The Llanelly Mercury and South Wales Advertiser

interest and status which would inevitably be attached to one of the three colleges in the event of one of the college towns being success- ful for the honour. This appears to us to amount to an invincible argument why a town Wnblest with a University college should be selected for the distinction. The accession of status and interest of one of the three colleges at the cost of the dignity of the other two, in the event of one of the college towns being Successful in the animated competition now proceeding, would do considerable harm to the cause of higher education in the Principality. We fervently hope that the University Court will have regard to this fact, and safeguard the permanent iuterests and welfare of the national System of higher education from the evils associated with an unhealthy centralization of our educational agents and agencies. One of the objects of the University Court in making the selection of a site for the Registrar's offices should be that of guaranteeing a deeper interest in University education among the various districts of the Principality. This object would be best attained by selecting a town for the Offices considerably remo/ed from any of the College centres. This appears to us to be the Common-sense of the situation, and for this reason, we share a feeling generally cherished in Llanelly that the most suitable site is found at Swansea.

LOCAL INTELLIGENCE. RECEIVING ORDER IN BANKRUPTCY.—Mr. John Carruthers, Vaughan-street, Llanelly, boct dealer and salesman. If you want a real good Wedding Ring, the best place is at H. KALTKNBACH'S, Vaughan Street, and Arcade, where, in addition, you will get a genuine present.—ADVT. HALL STREET WESLKYAN CHAPEL.On Tuesday evening next, the Rev. W. Hunter, a missionary in South Africa for eighteen years, will lecture at the above chapel on Life among the Kaffirs." THE JUBILEE.—A correspondent, writing to a con- temporary on the question of celebrating the Queen's Jllbilee by a system of bonfires along the coast, mentions eznbre)' mountain as being an exceedingly suitable site for one of the fires. SECOND LLANELLY 676 STAR-BOWKETT BUILDING I SOCIETY.—Appropriation on Tuesday next at 8.45 p.m. Subscriptions and all requirements should be paid before 8.30 o'clock, it being the end of the Society's I%ancial Year.—W. DAVID (Auctioneer, &c.), Sec- retary.—ADVT.

PONTARDULAIS. I CONCERT.—The Tabernacle (Baptist) Choir gave an EXcellént renderiug of the cantata," Phyllis, the •Parmer's Daughter," at the Public Hall, Pontardulais, fgr. T. Davies, G.T.S.C., presiding, on Good Friday. CYMANFA GANU.—The 19th singing festival of the lIethodists was held at Goppa, Pontardulais, on Easter Monday, when the following choirs took part: — owerton, Loughor, Llangennech, Penclawdd, Goppa, Jjlwynhendy, Libanus, Bettws, Brynamman, Amman- ford, and Hermon. Mr. Thomas Davies, G.T.S.C., Laburnums, conducted, and Messrs. Jenkin Thomas and J. W. Prosser accompanied, EASTER VESTRY.—The Easter vestry of Llandilo- Talybont was held on Easter Monday morning in the National Schoolroom at 10.30 o'clock. The church- wardens presented their accounts, which were duly indited, and found most satisfactory, showing an adverse balance of only 3s. The accounts were duly Passed. After heartiest thanks to the retiring church- ardells, the vicar re-elected Dr. D. Griffiths, J.P., to Ale his churchwarden, and Mr. H. C. B. Lloyd was Jfianimously re-elected to be the parish churchwarden. r. D. Jones Powell was re-appointed lay-reader. The vestry was adjourned to next Friday evening for the election of sidesmen at 7.30

PATIENTS AT THE HOSPITAL. I Number on April 3rd 33 Admitted during fortnight). 3 I)iftbarged cured 4 1tenlaining 32

THE NATIONAL UNION OF TEACHERS. 11 The annual conferences of the N.U.T. are being eld this week at Swansea. The local fraternity is 1Vell represented,and in repect of its contribution to the Parities will take its proper place among the towns of the principality, and will rank, we believe, next to Swansea and Cardiff.

LOCAL TEACHERS' ASSOCIA- TION. a meeting of the above association, a vote of hndolence was passed with the widow and family of the late Mr. H. J. Howell, chairman of the School Board. The baja-nee sheet of the concert shewed that let profit of £ 132 8s. Id. had been made. In token of the valuable services of Mr. R. C. Jenkins and Mr. Allies Samuel, a diamond ring has been presented to the former, and a case of pipes to the latter.

FATAIJ COLLIERY ACCIDENT. Am inquiry was held at the Prince of Wales Inn, Trynyddygarreg, on Thursday, before the coroner vMr.'W.Buckley Roderick),on the body of Wrn Gravell, 10nofD. Gravell, Glaiid wr, Mynyddygai re-g, Kidwelly, Who met his death at the Caepompreu Colliery the pre- Tlous day. The deceased was at his post as carter pot-tioti ot the roof fell upon him and killed 1I:n on the spot.—A verdict of" accidental death" was turned.

LLANELLY QUADRILLE CLASS I On Tuesday last the Hanelly Quadrille Dancing ass was brought to a close with a ball at the Parish "all" The rouom was beautifully decorated for the Cc&sion. There were about 25 couples present. Danc- ?6 Was commenced at 8 p.m., and continued until e early homs of the morning. Credit must be given the M.C., Mr. H. Harris, for his able services, ¡nd also to Mr. R. J. Williams, the secretary, Or IS efforts in making the class a success. The ?8'C rendered by Mr. Ivor Evans' baud gave entire 8.ati-sfaction. The refreshments were supplied by Mrs. "lianas, confectioner, Inkerman-street.

