The South Wales Star

THE HOME RULE CONFERENCE." On Wednesday a meeting of representative Welshmen was held at Cardiff, which had been somewhat inaptly called in the placards a The Welsh Home Rule Conference," to discuss Mr. Alfred Thomas' National Institutions (Wales) Bill. In the morning, a meeting of the South Wales Liberal Federation was held, in which it was resolved to adopt Mr. Thomas' Bill as an instalment of a larger measure which will be introduced at some future time. This is the attitude which we have from the beginning taken up with regard to the National Institutions Bill, and we aie glad to find that the members of the South Wales Liberal Federation are sufficiently in touch with the growing and progressive Nationalist Party in Wales to understand that Mr. Thomas ?Bill is not all that is required by Wales or that is sufficient to satisfy Welsh aspirations. We have on several previous occasions discussed the provisions of the Bill. It is sufficient here to remind our readers that the Bill provides for the appointment of a secretary for Wales, who shall be invested with similar authority with regard to Wales as the Irish secretary is with regard to Irish affairs. The Bill also proposes to forma Welsh Education Depart- ment, a National Council, a Welsh University, and a Museum. The general principle of the Bill was approved by representative Welshmen from all parts of the country who met at a conference at Llandrindod in August last. It will be seen that the Bill is a most moderate one, and only asks for the transference to Welsh departments of certain administra- tive tf unctions which are now enjoyed by English departments of State. No new powers are applied for. It is true that by the adoption of the Bill the claims of Wales to separate legislative treatment will be conceded. Even in this, however, there is no novelty, for in the Welsh Sunday Closing Act, the Burial Act, and the Intermediate Education Act these claims have been already recognised. The establishment of a National Council-important as it may appear to be--is but a slight extension of Section 81 of the Local Government Act of 1888. The Bill if passed will, therefore, only make the administration of Welsh affairs more efficient it will transfer existing powers from English State Departments to local bodies. This is by no means all that Welsh Nationalists demand or require. We are, therefore, glad that the Federation only accepted the Bill as an instalment of a larger measure—the first fruits of a more abundant harvest. We consider that it was a mistake to call -the Conference a Welsh Home Rule Conference." The provisions of the Bill have been made as moderate as possible in order to attract the sympathy and support of the most -halting Welsh members. By calling the con- ference a Welsh Home Rule Conference the very people who were intended to be conciliated by the mild character of the Bill were frightened away, while the advanced Welsh "Nationalists are dissatisfied that a Bill which -only touches the fringe of the question should be called a Home Rule Bill. The afternoon conference and the public meeting in the evening were very well attended, and the conference was fairly representative. We confess, however, that we were somewhat -disappointed at the result of the meeting. The conference, as we said, was fairly representativo of South Wales, and some of the speeches showed how short the Bill falls of satisfying the demands of the Principality. The con- ference had been called together to discuss the detans of the Bill, but the time was too short to allow of anything like a thorough discussion. Difficulties were shirked disputed points were either ignored or left for future con- sideration many who agreed with the main principle of the Bill, but who I wished to amend it in some of its details, had to forbear even to suggest any modifications, lest the conference should end in nothing and, as a consequence, the National Institutions Bill was confirmed by the conference practically unaltered. Though the conference, as far as the Bill itself is con- cerned, did not result in much, it will not be without good effect. It has resulted in a more pronounced declaration than we have ever before hear.l from Sir Edward Reed of his agreement with the principle of separate legislation for Wales it has shown the advance that National- ism is making in Wales it has drawn from Major Jones a valuable definition of Welsh Home Rule and it will tend to familiarise the Welsh mind with the demand for Welsh autonomy and to ripen Welsh thought on the subject. The 'evening meeting at the Park Hall was extremely well attended, and one or two good speeches were delivered but it was by no means a Welsh Home Rule meeting. Sir Edward Reed discussed the Bill in its rela- tion to Cardiff Mr. Pritchard Morgan, in the best speech of the evening, pointed out the evils of royalties and the mis-government of the Crown lands the Rev. Towyn Jones, in a Welsh speech, talked of Disestablishment and education and cognate topics Mr. Alfred Thomas explained the principles of the Bill and Mr. C. P. Scott attempted to answer Mr. Chamberlain's Llanybyther speech. The. speeches were good, but they were not what was wanted. They might have been delivered anywhere at an ordinary political meeting. Most of them were somewhat dull, and did not betoken that clear understanding of the Nationalist position which characterised the all too short speech of Mr. T. D. Sullivan at the afternoon conference. We were disappointed also to see so few pre- sent of the Welsh members who backed the Bill. Mr. Pritchard Morgan and Mr. T. P. Price spoke at the meeting, and Mr. Samuel Evans was present at the public meeting at the Park- hall, though he did not speak. Where were, however, the other Welsh members who have promised to act as sponsors for the Bill ? Mr. T. E. Ellis, Mr. Bowen Rowlands, Mr Randell, Mr. Lloyd Morgan, Mr. Lloyd George, and Mr. T. Lewis were absent. Mr. Abel Thomas, who had been announced to speak, was also absent. What prospect is there, if the Welsh members are not unanimous, of getting the Bill through Parliament ? Many excellent things were said at the meetings, but they were not said by the right people. The representatives of Wales in Parliament were, by accident or design, unable to be present. We confess that we are disap- pointed with the result. We had hoped that the meetings would have marked the commence- ment of a new era in Welsh political history it is true that we have gained something by them, but the gain has fallen far short of our expectations. We had hoped that one or two objectionable features in the Bill would have been removed or modified by discussion but the Bill has been practically left untouched. We had hoped that the Bill would have united together the Nationalists of Wales but the Conference has shown how disorganised and disunited we still are. ♦ The sound of the coming fray is drawing near. Councilllor Bryant of the Tondu Division has ten- dered his resignation, feeling that he is unable, through stress of other work, to devote the neces- sary time to the duties of his office as County Councillor. The best thanks of the Liberals of the division are due to Mr. Bryant, not only for his faithful services, but for coming out, as he did, at the last moment to contest the seat against the Tory candidate. Mr. Bryant has not been able to devote as much time as both he and his constitu- ents would have wished to the discharge of his duty at the Council, but lie has always been faith- ful to his trust when occasion called on him to record his vote, and he has been most diligent in his attendance in the committees on which he sat. As will be seen in another column, the Liberal Association of Tondu and Aberkenfig have reluc- taritly accepted Mr. Bryant's resignation, and selected a successor in the person of Mr. T. J. Hughes, of Bridgend, who is a warm personal friend of the retiring councillor. We hope that the Liberals of the whole division will be unanimous in their choice, and that they will see their way to follow the example set them by the larger electorate of Tondu and Aberkenfig, and select Mr. Hughes as the Liberal candidate. It is unfortu- nate that the gentlemen living in the locality, who might have represented the division at the Council with honour to themselves and credit to their con- stituents, have found it impossible to consent to being selected by the Association. In Mr. Hughes, however, the Liberals of the division have found an admirable substitute, who will prove to be an acquisition to the Council. We earnestly hope that the whole of the Liberals will agree in his selection, and return him unopposed.

