The Glamorgan Gazette

CONSERVATISM AT BRIDGEND. ADDRESS BY MR WADDINGTON. On Tuesday evening, tl N~e was a large atten- dance at the Town 4/idgend, when Mr E. Waddington, of Ca. o.-if delivered a political address. Mr W. Riley presided, and on the plat- form were Messrs S. H. Stock wood, J. C. Coath, R. C. Griffiths, W. McGaul, W. Lewis, and W. M. Richards. Over the platform were suspended huge posters bearing the names "Salisbury," "Balfour," and "Dunraven." The Chairman, who met with a cordial recep- tion, said they were assembled together to listen to a very gifted speaker in the person of Mr Waddington, who had already done a great deal for the good old Unionist cause since his advent to Cardiff. The Chairman, proceeding, said he stood before them as a commercial man. He got his bread and cheese by the work of his hands and brain, and he said that when the Conservative Government was in power, commercial interests improved, the working men were more prosperous, and trade and commerce generally throughout the .country was thriving. But what was the state of affairs now ? There was plenty of money, but it was not lendable simply because there was no confidence in the present Government. The Chairman dealt in scathing terms with the fact that foreigners were allowed to come into the -country, and for low wages take positions which ought to be occupied by our own countrymen, and also that they were allowed to send foreign manufactures into the country. Referring to the Disestablishment question, he said let them stand by the Church which had existed in Wales for sixteen long centuries, and do not let them readily part with it. Do not let any harm be done to the Church which in the past had done, and was still doing, so much good for the people of the country (cheers). Mr Waddington then proceeded with his address. At the outset he said the Conservative party was the party which took its stand on the great principles which had stood the tests of time. He was glad to hear the Chairman epeak out in such a catholic spirit on the Church question. Was there any reason why Wesleyan or Indepen- dents should not fight as resolutely for a national recognition of God as any Churchman could do, ;and he believed Conservatives would say with him that they would rather see some other branch established than give up the grand principle of a national recognition of Christianity. After referring to well-known topics, the speaker said Lord Salisbury might not be so brilliant a rhetorician as Mr Gladstone, but he thought those who had watched him would say that -he was the greatest Foreign Minister who had ever held odBee in this country. (Hear, hear). They often beard working-men ask What is this imperial question to us ?" He wished he could impress upon them the fact that their interests depended just as much on the imperial policy of the country as it did upon the success of commercial men like their chairman. What made the commercial classes of this country ?-Trade; what made good trade- markets, and it was in this respect that the political parties affected the question. It was impossible for the Liberal Party to manage their foreign affairs, and they had been unable to do so for the past 60 or 70 years. The speaker pro- ceeded to compare the last five years' work of the Liberal Government with the five years of Tory rule, and said the wages of the working-man were far higher when Lord Salisbury was in office than they were when a Liberal Government was in power this was, of course, speaking of the whole country generally. Under Lord Salisbury the trade of the country went up to the extent of one hundred and fifty millions of pounds more than it was when he took office, but under modern Liberal Governments it had been quite the reverse. With regard to the land question, he said that if land could not be bought, he objected to it being stolen. The Liberals gained the vote at the last election by promising allotments, but they had never made the slightest effort to redeem their promise. References were made to the Labourers' Wages Bill, the Merchandise Act, and other measures which had been placed on the Statute Book to the everlasting benefit of the nation, by the Conservative party. Twenty years ago as a Trade Unionist he took a great interest in social reform, and he wrote to Liberal Statesmen again and again asking them to do something to stop the infamous sweating system under which scores of thousands of men, women and children were employed for a miserable pittance, and under con- ditions which were a disgrace to the country, but the answer was We must buy everything, even human flesh and blood, in the cheapest market, and sell it in the dearest." Lord Salisbury showed that he had a heart within him, and appointed a Royal Commission, in which a noble- man, of whom the country had reason to be proud, in more ways than one, took a prominent part in seeing that the gross injustice was done away with; he referred of course to Lord Dunraven. (Cheers). Mr Waddington concluded an able speech, which embraced practical politics of the present day, by referring to the Home Rule Bill as having been exploded in the same way as many other things they heard talked about. A Mr Fisher asked several questions of Mr Waddingbon with reference to the income tax, the rate of wages, alleged increase of trade under Tory Government, and all these were satis- factorily answered, and a cordial invitation was extended to that gentleman—presumably a Radical-to attend the Club Smoker and get further enlightened, an invitation which was promptly accepted. Mr S. H. Stockwood, in moving a vote of thanks to Mr Waddington, said he was glad they had bad some questions asked, because that was the best way to obtain information, and they, as Conservatives, were not afraid of being asked questions. He endorsed almost all Mr Waddington had said. His speech proved that Conservatism and Democracy were closely allied, and that the Conservative democrat and the Conservative working mtn were within the range of practical politics. He thought Mr Waddington had been rather hard on the Government, who were bouud to many masters, and where a Government was in power by the will of a number of parties, they had to do what they were told. If the present Government did not pltase the Welsh members by going in for Disestablishment, they knew perfectly well they would be turned out, and if they did not go in for Home Rule, 70 Irish members would turn them out also. The present Liberal Party was governed by a -conglommerated band of faddists, and they had to do what they were told it was, therefore, impossible that they could give that attention to Imperial measures which was necessary for the good of the country. He hoped the intelligent working men would ponder well whether it was mot high time to remedy this state of things. Mr R. C. Griffiths seconded, and said the fact that Mr Waddington had come down under the .auspices of the Conservative Club, bore eloquent testimony to the fact that they bad justified their ,existence in a political sense, as well as a social one. (Hear, hear.) j • The vote was carried with acclamation, and in acknowledging the compliment, Mr Waddington said no doubt they would be very bad men in the ..eyes of Sir E. J. Reed as they were going to hold .a Smoker at the club, but though it might be wrong for them, it was right for the member for Cardiff to go to the National Liberal Club and drink champagne anu smoke, shilling cigar. A vote of thanks to H- tairman concluded the meeting. THE SMOKER." What is termed in the profession as a musical puffer subsequently took place at the Conservative Club. Mr J. C. Coath was in the chair, and amongst the large company present were Messrs W. Riley, E. Waddington, G. F. Lambert, J. C. Rees, H. Goulden, Robert Evans, R. Lucas, Hopkin Llewellyn, W. Hopkins, S. H. Stockwood, W. Farley, A. J. Cope, F. J. C. Nicholas, W. Walters' J. P. McGaul, Alban Morgan, W. J. Parker Harris' J. Raybould, J. Gibbs, Evan Williams, J. Erskine, Jacob Jenkins, M. Bowen, G. T. Hardwick. LIew. David, R. H. Dyer, J. Telling, R. C. Griffiths, T. M. Price, T. Forrester, A. Fryer, W. Bradshaw, W. Jones, P. Llewellyn, J. Williams, A. D- Webber, and W. Rosser. Letters were read from Mr R. K. Prichard, J.P., and Dr Hood expressing regret at being unable to be present. After a brief address, congratulatory and interesting, from the gallant Chairman, friend Mose. Bowen sang the praises of The noble 24th," a song that always appeals to the best sentiments of Welshmen. Mr Smith followed with a coster song all about a little girl who went out in a boat and wished she hadn't. Mr W. Jones gave that ever popular song Tommy Atkins." Tommy's a hero, and so say all of us- The adventures of a Shonihoy who went up to London to attend an Oddfellows' A.M.C. were graphically described by Mr J. C. Rees. The trom- bone is a very fine instrument, and Mr E. T. Williams, R.A.M., is a very fine performer thereon, and thoroughly deserved the encore which followed his masterly performance. Was there ever heard such an effective vocalist as friend Telling? He was fairly in it on Tuesday, and discoursed about "The happy medium" in a manner which fairly captivated his hearers. As an encore he sang a soug descriptive of a thrilling rescue at sea, and I this fairly brought down the house. "Kissing Cup's race," the glory of which will never fade, found an able exponent in Mr R. C. Griffiths, and Mr W. E. Walters sang "Mona" in an acceptable manner. "Sailing" was given in a spirited manner by Mr J. C. Rees, and the rattling chorus was vociferously taken up. The grand old patriotic song Hearts of Oak was rendered in fine style by the Chairman, the stirring refrain Hearts of oak are our ships, jolly tars are our men "going with a rare swing. In the course of the evening several toasts were proposed. The Chairman said it gave him great pleasure to propose the health of their distin- guished visitor, Mr Waddington. They were all indebted to him for his eloquent and instructive address, which be was sure would have a lasting and beneficial effect upon the Conservatives of the town. He believed everyone would be strengthened and confirmed in the right faith, and be more resolute and determined than ever to resist by every possible means the attack of the rebel forces of dismemberment which now com- prised that mixture of creeds called the Conserva- tive party. As far as Mr Waddington was con- cerned his worth is warrant for his welcome hither." (Cheers). They recognised in their visitor one of the most aggressive forces of militant Unionism, and he ventured to predict that he would lead the party in the Welsh Metropolis to victory, and carry the Union Jack of old England into a fortress which had hitherto been regarded as the impregnable stronghold of Sir E. J. Reed. (Cheers). The toast was received with musical honours, and in response Mr Waddington thanked them for their cordial reception. He congratulated the members on their splendid premises, and hoped the result of their efforts would be that Bridgend would become an impregnable fortress of Conservatism, and that the club's influence might be felt far and wide in the division. So far as Cardiff was concerned, as surn as the sun would rise on the following day, so would they win Cardiff at the next election. (Cheers.) The policy of the Liberals was the policy of destruction, they wanted to destroy everything and everybody but themselves. They wanted to destroy the Church, the ancient institution of the Second Chamber, the pubs and even the Clubs. (Laughter and cheers). Liberalism as a propagating force was as dead as the dodo, and he felt sure the great industrial centres of Wales would follow other great industrial centres in Britain, and return Con- servatives at the next election. Gladstonism was not the force it was. Mr Gladstone was an ideal, but Lord Rosebery did not occupy the same position. In proposing a vote of thanks to the chairman, Mr Griffiths mentioned that Lord Dunraven had promised to address a meeting at the Bridgend Town-hall on the afternoon of the 2nd Pebruary. So far as Bridgend was concerned, the Conservatives seemed to be holding the place. What had become of the proposed Liberal Club, with its estimated outlay of £ 2,500, and its palatial premises to entertain Mr Arthur Williams, and the several items which went to make up the Liberal party ? Lord Dunraven had offered the Liberals a piece of ground on the same terms as he had offered the Conservatives, and at the recent registration 500 votes had been gained for the Conservatives, and they had now to face a majority of 418, instead of 918. He felt confident that they would not only reduce this majority, but wipe it away (cheers, and musical honours). The Chairman thanked them for the compliment, and said he congratulated them on the flourishing condition of their Club. Whilst they had seen the dim spark of life that once existed in the Club-or, rather, room-of their political opponents flicker and die out altogether, their own Club had strengthened its position numerically and finan- cially (cheers). The final toast was that of Mr Riley," and, in proposing it, the Chairman said it did not matter what the object was which was for the good of the town, Mr Riley was ready with hand and purse (cheers). The toast was enthusiastically received, and Mr Riley, in response, urged his hearers to see that their grand old principles were conserved, that their Church was kept inviolated, that their Constitution was not tampered with, and that the integrity of their grand empire was kept intact. He felt sure they would see to it that at the next election the Conservatives were triumphant at the polls (cheers). The enjoyable proceedings terminated with the singing of the National Anthem and Auld lang Syne." Mr J. P. McGaul accompanied through- out the evening.

