The Rhondda Leader

-¡- EXTRAORDINARY COINCIDENCE! Last Week Seventeen Chimneys were all clean swept at one blow by HOULT'S Chimney Cleaner! Clean, Cheap, and Efficient. Particulars from It T. Jones, Sheffield House, Treherbert. 26

TREORCHY. We have to record this week the death of yv„ ,Ien7 Davies (Trelech), which occurred on a K.neht'ay'morning last. Deceased had been n.o„enian anc' subsequently an overman for frpiiT ^ears 't -Abergorchy collieries. He was oiia r>f-?Wn' aru' bv bis death, Treorchy loses Oneof its oldest inhabitants. se<S;ll^e a gloom has been cast over the present mentis • Treorchy Girls' Mutual Improve- the J" at the compulsory absence from I>rp«nentre ^e genial and hardworking ■>een Mrs Jenkins, Ystradfeclian, who has anj ^ely indisposed for some time past abs stlJ/ confined indoors. Her enforced in ex?6 !?•* matter deplored by all alike, and resnp g our sincere sympathies to the her n 1a('y we re-echo the sentiments of Soci y,llerous admirers. Meanwhile the Girl's of ety goes on without her, but in the hands pr; ^'jable substitute in the person of Mrs the a^ r^011' wl'o is acting president. With atten?IStance 'a(''es' committee in regular ably nce> the Society is progressing favour-

PENTRE. Th Avith er annual Christmas tree in connection i i1,00 English Baptist chapel, Pentre, at the Drill hall, Pentre, on Christ- latem'w!ien a grand exhibition of the esqu Novelties in toys and the most pictur- plavo 1 V/lriety °f fancy goods, &c. were dis- de(jor( f saie- The hall was very tastefully the v • ^01 t'le occasion. The attendants at IVlr arious stalls were as follows :—Toy stall, l)ev.rian, Mrs Price, Mrs Woodward, Mr ^trs 5Hva,I«l Walter; Church fancy stall, field orK;ln, Mrs J. Morgan, Miss Butter- stall' Miss Ada Higgs; Sunday school Mis« p lss Bessie Cule, Miss Mary Williams, Carp,-tltp-r and Miss Haiiier; Sweet stall, Woo l and Mrs Morris Fruit stall1, Mr Bee» W\T an(i 8°u Drink stall, Mr Edwin Bee«'. T) r Thomas, and Master Willie i)reH'1Inent stall, Mrs Williams, Mrs Jonoa ^rs Jenkins, Mrs Davies, Mrs Rielia' A Jarman, Mrs Nash, and Mrs Cinn.v, f Phonograph, Mr Arthur Timothy ra) Mr Tlioniis Price. All the eiiti, an(,. side-shows were patronised by an Pack-p^f8 crowd, the hall being simply tirne oni the time of opening until closing Sah>n pH'i^nias day a Christmas Tree and levL°n,rk was "eld at the English Wes- ^napel, Pentre. The tree was quite nJ~e"t, being laden with all manner of Mr \f P,\ useful and ornamental, which kept ■wholn thews and Mr Davies busy for the sirip.i a'ternoon. The fancy stall was pre- and ,i°Ve7 V Mrs Burnett and Miss Matin, Griffiti6 tables by Mrs Hale and Mrs D. feot. "s> whilst the refreshment and con- ^lonery stalls kept Mrs Evans, Mrs Collins, Dlprl *far.ri8 and Mrs A. Bid mead fully occu- eXcell Ur'n" ^'le whole day. In the evening an Wa • temperance lantern entertainment RPlen f,lnen' *"he lantern and slides being Colli V manipulated by Mr Jones and Mr t^urin8' A ^ev Makin giving the readings' did he day and also in the evening splen- 'ections of music were excellently the («r\ e Wesleyan Brass Band, under 16 conductorship of Mr A. Bidmead.

GELLI. b On Christmas and Boxing days a grand Chawi ^fs,,held at Caersalem Wesleyan ^ecornV The building was nicely sider»iki J. UP 'or occasion, and a con- eonsic+ j trade was carried on. The bazaar ^anorv t exhibitions of works of art, ttifent Joii °yi grocery, sweet, and refresh- rathpr +vfS" i_ intervals the audience, or sight, kt !?ei "uyers were relieved from the of a few m °Td articles to the attention s°ngs and e/-S wh° gave renderings of In the evening two >inKcol!!v held' namely, a doll tion. The bf 1 I0n and a cycle competi- bazaar was opened on the first da,Y y Mr T, Beavan, Ferndale, while pre- siding in the chair was Dr. W. E. Thomas, Ystrad. On Tuesday, the bazaar was opened by Miss Manuel, Penygraig, and Rev. R. Roberts, Treorchy, presided. The proceeds will be devoted to the chapel trust fund.

