The Cambrian

PEACE CONFERENCE. IMPORTANT STATEMENT. Mr Brodrick informed the House of Com- mons yesterday that Sehalk Burger. Mr Reitz, Mr Jacob, and Commandant Lucas Meyer had reached Klerksdorp, and had been joined by Commandant Botha, Mr Steyn, General De Wet, and General Delarey.

THE FIGHT WITH DELAREY. The casualty list shows that in the fight with Delarey in the Western Traisvaal, en March 31st, three British officers and 24 men were killed, and sixteen officers and 131 men wounded. These include losses to the Welsh Yeomanry to the extent of one officer wounded and one man killed and twelve wounded. The enemy admit havung lost 137 killed and wounded. DRAGOONS LOOSE HEAVILY. The British losses in the conflict at Bosch- sanskop, East of Johannesburg, on April 1st, between Colonel Lawley and the Boers, num- ber 74, including 71 in the 2nd Dragoon Guards. LIEUTENANT CHARLES. NEATH. A telegram received at Neath on Tuesday, states that Lieut. Charles' condition is im- proving. He and Private Smale (Swansea) were shot through the body by a couple of Boers who were encountered while the officer and his orderly were walking near a block- house 13 miles South-west of Johannesburg. The Boers placed Smale on a horse and went with him towards a blockhouse to give infor- mation. Lieut. Charles was lying six hours on the veldt before he could be brought in, and his life was saved by first-aid rendered by Lieut. Pechall, of a neighbouring block- house. After the mishap a patrol set out, and discovering the Boers were 200 strong, had to fall baok. The War Office notifies the following:- Condition of Officer.—Volunteer Company Welsh Regiment—Lieut. Charles, no change; April 2nd. SWANSEA YEOMAN INVALIDED HOME. Corporal Harry Morris, of the 30th (Pem- brokeshire) Company of Imperial Yeomanry, has been invalided home from the front, and arrived in Swansea on Saturday. Cor- poral Morris lives at 43, Carlton-terrace. MEDAL BARS FOR SWANSEA VOLUN- TEERS. The first Glamorgan Active Service Com- pany have received bars for their medals. These Volunteers, who went through the campaign with the regiment, and were under fire at Diamond Hill and Belfast will, it is stated, receive four bars—two for these en- gagements and two Colonial bars.

THE EDUCATION BILL. FEDERATION OF SCHOOL BOARDS OF WALES. STRENUOUS OPPOSITION TO BE WAGED. A meeting of the Executive Committee of the Federation of School Boards of Wales and Mon- mouthshire was held at the Guildhall, Shrews- bury, on Friday. It was unanimously decided to offer the most strenuous opposition to the Education Bill now before the eountry, and the following resolution was passed, viz. — That in the opinion of this committee there should be one local educational authority having under its control both grades of educa- tion — primary and secondary (including technical)—in areas of reasonable and suitable size, and that the area suggested be that of the Poor-law Unions. That the local educational authority be directly elected for the purposes of education alone. That the powers conferred by the Elementary Educatiou Acts. 1870-1902. the Teohnical Instruction Act, 1889, the Welsh Intermediate Education Act, 1889, and the Local Taxation Act, 1890, be transferred to this local educational authority. The present Education Bill was carefully con- sider ed clause by clause. The provisions relating to religious instruction were felt to be unsatis- factory, and the Cowper-Temple clause (known as the conscience clause) was recommended in lieu of clause 4. The committee decided that the appointment of local managers for school* pro- vided by the looal authority should be optional and not compulsory. With reference to the maintenance of schools not provided by the local educational authority, the committee recommend- ed that the accounts of the managers be subject to audit by the Local Government Board and not by the local authority itself, that the appointment and dismissal of teachers be entirely in the coutrol of the local educational authority and not of the managers, and that the local educational authority shall appoint one-half instead of one- third of the managers of these schools. The Bill proposes in section 10 that the Board of Education^hall determine whether a school is necessary or not. The committee suggest that the clause shall read :—" The local educational authority shall in all cases determine whether a school is necessary or not." lhe committee are entirely opposed to the appointment of the County Governing Bodies under the Welsh Intermediate Act as the education committees. The County Governing Body is not directly elected by the ratepayers it covers too wide an area it is quite inexperienced in the management of elementary education, and the general public get to know little or nothing of its proceedings, Only 2 per cent. of the children of Wales are dealt with by the Local Governing Bodies. It was felt that the definition of an elementary school in clause 18 should include any school carried on as an evening school under the regulations of the Board of Education, and that the limitation of elementary education to scholars of not more than 15 years of age shall be vigor. ously opposed, and that similar conditions to t hose existing in Scotland be demanded for Wales. The Sootch boy or girl may remain in a Higher Grade School to the age of 18, and in common justice the same treatment should be meted out to the English and Welsh scholar. Clause 20 of the Bill excludes Scotland, Ireland, and London. The committee recommend that Wales also be added to this section. A general meeting of the Federation will be held at Llandrindod on May 2nd to consider the recommendations of the Executive Committee, and a manifesto will t&en be issued to all the School Boards in the Federation. .¡- "NEW FORT. OF CHURCH RATE." Writing to the "Times," Dr. Joseph Parser aays :—" In my opinion, which I am sure yoa will allow me to express, the duty of all true Nonconformists is clear. Mr. Balfour means to be fair. For that intention let the fullest credit be given him. But Mr. Balfour does not Under- stand Nonconformity. No Conservative Chnrri,- man has the faintest inkling of what No "con- formity is aiming at. We have had enou„i, nf argumentative contention. Our attitude g"°t now be one of quiet, resolute, and uncompr™ ;s ing resistance We have gone far beyon(1^h« region of words, amendments,' and evenriva1 schemes. From this moment Nonconformists must say to tha Government, You ,orimsis majority which, if united, i8 strong en v, carry any proposal carry your Education Bill send your tax collector round, but let h; if that every Nonconformist will simply r ^nP,w education rate and take joyfully the f his poods ratber than submit to a ne^ f' £ Church rate and a new variety of KO„Im- degradation. We have exhausted argumenttan™ us resolve upon conscientious reeistance." MEETING AT SWANSEA. The Swansea Welsh Free Churches Council have decided to hold a mass meeting towards the enj of this month to protest asrainst the Bill. Mr. Lloyd Georga, M.P.. Mr. W, Jones, M.P., and the local member will be invited to speak. Mr. Morgan Jeokina has been deputed by the Council to attend tbe national conference in London on the 15th inst.

VOTE OF CENSURE ON WELSH CHURCHES. On Monday last Mr Tennyson Smith con- cluded a most successful mission in Cwmaman, near Aberdare. On Sunday night numbers were unable to stain admission, and the p tables were crowded. r denounced four churches in e istrict toe having lent their buildings <>r a oca publican, who is a candidate for ihn council election, to hold his meetings in and sa.d that the cabals who were I r>sponsible were traitors to Christ. A vute of censure upon the church." in (ju-s'1on w:w passed enthusiastically bv (.J w ed audience with only one hand held up to the contrary.

