The Glamorgan Gazette

Mr. Herbert Eastwick Compton. late secre- tary and the moving spirit of the Anti-Tea Duty League, has committed suicide at sea on his way to Madeira, where he hoped to recruit his health. Thomas Weldoa, Southport boy, frightened because he had lost a sixpenny book of his em- ployer's, hanged himself on a nail behind the door of an outhouse, and was unconscious when remoued.

MAESTEG & DISTRICT GAZETTE. Success.—The manju friends of Madame Broinven Jones WilliaMs, the famous Maes- teg soprano, will be glad to learn of her fur- ther successes at Cwmgorse (Brynaman) Eis- teddfod. She won the champion solo, open to any voice, receiving a prize of 3 guineas and a gold medal the soprano solo, "Hear ye. Israel." and a third soprano solo. "0 Divine Redeemer. Seldom such results are gained at the same eisteddfod. A Flood.—On Friday morning the inhabi- tants of Grove-street, Nantyffyllon, were put to great inconvenience and in some cases serious loss owing to a dram failing to take the storm water. Rain fell in torrents, and accumulated in a huge pond at the bottom of Grove-street, rendering the road quite impas- sable. Some of the houses were flooded, and in some instances furniture was seen floating about in the kitchens. Presentation. — On Sunday evening at Caersalem Baptist Chapel handsome Bibles were 'presented to Mr. Daniel John and Mr. Stephen Davies on the occasion of their de- parture for Canada. The Rev. W. Morgans (paster;, in handing the presents on behalf of the church and congregation at Caersalem, said the Bibles were intended as a slight re- cognition of their faithful services at Caer- salem They were leaving the country with the well wishes of the church for a prosperous and happy future, and they would no doubt look hack with pride on their connection with that church. Burglars!—Maesteg has been pestered for some time by burglars, and in each case the thieves have done their prowling when the familv has been absent. Mr. Leake's resi- dpnce in St. Michael s-road was broken into on Saturday night, whilst he was at his busi- ness and the family were at Porthcawl. The thieves entered the scullery window by break- ino- a pane of glass and turning the catch. The only articles missing were a coat and vest. On the same evening Miss Grimthss residence in Neath-road was tampered with. The scullery window was also broken in this case, but the depredators did not enter the premises, and are believed to have been dis- turbed. Wedding.-A pretty wedding was solem- nised at Bethania Baptist Chapel on Monday morning, the contracting parties being Miss Margaret J. Davies, daughter of Mr. John Davies, fireman at North's Collieries, and Mr John Francis. The ceremony was per- formed by the Rev. Wm. Morgan (pastor of Caersalem Chapel), who was assisted by the Rev. Iorwerth Jones (Bethania). After the ceremony the wedding party proceeded to the residence of the bride's father, where the wedding breakfast was partaken of by a large number of guests. The newly wedded couple left for the honeymoon amid the best wishes of their friends. The presents were numerous and costly. Pontrhydycyff Sunday School.—On Mon- day the annual treat was given to the scholars of Moriah (Pontrhydycyff) Sunday School, and a most enjoyable time was spent. After tea a pleasant entertainment was given, the chair being occupied by the Rev. T. V. Jones (pastor), who delivered an ad- dress. The Sunday School choir rendered a chorus, songs were given by Misses Tegwedd Evans. Maggie Evans, Annie Parfitt, Bessie Whittington, Catherine Prosser, Rev. T. V. Jones, and Mr. T. Whittington, and recita- tions by Master Egbert Evans, Misses Maggie Hughes, Cassie Whittington, Annie Parfitt, Lizzie J. Parfitt. Mr. Wm. Evans recited some verses on "Yr Achlysur," and Miss Maggie Evans was successful in impromptu reading and "problems" competitions. Successes.—At the July examination held by the London College of Music at Bridgend, the following students passed successfully:- Elementary, theory, first class Messrs. John Thomas, Bryngrwys, Cymmer; W. J. Hop- kins, Margam-street, Cymmer; W. T. Hop- kins, Greenfield House, Cymmer; Evan D. Rees, N antyfedw Farm, Cymmer; Miss Pattie Popham, Margam-street, Cymmer; intermediate, theory, first class, lhiSS Nellie Price, Caerau-road, Caerau; elementary, pianoforte playing, honours, Miss Gladys M. Harris. Caerau; ditto, first class, Miss Alice Hodges, Maesteg-road. Cymmer; primary pass, Master Reginald Harris, Hermon-road, Caerau Miss Gertie Jones, Tyderwen, Iono- road, Caerau; Miss Rosy Owen, Cymmer- road, Caerau. Wedding at Bridgend.—The inhabitants of Commercial-street and Neath-road were astir early on Tuesday morning to witness the de- parture of a wedding party. The bridegroom was Mr. J. P. Rees, manager of Pegler's Stores, and the bride Miss Annie Harding, daughter of Mr. E. Harding, Commercial- street. The party drove from Maesteg in closed carriages to Tabernacle Chapel, Bridg- end, where the ceremony was conducted by the Rev. D. Johns, Canaan. Mr. J. Phillips, inspector of Bell Stores (uncle of the bride- groom) acted as best man, and the bride was atired in a grev dress with hat to match, and was given away by her father. After the ceremony, the wedding party partook of breakfast at Bridgend, and the newly-wedded couple afterwards left by train en route for Aberystwyth, where the honyemoon is being spent. Presentation Meeting.—On Monday even- ing an interesting presentation meeting took place at Bethania Chapel, when Mr. Moses Lloyd was made the recipient of a handsome gold watch and chain in recognition of his services as organist of the church, on the oc- casion of his leaving the town, having ac- cepted a promotion offered by his company. Mr. Samuel Davies, G. and L., made the pre- sentation on behalf of the church in a few well chosen words, and the Rev. lorwerth Jones presented Mr. Lloyd with a Bible on behalf of the Sunday School. Mr. Lloyd re- turned thanks, after which the following pro- gramme was gone through:—Psalm, Asp- berry Anderson; song. Miss Ceridwen Rees; duet. Miss Myfanwy Williams and Mr. Gwilym Williams; recitation. Miss Olwen Howells; song, Miss Gladys Davies; quart- ette. Miss Cissie Kees and friends: song, Mr. David Daniel; recitation. Mr. Isaac Wil- liams; song, Mr. Thomas Davies; duet, Miss Jbrancis James and Miss Bronwen Williams. Sunday School Anniversary.