The Cambrian

CHESS COLUMN- [EDITED BY SELAH. I In state array the foemen weud their way, To battle on Oaissa's field." All communications for this department should I be addressed to the Chess Editor. CHESS RESORT. $WANSEA COUNTY CHESS CLUB.—Tenby Hotel, Walter-road. Meets on Saturdays from 7.30 to 11 p.m. Visitors are welcomed. Closed until October 1st. ■^SOLUTION TO PROBLEM by ERICK WESTBURY, Birmingham. Key move-Q-Q R 4. Correct solution received from E. J. Turner. TO CORRESPONDENTS. 'J3. J. TURNER.-Will reply to yours next week. PROBLEM-By J.B., Bridport. BLACK (6 pieces). WHITE—(8 pieces). White to play and mate in two moves. Solutions are requested, and Problems will -receive our best attention, with early publication if found worthy. Post cards will do. The Editor would be pleased if a few of his amateur chess friends would try their hands at iiproblein-composing, and favour him with the results. Don't be afraid of failures we all improve by practice. It is an invigorating mental recreation when a wet day necassitates the bicycle taking a rest. The following game was played in America by ,telephone some time ago between the two towns Watertown and Syracuse, and it will be seen that very stubborn and closely-contested game was the result. I Giuoeo Piano. WHITE (Watertown). BLACK (Syracuse). 1 P-K 4 P-K 4 2 Kt-K B 3 Kt-Q B 3 3 B-B 4 B-B4 r 4 P-Q B 3 Kt-B 3 5 P-Q 3 PQ3 6 B-K Kt 5 B-K 3 7 B-Q Kt5 P-Q R 3 8 B x Kt (ch) PxB 9 Castles Castles 10 P-K R 3 B-Kt3 11 Q Kt-Q 2 P-Q B 4 12 P-Q B 4 P-Q B 3 13 Q-Q Kt 3 R-Kt 1 14 Q-R 4 Q-B 1 15 B x Kt PxB 16 K-R 2 K-R 1 17 Kt-R 4 B-Q 1 18 Q-B 2 R-Kt 1 19 P- K B 4 P-KB4 20 Kt x P B x Kt 21 PxB QxP 22 P-K Kt 4 Q-K 3 23 P-B 5 Q-K 3 24 K-Kt 2 B-Kt 4 25 Kt-K 4 3—B 5 26 R-R 1 Q-R 5 27 Q-K B 2 Q x Q (ch) 28 K x Q R x P (ch) 29 K -B 3 R-Q 1 30 K R-Q Kt I K R-Q Kt 1 31 R-R 1 K-Kt 2 32 P-K R 4 R-Q B 7 33 K R-Q B I K-B 1 34 K R-Q ICt I K R-Kt 35 RxR RxR 36 Kt x Q P Adjourned. At this stage the game was adjourned tor want ■«>f time. We illustrate the position, and should be pleased to have the opinions of any of our "friends as to which has the winning game. WHITE. I

DRAUGHTS. EDITED BY MANNINOHAM." 'In friendly contention the old men Laughed at each lucky hit or unsuccessfnl manoeuvre Laughed when a innu was crowned, or a breach was made in the King row."—Lonyfellow, Evangeline. TO C0RUESP05TDENT3. All correspondence intended for this column should be forwarded not later than Tuesday evenings, so as to insure insertion in the same week's issue. Secretaries of cl ubs arc cordially invited to send ns reports of matches and meetings, or any other matter of interest to players generally. H.P. (Neath).—Thanks for position. It will probably find a place in our next issue. J.B.J. (Brecon).—The problems submitted by you are really excellent. Are making good use of them. H.G.T. (Swansea).—Your communication just to hand. Solutions are in perfect order. D.T. (Swansea).-Glad to learn that your interest is being maintained. SOLUTION TO PROBLEM 227. Black Men on 4, 9 and 15. White Men on 12 and 26. King on 3. White to move and win. 3 7 9 13 26 17 4 11 15 18 12 8 13 22 7 16 7 11 *18 22 11 7 White wins. *13 17 11 15 Whitemins. SOLUTION TO PROBLEM 228. Black Man on 12. 11 Kings on 16 and 17. White Men on 6, 11 and 27. King on 19. White to move and win. 19 15 7 3 24 19 26 31 16 7 27 24 22 26 18 23 6 2 *17 22 15 18 White wins. *17 13 24 19 White wins. PROBLEM 231.-By Mr. E. K. JACQUES. BLACK. WHITE. Black Men on 1, 6, 8, 9, 10. 18, 19 and 23. White Men on 13, 15,17,25, 26, 28, 30 and 32. White to move and win. PROBLEM 232.-By Mr. H. G. SLOCUM, Chicago. BLACK. WHITE. Black Kings on 6,11, 12 and 23. White Men on 22 and 24. Kihgs on 14 and 30. Black to play and win. GAME 115. FIFE." Played between Messrs. Benstead and Apple- yard. Benstead's move. 11 15 24 20 8 11 23 14 8 11 28 24 23 19 15 24 25 22 10 17 15 8 10 17 9 14 28 19 1 5 21 14 411 24 19 22 17 13 22 22 18 2 6 27 23 12 16 *5 9 25 9 3 8 19 15 6 10 19 12 26 23 6 13 18 15 13 17.. 32 28 ,11 15 9 13 29 25 11 18 31 26 17 21 Drawn. TURKISH DRAUGHTS. The Turk has his own pecaliar board on which to play. It has the same number of squares as the British board, but, unlike it, it is plain and unchequered. Sixteen pieces (or pawns) a side are used. and they move laterally, that is side- ways, either to the right or to the left, or for- ward] but never on the diagonal or backwards. The pieces take" in the direction in which they move by leaping over any of the opposite pieces that may be in their way with a vacant square on the other side. The pieces are crowned in the same manner as in tho British game, and then can move backwards as well as the other ways. Kings can move several squares or a whole column at a. time. Capturing is compulsory, and, as in the Polish and Spanish games, the greatest number must be taken. The pieces are removed from the board one at a time as they are capturcd, thus offering a chance of having a larger take" in the same play. British rules are otherwise applicable. THE HERD LADDIE AND CARLYLE.—Since the death of James Wyllie a number of anecdotes and reminiscences have been percolating through the Press. Of these, the following is not the least interesting :-On a very wet and tempestu- ous day many years ago the Herd Laddie" turned into a little roadside inn near Lochmaben. Soon afterwards he was joined by a couple of strangers, the younger of whom, a burly farmer, began to boast about his proficiency oii the "dambrod," as the draught board is called in Scotland. He was at once challenged by the Herd Laddie to play, and consented, while the game was attentively watched by the third man, a person of rugged aspect. Time atter time Wyllie swept the board, while the vanquished farmer fumed, swore, and fairly lost his temper. Suddenly the third party broke silence, with the following warning to his companion: Stop, stop leave off. man! Can't you see that you are either playing Satan himself or the Herd Laidicr Wyllie Rwilingly acknowledged his identity a iorum of i unch was ordered, and the trio had an amicable chat, although the farmer said no more about his prowess with the chequers. But at the first opportunity he took Wyllie aside, and whispered. That chiel's a relation of mine, and as big a man as you are in some things. Maybe you've heard of him up in London. That's Thomas Carlyle!"

