee Party, under the oonductoxship of r. D. T. Theophilus; selection, "The Northmen's Song of Freedom," by the Party; bass solo, "Eternal Mr. D. J. Powell; mandoline so^o, "Chanson l'Printemps," Signor Gallani; part pong, "0 Peaceful NighK" the Party; Soprano soio, "How Lovely ate Thy Dwellings," I, Miss Annie Rees, Dowlais; recitation, "Re- jected," Mr. W. G. Powell; tenor solo, er afld Deeper Still" and "Waft Her Angels," Mr. Evan Llpyd; part song, "The village Blacksmith," the Party; baritone solo, "Baby- lon,Mr. W. D- Evans; violin solos, (a) "Salut d'Amour, (b) "Tarantelie," Mr. D. T. Theo- philus; soprano solo, "Giver of Life," Miss Annie Reee; tenor sole, "Y Golomen Wen," Mar. T. H. Da vies; part Eong, "The Long Day doses," the Pftrty CHA^BEB OF TJIADE.—The MONTHLY meeting of the Abercynon Chamber of Trade was held at the Workmen's Hall, Dr J. LI. Morris pre- siding.—Th$Secretary (M.r Tom Davigs) read correspondence from several Chambers support- ing t,4qu- application to the G.W.R.Company for cheap tickets to Liverpool, Isle of Man, and the North on Mondays ae well as on Fridays, and a fetter was also read from the G.W.R. Company promising to consider the matter.— In answer to the inquiry of the Chamber re- garding the private street improvement on Stopy HiH, a letter was read from the Moun- tain Ash District Council stating that they had considered the dosing of the steep road calkd Stony tIill, and the provision of a. footpath in lieu thereof. The Council had been uimer the impression that it was the wish of the inhabit- ants, and they had also made negotiations with the landlord's agent. Apparently, the landlord was willing to consent to it, but representations had hacn made to the Council that the Cham- ber were opposed to the course.—The following resolution was proposed by Mr. John Suther- land, and carried unanimously: "That this Chamber, so far from opposing this improve- met, has always urged the Council to put this improvement in forc;) as soon as possible." PRESENTATION.—On Friday, the annual dis- tribution of prizes in connection with the Aber- cynon Continuation Classes was held at the Workmen's Hall, Mr. Bruce Jones presiding. Tea had been provided for the students- and artistes, and after tea the following programme was gono through:—Pianoforte solo, 1\1i."s B. Williams; action song, "Our Baby," Naviga- I ticn Infants; action wng, "How I became a LL.D. Carnetown Infants; song, Mr. Wil- ton; pianoforte soio, Mr. Clement Jones; song, "Alone on the Raft," Miss Owen; action song, "Trip, Trip, Tripping," Navigation Infants; action song, "Caller Herrin' Navigation Girls; and song, "Holy City," Miss C. Jenkins Addres were given by the Chairman, the Rev. E. V. Tidman, Mr. E. H. Battram, and Mr. T. W Jones. Certificates and book prizes were presented by Mrs. Bruce Jones to the following students of the Abartalf Evening Continuation ClaM! thfc* Art and &ntf,' ther"" Shorfehand 'Class*; Mr. George FrSncis, Lily>" Ounnah;; William Mary Edwards, Lewis, -and E. Morgan. Prizes were presented by ME. Williams (chemist) to the following students of the Navigation Evening Continuation Classes and Scientific Dressmaking and Ambulanco Classes: Mr. W. L. Williams, Miss Rachel Tho- mas, Miss Hannah Trevethin, Miss Amelia Williams, Miss Gwladys Jones, Miss Grace Jones, Miss Emily Hunt, F. W. Howe, Mr. W. H. Thomas, Miss S. K. Trevethan. Certificates were handed to the following by Mrs. T. W. Jones: Messrs. David Owen, W. H. Thorne, Tom Jones, Charles Francis, W. Marshall, Corslake, and George Hunt. Other items wero:-Solo and chorus, "The very worst girl in school," Navigation Girls; song, "The Longshoreman," Mr. P. Davies; song, "Anchored," Mr. W Jones. An ambulance display was given by the Abercynon AmbuJ^ncs Team. The accompanist was Mis3 E. Blom- Ley. LECTURE.-On Tuesday evening, Mr. Chiozza Money gave a very interesting lecture on the "Fallacies of Protection," at the English Bap- tist Church, under the auspices of the Ynysybwl Co-operative Society's Education Committee. Mr. Chas. Maddox presided. The lecturer pointed out the need of taking a broad view of this subject, as it was a very easy thing and a daily occurrence to rush to extremes in poli- tics. The man who said Free Trade had made this country rich had studied, but the man who stated that Protection had-made America a rich country had not studied. It was great men that made groat empires, and not small imports. We were not rich heojujse of our re- sources but because of our trading- with other countries. America had a greater range ot production than wo had, and the?1- extern^! trade would not be so obvious to *hem as it was to us- They had a tax on wheat, but never j wanted to import wheat, as they had enough in the country, and the heavy tax put on some of the goods, such as wool, etc., would mean ruin for us. It was not right to draw a com- parison between the two, and say the fiscal policy of one should be the fiscal policy of the other. Protection was a doctrine more ancient than respectable, and it. was absurd for Pro- tectionista to claim Tariff Reform as a new thing. Protectionist ideas ruined Spain, which could have been on: of the most magnificent Empires. They get as much gold in to the country as thev -uld. and gold was rot ) wealth, but one of it,4 factors. Some taxes I were not protective, sjof- as those on sugar, tea, coffee, etc. If t, were taken off these goods and placed or. Vaeat. the private growers in the courts; ^ouid be able to pocket the extra profit maoe on his fellow-man. The taxes we paid go to the Government for public purposes, and not to private individuals' foi private interest. The taxes in Germany amount to 45 millions a year, and only five millions went to the Government. The last stage of Protection will be worse than the first.