—The Sunday School anniversary in connection with Zion English Baptist Church was held on Sunday last. The morning meeting was presided over by Mr. Albert Williams. Miss Mary Jane Barwick recited a Psalm, and recita- tions were given by Misses Gladys Richards, Rose Millward, Master Willie Thompkins, Misses A. Gundy, Florrie Davies, Nelly Den- ton. Annie Thomas, Marie Shurn, Florrie Kearl. Masters David Lee, David J. Davies, and Fitzrov Exton. Mr. F. W. Durham rendered a solo. The afternoon meeting was presided over by Mr. Ben Thomas. Mr. Robert Lewis and Miss Ruby Picton recited Psalms. W. J. Thomas and W. J. Williams gave solos, and the following recited. Leslie Francis, Hilda Francis, Dolly Lee, Cassie Scourfield, Stanley Lewis, Annie Thomas. Willie Scourfield, James S. Davies. Rose Millward, Annie Edwards, Emlyn Rich- ards and Sidney Davies. The chairman at the ( vening service was Mr. A. S. Gundy, at," solos and recitations were rendered by y, ng members of the choir. The Children's Clu-ir sang several pieces during the services. The Rev. C. P. Thomas gave an encouraging address to the children, and praised them for the excellent programmes they had ren- dered. The singing of a hymn terminated a most enjoyable service. Sunday School Demonstrations.—The Sun- day School demonstration took place on Bank xxoliday. and proved to be of a most success- ful character. The weather being delight- fully fine, a large number joined in the usual procession, which was formed at the Town- hall. At two o'clock, hymns having been rendered to the tunes of "Pembroke" and Aberystwyth." under the conductorship of Mr. David Watkins. A.C., the schools marched away in the following order: Car- mel, Bethania, Tabor, Soar, Tabernacle,, Congregational, Zion. and Canaan. The processionists marched through Talbot- street. Commercial-street, Station-street, Garn-road, Garnlwyd, Bridge-stieet, and Castle-street, and large crowds assembled along the route. The grand marshalls were Messrs. David Griffiths, Queen-street, and Morgan Thomas, Station-street. and each school was superintended by its own officials. Each school left the procession at the nearest point to their respective places of worship. Tea was partaken of at the various school- rooms, followed by a miscellaneous meeting, at which solos and recitations were given by the scholars. After the procession of Non- conformist scholars had passed, the Church Schools formed themselves into a procession and paraded through Talbot-street, Neath- road, Brynmawr-place, and St. Michaels- road, headed by the Volunteer Brass Band. The Sunday Schools of the Garth district, and also the Nantyffyllon and Caerau dis- tricts, paraded the streets, and held their an- nual tea and entertainment. Interesting Wedding.—The wedding of Mr. W. F. Tudor, assistant surveyor to the Maes- teg Urban District Council, and Miss May Griffiths, daughter of the late Rev S. Griffiths 11 (curate of St. Peter's Church, Nantyffyllon) took place on Thursday last week at the old Parish Church, Llangynwya. The ceremony was performed by the Rev. S. Jackson (vicar). The bride, who carried a beautiful shower bouquet of roses and lilies, wore an ivory crepe-de-chine dress over silk, handsomely embroidered and finished with lace flounces. The bodice had short puff sleeves with a transparent yoke, and was trimmed with lace chiffon and embroidery. The bridal veil was of beautiful old lace. The bridesmaids were Miss Lilian Griffiths (sister of the bride), Miss Annie Thomas (cousin of the bride- groom), Miss Nellie James, and Miss Betty James (cousins of the bride). The brides- maids were tastefully dressed in French lawn trimmed with Valenciennes lace insertion and pale pink bebe ribbon, with sashes of the same colour, and large picture hats trimmed with pink roses and chiffon. Miss Lily Griffiths and Miss Annie Thomas carried shower bouquets of pale pink and white sweet peas, and Miss Nellie James and Miss Betty James baskets of the same flowers. Each brides- maid wore a green enamel and pearl brooch, the gifts of the bridegroom. The bride was given away by her brother (the Rev. D. T. Griffiths, B.A., of Penydarren), and Mr J. R. Morgan, Maesteg, acted as best man. After the ceremony the bells were merrily chimed, and the party returned in carriages to Llwyn On, the residence of the bride, in Castle-street, where the breakfast was par- taken of. Mr. and Mrs. Tudor shortly after- wards left for their honeymoon at Paris and Lucerne. The bride's travelling dress was of pale green cloth faced with white. The presents were very numerous. DEATH OF MR. EDWARD DAVIES. We regret to record the death of an old in- habitant of the Llynfi Valley in the person of Mr. Edward Davies. Bethania View, Maes- teg, which sad event occurred on Friday night. The deceased, who had attained the age of 69 years, was a well known figure in Mid-Glamorgan, and his death will be lamented by a large circle of friends and ac- quaintances. He was a native of Bridgend, but removed to Maesteg when a young man. He worked underground for several years, and subseouently became the licensee of the Maesteg Inn. Betliania-street. He remained in business for thirty years, and. on his re- tirement, he devoted himself to the public service. Nine years ago he was elected a member of the Maesteg Urban District Coun- cil, as a representative of the east ward, which office he had held continuously ever since. Mr. Davies was a most faithful mem- ber of the authority, and threw much energy into the discharge of the duties appertaining to the office. He was also a member of the Bridgend and Cowbridge Board of Guar- dians.. He was a director of the Maesteg Building Society, of which for the past two years he had been chairman, and a director of the Llynfi Valley Gas Company. His death was not wholly unexpected, for Mr. Davie:? had been ailing for some months past. though he was able a short time ago to at- tend a meeting of the Council. Great sym- pathy has been shown towards the widow and family, who are held in much respect. But a few weeks ago a married daughter of Mr. Davies passed away.