CLYDACH VALE. We regret to announce the death of Jamef Thomas, 1, Maddox-street. Deceased was a native of Llandyssnl, where his remains were interred on Wednesday last. We congratulate the Clydach Vale Male Voice Party on its success at Aberdare. There was no work at the collieries on Wednesday, the majority of the workmen being absent on pleasure bent.

LLWYNYPIA. Last Sunday and Monday the annual preach- ing services were held at Jerusalem Baptist Chapel. The officiating ministers were to have been the Revs. T. Idwal Jones, Llanelly, and T. Davies, Aloriali, Petitre. The former however failed to attend, thus causing great disappointment to many. The Rev. J W. Lewis, LIanon, at the last moment took his place. There were good congregations at each meeting, and collections were made towards the chapel funds. The members of the Lhvynypia lodge of the Miners' Federation are requested to clear off all dues up to the end of the year in order that the accounts may be balanced. On Friday, the death occurred of George Gaylard, collier, Sherwood-place, Llwynypia, from injuries received last week at Llwynypia Collieries. The deceased, who was but 22 years of age, was a quiet and inoffensive young fellow, as the large attendance at his funeral, which took place oil Thursday at Trealaw, testified. The officiating minister was the Rev J. Bacon pastor of the Primitive Meth- odist Chapel, of which deceased was a faithful adherent. We find that the attendance at work at the Llwynypia collieries on Tuesday night was exceptionally small. In one district only four night workmen turned up, and consequently work had to be given up. On Wednesday morning again there was a very beggarly array of workmen, evidently caused by a temporary feelin" of over fulness—a plain indication that the times are prosperous. Great is the tribulation of the followers of the Llwynypia Football Clu!>, who received so seveie a thrashing at Swansea on Saturday. On Boxing Day again they had to knuckle under to Leicester, and could do no more than draw with Northampton on Wednesday. What is the cause of Saturday's ignominious defeat ? Are the players training as they should, or is it that some have become so cocky with a surfeit of past success that they don't attend to their business thoroughly? Certainly the committee should see into this.

TONYPANDY. The funeral of the late Joseph Pritchard took place at Trealaw Cemetery. Deceased met with his death at the Nantgwyn Colliery last Friday by a fall of coal. He was highly respected in the district, which fact was ap- parent by the large attendance at the funeral. The greatest sympathy is felt for his wife and three children. The Rev. Daniel Davies officiated. An immense crowd congregated on Pandy Field on Friday evening, brought there by the rumour that a catastrophe of unusual magni- tude had taken place. Many and anxious were the enquiries as to the extent of the loss of life, but all fears were allayed when it be- came known that nothing more serious had occurred than the blowing out of a plug in one of Mr Lane's boilers The Theatre Royal was the scene last Thursday and Saturday of two performances of G. F. Root's popular cantata, "David the Shepherd Boy." Although this work has been performed in Mid-Rliondda before, it still retains all its old popularity. It was last week performed by the choir belonging to the Mission Hall, Waun Court. For such a small cause to attempt such a work in full character was very praiseworthy, and indeed, they were very successful, the dresses looking very quaint and pretty, They were assisted by local artistes, chief among whom were Mr James John, Clydach, who took the part of David Mr Will Lewis, Penygraig, who personated Saul and Misses Caroline Jones, Penygraig, and Emma Dunning, who took the parts of Abigail and Mical respectively. The accom- paniments were ably played by Messrs H. and Harry Lewis. The singing of the choir on Saturday night was not heard to advantage, the intonation being very faulty; but on Thursday it reflected the greatest credit on Mr George Tulk. the choir-master. The chorus by the children, "The Rosy Heights, was very sweet; and the last chorus, "Hosan- na," was sung with much spirit. A most impressive item was the Evening Hymn." This was supposed to have been sung by the multitude, who had gathered for the coronation of David. After each verse, the last line is repeated with lips closed. It was really well done, and was about the best item of the concert. Mr James John. although rather a tall "boy," sang his solos with great credit, but perhaps his acting could be improved upon. It was a great pity that some of the performers were allowed the use of the copies. It took away the effect, especially when the "spoken" passages were read out. Mr Lewis as Saul acted splendidly, the scene at the banquet being very striking. The best acting, how- ever, was done by Miss Dunning, whilst her singing was very good; her rendering of "Shepherd Fair being especially fine. Abi- gail, ^although possessing a weak voice, sang very sweetly. Altogether, the concerts were very enjoyable, and the large audiences were well satisfied with the performances. It was a bold undertaking, and we sincerely hope the financial position of the mission will be materially strengthened thereby. Some of the inhabitants of Primrose St, are in a great dilemma. Two landlords are laying claim to their rent, and not being able to decide who is the real owner, they have refrained from paying to either claim- ant. Last week, a bailiff employed by one of the landlords entered their houses, and made distraints on some of the furniture. Both landlords are inhabitants of Mid- Rhondda. P-C, Garrett, who is stationed at Tony- pandy, has been called upon as a reservist to proceed to South Africa, and leaves on Friday for the front.