DEATH AND FUNERAL OF MRS WALLINGTON, BRIDGEND. We regret to have to record the death of Mrs Wallington, wife of Mr LI. Wallington, of the Laburnums, Merthyrmawr Road, which took place on Friday last. The deceased lady had been bedridden, more or less, for the past two years, but all her sufferings she had borne with charac- teristic Christian fortitude, and she passed away very peacefully. Dr. Thomas was her medica attendant. Bred and born in the town, a member of Hope Chapel ever since she was a girl of 17, Mrs Wallington is too well known for her virtuous life, her womanly qualities, and her devotedness as a wife, to need any commendatory references. The interment took place on Tuesday, in Bettws Churchyard, the deceased having been servant for many years with Major Treharne, of Coytrehen, and she expressed a wish to be buried near her mistress. A great number of the public of Bridgend gathered outside the house in Merthyr- mawr Road, to pay their last tribute of respect to the deceased lady. and accompanied the cortege out of the town. Prior to starting, the Rev J. S. Johns conducted a service in the house. The chief mourners were: — Mr Wallington, Mr Wyndham L. Wullington (son), Mrs Edwards, Mrs Williams, and Mrs Chadwick (sisters); with many other relatives. The bearers were Mr Joshua Jones (Laleston). Mr W. D. Edwards Mr Lewis Edwards and Mr Thomas Edwards (nephews). The Vicar of Bettws, officiated at the grave. The following sent wreaths:—Mr Wallington, Mr and Mrs Gibbon, Mr and Mrs Howells, Mrs Gladdish, Miss Williams, Miss Edwards, and Miss John (servant). The deceased lady was 59 years of age.

TEMPERANCE MEETING AT BRIDGEND. On Monday evening a temperance meeting was held in Hope Baptist Schoolroom iu connection with the local branch of the British Womjn's Temperance Association, when an address was delivered by Mrs Inglis, of Cardiff, on Temperance." Mr Morgan Davies presided, and on the platform was Mrs McGaul, the active hon. sec. of the lccal branch. The meeting was opened by the singing of a hymn. A Psalm was then read by the Chairman, who followed this by a brief but appropriate speech. He described intemperance as weakness, and temperance as power. He alluded to the wave that passed over Bridgend a few years ago, and said there was now a lull, and he should like very much to see a revival. Giving his personal experience of total abstinence, he said it had made him a healthier and stronger man and by its adoption they would be better as a nation, for he contended that it was very injurious to the system. (Applause.) Another hymn was then sung, after which Mrs Inglis spoke. She argued that alcohol was neither food nor medicine, and that it was not necessary even as a beverage. Her motto was, I Don't touch nor handle that unclean thing," for moderate drinkers were worse than the drunkards. They could not be convinced so easily as the drunkard. Alluding to the means that had been adopted to put down drunkenness, the speaker remarked that moral suasion had failed, and she advocated resort to temperance legislation in the form of prohibitive enactments. Touching inci- dentally on the compensation question, she said it was the broken-hearted wives and children who ought to be compensated. Comparing the merits of the various schemes now before the country, she declared herself in favour of the Government Local Veto Bill as against the Bishop of Chester's Gothenberg Scheme. She went on to ask how were they to legislate on the question? Unfor- fortunately, women had no voice in the making of the laws. There were a million more women in the British Empire than men. Why then did they not have a voice in these matters ? Did not God create man and woman together ? Women should work side by side with men. It was one of the hopeful signs of the times that women were coming to the front on public platforms. Her true sphere was housework she admitted, but the knowledge of public questions as well would not make them less companionable. Poor wives had suffered in silence for years, but they were silent no longer. They were now drawn up in great array, and they would conquer their common foe, the drink. (Applause.) Advancing arguments why women should have Parliamentary votes, she said they should have them, (1) as mothers, (2) as citizens, and (3) as Christians. (Applause.) She predicted that when women would have the vote— as she was sure they would have-they would strike a death-blow at the drink traffic. (Applause.) Referring to the work of the Government, Mrs Inglis showed that during the year ending last May 300 new Societies were added to the Association, and since then they had made greater progress than ever. Their lady President had done, and was doing, a noble work, and she urged that each member of the Association should do her part. (Applause.) On the motion of Mr W. McGaul, a hearty vote of thanks was accorded Mrs Inglis for her address, and the Chairman for presiding. The meeting was brought to a close by the singing of a hymn, and those present who had not done so were afterwards invited to sign the pledge.