PONTYCYMMER Co-operative Stores.—Mr. W. Garfield pre- sided at the quarterly meeting held at tile Institute on Thursday evening last -o-eek. In moving the adoption of the report he con- gratulated the members that the quarter had been a record one in the history of Ponty- cymmer Stores. The sales amounted to £4,669 Is. 9jd.. and the net profit after pro- viding for depreciation and interest on penny bank and share capital amounted to JE594 Os. 9d. Messrs. King. E. Evans, and T. Morgan were re-elected on the commit- tee, and Mr. T. Mitchell was also elected. Messrs. D. Williams and W. Owen were ap- pointed members of the Education Com- mittee. Concert.—After the annual tea at Noddfa Baptist Church on Monday an excellent con- cert was given, the chapel being wfill filled with an appreciative audience. The pastor (Rev. W. Saunders. C.C.) presided in his usual genial manner, and added greatly to the pleasure of the evening. Songs were given by the Misses Bessie Lawrence, May Evans, Sarah J. Davies. Mrs. Griffiths, and Mrs. J. rtarries, and Messrs. Tom Phillips, W. T. Hengoed. Richard Price, and Richard Morgan. Miss Bessie Jones and Hr. Wm. Davies recited, and Mr. W. J. Price contri- buted mouth-organ solos. Master Arthur John Conway gave a violin solo, and Miss Minnie Hughes and Master Richard Morgan rendered pianoforte solos. Mrs. E. T Evans presided at the piano with her usual ability. Mr. John Phillips, the conductor, was solely responsible for the arranging of the pro- gramme. and great satisfaction was ex- pressed by all. Weddings.—On Saturday a pretty wedding took place at the Registry Office, Bridgend, the contracting parties being Mr Evan Owen, Waun Bant, and Miss Susan Plummer; third daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Edmund Plutnnier, Oxford-street. Mr. W. Plummer, brother of the bride, discharged the duties of best man, whilst Misses C. Owen (sister of the bridegroom) and S. A. Plummer (cousin of the bride) accompanied the bride. M1. and Mrs. Owen have been the recipients of a large number of presents.—On Tuesday morning a large company assembled at Noddfa Baptist Church to witness the marriage of Miss Elizabeth Davies. fourth daughter of Mr. John Davies, Oxford-street, to Mr. Silvanus Davies, Llanfernach. The Rev. W. Saunders. C.C.. officiated. The Wedding March was played by Miss Minnie Hugtes in an able manner. The bride, who was given away by her father, was attired in a navY cos- tume with cream hat trimmed with cream lace and ribbon. The bridesmaids were Misses Ruth Davies and A. J. Davies, and the flower girls Misses Demarius Davies and May Evans (nieces of bride). A reception was held at the bride's parents' residence at which a large number of guests were present. Subsequently the happy couple drove to Bridgend en route to Tenby, where the Misses Ruth Davies and A. J. Davies, and the flower girls Misses Demarius Davies and May Evans (nieces of bride). A reception was held at the bride's parents' residence at which a large number of guests were present. Subsequently the happy couple drove to Bridgend en route to Tenby, where the honeymoon is being spent. Many presents were received. Sunday School Demonstration.—The second annual demonstration of the Nonconformist Sunday Schools took place at Pbntycymmer on Monday, and proved to be very success- ful. In the morning a united prayer meet- ing was held at Bethel Church. The wea'her conditions left nothing to be desired, and there was consequently a large muster in the procession, which extended a mile in length. Nine schools were represented, and they marched in the following order:—Welsh Calvinistic Methodist, English Calvinistic Methodist, Welsh Congregational, Eng,isli Primitive Methodists, English Baptists, Sal- vation Army, English Congregational, Noddfa Welsh Baptists, and Salem Welsh Baptist. Each school rendered hymns, etc., en route, and the singing reflected great credit upon the respective conductors. In the van of each school a handsome banner was carried, and the scholars were also sup- plied with flags. The marshalls were selected by each school. The processionists sc marched through the principal streets, aid then to their respective schoolrooms where tea was served. Later the scholars assem- bled in fields for games, etc. Everything passed off splendidly, and the doubts which may have prevailed as to the united demon- stration being an annual event must ha e been removed. The only question which is likely to give rise to difference of opinion is the date on which the demonstration shall l'e held.

BLAENGARW. Holidays.-On Bank Holiday Blaengarw was practically deserted, the residents jour- neying to various seaside and country re- sorts. Constitutional.—On Tuesday the Blaer- garw Constitutional Club held their annual outing, the rendezvous being Llantwit Majot. The club marched from their headquarters to the railway station, headed Vv the Ponty- cymmer Silver Band (conducted by Mr Miles). From Bridgend they proceeded by brakes. Close upon 200 formed the party.

