The North Wales Chronicle and Advertiser for the Principality

GRAND NATIONAL EISTEDDFOD, AT ABERDARE. (BY OUlt OWN REPORTER.) This important and great National Festival was held at Aberdare, South Wales, on Tuesday Wednesday, and Thursday last. A large concourse of the native talent of Cambria, was collected in Aberdare on this interesting occasion. The nobility, clergy, and gentry, with bards and min- strels from every part of the Principality, came forward with patriotic ardour to support, bv the exertion pecu- liar to the land of their fathers, and endeared to the heart of every true Welshman by the memory of the past ages, wherein the iron hand of oppression strove in vain to grasp the spirit of a few and brave poople, by prohibiting amongst them the voice of the bard and the sound of the harp. Drayton, in his Poly Albion, elegantly depicts the variety of genius and talent which, blended together, give to an Eisteddfod that proud distinction which it has for many centuries maintained over the Olympics of every other nation, ancient or modern. Iu reference to the poetic and musical genius of the Cymry, he says- Some there were bards that in the sacred rage, Recorded the descents and acts of every age Some with the nimble joints that struck the warbling string. In fingering some unskilled, but used to sing To others' harp, of which you both might find Great plenty, and of both excelling in their kind, That at the Stethva oft obtained a victor's prize, Had won the silver harp, and worn Apollo's hays, Whose verses they deduced from those first golden times, Of sundry sorts of feat, and sundry sorts of rhymes, Varying still their mooda, observing yet in all Their qualities, their rests, their measures metrical, For to that sacred art they constant do apply, Addicted from their birth to poesy. At the above Eisteddfod all the varieties of talent de- scribed by old Drayton were to be found, and their i atriotic exertions were cheered by the presence and ;;i; n,;re :c:rl,t:l:I; i of the land, of whom a brilliant assemblage enlivened lie town of Aberdare during the meeting. This being the inauuration of the union, happily effected at Denbigh, between the North and South Wales Eisteddfod, the largest meeting ever held in the Principality was anticipated and the committee, under the management of that triad and well-known supporter of Welsh literature, D. Williams, Esq. (Alaw Goch), Ynyscynon House, were •.ndefatigable in their exertions to render the institution a reality, and a great fact." A spacious marquee, with seats to contain 6000 people, had been specially erected for the occasion, on Hirwaen Common, near the to, t expense of several ::c O:Ul; :I, ot SJ(lP:, (1i' I prevalence of a strong westerly gale, the noble structure, with the 'rooting and supports, was completely de- stroyed, and the whole expensive decorations exposed to the merciless storm, which was at its height about one o'clock the same day. The scene of the debris was most discouraging to taose who bad bestowed so much attention upon the building, and their hopes for a time entirely disappeared. However, the patriotic spirit of tpe promoters was not in the least daunted, and they at once employed a large force to convey the materials to the Market Hall, where it was decided the meeting should take place. Vigorous measures were adopted; timber was carted, ladders were hurried to the scene of action with the greatest promptitude, every workman had his post alloted, and now a most commodious erection, far :;llpcrior in comfort to the Pavillion, and capable of holding 5,000 has been formed. Acoustic arrangements were made for the better emission of sound from the platform, and performers as well as audience, especially ladies, congratulated themselves on the change, both as regards comfort and ability to see and hear all that wa,s going on upon the platform. Its situation, more- over, so close to the railway termini of the Taff Vale and Vale of Neath Railway, as well as its central situa- tion in Aberavon, made the chauge a source of congra- lation to all. The proximity of the Boot Hotel, and the refreshment rooms which were prepared opposite the grand entrance by the landlord, was an additional com- fort to strangers, being far more commodious than the temporary erection on the Common; indeed, the more convinced we are of the truth that It is an ill wind that blows no one any good." TUESDAY. On Tuesday morning, at 10 o'clock, the members of the Committee assembled at the Temperance Hall, when the bards, minstrels, and other friends of the Eisteddfod united to join the procession, consisting of the President, H. A. Bruce, Esq., M.P. for the Boroughs, and the Vice- president, preceded by the Aberdare Volunteers, towards the site of the pavillion (Hirwaen Common), where the Gorsedd was opened by the usual proclamation of "gwir yn erbyn y byd," ac yn ngwyneb haul a llygad goleu- ni," was read by the bard, Huw Tegai, and in English by G. DavieR, Esq., M.A., Swansea. CLWYDFARDD read delivered the following engnlynio and EIFIOS ALLTUD ItL the GorseiM .— Hyd y nen y crechwenir-gwiw uniad Gwynedd a Deheudir; 0'1' or8edd hedd gyhoeddir, Ac o'r nef tangnef i'n tir.-—CLWYDFARDD. Y gwir, yr holl wir ar allwn-er bai Yn erbyn byd roddwn Yn llu hardd yn y lie hwn, Ac heddyw ei cyhoeddwn. Nerth ari ychwaith na therfysg—ni thynir A tliangnef digymysg A welir meddir i'n mysg, Gorfyddwn ag trf addysg. Dysg yr awen a'i liewyn—yw'r benaf A'i bonedd hi ydyw, Gwir diball gair y Duw byw Yw ei hedd a'i hurdd heddyw. ALLTUD EIFION. From thence they proceeded to the Market Hall, where the President was conducted to the chair at the souu.l of the trumpet, followed by a national melody on the harp. The following address to the President was then read by Gwilym Williams,<5sq., Ynyscynon House. To Henry Austin Bruce, Esq., 3f. P. Sin.—It is with unmixed pleasure that we welcome you to the president's chair of the National Eisteddfod. This is not the first time that we have had the honour of meeting with you upon important public occasions, nor is it the first time that it has been our privilege to receive your co-operation in these the great national gatherings of our ancient people. But interesting as have been the occasions previously alluded to, none of them can be said to compare in interest and in magnificence, with that assembly which to-day is gathered within these walls, from every portion of the realms. For we meet amidst these mountains to-day not for the purpose of promoting simply local interests however im- portant they might be; nor for the purpose of forward- ing the views of any clique or party in the promotion of popular measures however estimable; but we have ral- lied around the banner of our common country, merg- ing all minor points of difference, and willing with one hand and heart as one people to do something to perpetu- ate the memory and stimulate the