The Cambrian

RICHTER CONCERT AT CARDIFF. Wales and Wagner have been strangers too long. In a country notable for the pure melodies that spring spontaneously from the harp, prejudices have grown up around the name cf the great musical innovator. He has been looked upon as the arch-enemy of the pastoral melodies which form so conspicuous a feature of Welsh music; but the people of the Principality have hitherto had no opportunity of properly weighing Wagner's claims or of properly judging his music. The concert given at the Park Hall, Cardiff, on Wednesday evening, by Dr. Hans Richter and his orchestra, was, there- fore, of national significance. Let us hope that it heralded the complete white-washing of Richard Wagner. The audience at the Park Hall was representative of musical Wales in general, and of its two great centres, Swansea and Cardiff, in particular. To the greater portion of the audience the real Wagner was a. revelation. He was no longer a man of sounding brass and cymbal, mtent upon substituting for our cherished melodies some weird, fantastic creations for over-charged orchestras. Rather was he the man of thrilling themes and ramatic truth. There was wonderful majesty in the chromatic passages for the horns and ^U'r|^>e 8' was a new charm in the sound o e wo -wind and brass instruments, a full- ness and purity which only Beethoven could ap- proach. Dr. Richter is, perhaps, the best in- terpreter of Wagner that we have and from the unisonal passage for the bassoons and horns with the tremolo violin aecompaniment-sug- gesting the curse on the Flying Dutchman-that opened the concert, right through the recurring themes of Wagner's great works until the mighty inspiration and rhythm of the closing theme to the Tannhiiuser overture was reached the audience was held spell-bound. It was fortunate that three epoch-marking examples of Wagner s compositions were' given-the" Flying Dutchman" overture his earliest work in his particular vein;' the "Tannhauser" overture, which indicates so unmistakably the trend of the composer's dramatic development; and the prelude to that most beautiful and most perfect of all his works, "Tristan und Isolde." Each of these was magnificently rendered. There was no mistak- ing the roar and hiss of the storm, or the wail of the wind in the cordage, in the "Flying Dutch- man" overture. And in beautiful contrast was the andante theme (pianissimo) which directly followed this stormy opening—a phrase full of tender pity; or the jovial song of the Dutch boatmen. The prelude to Tristan und Isolde," in which love's longing for self-sacrifice rings out with unexampled vehemence, was a masterpiece of orchestral conducting. The whole piece seemed stirred by some tragic breath, passing and re-passing. There were passion, emotion, and frenzy in the whirlwind of harmony, in the changing keys and rhythm. "The Ride of the Walkyries was another piece of vivid tone-poetry, and the Funeral March from the" Gotterdammerung" was broadly and restrainedly given. The Tannhauser" overture was a fitting close to the concert. The solemn tones of the pardoned pilgrim theme which opened it; the figure of a Bacchanalian dance flaunting merrily above the sounds of revelry the themes rushing headlong as if in some abandoned dance the voluptuous beauty of the hymn to Venus and, finally, the pilgrim theme repeated, with its great realisation of hope and joyous exultation—these, interpreted by the friend and pupil of Wagner, should give to all who were present at the concert some idea of the great composer's aims and methods. To all these Wagner pieces, Richter, by the vitality of his accent and his masterly sense of rhythm, and by his firm, unmistakeably-majestic climaxes, did a justice which no other conductor can equal. But Wagner did not occupy the whole of the programme. Tschaikowsky had his share, in the exuberance of his Slavonic inspiration. The example of his work chosen was the Symphony Pathetique" in four movements. Tschaikowsky was a genius but it takes him an unconscionably long time to express what he wants to, and after all there is not so much emotional depth in the work as the qualifying title would lead US to suppose. The first movement is supposed to suggest the doubts and the storm and stress of a restless, heroic soul, whose lofty aspira- tions are opposed by a cruel fate. There was calm resignation in the coda which, based upon descending scale passages, brought the movement to a close. The second movement (the allegro con grazia) — whose persistent quintuple rhythm suggests the dallying of this selfsame heroic soul with the sweets of life—was the prettiest in the work, and with this Richter did a somewhat extraordinary thing—almost as exceptional, in its way, as the movement itself, which is couched in 5-4 time. In such a move- ment one would have thought that the conductor would take all the more care. But no Richter let his well-trained men go. The baton was laid aside and only the eye would indicate the exact point of entry of the various instruments. And the movement was wonderfully played and wonderfully pretty. The third movement has pretentions to the heroic, opening. with quaver triplets, and pursuing its way amid changes of key and long rushing passages of ascending and descending scales back once more to the key in which it began—this is Tschaikowsky's conception of heroic deeds. The last movement is ineffably sad, but even here there is no great strength of emotion. Tschaikowsky is great but he is far too long. The measure of Dr. Richter and his orchestra's mastery over the symphony can be gauged from his treatment of the second movement. The concert was a great success, and we must hope to hear this greatest of modern orchestras in Wales again.

Officers of the 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards have made an appeal to their men not to part with the "loot" of the Dervish battle-field. It seems that daggers, swords, and spears have been held too cheap. BURGLARY AT SWANSEA.—One of the most daring robberies perpetrated in owansea for a considerable time was committed on Sunday evening at 100, Bryn-road, the residence of Mr. and Mrs. C. Standish. Mr. ktandish has been for some years the organist at St. Paul's, and with his wife left the house to g0 to church a few minutes before hair-past five, the only other occupant at the time being the servant. The latter went out about half-an-hour afterwards, and was careful she avers, to fasten the front door after her. The first to lascertam that the house had been entered was Mr. btandish's little ten-year old son, who sings in thechhir at St. Gabriel's. The little fellow returned home from the Church, which is only a short distance away, about eight o'clock. The front door was then open, and on entering someone was heard moving about in the rooms in the upper part of the house. The boy thought that his parents had returned before him, and was terrified a second or two later to see a strange man come running down over the stairs. On his father and mother returning he told them that there had been a man in the house. A glance sufficed to show Mr.Standish that his son's state- ment was only too well founded, for the place had been turned entirely upside down. Every room was in a topsy-turvy|condition practically every diawer, cupboard, and box in the house had been broken open, and their contents were littered over the floor3 of the apartments, and afforded ample evidence of the thoroughness with which the burglar had made his search. An ex- amination was then made, and revealed the fact that many articles of value had been carried off. Thpse included a beautiful gold watch and chain, presented to Mrs. Standish about 15 years a^o bv the members of St. Paul's Church, a plir of valuable gold bracelets set with rubies, one of them.containing a large carbuncle, an old-fashioned goi(t ring, to which was attached a square piece of gold with a brilliant in the centre, a silver brace- let a crescent brooch, and other articles of minor value. Information of the robbery has been given to the police, who are inquiring into the matter. Epps's COCOA.—GRATEFUL AND COMFORTING. — By a thorough knowledge ot the natural laws which govern the operations of digestion and nutrition, and by a careful application of the line properties of well-selected COCOA, Mr. Epps has provided for our breakfast and supper a delicately-flavoured beverage which may save us many heavy doctors' bills. It is by the judicious use of such articles of diet that a constitution may be gra- dually built up uutil strong enough to resist every ten- dency to disease. We may escape many a fatal sha b keeping ourselves well fortified with pure blood and a properly nourished frame."—Civil Service Gaze e. Made simply with boiling water or milk.—13o!<a only tn packets and pound tins, by Grocers, labelled JAME8 Epps & Co., Ltd., Homceopathic Chemist*, London.

A. w. JOHNSON, STOCK AND SHARE BROKER, 10394] 57, WIND STREET, SWANSEA. Telegrams OllNA TE, Swansea. National Telephone 21 Agent for the Castle Line" to South Africa. DA VIES ANDBA P. P- i F, STOCK AND SHARE BROKERS, 56, WIND-STREET, SWANSEA. Telegrams, "Discretion" Telephone No. 113. BUYERS.— £ 200 Barry Deferred—quote lowest; Xi,ooo Barry 5 p.c.. Pref.; A:400 Rboridda Deb.; 2500 Ben Evans Deb. 20 Weaver and Co. Old Prefs. at 11; 275 Wassaus at 33s. 9d.; 200 Tamsoos at 2 !s. 9d. SELLERS.—15 Buckleys Pre-Prefs. at 10j 7 Weavers New Prefs.; 3 Rhondda Old Prefs.; £ 28 do. Deb.» Capital and Counties Banks 100 Anderson Cox Shares; 25 Swansea and Mumbles Railway *ro •» Metropolitan Banks.