CLYNE SCHOOL BOARD. A meeting of the above-named board was held on Monday, the Rev D. G. Gardner (chairman), presiding. The following also were present:— Mr George Smith (vice-chairman), Mr A S. Gardner, and Mr William Jones. NEW SCHOOL SITE, The Clerk read a telegram from Mr Short, the general manager of the Whitworth Estates Co., Limited, offering to lease a wte for the new school at f7 per acre for 99 years or 999 years. It was decided to defer coming to a decision on the matter, the Clerk in the meantime to instruct the architect to prepare plans to be submitted to Mr Short as requested by telegram. It was agreed to take an alternative proposal as to the site into consideration at the next meeting of the board.

ENTERTAINMENT AT COWBRIDGE. A musical and dramatical entertainment was held at the Cowbridge Town Hall, on Tuesday night, before a large audience, which included the elite of the neighbourhood. The promoters were rather badly handicapped owing to the fact that a number who were to take part were laid up with sickness; bet, notwithstanding, the entertain- ment was really excellent, and far exceeded the expectations of all. The first part of the pro- gramme was musical, part two being taken up with the Comedietta My Uncle's Will." Mr J. H. C. Morson, who took the part of Mr Charles Cashmore, did it with credit; while Miss Morson, as Florence Marigold, was above praise. Dr Shepherd, appearing as Mr Barker, left nothing to be desired, the audience showing their appre- ciation by frequent applause. Appended is the programme:— Violin and Pianoforte Duet Miss M. Llewellyn and Mr Marks Song Mrs Christie Song Mr H. R. Homfray Pianoforte Solo •••••••■•••. Miss Taylor Song—" The Star of Bethlehem" Mr Marshall Song-" The River of Years" Mrs Sheperd Song-" Thy Sentinel am I" Mr Knapton Pianoforte Solo. Mr W. R. B. Bassett Song Mrs Christie Song Mr H. R. Homfray Song Miss Ebsworth

"MY UNCLE'S WILL." Charles Cashmore Mr J. H. C. Morson Mr Barker Dr Sheperd Florence Marigold Miss Morson Scene Drawing-room in a. House at Brighton God Save the Queen." I

AN ANGLER'S COMPLAINT. TO THE EDITOR. SIR,—Allow me through the medium of your valuable paper to express my disapproval of one of the items of the balance-sheet of the Ogmore Angling Association. I find £ 2 13s for "tent, and other expenses at picnic." I wish the committee to remember that we are an Angling Association, and that the members don't want their money spent in picnics, but in stocking the river Ogmore with fish, of which there are not not near enough already that is to say for real true-hearted anglers. There may be enough for those who prefer picnics to angling, but let me remind those who do prefer it that they are spending other anglers' money as well as their own.—lam, &c., AN ANGLER. Bridgend.