BARRY AND CADOXTON BURIAL BOARD. The usual monthly meeting of the above Board was held at the Market-hall Offices, Barry, on Tuesday night. There were present Messrs. J. Robinson (chairman), B. G. Dav.ies, G. Garnett, William Thomas. R. S. Robinson," J. Barstow, Dr. 1 Powell, Revs. J. Price, and G. LI. Williams, and Mr. G. F. Willett (clerk's deputy).—The Clerk's financial report for the past month showed that there had been 28 burials, and that the financial position had been—receipts from burial fees. £ 17 3s.: expenditure, £ 10 lIs; being the best figures the cemetery fees; had reached for some time.—Mr. B. G. Davies proposed, and Mr. Barstow seconded, that the caretaker should be authorised to obtain two wooden shoots to carry off the water from the grave pumps.—The following bills were passed :—Clerk's petty cash, £10; clerk's salary, £3 15s. A. Owen, second prize for chapel plans, :Z5 .5s.; Wm. Barron, trees and shurbs. £15 lis. 5d.; Barry Railway Co.. 63 tons of screenings. £9 9s. Woodham and Sons, hauling. £8 18s. 3d. J. Williams and Sons, pump. £3 caretaker's assistant, 16s. The accounts of the clerk and treasurer were examined and found correct. Tenders were received for the covering of the caretaker's lodge with glass as follows :—J. A. Manton, Barry Dock, £ 6 15s.: H. R. Paull. Cadoxton. £ 5 15s. Morgan Bros.. £ 4 10s. Oakey and Son. £2 15s.-J.fr. B. G. Davies suggested that the tender of Mr. Paull should be accepted, and remarked that Mr. Paull would only begetting 15s. profit on the work, if his tender was accepted.— Rev. J. Price How do you know that.'—Mr. B. G. Davies said he knew it very well.—Rev. J. Price moved that the tender of Messrs. Morgan Bros. should be accepted^—Mr. J. Barstow seconded. Mr. B. G. Davies moved as an amendment that Mr. Paull's tender should be accepted. — Mr. R. S. Robinson seconded.—Messrs. Davies. Robin- son, and Powell were the only members who voted for the amendment, while all the others voted against, consequently the tender of Messrs. Morgan Brothers was accepted.—The sub-committee reported that they had gone into the question of the tenders for the broad-wheeled cart, and recommended that the tender of Mr. D. Farrow, wheelwright, Holton, for the supply of a spring cart for £.14 lCs.. should be accepted.—Mr. W.Thomas remarked that it would be exceedingly cheap if it would be a good spring cart.—Mr. Barstow concurred.—The recommenda- tion was adopted.—A letter was read from Mr. J. Phillips, London and Provincial Bank, Barry, suggesting that as he was the manager of the local branches of that bank he should be formally appointed treasurer, as the Board had their ac- count at his bank.—Mr. Phillips was accordingly appointed treasurer to the Board.—The Clerk re- ported that the Visiting Committee for the coming month would be Messrs. 13. G. Davies. E. F. Black- more. and E. O. Evans. — The Rev. J. Price drew attention to various small defects in the caretaker's lodge. The matter was referred to the Visiting Committee.—Mr. R. S. Robinson submitted öI. sketch showing the proposed wall around the caretaker's residence, with an estimate of the cost.-Further consideration was deferred for the present.—Mr. W. Thomas gave notice to move at the next meeting that the Barry meetings of the Board should be held in future at the Market Offices, and not at the Barry Public Hall. This was the principal business.

ALSOP, BROADIEAB, BRISTOL. C= a'.2 e- P.- 0 c:C> ct, 5 t X' t=! y "F;; = Q 0-4 c:> <) <U-. g o c:> o c.I2 ? Barry Agent: Nrs. C. G-reen, Beer Dealer. a PALE ALES, IR I S TOL IX H GALLON CASKS FROM 10D. PER GALLON. PORTER AXD STOUT FROM Is. PER GALLON. CARDIFF STORES: 9. ¥OEKnG-STREET^ NEWPORT STORES: COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS. CHEPSTOW STORES: BEA GTORT SQU Cadoxton Agents: South Wales Provision Stores.