BRITON FERRY. Preaching meetmgs to cb.pol >v«to anniversary of Kehoboth ^pthe four f0]lowine. held on SatuHay. Sun J^ were delivered by evenings. Powerful l,y C. Griffith^ the Eevs. K. -»• JO", Rhvmnev • n Cardiff W. Sauivlers K^jmney D. C. Tones Cwmparc »nd le/> Cardiff. The meetings were a decided success throughout nnd were well attendee!. During the past week six mills at the Yilliers Tinplate Works and three mills at Baglan Bay were in full work, and the same may be said of the finishing departments. Five smelting furnaces at the Briton Ferry Steel Works were also in full swinz, and the make of steel-bars, although very great, was not equal to the de- mand. The 0U^P^t at the three smelting furnaces at the Albion Works was above the average, as was also the make of hematite iron at the Briton Ferry Works. The Cambrian, Cape Copper, and the Briton Feriy Chemical Works were all very busy, and the shipping trade, both import aud export, was much brighter.

if THE TRADE OF THE PORT AND DISTRICT. SPECIAL REPORT BY OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT. SWANSEA, THURSDAY. The trade of the port during the week, considering the unfavourable state of the weather, has been satisfactory, increases both in imports and exports being shown over the corresponding week of last year. The imports include from France, pitwood and general; Portugal, general; Spain, iron ore, pig iron, lead ore, copper ore, matte and precipitate; Antwerp, Rotterdam and Ham- burg, general; Bolivia, bar lead and copper ore New York, general, and 3,000 tons iron and steel from home ports. The entries of shipping in ballast (which include ten steamers upwards of 1,000 tons 9«nSegister) am(>unt to 31,514tons,as against o,U96 tons the previous week, and 20,753 tona me corresponding week last year. There is a decrease of 5,000 tons in ship- ments of coal foreign, but an increase of 4,000 ™ -QfPatent t'uel, and 2,300 in tin plates, &c. le countries to which coal was shipped France, 18,464 tons; Sweden, 1,700 tons; Denmark, 1,791 tons Germany, 5,000 tons; Eussia, 1,190 tons; Beyrout, 1,100 tons; Eastern ports, 1,499 tons and United States (bunkers), 1,806 tons. Patent fuel: France. 1,720 tons Spam, 1,175 tons Beyrout, 1,725 tons; Cronstadt, 2,300 tons; and Algeria 2,550 tons. ° 1 Imports, 15,364 tons and exports foreign, 46,160 tons, compared with 11,720 tons and 44,888 tons, respectively, last year. The shipments of tin-plates and general goods, comprise: For France, 410 tons;. Portugal, 250 tons Germany, 450 tons St. Petersburg and Riga, 1,300 tons; China, Japan, &c., 476 tons; and New York, 600 tons. IMPORTS COASTWISE.—Pig iron, 2,543 tons; steel scrap, 204 tons; building material, 574 tons; pitch, 184 tons; grain, 762 tons; potatoes, 238 tons; and sundries, 2,055 tons. IMPORTS FOREIGN.—France, pitwood, 917 tons; general, 65 tons. Portugal, general, 20 tons. Huelva, lead ore, 107 tons; copper ore, 505 tons; matte, 173 tons; precipitate, 58T tons. Bilbao, iron ore, 1,750 tons; pig iron, 2,050 tons. Hamburg, general, 200 tons. Antwerp and Rotterdam, general, 370 tons. New York, general, 260 tons; Bolivia, bar lead, 50 tons; copper ore, 750 tons. EXPORTS FOREIGN .-Coal, 33,210 tons; patent fuel, 9,470 tons; and tin-plates and general goods, 3,480 tons.

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BIRTHS, MARRIAGES AND DEATHS BIRTHS. GOWNE.—On the 23rd October, at Cliffe Dene, Pangbourne, the wife of Henry Gowne, of a son. MORRIS.—On the 22nd October, at Barney, Dereham, Norfolk, the wife of Herbert D. Morris, of a daughter. SwiNHoic.-On the 19th Oct., at 21, Divinity. road, Oxford, the wife of Ernest Swinhoe, of a son. WILSON.—On the 20th October, at Rugby, the wife of W. N. Wilson, M.A., of a son. WRIGHT.—On the 22nd Oct., at the Cottage,. Hampton-in-Arden, the wife of J. Leslie Wright of a son. WRIGHT—On the 18th October, at Haileybury College, the wile of the Rev. H. C. Wright, of a MARRIAGES. HUSSEY—• HERBERT.—^On the 25th October at St. Mark's Church, North Audley-street, London Major William Hussey, son of the late Mr: Hus-ey and the Hon. Mrs. Hussey, of Scotney Castle, Lamberhurst, to Mary, eldest daughter of the late Hon. and Very Rev. George Herbert, Dean of Hereford. JOHNSON—RICE.—On the 19th October, at St. Mary Abbot's Church, Kensington, London, the Rev. Hubert Johnson, second son of H. R. and the Hon. Mrs. Vaughan Johnson, of 1, Elvaston- place, London, to the Hon. Cecil Mina Rice, daughter of Francis William, 5th Baron Dynevor. ANDREWS—GRANT.—On the 20th October, at ,St. James's, Piccadilly, London, Henry Andrews, of Essex-street, Strand, and Engleiield Green, Surrey, younger son of the late Charles Andrews, J.P., of Laysters, Herefordshire, to Edith Bessie, fourth daughter of the late Admiral H. D. Grant, C.B., of Coombe Lodge, East Liss. HASKETT-SMITH—HOOPER.—On the 20th Oct., at the Church of Our Lady and St. Patrick, Teignmouth, Devon, Ha-kett Farquhar Haskett- Smith, son of Captain Haskett-Smith, of Hyde, Weston, Bath, to Julia Helen Anderson, eldest daughter of the late Reginald Hooper, of South- brook House, Starcross, Devon. LLOYD—ADAMS-On the 19th October, at the ParishChuLch, Offchurch, Thomas Owen Lloyd, °Lthf W™ck> to Elsie Emma Mary, eldest daughter of the Rev. John Adams, Vicar of Offehurch. SALMON—METHUEN. —On the 20th October, at Christ Church, Clifton, Henry R. Pomeroy Slmon, only Ison of Lieutenant-Colonel Sal men, of Tockington Manor, Gloucestershire, to Emily Gertrude, eldest daughter of Colonel Methuen, Avonwood, Clifton, Bristol. DEATHS. FORESTER.—At Argatty, Sketty, W. H. Forester, in his 82nd year. ROGERS.—On October 22nd, 1898, Joseph G. Rogers, second son of Philip and Elizabeth Rogers. Aged 34 years. EVANS.—October 14th, at 31, Park-place, Bryn- mill, Reuben Martin Evans, plumber, aged 57 years. BRUCE.—On the 22nd October, at 83, Eaton- square, London, Robert, fitth son of Lord and Lady Aberdare, aged three weeks. CHOLMLEY.—On the 19th October, at 139, North Marine-road, Scarborough, Jane, Lady Cholmley, widow of Sir George (Strickland) Cholmley, Bart., M.P., of Boynton andHowsham, in the county of York, aged 88 years. SHAKERLEY.-On the 20th October, at Somer- ford Park, Cheshire Sir Charles Watkin Shaker- ley, Bart., K.C.B V.D-, aged 65 years. BLAGDEN.—On the 22nd October, Dr. Robeib Blagden, of 10, Cambrid?e-road, Teddington, Middlesex (late of Minchmhampton, Gloucester- shire), aged 73 years. Broadwoop.P° the ^Oth October, at Ferney, Malvern Wells, alter Stewart Broadwool, of 3, Queen's London, and Ferney, Malvern Wells, aged 79 years. .HuTTON_BiDDELL -On the 22nd October, at Lincoln, Edward Mitford Hutton-Riddell, aged 52 years. Lucy. n the 25th October, in London, Hemy e Lucy, late of New Orleans, eldest i e tate William Luey, formerly of Owl-? ?: aged 62 .V^rs. n 21st October, at Llandaff, A 0« Catherine, widow of the Rev. Henry X- n' formerly Rector of Trusthorpe, Lincoln- aged 73 years. PERRY.-On the 20th inst., at Henwick House, I Worcester, Elizabeth Moss, the beloved wife of John George Perry. SAVILL.-On the 24th October, at Watford, Herts, Catherine, widow of Robert Savill, aged SO years. WILKINSON.—On the 23rd October, at Old Dalby Vicarage, Liecestershire, Catherine Lyte Wilkinson, of 44, Leinster-square, London, widow of J. Lyte Wilkinson.