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PRIZE DAYS LLANDOVERY COLLEGE. DISTRIBUTION OF PRIZES. SPEECHES BY BISHOP OF ST. DAVID'S, GENERAL SIR HILLS-JOHNES, MR. B. EYANS, J.P., AND OTHERS. The annual "Prize Day," Tuesday, August 1st, of Llandovery College was a groat success, The attendance was much larger than usual, and the proceedings was most enthusiastic throughout. General Sir Hills-Johnes, G.C.B., V.C., presided, and among those present we noticed Lady Hills- Johnes and Mrs. Johnes, the Lord Bishop of St. David's and Mrs. Owen, the Wardep and Miss Evans, his Honour Judge Bishop and Mrs. Bishop, Mr. and Mrs. Tracey and Miss Lewis, Capel Issa, the Rev. and Mrs. Bebb, Mr. and Mrs. B. Evans, Mrs. J. Aeron Thomas, Col. Gwynne Hughes. Major and Mr". Lloyd Harries and Miss Lloyd Harries, Dr. and Mrs. J. Lloyd Jones (Mumbles), the Vicar of Llandovery, Mr. and Mrs Brunei White, Mr Langman, Dr and Mrs Lewis, Dr. and Mrs. Owen, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Morgan, the Misses Whitehead, Miss Ethel Evans, Miss Swit and Miss Ranee, Rev. John Titus, Rev. W. and Mrs. Rees, Rev. Mr. and Miss Rees, Rev. Mr. and Mrs. McClellan, Revs. T. Nicklin and D. E. Roberts, Messrs. Richards, Winter, Brabant, Calcott, Gregory, Knight and Williams, (College Staff), &c. In opening the proceedings. Generally Sir Hills-Johnes said he was particularly pleased to be present on this ocasion so that he might do honour to one who had the welfare of Llan- dovery College and of education in general very much at heart. He referred to Mr. B. Evans— (loud applause)—who had made a very handsome donation to the building fund, and who, he was glad tJ know, was to distribute the prizes that day. (Applause.) Such a man as Mr. Evans they could not fail to honour. By steadfast purpose and good work he had amassed wealth many men did the same, but comparatively few utilised the wealth as Mr. Evans did. (Applause.) Referring to the progress of the movement started last year for providing funds to provide the addi- tional accommodation required to enable the school to retain the proud position it had attained amongst all the schools of Great Britain, Sir James said the general and the old boys' funds had increased by rapid strides. Of late. how- ever. there bad been a check in the receipts, and he could but trust that when the work was started the funds would again go up by leaps and bounds, for he believed there were many who would subscribe their quota as soon as they knew that the work was realiy in hand. (Hear, hear.) Of the £19,000 required £5,500 had been subscribed. Tne plans and estimates were ready, and the completion of the contract could be confidently and speedily looked for. (Hear, hear.) THE WARDEN'S REPORT. The movement for new buildings—started at the Jubilee Celebration in 1898—has progressed favourably during the year. The promised subscriptions now amount to nearly £5 500 The Trustees have instructed the celebratedjfirm of architects, Messrs. Paley and Austin of Lancaster, who have built over worth of buildings for English public schools, to draw up the plans. These plans are now almost ready for the work which it is proposed to undertake first-the extension of the present buildings which will include & new dining hall with new kitchen, from the cla-s rooms with additional dormitories. The architect estimates that the cost of this work will be from £5,500 to £6,000. He hopes that it can be started in October and that it may be completed by next September twelvemonth. Besides this, there are urgently needed a new laboratory and a new sanitorium and to complete the architect's scheme, new fives courts, and gymnasium with swimming baths attached. These would cost another £ 3,000. When it is fully realised that the five trustees of the school have so strikingly empha- sised not only their confidence in the school, but al-o their sense of its imperative need of enlarged and improved buildings by themselves subscrib- ing £1,708 towards this object, I cannot but think that the remainder cf the money required to provide the schools with these additional build- ings will be forthcoming. And here I should like to mention particularly the great debt of gratitude which the school owes to Mr. Benjamin Evans. Four years ago, Mr. Evans came to me and said that he had been much interested in the work which the school was doing, and wished to help it if he knew how. I told him ac once that we were sadly in need of additional buildings and he there and then promised £500. It was that spontaneous offer of £500 which first inspired me with the belief that new buildings were possible. And when I last year reminded Mr. Evans of his promise, he multiplied ,£500 by two and made it £1,000. (Applause.) It is with very sincere delight that I welcome him here to-day to give the prizes to the boys as one of the school's great benefac- tors. (Applause.) The year's distinction list inclndea :—T. Price, mathematical a year, Jesus College, Oxford F. R. Cbilver, open classical I scholarship, JE80 a year, Keble College, Oxford I J. C. Crocker, prizeman in May examination, St. John's College, Cambridge W. B. Hughes, classical exhibition, £50 a year, Josus College, Oxford D. J. Richards, first of his year in May examination, Trinity College, Cambridge F. N. Menzier, M.B. University of Edinburgh, in the shortest time obtainable; W. J. Williams. 