Merthyr Times and Dowlais Times and Aberdare Echo

THE ABERDARE SCHOOL BOARD AND THE TEACHERS. The Salaries Question. The ordinary fortnightly meeting of the Aber- dare School Board was to have been held on Fridav afternoon, but owing to the funeral of Mrs. Thomas, Ysguborwen, the meeting was postponed till Tuesday. The chair was occupied by Mr. R. H. Rhys, J.P., and the other members present were: Messrs. D. P. Davies (vice-chairman), David Morgan, W. J. Heppell, W. Railton, T. Walters, W. Charles, and Revs. M. Powell, D. M. DaTies, J. Griffiths, and D. Griffiths The report of the committee appointed to deal with the consideration of the teacher's salaries was read. The committee recommended increases varying from JE5 to £10.The Chairman moved the adoption of the committee's report.—Mr. W. J. Heppell moved, as an amendment, that the matter be adjourned until the next meeting, and that particulars be obtained of salaries paid by neighbouring boards. It was a most important question, and the increase suggested seemed inadequate to meet the end aimed at by the Board. They wanted more time to consider the matter. He thought the policy of the committee very strange. They had reported at a previous meeting that no increase was necessary. But they had a different talc to tell that dav. He did not think that it was to the credit of the Board to reverse its policy in that manner. They should settle the question in the best possible way. He again moved that the matter be adjourned.—Rev. J. Griffiths seconded. —Mr. D. Morgan asked whether it was sug- gested that the proposals of the committee should also be placed before the Board for consideration. —The Clerk said that he would send a copy of the proposals alluded to to each member.—Mr. D. Morgan: Very well.—The Chairman remarked that the reason that the committee had gone in for thc recommendations they had was because of the difficulty experienced in getting teachers in response to the Board's advertisements. They had adver- tised, for instance, for a teacher at £"70, but could not get a single application. It was for reasons such as that that he (the chairman) moved the adoption of the committee's report. Mr. Heppell had rebuked the committee for reversing their policy but us far as he (the chairman) was con- cerned, he should be glad, were such a thing possible, not to make any increase at all. But that could not be so the committee had no alternative but to increase the salaries. They had gone very carefully into the figures, and had arrived at the conclusion they had after due deliberation.—On a vote being taken, the amendment was carried by six to five. Mr. W. J. Heppell moved, in accordance with notice of motion, that the question of teachers' salaries of all grades be referred to a committee of the whole Board, and that the clerk prepare for this meeting a list of salaries paid by this Board, and those paid by surrounding boards and that a copy of the proposed list of salaries sub- mitted by him (Mr. Heppell) to the Schools Man- agement Committee, be sent to each member." He did not know that he need say much more on the subject. But he was sorry that the chairman had the impression that he (Mr. Heppell) had con- demned the committee. Far from it. He (Mr. Heppell) thought it was a matter of business and that the Board ought to investigate the question thoroughly. It was a well-known fact that many teachers under other boards were better paid than what their teachers were. He had already pointed out that the school management com- mittee had not gone beyond a certain point. But he hoped that the matter would now be settled in a definite manner.—Mr. D. Morgan seconded the motion. He believed that it was necessary to have a revision and a readjustment of the whole of the salaries paid under the Board. He did not mean to say that he would go in for an advance all round, because a readjustment would mean the lowering of the salaries in some cases, and increas- ing in others. There were some who got too much for their work, and others did not get enough.— The Chairman said that if it was the wish of the Board to adopt the motion he would not move an amendment; but in his opinion, the motion, if carried, would have an injurious effect.—On a vote being taken, the motion was carried by 7 to 3.

LORD ROSEBERY'S PEERAGES. Speaking at Huddeniield, on March 28, after the doss of the National Liberal Federation conference, Lord Rosebery said at the last election he read in the papers that the Radical party was taunted with the sorrupt and scandalous way in which he had recommended peerages to her Majesty. Although he had in letters to private individuals ex- Iriained the absolute falsity of the story, those etters had failed to get into the newspapers, and he desired to explain exactly the truth about that scandalous imputation, and that scandalous lie. He was not one of those who thought that the Radical party, because it was opposed to the present function of the Upper House, was necessarily to debar itself from the creation of peerages. At the same time, having embarked on an agitation against what he believed to be the undue power and privileges and the unfair constitution of the House of Lords, opinions which he still held, and which would only; leave him with life, he should bare been very glad if it had been possible to avoid the recommendation of any peerages to her Majesty during his short tenure of emce. But it was not possible. He received letters from Mr. Gladstone, in which he stated that just before the fatlof the Government he had promised when in office two peerages to men of the class from whom peers were selected. It was not ] until he had received two, or, he theught, three, letters from Mr. Gladstone, pointing out that the honour of the Radical party was pledged as to those peerages, that he consented to make the re- commendation, and it was only when he found 1 it was impossible for him to adhere to his rule that he included in his recommendations two other gentlemen—one a political opponent, ] the Governor of Cape Co!ony, and the other a gentleman who bad served them well as Minister of < Agriculture and in a private capacity. That was the I whole history of those four peers, and as regarded receiving one farthing in corrupt consideration for those peerages, he declared on his honour as a gentle- man it was a scandalous lie. This was not a matter with which the Radical Whips bad anything what- ever to do. His only communication was with Mr. Gladstone, and if anyone thought Mr. Gladstone received corrupt considerations for the recom- mendation of these two peerages, he had better say •o outside. ■JU-JBgBSBaaagggaagggggM

THE BENEFICED CLERGY. The Archbishops of Canterbury and York have appointed a committee to carry out a project for establishing a central fund in London to co-operate with and supplement diocesan funds for providing an adequate maintenance for the beneficed clergy, The archbishops express their approval of the pro- posal.