1 KITLEY, FASHION ABLE FLORIST, OXFORD-ST., SWANSEA, FOR WEDDING BOUQUETS of the Neivest Style, WREATHS, HARPS, CROSSES, AUl) ANY FLOIlAL DESIGN. PKOMPT ATTENTION. SAUSFACTION GUARANTEED. ————- -—— Printed and Published by CHARLES EDWARD WILLING, for "The Cambrian Newspaper Company, Limited at the offifie, No. 58, Wnid street, Swansea, in the County of Glamorgan.—FRIDAY, Oct. 28th, 1898.

OURLONDONLETTEBJ i [BY OUR SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT.] WEDNESDAY EVENING. The French crisis is coming to a head. the issue will be—whether it be peace or war—no man knows. All are anxious, expectant, hoping still for the best, preparing for the worst. The slightest spark will cause an explosion. We stand on the brink of a powder magazine, and we can only hope that, by a miracle, that spark will not fall. For the last six months I have kept on saying that war with France was not only possible, but probable. That we have escaped that dire calamity hitherto is simply due to the pacific character of Lord Salisbury, and the real desire for peace there exists among influential classes on both sides of the Channel. At last, however, all barriers seem to have been worn away, and we are face to face with the most grievous peril this country has been in since the outbreak of the Crimean War. The two great Liberal and Democratic countries of Europe—the only two who have dared and sacrificed for liberty and humanity —the two most potent influences, perhaps, in the domain of art, literature, and general culture—stand glaring at each other, ready to fling themselves at one another's throats. Should war break out, it would be a terrible crime against progress and civilisation, and we can only hope that this country will do nothing, by acts of omi3sion or of com" mission, to aggravate the situation. THE CANKER AT FRANCE'S HEART, Lord Salisbury's sagacious conduct of this troublesome Fashoda business cannot be too highly commended. He has been firm, yet conciliatory; insisting on British rights, yet allowing for France's difficult position. At first he said he would not negotiate about Fashoda. Subsequently, he not only negotia- ted, but even suggested a loophole. Some of the extremists have been taxing him with cowardice or worse. The best answer to these madmen is the present condition of affairs in Paris. France is tottering on the brink of civil war. Many men in France think that civil war can only be averted by proclaiming a war against a foreign nation. These men argue that a foreign war is better than civil war, even though France may get beaten in the struggle. Clericalism and militarism have brought France to this pass—that it must choose between one terrible evil and another. THE CHANCES OF WAR. These men do not stop to reckon the chances of war. They do not even ask themselves whom they should fight. They will fight the next enemy to them, and unfortunately at this moment that happens to be England. We may well doubt if the French people desire a war with England over Fashoda or anything else. I believe they don't. They would far sooner fight Germany for Alsace and Loraine, and they would stand a better chance to win. The expert counsellors of the French ministry do not disguise from them- selves the hopeless character of a struggle on tae sea with England. They know and ac- knowledge that they are so powerless that France would only be courting a naval Sedan. But that need not deter a French ministry from launching into war. What they want is not so much to fight England as to distract public attention from home affairs. England has never been so strong on sea or land as she is at present. I was speaking to a naval captain—one of the recognised experts on the question—about the British navy. His opinion was that no combination of fleets could withstand the overwhelming might of our navy, and that every ship could be ready for action within 24 hours. WHAT WILL RUSSIA DO? The vital question is, what will Russia do ? Will she back up France, or will she take up an attitude of benevolent neutrality ? That, of course, is a question which it is impossible to answer. But one may be allowed to con- jecture. Mv own opinion is that Russia, while giving her moral support to her ally, would not move a finger to help her. There are plenty of excellent reasons for this belief. In the first place, Russia is in no case for war, Her finances are exhausted, and she is on the brink of bankruptcy. Again, if she actively interfered she would inevitably drag Germany and Austria, with their great armies, into the conflict Moreover, Russia has always played a seUisb game. She will hasten to help her- to the spoils, while the two neighbours are fighting. Her first step probably would be to absorb Manchuria; her second to rectify her Afghan and Central Asia frontier; her tair to push to the ssa through Persia and per aps to acquire a port on the Red Sea Litterol. At present she is checked at all pomt» y e veto of Britain, but Britain, en- ^aged_in a death struggle with France, would have to purchase Russia's neutrality by large concessions. THE TRIPLE ALLIANCE What side would the Triple Alliance take ? They could not, and they ^ould not> j, France. Alsace is an everlasting barrier against Franco-German friendship. xice and the memory of the events of I870 will always prevent Italy from joining hands with France. Austria will never help to aggrandise Russia's ally. The Triple Alliance would therefore be compelled to give their moral supper to England, but would they do more ? The answer will depend on the course of the war, and on Russia's attitude. If England, as we hope and believe, "smashed" her rival at once, their help would not be needed. If, on the other hand, the struggle were even and long-drawn, the Triple Alliance would pro- bably rejoice, for Germany, at all events, has no special love for either country. Should France, however, with or without the aid of Russia, seem to be getting the upper hand, the three countries would be dragged into the fray. A victorious France would demand back her lost provinces from Germany, and a substantial portion of the possessions of Italy. A victorious Russia would look for compen- pe n sat ion from amidst the heterogeneous mass of states in the Austrian Empire. In sheer self-defence, therefore, the great military states of Cential Europe would have, in the last resort, to back up England. THE SILVER LIXIXG. The silver lining to the dark cloud which has cast its shadow over Europe is not very visible just at present, but it is important, none the less, that we should not forget its existence. After all, the defeat of the Brisson ministry has been caused by the Dreyfus affair, not by the Fashoda crisis. Indeed, the Fashoda business is hardly mentioned at all. Excited crowds shout about the "honour of the army," about Dreyfus and Jews, about revision and what not. But Fashoda seems to be relegated to oblivion for the present. That is, for the time being, a cheering symptom. The madness of the moment may pass away without bringing us into conflict with France. The only danger lies in the fact that the anti-Dreyfusites" consist of the Jesuites and the military men. The Jesuites hate us, because the influence of England abroad has always been exercised in favour of Protestantism. The military men hate Germany more than they hate us, but they are ready to fasten upon any or evelJ excuse to avoid the revision of the Dreyfus trial. ENGLAND'S FUTCKE ATTITUDE. We may feel certain that Lord Salisbury will do nothing to make the situation worse. He will consent to any reasonable compromise, and it would be rank folly on his part to split straws over such a grave matter as this. He cannot, of course, sacrifice our right to the Nile but he will not, if his record proves anything, quarrel with France about words, or even about unessential points. I wish we cowld feel so certain about the wisdom of his ■colleagues. It is disquieting that a Cabinet meeting has been called for to-morrow. That meeting will be attended by, amongst others, Sir Michael Hicks-Beach and Mr. Chamberlain. Sir Michael's recent speech has not raised him in public opinion a more mischievous pro- nouncement could not well come from a Minister of the Crown. We may trust that Mr. Chamberlain will have learned wisdom in the recess. He has, at all events, kept a discreet silence since his return from America. It may be that Lord Rosebery and Mr. Balfour, who met last night at Edinburgh, took the opportunity to exchange views on the crisis. Whatever be the issue of the crisis, the Government is assured of the support of every Briton, though most of us would deprecate and deplore, as an outrage upon our humanity, the necessity of going to war with a great free nation. MISCELLANEOUS. Principal Rhys, of Oxford, lectured last night at the Women's Institute to a crowded audience on Welsh Folk-lore," with all his wonted learning and humour. He paid a high compliment to Mr. Sidney Hartland, late of Swansea. The Women's Institute and Club were founded last year by Mrs. Wynford Philipps, and though I understand that they are not quite self-supporting, they have met with a great and encouraging success. Even the hall-porter-clad in buttons "—is a woman.—The Blake case drew many curious listeners to the Divorce Court on Tuesday and several well-known Llanelly men were present. Mr. Carson's speech for the petitioner was, I thought, a very powerful bit of declamatory argument, while Sir Edward Clarke showed all his usual resource and persuasive eloquence in his address on behalf of Mr. Waddell.—Seldom have the Courts been so full of Welsh cases as this week. One meets Welshmen in every court and corridor, and the inevitable Chancery action about a small farm in Cardiganshire or Carmarthenshire is being heard in Mr. Justice Sterling's Court. It is an old adage that every inch of ground in Cardiland has cost a yard of law, and the old gibe seems to be perennially true.—Mr. Towyn Jones's friends in London are making an earnest effort to help the testimonial fund by opening a subscription list in London. I understand that several promises har > already been obtained.—I hear that Mr. Lloyd George will, in all probability, pay an early visit to Swansea and Cardiff, where he will address Liberal meetings. Mr. George has only just returned from Yorkshire, where ha has been addressing a, series of meetings for Liberal candidates. Indeed, it is not too much to say that Mr. George is at present far and away the most eloquent and popular platform speaker in the Liberal ranks.