TREALAW. Mr W Llewellyn, Trealaw, has forwarded an additional 7/6 to the Tonypandy branch of the Reservist Fund and JE1 has also been re- ceived from Mr T Williams, Cynog Villa,

PORTH. The Porth and Cymmer Male Voice Choir gave three grand performances of Dr Parry's Blodwen," to crowded houses on Christmas and Boxing days. Mr Rhys Evans the t&lented conductor de- serves the highest praise and congratulations for the excellent treat provided. The artistes and chorus were in hne form. Miss S. M. Lewis, R. A.M., Ebbw Vale, sang sweetly and acquitted herself as a cultured artiste. Miss Rachel Thomas, Mountain Ash, made a great hit as Lady Maelor," undoubtedly she is the best Lady Mnelor" W6 have heard. Mis* Maggie Mo ris, Tonyrefail, as "Ellen" did remarkably well. Sir Howel (Mr Hopkin Hill, Cwmavon) sustained his high reputation in this character, his singing and acting was very much appreciated. Arthur of Berwyn," a warrior (Mr D. Chubb, Pontypridd) shewed much ability and resource, his efforts in the dying scene being very pathetic. Mr John Williams (Eryr Afan), Briton Ferry as the Bard went through his important part with great credit, the part lending itself ad- mirably for the display of his great compass of vnhre. The "Monk" and the "Messengers" also did their part creditably. An efficient orchestra assisted. The costumes, supplied by a London firm, were much admired. Mr. E. Samuel, B.A., has forwarded £ 1 ]s to the Rhondda branch of the Reservist Fund. The 15th of January next has been fixed as the day of election for filling the Porth County Council vacancy. The nomination day is the 8th of January next.

FERNDALE. Christmas day passed away quietly here. The chi f attraction for early risers was the old custom of Pulgain. On Christmas morning services were held at the Church, English Wesleyan Chapel, and Penuel Calvinistic Methodist Chapel. At Penuel an interesting paper was read on the Birth of Christ by Mr John Davus, Llangeitho. A serious accident occurred to Mr John George, New Street, one of the oldest and respected inhabitants of Ferndale, on Friday at No. 2 pit. He was badly bruised on the head and one of his legs, but hopes are enter- tained of his speedy recovery. A sail accident befel the four year old son of Mr W J Payne on Friday last. The mother had taken a bucket of scalding water from the fire, and whilst she had gone upstairs, the little one fell on his back into the water. The child was badly scalded and succumbed from its effects.

PONTYGWAITH. After a short illness Mr Arthur Martin, Checkweigher, Tylorstown, passed peacefully away on Thursday last. Mr Martin had always taken a leading part in miners' affairs at Tylorstown, and commanded a wide circle of friends who deeply regret his death. He was an active member and lay preacher of the Sardls Church, Pontygwaith, and had resided in the neighbourhood for the past 18 years. He leaves a widow and three children.

WATTSTOWN. A most interesting contest has recently been held at this place. The management of the United National Collieries offered a prize of a fine goose, to the workmen in each district of the colliery who would succeed in filling the highest average weight of large coal, during the four weeks ending Dec. 23rd. This event is of annual occurence, and this time, as on previous occasions, the prizes were keenly con- tested for. The winners were Messrs Frank Denning and Fred Demsey, Wm Hopkins and John Rees, Wm. May and Samuel May, Tom Bates and Tom Wilmer. On Christmas Day, special services were held at Nebo (C.M.) veftry. The Rev. D. M, Jones, Treforest, officiated, and delivered most impressive sermons which were attentively listened to by large and sympathetic audiences. The services were eminently successful, and proved very gratifying to the brethren. The cause here is a branch of Tabernacl (C. III.) Ynyshir, under the supervision of which it is advancing very favourably.