MARRIAGE OF THE MAYOR OF ABERAVON, A POPULAR EVENT. I Not within recent years has a wedding in the ancient borough attracted so much at- tention as that which was contracted on Wednesday afternoon in the Parish Church of St. Mary's, Aberavon, when the contracting parties were His Worship the Mayor (Dr. J. H. Williams, J.P.) and Miss Annie Richards, the eldest daughter of the late Mr. Richard Richards, of Brynhyfryd, Aberavon, formerly of Peterston, near Cardiff. The event had been looked forward to with uncommon in- terest for weeks past, the genial doctor having a host of friends in the borough and imme- diate districts. Flags bung from windows, etc., here and there, and arches of flags were thrown across the street. Congratulations were showered upon Aberavon's Chief Magis- trate upon having so happily escaped cheer- less celibacy. Public interest and goodwill were manifested by the crowds of well-wishers which thronged the church and its approaches. Indeed, as the hour of the wedding approached, all Aberavon appeared to be out- of-doors in the clear sunshine, but crisp air, all sharing in the desire for the happy pair— Rapture, without regret! A fire, with love for its perennial fuel, The chrysolite of life a costly jewel In a home casket set." Carriages rolled through the streets ever and anon, with horses and men gaily decorated with nuptial symbols. The bridegroom was early at the church, accompanied by the best man—Dr. Samuel. Shortly afterwards the bride, whose beauty was enhanced by her most exquisite toilet, entered the church leaning on the arm of her brother (Dr. Jones Richards), the bridesmaids following in close attendance. The bride was elegantly attired in a rich robe of ivory duchesse satin, the skirt having three accordion pleated chiffon flounces, and was further embellished with Vandyke pearl embroidery. The bodice had transparent yoke and cream and embroidered chiffon work, also a draped fichu. A full court train fell from the shoulders, elaborately trimmed with rich Brussels lace and orange blossoms, and had a full chiffon ruche at the edge of lovely Brus- sels lace. The bridesmaids wore white Japan- ese silk gowns insertioned with lace, and closely tucked; long embroidered chiffon fichus, with stole ends, were also worn. The elder ladies wore white chiffon hats, with for- get-me-nots, crown and black velvet bows caught with pearl orange blossoms. The two younger girls wore wreaths of fonge, and all carried bouquets of pink carnations and lilies of the valley. The bride's train was carried by two page boys, Misters Oscar and Digby Leyshon (sons of Mr. T. W. Leyshon, Ponty- pridd), who wore suits of pale blue satin with lace ruffles and three-corner hats; each wore presents of handsome gold scarf pins, the gift of the bride. There were four bridesmaids— Miss Edith Richards, Miss Olive Richards (sisters of the bride), Miss Violet Davies and Miss Hilarie Davies (Treherbert); each of these wore handsome toilets of tueked Chinese silk with inserted Valencienne lace, embroi- dered chiffon fichus, with stoll ends, and had hatscomposed of white tucked chiffon, trimmed with black ribbon, velvet and paste buckles, and crowns of forget-me-nots- The Misses Richards carried shower bouquets, consisting of salmon pink carnations, forget-me-nots, with flowing blue streamers; the Misses Davies carried bouquets of forget-me-nots, and all wore handsome diamond, pearl and ruby bracelets, the gifts of the bridegroom. The bride's entire trousseau was supplied by Mr. W. Edwards, Oxford-street, Swansea. The bridal party consisted of Mr. and Mrs. L. C. Thomas (Neath), Mr. and Mrs. W. Edwards (Swansea), Mr. Thomas Rees (Pont- ardawe), Mrs. Leysbon (Pontypridd), Mrs. Davies (Treherbert), Mr. and Mrs. Tom Jones (Llanidloes), Mr. Williams (Llanidloes), Mrs. D. H. Griffiths (Aberavon Vicarage), Mrs. Evans, Miss Evans, Miss Ethel Evans, and Mr. Lewis Evans (Penycoed), Mr. and Mrs. Llewelyn Howell, J.P. (Aberavon), Aid. and Mrs. J. M Smith (Aberavon), Miss Alice Lewis (Bridgend), Mr. Granville Jones (Llan- fyllin) Mr. Huckwell (London), Dr. Morgans (Morriston). The marriage service was con- ducted by the Rev. D. H. Griffiths (vicar), assisted bj the Rev. W. Walters (curate). The bride was given away by her brother (Dr. Jones Richards), whilst the duties of best man were discharged by Dr. D. Samuel (Aber- avon). At the conclusion of the ceremony, the bridal party left the church to the strains of a "Wedding March," played by the or- ganist (Mr. Sydney Phillips). From the church door to tlii carriage the bride and bridegroom were showered with expressions of good wishes, these mate- rialising in the form of confetti. The several carriages, the horses of which were decorated prettily, then with difficulty proceeded through the crowded streets, which were also decorated with bunting, to Bryn- hyfryd, where in the afternoon a reception was held. Over two hundred guests were present. Ameng those who attended this function were Aid. J. M. Smith, Aid. Wtu. Williams. Councillor Jones, Councillor Parry, Mr. and Mrs. Marmaduke Tennant, Mr. and Mrs D. E. Jones, Mr. and Mrs. Longdon, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Jones, Mr. and Mrs. Morgan (London and Provincial Bank), Mr. and Mrs. McEwen, Mr. and Mrs. Carney, Mr. Trevor Hunter, Mr. and Mrs. Llewellyn Howells, Mr. and Mrs. Jacob, Mr. and Mrs Burgess, Mr. and Mrs. G. D. Loveluek, Mr. and Mrs. Morgan Thomas, Miss Thomas, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Thomas, and Miss Thomas (Duffryn). j Dr. and Mrs. Williams were later on given a hearty send-off from the Port Talbot Rail- way Station, en route for Bath, London, and North Wales, where the honeymoon will be spent. The bride's travelling dress was grey faced cloak costume of strapped silk and Russian bodice trimmed with ecru lace. Her hat was of birch straw, trimmed with pink roses, foliage and black velvet. It must be mentioned that the wedding cake, which was a triumph of artistic skill, was supplied by Mr. Perry, confectioner, Aberavon. LIST OF PRESENTS. Bridegroom to bride, sapphire and diamond ring bride to bridegroom, silver-fitted dress- ing bag; mother to bride, household linen, furniture, etc. Dr. W. Jones Richards j (brother of bride), cheque, silver afternoon tea service and salver Miss Edith M. Richards (sister of bride), Coalport tea service; Miss J. Olive Richards,(sister of bride), Dresden dessert service; Mrs. Williams (mother of bridegroom), Brinsinead piano; Mr. A. Williams (brother of bridegroom, silver egg- stand; Mr. Thomas Williams (brother of bridegroom), cheque Mr Thomas Rees (uncle of bride), cheque Mrs Davies, Tre- herbert, case of silver salt cellars Miss Moore, Treherbert, Worcester china vase Dr. E. Rice Morgan, Morriston, pair of silver candlesticks; Mr W. Pritchard Jones. London, case of silver muffineers; Mr and Mrs L. C. Thomas, Neath, case of silver tea knives Mr and Mrs J. Richards, Swansea, case of silver tea-spoons and tongs Mr S. Jones, twin oil and vinegar bottles Mr and Mrs W. Evans, Pencoed, oak and silver j salad bowl Mr L. V. Evans, brass afternoon tea tray Miss Evans. silver cake basket; Miss Ethel Evans, brass crumb tray and brush Rev. D. J. Jones, Cardiff, case silver j salt cellars Mr and Mrs Albert Treharne, silver cake knife The Misses Lewis, St. Mary's Hill Court, brass gong Dr. and Mrs Arnallt Jones, case of silver tea knives Mr and Mrs Edwards, Swansea, entree dish; Mr and Mrs g T. Evans, Worcester and silver j ( salad bowl Miss Thomas, Cardiff, case of silver salt cellars Mr and Mrs E. M. Morgan, Chippendale palm stand Mr and Mrs ( « C-,reD'silver Preserve stand The Misses ^orcester and silver celery stand } Mrs W. Loveluck, Oriental table centre Mr A. E. J°nes, Llanfyllin, dining-room over- mantel Mr G. A. E. Jones, oak coal vase Miss Dorotny Cooper, Kent, ivory and silver paper knife; Mrs Jones, London, silver card case; Mrs and Miss Piperj Cork, brass fen- der Mr W. Smith, gold-mounted umbrella, Mr ard Mrs James, silver-mounted butter dish; Mr and Mrs Llewellyn Howell, silver- mounted claret jug; Miss Connie and Ethel Howell, silver-mounted flower vases; Mrs ( Hugh Harries, silver breakfast companion i 21: \i ia- and Olive Harries, silver flower i vase? Messrs Townsend and Richards, silver biitt.'r, biscuit and cheese stand Miss Davies, ] Wellfield, silver cake knife; Mr and Mrs j t Morgan Thomas, case silver tea knives; Dr Samuel, lady's card case Mr and Mrs W. Carney, silver bread tray; Mr and Mrs Tom Davies, silver flower pots; Mr J. n. Thomas, Llandilo, silver photo frame; Miss Cassie Thomas, silver rose bowl; Miss Thomas, sil- ver break fork Mrs Herbert Jones, London, silver sugar basin and sifter; Mrs. Burgess, pair silver-mounted saltcellars Miss Thomas, Duffryn, silver hot water jug Miss M. Lewis, Treforest, photo frame; the Misses Davies, Hill Crest, silver sugar basin and sifter; Mr and Mrs F. Card, Neath; silver fern stand; Mr and Mrs Vaughan John, silver claret jug; Rev and Mrs Gilbert Williams, silver flower vase; Mrs Daniel, silver butter dish and knife; Mrs Macey, silver stand; Mrs Thomas, Cilgofid, oak and silver biscuit barrel; the Misses Thomas, Post Office, Taibach, brass candlesticks; Mr and Mrs Stow, case of fish, game and meat carvers Mrs. Jenkins, Bryn- gurnos, oak and silver salt celler; Rev and Mrs Griffiths, brass photo frame; Miss Davies, Briton Ferry, old china jug; Miss May Naish, sideboard cloth Mr and Mrs Hemy Joues, flower vases; Mr and Mrs Walsh, silver cake knife; Mr Trevor Hunter, cheque; Mr Tom Morgan, teapot cosy; Mrs Kent, knife rests Mr and Mrs D. E. Jones, Worcester china vases Miss Williams, Ogwen House, sideboard cloth Mrs Phillips, butter dish Mrs Williams, Caederwen, gilt timepiece; Mrs Grant, Port Talbot, table cloth; Mr and Mrs B. B. David, Coronation breakfast cruet; Miss Evans, Plough-terrace, picture Mrs David Lewis, cushion; Mrs D. Jenkins, Plough-terrace, pair of salt cellars; Miss Jenkins, old china cup and sau- cer Mr and Mrs W. Thomas, Taibach, case of nut crackers; Mrs King Davies, silver preserve stand; Miss Rees, Tyuaaen> silver cream and sugar stand; Mrs Thomas, Pen- twyn, silver sugar basin; Mr and Mrs. Isaac Thomas, Maesteg, photo album Miss Jones, Neath, old china jug; Miss phillips; Pentyla, table centre; Mr and Mrs May, silver cake basket; Mr and Mrs Parry, bread fork Miss Thomas, Blaenmalwg, case of silver tea- spoons; Mr and Mis Edwards, Pentyla, silver jam spoon and butter knife; Miss Jen- kins, Cymmer, D'Oyley and tray cloth; Mrs George Longdon, case of silver buttons; Mrs T. E. Jones, silver muffineer; Mrs Jenkins, Bay view-terrace, preserve stand; Mrs WIn. Thomas, stool Mrs Rees Thomas, preserve I stand; Mrs Hughes, Pontrhydyfen, sugar sifter; Mr and Mrs Cullamore, ash tray; Mr and Mrs Baker Davies, oak and silver biscuit barrel; Mr and Mrs A. W. owell, pickle fork Mr and Mrs Ware, sugar bowl: Mrs W. Lloyd Griffiths, sardine fork; Mr. and Mrs W. J. Williams, double photo frame; the Misses Burgess, Doulton nower bowl; Mr and Mrs Williams, lynfian, silver sugar basin and cream jug; Mrs Mey- rick, glass sugar basin aud cream 3«s?;Misg Mary Phillips, pair of jugs; Mr D. J. Rees, brass fire irons; Mrs D. J. Rces, sugar castor; Mr and Mrs Redmore, pickle frame Mr Jones, Domestic Stores, hall clock; Mr T. D. Davies, bronze marly horses Mrs Rowlands, antique silver sugar tongs; Dr and Mrs Hartland, oak and silver salad bowl; Miss Amy Naish, afternoon tea cloth; Mrs Davies, Brynhyfryd Cottage, vase MIss Louie Davies. flower holder; Mrs Whitfield, Aber- tanat Hall, case of silver salt cellars, fruit spoons; Mr and Mrs Harry Burgess, copper fern stand Mrs T. Joseph, Groes.wen, Carlton china and silver biscuit barrel; Mr an<^ Mrs Edgar Samuel, copper tray: Mr an^ Mrs Rosser, table centre and tea cosy; Master Sidney Redmore, glass cream jug and SUgar basjin; Mrs E. R. Harris, The Mans;, table centre; Mrs Evans, Water-street, D Oylys Miss A. R. David, pair specimen glasses; Miss Jennie Jones, silver photo frame Mr and Mrs Leyshon, Pontypridd, cheque; Mrs Haydn afternoon tea cloth Mr and Mrs Elhs Gregg, pair china pedestals and pots; Mr and. M.1'S Elias Davies, Merthyr Vale, glass and silver biscuit barrel; Mrs Llewellyn, glass Jug; Mr Sydney Jenkins, case of silver afternoon tea. spoons, tongs, and sifter; Mr and M-1^-lom Jenkins, pickle frame Dr and Mrs VV1 Swansea, silver toast rack Mr and Mrs John Cound, oak and silver butter cooler; 1 and Mrs Robson, breakfast cruet; Mr and Mrs Oliver Adams, cheques; Mr Evan avies, handsomely bound reference Bible Mrs Evans, Lamb and Flag, Morriston, "p'ass salad bowl and servers Messrs T* E. oneg and Co., two boxes of cigars and cigarettes; Mrs Higgs, Llanidloes, chest of tea; Mr Evans, Beach-street, cheque; Mr T. Jones, Greymoutb, N.Z., cheque Mrs Hanier, L ani(j. loes, cheque Mr and Mrs Forsdike, diawing room chair.