THE PARK SLIP BOILER EXPLOSION. _/] ADJOURNED INQUEST. ABSENCE OF THE BOARD OF TRADE SURVEYOR. THE JURY EXPRESS DISSATISFACTION. County Coroner Cuthbertson resumed the inquest at the Angel Inn, Aberkenfig, on Thursday, touch- ing the deaths of Thomas Henry Hayman, aged three, and Mary Jane Hayman, aged two, who were killed by the explosion of a boiler at Park Slip Colliary on Wednesday, the 9 th instant. The follow- ing attended :—Mr Boyd Harvey, Mr Leyslion, Mr Aubrey (mining engineer), and Supt. Jennings. Augustus John Phillips said he lived at Park Slip, and was a mechanic. He was at the colliery on the 9th of January. The explosion happened at 12.15. He was about 60 yards from the place, and was coming towards the boiler at the time. He had been sent for, as the pump of the engine was out of order. The engine was standing when the explosion took place. The boiler had been there for 11 years last August. It was 3D feet in length, and had a diameter of 2 feet 7 inches. The plates were 7-16 bare. The boiler was periodically examined. It was last examined on October 18th. It was ex- amined inside by David Thomas with a hammer. The rent in the plate was about 23 inches. One plate only was rent. Where the plate was rent it had become very thin. There was brickwork against the plate and above the rent. There was a pressure of steam of 45 Ibs. The brickwork pre- vented an examination of the boiler from the out- side. Owing to the brickwork a thorough exami- nation of the plate could not be made from the in- side. The boiler had been worked very little in the summer. Boilers of that class were usually partially covered with brickwork. The contact of the brick- work caused rust on the iron plate. By the Jury: The plate which was rent was very thin. It was a new boiler when it was placed where it now stood. He would now recommend that a boiler so fixed should be stripped of brick- work oftener. He thought so since the accident. By the Coroner He had found since the explosion that three or four other plates were worn thin. These plates were covered by the brickwork. They had not had an independent examination. When the boiler was last examined there was no incrusta- tion. By Mr Aubrey: Witness had had charge of the machinery at the colliery for 20 years. He examined the boilers and the whole of the machinery daily. He recorded the results of his daily examination (report book produced). They were not short- handed in any way, and if it had been thought that the boiler needed atteution, a man would have been put to see to it. There was a consulting mechanical engineer, naftied Mr Dawson, who could be sum- moned at any time. The agent up to the 17th December was Mr Tamblyn. He had reported the boiler in question last week as thoroughly sound. No complaint had been made as to the boiler. A boiler of 11 years should be little the worse for wear. David Thomas, Cefn Cribbwr, fireman, said he had not been at Park Slip Colliery since December 24th owing to illness. He had examined the boiler inside, the last time being the 19th October. He tested it with a hammer. He had sensitive nerves, and he found nothing wrong on making his exami- nation. The brickwork prevented his discovering the plate was thin. By the Jury: He had never examined the boiler in any other way than with a hammer. He had examined boilers for the past seven years. The wall had never been taken down so as to make a thorough examination, If the boiler had been covered by a roof there would not have been any rust, By Mr Aubrey He reported the result of his examinations to the last witness. He could not say whether it was customary to brick in a boiler and leave it until it exploded, as one of the jurymen had suggested. When the boiler was stripped there was a great deal of incrustation. By the Jury: He could not say why there was not an independent examination cf the boiler which had exploded, as there had been of the others at the colliery. Richard Charles Aubrey said he was mineral agent. He came to the district on the 17th Dec. By the Jury: North's Company, to make matters thoroughly safe, were insuring all their boilers, and the representative of the insurance company made examinations. There were some boilers at Park Slip which were not now insured, as all could not be got through at once. He had himself examined the boiler only last week, and it appeared to him to be thoroughly sound- He had had 30 years' ex- perience of boilers, and whilst he would not for one minute admit carelessness on their part, still they learned every day, and he had no doubt they would profit by the experience recently gained. Dr D. E. Richards said he was called to Park Slip about 12.30. He found the deceased suffering from scalds all over the body. The death of Thomas Henry Hayman was due to shock caused by exten- sive scalding, and death was accelerated by concus- sion of the brain. The deceased Mary Jane Hay- man died from shock, combined with convulsions. The boy, Walter Lewis Hayman, was now making satisfactory progress. The Coroner, in the course of his summing up, said he had communicated with the Board of Trade, as he had felt that he would like to have absolutely independent testimony. He read a letter which he had received in reply, in which the Board of Trade said that they would send a Surveyor, who would attend the inquest if desired but it was not thought desirable that he should give evidence at the in- quest. He (the Coroner) held that his presence, unless he could give sworn testimony, was utterly worthless. The proposition of the Board of Trade to send a gentleman down and say nothing at the inquest was absurd. The Surveyor had thought proper not to come, but was going to hold an inde- pendent inquiry on the following day. If he had come into the room, he (the Coroner) would have taken good care that he did not leave before he gave sworn testimony. Possibly the Board of Trade thought they could conduct an.inquiry better than he (the Coroner) could. The Government did not empower him to call in experts to give evidence, as he had no authority to pay the fees which these experts would demand. He suggested that the jury would probably recommend that boilers be stripped periodically, so as to allow of thorough examina- tiocs being made. The room was cleared to allow the jury to deliberate in private. Their verdict was announced as follows :—" Death due to shock caused by scalds from the accidental explosion of a boiler. The jury recommends that the brickwork against all boilers be removed previous to their examination once a year. The jury are dissatisfied that the Surveyor of the Board of Trade did not attend the inquiry and give evidence, so as to assist in the investigation as to the cause of the explosion." In the course of a conversation which a repre- sentative of the Glamorgan Gazette had with Mr Aubrey, that gentleman stated that the Board of Trade Inquiry would be held on Friday (to-day), at the Works Board-room, Tondu, at 11.30 a.m.

AMAESTEG HUSBANDS CRUELTY. At the Bridgend Police-court, on Saturday, Catherine Daviee, Maesteg, sued her husband Morgan Davies, for assault and applied for a separation order. Complainant who stated that she had ten children, and was "expecting an- other", gave evidence to the effect that her hus- band came home drunk and struck her in the mouth and in the face several times, and drove her out of the house, and she passed the night in a passage outside. Before this ehe said he had beaten her several times and given her black eyes. Corroborative evidence was given and defendant I was fined £ 3 17s 9d.,including costs and ajudiaial separation was granted: the defendant being ordered to pay 2s a week.

