Merthyr Times and Dowlais Times and Aberdare Echo

YOUTH IS BLUNDER, MANHOOD A STRUGGLE, OLD AGE A REGRET, But no one will regret buying- our Farmers' Fed Bacon, 7d. Per Pound. I DAVID JONES & COMPANY, AMERICAN MARKET, DOWLAIS.

■ i. ii r MERTHYR, f Continued from pn'jt 5). l.O.G.T.—The ordinary meeting of the Hope of Merthyr," l.O.G.T. Lodge, wo* h^ld on Monday (•veniDS', the chief businesd beine the installation of officers. The next meeting ill «n open lodge, when the magic lantern will be manipulated by Mr. I Gwilym Williams. Y.P.S.C.E. — During the present week united prayer meeting* in connection with the Merthyr restrict Young People's Society of tiie Christian Endeavour Union are being held in the ariom places i>{ worship in the town, and are on the whole very well attended. THE CTFAKTUFA CONCERTS.—W> are requested to state that the next of the Cyfarthfa .-Liii.s uf iniscol- laucoua concerts will be h^U on Thursday, the 14th inat., at the Georgetown School*. An excellent pro- gramme has been provided. THE REV. J. G. James, A.-On Sunday the Rev. •f. G. Jamed, B.A., pastor of Market-square Congre- gational Church, completed the eighth year of his ministry. He is now the oldest hnglisti Noncon- formist minister in the town, and the church had piiwpered abundantly under his care. 3RD V.B. WELSH REGIMENT.—Orders by P. 1L Cresawell, Colonel commandant, Merthyr Detach- !:i«ut, for week ending Saturday, 16tb February, 1895. Wednesday, a meeting of the non-cotnmiv Moned officers wiU be held at the Armourv at 8 p.m., to consider important business.—By order, J), R. Lewis, Colonel, 3rd V.B. Regiment, commanding Mtrthyr Detachment. BETHEL B.\ PI 1ST CHAPEL. ThA anni vernary ser- vices m connection with the Beihel Welsh Baptist Church, Georgetown, were held on Sunday and Mon- day last, when the pulpit was occupied by the Rev. K. J. Jones, Berthlwvd, and the Rev. D. Jone*, Cwmpark. The latter is a native of Merthyr. Collections were made towards the building fund, and the large audiences at each -ervicc resjiooded to the (ja.Ilinagenerou.s manner. SoIREE AT Ynt^CAC.- On Friday evening la.-t a soiree was held at YiiN-sgaii Schoolroom in connection with the Young People's Society. There was a good attendance, and the table* were presided over by Mrs. I?. Evans, Mr*. R. I)avie«, Mrs. J. Davies, Mi-a Morgan, Miss P. Davies, Mixa M. J. William*, and Mist M. Jenkins. A miscellaneous programme wad pone through, and a very pleasant evening spent- Plants and flags for decorating had het'n lent by Dr. Ward and Mr. John Morgan, auctioneer, and the pro- visions had been supplied by Messrs. Davies and Evans, of Georgetown. IIWVA MON."—The Rev. It. William?, or a-s ao i3 more popularly known, the Welsh bard and arch- druid, Hwfa M')n;' delivered a most interesting "lecture, lasting for over threes hour?, at Ynysgau Chapel on Tuesday evening last, the subject being Gwilym Hiraethog/' The Rev. W. Evan?, pastor of Salem, presided over a nio^t attentive audience. At th8 close a hearty vote of thanks was passed to the friends at Ynvsgau for the loan of the chapel. The proceed* of tno lecture were devoted to a fund for erecting a echoolroom on land adjoining Salem Chapel. MtsiCAt. —Another talented old Mertuyiiau has r ome to reside among ua in tho person of Professor D. C. Wilhamp, Flvmctith-road, who for seven or eight years assisted Dr. Joseph Parry at the Univer- sity College of South Wales. Professor Williams is an old eiateddfodwr, and in 1893 mcceeded in caiTy- ing off tho prize for tb", b?"t cantata at the Rhyl National Eisteddfod. It will be seen by our adver- tisement columns that Mr. William3 is about to start musical clause;* in Merthyr. THE "NON-COM. BALL.Tbe nam" Ki\ilin" in the list of those present at the above ball, published in our last week's issue, should be Killan," being that of Mr. John F, Killan, of Newfoundland-terrace, Merthyr. The following should be added to the list of those present:—Mr. Haggerty, Mr. Fr&yno, Mr. Motherway and sister. Mr. Leyshon, Mr. E. Eranf, Six Bells, iliwi Toben, Mrs. Wat ton, Miss Jours, Union-terrace, Miss Rich, Bridge-street, Mr. and Mrs. Stuckey, Cardiff. Theatre ROTAL. — This week the boardn ate occupied by a powerful and realistic play entitled The Enemy's Camp," baeed on incidents that occurred in the Chili war. The company is an excel- lent one, and gives a good rendition of the drama. Next week the well-known romantic rby Dick Sheridan," by Robert Buchanan, will be represented by Mr. Arthur Bearne and Gilbert- Tate's Company from the Comedy Theatre, London. Thia play is in four acts, called The Maid of Bath," The Critic," The Rivals," and The School for Scandal," which arc the titles of Sheridan's plays, Zjqn BAPTIST CnA?HX.—On Sunday and Monday the anniversary services of the above chuich were held. Rev. W. Morris, F.R.G.T., Rbcswynog, and Rev. J. Hughes, Nantymoel, officiated, and there were large attendances at each of the service?. The collections made towards the building fund amounted to a considerable snm. It is expected that tho church wiH be able to clear off jBlOO of the debt. The choral ringing, under the able leadership of Mr. Dan Da vies, was described by the Rev. W. Morris, as the best be had ever heard in his life. HorE MCTTAL IMPROVEMENT SOCIETY* — The ordinary weekly meeting of the above society was held on Thursday evening last, when Mr. John Evan" F.L.S., delivered a highly interesting and intellectual lecture entitled Mate Sermons oefore ;I¡ large number of members. Too chair was occupied by the Rev. D. C. Edwards, M. A. After the lecture a suggestion was made to the effect that this society be merged during the summer months into the Naturalist's Society, and Messrs. W. Edwards, M.A., H.M.I.S., H. M. Lloyd, and Jessie Taylor, supported this idea. CnIBc EYDI>. — The ordinary meeting of the Merthyr Branch of the Cymru Fydd League was held on Friday evening last at the triangular room of the Temperance Hall, when the chair was occupied try the Kev. John Thomas, president. Mr. Ernest Daniel read a very interesting paper on Disestab- ment and Disendowment," and a discussion followed in which Mr. J. Bowen, Mr. John Uoyd, and Mr. David Evans took part. A hearty vote of thanks was accorded to Mr. Daniel, and on the motion of the Chairman, seconded by Mr. David Davies, it was resolved to present a petition to the Prime Minister in favour of the Disestablishment and Disendowment Bill, and asking the Government to press it forward at the beginning of the Session. MUSICAL.—On Monday evening last a meeting was held at the Victoria Coffee Tavern for the purpose of electing officers and a committee for the Cvifarthfa Music Lovers' Male Voice Party. There was a very good attendance of gentlemen from Abereauaid and Cyfarthfa. Mr. JohnRogers,p.C.,wasap|xtintedchair- man,and the election of officer's was proceeded with. The following were appointed -.