The Cambrian

SCHOOLS INSPECTOR FOR SWANSEA. Mr, Martin Makes Disquieting* Revelations. An adjourned meeting of Swansea. Council was held on Friday, the Mayor presiding, to consider Education Committee's minutes, held over for consideration from the last meeting. The recomnÙmdations included the follow- ing :—"That a superintendent of education be appointed. Applicants to state experi- ence in elementary and secondary education, Age limit 30 to 50 years. Salary £350, vis- ing by annual increments of £10 to £450 per annum. Mr. Martin moved the adoption of the te- port, and said the object of the appointment was to keep the Council better informed of the work done, and therefore to put into the Council's hands more effective means of con- trol. Some people liked the question of ap- pointments; they liked the patronage aad liked to be canvassed and flatte-red-the "Oh, King, live for ever" sort of style, and the person who did it best often succeeded best. If they were determined to carry out their duties well, then the frrst necessary thing to do was to obtain perfect informa- tion of the work done. He did not think :11 would be qualified to form an opinion, even when they had visited the schools, and what to make of all they saw and heard. He urged the appointment of the best expert man. Some thought the Clerk might do the work, he could not give the time. Some thought the inspectors might do the work; few people were more alive to the want of an official such as they wanted to- day. He had asked two of them "Is such an official necessary?" The answer was "abso- lutely necessary." Recently an inspector deplored the number of scholars of the age of 10 years in Standard II. in their schools. MT. Livingston Was. any school named in which that extraordinary condition of things existed? Mr. Martin: "Our schools." If they wanted an effective control they wanted someone to visit the schools and report regularly. He was no be- liever in cram, but a strong be- liever in thorough and efficient teaching. What was the actual state of affairs in Swansea? Within the last 18 montfts he was informed that thedr infant schools were in a very backward condition. He had had a conversation recently with one of the head teachers of the infant schools and he be- lieved he found a good system had been misapplied. If a child could not reckon 3, 4, 6 and 7 without counting has fingers when he was 7, the kindergarten system had failed in its purpose, and that was what he thought the teachers found—that they could not do any mental operations apart from the ob- jects. As to 10 He;¡. old children in Sta.n-^ dard II., could they be surprised when they came from infant school in that state. Did not that explain it? Standard II., for a child of ten, meant that the child had no hope to reach Standard VII. when 14, and that was the exemption for a child going to work. Mr. Hop kin Have y a figures? Mr. Martin: The only return of a very reliable kind I have seen was preferred by the clerk at the end of 1901. Mr. Cadwalladr: A g-reat improvement since then, depend upon it. Mr. Harris There might be deterioration. Mr. Martin said the crystallised opinion of the Education Department to the in- spectors was to the effect that they should expect, if a child entered school at five, with average ability, and attended regularly, he should over six years of age be in Standard T., and advance a standard each year. Quot- ing from the return alluded to above, Mr. Martin said there were 10.040 children in the standards. The children in their proper places, according to the instruction of the department to their inspectors was 432, or 4.3 per cent. Mr. Livingston Who furnished the In- forma.tion? The Clerk (Mr. Hal den) Th. teachers. Mr. Cadwalladr Give us the actual num- ber in Standard II. ten years of age. Mr. Martin said he wanted before that to go irto the present condition of affairs. Speaking of the provided schools from in formation compiled during the past wwk or two, he found there were 10,102 in the stan- dards. In the first four standards there were over seventy per cent., and twenty-nnne per cent. in the three upper standards; ten per cent, in Stan- dard VI., six per cent, in Standard VII., a. little over 12 per cent. in Standard V. Mr. Cadwalladr asked if the figures in- cluded children of the Higher Elementary Schools—there were about 600. The Clerk It does not include it. Mr. Martin asked if therir blood should not boil when they thought what had be- come of the children. Was* not there some remedy? Were they going to sit round the table and be content? If so they were not capable of appreciating the work U-cv had to do. If there had been an improvement in education it should have shown greater iatelldgence. Mr. D. Harris asked if any business man spending over a year would not have a general manager. Very few of the boys and girls finished up in Standard VII. when thev were 14. During the Last six years th3" staffing of the Swansea Schools were equal to any Board Schools in Wales, and far above the average of the schools in the Kingdom. He seconded the recommenda- tL°In answer to Mr. Corker and