Aberdare, Education Society. HOME INSTRUCTION FOR GIRLS. Un Monday evening last an excellent paper on Home-making Instruction was given the members of the above society by Miss S. George, head-mistress of the Higher Grade School, where the arts of cookery, laundry and housewifery are now t-aught,Councillor W. Thomas, the High Constable, occupied the chair, and was supported by Alderman Dd. Hughes, and Mr. Walter Williams, barrister. Miss George said she was pleased that the Aberdare Education Committee had encouraged such instruction in this new school. The Aberdare Education Committee had encouraged such instruction in this new school. The teaching of hygiene and domestic science, evep in her own school, had been somewhat a failure in years past-, or, at least, had not been of the value it might, owing to the fact that the girls had no opportunity of putting into practice the information taught. The Inspectors always advocated practical work. Miss George had culled information from the various schemes of hygiene, and the report of the Royal Com- mission on Work done in Germany, Belgium and other countries. In most of the larger towns of England and Wales cookery centres had. long been established, but, with few excep- tions, such as London* Manchester, Bradford, etc., there were, np housewifery centres. Miss 1 George spoke of the strides made by the Aberdare Committee of recent years. Education in years past, she said, had failed because the practical side'had not been catered for. The Board of Education was pressing forward in this direc- tion (home training) by giving an increased I grant for combined domestic subjects. Cookery was 4s., laundsy 2s., housewifery 7s. 6d., while if or combined subjects it was 10s. This, no doubt, had urized the Committee to go in for the combined subjects. The interest of parerts was also being somewhat aroused, although as I yet many of them were apathetic and unwise 11 m many respects. Some still objected to girls learning cookery and house-cleaning in the school. This work was as yet in its initial stage, but in the Higher Grade School these subjects I were started in February last. So far each girl spent three half-days a week in classes of cookery laundry work or some branch of house work. Councillor Thomas, at the close, spoke of the admirable start made by this school,, and testified that the Education Committee were always go-ahead, but they had also to consider the rates. This was always an important side of the question, but he was proud that education wa« making such headway, especially amongst I their own people.—Alderman David Hughes spoke at some length, and said he was particu- larly anxious that Aberdare as regard? the Education of the children, should not be behind other towns.—Mr. T. Walter Williams also spoke, and highly recommended the scheme. He Baid he wotild like to see boys similarly treated—doing p«t of the home training— upholstering, carpentering, carving, polishing, etc., would be .exceedingly useful. Others spoke, including Miss Evans (St. Pagan's), Mr. John eriflithsaa4 Mr. J. Davies.

CWMAMAN. Am RUTLE TEAM.—On Thursday evening last the nir-rifle piatch, between tho Rhondda Royals (head of the Rhondda the Rhondda Royals (head of the Rhondda League) and Cwmaman Institute (head of the I Aberdare League) was shot. Mr. W. Smith, Cardiff, was the referee. The Rhonddaites 1 proved victorious by 17 points, the respective totals being 384 and 367. The scorers for, Cwmaman were tlie f ollowing H. Edwards 28, J. ThLas 31, J- Williams 31, C. Morley 33, A. 0. Hughes 31, T. Isaacs 30, O. Owen 23, A. Wilson 32 J. Williams 30, E. Saunders 31, j James Ray 31, and H. Penny 31, total 367. f BiMiiARDS.—On Tuesday evening a billiard match was played at the Institute, between teams representing Abercynon and Cwmaman. Scores:— CWMAMAN. ABEEGYKOU. I Jno. Reco 200 Jones 168 Dan-Isaac 200 T. Hughes 120 Dr. R.F Thomas 200 E. M. Daviea 191 R. D. Jones, 200 W. Wyndham 91 Wm. Edwards 200 w. G. Powell. 10S W.Richards. 200 T. Griffiths 109 E.Thoe Jones. 187 J. Edwards 200 Tom Owen 179 T. G. Davies. 200 Total..1566 Total 1182 CONCERTS.- On Monday and Tuesday even- ings concerts giveu at the Public Hall, by the children of tho Cwmaman Girls' and Infants' School. The chairman on Monday I was the Rev. Thomas Humphreys, and on Tuesday Councillor Owen Powell. The pro- gramme included choruses and action songs by the various classes. The accompanists were Misses E. W. Evans and Anne Mary Phillips, i COMPETITIVE CONCERT.—On Saturday evening a competitive concert was held at the Public Hall. The chair was occupied by Mr. T. L. Davies, and the adjudicators were:—Music, Mr. Dan Jones, Aberdare; literature, Mr. G. T. Jones (Madog Fychan), Brecon. Awards:— Open solo, Mr. Llew Jones, Aberdare; male solo, divided betweon Messrs. Roger Williams 4nd Gwilylp Evans, Godreaman; female solo, divided between Misses Maud Evans and Nellie Jones; children's solo, divided between Miss Maggie Llewellyn and Master Llew Jones, the chairman also awarding a consolation prize to I Master Emlyn Davies; duet, Messrs. Roger Williams and Gwilym Evans; open recitation, divided between Miss B. A. Jones (Newbridge) and Mr. David Lloyd (Dewi Llwyd), Cwmaman j children's recitation, 1st Miss Maggie LleweIIvic, 2nd Miss Madge Williams; comical story, 1st! Mr. D. R. Evans (Aberdare), 2nd Mr: David; Lloyd (Dewi Llwyd); impromptu speach, 1si Mr. D. R. Evans (Aberdare), 2nd Mr. Henry Harris (Aberaman). The proceeds were in aid; of Mr. William Daviea, who has been ill for a considerable time. The secretarial duries were i I performed by Mr. Thomas Richards. Mr. A. H. John was tho accompanist* I: l .?,it: ;>j