2nd das mathematical moderations, Oxford H. R. V. Bali, first class mathematical honour tinals, Oxford J. O. Griffiths, first class mathematical moderations, Oxford, and the junior University mathematical scholarship, after only one term's residence in the University. Last year we were proud that Llandovery had in proportion to its number of boys, gained a far greater number of open scholarships at Oxford and Cambridge than any school in the kingdom and this year we have the satisfaction of seeing two Llandoveriaus in two successive years taking a. very distinguished place in mathematics at Oxford—Ball, junior exhibitioner in 1893, and Griffiths, junior scholar in 1899. As you will know, the results of the recent examination of the Oxford and Cambridge Board will not be published for five weeks or so. Last year's results were very satisfactory. Llandovery gained 24 higher certificates, being sixth on the list—the first five schools were Clifton, Cheltenham, Eton, Rossal and Rugby—and 22 distinctions, fourth on thejlist—the first three schools being Bradford, Eton, and Rugby. We gained also 14 lower certificates. In athletics, we have two distinctions—T. O. Jones gained his Dark Blue for Rugby football as full back, and C. R. Thomas established a record by winning the inter-university 100 yards for the third time in succession, and represented both universities against the American team last I week. EXAMINERS' REPORTS. The following were the examiners' reports :— Mr. Hayes, the mathematical examiner said "Bowen did some excellent work and will probably improve more. The lower certificate arithmetic was very satisfactory euclid and algebra, as might be expected from comparatively young boys, less good. I have one criticism of a general kind to make which, however, would probably apply to far the greater number of the schools sending boys in for the examination, viz. That questions involving the principles of a subject were not answered as well as the others. Most of the work was done in excellent gtyle." Mr. Elton, the examiner in English, speaking of the higher certificate papers, savs: "You will have seen that two boys did well—one of them, Chilver, remarkably well Green 'was the other. The class seems to me to contain some excellent material." Mr. H. W. C. Davies, the examiner of the Higher Certificate History, says: "The standard of the Classical VI. appears to have improved since last year. I am particularly pleased with Via." Mr. G. G. Chisholm, the geography examiner, says :—" The form shows fair knowledge of general geography, the best papers shewing accurate notions on the subject of climate, more particularly, rainfall. This is important, but the application of the principles of general geography to the study of a country is less satis- factory." Mons. Barbier, of the University College of Wales, Cardiff, tha French examiner, writes :— You will notice that the answers sent in bv ¡' your candidates keep up the standard of efficiency that marked the performances of last year's candidates. In the lower certificate papers, there is a decided improvement, especially in the grammar papers. In the higher certificate, the results are evenly good—in the prose competition chiefly." SPEECH BT THE LORT) BISHOP; The Lord Bishop of St. David's was loudly applauded on rising to speak. He said he had listened with interest and pleasure to the reports read. These reports helped them to understand what avalnable thing an examination might be if properly bandied. When he (the Bishop) was Warden of Llandovery he was very materially helped by the examiners. The great virtue of on examiner was that he took a human interest in the subject of his examination, and it was very evident that Mr. Tracey took a very beartv keen and personal interest in the bov« he' rtealt with. Now he (tl^ Bishop) had two reasons for beinsr present that day. One was that the Warden s score had now attained double figures that day completed his tenth year at the school' and be should be very sorry not to be there to join them m congratulating him upon. the splendid success which had attended the school during all the years be had! been Warden. (Applause.) It was very difficuft to get him to become candidate for the post ten years ago, and his lordship took some credit for being to some extent the means of influencing him but it would be a still more difficult thing to induce him to leave school now. (Hear, hear.) Attempts had been made from more than one quarter to make him accept preferment elsewhere, but he had not listened to any seductive, whispers, and they could congratulate themselves upon having' at the head of that institution a man whose heart was so thoroughly in bis work. They had been told how generously the distinguished masters of the school had supported the Warden in his determination to provide new school buildings, and he was sure that amongst them there was no one they respected more than the gallant chair- man, who was connected wit'i Welsh education in all its branches, being treasurer of Llandovery College and also of the Welsh University. (Applause.) The second reason why he had made a special effort to attend was to mark his sincere esteem of Mr. Benjamin Evans for his generous, public-spirited character and his munificent contributions towards the new buildings. The Warden had already testified that Mr. Evans was the friend who had floated the idea of the exten- sion in his mind, and he believed a real beginning would be made next October. (AppJause.) Mr. Evans stood high in the commercial world. He hAd shewn in the most striking manner possibe that a Welshman was capable of success in business on a very large scale. He (the speaker) was glad that the foresight and intelligence which enabled him to be successful as a commer- cial man, also enabled him to employ his wealth wisely and well. (Applause.) His Lordship was glad that the success of Llaudovery had fnot been gained at the expense of Brecon, which still maintained its distinguished reputation, and the generous rivalry existing between these two Church schools in studies and athletic s was bound to do both good. About eight years ago he ventured to prophesy that Llandovery would not suffer from the establishmentof Welsh intermediate schools, and they were now able to see how far thnt prophesy was correct, notwith- standing the splendid success of those schools, which tuey were all so pleased at. (Applause.) In eoncluoion his Lordship dwelt upon the im- portance of character, and he sought to impress on the boys the fact that character was as essential to success in life as learning. SPEECH BY MR. B. EVANS, J.P. Mr. B. Evans, J.P., was enthusiastically applauded on stepping forward to distribute the prices. Before doing so, he said —Mr.Chairman, my lord, ladies and gentlemen, it