The Cambrian

SWANSEA, THE ROYAL JUBILEE METAL EXCHANGE (INCORPORATED). There was a full attendance on 'Change on Tuesday afternoon, and there was considerable animation in every department. There were present :—Messrs. R. W. Tolfree (Dowlais Co.), E. Trubshaw (Llanelly), W. Bright (Fairwood), H. Clement (Beaufort), W. H. Edwards (Morri.,tor) T. W. Jones, G. H Strick (Gurnos Co.), George Rowe (Upper Forest Co.), H. Chalk (T. Ford and Co.), Win. Davis (Ebbw Vale Co.), F. F. Card (Briton F^rrv), P. B. Mainwaring (Llanelly). J. Paton (Pontypool), R;. Peregrine (Llanelly). J. Paton (Pontypool), R. Peregrine (Villiers Co.. Briton Ferry), C. G Biggs, H. S. Sntton (Neath), E. R. and J. H. Thomas (Llanelly). R. H. Sampson (Llanelly), W. R. M. Lewis (Gorseinon), H. V. Witts IJ. Watson and Co.), J. R. Watson, R. N. Sampson (Pontar- dulais). J. Probert (Port Talbot and Docks Co.), Thos. Freeman (Clayton), W. Lean, E. Ball, C. E. and H. M. Peel, F. K. Clegg, F. S. Parker (F. S. Saunders and Co.), Geo. Smith (Geo. Smith and Co.), Robert Evans (Landore), R. Rosser (Cilfriw), Ll. Davies (Neath), E. Daniel (Cwm- felin), D. Richards (Pantyffynon), R. W. Evans (Llanelly), Davies (Foxhole), R. Hardy, E. Ll. Green (Neath). G. W. Davey, J. H. Pound (Midland Railway), D. Bevan (Morlais), J. Bangham (Barrow Co.), D. Russell (Clydach), W. Rees (Raven Tinplate Co.), J. T. Davies (Blaenavon Co.), Roger Beck (Gowerton), Richard Martin (ex-Mayor). S. H. McNaught (J. Watson and Co.). W. Jeukins, Bertie Perkins, E. Roberts (Lilleshall Co.), W. Buckland (Morriston), Geo. Deere (Rio Tmto), Griffith Thomas (Chairman Harbour Trust), D. Evans (Llangennech), W. D. Glasbrook, D. Davies, F. R. Phillips (Yrismudw), S. Williams Pontardulais), J. S. Lester (G.W.R.), F. Smith (L. & N.W.R.), E. Breffit (Cardiff), Geo. Thomas and Joseph Lewis. SWANSEA, Tuesday, May 1, 1900. There was a large number of people on 'Change to-day. PIG IRO .-There has been some fluctuation in warrants during the week, there being a fall on the week of Is. 5d. per ton in Scotch, Is. 9d. per ton in Middlesbro', while Hematite is the excep- tion, shewing an advance of 9d. per ton. The stocks again shew a reduction of 11,489 tons. The shipments shew a considerable increase in Hematite, which is the heaviest recorded for some time. There is no business to report, as the fluctuations are keeping buyers off the market, waiting developments in America, about which there is still some uncertainty as to the importing of iron into this country. FINISHED IRON ANL STEEL.—There is nothing new to report in Tinplate Bars, and business in this direction seems to be suspended, with deliveries going on upon old contracts. TINPLATEs.-There has been an unusually large shipment of plates last week, causing a considerable decrease in the stocks: still, not- withstanding, the price continues to be stationary, and is quite inadequate to the cost. PIG IRON.—Glasgow warrants, 71s 9jd, 72s 6d, cash buyers. MIDDLESBRO'.—No. 3, 75s Od. Other numbers in proportion. HEMATITE.—Warrants, 84s 9d, for mixed numbers, f.o.b. Cumberland, according to brand. WELSH HEMATITE.—Nos. 1, 2 and 3, 90s. WELSH BAKS, ig 10s Od to ;E9 12s 6d. Angles, ke., at usual extras, f.o.t. at works. SHEET IRo-N.Ell 2s 6d to ill 7s 6d, f.o.t. at works. STEEL RAILS.—Heavy sections. zE7 7s 6d to R7 10s Od light do., £ 8 7s 6d to £ 8 10s Od, f.o.t.; sleepers, angles, channels, c., according to section and specification. STEEL SHEETS.— £ 11 Os Od to Xll 5s Od, with the usual extras for the higher gauges. BESSEMER STEEL.—Tinplate bars. JE7 5s Od. SIEMEN'S TINPLATE BARB.-Best X7 7s 6d. All delivered in the district; nett cash. Billets And Blooms d d Midlands, X7 15s Od to X3. TINPLATES.—Makers' quotations for Bessemer ateel coke, 16s Od to 16s 3d; Siemens (coke finish) 16s 3d to 16s 6d ternes, per double box, 28 by 20 C., 30ti Od, 31s Od to 34s Od best charcoal, 16s 6d to 17s Od, according to finish of brand wasters, 6d to Is per 11 box less than primes. Odd sizes usual extras. All delivered m Prince of Wales Dock, Swansea; cash, less 3 and 1 per cent. Big sheets for galvanising, 6x3 x 30 gauge, £151Os Od to £15158 Od per ton, f.o.t. Finished black plate, £ 12 109 Od to 112 1: Od per ton, f.o.t. Canadas, R12 Os Od to JE12 2s 6d per ton. f.o.t. Galvanised sheets, 24 G., £ 15 Os, 26 G., £ 16 Cs. I The Swansea Harbour Trustees have furnished the following official return of tinplates reoeived from the works, shipped, and in stock :— Week ending Last week. Corresponding April 28, 1900. week last year. Boxes. Boxes. Boxes. Received 64,992 43,482 58,593 Shipped 113,091 40,391 36,087 In stock 213,879 261,978 226,212 COPPBR.—Chili bars, E75 15s Od to JE75 2s 6i. I BLOCK TIN, zEI36 2>1 6d to X135 15>1 Od. t SPELTER.— £ 22 Os Od, per telegram received on 'Change. LEAD.—English, X16 188 9d; Spanish, X16 168 3d. ANTHRACITE COAL.—Best big vein, selected for malting purposes, 17s 6d to 18s Od second quality, do., 14s 6d to 15s Od; ordinary large, according to quality, 13s Od to 13s 6d; rubbly culm, 98 Od to 9s 6d per ton. All delivered f.o.b. Swansea, cash 30 days, less 2t per cent. STEAM COALS.-Large, 20s Od; second quality, do., 178 Od to 18s Od bunkers, according to quality, 168 Od to 16s 6d; small, 14s 6d to 15s Od per ton, delivered f.o.b. Swansea, cash 30 days, less 2\ per cent. BITUMINOUS COALS.-Large (No. 3 Rhondda); large (No. 2 Rhondda); thro' do. small do., Eir ton, delivered f.o.b. Swansea, cash 30 days, ss 2 £ per cent., according to arrangement. COKIC.-Best foundry, 32a 6d to 35s; furnace, 308 Od to 31s Od per ton, f.o.b. Swansea, cash 30 days, less 2 per cent. i PATENT FUEL.-1ia Od tc 20s Od. IRON OREs.-Tafna (per Naylor, Benson and Co.), 208. Rnbio, 21s per ton, ex-ship cash, 30 days. PITWOOD.—19s 6d to 20s per ton into trucks, nett, cash 30 days.

Th. ,r NUTRITIOUS. E P PS'S GRATEFUL-COMFORTING. COCOA BREAKFAST AND SUPPER.