Dog Show at Cwmaman. 1 On Thursday evening a successful dog show was held at tho Lesser Hall, under the auspices of the Cwmaman Canine Society. Awards :— Class 1.—Bulldog or bitch, any age, 1st and 2nd D. Jenkins, Aberdare, Gadlys Kitty" and "Silver Kitty"; 3rd, J. Davies, Cwmaman, "Nance reserve, Aberaman,"Manor Flibbett." Class 2, Airedale and Irish Terriers,—1st, Tom Owen's '■ Ffyrnand Beehive"; 2nd, T. Davies, Aberdare, "Glanamaji Princess"; 3rd, J. S. Rees, Jack" liighly-commended, E. Thomas, Prince and N. French, Queenie." Class 3, fox terrier.—1st, R. F. Dobson, Porthcawl, Bramcourt Confidence" 2nd, W. Thomas, Cwmaman, Little Harper" 3rd, Sam Linton, Aberaman, "Jock Legacyreserve, W. Thomas, Cwmaman, "Bell"; highly-com- mended, R. James's Mona." Class 4, Spaniels (any variety).—1st, Owen Powell's "Shot"; 2od, 3rd, H. Jones' of;.■Apian '< £ i.yi* £ &'?" mrr-drrl, Reynold's, Cwmaman; Kaiser ,E. "Nip o'r Glyn"; highly commended, T. B. Pugh's Ii:, k:" J. D, Davies' Corrin," T. JOL.:S'v Shot," J. Jonefl' "Arnan. Prince," and J. Owen's Mona." Cir.ss 5, greyhounds and whippets.—1st and 2nd, J. Davies's Lu- tonic and Lord Bruce" 3rd, A. J. Williams, .Aberanvi", "Lady;" highly commended, J. Rird, Qv.con," and A. M. Lloyd, Clssr 6. Pomeranian or fancy toy.—1st, T. B, Robert'? Prince"; 2nd, Miss B. Davies's Little Artvi.i Boy" 3rd, Miss B. Roberts1 "Nell:" "escrve, Ir. J- Davies' Bladic" bishly eon.r\e.}ded, J. Harris, Aberaman, Queen." Class 7, collies.—1st, T. B. Roberts, Cwmaman, Nell" 2nd, M..Tones, Aberaman, "Cannili Melody" 3rd, D. J. Phillips, Aber- aman, Roy." Class 8, retievers, pointer or setter.-1st., .T. Saunders, Abertridwr, "Ellen Rock" 2nd, J. Powell, Aheraman, Shamus 0'Brian." Class u. any variety.1st R. F. Dobson, PortbcawK bramcourt Confidence" 2nd, T. Saundcrq, Abertridwr, Ellen Rock" 3rd, D. Powell, Aberaman, Shannon O'Brian"; reserve, T. B. Roberts' Prince" highly commended, D. C. Davies, Aberaman, Aman Prince"; S. I.inton, Aberaman, "Lady"; Miss S. Daviea, Aberdare, "little Aman Boy," Tom Owen, Ffyrnant Beehive," J.Davies, Cwmaman, Nance," J. Linton, Aberaman, "Jock Legacy," and T- Davies, Aberdare, Glanaman Princess." Class 10, any variety. —1st, D. F. Fito-iings, Aberdare" Cymro Confidence" 2nd, Thomas, Cwmaman, Little Harper" rd, T. B. Roberts, Cwm- aman, c, Prince" r reserve, J. Davies, Cwm- aman, "Lord highly commended, H. Edwards, Cwmaman, Neol Queen," and H. Harris, Aberdare." Queenie." The silver cup for the best dog in the show was won by R. F. Dobson; medal for best bitch in show, Tom Owen, Ffvrnant.. Beehive" silver medal for best dog in the show, T. B. Roberts, Prince" silver medal for best puppy in the show, T.P.Roberts.

CWMBACH. MCTGAII TMFKOVEMENT SOCIETY.—On Friday evening lapi- an interesting address was delivered at the Brvn M.I.S. by Mr. Wm. Rees, Godreaman. on tb of the faith." SMOKER.—On Tt'tusday evening last a smoking concert was held "hø Ship and Castle Inn, under the auspices of the Pontypridd Imperial Friendly Society. The chair was occupied by Mr. William Matthews. CVmbach, supported by Mr. Arthur Harris. Mr. Thomas John Phillips (Ap GwiJym Cynon* Abaraman, was accompanist, and the hou. '.eor-v'ary was Mr. Evan Edwards, secretary of lodge. An interesting pro- gramme was gone fcbrougb. RE-OPKNING SKP.VICKS.—On Saturday evening, Snnday, and Monday services were held at Bryn Seion Congregational Church to commemorate the re-opening of the edifice after undergoing extensive renewals and repairs. The cbapel has been re-painted throughout, and besides the additional porch made at the front of the building, a magnificent pipe-organ has been installed. The meetings commenced on Saturday night, when a preaching service was held. It was well attended, and the preachers were the Revs. R. H. Davies, paster of the church, and R. Roberts, pastor of Fibenczer C.M. Church, Cwmbach. On Sunday afternoon the Rev. Silyn Evana, Siloa, Aberdare, was the preacher. The introductory portion of this service was conducted by Mr. D. Chas. Lewis, a student: of Bryn Seion. The occupants of the pulpit or. Sunday night were the Revs. J. Bowen Dav, Abercwmboi, and H. P. Jenkins, Saron, A be rp,man. In the absence of Mr. D. R. PaAie?, the' m-peentor during the day was Mr. John Daniel, and Mr. Herbert Davies presided at the organ. On Monday afternoon an exceedingly large number attended. The ceremony of unveil- ing a tablet in memory of the late Rev. Jonah Morgan, first pastor of the church, was carried out. It was unveiled by Mrs. Shelby, the oldest mem- bet of the Church. The subsequent proceedings were presided over by the Rev. D. Lilyn Evans, Aberdare, and appropriate addresses were de- livered by the following.;— Mr. Morgan John, Preswylfa, Abernanv (a former deacon of the Church); Mr. Wm. Rees, Godreaman (one of the former senios deacons) f Rev. John Thomas, Zoar, Merthyr; Rav. H. A. Daviea, formerly of Cwmaman; Rev. R. H. Davies, B.A.. Pastor, and the chairman.— Another preaching service was held bn Monday night, when the officiating ministers were the Rev. Joseph James (B.), Bethania, Cwmbacb, and the Rev. Jno. Thomas. Zoar, Merthyr, BETHANIA.— On Sunday last the half-yearly preaching services of this church were held, when faiHy large congregations attended. The preacher was the Rev. Morgan Jones, Whitland, whose sermons were much appreciated. The precentor was Mr. John Vaiighan, and Mr. D. J. vaughan presided at the harmonium. The Rev. Joseph James, pastor, conducted the services.