—President, Mr. John Rogers vice-president, Councillor Thomas Thomas wcrot&ry, Mr. I). Williams treasurer, Mr. J. Hnrpar examiner-' to the party, Mr. Richard Davies, Gtllideg, and Mr. T. T. Jenkins, Pentrebach Schools, Abercanaid. The above, together with Messrs. P. Lewis, W. Davies, D. Lewis, W. Jones, T. Lewis, — Llewellyn, Cefn, and several others were appointed on the committee. A few other matters were discussed, and a very encouraging meetiug was brought to a close. Mt?s ELEANOR JONE^.— On Saturday evening last a, meeting of the Eleanor Jones Musical Training Commifcteo was held under the presidency of Colonel I). R. I>wis, in the ante-room of the Temperoneo Hall. There were also present Mr. Ernest Daniel fsecretarv), Councillor David Davies, Councillor Thomas thomas, Messrs. W; L. Daniel, Dan Davies, H. Powell, A.C., J. Williams, Rees Abraham, aud W. Thomas. The statement of accounts were read, and the balanco sheet showed that the proceeds of the last conceit amounted to E4. In addition to that, it was reported that Mr. D. A. Thomas, M.P., had forwarded five guineas towards the fund. After some discussion, it was unanimously resolved that Miss Eleanor Jones should enter the March examina- tion for the scholarship offered by the Royal College of Music, tenable for three year-, MEKTHYR CHOKAI. Somktv.—'This society, the eon- ductor of which is Mr. L>au Davies, has decided to enter the arena in the chief choral comt>etition at tho Llanelly National Eisteddfod of 1S95, and on Suuday evening last met for |racti<v, when a!out 200 members jiresented themselves. Oo« of the test rhoruses, "Put otr for Jerusalem" (Dr. Hubert Parry\ was rendered remarkably well, considering tho snort time which thu choir has been in practice, and the nrosj'ccts of the society are becoming brighter ..ach day. Those members who intend joining 1n; order to accompany the choir to are expected to do so in a week or so. becaase after next week, the number having been made up, the membership roll will be closed, aud it is to lt3 hoped, that for the sake of the old town, all good singers iu Merthyr aud district will enroll themselves so that the metropolis of the iron trade may he well represented and able to show a bold front at Llanelly. There can be no doubt that talent is plentiful in the locality, and if anyone can briug it out and perfect musical talent in South Wales that man is our own veteran leader, who o often has led the choir to \ictory. Our vocalists have ar excellent chance to go in and win, and ic is thair ob'. ious duty to do so. "JOSEPH" AT THE TEirpEB-iNCX HaLL. — Oil Thursday evening the Zoar Harmcmic Society gave a ]>?rfortnance of Joseph and His Brethren 'r in full 8/nu\vjt<T in the vernacular at the Tempcranee Hall. There was a very large attendance, and the per- formance « repeated on Monday. The conductor was Mr. William Morgan, A.C., and he is to be com- plimented upon the excellent manner iu which the choir acquitted itself. The Hope Orchestral Society, under the baton of Mr. Eugene Nash, was the orchestra, and gave entire satisfaction. Mr. Tom Jenkins presided at the organ. The artistes, who did thoir work in a manner beyond praise, were :— Soprano, Mrs. Mary Miles-Beynon mezzo-soprano, Mi S3 Mary Morgan; contralto, Mrs. T. Morgan; tenori, Mr. T. M. Jones (Cefn), Mr. Robert Davies, Mr. W. Edwards baritone, Mr. John S. Davies; bass, Mr. David Jones, Aberca.naid. The march past the king wn* splendidly done by about 50 chil- dreu. The secretarial duties were discharged by Mr. Revs Davies, and the business manager was Mr. J. Beynon, and to them is due in a great measure the unqualified success which the concerts were. DOWLAIS. UNUEBTAKINO and all kinds of Carpentering aud Joinery Work done. Hearve and Mourning Coaches to order. Gno. J. (Y-Neill, Frederick's Court, North Streets and Pond Street. Dowlais. J. T. DOCTOX, SANITARY Engines*, Plumi>er, Hot Water Fitter, Gas Fitter, Electric Bell Fitter, w>d General House Decorator, etc., 138, High-street, Merthyr. All orders will receive prompt attention. Distance no objett. A staff of experienced workmen regularly employed. J.T.D. may be consulted on Sanitary matters, embracing drainage, ventilation, etc. r281 AFFILIATION.—On Thursday evening, at the Met- thyr Police-court, before Mr. W. M. North (stipen- diary) and Mr. C. 11. James, John Lewis, collier, Dowlai*, WAA summoned by Sarah Ann Harris to show cause. &c.—The defendant admitted the patev- j nity, and an order was made for the payment of 2s. 6d. a week and co-ts. IVOR CIIAFEL.—Rev Cynon Lewis, of Luton, will lecture on "Henry Richard" next Wednesday evening at 8. [2860. THE Distress IN EAST MONMOUTIISHI RE.—Special i eSort-s are being made at the meetings field at the j Undenominationa) Mission Hall, to raise funds for the relief of the distress which prevails to such an alarming extent among the tin-plate workers and colliers in the eastern part of Monmouthshire. Anything likely to be of us-e to the distressed work- people will he thankfullv accepted if brought to the Mission Hall. TtiF BAI.l.—This ball will lie held on f St. Valentine's Day, and we are requested to ask all those who have not yet replied to the invitations sent them to do so as soon as possible. The musical on this occasion will be contributed by the baud of Messrs. Roberts, Cardiff. Mu. EVAN REF.i EVANS. --No surer sign of the sterling worth of Mr. Harry Evans' tuition can he found than the almort uninterrupted success of his pupils in eisteddfodic competitions. Mr. Ev an Rees Eyans, our popular tenor, achieved yet another numph on triumph on Monday, when he carried off the prize for the best rendering of the s.)lo Thou shaft break them," at the Brynniawr Eisteddfod. HENRY the demise of the old Dowlais Debating Society a few years ago, no body of people in tho town hava brought before the public ) so many excellent lectures and lecturers as have the friends at Ivor Chapel, and they have apparently not exhatisted their programme yet. Next Wednesday I evening the Rev. R. Cynon Lewis, of Luton, Bedford- thire, will deliver a lecture on Henry Richard," undoubtedly the 'ocit known, if not the ablest Welsh representative that Wales ever had iu tho llo-m of Co;uniou». ECCLL^IASTICAL.—We understand that a sviccessor to the Rev. Richard Juucs, who will shortly leave the town to take up the duties of vicar of Heullys, has been apjiointed within tho last few davs. The Rotors choice has fallen upon the Rev. Harry Evans, flf Bargoed, a gentleman whose Zealand energy in the work of the church han been highly sj:oken of by those who are liest able to speak with authority. Iu fact Mr. Evan* is regarded as the best possible in an for the very heavy work that of necessity falls upon the eurate-in-chargc of the Welsh Church." HKBEON CHAPEL.—Tho anniversary festival was held at the above place of worship on Sunday and Monday, and notwithstanding the very dangerous statfJ of the roads which made walking extremely difficult, its success was complete. Sis services were held altogether, three on each day, and the conjyrega- tion was Targe at all of them. Powerful and effective sermons wore preached by the R-ev. J. Young Jonec, Pontardulais, and the Rev. Aaron Thomas, Blaenffos, Pembrokeshire. Collections were made at each of the j meetings, and a very substantial sum was eontri- butcd. THE Es' >:I.s;OU MIN:HTBET.3.