Evening Express

I TRAIN DISASTER. Driver Cannot Explain Southport Accident. The inquest on the bodies of the six persons killed in the recent disaster at Waterloo Rail- way Station, near Liverpool, when the Liver- pool to Southport express left the metals and was wrecked, waSj resumed yesterday at Waterloo Town-hall by Mr. Brighouse, county coroner. The families of the deceased and several of the injured were legally represented, and the principal officials of the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway were present. Edward Lloyd, driver of the ill-fated train, said it consisted of an engine and six bogey carriages. He had driven that particular train seven or eight times before. The speed was 45 to 50 miles an hour, the journey of eighteen miles and a half taking 25 minutes. At the footbridge at Waterloo Station the engine lifted up in front, the funnel catching the bridge, and went off the road. That was the last he remembered. He could give no reason why the engine went off the line. The guard of the ill-fated train said two months previously, on the journey to South- port, when entering Waterloo Station the train gave a nasty lurch, and passengers com- plained. This he reported to headquarters. After leaving Waterloo the express always travelled the twelve remaining miles in twelve minutes. A Liverpool phipbroker gave evidence tha.t he was quite prepared for the accident, and after the experience referred to above pur- posely avoided this particular train. I The railway company's chief mechanical engineer gave an opinion that an engine such as drew this partioular train would be safe travelling 70 miles an hour round such a curve as Waterloo. The jury declared that the evidence dis- closed did not admit of their arriving at the precise cause of the accident.

RAILWAY REGULATIONS. I T.V.R. Co's Successful Appeal to Commissioners. The Railway and Canal Commission, con- sisting of Mr. Justice Wright (president), Sir F. Pefl, and Viscount Cobham had before them on Tuesday an application by the Taff Vale Railway Company to rescind or vary rule eight of the Prevention of Accident Rules 1902. The application was referred to the court by the Board of Trade under Sections 1 to 10 of the Act, and the company asked the Commis- sioners to grant them exemption from the operation of the rule in respect of three sections of their line-from Penarth Junction to Penarth Dock; from Radyr Junction to Roath Junction and Roath Dock; and from Maindy Bridge, just outside Cardiff main I station, to the East and West Docks. Rule 8 proyided that after the rules framed by the Board of Trade had come into operation, "all trains working upon running lines beyond the limits of stations shall be provided with brake vans or other suitable vehicles for the use of the men in charge of such trains, which shall be so attached as to be conveniently used by them, and also with due regard to safety in working the trains." Evidence was also called cm behalf of the Amalgamated Society of Railway Servants, who preferred to work under the Board of Trade rule. In the result the commissioners decided that the application was a reasonable one. As regarded the empty wagons they thought the application ought to be granted, but as to laden wagons it would be for the Board of Trade to act in such a manner as they thought most desirable. I

CHARGE AGAINST A BARGOED FARMER I DISMISSED Thomas Jones, of Pencaedraw Farm, Bar- goed, appeared at Caerphilly Police-court on Tuesday in answer to a charge of assault pre, ferred against him by Margaret Harvey. The hearing had been adjourned from a fortnight ago, when it was alleged by the prosecutrix that whilst she was engaged by the defen- dant at his house he committed an assault upon her. Defendant was represented by Mr. T. J. Thomas, Bargoed, and Mr. T. S. Good- fellow, Caerphilly, prosecuted.—Evidence was given by Dr. D. Thomas, who said that he found no trace whatever of assault.—The Magistrates dismissed the case.

POUCE-SERGEANTS CAPTURE I Edward Donnally, a labourer, of no fixed abode, appeared at Caerphilly Police-court on Tuesday charged with being on premises for an unlawful purpose.—The evidence of Police- sergeant Hamm, of the Ruperra Castle Estate, was to the effect that he saw defendant on Monday evening approach one of the cottages on the estate and knock at the door. There was no response, and defendant afterwards tried to effect an entrance by using, a knife. He also broke a pane of glass in a window near the door, and in consequence was able to open the door. Witness entered the cottage, and found defendant crouching in a corner, and when arrested he said, "You came just too soon. If you had been a bit longer I would have been in and out again."— Prisoner was sentenced to three months' imprisonment with hard labour.

BATHING FATALITY AT BURRY PORTI A lad named John Morse, student at the Llanelly Intermediate School, son of Mr. Charles Morse, Williams-terrace, Burry Port, was drowned whilst bathing near the Old Pembrey Harbour on Tuesday afternoon. Two other lads were with him, but had come ashore intending to take a snap shot of him. At the time of the occnrance the tide was receding very fast.

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"Cochfarf's Comments. The uninitiated in the customs of the National Eisteddfod must not confuse the Crowning of the Bard" which took place yesterday at Llanelly with the better known. ceremony of Chairing of the Bard" which will take place on Thursday, unless an experience not unknown in the history of the Eisteddfod occurs, viz., that no com- petitor is deemed worthy of the prize. The crown is the evidence of a compro- mise between the supporters of the unalli- terative metres and those who believe in the cynghanedd," or alliterative style, that is peculiar to Welsh poetry. Thera are those who hold that the chief prize poetry at the National Eisteddfod should be absolutely free of all conditions as to the choice of subjects or of metre, but that each bard should submit for adjudication the best he can produce. However, until there is a great change from the prevailing conditions concerning these things the Crown" will be for y mesurau rhyddion" (free metres) and the "Chair" for those who love the fascination of y cynghaneddion (alliterative metres). As many of my readers may be con- cerned with out-patients of the Cardiff Infirmary, it would be well for them to make a note of the advertisement that the out-patient department will be closed until the 22nd inst. Infirmaries are in need of cleaning days; and, indeed, it is necessary that their governors should give an example of the good quality that is regarded as being next to godliness, espe- cially in an institution where over 16,000 patients are treated annually ilf the out- patient department alone. Of course, cases of emergency will be received at any time, as is usually done. This reminds me also that to-night Mr. Richardson will give his third annual concert at the Sophia Gardens in aid of the funds of the Cardiff Infirmary. Given fine weather, with the grounds illuminated and an excellent pro- gramme of music, vocal and instrumental, the Cardiff Infirmary treasury should benefit very materially from Mr. Richard- son's generous act. Whether natives or descendants of natives of the Principality are described as "Welsh" or "Welch," in both instances it means that we have to submit to being described as "strangers" even in the land of our birth. Why cannot we, like the Cymro who writes from Labathan, India, to the Western Mail," insist upon being called Cymry," as our land is known in our own tongue as Cymru" and our lan- guage as Cyi-nraoeg P If after such a rule is universally adopted our fellow- subjects still chose to describe us as strangers, then it will show that the cry for Imperial unity, which is so prevalent now, is a very hollow one, indeed. The word has long ago ceased to have an offensive meaning, and not one in ten thousand of those who use it have the slightest idea of its derivation neverthe- less, there is no reason that we should be known by any other name than that which is a correct description. I elect to be known in future as a "Cymro," and I would advise my Ca inbro-Indian friend to adopt the same resolution. I have failed to discover any new idea pertaining to the National Museum move- ment in the discussion which took place at the Cymmrodorion Section of the National Eisteddfod now being held at Llanelly. The great ado about making a central museum adaptable for loan purpose is a matter that would be bound to be provided for in a State-aided institution. Some of the speakers appear to me to have only just woke up to suggestions that are hoary with age, and of which so many ardent nationalists have almost become weary of repeating. The question is so thoroughly thrashed by now as to remind me of, the old farmer who had flailed his corn so effectually as to leave nothing for the miller to do. The Government has plainly told the Welsh members of both parties that it is prepared to give a grant in aid of a National Museum on senible conditions, and, instead of proceeding to meet the conditions, those who should know better go on—talking! 1 The large and strange jewellery collec- tion found in the possession of a Cardiff lunatic illustrates a very common pecu- liarity of the insane. They are given to acquisitiveness and secretiveness, and the oddest articles are hidden in the most extraordinary places. Very often articles are swallowed, and the cleverest anato- mists cannot account for the way in which they have been got into a human body. In asylum wards, where as few receptacles as possible are allowed, the joint of a flooring board or a keyhole receive a good deal of attention, and unless the former are tongued with iron all sortfe of things .are pressed into the space which is usually found between the joists of strong floors. This suggests that insanity results often from a lack of control of our commonest instincts, and is really due to an access of brain activity rather than from the want of it. For several years now it has been cus- tomary for Cambro-Americans to visit their native land in time to enable them to look in at the National Eisteddfod, and this year is no exception to that rule. At Ponty- pridd last night there was a meeting to. wish God-speed to two well-known American preachers, who have been on a tour of the Principality, but the American accent could be heard there almost as frequently as that of Glamorganshire. The, most prominent visitor, probably, is Mr. Ellis Owen, the slato millionaire of Slatington, but, although he is domiciled iy the United States, his heart is ever in his native land, and his thoughts are always with every movement here tending to im- prove the status of his fellow-countrymen. The great meeting-place for these birds of passage, I understand, will be the Gorsedd circle on Thursday morning.