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SEQUEL AT BRIDGEND POLICE- COURT. SOLICITOR'S EXPLANATION. At Bridgend Police-court on Saturday (be- fore Mr. R. W. Llewellyn and other magis- trates), Hannah Love, of Station-terrace, Maesteg. was summoned for damaging a win- dow, value 2s. 6d., the property of Thomas Davies. 8 Station-terrace, Maesteg, labourer; Henry Williams, 9 Coegnant-road, Maesteg, haulier, and Thomas Davies were summoned for assaulting Alfred Love, of Nantyffyllon; Davies was summoned for as- saulting Hannah Love; and Zephorah Davies (Thomas Davies's wife) for using threats to- wards Hannah Love. Mr. Evan E. Davies was for the Davieses and ror Williams, and Alderman T. J. Hughes for the Loves. At the outset Mr. Davies said he wished to make an explanation, which was certainly due to the Bench, with reference to certain remarks which Mr. Hughes had made with reference to his (Mr. Davies's) absence on the previous Saturday, and to a letter which he sent to Mr. Hughes's clients as to an ad- journment of the case. "Mr. Hughes ap- pears to have taken upon himself the role of guardian of your worships' privileges," Mr. Davies proceeded. "I do not wish to quar- rel with Mr. Hughes as to his intentions. My friend is reported to have said that he did not wish to say anything unkind about me. I thank my friend for that remark; it is the only kind remark which he is re- ported to have made. I hope my friend was animated by the best intentions in calling your worships' attention to the matter no doubt he was. Still it would have been more honourable to me if Mr. Hughes had withheld any remarks lie felt called upon to make until I had an opportunity to refute anything which he had been wrongly in- structed to state, and to dissociate myself entirely from any harsh constructions which lie wished to put upon my letter." Mr. Davies, continuing, said the facts were that he was not consulted by the Davieses until the previous Friday week—a day before the summonses were to be heard—and, knowing that Mr. Hughes had acted for the Loves in another matter a few weeks ago, he spoke to him over the telephone asking if Mr. Hughes was instructed and whether lie could agree to ail adjournment of the case. Mr. Hughes frankly replied that he had not been in- structed up to that time, and could not agree to anything. Mr. Hughes, however, volun- teered the suggestion that he (Mr. Davies) should send his clerk with a letter to aie Loves, and that was what he did. He in- formed the Loves that lie could not attend, and he did that with a view to saving any unnecessary expense. He had no idea of in- terfering with the rights of the magistrates, but knew that their worships would not re- frain from adjourning a case on reasonable. grounds. But for the inventive genius of Mr. Hughes—— Alderman Hughes You must not say that. You wrote that you could not attend on Sat- urdav. and added: "It will. therefore, be unnecessary for you to attend, as the cases will not be tried, but will be tried on the fol- lowing Saturday." It is for the magistrates to decide when cases shall be tried. Mr. Davies I do not pretend to be able to use in my letters the expressive diction of my friend. Alderman Hughes: Don't talk nonsense. The Chairman I thought fit to express the opinion felt by the magistrates that an advo- cate must apply for an adjournment, and that the granting of it rests entirely with the Bench. Mr. Davies I have only the report in the local newspaper, sir. The Chairman The report is undoubtedly quite correct. You stated definitely that the cases would not come on last Saturday. You had better explain that. Mr. Davies I admit I took the liberty of assuming that my application would be granted, but I have never known of the Bench refusing a reasonable application of the kind. I thought my application was a reasonable one. The Chairman: We will accept your ex- planation. Your letter certainly implied that yon had decided the matter for us. Mr. Davies: Nothing was further from my mind. sir. The Chairman Very well: we accept that. Mr. Davies, referring to the remarks of Mr. Hughes as to the action of the police, said he happened to know the Loves and ar- ranged that two policemen should accompany his clerk to the house. This step was justi- fied by the fact that Mrs. Love refused to ac- cept the letter. The first summons—that against Mrs. Love—was then proceeded with. Thomas Davies said there had been some disagreement between himself and the Loves, who lived next door. On the night of July 22nd witness and his wife were in bed when a stone was thrown through the upstairs win- dow. On the following nrght there was a disturbance outside and Mrs. Love admitted then that she had broken the window. John Evans. a lodger with the plaintiff, and Harry Williams, gave evidence as to the alleged admission. The summonses for assault and threats were next proceeded with, the decision in regard to the first summons being reserved. Alfred Love said he was sitting in the kitchen with his wife, at 11.30 p.m., on July 23rd. when they heard a stone crash into a window. He ran to the Police-station and gave information, and on returning alone to his residence he found a large group of neighbours, including the Davieses, in the front garden. Mrs. Davies used threats to- wards witness's wife, and Harry Williams, without any provocation, struck witness in the eye, threw him on the ground and knelt on his chest. Witness struggled, and re- ceived severe injuries. Mrs. Love came out with a lamp, but Mr. and Mrs. Davies forced the lamp from her hand, and Davies then hit witness in the mouth saying, I will do for you if I have got a broken leg." Davies also struck witness's wife. Mr. Evan Davies: You have no witness apart from your wife? Love: No, sir; it was at a time when all honourable people would be in bed. The Chairman: Were you in bed? Witness: No. The Chairman: Then are we to take it that you are not honourable? (Laughter.) Mr. Davies (to witness): Your wife was most excitable, wasn't she? Witness: If you were half killed you would be in an excitable state, too. (Laughter.) Alderman Hughes: My friend, Mr. Davies, gets into an excitable state when he is not half killed. (More laughter.) Mrs. Love gave a similar account of the row, describing the alleged assaults. Mrs. Davies threatened" to do for her," and she was" afraid of her life." Witness denied that she threw a lighted lamp into the midst of the crowd. T Inspector Sansome said Mr. and Mrs. Love had black eyes, Love had a cut on the upper lip and other traces of rough treatment. Thev were perfectly sober. Mrs. Love was on the black list, but had kept from the drink recently. Thomas Davies, in the witness box, gave a totally different version of the affair. He was in bed when he heard the crashing of glass and immediately went downstairs. Mr and Mrs. Love were in the roadway in an ex- cited state. Harry Williams came up the road at the time, and asked Love to go in the house, and not make a disturbance at that time of the night. Love caught him by the throat saying, What do you want here? Clear out." Mrs. Love threw the paraffin lamp into the crowd, but it fortunately did not strike anyone. He denied the assaults complained of, and would not admit that his wife made any threats towards Mrs. Love. Mrs. Zephorah Davies gave corroborative evidence. Mrs. Love called witness foul names, threw stones at her, and kicked her. Harry Williams denied assaulting Love. He tried to persuade him to go in, and Love caught him by the throat. Similar evidence was also given by Mar- garet Beynon, to whom Mr. Davies referred as an independent witness. The summons against Mrs. Davies for damage to the window was dismissed, as also were the two summonses against Thomas Davies; Harry Williams for assaulting Love had to pay 20s., and Hannah Love had to pay 10s. for breaking the window. An advocate's fee was allowed Mr. Hughes's clients in respect of the previous Saturday, when Mr. Davies's clients did not attend.