—The long looked for entertainment by the Excelsior Minstrels will be given to-night at the Oddfellows' Hall, and if present indications count for anything it will lie one of the biggest succe.sses 0\('1' known in the town. Two of the choruses that will be sung are the special arrange- ment of Mr. Harry Evans, A.R.C.O., and «"ili be heard for the first time in Dowlais. There will be a wonderfully effectno rendering of Excelsior," arranged as a five part chorus with solos. The troupe i look upon this as tho best item on the programme, butevetT ono of the others will be of marked excellence in its own particular line. Since our last week's issue was published tho future programme of the troupe has U-en slightly altered. The intended enter- tainment has been abandoned, and owin^ to the perfor- mance at Brynmawr having l*»en definitely and irrevocably fixed for the 13th Febrt^arj*. the iirst annual banquet has been postponed for one day. It will take on Tuesday, February 19tb. CHCBCH ARMY.—Another pleasant social evening was spent at the Assembly-room of the Oddfellows' Hall, on Saturday evening, in connection with the Church Array Movement iu the town. Captain Roberts, the popular and hard-working captain, who is always contemplating some new scheme, with the object of popularizing his meetings, is to l>e con- gratulated on the success of his undertaking, which notwithstanding the inclemency of the weather, was well-patronised, about 80 people sitting down to an excellent tea. The tables were presided over by the following ladies, viz., Mrs. Rotwits, South-street; Mrs. Clarke, Wind-street; Miss Comelev, Caeharris Mrs, Wooley, Berry-square; Miss, Trurau, Llewelyn- street Mrs. Davies, Mrs. Jones, Pant-road. At the subsequent proceedings, the chair was taken by the Rov. H. Morice Jones, who dwelt at some ^length on the nature and work of the Church Army. Earnest addresses were given by Mr. B. Da\ies, Mr. Goodwin, Mr. Cox, Mr. Bullock, Mr. William .Tones, Mr. Thomas Williams, Mr. Watts, Mr. J. Milkins, Mr. E. Bowles, and Mr. J. Thomas. Songs were given by Miss Phillips, Mr. T. J. Kent, and Mr. Harris. Master R. Roberts was the accompanist. Captain Roberts proposed a vote of thanks to the ladies, who had entertained them, and to the Chairman, and the vote was adopted. In the course of his response, the Chairman drew the attention of those present to the near approach of the jumble sale, to which, he said, some score of young people were looking forward with more than usual interest. DOWLAIS PHILHAEJIONIC SOCIKTT.—Unless present indications are woefully deceptive the choir that ia now being formed to represent Dowlais at the forth- coming National Eisteddfod at Llanelly will be the best that ever came together in the town, better even than those magnificeut choirs that went to Poutypool under Mr. Dan Davies, or to Ferndale under Mr. Harry Evans. W lieu the idea. of examining all intending members of tho Philharmonic Society Ereparatory to commencing the rehearsal of the llanelly test pieces was mooted there was not wanting the usual band of croakers. But the event has silenced them. Two examinations were held in Dowlais last week hy Mr. Alfred J. Silver, F.R.C.O. and Mr. W. H. Powell, and out of the 1M or so candidates who essayed the test only ten failed. Of the members who sang in tbo recent Handel Festival only three failed to satisfy the examiners. Such a result was immensely gratifying, but one even more gratifying still attended tho work of Mr. Silver ou Tuesday evening. It had become known that a number of enthusiastic singers from Pcnydarren wauted to join the choir, and au examination was held in Horeb Chaix;! Schoolroom. Mr. Powell was unfortunately unable to be present, but the ever- faithful Mr. Silver was there. The test was the same as at Dowlais, and the passes" numbered 28 only a number of young aud inexperienced candidates failed. But what pleased, wo might always say, surprised Mr. Silver, Mr. Harry Evans, and the others who were present, was not the number, but the quality of the successful candidates. There wa? net one among them who would fail to develop into a solo singer of repute with the necessary training. Three of the tenors sang C above the stave with a resonant ring that was little Hhort of marvellous, The fourth and probably concluding examination will be held on Friday evening in the Assembly Room of the Oddfellows' Hall beginning at 7.30 p.m., and on Sunday next at 4.30 p.m., the first rehearsal of the Llanelly test pieces will take place. There was a meeting of the cboir on Sunday last, when inspiriting addresses were delivered by the conductor and some of the members of the committee. —'

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CEFN. XOTES-Bt "HEN LANC." *An uufortnnate mishap befel me this week. A j circular froia an official of the Conservative Clnb, j which is no longer in a state of embryo, came to ray landlord, John Jones, and and he at promised it me for insertion in my notes; but in a moment of forgetfnlnees, when John was in the midst of one of those never-ending debates with Mary, his wife, be lit his pipe with the much-coveted eircular, thereby depriving me of the wished-for pleasure of giving it to I my readers. In spite of the protestations of his wife, John accepted the invitation, and the Conserrative Club ia on hia brains ever since. John ia a Liberal in his politico, but being naturally addicted to drink, be had cherished fond nopes that in the snug hostelry a wee drop would lie given him that niaht without pry- ing too minutely into his political convictions. liis hopes were realised to the f'lllest extent. Fairplay, he did come home before morning, and the high state of hilarity which ho was in was a sight to see. No car?, no trouble ruffled the serenity of his being, no, not even the last drop in the colliers' wages. How h« talked He was the best workman tho Crawshay's i ever had in their employment, Mary was the dearest little wife in God's creation he was a man of prin- eiple, of such sterling honesty, that be could carry a i threepenny bib on the tip of his finger from the Gwynne's Arms to the Morning Sun, without fear of its being claimed by any man. As for his children, they were the bonniest in the world. j When at last I managed to get in a word edgrewuy?, i I questioned John on their doings at the club. The current of his thought-a was at once changed in a new direction, and his eloquence was like the rushing of many water?. "When I got there," said John, there were not uiany present, and those few were brought together, not by politic*, not by the success or nou-suceesa of tie Conservative Club, but like myself, by the chance of getting a small warm drop on such a cold night. You heard the little tiff I bad with Mary before going out; it was caused by nay demanding a few coppers to enable me to raise the latch, as we sav but it ended as every tiff does, in Mary getting the victory. So I bad not a cent. about me, and who paid for the drink, I know Bot, but I had enough of it. As for the speeches, well, Gladstone and Mabon are not iu it. Our chairman, as you know, can speak well, that is, on certain points but for fine, mellifluous words, without. any of this Pem- brokeshire brogue, give me Dai I shall never forget that passage in his speech, whet* he appealed to us, colliers, with dramatic effecfc, to leave ua, men of light and leadiug, to ba in the front. We knows these things hetter than yon. Leave it to us, boys, we'll get you your Sunday beer again, and if you !