NOTICE. All communications for publication must be addressed, "The Editor, THE SOUTH WALES STAR, Cadoxton. near Cardiff." and must reach the Editor not later than Thursday morning All communications must be written on one side of the paper only, and the full name and address of the writer must be enclosed, not necessarily for publication, but as a guarantee of good faith. All business communications must be sent to the Manager. Mr. II. MORGAN, South Wales Star Offices, Vere-street. Cadoxton-Barry. The rate of Subscription to the SOUTH WALES STAR, posted to addresses within the Umted Kingdom, payable in advance, is as follows:— One Year Gs. 6d. Half-year 3s. 3d One Quarter Is. 8d.

WELSH CHURCH SERVICES.—We understand that Welsh services will in future be held at the parish room of the St. Catherine's Church, Pontypridd, every Sunday evening.

ROUND THE TOWN. The concert held at Barry on Tuesday evening in aid of the Barry Widows and Orphans' Relief was fairly well patronised in spite of the boister- ous weather. A good sum was realised for the deserving fund. The number of painters on strike at Barry is 30. Mr. J. A. Hughes and Mr. J. C. Pardoe, Barry, have recovered from their very severe attacks of influenza. Mr. Pardoe returned to his; Local Board duties on Wednesday, but Mr. Hughes has gone to Carmarthen to recoup. There were 28 burials at Mcrthyrdovan cemetery last month. This may be taken as a true index of the very high mortality lately at Barry. Mr. Lascelles Carr, in Tuesday's Wrdcni Mail, complains of the price of gas at Cardiff, and says that it is 25 per cent. dearer than it is elsewhere, although it is of inferior quality. What if Mr. Carr lived at Barry or Cadoxton, where bad gas is supplied at 4s. 2d. per thousand. In Hudders- field the gas is only 2s. Glowing and graphic accounts have appeared in all the papers of the thrilling and gallant lifeboat rescue at Sully last Thursday. Only one press representative witnessed this exciting event, and it is unnecessary to add that he was a Star man. The old woman up the street must have been exceedingly galled at the complimentary references made to ourselves at the mass meeting of strikers last Saturday at Cadoxton. A" hare and hounds policy on every conceivable public event is not palatable to earnest working men engaged in a stand-up encounter in defence of their dearest interests. The jurymen who made things hum so much at the vestry meeting at Sully last Friday were reporters, and the police, consequently, have given a broad hint that not a solitary quilldriver from the local newspaper offices shall act on a jury again if they can help it. There is a very ungrateful hoarding on the Holton-road. Mr. Lewis Lewis' Billposting Com- pany originally put it up a few weeks ago, but a cruel storm came and, besides blowing the editor's hat off, distributed this well-erected bill station about the roadway. It was at great trouble and expense put up again, but alas for the second time it soon made the acquaintance of mother earth. The skilful artisan was again requisi- tioned, and last Saturday we could not but admire how well he had done his work. However, it grieves me to say that the gentle bree .c- < f Sunday last again displaced it, and no more the passer by behold the beautiful contents sheets of this paper on that boarding again. Once again we mention Mr. Ware's name in this column. At Penarth on Monday, in mercifully letting off a nine year old boy, who was charged with stealing, he advised him to be a very good boy in future, and pray to God every night to keep him from stealing. The genial magistrate's earnest words to the boy had a profound effect upon those in court. The need of a public mortuary at Barry is being continually felt. The body of a young sailor who was drowned in the dock last week had to be kept in a stable for several days. Miss Florence St. John, who has lately acquired an unenviable notoriety, is of Welsh descent, her maternal grandfather having been a clergyman in the Vale of Glamorgan. We are informed she was first brought out by Mr. Williams, now of the Llnnclhj Gvardian. Lord Salisbury claimed Welsh descent the other day. Mr. D. Lleufer Thomas has unearthed a hitherto unpublished MS. in the British Museum which contains a letter from the celebrated robber, Twm Shon Catti, wherein that worthy writes for assistance to Sir Robert Cecil, Lord Salisbury's ancester, and remind him that he is this second cousin. Xo doubt, actuated by the vanity he has been displaying regarding himself recently, one of the Bridgend football players, in order to show his value more conspicuously to the committee of his club, has tendered his resignation, which is accepted, so he will not be selected to play in to-morrow's match with Ogmore Vale. Christmas comes but once a year, And when it comes it brings good beer. So sang an inmate of the Bridgend Workhouse when discoursing on the jollities of Christmas Day in the Workhouse to his recently-admitted partner. An amusing incident, one of the many which occur in the Bridgend County Court, when the genial judge presides, is worthy of note. A man named Heaven appeared as plaintiff in respect of a debt. and upon being asked for the usual certifi- cate of wages his search around his pockets proved futile, and the judge ultimately remarked, Well, there are no certificate to be found in heaven." The recently betrothed of the Duke of Clarence, the Princess Victoria of Teck, visited Bridgend a little over four years ago. when—with her mother the Dutchess of Teck—she was the guest of the Earl and Countess of Dunraven at the Castle. Their visiw was signalled by a great demonstration at Bridgend, the streets of the town being gaily decorated. Madame Patti's concert being held in Swansea at the time. they visited that place, and also during their stay several villages in the Vale of Glamorgan. Captain Davies, the Barry dockmaster, told all interesting story about himself on Wednesday to our reporter. When he was 15 years of age he was anchored in a vessel off Porthkerry and Barry, and, having admired the beautiful country around, could not but express to a ship chum that he would like very much to end his days in such a delightful spot. Observing the earnestness of the wish, his friend prophesied that the future Barry dockmaster would one day drop into a nice little crib worth £500 a year somewhere about here, and thus be enabled to realise his hope. Well, years have rolled since that day. and our respected townsman never thought about the incident until the day on which the Barry Dock—of which it is now a matter of history he was appointed dock- master-was opened, when he felt a touch on the shoulder, and found at his side the identical friend, whom he had not seen for 10 or 12 years, but who had travelled several hundred miles to attend the dock-opening ceremony, and remind him of the little incident outside the harbour so many years previous.