Mr. Liv- ingston, Aid. MarLn said the superinten- dent would not exeircise more control than was put into his hands. Mr. Cadwalladr said if he took as pessi- mistic a. view as Aid. Martin he would not eay a. word, as be should be asha.med to do so' Mr. Martin had laboured the age ques- tion immensely, and thev knew from ex- perience that all boys and girls were not equal. He moved that the "e re- ferred back to the committee for further consideration, office ■ 25 or more years ago the School Board appointed an inspector of schools; it wes not a great success, and the office was afterwards Buppress.ed, but not the officer; another place was found for him. The re- commendation of the committee was alto- get her unnecessary. The proposed superin- tendent was for the Elementary Schools. Aid Martin was, he thought, not in touch with the inner working of Elementary Schools. The old system of payment by re- sults was bad, but under the block grant system the children were happy, and they found the children attending the evening schools. The present system gave the tea- chers a grand chance there was no cra.m- mine or forcing at the present day. H.M. Inspectors—five in this district, two living in Swansea—-niade no perfunctory visits he could assure the Council. "Seventy per cent, of the working expenses of our schools is met by Imperial grant," added Mr. Cadwalladr. There were .50 departments in the provided schools, and each received the highest grant —boys and girls 22s., and infants 17s. From the Elementary Schools there was passed no into the Higher Elementary Schools about 200 children every year. They were selected out of Standard IV., whereas if they were left in they would be in the 5th 6th and 7th standards. Some children were not ad- vanced in their own interests they could nol turn children out like screws. He urged the importance of not pressing the little youngsters there was tyranny in too many examinations. Ample examinations there were an 4 to create the office proposed would be a of money. Dr. Latier seconded the amendment, especially bec&.use he wanted to know the superintendent's work and duties. There were some things in the teachers' memorial he could agree wIt. and he could speak of the difference obtaining in late years in the amount of over-press^ as shown by 4 he work which took place in the past and the present time. People had different ranges of intellect, but not all children could he brought on at the same ooriod. It did not. follow because a child did not get on to the same standard as another that the system was imperfect. i Mr. Tutton said Government inspectors were very amiable gentlemen, and all the re- ports were on the sarm- footing. "Vas if a credit that bright boys should be kept mark- ing time as Mr. Cadwalladr said? Mr. Cadwalladr: A necessity of t,he situa- tion. Mr. Tntton said they wanted bright boys kept back no longer. ] I Mr. Cadwalladr Cast iron system. Mr. Tutton said the teachers acknowledged such a necessity, and some of them had already put out feelers to nil up the posi- tion tfiemu kei: Mr. LiO»^ioi! recognised Mr. Martin's efforts in' r-fvear,ion, but thought he had assumed too much. Nothing had be*1 a said of conipLii-its from any parents of the neg- lect of any of the teachers. Had such boon made, they would have weighed with him very much. For the s&ke of trying to get unanimity, he urged the question be referred back. He objected to any expenditure mat could be avoided. There were scores and hundreds of summonses issued almost daily for payment of rates for people who could not pay. Let them involve the town, but the reckoning day would come soon. What kind of authority would the gentleman be armed with? If the superintendent inter- fered with the head teachers they would ruin the education system in the district. If lie were a schoohnastcr doing his duty, and a man was put over him to interfere with his work he would bring t-ue other masters to- gether to shut the doors and appeal to the Board of Education. Mr. Colwill supported the amendment, and said without hesitation that they did not get value for money expended. The candidates for Queen's Scholarships were mostly at the bottom of the second division. Taking the pupil teachers' centre at Llanelly and Swansea and comparing the results and money spent, it was a disgrace for Swansea. Was it impos- sible out of 15,000 attending the schools to fill the Higher Elementary School with 300 oharp lads? Was it impossible to get chil- dren up to the mark to compete for scholar- ships in the Intermediate School? Was it impossible to select children qualified for the teaching profession? The head-teachers' salaries depended upon the average atten- dance, and the poor results at the Higher Elementary School was, in his opinion, due to not having the right children. The fail- ure of candidates for the pupil teachers' cen- tre was because they were not suitable for it. He suggested the Principal in the Inter- mediate School could send one of his masters to select suitable children to compete for scholarships in that school, and also the same privilege extended to the master