TRADE AT MERTHYR. A recent issue of the Colliery Guardian states that at Merthyr business in the iron and steel trade is becoming quite brisk, and large quanti- ties of rails and sleepers, pig iron, and small goods, are turned out. There is a corresponding activity in the receipt of iron one from Bilboa and other quarters. The coal trade is toler- ably active, though house coal has not at any time, this winter, been in great request.

PALM SUNDAY AT MERTHYR, This day was very generally observed at Merthyr, in common with other towns in South Wales. The Merthyr and Cefn burial grounds were visited by a large number of people, and the graves were covered with magnificent wieaths and flowers. There was a particularly beautiful display at the Cefn burial ground. The local florists had made great preparations, and the display of flowers and wreaths at Mr. Gray's establishment in the Glebeland attracted a large crowd on Saturday.

BANK CHANGES AT MERTHYR, We understand that Mr. Griffiths, the manager of the London and Provincial Bank, is resigning that post, which he has filled so creditably for many years. Mr. Thomas, the manager of the London and Provincial Bank at Tredegar, has been appointed in his place. Mr. Thomas was very popular at Tredegar, and we have no doubt but that he will prove a worthy successor to Mr. Griffiths. Mr. Thomas is the son of ex-Supterintendent Thomas.

MERTHYR CRICKET CLUB. An adjourned *ting of the members of the Mer- thyr C.C. (form.. the Gwaelodvgarth C.C.) was held on Saturday i^ht at Pontmorlais Restaurant. There was a good tfc endance. Mr. H. Jones pre- sided. It was reported that some good fixtures were being arranged for the coming season. A match had already been arranged with the Aber- dare C.C., and it was also hoped to arrange fixtures with Beaufort, Penrhiwceiber, Plymouth, &c. It was also hoped that final arrangements for acquir- ing the field at Penydarren would be completed this week. It was decided to ask Mr. J. T. Harrap to accept the presidency of the club. Several new members were initated. On the whole, the pros- pects of the club are very bright.

GELLIGAER COAL RETURNS. On Saturday, at the meeting of the Merthyr Board of Guardians, Mr. D P. Davies, chair- man, presiding, the clerk (Mr. F. T. James) laid upon the table copies of returns by Mr. J. Jones, the assistant overseer of Gelligaer, as to coal worked and raised in that parish during the year 1895. The table worked out as follows :— Steam coal sold, 1,020.226 tons, a decrease on the previous year of 58,849 tons house coal sold, 248,080 tons, a decrease of 47,648 steam coal used at ironworks, 70,810. an increase of 16,473 house coal used at ironworks, 105,382, a decrease of 60,498 total, 1,444,498 tons, a decrease of 150,522. Small of steam coal used at ironworks and sold, 220,553 tons, a decrease of 10,813. The coal worked from Merthyr parish but brought to bank in the parish of Gelligaer, 112,796 tons, an increase of 39,276 tons small of steam coal, 12,590 tons.

FUNERAL SERVICE AT ZOAR CHURCH, MERTHYR. On Sunday evening last a funeral service was held at Zoar, Merthyr, when the pastor, the Rev. J. Thomas, referred to the loss sustained in the death of Mr. John Harris, Twynyrodyn Miss Maggie Williams, High-street; and Mrs. Martha Maria Price, Tramroad-side; all of whom had been most faithful members of the church, and whose deaths are greatly regretted. At the commencement of the service Mr. D. C. Williams, professor of music, played 0 rest in the Lord." The Rev. J. Thomas prefaced his sermon by some feeling allusions to the deputed. Mr. John Harries they had all known as of gentle disposition and kindness of heart. He was most faithful in his attendances. He was always present at both the morning and evening services, and he had often come at great sacrifice, especially during the last few years. He had now been called to the higher reward. The death of Miss Maggie Williams was very sorely felt. The end was very sudden, and no one thought when they saw the bright and active girl, a short time ago, that she was so near death's door. And when she did die it was, indeed, hard to believe that she was no more. She was a faithful worker in the cause at Zoar, at the Sunday School and all the other meetings. She had also been a faithful mem- ber of the choir of the town, and her loss would be acutely felt there. The church at Zoar extended the fullest sympathy to the bereaved relatives. Mrs. Prica was also a most faithful and active member of the church. She was a member of one of the most respected families in the district. She was most regular in her attendance at the services and meetings, and her loss would be greatly felt. In this case, also, they extended the greatest sympathy to the bereaved relatives. As a church they keenly felt the loss of these two dear sisters and brother. It was, however, a consolation to know that there were others still remaining, and he hoped they would be yet more faithful in the furtherance of the work of the church. The rev. gentleman then preached an excellent sermon, taking as his text John xiv. 2-3, "In my Father's house are many mansions," &c. At the conclusion of the sermon the preacher recited some beautiful lines that had been composed in memory of the departed, and which drew forth tears from the eyes of many members of the vast congregation. Special hymns were sung appropriate to the occasion, including Days and moments quickly flying" and "Lead kindly light." The latter hymn was sung in a thrilling manner, the last verse being several times repeated. The choir, con- ducted by Mr. James Sandbrook, also gave an impressive rendering of the anthem, "Dyddiau dyn sydd fel Glaswelltyn." At the conclusion uf the service the organist gave a most beauti- ful rendering of the mournful "Dead March."

