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

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CYCLING. The Lighting Regulations. At the risk of being wearisome it is necessary to re- iterate the lighting regulations. The weekly reports from the courts prove that the public still does not understand them. The amounts collected in fines mast have amounted to a goodly sum in the last few weeks— at one court alone no less than £30 was taken at one "sitting." Let every cyclist realise that the only road to safety is to obscure with one thickness of white tis- su., paper the glass of every electric or acetylene lamp and of all oil lamp-s fitted with lens fronts. Ordinary oil lamps can go unscreened. The number of oli lamps with lens fronts is small. There is some protest against the application of the law to cyclists, but this is not the time for us to argue. The least we can do j" to obey, and I have scant sympathy with those who de- liberately break these regulations, for it is a simple matter to carry out the law. Personally. I-find that a "■gtfod oil lamp gives me all the light I need for night- riding, and I do a great deal. For the rear light the little red tail lamp is good enough. It is a nuisance to know if it is always burning, and what we want to watch is that there is no effort to continue this par- ticular Defence of the Realm regulation aft-er the war. Strong influences are at work to that end, and cyclists will need to be warv that they are not saddled with rear lights for ever. How Not to Do It. I At the same time, cyclists caught without lights on the edge of lighting-up time should not try to emulate a young Bournemouth cyclist. This youth, finding that he was in danger of not reaching his destination befrtre lighting time and being unprovided with lamps, sprint- ed. He could just get home in time, with an effort. But he forgpt the watchful vigilance of the Bourne- mouth police. He was stopped for "furious riding" and ha*\ to make his appearance before the bench in course. Between c.ni: -thing and another the lot of the cyclist has its many difficulties in these days. The only safe rule, I find, is to always carry the lamps on the bicycle and see that both are ready for use at any time. For the same, reason, I always carry a mackintosh. It is one of the finest preventive of rain in the worid. Per contra, go out without it and you may expect a drenching. typing Landmarks Passing. I lyclista of the old brigade will regret to hear of the death of Mrs Ayres, who was the landlady of the And Hotel at Thames Ditton. when it was the Mecca of all good cyclists. The "Angel" at Ditton and the "Anchor" at Ripley figure in all the cycling literature of the eighties and nineties. There were other popular cycling houses, but none so historic as. these. Mrs Ayres had retired from the "Angel" for some time, but during her 20 years there probably aw more famous cyclists than almost anyone else. For, men came from all parts of the world to visit the two famous houses. Another old cyclist who has just gone to his rest is Mr S. H. Ansell, many years ago a leader of West Riding cycling. About the beginning of the century he moved to London and there t<x>tf an active part, for many years, in the work Of the National Cyclists' Union. He was a familiar figure in Flert Street and a man popular with everyone who knew him. Slowly, but surely, the landmarks of cycling when the few were fighting the battles through which the, many benefit to-day are passing away.

MOTOR CYCDMC. When You Change Gear. Oine. of the most troublesome things for a motor cyclist to learn to do is to change gear correctly. It is not- only the beginner, however, who has a lot to learn in this connection, for many of those who have been riding for several seasons do it in quite an improper manner. In four cases out of five it is with a hit of a clack and a rattle and an unpleasant jerk of the mactilne that the new gear is thrust home. Watch tli- next motor cycle you see mount a hill and prove it for yourself. The most common fault. with two or three speed motor cyclists are that they change down either too early or too late, causing the machine to slow down with a jerk or labour after the change, as the case may b\ and they abuse the privilege of changing down or up without raising the exhaust. This is allowed by most makers, but it is none the less foolish. To bang in the gears instead of sliding them in and waiting for the "bite" before completing the change is a mistake. It throws a very heavy strain on engine and gear after "free-wheeling" down a hill. Every motor cyclist who is not handy with his gears would be well advised to spend an afternoon ascending and descending the near- est hill, which gives plenty of opport/unity for change sp*>ed business, concentrating his attention not on mak- ing spectacular speedy ascents, but on the sear chang- ing. What is a Cut-Out? A short time ago a C¡k.e of particular interest to motor cyclists was heard at the Exeter Court, wherein a rider was summoned for driving a motor-cycle fitted with a cut-out. The cut-out is a contrivance for allowing the exhaust gasb to escape without passing through a silen eer, and its object is to increase the power. The objection to it is that it makes a machine very noisy indeed, and, for this reason, it ha? been made illegal to I ride a machine so fitted. The rider, in defence, stated that his machine did not possess a cut-out, but a "shut- out," since the gas did not pass through the silencer, I the "shut-out" being fixed at the end of the silencer. Moreover, he claimed" that his machine was a 1M3 model and that, when it was made, the law making a cut-out illegal had not been passed. But it was pointed out. and rightly so. that this did not affect the case. The bench imposed a fine of 2/6, and the chairman recom- mended the defendant to see that his machine was al- tered. This, raises an interesting point, for the machine was not fitted with a cut-out, and yet it is only the cut- out and not the "shut-out" which is illegal.

