Abergavenny Chronicle

ABERGAVENNY BOARD OF GUARDIANS. POTATOES FOR TRAMPS. I The fortnightly meeting of the Abergavenny I Board of Guardians was held on Friday, Col. W. ) Williams presiding. There were also present Mrs. Hiley, Revs. Father Wray, D. E. Hughes, E. J. Lloyd, Messrs. Morgan W. David, Benjamin Price, N. Pullin, John Prichard, Robert Work- man, George Spencer, Wm. Biggs, David Ed- wards, Robert Johnson, John Baynam, Alfred Edwards, Charles Thomas, Thos. Thomas, Edgar W. Lewis and Wm. Gwillim. Lucky Vagrants Potatoes for Dinner. I Mr. Alfred Edwards inquired if it was a fact I that vagrants calling at the Worknouse were given potatoes for dinner each day as part of the ordinary dietary ? If it was so he thought that, having regard to the scarcity of potatoes, the practice ought at least to be curtailed. The Chairman The Master knows what potatoes he has and he must be the judge as to giving them to the tramps. The Clerk remarked that the vagrants were allowed a certain quantity of potatoes daily under the order of the Local Government Board as to the dietary. Mr. Robert Workman agreed with Mr. Ed- wards that efforts should be made to curtail the consumption of potatoes in the direction in- dicated. The officials in the house had recently experienced difficulties in regard to securing adequate supplies of bread for the ordinary in- mates, and they had had to substitute rice in some instances for the bread rations. There was also a shortage of potatoes for the ordinary inmates, and he thought the Board ought to consider the keeping of the potatoes that re- mained from the vagrants in order that there should be an adequate supply for the ordinary inmates. The Chairman But we are giving the tramps the potatoes bv order of the Government. The Clerk By order of the Local Government Board, and we cannot do otherwise without having their sanction to the alteration. Mr. John Prichard So that the tramps are getting 011 each of the seven days that which -only those of us who are lucky can get about two days a week. It seems as if it is better to be a tramp than anything else. (Laughter). Mr. N. Pullin thought the Board should issue instructions that the vagrants were not to be supplied with any more potatoes. The Chairman We cannot alter the dietary without the sanction of the Local Government Board. Mr. Morgan David Why should we give the tramps that which we cannot get for ourselves ? We ought not to give them the best of things. Let those who will not work suffer first. Later, Mr. Edwards remarked that he was officially informed that each vagrant was given tlb. of potatoes per day as part of his dinner. The Clerk Leave it until you see the Master. Let the House Committee go into it. Mr. Prichard By the time they have dealt with it we shall have plenty of new potatoes. (Laughter). Father Wray It has come before the Board. Let the Board settle it. Mr. Edwards Have we power to stop the supply of potatoes to tramps, having regard to the great scarcity ? The Clerk: Ve, Mr. Edwards Then I propose that the potato rations for tramps be stopped, and that rice be substituted. Mr. Prichard seconded. Father Wray And I move an amendment that we keep to the order of the Local Govern- ment Board until we have made application for permission to make this change. Mr. Prichard That order was made years ago when there were plenty of murphies about. The Chairman seconded the amendment, but the motion was carried by a large majority, only the Chairman and Father Wray voting for the amendment. The Clerk remarked that while the decision of the Board would come into operation im- mediately, it would be necessary for him to secure the consent of the Local Government Board to the change, and the Board unani- mously agreed to the Clerk making application for the purpose. Illness of the Master. I It was reported that the Master was seriously ill, and the Board agreed to his having three weeks' holiday. The Master's report, which was read by the Clerk, stated that there were 69 men, 36 women, and 23 children in the house, a total of 128, compared with 128 for the corresponding period of last year. The number of vagrants relieved during the fortnight was 85, compared with 105 for the corresponding period of last year, a de- crease of 20. Out Relief Decrease. I The Clerk reported that there had been a decrease in the outdoor relief in the Abergavenny district during the fortnight, as compared with the corresponding fortnight of last year, of £ 6 4s. id. The decrease in the Blaenavon district during the same period was ^3 is. 3d. A tender was received for haircutting and shaving at the house, but it was considered ex- cessive, and it was decided to leave the matter in the hands of the Master for the time being. Lawn or Potato Patch? I Mr. Alfred Edwards, in accordance with notice, moved that the resolution passed at the previous meeting that the piece of ground in front of the shelters at the Workhouse should not be cultivated be rescinded. He expressed the opinion that the ground should be used for the growing of potatoes. Mr. W. Biggs seconded. Father Wray said he was opposed to the pro- posal. When it was decided to put the shelters up it was agreed that that plot of ground should not be cultivated, but should be used as a sort of lawn for the patients. It was considered that it would be far more healthy if used as a lawn than it would be if it was cultivated, and his own experience led him to think that what was originally decided upon should be carried out. If they were going to cultivate this land he said they should do away with the shelters. He had only one patient there at the present time, but he must say that he protested against that small plot of ground being cultivated if the shelters were allowed to remain. Mr. Joseph Howells said he should like to associate himself with the remarks of Father Wray. He felt that if they adopted the proposal they would be doing an injustice to tie inmates and not much benefit to the country. It was a small plot of ground and it was hardly worth while pulling it about, after the labour that had been put in there. They were going to throw that labour on one side aDd upset what they took a little interest in getting. Mr. Alfred Edwards said that as regarded the unhealthiness of it, when he and Mrs. liney were at the house on the 30th of March the doctor was present, and he quite approved of the ground being cultivated. As regarded the labour, there was not much labour involved in putting the ground down to grass. If Mr. Howells uad said the cost of the grass seeds there would have been more in it, but the cost of laying it down was nil, because they did not pay for labour. As he went round the town lie saw good rich meadow land cut up for the planting of potatoes—land which could be better used for the grazing of sheep and cattle. Tuey could not make a penny on this piece of ground, however, by keeping it under grass. Tne inmates never went on the grass, but kept to the paths. As regarded the small- ness of the plot, lie had stepped it rougidv, and three sides were 15 and 16 yards long aud one end was 20 yards across, M'. N. Pullin: About the 17th part of an acre. Mr. Pullin added that he supported Father Wray that tney should not tuink of cultivating that piece of ground. While the shelters remained they should leave it as it was. Mr. Howells I would Tike to say one word. The Chairman I hope it will be Le last. Every gentleman should only speak once. Mr. Howells It is only just this. The Chairman You might go on all day. Mr. Howells said that Mr. Edwards had taken an entirely misleading idea of the question of labour. He (Mr. Howells) did not mean the labour of putting the grass seed in but the cost of putting the shelters there. The ground had to be prepared before the shelters could be put there. Mr. Prichard said he supported Father Wray. They wanted potatoes, but this was only the 16th part of an acre. If they grew five tons to the acre the result would be very small, and it certainly was a great comfort to the poor creatures who were to have a piece of grass to walk on. They should put a little extra manure on the ground which was already cultivated and try to get more out of that. Mr. Robert Workman said that he was at the Workhouse on Tuesday last, and he considered that the ground was about twice the size of that room. He came to the conclusion that he would not oppose Mr. Edwards on this matter, but would remain neutral. The proposition was lost by I I votes to 6. I Resignation of the Cook. I I The Clerk reported that the cook at the Workhouse had sent in her resignation and asked to be released on the 12th of May. The Matron had a scheme by which she proposed to use the services of the laundress, but she had not sub- mitted the suggestion in writing. The matter was left in the hands of the Matron to make arrangements till the next meeting of the House Committee. Inadequate Expenses. I Mr. Robert Workman said that the Glamorgan- shire, Monmouthshire and Breconshire Vagrancy Committee would meet on Monday, and owing to the loss entailed in his attending these meet- ings he should be glad if they would accept his resignation as a representative on the com- mittee. They voted a sum of 7s. 6d. for those who attended the meeting at Cardiff, but, un- fortunat. ly, the auditor would not allow more than 6s.f;8d. (Father Wray The lawyer's fee). If he went to Newport and they paid him the full 7s. 6d. the loss to him would be 3s. 2d., and in the present circumstances he could not see his way clear to go. The Chairman You should send in your resignation to the Clerk. Mr. Workman I can resign at any time, because it was agreed that the payment should be 7s. 6d., and the bargain has not been kept. The Clerk said that the scale fixed by the Local Government Board was 6s. 8d., and they could not allow more. The resignation was accepted. ▲