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WELSH MUSEUM. I It would have done some of our North Wales friends good to see the throngs of people who besieged the Cardiff Museum on Tuesday. Probably, not one person in a hundred was a Cardiffian-they were all evidently from the "hills." They climbed the awkward staircases with determination, though many of their number were women and little children and they surveyed the various treasures with interest and wonder. It was a sug- gestive and instructive object-lesson. If we are in a corner of Wales (and London is in a corner of Great Britain) at the same time we have the population. It should never be forgotten that more than half the people in Wales live in Glamorgan, and if Monmouthshire is included the argu- ment in favour of Cardiff becomes weightier still. If these crowds visit the tnuseum when it is cribbed, cabined, and I confined, as it is at present, what would they not do if there ,vasan adequate building, if all the stairs were abolished, and if the vast array of treasures which Cardiff possesses were properly housed and displayed? No one who visited the museum yesterday could deny that Cardiff's case for the national museum is irresistible.

So a new Pope has been elected. It may be irreverent to refer to the Tenth Pius as a "darjs horse," still here, as so often elsewhere, the dark horse has won. From what is known of him the new Pope seems a man eminently fitted to fill his exalted and most responsible position. He comes to his great office under brighter auspices than any single one of his many predecessors, and with the world's lauda- tion of Peo Leo ringing in his ears. He will have a herculean task to succeed the late Pontili, but Protestants will join with Catholics in the earnest hope that lie may prove a not unworthy successor of the noble man and mighty Pope who was lately gathered to his fathers.

Now that there is talk of still further increasing the workhouse accom- modation at Cardiff, it may be timely to refer to a resolution passed by a North Wales board on the subject of vagrancy, and requesting the President of the Local Government Board to introduce into Par- liament a measure giving more stringent powers to boards of guardians for dealing with vagrants. It was stated at the meeting referred to that any number of vagrants were going about systematically, and that they had a regular code of signs which they placed on the gates and posts of houses in chalk. For instance, a circle with a dot in the centre signified, Don't go to this house." We should like this hint taken up by householders in our own district who are weary of answering the door to worthless and impudent beggars. Let things be made as comfortable as pos- sible in our workhouses for old people, but let the way of the vagrant be rendered hard enough to induce him to seek for an honest livelihood.