Chair Eisteddfod at Ystrad fftoridda. An interesting chair eisteddfod was held at Bodringallt Chapel, Ystrad-Rhondda, on Christmas day. The officials were :—presid- ent, Dr Thomas; D.C. conductor and ad- judicator of miscellaneous items, Rev. Tawel- fryn Thomas, Groeswen; adjudicator of music, Mr Taliesyn Hopkins, Porth accompanists, Mr Samuel John and Miss S. J. Williams, Ystrad; Secretaries, Mr W. Hughes and Mr John J. Jones, Redfield-road. Tbd proceedings opened with an organ re- cital by Mr Samuel John, after which the following events were taken in hand :—recit- ation, two competed, first prize, S. T. Lewis, Gelli; second prize, A. Richards, Pentre re- citation, two competed, prize divided between Mr David J. Davies and Miss Maggie Davies, Treorchy tenor solo, three compet- itors, Llythyr fy mam (Mr Evans. Tre- forris) Mr J. Harris, Ystrad Stanza, 11 com- petitors, best, Ystwytli. ENGLYN BUDDUGOL I'R AWRLAIS. Y mwyn awrlais, am iawn erlyn-tro'r haul Trwy'r wybr faith a dillyn, A llwyr deg boll oriau dyn A noda i'r mynydyn.-—NATHAN WYN. Verses in memory of the late Mr John Jenkin Lewis, 10 competitors, Mr Tom Davies (Ceneth) Ton pianoforte playing under 15 years Ash Grove" (Bentley Richards) 3 competed, best, Master Willie Harris, Ystrad, second, Master Willie Harris (Woodfield) Pentre epitaph to the late Mrs Reynolds. Penrhys-road, 10 competitors, prize divided between Mr Tom Davies (Ceneth) Ton, and another duet Y dderlen ar yr afon," two Sarties competed, prize divided between Miss John, and Miss Morgan, Ystrad bass solo Bachgen (le *wr," four competed, Mr Jenkin Williams, Ystrad. The six o'clock meeting opened with an organ recital by Miss Sarah J. Williams, and song by Miss llvans, Llanpum'saint. Recita- tion, three appeared on stage, l est, Mr David J. Evans, Ystrad; contralto solo, four com- peted, Miss M. E. Jones tenor solo, "Baner ein Gwlad," Mr D. J. Harries, Blaenrhondda; recitation, Y blodeuyn unig," Mrs Jonathan Thomas, Bodringallt Terr.; essay, "Apostol Pedr," Mr J. Rees, Ton soprano solo, "LIancesauEryri," Miss Mary Morgan, Ys- trad a song to Nadolig yn Nghwm Rhon- dda," 13 competed, prize ana a beautiful chair awarded to Nathan Wyn: quartette, Ti wyddost beth ddywed fy nghalon," one party competed, being not worthy of the prize duet, When we were boys together," Mr John Broad and Mr Edward Morgan bas-4 solo, "Honour and Arms," Mr Jno Broad was invested amidst applause. The eisteddfod, was a success. j

Eisteddfod at Treorchy. On Christmas Day an eisteddfod was held at Noddfa Chapel, Treorchy. The officials were:—Conductor, Rev. Morris, F.R.G.S. Adjudicators: Music, Mr W. T. David, organist, Tonypandy; Literature, Recitations, &c., Rev. J. Symlog Morgan, the chaired bard Prize Bags, Miss Armstrong, Aeron Villa, and Miss S. A. Morris, Glyn Villa; Accompanist, Miss Gwen Michael, Treorchy. The officers of committee were :—Chairman, Mr Evan Hees; vice-chairman, Mr W. P. Thomas treasurer, Mr John Richards while Mr E. T. Michael made an efficient secretary. The president, Dr. J. R. Armstrong, was un- avoidably absent through indisposition. The morning's proceedings resulted as follows Pianoforte solo (children uuder 12), Master Willie Thomas, Ty'nybedw (pupil of Miss Jones, Treherbert); alto solo, Go, bury thy sorrow," Master T. J. Powell, Treorchy recitation for children, Miss Mary Middleton, Cwmpark; alto solo (open), Master T. LI, Evans, Treherbert, who gave a good rendering; baritone solo, "The Village Blacksmith," Mr Jiin Davies, Pentre (Ocean Offices) hand- writing (boys), 1st prize, Jack Llewelyn 2nd, John Emrys Thomas sight singing, Mr Rd. Lewis. The programme during the afternoon was of a more interesting nature and included the chief items, which attracted a big number of competitors, the contests being keen. Pianoforte solo (under 16), Master Ivor Edwards, Pentre (pupil of Mr Tom Davies, organist, Pentre); essay on "Christmas," prize divided between Messrs William Pugh and Henry Jones, Treorchy; soprano solo, Holy City," Miss Polly Thomas, Treherbert; violin solo, The Harmonius Blacksmith," Mr Tom Phillips, Treorchy; unpunctuated reading, Mr William Pugh, G.P.O., Treorchy; tenor solo, Mr Gomer Jones, Treorchy four verses on "Cartref" (H"me), Mr T. Davies (Cenech), Pentre; prize bag, Miss Armstrong forwarded the adjudication which declared Miss Maggie Jenkins, 103, Bute St., Treorchy, the best; second choral competition—two choirs—Treorchy Music Lovers (Miss M. J. James) and Treorchy Minstrels (Mr T. Wil- liams), the latter proved the winners; open baritone solo (for champion medal), Mr D. Evans, Treorchy, receiving the verdict; duet, Gwys i'r Gad," Messrs D, J. Harries and John Lewis, Blaenrhondda. The chief choral only attracted two choirs, but old rivals, and the interest was keen. The Treorchy Music Lovers (conducted by Mr R. Lewis), and Treorchy Minstrels (led by Mr T. Williams), sang, and amidst loud ap- plause Mr David declared the latter choir the winner, the conductor receiving also a hand- some cup. The proceedings were enthusiastic through- out, and a most enjoyable day was spent.