is my first privi- lege to thank General Sir Hills-Johnes, the Lord Bishop, and the warden most sincerely for the too kind references they have been made to me for the little I have been able to do for this grand old school and I also wish to thank all present for the enthusiastic manner in which those kind remarks have been received. But I assure you tnat the satisfaction of having been of some service to tnis College has beiu ample repayment to me. (Applause.) In rising to discharge the pleasant duty that falls to my lot to-day, I need not say that it is one which gives me the greatest delight. Nevertheless, it is a trying task for me, because, unlike so many others I see around me, I can lay no claim to that knowledge in whose Temple we stand. When I remember that the reward and promotion of learning form the chief object of our gathering here to-day, I am strnck by the far greater opportunities for learning in the present time, as compared with those I enjoyed in the long distant past. (Hear, hear,) I might almost say to you that I wish I were a boy again in order to take advantage of them, but I won't, for it would be insincere. I always doubt the man who tells me he prefers travelling third- class—(laughter)—or that he likes being at sea when it is rough and it would be equally insincere of me to say I would like to b a boy again. Perhaps some of you have read Mr. Anstey's book, "Vice Versa," and how such a wish was realised to the pain and consternation of the unfortunate wisher. And beiring that warning in my mind, I do not welcome th3 idea at my age, after a long experience of freedom, of going back tinder tutors and masters, who, perhaps, would not treat me quite as cordially as they do now and it would also b9 insincere—my whole life would give the lie to it—if I told you that I attach no value whatever to success in commercial pnri-nits. (Hear. bear.) But this I do say, and I beg of you to think me sincere when I say it, that I am a thorough believer in your school motto Gwell dyg na. golud." (Applause.) I believed in that motto when a boy, no le-s sincerely than I believe in it now. (Hear, hear.) When one after another of my schoolfellows, at the little school of Llanwrda. moved on to Llan lovery, it was my wish I could do so too. I could not help thinking at the time that their lives were cast in more pleasant places mine. Some of them went further than Llandovery and gained distinction at the English Universities. (Applause.) Though I could not follow them, my heart was with them. I knew every scholarship they got, and every step forward they made. Gwell dysg na golud I said then, and Gwell dysg na golud" I say to you boys now. (Applause.) And it is not my voice alone. This is the conviction that has brought together all those who have come to honour your prize- giving to-day. What pise is the secret of the presence here of all these distinguished visitors. This is the reason why your College has the services of General Sir Hills-Johnes, who has won the greatest distinction a soldier can earn on the field-the Victoria Cross. (Applause.) This is why you have the patronage of Bishops, some of them formerly able Wardens of this College, and en passant 1 would predict that your present most able and successful Warden wil', in due time, be numbered amongst their lordships. (Applause.) This also is the reason why you have the patronage of Members of Parliament—like Sir John Llewelyn who is always to the fore in every good work. (Applause.) That is the reason why your great and farseeing founder—Dr. Thomas Phillips— set this College and this motto, Gwell dysg na Golud," in the heart of Wales. But, on the other hand, if some of you boys have sadly to look on while others with superior advan- tages proceed to Oxford and Cambridge— yourselves forced by circumstances, early in life, to enter the busine-s world, do not forget that every useful career is also honourable. (Applause.) Let your motto te: Whatever thy hand findeth to do, do it with all thy might." (Applause.) And whatever you may be put into, practice those great tra- ditions of manliness and truth which, are not the least precious lessons of a college life. (Applause.) In conclusion, it goes without saying that the continued success of this school speaks louder than I can of the merits of your able and successful Warden and his loyal colleagues. And I congratulate you boys on the excellent work you have put in, and also for that courage and energy which have won for you an enviable reputation in the cricket and football field. (Applause.) Mr. Evans then distributed the prizes. The Welsh prizes were given by Mrs. Johnes, and the prizes for athletics by Lady Hills-Johnes. Principal Bebb (Lampeter College) addressed the meeting and congratulated Llandovery College I upon its continued success. The Warden thanked the company for their presence, and the proceedings terminated,

MONMOUTH GRAMMAR SCHOOL. DISTRIBUTION OF PRIZES. Prizes at the annual speech day, the 28th inst., were distributed by Albert Spicer, Esq., M.P. for the Monmouth Boroughs, in the presence of Lord Llangattock and the Master and Senior Wardens of the Haberdashers' Company, and a large assembly of parent* and friends. The Head-master, Mr. E. H. Culey, M.A., stated that the entry of new boys, 56, was the largest for many years there had been no infectious illness. A gratifying list of successes of past and present boys was read, including two exhibitions at Oxford. The school bad also taken a high place in the Oxford Local Examination. The reports of the Examiners, appointed by the Delegacy, testified that tne Head-master s aim of maintain- ing a high average of work and teaching throughout had ben successfully carried out. Mr. Spicer, before distributing the prizes, congratulated the school authorities on the highly satisfactory reports that had been presented. He was glad to see that so much attention was paid to keeping up a high general standard throughout, and to know that the distinctions gained by the more brilliant boys was not attended by neglect of the less promising ones.