EISTEDDFOD AT CRWYS. LOCAL SUCCESSES. The annual eisteddfod at Crwys was held last Mon- 4"y- As usual, it was a great 8uccebS. In the absence Of Alr. W ?b, aham, M.P. (Mabon), the Rev. Sinclair ???s, Swansea, acted as conductor. E. Evans, Esq. lew BuaMt), Builth, was the adjudicator. There Were several local successes, viz:—Soprano solo, ^Waster Dais> prize, ?1. Is., won by Miss M. J. "lianas, Felinfoel; baritone solo, "The wreck," *??:Ells.,won by Mr. CorneHus Rees, Fennfoel; Bet, "Bydd bur i Gymru fad," prize, ?110s., won by r' W. T. Rees and brother, PoutardaiMB a volume ^'anf: Musical Magazine, giVCD by the publishers of tt.t t -s, ?g awarded for the best rendering of the Jbll!. ? j;?? yr lorddonen ddofn," which was won by ?' LleweHyn Griffiths, Llwynhendy. Mr. Joseph ""v4lls, ??"gsnnech, receivea great praise for his 'fe4dO"ing of the bass solo, I fear no foe," which was .,t\ by a pupil of Mr. I?Y Evans, Dowlais trio, Tli angel's night song," prize, £ 1 10s., won by Mr. D« -J Morris and Miss Williams, Llanelly, and Mr. j)??s, ^eh"foel! chief choral competition, not tn ? ?60 in number that would render Y Blodeuyn Olnf (Ambrose Lloyd), ? prize of £ 12 was offered, *nd a handsome chair to the successful conductor. ?,. ?<'?oirs entered, and s?ng intbefoHowing order: p ?j"?HJnited Choir, conducted by Mr. D?id Rees rb O&rClioir Hwynhendy, conductor, Mr. David Rees, j>- ^^tage; and Bethlehem Choir, FforestfMb, 4*oducted by Mr. William Thomas. The adjudication Ston -??sen the second and third choirs, but for the c!e& ??? ? tone, style, and performance, the adjadiea- t0f "? ?'????tion in awarding the prize to Soar Chn' Choir. vvhiel' Was accompanied by Mrs. H. J. Hopkins, "ynaeAjdy.

MAGISTRATES' COURT. [ TOWN HALL, WEDNESDAY, before Messrs. J. BEAVAN PHILLIPS, S. BEvAw, and TOM HUGHXS. DBUNKS. W. Wolfe, of the Norwegian s.g. Mabel," was charged with drunkenness. Fined 10s, including costs. A. J. Williams, Stepney-place, was summoned for being drunk on the 10th and 12th inst. Fined JE1 4s. 6d. including costs. G. Ross, 48, Upper Water-street, was charged with drunkenness and fined 5s. and costs. ASSAULTING AND BEATING. D. Davies, Pencwmfach, Llaunou, was charged with assaulting and beating D. Davies, junior, Bryndu, Llaunon on the 30th ult., at Llannon. Mr. D. R. Williams appeared for the complainant and Mr. T. R. Ludford for the defence.—D. Davies, the complainant, deposed that he remembered the 30th of March last. He was going towards Llanuon. He met the defendant at 3 p.m. coming out of the Greyhound, Llannon. Defendant had his cart in the middle of the road. He was driving a horse and cart. When he saw the de- fendant he stopped. Defendant then came on to him and took hold Qt him by the throat and pulled him out of the cart. He said nothing whatever to the defend- ant. Cross-examined by Mr. Ludford Defendant pulled him down into the cart. Defendant asked him why he didn't go to the other side of the road. He could not pass; the cart was in the middle of the road. He was not beating the horse. T. Jones, Penlan, Llannon, sworn, said he was with the complainant on the day in question. The defen- dant told the complainant to go to the other side of the road, and he refused. Defendant then took hold of the complainant, and dragged him down from the cart. The defendant then said that he did not care for him or his father. Cross-examined by Mr. Ludford He did not see any blows struck. The complainant was simply pulled down into the cart. The Bench ordered the defendant to keep the peace for six months. THEFT. B. Morris, a boy from the Workhouse, was brought up on remand, charged with stealing 5s. llgd. from another inmate, on the 13th inst. The mother of the boy appeared, and said that he was eighteen years of age. The boy was seat back to the Workhouse so that a situation could be found for him.

GALVANISING AT MORE- WOOD'S. The plant for turniug out galvanised sheets at the above works has now been laid down, and the new manufacture has been commenced.

THE MYNYDD MAWR RAILWAY COMPANY. APPOINTMENT OF SECRETARY. We are in a position to state that Mr. James Morgan, Tyrfran, has been appointed secretary to the above company in succession to the late Mr. J. Jennings. The appointment is a fortunate one for the company, as Mr. Morgan is an expert in railway rates and has already done real service in the interests of the con- cern. The new secretary is in the employ of the Great Mountain Colliery Company.

THE JENNINGS' MEMORIAL FUND. SUBSCRIPTION LIST. I MAGISTRATES' FUND.-Alrea,dy announced, X172 7s. GENERAL FUND.—Already announced, JS503 2s. Board Schools, per the late Mr. H. J. Howell, SA4 6s. 3d. New Dock School, per Mr. John Howell, jm Is. lid.; Pontyeats School, per Mr. D. H. Davies, £2 2s. totlti, X550 12s. 2d.