GRAND CONCERT AT BARRY. A grand evening concert, in aid of the widows and orphans of the men who lost their lives a few weeks ago at Barry, was held on Tuesday evening last at the Public Hall, Barry. The committee, who consisted of J. Cory, Esq., chairman: J. C. Meggitt. Esq.. Captain Davies. Messrs. F. E. Aitken, J. Lowdon, H. De Boer, Dr. Treharne, Captain W hall, Messrs. W. H. Miller, R. T. Duncan, H. H. Powell, and E. John, are to be congratulated upon their endeavours in obtaining such a good selec- tion of artistes, free of any charge. There was a fairly good audience, notwithstanding the incle- mency of the weather, amongst whom we noticed Captain Davies, Rev. J. H. Stowell, Rev. D. Heaume. Mr. J. C. Meggitt, Mr. and Mrs. Waddell, Mr. and Mrs. F. N. Harris, the Misses Brookes, Mr. and Mrs. Vincent. Mr. and Mrs. Lowden, Messrs. J. Robinson, W. H. Morgan (Lloyd's Bank), E. H. Stewart, H. D. Boer, J. Davies, &c. All the ar- tistes whre splendidly received, the reception given to Miss Mattie Davies, of Cardiff, being especially enthusiastic, and her Gyda's Wawr was most pathetically rendered. Miss Annie Bowen was in excellent voice, and received well-merited applause each time she sang. Madame Clara Xovello Davies, one of the most accomplished pianists in South Wales, was enthusiastically encored each time she appeared. Messrs. Richard Masters, David Culley, and T. W. Elliott did their parts admirably. The sketch of How Bill Adams won the Battle of Waterloo," by Mr. Sam Allen, was, we should say, the most enjoyable part of the programme. During the in- terval between the two parts of the programme Captain Davies made a few remarks with reference to the fund, and said that they had already col- lected over £200. and he hoped and believed that the funds would reach the sum of £, 500 before the end of this year.—Captain Whall read a letter from the Xational and Royal Institution, in which they enclosed a cheque for £25 towards the funds. Collections were then made in aid of the fund, and about £10 was realised. Appended is the pro- gramme :—Glee. Breathe soft ye winds," Messrs. Culley. Muller, and Masters song, Let me dream again," Miss Annie Bowen; song, "Good- bye," Mr. David Culley pianoforte solo, Polo- naise in A flat," Madame Clara Novello Davies (encored) song. The lads in red," Mr. Richard Masters song. Gyda'r Wawr," Miss Mattie Davies (encored) violin solo (operative), 111 Travatore," Mr. Henri De Boer (encored) song, The Longshoreman." Mr. T. W. Elliott (encored); sketch, Mr. Sam Allen song, Down the old Lane," Miss Annie Bowen (encored) song (opera- tive), •• Take a pair of sparkling eyes," Mr. Daniel Culley pianoforte solo, Blair Athol," Madame Clara Novello Davies (encored) song, The Light- house Keeper." Mr. Richard Masters; song, Twickenham Ferry," Miss Mattie Davies trio, Jack and Gill." Messrs. Culley, Miller, and Masters God Save the Queen."—Votes of thanks were given to all the artistes who had been so kind in giving their services gratis to Mr. J. C. Meggitt, who had so kindly lent the flo tvers to decorate the r;t:ige to Mr. Rees Jones for doing all the printing in connection with the concert free; and to Mr. J. A. Hughes, on behalf of the Barry Estate Company, for the use of the hall free for that evening.

BARRY. Ax INTERESTING CHAPEL SERVICE.—On Sunday evening next a musical service, consisting of anthems. hymns, reading, ifcc, illustrative of The Life of Moses," will be given, conducted by the Rev. J. H. Stowell, M.A., pastor. There will be no collection. On Christmas morning there will be a service at 11 o'clock. THE FESTIVE SEASON APPROACH.—Christmas waits" were heard for the first time on Monday night at Barry, the loading tradesmen and residents being serenaded. Mr. March, High-street, is at the head of the party who discoursed such sweet music. FOLLICK'S is the Genuine Shop for all kinds of Clothing. Corner of Barry-road and Main- street.—Advt FOR THE LARGEST and best selected stock of Watches, Clocks, and Jowellery at the lowest prices go to Newman's. Exchange-buildings, Barry. [84