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"BEN DAVIES." THE GREAT TENOR'S BIOGRAPHY. The Musical Times for August contains an interesting article, together with an admirable portrait of Mr. Ben Davies, the eminent tenor. The story of his career, as he modestly relates the ups and downs of his life, is as eventful as it is interesting, says our contem- porary. Benjamin Grey Davies was born January 6 (The Epiphany), 1858. The place of his birth was Pontardawe, a populous village about eight miles from Swansea, situate in the same valley as Craig.y. Nog Castle, the residence of Madame I Adelina Patti. The father of Ben was an engineer. Like many of his countrymen be was an excellent local preacher, and his services were in great demand for supplying the various pulpits round about Swansea. But when his eldest son, Ben, was only seven years old the breadwinner of the family was prematurely called away by the angel of death, leaving behind him a widow and four young children, the youngest only three weeks old. It was a terrible blow, and a less ccurageous woman than his true-hearted widow would have been crushed in spirit. Financially Mrs. Davies had nothing? but rich in a fervent belief of a kind and never- failing Providence, she bravely fought the battle of life for the sake of her children with a herioc devotion meriting the highest praise. She doubtless recalls the struggles of those dark days when she worked so hard to provide for the wants of her quartet of little ones-a daughter and three sons, one of whom is now a schoolmaster, and another an accountant. And to-day, in the fame of her boy Ben and the positions in life of her other two sons, Mrs. Davies, from the quietude of her Welsh home, must surely perceive the silver lining to the dark cloud of her early widowhood. "Her children rise up, and call her blessed." Ben began to sing when he was about five years old. At the age of six he was a member of a choir that competed for a prize at an Eisteddfod at Carmarthen. He started on tonic sol-fa, and to-day he pays a high tribute to the system, with its mental effects and its invaluable aid as a means of producing good readers of the staff notation. He thinks out all his intervals and modulations in sol-fa. At an early age he joined the choir of the Congregational Chapel at Cwmbwrla as a boy alto; he never sang soprano. Later on he conducted a tonic sol-fa class at the chapel. But there was not the least idea that he would become a public singer. In fact, not only his mother, but the good people of the chapel thought he must have inherited the preaching gifts of his father that he should go to college, and, in due time, blossom forth as "The Reverend Benjamin Davies, D.D." He says: To this day my mother is dis- appointed that I did not become a preacher. I sometimes extemporise a sermon to show her that I should have proved a failure in that capacity; and then friends console her with the remark that I often preach a sermon when I sing such strains as If with all your bearts,' and I Be thou faithful unto death. Who will doubt the truth of this? As a clergyman wrote in one of the London papers: Was there, for instance, a lovelier sermon preached in London that (Christmas) day than the opening recitative air < Comfort ye,' sung-I bad almost writtenqpoke?i- c,,loriously by Mr. Ben Davies, and what is true singing but elevated poetic speech?" These words "-r--1'1' sliowM be pondered over by all aspiring young vocalics,' yea, and even by those of older growth it is never t\ro late to mend. Ever since I was twelve years old I have earned my own living," says Mr. Davios. I held a situation in a store in Swansea for some years—rantil I was twenty, in fact. In the year 1873 I$aid my first visit to London as a member of the Soutli Wales choir, formed ;and coooucted by Caradog, which competed at the National Musical Meetings held at the Crystal Palace. The other day, when I sang the terror solos in Elijah there,. I could not help recalling my first appearance on the Handel orchestra twenty-six years ago as a boy of fifteen, when I was one of the altos in Caradog.'s choir" One result of this, his first visit to London, was that Ben Davies lost his voice—in other words, it suddenly broke before he retnrned home. "I>on t sing for years," was the advice earnestly given to him by a friend, which he very wisely followed. For the next five years he worked steadily on as a salesman at the store, and, to bis credit be it said, he is not ashamed to own it in these days of properity. When he was nineteen he suddenly discovered that he had a tenor voice. A friend advised him to compete at an Eisteddfod held at Swansea on Good Friday, 1877. Its no use for me to try, its absurd to think of it," replied Ben. However, he ultimately changed his mind and sang before an audience of 5,000 people, who were unstinting in their applause. The test piece was Love in her eyes sits playing." There were fifteen of us," he says, I never dreamt that T should get the prize. In fact, I was walking away, when someone told me that I had to sing again, and the result was that I came out first. The prize was half-a-guinea, which amount was placed in a bag, and, when I marched up to receive the award, hung round my neck. One of the adjudicators was the late W. A. Howells, who was kind enough to predict that some day I should become a great singer. Shortly afterwards Brinley Richards visited Swansea and I was advised to sing to him. He very kindly listened to me and thereupon urged me to come to London and study at the Royal Academy of Music. I took some time to consider a proposal involving such an important change in my life. My mother was against it; she still thought that I ought to be a preacher! But at last I decided to take the plunge. I had saved enough money to pay my Academy fees for six months, and by means of a few engagements, with some help from my mother, I managed to live for a year in London, during which time I boarded with an aunt at Kilburn. I had an uncle who, from beginning life in very humble circumstances, became an inspector of mines at £1,000 a year. He very generously offered to keep me during my next year at the Academy. But before I returned to London for my second Academy year my uncle died. All my money was gone, and I thought that I should have to go back to the store. Friends were very kind to me. They not only urged me to continue my studies, but organised a concert for me which realised a profit of JE50 to £60. But I gave it all to my mother, and deter- mined to pay my own way by the proceeds of engagements, which I did, and I was able to meet all the payments for my fees as they became due." Mr. Davies remained at the Academy for three years—1878-79-80. At the end of his first year he took a bronze medal, and a year later a silver medal. He subse- quently took the Evill prize for Declamatory English singing" in 1880, and the Parepa- Rosa gold medal in 1881. He is now a Fellow of the Institution. His singing professor at the Academy was Signor Fiori. But Mr. Randegger took a great interest in the young Welshman. His first oratorio engagement came about in a curious, though very gratifying, way. On December 20, 1879, he, as a student, sang the tenor