cultivation of that old and glorious literature and minstrelsy which have surviv- ed the wreck of dynasties, have flourished amidst the con- fusion of war, and which, like the XI onarch of the forest, become more and more firmly rooted in the hearts of men of Cambria, as the storms of time sweep by. It were it work of supererogation to enter into lengthy ex- planation upon the objects which the committee of Yr Eisteddfod had in view in their arrangements this year but it may be well to call attention to the fact that this is the ftrst time that the North and South have united for the purpose of affording to the world the spectacle of a thoroughly representative and national demonstration. From time immemorial it had been the custom for the North to have its meetings of its bards independently of its Southern neighbour; and for the South in like man- ner to act independently of the North but the convic- tion flashed upon the minds of many of the best promo- ters of Eisteddfodau in both divisions, that it would be wiser, better, and would present a nobler exhibition, to behold union where there had been division, and to have henceforward in place of separate gatherings one vast and mighty concourse, and we entertain a lively hope that ith Railways uniting the remotest limits of this country, the essential one-ness of the people wiflbe more and more distinctly beheld, and the full benefit of this arrangement concurred in by all. We again beg to welcome you in our midst, and in addition to our gratitude for your attendance this day, we respectfully offer you for the great interest you have always taken in our Eisteddfodau, the tribute of our heartiest and most cordial thanks. For the Committee, GWILYM WILLIAMS, Sec." The PRESIDENT then stood forward and said--Ladies and gentleman, you are now situated under peculiar disadvantages for the preparation we have made for your comfort having been frustrated by the rigeoftlie elements, and we therefore have to tax your patience to put up with the best accomodation we have to offer. I cannot sufficiently thank the committee for the very handsome and flattering terms in which they have been pleased to mention my name in connection with the slight service I have been able from time to time, to render our neigh- hours. I know how slight my claims for public regard are. I have not the honour of bearing any of the great historic names of Wales, nor the owner of half a Welsh oountv, as some. I am not even connected with the literature of your country, but there is one position which I may take. In one respect I may be considered perhaps not unworthy of the attention of this assembly, and that that, in the constituency which I have the honor to represent, there are large numbers from every corner of the twelve counties of W ale. Attention has been drawn to the peculiarity of this Eisteddfod,and that peculiarity is, that efforts have been made to bring North and South together. It has been said that the reason for having these Eisteddfodau no longer exists, that they are the emanation of an age, from ours, and that in fact the in- stitution Is an antiquated one. There are in this country a great many antiquated institutions beginning with its constitution. That was framed under very different cir- cumstances from the present; but it should be the ob- ject of wise men from time to time so to alter and adapt institutions, is, when they have departed from their original objects, still to make them serve useful and gene- rous ends. Well, the question is therefore: does the institution of the Eisteddfodau serve these ends ? I think it can be made to do so. It is true they were instituted, because in the absence of the invention of printing, and when there where no means of bringing together the intellect of different parts of the country, there were no means of making known in South what was done in North Wales, and oral recitation was therefore the only means of imparting knowledge. We have now a press, so diffused that the composition of every man may be brought home to every other man's fireside. (cheers.) So far, therefore, the original reason does not exist; but it remains still to be seen whether very important ad- vantages cannot be gained frmn the continuance of this institution. In the first place you bring together, face to face, a number of persons who only know mehotherbyre- putation.. There is a great positive social and intellectual advantage in that. We all of us to-day perhaps shall meet for the first time men whose names are pretty familiar, and it is not only a pleasure, but a positive ad- vantage to look upon the faces and hear the voices of men who have earned a distinction by merit and labour. In addition to that, there is no doubt that the fact of giving prizes for intellectual effort, stimulates it. I know very well that it is usually said, that compositions for the Eisteddfodau are rarely worth publication. What therefore, it is said, can be the advantages of producing essays or poems which are not destined to see the light ? But our object is not to create great poets and great writers. Of course if great poets and writers will send their contributions we shall be only too glad to welcome them. Our object is more to diffuse a taste and love for literature, art-q, and music among all classes of society. Our object is to reach the masses, as well as the eminent individuals, and it seems to me that in that respect the Eisteddfod is fitted to obtain success, and ought to con- tinue1 to be respected and supported with intirest. There is another objection taken to the Eistedd- fod-that it lias a tendency to perpetuate the Welsh language, and not only so but to the exclusion of the English. I believe that to be an unfounded prejudice. I am satisfied that whatever tends to intellectual culti- vation will tend to an extension of the knowledge of the English language. Whatever you may think of the Welsh language, and however you may honor it, you know very well that a knowledge of English is necessary in order to give you the key which opens the lock of immene ranges of literature and science, which can hardly be reached through the medium of the Welsh language. You know too that a knowledge of English offers a field for advancement, which a knowledge of the Welsh, con- fined as it is to a small portion of the land, cannot do. As you increase in knowledge so will your know- ledge of the English language increase, and thus this objection is utterly futile. There is another objection which must be touched upon every lightly, that it tends to foster national vanity and create a low standard of excellence. Doubtless things have been said at Eisteddfodau, which have had a tendency to foster an undue extent feelings of national vanity, and which could only be excused by the excitement of the moment. Naturally, when dwelling upon the facts of our ancestors there is a tendency