r-ST. DAVID'S CELEBRATIONS|1907-03-07|The Welsh Coast Pioneer and Review for North Cambria

r-ST. DAVID'S CELEBRATIONS

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r- ST. DAVID'S CELEBRATIONS Continuation from 2nd page. SUCCESSFUL DINNER AT PENMAENMAWR. ADDRESS BY MR L. J. ROBERTS, M.A., H.M.I. THE ABSENCE OF MINISTERS. The anginal din1or in commemoration of the Patron Saint of Wales was held at the Pen- maenmawr Hotel, on Friday evening', when a very Large company assembled. The chair was occupied by the Rev. Canon David Jones, and he was supported at the head of the tables by Mr L. J. Roberts, M.A., H.M. Inspector of Schools; Dr. J. R. Williams, Mr Kmeeshaw, Canon Royds, Rev. T. H. Richards, Rev. T. D. Jones, Colonel O. H. Darbishino and Lieutenant Darbishire, Dr. Jenkins, Dr. Moreton Roberts, Dr. Morrish, Mr AHanson Picton, W. H. Rhodes, J. A. Hindley, J. Holby, J. Dunces, P. H. McOLemont, James McClomont, — Key, W. Parry Jones, R. J. Hughes (surveyor), and others. Tho celebration was in the hands of a strong committee of which Dr. Williams was chairman, the othor members oedng Dr. Jenkins, Messrs H W. Jones, S. H. Roberts, R. D. Jones, M. H. Parry, R. J. Hughes, R. Lloyd Jones, and D. Gordon Jones. The secretarial duties were ably carried out by Mr H. Christmas Jones, and the treasure? was Mr Willia-m Hughes.stationmoster, who really deserves the whole of the praise for initiating the movement. But for his energj, tho memory of the patron saint would very likely have parsed unnoticed. The dinner was all that could be desired, and reflects the g'rrat'jst credit upon Mr Joseph and Mrs Skilbech the manager i-nd manageress of the hotel, the latter of whom especially spared CO pains in preparing a very excellent menu, ishich was as follows:— SOUP. Artichoke and Mock Turtle. FISH. Halibut and Ilollandaise Sauce. Filleted SoJe a la Maitre d'Hotel. JOINTS- Roast Beof. Roast Mutton. Boiled Fowls. York Ham. SWEETS Welsh Pudding. Apple and Rhubarb Tarta. Jelly. Blancmange. Compote of Fruit. DESSERT Cheese. Biscuits and Butter. "The dining hall presented a very attractive BcesiQ, and the national emblem of Wales was well displayed. The company having done full justice to the good Ihingte provided, the tab'es Were cleared, and the President at the outset read letters of apology fou- non-attendance from Mr>n vson, Mr R. Lloyd Jones, aind Dr. Hughes, Bnonydem. ANGLESEY BLOOD IN THE VEINS OF OUR KING. The President then commenced on the toast list, and gave the toast of the King. He said that His Majeetv had Anglesey blood in his veins, and, as his mothed did be-fore him, he toyed his poople with an intense, judicious, and wise love, and he also believed that His Majesty would go down to posterity as a. peace maker. They could see the value of the dignified and Royal retxeeneo which was so admirable in him. He was not a royal or an imperial meteor bareering from place to place, and putting the whole world on the qui vrve, as to what he v/as gioing to say or do next, but they all imew that he was always working for peace. The toast was musically honoured, and the President again followed with the toast of the "Queen, the Prinoe and Princess of Wales, and the rest of the Royal family." The Queen was meet diligent, most self-sacrificing, and always lived in good works. He (the speaker) was told with respect to the Prince of Wales, that he was honorary colonel of the 23rd Royal Welsh Fusiliers, and what was more he was the Cha.n- cellor of our Welsh Univorsitv (loud applause). The to art was again musically honoured. Next came the toast of the "Bishops. Clergy, and Ministers all a mom illations," proposed by Dr. Jenkins lie said this was a truly appro- pria.te toast, for was not our patron saimt, whose pious»and immortal memory ihey wore observ- ing that mght, a great religions leader, and since his time Wales had given the bost of ner pons to the ministry, who, by their preoept and example, had done great things to promote and puetain ihe moral and intellectual welfare of the Welsh people. He had the greatest pleasure in submitting the toast. After being' duly honoured, Canon Royds was lealled up<m to respond. The rev. gentleman tosud jt was with diffidence t.Ï1at he responded, Because h felt himself practjcaJly an outsider (No, no). He was a oompaiative stranger in the place, and as coming forward from t.he other eide of the Dee he felt himself a stranger in that celebration. Though he spoke of himself as ^T^jptsider, he did not fool himself outside the lC £ r< which they felt on the other side of the Dee with tho Welsh people- (hear, hear)—and in their groat patron saint David. He was not conscious of a single strain of Welsh blood in his veins, but nevertheless he felt a great in- terest in his brethren across the border. The speaker went on to refer to a book he had read relating to the old churches of Walee and the peculiar points about their architecture. The patreffi saint of Wales was celebrated for the work he did in his day, and he had so handed his name down in the 81-Cred memory of all the people of Wales. Speaking as a minister, was it not a hapnv thing that. they had to look hack to the name of St. David, who became patron saint because he was so distinguished far hIs learning, his eloquenoe, and groat services to the Church. In the days of St. David they had their different views of religious customs as they found in the Bibles at the very beairumng of the Christian Church. But although that was the case, they never heard of those ja.w breaking' -or he would rather say heart breaking words, and undenominiatio<na!ism." Was that not a reminder that though they had Cbeir differences they had not all those which we had now. He mentioned this for aJl the lay brethren to strive together for the great funda- mental truths of their religion in the unity of spirit, peace, and righteousness of love (applause). He thanked thorn heartily for the way they had honoured the toast. The Rev. T. D. Jones, in a Welsh speech, also reBfond-yl briefly. The nrogranrme a.t the's juncture was inter- mingled with music. Mr William Hughes, Station-master, .c'ivmg a. capital rendering of "Hen Walia, gwlad y gan." Mr J A liar son Picton next proposed the toast of the 'Imperial Forces." He created consider- able amusement by speaking in Welsh, and his address will b2 found on the Welsh page of the present issue. OUR DEFENSIVE FORCES. lu. ftie English langmgte, Mr Picton said that <3* dmn r was held in a most important and interesting epech in tho history of the Imperial forces. A great scheme had just been pro- pounded., which they hoped would better affect the destines of the Empire. He was not a soldier, and oould express no opinion upon what is called the striking foroe, but he hoped that they would never ha v recourse to It. respect, to a territorial armv amounting to 300,000 men, he could not help but think that this waa at least a beginning of a much better defensive force than the^had ever had be-fore. The new scheme of Mr Ha Mane might prove Better than anything- they had before. He coupled, with tho toast the name of Colonel Darbishire. There was only one anxiety they all had about the Colonel, and that was that he would take particular care not to overstrain himself. There was no man who did more in 24 houis than Colonel Darbishire, The burdens of a large business were unon him, but he found time to help every possible local want — the Oo-operiative Societies, Band of Hope, the chapels and Churches, and above all the Volun- teer foroo. of which ho was the very life and soul. He (the speaker) knew of very beautiful children a perfect garden of flowers—who had bestowed upon him the name of grand-father, and who were malein<r him quite a patriarch. CLAIMS OF UNIVERSAL TRAINING. The toast was loyally honoured, and Colonel Darbishire, who pose to respond, received a hearty ovation. In a spesoh, M speaker sa-id that at the present time the Imperial forces, it were, were put into a molting pot, and they could not tell how they were coming out Tho speaker went on to refer at length to what he described an excellent lecture delivered at Liver- pool baring upon th3 