ACCOMMODATION AT THE RAILWAY STATION. The fortnightly meeting of the Porthcawl Urban District Council was held on Friday evening. Mr. W. J. Griffin. J.P., presiding. There were also present Messrs. John Grace, John Elias (Newton). J. L. Lambert. H. B. Comley, Watkin Bassett. and James Coombs, with the clerk (Mr. E. T. David), the deputy- clerk (Mr. W. Chorley), and the surveyor and inspector (Mr. Rhys W. Jones). THE WATER SCHEME. A letter was read from Messrs. Smith, Son and Co., contractors for the construction of the reservoir at Craig-yr-Aber. stating that they would do all they could with reference to the employment of local labour in connec- tion with the scheme, but they could not give any definite promise. The Public Works Loan Commissioners wrote that they had resolved to grant to the Council a loan of £ 8,-550, repayable in thirty years, the rate of interest being 3| per cent. They would not, however, be prepared to consider any further application for loans from the Porthcawl Council until there had been a substantial reduction in the ratps levied on the district, though they observed there Had been a reduction since the last ap- plication. WATER BILL. Mr. T. Mansel Franklen (the clerk to the Glamorgan County Council) wrote that the Water Bill promoted by that authority, having passed through both Houses of Par- liament, the Water Committee had decided to convene a meeting of water authorities in order to consider the best course of action to be followed with a view to supply- ing any deficiency which may be disclosed as existing or likely to arise in the future. The Council were invited to send representatives to the conference, which would probably be held in October. On the motion of Mr. J. Elias. the letter was referred to the Works Committee. SEATS. The Surveyor, in his usual report, stated that fifteen new seats had been placed in various parts of the district. The iron work of the new shelter on The Green had been painted. He was now proceeding with the tarring of several footpaths with a view to preventing dust. VICTORIA AVENUE. The Surveyor, in a report on Victoria- avenue, said the pavement and channelling were in a fairly satisfactory state. Trees had been planted at intervals along the pave- ment, giving a pleasing appearance to that side of the street. The first portion of the carriage way at the junction with Vic- toria-road was in a fair condition, but the remainder was in a very bad state as regards surface, being covered with sand and other foreign matter as a result of the traffic it resembled a ploughed field. At the end of the avenue there was an improvement in the road. On the south side of the street, which consisted chiefly of sand, there was a quan- tity of grass and no path had been formed. The sand contributed largely to the dust in that portion of the district. Having regard to the condition of the road, he could not grant a certificate that it was in such a state as to justify its being taken over by the Council, although a Council might take over any good road when all or any of the require- ments mentioned in the Public Health Act, were complied with. The matter was referred to the Works Committee, and the Clerk was directed to report with reference to the application of Mr. G. F. Lambert that the Council should take the road over. ROAD CONTRIBUTION. The Works Committee reported that they had considered the communication from the County Council stating that they could not grant a contribution towards the mainten- ance of the road from Smoky Cot to Porth- cawl inasmuch as it did not comply with their requirements, and that it was not of sufficient importance to justify a contribu- tion. The committee recommended that the County Council be asked to state their re- quirements in order that the road might be b brought to the necessary standard for a con- tribution, and also to make investigation as to the traffic passing over the road. Mr. Grace, in moving the adoption of the report, said the road was the main artery between Jryle, Port Talbot, Neath, Swansea, and Portlicawl. Mr. Comley seconded, and it was carried. STATION ACCOMMODATION. The Chairman again raised the question of station accommodation at Porthcawl, and moved that the clerk be instructed to report at the next meeting of the Works Committee as to what the Council could do further to secure better accommodation. Anyone visit- ing the station during the holidays must, he said, be convinced that the present state of things was most unsatisfactory, the station being inadequate and unsuitable. There were no cloakrooms or waiting-rooms worthy of the name, and the uncovered state of the platform must involve grave danger to health. He had spent some time recently in observing the inconvenience of passengers, and he could make specific charges against the company. The station officials, in their endeavour to protect the property of passen- gers, had frequently to store luggage in the waiting-room, which was most inadequate for the purposes for which it was really in- tended. The Council should not allow the present state of things to continue without at any rate entering an emphatic protest as the representatives of the ratepayers of Porthcawl. who were receiving bad treat- ment from the Company. Mr. H. B. Comley seconded the motion, as- serting that the platform was so narrow in one place that great danger was involved to passengers. He honed the Great Western Railway were going to do something for Portheawl soon. The motion was carried nem. con. COUNCIL OFFICES. Mr. Lambert suggested that the Works Committee should be requested to consider the question of providing better offices for the Council. The present building was very small and inadequate, and he knew of suit- able premises in the district which the Council might easily secure on favourable terms. No action was taken, and Mr. Bassett re- marked that he would object to any pro- ceeding of the kind."

PEOPLE TELL THE TRUTH. People tell the truth about Gwilym Evans's Quinine Bitters, because they are grateful for the good they have derived when suffering from starved, poor, thin blood; or the ex- haustion of nerves, and the worries from overwork.

DONE MUCH GOOD. 33 Dunston-street, Haggerston. Dear Sirs,—Will you be so kind as to for- ward me three bottles of Gwilym Evans's Quinine Bitters (12s. 6d.) as soon as possible. I feel that the bottle which I have taken has done me much good, and I believe if I take three more bottles they will set me to rights again. I am glad to say that I feel much better after taking one bottle.-Yours truly, M. Morgan.

RECEIVED GREAT BENEFIT. 8 Campbell-street, Stockton-on-Tees. I Sirs,-Having received great benefit myself by taking Gwilym Evans's Quinine Bitters on different occasions, I wish my nephew, who is very weak, to give it a trial. Therefore send me, by return of post, a 4s. 6d. bottle, for which I enclose cash.—Yours truly, R. J. Jones.

The double funeral took place at Bath on Tuesday of Mr. and Mrs. Stiles, who both died on Friday, and were buried together. Stiles was an old parish clerk, and used to collect the church rate until it was abolished.