ABER £ WMB0B. ■SOCIAL.—On Friday evening lastasociaI was held at the Council Schools iq connection with I' tho Girls' Evening Continuation Classes. Amuse- ments and games occupied the programme for the ¡ first part of evening, and subsequently a splendid musical programme was carried out. CONCERT.—On Monday evening last an excel- lent concert was held at Bethlehem vestry, under the auspices of the Abercwmboi Juvenile Choir. This clever organisation will take the field under its able conductor, Mr. J. Eiddeg Davies, A.C., at Mountain Ash Eisteddfod, on Easier Monday. The concert was held to defray the eisteddfod expenses, and there was a large audience present. Mr. Joseph Williams took, the chair, and the accompanist was Mr. J. W. Evans. The follow- ing contributed to the programme :—Messrs. Tom Wills, J. W. Evans, Philip Wills, Steve Jenkins (Mountain Ash), Master Cledwyn Jenkins,, Miss Jane Morgan, and the boys' and girls1 choir, respectively. t

GODREAMAN. 1 BETHANY.—After the service on Sunday evening last, the Rev. J. T. Rhys, pastor, announced that ha had received a call from an English Congre- gational church at Swansea. The matter was receiving his earnest consideration. Mr. Rhys has been pastor at Bethany for four yeare. AIB RIFLB MATCH.—On Monday night the New Hotel. Godreaman, lost their match against the Talbot, Aberdare, by 16 points. Talbot Hotel;— H. Scourfield, 31; J. Prcbert, 28? A. Minchea, 30; W. Wrigic, 201R. Badger, 31 O.. Wiltshire, j 28; J. Jenkins, 31* A, Roacii, 34; ii. Malpas,; 5 D Howeils, S3 II. MauffiKi, 30; W. J ;lay.,)0; 36L New- Hoce'lW. Brooia. 30; If. Ick&ette, 29; A. xLess, 23; J. j ooag'K, 26; S. Jonas 27; T. Howeiis, 32; K. i:.Óä.r:,s, 51; G. Haotd, 34 G. Roberts, 30; E. J. j J'uoaae, 27 11\ »iohop.. 30 < di JSYMMt 26; j Cotal* J V.

"The Splendours of Welsh History." "OWEN RHOSCOMYL" AT ABERAMAN. The last of the series of popular lectures pro- moted by the committee at Aberaman was held at the Grand Theatre on Friday evening last- Tho lecturer was Captain A. O. Vaughan, better known by bis pen-name, "Owen Rhos- comyl," tho historian of last year's pageant. Tho R«v. John Lewis, Hebron, Godreaman, occupied the chair, and briefly introduced the lecturer. Capt. Vaughan proceeded to deal with his subject, which was entitled, "The Splendours of Welsh History." He commenced by refer- ring to the advent of the Anglo-Saxons to Britain in the year 49 A.D., when they drove the native Britons into Cornwall. The present Welsh and Cornish were descended from the old Britons. Julius Caesar, in the year 55 B.C., landed on this island, and our first knowledge of Welsh history had come to us through him. The rkhnoes'Of ihis- island in ■ ite mineral wealth pro»vgtt^a/'mai?ne^o:'¥ttraition ;THEREFOA&^THE'IFIFRST war m HISTORY o £ '-tb& that r^hic Jt/th&y wfeta ■ -eitg-a with the Romans. The latter were' kept- busy by tho Silures of South Wales for thirty years, and eventually the Romans were called away I to their own country owing to trouble at home. I He then proceeded to deal with the period when Ivlaximus the G.rea.t occupied Britain as emporor, and who subsequently b&camo ruler of the Roman Empire. The" Danes claimed that they conquered this country. They sup- posed that Rhodri the Great had divided Wales between his three sons, and that when these three sons were conquered, the whole of Wales was subdued. According to the chronicles of Asaph, however, who wrote his life, King Alfred complained that ho had been driven out of Wales by the s&ven sons of Rhodri. As each of these seven held territory, it was clear that Glamorgan and the southern parts of WaJes were not conquered. A later man who loomed large in the history of WaJes was Llywelyn ap Sekyllt, but a greater man still Wlk his son, Gruffydd ap Llywelyn. When the latter was prince, theD was peace in Wales, and a woman could travel with her babe in her arms from one end of the country to another. lestyn ap Gwrgant was another notability of ancient Wales, and from him many of the farmers of Abarfceifi (Cardigan), and subsequently the miners of the South Wales valleys, were de- scended. Gruffydd established men from a neighbouring clan in various parts of South Wales, such as Manordeifi, Dynevor, and Dinas Powis. The latter name was derived from the fact that men from Powys-land were established in the place to keep it secure from other princes. Tho lecturer then dealt with the sup- position of English writers that WaJes was con- quered by Harold. It was said that stones were found all over Wales with the inscription, ¡ "Here Harold conquered" thereon, but no trace I of such stones had as yet been found. His next point was the supposed conquest of Wales in two weeks by Edward I. This was in 1282, when the Welsh soldiers intimated that "it was better to die in battle and go to God as free men than die as slaves." Llywelyn had driven back King Edward from North Wales to Ches- ter when he was young. The king, therefore, had a natural desire to avenge these defeats, and in the pay-sheets of Edward's army, which were still in existence, the "dread" Llywelyn was referred to. People said at times that if the Welsh had been as independent as the Scots, they wouid never have been conquered. But on the border of England and Scotland was a range of mountains, from the lower side of which no army could penetrate into Scotland without being outflanked. Any general would say that it was impossible to capture Scotland from the southern side. In Wrales the caoo was different. There was no natural frontier, and it could be penerated from Chester, Shrews- bury, Hereford, Gloucester, Cardiff, Carmar- then, Aberystwyth, and Anglesea. In fact, Edward 1. had eight, armies attacking at the same time, though the annihilation of one of these was conveniently left unmentioned by English historians. A truce was made in North Wales between King Edward and Llyw- elyn. The latter was proceeding on his way to Bangor Cathedral to meet the Archbishop of Canterbury, when he received a. letter purport- ing to come from a lady friend residing at Aberedw, near Builth. Llywelyn had a huntr ing-box at Aberedw, and, not suspecting the trickery of his kinsmen, Roger Mortimer and John Giffard, innocently went. When he ar- rived at Cefn-y-bedd, he found that it was a trick by tho accomplices of King Edward. He had with him but eighteen men and a faithful squire, :.0 he could not have been defeated, as was generally supposed. Neither was there any treachery on the part of the townsmen of Builth; the treachery was on the part of the inmates of the garrison at Builth Castle, who refused to open the castle gates. Llywelyn sought to escape, and consequently posted eighteen men on a narrow bridge on trestles across the river Wye. He went with his squire to Cefn-y-bedd; but ere he returned, the eighteen men who fought the army of Roger Mortimer lay dead upon the bridge, with their faces looking up to the God who made them fight and die like men. The squire himself then tried to keep off the whole army, while Llywelyn eougbt to hide in the bush; but Llywelyn stumbled, and was speared on the ground by Stephen Francton, Lord of Elles- mere. The defeat and deatp of Llywelyn at Builth was an event which ought to make every Welshman feel proud of his race. The feats of Owen Glyndwr could not be touched upon in detail owing to lack of time, but the lecturer concluded his address with a minute account of the Battle of Bosworth Field (1485). This battle ended the Wars of the Roses, and the Earl of Richmond was credited with being the statesman' wfho founded the British Empire. By tracing his genealogy, it was found that Catherine, a daughter of France, and an Eng- lish widow, married a Welsh soldier, who was one of her bodyguard, viz., Owen Tudor. Their youngest son, Edmund, who died at eighteen, was born at Pembroke Castle—Harry Tudor, Earl of Richmond. He was a Welsh-speaking boy, who was taken to Harlech Castle for safety. Later, he was taken prisoner to Rag- lan, and afterwards sent as an exile to Brittany until he was twenty-six years old. When King Richard IH. wanted him as prisoner, he escaped from Brittany and landed in Wales. After some escapades at Mostyn and Barmouth, he landed at Milford Haven, and thenoe made his way to the historic field of Bosworth. He had 7,000 Welshmen with him, who deigned to wear armour because they thought it cowardice. Rhys Fawr, another Welshman, remained loyal to Richard, but the above 7,000 were led by Rhys ap Tomos, and gave King Richard his death blow. After the battle, Henry Tudor was crowned King of England, and the place was to this day known as "the field of shout," the "stone of crowning'' being still visible. Thus a Welsh-speaking chief led Henry's army to the fight at Bosworth, and this was tho last battle between the English and the Welsh, and the Welsh won. That was the only time of importance when a king was crowned upon the field of ba.ttle. In the next reign, when the King's son (Henry VIII.) went to the throne, he signed an Act of Union between England and Wales. In the beginning of that Act, the Welsh were referred to as the only race that could write upon their banner "Invictus"—un- ccnquered (cheers). Thus was a dream, nay, a prophecy, 1,000 years old, became realised. Since 485 A.D., a prophecy existed that the crown of Britain would again come back to a son of Maximus, and this was literally ful- filled in 1485 A.D. Moreover, King Edward VIL held hie title not after William the Con- querer or Harold, but from the title won at Bosworth Field. Finally, the professors in Eng- I lish and German universities were now working at Welsh history, recognising that there was in it a vast field of knowledge unexplored. It was a history that showed that the Welsh were heroes, artists, and poets, comparable only to the ancient Greeks. They were men whom nothing could tame. Despite the absence of a natural frontier and a military defensible posi- tion, they had not been conquered, bat lived to speak their language to this day. Though Captain Vaughan suffered from a chill, he continued speaking without a single note for 2k hours. It was an interesting lecture throughout, and proved a fitting climax to this most successful series promoted by the Aber- aman Committee.