WEDDKvG A C MAL;sx £ g- Recently there was solemnised at the ancient Parish Church of Llangonoyd, by the R-ev. Stephen Jackson (vicar), the IIlarrIage of Mr. A. H. Russell, B.A., of Wooton-under-Edge, to Miss Edith Ric ards, daughter of Mr. E. G. Richards, wo»d House, Maesteg. The wedding PaI y la- cluded the Rev. and Mrs. Russell (Parents of the bridegroom), Mr. W. Charle* Ibest man), Miss Russell and Miss WIlhatns (bridesmaids), Mrs. D. W. Lloyd, Mr. Edgar Richards, Mr. J. E. Richards, and 0 The bride was given away by her *a her. Miss Rees was in her accustomed place at the organ. The wedding breakfast at the residence of the bride's parents, "^nief amongst the table decorations was a and- some wedding cake. There were the usual congratulatory speeches. Later in the day the happy pair took their departure for the West of England, where the honeymo011 will b'3 spent. There was a very choice array of preseut" in it being included the following:—" Bridegroom to bride, dressing ease; ride to bridegroom, desk; father of bride, cheque; mother of bride, household linen; ReV. T. Russell, cheque; Mrs. T. Russell, dinner ser- vice; Miss G. Williams (bridesmaid), 81lver cake basket; Mr. W. Llewellyn, S*I (best man), silver-mounted carvers; gar Richards, silver cruet; Mr. <1# Jenkins, pair of bronzes; Mr. W. Richards, cutlery; Master A. Richards, table cloth; MLss Annie Richards, pewter tea pillow shams; Professor E. J. Russell, silver fish carver^; Miss L. A. Russe"> tea service; Master Q. C. Russell and ^a^;er L. J. Russell, crumb brush and tray; ^as r Ernest Russell, fruit dish; Miss C. R11^ silver serviette rings; Mrs. M- saaTc (grandma), bedroom ware; Mr. and E. Richards (Neath), silver sardine dish; Mr. and Mrs. D. W. Lloyd, silver spirit kettle; Mr. John Isaac, statuette; Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Jenkins, silver sugar basin; j' Williams, oil painting; Mr. and Mrs- Richards (Bolton), linen; Mr. Albert RIch- ards, linen handkerchiefs; Mr. W. Rictus, D'Oyleys; "The Boys" (Messrs. O. L. HUIll- phreys, B.A., W. C. Wordsworth, B.A-» ioni Bottomlev, Tom Williams, Watcvn Owen, B.A., W. D. John, B.A., E. S. Lloyd', and Harry Bartrop), marble clock and Pair bronzes; Misses C. and O. Thomas cawl), silver salts; Miss M. Rees (Gad'ys). table cover; Miss S. A. Evans, silver butter dish; Mr. and Mrs. D. H. Lloyd (Bridged), marble clock; Mr. and Mrs. Pearce, ,^er prickle fork; Mrs. W. Charles, table cloth; scholars and staff of Oakwood Schools, sitver salad dish; Mr. Bill Charles, silver te^'Pot; Miss Williams, mirror; Mr. and Mrs. D. ■ James, pair of bronze vases; Mr. Charles, pair of ornaments and salts; Mr. John Charles, tray; Mr. Williams (swansea), scarf; Mr. and Mrs. Richards (ironmon^er). silver biscuit barrel; Mrs. James, ^}Jver breakfast cruet; Miss M. R. Jenkins, 81tver sugar tongs and spoon; Mr. Evan Lo^ett, silver butter dish; Mr. and Mrs. W. W. Pad- dison, silver breakfast cruet and jam spoon: Miss A. Jones, fruit dish; Miss M. cutlery; Miss M. C. Thomas, silver JaIn spoon; Miss A. Williams, breakfast cruet; Mr. and Mrs. White, cake stand and D'Oyley; Misses A. and L. Davies, table centre; Mrs. Roberts (Padiaham), cheque; Mr. and Mrs. Robjohns, B.Sc., tra^y.J^ rug; Mr. H. Grimes, M.I P.S., butter dish; Mr. Dugdale (Blackpool), marble ink5 Mrs. Humphreys, silver tablespoons; Miss Humphreys, table centre; Miss E. Jones (Alma), silver preserve dish.