WATCH COMMITTEE. J THE SUNDAY TRADING QUESTION. A meeting of the Watch Committee was held in the Council Chamber on Tuesday afternoon. Dr. J. A. Rawlings presided, and there were also PTesent :—M-s^rs. W. H. Spring, F. Bradford, Morgan Hopkin, Viner Leeder, J. Skidmore, D. Harris, Gwilym Morgan, R. Fender, and others. VACANCY t, THE FORCE. There were three candidates for the vacancy in the Police Force, caused by the departure for the Front of P.C. Mathias. Their names were Wm. Henry Goad (25), labourer; Thomas Dix (20), labourer and John Johns (26), coachman. Johns was appointed. PROPOSED CAB-SHELTER FOR ST. THOMAS. A letter was read in reference to the proposed cab-shelter for St. Thomas from Mr. Mortimer (Midland Railway), in which it was stated that the Railway Company could not see their way clear to provide a site near the Station. After some discussion the matter dropped. THE SUNDAY TRADING QUESTION. A letter was read from Mr. Charles Magga, Wind-street, with respect to the Sunday trading question. Mr. Magrgs contended thnt to deprive men of the legal facility to obtain refreshments, tobacco, medicines, and stamps would do more harm than good, by probably driving them into clubs, legitimate and otherwise. There being few (if any) chemist shops open, it often happened that remedies for coughs, &c., were urgently required. The sale of any remedies for the above, he thought, would not be opposed even by the most pronounced Sabbatarian, for it might be his turn to want such remedies at any time. Stamps were dispensed at no profit, sometimes to the extent of 20s. to 30s. to visitors and seafaring people of all nationalities, who were often found by the police wandering about in search of means to forward letters to their parents. The writer con- cluded by stating that nothing low or vulgar was allowed in his shop, children were not encouraged, goods obtainable during the week were prohibited —and he trusted that, provided he carried on his business within the scope of his license, he might not be again submitted to the annoyance of a prosecution after holding Inland Revenue licenses for nearly 30 years in Swansea. A letter was also read from the Secretary of the Free Church Council, containing a resolution passed by the Council, thanking the Chairman and Committee for taking action to prevent unneces- sary Sunday trading. Mr. Leeder asked when was the resolution passed by the Committee authorising proceedings, as he could not find it on the minutes. The Chairman replied that he did not think it was necessary that such a resolution should be passed. Mr. Leeder said at the previous Committee meeting there was no objection on the part of the Committee to moral suasion being used, but there was a definite promise that there should be no legal proceedings till the matter had been further considered by the Committee. The Chairman begged to differ. The matter, he said, was left in the hands of the Mayor, himself, the Town Clerk, and the Chief Consta- ble and at the last meeting (when Mr. Leeder was not present) he pointed out that in view of the little notice taken of the Mayor's circular there was nothing to do except to select cases and apply the law. He then asked if anyone objected to the Chief Constable being instructed to take proceedings, and there was no objection, except that Mr. Spring expressed the hope that poor old widow would not be proceeded against. He thought the worst thing they could do was to have a long, and perhaps acrimonious discussion on the subject and he maintained the Committee were fully empowered to deal with the question. Mr. Leeder There is no question as to our power but this is no ordinary Act, and where it is enforced in any borough it is the action of one or two members only. The Chairman said he had been most reluctant to instruct the police to apply the law but the., evil was growing in the town. He would suggest that if the Committee considered the action taken was against the interests of the community, they should pass a resolution to that effect. Mr. Leeder said he would have objected the first time the matter came up, only he was under the impression that before instructions would be given the police to prosecute offenders, the ques- tion would be further discussed by the Commit- tee. He moved that the Chief Constable be instructed not to proceed with the prosecutions. Mr. R. Fender seconded, Mr. F. Bradford thought that the words Provided they do not open before 12.30 should. be added, Mr. Leeder consented. Mr. Skidmore opined that the shops ought not to be opened from 2 until 2.30 p.m., because about that time hundreds of school children repaired thither and spent their collection money upon sweets. He went on to say that he knew something about the working-classes, as he had lived amongst them for a long time, and he could say from personal experience that there was not one in 80 or SO of the working people but who could get all that was necessary on Saturday nights. Consequently, he did not think there was any hardship in closing the shops, and as he was convinced that young people were demoralised by Sunday trading he could not vote for stopping the legal proceedings now being taken by the police. Ald. Gwilym Morgan was also in favour of the law being enforced. He was sorry they had to prosecute anyone, but if there were people in the town who would desecrate the Sabbath simply for gain, then it was necessary to do so. A great deal had been said about poor widows being amongst the persons who kept their premises open but he contended that they must protect those widows who tried to bring up their children respectably by exhorting them to keep away from places like these. He knew there were many people who saw no harm in shops being kept open. but he was determined to speak against it, even if it cost him his seat on the Council. He believed every right-thinking man was opposed to Sunday trading, for they could see the results of it in other countries. They had the Sunday Clovsing Act in Wales, and why should not shopkeepers be compelled to close on Sundays as well as publicans ? He hoped the Committee would have the moral courage to stand firm and to confirm the action taken. Mr. Fender thought that tradesmen had a right to keep their shops open if they liked. They were supposed to be in a free country, and he asked whether the Act was going to be enforced with respect to other trades ? The Chairman was of the opinion that the great bulk of public opinion was with them in trying to prevent Sunday trading. To him it was not a question of a pennyworth of sweets, but a great principle. (Hear, hear.) Sunday traders did not deserve a grain of sympathy, for they were taking a mean advantage of honest, conscientious traders. He had received a letter from a trades union, which stated that they wanted to close on Sundays, in order to have a day of rest, but three or four were against them. In conclusion, the Chairman said he bad gone into scores of shops, where he had been told that if he would make others close they would be only too glad to do likewise. Mr. Leeder remarked that they were only annoying people by enforcing the Act in question. They could not succeed in their object, and would only cause|a bitter and retaliatory spirit in trades- men. It was making the old town look ridiculous. He did not believe they would find that the Act was in force in any town in the kingdom. The Chairman My point is that there are hundreds of bo) s and girls making use of these shops, and they are our future citizens, and they will be in favour of opening shops, works, anii everything else. After further discussion, Mr. Leeder agreed to withdraw his resolution, so that the Town Council may have an opportu- nity of discussing the question.

FUNERAL OF MR. SAMUEL JAMES BARTLETT. -On Tuesday morning, in last week, at No. 10, Earl-street, Samuel James Bartlett passed peace- fully away, after an illness of over eight months. Deceased was the son-in-law of Mr. John Lake, of Vernon-street, Hafod. The funeral, which was public, took place on Saturday afternoon at Bethesda Chapel burial-ground, and was largely attended. At the chapel the Rev. E. Edmunds read, and Dr. J. A. Parry delivered an address of sympathy with the bereaved family. The Rev. Mr. Johns, of Gowerton (late of Tabernacle, Carmarthen-road), and the Rev. E. Edmunds then offered up prayer at the graveside. The deceased and his wife were well-known, and had attended and were members of York-place Baptist Chapel for many years. The following were the bearers Ald. Wm. Evans, Mr. David Bevan (deacons of York-place Baptist Chapel), Messrs. Wm. Palmer, Bert Symonds, John Turpil, and another (four of deceased's old companions). Wreaths were sent by the following:-The bereaved wife, Mr. and Mrs. J. Lake, Mrs. Jones (Catherine-street). Mrs. Webber and Mrs. Gray, Mr. and Mrs. J. Young, and Mr. Tudor Young, and flowers by Mr. and Mrs. Pardew. What word by changing one letter becomes its opposite? fnited- -Untied.