LOCAL FIXTURES OF FORTHCOMING EVENTS. FRIDAY, Oct. 23. The Tree of Knowledge," at Grand Theatre, and on Saturday evening. Opening of the new Operating Theatre at the Swansea Hospital, by Sir Wm. M'Cormac, at 3. SATURDAY, Oct. 29. Excursion to Neath (Football—Swansea v. Neath), per R.S.B.R. MONDAY, Oct. 31. "The New Mephisto," at the Grand Theatre, and .during the week. WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY, Nov. 2 & 3. Excursions to Ely (Cardiff Races), per G. W.R. THURSDAY, Nov. 3. Holy Trinity Church Conversazione, at the Albert: Hall. TUESDAY, Nov. 8. Excursion to London (Lord Mayor's Show), GWR. THURSDAY, Nov. 10. Limelight Lecture by Mr. John Foster Fraser. Subject—" Round the World on a Bicycle." APRIL. 1899. Grand Bazaar, in aid of St. Mary's Parish Church Building Fund, at the Albert Halls. WEDNESDAY k THURSDAY, Oct. 13 & 14, 1899. Grand Bazaar at the Albert Hall, Swansea, in connection with Holy Trinity Church. SALES BY AUCTION. Messrs. J. M. LEEDER & SON. Burry Tinplate Works, at Swansea Nov. 8

Hocal intelligence. SWANSEA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE.—A meet- ing of this Chamber will be held to-day (Friday) when Mr. E. B. Davies and Mr. J. R. Watson will be proposed as members. GREAT WESTERN RAILWAY EXCURSIONS.— Our advertising columns contain particulars of cheap and convenient excursions to Cardiff (Ely Races) on Wednesday and Thursday, November 2 and 3, and of an excursion to London (Lord Mayor's Show) on November 8th. ATTEMPT TO WRECK MUMBLES TRAIN.—A dastardly attempt was made on Wednesday even- ing to wreck the Mumbles train. A large, heavy rail was placed across the line. Fortunately, it was swept aside by the engine, otherwise a serious accident might have occurred. The Com- pany offer a reward of £5 for information which will lead to the conviction of the offender or offenders. societSTBRiIOUTH CHORAL SOCIETY.—1This theety. has commenced the winter session, and suceeJf*, 1 every evidence that it will be as to be s 1?-1 as the last session. The first concert, miseellanl611 about, Christmas time. will be a and at °ne' including glees by the choir, Handel's" A econd concert, in March next, Mr. H. M and Galatea will be performed, and Mr. J. (j as chairman of the committee, as energetic as uas^hoP" ^^tary, are HOLY TRIN1TT 1 °F THE SOCIETY- in connection with the c^i, N-SBA~Se7ices consecration of thi8 Pfc, \anniversary of the on Sunday next. Inthe "S-w:'lu continue1d be preached by the in the afternoon (to the vl, ;J; A- Harris; H Edwards and in the evening h7 1;,° r^i Bishop of Llandaff. On the ffiwi n^Th,? the annual conversazione will be ?,y' Albert Hall. The programme fo* the <LcerSn the evening contains the w £ h-known name* of Miss Fri 'ker (harpi-t), and the vocalists • Mrs Horatio Watkins. Alice Williams, R C "VI Rev. G. P. Gab del, A £ Josiah Thomas and Mr Campbell Thomas. HUJ'e7 s ]band win ajgo selection-, and the Church choir will render pan. songs. Mr. W. H. Jones will give one of his popular recitations. The evening 3 entertain, ment promises to be a very enjoyable one. FUNERAL OF THE LATE MR. R. MARTIN EVANS.—The funeral of the late Mr. R, Martin Evans. plumber, Park-place, Brynmlll, took place on Thursday in last week. llure was a large attendance of relatives and friends. Ihe fer- ment took place at Danygraig, the Bev. John Pollock, vicar of St. Gabriel's, officiating. Deceased was well-known and highly respected. He was a minor poet of some merit, an artist, and a lover of music, while he possessed a good tenor voice. His last work of art was in the shape of a copper suit of armour, which he presented to St. Mary's Church bazaar. He was the father of Miss Clara Novello Evans, a contralto of considerable repute, and of Master Reuben Evans, the promising young artiste, who appears so frequently and successfully at Welsh eisteddfods. Deceased leaves a widow and six children, with whom much sympathy is felt.