THE NEW B.A. Mr. George Henry Ilougbton, who was raised to the fwli honour of Royal Ac ideuiician last week, fills the tacancj caused by tit" appointment of Sir John Millais as president. Though English by birth—he is a rial i TO vf Norfolk—Mr. Boughton spent the earlier part of his life in America, his family having gone out to Albany, New York State, when he was three years old. In 1861, when he was about 25 years of age, he opened a studio in London, where he has since resided. He has constantly exhibited; indeed, it is mid that he has never bad a picture re- fused since he was quite a yonth. He became an A.R.A. in 1979. Among his better known works are "Winter Twilight," "The lake of the Dismal Swamp," "Passing into the Shade," "Coming into Church," Morning Prayer," The Scarlet Letter," The Idyl of the Birds," The Return of the May flower," The Counsellors of Peter the Headstrong," and The Ordeal of Purity."

LITERARY EXTRACTS. CHARTKRKU COMPANIES. — <"i»ilisnf ion is only mother name for <t<>lcl IUllt and illegitimate conquest ind oppression. This is ,m argument (hat would lave left all the fairest regions of earth to greatest gavc^es. Earth was full of dark places," which have gradually become more sndurable to her peoplo because I he E* ron^t-r has gone ill according to the divine ordering of tliece ihings utid brought the light of knowledge. Will it be con- tended for one moment, sare by the criminally ignorant and wilful, that the horrors monthly and yearly perpetrated by negro tribes in their wars aud lacrifices and massacres are not 10 times more dread- ful than anything done, for instance, of late in the Feuds between Turks and Armenians ? The men who desire to stop the orgies of cruelty in Asia Minor cannot be detf to the miseries of the slave gang and human sacrifices of Africa. If you throw into the scale against African organisation all the lust of gold, and all the swindling and petty scandal trumped up against British and European management in Africa, you will ever find that thsse kick the beam when weighed against the abomina- tion that the abominable "go as yon please" policy of no responsibility" would condemn you to help by your inaction! Yon may sneer at the missionary who usually begins these advances into the savagery of ages, You may harp upon your neighbour getting more money than yon think he should have in comparison with yourself, when he is forcing his way in to trade with the natives. You may dislike the work under whatever name you give it, of filibustering," land grabbing," or what not, but you must make up your mind to go along with the work and make the best of it, for it is ordered by a stronger will than one occupied with the petty scandals and jealousies and cowardice of the {>ress p&ragraphist. The weightier matters of the aw of nature are obeyed in the long run, despit the snarls of the lazy rerilers of those who act. The miseries of the savage have been none the less because there has been no special correspondent to describe them. We know now by the help of our soldiers and explorers wbat they were and are, wherever the band of the European is not strong enough to prevent the Arabs or black tyrants making bell upon earth. To those who do not care whether cruelties are alle- viated or whether they continue, the fact of the use to the State of such a mode of inquiry into value will appeal. Dy encouraging a company tospend its money, the State not only gets some control over the adven- ture, but is able soon to judge if the work be worth continuing. If the results are good, they can be practically made the property of the State, or of the State's colony. If the value be little, the company can be left to it own devices, and its work be ignored. The chartering of one of the reforming influences has given us an opportunity of seeing that when a wrong bas been done to a neighbouring white man's state, it can be repaired by the fact that a charter existed and a moae of supervision provided. This is not the time, when an inquiry is being held, to speak of any alleged fault. Mistakes will occur in the best re- gulated family." That fact gives no cause to con- demn the institution of the family I-Tile Altirqui* of Lome in the Nineteenth Century. Ax IIoxoPRAttLt: VEGETABLE.—The nutritious and wholesome onion occasionally finds its vindicators. At the thriving Montana city of Anaconda there is a dining elub, called the Anaconda Onion Society. Its first feast was recently given with distinguished success. Down the centre of the hall, says the Ana- conda Standard, was set a long table, with covers for all the guests. At each there was a large and juicy onion; in the middle of the table was an array of meats, bread, fruit-crackers, cheese, and other things. At one end of the hall floated the standard of the club in proud conspicuousness. It consisted of a po'.e surmounted by a string of the vegetables from which the society takes its name. On the wall hung this motto beautifully wrought: In onion there is strength." Each member wore a pretty boutonniere of little onions. The occasion was greatly enjoyed by all the participants, and the society hopes to do much to restore the onion to the honour and esteem of the world. In Montana, as well as on the whole of the Pacific slope, the onion attains a deliciousness of quality which is comparatively unknown in other parts of the Continent. AFRICA. MISSIONARIES.—In A Saturalist in J/id- Ajrv a Mr. G. F. Scott Elliott, M.A., thus writes of the African missionaries: I have known missionaries of every denomination, and of every shade of character and utility. Many would probably be of more use in teaching Sunday-schools in England, and some are so dangerous and turbulent that they ought to be promptly removed. On the other hand" I should not be alive were it not for the kindness of missionaries and of the good that is done by ihose who are of the right temper and spirit it is impossible to speak too highly. The Roman Catholics, were it not for their disin- genuous political methods, always perform a valuable work. They have no interests outside it; they under- stand that manual, mental, and spiritual training go toijether: they have perfectorganisationanddiscipline; and, what is more important, they really love their Rock, and strive to be their real friends in every possible way. On the other hand, the best type of Protestant missionary is incal- culaby superior, because a really good man has free play for his individuality; while the inferior type is utterly useless, if not positively dangerous. The ordinary mission boy (as a layman understands him) is an unmitigated scoundrel. This, however, one must expect, as no mission gets rid of any boy that affords the least promise. Moreover, one must not expect so much from the Christian native in Africa as people habitually do. A boy who is usually not removed by a single generation from savagery cannot be expected to show the truthfulness, honesty, unselfishness, and purity which, as we know, always invariably characterise European youths who have been brought up in Christian teaching, and represent in their instincts abotit1 20 centuries of hereditary civilisation. No human being can estimate or criticise the spiritual work that is carried on in any mission. The mental and manual work isso obviously good that no sane person can have anything but praise to give. Tiit.vrtucAi, STORIES.—Professor Anderson, the Wizard of the 2sorth, used to give one of his audience a rifle, some powder, and a marked bullet. The marksman was then requested to load and prepare to fire. Thereupon the Professor walked to the end of the stage and invited the rifleman to shoot him- Then, after the marksman had fired, he used to produce the marked bullet, insisting that he bad caught it on a plate. On one occasion a friend of mine, who was an admirable amateurconjurer, offered himself as an assistant. He took the gun and the ammunition, and duly loaded. It was the custom of the Professor to give the bullet a final tap with his wand to see hat it was rammed down properly, and this fisiul tap, I have been told, extracted the bullet. Thi.- my friend knew, and when the Professor offered It is ussi tance it was politely declined. Anderson did not insist, but coolly walked to the end of the stage, and called ont, "Now, sir, take a good aim at me, and ti,.e 1" My friend hesitated, as he was weB awar, that the gun he was holding was really loaded "Fire, sir, fire!" cried the Professor. My friend lowered the weapon, and, saying he could not let it off, rpturned it to Anderson, who immediately, under pretence of seeing whether it had been properly loaded, extracted the bullet. Then he gave the gun to someone else. But before the rifle was fired, be thus addressed the audience: "Ladies and gentle- men, the person who has just resumed his seat know my trick, and foiled it. If he bad fired, this, pro- babJy, would have been my last appearance befort you. But he hadn't sufficient nerve to shoot me." When it dawned upon the house that Anderson had risked hi!! life rather than confess himself beaten, the applause was deafening. In my comedy of "L. S. D. 'at the London Koyaltv, Mr. Garlhorne, who played a leading part, had to appear at » ball in the second act to read an important lciier. At rehearsal the words of this letter had been omitted, as it was understood they "would be written out." I was standing at the wings, when, to my horror, Mr. Garthorne said to me in an agonised undertone, as the scene was proceeding. I haven't got my letter." I hunted for and found the epistle, but then who was there to convey it to the actor ? I could see uo one. There was no time to lose, so I took the bull by the horns, and carried on the letter myself. Mr. Garthorne, who was for a moment alone on the stage, was extremely surprised to see me. I grasped him by the hsnd, and giving him the JeHer, said My dear fellow, forgive the liberty of an old friend You dropped this out of your pocket. And now, pardon my departure—my bride awaitr me and I hurried off. 1 admit that my solitary and momentary appearance from an artistic point of view, was indefensible, as I created a new interest (never to be satisfied) at to who I was and what on earth I and my bride had to do with the plot; but 1 fancy I saved the comedy.— Green Room Recollections by Arthur W a Beckett. THE passion for notoriety at all costs, which nowa- days afflicts the most completely insignificant people; compels them to seek the recognition they are other. wise incapable of securing through the medium of pro' miscuousand well-advertised entertainment. Beck* less of the essential difference between themselves and persons of distinction, whose lives are legitimate public interest, they endeavour to force themselves into prominence by converting their dwellings into public show-rooms, and inviting all and sundry to cosne in, that the house may be full, and it pro- prietor's artistic rooms and delightful old-world garden may procure him the notice which he COtddt hope in no other way to achieve- Wurld.