MOTORING. Cars Not in Use. A correspondent has written to me asking for advice on storing his car. He has been called up for the end of the month, and. while he is in the Army. his car will not be used at all. It is a very simple thing to lay up one's car. hut there is a right and a wrong way of doing it. If it he done properly he will find that when he returns it will be in equally good condition as when it was put by. whereas if it be carelessly done it may quite likely depreciate greatly. The car should be thoroughly washed and cleaned. The water should then be drained from the radiator, making sure that it is quite empty. It isn't always easy to run all the water off, so to make certain the engine should be run slowly for a few minutes just long enough to cause all the water to drain away. It is most important thoroughly to empty the circulation, especially if the garage admits of any frost, for if the water become frozen in the en- gine a twenty pound note may be required to make good the damege. It is also a good plan, I think, to empty the petrol tank and draw off all the lubricating oil. The car should then be jacked up so that the wheels are clear of the ground, and the tyres should be half- emptied of wind. To save the expense of four jacks t hroe blocks of wood cr piles of bricks and the ordinary jack itself may he used. All the bright parts should be rubbed over with vaseline or grease. The lamps; and other detachable parts should be taken off the car and covered over with clothes. The car itself should be en- tirely covered with a dust sheet. Last March's Blizzard. ■w i I 0 -1 -uany motorists nave gOOG cause to rememoer tne blizzard of March 27th last. I, for one. am not likely to forget it. I was motoring at the time—(the storm was at its worst about 6.30 p.m.)—and I was nearly home when a large tree crashed down with appalling sud- denness about thirty yards in front of me. By sacri- ficing my tyres somewhat I was able to pull up all right. I started to hack, knowing that about a quarter of a. mile away there was a turning which would take me home another way. When I had gone perhaps a hundred yards I bumped into another great tree, which must have fallen during the twenty minutes or so since I had passed that way. The car was thus hemmed in between two huge trees, and there it had to remain for twenty-four hours until the road was cleared. Some statistics which the Postmaster General has just pub- lished regarding the storm brought it hack to my mind, although I must confess I am not likely soon to forget it. He reports that 2,150 Post Office telegraph poles were broken, 6.050 up-routed, and 33.000 blown over. fn the destruction 17,000 miles of copper wires were so badly broken into small fragments that they had to be re-melted and re-made.. He does not include in his prort, of course, the damage that was done to the railway telegraph and telephone wires, which wa.s enor- 0 mous. On the Great Western line there were 8,000 miles of wire broken or destroyed and over 9,000 on the Midland. All the damage has now been repaired, not- withstanding the shortage of men and material. THE HUB.

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Gwyl Dewi Sant. Local Celebrations. THE HARP AT BRECON. LOCAL WELSH SOCIETY'S SUCCESSFUL YMUCMWEST. The Brecon Welsh Society celebrated St. David's Day this year by holding a ymgomwest on Thursday even- ing at Bethel Hall, kindly lent for the occasion. All the Welsh-speaking soldiers stationed at the Barracks were entertained free. The gathering was presided over by Professor John Evans (president of the Society). The hall was decorated for the occasion. All the in- vited soldiers came and contributed materially to the programme. The society had secured the services of one or two outsiders, notably Miss Brookes. of Brecon, who 'played some charming harp selections, and Miss Ceinwen Price, Cefngof, Sennybridge, who contributed soprano solos in fine style. Solos were also sung by Miss Price, Mrs D. G. Owen, duets by Principal Lewis and Evan Evans, and quartettes by Principal Lewis, Rhys Jones, Evan Evans and W. T. Jones, and select- ions of Welsh air.s were sung by a ladies' choir, con- ducted by Mrs J. L. Rees. Recitations were contri- buted by Mr J. Rees, Pit. Roberts and Madoc Fychan. The toast list comprised "Ein Gwlad a Dewi Sant" and "Ein Morwyr a'n Milwyr," the former being pro- posed by the President and the latter by the Vice- President (Madog Fychan), and responded to by Pte. Davies. A bardic address was delivered by Pte. Jones. A special feature of the meeting was an appeal made to the Welsh-speaking population of the Brecon dis- trict to support the nation's Welsh periodicals. The celebration in the estimate of the society -vas one of the best yet held, being particularly mnrke JY the true Welsh atmosphere, to the formation of which the Welsh harp contributed very largely. The chairman gave the society's special thanks to Miss Brookes, Miss Price, and the church at Bethel for their kindness in helping to make the celebration the fine success it was.