Tommy AtkhlS Fund. Miss Armstrong's appeal at Treorchy. We are glad to note the personal efforts of Miss Armstrong, Devon Villa, Treorchy, who has made sacrificing efforts towards the Soldiers' and Sailors' Fund, assistaiiw being rendered by a few other ladies. Miss Armstrong deserves the highest praise for the noble work she ha^accomplished. The total amount of collected by Miss Armstrong are not made up c- ly, but they will probably reach the respect- able total of £ 60, or more, of which sum included subscriptions from Treherbert, r Mrs W. H. Davies and Mrs E. S. Warbur- ton, Treherbert. Among the local contri- butors are Dr. J. R. Armstrong, 2 guineas, Rev. W. Moiris, F.R.G.S., 1 guinea; Mrs R. Harris, Red Cow, 1 guinea Mrs Thomas, Treorchy Infants' School, 1 guinea; Mrs Morgans, Stag, JE1; Ocean Offices, p-r Mr H. R. Jenkins, £ 2 Is. 6d. W. Phillips, grocer, 10s. 6d. Dd. Thomas, ironmoii, 10s. 6d. E. Tribe, 10s. 6d. D. Morgan, grocer, 10s. 6d. Rev. T. Davies, Bethle- hem, 10s. 6d. Councillor W. T. Jones, 10s. 6d. T. Jones, Co-op., 10s. 6d. Dd. Evans, Treorchy Schools, 10s. 6rl. C. Jones, 5s. 6d. b. Thomas, Key Hotel, 5s A. Fuhrer, 5s. Jones, 5s. Mrs Jenkins, 5s.; M. Falcon, 5s. Mrs Jones, Schools, os. J. C-rtis, os. W. J. Duck, 5s. Mrs Rees, 5s. D. J. Evans, 2s. 6d. 3. G. Samuel, 3s. J. J. Thomas, 2s. 6d.; J. Morgan, 2s. 6d. J. Thomas, 2s. W. J. Davies, 2s. 6d. E. R. Phillips, 3s. Jno. Williams, 2s. 6d. E. J. Pryce, 2s. 6d. Dd. J. Jones, 2s. 6d. Mrs James, 2s. 6d. W. Kidner, 2s. 6d. W. Smith, 2s. 6d. E. S. Morgan, 2s. 6d. H. Titus, 2s. 6d. J. Williams, 2s. 6d. R. Morgan, 2s. 6d. W. Kellaway, 2s. 6d. Mrs J. Evans, 2s. 6d. Ben Lewis, 2s. 6d. J. Y. Evans, 2s. 6d. D. Davies, 2s. 6d. G. R. Prothero, 2s. J. D. Jones, 2s. J. Palmer, 2s. E. S. Jones, 2s. 6d.; Mrs Austin, 3s. Treherbert. As at Treorchy, no public appeal has been made at Treherbert for support to the "War Fund," and all money collected is the result of private solicitation made upon the in- habitants. Acting under the supervision of Miss Armstrong, Treorchy, the Treherbert district has been splendidly worked by Mrs E. S. Warburton, and Mrs W. H. Davies, Brynfyddwen, both of whom have done re- markably well, with the result that a hand- some sum has been forwxrded to Miss Arm- strong. The following are the leading con- tributions received —Per Mrs W. H. Da- vies Mrs W. H. Davies, JE2 2s.; Mrs Tre- harne, £lls. Mr B. P. Morgan, the Brew- ery, jEl Is. Mr D. Thomas, 10s. 6d. Rev. J. Rees, vicar, 10s. Miss Violet Davies, 5s. 6d. Miss H. Davies, 5s. 6d. Miss Moore, 5s. 6d. Mrs Jenkins, 5s. Mrs Walters, 5s. Dr. M. W. Makuna, 5s. and a host of minor sums. Per Mrs E. S. Warburton Councillor M. Llewellyn, JE1 Is. Mrs Llewellyn, Baglan Hotel, £ 1 Is. Mr W. Morgan, £ 1 Is. Mr W. Davies, cashier, £ 1 • Mr Thomas, 10s. 6d. Councillor Jno. David, 10s. 6d. Mr Glyn Williams, 10s. 6d.; Mr J. W. Ryan, Railway Bar, 10s. 6d. Mr D. R. Jones, M.R.S.B., Fernhill, 10s. 6d. Mr David Williams, 10s. 6d. Rev. J. Rees, vicar, 10s. Mr D. Thomas, 10s. 6d. Mr J. W. Walters, 5s. (2nd donation); Mr W. Jeff- reys, 5s. (2nd donation) Mr Rees S. Davies Stuart Hotel, 5s. Mr W. O'Connor, Ty Draw, 5s. Mr T. E. Davies, Tea Caddy, 5s. Mr A. L. Lewis, 5s. Mr and Mrs John Morgan, 5s. Mr Howell Llewellyn, 5s. Mr Evan Rees, 5s. Dr. W. Brant, 5s. Mrs Williams, Blaenrhondda Hotel, 5s. Mr M. A. Jones, Blaenrhondda, 5s. Mr Hy. James, draper, 5s. Mr R. Saunders, Smith Arms, 5s. Mrs Collins, Castle Hotel 5s. together with a number of smaller sums. Cwmpark. Cwmparc has done exceedingly well in response to the a "leal made for assistance to the funds. Dr. J. C. Barrett kindly undertook to solicit subscriptions with the result that about £7 was collected and handed over to Miss Armstrong. The donations include the following: Mr D. Thomas, 10s. 6d. Mr Dd. Morgan, 10s. Mr Jno. Higgon, Park Hotel, 10s.; Mr Wil- liams, 10s. 6d. Mrs Jones, 5s. Mr E. J. Ruttley, 5s. Rev. D. Lewis, 5s.; Mr E. Jones, 5s.; Mr T. Morgan, 5s.; Mr D. Lewis os, i