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POLICE COURT. SATURDAY. A Tr.AMp'S RUSE TO GET NEW CLOTHES. The only case from the Borough which the magistrates present this morning—Messrs. Wm. Walters, David Owen, A. H. Thomas, J. Lloyd Rogers, and Capt. Davies—had to deal with was that in which John King, a stranger to the town. was charged with wilfully IttS- troying his own clothes at the Workhouse. Defendant explained his action by stati.ig that his clothes were so had as to prevent him getting work. Mr. Walters And so you thought you wouid have a suit at the expense of the Lulon Defendant was sentenced to 14 days' imprisonment. NEW COUNTY MAGISTRATE. Ir. F. H. Glynn Price was sworn in as a Justice of the Peace tor the county, in virtue ot his otiice as Chairman of the Llangyfelach District Council. COUNTY BUSINESS. NOT BONA FIDE TEAVELLEitS. Two colliers of Llanddarog, named Thomas James and John Jones, were charged with falsely representing themselves as travellers at a public-house in Pontardulais, on the 15tii April. The offence was proved, and fines of 20s., including costs, were inflicted. Jones was also ordered to pay the costs—5s.—for drunkenness on the same date. DISORDERLY INEBRIATES. Edward Thomas, collier, of Gorseinoll, im- bibed not wisely but too well on the 14th Apiii. and. through not being able to walk straight, fell in through th window of a shop. The magistrates-valued his offence at 15s. David Rees, carpenter, Gorseinon, was sum- moned for a similar offence (drunk and dis- orderly). As it was not his first offence, he was fined 20s. and costs, or 14 days. THE MUZZLING ORDER. A number of persons were fined the usual amount—10s.—for contravention of Mr. Long's Order. JUVENILE THIEVES. Three small boys—John and Clement Fuller and Warren Thomas—appeared in the dock on two charges, viz., stealing 5s. from the Star Inn, Fforestfach, on the 27th April, and Is. Sid. and six ounces of tobacco from a shop at the same place and date. Miss Mary Jane Rees, daughter of the proprietor of the shop. a collier named John Jones, Sergt. Sparks gave evidence. John Fuller and Warren Thomas were remanded in custody until Tuesday, when they will also be charged with a series of thefts in the Borough. The case against Clement Fuller was adjourned till Wednesday. MONDAY. Messrs. David Owen and Simon Goldberg— the only magistrates on the Bench this morn- ing—were presented with an exceptionally heavy sheet. There were no less than 63 cases down for hearing, including 38 summonses against small shop-keepers for keeping their premises cpen on Sundays. These cases had created a considerable amount of interest in the town, as was evidenced by the large number of people in the Court. THE BLACK LIST. The sheet contained eight cases of the C( D. and D. type, and three cases of drunkenness only. The persons penalised for the former offence wre: William Williams, Thomas Jones, Llewellyn Griffiths, and Thos. Mantlry, colliers hailing from Gorseinon; Frank Jones, described as a gunner, of Bristol; Mary Lewis, a single woman, of no fixed abode; Dorcas Carr Smith), a woman of ill- repute, who made hsr 89th appearance, and Elizabeth Huxtable. an inmate of the Work- house. Ann Morrisey, 26. Greenhill-street, William John Samuel. 9, LIangyfelach-road, and David Thomas, 1, Swan Inn, Foxhole, wer those fined for drunkenness. LARCENY. James Smith (uHus Hurley) (40). a sail- maker, of Vaughan's Lodging-house, was charged with stealing a bundle of stockings, valued at 5s., from tne doorway of Mr. J. ti. Pank's establishment on the 28th April; and Clement Williams \34), a sweep, of Vaughan's Lodging-house, was charged with stealing and receiving the same. Mr. B. iieddoe, an assis- tant of Mr. Pank's, Mrs. Jane Curran (who saw tit. defendants taking the articles), Detective Lewis and P.C. Delve gave evidence. Smith, who bad several previous convictions against him, was sentenced to three mouths' hard labour, whilst Williams was given one month. AFFILIATION". A young single woman, named Sarah Ann Jones, residing at 16, Middle-road, CVrubwrla, applied to tne magistrates for an affiliation order against Eenjamin Jones, Giifachgoch. Mr. Davies (from the office of Mr. Nicholas, Llandilo) appeared tor the complainant, aud Henry Thompson (Messrs. Andrew and Thompson) for the defence. It appeared from complainant's evidence that she had already had an order made against the defen- dant with icspect to one child. The pater- nity of the second child was admitted, and an order of 3s. per was made. A PUBLICAN IN TROUBLE. Lewis Thos. Evans, landlord of the Builders' Arms. Oxford-street, was summoned for selling intoxicating liquor during illegal hours, and also for refusing to admit the police on the 16th April. Mr. Lawrence Richards appeared for the prosecution, and Mr. Viner Leeder defended. Sergeant Cuff stated that about 12 p.m on the Sunday in question, hearing voices in the Builders' Arms, he knocked at the door. The landlady asked who was thers, and he replied "police." The door was not opened, but after waiting a few minutes longer the landlord asked the same question, and he answered, the police; open the door." Defendant did not comply at once. and when the door was opened he saw by his watch that nine minutes had passed since he first knocked. Whilst he waited at the door he heard a lot of scuffling inside. On entering the bar-room, however, he found uo one except the defendant and his wife, but there were a couple of glasses about. He then went upstairs (though defendant tried to stop him) and in one room he found a man named Clanson, sitting on a sofa smoking, and in another a man who appeared to be asleep. P.C. James also gave evidence. Defendant said Clanson was invited into the Builders' Arms by a man named Webber, who was a lodger. Why he tried to stop the police going upstairs was because he was under the impression that without a warrant they could go only into rooms downstairs. where the beer was sold. Defendant was fined 40s. inclusive, for refusing to admit the police. The other summons was dismissed. DESERTION. Richard Shepherd, Norfolk-street, was summoned by his wife for desertion. Com- plainant having given evidence, defendant was ordered to contribute 8s. per week to- wards his wife's maintenance. AN ANCIENT ACT. SWANSEA SHOP-KEEPERS AND SUNDAY OBSERVANCE. The first of the adjourned Sunday trading eases to be called on was that against Mr. Andrewartha, of No. 51, High-street, for selling sweets on Sunday, the 15th April. Mr. Lawrence Richards appeared to prosecute on behalf of the police, and Mr. Viner Leeder was tor the defence. In his opening statement, Mr. Richards said the proceedings were taken under an Act which went a long way back, viz., to the time of Charles II. The Act set forth that No drover, horse-couser, waggoner, butcher, higgler, or my of their servants, to travel or come to his inn on the Lord's Day; the forfeiture being 20s.; and no tradesman, arti- ficer, workman, or labjurcr, or other person whatsoever, fourteen years of age or upwards, shall do or exercise any worldly labour. business, or work of his ordinary calling upon the Lord's Day (works of necessity and charity excepted), the forfeiture in &uch case to be 5s." before proceedings could be taken under the Act it wa3 necessary to obtain the consent of tho Head Constable, which con- sent he had in writing and could produce. Some time ago—he believed in February—the Mayor, at the request of the Town Council, sent circulars round to tho various tradesmen who kept their shops open on Sundays, call- ing their attention to the fact that they wet breaking the law, and requesting them to close on the Sabbath. Two months passed. and practically nothing having been done, the Chief Constable, in consequence of instruc- tions from the Watch Committee, had been compelled to take proceedings. He believed that in some of the cases the defence would be set up that the defendants hold refresh- ment-house licenses. Now, it had been de- cided that it was illegal for them to sell on Sundays refreshments for consumption off the premises. Therefore, if he could prove that the things wero consumed off the pre- mises, his case would be made out. P.C. Lloyd deposed to seeing a boy enter the defendant's shop and purchase a penny- worth of sweets. Cross-examined by Mr. Leeder, witness said he watched to see if the boy would eat any of the sweets in the shop. Mr. Leeder: Did he eat any in the shop? —Witness: No, sir. Mr. Leeder, without denying the offence, said the Sunday Observance Act, under which the proceedings were taken, although, of course, applying to the whole country, was only enforced spasmodically. And Swan- sea has