>« caught sometimes unable to go home alone, remember, lid, the .J.P.'>; are on our side, and we shall get off pretty well! You know Dai den't you'! I shall never forget that fine speech." Through Mary's exertions and my own, we managed to get John to bed. T have decided to change my lodgings. lt not John's Club alona that has driveu me to this course, but ELIO another matter. Last week wa-s the slaughter of the innocents at Cefn, and every morning you might fhcar the gwicbiad soniarus pum ugain « foch," under the sharp knife of the butcher. Could we have solaced ourselves with the certainty that this onslaught should be the last in the village, what a heaven of puro delight would the poor pig-ridden in- j habitants not have felt'. But from the blood of our victim to the gluttony of pig-c-ateis, there arise a fcoro of young pigs, to that this never-ceasing squeak is destined to be our eternal torment. My determina- tion to change lodgings arise from a surfeit of pig- flesh. Every half-hour or so a shrill voice might be heard at the door, "Mr«. Jones, mother asks if you want a nice piece of pork, a3 we are killing a pig to- day ?" Mrs. Jones, does your lodger want a spare rib or a loin this morning, father is kuling the sow?" andttoon. HenM my decision to go in search of a home not so widely known for its taste for pork. Mr. Councillor Owen has set for himself a hard task if he intends dealing with the sanitation of Cefn in all its bparing". If I mistake not, the time will come agniu, as it has come in the past, when the dreadful typhoid fever will make its usual appearanco in our midst, and eau^e many a void iu our homes. I have said many a time, an.4 I emphasise that statement j now, that there are certain shops in C-efu which throw the dirtiest slums of ourlar^o towns into the shade in cnmpari-*on. Mr. Owen will have, therefore, to con- sider, among others, the foil-owing questions — 1. How mauy pig-styes a,-in kept in direct contra- eiition to the statutory distanced 2. How many one-roomed houses are inhabitated by a-s many as six or se^en persons 3. How many houses are totally unprovided with w.c.'s. or any other accommodation'! 4. What methods, if any, are there of disposing of the blood of the. hundreds of pigs in Cefu last year ? 5. What defective drains are there, and what measures are being taken to remedy the pame ? So, Mr. Oweu, I have given you five headings to yolle sermon very possibly you will ba able to find five more. Truly it is a vesed question, and the sooner the better it is settled once for aU. The gho,t lvbich frightened the inhabitants of a certain locality out ot their wits one morning last week was nothing more than a poor mare, left harnessed over night, prowling around in search of something to eat. BRILDIND ENTERPRISE.—It ha-i Iwen rumoured for some time, and the rumour h:M had fresh currency this week, that it is the intention of the Cyfarthfa Company to build a large number of houses in the Goitre Coed field!! for their workmen and others, Believing that this is more than a rumour, we rejoice in the fact that such a big undertaking augurs well for the trade of the district, and is a good indication of the future activity of the staple industries of Cefu ) and the neighbourhood. POXTSADN. —A Christy minstrels entertainment, cousisting of songs, stump speeches, and concluding with a negro farce entitled The Black Judge," was held at Pontsarn Pavilion on Thursday evening last, The chair was taken by Councillor T. Morris, Cefn, the secretary being Mr. G. R. Jenkins, and the treasurer, Mr. H. Furby. We understand the coiu- pany intend visiting C-e in, when we shall give a more detailed account of it. The entertainment was a great success. ( ABERCANAID. CHURCH MISSIONARY SoCrETY.-On Suuday last special sermons were preached at Pentrebach and Aber- c.anaid Churches by the Revs. H. Knott, Hereford, and D. Eyans, Pcnydarren on behalf of the above society. Considering the weather the attendance was very good throughout the day. On Monday a tea and magic lantern entertainment was held at the band room, where everything passed off very well. MALE VOICK PARTY.—We are pleased to find that the newly-fontied party is progressing. Mr. Webber, the conductor, is to be congratulated on the present position of affairs. As may be seen from another column a splendid list of officers and committee has formed, and we trust that this choir will be heard in the future. We beg also to congratulate Mr. David Williams, Abercanaid, on bis appointment as secrc- tary. QUAKERS' YARD. I BERTHLLWM WELSH BATTIST CHATEL.—The Rev. R. B. Jonew, the popular young pastor of the above pla"e of worship, is much in demand. He has just received two calls, one from Cardiff and the other from Llanelly, Carmarthenshire. Mr. Jones has not been here quite two years, but he has been the means in that short time of adding a large number to tbe meinl>ersbip of his church. Whether Mr. Jones will accept one of the calls remains to be seen. We under- stand Mr. Jones is the son of a gentleman holding a good position under the Dowlais Iron Company at Dowlais. TREHARRIS. Tow, DICK, AND HARRY.—This farcical comedy from the Trafalgar and Strand Theatres, London, i under the direction of Mr. Charles Hawtrev, was a Great success. The Public Hall was crowded on Saturday and Monday nights, and the performance was much appreciated by the audience, who cheered loud and long. We hope this company will pay us another visit ere long.

OrR HEALTH IN WINTER.—Dr. Andrew Wilson, writing in LlofxTs Newspaper on diet, says: The teaching of nature "hould never be neglected, and in the matter of winter food let us see we are not wrong, and take sufficient fat, for tho changes that result in the wear and tear of our bocfies arc lessened in inten- sity bv the fat of food, and tho need for flesh is always less when fat forms a due proportion of our diet." The Doctor proceeds to enumerate natural products that are admirable, among them "Cocoa," with its contained Cocoa Butter. Relatively to this it may be said that Epp's PREPARED COCOA retain* all the con- stituents of the natural Cocoa, inc^iding the oil or butler, intact.