question. He also re- forred to the work of the Intelligence Depart- ment in the War Offie, who found out all that was gv>i-ng on in tho neighbouring- countries. Lord Roberts, win had had as much experience as anybody, realised that conscription could not he introduced .n this country at the present ■tame, aind therefore he was encouraging when- ever ho could that everybody should learn how tohandle a rille, so that evory able bodied man should be able to shoot if necessary (applause). Quite lately a systeu had beon organised, but quite finished yet, in which all the co0srs will De entrusted to the local forces If a telegram came within 24 hoius, they could mobilise and guard the coaat within their dis- trict. If unfortunately any a.ttempt was made at raiding- this country, they would, therefore, at ail events, be able to hold them in check un- til the "hloo water school" got on the scene. It was this encouragement which made the aux- iliary forces do their duty. According to Mr they were going to join the yeomanry, militia, and volunteers together. He (the speak- er) did not know what kind of soup it would make (laughter). No doubt, Mr Haldane was a man of enormous intellect, aind be would not have suggecl.ed suoh a thing without beång sure what he was going to produce in the Bill he had pro- mised them. As ho stated, he (the speaker) had no doubt but that their standing would be im- proved, and that was what the volunteers re- quired (hear, hear). A man who jot-ned the vol- unteer company was a eon of the corps, and he had a responsibility thrown an his shoulders. He a,g-ain thanked them for the manner in which the toast had been received. A GOOD STORY. After Mr Hughes, the station-master, had again delighted tho company with a eong, the President said that Colonel Darbishire had re- ferroo to the 1 intelligence Department. He (the speaicer) did not think it was of high repute. At all events, during the last week he heard of an officer who had a. part of his head blown away, but the medical gentleman was successful in re- placing it. Later they met each other in the streets of London, ar.d on enquiry the mednal ir an found that tho officer was in the Intelligence Department of the Wa- Office. The former said. "Do you know that I have part of your brains?" "Oh, have you," replied the officer, to which the medical gtanileman asked, "Would you like to have them?" and the gallant soldier replied, "No. thank you, I am at the War Office now" (loud laughter). ABSENCE OF MINISTERS COMMENTED UPON. Tho Rev. T. H. Richards proposed the toast of the evening; "Dewi Sant." lie considered it a groat honour. One thing he should like to know at tho outeot was why was it that tho "Ministerial benches" were so empty that night. It pained him very much to think of the absence of tfhoir friendis> and the subject before the House oould not but appeal to their patriotic hearts. They had been told lately that even ministers had to refuse the invitation of Kings through the stJresg of hard work, and he wanted to throw out the suggestion to the lay friends present not to put too much work on the shoulders of the ministers, and to grant them a little indulgence, though Let it be, to attend a banauet like this onco a year (loud applause). He ha.d gained some knowledge of the patron saint, but there was one thing that pained him, and that was that though he could find the Christian name of the patron, he could not find his surri-ame-(Ia;ightor)-but he had como to the oanolusioei that the surname must have been Jones (renewed laughter). The name Jones was most numerous in the principality, and he could see Jones to the right, to the left, to the front of him, but none behind him. The speaker went on to compare the patron saint to their worthy chairman, between whom ho thought there was a similarity. At considerable length, the speaker in Welsh gave an interesting history of the natron saint. WELSH ELEMENTS ABROAD. Mr Knha w was entrusted with the nexi toast, that of "Cymru, y Cymry, a r Iaith Gym- raeg." He said that he took it as an indication that the people of Penmaenmawr, through their committee, recognised that a person might speak only English, and yet be a8 much entitled as themselves to be proud of the history and traditions of the Welsh race. Many of thetr valcis and hills, towns and hamlets, btill bore the Welsh names given them by their ancestors. They were that day celebrating St. David's ;)irth. Let them try to realise what his thoughts vera when he lived and breathed the air of Cambna. Would he not have looked upon the inhabitants of Great Britain as his kith and kin, and there- fore in reeoernisinsr an Englishman as a true, 'o er though remote, descendant of the Cymry. In the latter centuries, the Welsh speaking ^et pie of the Principality had continuously spread them- selves over the island and mingled their bicod from age to ago with their rela.tivi's c^er 1 ho border. Indeed thero were many faiiiiies. who believed themselves to be of purely An^' > Saxon origin, who were-really of almost unbroken elsh descent. As an example, ho the instance of his son, whoso mother's family o: Bromfield had not lived nearer Wales than Cheshire for probably over 500 years. Most of them were bred and born in the South of England, but who were derived in an unbroken male decent from the GruiTyths, of Bromfield, in Denbighshire, whose ancestor was Hywel Dda, King of South Wales, and lawgiver to the nations (applause). At this juncture he should like to thank all present, and Penmaenmawr in genera], for the kindly way in which they had taken an interest in the marriage of his son (cheers). He coupled with the toast the name of Mr L. J. Roberts, H.M.I., who, ho felt confident, would use his great influence over the rising generation, which he exercised with such conspicuous utility. He had great pleasure in submitting the toast (applause). STIRRING SPEECH BY MR L. J. ROBERTB, H.M.I. In responding to the toast of "Cymru, y Cymry, a'r Iaith Gymraeg," Mr L. J. Roberts said that every sunset which he witnessed inspired him to go to a West as distant and as fair as that into which the sun go down. From Rhyl the mouiir- tain ridges which were last gilded by the rays of the sun were the heights of Penmaenmawr, which, like the ancient Hesperides, were enveloped in mystery and in poetry. Feeling the westward tendency, he had come, Columbus like, to penetrate these mysteries (applause). Tho moment ho understood he was to respond to the toast of Wales his mind immediately and inoyitabley flew to that memorablo passage in which Matthew Arnold contrasted the eastward outlook from Llandudno with the view on the west. To the east, towards Liverpool and its steamboats, everything was prosaic. But when one looked westward everything was changed. "Over the mouth of the Conway and its sands, said Matthew Arnold "is the eternal softness and mild light of the west; the low line of the mystic Anglesey, and the precipitous jsiiiien- mawr, and the great group of Oarcndd Llewelyn and Carnedd Daiydd and jthrgj n, fading away, hill behind hifl, in an aerial hazo, make the horizon; between the foot of Penmaenmawr, and the bending coast of Anglesey, the sea., a silver stream, disappears one Vnows not whivher. On this side, Wales—Wales /here the fast still lives, where every place has its t aditiona. every name its poetry, and where the people the genuine people, still knows this past, this tra- dition, this poetry, and lives vl th it, Yo hile, alas, the prosperous Saxon, on the ther side, the in- vader from Liverpool, and Birk jnae&d, has Ic.ijg ago forgotten his" (applause). Wales might well be rogarded as a favourite of providence. It was a small country, it was true; but real great- ness was not to bo measured by sizo: "In small proportions we just beauties see." But it was larger than the ancient States of Greece, which had taken such a strong hold of the hearts of men, and not much smaller than Palestine or Switzerland. Its population was twice that of New Zealand, and nearly twice that of the white population of South Africa. It was a delight- fully pleasant land to live in; tempered by the breezes