I THE BURRY PORT CASE. I THE DEFENDANTS DISCHARGED. I It will be remembered that about a fortnight ago the following persons were charged with being illegally present at the Gvvendraefch Hotel, Burry Port, Oil Sunday, 17th of March H. Trownsell, C. Murphy, H. Davies, J. Touze, E. Evans, J. Bennett, W. Bevan, and G. Bell. lVlr. W, Howell appeared for the prose- cution, and Mr. D. R. Williams for the defence. At the last hearing, the case was adjourned so that the Bench could consider it. The gentlemen on the Bench on Wednesday were Messrs. J. Beavan Phillips, S. Bevan and T- Hughes, Mr. J. B. Phillips said that it was an important case and that they had thought a good deal over it, and he had talked a good deal about it with his colleague, Mr. Bevan. However, they differed in opinion. They did not quite see the sameway; therefore, they would dismiss the case,

GREAT WESTERN RAILWAY LOCOMOTIVE DEPARTMENT. DINNER AT LLANELLY. I The annual dinner of the above was held on Good Friday at the Dock Hotel, New Dock, whea 50 members sat down to an excellent dinner provided by the respected host and hostess Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Hughes. After justice had been done to the good things provided and the cloth removed, Mr. Thomas Davies, the oldest engineman, was vcted to the chair, and the respected foreman, Mr. William Harry to the vice-chair. Mr. John Killick read letters of apology from the following gentlemen Major Bythway, Mr, J. Hansard, Mr. Margrave, and Mr. W. Buckley Roderick for non-atteudauce, and wishing the com- pany a sociable evening.—Mr. T. Davies proposed a vote of thanks to tue Dinner Committee to which great credit was due for the admirable way in which they carried out the arrangements.—Mr. Harry then pro- posed the health of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Hughes the worthy host and hostess, to which Mr. Hughes re- sponded and thanked the company for the way they had received the toast, and that be should always do the best that was in his power for the comfort aud welfare of engiiiemen and firemen. The next toast was that of the chairman and vice-chairman, in connection with the company rose and sang, For they are jolly good fellows." The rest of the evening was devoted to harmony to which the following gentlemen contributed: T. Hughes, F. Evans, W. Jones (Monte Carlo), D. Davies, J. Davies, J. Edwards, H. Robson, A Carrivick, and W. Griffiths. Recitation, G. Harris; pianoforte solo, Mr. Hughes. Mr. Hughes ably presided at the 1 piano which was kindly lent by Mr. and Mrs. Robert Harris, and,one of the best and most enjoyable evenings ever past at Llanally was brought to a close at 10 p.m., all rising and singing Auld Lang Syne. On Monday evening another gathering was held to present Mr. Robert Harris, engineman, with a marble timepiece as a small token of respect that the engine- men and firemen had for him as instructor of the Mutual Improvement Class. Mr. Thomas Hughes, in a few well chosen words, made the presentation, to which Mr. Harris responded and said that it was the happiest evening of his life and that he should hand the gift down to his children that they might see the respect in which he was held by the engineiKeM and firemen and lie thanked all who had 'contributed to the present. Suitable speeches were also made by Mr. Thomas Davies and Mr. John Killick. The restof the evening was devoted to harmony, and great praise is due to Mr, and Mrs. Thomas Hughes for placing their beautifnl clubroom at the disposal of the meetiug,

I DIAMOND JUBILEE. I A PUBLIC MEETING AT THE TOWN HALL. A largely-attended public meeting, convened by Mr. D. W. Rees, chairman of the Llanelly Borough Coun- cil, was held at the Town Hall last evening for the consideration of the steps to be taken by the town in celebration of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. It was gratifying to find such a large attendance on the occa- sion, and gratifying also to note the healthy ring in each of the speeches delivered in favour of something real being done in commemoration of the great reign. The hospital scheme of necessity came immediately to the front, and no doubt the intentions of the Hospital Committee in relation to the establish- ment of a children's ward will be realized. There was, however, a strong feeling exhibited that the com- memoration should not exhaust itself in the hospital expansion scheme, and with that feeling we are en- tirely at one. It seems to us that on such an occasion as this, we ought to guarantee the provision of a public park for those who are alive and well." At present, we have-as Mr. Evan Evans pithily put it —nothing but a "Village green," the best part of which is used as a cemetery for town refuse. Not long since, a suggestion appeared in the leader columns of the Llanelly Mercury advocating the conversion of the laud in the neighbourhood of Tre- beddod Reservoir into a public park, and believing this supplementary- jubilee proposal to be extensively cherished, we noted with pleasure the warmth with which the suggestion was taken up at last night's meeting. Mr. Maybery presided, in the abseuce of Mr. D. W. Rees, and amongst others present were: Major Bythway, Messrs. E. Trubsbaw, Tom Hughes, J. Griffiths, C. F. Thompson, Thomas Jones, Dan Williams, W. W. Brodie, R. Margrave, D, R. Williams (solicitor), D. R. Edmunds, T, Evans (Haudel House), R. F. Randell, R. Williams, Dan Rowlands, Evan Evans, David Williams (Old Castle Works), J. Riehards, J. A. Williams, Gewer Bevan, J. G. Daw, W. David, R. Guest, and Nathaniel Griffiths, together with the town clerk (Mr. H. W. SI)owart).-The Chairman briefly opened the proceedings, and regretted the absence of Mr. Maclaran in consequence of a family bereavement.—Mr. Trubshaw moved a resolution to the effect that the jubilee be celebrated by wiping off the debt on the hospital, and establishing a children's ward.—Major Bythway seconded the motion, which was supported by Mr. J. A. Williams, Mr. Gower Bevan, and Mr. D. Rees Edmunds.— Mr, Nathaniel Griffiths heartily supported the resolu- tion in a rousing speech.—Mr. Thompson followed with a few pertinent observations.—Mr. Brodie also supported the resolution, but suggested that together with the hospital scheme they should lay out the grounds at Trebeddod to serve as a public park (hear, hear).—Mr. Evan Jones kehemist) also supported the motion.—Mr. Frank Randell cordially supported the scheme.—Mr. Evan Evans supported the motion, and the suggestion of Mr. Brodie, and asked the chairman to tack it on to the motion, but this was not deemed advisable. Messrs. Tom Hughes, John Griffiths, and Thomas Jones, also spoke, and the motion was carried. The other speak- ers were Messrs. G. F. Blake, R. Margrave, W. David, and Dan Williams, and it was further decided that the school children be given a tea, and that bonfires be lighted on the Bigyn and Pembrey Mountain. The meeting was then adjourned.