BARRY DOCK. "A MERRY CHRISTMAS" GATIIERIXG. On Monday evening, the 28th inst., the members of the Barry Railway Company's stations staff will hold a Christmas Dinner at the Barry Dock Hotel, Barry Dock. A DAMAGED VESSEL.—The ship Falconhurst, previously reported putting back to Barry Roads, has sustained serious damage about the docks, having boats and deckhouses stove in, bulwarks damaged and having lost several sails. SUNDRY SHIPPING CASUALTIES.—The ss. Norma, from Barry Dock for Bombay with coals, arrived at Falmouth on Saturday last with after steerage wheel gone and other slight damage.—On Saturday last the ship Sardinia, of Quebec, coal laden, from Cardiff, while at anchor in Barry Roads, slipped anchor and chain and broke her windlass, and had to re-dock at Cardiff. AN INCIDENT OF THE DRUMBLAIR.—Among the men on board the ill-fated four-masted vessel Drum- blair when she ran on the reef of Sully Island last week was a young man named Morgan, belonging to Newport, Mon., who was at the time on a voyage to Port Pirie, where his uncle now resides. Morgan's lost property on board the Drumblair estimated to be worth at least 1:300. A STEAMER DAMAGED.—On Sunday the steamer Sportsman, which left Cardiff on Tuesday last with a cargo of coal for St. Nazaire, put back to Barry Dock, having sustained serious damage. On Thursday, when off Godrevy Point, a tremendous sea struck her on the port side, staving in the bridge deck, fore hatch, and cross bunker hatch, after skylight, smashing a lifeboat to splinters, and badly damaging another, i..ii ■ away several freeing ports, flooding cabin, ] pother considerable damage about the decks. Tne captain decided to put back to effect repairs, and arrived in Barry Roads on Friday night, coming into dock on Sunday morning. Mr. C. H. Bailey, of Barry and Newport, is carrying out the repairs. A SAILOR DROWNED. — On Saturday evening, about five o'clock, a sailor named Gustav Ladd, a native of Germany, and belonging to the crew of the steamer Thomas Turnbull (Captain Sample), acci- dentally fell into the dock at Barry, and was drowned. It is believed that the poor man was blown over while attempting to get on board his vessel. A search was quickly made for the body, which was recovered about 7.30 near the spot where the man fell. A report of the inquest will be found in another column. THE LATE BOATING DISASTER.—-On Friday Captain Davies, dockmaster, Barry, received from Mr. Dibdin, secretary to the Royal National Lifeboat In- stitution a cheque for £25 towards the Barry Disaster Relief Fund as a recognition of the gallantry dis- played by Jackson and Redmond in attempting the rescue of their comrade Macdonald during the heavy gale of November 11th last, whereby they lost their lives. This amount will be devoted entirely to the relief of the widows and orphans of Jackson and Red- mond. EXPORTS AND IMPORTS.—The exports of coal and coke at Barry Dock for the week ending Saturday last were as follows :—Coal, 68,582 tons 7 cwt.; coke, 360 tons, 17 cwt.; total, 68,943 tans 4 cwt. This was shipped on board 38 steamers and 6 sailing vessels— total 44. The imports during the week consisted of 2,807 tons of pitwood, 303 tons of loam, 830 loads of timber, and 151 tons of building materials. The sundry exportsfconsisted of general merchandise. A RECENT GALLANT RESCUE.—The Committee of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution have just voted (and forwarded to Captain R. Davies, dock- master, Barry, for presentation) their bronze medal and certificate to Mr. William Mallock, a native of Dundee, Scotland, for the exceptional bravery dis- played by him on the 6th of October last in jumping from oa board the ship Lancing, of London, into the' dock at Barry, and saving from drowning a boatman, named James Cunningham, of Barry Dock, under cir- cumstances reported at the time. Mallock, who has on several occasions been instrumental in rescuing per- sons from drowning, is now believed to be at home in Dundee, and Captain Davies intends forwarding the medal and certificate to the provost for presentation to the heroic recipient. LOCAL PRIVATE IMPROVEMENTS.—In reference to the much vexed question of the private improve- ments of Thompson-street and neighbourhood, Mr. David Jones, secretary of the Holton Land and Build- ing Company, has forwarded us copies of two letters— viz., (1) a letter from himself to the Local Board, en- closing a letter from Mr. Travis and pointing out that from what he could gather from the said letter it now remains for the Board to carry out the piivate improve- ments in Thompson-street and Dock View-road and (2) a copy of Mr. Travis's letter, which says that his syndicate have already agreed with the Local Board to guarantee the private improvements on all the unlet land in Thompson-street and Dock View-road. In re- gard to Wood-street, Mr. Travis in his letter states that the buildings are all completed and that the Board must now take over the street. Under these circum- stances Mr. Travis's syndicate see no necessity of meeting the directors of the Holton Land and Building Company as desired by them. LORD WINDSOR AND THE ARTILLERY VOLUN- TEERS. — Lord Windsor (lord-lieutenant of the county and hon. colonel of the 2nd Glamorganshire Artillery Volunteers, and chairman of the Barry Company), has just presented that regiment with a handsome memento of the interest he takes in them. The present takes the shape of a beautiful piece of plate designed by his lordship himself. It represents a field gun just come into action, the muzzle pointing between two gabions, the limber in the rear, with the gunners in the act of performing their various duties. The greatest pains have been taken to have every- thing connected with the gun, limber, and uniforms absolutely correct. The group stands upon a silvur plateau, placed on an ebony base, which has an appro- priate inscription upon a silver plate. The piece of plate is designed to hold materials for sn.oking. The battery which most distinguishes itself during the year will have that honour recorded on a silver plate on the ebony base. The piece of plate will be on view in the officers' messroom from one p.m. till three p.m. and from seven p.m. till nine p.m. up to Saturday next inclusive. FOLLICK'S is the Best Shop for Jewellery. Splendid assortment and at all prices. Corner of Barry-road and Main-street.—Advt.