to exaggerate all we notice. But there is very little fault to find with this, unless we fix our minds too exclusively upon them, and think that Wales has produced the greatest of everything,—that there is no branch of literature, science, or art in which the Welsh cannot be found first, and by that means to cut down our efforts by having too low a standard of excellence. I believe that the leaders among those who desire the continuance of Eisteddfodau are mostly op- posed to that tendency. I believe we shall hear nothing of that sort this day. Every spectator will do honour to his countrymen. They will point with gratitude, especially to everything that has been done by Welsh- men. That is quite proper, but I am sure you will hear no derogatory remarks as to other countries. The spirit of rivalry will be a spirit of generous rivalry, without jealously It may be 8aid that a meeting of this sort might have been held in a more appropriate part of the island than a town like Aberdare, where meetings ot the Bards would be disturbed by the clang and noise of the iron works, and the whistling of the engines of the ad- joining railway. It has been said that the Vale of Llan- gollen, the Vale of Clwyd, or some of those famous places of natural beauty would be better chosen for a meeting of Welshmen. I am not of that mind; I be- lieve that in the great centres of population, not only will there the greatest good be done, but the greatest intellectual efforts will be made, because you must re- member that whatever poets may have said, it is not mere beautiful scenery, it is not merely rocks and woods, and e«wjoa<loa that make the beauty: it is more than everything the study of the heart of man. The proper study of mankind is man. It is only by studying the feelings of man that man can reach any great eminence. To excel in literature you must know all that other men know, and you must know something more of your own. To excel in poetry you must feel all that other men have felt, and unless you do so there is no hope for that degree of success:whieh stamps a man as an eminent author. Therefore, I think it is well that we have meetings in a populous part of the country. It is well to excite the love of literature among those who being brought to. gether, have the best opportunity of cultivating it with Buccess. My task .in making these few introductory remarks is now done; but' I cannot resume my seat without again expressing iily sympathy with them that through no fault of theirs, but as it appears from their having placed too much confidence in au unfortunate Saxon, instead of looking out for some skilful Welshman of their own land. A neigbouring squire, well known in this part of the world, and connected with theliterature of the country, Mr Williams of Abcrpergwm, used to say that Hirwain derived its name from Hirwain Wrgant, a corruption of the Engligh word "hurricane," and it was from a want of the ju^t appreciation of the derivation of the name of Hirwain that this misfortune had overtaken us. But it can be overcome by the hearty feeling of the audience, which I have no doubt will be exhibited, and that my duty as chairman will be as easy upon this as upon former occasion when I have had the honour of presiding. Mr. Bruce was most heartily received throughout, and resumed his seat amidst the cheers of his audience. Poetical addresses were tlelivei-ed by the. Rev. D. Jones, Tongwynion. Gwilym Mai, Huw Tegai, Idris Vychan, W. James, Humphrey Jones, Aberdare, Alltud Eifion, &c. Hugh Tegai's englyn to the chairman is as follows:- Bruce heddyw mewn bri swyddol-a godwyd 1'1' gadair lywyddol, Bruce a erys mewn bri swyddol yma Bruce a weinydda uwch bri seneddol. Idris Vychan's is as follows I Aberdftr yn hoew-bur dwth-gannoedd I gynat llenyddiaeth, Seigiau y dywysogaeth I ddynion sydd fywlon faeth. Amelus yw rhoddi moliant—yn deg Ardon Hirwaun Wrgant, Llu heddyw yn rhoi llwyddiant 1'1' awen deg ar jawn dant. Ar frys daw drwy arfer j don-luoedd I lewyrch mwy cyson, A chystal am orchestion, Yn rhes hir yn yr oes hon. Y gweithiwr wedi 'i goethi-a naid 1'1' nen yn dra gwisgi, 0 gyraedd torf 0 gewri, Bywyd a nerth ein byd ni. Dyna ddyben awenydd-yw cyraedd Coron mwy ysblenydd, D"ioni" dywenydd Rhoddi'n deg ar hyd ein dydd. Tra son am ddynion haerldianawl-tra byd, Tra bo beirdd urddasaw], Ni feth ein heniaith fythawl, Pur ein awr pcry ei mawl. IDRIS FTCHAN. Solo on the harp by Mr. Ellis Roberts, harpist to the Prince of Wales-" Noble race was Shenkin." ANEURIN VARDD read his adjudication upon the best song on the Adventures of the Mariner," prize two guineas, medal one guinea. Best, W. Caslett, Eglwys- ilin, Monmouthshire. 11 compositions had been received. Rev. J. ROBERTS (Ienan Gwyllt) and Mr. J. AMBROSE LLOYD read theiradjudication on the best congregational tune, in four voices, major key, on the following metre;- Gwyn fyd y wlad lie bo digonedd, Yn ddawn yr holl drtigarog Dduw; Fo'n cael ei llenwi mewn tangnefedd, Ag angenrheidiau o bob rhyw." Prize 2 guineas.—The best was Mr. David Lewis, Llan- rhystyd, Cardiganshire. The next was a composition of the brass bands-the best performers of "Rise up, arise" (Mendelssohn, St. Paul's)-prize £10. Only one band (the Aberdare Volunteer Band) had entered for competition. Judges -Owain Alaw, Mr. J. A. Lloyd, and Mr. Ellis Roberts. OWAIN ALAW said, though they could not give their unqualified praise to the only band who had performed, they were, upon the whole, entitled to the prize. ANEURIN read an adjudication on the English tran- slation of "Cywydd y Farn Yawr," by Goronwy Owen, in rhyming complete. Prize, 4 guineas; medal, 1 guinea. The best was Mr. D. Evans's (Lion), Newport. The next was a competition on the triple harp-the best performer of "Merch Megan," with variations. Prize 5 guineas. The following only competed :— Mr. Llewelyn Williams, Cardiff, who ,was deemed worthy of the pi-ize. Rev. W. ROBERTS. Blaenau Gwent, read an adjudica- tion on the best" History of Glamorganshire, its Curio- sities, Seaports, Mountains, Mines, Rivers, and Com- merce in general." Three compositions were received, but the one signed "Geoffrey o Forgnnwg" was the best, who proved to he Mr. David Jones, Merthyr. Competition—best singer of the tenor solo, Then shall the righteous" (Memlelsshon's Elijah.) Prize 1 g iaea. There were five c,)mp?titors. Mr. D. Rœser, Mérthyr, was the best, and invested by Miss Hhys. An adjudication on the best acrostic, in English or Welsh, to the Scottish bard, Robert Burns, by Mr. A. J. Morris. Prize 1 guinea. The best was Mr. E. Thomas's, Newport, and is as follows :— R lch racy rhymer wert thou, Burns; o what a fount of Song was in thy breast; B y bliss within, thy readers' bosoms burns Europe admires-by all the Bards confessed R are rapture in thy readerö-singers thrills— T hrills through all human hearts in vales, in hills, B ut most where Scotia's mounts in