Con.0 ye n0 get a drappie till's thift "inornin — jist a net tin'?" F-IIid one, who liked the dram-shep better than the work-shop, to his better half. l'se do that," was the response and, before he could rise from his seat, ho had the contents of a pail newlv- filled from the spring meandering about his ears. Ye bae socht a weetin', and ye hae gotten't," was the wife's remark, as the returned the pail to its place. A LSARNEn clergyman was accosted in the follow- ing manner by an illiterate preacher who despised education: Sir, you have been to college, I sup- pose ?" Yes, sir," was the reply. I am thank- ful," rejoined the former, that the Lord opened my mouth without any learning." A similar event," retorted the clergyman, took place in Balaam's time; but such things are of rare occurrence at the nresent dav." M

THE MERTHYK J FURNISHING COMPANY, GREAT STOCK-TAKING SALE. Substantial Keductions Grand Selections Bedroom Suites Reduced. Parlour Suites Reduced. Bedsteads and Bedding RedtlCed. Sideboards, Overmantels, and Brass Fenders Reduced. | Good Opportunity for Cash Buyers. M Manufactured Go# J BEST SELECTION and FREE DELIVERY. J MERTHYR FURNISHING 00»| MARKET SQUARE BUILDINGS ,1 (Opposite POLICE STATION), I MERTHYftj THE FORTY-SIXTH GREAT ANNUAL SALE, PREVIOUS TO STOCKTAKING, OF THE t IMMENSE STOCKS i OF EVERY DESCRIPTION OF FURNITURE, CARPETS, PIANOFORTES' kv., kc., IS NOW PROCEEDING, AND WJLL BE CONTINUED FOR ONE MONTH ONLY- BEVAN AND COMPANY^ 1 LIMITED, | REGISTERED AS "THE CARDIFF FURNISHERS." J j I MILES OF CARPETS! SCORES OF PIANOS 1 HUNDREDS OF SUITES! THOUSANDS OF BEDSTEADS of! WILL BE CLEARED TOR THE PURPOSE NAMED AT Marvellous PRICES! BEVAN & COMPANY, DUKE STREET AND | OPPOSITE THE CLAR1H0* STREET, ST. MARY STREET, TOWN HALL, Sr. MARY STREET, I TOWN HALL, CARDIFF. NEWPORT. < PONTYPOOL. ( > 1" l'tiotad and published by the TIKES PKINTIKO COHFAJTT. John Bitrthfl ltt1 [ Thurlday, April tml, 1896. s t