CADOXTON. A CHURCHYARD FLOODED.—For some time on Sunday morning the congregation worshipping at the Parish Church, Cadoxton, were kept waiting in church, owing to the fact that the churchyard was flooded by the heavy rains. LIBERAL ASSOCIATION.—We desire to draw the attention of our readers to the fact that the annual meeting af the Barry District Liberal Association will be held on Monday evening next at the Shaftesbury Temperance Hotel, Vere-street, Cadoxton. All Liberals are respectfully requested to attend. RELIGIOUS LECTURE.—The well-known lecturer, Antipas, whose religious views are decidedly more eccentric than popular, delivered a lecture at the Public Hall, Cadoxton, on Monday night, before a well-attended and attentive audience. The lecturer was subjected to many questions at the close. BAPTIST CHAPEL CHRISTMAS SERVICES.—On Christmas Day services will be held at the Mount Pleasant Baptist Chapel, Cadoxton, when the Rev. John Prothero will preach. Collections will be :1IJ.ade in aid of over 6,000 waifs and orphans now at the well-known institutions of Muller, Spurgeon, and Barnardo. The services will commence at 11 a.m., 3 p.m., and 6.30 p.m. All those who are in sympathy with the object mentioned are most heartily invited to attend. The pastor, Rev. L. Ton Evans, will, we are informed, give a brief account of the excellent work done at the above Homes. POPULAR CONCERTS.—The first of the series of Saturday Evening Popular Concerts which Mr. Lewis Lewis intends organising will (as will be seen from the advertisement in another column) take place on Satur- day, December 26th (Boxing Day). We are enabled to state than an excellent programme has been arranged, which our readers will readily admit when we mention that the artistes engaged are Madame Davies-Evans, soprano Miss Annie Davies. contralto Mr. D. Walter Lewis, tenor Mr. Louis Giles, ba«s Miss Jennie Foster (elocutionist), and Miss A. J. Lewis, Barry (accompanist). Such an array of talent should easily draw together a crowded house to en- courage the enterprising organiser. THEATRE ROYAL.—No one can accuse Mr. James Elphinstone, the lessee of the Cadoxton Theatre, of not placing before his patrons, week after week, varied and entertaining bills of fare. This week has seen a welcome change from drama to variety business, which was much appreciated. Miss Amy Carlton's excellent Anglo-Celtic combination has been engaged, the artistes, who, one and ail, secured the popular favour, including Miss Maggie Spears ('• The Original Flirt"), Mrs. Will Miles (tenor vocalist), Miss Lena Price (character vocalist and dancer), the Two Irish Diamonds, Mr. Harry Sinclair (baritone and comedian), Miss Madge Daly (serio-comic and clog dancer), &c. CRICKET CLUB PERFORMANCES.—At the Theatre Royal, Cadoxton, on Tuesday evening next a grand gymnastic display for the benefit of the Barry and Cadoxton District Club will take place. The enter- tainment will be quite unique and new so far as this dis- trict is concerned, for it will include musical drill, high jumping, horse vaulting, fencing, horizontal and parallel bar performances, Jtc. The above display will be given by students and members of the South Wales Physical Training College Gymnasium, Cardiff, under the direction of Mr. E. Sully. In addition there will be a tug of war competition between teams represent- ing the Cadoxton Cricket Club and the Cardiff Gymastic Club. Every athlete and friends of athleitcs should be present on Tuesday evening to witness a f rare good performance^ and assist in placing the local cricket club on a sound financial footing. Monday evening is also set apart for the benefit of the club. The well-known Irish play, The Shaughraun," will be enacted, and Messrs. G. Harrington and J. M. Gerhold, Cardiff, will also take part in the programme. HANDSOME GIFT TO A CHAPEL.—We are in- formed that the well-known local firm of architects, Messrs. Seward and Thomas, have presented the hand- some donation of £48 towards clearing off the debt of Zion Welsh Calvinistic Methodist Chapel, Cadox- ton. UNPROVOKED ASSAULT.—About midnight on Saturday an unprovoked assault was perpetrated by a gang of men upon a married woman named Mrs. Carroll, living at Penycoitre. near Cadoxton. It appears that reports had been current at Cadoxton for the past two or three weeks to the effect that a ghost" was in the habit of nightly visiting a certain house situate on the side of the highway leading to Peny- coilre and Wenvoe, and many persons were said to have been terrified. Last Saturday, however, several per- sons, armed with sticks, proceeded to the spot named towards midnight. About half-past twelve Mrs. Carroll left home for the purpose of going to meet a woman who managed a greengrocer's shop for her at Holton. She had not proceeded far from the house when sne was pounced upon from behind the hedge on both sides of the road by a large gang of men and boys, who at once set upon her, and beat her unmercifully with sticks. She cried loudly for help, but she could not get away before she was much abused, her face and other parts of her body being covered with blood and bruises. The poor woman grew very faint, but after a time she managed to crawl homewards. Information was given to the police of the affair on Sunday. Mrs. Carroll says she can recognise some of her assailants, and it is believed that some of them are known. MISS SMALL'S SCHOOL FOR GIRLS—At the Church Mission Room, Iddesleigh-street, Cadoxton, on Wednesday afternoon, the pupils attending Miss Small's Boarding and Day School for Girls, Rectory- road, held their first annual entertainment. The hall was tastefully and prettily decorated with art muslin, ferns being placed at appropriate intervals. The platform was draped to represent a stage. Amongst those present were the following pupils' relatives and friends:—Major-General H. H. Lee, J.P., Dinas Powis, Revs. A. T. Couch, B.A., and R. LTsher. B.A.; Dr. A. Gore, Mr. Lewis Lewis, ■Mrs. E. Treharne, Mrs. J. J. Williams, Mrs. Lewis Jones, Mrs. Stewart (Barry), Mrs. E. J. Ince. Mrs. H. Morgan. Miss E. Llewellyn, Miss Dickson, Mr. and Mrs. W. Hopkins, Molton, A-c. Mr. Couch, prior to the entertainment being commenced, delivered a brief address, and re- ferred with much eulogy to the educational work done at Mies Small's excellent school. He also referred to the great interest Miss Small had shown in the Barry Nursing Association, a collection in aid of which in- stitution would take place that day. The programme was then (proceeded with as follows :—Part song, I would that the love:" recitation, Birdie's request," Miss Winifred Leyshon piano solo, "Fn fragment," Miss Emily Sha w; song, The Emperor Napoleon." Little Ones; French dialogue, "L'Avare," Misses E. Shaw, A. Hopkins, and D. Todd; piano solo, Mr. S. R. Phillips; recitation, The haven," Miss Maude Whitburn; solo, "The old ferryman, Miss B. E. Small; recitation, Little Mike." Miss Prismall; part song. Oh, hush thee:" violin solo, March," Miss Louie Morris: recitation, The razor seller," Miss Dorothy Todd; quartet, "Danse Normande," Misses Maude Whithurn, Dorothy Todd, Emily Shaw. and Annie Hopkins song, Children's voices," Miss B. E. Small; piano solo, Mr. S. R. Phillips; vocal duett, "Let us roam away," Misses B. E. Small and A. Hopkins; recitation, "The lifeboat," Miss Pris- mall: part song, Good night; finale. God save the Queen." During the interval a collection was made in aid of the funds of the Nursing Association, a substantial sum being realised. The proceedings were most successful throughout. The school has now broken up lor a month's vacation. There is no remedy in the world equal to LEWIS'S PECTORAL BALSAM for Coughs. Colds, and all Dis- orders of the Lungs."—Is. lAd. and 2s. 9d. per bottle. FOLLICK'S is the Best Shop for Jewellery. Splendid assortment and at all prices. Corner of Barry-road and Main-street.—Advt. IF YOU WANT your Watch or Clock well repaired or cleaned at a moderate charge take it to Newman's High-street. Cadoxton. f S,