The Cycling Year in the Rhondda. X 1) By "Syko." —x— Under the present conditions of weather and with barely eight hours of daylight, it does not seem the proper season to speak of cycling. But shortening days always announce vhe fact that another year is rapidly drawing to a close, and as the year 1899 is going "down to the dim irrevocable past," a short account of the doings of cyclists during the year might be appro- priate. The cycling year opened very early. Long before Easter many riders were to be seen flitting around. In fact, many cyclists did not put their machines away during the winter. This was due very largely to the improved condition of the roads consequent upon the purchase of the steam roller by the District Council. From a rider's point of view, the Council has never spent money in a more useful manner for until the steam roller was bought, rid- ing was impossible until the road metal had been pressed in by the traffic, and this was never done until about the beginning of May. Signs were early evident that the year was to be unusually good for trade, sport, and pastime, and subsequent events have not belied them. All the world and his wife have at last recognied the fact that, as Mr Balfour put it at the N.C.U. dinner, the cycle was a most potent civilis- ing agent, and in no other place is this truer than in the Rhondda, for by means ot the ubiquitous bike one is wafted away from the narrow, overcrowded and dusty into the country to enjoy nature unadorned streets of the Rhondda and transplanted with coal-tips. At the same time a certain amount of muscular exercise is given, which must, of a necessity, help to ward off disease and decline. This fact was re- cognised quite soon in the season, and it was thought by many that cycling clubs would be an advantage all round. Clubs were formed, or reformed, at Maerdy, Porth, Treorchy, Pentre, Trealaw, while there was an attempt made to start one at Pandy. Sad to say, however, these clubs to put it into a mild form, were hardly an unqualified success. Porth died early in the season. Pentre became extinct after some six or eight weeks partial activity, while scarcely anything was ever heard of the Trealaw club. Maerdy however, and the Treorchy clubs-The Rhondda League Wheelers, and the Treorchy and District- managed, after a great many trials and troubles, ups and downs, to pull through the season in a fairly creditable manner. But I hear that even with these everything has not been smooth. The Treorchy Dis- trict club endeavoured once to wind up the season in a proper manner, but other coun- cils-wise or otherwise-prevailed, and now I am given to understand, affairs are in such a muddle that it would require the genius of a great organiser to put things right. The other Treorchy club-the Rhondda League Wheelers-have only recently concluded the season with an ex- cellent dinner. During the year this club held some very successful runs, including a week's tour to London and back, and several weeks end spins to neighbouring rendez- vous. Mr Holley, the secretary, has done his work exceedingly well in spite of the fact that he bo" TT-»+ been pronely suppor- ted by the other officers. The club recog- nised this fact when they presented him with a gold pendant. Maerdy club, ac- cording to all reports, has done fairly well during the season, and in spite of much that has been said about them, they deserve a great deal of praise for the good work they have done. Quite late in the season they held a very successful carni- val for charitable purposes, and have thus set an example to the other clubs who have been sounding their own trumpets so loudly and at the same time doing nothing. Why cycling clubs have so singularly failed in the Valley is somewhat of a problem. It is true that the physical build of our neigh- bourhood does not lend itself readily to club runs, for as one rider tersely put it, "If you want to go anywhere you have to go to Pontypridd before you can start." This, however, is not an unsurmountable difficulty. I believe, however, that the cause of the failure is the insane way in which many cyclists use their mach- ines. The majority of young fe lows who buy machines think that they have been specially predestined to make a mark in the cycle racing world, and each thinks that he, and he alone, is likely to raise the hour's record to 60 miles. The consequence is that nothing short of a first class racing machine will do for him, and it must be fitted with the lowest of dropped handles, and the highest of gears. Fitted up with a machine of this type, our would-be cham- pion scorns the idea of riding with a club, whose average speed is only eight miles per hour. So off he dashes, thinking he is the cynosure of all eyes, at the rate of 14 or 15 miles per hour, with the inevitable result that he lands himself either into a brick wall or into the police court. This is the bane of the Rhondda clubs, and until our young fellows learn to use their machines in a more rational manner, until they try to make the machines a part of themselves, and not themselves a part of the machine, no club can be a bounding success. It is however pleasing to note that as far as the individual rider is concerned, that the year has been a very progressive one. Many small parties of two and three have been found going on rather long trips together, and making splendid use of their oppor- tunities. This is as it should be. For nothing lends more to rub the corners oft than continual mixing up with new faces, other minds. The parties who have made use of their machines for this purpose can- not have done otherwise than be benefited. But still, the prevalent idea of enjoyment seems to be speed, and speed alone. When a rider is able to ride to Cardiff say in five minutes less time than his friend did it, he is in a perfect sate of happiness. The sneed craze at last developed to such an alarming extent that the police and magis- trates were compelled to adopt stringent measures to suppress scorching. Although I have no sympathy with the scorcher, yet 1 think the police were over-zealous in their duty. For to declare that eight miles an hour is excessive is just carrying things to a ridiculous extreme. The magistrates, also, were very unjust in their fines, for one cyclist, Mr Griffiths, of Pentre, was fined ka and costs for scorching. This can in no way be called justice. Later, how- ever, the fine was fixed at £ 2 or there- abouts. But the cyclists themselves are entirely to blame. They have been carry- ing things to such an extent that the inno- cent had to suffer for the guilty. Often during the summer, the real offender got off scot free, while the man who was only travelling at the reasonable rate of ten or eleven miles an hour was fined. Let us all, as cyclists, admit that in the crowded Rhon- dda, where the children have no other play- ground, and pedestrians no other promen- ade than the streets, that scorching ought to be thoroughly done away with, but let the police ac1m;, that their eight miles limit is ridiculous, and the magistrates that their fines are excessive, for what is, after all, only a technical breach of a bye-law. This will be one step towards obtaining that better Rhondda of which our chief spoke in his first editorial.

