The Brecon Radnor Express Carmarthen and Swansea Valley Gazette and Brynmawr District Advertiser

[ BRECON GUARDIANS. I 16 A BELGIAN REFUGEE'S RATES. I LITERATURE FOR VAGRANTS. I Present at. the Brecon Board of Guardians on Friday were Mr Owen lyiee (chairman) Miss Adelaide Williams, Revs. T. Griffiths, H. J. Church Jones, T. C. Richards, A. E. Evans, Messrs. E. T. Hyde, John Price, John I Jones (Llandefalle), C. W. Best, John Jones ? (LIannha.ngeI-nant-bran), Dl. Phillips. J. G. r;¡"ne,. Evan Jones, John Jones (Glyn). Jenkin ? WiI1iams, J. P. Williams. John Daniels, Rees F Williams, DI. Watkins, 0. T. Harrys Howells, ■ John Jones (Battle). Evan Jones (Penybont), John Thomas, J. F. Ricketts. W. Watcyn Wil- liams, Tom Morgan, Thomas Powell, Dd. Thomas, B. J. Hill (deputy-clerk) and other officials. The Guardians decided to continue their contri- bution of X2 a year to the N.S.P.C.C. The number of vagrants relieved was 47, a de- crease of 53 as compared with the corresponding If period last voar. There are 68 inmates of the nouse. The 'L.G.B. Inspector visited the house on February 8th. l. The HouM Committee having heard the ex- ? planation of the master as to the. dietary of the | officers which showed a weekly saving recommen- ded no change, being satisfied that every economy was exercised. itv The hon. secretary of the Belgian Relief Com- L- mittee applied for exemption from the poor rate in ? respect to a refugee living in Brecon. h Mr Best Is this the first claim made to. us? t The Clerk I think it is. I know nothing of it. He must have paid the rate previously I should think. E Mr John ?mitb I should like to know what he Iis paid where he is employed? Mr Best I don't fancy he gets very much. What is our position a? regards the Hostel (in the W,tton). Do we excuse the rates on that house? The Chairman Yes. Mr Best Then I think we have done, enough. iThis should be a matter for the Relief Committee and not for us. Once we start the idea of fore- going the rates for individuals in this way we shall not know where to stop. I propose that as we have excused the rates on the Hostel we do not excuse the rates in this pa,rticular case, and | that it should be dealt with by the Be?ian Relief f. Committee. | Mr John Smith seconded and it was agreed to. Tramp Literature. The Secretary of the Tramps Mission. Chelten- [ bam, wrote, that some years ago the late Miss I" Barnctt furnished this Union with a small lib- rary for the use df the tramps passing through the [ "vagrant wards. The Guardians were now asked to "accept a similar parcel free and carriage paid. ? The Chairman I take it you will accept them. They are sent free of charge. ("Aye.")

Commancl8 THE LARGEST SALE in B B Great Britain and Ireland. CREAM S E ;3 A R AT o o' 7 ?,,L, ■ Has proved itself to be equal <m SSL to others at double the price. 1 t bit. MUP HIGHEST AWARDS Mt- IN EUROPE. 9^ One Month'* Free Trial. it is GUARANTEED for 10 years, JBW to kim a clean, tnrn ea.ier, aiiJa < IHV Bimpl" to wanal{l' than IDnny (I 1.}! hil'!l1er-pricp,l J\l!\Cbine-, and :,l1J1P)<I1 III very rep..ct to the> ¡ower.pn¡'ed (lne,. Ssies ovr 120.000 in 4 Years |1 27 L6 io 11 til 50 JO 5 |1 R. J. F'UI.L%,()Oi) & KI.A-,NI) SI-35. B«iVSnU6nSt..L^uIun jffl

) I Children's Copnep 2. BY UNCLE TOM." = *Z I*. Ob 1%, vY., vV^ &&&&& Brecon, February 29th, 1916. My dear nephews and nieces, I am glad to state we have had andther suc- cessful competition, and the short-list of prize- winners and commended competitors total no less than eighteen. The examiner speaks very highly of the letters, especially the first ten. He calls J attention to the need of better writing, careful spelling and correct English. I intend publishing the examiner's notes on the 18 best letters in the "Express" issues of the 9th. 16th, 23rd and 30th. Copies of the letters will also appear as room can be allowed by the Editor during the monlth. The .subject of March competition will be an- nounced next week. I heartily congratulate the winners, and thank many of my nephews and nieces for the kind ex- pressions of regard, contained at the close of their tettere: I remain, Yours .affectionate, UNCLE TOM.