Mainly About People. Sir W. H. Preece, who is now seriously ill, once had a trying but amusing experience. It was in the early days of long distance telephony, and the late Queen was anxious to make the acquaintance of the new marvel. She wae then at Osborne, and it was arranged that the music of a military band should be transmitted over the wire to Osborne House. But by some misunderstanding the band did not keep the engagement, and to the con- sternation of Sir William, in its absence, came a message that the Sovereign was ready for the entertainment. Delay was out of the question, and explanation was not to be thought of. But the engineer rose to the occasion. He himself became the band, and he hummed into the transmitter with all the vigor and brazenness of intonation he could command, a. well-known air. Very anxiously, when it was over, he asked if the music had been heard and recognised. "Yes," was the Queen's reply. "It was the National Anthem. -aad very badly played, too." Mr. Edgar Flower, whose sudden death from heart-failure is announced, was a well-known citizen of Stratford-on-A von. He was a member of the brewing firm of Flowers and Sona (Limited), and took an active part in the great business, which was founded by his father, Edward Fordham Flower, on very modest lines. His elder brother, Charles Edward Flower, who died eleven years ago, was the donor of the splendid Shakspeare Memorial Theatre at Stratford, and bestowed many other gifta upon the town. Mr. Edgar Flower, who was about 72 years of age, also took a, keen interest in the town, and six months ago, on the death of Sir Arthur Hodgson, he was elected chairman of Shakspeare's Birthplace Trustees. His eon, Mr. Archibald D. Flower, has been three times mayor of Stratford-on- Avon, and another son, Lieutenant Fordham Flower, of the Warwickshire Yeomanry, was killed in the South African War while with Pskgeta force in pursuit of Be Wet. The Free Church Chronicle" has an article on the Bev. J. E. Roberts, who succeeds Dr. M'Laren as pastor of the Union Chapel, Man- cheater. He is photographed as follows:- What manner of man, then, is he to whom the doctor's charge will pass? Imagine a broad, athletic figure, full of strength and elasticity, a face in which strength and gentle- ness go together, regpnisive to the touch of humour or the call for sympathy, a man who meets you always half-way, shakes your hand like a brother, whose presence is like a breath from the sea, wholesome and bracing. Imagine all this and more, and you have some rough notion of what Dr. M'Laren's successor is like." His life-story is easily told (the writer con- tinues)—a Lancashire man by birth, a Welsh- man by descent, and a Free Churchman—and a Baptist-equally by training and convic- tion. Mr. Roberts was born on October 5, 1866, when his father was minister of the Baptist Church at Bootle, so he is not yet 38. Though moved by strong social sympathies and taking a keen interest in public questions, Mr. Roberts has throughout his life been a hard student. He spent five years in Regent's Park Baptist College, of which at one time his father was the principal. In 1888 he graduated B.A. in the London University; in 1889 he passed the examination of the Senatus Academicus of the Associated Theological Colleges, taking second place in the honors list; a year later he took his M.A. degree in London, heading the list in mental and moral philosophy; and a few years ago he took the Bachelors' degree in divinity of St. Andrew's University. It is stated that Sir Evelyn Wood is offering a cup for competition by officers in what i called a long distance compass-bearing ride. Though novel in England, similar rides, known as chart and compass races, were carried out I under Lord Roberts in India. The dis- tance to be run is 25 miles, and competitors are forbidden to use whips or sticks, whilst spur-marks on a horse will mean disqualifica- tion. At the end of the race the condition of the horses will be judged by their ability to eat half a feed of corn within one hour of completing the course, and the cup will go to the officer whose horse is in the best condi- tion. The idea of the competition is to train the officers in the proper management of horses, the importance of which was demon- strated in South Africa. We have very young conductors, as well as very old ones. The distinction of being the youngest musical conductor in the king- dom was claimed for Miss Kathleen Norah Mills, aged eleven, of Ongar. Essex. But the "Ladies' Review" declares that at a concert at Llandrindod Wells, when the Duchess of Abercorn and other notabilities were present, a full prize choir of mixed voices was suc- cessfully conducted by Miss Sybil Burton, aged nine. The phrenologists have been working on Xr. Chamberlain's head, and their judgment appears in this month's phrenological journal. The strength of his ambition is only equalled by the elevation of his mind. He has a good command of language, and) his side head has developed considerably since 1880. Many members of the Roman Catholic Church, holding a prominent position in the world, may be said to follow the mean between smartness and, seriousness. Of these are Lord and Lady Denbigh, wealthy and exclusive; Lord and Lady Edmund Talbot, the latter to be seen at the smartest balls in London; Lord and Lady Abingdon, and their debutante daughter, Lady Gwendoline Bertie, who was one of the prettiest girls of the season. Lord Lovat, who distinguished him- self in South Africa, and raised a force known as "Lovat's Scouts." Lady FingaJl, a. charm- ing woman, keen on the question of Irish industries; Lady William Nevill, an accom- plished musician; and Lady, Tiohborne, a very experienoed traveller. Sir Frederick Bridge is a good story-teller, and has a fund of amusing personal expe- riences to draw upon. One of the great musician's best stories is about a provincial church organist, who was once a pupil of his. This young man was appointed to an impor- tant church in the Midlands. In course of time he got married. The ceremony took place in his own church, and bride and bride- groom drove away from the porch to the joy- ful strains of The Wedding March." During his absence his voluntaries were much missed by the congregation. They had always been appreciated, and their renewal was looked forward to. Imagine," says Sir Frederick Bridge, the intense amusement of the people when the newly-married organist gave as his voluntary upon his return Handel's "Waft her, angels, to the skies." Lord Young is one of the oldest and most learned judges of the Court of Session. He is a native of Dumfries, and was presented with the freedom of the burgh the other week. At the banquet which followed Lord Young re- called many youthful incidents. In parti- cular, he told the company a story about his father, who in old days owned some very fine apple trees. There were many raids made upon the fruit, and Lord Young's father laid hold of a likely youth one day, and offered him half-a-crown if he would give a hint as to who was responsible. The boy accepted the half-crown, on condition that when the cul- prit's name was disclosed he would not be punished. In telling this story Lord Young caused much merriment by turning to the Provost of the town, who was in the chair, and asking him what he did with that half- crown! Too much prosperity is said to make the gods envious. And Mr. George Wyndham, Chief Secretary for Ireland, bids fair to incur their displeasure, as he must certainly be reckoned among the most fortunate of men. Life has afforded him many good gifts—birth, brains, looks, money, a now-assured political career, and last, but not least, a happy and prosperous marriage. His wife is one of the most interesting women in the three king- doms.

NAVAL COURT-MARTIAL: SEVERE SENTENCE An able seaman, named George Rose, belong- ing to his Majesty's ship Pembroke, was sen- tenced by a naval eourt-cartial at Chatham on Tuesday to four years' penal servitude for desertion and for striking a superior officer.

ANOTHER IRISH KNIGHTHOOD I Intimation was received in Belfast on Tues- day that the King had been pleased to confer a knighthood on Alderman Robert Anderson, J.P., high-sheriff. Alderman Anderson, who was attending a meeting of the corporation when the announcement arrived, received the hearty congratulations of the Lord Mayor and others.

BAROMETRICAL INDICATIONS. I BA R N S. The following are the readings since the o'clock last evening, as given by the barometer in the vestibule of the "Evening Express," St. Mary-street, Cardiff, which Is 3Jit. above men Ilea level:—