ABERGAVENNY POLICE COURT I I Wednesday.—Before Mr. J..0 Marsh (in the chair) and Mr. E. R. Lewis. I The Benefit of the Doubt. James Edwards, farmer, of Blaenavon, was summoned for allowing sheep to stray on the 14th and 16th. P.C. Oliver said he was informed by neigh- bouring farmers that the sheep belonged to the defendant and he could identify them by the notches cut on the ear. The sheep were put on the mountain and he did not think they were seen from one shearing time to another. When they came down they were a source of trouble to everyone. Defendant's son said that there were other sheep about marked as the constable had de- scribed, but their sheep had other markings as well. P.C. Oliver, in reply to the Bench, said that the sheep had been through the hedges so much that it was difficult to distinguish any raddle marks. After a short retirement, the Chairman said they did not doubt the evidence of the constable, but they did not think it was definitely proved that these were the defendant's sheep. The evidence of the markings was not sufficiently clear, and they gave defendant the benefit of the doubt. At the same time they felt that the police did quite right in bringing the case for- ward, because there was so much depredation done by sheep, especially at this time of the year, and it was necessary to protect the gardens. They were anxious to do all they could to stop sheep straying, but they felt that the case against defendant was not quite sufficiently proved, though they would warn him to keep his sheep from straying. — +