giandeur rise, U nequalled is thy power 'mongst poets wise; R obust thy reason in thy prose or rhyme, N ot caring for the thought to please the time; S ound seme and pauion make thy song sublime. Rev. J. GRIFFITH, Vicar of Llandailo, addressed the meeting in Welsh. He said that Eisteddfodau were deeply rooted in the heart of every Welshman. Their tendency to foster native talent, and to destroy the national prejudices that formerly existed between the Welsh and the English, was as marked as the advocacy of the Bible Society had been the meaus of drawing to- gether the various religious communities in one Christian bond. They had also been effectual in preserving, and handing down to posterity, in its pure and unadulterated state, the old and venerable Cymraeg. (Cheers.) He knew not why any person should wish its annihilation, aslopg as they were ready and desirous to acquire a thorough knowledge of the English language, which was the language of the world and commerce. Eisteddfodau had certainly wrought a considerable cht\uge"in the taste and the habits of the people, and he believed was still destined to effect a greater good for the general hapÍ>ine8s of the Welsh nation. (Cheers.) C-ompetition-best singers of the trio, Maiden fair, a word I pray" (Bishop's Glee). Prize, 3 guineas. The following competed-Mesrd. D. Roiser, D. Francis, and Miss Watts; 2nd, Messrs. Silas Evans, Owen Thomas, and Miss Thomas, Pontypridd; John Evans, Miss Forey, and D. H. Thomas, Rhymley Thos. Jones, John Jones, and !If i3.q Ellis. There was a tie between the first and the last party. Prize divided between the two. Adjudication on the best Pastoral Song, the author to choose his own subject. Prize, 8 guiueas medal, 2 guineas. Best, Air. John Ceiriog Hughes, Manchester. LLEW LLWYFO at the request of some party present sang a Lyric which the composition contained, called 0 dowch o iy ngeneth." Competition—Best Singer of the Soprano Solo" from mighty kings he took the spoil" (Handel's Judas Mac- cabeus). Prize, one guinea. Four competed, but the prize was awarded to Miss Forey, lertl\yr. Mr. STEPHENS read his adjudication on the best Essay on the Curiosities of Wales, historical and scientific, its divisions, ancient and modern; with notices of re- markable persons and events." Prize, 8 guineas, medal, 2 guineas. The best was that signed Giraldus Cam- brensis, real name not known. I br:i:i,1:iwg;ot l?,3 than 30) who shall begt ti?g Thanks be to God" (M endelshon's Elijah). Prize 10 guineas. Only two competed, viz., the Dowlais and Aberdare choirs. After a spirited competition the prize was divided between the two. MEETING OF BARDS AND LITERATI. A general meeting of bards and persons intereste 1 in Welsh literature was held at the Committee Room, Temperance Hall, which was very numerously attended. The Rev. J. Griffith, rector of Neath, presided. EBEN VARDD'S TPSTIMOXIAL. A letter was read from the Rev. W. Ambrose, Port- madoc, chairman of a meeting held at Bangor, on the 1st of January last, for the purpose of mising a national testimonial to Eben Vaxdd, enclosing a resolution passed at that meeting. HUGH OWEN, Esq., Whitehall, London, after a few prelimary remarks, proposed the following resolution:- "That this meeting is of opinion that the propositi made in January last at Bangor, to raise a testimonial to Eben Vardd, deserves the warmest support and encou- ragement of the Welsh nation, and desires to recom- mend the proposal to the special notice of every admirer of the labour aud genius of the eminent bard. A rider was proposed and approved of, that Hugh Owen, Esq., W. Jones, Esq., (Gwrgant) and Mr. John Griffith, London, be requested to take the necessary steps to carry the above object into effect. I WILLIAM JONBS, Esq., (G wrgant) seconded the resolu- tion, and said that Eben Vardd had done great service to Wales and deserved its gratitude substantially ex- preg,>ed. The patriotic chieftain of Powis laud, Sir Wat- kin Williams Wynn, had given him £ 5.—(cheers)— towards the testimonial, and Mr. Hugh Jones, of London, a pupil of Eben Vardd, had given him another X5, (Cheers.) He (Mr. Jones) would himself add £ 2 or t:3 towards the same object. Eben Vardd was one of their best bards. For lofty conceptions and eloquence of style few equalled him. (Cheers.) Bereaved of those who made his hearth and home happy, and deprived of their solace in his declining years, a testimonial from a nation's gratitude might partially relieve his desponding mind. (Cheers.) After a long discussion on the merits of testimonials in general, the resolution was agreed to with only two dissentients. THE CONCERT. Concerts seem to have become a sort of necessary ap- pendage to a great national Eisteddfod, and here the musical talent of the native artistes of Cambria are best seen to be fully appreciated. Tho Concert this even i ng commence d ,t 6 c l oc k in the I I all, where the audience, principally composed of the elite of the neigh- bourhood, numbered about 2000. The principal per- formers were Miss S. E. Wynne; Miss Kate lvynrm M iss Ranger; Mr. Lewis Thomas, from the London Ora- torios- Llew Llwyfo; Mr. Edwards, Aberystwyth; Mr. John Thomas, Professor of the Royal Academy of.Music, London, memher of the Academia di Santa Cecilia, Rome; and Mr. Ellis Roberts, harpist to H. R. H. Prince of Wales; Owain Alaw; and Mr. E. W. Thomas, leader of the Philharmonic Concerts, Liverpool. The Dowlais choir acquitted themselves admirably well; and the singing of the Misses Wynne was received with the greatest acclamation. Dowlais choir deserved the most unqualified praise, and the performance of Mr. E. W. Thomas on the violin, and Mr. J. Thomas on the harp, was exquisitely beautiful. The whole concluded with the national anthem and a vote of thanks to the President of the day. WEDNESDAY. The meeting, favoured with propitious weather, was attended probably by 3000 people. The chair was taken by H. H. Vivian, Esq., M.P. for the county of Glamor. gan. The conductor being Rev. Dr. James, Panteg. On the President reaching the platform a flourish of trumpets was given, after which an eloquent address was read by Mr. W. Morris (Gwilym Tawe), which had been performed by him for the occasion, and was beauti- fully printed in gold. The address was warmly welcomed. He as a Welshman—"native and endowed," and as one, who, whilst he represented the greatest Shire in Wales in the House of Commons, had kindly consented to take a place amongst the Cymry at their National Eisteddfod. It enumerated his many virtues as a l?tiiot and a Welsh gentleman-one whom it was an ¡: to eu: :h;I:iJene T:o(ea.h I dipicted in glowing terms the literary abilities and perseverance of the Welsh people, and their love of arts, science, and literature for their own sakes, and con- cluded by wishing success to the Eisteddfod. The address was signed on behalf of the committee, by Mr, Morris. The