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eROWNIN THE BARDI ———.— 0 ————— Success of a Popular London Preacher. MORE CHORAL CONTESTS AT EISTEDDFOD. As reported in the Special Edition of the "Evening Express" yesterday, the first Gorsedd of the Llanelly Eisteddfod of 1903 was opened in rainy weather yesterday. The eisteddfod proceedings were opened promptly at ten o'clock in the pavilion, and even at that time there was a fairly large audience in the cheaper seats, but the centre was, comparatively speaking, sparsely patro- nised. However, the dulness of the weather was not communicated to the audience, for good humour prevailed, and a good store of eisteddfodic enthusiasm. Mr. J. W. Wynne- Hughes, J.P., Tregib, presided, and "Gurnos" was the conductor. The Llanelly Town Band, conducted by Mr. James Samuel, played a selection of music. after which the President delivered a brief address in English. Mr. Tom Thomas sang the eisteddfod song, Arafa Don" (R. S. Hughes), after which there was a competition which, as such con- tests always do, aroused considerable inte- rest, viz., a pennillion singing competition, in accordance with South Wales custom. Only two competitors appeared on the plat- form, and of the two Mr. John Devonald, Merthyr, was, undoubtedly, the better. The adjudicator w.V Eos Dar." "Dyfed," "Berw," and "Watcyn Wyn," were the adjudicators upon the Hir a Thoddaid ar "CWêg" (Sleep), and it was stated that 36 compositions had been received, the prize ( £ 2 2s.) being awarded to a bard well-known as Gwilym ap iLleision," of Ystradgynlais. Translations came next. Of the five-guinea prize for a translation of Elfed's Rhagor- fraint y Gweithiwr," and Ben Davies's "Crwydryn," there was no one worthy. For translating "Daniel Ddu's'' "Dychweliad yr Afradlon" and "lalwyn's" "Nis gall y fflam eu difa hwy." the prize ( £ 3 3a.)) was awarded to the Rev. Wynne Jones, M.A., vicar of Carnarvon. The adjudicators were the Rev. E. O. Jones, M.A., Llanidloes, and Principal W. Edwards, D.D., Cardiff. Upon the pianoforte solo competition, Scherzo No. 2. Opus 31" (Chopin), the adjudi- cators were Mr. W. Shakespeare. Dr. W. G. M'Naught, and Mr. C. Francis Lloyd. Thirty-five competitors had entered, but only 22 played in the preliminary contest-quite enough, most people would say. Mr. Shakes- peare, in delivering the adjudication, said no doubt the audience would be glad to hear that they, as adjudicators, thought very highly of the competition. The piece played was one of transcendent difficulties, and the three competitors who had appeared before the audience were the best out of 22 who had appeared in the preliminary test. They had selected as the best Miss Adelina, George, Tredegar. Mr. Daniel James. M.A. (H.M.I.S.) and Mr. J. B. Williams (H.M.I.S.) delivered the adjudi- cation upon the Text book on the history and geography of Carmarthenshire, suitable for use in the higher classes of elementary schools." The prize of S,12 12s. was awarded to "Coel Godhebog," Mr. Abraham Morrison, Newport, who was invested by Mrs. Neville, Felinfoel House, Llanelly. Baritone golo.-A prize of E2 was offered for the best rendering of Even bravest heart may swell (Gounod's "Faust"). There were 47 competitors, four of whom survived the preliminary test and sang on the Eisteddfod platform. Dr. W. M'Naught delivered the adjudication. The winner was invested by Mrs. Maybery, Penmount. Violin Solo.—Only one violinist appeared in this competition, the best piece being Men- delssohn's Concerto." and the prize offered £ 2. The adjudication was delivered by Mr. Shakespeare. The winner was Mr. Willie Roberts, Morriston. The subject of the crown prize poem was "Vicar Prichard." and the adjudicators were Cadfan," Gwili," and" Mafonwy." The prize poem was very highly praised Jtev. J. E. DAVIES, M.A., Tho Crowned Bard. for its originality, its beauty of diction, and its design. There were some faults pointed out, but there was no doubt in the minds of the adjudicators as to" its merits, and as to its being worthy of the prize. (Applause.) The fictitious name under which the prize poem had been sent in was "bordof," and when this name was called out it was dis- covered that the winner was the Rev. J. E. Davies, M.A., of New Jewin Calvinistic Metho- dist Chapel, London. The Rev. J. E. Davies was invested by Mrs. Brynmor Jones with the silver coronet and JE30, which he had so well won. In the afternoon the president's chair was occupied by Sir John Williams, Bart., The Plas, Llanstephan, who was received with much enthusiasm, and who delivered a sug- j gestive address in opening the proceedings. The quartette.—By the time this competi- tion was reached the pavilion presented a. brilliant appearance, there being a capital attendance. The test piece was Verdi's "Dn di si ben," for the best rendering of which a prize of L4 was offered. Fourteen parties had entered the lists, three of whom appeared on the platform, having survived the pre- liminary test. The adjudication was delivered by Mr. Shakespeare. who said that this quar- tette was one of the most strenuous, and one of the most difficult ever written for the voice. Therefore, the audience could imagine how much he and his fellow adjudicators had appreciated that afternoon's renderings The first party that sang did so in a very high key-a key which often was not done in opera. Their performance was a very worthy one. The second rendering was, perhaps, ¡ fuller in character, and the culmination still higher than the first. The third was also exr cellent, but in a lesser degree. They werb unanimons in awarding the prize to the first party, composed of Miss Maude Waite, Bris- tol. Miss Maggie Lewis, Cardiff, and Mr. Dan I Thomas and Mr. Lewis James, of Ponty- cwmmer. The successful singers were in- vested by Lady Llewelyn, who came in for an ovation upon appearing upon the platform. The winning quartette are pupils of Madame Clara Novello Davies. Contralto song.—A prize of C3 was offered for the best original song composed for con- tralto voice. Mr. Shakespeare, in giving the ad- judication, said that he would seriously advise the people of Wales to a more serious study of composition. It was of the greatest impor- tance that they should study the works of other countries, and it was not sufficient to string together two or three themes and call them a song. He hoped that they would not be angry with him when he said that he and is co-adjudicators had found the compositions sent in not of very high merit. The prize would be awarded to No. 4-Mr. John Roberts, Plassaf, Llandwrqg, Carnarvonshire. Pedal Harp Solo.—The prize in this com- petition waa P,2 10s. and a gold medal (givjD by Messrs. Erard. London), the test piece being Spring (John Thomas). There was only one competitor, Mr. Tom Bryant, Ponty- pridd, who was adjudged worthy of the prize. Mezzo-Soprano Solo.—Mr. R. C. Jenkins deli- vered the adjudication in this competition, two test pieces having been selected—" I for- get what I am" (Mozart's Songe), and "Silent Singer" (Dr. Rogers). There were 33 com- petitors, and the prize was awarded to Miss Edith Evans, Bristol. Glee and Part Song.—The prize of £10 offered in this popular competition attracted eleven parties. There were two test pieces My love is like a red, red rose." and "Sylvan Pleasures." The competing choirs were:—Cambro Glee Society, conductot Mr. Hugh Hughes; Tonypandy District Glee Society, conductor Mr. Henry Jones; Pwll, Glee Party, conductor Mr. Tom Brassell; Salem, Llwynypia, Choirs Nos. 1, 2, and 3, conductor Mr. John Griffiths; Apollo Glee Singers, conductor "Gwilym Taff"; The Wandering Minstrels, conductor Mr. T. Stephens; Bhondda Glee Party, conductor Mr. J. Pritchard; Port Talbot, conductor Mr. G. T. Llewellyn; and Mid-Rhondda Glee Singers, conductor Mr. T. Jones. A detailed adjudication was given by Dr. M'Naught. who. expressed his regret that several of the choirs! had used t,lje ftiano for purposes of accom- j paniment when it was not required. In this case the piano did not help them at all, and he did not know why it should have been brought in. They were unanimous in award- ing the prize to the Mid-Rhondda. Glee Singers. 'Cello Solo.—Two competitors appeared in this solo, the test piece being Intermezzo (Goeterman). Master T. Wise, Llanelly, gained the prize of £2 Soprano and Alto Duet.—The successful couple in this competition were Miss Maud Waite, Bristol, and Miss Maggie Lewis, Car- diff, the test piece being Gentle Spring." The most important musical competition of the day was that open to choirs of between 80 and 100 voices, the prize being f,60, and the test pieces 0, be Joyful (David Evans), and Ynyswen" (J. H. Roberts). Ten choirs entered the competition, and sang in the following order :-1, Narberth, conductor, Mr. J. Harries; 2, Aberdare, Mr. Tom Jones; 3, Trinity, Mr. Tom Jones; 4, Glantawe, Mr. Jno. Jones; 5, Brynamman, Mr. Edward Evans; 6, Cwmbwrla, Mr. Harry Williams; 7, Rhondda Fach, Mr. Tliomas 'Thomas; 8. St. Peter's, Llanelly, Mr. J. W. Godsell. The adjudicators were Dr. W. G. M'Naught, Mr. C. Francis Lloyd, and Mr. R. C. Jenkins. The singing was excellent upon the whole, and, though the competition lasted from five o'clock until after half-past six p.m., the interest was sustained throughout, as, indeed, it generally is whenever a keen contest fj witnessed in the National Eisteddfod of Wales. The adjudication was delivered by Mr. C. Francis Lloyd, who complimented the Eistedd- fod promoters on the general excellence of the competition, and expressed the pleasure which they, as adjudicators, had felt in listening to the performances of the choirs. The adjudicators had come to the conclusion that the prizes should be awarded in the following order:- i.-Brynaman. I 2.-Glantawe. 3.—St. Peter's Church Choir, Llanelly. I The announcement was received with hearty cheering, but a protest was promptly entered against the first prize being awarded to Bryn- aman, upon the ground that there were pro- fessional singers in the choir. The prize was, therefore, withheld until this (Wednesday) morning, pending the decision of the Eistedd- fod committee upon the protest. There was a large and appreciative audience in the pavilion yesterday evening, when the Eisteddfod Choir, numbering 350 voices, under the baton of Mr. John Thomas, gave a splendid performance of Handel's oratorio, Israel in Egypt."