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CRICKHOWELL I PERSONAL.-—^Iajor Cole-Hamilton, Chief Constable of Breconshire, now serving with the Irish Rifles, visited Crickhowell on Wednesday. ALLOTMENTS.—Work is proceeding on the allotments with all speed, but there is a great lack of seed potatoes. FUNERAL.—The funeral took place at Crick- howell on Wednesday afternoon of Mr. John Davies, who for some years kept the Corn Ex- change in the town. OVERSEERS.—At the annual meeting of the Crickhowell Parish Council on Tuesday Mr. John Evans, of 4, Llanbedr-road, Crickhowell, and Mr. W. V. Jones, Lindley, Crickhowell, were re-elected overseers of the parish. ALL WELL-—Sapper W. E. Rumsey and Lee. Corpl. R. Evans, the former of the Crickhowell Post Office staff and the latter a member of the teaching staff of the Crickhowell Church School, inform our correspondent by field postcards that they are quite fit. All their friends will be glad to know this. A WELL-KNOWN WRITER ON SPORT.—Mr. C. F. Ward, now serving in France as a stretcher bearer, who is known to thousands as Corin- thian of the Daily Chronicle," an expert writer on football, boxing and all kinds of sport, is a brother of Mr. T. H. Ward, seed and corn merchant, Crickhowell. EASTER VESTRY.—At the Easter Vestry meeting on Friday in connection with St. Ed- mund's Church, Dr. P. E. Hill was re-appointed Rector's warden and Mr. E. Pirie Gordon parishioners' warden. The sidesmen were re- elected. LLANGATTOCK CHURCH.-—The Easter Vestry meeting was held on Thursday, when Mr. James Edwards was re-appointed parishioners' warden and Mr. S. D. Caine Rector's warden. All the sidesmen were re-elected. FROM SALONICA.-Pte. Jim Powell, Mill- street, in a letter to our correspondent, says our men manage to play their favourite game of football 'midst all difficulties. The shouts of teams and supporters can be heard far and wide, and the Bulgars think they are all going mad. The enemy has tried gas, but thanks to the War Office and others we can meet them." A tribute to the War Office must be welcomed nowadays. Pte. Powell was formerly a gardener at Maescelyn and well known in local Oddfellows circles. THE BLIND.—At Danycastell C.M. Church on Wednesday the Rev. David Griffiths, Chaplain to the National Institute for the Blind, gave a most interesting and instructive address on the work of the institution among our afflicted soldiers and sailors and civilians. Mr. Griffiths, who is blind himself, has a good store of humour, and his stories are of first-rate quality. He paid a tribute to the interest taken in the movement by the secretary to the Crickhowell Free Church Council, Mr. F. J. Hurley. There was a good audience present. Mr. Thos. Vaughan presided, and in his introductory remarks stated that the institution was accomplishing work of the highest national importance. A.

BIRTHS. MARRIAGES & DEATHS BIRTH. DAVIES.-—On April 15th, at Great Llwynfranc Farm, Llanvihangel, to Mr. and Mrs. Edward Davies—a daughter. MARRIAGE. SMITH—DAVIES.—At Walthamstow Old Church, on March iotli, Corpl. Henry William Smith, East Kent Regt., to Catherine Agnes, youngest daughter of William II. Davies, of Belmont Inn, Abergavenny. DEATHS. HOOPER.-Oli the 28th March, at 41, Long Beach Road, London, George Hooper, aged 47 years. Deeply mourned by his wife and family. Buried at Wandsworth Cemetery, London, April 2nd, 1917. J ONES.-Ou the 15tll inst., at The Shop, Llan- gattock Lingoed, Blanch, the beloved wife of James Jones, aged 73 years. Greatly missed by her husband and children. Peace, Perfect Peace. MARSHALL.—On Wednesday, April nth, at 17, Park-street, Abergavenny, Henry James, the dearly beloved son of Samuel Marshall, who departed this life in his 21st year, after a painful illness patiently borne. R.I.P. PICKERING.—On April iSth, 1917, at Elm Villa, Abergavenny, Elizabeth, the beloved wife of J ames Pickering and youngest daughter of the late Captain Howell, of Newport, aged 73. Her end was peace. Service at Holy Trinity Church at 2.15 on Saturday, April 2ist. WINSTONE.—On the 9th April, 1917 (by cable), at Brisbane, Australia, Reginald Stanley, the dearly-beloved second son of Emily and the late John A. Winstonc, of Gilwern, aged 24 years. Not lost, but gone before. A

I ACKNOWLEDGMENT. I Mr. Marshall and family, of 17, .Park-street, wish to sincerely thank all neighbours and friends for kind letters and sympathy shown to them in their sad bereavement, also for floral tributes. [ BAN ON PASTRY. I The Food Controller has made an Order the effect of which is in the first place to prohibit entirely the making of any light pastries, any muffins, crumpets, tea cakes, and other light articles of food. In the second place cakes, buns, scones, and biscuits, which alone are per- mitted, must conform to certain requirements as to the amount of sugar and of wheaten flour which may be used. The percentage of sugar allowed is, in the case of cakes and biscuits, 15 per cent. in the case of buns, 10 per cent. in the case of scones, no sugar may be used. With respect to the wheaten flour, not more than 30 per cent. is allowed to be used in cakes, and 50 per cent. in buns and scones. The Order precludes any ornamental cake being made, or the addition of any substance to the cake in baking or after it has been baked. Articles of the prohibited kind may not be made after Saturday next or sold after Tuesday next, but there is a provision that cakes and biscuits which can be proved to have been made before April 23 may be sold up to a later date. The Order also rations all tea-shops in respect of bread-stuffs and cakes, the principle adopted being that where a public eating-place is ex- cluded from the Public Meals Order it shall not serve any individual customer between the hours of 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. with more than 2oz. in all of bread and permitted cakes. This provision does not apply to public eating places which limit to 6d. the maximum price chargeable for any meal not containing meat, fish and eggs served between the hours men- tioned. This provision comes into force on Monday next.