solos in; the Hymn of Praise" at an Academy concert given in St. James's Hall. The j sightless Principal said to him after the performance Davies, I could listen to your singing of that beautiful music all night." Seated next to Sir George Macfarreu on that occasion was a very distinguished singer, whom, for the time being, we will call Q." On the morning of the concert Q." had received a letter from Joe" Robinson, of Dublin, asking him if he could recommend a tenor to sing the solos in St, Paul." That same evening "Q." wrote to Robinson strongly recommending Davies, who had so greatly pleased him at the Academy concert. The Dublin conductor thereupon asked Davies if he would be willing to sing for twenty guineas." "1 should think I mould" said Ben to himself; aye, even ten Upon his arrival in Dublin, Ben made his way to Robinson's house. As he stood on the doorstep a German band—Robinson's agony- mongers—were in the midst of their blasting operations. The door was partly opened by Robinson himself, who, to Davies's astonish- ment, nasally and furiously ejaculated, Go away, go away." "Old Joe," poor man, thought that the Welsh tenor was the German band man who had come round for the money! He wis highly amused at his precipitancy, so much so that when (at the reheaisal) the band applauded the young Academy student, Robinson spoiie of him as "the German bandmaster who had come round for the money He then related the doorstep incident, greatly to the amusement of the orchestra. Robinson, who was much pleased with Daviests singing, said to him afterwards, H I suppose you don't know to whom you are indebted for this engagement— you were recommended to me by Mr. Santley." Opera, not oratorio, was to claim the attention and energies of Ben Davies for the next few years. At one of the Academy opera per- formances-it was the garden scene from "Faust"—Carl Rosa was present. Shortly afterwards he asked Davies if he would like to go on the stage. The offer of a salary of £10 a week for the first year, £15 for the second, and £20 for the third, with the option of breaking the contract at the end of each successive year, was a very tempting one to a young beginner, and it was accepted. Bristol was the place of his operatic debut, which took place at the New Theatre Royal on October 11, 18S1. The opera was Balfe's Bohemian Girl," Davies was very nervous. At the end of the first act Rosa said nothing; Better," was his monosyllabic criticism after the second; That will do after the third, when the audience had signified their approval of the tenor, to whom Balfe's old girl proved to be a very good friend. The first appearance of Ben Davies at a London theatre was in the same opera, at Her Majesty's Theatre, January 25, 1882. Ben Davies sang at the productions of the follow- ing operas during his connection with the Carl Rosa Company :-—" Esmeralda (Goring Thomas), March 26, 1883; "Colomba" (Sir A. C. Mackenzie), April 9, 1883; The Canterbury Pilgrims (Professor Stanford), April 28, 1884. In connection with the pre- parations for producing an interesting incident may be recorded. Davies, who took the part of the Sergeant of Marines, had only about 20 bars to sing at the begin- ning of the opera. At a rehearsal, after he had sung his part, be asked leave of the composer to depart. Sir Alexander (then Dr.) Mackenzie said "Yes," and then, turning to a lady sitting beside him, he said, There goes the best artiste of the company, and I have given him nothing to do." Such an unsolicited appreciation could not have fallen upon more sympathetic ears, as, unknown to Sir Alexander, the lady to whom he addressed this highly complimentary remark was Miss Clara Perry, a prima donna of the company, to whom the Sergeant of Marines was then engaged (or nearly so), and who became Mrs. Ben Davies in 1885. Mr. and Mrs. Davies both left the Carl Rosa 1 Company upon their marriage. In the autumn of 1886 they were taking a long holiday. The popular tenor had lent his savings to a friend, on the condition that a portion of the amount could be called in at any time. Whilst stay- ing at Margate Ben Davies discovered that his balance at the bank had run down to £10! I He thereupon wrote to the" friend" asking for part repayment of the loan. In the meantime he had refused an offer made by Mr. J. W. Turner to join his company. The morning after the Turner letter had been posted, he learned from his" friend" that the firm with whom he was connected had become bankrupt! Davies immediately telegraphed to Turner, Letter of refusal withdrawn. I accept." Thus for the next few months, until the end of 1886, he was the leading tenor in J. W. Turner's Opera Company. Although he preferred the concert platform to the stage, concert engagements did not come in so -J Vi- tf.N- •' quickly as he would have liked. Tile London managers would not have anything to say to him. At that time (the beginning ef 1887) Arthur Cellier's famous opera Dorot>-y was little more than dragging out its existence at the Prince of Wales' Theatre. New blood was wanted to galvanise it into life, and this Ben Davies immediately supplied. ¡ ^ly six weeks' engagemEnt." he Sl1ys, I was renewed over and over again, and J ultimately sang the part of Geoffmj Wilder for more than two year*—over 800 nights. T received the same rate of payment through- out the run of the piece— £ 40 a week." 1 began to feel somewhat like a machine, but there was a certain fascination in facing a fresh audience every night. I soon, however, v began to recognise the same faces, somewhat upon the 'here we are again system. One old gentleman, his wife and daughter came regularly once every week and occupied the same seat, I used to give them a little friendly nod. Once when I was returning home im the twopenny omnibus an old lady sitting next to ine said, May I speak to you, Mr. s 'Certainly, Madam,' I replied. hands with you, Mr. Davies?' I responded Yes, you may.' Then she went on to say that she had heard me sin" in Dorothy' ninety times. I hope to go ninety times more/ she added. I've kept all the counterfoils of the tickets, and I've paid every time .t' I never met the old lady again, and I have not the least idea who she was or where she iame from." After "Dot-otby" Mr. Davies turned his energies almost entirely in the direction of concert and oratorio singing. There was, however, one exception, and that was when he sustained the title-rúlt, of Sir Arthur Sullivan's opera Ivanhoe," which was produced on January 31, 1891. In this connection the following extract from a letter written by the composer eight months before the event deserves to beqijoted 1, Queen's Mansions, Victoria-street. S.W., 9-5 90. Dear Mr. Davies, Mr. Carte has, I believe, asked you to see him to-morrow morning about my new opera. You of course know that it is my desire to secure your co-operation, and that I am most anxious to come to an arrangement, for I have followed you with interest from the beginning of your career, and have been delighted to see how my predictions have been fulfille(I.