BRECON MOUNT STREET SCHOOLS. 1I At Brecon Mount Street Council Schools the St. David's Day celebrations were carried out much on the lines a.s last year. During the week the children had been instructed by their teachers in the suggestions issued by the Welsh Board of Education on true prac- tical patriotism, and especially on the needs of our country at the present time. On Thursday this was followed by an address by the headmaster (Mr David Fisher). A programme of patriotic songs was render- ed, including also choruses and recitations. The roll of honour was read by the headmaster, the children standing at attention in perfect silence, and the pro- ceedings were closed with the singing of "Hen Wlad fy Xhadau." "God save the King," and "God save our splendid men." The celebrations were much enjoyed by the infants. The children assembled in the large room and listened attentively to an address on the meaning of St. David's Day by the headmistress (Mrs Fisher). Miss Wheeler gave a pleasing address on "The early life of the Right ) Hon. Lloyd George." These items were interspersed by the singing very sweetly of the following Welsh songs"Springtime is returning," "The gentle bud," "All through the night," "The miller's daughter," "Megan's daughter." "God bless the Prince of Wales," Lord GIanusk's hymn "Trust in God." The programme was completed by all joining heartily in "The L^g^f my Fathers," and "God save the Kins."

LLANFAES COUNCIL SCHOOL. ST. DAVID'S DAY EISTEDDFOD. 1 Ail eisteddfod was held at Llanfaes Council schools on St. David's Day. Programme.— 'Hen Wlad fy Xhadau"; solo competi- tion (girls), "When morning is breaking," 1, Bessie Griffiths; 2, Norah Parry; recitation competition (standaids 1. and III.), "St. David's Day," t, James Bevan; 2, Billy Wyatt; pastel drawing, "The Dragon," 1. James Bowen; 2, Stanley Moses: solo (boys), "Spring- time is returning," 1, Bertie Grant; 2, Willie Price; historical play, "Henry Tudor at Bosworth"; solo competition (standards 1., III.), ")The Ashgrove," Monica Lewis, leuan Evans (prize divided); recitation competition (standards IV., VII.), "Love of country," Norah Parry, Ivy Moses (prize divided); essay on Right Hon. D. Lloyd George, 1, Norah Parry; 2, Duicie Pugli; historical play: presentation of first Prince of Wales; address: Principal Lewis; hymn, "0 God our help in ages pat"; "God save the king." Adjudicators were: Pastel drawing, Mr P. Morton, M.A., Boys' County School; essays, Mr R. Thomas, M.A., Boys' County School: preliminary musical com- petition, Mr Rhys Jones. Principal T..Lewis, M.A., Memorial College, adjudicated in the vocal competition and expressed himself as very delighted with the qual- ity of the singing. A very large number of parents were present and much enjoyed the proceedings. A vote of thanks to Principal Lewis for so kindly coming down tt great inconvenience to himself, to adjudicate, and in doing, so he paid tribute to the good work done for e(luc-ati by the Principal, in his position as a member of the L.E.A. The historical plays formed an important part in the mornings proceedings, and they were excellently render- ed by the children impersonating the various characters. Mrs, E. Jones wa.s responsible for the training of the children for Henry Tudor at Bosworth, and Mrs Whit- taker was responsible for the production of "Presenta- tion of the First Prince of Wales." The dresses and costumes were also made by these ladies, who deserve mueh credit. Miss Elizabeth Davies very ably per- formed the duties of accompanist. At the Postern School, an excellent address was given to the scliolar- by the headmistress (Miss Morgan), on "Patriotism." The scholars also sang Welsh songs and airs.

RHAYADER ENTERTAINMENT. BETHANY C.M. BAND OF HOPE. On St: David's Da, under the leadership of :Ir6 Jackson, the children of the Band of Hope carried out an excellent programme, consisting of solos, duets, re- citations, choruses, and three amu.ing and instructive 'dialogues. The chair was taken by Mr John Jones, Cadwgan House, who spoke warmly of his interest in matters concerning the young, and his pleasure in pre- siding over such an interesting and delightful enter- tainment, and of ttit, of all to Mrs Jackson for her ardous and successful labours with the young. Before the entertainment the children were given an excellent tea by ITri Evan Morgan, The G»bles, and, as the pastor (Rev. F. Jackson) said in his vot-e of thanks, this lady has repeatedly entertained the children to tea, and it greatly encouraged the workers to find such a re- liable and practical supporter. Mrs Evan Morgan was assisted hy Mrs Evan Jones, Pant yd wr, at the tables, ard a large number of lady friends. Thanks. Wl"r(> ;<1S0 given to those who so kindly gave presents for the children—Mrs R.I. Morgan, Mrs B. 1'. Lewis, Mr Rd. Hugh' s, C.C., .Mr Ryder, Mrs Bacon, Mrs Jones, Mrs Ed. Worthing, Mrs T. Morgan, Mrs Ri: Price, Miss Powles, Mrs W. T. Davies. Miss M. Morgan, also to the ticket-sellers. Aid. R. Morgan seconded. The Chair- man proposed, and Councillor Rd. Hughes seconded, a vote of thanks to Mrs Jackson. The Pastor responded. and proposed the thanks of the meeting be given to the chairman, and seconded by Mr W. T. Davies. The programme was as follows:—The choir rendered action-songs, "Let the hills resound," "The Sneezing Song," and "Ships at Sea"; little children's action songs, "Jack Frost" and "Thinking of Jesus"; recita- tions by Peggy Davies, Jack Price, R. L. Ryder, Basil Hughes, John Hughes, Percy Hughes, Edgar Ryder, 01- wen Webb, B. Jenkins, T. Davies, Lizzie Andrews, W. Donald and W. Clarke; solos, Dick Morgan, Jennie Donald, Blodwen Worthing and Evelyn Davies; duets, Doris Jackson and W. Clarke. Evelyn Davies and Jennie Donald; dialogue, "Beer or Boots," actors, Lizzie Andrews, Gerald Morgan, Rd. Williams, Beatie Jenkins, W. Clarke, Blodwen Worthing and J. Price; dialogue, "All found, including beer," actors, Kinsey Morgan, David Micah, Doris Jackson aind Susie Wil- liams; 'sketch, entitled" Britannia's Levee," Britannia, Doris Jackson, England, W. Clarke, Scotland, Rd. Wil- liams, Ireland, B. Jenkins, Wales, Blodwen Worthing, Colonjes-Canada, Susie Williams, W. Indies, Lizzie An- drews, Australia, Gerald Morgan, S. Africa, J. Price, and India, Jim Price. The following closed the enter- tainment., :Rule Britannia," "Land of my Fathers" and "God save the King." Presentation of gifts fol- lowed.