THE LATE MRS. THOMAS, I YSGUBORWEN. Impressive Funeral at Aberdare. The funeral of the late Mrs. Thomas, of Ysguborwen, whose lamented death we chron- icled in the last issue of the Merthur Time*, took place on Friday last, amidst every mani- festation of deep sorrow. Signs of mourning were apparent everywhere. At Trecynon every cottage had its window blinds drawn, and from the womanfolk assembled along the roadside, frequent expressions were heard of the sad loss that district especially had sustained by the death of the generous lady of the man- sion hard by. Mrs. Thomas had ever been a generous giver, and her loss will be sorely felt in the neighbourhood. The day was beautifully tine, for the boisterous gale of the previous night had been succeeded by a cloudless morn, with a bracing breeze tempered by the warm rays of a summer's vun. The remains of the departed lady had been brought from Wiltsliivo by a special train on Thursday evening, and the coffin, made of solid Welsh oak, panelled with solid silver furniture, con- veyed to Ysguborwen and laid out in a drawing- room. A very large number of wreaths had been received, and these were, during the morning, inspected by the mourners and friends. The wreaths were composed of the choicest flowers, and formed exquisite speci- mens of the florist's art. Especially noticeable was a Hull-size shield in flowers bearing the arms of lestyn ap Gwrgant, from whom Mrs. Thomas traced her descent. This had besnsent by Mr. T. M. J. Watkins, of the Herald's Col- lego, London. The tradesmen of Swindon Old Town forwarded a pretty design and anchor and lyre while a Welsh harp, which was much ad- mired, came from the staff of the Cardiff office of the Cambrian Navigation Company. The wreath of the Clydach Yale workmen bore the following appropriate inscription :— Er serchus gottawdwriaeth am Mrs. Thomas, Ysguborwen, gan weithwyr Clydach Vale. Hi a ddewisodd y rhan dda, yr lion ni ddygir oddiarni." One very pretty wreath bore the following —" As a last token of respect from the mem- bers of the Ysguborwen Temperance Band." A beautiful wreath in the form of a shepherd's crook bore the following In loving memory, from the grandchildren at Trewellwell." The servants of Blunsdon Abbey also sent a nice wreath—" Avith great sympathy." The ser- vants at 28, Norfolk-street, London, also sent a lovely wreath. Wreaths were also sent by Mr. J. H. Thomas, Colonel and Mrs. Howell, Miss Howell, Miss Thomas, Mr. and Mrs. D. A. Thomas, Miss Margaret Thomas, Mr. and Mrs, Morton Thomas, Mrs. Rose H. Thomas, Mrs. E. Thomas, Merthyr Mr. Morgan Joseph and Miss Joseph, Bath Mr. Leonard Thomas, Rev. Arnold Thomas and the Misses Thomas, Hillside, Clifton Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Price, Mrs. J. Joseph, Mr. T. M. Joseph Watkin, the Misses Joseph Watkin, Glanynys Mrs. Hutchesson, Glanynys Sir William and Lady Lewis, Mardy Mr. and Mrs. Charles A. G. Pullen, Mrs. Garde Bowen, Mr. R. H. Rhys, J.P., and Miss Rhys, Plasnewydd Mr. R. J. Rhys, coroner, Plasnewydd Colonel D. R. Lewis, Merthyr; Mr. T. H. Riches, Mrs. J. O. Riches, Dr. Evan Jones, J.P., Tymawr; Mr. and Mrs. J. Jotham Thompson, Cardiff Mr. George E. Pyle, London Mr. and Mrs. Wood Davey, Mrs. Williams, Globe Hotel, Merthyr; Miss Florrie Mathews, Mr. and Mrs. Courtis, Cardiff; Mrs. Mary Perin, Mr. Edric W. Haig, Mr. and Mrs. E. Hammond, Clydach Vale the officials of the Cambrian Collieries at Clydach Vale the workmen at the Cambrian Collieries, Clydach Yale the members of the Tabernacle Congregational "Church, Aberdare, of which the deceased was a mem- ber the Cardiff staff of the Cam- brian Collieries the coal-trimmers of the Cambrian Colliery, Cardiff the Aberdare Liberal Club, the Aberdare Women's Liberal Association, the tradesmen of Swindon Old Town, Miss Ann Thomas (maid), Martha and Rachel (old servants,). The Clydach Vale work- men wore represented at the funeral by a depu- tation of 15. Two of the deputation (the chair- man and Mr. Rees) presented Mr. D. A. Thomas, M.P., with the following letter of sympathy, on behalf of the workmen :— Clydach Vale, 25th March, 1896. To the bereaved family of the late Mrs. Thomas, Ysguborwen.