now," he continued. the honour of being singled out in consequence of the ex- pressed desire of a very small minority of the I" townspeople." Mr. Leeder then went on to say that in justice to the tradesmen who were now suffering from this petty tyranny," he would point out that Mr. Richards was wrong in stating that the proceedings were due to th action of the. Town Council, as well as the Watch Committee. The facts were as follows:: On January 2nd a communi- cation was read from the Swansea Free Church Council (a body composed of one, two or ten persons) asking the Mayor to issue cir- culars calling upon siiop-keepcrs to close in the Sabbath. The further consideration of circular was eventually left to the Mayor, the Chairman of the Watch Committee (Dr. J. A. Rawlings), the Town Clerk and the Chief Constable, but on the distinct under- standing that no proceedings be taken until the matter had been brought before the Watch Committee. Subsequently 282 circulars were sent out by the Mayor, and the number of shops reported to have opened on the follow- ing Sunday was only 77. The circulars did not suggest in any way that the Ancient Act" was going to be enforced. If they had contained any ouch suggestion, the result would have been ora small revolution" in the town, pressure would have been brought to bear on others who infringed the Act, and it was more than likely the question would have been brought forcibly to the notice of every man on the Town Council. Strange to say, the next thing they heard was that proceedings were to be taken. In view of the fact that the Town Council had not discussed the matter. he suggested that the cases might be ad- journed in order to assure the Bench that it was the desire of the general body of the members. He asked, waa such a small offence, or a multitude of them, worth the 5s. fine or any mitigated penalty the Bench might think tit to imposer If the Act was c-ntorced it would soon become a farce, as it would cause a spirit of retaliation, and then the shop-keepers who were fined might com- plain of artificers, workmen and labourers" who followed their callings on Sundays. Deal- ing with the words "works of necessity" which were in the Act, he contended that it is just as necessary for a child to have a pennyworth of sweets on a Sunday as it is for you and I to have our apple tarts,etc., in our homes." (Applause in Court.) He felt confi- dent that if the Free Church Council could only imagine the nasty feelings and the "swear words" that their action had in- duced they would see that the remedy was worse than the disease—if it were a disease at all. Mr. Leeder, in conclusion, pointed out that several of the defendants were widows with heavy families. One was a widow with six children, and had nothing to depend upon except her little shop, whilst another was a widow with three children—in fact, there were many cases of that sort. Mr. D. Owen: Is it material, the number of children they have? Mr. Leeder: Only to show that a lot of tnem open their shops as a uecessity. Returning after a short retirement, the magistrates said: "This case having been brought before us, we have no alternative but to deal with it in the hope that some arrangement may be come to in future. We enforce to-day the nominal penalty of 2s. 6d." Acting on the suggestion of the advocate for the defence, the Bench then adjourned the remaining 37 cases, pending the further consideration of the question of Sun- day trading by the Watch Committee. TUESDAY. SHE TOOK THE LAW IN HER OWN HANDS. The lirst onender called up before Messrs. William Law, Uavid Owen and W. noyd this morning was a middie-iiged married woman, named Jane Jones. Deiendant, who carried a oaoy in her arms, was charged witn having ueen urunk and disorderly in Car mar then-read on Monday. A ouicer said he saw the woman "thumping" a man, and parted them. iNo sooner had he done tnio, nowever, than defendant again attacked the man. Jbventuaily, he had co take her into custody. JJeiendant, who seemed to feel her position acutely, said the man mentioned was the father ot her child. lie followed her wherever she went, and wanted her to beg tor him. Mr. Law told her that if the man molested her she should apply to the magistrates for protection. As it was her first ouence, and as they were inclined to believe her story, she would be discharged. DISORD EKLIES. James Norris, a labourer, hailing from Merthyr, was charged with drunken and dis- orderly conduct in High-street on tha 3Uh -nat. Defendant said he was a Militia man, and in view of the tact that the Swansea Militia were leaving that day for Tenby, the defendant was chscnarged. For a similar otbncc Michael John Dwyer, 122, Oak-terrace, was fined 10s., or in default seven days. AN ABSENTEE FROM THE MILITIA. John Thomas, a sturdy young fellow, of Gremiiili, was charged with being an absen- tee from the Glamorgan Artillery Militia. Defendant was handed over to a non-com- missioned officer who came to fetch turn. JUVENILE THIEVES. The Bench resumed the hearing of the case in which Warren Thomas (12), of Powell- street, and John Fuller 13), 6o, Dyfatty-st., were charged with stealing z;8 7s. from a till at the Cornish Dairy, Sc. Helen's-road, on the 14ch ult. The depositions of prosecutor, Mr. H. T. Perkins, and the two boys who saw the defendants steal the money, were read over. In reply to the charge both de- fendants admitted the offence. Mr. Law said it was evident that the lads had started a course of wrong-doing, and consequently the best thing that could be done was to sen-i them to the Neath Reformatory for five vears. Defendants were also charged with a seneb of thefts from public-houses and shops, but as the prosecutors did not appear these cases were not gone into. MORE YOUTHFUL OFFENDERS. David Humphreys, 32, Recorder-street, and John .Evans. 27, Bathurst-street, were sum- moned for gaming with cards in an open space near the South Dock. on the 21st ult. Dock Constable Roberts proved the case, and fines of 2s. 6d. were inflicted. Three youths—John and Robert Morris, 21, Sebastop'ol-street, and Ernest Boyce. 12, Clarence-street—were charged with playing pitch and toss, near the Fever Hospital. Robert Morris and Boyce, having previous convictions against them, were ttued 5s. and 7s. 6d. respectively, whilst John Moins had to pay 2s. 6d. LEFT CHARGEABLE TO THE UNION. Charles Crum, of Vaughan's Lodging- house, was prosecuted by Mr. J. Waiters, Relieving-otficer, for non-maintenance of his family, who are now chargeable to the Swan- sea Union. He was sent to prison for 14 days. John Hughes, blacksmith, Danygraig-road, was similarly prosecuted with respect to his father. An order for 2s. per week was made. WEDNESDAY. The magistrates present this morning were: Messrs. William Walters, E. R. Daniel, F. H. Glynn Price and David Owen. DRUNK AND DISORDERLY. Elizabeth O'Brien, a woman of ill-fame, 21, Mariner-street, was fined 20s., or 14 days, for drunken and disorderly conduct in Waterloo-stieet, on the 1st inst. David Edwards, Swansea, was fined 10s. for drunkenness at the Mumbles. Ellen and Catherine Sullivan, both of Greenhill, summoned for throwing stones in Berwick-street, on April 12th, were mulcted in fines of 10s., or 7 days. A DISHONEST BOY. Clement Fuller (12), was charged with stealing 5s. from the Star Inn, Fforestfach, on April 27th. Mrs. Thomas, the landlady, said that she left a cash box containing be- tween 10s. and 12s. in the bar on Friday morning last, but later on it was missed. Fuller was ordered to receive six strokes with the birch, which Mr. Walters hoped would do him good. COUNTY MISCELLANIES. Joseph Lloyd Williams, clerk, Treboeth, and J. H. Morris, Mumbles, were each fined 53. for keeping dogs without liceuses. James Fuller, ironmonger, Swansea, for riding a bicycle on the footpath in the parish of Brynau, on the 19th April, was fined 10s. James Barrow, a Mumbles farmer, had to deposit 2s. 6d. and costs for allowing his lioise to stray on the highway. A SERIOUS CHARGE was preferred against a Gowerton collier, named James Morgan, by Ann Lewis, an elderly manied woman. Mr. Viner Leeder defended. Complainant, who gave her evi- dence in a very unsatisfactory manner, sai-l Morgan came into her house on the evening of the 21st April, when her husband was cut. and attempted to commit an indecent assault upon her. She resisted, and eventually de- fendant went away without succeeding in his object. In the struggle she received several bruises. P.C. Williams deposed to the com- plainant calling him into her house on the evening in question. She made a complaint. and then asked him not to take proceedings. The case was adjourned until Saturday.