+ County School Scholars' Efforts, FOR THE WELSH TROOPS. The only public celebrations of St. David a Day at Builth Wells were those organised by the headmaster and his stall' at the County School. Owing to the fact that there was no public hall available at Builth on Thursday, the celebrations took place on Friday evening at the "Kino," and were largely attended. On Thursday morning the pupils, under the control of the headmaster and his staff, paraded the town, carrying emblamatic flags and singing national songs. The pro- gramme for the evening seemed most suitable for the occasion, and it appeared as some new spirit brooded over the whole proceedings. As was done last year, the St. David's Day celebrations were also utilised for the distribution of prizes and certiticate.s for the past year's work, and the unavoidable absence of the chair- man of the governors (Mr H. Evan-Thomas) was great- ly regretted by all concerned, but, although confined to his home, his liberality towards the Welsh troops j was not altered, as he sent a donation of R2 2s to- wards the funds. The proceedings commenced by the rendering of "Yo 'Mariners of England" by the choir, followed by a tab- leaux, scenes in Welsh life, which was introduced by Mr G. R. Thomas in the following lines:— We see arranged before us The record of our race; The noble ancient Briton —A hero in the chase. The archer with his trusty bow, Who stemmed the foeman's might, I At Cressy and at Agincourt, And many a gory fight, I And here beheld the harper, Who spurned the tyrants thong. And made our ancient hills resound With strains of martial song. As in the arts of war excelled Our gallant little Wales; For years the arts of peace prevailed Along our hills and dales. Then locks of carded wool were spun With zest and timely zeal, Before the grim machine displaced The maiden at the wheel. And then was heard the cleric's voice, In accents pure and strong. When silenced was the clash of arms In Salm and holy song. The farmer was afield betimes, And drove the jocund team, Adown and up the dewy mead, Before the sunshine's gleam. And merry milkmaids trlped the lea To milk the drowsy kine, Perchance inspiring limmers brush, And oft the poet's line. And last behold the miner bold, With ebon face and lips, Who brings such comfort to our hearts And fuel for our ships. Then followed a solo, "Follow up," by Miss Hilda Pugh. The headmaster (Mr Rees Thomas, B.A.) read the fol- lowing letter from Mr H. Evan-Thomas :— "Dear Mr Thomas,—I am sorry to say that a cold, otherwise slight, has affected by voice to such an ex- tent that I have reluctantly given up the idea of com- ing down. Had the scholars been performing 'The Frogs' of Aristophanes, I believe I should have made a useful member of the chorus, for the only thing I can do in the vocal line is to croak! But, as things are, I fear I cannot be useful, and I have, for years, given up being ornamental! I am very sorry to miss the opportunity that this occasion affords of offering my sincere congratulations to you and all the staff on another successful year's work—really useful work I be- lieve it to be that is being done here—and, with a re- cord number of pupils and a diminished staff, the task can have been no easy one. I should like to say, on behalf of the governors, how sorry we were to lo&e the services of Mr Wearn, our clerk. For a great number of years, he has contributed much to the smooth work- ing of the machine, and I am afraid that it is inevit- able that, in the future, the governors, and especially perhaps the chairman, will feci the loss of his know- ¡' ledgc and experience. I am interested to discover that over 80 of our 'old boys' are serving with the colours, and 15 have got commfssions—7 captains and 8 lieuten- ants. One—Capt. Duke HoweII—who before going to the hospitals received all his education at this school, has won both the Military Cross and the D.S.O.— whilst two others have had the Military Cross and two the Military Medal. And there is one more to whom I think I may venture specially to refer, because it seems but the other day that he was one of us, and that I is Sergt. Tom Davies, who joined up straight from the school last November year, and has already got his I 'stripes,' the certificate of bravery and the Military medal. I wish all success to your concert to-night, and ) to the good that I hope will substantially benefit by it. I enclose payment for my ticket, and I hope that all who have paid a shilling to-night will have another shilling ready for Mi&" Nancy Williams and her flag day on Monday, for Builth's contribution to the fund for the Welsh troops must he a substantial one." (Applause.).. The programme continued: Pianaforte eolo, "Titania." Miss Freda Hammond: solo, "For the green," Miss Patrice Thomas: quartette, "In this hour of softened splendour," Misses Margaret Thomas, Katie Griffiths, Evelyn Rice and Morfa Hamer. The next item, dancing scene (tableaux), was well performed. Mr G. R. Thomas, in introducing this, said that. he- fore the Methodist revival, village life in rural Wales was more picturesque than it is at present. Dancing was frequently indulged in on the village green-often adjoining the