FALL FROM A TRAIN. I Collier's Experience after the I Races. An action was brought by David Davies, an overman at Nixon's Navigation Collieries, of Holly Bush Cottage, Merthyr Vale, against the Great Western Railway Com- pany for damages, put at Y,250, for personal injuries alleged to have been sustained through the negligence of the defendant com- pany. The action was tried at the last assizes at Cardiff, when the jury disagreed. The facts were fully published at the time. It appeared that on the "lth of May last year plaintiff went in an excursion run to Chester Races. On the return journey plaintiff said he fell asleep, and when just beyond Hereford he woke and went to look out of the carriage window when the door flew open. He clung to it desperately, but his fingers got be- numbed, and eventually he fell out on to the six-footway, and sustained serious injuries to his head, back, and arm. The consequence was that he was incapacitated for a consider- able time. The defence was tnat the carriage in which plaintiff travelled was not the defen- dant company's nor under the control of any of its servants. Mr. Abel TEiomas, K.C., M.P., and Mr. Sankey (instructed by Messrs. Roberts- Jones and Everett) were for the plaintiff, and Mr. B. Francis-Williams, K.C., and Mr. Ben- eon (instructed by Mr. R. R. Nelson) for the defendants. Plaintiff was called, and detailed the facts. Asked in cross-examination if someone at Chester told him it was a North Western train he said "No." HIs asked if it wae a South Wales train, and if it was a Merthyr train. He did not know that North Western trains ran from Chester to Merthyr. William Alder said he was on the Chester platform with plaintiff, and the officials described the train as the Merthyr Vale train. The witness had written letters for the plain- tiff to the defendant company, but he denied that he desired them to think he was a solici- tor. He was a. fishmonger. Dr. C. R. White described the injuries, and said plaintiff appeared to be suffering also from shock. He attended him for one month at his house, and he came to the surgery regularly for another month. He had been seeing him since and right up to the present for pains in the head, evidently caused by the fall. He complained of his memory. The injuries would be likety to affect his memory. Mr. B. Francis-Williams, for the defence, sub- mitted that before he could obtain damages plaintiff had to satisfy the jury that he was travelling by a. train belonging to the defen- dants, and, secondly, that the accident was due to the negligence of the company's servants. The first thing the Great Western Railway Company knew of the affair was when plaintiff was taken to the Hayward signal-box. Then he said that he had been pushed out of the train, and he was sent to Hereford, where he said he could not say whether he fell out or was pushed out. When in the infirmary in that town he, however, made a statement which showed his memory was cleax enough. He then said, "I don't remember opening the door, and I can't ex- plain how it happened. I was not pushed out," and add-ed that the other men in the carriage were strangers to him. Then he went on to say: "I travelled by the Great Western Railway forward, but was told it was a London and North Western train lwas returning withy That statement was taken down and read over to him, after which he signed it. Learned counsel reminded the jury that it was at the time of Chester Races, and there were a great many people on the plat- form. Not only was the Great Western Com- pany running an excursion, but the London and North Western as well. Now there would naturally be a good deal of confusion and the plaintiff asking for a South Wales or the Merthyr train would be directed to either. Both trains would run over the same lines as fa.r as Abergavenny. This statement made soon after the accident, that he was told the train was in the London and North Western Railway Station, lie asked the jury to believe, especially as the evidence for the defence would go to prove this. Evidence for the defence was being heard when the court adjourned till 10.30 this morn- ing.

CALLS ON SHARES. Company's Claim. Heard at the Swansea Assizes. At Glamorgan Assizes yesterday, in an action for 125 for certain calls on shares, Mr. David Williams (instructed by Messrs. Shephards and Walters) appeared for the plaintiff company, and Mr. Abel Thomas, K.C., M.P. (instructed by Messrs Roberts-Jones and Everett) for the de- fendant. Defendant counter-claimed for loss of profits, &c., sustained by his not having been made a director. The claim was for a 5s. call on 100 shares.—The defendant in the witness-box stated that he took the shares on the condition that he was to be made a direc- tor of a local branch to be established at Bristol. The business had, however, been sold to another company without his having been made a director.—The Judge said a legal point would have to be reserved for consider- ation in London, but the question of fact would be submitted to the jury. If a man allowed his name to be placed in the list of shareholders without anything to distinguish him from other shareholders he accepted that position; he must have, at the same time, a contract with them to make him a director, upon which he could sue them for damages. The question for the jury was whether the true agreement was that defen- dant was willing to have the shares if he was made a director.—To this the jury replied in the affirmative, and that there was a breach of contract. If it should be found that his legal remedy was by damages, and not by being taken off the register, they assessed those damages at £ 75.

FETE AND GALA AT ABERDARE I A fete and gala was held at the Abernant Park, Aberdare, on Tuesday, and the function was a complete success. The Aberaman Silver Band, fresh from their field of triumph at Llanelly, played selections during the day. The chief attractions were the performances of Chiyo and Moto, the Japanese acrobats, and Davilla, the wire-walker. In the evening there was a display of fireworks by Mr. J. Wells, London. The funds are to be devoted to the liquidation of the debt on the National Schools of St. Fagan's and Cwmbach.

£100 fora Paragraph I COUPON. I B No. 31. 5-8-03. I

YOU CAN NOW BEGIN I The Interesting Competition for 100 Sovs. The three months' period in the interesting and easy competition for £100 (details of which will be found on Page 4 in to-day's "Evening Express") began on July 1. But anyone who wants to take a hand may begin now, for the only condi- tion is that 60 coupons are sent in with each paragraph selected. It is ONE paragraph only which will be adjudged the best, and the reader who sends in that paragraph will receive the prize, subject only to the condition in the last paragraph in the notice on Page 4. If any reader thinks two or more paragraphs are of equal merit, there is no rule to prevent his sending them all iG, provided 60 coupons are sent with each paragraph.