EASTElt YESTRIES. ————— 0 ————— ST. DAVID'S CHURCH, LLANELLY. The annual Vestry was held on Monday, the 19th April, the vicar in the chair. It was arranged that a Minute Book for use in future should be pro- vided by the Churchwarden, and also that a Church record of services be placed in the vestry by the same officitis- On the proposiition of Mr. Ward, seconded by Mr. Key, the auditors appointed were Mr. J. Grubb aud Mr. A. Stacey. The accounts for the year were audited and found correct. The Vicar appointed Mr. Ward, the Cliff, his varden, in place of Mr. Trinder, who, owing to business engagements, felt regretfully obliged to resign. Mr. Jones, Tuimeii- road, was appointed people's warden on the proposi- tion of Mr. Ward, seconded by Mr. Trinder, and sup- ported by Mr. Stacey. It was passed that the care- taker should be present to open all services. It was decided to have a meeting of the Church members in a month's time to consider the remuneration of the choir leader and organist. The sidesmen were then appointed as follows:—Mr. Trinder, Mr, Stevenson, Mr Key, Mr. Mockford. Mr. Lawrence, Mr. Estridge, Mr. Stacey, Mr, Grubb, Mr. Weekes, Mr. Geo. Stacey, and Mr. J. Richards. A hearty vote of thanks was passed to the Churchwardens for their voluutaryaud faithful work during the past year, also to the vicar for presiding during the evening, and for the work done in the parish since his return. The proceedings terminated with the benediction pronounced by the vicar. ST. JOHN'S CHURCH. The annual vestry of the congregation of St. John's Church, Seaside, Llanelly, was held on Tuesday, April 20th, the vicar in the chair. Mr. ii. Perrott and Mr. Fred Gammon wers appointed auditors ot the accounts. As it was found to be an intricate ali'air, it was pro- posed by the vicar, and carried unanimously, that the auditors and the ouly churchwardeii present, namely, Mr. J. Banks, the other churcliwuiden, Mr. W. Perrott, being away from home on business, together with Mr. D. P. Davies, churchwarden of St. Paul's, should audit the accounts on Wednesday, and report to the vicar on Friday morning. On the proposal of Mr. J. Banks, seconded by Mr. X Gammon, the thanks of the vestry were unanimously given to Mr. Jonah Marks for his services during the past year as lay reader, to Mr. William Evaus as choirmaster, and to Miss Bessie Perrott as organist. The wardens appointed for the ensuing year were For the vicar, Mr. RicharT Perrott; for the people, Mr. Wm. Evans. The sidesmen named and accepted were: Messrs. Thomas .James, A. Walters, F. Gammon, John Richards, Thomas Roberts, Howell Thomas, J. Banks, VV. Perrott, and R. P. David. A most complimentary vote of thanks was passed to the retiring wardens, and to the vicar for his services as chairman, and amid many expressions of satisfaction at the present state of things in the parish of St. Paul's, the meeting terminated with the vicar's giving ot blessing.

SUCCESS OF A LOCAL liUNNEK At the sports held at Newport on Easter Monday, under the auspices of the Newport Athletic Club, Mr. J. J. Sanders, Llanelly, came in first in the half-mile flat handicap, liist elites (open) race, out of 17 crack runners. The prize was value to the extent of X5 5s., and Mr. Sanders selected a beautiful silver watch.

INTERESTING MARRIAGE AT SWANSEA. Yesterday, at Capel Gomer, Swansea, Miss Alice Hughes, daughter of Mrs. Hughes, Annesley-street. Llanelly, was married to Mr. Fred Anthony, son of Mr. T. Anthony, Llanelly. Mr. George Jenkins was best man, and Miss Emily Hughes bridesmaid. Dr. Gomer Lewis officiated.

COHPLIMENTABY BANQUET TO THE FOOTBALL TEAM. A complimentary banquet will be given the members of the Llanelly Footbali team and the A" team next Saturday week. at the Stepney Arms Hotel, to com- memorate the record of the first fifteen, and the win- uing of the Cup by the A." Subscriptions will, in the meantime, be solicited to a testimonial fund for presenLa,tion to Mr. Owen Badger and his men.

I METIIOI)IST'CYMANFAGANU.' The annual cymanfa ganu of the Welsh Methodists of Llanelly was held on Easter Monday at Trinity, Siloh, aud Capel Newy dd. The cymanfa was a thorough success, the singing being" up to date," under the leadership of Mr. Price. Exceptionally good addresses were given at intervals by Messrs. D. May, Thomas Williams, David Roberts, David Thomas..). Richards, and D. Davies. Mr. John Davies, Gilbert Road, made a capital secretary.