AGRICULTURAL NOTES. BY A PRACTICAL FARMER AGRICULTTJRAL RETURNS. The annual returns for 1905, which have jusi been issued, complete a series of forty years' official record, end furnish an occasion on whicn it may be convenient to trace the gradual de- velopment of statistical data respecting the agri- cultural position of this country. From 1831 on- wards preliminary examples had been from time to time made in particular counties, and experi- mental inquiries conducted in Norfolk. Bedford, and Hampshire. These were followed in the middle of last century by the collection of gene- ral agricultural statistics in Ireland from 1848 onwards. In 1855 a Committee of the House of Lords reported definitely in favour of uniform and compulsory statistics of acreage live stock, and estimated produce for Great Britain, but the deficiency of this country in these respects was allowed to continue, and at the International Statistical Congress, held in London in 1-660. the assembled statisticians of the various countries there represented took occasion to urge on the Governments of the several States of the world the need of obtaining statistics both of area and produce. In 1854. at the instance of Sir James Caird. a formal resolution was carried in the House of Commons, and this led to the establish- ment of the system of annual statistics for Great Britain, which were first issued in 1G66. These re- mained in the hands of that Department for seventeen years, passing TO the charge of the Agricultural Committee of the Privy Council in 1883. and to the Board of Agriculture in 18S9. It is a matter of satisfaction that when another International Statistical Congress was assembled in London in 1905 general recognition was ac- corded to the success and completeness of the British returns, of which the present is the fortieth. INVESTIGATING THE MICROBES. It was to investigate the work which the microbes are performing that Mr. J. Mason, M.P., gave £ 1.000 for a new bacteriological labo- ratory at Rothamsted, and a further sum of JB50 annually for working expenses. At the formal opening the eminent scientist Sir Michael Foster made some interesting observations. He said he had felt there was a want of this one line of investigation, viz., the investigation of the part which the so-called microbes played in the soil and the plant. We had heard, he remarked, a good deal about microbes—especially of the enemies they are to us. and how they are doing their best to kill us. But there were microbes which were our friends, and perhaps some of the strongest of our friends among microbes were those working silently and unseen in the soil. The struggle for existence, when they came to the basis, was the struggle for nitrogen, because it was nitrojren which we had to pay most for in our food. There are now microbes in the soil which are making the nitrogen of the atmosphere eatable by us. There are other problems in which microbes undoubtedly play a most import- ant part, and Sir Michael ventured the remark that the microbes in the future will be important agents in reducing the Income Tax. In that case the community will benefit. HEAT-PRODUCING FOOD. The only basis on which the nutritive value of foods of different composition can be compared is in respect to their capacity for producing heat. The production of heat and the mechani- cal work is the principal result which food accom- plishes in the animal hody: the capacity for producing heat is also intimately related to the capacity for producing fat. On the other hand. the amount of heat which any food is capable of producing stands in no relation to its power of increasing or renewing the nitrogenous tissues of the body. An expert says we may safely assert that the amount of heat generated by the combustion of the digestible constituents of any food will be a fair test as to its nutritive value, when the diet of which it forms a part supplies a sufficient amount of digestible albuminoids, and this will be the case whenever foods are skilfully employed. DEEP TILLAGE. It takes twice as much manure to fertilise land when it is ploughed to a depth of lOin. as when it is only ploughed 5in., and the converse is equally true--that by ploughing only Sin. the growing plants will have only half the area of soil to feed upon than when the ploughing is lOin. But whether it involves the necessity of additional manure or not. a tillage depth of 6in. to lOin. is vastly preferable to a less depth. The importance of deep tillage may be inferred from the great depth to which the roots of some plants will penetrate the soil when conditions favour their doing so, and a deep soil is as beneficial for the supply of moisture during dry weather as to give room for the roots of plants to extend themselves. Further, thE deeper stratum not only renders the soil less subject to drought, but it makes it a better re- tainer of heat. and furnishes 'a better medium for the action of all the agents engaged in pro- moting the vigorous growth of plants. While deep tillage is useful to all crops, it is of more direct importance to some plants than to others. FARM PROSPECTS. Few provincial newspapers provide on so syste- matic a scale reports on the agricultural pro- spects of their immediate district as the Staf- fordshire Advertiser. Last week there were given reports from a large number of correspondents concerning the whole of Staffordshire of the re- sult of the hay harvest and the prospects of the corn, root, and green crops. These are an- nounced as the most encouraging which have been received for many years. Almost without exception they speak of an abundant yield of hay of excellent quality, of a cereal harvest of exceptional yield, and root crops of great pro- mise. In other words, the outlook for farmers is, generally speaking, brighter than it has been for some years. Undoubtedly the agricultural condition of the country varies gToatlv, for seldom has there been so great a diversity as in the present season in the rainfall of the different parts of the country; but it is very possible that the good condition. of things in Staffordshire may represent an equally satisfactory situation throughout at least the whole of the Midlands. WATER ESSENTIAL. \Yater is valuable to a growing plant. Plants are largely made up of water, for they often contain 301b. of it for every lCOIb. of their entire weight. Turnips contain S2 party of water to every 100, and many fruits are chiefly composed of water. Not only is water a food, but the nourishing materials which plants suck up by their roots are dissolved in water, and it may be regarded as the means by which food enters the plant and ascends the "tern and leaves. Growing plants exhale or breathe out water in the form of vapour in large quantities. and without plenty of water the leaves would flag and wither. Water is a prime necessity of life to plants, and in countries where there is plenty of rain and a warm climate vegetation is always the most active. Plants will even grow in water. The question is, therefore, a very natural one, Why remove the water from the soil? The fact is that it is stagnant water which is bad for crops. When land is wet, it is because this water is unable to escape, and therefore becomes stagnant or still. Now, if land is already full of water it can hold no more, and fresh water cannot enter it. A soil which is wet compels the rain to run over it in- stead of through it, and hence cannot obtain the advantage of rain. If, however, the soil is drained, or can get rid of its water, it can then receive the benefit of every shower or of steady rain. Stagnant water is like the dog in the manger which would neither get out himself nor allow anv one else to go near and use it. It is clear that more water will pass into and through a drained soil than through one which is always full of pent up or imprisoned water. TREATMENT OF LIGHT SOILS. As Tull said in his philosophy of tillage, much ploughing and pulverising of naturally light soil will not make it more loose and open, but have the contrary effoct. making its natural porousness less and its density greater. It is possible, of course, to have a soil too loose, for it must have a certain consistency to retain moisture and support plants; but too great looseness is a rare fault and one not without its remedy. By harrowing the seed while it is still damp and by heavy rolling as it becomes drier, the necessary degree of firmness may always be obtained. The soil is frequently too open, but that indicates either a. want of sufficient tillage or an injudicious application of it. In dry weather, clay soils are brought to the finest tilth with the least labour by harrowing imme- diately after ploughing or cultivating and ac- companying this operation when necessary with the use of the roller; in a similar season light soils must be sown and finished up as quick to as possible after ploughing. In a wet season the best Ith is obtained by harrowing when the soil — in the stage between wet and dry. The mechanical conditions of a good seed-bed should be regulated more by the kind of crop to be grown than by the character of the soil.