I Steelworkers' Meeting at Abergavenny.—On Saturday the Conciliation Board ot the South Wales and Monmouthshire Steelworkers' Associ- ation met at the Angel Hotel, Abergavenny, to receive the quarterly report of the joint auditors. This showed that the selling price of steel rails and steel bars was £ 10 15s. 5.6gd., which means an increase in wages to the steel workers of il- per cent., or S7-J- per cent. above the sliding scale standard. Several grievances respecting the war bonus were referred to and it was decided to refer these back to the local works for settlement. Mr. F. Mills, J.P., presided over the meeting.

I LLANDDEWI RHYDDERCH. I FUNERAL OF MRS. THOMAS.—The funeral of the late Mrs. Thomas, Bailea Farm (formerly Miss Lily Price, Mount Pleasant Cottage, Llan- ddewi Rhydderch), took place at the English Baptist Church on Wednesday, April nth. The service at the house was conducted by the Pastor, Rev. E. G. Forest Jones, assisted by the Rev. Mr. Ashton (Cwmmera), and at the church and graveside by the Pastor, Rev. Mr. Ashton and the Rev. Mr. Jones (Merthyr Vale). The funeral arrangements were undertaken by Mr. Probert, Llanvapley. The chief mourners were Mr. Thos. Thomas (husband), Messrs. James, William and Charles Price (brothers), Mesdames Williams and Lewis (sisters), Messrs. Williams and Lewis (brothers-in-law), Mesdames Price, Boyt, Collier, and Miss Thomas (sisters-in-law), Misses Gladys and Ethel Williams (nieces), Messrs. Oswald and John Lewis (nephews), Mr. and Mrs. Ivor Wil- liams (nephew and diece), Mr. Ernest Jones (nephew), Mr. and Mrs. R. Lewis (brother and sister-in-law), Mr. and Mrs. James, Ebbw Vale (cousins), Mr. Howells, Bridgend (cousin). In spite of the inclemency of the weather the funeral was very largely attended, and this, to- gether with the large number of floral tributes which were sent, testified to the high esteem in which the deceased was held. On Sunday, April 15th, the Pastor, the Rev. E. G. Forest Jones, preached the funeral sermon, during whicn fitting reference was made to deceased, who had been an earnest and faithful member of tli2 above church for upwards of 20 years.

T Practical Demonstrations in Gardening.—The Abergav-nny War Agricultural Sub-Committee beg to inform aH persons interested in gardening that Mr. H. Ashfold, head gardener at Aber- baiden, is giving-by the kind permission of Mr. Gower-Andrews—a series of practical demonstra- tions in gardening each Saturday afternoon, at 3 p.m. The work is mainly in order to train women in gardening, and is at present being done on the Park Estate, adjoining the Grammar School. On Friday last, the 13th inst., Mr. Ashfold gave a lantern slide lecture on the subject at Nevill Room.

Local Artist's Success.—Mr. John Wheatley, son of the Mayor and Mayoress of Abergavenny, has been elected a Member of the New English Art Club. ————

MONMOUTHSHIRE APPEAL I TRIBUNAL There were sixty-two cases down for hearing at the sitting of the Monmouthshire Appeal Tribunal on Monday. Mr. J. W. Beynon presided. Answering the Court, Capt. Williams said the instructions were now more specific with regard to men registered as engaged in agricultur; and who had received calling up notices or likely to receive calling up notices. They were not to be called up, and if called up their orders had to be countermanded until their cases had been re- ported by the War Agricultural Committee. It seemed at present a waste of time to deal with agricultural cases until they had been before the War Agricultural Committee. It was still open to the Tribunal to hear cases so that their opinion might go before the Agricultural Committee, or they could have the opinion of that body when the cases were brought before them. The Chairman I take it the war agricultural committee will go very closely into these matters and let us have their opinion. It seems to me they will be in the best position to judge, and their opinion will be most valuable in reviewing our decisions. Capt. Williams If the agricultural committee say a man ought to go he will have an oppor- tunity of appealing to you ? The Chairman Quite so. It was decided to take any cases which had not been before the committee.