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l SCHOOL BOARD. A meeting of the Swansea School Board was held on Wednesday afternoon under the presi- dency of Mr. Jos. Rosser. There were also present':—Mrs. K. Freeman, Miss Brock, Revs. J. Pollock, Father Fitzgerald, Messrs. David Roberts, W. E. Harris, E. Griffiths, D. Harris, Gwilym Morgan, and the Clerk (Mr. A. W. Halden). MIss Brock moved the adoption of the minutes of the Truants' School Committee. Mrs. Freeman seconded. Mr. David Harris proposed, as an amendment, that the minutes be adopted with the exception of the one stating it was resolved that the question of Truants' School v. Industrial School ) be re-opened and dealt with at the next meeting of the committee." Mr. Harris said the question has been before them for the last two years (if not longer), full investigations had been made, and it was not until three months ago that they came to a decision in the matter. Now, he saw that the question was going to be te-opened. They were not likely to arrive at a different decision. But if they did decide to convert the Truant School at Bonymaen into an industrial one, it would mean a very large additional cost to the working of the school, as a considerable sum would have to be spent on the building. Mr. Griffiths, in seconding, said ho thought the matter had been discussed long enough. Miss Brock explained that the committee wanted to re-open the question because at the last meeting they had seen a long list of boys who had been detained at the Truant School over three months, and some over two years. She thought it a terrible thing to keep the boys without training of any sort, but they could not leave them return to their homes. Aid. Gwilym Morgan, a member of the com- mittee, said he fully agreed with the decision previously arrived at, but since then certain facts had come to his knowledge which had caused him to change his mind. When the committee inquired into the circumstances connected with the boys' homes, they found that it would not do to send them home, for they would drift on the streets and soon be found in prison. He thought they should teach them some trade, so as to give them a chance in life. On the amendment being put to the meeting it was lost, and the minutes were then confirmed. This was all the business of public interest.

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE. The monthly meeting of the Swansea Chamber of Commerce was held at the Exchange on Friday afternoon, under the presidency of Mr. J. R. Leaver. Amongst those also present were Miss Dillwyn. Mr. W. Law (Harbour Superintendent), Massrs. E. P. Cook, H. Chalk, Simpson, Greatrex, Ben Jones, Foy, Behenna, James Livingston, W. T. Farr, and E. P. Jones (secretary). DINING ACCOMMODATION ON THE G.W.R. The action of the Cardiff Chamber, which was moving in the matter of requesting the G.W.R. Company to extend their dining accommodation between South Wales and Paddington, not only to the flrst-olass passenge: s, but to the second and third-class travellers, was brought forward. The Cardiff Chamber asked the local Chamber to support them in the matter, and Mr. Jones stated that he had written to the G.W.R., and received an acknowledgment of his letter and a promise that the question should be placed before the directorate. NEW MEMBER. Mr. J. J. Tweedy (a member of the firm of Tweedy and Co., coal shippers, who have just opened business in the town) was proposed as a member of the Chamber by lr. W. T. Farr, and Mr. J. H. Grove seconded his election. He was unanimously elected. OTHER MATTERS. To attend the fourth conference of the Con- gress of Chambers of Commerce of the Empire, to be opened in London on June 26th, Sir John Jones Jenkins and Mr. J. R. Leaver were appointed delegates on behalf of the Swansea Chamber. The Secretary stated that negotiations were going on with the National Telephone Company for the provision of a call office at the Prince of Wales Dock.

THE PROPOSED EXTENSION TO THE WORKHOUSE. The first meeting of the new Building Com- mittee of the Swansea Union, was held on Wed- nesday morning, when there were present— Messrs. Rees Harries, LI. Davies, F. H. GIJnn Price, J. W. Johnston, A. E. Auckland, H. G. Solomon, J. Harvey, Wm. Williams, Stevens and Devonald, and the Clerk (Mr. LI. Jenkins). At the outset, Mr. Rees Harries was voted to the chair. Mr. F. H. Glynn Price was appointed chairman, and Mr. J. W. Johnston vice-chairman. Mr. Price then took his seat and briefly thanked the Committee for the honour conferred upon him. Mr. Johnston also returned thanks. The Clerk read the draft agreement drawn up by Mr. H. W. Wills's solicitor, embodying the arrangement come to by the Board of Guardians with reference to the proposed extension to the Workhouse. Mr. Auckland said they were going to pay Mr. Wills one per cent. on the bills of quantities more than the architect to the School Board was paid. He thought 5 per cent. too much. Mr. Rees Harries pointed out that it was too late to raise that point. The Board had accepted the terms of the agreement. After some discussion it was decided to recom- mend the Board to seal the agreement. A letter was read from the Local Government Board, inquiring as to the present position of the Guardians with regard to this matter. Mr. Rees Harries suggested that the first step of the Committee should be to appoint a day to meet at the Workhouse to go into the question thoroaghly. Mr. Solomon thought it would be a good plan— and a cheap one in the end—to send up a few Guardians to London to explain what was wanted. They could go into the matter in detail, and then on their return the architect could be instructed to prepare plans in accordance with the wishes of the Local Government Board. Mr. J ohnstOD thought they should carry out Mr. Rees Harries's suggestion first of all, so that they might try to formulate a definite scheme to lay before the Local Government Board, in lieu of the present one. He suggested that the architect, the medical officer, and the master should attend, and go round the House with the Committee. Mr. Auckland agreed, and said they could then act on the suggestion of Mr. Solomon, as it would be far better to send a deputation to London than to write a lot of letters. It was decided to meet ftt the Workhouse, on Tuesday next, at 12.30.