—The death of your esteemed mother has cast a, gloom amongst your employees and the inhabitants of the place. The lonp and kindly rela- tion which has ever existed between your family and Clydach Vale, the deep and active interest which you have taken in the place, your continued generosity to all deserving causes, have excited in us a re6pectful and keen interest in your welfare and sorrows. Your respected mother had ever been to us a sympathetic, considerate, and an ideal employer and her memory will ever be remembered as one whose greatest pleasure was to see others happy. Our loss is great; but not to be compared to yours and we beg to extend to you our most sincere sympathy on the loss of one who can never be replaced in your affection, and we trust that He, at whose fount your mother found MUch comfort, will help and sustain you in your sad bereavement. The funeral was timed to leave Ysguborwen for fit. Fagan's Churchyard, Treeynon, at two o'clock but for a considerable time before that hour mourners came in a continuous stream along the various roads leading up the hill to the mansion. For the convenience of visitors from distant places, the Taff Vale Railway Com- pany ran a number of special trailM from the Rhondda, Pontypridd, and Cardiff while the G.W.R. also put on a special train from Merthyr, and the visitors, upon their arrival in Aberdare, were met at the stations by a number of closed carriages irr which they were conveyed to Ysguborwen. It had been the wish of the deceased that the remains should be conveyed to the churchyard on the shoulders of old Y sgubolwen workmen, and her desires were faithfully observed, for many scores of miners who had previously been employed in those pits arrived from places far and near, anxious to pay this last tribute of respect to a lady whom they had long since learned to love and revere as a generous and indulgent em- ployer. There was no preliminary service at the house, but as the large procession started, the Rev. W. Harris, pastor of Mill-street Baptist Church, gave out the old Welsh hymn Mae'n nghyfeillion adre'n myned, 0 fy mlaen o un i un, &c., and soon afterwards the touching words of the hymn, as sung by the multitude to the melo- dious strains of Lousanne," were borne on the breeze across the valley, to be distinctly heard by the large crowds which could be seen con- gregated on various points of 'vantage on the other side. The processionists marched three and four abreast preceding the coffin, the shell of which was lined with white silk, while the silver inscription plate bore the words Rachel Thomas, of Ysguborwen, and Blunsdon Abbey, Wilts, widow of Samui'l Thomas. Horn 1823; died March 2ht, 1896. Following came a haudsumely-appointed glass- panelled shellibeer bearing the wreaths. The chief mourners and immediate friends of the family came next in mourning coaches, and included Mr. J. JI, Thomas. Colonel and Mrs. F. R. Howell, Trewellwell Miss Thomas, Mr. and Mrs. D. A. Thomas, Mr. Morgan Joseph and Mrs. Joseph, Miss Ella Howell, Mr. A. Howell, Mrs. E. Williams, Mr. T. M. J. Watkm, Mrs. Hutchesson, Glanynys Rev. A. Thomas, Mrs. Martha Thomas, and Miss Anue Thomas (maid). Mr. Moreton Thomas, the deceased's younger son, had come down pur- posely to attend the funeral; but was, unfor- tunately, unable to leave the house owing to a sudden attack of congestion of the lungs. A large concourse of people awaited the arrival of the cortege in St. Fagan's Churchyard, but owing to the tact of Inspector Davies and his staff, the procession passed into the church with no inconvenience from the crowd. The service in St. Fagan's Church was con- ducted by the Rev. E. Bevan, the vicar. The pulpit, the lectern, and the altar, had been draped in black. On which were a number of crosses, prettily worked in white flowers. T1 ie surpliced choirs of St. Pagan's (Welsh) and St. Winifred (English) were in attendance, under the conductorship of Mr. Hughes, the organist, and took part in the service. I The Rev. H. 11. Roberts, curat i of St. Fagan's, read the lessons, and the Rev. E. Bevan read the service, which was in English. At the conclusion (he congre- gation joined in the singing of the Welsh hymn, O fryniau Caersalom, ceir gweled," and while the mourners were leaving the organist played the Dead March and" I know that my Redeemer Liveth." The body was laid to m t in a vault close to the church entrance, and where the remains of deceased's husband are also interred. At the graveside the burial service was read in English by the Rev. C. A. H, Green, M.A., vicar of Abel-dare, and the Rev. Evan Bevan, vicar of St, Pagan's, and He" Evan Davids, curate, also officiated. The beautiful W elsh hymn, Bydd Myrdd O Ryfed- dodau," was feelingly sung by the vast con- course, ami subsequently addresses were delivered in Welsh hy the Rev. S. Harris (B). Awl in English by the Rev, T. C. Evans (Con- I gregational), pastor of Tabernacle, of whose church the deeeased was one of the oldest members. The Rev. T. C. Evans having offered up prayer, the ceremony concluded with the singingofthe well-known hymn-tune, "Aberyat- wyth." The following were present at the funeral:—Revs. Bevan, vicar of St. Fagan's, Aberdare; W. J. Williams (C.M.), Hirwain; T. C. Evans (C.), Tabernacle; W. Thomas, Cwmdare; T.Humphreys, Cwmaman D. Silyn Evans, B. Evans (B.), Gadlys; J. Mills (B.), Abernant; J. Griffiths (B.), Aber- dare