-Yours sincerely, ARTHUR SULLIVAN." A few appear- ances at the Royal Italian Opera have also to be recorded. Mr, Davies first crossed the Atlantic ia 1893. He had been engaged to sing in a scries of concerts at the World's Fair Chicago, at a fee of £ 600. Passages for himself and his wife had been taken, and they eagerly looked forward to the trip. On the night before their departure he received a cablegram cancelling the engagement "Never mind, let's go," urged Mrs. "Davies;* "something may come of it." He thereupon cabled Too late am sailiug to-morrow." Upon their arrival ar Chicago, the Welsh people and the World's Fair jointly arranged to give seven concerts. Nothing was said to Davies about terms, however. Every concert proved to be a great success, and they were attended by crowded audiences. At the end of the series- which lasted ten days—the manager called the Welsh tenor into his office, when he handed him a pile (about a foot high !) of dollar bills, to the value of the original sum-namely, C600. Thus something did come of it, as Mrs. Davies prophesied. Moreover, her husband has visited America every year since, making seven crossings in all, and singing at three Cincinnati Festivals. He likes Amel ica and the American people very much. The American journals afford him some amusement. One morning he saw displayed in large type on a newspaper contents-bill Is Davies equal to Lloyd ? A matter of taste." One of the critics stated that he bad a fine voice and small feet." Once when crossing the Atlantic ho sang at an impromptu concert given in the saloon of the liner for a charity. The next; morning a typical Ameriean accosted him on deck with the encouraging observation "You have a fine voice. I guess you'd make a very good professional." In 1894 he paid his first professional visit to Germany—a visit which has since become annual. At his nrst appearance in the Fatherland lie was coldly received but his rendering of the "Jeptha" recitative and air thawed the frigid Berlin audience into warmly appreciative applause. One of the critics went so far as to say that the English tenor had restored a lost art to Germany-toe art of the be canto. TKE QUEEN. Mr. Ben Davies has frequently sung before the Queen. On the first occasion (iu 1892) that ha obeyed the royal command, Her Maiesty said to him "Yon come from Wales, where there are some beautiful voices. I have much enjoyed your singing, and I hope that I shall hear you again." Finally, it is interesting to listen to Mr. Davies as he states his views on singing and the study of the art of song. He is very emphatic upon the fatal mistake so often mane by young singers of rushing into publicity before they have become thoroughly grounded in vocal technique. There is no more expressive, and therefore artistic singer before the public than Ben Davies. His career furnishes another instance of what may be achieved by steadfast perseverance, high. ideals, and a patient continuance in well-doing. All honour to him for having attained his present position by sterling merit, straightforward methods, and earnest endeavour. Young singers may not only derive encouragement, but may learn many lessons from the career ot this self- made and estimable man. One more incident and we have done. On a recent occasion, during one of many walks and talks with him. the conversation turned upon the tenor solos in Mendelssohn's Elijah." Mr. Davies thereupon remarked—with no thought that his words would ever appear in print-" I have been ten years trying to sing If with all your hearts,' and only a year ago did I begin to satisfy myself." Th& man who adopts such a creed as this and acts up to it is a true artist. He is worthy to occupy a high place in the roll of distinguished tenor singers of which this country has just oaue to be proud.

THE TRADE OF THE PORT AND DISTRICT. SPECIAL REPORT BY OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT. SWANSEA, THURSDAY. The trade of the harbour during the week has been brisk all round, and compared with the cor- responding period of last year the imports show an increase of 2.000 tons, and the exports foreign 16.550 tons. Entries of shipping in ballast 27,402 tons, compared with 28,914 tons the previous week, and 25.047 tons the corresponding week last year. The imports consist of-from France, pitwood, copper ore and sundries; Spain, iron ore, copper ore and precipitate Holland, general; Newfoundland, copper ore; Mexico, copper regulus, Matte, and copper bars; New York, general cargo. The shipments of coal include-France 17,826 tons, Italy 6,242 tons, Sweden 1,970 tons, Holland 2,078 tons, Greece 1,150 tons, San Francisco 5 775 tons, Brazil 750 tons, United States (hunkers) 1,825 tons. Large exports of patent fuel continue to be made, those in the week being for France 1,880 tons, Italy 1,470 tons, Greece 1,20U tons, Austria 2,200 tons, and Russia 4,250 tons. Imports 16,261 tons, and exports foreign 53,504 tons, compared with 14,744 tons, and 36,954 tons respectively last year. The clearances of tinplate and general goods amount to 2.678 tons, including—France 192 tons, Germany 400 tons, Holland and Belgium 1,360 tons, and New York 726 tons. Stocks of tinplate in warehouse are rapidly accumulating owing to the limited shipment during the past fortnight. It may, however, be anticipated that a large reduction will be made as soon as suitable tonnage can be negociated. IMPORTS, COASTWISE.—Pig iron 2,016 tons scrap steel 491 tons, ingot moulds 3 tons. blende ore 238 tons, arsenic 42 tons, pitch 599 tons, building material 435 tons, grain 343 tons' sundries 1,364 tons. IMPORTS, FOREIGN.—France, pitwood 500 tons, potatoes and onions 135 tons, arsenical ore 120 tons, copper ore 92 tons Bilbao, iron ore 3,630 tons Huelva, copper ore 1,200 tons, copper pre- cipitate 300 tons Holland, general cargo 84 tons Newfoundland, copper ore 1.944 tons; Santa Rosalia (Mexico), copper regulus 1,200 tons, matte 700 tons, bars 600 tons l ,ew York, general 225 tons. EXPORTS, FOREIGN. Coal, 39,826 tons; patent fuel, 11.000 tons; and tinplates and general goods 2,678 tons.

SHOCKING DEATH OF AX OLD MAN.—On Saturday a man of 76, naiii-d Michael Bryde, a cleaner at the Graigola Fuel Worke, while engaged in cleaning the rails, did not hear some approaching trucks. He was run over and killed, his body being frightfully mangled. ST. ILLTYD'S CHURCH, PEMBREY Its History and its Architecture," by Mr. Edward Roberts and Mr. H. A. Pertwee. This is a well-written and reliable work; it is profusely llnstrated, and should be in the hands of all interested in Church history. Order at once. WRIGHT'S DIRECTORY OF SWANSEA T V now in preparation. Paper cover, 2s.; cloth cover, 2s. 6d. Containing streets, trades and private residents' lists. Rates of advertise- ments, &c.. from the Printer and Publisher A. C. YFRIGHT, "SOUTH WALIAN" PRINTING WOLKS, ST. HELEN'S AVKNUE, SWANSEA. Orders received by Mr. WAY, Bookseller, Wind-street. [13086

t: 7 _t7 r Who does not like the Cream of everything ? In other words, who does not like the best of everything ? The best is none too good for everyone. In fact, everybody likes the cream of everything! M. A WHITE FLO INGs OAp e is the cream of dainty soaps for dainty fabric. Like cream it rises to the surface. Like cream it is the best in its class. Like cream it is exquisitely pure. Like cream it is an emollient for the skin. A Purer Soap is beyond the Art of Soapmaking.