MUMBLES. otstermouth DISTRICT COUNCIL. ANNUAL MEETING. The annual meeting of the Oystermouth District Council took place on Tuesday evening in the old Board-room. There were present: Dr. A. Lloyd Jones, Messrs. J. Lloyd Rogers, Hy. Davies, R. Beck, W. Weaver, L J. Bessent, W. Howllli, R. Woolacott, J. Harris, LI. Jarvig. H. Morris, T. W. James (Clerk), J. H. Robinson (Deputy-clerk), and J. S. Brun (Surveyor). The first business was the election of chairman, vice-chairman, &c. Mr. J. Lloyd Rogers, proposed the election of the retiring vice-chairman (Mr. Hy. Davies) as chairman tor the ensuing year. In doing so he said Mr. Davies had been a faithful and useful member. Mr. Woolacott seconded, and it was carried nem con. Mr. Davies then took the chair, and in return- ing thanks for the honour conferred upon him, he said that they could congratulate themselves upon what had been done during the last 5 years. They had been criticised on different occasions, as individuals and aa a body. by the Press and others, but those members who came into the Council five years ago, and were aware of the state of things at that time, must feel that a great alteration bad taken place during that period. For at the time when the Local Board was formed into a District Council, the state of affairs was far different to what it was at present. At that time, the clerkship was of quite a different nature, the surveyorship also, whilst the collection of rates was on a different basis. For instance, when the rate was closed five years ago there was something between £200 and £300 outstanding, whilst the rate just closed shewed only 30a. outstanding. (Hear, hear). With regard to the future, he thought they would agree with him that the Council had not reached that happy period when they could rest on their oars take matters easy. On the contrary, they had still a large amount of work to do. During the past three years they had been pulling hard against the stream, and they still had hard work before them. Many improvements were being agitated for which were required to benefit tha place, but when they came to consider the small amount of money at their disposal they would see at once the difficulties they had to face. He felt quite certain that improved Btreets, better lighting and an extension of the sewers would benefit the place a great deal, but they had to consider the fact that they could not possibly carry out the improvements without increasing the rates. Thus there came the question, whether it would be better to plod along as in the:past, bit by bit, or to take the bull by the horns and borrow money with which to carry out the improvements that were badly wanted. But to him it seemed the improvements could not be carried out without increasing the rates, which might mean the driving away from the district many people who were now living there. However, the Council would have to do something very shortly, After again thanking the members for tne honour conferred upon him, Mr. Davies, in concluding, asked them for" their sympathy, indulgence and attendance "—the latter especially at committee meetings, where the most important part of the work was done. Mr. Rogers proposed the^election of Mr. L. J. Bessent as vice-chairman. Mr. Howells seconded. Dr. Lloyd Jones asked if there was any rule with regard to the election of chairman and vice- chairman. If thay followed a rule as to seniority he wished to remind them that there was an older member than Mr. Bessent, namely, Mr. W. Howells. The Chairman said there was no rule, and it was open to the Council to elect whoever they liked as chairman or vice-chairman. But since Mr. Woolacott was elected ehairman two years ago they had elected the retiring vice-chiirman to the higher position for the ensuing year. He must correct the statement that Mr. Howells was an older member than Mr. Bessent, for that was not the case. Mr. Howells said he had no ambition to become chairman, as he was perfectly contented to sit in the li lower ranks." The Chairman I think it will be well to follow in future the rule that has been started of electing the retiring vice-chairman to the higher position. Dr. Jones said he simply wanted to know the procedure, being a new member. Mr. Rogers' motion was then carried unani- mously, and in returning thanks, Mr. Bessent said he would willingly have withdrawn if Mr. Howells had been prepared to take the seat, as he was an older man. On the motion of Mr. Howells, seconded by Mr. Woolacott, Mr. Beck was re-elected Chairman of the Works Committee. Mr. Harris moved, Mr. Howells seconded, and Mr. LI. Jarvis was appointed Chairman of the Finance Committee. In returning thanks, Mr. Jarvis remarked that he had always thought the best way to bring prosperity to the Mumbles was to increase the population, and that could ouly be done by keep- ing the rates down. The Clerk, Surveyor and Rate Collector (Mr. Maslen) were also re-appointed. BURIAL BOARD. Messrs. Bessent, Jarvis, Morris, Woollacott, Lloyd Logers, and Harris were elected on the Burial Board, the chairman desiring not to be re- elected, as he was afraid he could not spare the time. MEDICAL OFFICER'S REPORT. The minutes having been confirmed, the Clerk read the quarterly report of the Medical Officer (Dr. J. Bevan), which showed that 29 births were registered, equivalent to a rate of 24.10 per 1,000, as compared with a mean of 24.02. Tnere were 17 deaths, equivalent to a rate of 14.0, as com- pared with 14.84 for the corresponding period of three preceding years. THE CAKD-PLAYING NUISANCE. Mr. Woolacott called the attention of the Council to the amount of card-playing, pitcn and toss, &j., that weut 011 in tue village on ban- days. He said it was abominable, aud ought to be stopped somehow. ihe Chairman said some time ago it was very bad. Then tor a time it died a,vay, but he believed it was growing again. He suggested that they should call the attention of tue local police to tha matter, and then went on tj reier to the recent visit ot the Parisian football team. He said that when they were returning on the Sunday night, after uining at the Langland Bay Hotel, tney created a tremendous noise by shout- ing and scieaming. Their rowayism was a dis- grace to their country, to their nation, and to the town to which they belonged. tie noticed the police had recently got one or two hoys tined for making a httle noise, and he hoped tney would turn their attention 10 card-playing. Mr. H. Morris You suould have seen the police on Easter Monday 1 took the number of a tew of them." Tne speaker also said the Council should go further, nz., to the Superin- tendent, as the local ponce already knew ot the matter. Me. J. Harris said the card-playing and the bad language used was something aooinimible in Ihistleooon, especially on Sundays, ihe youths were in the habit ot getting ou someone's private property, and he supposed the police could not ttien interfere. Atter further discussion it was agreed to call the attention of the local police secgeant to tie nuisance. ihis was all the business of public interest.