FRIENDLY SOCIETIES. I PROCEEDINGS AT THE ROSE I OF GLANMWRWG LODGE. An exceedingly interesting meeting was held on Saturday evening last under the auspices of the Rose of Glanmwrwg Lodge of Oddfellows, the pro- ceedings taking place at the lodgeroom, Halfway Hotel. The meeting was convened for the joint purpose of initiating Mr. John Lewis, manager of Felinfoel Brewery, as an honorary member, and duly celebrating the first use of two magnificent chairs acquired for the use of the officers in the lodgeroom. Letters of apology for non-attendance were read from the G.M., D. Thomas Deputy G.M., E. T. Jones the C.S., W. B. Jones; P.P.G.M., Thomas Hughes, J.P.; and P.P.G.M. J. Griffiths. After the usual Lodge business had been transacted, Bro. W. H. Andrews, District Treasurer, was voted to the chair, and Bro. Theo. Randell, of the Gwenllian Lodge, to the vice-chair. Bro. Andrews gave the initiation charge, and wished the initiated brother and lodge every suceess. Bro. Lewis, in respond- ing, said he was an old Oddfellow, and had done some service before. Everything he could do for the future welfare of the Lodge, he would be most happy to do. Bro. William Jenkins, secretary, gave a few figures respecting the status of the Lodge, which was opened in October, 1880, and had received £ 1,087 towards the Sick and Funeral Fund; had paid £{}14 in Sick Pay paid the District Funeral Fund during the 16 years a sum of £ 125, and received from that Fund JE98, or JE27 less than they had paid into it. They had been able to meet ail demands, and had now a capital of £255 17s. 8d. with a membership of 57. The following 2 programme was gone through: Song, Bro. J. Elias Hughes address, P.P.G.M. J. Marks; song, Bro. J. Davies address, Bro. Mahoney, Rose of Elli Lodge; Imitation of the Bee, Bro. Geo. Lyons; address, Bro. Theo. Randell, Gwenllian Lodge; song, Bro. W- H. Andrews address, Bro. J. Davies, General Pictou Lodge. Bro. Oliver Owen proposed a vote of thanks to the presiding brothers and to the visiting brethren for their presence. This was carried unanimously, after which the chairman declared the meeting closed.

THE SCHOOL LEAGUE CUP. I FINAL BOUND. I The final round for the cup in connection with the Llanelly district school league was played at Stradey on Easter Monday morning. The teams that faced each other were those of the Higher Grade and Dock Schools. Soon after the game had commenced the Higher Grade backs brought off some fine passing. They could not, however, penetrate the defence of the Dock boys. The dockers came away with excellent forward rushes which assisted their side immensely. Both teams strained every nerve to score, but both were evenly matched. In the second half the game became very exciting and interesting. All the Higher Grade backs played an excellent game and so did M. Griffiths for the Dock. At last the Higher Grade backs found an opening and took advantage of the situation and scored an unconverted try. There was no more scoring and the final result was: Higher Grade, 1 try Dock, nil.

EISTEDDFOD AT PEMBROKE DOCK. I LOCAL SUCCESSES. I An eisteddfod was held in the covered portion of the Market Hall at Pembroke Dock on Monday, under the auspices of the Gilgal Baptist Chapel, Pembroke Dock. Mr John Thomas, Llanelly, acted as one of the musical adjudicators. In the duet, 0 lovely Gwalia," two parties competed, and the prhn fas awarded to Messrs John Richards and liichard. Thomas, Llanelly, who, tiieitdjudicators said; sang splendidly, time, tune, and tone being correct, and the voices well-balanced. Then came the tenor solo -1 The vision of the Cross", for which there were nine entries, but only three sung at the: eisteddfodd, the others having been 1 disposed of at the preliminary test. Mr. liichard Thomas, Llanelly, carried away the prize. Male Voice Competition: "Martyrs of the Arena;" prize 35 guineas and a gold medal to the conductor. In this competition eight choirs took part, viz, one each from Blaenycwm, Llanelly. Milford Haven, Nantymoel, Newport (Mon.), Pembroke Dock and Tenby respectively. The prize was divided between the Llanelly and Nantymoel choirs, the adjudicators being of opinion that,, excluding the BiaeDycwm, the others were too far below them for classification. As the division of the prize between,itwo choirs raised a difficulty respecting the conductor's medal, Mr. Joseph Thomas, Haverfordwest, undertook to sub- scribe the worth of a second medal, so that one could be given to each conductor. In the evening agrand concert was held, in which Madame S. J. Thomas, Llanelly, and Mr. David Lloyd, Llangennech, took part.

THE WELSH LANGUAGE IN OUR SCHOOLS. TO THE EDITOR. DEAR SlR,-I was sorry to read in the Mercury for last week that Mr. Dan Williams, the president of the Chamber of Commerce, should say that less of the Welsh language should be taught at the schools. Has it not been proved over and over again by many of the Principals of our colleges, and not the least amongst those is the Principal of Jesus College, Oxford, that instead of the Welsh language being detrimental to learning other languages, it would be of considerable aid in doing so ? That fact has been demonstrated with force and vigour by the worthy Principal. On what I authority has Mr. Luke Bradley volunteered his opinion on this matter ? Is he a Welshman ? If so, is he a Welsh scholar ? or perhaps he will ex- cuse himself by saying that he was informed by some kind of a Welshman, but evidently an Englishman who has been to a Welsh Sunday School and learnt an elementary smattering of Welsh. I find that some of the ardent members of the Cymmrodorion were present at this meeting, and allowed those remarks to pass without expressing their opinion against such an absurd assertion- What right has anyone to speak authoritatively upon this subject unless he understands the language Iiiiiiself ? Were the native tongue of r Gwalia to become extinct, and buried in oblivion r that would be a misfortune—and a great misfortune too. If these gentlemen had their way, the Welsh language would be swept away from the face of the earth, and its copious literature would be compar- atively useless. Is it not practically the case to- day with the classic languages ? The vast trsasures of the literature of Greece and Rome are not accessible to the masses, but only to the few who gain access to them through the medium of Classical Education. The grand old Welsh language witnessed the rise and fall of the Greek aud Latin Languages and is to-day as flourishing as ever, and it clearly shows that the thirst for Welsh literature is increasing and going ahead, notwithstanding the feeling expressed against its freedom by these gentlemen. I will close these few remarks by quoting the following from memory: Mam iaith pedair iaith dirion—a chwaer iaith Chwe eraill sydd feirwon Ond iaith fyw heddyvv yw hon Yn llaw Ner a llenorion. Canfu ddiwedd y cynfyd-a diwedd Daear a wel hefyd 'E ga ei chaseion i gyd j Oddef ei gwel'd mewn llwyddyd. I IORWERTH.