of the sea which bounded it on three sides its climate was equable and beneficient. It was a land of exquisite natural beauty; and its beauty was not concentrated, as in BODle countries, in a small area, but almost all the land had attractions to the admiresns of nature. Its mountains and valleys, too, were saturated with historic memories and eloquent with the story of the past, In that very district of Pen- maenmawr, the spirit of patriotism had burned its brightest and most unquenchable flame during the many centuries of the long struggle with Eng- land, and the mountains which loomed im- mediately over that meeting plaoe had acquired a pathetic interest as the sanctuary of the un- fortunate Dafydd, the last Llewelyn's brother, to whom belonged the melancholy honour of being the last Cymrio Prince of Wales. The twin mountains, Carnedd Dafydd and Carnedd Llewelyn, ever reminded them of the two brothers who perished in the final struggle for independence. Even the badges of the couqu^st the magnificent castles that formed a ring of sentinels round Snowdon, contributed in their decay to adorn the country. Wales was, as Freeman had once said, pre-eminently the land of castles; not even the imposing castles of the Rhine could compare in grandeur with the Edwardian Castles in North Wales (applause). Wales was a rich country, rich in what was of u( I greater value than- gold-in coal, and ore and slate. Mr Roberts gave striking figures showing the phenominal growth of the country, quarry- ing, manufacturing and shipping interests during the last fifty years, particularly mentioning that Cardiff, Swa.nsea, and Newport, now exported more coal than all the remaining ports of the kingdom combined (applause). But, as Lord Rendel had onco said, the "true wealth of W al la.y, not in coal or iron, nor in field nor forest, or river, but in the readier and more easily and quickly ripened intelligence of its people" (applause). This wealth-the mental resources of Wales was now being recovered (applause). WALES' EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT. The material expansion of Wales during the last few years was not so remarkable as the magical development of its educational system. Its young and lusty University had already ovor 1000 students in residence, while Welshmen swarmed in ever increasing numbers to the older Universities, where they reaped more than their numerical share of success in the- honours' lists; its 100 intermediate schools had already over 10,500 pupils, of whom half were girls, and probably an equal number were in other secondary schools; and in the element- ary schools, which educated the bulk of Welsh caiildron, the native language and the history of Wales were now reoognised as a means of culture alongside with the English language and the history of Britain (applause). Mr Roberts quoted the opinions of various authorities on tho advantages of bilingual teaching, and incidentally referred to a remark of the Rev. S. Baring Gould, that "the Welsh peasant is much ahead, intellectually, of the English peasant of the same social position, a result due to the greater agility given to his brain in having to think and speak in two languages" (applause). These educational agencies wore supplemented by that wonderful institution, the National Eisteddfod which, with its satellites, the local eisteddlodaU; 1 was the means of diffusing a wide-spread literary culture among the masses. Among modern nations the eisteddfod had no parallel; for a companion they had to go back to the Olympic games of ancient Greece; and if the Welsh festival was lees complete in that it did not com- bine physical with intellectual culture, the achievements of the Weleh on the football field, and notably in the memorable victories of Welsh teams over the New Zealand and South African representatives, showed that physical develop- ment was not stunted in Wales (applause). The military prowess of the Welsh during the Middle Ages'was remarkable, and the Welsh were now, as in the days of Giraldus Cambrensis, eminent for their choral singing. Their musical development had, however, been one-sided, but the long neglect of orchestral music was now passing away. He was far from maintaining that the Welsh had all perfections united in them, but he was not going to play the part of the candid friend that night (laughter and applaufie). Since the days of Giraldus, seven hundred years ago, the Welsh had outgrown some of the faults which that observer had dcecribcd, but at least one other defect had de- veloped virulently that sectarian narrowness and animosity which gnawed liko a canker at the heart of the nation (applause). Mr Roberts then spoke of the continued existence of the Welsh language, and of the noble literature, as living as ever, which it enshrined. He read a charming letter he had received from Mr Watts-Dunton, in which the author of "Aylwin" spoke of the charm of Wclish women, and the grandeur of Welsh scenery, and of the delightful words of Allen Raine and the poetry of Ernest Rhys. In conclusion, Mr Roberts expressed the belief that a day of undimmed brightness had now dawned upon Wales (applause). The military prowess of the Welsh during the middle ages was remarkable. It should be remembered that though Wales was not conquered until 700 yeare after the landing of the Saxons in Britain. It was with the aid of Welsh friendlies from the South, and of foreign mercenaries that Wales was subdued, and it was doubtful whether the country would have been conquered by Edward I., but for the accidental death of Llewelyn, who had fought an even fight with England for thirty years. Out of the 12,500 infantry which Edward 1. had with him when he defeated Wallace at Fa.lkirk, 10,500 were Welsh soldiers, and similar- ly in the French wars of Edward 1. and Edward III.the Welsh were in very large numbers- one-fourth of the whole army at Crecy was Welsh. non Owain Glyndwr maintained his gallant struggle for independence against the whole might of England for fifteen years. It was a Welsh army that triumphed at Bosworth, and placed the Welsh Henry Tudor on the throne; the strong Tudor Dynasty was as dis- tinctly Welsh as the weak Stuarts were Scotch. As had been well said, "No Welsh boys need ever again go to the history of other peoples for a record of stirring deeds and struggles. It would be hard to match in any history the long and splendid struggle of his own ancestors." CANON JONES EULOGISED. The toast of the visitors was submitted by Dr. Williams, who stated that on such an occasion, they knew no political or religious differences. They were present that night for the sake of true patriotism, and their worthy president that even- ing was a fair example. It was needless to eulogise the virtues of Canon Jones, as -ner since he had come to Penmaenmawr, lie had ingratiated himeolf not only in his own flock, but also the Nonconformists in general (ap- plause). As a preacher lie was eloquent in the extreme. Ho had great pleasure in submitting tho toast.. 0 After being honoured, Canon Jones SK-id a function of that description was certain to do good. There had been nothing to ^mpl.iin ef, and nothing worse than smoking (laughter). They had had a most excellent spread, and Mn; Skilbcch was deserving of the highest commendation. Nothing had been eaid there that evening that could not have been said in a church or chapel. lIe di.d not know of a greater pleasure than to be cliairman of a number of his fellow countrymen and feilow parishioners. This distinction between England and Wales was very largely a factitious one simoly one of language. By means of that festival let them try to help each other to understand the country in which they lived the better (applause). # A short musical programme was gone through, in which Dr. Williams gave some penillion fling- ing to the accompaniment of Ap Eos y Berth, Bethesda, with the harp, and a clarionetto solo was given. The accompanist was Mr S. M Jones. The function was a most pleasant one, and everybody expressed themselves as thoroughly satisfied with the excellent catering at the hotel.

- BIRMINGHAM WELSHMEN'S CELEBRATION.