-+- STEVENS-JONES. At Holy Trinity Church, Swansea, oo Mon- day morning, the marriage was of Mr Matthew Stevens, buther, Wind-street. and Miss Annie Ethel Jones, daughter of Mrs. T. B. Brown, High-street. The Rev. W. G. Howell (curate) performed the cere- mony, and the bride was given away by her stepfather, Mr. T. B. Brown. She w-a? at- tired in a travelling costume of grey ice-d cloth, with silk revers, wore a pretty picture hat of fawn and white tulle, trimmed with pink bankshia roses and leaves, and carried a choice bouquet of white exotics. Her bridesmaids were her half-sisters—the Misses Nellie and Malbel Brown—who wore white silk frocks and white felt hats, trimmed with feathers. Mr. Webborn supported the bride- groom as best man. Subsequent to the cere- mony, breakfast was served at Gore-terrace, the future home of the happy couple, who later in the day left for London, where the honeymoon will be spent.

PRETTY WEDDING AT ST. JAMES'S. On Wednesday, at St. James's Church, Swansea, a pretty wedding took place, when when Mr Wm. E. Smith, of East Mailing, Kent, was married to Miss Ada Horn, youogest daughter of the late Mr. G. W. Horn, of the Telegraphs Department. The Rev A. B. Evans (curate) officiated. The bride wore a charming gown of pale grey, with picture hat, and was given away by her uncle, Mr Fred T. Davies. The bridesmaid, Miss Gwen Williams (cousin of the bride) was attired in a pretty dress of crushed straw- berry, with picture hat. The bride and bridesmaid wore handsome gold brooches, and carried choice bouquets, the gifts of the bridegroom. Mr. W. S. Williams acted as groomsman. A number of relatives and friends assembled at the church to witness the happy event. The wedding breakfast was served at the residence of the bride's brother-in-law, Mr. Thomas Lawrence, Rose- hill-terrace. Afterwards the happy pair travelled to Bath, where the honeymoon will be spent. Both were recipients of a large number of choice and unique piesents.

bASHJON NOTES. [BY MESSRS. BEN EVANS AND Co., LIMITED; SWANSEA. 1 Eastertide, as usual, brought with it a j oyons- ness which touk visible expression in a multitude of gay hats and dainty toilettes. The st.L of hat which will this season make its influence felt and seriously imperil the popularity of the ever useful sailor hat, is the Panama, which, to be a success, must cost half-a-guinea, as the cheaper imitations of the real Panama are hard and never look the same as the gjod qualities of the proper article, and are deBcernible at a glance. For both spring and early summer wear this mode will be much in vogue, and later on in the season it will make its presence notable at seaside resorts. One of its great advantages is, that when a good sample of this bat has to be packed it can be rolled up in the same manner as those favoured by oar masculine relatives and friends, and it therefore takes up particularly little space when one is paying a succession of visits. It always resumes its normal shape on being released. By the bye, we wonder it it has occurred to our readers that the sailor hat has this season devel- oped a frivolous tendency to a turned up orim tilted over the face by means of & black velvet "caoho-peigne" at the back. We hardly recognise our old friend in this guise, and console ourselves with the reflection that the senfible sailor hat is still much en evidence." A smart little coat is made of black glace silk much tucked and stitched, with a butterfly basque at the back, and a dainty collar appliqueJ with lace. Empire sac coats of varying lengths ex- pressed in glace or taffetas Bilks are much io vogue, and come to fill the vacancy left by the fur coats we are perforce obliged to abandon during the earlier part of the day at all events. The skirts of our gown, Madame la Moie has decided, must no longer flop round our feet in clinging folds, the fulness, which is as great as ever, being arranged instead to stand out all round the hem in flute-like folds. To get this effect very skilful cutting is necessary, and in some instances an interlining of mnslin is used to keep the folds crisp. The most fashion- able people have their skirts so interlined as far as the knees, where the ordinary lining of gla^e t-ilk also ceases, the remainder of the skirt from the knees upwards being lined alone with soft China silk or batiste. This produces the clinging effect which is correct at the upper part of the figure, and gives an admirable outstanding appealance at the hem. A smart toilette treated ia this fashion is expressed in pale green cloth trimmed with rich lace, and a touch of pleasant contrasi. is given by some black satin ribbon which forms a chou and ends. The well-cut plain skirt, as up-to-date, is eminently designed to show to advantage any trimmings which may be thought desirable, and those which boast a volant are nearly always a mass of insertions, tucks, and dainty embroidery. ================