FEBRUARY COMPETITION RESULT. Appended is the result of February's competi- tlOn Marks. Prize-Winners. Max. 400. 1, Miss Athel Sayce, Council School, Builth Wells 367 2, Miss Cissie Edwards, FfvnoD-gynydd School, Glasbury-on-Wve 365 3, Miss Eleanor G. Evans, Council School, Upper Chapel. 364 Very Highly Commended. 4, IMiss Nellie Holder, Ffynon-gy" nydd School, Glas'bury-on-Wye 363 5, Miss Esther M. Morgan, Gwenddwr 360 Highly Commended. 6. Miss Clara A. Prosser, Gwenddwr School 309 7, Miss Gladys Edwards, Ffynnon-g" vnydd 'School 358 8, Miss Ruby Carver, Ffynon-gynydd Sdhool, Glas'bury-on-Wye 357 9. Master Roger T. Davies, Council School, Upper Chapel I 353 10. Master Jamas'Prvt'herch, Council School, Upper Cb'apel 352 Commended. 11, Miss Maggie Davies, Council School. Benny I. 319 12, Miss Doro'thy Belcher, Council School, Senny 316 13, Master Wm. Williams, Council School, Senny 314 14, Miss IVfargaret Evans, Council School, &mny 312 15, Master Morgan Walters, Council School, Senny 311 16, Miss Bessie Davies. Council School, Senny 295 17, Master Percy D. Evans, Gwenddwr School 281 18, Miss Elsie Davies. Council School, 1 Senny 280 I Detailed Marks. 1st. Miss Athel Sayce, aged 10.—Writing, 76 ou't of 80 marks; spelling. 80 out of 80; English. 8Crout of 80; intelligence. 131 out- of 160; total. I ?oiit of 100; tot-a]. 367 out of 400. 2nd, Miss Cissie Edwards, aged 13.—Writing, 73; English, 68; spelling, 78; intelligence, 146; total, 365. i 3rd, Miss Eleanor G. Evans, aged 11.—Writing, 70; spelling, 74; English, 75; intelligence, 145; total, 364. 4th, Miss Nellie Holder, aged 12.—Writing, 363; English, 70; spelling. 78; intelligence, 145; total, 363. 5th, Miss Esther M .Morgan, aged 13.—Writing, 73; English 70: spelling. 72; intelligence, 145; total, 360. 6th, Miss Clara A. Prosser, aged 10.—Writing, 72; spelling, 72; English, 73; infcfelligence, 142; 'total, 359. 7th, Miss Gladys Edwards, aged 9.—Writing, 69; spelling, 76; English. 68; intelligence, 145; total, 358. 8th, Miss Ruby Carver; aged 12.—Writing, 66: English, 67; spelling, 78; intelligence, 146; total, 357. 9th, Master Roger Davies, aged 12.-Writing, 69: English, 67; spelling. 74; intelligence, 143: total, 353. 10th, Master James Prvtberch, aged 12.—Writ- ing, 70; English, 65; spelling, 78: intelligence. 139; total, 352. llth, 'Miss Maggie Davies, agefd 13.—Writing, 73; spelling, 66; English, 70; intelligence, 110; total, 319. 12th, Miss Doro'thy Belcher, aged 10.—Writing, 66; English, 69; spelling. 72: intelligence, 109; total, 316. 13th, Master Wm. Williams, aged 12.—Writing, 65; English, 64; spelling. 76; intelligence, 109: total, 314. 14th, Miss Margaret Evans. aged 12.—Writing, 69; English, 64; spelling, 72: intelligence, 107: total, 312. 15th, Master Morgan \Val'tt'l's.Vriting, 67; English, 68; spelling, 68: intelligence, 108: total, 311.. 10th, Miss Bessie Davies, agftd 11.—Writing, 66; spelling, 68; English, 62: intelligence, 99; total, 295. 17th, Master Percy 1). Evans.—Writing, 70; spelling, 70; English, 73: intelligence, 68; total, 281. 18th, Miss Elsie Davies, aged 12.—Writing, 64 spelling, 56; English. 63: intelligence, 97: total. 280. First Prize Letter. "Fern Lea. Builth Wells, February 23rd, 1916.-Dear Uncle Tom,—I see you wish your nephews and nieces to write about six names and place-names. Vavasour Powell, the Hadnorshire divine. Was a very godly man, and spent the whole of his days in trying to lead people, to live better lives. No sacrifice proved too great for him in the cause of religion. John Penry was another great advocate of re- ligion, and died in .order that men and women might worship according to their own free will and way. He is known as the Breconshire mar- tyr, and lived att Cefnbrith, near Llangammarch. Prince Llewellyn was the last native Prince of Wales, and fell in the service cf his country at a spot near Cefn-y-btedd. This was in the year 1282. His tbody is supposed to have been carried to Abb ey" e win b ir, and there buried by monks. Offa's Dyke is the old boundary line between England and Wales, and some .remains of the boundary are still to be seen near Knighfun. Howell Harris was the founder of Cilvinidtic Methodism and lived at Trevecca, near Talgarth. He was a great teacher and preacher, and was at the head of a. society of people who lived in the immediate neighbourhood. His pulpit and many of his books are to be seen at Trevecca to-day. Maesvronen is the name of the eldest Congrega- tional Chapel in Wales. It is a most interesting old building, and is situated high up on a 11111- some two miles above the pretty village ot, Glas- 'bury-on-W I" am afryaeid .I must now stop, or my letter wi..l.l be more than three hundred words.—I am. your affectionate niece, Athel Sayce. aged 10. < Second Prize Letter. "Ffynnon-gynydd School, Glaabury, R.S.O..— Dear Uncle Tom, John Penry. John Penry was horn at Llangammarch in 1559. At firsth e was a Roman Catholic, but. later, changed to a Protectant. Penry wanted the services of the Church in Welsh. For saying this he was put into prison. After a short time he was released. But, soon, after, he was secretly executed at the age of 34. Howel Harris. Howel Harris was born at Trevecca in 1714. He went about preaching. At Trevecca he tried to set up a Protectant monastery in 1715. He was stern and strong and a very passionate speaker. One of his last works was to help to set up a col- lege for ministers at Trevecca. Vavasour Powell. Vavasour Powell was born at Knucklas. He was educated at Oxford. He took pait in preach ing the Gospel in Wales. He was imprisoned in 1656 for writing against Cromwell. Powell wag released shortly afterwards, but was imprisoned again for the same thing, and remained there aa- til his death. Prince Llewelyyn. I i, L!üwel1yn was the hist native Prince of Wales. He fought very bravelv to secure the independence of Wales, but failed. Once he fled towards Builh, crossing the bridge over the Wye and burning it before his enemy came over. He was, however, j caught a't last and slain in a siiiall dell, j MaeAyroneii. I Maesyronen is the oldest chapel in Wales. It is between and Llowes, situated on a hillside. It is said that Cromwell and his sold- iers worshipped there, when they had destroyed Pa' nseastle. Maesyronen iiieaiis "the field of ash j trees." The pews and the pulpit of this chapel I an very old-fashioned. Offa's Dyke. I Oil as' Dyke is a big trench that was built by Offa, king of Mercia, to keep the Welsh out of Mercia. I't also acted as a boundary fine. It runs from Knighton 'to Chester. The Welsh for Knighton is "Tref-y-clawdd," or "the town on the dyke." Some remains of this dyke are still to be seen.—I remain, your affectionate niece. Cissie Edwards, aged 13." Third Prize Letter. I The Council School. Upper Chapel, near Brecon, 22/2/16. Dear Uncle Tom,—I hope you will be interested in reading the following accounts of the important names and place-names in the history of our counties. Vavasour Powell, who became one of the most 11' r. ".YT" success!ul evangelists of \Vales, was 'born at I Knucklas, neak Knighton. He suffered terribly for his religious beliefs. He was, during his life, incarcerated in thirteen prisons. He died, in Fleet Prison on October 27th. 1670. John Penry, the Welsh martyr and pioneer evangelist of Wales, was born in 1559 at Celfn- brith-a fa,rm house on the slopes of the Eppyht. His zeal for religion cost him his life. He was condemned to die after having suffered imprison- ment. and, on May 29th, 1593, he was hanged. Llewellyn ap Gruffydd. was 'the last native Prince df Wales 'and one of our greatest patriots. He gave his life to maintain the independence of his country in 1282 at a place called Oefn-y-bedd, where now stands a monument to mark the sad spot. Offa's Dyke was an earthwork, reaching from the mouth of the Dee to that of the Wye. It was probably a British boundary dyke, fortified and used for defence by Offa, king of Mercia. Its re- m'ains are still visible. No name is better known in the religious life of this country than that of Howell Harris. He W, as born on 23rd January, 1714. at Trefecca-fawr, near Talgarth. His mighty preaching roused Wales from the sleep of ages. He died July 21st. 1773, and was buried in Talgarth Church. Maesyronen, the place where Oliver Cromwell on one occasion aittended divine service, is a very an- cient- place of worship. The present structure was erected in 1696. It has been called "the oldest chapel in Wales."—With ikindest regards, I re- main, your affectionate niece. Eleanor G. Evans. aged 11." Acknowledgments. I The following acknowledgments have come to hand from January prize-winners since last issue :—■ "The Council School, Upper Chapel, February 21st, 1916.-Dear Uncle Tom,—Thank you very much for the P.O. for 2/6, which I received on Saturday and which was the first prize in the January competition. I also thank you for your kind congratulations.—Your affectionate nephew, W. Handdu C. Pritchard." "Dear Uncle Tom ,-I received your letter con- taining the prize for the drawing of my day-school. I therefore wish to thank you for the same. As far as I can learn, all of us, as scholars of the two counties, are very proud of our new relative. Long May Uncle Tom live!—I remain your adopted nephew, Daniel Oliver Williams."