D. Thomas (B.), Cwmpark; H. Neander RichardB (B.), Abercwmboy; T. Davies (B.), Aber- aman W. Harries (B.), Mill-street; W. S. Davies (I.), Llwydcoed J. Grawys Jones (I.), Mill-street; Evan Davies, curate of St. Fagan's, Aberdare H. T. Jacob (I.), T. Jones (W.), Aberdare J. Daries, Zoar; J. D. Rees (I.), Robertstown; J. Salgwyn Davies (I.), D. Jones (B.), Llwydcoed J. Griffiths (B.), Aberaman T. Thomas (I.), Hirwain; W. E. Davies, Clydach Yale; Thomas Jones (B.), K Griffiths (I.), Cwmdare J. W. Price (I.), Troedy. rhiw H. A. Davies (I.), Cwmaman R. J. Jones (U.), Aberdare Dr. Griffiths (U.), Pontypridd; D. J. Williams (U.), Merthyr; T. Jones (W.), Carmel; Stephens (C.M.), Trecynon; Williams (B.), Twrfab, Aberaman. The Cardiff offices of the Cambrian Navigation Company were represented by Messrs. Charles A. G. Pullin, A. P. Noel, W. Edgar, J. B. Deere, S. Roscorla, T. W. Yorath, W. A. Tillett, C. H. Stallybrass, Charles Sandey, T. Jones, and C. H. Pullin while among other Cardiff gentlemen present were Mr. Jotham Thompson and Mr. Stipendiary T. W. Lewis, Mr. J. W. Courtis, Mr. D. R. Roberts (Messrs. Roberts and Sons), and others. The Rhondda contingent included Mr. W. Jenkins, J.P., general manager of the Ocean Collieries Mr. E. Hammond, agent of the Cambrian Navigation Company, Clydach Vale Mr. David Roberts, manager of No. 1 and Mr. William Thomas, manager of No. 2, Clydach Vale Collieries Messrs. W. Edmunds (cashier), Joseph Jenkin, T. Wigley, Jenkin Edwards, J. Phillips, Trevor Price (surveyor), John Evans (Court Hotel), David Hood (secretary of the Clydach Yale Library, the gift of the deceased), and Dr. Morgan, all of Clydach Vale. Among Merthyr gentlemen present were Colonel D. R. Lewis, magistrates' clerk Messrs. W. L. Daniel, official receiver; Arthur Daniel, Troedyrhiw W. Morgan, J.P., Pant T. Evans, Dowlais Rev. A. Humphreys, Miss Humphreys, Mr. W. Mitchell, Mr. John Evans (secretary to the Plymouth men), Mr. D. Phillips, Mr. Fred Lewis,(Merthyr Times),Messrs. J. M. Berry, H. W. Southey, J.P., Supt. Thomey, A. Edmonds, J. 0. Jones, editor Merthyr Times; Jonah Thomas, and E. W. Harris. The attendance also included the following gentlemen from Aberdare and district:—Mr. L. N. Williams, high constable Dr. Davies, J.P., Mr. J. L. Thomas, M.E. (representing the Brynawel family), Dr. W. LI. Rhys, Mr. Charles Kenshole, solicitor; L. Acomb, Lloyds Bank, D. L. Edmunds, J.Treharne, Tiberog W. Charles, W. Pugh, R. Hopkins, M.E., J. G. Churchill, R. Wigley, J. Wigley, J. Morris, clerk of the School Board G. George, J.P., D. Williams, ex-high constable T. Thomas, schoolmaster, Robertstown; Dr. Evan Jones, J.P., Alderman D. Morgan, miners' agent Owen Harries, Charles Rees, J. H. Rake, Roger Rogers, Llwydcoed D. E. Williams (draper), F. D. George, D. Parker (miners' secretary), D. Smith, T. Thomas, D. Griffiths (G.W.R.), Mountain Ash Morgan John, Cwmbach D. W. Price, assistant overseer J. Griffith, Park Schools W. Phillips, postmaster T. Hallidav, J. B. Arnold, T. L. Jones, J. Harrison, Bwllfa Colliery Dr. Walters, J. Morgan, W. Humphreys, G. V. Jones, T. Thomas, Graig House E. D. Howells, J. Morgan, Abernant D. Tudor Williams, D. J. Jones, J. Williams, Mountain Ash J. Morgan, Treeynon W. Leyshon, P. Morgan, J. Davies, Parr, Catherine-street, Aberdare John Morgan, Monk- street, Aberdare George, Seymour-street, Aber- dare Phillipa, postmaster, Aberdare Arnott, Danygraig, Aberdare R. Lewis, Foundry Roderick, secretary of the Aberdare Liberal Club T. L. Jones, Commercial-place, Aberdare W. J. Thomas, chemist, Aberdare G. George, J.P., Aberdare D. Davies (Dewi Vychan); J. Mills (late Tarian) Gwilym M. Evans (Tartan), and many others. The shell and coffin were constructed by the undertakers, Messrs. John Morgan and Son, Aberdare. Simultaneously with the service at Aberdare, a memorial service was held at St. Andrew's Church, Blunsdon, of which Mrs. Thomas was a warden, she being one of the very few ladies who have occupied that unique position. On Wednesday evening at the monthly church meeting of Market-square Chapel, a vote of con- dolence was passed with the relatives of the late Mrs. Thomas in their bereavement. On Monday evening, at the meeting of the Brecon-road Liberal Association, Mr. D. Phillips, the chairman, proposed a vote of condolence with Mr. D. A. Thomas, M.P., on the bereavement he has sustained by the loss of his mother. This was seconded by Mr. W. Phillips, supported by Mr. D. C. Thomas, and carried nem. con. At a meeting of the miners employed at the South Tunnel Pit, held at the Clarence Hotel, Dowlais, on Monday night, a vote of condolence was passed with Mr. D. A. Thomas, M.P., and the other relatives of the late Mrs. Thoma., Ysgu- borwen. All present rose to their feet in respect- ful silence when the vote was passed.