parish church. Most parishes in those days, he said, had their annual feast, when the parishioners enjoyed themselves in harmless amuse- ments. In the Builth district people still spoke of the Disserth and Aberedw feast. The dancers were brightly attired and the proceedings were enlivened by the strains of the telyn or harp. The squire of the district often led the dancers, and, at Aberedw, we learn that old Squtre Pugh. of Blaen-milo, came down from the big house, picturesquely dressed, And led the merry dance. Behind the village inn at Llanafan there is a. curious old moated tumulus. An old gentleman, still living in the parish, remembers this as the scene of merry revels 00 years ago, when the village belle was much sought for in the dance which heralded the feast day. Life to-day in rural Wales, with the advent of the steam-engine and the motor-car, is more prosaic and practical, though certainly less picturesque, than in the days when the strains of the harp woke the echoes of the countryside, and the village lads and lasses indulged in the old Welsh dances. Duet, "0 lovely peace," Misses Hilda Pugh and Gwennie Edwards. Headmaster's Report. After the prizes and certificates were distributed by Miss Evan-Thomas, the Headmaster read the following repor,t :-It is the third time that we have celebrated St. David's Day under the cloud of war. We are proud of the fact that St. David, who symbolises Welsh nationality, is a saintly and spiritual character. (Ap- plause.) Every year we gather round him in a figur- ative sense and give expression to those national senti- ments and aspiration.s that stir within us. That spirituality and lofty -idealism for which he stands, and are his cherished legacy to the Welsh race, are threat- eneid with destruction by a barbarous doctrine, culti- vated on the other side of the North Sea. It is to pre- serve that lega-cy tha,t we are at war. On an occasion 1 like this, associated as it is with the saintly person- ality of St. David, I should have liked to eon line my remarks to the ideal, but reports are usually very materi<ilistic, and must therefore deny myself that pleasure. However, remembering that a highly spiritual condition depends for its existence 011 material com- forts, I trust you will not think that, in presenting to you a report which deals with matter of a utilitarian nature, I have forgotten the traditions and ideals of Wales. (Applause.) My last annual statement to the governors on the affairs of the school was a somewhat anomalous one inasmuch as it dealt more with the future than the past. The war has changed, or modi- fled, the opinions of most of us. It has revealed many of our national shortcomings and defects of which we were formerly but dimly conscious, and it has made us realise what a serious menace Germany was to our liberties and industrial prosperity. We have not only to equip ourselves for fighting our enemy in a military sense, but we have also to prepare ourselves for the conditions that will arise afte-r the war is over. Our leading statesmen have told us that our weapons, after the suspension of military and naval operations, will be better organisation of industry and extended facili- ties for education. It is generally assumed that the appointment of an expert educationist, as Minister for Education, implied an intention on the part of the Government to carry out an extensive scheme of educa- tional re-construction. In my last report to the governors, I stated that the work of the school, es- pecially the science part of the curriculum, would have to be linked up with the chief industry of the district to a much closer degree than in the past. I explained to them that, as far as possible, I was anticipating the changes that were likely to take place in the science work of the school. After considerable discussion, the governors passed a resolution empowering me to make such alterations in the near future as the authorities might decide upon, or as I might consider necessary in the interests of the school. And here I would like to express my appreciation of the signal confidence that the governors have reposed in me. It will always be my great ambition to deserve that confidence by en- deavouring to make the school as useful as possible to the pe-cple of the school district. I should like to take this opportunity of addressing a word or two to the ftirmer6 of the neighbourhood. They seem to be under the impression that the son who is destined for the farm requires no secondary education, but that the son intended to take up some other calling needs three or four years' training in a secondary school. I would respectfully suggest to them that in this matter they are making a grave mistake, for the simple reason that farming, properly carried out, is a highly scientific in- dustry. (Applause.) Just think of what Germany and Denmark have done in agriculture hy-the application of science. A highly organised food production has en- abled Denmark to send us L20,000,000 worth of food every year. while, by means of science, Germany has been able to establish a score of industries on what she obtains in the way of agriculture produce. But the farmer may reply by saying that he