of the Higher Eelementary School. Dr. Rawlings said there was a great deal in what Dr. Latimer and Mr. Cadwalladr had said. They would have to do more 1fl the way of the medical supervision of the schools. He thought the appointment would be a truly wise and economical step, but he was opposed to anyone connected with that district bering appointed. Mr. Hopkin said already they (the teachers) were putting their heads together as to who should be the man. Seventy or eighty children were in some of the Board School class-rooms and therein lay the cause, he thought. He advocated referring back. Mr. Payne supported Mr. Cadwalladr's amendment. Mr. T. Corker ,?axx the Intermediate School was already provided for by the scheme, and the superintendent would not apply there. He supported the amendment. Mr. Dan Jones did not see that the superin- tend ent. would interfere with the inspectors or teachers. He would be their adviser. Mr. Moy Evans said the discussion proved the necessity of some supervision. Mr. Solomon said it was intended the ap- pointment should cover both elementary irtd secondary education. MT. Howel Lewis supported the amend- ment. There were 7 inspectors in Leicester, and would the inspector in Swansea, be quali- fied to look after the cookery and dress-mak- ing? (Laughter.) Ald. Martin said the headteachera of the Intermediate School had certain powers, and the superintendent could not interfere with those powers. Besides, they could alter the scheme. Were the Council going to tolerate the position as it was? Cram, he could understand, would afferrt the nervous system, but intelligent teaching would clear the ner- "t vous system. The returns he had alluded to showed there was neglect of duty somewhere, and they as a Council could not hope to deal with it. He wanted the best possible man appointed. The best teachers would ben-sfit bv the official: they would know who were doing their work, and who were not. Peooie were not afraid of the policeman when they were right. Mr. Cadwalladr said the figures quoted wpre for 1901, and were out of date altogether. Tf they referred the matter back they could have the figures up to date. The voting was as follows:—For the amendment -Ald. Lee, Protheroe, D. Wil- liams, Couns. Cadwalladr, Corker, Colwill. M. Hopkin, Dr. Latimer, Howel Lewis, Livingston, Miles, Payne. Total, 12. Against:—Aid. Martin, Dr. Rawlings, R. Thomas, Couns. P. Davies, Devonald, Moy Evans, D. Harris, D. Jones, Lovell, G. Mor- gan, H. G. Solomon, Tarr, B. Thomas, Tut- ton, Howel Watkins. Total, 15. The Mayor did not vote. The amendment was consequently lost. Mr. Hopkin moved that canvassing he pro- hibited, either directly or indirectly. Y. Mr. Cadwalladr seconded. Mr. Solomon said in two recent appoint- ments where canvassing was prohibited he had 70 callers. The motion of Mr. Hopkin was lost by an overwhelming majority. Mr. Moy Evans moved, and Mr. D. Harris seconded, that the recommendation of lending Manselton Schools to the Rev. W. Evans tor men's Bible class, on Sunday afternoons for six months be not allowed. This motion was lost. The minutes were then adopted.

Watch-night Services at Swansea There were wasfcehnight services in St. Mary's Parish Church, Swansea, and St. Matthew's Welsh Church to mark the advent of the new year, and the passing away of the old. The service at St. Mary's began at eleven o'clock with a shortened form of even- ing prayer. There was a crowded congre- gation. Several hymns weres sung. Rev. Talbot Rice (vicar) spoke of the I cleansing power of the Holy Spirit, and a few minutes before twleve o'clock the congrega- tion indulged in silent prayer, and as the hour struck the Vicar gave out the hymn "A few more years shall roll." Afterwards the service closed with the benediction. Prayers were read by the Rev. J. W. Jones (curate). The offertory, which amounted to £ 6, was on behalf of the Mission Room Funds.. There was a good congregation at St. Mat- thew's Welsh Church, where the service was rendered in English. This, by the way, is the only Welsh Church of England church in the town. The service was intoned by the Rev. J. G. Hughes, and a sermon was preached by the Vicar (Rev. T. L. Richards) on the shortness of time. Appropriate hymns were sung, led by the Swan-street Mission Church Choir. Miss Richard presided at the organ. The Vicar wished all a happy new year, and hoped they would take as their motto, "Nearer, my God, to Thee." STIRRING SCENES AT THE ALBERT HALL. Oscar Snelling conducted his 39th wat-cn- night service in Swansea, with his usual fire and vigour, on Saturday night. The Albert Hall was filled, and it was ecvident that the spirit of the revival was present, as during a pause a sweet voice in the crowd struck up "Throw out the life line," which was taken up with warmth, and sirng several times. Several signed the pledge, and others I sought salvation in prayer. Mr. Snelling's text was* Isaiah 38th chapter, 1st verse: "Get thine house in order." At midnight there was silent prayer, then the Doxology, and the usual good washes from the pastor, responded to by a great I shout: "The same to you, sir!"