Paper Famine. 1 I MEETING AT CARMARTHEN. I A meeting of weekly newspaper proprietors and managers of West Wales, convened at the request of the .South Wales Newspaper Association, was held at the Offices of the "Carmarthen Journal" on Friday .to discuss the restrictions which are to be placed upon the paper supply by the Government. Mr A. P. Hingham (general manager of the "Cambrian .Daily Leader") presided, and there were also present Messrs. D. J. Davies ("South Wal es Press"). Llewelyn Jones ("Llanelly Mer- I cury"). David Williams ("Welshman"), Burgess ("Narberth News"), Woodliffe ("Amman Valley Chronicle"), W. L. Lawrence ("Carmarthen Weekly Reporter"). W. M. Evans ("Seren Cymru"), F. W. Lewis ("Haverfordwest Tele- graph"). Hammond ("Pembroke County Guard- ian"). J. Ba.rtJett ("Llan"), and Lewis Giles ("Carmarthen Journal"), hon. secretary of the South Wales Newspaper Association. Letters re- gretting their inability to attend were received from Mr Harrison ("Cambrian News"), Mr G. E. Sayce '('Brecon and Radnor Express"), Mr John Leach ("Tenby and County News"), and Mr R. L. C. Morrison ("Tenby Observer"). After-the chairman had announced that the Government had agreed to alter the intended re-- s'triction on paper supply from 50 per cent, to 33i per cent. it was resolved among other things that weekly newspapers bo reduced to at least one- fourth of their present sizes as soon as possible, that returns be reduced to a maxi- mum of 5 per cent.. and that charges be made 'for the insertion of all kinds of subscription lists. It was decided to hold a fur- ther meeting at Swansea early in May.