ABERAMAN. AN ACCEPTED CALLo-It is stated that the call extended by Southampton Congregational Church to Mr. Meredith Davies, son of Mr. Henry Davies, Corwen Villa, has been definitely accepted. Y8GOI.DY SILOA.— A competitive meeting was held on Monday mght. The Rev. D. Silyn Evans occupied the and the adjudicators were— Music, Mr. D. Edwards; recitations, Mr. Rich. ard Morgan; Mr. Dd. Evans, Hill-street,. was accompanist. Awards :—Recitation for children (open), Miss Alice James; solo for children, "Bugail Israel sy'n ofalus," Miss Lizzie M. Phillips; Impromptu Address, Mr. Isaac Williams. Solos were contributed by D. J. Michelmore and Olwen Jones recitations by Messrs. James Williams and Dd. Stephens, Misses Gwladys Jones and Alice James, and Messrs. i Morgen Jones and Henry Harries. A selection was played by a string band, under the conductor- ship of Mr. John Williams, and a duet was contributed by Messrs. Tom Parry and Dd. Stephens. ORGANISED RELIGION.—Preaching at Ynyslwyd Welsh Baptist Church on Sunday evening, the Rev. R. E. Williams (Twrfab) made references to the present decay of interest in matters of religion. He said there was a tendency to deprecate organ- ised religion, and to feel ashamed of the gospel of Christ at the present day.1 General Booth had pointed out that it was not only heartrending, bat a melancholy state of affairs altogether. He (the speaker), however, unhesitatingly affirmed that if the social adjustments which are called for could be brought about, men would have. to be regenerated from within. The gospel of Christ would yet prove a source of inspiration to men to lead a higher acd nobler life, and after this period of indifference tad oahn, tnero would again be an awakening in ha raligiouB life of the nation. TEBTPBBANCE WORKERS- — Recently we an- po thai iba "Rose of Sharon" section of the Order ci the Sons of Temperanoe, which 11 meeta at Absraman, had won the National 1 Division trophy for 1909. In the current issue 1 öi the OrdeVs monthly publication, "The Son 1 of Texnr;tt--ar:c; the following local individuals i ure ipnyiucntd as winners of silver medals for J bringing ia gew u»mfeera;—John <T$mes EJias, j1 26 new members, David J. Elias, 25; Henry J. Harris, 25; Gwilym Lloyd Thomas, 25; and Johnny Lewis, 25 Bro. David Evans, financial scribe, informs us that the cadet section now numbers 491. It is the intention of Bro Dan Thomas, worthy patron, and his able supporters to bring the number up to 1,000. The "Rose of Aman" adult section is also making good progress, thirteen new membe-rs having be-en initiated during the past fortnight.