Pontypridd Police Court. j WEDNESDAY.—Before the Stipendiary and other magistrates. A Peculiar- ease from Penygraig. A respectably dressed married woman, ap- parently about 60 years of age, living at Peny- graig, was chargert with stealing &1 ja muslin, value 12s. lid.,from outside the shop.of Jones & Co., Pontypridd, a pair of mens drawers from LI. Delaney, and a ^evefrom the Pontypridd Ironmongery Co-, on y last. Superintendent Cole explained i fendant had also stolen a duck from the market, but that charge was not brought forward. Defendant was partly under tne influence of drink when she stole the goods. Defendant, who pleaded guilty, said she could not account for her conduct, Something had come over her. • J One of her sons appeared in court and said his mother did not want for anything. The Stipendiary thought the case a very curious one, and adjourned it for a m one of the sons becoming surety for ner behaviour. ° Brevities. Edmund Keefe, collier, Hafod, was fined 5s. for keeping an unmuzzled dog, „JI«- For driving without lights, Henry Chandler^ haulier, Pontygwaith, was fined 5s. Wm. Lewis, collier, Tylorstown, was sum- moned for being on licensed prenns Sunday and fined 15s. John Morgan, mason, Treorky, YaS. tioned and discharged, and Alfrei » collier, Porth, fined 10s. for being drun disorderly- T-inl- A fine of £ 1 was imposed upon Joseph V ick, labourer, Mardy, for indecent behaviour.