BRIDGEND URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL. AN EXPLANATION. TO THE EDITOR. SIR,- Your report of last Tuesday evening's meeting of the Bridgend Urban District Council includes reference to myself which is headed by the words A Persistent Correspondent," and the subject has also afforded your Kodakette writer the opportunity of calling me a Man with a grievance." Well, sir, I acknowledge I have a grievance (or rather grievances) and in the endeavour to obtain rectification have written letters. Passing the remarks of the Clerk as regards things not relavant to fhe Council, "The very head and front of my offending-hath this extent, no more." The subject matter is an unsavoury one, but, as it affects health, delicacy must be set aside for the occasion, and plain facts stated. Let me place some of them seriatim. First, the late Local Board allowed a portion, if not an entire cesspool to be made in a road. Secondly, this is within five yards of a dwelling- house occupied at the time of making, although the Bye-law forbids it within a less distance than fifty yards. Thirdly, that this cesspool has since March last been opened and supposed to be cleaned fifteen times or about that number, twice of which has been in the current year of 189.5. Fourthly, that upon one occasion the drum" was only removed a few yards, and a portion of its contents tipped on the road, and that twice subsequently the contents of cesspools have been emptied, so that it ran down the channelling in front of the houses instead of being put in the "drum" and taken away. Here is a plain recapitulation, and enquiry is courted as regards the accuracy. Such being so, ought I not to have "a grievance?'' Other things of the same kind may be added, but these facts are considered ample justification for having a grievance," and writing letters for the avoidance or remedy of the evil I should be glad to know which of my letters was allowed to "lie on the table ?" Enquiry has led me to conclude there were two, although only one is stated in your report, and these are the two dated 22nd December and 4th inst. You will see by the copies enclosed they were both addressed to the surveyor. 1 am in doubt it a letter written on 17th December addresed to the clerk was pro- duced. The circumstances that evoked this letter are as follows :-After seeing the contents of cesspool being thrown on road, and running down the channelling, I wrote calling attention thereto. This was acknowledged by the clerk, saying enquiry should be made, and if found correct, the contractor should be instructed to avoid doing EO. Yet within a few days there was a repetition, and my letter of the 17th written as a consequence. Ought not the Bridgend Urban District Council to be made aware of such a scandalous proceeding ? A copy of this letter is also enclosed, and the publication of the three would be esteemed. Seeing the incompetency or inability of the local authority on the matter, a written statement has been sent tfythe Local Government Board, and a copy is ere now in the hands of the officials here for their observations, unless, indeed, the com- munication from London will also be allowed to lie on the table." Time will determine.—I am, sir, yours obediently, T. CRISWICK. Bridgend, 12th January, 1895. [COPY.] Greve-road, Bridgend, 17th December, 1894. To the Clerk of the Bridgend Local Board. SIR,-I duly received your letter of 12th inst. The statement made in mine of 11 th can be verified on oath, and as yet no further enquiry has been made of me respecting it. You say that if satisfied as to the truth of it directions will be given to the contractor in the matter-passing the doubt which is thus raised as regards my veracity. I have now to state that upon last Friday night there was a repetition of it. Within less than a week of the cesspool alluded to in mine of 11th, it was again overflowing-the foetid water running into the road-hence the cleaning again on Friday last. The only possible deduction that can be drawn is that the Board are impotent to do what is necessary. -Remaining, Sir, yours obediently, T. CRISWICK. [COPY.] Grove-road, Bridgend, 22nd December, 1894. "DEAR SIR, -The" drums" were used in this locality again on Thursday and Friday night. In this instance from the number of trips made, it seems probable that the eontents of casspools was not emptied on road as had been on the two previous times. I cannot complain of cesspools being emptied, but do complain (and that bitterly) that there is occasion to do so so often. Will you please tell me if it is not over a dozen times that the cesspool of corner house has been emptied since occupation took plaee last March ? Surely your accounts will give it exactly. I also complain that there is no ventilation except through the cover of emptying-place—for this is never covered as it should be.-Yours truly, T. CRISWICK. M. Williams, Esq. [COPY.] Grove-road, Bridgend, 4th January, 1895. DEAR SIB,—Your favour saying the note addressed to the Clerk on the 17th ult., has been referred to the Urban Sanitary Authority was duly received. I am not, however, aware of any steps being taken to remedy the evil which was com- plained of, and as past experience proves there is little prospect of improvement by local authority, the whole of the subject will be submitted to the Local Government Board at an early day.- Remaining, yours truly, T. CRISWICK. M. Williams, Esq., Surveyor, Bridgend.