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BIRMINGHAM WELSHMEN'S CELEBRATION. LORD KENYON ON NATIONAL MUSIC. AN EXCEPTION IN FAVOUR OF OOLWYN BAY. The members of tho Birmii^iham Undeb y Brythoniaid, held their annual dinner on Fri- day night, at the Grand Hotel. Whenever the natives of the Principality meet on such occa- sions there are eloquent speeches and sweet .singing, and this function was one of the meet woithv of remembrance in these rcspecta that have taken place in the history of the society. On this occasion, thj members had the hemour of the presence of their president—Lord Ken- yon—a gentleman who is well-known for his do- otion to the Piincipility. Dr. Lloyd Owen pre- sided, and amongst those presorrfc, io addition to Lord Kenyon, were also Mr Thomas Griffiths, Dr« (yoottesh Sooiety), Mr Lionel M. Jones, Mr Thomas Joiis, Mr J. Hiunphrevs Mr Phillip Carteo-, Mr E. Howclls.Dr. Douglils Heath (De- vonians), tho Rev J. T. JonoB, tho Ifev. A. Evans, Mr F. W. Davies (Cornish Society), Mr T. J. Davies, Mr J. Humphreys Jones (hon. treasurer), Mr R Hughes Da. vies (hon. secretary). There wero also a number of ladies present. Lond Kenyooi, pi-tc)pmiiag "Tthe (Immortal Memory of St. David," asked what St. David would think of them if he returned to-day. Would he not say: "I built twelve monasteries twelve scats of learning. What are you doing npw—what are yoti d for my people?" In the matter of areliItect-urhe would say that they had disfigured their beautiful land. What could be worse than the squalid streets of Ban- gor, or of Rhyl? He would make exception in favour of Oolwyn Bay, as it lay among the hills nestling in the woods. As to painting they ocr- toinly ownod Burne-Joiios; but pal-n-ting was not what he would wish to see it in Wales to-day. As to sculpture, where St. David would ask, were the statues of their great men and heroes? Then, itn regard to tho Eisteddfod, he would wish to know why it was they allowed English choirs to boat them (lieair, Ivear). He (Lord Koniyon) was of opinion that it was because the Welahnian was too proud of his music, and was too much of an individualist. The Welsh voices were the best in the world, but they should be trained more in singing together. He was of the opinion that the standard of the Eisteddfod was too low. He would wit \hold prizes in competi- tions that wefre not u £ » to tho standard (hear, hear). The Eisteddfod had the inheritance of years behind it; and the love of the people to support it, let the people have a high standard set beiforo thorn, and they would attain to it. Then, if St. David enquired about their education, he would find much wrangling all round. He (Lollo Kenyan) hoped that the Wekh pi'Tron holo which had been placed in, the Edu- cation Office would 1x3 the means of Welsh affairs receiving their propeir consideration, and he henest'y beliovod that the Bill produced by Mr McKenna would tend to peace (applause). In all these things he had a hopeful view cf Wale-s- that it was the desire of her present people to make thei,* homes and their lives as beautiful as the country which God had given them to live in (apl'1all."IO). Dr. Craig (of the Scottish Society) proposed "The Undeb," and lenrvrkcd that such societies did not fail in their mission if they kept green old memories of their country, and kept old lee'einris alive (-a,pplaAlIS-1). The Vice-President (Mr ThOJmas Griffiths) ro- sponded "WALES, OUR COUNTRY." In proposing Walee, our oountry," Mr Lionel M. Jones spoke of the inspiring character of the Welsh scenery. Tho mountains of Wales, whilst forming a bulwark against the invader, had holpod to develoq) the individual characterr of tho people who had remained true to its own traditions and its own genius. Those mountains had also fostered the love of music, of poetry, of the beautiful, and that powetrful imagination which inspired their na^Eon-al melodies, which left its seal on all literature, and which de- veloped the motive of all tho chivalric poetry of a whole oontinerut (applause). The toast was received with enthusiasm, and wtae responded to in tho vernacular by Mr Tho- mas Jones, whose speeoh waa frequently punctuated by approving remarks of "Clywch Ciywoh." I The other tof.sts were "The Citv of Birming- ham," "Kindred Societies," "Ladies and Visi- ters," a-nd "Tho President and Chairman." During the evening con2Tatula.tory telegftinu were reoe'ved fiom ihe Piince of Wales, who is pairon of the sooietv; from Lord Ilarkoh; and from Mr Ellis Griffith, on; behalf of the London Welsh Society. A delieiifcfui programme of vocal and instru- mental mus:c was pi von by Miss Gwlodvs Morria, Ma.da.me NellSa Pritcbeird, Mr Alfred Davies, Mr F. J. Hubble, and Mies Myfamwy Hum[>hrey6- Jomes. Mias Jennie Pritchard waa the aocom- panist. A moet enjoyable evening was "lit n' --I to a close with the singing of the National An- them, "Han wlad fy. ntaaiau."

SUCCESSFUL BANQUET AT LLANDUDNO…

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SUCCESSFUL BANQUET AT LLANDUDNO JUNCTION. INTERESTING ADDRESS BY MR WILLIAM WILLIAMS, B.A. Tho fourth annual St. David's Day Banquet was held at the Staitdon Hotel, Llandudmo Junc- tion, on Friday evening, and as usual attracted a 1 a.c £ -e aind representative gathering, including porno of the principal tradesmen otf Llandudno and Conway, no functions being held at those towns. Tina dinner was served in the commodiouC and luxuriously appointed dining room which is admirably adapted for such functions, and had been appropriately decorated for the occo- sion with a profusion of looks and daffodils, as well as am abundance of floral emblems, all of which presented a distinctly pleasing effect. The organisation of this annual event was again entrusted to Mr Maclouiley Davies, who was oongratulatcd upon what was admitted to be the most sueeceoful airiper. The catering of Mrs Roberts and her excel- lorut staif met with the ontire satisfaction and approval of the company. Councilor A. G. Rogers presided over the ga/therinjr a.nd right well did the new county councillor discharge his duties. He was ably supported in the vice-chair by Mr Mack in! cy Davies. THE MENU. The excellent fare provided was as follows:- SOTJP. Kitiney. FISH. Boiled Salmon. JOINTS. < Roast Lamb. Roast Beef. Boiled Chicken and Ham. SWEETS. Rhuharb Tart. Trifle Wine Jellies. Cheese and Celeryi 9 Deesert. THE TOASTS. Tho Chairman proposed the toast of "His Majesty the King," which was duly honoured, Mr Denbigh Cooper leading the company in singing tlie National Anthem. The Chairman next proposed "T!he Queen, Prince cund Princess of Wales, and theltotad am, I Family," after which Mr Denbigh Cooper sang the solo of "God Blessthe Prince of Wales," the company heartily joining in the ohorus. Counoillor A J. Oldman than gave "The Bishops, Clergy, and Ministers of aU Denomi- nations," and said that he considered it tho al duty of the clergy and ministers to expound tho principle's of Christianity as freely as they understood it for the benefit of the people (ap- plause). Mr David Garric Roberts afterwards proposed "The Anmv, Navy, and Auxiliary Forces" in a humorous vein, which kept the company in roars of laughter. Mr J. L. Mayger, in responding, sadd that all would agree that in tho Navy they had the very best in the whole world, and if ever called upon would uphold tho traditions of their groat and glorious Empire. Ho did not know whether so much oould bo said of thoir Army and Auxiliary Forces. It remained to bo oesn whether the new move cAf the Government with regard to the Army would be good for the country or not; personally, he thought it would (applause). Mr Maedor Rowlands them gave an effective rendering of the "Veteran Song." DEW! SANT. Mr William Williams, B.A., in rising to pro- pose the toast of the evening, was accorded a rousing reception. He so .id:—Among the many signs of the re- vival of patriotic feeling and the festering of that love of country which has always been a characteristic of Welsh people, there is perhaps none more sigmficaot than the almost universal regard I to the memory of St. David. Of late years there hi-us been a most remarkable enthusiasm in connection with this festival which has not been equalled in the case of any other patron saint. St. George of Egland, St. Andrew of Scotland, St. Patrick of Ireland, and St. Denys of France, have ret exercised over their respective countries such an influ- esnce, or oreatted such national enthusiasm as 'l-a's' tho name