If ymJ Iwre any difficulty in securing the Gazette," write to the Head Office.

THE HANDCROSS DISASTER SERIOUS SUGGESTIONS BY A PASSENGER. The resumed inquest on the victims of the Handcro-s m')t )r-'bus smash was held on Tuesday. Mr. Charles George Fulcher, one of the pas- sengers on the ill-fated Vanguard, who has only just recovered from his injuries, was called. He stated that the pace was quite twelve miles an hour when thay began to take the hill. The driver snapped at his clutch pedal twice. The 'bus was then gathering speed to twenty miles an hour. The Coroner: Could you be sure it was not the hand brake?'—I didn't see him use the hand brake at all. I*v took his hand suddenly off the speed lever, and put it on the steering wheel. He seemed to abandon what he had been trying to do to concentrate on the steering. Imme- diately I heard two cracks behind me, and the 'bus then began to coast and sway. She got into the water channel, and the front left wheel was quite a foot off the ground. The pace was terrific, and the driver had not sufficient lever- age to get her out. I noticed that the driver had now and again to screw a nut on the speed lever with his left hand. witness added. A WITNESS'S IMPRESSION." The Coroner: Can you say what drink the driver had?—Yes; one glass of beer near Purlev. and a second one given him near Gatwick race- course. Did that make any difference to his driving?— Yes: in my opinion he had not such a delicate touch. The pace was faster after the second glass of beer. You suggest that he was the Coroner hinted. I suggest nothing." witness interrupted. "It is only my impression." Mr. Craig (for the Vanguard Company) Up till now, happily, there lias been no suggestion that the driver was under the influence of drink. The Witness: I do not sugfrest that he was. I do not believe any man can drive and drink. Had you any drink?—No: I am a teetotaler. Being" a teetotaler, perhaps you are under the impression that it would be better for us all if we had no drink?—Well, having regard to the acci- dent. perhaps it would be better. Was there any other evidence of his being in drink?—Yes: he took the corners rather faster. If you had a bit of glass stuck in your head as I had you would not be so clear-headed on the subject." was one of witness's protesting re- marks to Mr. Craig, who submitted him to a close cross-examination, and he produced from his pocket the fragment, of glass which he de- clared had penetrated his skull. Did not the driver do his best?—I will give him credit for that. He stuck to his wheel to the last. THE VERDICT. A cyclist, who rode behind the 'bus. estimated its pace at thirty miles an hour. and Mr. Worley Beaumont, who was recalled, said that. accord- ing to the Local Government Board Regulations, each of the two brakes fitted to motor 'buses should be sufficient to hold the car, and stop it, each working independently of the other. I\Ir. James, consulting engineer, said if the pmergencv brake had not been removed the driver could have applied it with his foot, leav- ing both hands free for the wheel. Professor Capper, an expert called by the com- panv. said an emergency brake was a danger, for if 'buses had three brakes the driver had his trust complicated. An emergency brake could not. he thought, have prevented the. disaster. The jury. after an absence of two hours and a quarter, returned a verdict of accidental death. Thev found that no one was criminally respon- sible. but that the driver should have used more care in driving the omnibus down the hill. The jury also considered that this type of vehicle was unsuitable for use on country roads.

TOWNSHEXD CASE SEQUEL. ACTION AGAINST MONEYLENDERS. On Tuesday, in the Chancery Division. Mr. Justice Kekewich had before him the case of Sheffield v. The Equitable Investment Company (Limited). Mr. P. Ogden Lawrence. K.C.. in opening the case- for the plaintiff, said his client was Mrs. Evelyn Diana Turner Sheffield, of Beckenham, Kent. a widow, who in March last year was the plaintiff in an action for breach of promise against, the Marquis Townshend. She was taken ill just before the trial, and did not appear when the ca.se came on. The result was that the record was withdrawn, and a judgment obtained against. her with costs. She had an intimation to this effect, and was in great fear that. the judgment would be enforced against her. Accordingly she sought- the assistance of the defendants, who are moneylenders, an.l raised a loan on a freehold farm that she owned in Suffolk, which she had bought just previously for JE;700 or JB300. The result of negotiations was that the plaintiff signed a mortgage for £ 590 at 5 per cent. As a matter of fact, Mrs. Sheffield received only J5400. and now she said that she did not understand the deed when she signed it. Her contention was that, as she did not understand the effect of the I at] a deed, she was entitled to a declaration that tae mortgage should stand as a charge for the money advanced at 5 per cent, interest only. or alter- natively for relief under the Moneylenders Act. on the gound that the bargain was harsh and unconscionable. Mrs. Sheffield stated that with a friend, with whom she lived. Lieutenant Hutchinson, now with his resriment in Ireland, she went to the de- fendants' pface cf business. There she saw a Mr. Tyler. She did not understand that she had eiimed a. mortoace for £ 500. She had not retired from her action because of seeing certain wit- nesses in court, nor had she ever been employed AS a barmaid. When she signed her head v. as in a. whirl.. Miss ITekstrom. a friend of the piaintin. said she did not comprehend what took place at the signing of the mcrtstare—" it was mortgagee a.nd mortgagor the he!> time." (Lauphtei.) Mr. Tyler, mana .inc director of the defendant company, said the plair.nir t,}.-1 him that she ex- pected an execution in at a.ny rcomont. and wanted JMOO on the security of her farm. Know- ing nothing of the property, witness told her the company would, take the risk. but It would cost her £ 100. She agreed to pay it. He knew noth- ing about the valuation of the .arm at ti,e tune the advance was made. -1^-1^.1 In cross-examination. Mr. ly.cr _sani niattne whole arrangement he came to with Irs..Jief- £ eld was that she was to give a mortgage for £500. payable in twelve months, and to rec-ene £ 400. That arrangement was to include mtere-t. Was anvthiner said about interest .-1 es. cer- tainly; £ 100 was for expenses and interest Mr. Alfred Gibson, solicitor, who had been present at the interview between Mr. Tyler and Mrs. Sheffield. said that he believed tne lady quite understood the matter. The evidence bemsr. conceded. Mr. Ritter proceeded to address his Lorciship on be.nalf of the defendants, submitting tiiat there was nothing harsh in the bargain which had been made with Mrs. Sheffield. His Lord-hin. in giving judgment, said he held that the plaintiff had been swindled, and he woulcl deal with the transaction all that foot- in"- The deed did not express the bargain made, and the lady could not have understood what the real bargain was. The result of this would be that he found in favour of the plaintiff, the deed to .-land as security for £ 400. at five per cent. interest. The defendants would have to pay the costs.