PONTARDAWE. LBY OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.] FUNERAL. — On Saturday last Mrs. H Bowen, landlady of the Crosa Hands Hotel" was mined at St. Peter's Church Cemetery. A large number attended the luneral. She leaves five children. BOARD OF GUARDIANS. The General Purposes Committee met on Iliursday in last week at the Workhouse Loard Room. Present: Mr. Herbert Lloyd (Chairman) Messrs. Hodgaon, Daniel Jones and A. W. Samuel. The estimates for special expenses were considered and recommended. Parish of Cilybebvll, £289; Llanguicke, £1,272; Rhyn- dwvclydach, JS521. The Guardians held their annual meeting on the above date and at the same place, and proceeded to elect a chairman, there being present Messrs. H. Lloyd, R. S. Hodgson, 1. Johns, William Jenkins, Daniel Lewis, Daniel Júnes, A. W. Samuel, T. Morgan, Rhys Williams, D. Williams, D. Davies, T. W. Evans, 1. Jenkins, W. P. Player, and David John. Mr. Herbert Lloyd was unanimously re- elected, having occupied the position for 25 years. Mr. Lloyd, in returning thanks, stated it gave him the greatest pleasure in acting as chairman, as he had always been treated with the greatest courtesy, and although there was not always an unanimity of opinion on different questions, there never was any squabbling, offensive language, or resorting to blows, as sometimes happened at some Boards. Messrs. Hodgson and J. Johns were re-elec- ted vice-chairmen. The Visiting, Finance and Assessment Com- mittees were re-elected. The annual report of the Assessment Com- mittee was read and adopted. Precepts were issued on the several parts for the undermentioned amount to meet the Poor Law expenses. Cilybebyll, £713; Llan- guicke, £1,563; Rhyndwy Mawr, £623; Ynisymond, £ 143; Ystradgyn- lais Higher, £222; Ystradgynlais Lower, £ 803. The Building Committee advised the accep- tance Mr. Owen's tender for repairing the bells for £3 14s. Dd. The same was agreed to. The undermentioned Overseers were ap- pointed — Cilybsbili Parish: Messrs. D. James, D. T. Williams, and James James. Llanguicke: Thomas Gower, Ystalyfera; John Griffiths, Ystalyfera; Henry Davies, Alltwen; William Jones, Ynisymedw; ThoR. Howells. Cwmgorse: Isaac Price, Brynam- man. Rhyndwy Clydach: D. Wiiiiams, Tre- han08; George Davies, Clydach; Daniel1 Jones, Pontardawe; John Davies, Clydach. Ynisymond: William Morgan, Ynisymond; G. Hopkins, Alltwen. Y strad Higher: R. Davies, Abercrave; William Lewis, Colbren. Ystrad Lower: Gwilym Davies, Abercrave- William Phillips, Cwmtwrch; William Grifnths, Ystradgynlais; Daniel Morgau, istradgynlais. DISTRICT COUNCIL. a"nual meeting held on the 26th ult., Mr. Herbert Lloyd -was elected Chair- man for the current year, and Mr. D. W. John was elected Vice-Chairman. The General Purpose Committee was re- elected. The same five Councillors were re-elected to serve on the Cwmtwrch Joint Committee. The amount of the precepts for the several pansnes were as followsCilybebill, £358; Mawr, £325; Rhyndwv Clydach, £386; Ynisymond, JB66, these sums being required to meet general expenses. A report had been prepared on the advan- tages of procuring a steam roller for the dis- trict roads as requested by tho Council. It was agreed that the report be printed for the members, and Mr. Player adjourned his motion for a month. The taking over of the Lluast spring and laying a water supply for the use of the tenant farmers, estimated cost £7, was recommen- ded; and that water be laid on to the cot- tages near the offices of the Ystalyfera Iron and Tin Plate Company, at a cost of about JB60. Councillor Hodgson moved U That the time has arrived when steps ought to be taken to light Ystalyfera with gas. and that the necessary steps be taken to bring this about." The resolution was seconded by Councillor Davies, of Ystalyfera, and Mr. T. Morgan, also of Ystalyfera, spoke in support of the resolution, which was carried with one dis- sentient. The Inspector of Nuisances reported two cases at Y stalyfera, and the Engineer was

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NEATH & DISTRICT. [BY OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.] NEATH COUNTY POLICE.—FRIDAY. [Before Messrs. Edward Davies, M. G. Roberts, and Walter Rice Evans.] SUNDAY DRUNKENNESS.—The following were fined for Sunday drunkenness :—David James, collier, Rosolven, 5s. and costs John Merriman, labourer, Llansamlet, 10s. and costs and David Davies, engine-driver, Llansamlet, 10s. and costs. DRUNKENNESS.—William Vaughan, fireman, was fined 53. and costs for drunkenness. DRUNK AND DISORDERLY.—The following were fined for having been drunk and disorderly —Daniel Jones, haulier, Pontneathvanghan, 7s. 6d. and costs Charles Wiiiiams, collier, Glyn- Neath, 7s. 6d. and costs John Cornelius, labourer, Glyn-Neath, 10s. and costs Thomas Watkins, labourer, Cwmgwrach, 7s. 6d. and costs and John Osborne, labourer, Neath, 5s. and costs. SUNDAY DRINKING.—Richard Williams, fitter, and Thomas Arnold, blacksmith, both of Briton Ferry, were charged with falsely representing themselves to be bona-fide travellers. Their false representations enabled them to obtain beer at the "tap" of the Jersey Marine Hotel. Each was fined 10s. and costs.—John Thomas, timber- man, Glyn-Neath, for a similar offence at the Crown public-house, Glyn-Neath, was also fined 10s. and costs. SUPPLYING A DRUNKEN MAN. John Morris, publican, Cwmgwrach, was charged with supplying beer to a man named Thomas Watkins, labourer, whilst in a state of drunkenness, on the 21st of April. Mr. Trevor Hunter was for the prosecution, and Mr. A. Russell Thomas repre- sented the defendant. P.C. Davies proved the charge, and a fine of 5s. and costs was imposed. AN UNMUZZLED^DOG.—Edward Williams was charged with having his dog unmuzzled. Defen- dant came into court with the dog under his arm. It was a diminutive creature, stated only to be six weeks old. Defendant protested that it was un- reasonable to call upon him to muzzle such a small dog. The Clerk I am afraid you will have to go to Parliament to get our legislators to say that dogs six weeks old need not be muzzled (Laughter.)—Fined Is. and costs. NEATH BOROUGH POLICE COURT.— SATURDAY. [Before the Mayor (Aid. H. P. Charles), and Councillor Hopkin Jones.] AN ACTOR SENT TO PRISON.—Hugh Hum- phrey Evans, who stated that he was a native of Carnarvonshire, was brought up in custody and charged with stealing t2 15s. belonging to Daniel Donovan, landlord of the Queen's Hotel, with whom the accused had lodged for the past five weeks. The evidence was to the effect that on the Friday night Evans and Donovan had supper together, and after supper the prosecutor missed the money which his wife had placed in a wine-glass on the kitchen mantelpiece. Blame was cast upon both Evans and the servant of the hon-e, and a policeman was sent for. After much talk the accused brought out the money from under the mattress of his bed, and admitted that he had stolen it. The Bench sent him to prison for 21 days without hard labour. Evans, who described himself as a dramatic artiste, has been performing at the Prince of Wales Theatre for the past nine months. NOTICE OF APPEAL.—Bartholomew O'Connell, landlord of the Cornish Arms, the Green, who was fined 40s. and coats at the Neath Borough Police Court for selling beer on Sunday, gave notice of appeal, and with his solicitor (xWr. Edward Powell), entered into the usual recogniz- ances. NEATH FREE CHURCH COUNCIL. THE ANNUAL MEETING. The annual meeting of the Neath and District Free Church Council was held in the new school- room of Gnoll-road Congregational Church on Friday evening last. There was a large atten- dance. The first business on the agenda was the election of chairman for the ensuing year. The Rev. Jonah Roberts, Maesyrhaf, presided until the election by a large majority of the Rev. W. Richards, of Bethel, Briton Ferry. Tile ques- tions under the consideration of the Council were varied and interesting. Among other matters it was decided to localize the Free Churchman, a monthly magaziue, published by the National Council. It was stated that there was every prospect of the venture being a complete success. The question of the "Evangelization" of the town and district was also discussed, and it was decided to immediately take steps in that direc- tion. With a strong Council, an efficient Execu- tive. an energetic body of offisers, and Mr. R. A. Williams, the successful pioneer of the Temper- ance Union, as secretary, there should be a bright future before this organization. In the minds of Free Churchmen there is the settled conviction, that in matters of a civic, moral and religious character, the Neath and District Free Church Council is a power to be reckoned with, and Friday night's meeting is held to be a good augury. It is felt that there has been created a new strong energising and uplifting force. The Rev. J. Dale, and County Councillor Hopkin Morgan were elected vice-presidents.