MERTHYR SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION. lu School Board elections the parties are nowadays called Sectarians and UnsectarMa". The Unsectarians take their stand on the principle that every school which is supported by public funds should be under public control. They regard it as an injustice that the whole community should be taxed to maintain schools established by wets, in which distinctive sectarian dogmas are taught, aud which are entirely controlled by the sects. They hold that the State should provide elementary education for all children without d^w.'iction of sect or creed, and that the i. rn of the working classes should be given the n.. t thorough and efficient education possible. The Sectarians think it is a just and a proper thing that their schools should be supported by the corn. munity. They already get nearly all their income from public funds, and they ask for still more. The competition.? of the Board Schools hears heavily on them, and, under the false cry of I- Economy," they seek to diminish the efficiency of the Board School. If this is permitted, the children of the toilers will have to suffer in older tha.t the sectarian schools may not he left too far behind in the educational race. Speaking generally, the Sectarians, in this district, consist of Chuichmefl Rnd Catholics, though many of the former are in favouv of the State schools system and the Unsectarians are made up of Nonconformists and Liberal Chiuvhrnen. POINTS AT ISSUE. [BY IANTO GOCH]. Jiui Do you remember, Dai, the points I gave you last time about the rates ? Dai: Well, I am not afraid to stand au examina- tion is them any day. Jim: Good. Let be the examiner. What is the first point'( Dai That the Roaring Lion version of tbe matter was that the School Board rate for this half- year was half-a-crown in the pound. Jim Instead of which it is only j Dai Just half of half-a-crown, one and t b i-eej)ence to wit. Jim And cbe rate for the whole year is Dai: One and eleven. Jim That Dai: The overseers having to wipe off arrears, and not to any increase in the expenditure of the Board. J:m Very good, Dai; you have done well. But we have one step further to go before we are done with ) the rate question. Turn to page 31 of the Triennial Report, and you will find the amounts received by the Board from the rates for every year since the formation of the Board. You get the total amount, and also the rate that comes to on the ratable value of the parish. Dai: That's what we want, Jim. No use trying to tackle them overseers, leastwavs for a simple chap like me. Jim: This table gives us the actual money received, ane also the rate that would bring in that money. Now, in 1894 the Board received the sum of £ 11,600. Dai: Yes, and what rate would be required, Jim, to get that money ? Jim A little under Is. 2ld. in the f. Dai: And so the real, actual School Board rate last year, 1894, was only 18. 21-6. in the £ ? Jim: Yes, and it would have been only that had the overseers kept abreast of the requirements of the Board. Dai: Well, we should bear that distinction in mind. Here are the overseers, in order to wipe off arrears, levying a ratfi or Is. lid., whereas the amount required by the Board for the year would have been brought in by a rate of less than Is. 2id. Jim That's right, Dai. Why, man alive, you will be a Chancellor ot the Exchequer some day. Dai: It's a joliy gocxl thing for some chaps, Jim, that I'm n.1t Chancellor now. Jim But to retun rto business— Dai: Yes. and if I am asked again what is the School Board rate for this year, I shall say, k 2\& and if they don't believe me I will show them the Tritnainl Rtprrrt. Jim That Report ought to silence evan the tap- room lies of -fie Koaring Lion." Dai But even that rate of Is. 2Jd. is higher than any previous rate, Jim ? Jirn: Yes, though some years come pretty near it. In 1888, for instance, it was 1°. Ogd., and in 1S93 it was Is. 0j<l. Iu 1890 it was over lO^d., and a little under that figure in the following year. Dai: What have you to say to these things, Jim Jim There are many things to be said. On the same page in the Jtcpo-rt the poor rate is given for every year since 1868. Dai But we don't want to bother just now about the poor rate. Jim Let me explain. Poor rate is a. word used to cover the School Board rate as well as the poor rate proper, not to mention one or two other minor rates. The term includes the money raised to sup- port the paupers and to maintain the 'Board Schools. Now the School Board was established in 1871, and from that year on you would expect to find tho poor rate increasing, inasmuch as the School Board rate has been added to it. Dai I see your point, Jim. Jim What are the figures ? I take two periods of five years, and compare them the one with the other. Frst, the five years from 1868 to 1872, that is, the five years immediately preceding the formation of the Board. The average poor rate for those years, which waë then the poor rate pure and simple, without the School Board rate, was 2s. 5d. a year. Dai So we had to pay a rate of 2?. 5d. to support the paupers only during tho-io years Jim Yes. And uow I take the five years from 1889 to 1893, when the School Board rate was added to the poor rate. The average of the two rates to- gether for those years was 2s. 3Ad. a year. Dai Why, the School Board has acually lessened the rate?, instead of increasing them. Bachan, bachan, that can't be right. Your figures must be wrong, Jim. Jim Here they are for you in the Report. Dai But how do you account for the decrease, Jim, when we would naturally expect to se9 an in- crease We paid a rate of 2s. 5d. to suppoit the paupers only from 1868 to 1872, and only 2s. 3i-d. from 1889 to 1893 to support both the paupers and the Board Schools. That beats me, Jim. Jim One sentence explains the whole matter the spread of education has aiminished poverty. Dai: Aye, that must be it. What a grand thing education is Jim But there is another thiug to be said about the expenditure of the Board. The great question is, does the Board give full value for the money it receives'' Dai: In other words, are the schools as efficient as they ought to he, considering the money spent on them ? There is only one way to find that out, Jim, and that is by comparing the grants earned by the schools with the grants earned by other schools. Jim Mr. Stephens, the Board's clerk, had that very question in his mind when compiling the Report, for on pa^e 44 he gives the figures. Dai Good old Stephens on' te fe, -Jim Jim Ie, bachan piwr yw e, Dai. His Report helpri us to understand the whole question on which the election ought to turn. But now for the figures. First, take the Government graftt per head. In our scboold, in the year 1892, it was 19s. 10jd., while the average in all Board Schools in England was 18s. 9^ and in "Wales 18s. 7|d. In 1893, our schools earned a grant of £ 1 0s. 4d., while the Board Schools of England only earned 18s. lid. (the figures for Wales are not given for that year). That's a good show, isn't it, Dai ? Dai: Good old Merthyr, myn jiaist i Jim Yes, we are ahead of England, and far ahead of Wales. So you see we get good value for our money, Dai. Dai: But does it cost us very much more than England and Wales to get those results ? That's the point. Jim Yes, that's the point. Let us see. Our total expenditure per head in 1892 was £2 7s. 4d in the Board Schools of England it was C2 7s. ljd. Dai Not so very bad, Jim, considering how much better results we got. Jim In 1893 our expenditure per head was £ 2 7s. Sid., while in England it was £2 8s. 4jd. Dai Al), that's better, Jim. And what about 1894 V Jim The figures for England are not given but our expenditure per head had been reduced to £ 2 5s. 5id. Dai And the sum and substance of the whole matter is-- Jim That, compared with England, the Merthyr Tydtil School Board gets better results for less money, that the expenditure is below the average, while the efficiency of the schools is alxive the average. Dai Ton my word, Jim, I shall vote for