ECZEMA IS EASY TO CURE. To those who have been suffering for a long time from this distressing disease the above statement will be startling, but it is true. Here is evidence — Six years ago Doan's Ointment cured one of my daughters of eczema, and there has been no return whatever of the malady," says Mrs. AL. A. Jenkins, 24 Graig-terrace, Swan- sea. I think her lasting cure speaks well for the ointment. For a long time before her cure my daughter suffered with sores which broke out on her skin. At length she got so bad that I was obliged to keep her from school. Medical treatment failed to cure her. and I became very anxious. Then I heard of Doan's Ointment, and I sent for some. A few applications of it made a great improve- ment. and one pot of the ointment was suffi- cient to completely cure my daughter. What is more, she has, as I have already said, re- mained cured." Not only eczema, but those terribly trying diseases piles, shingles, and other itching skin diseases are cured by Doan's Ointment. Would you like to have the best proof of all, your own personal experience? You can, in return for a penny stamp; send this to us (see below) with your name and ad- dress, and we will send you a useful sample bv return. The price is two shillings and ninepence a pot (six pots for thirteen shillings and nine- pence). Of all chemists and stores, or post free on receipt of price, direct from Foster- McClellan Co.. 8 Wells-street, Oxford-street. London, W. Be sure you get the same kind of ointment as Mrs. Jenkins had.

Last year the City of London Corporation spent JBS7 on the purchaae of salt to be spread on the streets. In the chapel at Springfield Prison (Essex) five convicts have been confirmed by the Bishop of Colchester. At Ashton tmder Lyme another canal burst has stopped all mills which take water from the affected section.

AY I FREE HOLIDAYS ON THE I CONTINENT I OR ANYWHERE IN GREAT BRITAIN. MFQQDC DAVQ I Tn TADnFFF in addition to their Great Holiday mCOJUJ. Uttio L.1U., WAttLUrr, Scheme already advertised, offer the above boon to the person sending in the HIGHEST NUMBER OF COUPONS, one of which will be found in each packet or box of RAYS' STARCH. RAYS' BLUE. RAYS' DRY SOAP. RAYS' GRATE PASTE. Coupons must be sent in to the address given below on or before 31st AUGUST, 1906. PRIZES FOR ALL COMPETITORS WHO FAIL TO SECURE THE FREE HOLIDAYS. RAYS' MANUFACTURING CO., LTD., CARDIFF. FREE HOLIDAYS. SPECIALITY for INVALIDS: OAKHILLINVMI STOUT. (. Every Drop taken is Nourishment to the Body, and for Sick People it has NO EQUAL. t Pleasant to the Palate and is always in condition. Pints, 3s. 6d. per Dozen. Half-Pints, 2s. SOLE AGENTS FOR MAESTEG- I. W. LEAKE & CO., In Commercial Street, MAESTEG. FENIX — !I FENIX CREAM SEPARATOR SUPERSEDES ALL OTHERS. Guaranteed to take 50 per cent, less power to drive, leaves 50 per cent. less Butter Fat in Skim Milk. Hundreds of satisfied users praise the Fenix. Have one on trial! Every Fenix is started free. Apply for book of testimonials. Separators of every make repaired by experienced mechanics, on shortest notice, or taken in part exchange for a new Fenix. Largest Stock of Separators and wearing parts in the Principality. r" G. LLEWELLIN & SON. JJAIRY E NGINEERS, Local Agent- HAVERFORDWEST. D. E. EVAKS & CO., Ironmongers, Bridgend. aind Aneurin Roderick Company, Electrical and Mechanical Engineers and ¡ General Factors, 25, ADARE STREET. Electric Lighting, Power, Bell and Telephone Installations CYCLES CYCLES CYCLES ø- SEE OUR WINDOWS. mmB ml Engineer- ing, Cycle, Motor, and General Repairs. CYCLES F CYCLJSS CYCLES or SEE OUR WINDOWS. Depot for Crossley's Gas and Oil Engines, and Suction Gas Plants. POST OFFICE TELEPHONE-Ko. 65. ROYAL EXCHANGE ASSURANCE. INCORPORATED A.D., 1720. Funds Exceed ••• ••• £ 5,150,000. Claims Paid Exceed £ 42,000,000. Fire, Life, Marine, Employers' Liability, Accident, Burglary, and Fidelity Guarantee. MODERN & IMPROVED SYSTEM OF ASSURANCE. The Fire Policies of the Corpemtxa •stand to cover Ion or dMMge fcjr Ljwtuiiw*, iftMkar reperty insured be set on fire thereby or not. Farmers Liability under the Workmen's Compensation Act covered at equitable rates. For particulars apply— MR. D. J. GWYN, Metropolitan Bank, Bridgend. Messrs, GWYN & GWYN, Solicitors, Cowbridge.