Monmouthshire Standing Joint Committee. I Children and Cinemas: Police Pay. At a meeting of the Monmouthshire Standing Joint Committee on Wednesday, Alderman T. Parry proposed the election of Sir Henry Matlier- Jackson, Bart., as chairman for the ensuing year, and expressed the pleasure that they all felt at seeing Sir Henry in harness again after his severe illness. Alderman Thomas seconded, and the proposal was carried unanimously. Sir Henry, on taking the chair, briefly thanked the Committee for his election, and remarked that this was only the second occasion on which he had been out since his eight weeks' illness. Major Williams proposed and Alderman David Jones seconded, and it was unanimously re- solved that Alderman Nehemiah Phillips be vice- chairman for the ensuing year. The Chief Constable in his quarterly report said that the total number ot apprehensions was 222, as against 284 in the corresponding quarter of 1916. "The total number of persons summoned was 1,217 as against 1,101, an increase of 116, principally under petty larceny, revenue laws, town poJice clauses and county bye laws. The number of persons proceeded against for drunken- ness was 56, as against 53 in the corresponding quarter 1916. Twenty persons holding licenses for the sale of intoxicating liquors had been pro- ceeded against 12 fined, 2 pay costs, ana b dis- missed. Seriously reduced as the Force now was, it would be further reduced at the end of the present month, seven men having been ordered to join the Army. If, as was fore- shadowed, all the men up to 31 years of age were taken, without counting ordinary wastage, they would be reduced to 133. Considering the enormous amount of extra work they had to do, on account of the war, he did not know how they would carry on. Cirtemas and Juvenile Crime. I A communication was received from the Mon- mouthshire Education Committee with reference to the attendance of children at cinemas. The Chairman read the letter, which opened with a statement to the effect that there was no doubt but that the increase in juvenile crime in the county could be attributed to the attendance of children at cinemas to a large extent. Has there been an increase in juvenile crime in the county," Sir Henry asked the Chief- Constable. I don't think so," was the reply. After reading on further, Sir Henry remarked The Chief-Constable surely is not to be a censor of cinematograph films ? The letter proceeded to suggest that children should not be admitted to cinemas, theatres, or any places of amusement save on Saturdays, and then only up to six p.m. There should be seats put aside for them and women police in attendance. "A very good recommendation to a Royal Commission," said the Chairman, but I can't for the life of me see what it has to do with us." The letter proceeded to ask licensing author- ities to stipulate that children should not be admitted to cinemas after nine p.m. ft- "itDo they suggest that we should put all the children to bed ?" exclaimed Sir Henry. Cine- mas are licensed by the County Council," he added. What have we to do with it ?" I move that this lie on the table at any rate for the present. I don't mean that we won't help them if they want it, but we don't understand what it is they want us to do." The proposal was carried without discussion. I Police Pay. Alderman Parry, chairman of the Finance Committee, said that the question of the pay of the police force had been considered by that committee, and it, was recommended that a small committee be appointed to ascertain how the Monmouthshire Force compared with other county forces in this matter. They wanted to treat their men as well as other counties treated theirs. He added that they had given th4Pforce two war bonuses, one of 10s. and one of 5s. The Chairman If we find that the men are not so well off as the men in other county forces, I think we ought to hold a special meeting. I do not think we ought to wait until J uly. The resolution was adopted, and also the Chairman's suggestion.

When shopping do not fail to call at the Town Bazaar, Frogmore Street, for Dinner Sets, Tea Sets and Bedroom Ware. Join our Thrift Club. Pay what you like, have what you like. ▲

I LOCAL CASUALTIES. I WOUNDED—Powell, 33895, U.-sergt. B. I Roberts, 3058, E., Welsh Guards.

Abergavenny United Choir. I SUCCESSFUL PERFORMANCE OF SULLI- I VAN'S TE DEUM. Music lovers at Abergavenny were provided I with another excellent bill of fare at the Town Hall on Thursday evening, when a concert was given by the Abergavenny United Choir, assisted by several artistes, in aid of the Brookfield Red Cross Hospital Supply Depot. Mr. W. R. Carr, A.R.C.O., the talented conductor of the choir, can always be depended upon to provide some- thing good, and the audience thoroughly ap- preciated the programme. The efforts of the choir were not so pretentious as on some former occasions, and the programme was more of a miscellaneous character. There were only two choral numbers, the chief of which was Sullivan's Te Deum. This is rather an elaborate musical setting of the well-known Psalm, and is divided up into about half a dozen choruses with three soprano solos. Considering the difficulties of organising a choir in these times, the performance was remarkably well done. The chorus was only about half as strong as it has been on some occasions in connection with past musical efforts. Particularly was there a shortage of male voices, but so well did the bases and tenors acquit themselves that this was not particularly noticeable in the volume of sound. Mr. Carr got the best out of the chorus, and the singers generally responded well to the baton. The attack was very good and the well-balanced effect was pleasing throughout. The soprano soli were brilliantly taken by Madame Gunter Williams, of Newport, who is well known at Abergavenny and who seems to be a local favourite. The second effort of the choir, with which they concluded the programme, was Gaul's part song The Silent Land." This was a charming little number with plenty of harmony in it, and the rendering by the choir left nothing to be desired. The audience would no doubt have enjoyed the inclusion in the programme of one or two more pieces of his character, if this had been possible, for while the more lengthy works have their distinct characteristics, the short and sweet type of choral music has always an irrestible appeal. The artistes who took part in the programme were :—Soprano, Madame Gunter Williams, Newport; tenor, Mr. D. H. Thomas, Newport bass, Mr. J. W. Hibbs, Ynysddu violin, Mrs. F. J. Hurley, Crick- howell. Madame Gunter Williams scored a great success at each appearance, her artistic renderings and the spirit she put into her singing evoking loud applause. First she gave Cowen's Sweet as her roses (a song of England), and in response to an encore sang the lilting spring song Wake Up Her singing of Senora (Nathan) was another excellent effort which proved equally enjoyable to the audience. Her encore number The Blackbird (Wetherlev) only made the audience want more, and resulted in a double encore her second response being the charming song Coming home," which was also effectively rendered. Mr. D. H. Thomas, who has a very pleasing tenor voice, gave a stirring and artistic interpretation of The Trumpeter" (Airlie Dix), and, being encored, responded with the captivating little song The little Irish Girl." He joined Mr. Hibbs in the vocal duet Watchman, what of the night ? which was rendered in a very harmonious manner and was loudly applauded. The singing of Mr. Hibbs was delightful to listen to. He possesses a voice of rare mellowness and he pro- duced the maximum effort with the greatest ease, his notes fairly vibrating through the hall. His singing of Sanderson's Shipmates o' mine was a really fine effort, and as an encore number he gave "In an old-fashioned town," which, however, did not provide so much scope for his abilities. His second item was The Wind- mill (H. Nelson), and this was sung with all the necessary spirit and was also very deservedly encored. In response, Mr. Hibbs sang When the ebb tide flows," which was equally appre- ciated. Mrs. F. J. Hurley is, of course, a well- known exponent of violin playing, whom Aber- gavenny audiences are always glad to hear I She put soul into her playing and got a wonderful tone out of her instrument. First she gave Bruc'i's "Romanc," and being recalled, re- sponded with an Andantino by Padre Martini. She later appeared in the bracketed items Poem (Fibich) and Humoreske (Dvorak), both of which were performed with great artistry. As an encore she gave L'extase (Thome). The solo Scene de la Czarda" (Hubay) was also very successful, the sprightly music rendered in the true spirit giving much pleasure to tie I audience. An encore was again demanded, although it was near the end of the programme, and Mrs. Hurley delighted the audience with Simple Aveu (Thome). Mr. Hurley played the accompaniments for his wife very judiciously and with great taste. Mrs. Barrett ably played the pianoforte accompaniments for the choral pieces, and she and Mr. Carr shared the accom- paniments lor the other individual artistes.