has had no chance of competing against Germany and Danish eompetitor-s. I quite agree and sympathise with him, because succes- j sive British Governments have neglected the most essen- tial of all our industries. What I would urge upon the farmer is that conditions have changed. To-day he is the most important person in the country. He ha.s the Army, the Navy, and the civil population at his mercy. Unless he does his part nobly, ungrudgingly and unsel- fishly, we as a nation are in the greatest peril. The war has taught us that the land must be cultivated to the fullest extent, so that, when dangers threaten, we shall be in some measure independent of foreign im- ports. (Applause.) I firmly believe that the people of this country realise to-day, as they have never realised the fact before, that the land and its cultivation are of 'vital importance to us. I do not think that the farmer need fear that the future prosperity of agriculture is at all doubtful. We simply cannot afford to neglect this industry as we have done in the past. The question is one of life and death to us. If anyone hesitates to ac- cept my opinion in this matter, let him read what the Premier said in the House of Commons last week. These were his words:—"The country would never be indifferent in the future to the importance of agriclll- ture. It would never be neglected by any future Go- vernment. The war had taught us that the preserva- tion of our esential industries was as important a part of national defence as the Army and Navy."If I had it in my power, I would place a copy of these words in every farm-house in Britain. They would help every farmer to understand that a great and prosperous' future lies in front of British agriculture, and they would make him feel the heavy responsibility that rests I on him, not only in respect of the present moment, hut also in respect of the future. Let him educate his son for the farm as he w;, ild for the bank or Civil Ser- vice, and he will be doing a service to his country that cannot now be calculated. (Applause.) The farmers of this district a.re in a peculiarly fortunate position. because they can obtain a secondary education for their sons practically without cost to themselves. In mak- ing that statement, I am referring to the Evans's Trust, which provides for the education of farmers' sons, through the beneficence of one who anticipated the vital importance of education in the life of the State. I trust that you will give me credit of urging this matter on the farmers in the interest of the conn- try and not only in the interests of the school. At the present moment. I have no need to appeal for more pupils, because the number in attendance is close upon what the utmost accommodation of the building will allow, and finite as many as the present staff can com. fortably be held responsible for. To he quite accurate, the staff is taxed to such an extent that I have asked my wife to assist me for about six hours in each week. In conclusion, I beg to thank the chairman and governors for their confidence and support during the past year. Some years ago the chairman, at one of our prize distributions, enunciated the principle which he followed in the government of the school. The prin- ciple was this, that the staff and myself should have all the fairplay that our means permitted. I am sorry j to state that our financial means are far from ade- quate, but I am glad to report that the chairman has steadfastly clung to his principle. When he departs from it I will let you know"- and I have no doubt you will deal summarily with him. I have always been proud of my humble association with the Caerwnon family, but since the battle of Jutland, in which the brother of the chairman played a skilful and distin- guished part, I am prouder than ever of that associa- tion. I am quite sure you will all join with me in con- gratulating the chairman on his brother's brilliant per- formanoe in that now historic naval encounter. (Loud I applause.) | Next came the tableaux, entitled "The Allies," and ;j this again was introduced by Mr G. R. Thomas. I Pat II. consisted of the following items:—Pianoforte • solo. Miss Dorothy Tulk; selections by the Welsh choir—(1) chorus, "Civeliiii Aberdyfl"; (2) Welsh air, I chorus and solo, "Ar hvd y nos," Miss Madge Harris (3) song, "Y Deryn Pur," Miss Eileen Eadie: (4), folk- song dialogue., "Lliw Gwyn Rhosyn y Haf." l\fi¡;:s G1arlr Ingram and Brychan Powell; (5) folk-song and chorus. "Cwyd dv Ga.lon," Master Ensor Duggan; (6) part- song, "Saith Rhyfeddod," Miss H. Pugh, P. Thomas, G. j Griffiths, Maggie Thomas, Madge Harris, Gwennie Ed- j wards, Eileen Eadie and Gladys Ingram; (7) folksong, "Robin Goch," Miss Gwennie Edwards; (8) chorus and I solo, "Cyfri'r Geifr," Miss Morfa Hamer; (11) folk song, "Sue Gan," Miss Gladys Ingram; "Gwcw Fach," Miss Morfa Hamer; (10) Welsh air, "Llwyn-on," the choir; song. "Land of Hope and Glory," Miss Gwennie I Edwards; followed by "Lest we forget," "Hen Wlad fy Nhadau." and "God save the King." The conductress was Miss Pugh, B.A.; superintendent. Miss Havard, B.A.: and stage manager. Mr G. R. Thomas, ll.Sc. The accompanists were Miss Evelyn Rice and Miss Dorothy Tulk.