of St. David has done over Wcles, and in tho hearts of Welshmen. In various ways, all over the world, wherever Welsh people are found, St. Da.vid's Day is observed with that fervour of patriotism and ardour of sentiment which is so cbaraoteristio of the Celtic race (cheers). As usual, for many yefirs past, greaft religious gatherings were hc'.d last evening in St. Paul's Cathedral, and in the City Temple, and this year services will be con- ducted in Birmingham, Manchester, and other large provincial ocntros* of population, in memory of a valiant hero who accomplished so muioih for the sake of truth and religion (hear, hoar). In the anoieint Universities of Oxford and Cambridge enthusiastic Welshmen arc found to be inspired with the same ardour to do honour to our gm-vt Welsh Saint, and in our own modern University of Wales, Ceitic enthusiasm reaches what we may caJI "boiling point," as his anniversary comes round. It is indeed fitting that such honour should bo paid in our safyts of learning to one who was eminent not only for his devotion and sanctity, but also for his profound loaruning and powerful eloquence (cheers). In various social gatherings also, "the immortal memory of St. David" has become an established pledge, and bond of union, the lips and in the hearts of oauntless thou- sands throughout tho whole British Emniro (choerrs). Although St. David himself led. as is reoordodt, a retired and somewhat ascetic life, still, within the bounds of due moderation, we could scarcely feel justified in condemning such social functions held to his memory who is docribod as bedng "a life to the poor, a sup- port to the orphans, a protection to tho widows, and a father to the fatherless." In our social rolations it is il tnat his noblo example should bo remembered and practically copied, with respect to tbeso, who may not be so for- tunately placed as ourselves (a.pplause). THE LEEK OR THE DAFFODIL. When the anniversary of St. David was first kept is not known, but there oaoi bo no doubt whatever that the Great English poe-t, Shakes- peare, waa aware of it, as he refers to it, aind also to the oustean of wearing tho leek on the day as possibly having its origin ait the battle of Crecy in tho year 1346. In his play lienry the Fltfh, Act IV., Scene VII., Flueiion, the Welsh Prince, is represented as saying to King Henry, "If your majesties is remembered of it the Welshman did good service in a garden where leelts did giow, wearing leeks in their Moiur ;uth caps; which, you majesty knows, to this hour is an honourable badye of the service; and I do believe, yorar majesty takes no scorn to wear tJ leek upon St. Tlavy's Day." It still ren-iaiaz, however, to account for the asso- ciation of the leek, as a nat.-jjnal badge with the name of St. David, even if it is conceded thai, it was first used as a distinctive mark ^>y Welsh soldiers at Crecy as that battle was fought on the 26th August, and hence has no connection with the feast of St. David. Still, more difficult would it be to account for the leek aA all if by tliat plant is meant the ordi- nary, culinary vegetable kdowil by that name as it is said that it was not introduced to this oountry until about the year 1562. We may after all bo in error as to the leeks which variant Fluellen tells us grew in a garden near Oreoy, and it may be we are mistaken in our naitionial embiean which may possibly be the daffodil or as it is called in Welsh Cennin Petr (Peter's Leaks) (cheers). THE LIFE AND WORK OF ST. DAVID. When we would learn something about the life and work of St. David, we are at once met with ocsjitiness of detail, and a superabundance of legends and traditions. This is j>erl>!aps not to be wondered a.t, as no attempt to write on account of his life V:a.<3 made until Norman times—a .bout 50(1 years after liis death. • Tnat his inomory was held in such reverence for five centurieg is sufficient proof that ho must have far outehosiio liis contemporaries (cheers). From various sources, having regard only to those which, in all probability, are to be re- garded as reoords of aetuai events the life of our patron saint msay bo related as followB: — St. David was descended through his fatlier from a noble and princely house. His mother, whose mame was Non, belonged to a noble family, and her sister was mo-tiber of St. Cybi, the founder of & religious community ait Caer- gybi (Holyhead). The princes of this family wore all vvaliant men. If they beoirne warriors they fought to the death for the Red Dragon; if they were of a religious disposition they fought for Christ with similar untiring energy. Several oonfliodiig dates are given for his birch, but probably the year 462 may bo taken as ap- proximate. Ilis early otiuoaiion was superin- tended by his micsiher. Afterwords ho was sent to a school at Lkunilltyd, and finally he attended a. famous education establishment at WiutJ-and in South Wales. He remained there about ten years, and probably between 30 and 35 years old when he left. Wo next find I, lm with several others in the valley of Rhos, in Porn- brokeshire. Here he formed a religious frater- nity, tho disciplinary rules of which were char- acterised by greia/t strictness and self-denial. We are assured that herbs and water were their Bole means of subsistence. But though they tfaemsolvos thus abstained from the luxuries of life, they freely and gonorauly dlistributed of thear bounty to the wants of others, and their chief pleasure was the roiiaf of those who suffered privation and distress (oheers). At this time the oountry was in a state of turmoil owing to the introduction of the Saxons under Hengm, who had been invited by the Britons to repel the incursions of the Piote and Soots consequent on the withdrawal of the 1 Romans. The unsettlod state of the oountry probably accounts for the retirement of St. David and others to the most remote corner off Pembrokeshire. In addatdon to this there was also a great religious struggle going on be- tween the Church and the followers of Pelagius, and in order to suppress his heresy a great oon- ference was held at Llanddewi-brefi in Cardi- ganshire. At this gathering the followers of Pelagius had the best of the argument until the arrival of David, who, after groat pressure by Dubritius, Bishop of Caerleon, and Deiniol, Bishop of Bangor, was induced to attend the conference. Has arrivri proved the turning point in the debate, and Pelagianism met with a repulse. Shortly afterwards, Dubritius re- signed his see in favour of David, and retired to Ynys Enlli (Bardsey Island), whore he and many of the saints of the primitivo British Church are resting in peace (cheers). Soon after his appointment as Bishop he again removed to a place in tho extreme west of Pembrokeshire, being, probably, actuated by the strife and wrfare due n the continuous incursions of the Sa^on invaders. Once more Pologianism spread abroad its evil influences, but this time St. David dealt it such a blow that it was finally suppressed. that it was finally suppressed. The romaining years of his life may well be summed up in the words of Giraldus Cambrensis in his "Itinerary." "In those days the Church of God flourished exceedingly, and ripened with much fruit every day; churches were built everywhere; many congregations of the faith- ful wero collected to celebrate with devotion tho Sacrifice of Christ,; St. David informed theem by words, and instructed them by example; as a preacher most powerful through his oloquence, but more so in his works. He wss a dostrine to his hearers, a guide to the religious a rule to the clergy, a path to the seculars, becoming all to all that he might gain all to God" (applause). The many churches dedicated to him through- out the cou,ntry-th-ore are 53 in South Wales alone—testify to the widespread influence exer- cised by this earnest Christian (oheers). His death is stated to havo taken place on the 1st March. The generally accepted dato is 544 at the age of 82. Some authorities, however, maintain it was in tho year 601. With his death as with his birth legend has been lavish in its embellishments. However, his genuine a/ohflevements are sufficient credentials, without addling any of doubtful character to entitle hrim to tho immortal gratitude of succesive genera- tions of his countrymen. He was the noble champion of truth and true patriotism, and a living exampk- of practical goodnes? (cheers). We will conclude with a quotation attributed to St. David:- "Gorou defawd, daioni." "The best