PRESIDENT kindly thanked the meeting for the honour which they had done him, and expressed himself fully sensible of the great value and improvement which arises to Wales from Eisteddfodau. He did not think that they were antagonistic to the English lan ;uage, or that they would tend to perpetuate that of the Welsh. If indeed men had power to acquire one language only, then the objection on this head might be a valid one. Other nationalities had their great meetings, for instance, the Highlanders of Scotland, but of a some- what different kind. Why then should not the Welsh people 1 In fact, the social Congrem was a kind of ?l"gli.? Eisteddfod, at which some of the greatest thinkers of the age meet to compare ideas and to in- culcate great social truths. He then briefly glanced at the origin of such meetings, and expressed himself highly gratified at the union between the North and the South. He was proud, he said, of being a Welshman, and was fully sensible of the high honour they had con- ferred upon him by appointing him their President on that great occasion. This speech was received through- out with enthusiastic applause. Adjudication on the best Pennillion Tawddgyrch cad- wynog, yn ol dosbarth Morganwg Gorchanau ar y cyhyd. edd hir, one of the most difficult metres in the Welsh language, in memory of the chief bard of Wales, the Rev. Walter Davies, M.A. (Gwallter Mechain), not ex. ceeding 100 lines. Prize, 3 guineas, medal, 2 guineas. The best proved to be "Bleddyn," Mr. Robert Hughes, (Robyn Wyn), Bangor. His representative (Gwyneddon) was invested in his absence. Competition-best singer of the Welsh air (tenor), Angharad." Prize, 1 guinea. About ten competed. The best, Mr. D. Rosser, leader of the Dowlais choir. Adjudication on the best essay on The Disadvan- tage of Buying and Selling on Credit, and the Advan- tage of Buying with Ready Money, adapted to the circumstances of Commerce in Wales," by J. A. Lloyd, Esq., through the committee of the Denbigh Eisteddfod Prize £ 20. Best, Rev. Llewelyn Edwards, Baptist minister, Llanelli, Breoonsliire. Competition, Pedal Hirp.th. best performer of Llwyn OUII," with variations. Prize, 5 guiueas. The following competed—T. Lewis (Aberdare), G. F. Davies (Cardiff). Best, G. F. Davies. Some gentleman on the stage subscribed the liberal sum of £10 (the list being headed with 30s. by the Chairman) to the unsuccessful candidate, recently deprived of his sight. Adjudication on the best arrangement for four voices of "Meiriollydd." Prize 2 guineas. Best, D. Lewis, Llewlystyd. Competition, best singer of the Welsh Air (Soprano), "Y Fwyalchen." No one allowed to compete that had won a prize in singing a solo before. Prize 16s. Divided between Anne Evans, Aberaman, and Jane Benyon, Aberdare. Adjudication on the best set of four or five variations, in the Welsh style, for the Welsh Harp,, of Megan a gollodd ei gardas. Prize 2 guineas. Adjudication on the best Epic Poem.—Subject— Caractaeua in his defence of the Isle of Britain against the assault of the Romans. Prize 30 giiinem medal, 10 guineas. Four compositions were received; but that signed Cadifor" was the best. Amidst breathless silence the name of Llew Llwyfo was declared the victor, and the announcement was received with tre- mendous cheering. Mr. JONES (Glan Alnn). said that there were two of these poems besides the one declared best, which were of a very high order of merit. But the one which he and his co-adjudicators had awarded the prize, was a very extraordinary production. It was amazing that a poem of such length, being above 8000 lines, and of such sustained excellence, could have been produced in the time alloted for composition. It has been considered by the critics generally that the hero of epic poem should be triumphant at last; now although Caradoc was victorious jo1 war, we are given to understand that he fell into the hands of the Romaus at length by treachery. For this reason, I thought, when the subject was first announced, that it was an unhappy one in that respect. The poet has, of creative necessity, confined himself to a description of the powers of Caradoc in his heroic struggles; but is entirely silent as to his final bondage. Trfis is the only drawback from its character as a National Epic, for although the poem does not "Hude to it, the reader cannot divest himself of the conviction of history. However, this is not the fault of the poet, but the misfortune of the subject. "Cadivor" has made the best use of his materials, and in the only way open to him, and has exhibited stupendous fertility of in- vention in the filling up of the poem. I consider this to be the loftiest flight the Welsh muse has yet made, and I have no hesitation in saying that there are many long portions of it that will bear comparison with the most celebrated epics of any age. (Great cheering.) ALLTUD EIFIoN recited the following impromptu Englyn to Llew Uwyfo Y gwr glew yw y Llew er llog-i gael Ysglyfaeth godidog; Arwrgerdd Mn nid cftn cog, W ir odiaeth i Garadog. LLEW LLWYFO having been invested with the prize, returned his thanks for the warm congratulations of the audience, and delivered a most humorous address. Tiie next was a competition of the best singers of the Duett, "0, mor anhawdded yw," (Stephen's Storm.) Prize Cl Is, Divided between Sarah Forrey, and Mary Thomas, Merthyr. Competition-best singer of the Welsh Air(Soprano), Caerphily/' in Welsh Costume, with the harp. Prize 1 guinea. Three competed. The prize was awarded to Miss Forrey, Merthyr. Mr. Fothergill presented the second with one sovereign, and Gwrgant gave another sovereign to the third best. Competition—best singers of any Catch for three voices. Prize £ 1 10s. The Sneezing Catch" carried off the prize, but 10y each was awarded to the other pwties. Rev. AT. WILLIAMS (Nicander), Llaurhyddlad, Anglesey, addressed the meeting in Welsh. Competition-best singers of the Solo Bass and Soprano, "A Hinau y Dysgyblion," ac "0 cadw ni," (Stephen's Storm of Tiberias), the choir to be not less than 30. Prize 8 guine,1.S. Four choirs competed; -I Calfaria choir carried off the prize. MEETING OF THE BARDS AND LITERATI. I A meeting of delegates from the various counties of Wi ? l?', was held in the Teinpemii? Hall, the principal object being to take into 'onsideration the propriety of establishing the Eisteddfod upon a more permanent basis, and also to discuss a code of laws for the regula- tion of the same, which code had been prepared by a council appointed at Denbigh last year. The chair was occupied by the Rev. Mr. Griffith, of Neath. The CHAIRMAN having read a communication from the secretary of the latu Conway Eisteddfod approving of the object of the meeting, called upon Mr. E. VV.Gee, Hon. Sec. to "Yr Eisteddfod," to read the minutes of the meeting held at Shrewsbury, which he did. He also read the resolutions passed at that meeting, which space forbids