Maindiff Court Red Cross Hospital. I Tne Committee wish to thank all tnose who have kindly sent gifts during the past fortnight. Tite ioHowing rave been received }.Iilk.-H alf-ga,lloa daily, Miss Jones, Llandilo Pertholey 3 gallons weekly, Sir Ivor Herbert (Llanover). Eg^s.—72 eggs. Lady Herbert of Coldbrook 12 eggs, Mrs. Lawson, Mardy Park 24 eggs, Mrs. Powell, Park Gwynne 14 eggs, Egg Collec- tion, Llanlilio C.rossemiy, per Mrs Herbert Clarke, LhmJilio; 323 eggs, Egg Collection,, Llanvetlierine; 36 eggs, -Nir-, ca(i Goytrey Hall; 36 eggs, The Misses Jackson. Brynderi. Miscellaneous.—1000 cigarettes, Col. Herbert, Trebencyn 24 packets cigarettes. Mrs. Lawson, Mardy Park load of firewood, Mr. Cotton, The Rowans portable poultry house, Lady Mather- Jackson, Llanlilio 4 botlles Valentine's meat juice, Newberv &' Sons, Ltd., London 7 dozen oranges, banana", apples, parsnips and celery, Lady Herbert of socks and swab., Mrs. Attwood-Malliews, Llanvihangel surgical dressings, etc., Red Cross, 83 Pall Mall veget- ables, Sir Arthur Herbert of Coldbrook 36 fairs slippers, Red Cross Supply Depot, Brookfield; magazines, Mrs. G. B. Jones, Hadlow daily papers, Colonel Herbert, Trebencyn Western Mail," Mr. D. Howell James, Old Bank House Daily Mirror," Manager, Messrs. W. H. Smith and Sons Sunday papers, Mr. Evans, news- agent, Brecon-road.

"CHEERING THE WOUNDED." 11 Many thrilling moments are being spent daily at the railway stations throughout the country, cheering the wounded soldiers just returned from the trenches. We find our gratitude so great that we cannot re- strain ourselves from welcoming our brave fellows with a lusty cheer, and despite the pain from which they must te suffering, their appreciation of the reception is ac- knowledged by a smile so characteristic of the British Tommy. Surely if these men are worthy of the reception given to them when they re- turn wounded, they should not be wanting for any comforts while out there at-the-front. Nothing is more striking in their letters home than their persistent cry for some- thing to smoke. Still greater efforts are required, therefore, to keep the men in the trenches well supplied wh'b what they Me II  craving for so much—something to smoke. I Letters received from mc,'n at-the-front I speak volumes for the soothing and stimu- 1 latmg effect of a cigar- ctte before they jump over the parapet; and wtrn the day's work is done, "Tommy" spends his well-earned moments of relaxation in having a few quiet pur- at a ciparette or his pipe. Tobacco. Fund has already achieved a fall measurec-fsuccess, but we feel certain that there are quite a num- reader- who have st:l] vet to express in a practical manner their iiprre'iation of what has been dene cy our r brave fighting men, by contributing as much a? possible tc our Fund | to (nable a recular supply of cigarettes and 1 tobacco to be sent to the men, who are 1 fighting the greatest lnttl in hi¡.;tor; I