GRAND THEATRE. IN A WOMAN'S GRIP." A recent melodrama from the pen of Mr. Frederick Melville, entitled "In a Wonnns Grip is being produced at the Grand Theatre, Singleton-street, during this week. "In a Woman's Grip" is just the sort ot thing which appeals very strongly to an audience which favouts sensationalism and action, relieved (P) with dashes of low comedy. The plot is a. verj exciting and also fairiy well-knit one, nnd there are some most realistic scenes, including a very startling one in a mad doctor's laboratory. The company is a strong one, and throughout interest is well sustained. The chief honours fall to Miss Zerlina Harrington, who, as Mary Langley," ''Convict 43," and "Princess Tearoff," sustains three exacting parts in a most successful fashion. In the hands of Mr. C. H. Howitson, the role of the villainous Maurice Stanton," loses little of its realism, and Mr. M. Glenville makes a fairly acceptable hero (if such he may be called), while Miss B. O'Brien also makes a good impression as the virtuous and attractive "Lillian Fairley." NEXT WEEK.—"ARE YOU A MASON?" "Are yuu a Mason?" a farcical comedy, in 3 acts, from the German of Laufs and Kratz, will, for the first time, be presented to the patrons of the Grand Theatre, Swansea, on Monday night. The farce was received with unanimous approval on its original production at the Shaftesbury Theatre, London, in September last, and the following extract from the Daily Telegraph is typical of the laudatory notices which appeared in the press at the time :—" Rarely has a theatre resigned itself to such boisterous mirth as that which echoed round tbe stalls, rippled round the dress circle, bellowed from the pit, and thundered from the gallery of the Shaftes- bury Theatre. The audience fairly rocked with laughter, and as each caught the contagion of merriment from his neigh- bours, one could see old men and maidens, young men and children shaking, crying, convulsed at the absurdities of 'Are you a Mason ?' The result caught the fancy of a first-night audience and lifted the farce into a brilliant success." The piece will be staged at the Grand next week by Messrs. Geo. Edwardes and Charles Frohman's Company, which is described as a strong one. Consequently an efficient, and in every way satisfactory, presentation of this highly successful farce may be safely counted upon. The most important parts are taken by Mr. F. W. Permain, Mr. Harry Ashford, and Miss Eileen Munro. The scenery and dresses will be most attractive features.

Temper is something that at once gets the best if a man and betrays the worst of him. People who are much given to pointing morals Seldom give much point to their remarks. Dibbs: "Yes, Oker has left everything he had to the parish." Dabbs: "What was it he left, then ? Dibbs: "Five children." Maude: "When you refused him my hand, papa, did he get down on his knees?" Pater. :\0, I didn't notice just where he lit!" Friend Was it a serious accident ? Motorist: "Xot at all. Only two pedestrians killed, and the motor-car wasn't even- scratched." Daughter: "Cut he is so full of absurd: ideals." Mother: "Nevermind that, dear. Your lather was just the same before I married him." "Professor," said a graduate, trying to be pathetic at parting, "I am indebted to you for ¡lH I know." "Pray don't mention such a trine, was the unflattering reply. You condemn us tramps," said Weary "hut there's one thing we must get credit j for." "What's that ? "You don't hear of us indulgin' in labour disputes!" "I wrote three letters this morning," ^e,-8^ J with the air of a man who had accomp e tiuch. "Ah, indeed!" responded the young M'fman. "What were they?" "IOU." Mr. Goff: "Which side of the street do 7^ ,lveon?" Witness: "On either aide- y 3,;> one way it is on the right side; if yoU "ther way it's on the left." Mother: "Georpie, come, kiss y°ur pv,rnm!» Gi'0vgie' "No; don't dare to." Mother.- "Why?" Georgie: "Dad kissed her vesteviliiy, and she slapped him." The husband: "You are right! It must be vesteviliiy, and she slapped him." The husband: "You are right! It must be burglars! Where is my revolver?" The wife: I 'own in the library over the desk. You know I tied for an ornament!" 1

SWANSEA LIFE ASSURANCE. A DISPUTED POLICY. At Glamorgan Assizes, Cardiff, on Friday morning (before Mr. Justice Kennedy (the case of Francis v. the Scottish Imperial Insurance Company was heard. This was an action brought against the insurance company by the executors of Joseph Francis, late a roadmaker, of Llansamlet, Swansea, to recover JE104 sa.id to be due under a life policy effected by Joseph Francis. Mr. S. T. Evans and Mr. Villiers Meager (instructed by Mr. J. T. Davies) represented plaintiifs Mr. B. Francis-Williams, K.C., and Mr. Vaughan Williams (instructed by Messrs. R. Thomas and Francis), the defendant company. Mr. S. T. Evans stated that the policy was effected in 1894, and he would prove his case by the production of the policy and probate of the will. The allegations on the other side were that the policy was not effected by Joseph Francis, presumably on the ground that the man was not rich and borrowed money for the premiums. Then mis-statements were alleged, but that Mr. Evans attributed to the assuree's illiteracy. The total premiums paid amounted to JE66, though only £104 was claimed. The Jndge: It is not a material point that the contract is hard. rhe policy and probate were then put in, that being the case for plaintiff. Mr. B. Francis-Williams admitted the policy, but, as Joseph Francis earned less than £1 a week, and as there were other policies effected in the same way, he urged it was a gamble bv somebody else" to benefit at the death of the assuree. Those persons, he claimed, were plaintiffs, who were the son and dauehter-in-law of the deceased. Therefore, the policy in ques- tion was void. The mis-statements were that Francis entered his age as 61 when he was 65 that he said he was not insured in other companies, whereas there were lit number of policies. Henry Owen, agent of the Prudential Insurance Company, said that Joseph Francis had effected five polices in that company alone. Three of the benefits were paid to tne present plaintiffs. The premiums on the five would amount to JE20 4s. per annum. After proof of the policy rebutting evidence was called. John Rowlands. Morriston, said that in 1895, as a friend of the then agent for the Scottish Impprial Insurance Company, he collected a premium from Joseph Franuis. The plaintiffs had nothing whatever to do with the transaction then. Mrs. Elizabeth Francis, a plaintiff, said her father-in-law had worked at the silver works at Swansea until a few years befo e his death. earning £5 a week. Up to 1898 he paid all the premiums himself, but then he was in a little difficulty, and he borrowed £5 on the security of the policies. Witness and her husband then paid the premiums. Cross-examined by Mr. B. Francis-Williams, witness said that neither she nor her husband were present when the old man signed the declaration, nor did she instruct her solicitor, Mr. Davies, to say so. When the question was repeated at the instance of his lordship, in justice to Mr. Davies," witness said she could not remember. She further said that three policies of the five were effected without the old man's knowledge. They knew nothing of it until after the death, when the agents called. There were also policies, they foand, in the London, Edinburgh, and Glasgow and the British Homes Societies. A certain Annie Adams had benefited by one policy, and witness added, "The agent has run away with Anr.ie Adams since then." (Laughter.) Altogether a round dozen policies were effected on the old man's life. Counsel on both siles having addressed the jury, his lordship, in summing up, aoked the jury to say if the plaintiffs u~ed the old man's life as a speculation. If they did, then the policy became null and void. The questions put to the jury by the judge were answered as follows :-(1) Was the policy in question effected by the assuree and for his own account ?—Yes. (2) Or did the plaintiffs, not having any interest in his life, really effect the policy or cause the policy to be effected for their benefit and at their expense, or by way of gaining and wagering ?—No. 1(3) Is the document produced now the declaration of the assured referred to in the policy ?—Yes. (4) Is the answer in reply to the question as to previous proposals true in fact?—Yes. A legal argument between his lordship and learned counsel fallowed, Mr. B. Francis-Wil- liams contending that the verdict of the jury was in favour of the defendant company. His Lordship ruled otherwise, and entered judgment for the plaintiff for the amount olaimed, with eosts. Mr. Francis-Williams asked the judge to stay execution, so as to allow bis clients an opportu- nity, if they thought proper, to take the case further. The application was granted upon payment of the money claimed into court, with costs.