usage is goodness." (loud applause). Mr J. R. Hughes, tho well-known local basso, followed with a capital rendering of a new Wolfh song onftitled "Gwyl Dewi,'7 the words cf which wero published m th6 "Pioneer" last week. LOCAL TRADE PROSPECTS. LOCAL TRADE PROSPECTS. Councillor Edward Roberts next prooosed "Tho Town and Trade of Llandudno Junction," and in doing so said ho understood that the trade of the Junction was improving day by day, a.nd he hoped it would continue to improve (hear, hear). In the Junction new schools were bsing erected which, would no doubt prove a great acquisition to tho district in general (cheers). The only fault about them was that the people of Conway, where ho lived, would have to help to pay for them. (laughter). Ho did not think there was a ratepayer in the whole of the Junction out of employment (oheers). He was plessed to see a County Council candidate in the ohair that night, and he hoped that); tho best, man would bo at the top of the poll on the following day, although he would not say which of the two candidates was the best (laughter and cheers). Mr J. c £ Hughes, in responding, said that on behalf o* the tradesmen of the Junction, he desired to thank tho company for the kind way in which the toast had been honoured, and for t}K\ enocfunaging address by Mr Edward Ro- berts (oheers). The poople of the Junction were just beginning to wako u^. They had an Improvement as well as a Ratepayers' Associa- tion at the Junction, and ho trusted that at no distant date the Junction would bo numbered among the nucst important towns of North Wales (cheers). Mr Denbigh Cooper then gave an excellent rendering of "The Little Hero." Mr John Jones, C.C., who was accorded a hearty reception, delivered an interesting ad- dress on Welsh patriotism, and remarked that ho was glad to &ce so many English friends pre- sent joining them in commemorating tho immortal memory of St. David. There was nothing so conducive to general harmony than to meet together round the festive board as they were doing that evening (applause). Mr T. O. Morgan then treated the company to a very effective rendering of tho ever popu- lar song "Good Company." THE PRESIDENTS. Mr Mockinlav Davies proposed the "Presi- dent," and said tha.t Mr Rogers did his work so well last year that he was asked to preside again (cheers). Mr Rogers was a good sport;- man of the right sort. He (Mr Davies) had played orioket against him many times in the VaJe of Conway long before the Junericm was thought of. Mr Rogers was well-known to be possessed of a meet oharitable disposition, and always ready and willing to assist any good object. He had certaiinly proved in every re- spect worthy to occupy the chair on such an &iwpick>r« oocaeion as the commemorating of tho memory of tho Patron Saint of Wales (ap- plause). Mr Rogers, in responding, sa.id that when he first oaJno to the Junction twenty years ago, there wore only two houses in the pfoce. Dur- ing the twenty yoars he had lived amongst them he had not made a single enemy (applause). • Mr Maedor Rowlands having given an effec- tive renedrrmg of "0 na byddai'n haf o hyd," for which he was loudly applauded, Mr J. Cropper (of the Cambrian Mineral Waiter Works) gave the toast Clf the "Vice- President," which was suitably responded to by Mr Mockinlay Davies. A TRIBUTE TO THE "PIONEER" NEWSPAPER. Mr J. S. Stevens proposed the "Press," and in the oe<urso of his remarks pa.id a. high tribute to the "Welsh Coast Pioneer," which, he said, was aiawjTi tQ the front with the latest intelli- gence. Tht) p-ap-ar was undoubtedly one of the beat pennyworths in North Wales. Mr D. Clwyd Griffith ("Welsh Coast Pioneer") responded to tile toast. Mr Mockhilay Davies contributed a humor- ous song, for which he was loudly encored. The Chairman proposed the "Hostess," and thanked :\1r Roberts for tho kind manner in which sho had entertained the company that evening. Mrs Roberts suitably responded, after which Mr Denbigh Cooper gave a splendid rendering of "My Friend." Mr D. Clwyd Griffith proposed "The Musi- cians," all of whom, he said had added so much bo the enjoyment < if tho evening. The various performers having responded, a vory enjoyable evening was brought to a close at midnight by the c'^ing cf "Hen Wlad fy Nhfldau.

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DINNER AT RHYL. -

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DINNER AT RHYL. NOVEL SUGGESTIONS AT THE WESTMINSTER HOTEL. The annual St. David's Day dinner was held on Friday ovening, at the Westminster HoteL This gathering has been arranged for in several hotels in Rhyl from time to time, but that on Friday can bo reckoned among the moet success- ful. Mr J. H. Ellis, J.P., presided, and Mr J. W. Jones occupied the vice-chair. There was a large company present. Mr and Mrs Lang, with their customary hospitality, catered in an excellent manner, the tables being beautifully set out, and each guest was provided with a buttonhole in the form of a leek. It was a pleasing innovation. The menu was as follows:—. SOUPS. Clear Oxtail. Cookie-Leekio, FIsH. Boiled Salmon, Hollandaise Sauce. ENTREES. Kidney Sauti au Champignons* Sweetbreads a la Josephine. JOINTS. Roast Sirloin of Beef. HOTfe Raddish Sauce. Roest Welsh Lamb. Minst Sauce. Roast Ducklings. Apple Sauce. New Potatoes. French Beans. Spring Cabbage. SWEETS. Pudding a la St.. David. Yaniila Cream. Wine Jellies. Rhubarb. Custard* SAVOURY. Devileld Sardines. DESSERT. THE TOAST OF THE EVENING. The loyal toasts having been given from the chair, the toast of the evening "The Immortal Memory of St. David," was submitted by the Vice-chairman. He said it was a toast which had been spoken to by himself and by other patriotic Welshmen in Rhyl on many occasions, and there appeared to be but little new that could be said of the patron saint of Wales. There was associated with the name much mythology and matter which bordered on tho ridicuious. There was little doubt but that St. David rea-iy lived, and that he died at the ripe age of 140. He had founded a school to provide an educated ministry. There was certainly something to be said as to the living. of a good life when one could reach such a ripe old age. St. David had set before his countrymen a high and noble ideal, and he hoped that gatherings of that sort would be the means of insprining among Welsh- men a proper and national spirit of patriotism (applause). GOOD WISHES FROM ABERGELE. At this stage it was announced that a telegram had been received from the Bee Hotel, Aber- gele. conveying to the assembly the hearty good wishes of the company assembled there. These good wishes were reciprocratcd. The Chairman also announced that he had received a mcHsatro from the company dining at the Wynnstay Hotel, Rhyl, also conveying like good wishes, and a similar message had been returned. THE RULING AUTHORITY. To Mr F. J. Gamlin devolved the task of pro- posing tho comprehensive toast of ''The Ruling Authorities." He confessed at the outset that he did not quite know whom to include and who to leave out in a toast of that nature. He sup- posed he had to include the House of Lords, the Commons, the Ipfehops, clergy, and ministers of all denominations. Then the magistrates, and after that came the various Councils, and to tho latter bodies he would extend the wish that they would do all they could to keep down the rates. He was bound to say that some of the ruling authorities wero very extravagant. Of course, with rich men an increase in the rates of a few shillings in the pound made but little difference but to poor men like himself — (laughter)—i± was a serious item. lie hoped that there would be no talk, as in the past, of wasting money on fancy pagoda schemes for the lake (laughter). But while he could not re- frain from criticising the councillors, he was bound to give them credit for honesty of pur- pose. Undoubtedly they worked very hard. and he asked the public to realise what it meant to a man like Mr J. H. Ellis to put in something like 118 "attendances at Council and committee meetings in twelve months (hoar, hear). He was reminded t&t ho had not included in the toast one important ruling authority. He re- ferred to the ladies (hear, hear). From what he had heard of the lady suffragites many of them were very prepossessing young ladies, and no doubt gather- ings of that kind would have a considerable fascisation for the male sex if they were present (applause). The Vice-president thanked Mr Gamlin for tho