-= Some good clerical stories. Dean Pigou has been described as a clerical Joe Miller. Certainly his book of remini- scences, entitled Phases of My Life" (Edward Arnold) is full of good things. At least two-thirds of it is packed tun o. excellent stories of the clergy and churchmen. He appears to have a wonderful memo y, a keen sense of humour. Some of t le the stories relate to quaint sayings o officials. There was a verger, for who was asked by the Bishop of Wa lie noticed that the people availed of the open church door to pray Yes, my lord," replied the Verger, "I ketelied two of 'em at it only t'other day. One of the places at which he was his early days was Stoke Talmage. „i says, he lived a dreary life, though squire thought he was extremely u y cause his vicar kept the finest port kingdom. The church was small, dirty, untidy and in week-days cocks a roosted in the pulpit. The choir co a trio of violin, flageolet, and lonj* horn. But the oddity of the VJJv clerk—"I had an old clerk who made us t ^y aware of his ex;stence by W'ths had three or four wands of dlffeL Sunday which he kept hy him for u*e. The J School children were seated on tone' his desk. If he saw a Child play "n ar during Divine Service, he sel ancj I ticuiar wand which would mercv «Pon have heard him say, 'Lord, have nie.cjj p^ im,' accompanying this ersi ]ut.kless I mendous whack on the head „ words offender. He very nmch objectol to »H ending with ly. I have Iand quite angrily, W ho cruel-ly, 5 That despite-ly 8peak against the n« g him tQ my verse ill the Psalms always rec mind." — The curates, too, are an inexhaustible of amusement-" One who at once paid his first visit to an old1 axlj, said in broad Yorkshire, E^ y curate, ain't you ?' es> when yer now, I'll tell you what yer does jhen^ comes to see me.. • • me a stool, d'ye see? You sits d<» w me short—mind, a short—Psalm. ) a shilling, and then ye can go. On another occasion the deanJ?^,e was self an experience of the knid.. an old crony who was constantly see him. His curate though goul. ual trouble was affecting ™ P He went. "Well," said keJlymP „tes have ■How can I help yon? My been?" .'Oh yes.. They''re "» gentlemen, but t'aint vicar- suiting sudden she threw herself back, the action to the word, she p -s hand on her stomach, and excla 'avy us a great piece of beef in a bowl I wants." Among the wedding stories is this oni "One of his curates was umtin„ woUJd pair, but when he asked the man } have the woman for his wedded wi man: I woll if lass will black my.boo^ On being cautioned the man e. Cooming down Horton-street, 1 y yer'H 'ere lass, Now, lass, yer maun pron J no black my boots. If yerll no pro"'1 'buc|( js wed yer." She wouldnt, he didnt. Yorkshire." Some of the most .amusmg, s^or^fpSrger, from 'Halifax. There he had — puite a character, whose name wa u cap, a venerable figure with grey bair, ;2no- gown, and verger's staff. de- rance, they had married a business ceased wife's sister. Sagar, w hrtU^, the it was to settle the business -0h, banns,, was at once cross-exami • yes, Vicar!" said he, 8 n0t teli i know parties." But why &d y tjjein." me ? I should have fo™.ld(*el do you •Well, Vicar, is was just this Aur) and see one of the parties was 1eig ym t'other eighty-six. I says to pother it cant be long; let 'em wed, and Lhe laws!' R luge trJw3|"S acene: Alanagt r's office oi conversation stores. Commercial traveller m iijm a with manager and wishing to pf cig»rs« present. Oil! Mr. Brown, here w them, if vou would be kind enough to aj,|e man, Manager: "Pardon me, I »ni an n „ 'pravellt-r: and would scorn to accept a, t>r' ■ tlx'in r "I am very sorry, but will y r: "Il'm, Give me a shilling for there. but I I might do that (feels for a .j, piece. have nothing less than a tw • jjaye them Traveller (who wishes to make change- for nothing): "And I bave u can Managpr: "Well, I'll *elly° n4 bring do. You can take the two ahill g another box of cigar». traveller. ..I- The forest area of all the 1300,000,000 in America is estimate » tray into,tne acres. The settler has •hVjrull5S^faon! fringe of the vast woodland,but ■re nothing as compared it at of fire which has rampaged throws times. I —

ARTISTS IN mother- ARTISTS IM mother- The encrustation of Prec' £ nCh Tonquin, of-pearl is in Hanort, ,treet—known as important industry, ,an devoted to it- the street of the mlayers sheaves of Landscapes gleaming » mogt delicate many-coloured flowers, dutiful things are other articles a e j,* dovetailing without the aid of aUih "J lacquer Mite. 0