I DIer Edward Lewis, of Beulah, won the prize for the best, lyrics on "Ben y banau" at Pontrhyfendi- gaid Eisteddfod out of thirteen competitors.

BRECON DISTRICT COUNCIL. CHILDREN AND WATERLOGGED ROAD. DIFFICULTIES OF ATTENDING SCHOOL. The Brecon Rural District Council met imme- diately after the meeting of the Guardians, Mr Owen Price (chairman) presiding. It was stated that Mr Benjamin James, Groes- fford, and Mr Phillip Price, Sennybridge, refus- ed to act on the Tribunal under the Military Ser- vice Act, and the Council agreed to reduce the numbers of the Tribunal to 13 and make no ad- ditional appointments. The Secretary of the Breconshire Education Committee^ wrote drawing attention, on behalf of the .managers of Battle Council School, to the state of the road from Pantaryscir to Glanrhyd, which at the present time could not be used by children who had in consequence to go by a much longer route to school. The managers were of opinion that the road could be made fit at little ex- pense, and the Council was asked to give atten- tion to it. Mr John Jones (Battle) said owing to the water flowing over the road the children had to go a quarter of a mile out of their way. Mr Rees Williams and Mr Thomas Powell' strongly supported the application. The Chairman agreed that something ought to be done at once. Mr Jenkin Williams It would not be a verv great expenditure to see to this little matter. I propose that the work be done at once. It is a pity that children going to school should have to ¡ go through water. The Surveyor was instructed to attend to the I matter and report. This was the first time that these meetings have immediately followed each other, and the Chairman said the attendance at both was so good 1 that he thought the arrangement should be, adopt- ed in (future. He was pleased to see all the mem- bers remaining at the Guardians meeting when the relief lists were gone through. It was agreed to continue the arrangement.

LLANGANTEN COMPETITIONS. LLANDRINDOD "B.A." ADJUDICATES. PROCEEDS FOR HOSPITAL WORK. A successful competitive meeting was held at the Church Hall, Llanganten, on Wednesday. There was a large gathering, and the proceeds were in aid of Builth Red Cross Military Hospital. Rev. H. Davies (vicar of Llanganten) was in the chair, and the adjudicator was Mr Rhys R. Wil- liams, B.A., Llandrindod Wells. Mr R. Wil- liams, Builth, conducted in the absence of Mr A. P. Morgan, and the accompanists were Mrs F. B. Phillips, Mrs Morris Williams and Miss E. M. Lewis. Rev. Herbert Davies. at the outset, said that eisteddtfod at Cefnybedd was the only one thev had II had there for the last 12 years. Eisteddfodau brought out latent talents, and had been the means of bringing out some of the greatest Welsh 1 literary men. (Applause.) Mr H. Williams remarked that the eisteddfod brought to light such familiar names as "Llew ¡ Buallt." "Ceiriog." Mr A. P. Morgan and many I other Welsh bards and poets. Five competed in the tenor or soprano, solo. "Fascination," and Miss Mdrfa A. Hamer, Tan- house, Builth Wells, was declared the winner. The adjudicator, commenting on the effort. said the winner possessed a very pleasing voice, and sang in perfect tune. Her expression was excel- lent and intonation good all through. There were several hard notes in the piece, kut this competi- tor surmounted them remarkably well. The ren- dering of the first competitor was good, but too heavy, 'and her Welsh, especially, was verv praise- worthy. She kept in good tune, but did not possess such a. voice as the winner, and was also weaker I on the difficult notes. Other competitors had good voices, but their intonation varied, and they all had a tendency to be hurried. These also failed to do the difficult notes correctly. Expression was good in most cases, and they improved towards the end. He had no hesitation in awarding the prize to Miss Morfa Hamer, who was invested by Miss Lena Williams, Cefnvhedd." Miss Morfa Hamer was again successful in the bass or contralto solo, "Return to thy home." This was a capital competition, but, unfortunate- ly, there were only two competitors. Both gave excellent renderings, but the winner had the sweeter voice. Her expression was excellent, in- tonation very good, and she well deserved the prize. She was invested bv Mrs H. Davies (The Vicar- age). In the children's solo contest (under 15 years). 'Miss Gwlithvn Phillips. Cefnybedd, was success- (fuI, in gaining the premier position. The two competitors had pretty voices, but intonation was at fault, and they failed to pronounce the Welsh words correctly. The. selected piece was '!S,t. David's Day," and the Welsh words required every attention. Miss Phillips was invested by Miss M. A. Daniel, Cefnybedd. Miss Daniel won the prize in the competition on Welsh spelling and reading, and Miss James, The £ >chool. Garth, gained second place. This compe- tition was confined to members of the Welsh classes. They were invested by JMISS G. Samuel, Doleirw. Builth. Miss Daniel was again successful in the Welsh } recitation, "Gogoniant i Gymru," and she was in- vested by the chairman. She gave an excellent recitation of the piece and fully deserved the prize. The prize for the best poem, "The Death of Llewellyn," went toiMr W. Protheroe, J.P. (Glan- nant, Builth). but. as he was unable to be pres- ent, Mr Jas. C. (Samuel (Cefnybedd) received the prize for him. Mr 'Samuel was invested by Miss Ada Williams (School, Uanganten). The winner sent in a very good poem of six verses with four lines in each verse, which. observed the adjudica- tor, were well written. Miss Daniel Was again to the fore with her es- say on "Carnhuanawc." Three essays 'came to hand-^two English and one Welsh. The one in Welsh contained just a 'few spelling errors, and some of her mutations were faulty, but, on the whole, it was a very good attempt. The com- petitors, who wrote their essays in English were not so good, and made several spelling mistakes and grammatical errors. Some of the sentences were badly constructed, and punctuation left "something" to be desired. The Welsh essay was easily superior to the other two, and, therefore, he awarded the prize to Miss Daniel, who was invest- ed bv Mr Meredith Price, Prince Llewellyn, Cefnybedd. Miss Winifred Turford won the prize for the open recitation, "The Hall of Cynddylan," and was invested bv Mr Wm. Williams (School House, Lhtnganten). She recited exceedingly well and ftC- II curately. Her enunciation was splendid, and expression very good, and. on the whole, the per- formance was a very creditable one. At the close of the competitions Mr R. Wil- liams proposed a vote of thanks to the chairman, organizers, and all who helped to make the eistedd- fod such a success. Mr.Wm. Williams (School House), in seconding, stated that the eisteddfod, if maintained, would have a valuable educative influence on the young. The advice of the adjudicator would also be of prac- tical value. He had adjudged honestly and fairly. Mr Williams also thanked the Vicar for the loan of the hall, and fully endorsed all that had been said. The chairman suitably responded, and the singing of the "National Anthem' brought a very pleasant "evening" to a close.