us inserting in this report. After the above had been read, HUGH OWEN. Esq., London, submitted to the meeting a number of resolutions, enlarging on the above, and Vhich were calculated to adapt the Eisteddfod more to the social advancement of the Welsh people, and pledg- ing the meeting to devote a portion of the Eisteddfod to the reading and discussion of papers after the manner of the Social Science Associations of England. The meeting generally approved of these suggestions, but expressed an opinion that the Shrewsbury resolu- tions were sufficiently comprehensive to include the others, and when put to the meeting the resolutions passed at Shrewsbury were adopted in their entier. On the motion of E. Davies, Esq., LL.D., Swansea, seconded by the Rev. W. Roberts, it was resolved that two sittings at the next Eisteddfod should be devoted to discussion of subjects ?lettlated to elevate the moral and social character of the Welsh people. The resùlution of Mr. Hugh Owen were aho I adopted. THE EISTEDDFOD FOR 1862. I At a general meeting of the committee held this day, a requisition, signed by the Mayor and the principal inhabitants of Carnarvon, was read,stating their intention, with the approval of the committee, to hold the Eistedd- fod next year at that town. Upon the motion of HUGH OWEN, Esq., London, seconded by J. FRANCIS, Esq., C.E., Manchester, it was resolved that the next meeting of the Eisteddfod be held in Carnarvon. THE LLEWELYN MONUMENT. Immediately after the Concert this evening, which was numerously attended, a meeting was held in the Temperance Hall, to consider the propriety of mising a testimonial to the memory of Prince Llewelyn, the last Prince of Wales, who treacherously fell into the hands of the enemy at Cafnybedd, near Builth. The Rev. Dr. James, Pantfig, was voted to the chair. Mr. T. GRIFFITH, of London, stated the position in which the monument stood, which had been abandoned some years ago, owing to some adverse circumstances, which need not now be alluded to. A sum of money was in hand at the bankers, and there was a very fair prospect of success of the proposal succeeding, if taken up warmly by those present. He read letters from Ab Ithel; Mr. Joseph, (the treasurer); H. Morgan, Esq., Chairman of the Glamorganshire Quarter Sessions, and others, approving of the movement, if rightly set on foot. Rev. R MORGAN, (late P.C. Tregynon,) gave an account of the movement as originally projected, and dwelt with much force and eloquence upon the duty of every Cymro to carry the project without any further delay to a successful termination. JOHN FRANCIS, Esq., C.E. Manchester, addressed the meeting, and concluded by proposing That the brave and illustrious deed of Llewellyn in defence of the Principality of Wales, and the heroic manner in which he sacrificed his life upon the alter of patriotism, entitled him to the respcct and gratitude of all who love Cymro, Cymw, a Chymraeg." He also requested that his name be put down for £5. The resolution was seconded by the Rev. HORATIO THOMAS, vicar of Pentyrch. The following gentlemen were requested to meet together and announce to the adjourned meeting on the following day the result of their deliberation:—The Chairman, Mr. Francis, and Mr. Griffith. The meeting closed with a vote of thanks to the Chairman. THURSDAY. The meeting commenced at 10 o'clock in the morning, and a procession was formed, as on the previous day. The President of the day (CrawshawBailey,Esq.,M.P.for the Monmouth Boroughs,) took the chair, at the sound of trumpets, when poetical addresses were delivered. Mr. Thos. Stephens then read a very complimentary address to the President of the day (Crawshaw Bailey, Esq., M.P.) and thanked him very warmly for his readi- ness in acceding to their request. Eisteddfodau, it states, were particularly adapted to the taste and genius of the Welsh people, and was a symbol of nationality without disloyalty. They promoted the study of the Welsh language without in any way interfering with any other language. It was the source of great satisfac- tion that they had for a President one of a remarkable race of men, who had made Wales famous throughout the whole civilized world. It concluded by hoping they may in future be more frequently honoured with Mr. Bailey's presence, in the same capacity. (Loud cheers.) The PRESIDENT in reply dwelt chiefly on the progress of Aberdare since he came amongst them in the year 1808. He rejoiced to see such an important meeting in that valley. He also hoped that the proceedings of that l day would be carried on in such a way as they would have no cause to repnt having met together to cultivate and encourage the native talent of Cambria. (Applause.) Adjudication on the best ode on Salvation, not ex- ceeding 200 lines. Given by "Clericus," through the Denbigh Eisteddf«xl. Prize 5 guineas. Best, Mr. R., Davies, (Mynyddog) Montgomeryshire. I Competition-Best singer of the soprano solo, Ic kztwffwl," (Cambrian Minstrell) confined to those who had not won a prizo in singing a solo. Prize 15s. Best" Ml8s Benyon, Merthyr. Adjudication on the best ode on Peace." Prize 2. guineas; medal, 1 guinea. Best, M r. Edward Thomas,, Newport, Monmouthshire. Competition on the tripple harp—The best performer of Morfa Khuddlan," with variations. Prize 4 guineas- Best, Llewelyn Williams, Cardiff. • Adjudication of the Essay on the bwt 11 Hitry of the; Literature of Wales, from the earliest period to the pre- sent time, with critical and comparative remarks on the poetry of the different periods, and short biographies of the Chief Bards." Prize £ 40, aud a medal £5. Tha Rev. W. RoVr ». Bh<n.u, ?M, that Gweirydd a? Rhy?ii- Stephen8, and himself had me to the unan.l- mouT decision to recommend the withhotdmg of thM prize, there being only one candidate, who had. neglected to take cognizance of important epochs Ul. Welsh History. An additional sum was recommcuded; to make the suhject worthy of the prize. Competition. — I!est singer of the tenor solo A torse e lui," (Verdi). Prize -61 Is. Best, Thomas Jones, Car- diff: Mons. HENRI MARTIN (author of His?ry of Fran,). 16 vol".) a French gentleman, addressed the meetii* \ir« the French language, which wa8 translated into liog?Ai ? by .M. te¡)hen"' of M.erhI" who dwelt ?h i,'A.? -a thQ? assimilation and pecnhant\cs of the Ci.b?ic nd Galt- lie races. An Italian Song, by a disciple of Frank Mori. Rev. Dr. JAMES, Pandy, arldressed thtlmeeting in, English, in a moat eloquent speech. Adjudication on the Chair Prize. For the best Ode on the "Webh Nation." Prize 30 guineas; Medal 10- guineas. Best, Rev. lioris Williams (Nicander), Rector of Llaurhyddlad, Anglesey. He was led to the chair by the Bonnd of trumpets, and installaMile Chief Bard of Wales. Thus, the Chair which Mt?teen carried last vear to South IValea (the North having enjoyed that honouv for 400 years) has been retaken by a North Waliai).