every member of the old Board. They are the men for my money. Jim I don't think that is the right way to put it, Dai, though the old Board has done very well indeed. My idea is to vote for every candidate who will pledge himself to maintain the present standard of efficiency in the schools, and who will uotsacriiice the education of "your kids, Dai, and mine to what they call economy. But more of that next time, 1 MERTHYR. The Rev, D. C. Edwards M.A., it is stated, will not seek re-election. At Dowlais, the Rev. R. S. Williams is also going to retire from the Board, and Alderman Thomas W illiams has declared his inten- tion not to stand another election. DOWLAIS. Various rumours have for some time past l>een afloat concerning the intentions of one of the Dowlais repre- sentatives on the School Board, but we learn that the gentleman referred to has given no authority for tbe statement that he will not seek re-election. It is more than likely, however, that a now candidate will cosne forward in the person of the Rev. Lt. M. Williams, rector of Dowlais, and we are given to understand that within the last day or two canvassing on behalf I of the rev. gentleman has Iwsen commenced. The Church party are arguing that if a proper understand- ing be arrived at, the Church representatives on the Board can be easily increased. It will be remembered that at the last election, a very large number of votes were given to the candidates of the Church. _A' TROEDYRHIW. On Friday evening last a very enthusiastic meeting was held at the Yew-street, Schoolroom in aupi>ort of the candidature of Mr. Arthur Daniel for a seat upon the School Board and County Council. The chair was taken by the Rev. J. W. Price who, having addressed the meeting called upon Mr. Daniel to do likewise. Mr. Daniel dealt very exhaustively upon the duties of both boards, and upon the desirability of electing men who were in sympathy with progress and reform. It is to be very much deprecated that. Mr. Daniel was annoyed and interrupted by men who had been served with too much drink. A resolution of confidence and hearty support was passed with enthusiasm, bein? proposed and seconded by Messrs. Benjamin James aud Thomas Jones respectively. Questions were also asked the candidate by Mr. W. Sharp, which were answered to the entire satisfaction of the meeting, although not to the questioner. At the close of the meeting the supporters of Mr. Daniel formed them- gel "e" into a canvassing committee. TREHARRIS. The forthcoming School Board election is still the all-absorbing topic here. Our two local candidates received gratifying news on Saturday la-fc. There has been a difference of opinion as to whether the elector? of that part of the parish of Llanvabon recently transferred to Merthyr would have a vote or not. Mr. F. T, James, the Clerk to the Meithvr Guardians, has given his opinion that the electors of the new area would have a vote. Mr. James' opinion is supported by the Education Department. This will add about 230 electors to the electorate, and will greatly increase tho prospects of our local candidates. We can now breaths freely, and there is great rejoicing. STR, —Ths "Plumper"' of your last week's issue must be a queer gentleman. First, from behind the bush of anonymity he makes an attack on a profes- sional gentleman. In a fortnight's time he returns to the attack by acknowledging that the previous state- ments were incorrect. Strange tactics Owing to the fact that he received a reply from the said gentleman he waxes into a great anger and hurls the terrible shaft of audacity at th:s person. Surprising is it not, Mr. Reader? Mr. Davies had the temerity to reply toan anonymous writer, and he is told he is audacious), 1 for doing 80. But yet again this wonderfully logical Plumper says, at the end of his letter, that he is again waiting Mr. Davies' further reply." Really now, does he expect after the audacity thunderbolt that Mr. Davies would have the courage to reply ? He then gives another statement as to salary. Why, sir. should Tie not first quote the salaries received by other gentlemen in various parts of the country doing similar work, and then compare the young Welsh- man's income with theire ? Simply because he knows that then he would prove that Mr. Davies was the poorest paid mining lecturer in the country. On the other hand, why not compare the prices 0?Mr. Evans' snuff, jam, margarine with that sold by the Thomases, Williamses. and Prossers of Treharris. It would be equally os fair.-Your. PARENT. To tht Ei/itvr. SIR,—It is exceedingly comical to see bow certain parties at Treharris are trying to twister up a poor and lo; ing case. Reports of Mr. W. M. Evans' nieet- ing are given, and an outsider would imagine tremen- dotjsly enthusiastic meetings where thousands attended had been bold. Unfortunately, however, these enthu- siastic meetings are found to exist, on enquiry, only in the imagination of some correspondent. Is there not something getting wrong with the works? For au illustration let us take a meeting, a public, enthusias- tic meeting mind, Mr. Editor, in support of Mr. W. M. Evans' candidature. Forty-five are present, twenty committee members, ten visitors (the public), fifteen including a few of Mr. Davies' supporters called to hear the eloquence of the Methodist candi- date, and others carried in, almost bodily, from the streets. Then the chairman calls upon the Rev. W. Jones to speak—tremendous cheering, loud clapping of h-tndg-for Mr. Jones jtiit now requires enc-ourage- ment. But he refuses all the enthusiasm s-eema to fiy out through the window Mr. Jones is not roused. After repeated and deafening roars of applause, Mr. Jones speaks, seated remember, and >*avs, Mr. t Chairman, I have nothing to say (cheers). I came here to listen (hear, hear). I hope the opponents will not quarrel or abuse each other" (terrific applause and excitement). The wise, discreet, and eloquent "Bugail y Bryn" was not drawn. Bravo, Jones Of course the County Councillor follows with an elo- quent, soul-stirring, spirit-moving address as usual. He hopes both will he in." (The enthusiasm now is 0 lo nnbonnded). I hope tho secretary will give me notice of the next meeting, as I with to give an account of that and the Libanus meeting in a future issue.— Y oars, Q111.1. PKN. To the h'ilitor. SIR,—The writer in your last werk's issue once again seeks shelter under tho homj (h phmie of "Parent" and "Educationist," but although he tries to hide himself he if, betrayed by his own letters. Before proceeding allow me to ask my scientific detractors, who are so well inspired, to put off the mask and put on the man. I flatter myself, how- ever, that I am a foe not to be despised. Mr. Davies is, an usual, loud in complimenting himself aud sing- ing his own praises, and if your readers believe him, his claims to public attention transcend those of all others. I am subordinate to him in every respect, experience, good intentions, and particularly educa- tional attainments, and indeed every other quality that goes to make an efficient School Board member. Of course, Mr. Davies considers his qualifications are exceptional, and the ratepayers should not hesitate to accept his proffered and unselfish public services. What benevolence: What philanthropic motives Of course Mr. Davies has no axe to grind He has only public interest in view, notwithstanding he is a public official enjoying a salary which is envied by many distinguished men of eminence. Mf. Davies will not admit be is a well-paid official. On the other hand he would have us believe the contrary, and that the change from Treharris Schools has been for the worse, according to his version. But I would remind him that people are not so ready to believe such arrant nonsense, for they know belter. And indeed I may mention the impression prevails that his office is almost a sinecure, and in proof of which ample evidence has been adduced in the colums of your pajier. But if wo believe Mr. Davies he is employed sixteen hours each day, and if so, how can he