MR. TENNYSON SMITH AND HIS METHODS, i A REPLY TO MR. VALENTIN. t TO THE IDITOR. ( Sir,—I am extremely surprised to find that Mr. Basil Valentin's letter has been allowed to pass by unchallenged, not as regards his reference to Mr. Smith, as probably that gentleman has no knowledge thereof, but on account of his somewhat sarcastic remarks conceruiug the "so-called temperance party." His letter is a curious blend of personality and bombastic assertion from beginning to end. The per- sonalities I leave to Mr. Tennyson Smith, as I know nothing of the interyiew or of Mr. Smith's lectures at Llanelly, and moreover, I agree with Mr. Valentin, assuming the truth of his statement that Mr. Smith said that "if the trade could get a man of equal ability with himself to present their case, the temper- ance cause womel be ruined," that he (Mr. Smith) is the most bombastic coxcomb in Christendom, and deserves all he received at the hands of Mr. Valentin. No Sir, the temperance cause does not depend upon ability, although it has that item,but upon principle the cause is a just one, and as such cannot but succeed. Thrice armed is he whose cause is just." The agitation will go on without us, if not with us. If we are silent J the very stones would cry out If there is in the drink business any single encouraging feature it is to be found in the growing impatience of the people at the burden they are forced to bear, and their growing iudignation and sense of shame and disgrace which it imposes upon them." Mr. Valentin assures us that any effort he (Mr. Smith) or his followers would make to reform the drunkard and teach him his responsibilities to his family and society would have the heartiest support of the trade." Now Mr. Valentin does not really believe this at any rate, I do not,as the experience ot the past has only too truly proved the contrary. Moreover, we have the testimony of men as experienced and as inter- ested in the trade as Mr. Valentin himself, viz., Mr. Charles Burton, M.P., the brewer who says:—"The struggle of the school, the library and the church against the gin palace and the beer shop is but one development of the war between heaven and hell." Mr. Valentin says" the so-called party has not a single argument against the trade which could bear the calm consideration of common sense "—this is, to say the least, a little after the mountebank style he so much deprecates in his friend Mr. Smith. What of the testimony of the following against the trade ? Are we to assume they are devoid of common sense ? Let the reader decide for himself. Sir Henry Hawkins—"As for public houses, be looked upon them as one of the greatest curses and pests of the country. Eighty per cent. of what he had to do was prepared by the public house. and if he had his way he would sweep them away to-morrow without one penny of compensation." Lord Beaconsfield-" I have generally found the higher the wages, the worse the workman. They only spend their money in beer shops. They, the beer shopT, are the curse of the country. The people who kept beer shops away from localities had solved the problem of the working classes." Earl Cairns-" Gin shops and public houses were so many allurements and ambushes, so many traps, and pitfalls in the path of the working-man." Judge Whiteman-" In almost all cases of personal violence and injury, the scene is a public-house or beer- shop." Justice Groves-" Men go into public houses re- spectable and come out felons." Lord Chesterfield-" Vice, my lords, is not properly to be taxed, but to be suppressed. If these liquors are so delicious that the people are tempted to their destruction, let us at least, my lords, secure them from these fatal draughts by bursting the vials that contain them. Let as check these artists in human slaughter, who have reconciled their country-men to sickness and ruin, and spread over the pitfalls of debauchery such baits as cannot be resisted. When I consider the tendency of this bill (the Gin Act), I find it calculated only for the propagation of disease, the suppression of industry and the destruction of mankind." Times—" The public house system is a monstrous evil, there is not a vice, a disease, a disorder, or a calamity of any kind that has not its frequent rise in the public house. The public-house degrades, ruins, and brutalises a large fraction of the British people." Daily Telegraph—"Our revenue may derive some unholy benefit from the sale of alcohol, but the entire trade is, nevertheless, a covenant with sin and death." Col. R. G. Ingersoll (who is not a fanatical teetotaller)—"I am aware that there is a prejudice against any man engaged in the manufacture of alcohol. I believe that from the time it issues from the coiled and poisonous worm—in the distillery- until it empties into the hell of death, dishonour, and crime, it demoralises every body that touches it, from its source to where it ends. I do not believe anybody can contemplate the subject without becoming prej u- diced to the liquor crime." Mr. Valentin's assertion that all arguments had been analysed and annihilated (a contradiction in terms) in the various trade journals must be taken cum grano magno saiis, i.e., for what it is worth. I deny that the arguments have even been fairly discussed in the trade journals and that they have been annihilated is but the vain dream of an anti-tem- perance enthusiast. Mr. Valentin next tells us the idea of abolishing the drink traffic altogether was too absurd to discuss, yet immediately proceeds to do so by giving two reasons against abolishing it, viz. (1) the number that, would be thrown out of employment—several millions- (a very indefinite statement). (2) the enormous sum of 27 millions sterliug which the revenue annually derives from the liquor trades. Let us aualyse these state- ments. (1) the number of unemployed-this is simply a straw man put up to be as soon knocked down of course to refute this by proofs would simply take up more than the space at my disposal, but if Mr. Valentin will be a little more definite as regards his several millions, perhaps the editor would allow the economic question to be thrashed out in his columns. The ratio of the wages paid to the profits gained in the trade is such as to convince any ordinary conscience of its illegality. Well has Professor Hopkins said the liquor traffic stands alone the monumental robber of every other industry on the face of the earth." Take the following illustration of Professor Hopkins from the history of Ireland. He says" The years of 1809- 1810 and 1813-1814 saw great scarcity in Ireland. By wise forecast and as wise authority the distilleries were stopped and note the result. In the better years of 1811-1812 and 1815-1816, better but for distillation and unchecked drinking, the average consumption of spirits was 1 millions of gallons in those years ef want and prohibition of distilieries, the consumption fell below 4t millions of gallons." What was the consequence? In these 4 years of famine, free from drink in a fair degree because the distilleries were closed, the Irish pee-ple bought and paid for haberdashery, iron, hardware, and cotton goods to the amount 1253,657 more than in the 4 years of plenty naned of tea and sugar 773,911 Ibs. more were bought by them than in those good years. They used 1,356,700 more yards of drapery and they slept under 33,401 more woollen blankets." Those years of want became years of prosperity because an illegitimate industry was in part prohibited, and could not feed as a parasite on the legitimate industries." Revenue 27 milliotis-I-las Mr. Valentin forgotten the testimony of the judges of our courts that two- thirds of the crime of the country is due to the trade ? Consequently, two-thirds of the total cost of keeping the whole legal paraphernalia of police force, court officials &c., is to be deducted from this comparatively insignificant sum of 27 millions. Then there is the lunacy item, and the pauper item, not to mention the 60,000 lives annually lost to the country, and the doctors' and undertakers' bills occasioned thereby. Against this 27 millions so-called revenue we have to place at least 100 millions. So in order to get Mr. Valentin's 27 millions sterling we have, as a country, to pay 140 millions directly for drink, and a further 100 millions to look after the filthy offspring of the trade, making a total cf 240 millions roughly. William III. of Prussia once said that he would prefer that no such tax (driuk tax) should come into the treasury, since the xiodey was employed chiefly in the keeping up of prisons and hospitals, which would be much less froqueut if his people gave up alcohol. It requires no claptrap oraUry or maudlin senti- mentaliam to perceive the absurdity of paying a grand total of 240 millions in order to obtain the comparatively insignificant sum of 24 millions sterling. Mr. Valentin's statement that every food or drink, however, harmless in itself was poison to the aniicai system" is absolutely incorrect; and his next state- ment—" It would be perfectly possible to poison or kill a man by overcrowding bis system with bread and water" at once proves his inability to discuss the ques- tion at issue—the words to kill and to poison are not synonymous as Mr. Valentin assumes, and for proof therof I refer Mr. Valentin to a shilling dictionary. Alcohol is a poison, Mr. Valentin notwithstanding. Even the framers of the law have acknowledged this, as Mr. Valentin can see this testimony on any sigu- board on any publichouse iu Llanelly licensed to sell intoxicating drinks" licensed to sell poisonous drinks. Alcohol is a poison and belongs to the most deadly clast; of poisons called Narcotics. There are few medical men of any staHding now who advocate the indiscriminate use of Alcohol even as a medicine, and not a few have discarded its use entirely even as a- medicine, and have gone so far as to advocate its entire expulsion (except as a solvent) from the British Pharmacoposia. Mr. Valentin very considerately volunteers to enlighten Mr. Smith and his followers on this doubt- ful point, viz.: Since the introduction of the Sunday Closing Act, there is far more illegal drinking and drutikeHesss in Sheebeens &c., on the Sabbath than before the introduction of the Act, and the repeal of the Act would tend to diminish drunkenness. I must say this proof Ar explanation is somewhat hazy What has locality of purchase of the beer to do with diminution or increase of drunkenness, assuming that the beer is as universally pure as he would have us believe it is. It is quite true. yea self-evident, that if the beer were purchased at Cardiff, the trade at that town would benefit thereby, but for the life of me, I fail to perceive how that can in any way affect the amount of drunkenness, assuming that the same quantity is con- sumed, and Mr. Valentin states nothing to the con- trary. The only evident difference is that in one case I we get illegal drunkennesss or drunkenness on unlicensed premises during prohibited hours-and in the other legal drUflkenness (if I might so call it) or drunkenness on licensed premises during legal hours- but we acknowledge no difference, our fight is against drunkenness and drunkard manufacturers. But I assert and have proofs at hand that instead of an increase in cases of convictions at Cardiff since the introduction of the Act, there has been an actual decrease and this I will substantiate -if Mr. Valentin doubts the truth thereof. How Mr. Valentin can so lightly talk of the sad de- tails, however, portrayed as claptrap oratory and maudlin sentimentalism, is beyond conception. The daily horrors of the drink doings are enough to make "heaven weap and earth amazed." The baptism of blood for one day in London alone, the record of which I have before me, is enough to astound the most callous and indifferent. The murderer who slays his victim in the depth of night is pursued, and when caught, pays the penalty of his crime upon the gallows, but the wholesale murderers who gloat over the wealth of their unholy gain by foul deeds done in broad-day- light and under the very eyes of the law, are still at large, and are feasted and banqnetted, sit in high places with garters round their legs instead of ropes round their necks. Away with the cant about this ungodly business. JOHN H. WILLIAMS. London Hospital, London, E.