ABDUCTION CHARGE. Swansea Gir l Lives with Labourer at Llantrisant. At Glamorgan. Assizes yesterday, John Burns, 24, labourer, was indicted for abducting Mary Ellen Collett from the custody of her father, a lodging-house keeper at Upper Strand, Swansea. Mr. T. Jeremiah Williams appeared for the prosecution. Robert Collett said his daughter was sixteen years of age, and had lived with him, per- forming household duties, till. the early part of last year, when she disappeared. The prisoner had lived in his house for nine months previous to that time, and on the 7th of April he left. Simultaneously his daughter left without his consent. Mary Ellen Collett, who looked older than her stated age, said she was very friendly with the prisoner when he lived at her house, and she asked him to take her away. Her father had often told her to leave his house. She went with prisoner to Llantrisant, where she lived with him as his wife for about three weeks. They eventually travelled to Wrexham. Ann Williams, a lodging-house keeper at Llantrisant, proved that the parties stayed at her house as man and wife for three weeks. In reply to the Judge, she said the girl ap- peared to her at the time to be about eighteen years of age, although she was only fifteen. She made no inquiries. A discussion ensued as to whether proceed- ings should not have been taken under the Criminal Law Amendment Act, but eventually the judge allowed the case to proceed under the older statute. Addressing the jury the judge said the girl had stated that she asked the prisoner to take her away, and that she had told him she was nineteen, but it was well known that in such cases the female was always ready to take the blame, as she could not be punished. The question was, whether the girl had accom- panied him at his request or entirely on her own initiative. If it was a conjoint arrange- ment the man would be guilty, but if it was entirely her doing he was not. The Judge further read the words of the statute, which referred to a definite" Solding out any in- ducement to the girl to leave, or to continue to remain with him. The jury found the prisoner guilty. The prisoner said he intended to marry the girl. The Judge: Why didn't you do so. You had the chance. His lordship re-called the father, and asked him if he did not favour a mar- riage, but Collett replied in the negative. "Why"? asked the Judge. "Is it because he is not in a position to keep her?" The Father: He is not. You want him punished?—He deserves it. I don't say he does not, but, as she has lived with the man for a year, don't you think it would be better if they were married?-No, sir. The Judge then directed that prisoner should come up for judgment at the next assizes, and if he had not married the girl by that time through any default of his own he would then be punished.

WIDOW AND SON. Singular Case Heard in the Law Courts. In the King's Bench yesterday Mrs. Lillie Strathmore Nuthall, widow of the late General Nuthall, sued Colonel William Frost Nuthall, eldest son of the general, as administrator of his father's estate, for £52 alleged to be due in respect of arrears of allowance made by the late general to the plaintiff. The Plaintiff said in 1891, when she was a young widow with five children, she married the general, and they lived at her house in Woburn-place. In 1894 an unpleasant incident occurred. A lady called at the house and made certain allegations against the general, and this upset the plaintiff. The incident had reference to an earlier chapter in the general's life, and it was so unpleasant that the plain- tiff and the general agreed it was undesirable there should be-a repetition of the scene before her children. It was arranged that the; general should take up a separate residence, and he did so, continuing, however, to visit plaintiff daily. They lived on affection-ate I terms down to the general's death. After the general left Woburn-place he arranged to allow the plaintiff £16 a month, and she claimed a balance unpaid at the time of his death Mr. Justice Lawrence said he regretted that a son should for such a trumpery sum drag dirt into court and bring discredit on his father's name. He was glad to have the opportunity of giving judgment against him. Counsel for the defendant said the defen. dant was unaware the plaintiff was going to mention the matter. Judgment was given for the plaintiff for £ 36, as she had overlooked L16 she had received.

I BLAENAVON POLiCEMAN BEATEN A sturdy young collier from Blaenavon, named Hugh Prosser, was sentenced to one month's imprisonment with hard labour at Pontypool on Tuesday for assaulting three members of the police force at Blaenavon on Monday night. Shortly before nine o'clock prisoner was seen to enter the Lion Hotel, Broad-street, in a. very drunken condition. Police- constable Philip Hamptory. who followed him, attempted to get him home, and with this the prisoner rushed at the officer and tried to stab him with a knife he held in his hand. A struggle afterwards ensued, and two other officers who were summoned for assistance came in for some rough treatment. Police- constable Harburton came off the worst in the affray, and he appeared in court with a ba-dly bruised face. Police-constable James Jones and Police-constable Hampton also stated that they had been more or less injured by the prisoner. Prisoner was further fined 10s. for being drunk..

SOUTH WALES COAL TRADE I A mass meeting of the men employed at the Bwllfa and Nantmelyn Collieries, who have been idle since Saturday, owing to non- Unionista working in the pits, was held at the Trecynon Public-hall on Tuesday, when it was resolved not to return to work until those who were not members of the Miners' Federation had joined the ranks or were dis- missed.

ECCLESIASTICAL NEWS 1 The Vicarage of Troetrey, with Bettws Newydd, near Usk, vacant by the resignation of the Rev. Herbert Sheppard, M.A., has been offered by the Dean and Chapter of Llandaff, the patrons for this turn, to the Rev. Edward Jones Lloyd, M.A., vicar of Llantilio Cros- senny, near Abergavenny, by whom it has been accepted.

THE M06T FASHMNABI?B RESTAURANT & TEA Booms in Wales.—Varied menu, rofmod cookery, and most ,moderw?e pricæ.-The Dorothy, High-st., CM?T. eM7a