SW^XSEA BOARD OF GUARDIANS. THE. CHARGES AGAINST 1R. HOWELL. HEATED DISCUSSION. A MINORITY REPORT AND A SCENE. A fortnightly meeting of the Swansea Board of Guardians was held yesterday. The Rev. J. Gomer Lewis. D.D., presided, and the members present were Mr. Rees Harries (1st vice-chairman), Mr. F. H. Glynn Price (2nd vice-chairman), Mrs. C. H. Perkins, Mrs. Williams, Mrs. David Harris, Mrs. H. Wilson Paton, the Revs. J. D. Harries J.Alban Davies, Messrs. Philip Jenkins, W. H. Mill, J. M. Leeder, Dd. Owen, Llew, Davies, Stephen Thomas, Jacob Jenkins, J. Devonald, W. H. Sims. Samuel Jones, J. Edwards, W. Clement, J. Richards, John Harvey, J. Meredith, Albert Mason, Griffith Davies, John Thomas, J. W. Johnston, Williams (Wern), Thos. William*, J. W. Jones, E. Leyshon Andrews, Dd. Griffiths, W. R. Morgan, H. G. Solomon, and the Clerk (Mr. G. Baker Haynes). HONOURS FOR THE CLERK. Before the ordinary business, the Chairman coilgratulated the Clerk (Mr. G. Baker Haynes), upon his appointment as a Justice of the Pface for the County of Glamorgan. He hoped Mr. Haynes would long be spared to enjoy the honour. He would make a capital magistrate. The Chairman moved a vote of congratulation to the Clerk upon his appointment. Mr, Phillip Jenkins seconded, and Messrs. LI. Davies, J. W. Johnston, Stephen Thomas, Wm. Williams, Thos. Williams, Dd. Owen, and Rees Harries supported, the vote being accorded with acclamation. Mr. Haynes returned thanks and said he felt the manner in which his appointment had been received by the Board was as great an honour, if not greater than, the appointment itself. He would attend to the honorary duties as far as he could, but he would not allow them to interfere with his duty to the Board. The General Purposes Committee made the following recommendations in regard to certain salaries. That the salary of the assistant clerk, Mr. LI. Jenkins, be increased from £125 to .£150 that the salary of Mr. Peter Thomas (relieving officer), be not increased that the salaries of Mr, Elliot, the master of the Cottage Homes, and of Mrs. Elliot, the matron, be increased, the former by JE6 and the latter by £4; that the salary of Mr. D. R. Davies, master's clerk and store- keeper be increased from £40 to £52 that Mrs. Elizabeth Lewis's salary be increased from £21 Mr. Llewelvn Davies moved the adoption of the increase to Mr. LI. Jenkins to date from January 1st. Mr. Philip Jenkins seconded. Mr. Samuel Jones moved, as an amendment, that no increase be given. Mr. Johnston seconded because he understood Mr. Jenkins, who was also engaged as assistant to Mr. Haynes in the Llangyfelach Rural District Council, intended to apply for some salary for those duties. He was iu favour of giving him a salary for those duties, but he thought he was amply paid for the Guardians' work. In the course of further discussion it was explained that if au increase of salary were given by the Guardians, it would be spread over a larger area than if it were given by the District Council. Eventually the amendment was withdrawn and the recommendation unanimously adopted. Mr. Wm. Williams (Wern) moved that the salary of Mr. Peter Thomas be increased from £J50. Mr. David Owen seconded, and said the duties had greatly increased. The amendment was defeated. An amendment that the salaries of Mr. and Mrs. Elliott be not increased was carried, and after considerable discussion the salary of Mr. Davies, Master's clerk and store keeper, was, by another amendment, increased to JE47. The salary of Mrs, Lewis was increased in accordance with ihe recommendation of the Committee. THE CHARGES AGAINST rR. J. C. HOWELL.—A STRONG MINORITY REPORT. The Clerk read the following report of the committee appointed to investigate the books of Mr. Howells, ex-relieving officer. The committee have carefully examined the books together with over 600 cards, representing a total payment of £2,109 5s. 9d. during six months, 25th March to 29th September, 1898, and your committee find that carelessness has been shown in the payment of relief in two cases after the death of the pauper. In one case the pauper died on the 15th and relief was paid on the 20th. In another case the pauper died on the 15th of August and relief was paid to September 2nd. In many similar cases payment for the week succeeding the death has been sanctioned, and that nothing fraudulent having been discovered in the accounts, your committee do not recom- mend any further steps being taken in the matter. Your committee recommend that in each relieving officer's application and report book an entry should be made by the respective chairman of each relief committee, showing whether the applicant was present or not when the case was considered. The report was signed by Messrs. W. H. Mill, Joseph Devonald, LI. Davies, the Rev. J. Gomer Lewis, D.D., and Mr. J. W. Johmton. Mr. W. H. Mill moved the adoption of the report. Mr. Llewelyn Davies seconded. Mr. H. G. Solomon read a minority report signed by Mr. John Harvey and himself, and he moved, as an amendment, that it be accepted instead of that of the majority. The minority report said The Committee appointed by you to examine the books and cards in the posses-ion of and used by Mr. J. C. Howell, in distributing relief, have met on four occasions, and after careful investigation, we regret our inability to sign the report which four members of the committee will present through their chairman. We consider that the following discrepancies should be brought before the Board with a recommendation that Mr. Howells should refund the amount in question :-(1) That all the cards for the six months ending 25th March have been destroyed by Mr. Howells; (2) Tnat the late Margaret Nicholson, 13, Brook-sireet, who died on May 15th is debited in the pay book with 4s. 6d. on May 22nd, and further, that on four previous weeks the sum entered on the card in black lead pencil was was added in each case in copying ink pencil, 4s. 6d. being charged, and according to the mother living in the same house, 4s. only was paid (3) That the late Elizabeth Sullivan, 32, Greenhill-street, died on August 15th, and her name appears on the pay book for three weeks after her death, viz., on the eighth, ninth, and tenth weeks of that quarter (4) That Catherine or Sarah Saunders, late of .Beaufort House, now of 31, Orchard- street, is debited with one week's relief in April of this year, but denies having received same; (5).That no order was made by the Relief Committee, but same has been charged against the Guardians; (6) That Ellen Boat, described on the books as of 107, Llangyfelach-street, left there two years fago and resides at 27, Anne- street (7) That fifteen cards for the quarter ending September 29th are missing. We regret we are compelled to report the above cases of gross carelessness, but we consider it is due to the Board that they should know the result of our (inquiry." Mr. Solomon said that Mr. Harvey and himself considered the report drawn up by Mr. Mill was insufficient in the cases enumerated—the money should be refunded by Mr. Howell, to save any ratepayer having to go to the audit and ask the Local Government Board Auditor to surcharge the amount. By a small section of the commit- tee there was a feeling that it was a trumped-up charge, which they must suppress. There was one statement made at the committee to which he took exception. After he (Mr. Solomon) had stated the facts in a certain case, Mr. Harvey suggested that if Mr. Howell was asked into the room he would be able to explain it. The reply of a member of the committee was, Why cannot you pass it over without having Mr. Howells in at all." That was not the proper and impartial way for a member appointed by the Board to go into the work of a committee and enquire into certain allegations. At the same time, it was suggested that he and Mr. Harvey were prejudi- ced-but the prejudice was on the other side. He and Mr. Harvey had made investigations in courts and alleys in the upper district of the town, which the other members had not thought it their duty to do, because some of them consid- ered it infra dig to go into these things. Mr. Johnston supported the majority report. The charges were merely thrashing the wind." Mr. Mill also supported, and said every charge made against Mr. Howell had crumbled to dust. Mr. Llewellyn Davies supported the report of the majority, and said that in the committee one of the minority had stated that if Mr. Howell paid 13s. 6d. back to the Guardians he would sign the majority report at once. Was that honour- able ? There was no proof against Mr. Howell, but there was a doubt, and they ought to give an servant the benefit of the doubt. The Minority had acted like Scotland Yard detectives out the town, and as Christian men Mr. on-7 anc* ^r" Solomon ought to pass by that w»t«^error °* an servant. The Swansea mna?^?ers con"d see the meaning of it. They gallery0 Sometking for the public and play to the Devonald said that some things | with Which he11 did wmbT 0f the CA° £ mi^ee' hid sat- fnr d not. flulte aS<"ee. After they +V,o hnnWa second time, and had gone through wli Landf had explanations from Mr. 1 Vorl intn +ho°K members of the committee looked into the books after the other members of 1 the committee bad gone. That was unfair to the other members, and showed in what manner some people came to such an inquiry. There was no evidence to show that any portion of the ratepayers money had gone to the pockets of Mr. Howells. Mr. Samuel Jones said it was not quite fair when the committee sat and went through the books for two others to stay behind and investigate the books. A Member: Scandalous.. Mr. Jones felt disgusted with it. Mr. Solomon rose to speak amid somewhat disorderly interruptions. He was understood to ask permission to say a word but his voice was drowned by members who, regardless of the Chairman brandishing his hammer in a manner not quite ferocious enough, shouted vote, vote, and chair, chair. Somo. members of the Board left the room during the altercation. Silence was not re-tored until Mrs. Wilson Paton got up and remarked that it was shameful to go on in that manner. If Mr. Solomon WM not entitled to speak let them decide so quietly and properly. (Hear, hear.) When quietude was restored, Mr. Solomon ] being ruled out of order, the matter was put to the vote, and the report ot the majority was adopted non con. Mr. Solomon then moved as a rider to the report that the monies In question, some 17s., be refunded by Mr. Howells. Mr. Solomon replied to the allegation that he and Mr. Harvey had gone to see the books after the com- mittee had finished. The clerk would allow no one to see the books without his consent, and that he would not give unless he thought it was fair and above board. A great deal had been said about fraud, and he wished to sa.y that there was not a word about traud in the minority report. They spoke of gross carelessness; the majority were content to use the word care- lessness only. Mrs. Williams seconded. Mr. LI. Davies said they had no proof that Mr. Howell had the money, and they could not ask him to refund what he naa not received. Mr. Solomon said Mr. Howell was responsible for the payments. The amendment was eventually rejected, six members voting for it. LOCAL THEY COMPETENT? A deputation of Swansea masons attended the Board to call attention to an advertisement of Messrs. Lloyd Brothers, the 9°P]ractora for the new guardians' offices, fv.r yrie at 91. per hour. The deputation did no think it right that the firm should bring men into the town by advertisement. They ought o empioy jocaj labour with public money. Besides, they offered a halfpenny per hour more than they paid their other men. f Mr. Mill: They do not refuse to employ Swansea men. ■. The Deputation We have crowds of Swansea men out. • 1 Mr. Solomon asked if the brie Work had, so far, been satisfactory. The Deputation I believe so. The Architect (Mr. H. W. Wills) xPlained that he told Mr. LlGyd at the star, a there was a great deal of the brick work ^ansea was not up to hi3 standard, and that he should be very particular upon that P°'nt, a ln.siat on the brick work being as good as that one 15 jjegt brick countries. He made no s^gestion as to how they should get that resul tithat was the result he insisted on. (Hea-r, hear. Mr. J. M. Leeder said Mr. Lioyd ) muat be the best judge of his own business w 0Qt referring to the men or anyone else. e must know whether the brick layers in ,Wei^ capable of laying the bricks as the arC ^shed. He (Mr. Leeder) knew there were w £ 00(j layers in Swansea. The deputation requested der to look at the new hotel, Messrs. buildmg. &0., to see good brick work by the ocal men Mr. Leeder: I say there are not arst-rate brick layers in Swansea. It is not a. brIck country at all.. „ After a discussion, the Chairma JJ|\ jjary0y^ and Mr. Griffith Davies were req a gee contractors on the subject. ADDITIONS TO THE WOMHOUsB. On the motion of Mr. Glynn plans of Mr. H. W. Wills for the re:ar^ £ ^ent of the master's house for such ward n J~cotnmoda- tion and for the addition 0 J toasters' house, and other alterations we Pwd. RE-ARRANGEMENT OF RELIEF In accordance with notice 3fr. H. G. Soloman moved that Mr. • • be appo,nted relieving officer fer ta district at a salary of £ 104 per annum, at j,jr p James commence his duties 011 • jn south district. Mrs. Williams second(d.. Mr. Samuel Jones opposed the mcre of tbe salary. The resolution waa carried and i>a • J ones gave notice to move to rescind it at the next meeting.. This was all the business of interest.