*These columns are freely open to the ventilation of any matter of public interest, local or general. Offensive- personalities or abusive epithets are, however, rigidly excluded. Every communication must be duly and properly authenticated. In cases where anonymity is desired, the writer must privately and confidentially furnish the Editor with his name and address, as a guarantee of good faith. The Editor cannot undertake to return any rejected communica tion. Letters received on the Saturday preceding the week of publication are more likely to be in- serted than those arriving later.

I WHY WASTE GAS? y SUGGESTED WAR ECONOMY. Sir,-Ma,y I ask why is it that in the broad moonlight, the gas lamps of a certain town, which, in accordance with war-usage, shall 'be nameless, are burning as brightly as if there were no neld for economy. We are asked to take our tea with- out sugar, to save our used matches, and many other trifling matters and, all the time, our rates are running up because, forsooth, "the council have a contract for the gas, and we may as well burn it." I asked a, councillor to look into the matter, but he looked dubious and whispered some- thing about "calling a meeting." In old times, when the spirit of real economy prevailed, we used to do without gas lights in the streets on moonlight nights. Why not now, when there is a real ,need to save every ton of coal and everything else we can? Do not let us emulate the twenty- two at Westminster in our creed of "putting off till to-morrow what should be done to-day," and put out our lights before they guide the roaming zep- pelins to our quiet town.—Yours, etc.. OBSERVER.

"RUSTIC SIMPLICITY." Sir,—"X.Y.Z." like a few others, seem to have the idea that all country people are "rustics." As I have given my reasons in previous letters for my conception of ".rustic," part of his letter needs no comment as it would be like ,trying to kill a dead horse. A great part of his letter-but which is really beside the point raised—I quite agree with. I should 'be sorry not to. Why he has the idea I meant otherwise I can't understand. The whole thing turns on who is, and who is not, a "rustic" pure and simple. He need not have gone into the "pulpit" part of it. I think everyone must be f agreed over that who knows anything of country I Iz ? IlIe. it amuses one, nowever to read nis quota- tion "Judge not." It strikes me that a great part of his letter was "Judgment with a vengeance." I should like to know where the ifoolishness is of a straightforward challenge in reply to a challenge. ,e in '? Ill y to a challenge. "X.Y.Z." doesn't seem to be anything of a "sparr" or lie wouldn't ask so childishly for iden- tities. Can't he go one better? Think it over "X.Y.Z." Thanks "X.Y.Z." for the a dvice, but it is somewhat of a mixed compliment ?rom one so much a "Judge not." How about practis- in', the advice of "X.Y.Z."? Have 'ou never read aibout the "beam in the eye," etc? I hope so, but read it again both ways. it may stick then. —I am,, sir. yours, etc., Feb. 26th, 1916. "AGRICOLA."