WELSH JOINT BOARD! -0 Draft Scheme from Sir Wm. Anson. CENTRAL WELSH BOARD TO BE SUPERSEDED. With regard to the proposed joint com- mittee for Wales, and in fulfilment of an undertaking given by Sir William Anson, M.P., Vice-President of the Board of Educa- tion, to the consultative committee of the Welsh County Councils Association, the fol- lowing draft scheme has been outlined show- ing how the proposals for a Joint Board included in draft county schemes already under consideration might be carried out by a separate scheme made under Section 17 (5) of the Act. It is intimated that the financial questions involved in any joint arrangement d not stand in the way of the preparation f the scheme, as negotiations for the qolu- tion of these questions, in which the board will co-operate, can proceed concurrently with the consideration of the present proposals for the establishment of the committee. The scheme provides for the establishment of a joint educational committee for the councils named in the schedule, for the purpose of dealing with matters relating to the training of teachers and the examination and the inspection of schools throughout the combined area. The joint committee to consist of a num- ber of members to be elected by the com- bining councils respectively, as specified in the schedule. Jt is suggested that not les3 than one-half of the members of the joint committee shall be members of the combining councils, and that there shall always be on the joint committee persons of experience in the training of teachers and in the examination and inspection of the various kinds of schools in the combined area, some of whom must be women. In the selection of members of the joint committee by each council due regard shall be had in the matter of persons who are members of the education committee of the council mak- ing the appointment. Members shall be appointed annually at the meeting at which the chairman of the council is ordinarily elected, that is in county coun- cils; and in county borough councils at a meeting to be held on the 16th of March of each year. Members to be appointed as soon as convenient after the approval of the scheme, casual vacancies to be filled up by the council to whom the member vacating th6 position belonged. The committees may deal with other matters which the combining councils, with the sanction of the Board of Education, may from time to time determine. Any doubt as to what questions stand referred to the! joint committee to be decided by the Board of Education. Any other county council in Wales or Mon- mouthshire that is not a party to this scheme may at any time, by passing a resolution, be admitted. Notice must be given by any council of their intention to 'retire from the combina- tion, and the total number of members of the joint committee to be reduced accordingly. I If the number of councils on the combin- a-tion at any time fall below six the joint com- mittee to be dissolved. Due regard shall be had on the election of any executive com- mittee for the inclusion of persons ex- perienced in respect of the training of teachers and examination and inspection of the various kind of schools in the combined area. Future Work of Inspection and I Examination. At a meeting of the governors of the Cardiff Intermediate Schools on Tuesday a 1,'tttZ from the clerk to the Radnorshire County Council, proposing to put the examination and inspection of schools under the Welsh Univer- sity authorities, was read.—The Chairman said this meant the abolition of the Welsh Central Board, and thought it was premature to take action at present.—The Mayor remarked that the members of the university oourts complained that they had too much to do at present.-No resolution waa passed on the subject. New Joint Board. Mr. Kenyon (U., Denbigh Boroughs) has given notice that he will ask te Secretary to the Board of Education in the House of Com- mons whether he ca.n state the present posi- tion of the negotiatigns which are taking place with the representatives of county oouncils in Wales as to the establishment of a joint education board for Wales, and whether he will be in a position to lay any papers upon the table before the prorogation of Parliament.

HIGH COURT OF FORESTERS. As reported in the Extra. Special and later editions of the Evening Express yesterday, The business of the High Court of the Ancien t Order of Foresters was resumed yesterday at Sheffield, wfth the High Ohief Ranger, Bro. Thomas Abbott, in the chair. Brother W. Marlow, of London, was appointed Parliamentary agent. The court discussed ^t length, applications for relief and thy closing of courts, and voted L21,000 for relief.

SWANSEA COUNTY-COURT At Swansea County-court on Tuesday (before Judge Gwilym Williams) Thomas Lewis, Bryn Gwyn Hall, Gorseinon, tin-plate manufacturer, and his wife, Annie Sarah Gibbs, of the same address, spinster, and David Lewis and his wife Jane, of Sunnybank, Mumbles, plaintiffs, claimed of John Rees, Tylwydd, Pcntardulais. farmer, "ale or possession, or alternately the foreclosure, of a cottage at Brynteg, Gor- seinon.—An order was made for possession and sale, but not within two months' time.— Mr. Villiers Meager (instructed bv Messrs. Collins and Woods) appeared for plaintiffs.

COLOURED MEN'S QUARREL Three coloured men-named George Hawson, Charles Cummins, and Adolphus Spooner, of 33, Church street, Cardiff-were charged (before the Cardiff stipendiary, Mr. T. W. Lewis) on Tuesday with assaulting another coloured man, named John Wilkin, who resides at the Sailors' Home, Stewart-street, Cardiff, on the 31st of July. Mr. Harold Lloyd appeared for the defence. Prisoners were each sentenced to six weeks' imprisonment with hard labour. Arising out of this case George Hawson was further charged with assaulting Elizabeth Kops in Peel-street on the same date. Complainant, who is a foreigner, said she was standing on her doorstep with a little girl when prisoner rushed up to her, caught hold of her by the throat, and knocked her down, causing a severe wound on the oack of the head. She had only been at the door a couple of minutes, and prisoner accused her of having taken the part of Wilkin. Prisoner was sentenced to six months' hard labour, to run concurrently with the pre- vious sentence. Mr. J. H. Morgan Ppefre? to prosecute and Mr. Harold Lloyd defended.

STABBING AT NEW TREDEGAR I At Tredegar Polioe-court on Tuesday Wm. Chester, 37, collier, Abertysswg, was placed in the dock on a charge of cutting and wounding William Edward Evans and Richard Jones at New Tredegar on August 1. William Edward Evans said that (.n Satur- day night he asked prisoner to pay him a couple of shillings he owed him. Prosecutor then received a blow from the prisoner behind the ear. He staggered back and cried out that he had been stabbed. Prisoner was in the act of dealing the second blow, when he was seized by Richard Jones, struck down, and disarmed. Richard Jones, collier, New Tredegar, said he was standing on the roadway, and saw Evans put his hand on the prisoner's shoulder and ask him for the money he owed him. Evans then staggered back and cried out, "I am stabbed!" Prisoner then had his arm up- lifted, with a knife in his hand, in the posture of striking a second blow, but he rushed at him, threw him on the ground, and took the knife from him. He (Jones) received two severe cuts in his hand in the struggle. Police-sergeant Humphreys apprehended the prisoner, and received a blood-stained clasp knife, which was identified as the prisoner's. The prisoner elected to give evidence, and said he had no recollection whatever of striking any blows or using the knife. He was bed £10, or two months' hard labour.

NAVAL WARFARE. I The Manoeuvres in the Irish Sea. A STARTLING INCIDENT AT MILFORD HAVEN [BY OUR OWN REPORTER.] I MILFORD HAVEN, Tuesday Evening. There was quite a startling episode in the early hours of this morning. An alarm was given that the enemy had been sighted. Instantly the boats were in full activity. Two destroyers steamed out at a speed of thirty knots an hour, and searched in every direc- tion for the enemy, but did not locate him, and, returning to port, spent the rest of the night quietly, the boats relieving each other in patrol duty. Practically, that is all they have been doing to-day. To-night one hears mysterious whispers that the enemy are sweeping down in force, and that a lively night may be anticipated. It is certain that greater activity prevails, and every boat in the flotilla, save two diminutive torpedo- boats, are cruising outside. A Holyhead telegram says: Part of the enemy's ships have been in St. George's Channel, and the Holyhead flotilla have left to attack same. The destroyers Gipsy, Shark and Falcon, belonging to the Waterford flotilla, were found off St. Ann's Head, and put out of action. The Vixen and Vigilant have also been captured. A Scilly correspondent telegraphs:—The whole of the fleet stationed here under the command of Captain J. De C. Hamflton, except the depot ship Dreadnougnt, proceeded to sea on Monday evening. They encoun tered a heavy ground sea, and had a very unpleasant night's work. In consequence, five vessels, includiag the Violet, Arab, Mer- maid, Angler, and another destrayer were captured. The destroyer Flirt had a very narrow escape of capture having been chased for three hotrrs, making Scilly only just in time to prevent being taken. Four other vessels of the Scilly flotilla, which includes sixteen destroyers and three torpedo gun- boats, were still at sea on Tuesday. Our sketch of his Majesty's ship North- ampton, now lying off Hakin Point, and acting as mother-ship, or flag-ship, for the Milford flotilla during the naval manoeuvres, is of interest because it is an admirable illustration of an obsolete battleship. In 1886, when tiie naval manoeuvres were off Milford Haven, the Northampton was a for- midable first-class battleship. Ten years ago she was removed from the effective list, and was turned into a training ship for boys. As she lies now at anchor she has on board 680 boys, from about sixteen to eighteen years of age, a full complement of experienced officers, and a large crew of warrant officers. Our sketch is from a photograph kindly sup- plied by the officers of the Northampton.