SWANSEA COUNTY C01JRT. THURSDAY. [Before His Honour Judge GWIlym Wijjjamg -j TOWAGE CLAIM. HAYWARD & CO. y, MATTI tho ^g out of towage services rendered Italia m "Eagle," of Cardiif, to t barque, "Innocenta," now Dock, Swansea, an action was ne • §ankey, (instructed by Messrs^ Vaobe M Cardiff), appeared for the „ Guthrie, Hayward and Co., the own e tu?i an(j Mr. Yilliers Meager (instructea In„le_ dew, Sons, and ^the defendant, M. Mattina, Genoa, tne 0^ Qf tfae barque. The sum of /2lnZ MSed f°r towage service rendered 1 pio;1^6 Point (Devon) to the Swansea Doc 'cQme case was that an agreement j the + by the master of the Innocenta tn^ by which the barque was ^ed to the Mumbles Roads for £ 13. &Hy other arrangement, the "Innocent Wed into dock, this, according to ra+QCa?e' being subject to the usual tonn la vogue within the Swansea distric coverA"1? to £ 16. The defence was that the £ 1 d the whole of the distance.—The bearing t concluded when the court rose.— Hi3 S ™on\°^ for the defendant (less the £ 13 rv costs. SWANSEA ASSETS RECOV o ^pany V. ASHTON.—Plaintiffs, the „a Assets Recovery Company as as3'n f the book debt of £ 14s. 10s., purchased 'he estate of Thos. Phillips, grocer, stf sued Aeron Ashton, Llandovery, P^lnt. Mr. Griffith Morgan appeared fo tiffs, and Mr. L. M. Richards (inst?u°f —jX R. T. Leyson for the defenda • STttient for P1BRATLAND V. Wm. THOMAS akd Son$_ This was a claim made by G • h U&nd, ship- owner of Risor, Norway, r.rr}iaJ?\0f money alleged to have been ° by defendants, for the cranf'C-.ansea if1"?0 of pit- wood, delivered to them at j .,7 plaintiff's vessel Espeland." It aPPftonVSefe,ldant3 charged for half-cranage 466 tons at 6d. per ton ( £ 11 13s.), whereas the „ crano med by plaintiff to be payable for■ agG 4gg £ ong at 21. per ton was £ 3 17s. 8d- as a similar case to that which was and M ay- Mr- Dahne appeared for the plai Evans*: Meager (instructed by Mr. f jviesli- tbe defendant.—Mr. Shaddick. ra. Burgess and Company, Limited, the t s brokers, gave evidence.—Mr. Morg s 1 '°ye under the Harbour Trust, saic^ av,ip hv +uS Swan- sea in 1897. The rates pay«»/, ^he vessel to the Harbour Trust were P r. Dahne: Assuming that you were as angwp pa^;cranage meant what would be you Witness I have been asked the rona.CTOeveral times and have replied that hal 4d. per ton. Cranage" was a consolidate eharge including wharfage and ran ■, and other dues.—His Honour said h rry that the case had been brought before was merely a side issue. This was n<Voul\r C.ase- He wanted to have a case1 o, by some responsible shipowner to ha nt ? .f* dispute as to what cranage really „ y •hscussed free of all these side-issues, e should like to find out whether this CU^L xxA es^-blished, but he could not do that now. gave judgment for plaintiff, but no costs. ,.ff JAMES V. SMALE.—P^a f James, Sketty, claimed the sutn James Smale, butcher, Wind-street. Mr. W. Smith appeared for plaintiff an i 'v for the defendant—It appeared tha^t ^November, 1897, plaintiff bought a rick o -yj- a sale on a farm owned by Sir Robert Morns, and then in the occupation of a „ • n, allowing the rick to stay there Shortly afterwards defendant boUghtt|ie term and Mr James sent for some of i.T told the messenger that the cons T. B. Morris the agent, must be got be ey.could take anything away. That cons s obtained, and some of the hay was taken- roe time after- wards the things on so|d under a distraint, and plaintiff h° e r!ck again, paying £ 18 for it.—HlS Sai(i that a landlord had a right to on a farm, and gave judgment for de t. Plaintiff: I hope I shall get justice in the next world.-His Honour I hope you 4 get it in this world, evidently. PlallltIff: I have had very little here. -r, DAVIES V. NEHEMIAH- E. Francis Davies, undertaker, claimed lbs. Od, from jjr3 Nehemiah, Llangyfelach-street, being funeral expenses incurred at the burial ot Mrs. Sullivan, Llangyfelach-street.—Davies said that Mrs. Nehemiah had promised to pay the funeral expenses provided she got all her claim from the insurance company, with which she had taken out a policy on the life of Mrs. bullivan. She received this money, Od., but. had not paid the axpenses.—Defendant stated 1:1 reply that th'J insurance company i stained £6 Is. Od. for | funeral expense, and they had p ud it to Dennis Sullivan, son of the deceased.—Judgment was given for plaintiff. SEQUEL TO THE MUMBLES HORTICULTURAL SHOW. FORD AND CO. V. JARVIS.-Plaintiffs, Messrs. Thos. Ford and Co., sued Mr. W. Ll. Jarvis, Mum- bles, in his position as secretary of the Mumbles Horticultural Society, for 10 guineas, money owing to the plaintiffs for two tents, used at the annual show of the above society in August last. —Mr. Treharne (Messrs. Jenkin Jones and Treharne) appeared for the plaintiffs and Mr. W. Smith for defendant.—In opening, Mr. Treharne said that the tents were hired by the society for their show, held on the 18th August last. Every care and skill was taken in erecting the tents, and members of the society expressed themselves satisfied therewith. The day in question turned out a very stormy one. Indeed, it was described as a tornado in the local papers.—His Honour Wasn't it the time you were nearly swept off the face of the earth. (Laughter.) I remember reading something about it.—Continuing, Mr. Treharne said that in the course of the morning both tents collapsed, through the effect of the rain and wind acting on the ropes and stakes. If the society had employed one of their men that day to look after the tents the accident would not have happened. He contended that if they could show that the tents were properly put up his case would be made out.—Employes of Messrs. Ford and Co. were called, who stated that every care was taken in the erection of the tents. They added, however, that they could not drive the pegs down into the ground so far as they generally did on account of the rocky ground.—A foreman, who ha.d visited the place after the tents had gone down, said that the pegs had be^n pullediright up by the force of the gale.—Mr. Hopson, Lloyd's signalman at the Mumbles Lighthouse, deposed to the severity of the stolom. He said he had never seen anything like it before. As to the wind, it was all round the compass and back again. (Laughter.)—Mr. George Hemmen, manager of the Swansea and Mumbles Railway, also deposed to the weather, adding that be was underneath one tent when it fell.—His Honour: And you are alive still! (Laughter.)—Mr. Jarvis stated that the field in which the tents were was sheltered on three sides. In his opinion the tents fell because they were not fixed up properly.—The head gardeners of Craig- y-Nos (one of the judges) and Langland Bay Hotel, and Mr. James Saunders (chairman of the committee of the society), gave similar evidence. —Mr. John K. Clement, Mumbles, gave evidence, adding that his advise was that they should have paid the money, as no doubt Mr. Ford would have refunded C5 or £ 6.—His Honour You arc the wisest man of the whole lot. (Laughter.) That is the only bit of wisdom I have heard in the case His Honour ultimately gave judgment for the plaintiffs. The remaining cases were adjourned uutil next Court.