LLAXCARFAX. MARRIAGE OF MR. Wv. LISCOMBE, OF LLAX- VITHYS MILLS.—At the parish church on Wednesday of last week the marriage of Mr. William Liscombe, third son of Mr. Robert Liscombe, of Clemingstone near Southerndown, and formerly of Barry, to Miss Jane Lougher, second daughter of Mr. Robert Lougher, Garnllwyd, Llancarfan, was celebrated, when the Rev. A. T. Hughes, vicar, officiated. Mr Fred Liscombe acted as besa man. and the bridesmaids were Miss Margaret Lougher, Miss Cassie Lougher, and Miss M. J. Liscombe. Amongst others present were Mr. Griffith Bowen, Garnhill; Mr. John Lougher, Cardiff; Mr. Henry Liscombe, Mr. Willie Lougher, and Mr. Robert Watkin Lougher. The bride, -who was beautifully attired in a fawn dress, with an astrachan stripe, and hat and gloves to match, was given away by her father. During the performance of the ceremony the sacred edifice was well nlled and when the wedded couple made their appearance out- side they received quite an ovation in the way of showers of rice, the peeling of the church bells, the booming of guns, and other expressions of joy. Amidst the congratulations and best wishes of rela- tives and friends, the happy pair left for Cardiff en route for Newport, where a part of the honeymoon is to be spent. Tiie wedding breakfast was partaken of at Garnllwyd, while the bellringers, viz., Messrs. David Davies, Morris Price, Samuel Davies. and Llewelyn Price, were entertained at the Llanvithyn Mills. The wedding present were both numerous and costly. The bridegroom is a brother-in-law to Mr. Oliver Jenkins, New House, Cadoxton, Barry.

THE WRECK OF THE DRUJI- BLAIR OFF SULLY. Since our last issue the four-master ship Drum- blair, which got ashore on the rocks of Sully Island last Thursday. has remained practically in the same position. Efforts have not yet been made to get her off, but this step may be reckoned upon shortly. During the week the Mount Stuart Dry Dock Company's men have been engaged in dis- mantling the ship.

TRIAL TRIP OF A NEW BARRY SCREW TUG. The newly-contructed twin screw tug- Clive. made by the Barry Graving Dock Companv for the Barry Railway Company, underwent her trial trip on Wednesday last. The tug has been speciallv constructed for towing vessels at Barry Dock, and will prove of much service to the company. A full description of the boat appeared in our columns on the occasion of the launch sometime ago, so it will suffice us to mention here that it is of the most serviceable character, and is eminently suited for the class of work it will have to per- form. This was fully borne out by the result of the trial trip on Wednesday. Shortly after nine o'clock in the morning the following gentlemen boarded the tug at the Barry Pierhead for the pur- pose of having full opportunity of guaging her powers :—Capt. Davies, dockmaster, who was in command during the trip and Messrs. Thomas Lowdon. consulting engineer (designer of the Clive): David Lowden, engineering superinten- dent J. J. Hosgood, locomotive superintendent Butler, traffic inspector: Walter Hosgood: — Dyer, Barry Omces and two local presssmen. Regret was expressed that Mr. James Ware, a director of the Barry Graving Dock Co.. who always evinces much interest in such matters, and Mr. John Lowdon, the manager, were unable to be present. After leaving Barry Dock the tug proceeded down channel, at once encountering a strong edged sea. Itiwas blowing 'very hard, but the boat behaved admirably throughout. Having proceeded seven or eight miles down she was turned, and everything having been got ready for the purpose, Walker's patent log was requisitioned and arrangements made to test the speed of the tug. Full speed ahead was the order then given, and an excellent pace was at once reached, the tug behaving to the complete satisfaction of all con- cerned. The log was raised when nearly off Penarth, and it was seen that a speed of ten and a half knots an hour had been reached, and this against a four knot tide. The Clive showed herself as possessing a very good seaboard, riding along most majestically and shipping very little water. The average revolutions reached was 120 per minute. The engines worked splendidly, and in every way the tug showed her- self to be a thorough genuine little craft. It was estimated that, considering the difficulties con- tended with as regards the state of the tide, &c.. a speed of 11.J knots an hour can. under satisfactory circumstances, be easily reached. At about two o'clock a substantial luncheon was partaken of in the cabin, Captain Davies presiding, the keen weather having given the trippers" splendid appetites. The health of Mr. Thomas Lowdon, who designed the olive, was enthusiastically drunk, and he was heartily congratulated upon the great success which had attended the testing of the tug's capabilities. Captain Davies was similarly honoured, and a very pleasant time was spent. Having an hour or so to wait for the tide to be sufficiently high to enable the party to be conveyed ashore, short and very enjoyable runs were made about the channel, the party finally landing at the Barry Pier Head shortly after three o'clock, congratulating everyone concerned upon the success of the day's proceedings, and ex- pressing the great pleasure it had afforded them to attend the maiden cruise of what is confidently anticipated to be but the first of the Barryites."