ORDER OF RECHABITES. I High Movable Conference at Swansea. The real business of the fortieth High Moveable Conference of the Independent Order of Rechabites commenced in the Albert- hall, Swansea, yesterday, when the general rules of the Order were discussed. The hall was prettily decorated with coloured festoons and flags. There was it fine display on the plat- form of foliage, plants, and ferns, whilst dis- played on the table underneath were the silver symbolic regalia. They consist of fourteen articles of very choice design, ten of which are emblematical of the principles of the Order. Bro. Henry Wells-Smith, High Chief Ruler, presided, supported by the direc- torate and high officials, with representa- tives of four Colonial districts. The attend- ance numbered 176 in all. Bro. H. Wells-Smith, High Chief Ruler, in his annual address, said they had been suc- cessful, but not nearly so highly as they might have been. They must benefit by their expe- rience, and be warned by the follies of others. They must be warned against internal degeneracy or a contentedness amounting to indifference No really great Empire or organisation was ever destroyed except by itself The calamities of dissolution arose from a spirit of negligence, indifference, sel- fishness, and apathy. There were in mem- bership many who were for ever near the border-line of moderation (the high cardinal virtue of the respectable apologist)—men whose only interest was in the financial part. There were many who had made great sacri- fices and declined much honour and wealth in their fidelity to the covenants they had entered into. It was the desire oif some-him.. self included—that a marked distinction should be recorded between the several classes, and that degrees should be conferred for attainments in the higher reaches of Rechabitism. He next suggested that a new form of pledge, containing ae many of the venerated sentences as could be, would be helpful, and, with much respect and request for a charitable construction of motivo, he submitted a revised version. It was proposed to appoint an organising agent. It was becoming more and more apparent that success in gaining and keep- ing status, in making and shaping Parlia- mentary Bills, in vitalising their principles and making them operative with the man in the street, would depend to a large extent upon their having a, Parliamentary agent, as was the case with the Odfellows, Foresters, and the United Kingdom Alliance, and asi was also proposed by the national conference of Friendly Societies. The first proposal to amend tJïe general rules was from Durham County. Bro. John A. Storey moved the insertion in the pledge of the words, I will not become a share- holder of a club or institute where intoxica- ting liquors are sold."—Bro. G. Hardy (North- umberland) eeconded.-An amendment that the word "knowingly" be inserted was lost.— After further discussion it was resolved that the Durham representatives confer with the business committee with a view of bringing a resolution before the conference. On the motion of Bro. Thompson (Lincoln), seconded by Bro. Scarlett (Norwich), it was decided to add the following to the list of "objects" of the society—"For paying mem- bers' contributions after they reach the age of 60 years." There was a recommendation from Glasgow district upon the question of representation, the alteration being that Every district shall be entitled to send one representative to the High Moveable Conference for each 1,000 members or part of 1,000, but no district shall have more than five representatives. There were several speakers jiro and con., and the resolution was negatived and an amendment moved by Bro. Churchill, H.S.J.T., Corsham, Wilts, was adopted as a substantive proposi- tion, suggesting one representative for 1,000 members, two for 2,000, three for 4,000, four for 7,000, and five for upwards. Bro. Dunachil (Glasgow) proposed an altera- tion in Rule 7a, giving districts power to com. bine for the purpose of creating and holding national or provincial conferences at suitable times-these conferences to have full powers to deal with purely local matters, to arrange boundaries of districts, Ac., and in all other respects to be amenable to, and under the control of, the H.M.C. The Scottish members urged for the resolu- tion that it would give them a species of Home Rule, which they required, and confer such advantages that the conference in future would give them almost everything they asked for. Bro. F. W. Brett .(Cardiff) conceded all the Scottish members asked for except power to tamper with the tables of contributions and benefits, which was mostly what they wanted. He proposed a resolution giving effect to the views he expressed. Ultimately, the amendment was lost, whilst the resolution was adopted as amended in one or two particulars. At six o'clock the proceedings were ad- journed until nine o'clock this (Wednesday) morning.

ENGIANWS GLORY MATCHES are made entirely [ by BKITiSH LASOTTR Send for paittealwB of camp*- I flt- Saclaad's Otay MatA Wort", QtaaemUr

I MOTHERS' GUILT. I Women Sentenced at Swansea Assizes. DRUNKARDS SENT TO INEBRIATES' HOMES. As reported in the Extra Special and later editions of the Evening Express yesterday, At Glamorgan Assizes yesterday (before Mr. Justice Channell) Elizabeth Parrett, 32, pleaded guilty, to a charge of neglecting her three children on June 20 at Penarth. Prisoner was further charged with being a habitual drunkard, but to this she pleaded not guilty. Mr. Arthur Lewis, in opening the case, said there was no doubt that drink had been a contributory cause to the crime of which pri- soner had pleaded guilty. William Hugh, inspector of the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Chil- dren, said he had known prisoner for four or five years, and had visited her home several times. Four times out of five she had been under the influence of drink. She had some- times been absent from her home for weeks, and had been seen drinking with loose women and sailors at Cardiff. Mrs. Jenkins, a neighbour of prisoner's at Salop-place, Penarth, said the defendant was a respectable woman before giving way to drink, but since then she had not been so. She had pawned the children's clothes for drink. The husband of the prisoner, a carman, said he had been married nineteen years, and his wife had latterly become a drunkard. The Judge, addressing the jury, said it was, unfortunately, common knowledge that fre- quently when a person took to drink, no matter what good resolutions they formed, they were incapable of carrying them out. The jury found prisoner guilty, and the Jutlge ordered her to be detained in the Home for Inebriates at Bristol for one year, and her name to be placed on the black list of her district. Elizabeth Evans and Sarah Williams, who had been found guilty of neg- lecting their infant children at Swan- sea and Pontypridd respectively, were put up together to receive sentence. The former, being a habitual drunkard, was sen- tenced to be detained for twelve months in a home for inebriates. The latter the Judge said he had no power to deal with in that way, and he thought that, in addition to what she had suffered, fourteen days' hard labour would meet her case. He remarked that in both cases the babies had died, and, although the charge of manslaughter had not been pre- ferred, they would both carry with them through life the reflection that they had acce- lerated the deaths of their children by their conduct.