TROEDYRHIW. SPECIAL EASTER Snow of Men's, Youth's, and Bov's Suits, Hats, Caps, Ties, Collars. Shirts, etc., this vreek at DANIEL DAVIF.S's, 15, Bridge-street, Troedyrhi.w. M26 FOUND NOT GUILTY.—Thomas John Powell (21), haulier, charged with indecently assaulting ¡ Ruth Hurley, married woman, at. Troedvrhiw, was, at Glamorgan Assizes, on Monday, found j not guilty and was discharged.

MERTHYR VALE. 'I EARNEST Joxrs AXD Co. For Suits to measure and all manner of Men's Clothing.—Co^«fcVH«tf@ £ A XCfff1, i "Å ). ■* VV»- -wi.» '=-I',=,

Merthvr Vale Man takes Rat Poison. Phillip Cremcns, of Merlkyr Vale, was charred at ?.Ierthvr on Tuesday, with attempt- ing to commit suicide by taking rat poison, at Merthyr Vale, on March.—Henry Martin, haulier, 23, Winelield-street, Aberfan, said that defendant used to lodge with him. On Thursday he saw Cremcns at the back of the house. His eyes looked very "dassL" and witness asked him what was the mattes He said, I have taken, poison." Witness took him into the house, gave him soap and water, and sent for Dr. White. Defendant recovered before the doctor, arrived. In the w.c. witness found a bottle, which contained rat poison. Defendant was a very respectable man, and neither drank or smoked. Cremens told him he was in trouble because of the-strike. —Defendant said he had had all his teeth out, and it affected his nerves.—A man who wore several war medals said he would look after the man, and Cremens was discharged. ■■■

Alleged Theft at Quakers' Yard. May Williams, of respectable appearance, was charged on Tuesday, at Merthyr, with steal- ing wearing apparel, value £ 3 tOs., the property of Annie White, Carpenter's-cottages, Quakers' Yard.—Mis. White said that defendant came to the house and asked for lodgings. Witness took her in, and afterwards she missed a skirt, two sheets, two aprons, two chemises, a. table cloth, a blouse, a silk handkerchief, a. blacking brush, a comb, a thimble, a towel and a pair of slippers, of the total valuo of f3 10s.—Abraham Hermer, pawnbroker, said the defendant pledged several of the articles at his shop. John Williams, pawnbroker's assistant, Pontypridd, said the defendant pledged two sheets and a tablecloth with him.-P.S. Jonkin Thomas, Quakers' Yard, said he received the defendant into cus- tody from Eontypridd, on Friday. He recov- ered the goods which had not been pledged, at a common lodging house at Pontypridd.— Defendant was then charged with stealing a black skirt, value 10s. Gd., the property of Agnes Bowen, at the same address.—Defendant was committed for trial at the Quarter Sessions,

NELSON. TRANSFER.—The Caerphilly Magistrates, on Tuesday, granted the permanent transfer the Plough and Harrow Inn, Geilygaer, from Mr. Wm. Jones to Mr. Rupert Stanley Ham. HEARTS OF OAK DINNEK.—On Friday evening the annual Dinner promoted by members of the Hearts of Oak Benefit Society, was held at Penuel Vestry. The meeting was of a very successful and enjoyable nature, and the catering very praiseworthy. After the removal of the cloth the chair was taken by Mr. T. Every, who expressed his pleasure at seeing such a large number present and exhorted all to continue in their activities on behalf of the Society. Afterwards Mr. Ben Date sang in capital style, "The Norseman," followed by a cornet solo and selections on the violin by Mr. Whitcombe. The toast, The Hearts of Oak," was proposed and the district delegate, Mr. E. R. Williams, Merthyr, responded. — Mr. Williams, who was given a cordial reception referred to what made a good and sound Friendly Society, and the points that appeal mostly to prospective members. The chief things showing the advantages of a good society were economy in working, a favourable sickness experience, and invested capital returning fair interest. The Hearts of Oak, as a great cen- tralised society, was being worked on the most up-to-date method in the commercial world, and by the centralised organisation and sound busi- ness management the working expenses had during the whole of its existence only averaged about 5 per cent. of the income. Through care- fully attending to actuarial advice,, the sickness experience was kept well in hand. Upwards of 3i millions were so carefully invested as to bring in interest averaging from 3? to 5 per cent. per annum, which was during 1909 no less than 8s. lOd. per member, nearly equivalent to one quarter's contribution on a total membership of 300,000. Tbeae facts would enable them to recommend with the greatest confidence their society as one of the safest in the country. Passing on to review the legislative work accom- plished by the delegate board for the past year, Mr. Williams dwelt at length with the position of members who hereafter would seek employment in the mines, and explained the alteration of rules which permitted members to retain their membership, under altered condition, whilst work- ing beneath the surface, and how they would bcoome entitled to full benefits again npon return- ing to employment above ground.—Mr. H. Lewis having sang Good company," Mr. H. Anderson, Aberdare, one of the society's sick inspectors, spoke in eulogistic terms of the great work accomplished in the district through the agency of the society. Mr. Every gave a cornet solo, entitled Scenes that are brighetst," and Mr. Ben Date sang Hearts of Oak," Mr. Harry Lewis gave an excellent rendering of Cartref," and was voeieferoualy applauded. The ladies who presided at the tables were Mrs. Bonney, Mrs. Harries, Miss E. Harris, Miss B. Harris, and Miss Slade, who were accorded hearty thanks for their services, also the accompanist, Mr. E. Lewis. The carvers were Mr. W. Price and Mr. F. John. With the singing of the National Anthem an enthuaiaebio gathering was brought to a close.