I VOLUNTEER DINNER AT MARGAM. On Monday evening, at the Girls Schoolroom, Margam, the annual dinner kindly given by Miss Talbot, Margam Park, to the Margam detachment 2nd V.B. Welsh regiment, was held. There was a goodly company present, being ably presided over by Captain Knox, who was supported by Majors D. R. David and Rees Thomas, Lieutenants Bray, Evan Davies, A. H. Griffiths, McGaul, and Knott. The catering was left in the able hands of Mr Bethenel Heycock, Taibacb, and who gave every satisfaction to all concerned. Captain Knox in an excellent speech gave the first toast The Queen and Royal Family," and referred to the splendid reign of Her Majesty Queen Victoria. Other nations had recently been bereft of their Sovereigns, but Providence had spared theirs and would so for many years to come he hoped (cheers). The toast was drunk with the usual musical honours. The next toast, that of Miss Talbot, was proposed by Major David, who related how the three Miss Talbots in their youthful days, were to be seen together ministering to the wants of the poor and sick of the district, and were called Y Ladies Bach or the dear young ladies. Mrs Fletcher had made herself highly respected in her home in Scotland. Miss Olive (the speaker said feelingly) had been taken away from them, but Miss Talbot still remained amongst them, and he hoped she would be spared to live many years yet. He was pleased to find that the Margam detach- ment was up to its full strength, and they all felt grateful to her for the very lively interest she took in the detachment (cheers). Captain Knox in a happy speech responded, and said that he had hoped Mr Fletcher would have been present to respond to that toast, but unfortunately he had failed to attend. He was desired by Miss Talbot to thank the non- commissioned officers and men for taking such an interest as they did in the detachment. Miss Talbot had done all she could towards the Port Talbot Dock. She had during the past two years paid the expenses of men to Bisley. He was pleased to state she would do so this year again (applause). He was glad to state that Miss Talbot's health was steadily improving, he sincerely hoped it would continue, as it was Miss Talbot's wish to visit all the tenants on her estate personally (cheers). Lieut. Evan Davies proposed the next toast— "Officers of the Margam detachment," said he was pleased at the fact that the officers of the Margam detachment took such an interest in their men. He would be glad to see them also take an interest in the shooting of the men, as he believed that men sbould be encouraged to shoot well, as it was equally as necessary that they should drill well. well. Captain Knox in responding thanked them for the hearty manner in which they had drunk the toast. He was sorry that he was unable to be present at the distribution of prizes, as he had to attend the first meeting of the Margam District Council. Major Powell was unavoidably absent. He was sorry that he was unable to devote more time to the duties of officer commanding, but he conld assure them that it was no fault of his own that he did not meet them oftener. It was necessary that they should have a Lieutenant last year. He was glad to find Lieutenant Knott's appointment had met general approval (cheers). He was pleased to inform them that Colonel Vivian had written him after the last camp, stating that Lieutenant Knott had performed his duties admirably. Lieut. Knott, who also responded, thanked them sincerely for the manner in which they had drunk the toast, and said that he endeavoured to do his duty with the co-operation of the non- commissioned officers and men. Lieut. McGaul gave the "Non-commissioned Officers," to which Sergeants Rees Griffiths and W. R. Mills responded. Lieut, Bray in one of his usual eloquent and happy speeches proposed "The Chairman," and spoke of Captain Knox as a highly capable officer, and as being the right man in the right place." Good leaders were necessary, and in the Margam detachment they had them, as well as good followers. Captain Knox responded, and in a brief speech said that he had got his duty to do to the estate, he knew he had shortcomings and also made mistakes, but they must give him credit for being sincere in his actions. Miss Talbot wished these pleasant meetings would always continue, and he hoped all would remember that day, the 14th of January. The Visitors" was proposed by Lieutenant Knott, and responded to by Mr Morgan Thomas, postmaster, Port Talbot. Lieut. Griffiths gave the last toast, "The Press," which was responded to by Mr L. Jones, (Western Mail). During the evening the Taibach String Band played several selections, and the following con- tributed songs-Major David, Messrs Horsell, Mills, Bradbury and Matthews Mr Rees Thomas rendered a piccolo solo in a really artistic manner.

A MAESTEG OSTLER CLAIMS DAMAGES. AND GETS THEM. At the Bridgend (adjourned) County Court,L on Monday.—William Jones, ostler in the employ of North's Navigation Company, at Caerau Pit, brought an action against the Company to recover £ 4 6s 7d, monies which he alleged to have been wrongfully detained by the Company from him in respect to his wages. Mr T. J. Hughes appeared for the plaintiffs Mr S. H. Stockwood defended. Mr Hughes explained that the plaintiff was em- ployed as ostler by the defendant Company at the collieries at Blaencaerau. When first employed he had five horses to keep, shortly afterwards the number increased to 13. At the time of the un- fortunate strike, which was still continuing, the number of horses decreased to three, one of which was actually worked. The manager, Mr Roberts, then saw plaintiff, and asked him, as there were so few horses to look after, if he would do odd jobs about the pit to occupy his time. This plaintiff agreed to do. Shortly after however the horses increased again from 3 to 6, some of which were stabled at the pits and others about a mile away. Defendant then thought he had enough to do to look after the horses without doing any odd jobs. The result was that deductions were made from his wages-five turns were deducted from each fort- night's pay because be would not work at the top of the pit. The question was what were the terms under which he was employed and what the con- dition of things were then. The plaintiff in his evidence bore out this state- ment. He asserted that he had more work now than when he had 13 horses. Cross-examined by Mr Stockwood, plaintiff said when he was engaged he did not agree to assist in any odd jobs. He did no work outside the pit. There was a chemist's shop attached to his house but he did not look after it during working hours. Mr Stockwood said the defence was that when the horses decreased plaintiff was told by Mr Roberts that he would have to fill up his time in doing other jobs, and he agreed to do so. When the horses increased he worked as ostler only, but when the reduction came again plaintiff was told that the original arrangement as to assisting on odd jobs—would have to be resorted to. Mr D. Roberts, the manager, and Mr T. King Davies, Bridge-street, Maesteg, gave evidence in defence, which was in effect that when the de- fendant was engaged he undertook to fill up time by doing odd jobs. His Honour, gave a verdict for the plaintiff for the full amount claimed.

In washing, Matchless Cleanser is a perfect Treasure. It saves much work and time, to use it is a pleasure.