THE LOCAL PILOTAGE. —^ IN REPLY TO MR. FOWLER. TO THE EDITOR. in the issue of the Mercury of the loth inst., I read some most damaging reports against the pilots. Now, sir, the "Arden" was boarded 2J miles S.W. of Worm's Head, 15 miles from Llanelly, within an hour and a half of high water, in a dense fog. You must understand there was no time to lose in getting to Llanelly. The harbour engineer has ma.de his report in your paper, and stated that the Vepail" drew 11 feet. That is not so, It was 111 feet. Now about me persuading the captain to take a tug. There was no pressure laid on him whatever. I pointed out to him the circuitous channel we had to go, his -1 vessel being 215 feet long, and coming towards high water, he decided to take a tug, and was very pleased in signing my note. You will understand that the "Arden" got aground aud failed to reach the stage on the 8th. She could not get away on the 9th, drawing I5.} feet. The engineer gives you the draught of water taken from the New Dock sill, that is, in the middle of the channel. Does he think a ship to be like a wheelbarrow going over a plank ? In corning in, the tug in tow got aground, not having sufficient room to lay broad on our bow. If the pilots are to have their pilotage deducted for taking steam, they must do in two tides or more what they cannot do in ons without assistance. I see also about the Genova" going away with 2,000 tons. That is also inaccurate. Her cargo was 1,410 tons, and not 2,000, and the same water as the "Arden." What interest would it be to the port or to the ratepayers in going, or sending to masters of vessels, fishing out complaints about, pilots ? Our late Harbour Master never used to do these things. Reports will come quick enough. I would- advise the authorities to replace those buoys, three in number, adrift from the North Channel. That would be of some good to the port, and would be doing good all round. Yours faithfully, RICHARD RICHARDS. STATEMENT BY THE LLANELLY PILOTS. Mr. Fowler has brought before the public the tariffs of Newport, Cardiff, and Swansea for pilotage and towage. We would be very thankful to Mr. Fowler if he would let the public know each pilot's earnings at these ports, and compare them with Llanelly. In last week's paper Mr. Fowler proposed to reduce our pilotage to one half the present tariff. If our Harbour Commissioners will allow this, there will be no livelihood for 21 pilots, as we are at present, as things are going OIL We, as pilots, would rather the port to be made non-compulsory so as to get the United Kingdom Pilots' Association to fight for compensation as they did at Swansea, which amounted to £ 4,125 for inward pilotage alone, but we here at Llanelly will have to be compensated for inward and outward pilotage. We will take last week for an instance eight steamers came in and out without pilots by reason of the fact that licenses are granted to them to pilot their own vessels, and they are constant traders to the Port. Only two came in with pilots during the week. Mr. Fowler proposed at a meeting to stop the pilots from hobbliug, which has been done by the pilots since Llanelly has been a port, and upon which we depend for a part of our livelihood. But for the few shillings for hobbles we would not be able to maintain our families. To show the public the reduction that we are compelled to bear out of every £ that we earn we will give the following figures :-We pay to the tugs Is. 6d. in the £ for boarding Is per week from each pilot to the tugs iL 2s. per week to the late masters of the cutters Is. 6d. in the £ to the sick and widows' and Old Pilots' Fund. If the trade will not increase we will have to discontinue paying towards the Fund as our earnings are so much reduced. We will not be able to keep this fund up as there is on an average from £1 15s. to jE2 paid out every week daring the year. The soouer the better the new dock is com- menced for some of us to try and get something to do there. I THE LLANELLY PILOTS.