NUMBER jOFj CATTLE [MUST BE I REDUCED. SUGGESTIONS FOR ECONOMY IN I CONSUMPTION. The President of the Board of Agriculture and Fisheries urges every jarmer and stock-keeper to take immediate steps to meet the coming shortage of feeding stuffs. Owing to the lack of tonnage and the necessity of restricting imports, the farmer must be prepared for a reduced importa- tion of feeding stuffs during the coming year of at least a million tons. In addition to this loss the milling regulations will deprive the industry of about half a million tons of offals, barley, maize, &c., formerly available for live stock feeding. This reduction of a million and a half tons represents about one-sixth of the total amount of concentrated feeding stuffs that were at the farmers' disposal before the war. At the same time, the Board of Agriculture census shows that in last June the number of live stock in the country was rather larger than ever before. LIVE STOCK MUST BE REDUCED. I In view of the scarcity of feeding stuffs, it I may become necessary to resort to some method of rationing the supply. Rationing can only be avoided if farmers generally will determine to reduce their individual demands upon the limited stock. The shortage of feeding stuffs, which will become more pronounced ass the season ad- vances, renders it essential that farmers generally should adopt the policy of getting their live stock as far forward as possible upon th. grass, green crops, and jroots of this summer and autumn. There will be a large call for home produced meat, both for civil and Army needs, as soon as it can be got ready, and stock raisers are ex- pected to take every step to prepare to meet this demand. It will be necessary to effect a substantial re- duction in the head of live stock in the country before next Christmas. This reduction should in the first place fall on the animals that sre not wanted for breeding purposes. All such cattle (other than milch co.vs), sheep, and pigs that can be got into reasonable condition for slaughter on the crops grown this season should be sent to market. To assist this necessary reduction in tha number of cattle the Order restricting the sale of calves has been withdrawn, and only such calves as are of good quality for future milk or beef production or for breeding should be carried beyond the stage of veal. GRAVE SITUATION. I The President is conscious that the advice to I the farming community to reduce their liv2 stock I cannot be welcome, but it is dictated by a full | consideration of the national needs at the present time. The long continuance of the wintry weather makes it doubly difficult for farmers to pursue the policy indicated, but he trusts that they will realise the gravity of the situation, and putting their own inclinations aside, will co- operate in thus securing the needed supply of meat during the late summer and autumn and in reducing the head of stock that Las to be carried I through the winter. In view of the necessity for economising food, the President is of opinion that all future fat stock shows should be at once cancelled, and that the practice of offering prizes at the Christmas auction marts should be entirely abandoned. The President appeals to every farmer to help in a united effort to meet a difficult situation it is only by the willing determination of every farmer to subordinate his own requirements to the general weal of the industry that a serious danger can be met. The President suggests that economy can best be effected in the following directions :— HORSES. I Working horses must te fed on a much smaller I allowance of cor contrite food than is commonly I used. All pleasure horses should be turned out I to grass as soon as possible. No corn can be spared for horses not engaged in productive work. I MILCH COWS. I It is necessary to take every step to maintain the milk supply, especially for next winter. The Food Controller has promised that the price of milk for next winter shall not be fixed at less than is. 8d. per gallon, and this price will be raised should the weather or the shortage of food render it necessary. Having in view the Food Controller's undertaking that the price shall be such as to render the production of winter milk remunerative, the President trusts that every milk producer will take steps to maintain his milking herd. In this direction only there should be no restriction in the feeding such as would cause a reduction in the production of Economy is, however, possible (1) By maintaining the cows as far as possible upon roots, green food, and hay grown on the farm; (2) By adjusting the ration to the milk yield and by regular checking of the rations given. I Cake should not be given to milch cows on the I grass until there are signs that the milk yield is I falling off from lack of keep. I OTHER CATTLE. I (a) Cake and other concentrated foods should not be given to store cattle other than calves until I the final stage of fattening (b) Cattle should be sent to market in a less I finished condition tnan has been customary, I using smaller quantities of cake. I.e2.n meat and a smaller proportion of dead- I weight are more economical to the nation than prime beef, which, under present conditions, is an unpatriotic luxury. I SHEEP. Sheep should be fattened as far as possible on foods grown upon the,farm, with a minimum of cake or corn. Leaner meat and earlier slaughter are necessary. Lambing for next season should be deferred until there is a prospect of keeping the ewes and lambs without the extensive use of concentrated foods. PIGS. I Materials such as barley or maize that can be 1 used directly for human consumption should I not be fed to pigs or any other farm stock. POULTRY. I No more poultry should be kept than can be I maintained upon scraps and waste food, with a I very small supplement of tail corn. I SLAUGHTER OF CALVES REGULATIONS I WITHDRAWN. The Board 01 Agriculture and Fisheries have made an Order, to operate on the 19th inst., which withdraws the restrictions on the slaughter of calves imposed by the Maintenance of Live Stock Orders of 1915 and 1916. ————

The Town Bazaar, Frogmore Street, is the up-to-date place for Fancy Combs, Hair Brushes, I Manicure Sets, Leather Bags, Purses, etc. Z,

I Abergavenny Parish Council. I I THE ANNUAL MEETING. I The annual meeting of the Abergavenny Parish Council L was held at Mr. Farquhar's I offices, in Market-street, on Tuesday last. There were present Mr. J. M. Jones, J.P., chairman pro tem., Mr. F. H. Facey, Mr. 1. M. Francis and Mr. W. Percy Denner, Councillors, and Mr. Farquhar, Clerk. I Election of Chairman. I Mr. J. Merton Jones remarked that he had now served the office of chairman for five years, and found that it rather interfered with his attendance at the Cattle Market on market r d8.Ys. Mr. J ohn Prichard, of Glendower, had J ?plentv of time to do the work, having retired from business, and he prooosed ?n?t Mr. John '? Prichard be elected chairman. This was seconded by Mr. 1. M. Francis, and 1! carried unanimously. It was decided not to elect a vice-chairman. I j The following parochial officers were then appointed :-Overseers Mr. John Prichard and j: Mr. William Gunter Harris. Members of the [ Abergavenny Burials Act Joint Committee The j > Rev. H. H. Matthew. M.A., Mr. J. O. Marsh, i; J.P., C.C.Dr. N. R. Phillips, and Mr. John j'. Prichard. Precept to the Overseers I The Burials Committee requiring ^4 7 ics. lid i. for interest on loans, sinking fund, wages, &c., a I precept for £ 50 was issue to the overseers to j; cover that sum and the current expenses of the 1i11 Council. The Annual Accounts. ll The Clerk produced these acc 'nts, which showed a balance of 1;,ï s. id. in hand. The ji accounts were confirmed, and signed by the I ¡ Chairman. j A letter was received from the Monmouthshire \Var Agricultural Committee enquiring the additional area brought under the plough this year. As the farmers had already received and answered circulars on this subject no order was made. ¡