I rOKTMADOC. PRESENTATION TO A CLERGYMAN. Sometime ago we intimated that on the occasion of the departure of the Rev. O. Ll. Williams from Port- madoc, where he had acted as Pastor of the Welsh Church for six months, his friends and the members of the congregation bad resolved to present him with a sman testimonial as a token of their esteem and regard. for the kind manner he had acted as their minister dur- ing his short stay amongst them.-Mr. John Thomas, acting as treasurer, and Mr. Maddern, as secretary. After the necessary subscriptions had been obtaiued, an order WM forwarded to thejtfessrs. Smith and Nicholson, Lon- w.?,i forw,%rdt?d to the don, for It small silv jfcilver, which in due time was re- ceived in Portmadoc. The salver is richly chased, and the following inscription is beautifully engraved on the '• inside Presented to the Rev. O. L. Williams, by a few friends, as a token of their esteem for his faithful- ness au4 kindness during his temporary charge of the • Portmadoc Welsh Church. 24th April, 1861." On Friday afternoon last, a number of the subscribers attended at the National School Room, for the purpose of presenting him with tlie testimonial; but by reason of a number of untoward causes, many persons who had intended being present were unable to attend. Amongst those present we noticed the following:—Rev. T. LI. Kyffin, Tremadoc; Mrs. Breese, Tuhwnti'rbwlch; Mim, Dora, Miss Fanny, and Master Osmond Williams, Deu-' draeth Castle; Mr. and Mrs. John Thomas, Portmadoc; Miss Griffith, and Miss Horton, Brougham Terrace; Misa • Ellis, Tremadoc; Mis., Jones, School, ditto; Mr. G. H. Jones, &c. lir. and Mrs. O. Ll. Williams were also present. Mr. JOHN THmlAs rose and said, that it gave him very great pleasure indeed to present Mr. Williams with that token of their esteem and regard, although he could" have wished that the task had been deputed to one who could have done greater justice to it. During the time Mr. Williams had been in Poitmadoc he had endeared himself to all the members of the Church by his uniform kindness and Christian conduct, and it was those feel- ings which prompted them to present him with some lasting memento of his stay amongst them. He then presented him with the salver, hoping, he added, that he would long live to enjoy it, and to remember his Port- madoc friends. (Applause.) Mr. WILLIAMS returned thanks hi a very pleasing man- ner, and was evidently labouring under very considerable emotion. He was quite unprepared, he said, for so much kindness on their part, which, he was afraid, he had hardly deserved during the short time he had re- sided amongst them; but it wa., a consolation to him to know that he had always received much kindness from the inhabitants of Portmadoc. That kindness, and the handsome testimonial which they had so generously presented him with that day, he should never forget. He could scarcely command fitting words to adequately express his feelings to them but he begged sincerely to thank them, and hoped that they all would enjoy the utmost felicity both in this world and that whicb is to come. (Applause.) The Rev. Mr. KYFFIX then moved a vote of thanks on behalf of the subscribers to Mr. John Thomas, for the interest he had taken in the matter, for it was to him more than to any one else that they were indebted for tln^testimonial, and he was always ready and willing to do tl the good in hi. power. He begged, therefore, to thank him, on behalf of the subscribers. (Cheers.) Mr. THmlAs thanked them for the compliment which they had paid him. He was afraid that too much cre- dit had been given to him; for, although he had done his best, he c)uld as,me them that he was ably assisted by a very many kind friends. This terminated the proceedings.

Mn. BENSON'S WATCHES.—" We have several watches from this well-known firm, and can speak with confidence of their exquisite workmanship aud artistic finish. They keep time with very great precision, and have been de- clared by comnetent judges to be well worth the money. Parties wishing them can lie supplied through the post- office."—Glasgow Examiner. Benson's Illustrated Pam- phlet, post free for two stamps, is descriptive of every construction of watch now made. Watches safe by post to all parts of the globe. J. W. Benson, 33 and 34, Ludgate Hill, and 4(i and 47, Cornhill. A 0 WOHD OF Advice.—The Spanish proverb says that a melon and a wife are hard to choose." Of course the moral is that we cannot judge by appearances only." The buyer will often do well to bear in mind this gol- den maxim, which is never more needed than when his purchases take the form of the electro-plate and table cutlery. Here he must necessarily be at the mercy of the seller. That the goods are showy and glittering is not enough. The question is, will they last? and this all important point must depend on the good faith. the respectability aud the stnding of the firm with which you are dealing. MAPPIN BROTHERS, of 67, King Wil- liam-street, London-bridge, offer this, the only effectual guarantee, and at their show rooms purchasers are invi- ted to select from a stock of electro-plate and table cutlery which not only pleases the eye but fulfils' the still more essential requisites of good quality and dura- bility.—Daily News, Aiuf. 14, 1861. CAUTION1 TO INVALIDS.—It is satisfactory to observe that the serious attention of the medical profession fa it length directed to the prevalent and injurious practice persued by some dealers of substituting or fecommendfng inferior preparations or useless compounds when valuable and most efficacious special medicines are prescribed. At a late meeting of the Surgical Society of Ireland, several eminent members of the Faculty ascribed the supposed failure of many admirable medicinal agents, and a good deal of modern scepticism as' to the power po. sessed by therapeutic art over disease, to this culpable system patients being too frequently persuaded, on account of imaginaiy cheapness or for other plausible reasons, to accept a useless or deleterious substitute for a genuine and powerful remedy. No article of the materia medicn is more exposed to this mischievous proceeding than Dr. De Jongli's Light-Browne Cod Liver Oil, in consequence of which many practitioners, for the protection of their patients, have deemed it their duty, as the only safeguard, to obtain their supplies direct from Dr. De Jongh's Agents, or from really trustworthy and respectable chemists. Dr. Chadwick, the eminent practitioner of Rochdale, remarks When Dr.J Chad- wick's patients procure Dr. de Jongh's Oil, they always get a genuine article richer in the peculiar virtues of the medicine than any other. Dr. Chadwick wishes to keep a stock of Dr. de Jongh's Light-Brown Cod Liver Oil, that he may supply his patients with it; as he finds, when he sends them to a druggist, they are often in- duced to buy an inferior kind." REFRESHING TOILET REQUISITE.—Among the many luxuries of the present age none mn bo obtained p- sing ?be manifold virtues ?' OLDRIDGE'S BALM OF COLUMBIA. If applied to the roots and body of the hair it imparts the most delightful coolness, with an agreeable fragrance of perfume. It also at this period of the season prevents the hair from falling off, or if al- ready too thin, or turniag grey, will prevent its further progress, and soon restore it again. Those who really desire to have beautiful hair, either with wave or. curl, should use it daily. It is also celebrated for strengthen- ing the hair, freeing it from scurf and producing new hair, whiskers and moustache. No well regulated Nur- sery can dispense with it. Established upward of thirty years. Price 3s. 6d., 6s., and lis. oaly.-C. & A. OLD- RIDGE, 22, Wellington Street, Strand, W.C.