Sir,—I have read very carefully the letters of "Agricola" and "Countryman" published in your last week's issue. Why Countryman" should ¡ have interrupted I am really at a loss to know, for he has set forth no argument, and simply states with bombastic sarcasm, that he is ashamed to be called a rustic. I ask him, why? He will pro- bably back himself up with his great library of three dictionaries. But has he understood what he has read in the dictionaries? Evidently he has not. The word "rustic" even in its widest meaning carries no disgrace with it. At the most it only ¡ embraces the outward characteristics of the typi- cal farmer. It describes the husk perhaps, with some little reproach, but this is inevitable. But does it stain his character—his soul? It does not. I He may be without ornamentation, plain, simple, guileless, honest. But is he a whit the worse for it? Listen to this, 'Countryman.' If you have any real claim to the name you have adopted you must possess the .peculiarities of a rustic. If you entered a railway carriage, containing town dwel- lers, your red face and embarassed manners would soon betray that you come from the country. But, man, here is not disgrace in this. If you possess certain peculiarities what is the use of saying you don't. I am called "Tiny" by my friends just because I am small. Can I say they have no right to call me so, while at the same time the name suits? Let me add this. The average countryman does possess the peculiarities of a 'rustic' as stated in the dictionary. Why revolt against being called a rustic then? Those who understand, which countryman certainly does not, will see onlytfle glory of the term as depicted by the term rustic's saerifice. and will not be touched by these words which describes his appearance. Countryman, let me give you this advice. If you are ashamed of your corduroys, heavy boots, red face and your awkward gait, you possess false "ideas" of swank. Pack your box and make for the nearest colliery. Agriculture, the noblest of all methods of living, does not require such half- hearted men as you. And 'Agricola' also sees shame in this word. Well I hope he will pack his box, too, and ac- company Countryman. He says by disclaiming rustics, that he is ashamed to be called plain, simple, i.e., guileless, honest and awkward, while at the same time he is so—i.e., if-he has any claim to his name. With the spruce appearance of the townsman perhaps he will be better able to tickle his ribs and make fun of that class, which I think above all deserves all due praise and honour. Remember that the countryman who bears the peculiarities of a rustic is a rustic. Enough said I hope for the future that some people, will not try to be so funny and will consider other people's feelings.—I am, 'sir, yours, etc., X.Y.Z.

Impressive Military. Funeral. I RADNORSHIRE ASSOCIATIONS. Military honours were aecordel the recent fun- eral of the late Pte. T. A. Price (of the 9th Deons, and second son of Mr and Mrs P. J. Price, Bruno, Percy Road, Hampton), who died suddenly at Norbury War Hospital whilst undergoing an operation in connection with some serious wounds he had received in the battle of Loos on September 25th. Deceased's father (Mr P. J. Price) is a 'brother of Mrs Aaron Powell (Llanbadarn-y- garreg), Mr Albert Price (Llanbadarn-y-gan't'g).: Mr T. Price (Aberedw)„ Mr D. Price (Colva), and Mrs Evans (Cregrina.) A larga and sympathetic crowd, numbering ab- out a, thousand, lined the route and gathered at the cemetery. The "toffin, -covered with the Union Jack, land on which' rested deceased's cap, was iborne to the grave An the shoulders of six members of the R.A.M.C. The firing party was from the 5th West Yorks National Reserve, under the com- mand of Lieut. Caley f and a detachment of R.A.M.C. also attended. The mourners included deceased's eldest brother, Corpl. P. Price (3rd Lin- oolns) who also has been wounded, the special constables attached to Hampton Station, and a numbfSr of the wounded soldiers from St. Mary's Hospital.. Amongst those, present were Captain Holt (chief medical-officer of Norbury Hospital), Mr Basson (representing the Water Board), where deceased was Jformerly employed, and Mr W. Can- der .representing the London City Mission.) The service was impressively conducted by Rev. A. R. Shrewsbury (Pastor of the Congregational Churoli, iBGapmton Hill), and. at the ciose, three volleys were fired over the grave by the West Yorks National Reserves, the "Last Post" being a bugle call sounded by a corporal in the Norfolk Yeomanry training at Hurst Park.

Majors R. F. Gross and Ll. 1. G. Morgan Owen, D.'S.O. (South Wales Borderers) have been gazet- ted general staff-officers (second grade.)

Llyswen Public Hall. FUND A FOMENTED BY CONCERT. Rough and inclement as the weather was on Wednesday night, a fairly large audience assemb- led a't the Public Hall, Llyswen, to hear the excel- lent concert "treat" in store for them. Every item was heartily appreciated, and matters passed off without a "hitch." Mr G. T. Jones (mayor of Brecon) presided, and the popular quartette party consisted of Principal T. Lewis, M.A., and Messrs Evan Evans, W. T. Jones and Rhys Jones (Bre- con). Their contributions were, to write the least, exquisitely rendered. Mr Melville Trew (Brecon) was the accompanist, and the proceeds were in aid of the public hall> Among the patrons were the Hon. Mrs and Miss 'Morgan, Boughrood Castle. The programme was as follows :—Quartette, "Comrades song of hope," Principal T. Lewis and party, Brecon; song, "Thora," Miss May Lewis, Brecon; violin solo, Sergeant Angus (encored); song, Queen of the earth," Principal Lewis; musical recitation, "Lesson of the watermill," Mr G. T. Jones, Brecon; duet, "Albion on thy fertile plain," Principal Lewis and Mr Evan Evans; song. "The wonderful rose of love," Miss Beatirce Owen. Talgarth quartette, "On the banks of Allan water," Principal Lewis and party; violin solo, Sergt. Angus; song, "Good company," 'Mr Evan Evans. Brecon (encore, "Land of the harp"); re- citation, "The game of life," Mr G. T. Jones; quartette, "How can we sing," Principal Lewis and party: song, "Father O'Flynn," Principal and party; song''Little grey home in the west," Lewis; son g Miss May Lewis: quartette, "Hen Wlad .fy Nhada-u," Principal Lewis and party; and finale, "God save the king." A dance followed, and was indulged in with much enjoyment. » 1 iii^————■ 1 i '■