find time to attend to School Board affairs? His duties as mining lecturer will be sadly neglected if this is correct, if he intends doing his duties as a School Board member. But I maintain, public officials can. not serve two masters; they cannot represent the ratepayers on public boards in the same manner as t'ue representatives who are under no obligation to members of the same Board. And. of course, those who can derive no iuterest from the rates, but contri- bute extensively towards the rates, will do their best to keep tho rates down. On the contrary public officials, as a rule, help to send them up, and this has been proved of late, for there has been no end of com- plaints against the high rates, which are so heavy for working men to bear in these time of depression and continued reduction in wages. What surprises me, Mr. Editor, is that the Government neglected to call to their assistance so capable a person to explain the pros. and cons. of Free Education," as Mr. Davies claims to be. Let us see what this "Free Education" amounts to Mr. Davies, when at Treharris School, was in the habit of holding concerts in which the school children took the place of artistes, and naturally the parents of children were much interested in the concerts, owing to the fact that their children took part in them, and spared no expense in dressing their little ones for the occasion, and patronised the concerts themselves, as did also other residents from Treharris, which was the means of making the concerts quite a financial suc- cess. Out of the proceeds of those successful concerts Mr. H. Davies gave free schooling to two boys iu three standards. This "Free Education" given to six boys only amounted to £ 6 13s. in three years. In my opinion, Mr. Editor, this is nothing to crow about. And indeed I am informed that some of the boys Ituft school soon after they entered upon this free schooling term, which would still reduce the amount stated above. Whatever little some people do, Mr. Editor, it must be published from Dan to Becrsheba. We shall'soon hear of of the Ever winding, never going" Waterbury watches, given by this philan- thropic ex-schoolmaster. One of your correspondents accuses me of having promised to retire in favour of on Independent candi- date at the last election of the School Board. This is quite false, and to make use of my opponent's quota- tion, The lioot is on the other leg." What about physiology now ? I never make promises of the kind, and consider my opponent should not have volun- teered his support to me in the present election, and especially to be wanting in carrying out his promise, denying he had promised at all. I shall have more to say in your next week's issue.—Yours, &c., Fox-street, Treharris. W. M. EVAXS. TREHARRIS CANDIDATES. To the Editor. Sin, —Our neighbours of Treharris are again iu troublesome waters over some election matters. Now they are in turmoil over the Merthyr School Board election. Two candidates and their respective com- mittees are fighting hammer and tongs. I wonder whether experience will ever teach the people wisdom, or are Treliarris people especially blind and obstinate in their errors ? The slightest consideration ought to tc teach them that they are spoiling themselves, and that in reality they are enacting the part of the dog in the manager, always a ridiculous part to play, but especially to when it is played unconsiously. How our friends the Merthyr candidates must laugh and chuckle at the electioneering tactics which are beneficent only to these Merthyr candidates In the School Board election it is well known to all that the parish is not divided into wards, as I think it should be. The result is that the outlying districts have but a very slight chance under ordinary cireum- stances of being represented by their own people, Luckily there is such a thing as an extraordinary circumstance, and by this they may achieve their j desires. If instead of splitting their votes among all the candidates they would plump for their own nominee they would render his return assured. At Treharris. although they are running two candidates, they would best obtain their wishes by co-operation. If the committees, instead of squabbling and fighting with each other, would only combine and make a strong effort to induce electors to vote only for their nominees, they would make their return, not assured, but a matter of possibility. So much for Treharris. Now for the whole ward, 1 have before me the election address of Mr. David Prosser. our retiring county councillor. This has in one sense afforded me the greatest pleasure. Since his election three years ago we have seen nothing and heard about as much of our councillor. I gladly accept this intimation that he is still in the land of the living. Still sir, I hardly think his antecedents warraut his demand for re-election. Mr. Prosser, of course, as is natural, proclaims aloud his virtues. He maintains he is on the side of progress and opposed to high rates, Yet the rates are continually going up, and we have no record of Mr. Prosser's interposition to prevent the increase, or at any rate to endeavour to prevent it. Actions speak louder than words, and proof that he had opposed the causes of the high rates we suffer from, would be worth a cart-load of election addresses and a bookful of promises and assertions. I hear he has supported the increased expenditure of public money. I may be wrong, and if so, Mr. Prosper can disprove it. j Mr. Prosser, of course, is a Liberal. I am afraid that the working man too often allows himself to be shut up, and, as it were, sidetracked by this assertion of Liberalism. Liberalism, or the profession of it, covers a multitude of sins nowadays in these parts. Too many gentlemen hare been returned to the Council, on the strength of this assertion when there is not the reality to back it up. Too often have our representatives misrepresented us, and have escaped tho consequences by dragging the everlasting 1 am a Liberal over the trail like a red herring. True Liberalism is shown in action and conduct, not in mere empty assertion. I earnestly appeal to all Liberals not to be led astray by assertions. Remember words cost little, and the proof of the pudding is in the eating." That cut and slash critic, Mr. Dan Thomas, last year called Mr. Prosser the Treharris autocrat," who posed on the total aljstinence base, and yet held an outdoor licence he said his property was nnder- valued, his premises being rated at less than half their value, according to Mr. Thomas's figures. I have nover heard that these charges have been refuted,and I think that we electors, before being asked to renew our confidence, should, as a matter of courtesy, be enlightened on these subjects. There is another thing. It is generally asserted, and it has never been denied, that last year, Mr. Prosser purchased a lot of workmen's cottages, and increased the rents. Legally Mr. Prosser can do as he likes with his own pro- perty, but morally such a course is oppose to Liberal principles. If the story is false we should be told so. Again, he promised the electors that he would urge on the County Council the necessity of the taxation of ground rents, and royalties. Has that promise been fulfilled ? Not long agosomeof Mr. P' friendsgotupapetition to the authorities begging for his elevation to the magisterial bench. Care was taken that the mass of electors should have no chance to offer their opinions k j on the subject. Magistrates, I think, should he elected not on the prompting of their friends, but on account of their oNn worth and good qualities. Mr. Prosser hopes to feecure the presence of pro- minent Liberal members of the Council to address his meeting. Is it a ease of conscience making cowards of us all ? Mr. Prosser should stand on his own j merits. He has failed in his duty to his electors, and to obscure the issues and hoodwink the people he is bringing down a band of trumpeters to herald his fame, and to make of the meeting a sort of mutual admiration society, with Mr. Prosser as the central object. We shall hear these heralds talking about our enlightened councillor, of his true Liberalism, and all the rest of it. But I appeal to all Literals, and especially Liberal working men, to judge for them- selves, and not to be blinded by any such quackery, Vindicate your rights, and bring out a candidate that you can trust. At any rate demand an explanation from Mr. Prosser for all he has done, and omitted to do. Bind him to represent faithfully your general interests, and not the interests of a class," and to eon- suit you on all important questions. Let the joint committee, which worked so well recently in an j election, call a meeting to try to obtain satisfactory representation for true Liberalism.