Whenever I have symptoms of Hoarseness coming on, I always fly to my favourite remedy, LEWIS'S PECTORAL BALSAM, take a dose or two, and am right again."—Is. 1¥1. and 2s. 9d. per bottle.

THE BARRY DISASTER. AXOTHER BODY DISCOVERED. On Tuesday morning last Mr. Daniel Rees. jun., I Sully House, who found the body of the unfortu- nate man Jackson at Sully Island last week, dis- covered a. second body on the island near the same spot. Mr. Rees sent information to Acting- Sergeant Davies, Cadoxton, who proceeded in a cart to Sully, and subsequently had the body re- moved to a stable at the Wenvoe Arms Hotel. Cadoxton. Later in the day the body was identi- fied by Mrs. McDonald, one of the widows through the recent Barry disaster, as that of her husband. who was one of the three men who lost their lives in the memorable storm of a few weeks ago. The body was very much decomposed, and it was only possible to prove identity by the clothing. The inquest will probably be held to-day. Redmond's body is the only one now remaining to be recovered. The inquest on the body of John Macdonald was held, before Mr. E. B. Rece. at the Wenvoe Arms Hotel. Cadoxton, on Thursday morning. Mr. A. E. Leyshon was foreman of the jury.—Mr. Rees. jun.. Sully, having given evidence as to the finding of the body, and Acting-sergeant Ben Davies proving the removal of the body to Cadoxton. the widow of the deceased gave evidence of identifica- tion, and said that her husband was 51 years old. and was a pilot.—The jury returned a verdict to the effect that the deceased met his death through being accidentally drowned at Barry on November 11th.—The body will be interred at Merthyrdovan Cemetery to-day. Messrs. Spickett and Son have charge of the funeral arrangements.

LOSS OF A BARRY BOUND VESSEL AND 18 LIVES. LOCAL MEN AMOXG THE XUMBER. At mid-day on Wednesday Messrs. L. and H. Gneret and Co., coal exporters, Cardiff and Barry Dock, received a brief telegram from their Lon- don-house to the effect that their steamer Prince Soitykoff had been wrecked on a Reef, known as the Possal Rocks, near Ushaut, and that the whole of the crew with the exception of one man. had been drowned. This was subsequently con- firmed by later telegrams wirh the additional in- formation that Mr. T. Kelk, the chief mate, was the sole survivor. The vessel lei's Barry on Fri- day last with a cargo of coal for St. Xazaie. and With a crew of nineteen hands. Among the men were the following who have lost their lives J. Redcliffe. 9, Richard-street. Barry Dock, second mate Frederick Hocking. 83, Castleland-street, Barry Dock. A.B. Edward Cattey, Barry Dock, A.B. David Williams, Holmes-street, Cadoxton. carpenter.

NAJSTYMOEL NEWS AND NOTES. NAXTYMORL Row ON SUNDAY MORNING.—It is always difficult, in drawing attention to the shortcomings of a class of people in a general way to avoid hurting the feelings of those who are quite innocent. There are highly respectable people residing in Nantymoel-row, and if they have suffered any annoyance caused by the appearance of the paragraph regarding the im- bibing propensities of their thirsty neighbours, I would, if possible, have avoided it. It would be 1 impossible for me to be more explicit when writing in a general way it is rather too explicit I ihavc been, since the name of the street has been given. The source from which the informatian reached me was thoroughly reliable. I promise An In- habitant and Chwareu Teg to open my eyes and bring the fierce light of the Sti/ r upon other streets whose inhabitants evince a fondness for casks of the four-and-a-half species. A PUZZLE.—Lovers of the intricate can find ample opportunity for puzzle-solving in the follow- ing example :—A certain family is composed of the following relatives, all living under one roof One great grandmother, two grandmothers, three mothers, one grandfather, one father, three sons, one great-grandson, one grandson, six sisters, six daughters, one daughter-in-law, two great aunts, five aunts, one uncle, two brothers, one widow, one step-daugher, four grand-daughters, one great- grand-daughter, one great-grandson, two wives, one husband, one grand-nephew, one grand-niece, four nieces, and two nephews. The question is— How many people are in the house ? FIRE.—Last Monday night, about half-past six. a fire broke out in the shop of Mr. W. Jones, butcher. Commercial-street, by the bursting of one of the lamps. Fortunately the fire was extin- guished before it had time to get under weigh. There was a considerable amount of damage dune to the shop and windows. What about^a fire brigade ? ABILL FOR FAILURE IN COURTING.—The follow- ing bill and letter has been received by a young man from the father of the girl whom he has been courting. The^communication explains itself :— Hardworking-street. Paradise-row. Blanketsliire. December —. 189—. Mr. ————. Dr. to Hezekiah Blodgers. To three months' use of parlour on Thursday and Sunday nights. £3; to oil and coal used for your comfort, at Is. a night, which is very reasonable, :C 1 6s. to the old lady's trouble in keeping the kitchen out of the parlour while you were with M-, 10s. 6d. to a broken rock- ing chair which I paid for being mended, 3s. 6d. to suppers at various times, £1 7s. to springs and upholsterings damaged on lounge, where 21 and you used to sit, 15s.: which adds up to £ 7 2s. Sir, I want you to understand that 111- has given you freedom. I haven't and won't do so until you've paid for your pleasure. You can't come fooling around my house two nights a week, and using the parlour as if it were your own without paying for the luxury, and the bill I have made out is very reasonable. But that's neither here nor there, and what I've got to say is. that you've got to pay for your fun. If you don't, I shan't set any lawyer on you or sue you in court, but I'll thrash the life out of you. You hear me. —Yours, HEZEKIAH BLODGEBS."