BLAENAVON TRADES COUNCIL. ALLEGED SUFFERINGS OF CHILDREN. A special meeting ot the Btaenavon Irades and Labour Council was held on Monday, Mr. Charles Court (president) presiding. The principal item of business was the question of the co-option, or otherwise, of a member on the Blaenavon Urban District Council in place of Mr. Rowland Jones, who has left the district.— Mr. 1. J. Hay ward The means adopted by the local urban council with respect to co-option is only worthy of contempt. They should cer- tainly accept the highest defeated man who was before the electors. That is the fairest thing to do.-It was agreed to ask the Labour members of the council to nominate Mr. Wm. Spencer, miner, of Garn-yr-Erw. CHILDREN SHORT or FOOD. Mr. John Barry (President of the Blaenavon Miners' Federation) said he had been requested to call attention to the fact that owing to the occasional unemployment of local miners many men had sought and secured casual work in the outside departments at the Blaenavon Works and for contractors. The unfortunate position was that single men and married men with no dependents were being given this work, while men who could do with the work were over- looked. This matter was one for arrangement with the firms named.—Delegates declared that much distress was prevalent in the Blaenavon district, and it was stated that children were so short of food that they had fainted in school. It was a pity that this casual labour could not be so regulated as to give employment to those who needed it most.—It was agreed to .sk Mr. Clements, the works manager, to receive a deputation, who would suggest to him the compilation of a rota for the employment of necessitous married men. HARD TASKMASTERS. Discussion took place upon the question of the tenancy of houses in the district. Mr. Hay- wood stating that among the working classes there were some very hard taskmasters as property owners. It was perhaps a good thing that they had not many such owners.—Mr. Skuse I quite agr:e with that, but how can we help it '■—Mr. Haywood We can let them know that the leaders of the workers in this town disagree with such conduct.

Abergavenny Licensed Victuallers. An extraordinary general meeting of the Abergavenny and District Licensed Victuallers' Association was held at the Kings Head Hotel on Monday evening, when the president Mr. T. A. Delafield) presided over a large company of members and others connected with the trade. A large amount of business was transacted, and several matters of great importance to the trade are being dealt with, including the following :— (I) Reduction of licence duties (2. reduction of rating assessments (3) facilities to close licensed houses during the war ami to re-open afterwards (4) prices. Correspondence was read from the National Defence League and also from the Board of Control on several important points which will be of benefit to the trade in general. The President, who had gone to considerable trouble in obtaining facts and figures, explained to the members in an interesting address the vital importance of combining together. He also referred to the unfairness of varying prices. It was considered by the meeting that members of the trade were only acting contrary to their own interests in under-cutting on present stocks in order to secure a temporary advantage. It is the intention of the Association to endeavour to bring about a universal level of prices. The brewers are to be approached and to be asked for their support in supplying both tied and free houses with beer at a fixed price which will be fair to all concerned. A public meeting has been fixed to take place at the Black Lion Hotel on Thursday, May 3rd, when not only members but all persons interested are invited to be present. 4,

I The Vacant Living of Llangattock Lingoed. I To the Editor of the" Abergavenny Chronicle SIR,—Much indignation is felt at the present time amongst tae parishioners of Llangattock Lingoed that the appointment of a resident rector has not yet taken place. The living has been vacant since last year, and the church is now once served every Sunday by the late rector, who is now the rector of Llanthewy Skirrid. The living is in the patronage of the Bishop of Li and ait, and if there is any difficulty in obtain- ing a Welsh speaking incumbent, why not take immediate steps to secure the services of an Englishman ? Llangattock Lingoed is essentially an English speaking parish, and they will not be content with anything less than a resident clefgyman in their midst. Any attempt at grouping with any of the surrounding parishes will be steadily I resisted. The living of Oldcastle, in the immediate neighbourhood, which is in the bands of a private patron, does not even possess a dwelling house in the parish for the use of its rector, and yet there does not appear to have been any difficulty whatever in obtaining the services of an English clergyman to fill tne vaoancv caused by the resignation of the late rector. In the face of such stubborn facts the parish- ioners of Llangattock Lingoed must press through their claims to a successful issue. Yours obediently, UP AND DOI-NG. April 17, 1917. -6-

TOBACCO FUND. -?ready acknowledged ..¿352 12 11  0 I ï 0 This week •• •• •• 017 0 '.353 9 11  S' -lrs L.en('e 13. )Irs i,a; Baker ,,S. -en,,e -??Trs Eakey, Mrs E. Foster. 2s. Mr. Gnnter. I -&

Endorsing Inks, 1 each, in black, red, or I violet.—" Chronicle Office.