Patient: "Doctor, I dreamt something terrible last night. I saw my dead father." Doctor: "What did you eat for supper?" Patient: "A mince pie, doctor." Doctor: "My friend, if you eat two mince pies to-night you will see your grandfather." "Oh! Come now, I say," exclaimed the Britisher. "You must admit we're ahead of you in a grite many W'ys." "In one great particular I admit you are," said the Yankee. "And that is?" "Time. It's eight o'clock in London, and it's only three here." Can anyone tell me what a metre is ?" Asked the teacher of a primary class a few days ago. Only one little lad raised his hand. The teacher nodded, and the child .said: "It's a tbing you chop meat with. My papa is a butcher, and he's got two of them." Mrs. Innocent: "What did you enjoy most about your fishing trip, dear?" Mr. Innocent: "I got most excited when I was reeling in, my love." Mrs. Innocent (bursting into tears): "And to-to-th-think you promised me y-you wouldn't d-drink a drop. Mr. Wredink (the old book-keeper) "To-day marks my fortieth year of service with you, sir. Mr. Hides: "I was aware of it, Mr. Wredink, and I arranged a little surprise for you. Take this alarm clock, with my best wishes for your continued punctuality." Mr. S. (snappishly) "Don't be correcting that bov always, Sarah. Let nature take its course, won't you?" Mrs. S. (laying aside the cane): "I'll do nothing of the sort; I don't intend that any woman shall have such a husband as I've got, if I can prevent it." ) Papa: "See that spider, my boy, spinning his I web. Is it not wonderful ? Do you reflect that, try as he may, no man can spin that web?" Johnny What of it ? See me spin this top Do you reflect that, try as he may, no spider could spin this top ? "I hope," said the serious man, "that you haven't been betting on the races ?" "I hope'so, too." said the young man with the red necktie and the restless eye. "I hope I will wake up to-morrow and find out that the whole thing was a wild dream. But there's no use hoping." How he Proposed.—Harry (hesitatingly) Miss Mabel, I—ah—have something most important to ask you. May—I—that Mabel (encour- agingly): "What is it, Harry?" Harry "Ma5_ I—Mabel, would you be willing to have out names printed in the paper with a hyp i between them ? .Vow th'it you've inherited half a i"1 vou'd reform, of course?" said the go • "Well. I shall certainly never be a thief a„am replied the hardened criminal. u obi habit Do vou think your goodtortuH Will ch-mge that?"" "Certainly- 11 *lU mali" kleptomania." Fast yountr man: "Hang 't ^j1' Watch is an hour slow airain. I nl 4.-Sel] it kerps on losing like tins. Sauastic Parent. "Oh, I wouldn't do that. 3"°»r grand- father's watc'i, you kn0J' s only natural that it should have har o keep up with you the wav you live- At a country smok'™1C„°:'lCer'a certain young man, with abetter .=on of hi own vocal powers than bis a had volunteered a song, and did n? encore- When he had finished, an ?ld f marked Well, lad, I'm not blaming thou'st done thy best, but if I ].neW t the. lellla. p as asked thee to sing I'd crack his stoopid head." Antidote for Blues.— Winks "Come along, old boy, I've got f two complimentary tickets for a dramatic pcrtormanne." Jinks: "Tragedy or comedy? "Tragedy." Jinks: "I don't like tragedies rhey arp,,al :0 strongly to one's sympathies t!ult I alwav.s feel blue for a week." Winks: f 'us one won't. You'll comehomeas jolly as it you'd been to a circus. It's by an amateur company. "What did yer take that, bricky- ] ^•;ipck ,° 3\, Tain't no good!" Second burglar; faint First burglar: "Naw, I tell yer> Jiinmy t it yer wanter make a fust-class success art! S ss yer got to know somethm' about j art! J All unconscious of danger, the little rabbit s sporting in the grass. "Look put for me i sed a snake, suddenly appearing near by. m an adder." "Pooh! What s that?" re- ed "lp rabbit, scornfully- I suppose you've n«n-cr heard how our folks multiply ? » | What do you think of a friend who would not venture to plunge, into the river for you when you were drowning ? "asked the senti- t mev.tal member of the club. .'1 should say," I'i'I'lb'd Sptcer, "that Ijjs friendship -wa« alien 1 t!ie surface."