"THE TREE OF KNOWLEDGE" AT THE GRAND THEATRE. What does a man ever know of a woman? asks one of the characters in "The Tree of Knowledge." Her story is written in cypher he can guess; he cannot read." This eternal feminine sphinx is the subject of Mr. R. C. Carton's play, which is produced at the Grand Theatre this week. It is deservedly a great play, not merely because its subject is one of daring ethics treated with restraint and respect, nor agai n because the language employed is that of the epigrammatist and sometimes of the cynic —the language of all so-called modern plays; but because there are certain characters mag- nificently drawn and set in vivid contrasts. Other playwrights have treated the same theme— have treated it with greater power and even greater restraint; but they have not approached it entirely from Mr. Carton's point of view. An impassable gulf separates Paula Tanqueray'' and Camilla" from "Belle Hollingworth." The former were at least soulful, with aspirations that raised them immeasureably above the sordid level of their class-women whose fall in life might, because of their innate and nascent virtues, have been laid at the door of men. But what of the sinister influence that blots young lives and makes some of us think that Chamfort was not altogether wrong when he said of women, Elles sont faites pour commercer avec nos fai blesses avec notre folie, mais non avec notre raison. II existe entre elles et les hommes des sympathies d'epiderme et trcs-peu de sympathies d'esprit, d'ame et de caractere." It is this influence which Mr. Carton has dramatised in Belle." The character itself is, perhaps, more daring, theatrically, than either Pinero's or Dumas'. She is, indeed, the trafficker on human weaknesses and follies. Before the play opens she has already cast a shadow over one young life, Nigel Stanyon she enters as the wife of Brian Hollingworth," frankly avowing that she married him for tiis estates. But no sooner does she find that the Hollingworth family is in its last extremity than she turns to another young life-one that is only worthy of her devotion—and becomes to Loftus Roupell what, years before, she was to "Nigel Stanyon." What the play relates is only an episode in her life; in other lives it is a crisis. The dramatist admits no extenuation of the character. In vain does Nigel expostulate for Brian',s sake, for her own sake. In vain does Monica Blayne" offer her friendship with the instinct that she needs it. Danger signals are not much use when the train is off the line, she remarks, and pursues her own way. With a momentary flash of remorse, she ties her necklace around her sleeping husband a wrist. Ihe best and the worst ot us are fools she says, and she passes out to tread the old pathway afresh. She cannot see the future before her nor can she imagine herself alone in an empty twilight of life, without even the personal charm that was once, like the colour of the flower or the plumage of the bird, the love-call (to use no harsher term) to the opposite sex-as "Nigel" beauti- fully puts it, "the auction room left, and death the only bidder." She is, after all, just that sort of woman which Schopenhauer, with his misogynist tendencies, mistook for the essential type of the female sex: intellectually short- sighted, quick to perceive what is near to her, but unable to embrace the remote; extravagance bordering on madness; instinctively crafty, and with an ineradicable tendency to lie. A woman without dissimulation was an impossibility to Schopenhauer! We have no space to tell, in more than barest indication, the pretty story of Nigel Stanyon" and Monica Blayne," the sweet characte- ristically-English girl who serves ss a pleasing and vivid contrast to "Belle." Monica is no nunnery recruit. She has the unquenchable feminine desire to be made the repository of her lover's secrets, and when at last he does confide in her she overcomes his scruples for him, and with charming naivete makes the proposition' which is necessary to end the story happilj for at least some of the characters. For the others, the question is left unsolved. A word as to Mr. Carton's theatrical methods. The play has un- doubted literary merit, and many an introspective epigram reveals character more vividly and pointedly than could the brush of a Reynolds. But there is nothing so striking as his climaxes. None of them is hysterical or forced. In each act they are wonderfully quiet, but none the less pointed. The play is produced in Swansea by a company of exceptional ability, containing, as it does, ladies and gentlemen who have understudied the principal characters with Mr. Geo. Alexander in London. Besides, they were Mr. Alexander's own selection for the caste. Miss Constance Collier gives a very powerful interpretation of Belle," and Miss Hilda Rivers mikes a charm- ing "Monica," whilst the" Nigil Stanyon of Mr. Arthur Roystonis a remarkably fine perform- ance. The "Loftus Roupell of Mr. Ivor Dawson is a clever sketch, and the "Brian Hollingworth of Mr. Asheton Tonge is up to the general high level of the production. There are moments when the lines are spoken too mechanically—as if tiny are held too much in readiness, and this should ba avoided, but taking the production as a whole it is a splendid one. -THE NEW MEPHISTO." The Grand Theatre next week will be occupied by a new musical comedy of great merit, The New Mephisto," one of George Dance's latest successes. The comedy is a continual run of fun and brisque musical numbers, with some charming dances. Mr. Chas. Macorna, in his marvellous Fregoli changes, heads a strong company, and surprises his most ardent ad- mirers by his cleverness and versatility. Owing to the demand for seats, book early.

In the wreck' of the Mohegan the eapta in nine officers and engineers, and 54 of the crew were drowned. Many of these unfortunate m01' left widows and orphans to mourn their loss, an it is proposed to open a subscription li&t. Baker, of the Atlantic Transport Line, ha offered to head it with £ 2,000, and other sums are promised. ROUND THE WORLD ON A BKJYCLB. We would remind our readers that this iec by Mr. Fraser, the well-known traveller and journalist, will be delivered at the Albert Ha on Thursday, Nov. lOch. We would advise e prompt purchase of tickets. Mr. Fraser is a charming lecturer, and an attractive writer, and what he says is full of humour, interest, and instruction. Round the World on a bicycle is a lecture which should not be missed on any account. Tickets, &c., may be secured by ftr.nlv innc f/a ATr TSHfhnHs V.M.C.A. CHOICE DULCEMONA TEA CHOICE DULCEMONA TEA PTTHTPW R»TTT.NRIVRNV A TEA I Young. Fresh. InvienrftKnor Is. 4d. to 33. per lb., of all Grocers. An ideal tea, refreshing, pure and wholesome.