Rheumatism and Kidney Trouble. FREE TREATMENT. Rheumatism is due to uric acid crystals in the joints and muscles, the result of excessive uric acid in the system that the kidneys failed to re- move as nature intended, to which every qualified physician agrees, and this acid is also the cause of backache, lumbago, sciatica, gout, urinary trouble, stone, gravel, dropsy. The suocesas of Estora Tablets for the treatment of rheumatism and other forms of kidney trouble is due to the fact that they res-tore the kidneys to healthy action and therelby remove the cause of the trouble, and have cured numberless cases after the failure of other remedies, which accounts for them fast superseding out-of-date medicines that are sold at a price beyond all but the wealthy. To prove Estora Tablets fully warrant their script loii--an honest remedy at an honest price"* one full 'box of 40 tablets will be sent to readefs of the "Brecon and Radnor Express" as a free sample on receipt of this notice and 3d in stanpfB to cover postage, packing, etc. Sold by chemists, 1/3 per box of 40 tablets, or six boxes for 6/9. For full box sample address Estora Co., 132, Charing Cross road, Lqn. W.C. Brecon Agent, Walter Gwillim, M.F.S- Medical Hall; Builth Wells Agent, T. A* Coltman, M.P.S., The Pharmacy. 167P

Rhayader Property WITHDRAWN AT £275. Mr T. Jarman (auctioneer. Rhavader) ?? ed a sale of the "Town Mills" at the Iion Hotel, Hhaya?er. on Wednesday. The mills enjoyed the goodwill of a very extensive corn and flour, seed and manure busing. Two freeboH  with large and produdtive gardens, were Offered with the mills as one lot. Bidding &tarte4 at £ 175, and wentupb, jffr bids to ?275. No fu?er bids were forthco^m ing, and the property was withdrawn. Mr H. Vaughan Vaughan was thesolicitor con- cerned.

Rhayader and Welsh Troops. YOUNG LADIES AND FLAG DAY. I To augment the National Fund for Welsh Troops, of whicn Mr William Lewis is hon. sec- retary, a number of the young ladies of, the town "improved the shining hour" by taking advan- tage of fair day, on Wednesday, to take out their boxes, flags and post-cards, and they did remark- alblv well. The total collected amounted to the sum of 4*14 198 4d. The young ladies who sold the flags were Miss Maisv Lewis, Miss Elsie Worthing, Miss Eva Evans. Miss Heal. Miss G. .Ll,ewels j,  Llewela Jones, Miss Maura Price, Miss' Ella. Thompson, Miss Flossie "CoJlard, Miss Price. Miss Rita Price, Miss Clara Clark, Miss M. Price, Miss Nellie Evans, Miss Elthel Price, Miss Chadwick, and Miss Gladys Worthing. Mr R. Hughes, C.C.. organised the work,in the town.

^KrThe Best PA> CAKES are ma d e with   [BOiWICKSl ?BAK.?G  

Builth Urban Affairs. I Valuation of the Grog. I t ROLL OF HONOUR. Present at the monthly meeting of Builth Ur- ban Council on Thursday were Mr Gilbert Eadie (chairman) and Messrs. E. S. Davies, John Dug- gan, Howard H. Lewis, J. Morris, H. T. Price (vice-chairman), T. H. Worthington, W. Walter Lennard (deputy-clerk). Telfer Smith (surveyor) and W. J. Morris (sanitary inspector). I Valuation of the Groe. The deputy-olerk read a letter from Mr E. H. Williams (district valuer) relative to the assess- ment of Builth Groe Green, stating that the site would be assessed in future at a certain amount. Mr H. T. Price said, according to the figures given, that the Groe was assessed at something i like X400 per acre, and, with regard the fish- 1 ing rights under Builth bridge, they atways con- sidered the council's rights went down as far as A'bram's PooL The deputy-clerk said the district valuer had seen the deeds of the land (purchased by the council) for the extension of Groe Green at the office, and he had also seen a letter from the church-wardens of Builth. handing over the Groe to the urban authority. He also told Mr Wil- liams that, if he required more particulars con- cerning the old Groe. he could probably find them: at the Priory, Brecon. Mr H. T.Price observed that the fishing rights of Builth Wells 'extended as far as Abram's Pool, and the waters, below were private. Mr T. R. Worth ington remarked that there was a public right of way along the bank of the river fur a good distance farther down. Mr H. T. Price said he knew there was a pub- lic right of way along the hank of the river, but that did not prove that the water was public any. farther than Abram's Pool. The result of the valuation would not make much difference, as it was for death duty. Mr Duggan thought there was no likelihood the land would be sold at any future time, but, if so, the assessment would mean a difference. If it were valued at L,5,000 and proved tobe worth £ 4,000 that would mean something. Mr H. T. Price again observed that the valu- ation was for death duty. and added that all the members of the council were not likely to die at the same time. Discussion on the point then ceased. Roll of Honour. A letter was read from the Clerk of Brecon- shire County Council informing the council that Lord Glanusk had asked that a record should be kept, in the county, of all men who bad served their country in the war, and. also, of those who had been killed up to the present. A supplemen- tary list would be prepared including ifuture names. The list, it was desired, should be sent to Mr H. F. W. Harries (Brecon). f Mr Duggan said a list, as suggested, would be very useful and should be secured. Mr T. R. Worthington understood the Vicar of Builth had a list. The deputy-clerk said there was a list in the church at present. The council resolved to ask the Vicar if he would kindly supply the list, and the deputy-clerk was asked to communicate with him on 'the mat- ter. To Join. The deputv-clerk reported that Mr W. J, Morris (rate-collector) would be called up in March, and suggested that the' council should appeal to ha.ve him ^exempted till the 20th April, so that, he would have time to complete his collecting and make up his books before he joined, as it would not be fair to the person, who took over his work, to do so at that time. If Mr Morris were allow- ed till April 20th. he would be able to balance up his books. The deputy-clerk was accordingly asked to make the appeal on behalf of the council for the (extend- ed time. The deputy-clerk further asked the council if they would decide what arrangement would be made to fill the vacancy, and the members resolv- ed to discuss the question at the close of the council's proceedings. Miscellaneous. The surweyor said attention had been given t) certain roads since last niectiii, and. also, totl.c water main near Cuwchlloe. The streets committee reported they had visited Glew Brook, and had decided to join with Builth Rural Council in covering a portion of the brook at a small cost of ■t5 15s. The recommendation was agreed to. Three tenders were received for the grazing of the Groe, Builth, and that of Mr E. S. Davies at B22 5s per year for three years was accepted. Councillor E. S. Davies move,d that 'the resolu- tion on the minutes, relative to the registering of pens in the smithfield, be rescinded, a proposition that was adopted. Councillor J. Duggan drew the council's atten- tion to the ifact that it was neeessary to have Groe Green gates attended to. that was. to prevent s'heep coming off the Groe, and the surveyor was asked 'to give 'the maltter early attention. The council now formed itself into a committee to consider ways and means of filling the -vacancy, caused by Mr Morris joining the colours.