NEATH AND DISTRICT [BY OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT. THE LATE MR. STEER. Probate of the will of Mr. James Steer, of the Bear Inn, Neath, who died on the 1st of January, 1902, has been granted in London to the sole executrix, his widow, Mrs. Barbara Steer, and the testator's estate has been valued at £2,084 5s. 9d. LOOAL WEDDING. At St. Mary's Church, Notting Hill, on Tues- day, Mr. John Evans Reynolds Thomas, of Maesyllan, Neath, only son of the late Rev. Edward Thomas, vicar of Skewen, Glamorgan, Was married to Miss Gertrude Mary (May) Jewesbury, second daughter of the late Mr. E. Dearman Jewesbury, and of Mrs. Jewesbury, of ,[83! bt. Mark's-road. North Kensington. The Driclesmaids were the bride's sister and cousin. There was a lengthy list of presents. r ANOTHER LANDLORD FINED. W?m^e £ 0?th Police Court on Monday, U landlord of the Falcon Inn, w £ summoned for supplying drink to Maro-aret Nicholas, who was. it was seated, drunk on the prrmiSPS on Thursday, the 3rd inst. Mr W. H. David ipteared for the defence. Police-Sergeant Davies and two constables said they saw the woman named stajreerine- drunk in Old Market-street at H 25 a m^She weTto a relative si house, but.afterwards they found her in the w'th a Rlass of beer in front of iT AeToS. -tiered „ Several witnesses were heard who declared that the woman did not appear to bn drunk. The defendant was fined 5". and costs, and Margaret Nicholas was ordered to pay a fine of 5s. and costs. PING PONG TOURNAMENT. A successful entertainment, preceded hv a sumptuous tea, took place at the Gwyn Hall on Tuesday night, and as on.1 of the results a hand- some sum will be handed over to the funds of the National Lifeboat Institution. The Mayor (Aid. H. P. Charles) aetivply promoted the function, and presided over the concert and tournament. The Mayor announced that donations had been given to the Lifeboat Institution from Neath and district amounting to £30. The ping pong finals resulted as follows :— Ladies' Single" Miss Annie Rees. Gentlemen's Singles.—Mr Hansard, of Mum- bles. Mixed Doubles.-Miss Annie Rees and Mr Re!?ie Charles. 6 \8 rP°8t excitirg. Later, the prizes were distributed by the Mayor and Mayoress. ?''0^r feature of the entertainment was the olever performances of the Pierrots (15 m number). They sang much besides, and won great applause. It must be added that the hall was very effectively decorated. HORSE SHOW AND PARADE. At a meeting held at the Town Hall on Monday night, the Mayor (Aid. H. P.Charles) presiding, it was resolved to hold the Neath Annual Horse Show and Parade on Thursdty, May 29th. The Mayor was elected president, the ex-Mayor rice- president, Councillor W. E. Rees hon. secretary, and Mr. G. T. Sims hon. treasurer. The show will be held on the Gnoll Ground, for which the meeting sanctioned the payment of JE15 to the Neath Athletic Association. PUBLICAN FINED. At the Neath Borough Poliee Court on Monday Thomas Watkins, landlord of the Lamb and Flag Inn. Neath, was charged with having been drunk. Defendant, who pleaded guilty, was fined 7s. 6d. and costs. The Mayor told the defendant that this and a previous conviction for drunkenness would tell against him when he applied for a renewal of his licence. AN OFF-LICENCE HOLDER FINED. At the Neath Borough Police Court on Monday ^nffith Lewis wine and spirit merchant, of Qaeen-Btreet, Neath was charged with selling « i• j England on his (the defendant's) off licensed premises. Two other men named John Jones, grocer, Water-street, Neath, and John Handcock, butcher, were also stated to have been supplied with beer by the defendant. Mr L. J. Kempthorne prosecuted, and Mr A J. Jeffreys defended, and Mr C. V. Pegge watched the case on behalf of Messrs Rogers and Co. the owners. Police Inspector Jones said that at midnight be heard a good deal of talking going on inside the stores. An hour later he returned with P.C. Davies (11), and they listened. At 2 o'clock they heard England say, Let's have another drink, boys. Fetch us four pint bottles of stout, and I'll pay for them." One of the men said, "No I'll have a bottle of bitter ale." The Inspector heard someone go upstairs and return, the clink of bottles being plainly heard as he descended the stairs. At 3 o'clock Inspector Jones knocked at the door, and after knocking twice the door was opened by Lewis, who said that the men present were working for him. The men were England, John Jones, and John Hancock. The last named said he had been attending to Mr Lewis's horse. Pointing out the evidences of drinking^ hich were there, the defendant said that th& men had been there only ten minutes. England interposed with the remark that they had been there half-an-hour, and that perhaps the police had been listening for that time. The defendant did not ask him (the inspector) to go upstairs and see what work they had been doing. P.C.LDavies (11) said the conversation in the store which he overheard from outside was upon wrestling, the lifting of lcasks, and the compara- tive thickness of wrists, and there were bets made. W. H. England went 'into the box and denied that he drank more than one bottle of stout while he was at the store. Nothing was said about betting. John Hancock said he had a stable at the back of Queen-street, and was passing the bottling store on the night in question when Mr- Lewis asked him to give his horse a bran mash, and a drench. This he did at his stable, after wmc^n ne returned to the store where he was when the police came. In certain respects the witnesses for the defence made contradictory statements. The Mayor said there had been gross perjury on one side or the other. The Bench had taken into consideration the contra.'aic o:ry evidenae given for the defence, and they had decided to believe the police. „ The defendant was fined £ 3 and costs. Mr. Pegge told the Bench that the defendant was under notioe, and it was therefore decided not to endorse the licence. England, Hancock and Jones, who pleaded not RUiu « £ 1° and*costs. lng and abetting, were 6l>An advocate'sfeeof £ 2 2s. Wag anow.ed) this to be divided between the two defendants. I

Willis: surely, G vou naven t forgotten me already? \yhy< L proposed to you afc iln f "r. SUmmer." Miss Gray (much Fncident ?" you. recall some other Reùuced to a Good Basis.—"Well, how does it seem to be engag-ed to such a wealthy irl ? f Very time I kiss her I feel as if I were 'he coupon off a government bond." e Acior: "Don't you think actors are quite "oeral as a rule?" The Waiter: "Well, I 0r>n t know about them being liberal as a rule, Sir, but I think the-" are when they have any money!" 1 "It's all very well before a girl's married for her to get a flower in her hair," remarked the observer of events and things, "but it's an entirely different matter if, after she's married, she gets her hair in the flour." Crawford "If you're not going out to buy a new hat, but merely to look at them, what do you want with five shillings ? Mrs. Crawford: "Why, you can't get a decent seat at the matinee for less than five shillings." She: "You don't think so much of me, Charlie, as you used to do before we were married." He: "Of course not, Carrie. You and I, you know, are one now, and it would be egotistical to think too much of oneself." Playwright: "From the nature of my play you see it ought to close with some line or signifi- cant act from the hero in perfect accord with the feelings of the audience." Critic: "Why not let him heave a sigh of relief, then ? "What did papa say?" "He shewed me the 3oor." "And what did you say?" "I said it was certainly a very handsome door, but not what I had come to talk about. That made bin1 laugh, and a minute later you were mine." Obliging: "Do you think you had mother piece of pie?" asked the neighbour J, who had already given little Bobbie ? "or running an errand. "Yes, ma^ Bobbie, promptly, "I will if you want Mrs. Naggs (at telephone) n the office?" Office boy= 1N?» 0},na am." Mrs. Naggs: "When will "e u • Office] soy: "I can't say." Mrs. hj can't rou say?,, Office boy: "Because he told me not pou say ? Office boy: Beca told me not Cora: "Was it a ?'' "Well, as ier money paid his deb » kept him out of jaol, I should say « rather* safety match." "I have three children who are the very mage ot myself, szti Jonpg, enthusiastically. 'I pity the youngest, returned Brown, quietly. 'Why?" asked Jones. Because he is the one vho will have to resemble you the longest," said

-l WELSH FOOTBALL UNION. The following referees have been appointed to omciate in the undermentioned matches, to be played on Saturday, April 12th, 1902, on the grounds of the first mentioned:- ^wynypia v. Trel erbert.—A. H. Williams Pontypool v. Crumlin.—T. England Machen v. Blaina.-J. E. Webb Tredegar v. Cwmbran.—W. Bowen Neath v. BristoL—E. A. Johns Penygraig- v. AberR.von.-W. Bright Bridgend v. Maesteg.-A. J. Gould Treorky v. Pontypridd.—W. M. Rees Chepstow v. Gloucester A.—R. Pollock Llanelly v. Mountain Ash.—J. Games Pill Harriers v. Ebbw Yale.-Tom Williams Cup Competition. Gilfach Goch v. Neath Excelsiors.—W. H. Mill. Monday, April 14th. Tredegrar v. Cwmcarn. Thursday, April 17th. Penygraig v. Treorky.—