SOUTH WALES STOCK AND! SHARE MARKET. SUPPLIED By MESSRS. THACKERAY AND CO., STOCK AND SHARE BROKERS. CARDIFF. October 27,1898. RAILS.—Local Markets generally, and notably rails, have been considerably depressed during the past week in consequence of the more seiious outlook of political affairs, a more hopeful feeling however seems to prevail to-day, and some improvement may, if this continues, be hoped for Prices have shown a drooping tendency and the demand for Ordinaries has been very meagre. In Barrys, the undivided has been dealt in to a small extent, but the closing price is about 2 down. The Preferred has not been enquired for and is unchanged. A moderate business has taken place in the Deferied, which is also un- altered. The new scrip is easier, with only a few dealings to note. A fair amount of Cardiff Preferred has changed hands. Vale of Glam- organs a quiet Market. Very little moving in Port Talbots, the quotations for Ordinary and Preference are, however, steady. III Rhymneys, an easier tone is observable and Stock is rather offered. Closing price shows a drop of 3. Taff Vales are fractionally weaker and have been poorly supported. Brecon and Merthyr A. and B. Debenture Stocks are in request. BANKS.—A fair enquiry has prevailed for London and Provincials and dealings in these and Lloyds have taken place. COLLIERIES.—Ordinaries have not been much enquired for, but a fair demand as again existed for Preference and Debentures. Cambrian and North's Preference and D. Davis and Cambrian Debentures have changed hands and are still wanted. IRONS.—Are without special feature. Only a few transactions to note in Rhymney Old. MISCELLANEOUS.—Ben Evans ordinary are in request. A moderate buisiness has taken place in Blands. Dry Docks have proved a fairly active market, Butes, Barry Graving and Mordey Carneys having been done. RAILWAYS. raid Prices Stock Barry Undivided 100 260 265 „ Do. 4 p.c. Preferred Ord. 100 151 156 „ Do. Deferred Ordinary.. 100 140 142 100 Cardiif 4 p.c. Vrefd, Ordy. Scrip 100 112i 1131 10 Port Talbot Kly. & Docks 10 a 9t 10 Khondda aud Swansea Bay 10 41 4t Stock Khymney Undivided 100 260 263 „ Do Preferred 100 120 122 T)o Deferred 100 143 147 „ Taff Vale Divided Stock 100 73* 74 PILEFERBNTIAL. Stock Alex. Dock & Rly. 4* A Prf. 100 124 126 „ Do 4* B Prei 100 110 112 Stock Barry >{y, 5 p.c. 1st Pref. 100 165 167 Do. Consold. 4 p.c. 100 134 13d Brecon &Mer. 1st Pref. 18(31 100 82 86 Do. 2nd Pref. 1802 100 45 5J „ Cambrian, No. 1,4 p.c. 100 68 73 It Do. JSo. Z, 4 p.c. 100 30 33 10 Port Talbot 4 p.c. 4 6£ 61 10 Khou. & Swau. Bay 5 p.c. 10 11 llj Stock Khymney 4 p.c. Consold. 100 13J 134 It Tail Vale 4 p.c. Cousold 100 136 138 cd RAILWAY AND OTHEU DKBENXUKES. Stock Alex. Dock & By. 4 p.c. 100 124 126 xd Barry Railway 3 p.c. 100 103 106 »» Brecon & Mertbyr A 4 p.c. luo 121 123 »» „ Wo B 4 p.c. 100 107 109 ■t Cardiff Hallways 3 p.c. loo 101 102 Cambrian A 4 P.C. 100 132 134 Do B 4 p.c. 100 128 130 Do O 4 p.c 100 119 11 Do D 4 p.c. nou cum 100 105 107 „ Great Western 4 p.c. do 100 143 147 Midland 2 per cent. 100 92 94 JJ Mid-Wales A 4f per cent. 100 132 135 „ Neath and Brecon 1st 100 126 128 „ „ A1 100 115 118 „ „ A 2 100 f>3 68 „ Rhon. & Swan. Bay 4 p.c. 100 127 129 „ ithymuey 4 per cent. 100 141 143 Taff Vale 3 per cent. 100 104 107 BANKS. 10 London and Provincial 6 20} 21i 60 Aletrop. (ot Eng. & Wales) 6 laS .131 GAS. -25 Swansea 7i per cent. 25 43 45 xd 25 Do 7 pei cent. 25 40 42 xd COAL AND IRON. 10 Albion Steam Colliery 10 11 III 10 Cambrian Col'ry 6 p.c. Pref. 10 10 10; 100 „ „ 4i p.c. Deb. 100 102 104 10 D, Davis and Sous.litd. 10 8 1 9j 10 Do. 6 p.c. Cuin. (red) Pref. 10 10 10 100 Do. 5 p.c. B Debs. (1906). 100 102 104 2a Ebbw Vale Scl., Iron A Coal 20 ij 5k 5 Ureat Western Ordiuary B S 4 4 £ 5 Do Prefer'ce A 6 10 10 Insoles 6 p.c. Pref. 10 9$10 100 Do 5 p.c. Debs. 100 100 102 5 luteruatioual Uoal 5 i 2t 10 Newport Abercaru 10 65 7 10 Do Participating Pref, 10 81 9j 5 North's Navigation Col'ry. o 21; 3 5 Do 10 P.C. CUR). kref. 5 7 7. 10 Peurikyber Colliery 10 4i. 4t 1 4 10 Do 5 to 7% p.c. Pref. 10 7) 7t 100 Powell Duffryu 6 p.c. Deb. 100 104 106 5 ithyiuney Iron 5 25s Od 26s Od 5 Do New £:4 108. Cred. 2b hIS Od Ma Od 100 Do 5 p.c. Mort. Debs, loo 97 100 17 South Wales Colliery A 17 8t 81 3 Do 10 per cent. B Pref. 3 at 4 11 Tredegar iron and Coal A 76 2 2i Stock Do B 100 31 sa JVIISOBLiLAN MOUti. 10 Barry Graving Dock 10 20 2Di 1 Ben Evans and Co. Ord'ry 1 20s Od 21a 0\1 xd 10 Bristol & S. Wales Wgu. a 5t 6 10 Bate Dry Dock 10 15t 16 xd 10 Cardiff Channel Dry Docks Ordy. 10 10 10l 5 Cardiff, Newport & Swan- sea Empires Ordy. 5 8i 9i xd 10 Hancock Preferred Ord. 10 13 14 10 Do. Deferred Ord. 10 161 161 10 Do. 6 per cent. Pref. 10 15 1:>1 Stock Do. 4 p.c Deb. Stock 100 lOJ 112 10 Mordey Carney, Limited. 9 13 14 100 Do it per cent. Deb. (red. 1909, at 105) 100 105 107 50 Mouiltstuart Dry I)k A& B 40 78 81 10 Provincial Tramways 10 6 7 10 Do 6 per cent. Preference 10 13 14 10 Spillers & Bakers Ordinary 9 141 15 xd 10 Do. 6 p.c. Pref. 10 14 14* Stock Swansea Harb. 4 p.c. Stock 100 110 112 10 Weaver & Co. Ordinary 10 llj 12 10 Do. 6 p.c. Pref. 10 10J Hi 100 Western Mail 4J Deb. 1920 100 105 107 10 do. 5 D.C. Pref. 10 10 101 f. Pref. when printed in italics, indicates that the shares are preferential as to capital as well as dividend. Bank Bate increased from 3 to 4 p.c., 13 Oct.. 1898. THERE ARE SELLERS OF 20 Rhondda 5 p.c. Pref. Shares at 211 Is. 3d. 10 Swansea and Mumbles Prefs. at llj. 100 Swansea Arcade Sliares-u.w. 9200 Swansea Harbour 3i p.c. at 103. 30 Rhondda New Prefs. 50 Port Talbot Pref. and 25 Ord. at 9#. .&500 Cambrian Rai.way Preferred at J13. 100 Stranaghan Ord. iLl paid Sbaies at lis. 6d. £ 500 Powell Durtryn 5 p.c. Debs. at 1054. 1:500 Vale of Glamorgan Stock. 20 and 7 London and Prov. Bank New Shares. 35 Insoles Colliery 6 p.c. Pref. Shares at 9j. J61,O00 Barry New Allotments at loo. 9 Mouritstuart Shares at 7gat. X385 and £240 Barry 4 p.c. Pref. at 120i. 20 and 7 Rhondda Urd. at 4J. 10 Albion Colliery Shares. 25 Bristol Trams New Shares at 1»J. 20 Newport-Abercarn Ord. at 61. 6 Spillers 6 p.c. Pref. Shares, at Uf. 10 W. A. Baker (Newport) Pre^f; ° 13 and 3 Barry Graving ^ew Sharea. 10 North Ord. Shares at £ 2 lbs. so. W^St^ana^an^aui^ St^hens 6 p!c. Prefs. at 17s. 6d. 100 Bland and Co. Shares at 143. 3d. 50 Ben Evans Pref. at 24s. 6d. THERE ARE BUYERS OF 9200 Swansea Harbour 4 p.c at 110J. ze.500 Taff Vale Stock at 73J. 35 Ben Evans Ord. Shares at 20s. F £ i50 Barry Deferred at 141. 20 Loudon and Provincial Banks. £2,000 Cardiff Corporation 321 P.C. Stock. 5 Barry Graving Dock Shares. 25 Port Talbot Ord. Shares at 9, £ 500 Cambrian Colliery Debs, at 1C3. luO Bland and Co. Shares at 14s. 25 South Wales Colliery B Shares £ -00 D. Davis and Sons B Debs, at 103. 10 Haneocks Pref. Shares. s. a