Wanted, Buttermakers. BRITISH Butter is unquestionably better than for- eign, yet the latter is often bought in preference. This is an injustice both to the British producer and to the buyer. It is an injury which could easily be avoided. The British housewife believes that butter resenting rich golden uniform colour is the butter %e foreilm producer .(IIU her wish. and all his butter has the rich golden colour which sells. A per- fectly safe means is provided whereby the British maker can impart to his butter just that golden colour- ing which will commend it to the eye, as decidedly as its quality will commend it to the palate. The remedy is the "SILVER CHURN" BTJTTER COLOUR, manufactured by OLDFIKLD, PATTINSON, & Co., of Manchester, the successful survivor of the sever- est tests at the principal shows, where it has gained First Class awards for 30 years. Equally satis- factory is the high praise it has won in the numerous dairies where it is regularly used. These competent approvals are due to the absence of any unevenness or muddiness in the colouring, and to the fact that the use of "SILVER CHURN" does no affect the butter- milk. The butter itseii H not injured in the process it is improved. Its delicate creaipy flavour is en- hanced. It should be clearly understood that SIL- VER CHURN is a vegetable product, entirely free from any aniline dye. (A guarantee by the makers to this effect will be given any user desiring it). It may be obtained from Chemists and dairy supply men in 6d. 18. 2s, 58,8s. and 14s bottles. To secure satisfaction 6d, ls. Zq, SILVER CHURN" brand. Free trial samples from the manufacturers. "SILVER CHURN "-Butter Powder. „ Oheese Rennet. Cheese Colouring. bl5

t The Parting. I 'Twas a minute as full of Itin- As a minute could hold: When you kissed me the last warm kiss, Then left me cold. Cold with a mad despair. And a terrible fear; And I tried to smile as you went And shed not a tear! You bravely smiled.too. love. Though your lips were white; And your cheeks were with anguisih drawn And your hands clenched tight And your voice trembled a's you spoke The last love-word; Your eyes searched the depths of my soul, And my soul was stirred. I answered your love gavc tnine, With a promise true: u And we gazed 'twas a moment of Heaven 'Twas love—and we knew LTLIAN ROBERTS.

Every box of ENGLAND'S GLORY 1 Matchæ used means MORE WORK for Bnti? Work-people.—Moreland, Gloucester. 515 I BABY CUMING. Had Whooping Cough. 9, Fore Street, Devonport. Gents, I take the liberty of enclosing a photo of our White Hope Teddie, taken on his first birthday. We put him on V;rol when he was recovering from whooping cough (which natur- ally had pulled him down) at three months, and since then he has pro- gressed steadily until he is now the bonnie specimen you may judge him to be from the photo. He has cut his teeth in comfort, and has not ailed for a single day since first starting "Virol." At twelve months he weighs 26 lbs., stands 30 inches high, and is 20 inches round the chest. Faithfully yours, F. A. CUMING. VIROL In Measles and Whooping Cough Virol should be given to children of whatever age. Virol increases their power of resistance and recovery and strengthens them against dangerous after effects. In Glass & Stone Jars, 1/ 1/8, & 2/11. YIROL, LTDp 1S2-1K, Old Street, La. S.H.B. J

All SIMPLE SIMOhf .j asks is a home in your boiler. The marvel-work- ing soap. GEZ* Ask your grocer; he knows. Costs Bid. Worth ?s. J H':