BIRTHS MARRIAGES AND DEATHS _nn- MARRIAGES. Smith-Horn.-At St. James' Church, Swansea, on April 9th, 1902, by the Rev. Mr. Evans (Curate), William E. Smith, of East Mailing, Kent, to Ada Horn, daughter of the late G. W. Horn (Telegraphs Department), Swansea. Williams-Richards.-On the 9th inst., at tha Parish Churoh, Aberavon, by the Rev. D. H. Griffiths (Vicar), assisted by the Rev. W. Walters (Curate), Miss Richards, daughter of the late Mr. Richard Richards, of Brynbyffryd, AberaTon, formerly of Peterston, near Cardiff, to Dr. Wil- liams, Mayor of Aberavon.. Walters—Thomas.—On Tuesday, April 8th, at Capel Maen, Gwynfe, by the Rev. W. Davies, Llandilo, assisted by the Revs. U. Williams, Gwynfe, and T. Thomas. Llangadock, D. Kurof Walters, B.A., Pastor or oalem, Llandovery, to Kate Thomas, youngest diugbter of the late Rev. W. Thomas, who, for dear y 40 years, was Pastor of the Jerusalem and Capel Maen Churches, Gwynfe. M d^ths. Francis.—V,1?. 3lat, at 27, Bennett's Hill, Oxton, Miss rancis, last surviving daugh- ter of i. J» 0 Francis, of Swansea, aged77. Bath-7^ the 4th April, at 47, Woodstock- road, ai Margaret Spears, widow of the late He»fy.j, Bath, of Alltyferin, Carmarthen- shire. aged 74.

-n^em°rial Designs of all descriptions, Wedding •Sr. -U? • artistically made to match materials. Pecial value during the summer montha fitMn Hardens. Flowers and Ferns in abundance. A large stock of Artificial wreaths.—A. KITLBY Co., Art Florists, 37, Oxford-street, and Market, Swansea. r01017

RAILWAY RETURNS. Great Western Railway, a. decrease of £ 11.310; j aggregate increase, 14 week: £ 94,910. London and North-Western Railway, a de- crease of £ 17,000, aggregate increase for 14 weeks, £ 26,000. Barry Railway, a decrease of £637; increase, 14 w-eks, Xll,595 (including receipts of the Vale of Glamorgan Kailwav). Taff Vale R.iit.vay, an increase of £ 438* aggregate decrease, 14 weeks, £ 4,237.

SALES BY AUCTION. LOCAL FIXTURES OF FORTHCOMING EVENTS. EVENTS. Excursions per G.W.R. FRIDAY, April 11. Annual Meeting of the Swansea Welsh Society. „ SUNDAY, April 13. Meetings for Men in Shaftesbury HalL St. Helen's-road. N MONDAY, April 14. ASCA'SS,0. "THE GRMD TBEATTE' "D AEvT'baytSAJ,0Kh" Hawke' on "Tne Betting ^v", at the Albert Minor Hall. T a T u O TUESDAY, April 15. Lord John Sanger s Show, at the Vetch Field. IHURSDAY, April 17 A,lnual Meeting It the Shelter. Cwmdonkin Park, at the Dramatic and Musical Matinee, in aid nf Swausea Hospital Convalescent Home, at the Grand Theatre. APRIL 23, 24, 25 and 26. Performance of "Patience" by the Swansea Amateur Operatic Society. WHIT-MONDAY, May 19. Pony Races, Brass Band and Timbering Contests at Llandovery. '1- LOCAL STOCK AND SHARE LIST SUPPLIED BY S. P. WILLS & SON. STOCKBROKERS, 30, WIND STREET, SWANSEA. RAILWAYS, paid. Prioaa. Stock Xafl Vale Divided Stock 100 70A 71 Share* Khondda St Swansea Bay Ord. 10 41 5 Do. 6 p.c. Pref. 10 10J llxd Stock Do. Debenture 100 107 109 Shares Port Talbot Ey. i Docks Ord. 10 4t 4i » Do. 4p.c. Pref. 10 6t 6t MISCELLANEOUS. Shares Ben Bvans and Co. Oids. l 21/6 22/- •», 6 p.c. fret. i 26/- 24/- Stock Do. 5 p.c. Deb, 100 106 108 Share* English Crown Spelter Ord. 1 22/ 6 25/- to Pnrikjrber Colliery Ords. lo 6i eixd Stock SwaueaOorporation 3t Stock 100 110 112 „ Do. Haroour 4 p.c. do.. 100 v4 106 „ Do. Oas5 p.c. mxm. do.. 100 113 114 Sbarea Do. Old Brewery Ord.. 10 Y IQ •• 5°" „ do 6 p.c. Pref. lo 91 91 5°* United Brewery Ord. 10 ]0 inl do 6 p.c. Prel. io m 10* Weaver and Co. Ord. io 104 10* »• Do. 6 p.c. Pref. lo ±o 104 BUYERS. Buckley's Brewery Pre-Pref. Shares. Ben Evans Ordy, at 21s. 7 id. Swansea Corporation Stock. Port Talbot Ords. and Pref. Sbondda Railway Ords. £ 1,500 Swansea Harbour Stock. Anderson. Cox ft Co. Sbarea. Weaver Ordy. Bboudda Kallway Co. Debs. Ben. Evaos 4" Co. 5 p.c. Debs., Prefa. and Ords. Mumbles By. Co. Ords. Taylor and Co. Shares. SELLERS. Capital and Counties Banks. H. H. Vivian & Co. Shares at 2s. 3d. Swansea Gas Co. 5 p.c. Stock. Swansea United Brewery Pref. Share*. Mumbtes Railway Co. 4 p.c. Debs. Swansea Old Brewery Ord. and Fret. Buyers and Sellers of Imperial Tobacco Debl. or Pref. chares for cash or special settlement. Local Stock and Share Price List on application. S. P. WILLS & SON, Swansea. TELEGRAMS: WILLS, SWAXSEA." TELEPHONE No. 184. f DA VIES AND BARRÉB STOOK AND SHARE BROKERS, 56, WIND-STREET, SWANSEA BUYERB.-£800 SWansea Harbour Stock; jei.000 BeD Tobacco l)Ah' Bvans Deb.; £ 1,000 Imperial Gold Min« il Rhondda Railway Deb.; 50 Wassail SFTIVDO Abosso (Gold Coast) Mines, and rnS^f3 0 Bucklay Brewery Deb.; 20 Capital SR-1 ? 8 Rhondda Railway Pref.; 9 Swan* sea and Mumbles Railway Pref. '-pecial business and ciose Prices in South African "lining and Land Shares. Buyers and Seilera of the Imperial Tobacco Com- pany Preference Shares and Debenture Stock. Telegrams, "Discretion" Telephone No. 113. C. H. SHAW, STOCK, SHARE & MORTGAGE BROKER, 15, TEMPLE-STREET, SWANSEA. All Classes of Stocks and Shares Bought and Sold at Close Market Prices. Monies ready to Advance on Mortgage of Property. BUYKRS.—Weaver's Ordinary Shares; Ben. Evans Debenture Swansea Harbour Stock.

Cardiff this week has been engrossed in a slander action heard at the Glamorgan Assizes in .vhich Mr. T. D. John, horse dealer, &c. claimed £ 5,000 damages against Mr. James Howell, a well-known draper. The alleged slander was to the effect that the plaintiff had deceived the Cardiff and South Wales Show authorities over a certain exhibit. After a hearing lasting three days defendant was given a verdict with costs. Printed and Published br DAVID ROBBJITB, at the office, ITo. 58. Winc'-st^i-, swa;ieea, in the County of Glamorgan.—FKii'Af, April 11,1902.