bare to propose them in the usual way, which he should filo as briefly all lxmsilde. He then propoaed the health of her most gracious Ma- jesty the Queen, observing that look where WI) uiight he did not believe that we could find a better government than oura anywhere. He was Borry to say that the world had now an example of a free state engaging in a civil waf, and he himself must say he was sorry for it. As for the Queen he was sure there never was a better w- vereign, politically and morally, nor a better parent. (Drunk with applause.) The health of the Prince Consort was next proposed and drank. The CUAIIUIANthen said the next toast which he was about to propose would, he felt certain, be duly honoured by them. It was that of a young gentleman who was called Prince of Wales. (Loud cheere.) He was now in Dublin; and with their permission he would give them a hint. He was well known to be a good-natured young gentleman and he thought if proper ateps were taken he could be induced to become a patron of the North Wales Eisteddfod-a national Eisteddfod and not a local one. He had given £50 to the Carnarvon Regatta, and he had no doubt that if the matter was properly represented to him he would patronise the North Wales Eisteddfod. (L.,d ch- ) The next toast he remarked was that of a gentleman who was comparatively a stranger amongst tbem-he alluded to the Lord Bishop of the Diocese. He was happy to inform them that he had kindly allowed his name to be placed as a patron of the Concert which was to take place that evening (Monday) in aid of the funds of the district. Now it was not often that a cler- gyman could be found who would act in this manner, as they did not see the utility of such matters as it affected working men. He had, therefore, much pleasure in proposing, as a toast, the Lord Bishop of the Diocese. (Drunk with three times three after the manuer of Odd Fellows.) He should next propose to them, the chairman oQ- served, the health of a gentleman who was well known to them all, and who was much respected by every one- the Dean of Bangor. When asked to be present at the Concert, he said he much approved of it, but that he should not be able to be present by reason' of his advan- ced age. This toast was given with muoie,,1 honoul"8. The Rev. E. Pughe, vicar of Bangor was the next toast, and the chairman hoped the membe would all follow the good advice given them in the sermon that day. Toast duly honoured. The next toasts were the Hon. Col Pennant, member for the County; Mr. Wynne, member for the boroughs, who was a staunch friend to Odd Fellows and other simi- lar societies; and Sir Richard Bulkeley, Bart., M.P., who had done so much for agriculture generally in Anglesey and this part of Wales, and who thought nothing of giving £10, £20, or £30 for a good animal in order to improve the stock. These toasts were all warmly received and duly drunk. The next toast on the list he found was a general one. It was the Army and Navy. Now for his own part he should be very glad when both the Army and the Navy were done away with, as he thought it better if we were to be all mercantile. After the" V ohmteers "had been appended to this toast, it was drunk very warmly by the members with musical honours. Mr. LOVATT (vice-chairman) then rose to propose suc- cess to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Manches- ter Unity, and eulogised in glowing and eloquent terms the advantages aud benefits to be derived from Odd Fcl- lowship, which he said had spread its branches into every country which was comprised in the British Empire, the societies of which were certainly second to none. (Drunk with the honours.) The VICE-PRESIDENT then proposed success to the Prince of Wales Lodge, and the Independent Order in the Carnarvon District. He was glad to be enabled to state that this district was one of the foremost in either England, Wales, Scotland, or Ireland. Some time ago he had read a paragraph in the NORTH WALEs Cuno- NICLE in which it was intimated that the Foresters 'were a more numerous and a better society than theirs, because the Foresters numbered 1100 members, whereas they had only 900. Now when it was known that the Odd Fellows fund in the Carnarvou District amounted to £3000, and the Foresters" only to a saved-up capital of £800, he did not think they had much to boast of over them; for it was better for 900 members to have ;1;3000 than 1100 only £800. (The CHAIRMAN here interfered and hoped Mr. Lovatt would not make any invidious comparisons as it regarded other societies, but confine himself entirely to the affairs QÍ their own Bociety. All friendly 8Oci"tie. were bro- thers, and had precisely the same object in view.) Mr. LOVATT then went on to say that the Prince of Wales Lodge had of itself a fund of JE550, and they had gained during the past year £250, and he thought this would convince young men of the advantage they would reap by joining them. He was very sorry indeed to find that the radesmeu of Bangor did not, as a rule, join such societies, as it would tend to diminish the rates, and reduce them 'probably from 4/ in the pound to 1/. He concluded by proposing the toast. Mr. JOHN ELLIS said he was very sorry indeed that any such remarks should have been made reflecting on the Foresters or on any other society, towards whom he was sure no Odd Fellow had any ill-feeling. (Cheers.) He was very glad that the chairman had interfered to check them, and to put a stop to such disparagement. In his opinion no man could go astray, if he joined any friendly society, for thoro was not much difference between them. (Cheers.) The toast was then drank with the honours. The CHAIRMAN remarked that taking the Carnarvon District altogether they were getting on very well indeed; but he must tell them truthfully, that some of the lodges had not done so well during the year owing to a great deal of sickness which prevailed, and also in part to the deaths. Of course, the deaths affected the entire dis- trict; but each lodge had to pay its own sick, and this had been very great in some of the lodges. Still he was glad to say that out of a total income of £900 the dis- trict had been enabled to save £200, which he consi- dered very good indeed. Mr. LoVATT then proposed the health of Dr. Richards, who had not only patronised the Concert, but he had kindly promised to examine any Odd Fellows entering their lodge free of expense, as he was convinced that such societies if generally adopted would be of immense advantage to the country at large. (Drunk with musical honours.) The next toast was given by the Chairman which was the respected landlady of the house, and thanks for her very excellent dinner. (Great applause.) Mr. ELLIS returned thanks on behalf of Mrs. Ellis, and said that it would always be her object to give the members of the lodge every satisfaction. Th)" Press" and othertomts were then given and res- ponded to, when the members separated after having spent a most pleasant and agreeable evening. CONCERT IN THE BATHS ASSEMBLY ROOM.—On the above evening, a concert of vocal and instrumental mu- sic took place, the object of which was to assist the Wi- dows and Orphans Fund (Carnarvon District) of the In- dependent Order of Odd Fellows, M.U. The Royal Penrhyn Brass Band was engaged for the occasion, as was also Mr. Watts, band master of the Carnarvonshire Militia-the vocalists being Mess\)¡. Jones, Birch, Jones, Howelle, and Jones; Mr. E. W. Thomas, organist of St. Ann's Church, Bethesda, presided at the pianoforte. We are glad to say that the concert was well patronized, the room being quite full, and the performances, on the whole, were of the most creditable and excellent cha- racter. The solo on the trombone, by Mr. Watte, and Llwyn Onn," by the band, were beautifully played, and elicited hearty and well deserved encores. The vocalists also sang exceedingly well. The concert, we may add, wis a dided success.