WATCHMAN'S NOTES. RESIGNATION. So far as I have been able to gather, the public have received with perfect resignation the news that Dr J. \Y. Thomas is inflexible and will not withdraw his resignation, so that there is resig- nation on both sides. If Dr Thomas had held the office longer, and the public had become impressed with the value of his services, the case would probably have been different. Apparently, he has not had opportunities of exhibiting his capabilities in the office which he now vacates—- hence the apathy displayed by those most con- cerned namely, the ratepayers. I am bound to add that the ratepayers, save and except those who belong to very small so-called political circles, looked with the greatest disfavour upon the proposal to accede to the application for an increase of the salary of the Medical Officer of Health. REFLECTION. It occurs to me that more opportunities of asserting himself should be afforded the Medical Officer of Health. Or, perhaps, I ought to say that the Medical Officer of Health should make more opportunities. We know only too well, some of us, whose homes have been invaded by disease, how much is left undone in our town that ought to be done, in the way of safeguarding the public health. Tuke the period intervening between Dr Thomas' resignation of his seat on the Town Council and his resignation of he office of Medical Officer ot Health, and what has been done that has left its mark in the way of making the town a sweeter place to live in ? We heard by side windla of inspections of butchers' stalls, and of distress- ing discoveries made therein but we did not find, excepting in one case, that wholesome prosecu- tions followed. Grand opportunities were thus missed. Perhaps it was that Dr Thomas was not supported by those who should have supported him. I do not know, and so cannot say. I hold the view that a strong-willed Medical Officer of Health could, by calling attention in plain terms to sources of danger, so arouse the public that even the most lethargic town councillor would be afraid to neglect a duty which the Medical Officer insisted demanded attention, SATISFACTION. Dr Thomas will now have opportunities of serving the public in a sphere where the paltry detail of salary will not trouble him. He is one of the guardians of Neath town, and what is more, he is a Progressive guardian. As I have not a clear under- standing of what is meant by the phrase Pro- gressive," I shall add to my information by watching the actions of Dr Thomas, and his brother Progressive, the Rev James Edwards. Doubtless they will prove themselves able expononts of Pro- gressive principles (whatever they may be).

LLANBLETHIAN PARISH COUNCIL. FIRST MEETING. ELECTION OF CHAIRMAN. The first meeting of the new Council was held at the Church Schoolroom, Llanblethian, on Monday last, when all the members were present. CHAIRMAN pro. tem. Mr W. Rees proposed that Mr R. T. Bassett should take the chair pro. tem. Mr F. W. Dunn seconded. Mr D. Evans proposed that Mr Richards should take the chair. Mr E. T. Hopkins seconded, Mr Bassett having declined to do so. Mr Evans put his motion to the meeting, when it was carried unanimously. Mr Richards then took the chair. Mr E. T. Hopkins proposed that Mr Daniel Evans be appointed chairman. Mr Richards seconded. Mr Rees proposed as an amendment that Mr F. W. Dunn take the chair, mentioning that he thought it was customary that the person who headed the poll should have the preference. Mr Evan Thomas seconded. The Council divided, when there voted for Mr Dunn :—Mr F. W. Dunn, Mr Rees, and Mr Thomas for Mr Evans:—Mr Evans, Mr Hopkins, and Mr Richards. Mr Jenkins remained neutral. Mr Richards said he would give his casting vote for Mr Evans, whom he declared duly elected. Mr Evans then took the chair. VICE-CHAIRMAN. Mr E. Thomas proposed that Mr D. Jenkins be vice-chairman. Mr F. W. Dunn seconded. Carried. CLERK. The Assistant Overseer was elected clerk, the question of salary being deferred. TREASCRERSHIP. A letter was read from Mr L. P. Marshall, London and Provincial Bank, applying for the office of treasurer. Mr W. Rees proposed, and Mr F. W. Dunn seconded, that he be appointed. Mr E. Thomas proposed that Mr R. Thomas, Metropolitan Bank, be treasurer. Mr E. T. Hopkins seconded. On the motion being put, Mr R. Thomas was elected by five votes to two. PLACE OF MEETING. It was decided that a few of the members should visit the Board Schools with a view of holding their meetings their in the future. It was also decided that the Clerk should write to the Cowbridge Town Council as to their charge for holding their meetings in the Town Hall, the question to be settled on hearing from both parties.

SOUTH EAST WALES UNITARIAN SOCIETY. The quarterly meeting of the above society was held at Nottage, near Forthcawl, on Monday last. The following ministers and delegates were pre- sent Rev George St Clair, F.G.S., Mr George Cars- lake Thompson, Cardiff; Rev Philemon Moore, B.A., Carmarthen Rev Thomas Robinson, Swan- sea Rev Dr Griffiths, Mr John Lewis, Mr Joseph M. Thomas, Pontypridd Rev Jenkyn Thomas, Mr Lewis N. Williams (hon. rec), Mr T. A. Matthews, Aberdare Rev W. J. Phillips, Mr W. Lougher, Miss M. C. Rees, Nottage Rev J. Fisher Jones, Mountain Ash Mr Gemer L. Thomas, Merthyr Mr William John, Mr Thomas Williams, Wick. At the committee meeting in the afternoon favorable reports of the mission work at Ponty- pridd and in the Rhondda Valley were read, and it was decided to hold the annual meeting of the society at Merthyr, when the Rev Alexander Gordon, M.A., Principal of the Home Missionary College, Manchester, or Rev Dr Brooke Herford, Rosslyn Hill Church, London, will be invited to preach the sermon. A social tea was held in the schoolroom at five o'clock, when, besides the ministers and delegates above mentioned, between 60 and 70 of the friends connected with the church sat down to an excel- lent spread of good things, kindly supplied by various members of the church. In the evening a largely attended public meet- ing was held, when Rev W. J- Phillips occupied the chair. Interesting aud helpful addresses were delivered by Revs G. St Clair, Dr Griffiths, J. Fisher Jones, Jenkyn Thomas, and Mr Joseph M. Thomas. The addresses were interspersed with j hymn singing by the whole audience.