comprehensive way in which he had dealt with the toast. It was generally recognised that councillors were some tort of footballs which cveryone felt he had a right to kick. But they should remember that those who served the public in the ca.p3.City of a councillor had plenty to do, and that they had a very difficult task at times to carry out. He asked that the public would help the councillors. They did not object to cri, but they did not want to ho1W' nothing but carping criticism. Let them have !ffigœtioœ that would be helpful. He asked them tpull together and do what was possible raise the town in the estimation of the public (applause). Tho Chairman also responded. He said that he could assure the public that the position of a councillor was not altogether a bed of roses. The members of public bodies devoted a great deal of time and attention to their duties, and the councillors of Rhyl had at heart the beet interests and welfare of the town. Personally he would always do what he could to push Rhyl forward, as he owed everything to the town (ap- plause). He believed it was possible to make Rhyl the leading seaside resort in Wales, and they, with their great natural and geographical advantages, could give the town an impetus that would send it bounding to the front. Were they not nearer to the big manufacturing towns than any other seaside resort in North WD,J",i;? He was charged with being extravagant (No, no). Well, he could say that he always ex- pected to receive 20s for a sovereign, and that he always did what he could to secure the I est bargain for the money he spent -on behalf of Rhyl. They were as a town in the same position as a tradesman who had something to sell; the goods had to be displayed to the best advantage, and they must try and show their customers something which other towns did not possess. They could not aiford to lay dormant in these dive. He did not wish to criticise the actions of his colleagues on the Council, but he did feel that they had made a great mistake in curtailing the hours during which the minstrels were to perform at Rhyl. People came to Rhyl to spend as much time in the open air as they could, and the evening entertainments of the minstrels had been a great attraction to many. Visitors could bit out of doors in the cool of the evenÎ1Jg and enjov the entertainment, and the town benefited by the facilities afforded. The resi- dents of a seaside resort like Rhyl should re- member that that they had someone else to cater for besides themselves, and that they must give the people who camo there' what they wanted rather than to force local ideas down their throats. With regard to the; Rhyl Pier and Pavilion he hoped that the owners would push forward the very fine scheme which they had laid before the Council. He believed it would be a good thing for the town if they were to acquire the Rhyl Pier. In conclusion, the speaker asked Mr Llew. B. Evans also to respond to the toast. Mr Evans was one of the youngest, but a most active, councilor. Mr Llew. B. Evans responded, and said that the ratepayers would give the councillors credit for the work they did. lie was certain that few people rcally realised the wm-k 1 :,at was required of a member of the local authority. THE TRADE AND TOWN. Dr. Thomas gave the toast of "Tho Town and Trade of Rhyl." He said ho had resided in the town for some 25 years, and during that timo he had seen many changes. He did not think any town on the North Wales coast had de- veloped as rapidly as had Rhyl, and the place had improved vastly. They heard that evening that the councillors were criticised,, but he always thought that that was a healthy eign. If a person was worth criticising it showed that he was doing something. CONVERT RHYL INTO AN ISLAND. Mr H. K. Osborne said he could not really understand why he should be asked to respond to such a toast after eight o'clock in the even- ing (laughter). After that hour ho felt he had done with business, and was an actor (laughter and hear, hear). But :is they Lad asked him to eay something he thought, it better to strike out a new line. Why was it that. Rhyl went on in the same line from year to year. A trades- man to be successful must run his busmen on original lines. He suggested that Rhyl should leave the beaten tracks, and that the Council should widen tho cut that ran to tho back'of the town, and so convert Rhyl into an island. By doing that they would have something novel, and they might run the town as a modern Mont Carlo (laughter). They had heard much about pagodas for the lake, but if his suggestion were carried out they would require eoine gondolas as in Venice. Mr K. McEwen said he could speak of Rhyl with a. knowledge of something like 50 years. He camo to Rhyl in 1857, a.t which time the place was very email. Rhyl had two very raiuable aesets, viz., the sea and its cliimatic conditions. While the building trade had of late been quiet, it had not always been so, and he hoped there would bo more work next, winter than there had been during the past few months. As to the trade of Rhyl, he believed that tradesmen would make it much better if they would support one another. Let them con- sider that their interests were bound up with each other and then matters would progress muei bettor. Mr R. Sykes said he believed tha.t the Ad- vertising Association had done a groat deal oi good. and it could do much better if people would only rally round and support it as it wat their duty to do. They had many advantages if they would only make them known, and the more they pushed the town the. better it would bo for them. Rhyl was undoubtedly the finest place on the coast (applause). Mr C. D. Copley gave the toast of "The Visitors." He said it was upon the visitor that Rhyl depended, and the townspeople should do what they could to encourage them. Let them provide all the attraction possible. They had had an excellent dinner that night, provided by Mr Lang, which to the visitors present gave an idea of what Rhyl catering was like. Then he thought that Rhyl might go further than it had done in the pa.<>t and provide a summer garden for visitors, where they could go on a warm day, sit down in the shade. hear a. band, and enjoy a cup of tea. He believed that such a scheme would pay very well. Mr Jenkins responded, and said that he wafc spending a few days in Rhyl after his return from India^ hÏ6 children bein educated irl that town. He was delighted to find such a pleasant company asembieu. and had pleasure in telling them that in Calcutta on St. David's Day there was assembled a band of men who keep ever in mind the ideals of their patron saint. They mat in Calcutta as Imperialists; men who wero working for the best, apart from any political or sectarian prejudices. He would be pleased to convey to his friends in India the hearty good, wishes expressed that evening (applause). Mr Ryle, of the Nant Hall Hotel, Prestatyn, also responded for tho visitors, and expressed tho pleasure it gave him to be present that even- ing. He came among them as a stranger, but he hoped to bo spared for many years to enjoy the friendship of those present that evening. Mr Copley next gave the toast of tho" Pre- sident," and referred to the yeoman service Mr J. H. Ellis had given to Rhyl. He said thtft that gentleman was ever ready to serve the town, and to look after its true interests (applause). Tho toast was received with musical honours. The President responded, and ihanked those present for the kind way they had received his name. They all knew him well, and he was proud to call them all friends. Mr L. G. Hall submitted the toast of the "Vice-chairman," and referred to the services rendered tho town by Mr J. W. Jones, adding that he was the youngest councillor who had sat in the Rhyl Council Chamber, a.nd possessed a. fine grip of the affairs of the town. This toast also was received with musical honours, and Mr J. W. Jones responded. The proceedings concluded with the toast of "The Press," and the toast of "The Host ajid Hostess." In giving the latter toast, Mr C. D. Copley spoke in very eulogistic terms of the excellent way in which Mr and Mrs Lang had catered. Mr Lang, in responding, said that was the first St. David's Day dinner he had had at the West- minster, and he hoped that ho would be spared to see many more. During the evening a splendid musical pro- gramme was given by the following:—Messrs FL Haseldcn, T. Amos Jones. H. K. Osborne, B. Jones, and Mr J. D. Asher's Glee Party.

UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF NORTH…

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UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF NORTH WALES ANNUAL EISTEDDFOD. The ann-ual eisteddfod, promoted by tht students of the University College of North Wales, was held for the first time in the Pen- rbyn Hall on Friday afternoon. There was a mime,reus attendance, the stude-nte, of course, forming the bulk of the audience, who were kept in a happy mood throughout the aftcrnooa by Llew Tegid, the conductor. The President was Principal H. R. Reichel, who, however, was detained in London on im- portant business, btat he sent a wire conveying in Wf. >h his best wishes for the success of the eisteddfod. Mr E. D. Lloyd, Bangor, was the musical adjudiootor, and the adjudicators in the other sections wore Mrs Relabel Miss Bane, Professors Lewis Jones, J. E. Lloyd, Hudson Williams, J. Morris Jotnes, IJew Tegid, Rev. T. Sbankland. Mr Lloyd Williams, Mr W. J. Roberts, Mr J. O. Jotnes. and Mr E. A. Evans. For the first time the ] dv sotudcnts of the North Wales Training Col oge participated is the competitions, the awards in the chief oi whiioth were as follwos :—Translations, Mr Wyn Williams. Bl&eimu Festiniog; pianoforte solo, Miss Enid Levris. Bangor, who gave a briiliani rendoring of an example of Mendelssohn, the adjudicator praising in particular her use of the pedsi; 2, Miss Ikirnes. St. Mary's College. Baritone solo "Can y Ma.rchog." Mr J. O. Jones. Towvin. Pen and ink original designs: Adjudicators withheld the prize, and complained that there had been wash drawing. Soprano solo, "Na.nt y Mymydd Miss Morfudd Roes, London, who was warmly praised by the adiudi- oattar. EraaA-, "T.he influence of language upon nationality: Miss Hut-chings, Lcrxtan. After- noon blouse: Miss K;:1.Íe Foulk Jones, Garth, liangor. D'oyleys Miis Dunba.bim, Coalville, Leicester. Lyrics: Mr Wyn Williams. Love poem: Miss Mair Evans, Brynkynallt, Bangor, whose <X.>!1ltábulÍ-on w" described as an ex<x.1Cl- ingly good one. the images being very fine a.nd the words happily chosen. Contralto soJo: Miss Sarah Jones. Duett: 1, Mesrs J. 0. Jones and W. E. Jones, Tb-wyn, who gave aID inspiring rendition of Handed s "Tho Lord is a Man of War;" 2. Miss Williams and Mi Mvfanwy Matthews, Korth Wales Tra.in.w..g College; and quartette, "Wlxm hands meet," a quartette in onarre of Mir W. E. Jones. A TEST FOR MONOCLGT ENGLISH STUDENTS. Considerable interest centred in the compete tion ill which English monogiot students were required to sing "Y Fwvalaben" (Songs of W aJes). Several of both sexes competed, and the adjudicator, in announcing- Miss Lewis, a Lancashire student to be the winner, said he wished Welsh singers would take a lesson from some of the competitors. He could uocierstand every word- the winner S8..id.. In every detail the rites appertaining- to the chairing ceremony were observed. Mr Ivor Wil- liams, B.A., brung excellently "got, up" as Archdtmid, and amongst those who delivered odes were several lady PRKksnits ir. caps and gowns. T!he oampietitors were allowed to chooso thoir subjects out of Welsh legends, and Prof. Morris Jones a.nr.cr.nced that three odes, two in English and one in We>!sh. had been roocived. The rythym of the Enriish competitors was rather broken, and one of them endeavoured to make "mist rhyme with "Cader Idris," anp "Lord" with "Coward." The Welsh ode wzr. by ihe far the best ccxl its writer droved to lJo-, Mr W vn Williams, who was duly chaired, Mis, Morfudd Rees singing the chairing sony unac- companied. The test piece in the ladies ohoir competition was "Sleep, my darling, sleep" (D. W. Lewis), and thrc, organisations, the Outsiders, the North Wales Training College, and the Ilallite," competed. 'The prize was a.warded to the Hall- ites, conducted by Miss Nancy Williams, Wid. nes, the adjudicator extolling in particular their intonGitÏon any balance, and he eaid that there was an agrecaM^ freshness about their singing-. He plaocd the choir of the Ncrth Wales Train- ing College second, and in his detailed criticism he said that their singing was too heavy for the piece, although, as far n-s accuracy went. they were excollonit. He also pointed out that more omld have been made of certain passages. Tho intonation of the "Outsldws" was very faulty. There were a few rompei itions at a conver- ~7,ic>ne held at the College in the evraiing. A prize was offered for the best .college cheer, and the adjudicator described one of the "yells" sent in as a conglomeration of discards re.micis- cent of a.n Indian war whoop the cries of a person in the agvni.es cf so. a fii -k.r.ess. The prize was divided between Mr J. n. Jones and Mr Wyn Williams, and it is understood that a Wend between their efforts is to be adopted as the offioia.l college "yell." Mr D. J. I-vi". Normal College, was award- ed tho prize in tho teoor sclo competition, and Miss A. 1' oulk Jones, who gave a magnificent. imeii7>r«>a.t,ion of "An incadont of the French Camp (Browning's Dramatic Romances) wau adjudged the best reciter. Mr J. O. Jones gainocl the prize in the penillion singing cam- petition. Mr T. B. Roberts conducted the successful voice ohocr, who samg Bryan's C'.()."I}. bye W!t.1 me." In the second portion of the procramme t-hfl Welsh drtamaiic sketch Yr Hen a'r Newvdd," written by Mr Richard Williams, cf Manchester, wias given, the characters being sustained bv Mr .John Morris, Miss Anwes Foulk Jones, Miss MoWuad Rees, M.ii-'te.r IdwaJ Williams, and Mr W. E. Jones. Dm ring- the evening dele- gates from Cardiff p.nd Abery^rvvyth wero re- ceived with the u'u.1,1 oRthusinam. The secretarial duties were discharged by M tiS Mt?jrfu,d'd and n. Rogers and T. A. Jwos. Mr W. Lanrfe-d Brookes beting the treasurer and Mr Ivor Williams, B.A., was the vice-chairman of the committed [Continued on 4th page.]

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