FOCHRIW. Bar votir Easter Suit and Boots at T. FINK and Co., Pontlottyn. New Stock just arrived. Men's stylist Suits ready to wear from 24s.. 6d. to 45s. Youths' Suits, latest style, from 12s. 6d. to 32s. 6d. The most fashionable stock of Hats, Caps, Ties, Collars and Shirts in Wales. LECTURE.—A very interesting Welsh lecture was given at the Noddfa Baptist Ch&pel on Monday evening on "Yr Hen Flaenor," by the Rev. J. D. Hughes, BJaanwaun, who gave the large audienoe a rich treat The chair was taken by Dr. EReazar Davies. The usual votes of thanks were accorded. PENTWYN CHURCH.-—On Sunday afternoon, at 3 o'clock, the Rev. Thomas Roes, vicar, oc- cupied the pulpit of this church, and preached his annual memorial sermon to a very large congregation. A large number of people visited the churchyard during the day, and many of the graves were-covered with flowers. NODDFA.—At the meeting of the Mutual Im- provement Society at the vestry on Thursday evening week, the Rev. Moses Solvar Young presiding. An interesting paper was read by Mrs. George Phillips on- "Why I am a Bap- tist." A discussion followed, in which many of the members took part. I.O.G.T.—The weekly meeting of the Star of Fochriw Lodge of the International Order of Good Templars was held at the Carmel Vestry on .Thursday evening week. After the ordinary business, a. paper on "Woman" was read by Mrs. Edith Oole Jones. A hearty vote of thanks was aooorded Mrs. Jones, on the motion of Bro. Charles Payne, L.D-, seconded by Bro. William Jones. The meeting was pro- sided over by Chief Templar Sister Bronwen Ballard. > CARMEL.—A very Jnte-resting debate took place at too weekly meeting of the Carmel Literary and Mutual, Improvement • Society at the vestry on Wednesday evening week on "Should the Church •,provide for' games and amusements?" The' affirmative wag taken by Miss Ceridwen Thomas, and the negative by Mr. Daniel Rowlands. The foi'Jowing took part in the debateMessrs. Evan Evans. Evan M. Davies, ThomaS Lewis* Rhys D. Jenkins, Rees Rees, Thomas Tfhomae, and the Rev. D. Hughes I Jones. A solo was contributed by Mr. Thomas ( George Davie^- and a recitation was (riven oy Miss C. Thomas (Brynteg-tsrraoe). The ac- companist was Mr. Thomas Walters, Bryn teg, and the Rev. D. Hughes Jones oocupied thq chair. chair.

DOWLAIS. j BRYN SEION.—On Tuesday evening members of II the Literary Society listened to two excellent papers, the first on Kilsby Jones," by Mr. D. H. Thomas, and the other on Whether reading novels is good, from a moral standpoint," by Mr. D. J. Harris. Tho meeting was presided over by Mr. J. T. Williams, Ivor-street. Missus' MBSTING.—The monthly meeting was held at the Clarence Hotel, last Saturday evening, Mr. Alfred Williams, the president, in the chair. All lodges were represented. Tho Caeharris Lodge resolution, that more vans be provided on the Bediinog and South Tmmel trains, was considered, and it was resolved that the agent make the request, &nd also that an ambulance van be provided for the Fochriw train. A number of workmen in the district, members of the Federation, received notices to terminate contracts at the end of February last, and are unable to find employment, [t was recommended that a levy of 6d. per member per month be made to assist them temporarily. Several cases of compensation were reported as having been dealt with during -lie past month, and other matters were re- erred to. The secretary reported that the 1. receipts were f228 fof. Hd*

THE COAL CRISIS. PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF TRADE. OFFERS HIS SERVICES. The conference of representatives of the miners of South Wales was held at Cardiff on Wednesday to further consider the position of affairs. During the meeting it was t,za £ a communication had been received from the President of the Board of Trade, oifering his services in the dispute. Th$representatives of the Coalowners' Association, who ^ere* holding a meeting at the same-time to consider th re- port of the owners' representatives en vhs Con- ciliation Beard, were consulted, and ihe work- men's jqeewng was adjourned-until Wednesday next. Before the meeting adjourned, however, the following resolution was passed:— That at the conference of the tvi.F.G-B. to be held in London next Thursday, the 29th inst.. application be made that inasmuch as there has been a failure to a-srree between ovmer5 and workmen in South Wales E-nd the notices expire on. 31st March, the Federation ^T&askecfeefc 20th rule r^ii^efeneg^-TOr -W&i^ Miner*. At a" me'efing"oT"t7:c ttxoc'.iif.-e Council he'd immediately after the conference, Messrs. W. Brace, M.P., T. Richards, M.P.. and Alfred Onions were appointed to meei tbe President, of the Board of Trade to-day (Thursday) in London. The ofScial report of the' meeting of the Cealowners' Association states the following resolutkgf passed: If Mr. Heppeil, having reported upon the negotiations vÚlicD rune taken place with the workmen's representatives on the sub- ject of the proposed revision of the Concilia- tion Beard apTcement, and Mr." Shaw, tho chairman, having also explained the posi- tion. this meeting resolves that the action of the owners' representatives in the conduct of the negotiations be approved and adopted, and that the whole quasi.ion he left in the hands of the owners' representatives, with. power to conclude any agreement that they may deem satisfactory. A communication was received from the Pr&< sident of the Board of Trade (Mr. Sidney BtUJo ton) through Mr.. Askwith and Mr. Mitchell, who were jn attendance at the Association i offices, inviting the chairman of the Associa- tion and the chairman of the Conciliation Board! to meet him in London to-day to discuss the situation. It was resolved that Mr. Shaw and Mr. Heppeil should meet- Mr. Button ac- cordinglv.