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-+- YSTRADFELLTE SCHOOL. St. David's Day was again this year celebrated on Thursday morning, 1st inst., at Ystradfellte school- room. The room was neatly decorated by the- scholars with ivy and flags for the occasion. The seission was opened by the headmistress (Mrs P. Thomas) with various introductory remarks (preparatory lessons having been given during the week) upon the lives of the Patron Saint, Sir Owain Giyndwr, and Sir Thomas- Picton, after which a long address was given by the vicar (Rev. W. Jones), upon different interesting topics, such as "Dewi Sant," "How to create moral instincts in youth," "How to save ourselves and act during these critical times, by being economical truthful, honest and loyal in all dealings," "The difference be- tween true and false patriotism." Mr Morgan Evans (Pencerdd). manager, was also present. Letters of apology were received from Mr D. Vaughan. J.P.. the chairman of the managers regretting his inability to be present, owing to his indisposition, and from Rev. Washington Jones (Hermon). who had to be at a.no- ther place on same day. A long programme was gone through by the juveniles, of Welsh solos, glees and re- citations, including "Hen Wlad fy Nhadau." and "God save the King." A iiupply of Welsh cakes were distributed by Mrs Thomas 'at the conclusion.

HIRWAIN EISTEDDFOD. Ther" was a record attendance and entry at Hirwain Eisteddfod, held under the auspices of the local Welsh Society. "History of Hirwain," Rev. R. M. Rhys, Ys- tradgynlais; eRosay on Welsh Nonconformity at Hirwain, Rev. D. Teifi Davies, Hirwain; essay on "The life of the coal miner" (divided), Jonathan Morris and Lieut. J R. Jones, Hirwain; open recitation. Tom Jones, Hir- wain; chief choral, Neho Choir, Hirwain (conductor, Mr E. J. Davies); juvenile, choral, standard 5, Cwm- dare Council School (conductor, Mr J. Howells); bass solo, Tom Beynon, Hirwain: tenor solo, William Evans, Hirwain; soprano solo, Mrs Thomas, Hirwain champion solo, Miss M. A. Williams, Hirwain. --4.

LLANDRINDOD WELLS. I St. David's Day was celebrated at Llandrindod I Wells by festival gatherings at the school. the sale of Welsh flags 011 behalf of the Comforts' Fund for Welsh Troops, and a Welsh supper in the evening. I At the Intermediate School, a most appropriate ad- dress by delivered by the county member, Sir Francis Edwards, whilst the headmaster, Mr Saunders, B.A., also addressed the pupils, mentioning that over I 100 of the former pupils were now engaged in the ser- vice of the nation, either as soldiers or sailors, whilst two at least-Lieut. C. Bryan Smith and Pte. Gilbert J. Oliver-had given their lives for their country. A cordial vote of thanks was given to Sir Francis, on the motion of Mr H. D. Phillips, seconded by Mr Rhys- R. Williams, and the scholars gave three resounding cheers. The following musical programme was ren- dered :— Part-song, "Llwyn Onn," Forms III. and "Captain Morgan's March," Forms III. and )\ reci- tation. "Plas Gogerddau," Mary Watkins; "The Dawn of Day," Forms III. and IV.; recitation, "The Harp of Wales," Tilly Morgan; "New Year's Eve," Forms III. and IV.: "Men of Harlech," Forms II.b and II.a; and British and Welsh national anthems. Mr Rhxs R. Williams was conductor and accompanist, and Mr Saunders presided. At the Council School the chair was taken by .Major A. Lindsey Careless, who gave a very appropriate ad- dress, and the special speaker was the Rev. D. Ed- mondes Owen, vicar of Llandovery, who gave a most in- teresting address, on the patron saints of Wales, Eng- land, Scotland and Ireland, and the lessons to he drawn from their lives and the legends associated therewith. A vote of thanks to Major Careless and the Rev. D. Edmondes Owen was moved by Sir Francis Edwards, M.P., and most heartily accorded. There was a large gathering of parents and townspeople at this school, and the following musical programme was much enjoyed:—"St. David's Day," upper standards; "Red. white and blue," lower standards; recitation, "Love of country," Ivan Wilkins; song, "Strike the harp," tipper standards; "Echoes of days of long ago," school party; "God bless the Prince of Wales," school part, and national anthems. In addition to the music, there was a very pretty tableaux of Welsh em- blems, with diltloglH, bong-,i and charming Welsh dance, and this was very well received. Miss G. The Prime Minister. Sir Francis Edwards, M.P., and the Rev. D. Edmondes. °*?l each made feeling reference to the. great los which the Prime Minister had sustained in the death of his uncle, Mr Richard Lloyd. and both gentlemen also called attention to the great and noble place Mr Lloyd George now fills in the life of nations, to the heavy responsibilities which rest upon him. and to the worthy and successful way in which he is endea- vouring to discharge those responsibilities. Sir Francis at the County School, mentioned that, in the days be- fore Mr Lloyd George was burdened with great offices. he frequently left the House of Commons with him on Friday afternoons, when the House rose early, and that over and over again he remembered how Mr Lloyd George begged him to wait awhile so that he could write to his uncle, now deceased. Rev. D. Edmondes Owen told how the widow of one of Mr Lloyd George's schoolmasters, who now re.s.ides in his parish, told him that on one occasion her late husband was extolling the distinctions and success of Cardinal Wol- sey, telling how he had risen in the world from humble circumsftances, and that on one occasion, when Mr Lloyd George was present as a lad, he said that it was possible that there was then present some boy or girl who might in after days become great and fam- ous. The anticipation had proved true.