THE KIMBERLEY SIEGE. MR. CLIFFORD ALFORD'S DIARY CON- TINUED. A THRILLING STORY. Mr. Clifford Alford has sent a further section of his most interesting diary to his father, Mr. R. J. Alford, of Neath, and we have availed our- selves of the opportunity which has been kindly allowed us, of publishing it in the Cambrian ex- clusively. FEBRUARY 7th, 1900. To-day we have had the most terrible experience since the siege began, namely, the firing into Kimberley, for the first time, of the Boer 100 pounder (six inch) gun. About 11 o'clock this morning, while Mr. Jones, the Secretary of the Supply Committee, was talking to me at head quarters, we were all startled by a terrific screeching noise followed somewhere very near by a terrific explosion. I ran out and found it had gone into a house in the next street in front of us, terribly mutilating a little child. For- tunately no one else was hurt, but great damage was done to the house and furniture. I saw a soldier (one of the Lancashires) coming away with about i of the hasb of the shell, and we could see for ourselves that which we most dreaded in the shape of shells had indeed come. THURSDAY, FEB. 8th. Still more shelling, and people in state of great panic. Forts and laagers being built in all directions. Military authorities, too, starting. making bomb proofs and shelters for the public. Not so heavy firing as yesterday. Rumours that our gun, Long Cecil," had either damaged tha Boer gun, or killed a number of the men who worked it. Edith, Stuart, and Dudley, took shelter in a friend's fort, a back yard (Mr. Fredreas'). About 7 p.m., a shell went into Cuthbert & Co.'s stores, one of the largest in Kimberley, setting fire to it. Big blaze, buildings on either side escaping marvellously. This morning my friend Newsham and I went to market for our ration of meat, and saw J. H. O'Callaghan's stores, which had been struck the night before; also the Buffalo Club, which is wreck so far as the billiard room is concerned, On the outer side of the road is a farrier's shop. In this latter, one of the men was shoeing a horse, when a piece of shell, weighing about 10 to 12 pounds, flew across and killed the horse. The man was safe. The shell fragment went through the roof and ultimately landed in one of De Beer's offices, about 200 yards from the club. Here a Mr. Morton was locking a safe at the time. Piece of a shall came through the window, struck each wall and hit the safe. Mortoa un- hurt, with a big fright, and the piece of shell as a momento. Piece of shell presumably from the one that entered O'Callaghan's, flew about 200 yards and killed a poor man named Sarson, who was a carman at the Standard Restaurant. FEBRUARY 9th. Last night I placed our bed in corner of room furthest from line of fire. I knew that four brick walls would be poor shelter against these terrible shells. About six o'clock the Boer gun began again, the first shot going well over us, the second gave me a fright. Thought she was in our house. Must have been very close, for our house trembled as she passed over our roof. Shell embedded itself in theiyard of a Mr. Noble about 50 yards away. Dressed immediately and waited for next. She fired as a rule every ten minutes or so, so that after a shot we had a chance to come from cover, but this morning they were evidently trying some quick firing, for another shell went off before we could reach Fredreas' laager. It screeched over us and fell in station yard. I had baby in my arms. Made me wince. Two shells fell almost on the same spot, one striking a steel rail (on line), knocked off a piece about two feet in length, and sent it flying through the roof of Gladstone Hotel, 130 yards away. Imagine the force, to break off a piece of fixed steel rail, carry it such a distance, and drop it through a galvanized iron roof. About 11 o'clock this morning 1 took a walk round. By this time there were signals given from the Conning Tower (where Colonel Keke. wich places himself and has a grand view of the country round). As soon as the flash of the Boer gun is seen (the Boer gun is at Kamfersdam, about five miles away), a big red flag is shown by day, and a big red lamp by night, also there was a loud bugle call. Louk-outs were placed a.t different parts in the town-the passenger station the Market-square, and other points, and as soon as they saw tile signal, and heard the bugle, they blew a loud whistle, like a policeman's or guard's. This was, of course, the warning to get under cover. After the signal we had about 12 seconds. Those near shelters would get there. People in the street lay down at full length at the base of nearest house furthest from the line of fire, or if gutter fairly deep with a good high kerb stone lie there. Then came the report of the gun, after that the blood-curling screech of the shell travel ing through the air, and this would be foils wed by the explosion as the shell pitched, and where she pitched there was a terrific cloud of dust. One shell, I should say about 10.45 a.m., burst in the air. She had a time fuse ou. Ou hearing the burst I came out from cover. I heard the pieces falling about the roofs, and one piece whirled past my head, it could not have been more than five or six inches away. It tell in the middle of the road, and travelled to the coping stone, stopped it. A boy in the street ran and caught it before I properly recovered from the fright. The next shell fell in a house about 30 yards away, between Bradley's house and mine, and the sight I never shall forget. I ran and was third to get in the house wiiicn had been struck. The house was an utter wreck. Afri. Solomon waa carried out terribly mutilated, her breasts in ribbons, her teeth through her lips, and cheek and her left thumb torn off. But sile lived until the following nigth. Three or four young ladies were helped out of the same house. The last although not hurt, was making tier way out alone. I was just in time to catch her. She was like one drunk. Then we went to the front of the house. Poor Solomon (Robby) was brought out unhurt, but stunned and be-pattered with blood. He caught my face in his hands and said look after my children old fellow." I asked him where they were, and he replied down the cellar, ma.n." I got in and fouad a friend of mine and another one down the cellar, which, like the house, was full of a terribly suffocating smoke. Word was passed up that it was all over with the baby, and a few minutes later we lifted the dear little chfld out in a quilt and placed it in what was left of the front bedroom. The baby's head was smashed in, but its face was all right, and looked like that of a wax model. The mother must have been. dressing the baby when the shell struck. I was, of course, greatly upset by this sight, as you may imagine. Cannot describe the state of the house, it was an utter wreck. The ring of the shell was found in a tin box, in which there was a dresa suit. Cape brandy has been much used by the residents of Kimberley to help them on with their short rations. Our breakfast consists of bread and salt or vinegar cr sauce. Managed to get hold of a bottle of Anchovey sauce, but tnis sort of thing makes one's mouth and gums so raw, that alum water has to be used to harden them. Our meat ration was quarter pound of horse or mule flesh, and ten and a half ounces bread, composed of three parts meal, and one part flour. I managed also to get a saucnarine for sweetening purposes. Sugar very scarce. It has been very hard, the children and Stuart often crying for bread in the evening, and none to be had until the following morning. I am in the office where a.U permits are issued to bakers and merchants to purchase flower, meal, &c., and tea, coffee, and, sugar for retailing to purchasers who also have to produce permits for their allowance, according to number of family. The Boers keep firing their big gun, doing considerable damage to property. About 6.30 p.m. a shell fell in top rooms of Grand Hotel, and, strange to tay, it killed one of the finest men Kimberley possessed. Mr. George Labran, the very man who made our big gun Long Cecil in the De Beers' workshop. The shell must have caught him fairly in the front of his body, he was so terribly mutilated. Had he remained five minutes longer where he had been talking to some friends he would have been safe. He had just left them to go to his room to dress for dinner. This shell demolished five rooms, and did great damage to outer walls. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10th. Shelling by Boers began at 6 a.m., and was kept up until 11 a.m. The ripping and screecliing recommenced at 3 p.m. and was kept up until dark. About 8.45 a.m. in the morning I had jastr left house when a shell pitched in Roper-street. It was at the corner of the yard of house belong- ing to Mr. Egan, doing no more damag8 than bowling over a few sheets of galvanised iron. It had buried itself in the soft ground. I had a good specimen from this-about half case (shrapnel). It was too hot for me to pick up for some time. Shells falling all round us. Poor Labran's funeral at 8 p.m. We are crowded with traitors in Kimberley. The Boers were without doubt informed of the funeral, and they were not satis-, fied with killing Labran, but most diabolically fired on his funeral- Just as the funeral left the hospital the band began to play the Funeral March," and a. shell went screeching over, followed by a second. They dropped some distance away. The order was given for the band to cease playing, and the remainder of the journey to the cemetery was covered in silence, reminding one very

instructed to enquire into the same and re- I port thereon at the next meeting. FOOTBALL. On Saturday afternoon Hamilton (Morris- ton) visited Pontardawe to play a Rugby game against a picked XV. The game was of a very scrambling nature. The visitors showed superior combination, and their full back played a remarkably good game. The game ended in a win for Hamilton by 1 penalty goal and 2 tries to nil. The proceeds of the gate were devoted towards wiping off the deficit of the Association Club. The at- tendance was poor, so that the object of the game was not very materially assisted. PRIORTON AND YNISOERW.—These two clubs meet at Pontardawe on Saturday next to decide tho question of superiority in the League competition.