THE STANDARD OF EXCELLENCE. The Standard of Excellence in the preparation Gwilym Evans' Quinine Bitters is without doubt. It is purely vegetable. It is undoubtedly owing to excellence that sufferers from Indiges- tion, Biliousness, and every phase of Dyspepsia -,are so rapidly relieved and set free from all symptoms of General Debility, Palpitation, Nervous Trembling, and Sleeplessness. Gwilym Evans' Quinine Bitters, The Vegetable Tonic. It strengthens that part of the system which is oweakest, or has been weakened by disease, and therefore more liable to colds than their attendant ailments. We would especially warn our readers to beware of unprincipled imitations. See the name Gwilym Evans on label, stamp, and bottle, and remember that any preparation offered as Quinine Bitters which does not bear this name (as above stated) is a fraudulent imitation and counterfeit. Gwilym Evans' Quinine Bitters is sold everywhere in bottles at 2s. 6d. and 4s. 6d. each, and in cases containing three 4s. 6d. bottles at 12s. 6d. per case; or it -will be sent for the above prices post free direct from the Proprietors: Quinine Bitters Manufacturing Company, Limited, Llanelly, South "Wales.

"t. FASHION NOTES. LBY MESSRS. BEN EVANS AND CO., LIJIITKD, SWANSEA.] The tropical temperature has made the demand for cool simple gowns enormous and most of the leading modistas are quite full of orders. A great number of old rose, terra-cotta, and red cottons are shown, and these are patterned with either black or white, and very simply trimmed with stitched frills of the material, and full vests of tacked muslin. A red foulard or cotton with white design can be made in tunic fashion, the tunic edged with a frill of the material and the unlined sleeves tucked in groups. The lining fitted, but with few seams or darts has a square or V opening back and front, which leaves the gown perfectly cool and yet keeps the figure trim and neat. The material is simply frilled on to form the bodice, and two different collars accompany the costume. One is a small neat yoke of Luxeuil lace run with black bebe velvet, and a velvet belt accompanies this. The second collar is entirely of white tucked muslin and lace, or embroidery, I forming revers in front, and square collar behind, and with this a narrow white silk belt looks well. Embroidered batiste in pale dainty colour- ings is very elegant, and may be worn over a silk slip or over a simple one of zephyr or lawn. THE ABERTAWE" SAILOR HAT. The slip or foundation is usually shorter than the upper skirt, which, for country wear should only just trail, and the foundation barely touch the ground all ronnd. The white muslins are now tacked out on coloured batiste or lawn, and in this guise are more fit for country wear than with silk slips. Linens and drills in neutral tints will be largely worn, and when stitched with white these are rendered very smart with tucked vests, collars, and fichus of white. I The pale fawn, biscuit, and putty coloured coats are very chic with dark skirts, and can be worn open or closed, and these afford much variety. Take for instance, a blue cloth or serge skirt, a white blouse, a fawn coat worn with big muslin and lace revers, and a. Leghorn hat with corn- flowers or poppies and wheat, and a red en-tout- cas, and you have a smart country toilette of a useful type. The thin muslin blouses which have been such a feature of the season's fashions are as pretty and attractive as anything that has ever been invented in the way of feminine attire, and now that the sales are in full swing these dainty I novelties can be bought at very moderate prices, just at the time when they are most needed, and can be worn for garden parties and fetes through the summer months. I SMART CHIFFON TOQUE. Bathing dresses are made in either scarlet or black this year, and in our opinion the latter are mln more becoming, especially when a pretty light blue or pink silk handkerchief is chosen to envelope the oilskin cap that protects the hair. Black stockings and white-laced shoes are invariably worn by bathers, and the indispens- able peignor, or cloak can be in any light shade of Pyrenees wool, or simply in Turkish towelling. A bathing dress well worth describing is in blue serge and rather long—that is, it fall", well to below the knees. The dress is cut en Prinressc and fastens at the back, and the skirt part i-lopes out just as skirts are now worn. This effect is arrived at by introducing from the neck creves in white flannel, which go in very narrow at the waist, and widen out towards the skirt, thus making the fulne-s, and giving the lamp-shade effect in shape. From the hips almost to the knees the skirt appears to be drawn in by means of piped galons in red flannel which form a kind of cuirass all down. A deep white flannel collar comes from a flat band at the neck, and has a blue embroidered anchor in each corner. The under part of the skirt forms combinations black silk stockings, white sandal shoes red canchouc bonnet tied at the top of the head com- pletes the costume. The mode of wearing stockings whilst bathing comes from America. I SPECKLED SAILOR HAT. An American lady would not think of bathing without them, thus displaying both good taste and common sense. Black gowns both for dty and evening use have now become very popular. At every even- ing dance and reception, to say nothing of all the best theatres, the number of good black toilets worn has been as great as ever. The time has gone by when a black dress naturally suggested a omhre and quiet garment. Now many of the best black gowns are so elaborately ornamented I with hand embroidery, tucking, cording, etc,, that they are exceedingly handsome. Black Russian net and lace tnnics over coloured silks are very much worn and present a very I smart appearance. The charming old Leghorn style of bat has quite revived and is extensively worn. In fact all the latest summer hats are very pituresque. They are all higher in the crown, the wide brims being softly bent about the face by means of a fine wire which is always run along the edge. Some of the prettiest hats again are of tulle and chiffon gathered in rows like a girl's sun hat and these are very becoming. For cycling, golf- ing, and holiday wear, the popular sailor still reigns supreme, and for these purposes ladies will find them hard to beat.

-==- RAILWAY TRAFFIC RETURNS.—Last week's traffic returns of the local railways show the following results:—Great Western Railway, a decrease of R9,480 making an aggregate in- crease for 4 weeks of £63470. London and North-Western Railway, a decrease of 933,282, aggregate decrease for 4 weeks. £ 20,329—Taff Vale Railway, an increase of £ 9,078; aggregate increase, 4 weeks, £36,022.Brbcon & Merthyr Railway, an increase of £ 588; aggregate increase for 4 weeks, < £ 2,373.—Barry Railway, an increase of Rg,018 aggregate increase 4 weeks. R35,873 (including receipts of the Vale of Gtamorgan Railway).