TO ALL WHO SUFFER FROM RUPTURES. Mr. DAVID CHARLES, of Peullech Cottages, Pwll, is prepared to attend and cure anyone who suffers from Ruptures of any sort. Consultations free, and, if not cured, no charge will be made. No operations needed, outward applications of ointment only used. Over 120 cases already cured, and testimonials from patients may be seen at any time. The following are given as specimens. A trial is solicited. Note the address :— DAVID CHARLES, Penlieeh Cottages, Pwll, Llanelly. 11, Albert Street, Llanelly, October 17th, 1896, DEAR SIR,—It gives me great pleasure in bearing testimony to the efficient. manner in which you have cured my boy, who was raptured from birth, which caused us great anxiety. Thanks to those who re- commended me to you and I can assure you, sir, that whosoever I may come across with the same complaint, I will consider it my duty to let them know about you. It is a great pity that there arc so many suffering from that terrible complaint when there is a. certain cure at hand, You ought to be more widely ktiown.-Yours, with many thanks, THOMAS HOWELLS. Mr. David Charles, Pwll. Manachlog Terrace, Poutyberem. lonawr 4ydd, 1897. ANWYL SYR,—Y mae yn bleser genyf allu dwyn tystiolaeth i effeithiau daiouws eich triuiaeth at y bol- rwygiad, yr hwn a lwyr weiihaodd ty mhlentyn naw mis oed. d. Treuliasom lawer o nosweithiau dsgwsg cyn clywed am danoch, nes oeddwn i a'm gwraig yn nychu i fyny ya deg. c O'r diwedd clywsom am danoch, a bu o fawr fendiuL i ni. Derbyniwch eiu diolchgarwch gwresocaf. Yr eiddoch yn ddiolchgar. I Mr. D. Charles. WILLIAM MORGAN.