Merthyr's New Skating Rjnkl OPENING CEREMONY BY THE MAYOfi. ENTHUSIASTIC ASSEMBLAGE AT THE OLYMPIA -RdUeT-skating is attaining to great popular- ity in Merthyr. I was only in December last that the Central Rink, Wellington-street, was started. The proprietors found their enterprise successful, and also that the growing require- ments of the public called for increased accom- modation. Hence they embarked on a much larger undertaking, for which they took a site on Mr, Thomas's laud, Park-plaoe, and entered into a contract with Messrs. Cross and Grose, Ltd., Walsall, for the erection thereon of a capacious rink-thø Olympia-with approach opposite the Penydarren promenade, the spot being on the Merthyr and Dow.ais electrio- tramway route, and easily accessible to visitors. The new buildings, which has a length of 2C8ft., and an average width of about TCtft, roM. as if by magic, the contractors being experts ia such affairs, and liaving contracted rinks and floors at Dudley, Wolverhampton, Bath, Leam ington, Walsall, Colchester, etc. The outside manager for the firm was Mr. J. James, a gentleman of twenty-three years' experience, and who may be congratulated upon the admir- able way in which he carried out his duties. The election of the new rink, with its extensive hard rock maple floor (so constructed as to re- duce sound to a minimum), its accessories and fittings, offices, refreshment buffet and lounges,, orchestral gallery, was completed in sixteen days—which constitutes a record for rapidity. —The concrete foundation had been previously prepared by Messrs. Warlow and Wailow, Merthyr. Special attention has been given to the electric lighting, thirty pedants being distributed throughout tho Rink by the Merthyr Electric Traction Company; and the decorative efiects, which have been carried out bv Mr. F. P. Dymond, Cardiff, are very pleasing. The Rink may, therefore, be regarded as not only one of the largest, but most attractive in Wales. Tho enterprising directors have Catered lavishly in all respects for the entertainment and comfort of the public, and take every care to conduct the four sessions which are held daily, with the. utmost regard for decorum and good order. The experienced attendants are civil and oblige ing, and the instructors are of the very -best. RINK OPENED, The opening ceremony on Saturday afternoon was an encouraging success. It was known that the Mayor (Councillor F. T. James) would inaugurate the proceedings, and the crowd of people attending from Mjerthyr, AlxiTdare, and surrounding districts was very • larg,e. The Mayor, who was accompanied by the Mayoress (Mrs. F. T. James) and the Misses James, was received, upon entering the building, by the Chairman S. Phillips), and conducted ro the dais, which had been erected for -the occa- sion on the rink floor beneath the orcnest:-a1 gallery. There was a very representative gath- ering. The first item in the programme waa a well-played march by Mr. Cunningham's military band. The Chairman then rose to address the assem- blage. He referred to the aims and accom- plishments of the directors, and offered a hearty; welcome to all present. He especially recog- nised the kindness of the Mayor and Mayor-ess in attending upon that interesting occasion, and mentioned that the new rink in which they- had met possessed a skating capacity of ICi.urJ • square feet, which was ten times greater than' the floor space of their first venture, the uri-, tral Rink, and that the electric light equalled; 6,000 candle-power. He then invited: the Mayor; to perform the opening oeremony. The Mayor, who was accorded a cordial re- ception, said that whatever might be said of rinking, one was bound to acknowledge that it was an exceedingiy good exercise and a. eouroe of enjoyment to those who were young and active enough to engage in the healthful pastime. He had much pleasure in declaring Olympia Rink open for the purposes to which it was devoted (cheers). The Band played the National Anthem, audi at this point, Miss Peggy Lewis (daughter of Mrs. Henry Lewie) ekated up graoefuliy to the dais, and in a pretty speech handed, as from the directors, a. large and beautiful bouquet to the Mayoress, who bowed and IxieSy expressed her sense of the compliment. A photograph of the opening oeremony w taken by Mr-, Charles Harris. Mr. John Plows referred to tije interest which the Mayor had always taken in the; affairs of the town and district, and to his public-spirited conduct on all occasions, and moved that a hearty vote of thanks be given him for the part that be had 80 ably t £ KEN in the proceedings. Councillor F. S. Simons nd-oo.the pro- position, which was carried with enthns-asnj. — This was acknowledged by -His Worship, and Mr. Cunningham's Band performed another at- tractive selection.. EXHIBITION OF EXPERT SKATING. An elaborate exhibition of expert skating, with musical accompaniments, was given by the instructor (Mr. Frank K. Deveraii}, Mr. Johns, and the instructress (Mits Wilkes). It may be mentioned that Mr. Deverall comes from the County Rink, Sui biton, and was prev- iously associated for some years with Mr. J. F.1 Davidson, the champion skater of too worJd; and that Mr. Johns, whose capabilities &re also of the highest order, is from Widnec, Lan- cashire. Miss Wilkes, whose style 15 veh; elegant and graceful, comes from Folkestone^- Hundreds of visitors put on skates, and there was high carnival during the afwnoon. ing tho evening also, there was a very large attendance, and the proceedings were marked tliroughout- with great success*.

FOOTBALC., A very attractive programme has been arranpod by the directors of the Merthyr Town Association Football Club for the .Faster holidays. On Bank Holiday the famous Kotta Forest Team will be entertained, and a capital game is sure to be seen. The Forest and the loc-al eleven will be a.t full strength- On Tuesday Hiddlesboro, another first ieajreo team, will meet the town club, and, by special request of the Merthyr Club, Sammy Whiteman, lato gf Merthyr, will play at back for the northern team. Paultoa Rovers will meet Merthyr on Wednesday, in a Western League match. Kick-off on Monday and Tuesday at 3.13, and on Wednesday at 4 o'clock. The Merthyr Northern Union Team has some, good fixtures for the Easter holiday?. Qni Good Friday the first round for the gold medal: competition will be, played, the cohtest mta being Hill's Plymouth and Cvfarthfa Juniors; 1 kick-off at 5.30. On Sautrday Merthyr will meet Pemberton, n, smart Lancashire team, I including Lewis Treliame, an old Merthyr favourite; kickoff at 4.30. On Easter Monday Syrinton, the famous "Lions," will bo the Visitors, kick-ofi at 11.45 and on Wednesday the gold medal competition will bo pbyed. Cetn All-Whites v. Cyfarthfa Boys, kick-cff 11 o'clock. The Brothers Taylor ,of Swansea, the well-known forwards. hav<! joined the Mejfchyr Team. The team against Pemberton will be :— Ba.ck, Reed; three-quarters. James, Ponty Thomas, T. Watkrns, Tom Thomas; Rhys Rees and Harris forjrardr, Wm. Taylor, George Tayolr, D. B. Davies, Dsn lie wis,, BevffD4 and Palmer Griffiths,