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Llandrindod Wells Supper. INTERESTING SPEECHES. SIR FRANCIS EDWARDS, M.P., ON WALES, PAST AND PRESENT. On St. David's Day evening, nearly 100 Welsh ladies and gentlemen assembled at the Central Wales Em- ponum, Llandrindod Wells, to celebrate the festival of the patron saint of Wales. Mr Jeffrey Jones J P presided in his usual breezy and cheery manner, and he was supported hy Sir Francis Edwards, M P Mr T. E. Morris, a distinguished barrister of the North Wales Circuit and a valued member of the Cambrian Archw- logical Society, with 23 wounded and convalescent Welsh soldiers as the spec.at guests of the evening. An excellent supper was jurovided by the Emporium Co. in a tastefully d, ecorated room, and, subsequently, several toasts were propoeti and drunk, and a highly- appreciated programme of songs and recitations (all in Welsh) was gone through. The chairman gave a hearty welcome to the special guests of the evening, and then proposed the toast of the King and the Royal Family, which wa.s received with musical honours, the whole assembly sonorously singing "God save the King." Sir Francis Edwards. the toast of Wale\s" was given by Sir Francis Edwards, M.P., who, on rising, received a great ovation. After some preliminary humourous remarks Sir Francis proceeded to deal with Wales from two joints of view the past and the present. With the Wales of the past, he coupled the name of St. David. He said that, though there were not many authentic facts about St-. David, they knew that he was a thorough Welsh- man, who loved his country, and that his life was full of hard work and self-sacrifice. Of the four patron saints of the countries making up the United King- dom, St. David was the only one who was a native of the country he represented. With Wales of the pre- sent. Sir Francis associated the name of Mr Lloyd (reorge. He said he was a man of tremendous abilities, hut without his capacity to work hard he would not- have risen to the highest position in the British Em- pire that a subject could attain to. He had devoted himself unsparingly to the service of his country. In the death of his uncle the Prime Minister had sustained a great 10";5. Many a time, when Mr Lloyd George and he (Sir Francis used to go together from the House of Commons, Mr Lloyd George would say that he wanted to write his usual daily letter to his uncle before he would do anything elst- Rev. T. P. Kane, speaking to the same toast, referred to ine enorts maac in Ireland and Wales to keep alive the Irish and Welsh languages. He mentioned that 350 children in Donegal were examined in Gaelic. The toast of "Our Soldiers and Sailors" was entrust- cd to Mr T. E. Morris, who said Iw admired the braverv and i ,libLerty. rs and sailors in fighting for justice, peac? Welsh of old were a war-like nation, and Wales was full of forts and castles—records of old struggles with the Saxon foe. If it were not for their soldiers and sailors they would not ho celebrating the festival of St. David, and, possibly, some of them might not be in the land of the living. Mr Morris also paid a tribute to our mercantile marine, which braved the new perils of the aea to secure for us an adequate supply of food. Gunner D. Malcolm Davies responded, and said the sol- diers and sailors had only done their duty, and when they were again sufficiently recovered they were again ready to do their part in defence of their country. They were grateful for the invitation they had receiv- ed to the celebration. Mr David Jones (Council School) snid that Sir Douglas lf;iiz was possibly one of the Haigs, of Penithon, Llanbadarn-fynydd. Admiral Evan-Thomas, who won such distinction in the great. Naval battle, used often to stay at Peneerrig, and he frequently called at Llan- elvedd School when he (Mr Jones) was there. Admiral sir David Beatty wasalso possibly a Welshman, David Beattv being an Anglicised form of Dafydd Betw David, the sou of Betw or Elizabeth. The chairman drew attention to the fact that Mr and Mrs Edward Jenkins, Gwalia Hotel, were celebrrtin"" their golden wedding in April. Mr Jenkins (Ap Cere- digion) had done a great deal to further the interests of Llandrindtxl, and to foster poetical and musical talent in Wales. He (Mr Jones) proposed that the congratulations and good wishes of the Welsh people of Llandrindod Wells be conveyed to Mr and Mrs Jenkins. This was agreed to with acclamation. A song written especially for the occasion by Mr Jenkins was then sung bv Sir Francis Edwards to the Welsh air 'Llwyn On,' and a poem by Mr Jenkins was read expressing sympathy with the Prime Minister on the loss of his uncle. Songs were rendered by Miss Euronwv ToTLe, Pte. Williams (encored), Miss Ethel Davies. Mr R. H. Wil- liams, Miss Lilian Jones (encored), Mr Jack Rees, Miss Olive Evans, and recitations given by Mrs R. M. Mor- gan. B.A., and Rev. Stephen George, B.A. The pro- ceedings were brought to a close with the singing of 'Hen Wlad fy Nhadau.'