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ONE MAN ONE BOARD. J Another Important Point. The Brecon-road:, Liberal Association, on Pa Monday evening, oiice more tackled the ques- n tion of One Man One Board. Mr. D. Phillips was in the chair, and there was a goodly muster of members. Tho discussion followed pretty much the same lines as the previous one already reported in these columns.—Mr. J. P. Lewis referred to the recent election, saying that Mr. D. Davies had been allowed a walk over in the tt Town Ward, although he was a member of tr several other boards. He had no personal ti animus of any sort against Mr. Davies. On the g< other hand, he had the greatest respect for him. ac: Still, the principle they advocated was a whole- AI some one, and they ought to adhere to it.—Mr. ai James Thomas strongly advocated the principle, ti There were as good men outside the boards as there were inside, and they should have a chauce of discharging the active duties of citizenship. Our boards should be healthier than they are, and freer from the spirit of cliqueism.—Mr. D. IV Jones said we ought to have the greatest num- V ber of men on the boards. Some people seemed v to have a craving for seats.—Mr. Jonah Lewis ti said if their principle was adopted public work 11 would be done better and cheaper. A man who b had seats on several boards could not know all 1 the work, and had to rely on the officials. The a other day a pawnshop licence was applied for, C and no one on the Council knew the law on that a subject, though a half-crown book contained all the necessary information. — Mr. Edward Yaughan said one man could not do the work of more than one board. Indeed, many could not do the work of one (laughter). It generally 1 happened, however, that when a man got on I one board he wanted to get on more (laughter). c Secret committees existed in our town, and in J these men played their own selfish games.—Mr. ■ Isaac Jones emphasised the importance of the democratic principle that the greatest number should take part in local affairs.—Mr. D. S. f Thomas said that the Penydarren Association 5 had not dealt with the subject. He complained that the representatives did not consult the ratepayers on important questions they had to disease. Some members had grossly neglected 1 their duties and broken their pledges wholesale. ] —Mr. Evan Price said their association had » given a start to a good movement. The One- Man-One-Board cry was taken up in other parts of the district, and was sure to spread still further. He thought a public meeting should lie held in the Temperance Hall, and the two Parliamentary members invited to deliver addresses. — Mr. W. Davies supported the principle. No man should be elected on even one board unless he possessed the requisite qualifications.—Mr. Joseph Williams said one board was quite enough for one man and if he wanted more than one let him go without any. —Mr. J. Gilleland thought the members of our boards should be made up of equal numbers of the representatives of capital, tradesmen gener- ally, and workmen. At present the capitalists had a majority on the District Council. The difficulty in the way of Labour representation was the lack of funds.—Mr. J. Thomas said he had been a guardian for three years, and so spoke from experience. He found that his business engagements did not allow him to do justice to the duties allotted to him by the electors, and consequently he resigned his seat. How men found it possible to attend to the work of four or live boards was a thing he could not understand.—Mr. Hamson said the duties of citizenship were important, and no one should take on his shoulders a heavier burden than he could carry.—The Chairman said that he had spoken on the subject to seven Labour members, and they all said they could not satisfactorily do the work of more than one board.—Mr. D. C. Thomas said the honours and the duties of public work should be shared between the greatest number of people.—Mr. W. Phillips proposed, and Mr. D. C. Thomas seconded, the following resolution, which was adopted without a single dissentient :—That this meeting is of opinion that the time has arrived when the principle of One Man One Board should be adopted by this association, and that we pledge ourselves to act upon this principle in future.—A committee was appointed to deal with the matter further.—Mr. Hice, the secretary, said, in the course of the discussion, that he had communicated with the various Liberal Associations of the district, and had received two letters in reply. Mr. Ambrose Jones, secretary of the Treharris Association, said that two-thirds of the members of their association would support the principle. Mr. Arthur Daniel, Troedyrhiw, said their Associa- tion could not discuss the question, as they had adopted as a candidate for the District Council one who was already a member of another board. The principle they advocated was a plausible one, but he (Mr. Daniel) was of opinion that another cry, One Parish or District, One Board or Council," was more necessary. Mr. D. S. Thomas, Penydarre », rose to call attention to another matter of considerable importance. The District Council and the School Board met at an hour which was very in- convenient for the Labour and trade members, as well as for thegeneral public who might desire to attend. The meetings, in his opinion, should be held in the evening. Some of the committees also met at inconvenient hours for the Labour members. Mr. Dan Thomas, as they had seen in the papers, had lately convened the Cabs Committee when attendance was very difficult for some of the members.—The Chairman pro- posed that the members of the two boards be asked to change the hour of meeting.—Mr. J. Gille- land said the masters' men were never very willing to study the convenience of the Labour meml>ers. He moved that the members for the Penydarren and Cyfarthfa Wards be asked to bring the matter before the Council, with a view to having the meetings held in the even- ings.—This was seconded by Mr. Rees Price.— Mr. W. Price said the Labour members were anxious for some such change as the one suggested. They felt that it would be well, if possible, to lessen the expense of Labour re- presentation.—The motion was carried unani- mously.—It was understood that the change asked for would be impracticable in the case of the Board of Guardians, as aged and intirm paupers could not attend in the evenings. A vote of condolence was passed with Mr. Frank Phillips, Stuart-street, in the bereave- ment he had sustained by the death of his mother. Messrs. D. Davies, W. Davies, and W. Jones were appointed auditors for the association.

A BRACINS TO.MC. —Pepper's Quinine and Iron renovate# the most broken constitution tq Health, Strength, Energy

MERTHYR WELSH CONGREGA- TIONALISTS. The Merthyr Welsh Congregationalists are pre- paring for their annual Gymanfa Ganu. which promises to be very successful. A splendid list of tn mn-tunes has been compiled. There was a re- hearsal at Ynysgau Chapel on Sunday night, when there was a large attendance.