—I am, k-e., MERTHYR YALIAN. To the Editor. SiR,I fancy the following figures may have some interest for your readers, in view of the coming School Board Election. The rateable value of the Parish of Merthyr Tydfil is jE206,345 7p. 6d., and we had 9,949 children on our register in December, 1894, so that there is a rateable .aluo of £ 20*7 for each child. The rateable value of Cardiff is £ 864,613 10s., and the Cardiff School Board had 18,574 children on their registers at the same date. So that at Cardiff we have a rateable value of £ 46'5 per child, as compared with £ 20'7 at Merthyr. If the cost of educating a child per annum, after receipt of the fee grant frcm Government, be the same in both towns, it means that if a rate of Is. in the £ will educate 20'7 children in Merthyr, the same rate will educate 46'5 children in Cardiff, or pro- portionate number. Even Aberdare figures better than we do in Mer- thyr, for they have a rateable value per child 011 the registerof £ 25 5 so that with the same rate they can educate 25 children for our 20. Another matter which I do not think is made dear to the ratepav-ers generally is this when a Is. rate is made (our ratablo value being, say, £ 206,343), the overseers do not receive 206,343 shillings, but on about £ 5,000 of property they allow 30 per cent. for compounding; in other words, they receive only 8"4d. in the £ instead of a Is. on the cottage property rated at £ 5,000 or thereabouts. And what seems strange to me is that the amount so allowed figures in the poor rate demand note as overseers' expenses. In justice to themselves this should not be so, for the money is never received by them. In this way we have recently had a rise of about 3d. in the £ on overseers'J expenses, whereas the fact is the great bulk of the rise was in this extra allowance the overseer-, were obliged to make to cottage owners on a 2s. 6d. rate as compared with, say, a Is. one. I think if the matter were looked into carefully we should find that there is more compounding in Merthyr than in neighbouring parishes if this is so, it puts us in a relatively worse position. These facts prove that it is not right to judge the work of the Board by the rates made only, but rather by the cost per child; and then the question of efficiency comes in, and on that I will not enter, for no one has hitherto dared to say our schools are not efficient.—Yours truly, C. HKNRY JAJIES. 8, Courtland-terrace, September 5th, 1895. -0 CINDERELLA AT THE CARDIFF GRAND THEATRE. Cinderella was staged at the Grand Theatre on Monday night, after a very successful six weeks' run at the Portsmouth Theatre Royal, and visitors from our districtf have the opportunity of enjoying one of the most artistic, delighful, ant) comic pantomimes that have ever been seen m the Wekb M«tros)olis. The "book" is bright, witty, and up-to-date, the j music is excellent and catchy, the scenery is superb —the Palace scene, especially, being an artistic triumph—and the dresses are lovely. But, beyond these admirable features, the most striking character- isties of Cinderella are the pictures ue grouping of the artistes, the artistic blending of colours, the really humorous gags and wheezes, and, what is still more important, tho individual and collective excel- lence of tho various artistes engaged. A novel and much appreciated transformation scene is intro- duced into Cinderella." This is a Yankee idea, and is really a series of tableaux vivants entitled, The sailor boy's dream." A striking scene portraying Nelson boarding the San Josef is one of the most popular sets," and, needless to say, it provoked hearty applause. We trust Mr. Clarence Sounds, the genial lessee and manager, will score the success h» deserves, and that our readers who visit Cardiff will give him their support. ["2869.

A WELSH DRAMA AT DOWLAIS. A grand performance of the Welsh drama, Owen Lhvyd, y bachgen da," was given by the Caersalein Dramatic Society, at the Oddfellows' Hall, Dowlais, last Thursday evening. The proceeds were for the benefit of Mr. Thomas Jenkins, Market-street, a young collier, who is leaving for college to study for the i-ainigtry. Dramatic pieces are alwavs favourites with the people of Dowlais. and it is not to be won- dered at that there was a crowded house on thi, occasion. The drama is full of interesting episodes. Owen Llwni is turned from his home by a cruel step-mother, but is found hy Sir Arthur Cadfan, and '3 taken to the workhouse. In about four years time Sir Arthur adopts the young boy as" his own son, and the latter soon becomes a favourite in the palace. But as is always the case evil doers are at work, and they become jealous of Owen s popularity. Andrews, the gardener on the estate, and Morris, the eoaehmaa, hatch a plot to bring about the fall of Owen, but are foiled in their vile purpose and sent away from the estate. Mean- while Alice Cadfan, Sir Arthur .Cadfan's daughter, shows marked affection towards Owen, and console him in his trouble. Henry Oliver, Alice Cadfan's intended husband, now sees that she does not ahoweo much affection for him as she used to do, and he offers a hundred pound note between Andrews, Morris, tne gamekeeper if they can in any way make Alice Cadfan form a bad opinion of Ow«n Llwyd Iu this plot they are foiled again, and in the end tht-l drama tinishes with the mafria-go of Owen Llwyd and Alice Cadfan, J Tie performance was given with appropriate scenery, and the stage directory of Mr W H Evans contributed materially to the undoubted' success of the entertainment. The characters of "Owen Llwyd are unusually numerous, as will be seen by the lollovving which was the casteSir Arthur Cad- tan, Mr. William Jones Lady Cadfan, Mrs. M. J. Rees; Al'ce Cadfan, Miss Hannah Morris, Miss Jessie Jen^ns, M13* Annie Rees; Owen Llwyd, Mr. Tno,. Thomas, Mr. D. B. Evans, Master William T. Lewis Andrews the gardener, Mr. Joseph Davies Morn?, if* coachman, Mr. Ben Jones; Jone?, the gamekeeper, Mr. Thomas Jenkins; ReU y Llsim, Mr. _1II1 am Rees; Phebo Penrhyw, Mrsf Rachel wf H' V*™* Mr- Man- so! Mr. WiH,am Rees Doctor, Mr. Ben Evans; Judge, Mr. Isaac Lewis; Solicitor-General, Mr. David Kee* Barrister, Mr. Lewis Rees; Superin- tendent of police, Mr. Jno. Young; Policeman, Mr. Henry Evans; Son of the "Hwan," Mr. Jwhua Edwards Barmaid, Mits A. Jones Servant, Miss h. Harris Martha, Miss Maggie Hughes Ann, Mi*s Agnes Jenkins; Messenger, Mr. W. D. M. LewN • (Onlooker* Messrs. W. R. Thomas and J. JoSs • Bridesmaids, Misses A. Rees and May Evans. As we have already stated, tiie performance was a com- j plete success, and all tho characters did capitally* j Especial mention, however, must be made of Owen Jjlwyd, who did his work exceptionally well; of Alice hf ,w* j* c ''T m ?t'a ti on left nothing to W* Cadfan and Andrews, °the A 1n?f f i ? wJlom wcre represented "as to life." ^ntrilfuted5 T wSCentS 80n*s and dueta were T^k i" \rr J V ■?annlh Morris- Miss Agnes Jenkins, Mr Evan Rees Evans, and Mr. Kv?n Thomas. All the above are too well-known to netd any praise at our hands. The entertainment was repeated on Saturday evening to a fairly large audience. The accompaniments to tho musical con- tnbutions were played in capital style bv Miss Maggie Evans, the organist at Caersalem Chapel

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