:;a SWANSEA BOY BADl>Y ^JURED. On New Year's Eve. Jones (15), 52, Rhonddaret, Svvanf^f,' 'Vas enjoying himself at Studt's "Fair" on Swansea Strand. and was leaving s swing-boat, when he did not get clear H) quick time, with the result that he sW^ined a nasty blow on the head from one of the boats. He was conveyed to the Swansea Hospi- tal at 8.45, where it was fOlnq that he was suffering from severe injtf1"^ to the hetid and face. He was detail-

I Goddard96 i | Plate | Powder f I for Cleanir,3S!«ver £ te€*roP!afe&' I r" L-d e_rY-)¡j '¡¡-=- .;MiJI

ROBERTS AT M0RRIST0N. Friday's Heating-, The Bishop of St. David's, writing on the revival m a pastoral letter to the clergy 01 the diocese, says :—- Cur avtitude towards it should bs an atti- tude of sympathy, watcbialness and prayer. this movement, which !;J J "Buddeniy brought spiritual rcaliiios to the forefront "of public a, interest in Wales, calls for our sinoere sym- pathy. I know from my personal intercourse with the clergy that there has bwn among us a growing sense oi our need of deeper spiritual lup. "Underneath all our unhappy divisions there is latent a fundamental spiritual unity among ail Christian believers. It is to be hoped earnestly that at a time when a special subject of vital importance and much com- plexity has illustrated painfally differences of conscientious convictions the present revival may serve to remind us that, amidst all our differences, all Welsh Christians have in com- mon, as a basis of spiritual sympathy, great spiritual needs. "The fact tilxt the r»reseut has s1 ready produced a salu'arv and evidsefc cftect I upon the moral tone the localities which I it has reached demands reverenco for the Divine power manifeet-d in it. "I earnestly trust tmu during the coring year, and especially during tbe iiext month ) of January, you will for vxt-,tl cp- I portunities for public inrcroeesbn in ycur j respective parishes." BANGOR BISHOP Y>:3f! ST PAtTL'S COUNSEL ON L0is EWARMNESS.. I In a letter addressed to his clergy v the i Bishop of Bangor deals with the revival. He calls attention to St. Pa-nl's exhortation, "Quench not the Spin.. Despise not pro "Quench not the Spin Despise not pro phesyings. Prove all 1 huigs held fast that which is good." I "Learned commeniatore," cava the Bishop, "agree that propfaesjrings huve suftewat points of likeness wit; vi io justify j us in regarding the latter z* within i'he scape of the Apostle's direct ons. GREAT SCENES MORKTSTQN TABERN ACJ.5. It is safe to say that '"shf»macle. Cbape'j Morriston, has never better filled tnim it was on Friday evening, Evan-Robert* at tendance being of course the great draw. Every point where a person oonki sta»l or sit was occupied, including the big pfW, pvi- pit, pulpit steps and rails, window sills, aad lobbies. Before six p.m. the people- had assembled, an-i at eleven p.m" "n the writer con- cluded that, so far as h< personally was con ,ertl,d, retirement for night' was desir- able, the meeting was -utiiming, the crash being then almost.c-qua?.y as great as at any other iiiiie duriig the 1 ening. Ths congregation Wi deeply affected by a- number of women ¡It tying for their rela- vive0 at the same time. A passionate prayer ? r a young girl pre- ceded the singing of ) anfon Di yspryd Then Mr. Reverts rOl- in the pulpit and ccmpjainod th. was loo mnck curiosity an.; too little ot .he Serif in those meet- .ing*. They had all dtterved eternal pun- ishment. They migfc!; ,-ive tbeir names on Cb'P'ch books aiui vet b» '-vet. An impressive adieno> io1 Sowed, broken An impressive sdtenoi io1 Sowed, broken i'1 woman's voice, whi-reuDon Mr. Robens exel&imod, '"i hjuik God there Is b He was flow on his knees and fit vrc i.iaov of the cr n^regation. Ae a. m er oi other -oiees ^re fc'jard in prayer 9^ u^r the budding, M Roberts fell into] j Ver^ving out, _d has answered' The Spirit said ''G" ca year iinees V There waf- iroenss ^eeLng in t «.»{•! t at t-has -point 'and several women < at t-has -point 'aM several women ■-• v • i l", -io ••at near the front climbed the pui_ 1 from ib rs to the g;¡,¡ I",ry. Si' .a'is for vc- a1? who, in. the op hs* been overcome, j Two ere called j; ths> pulpit, Lild agaii b Jrstnto the song, ) "D>via gt'iMi fel y n-.iroedd. A man dreg. ed in tie urifbrru of the S»'v?ition Army, in the y-ulpit, presented a pdtifal sight, having in the course of his prayer apparently lost til can.rol ot him- self, could but repeat the words, ap- parently withmrt at U ie&iismg their meacirg, "Lord, I believe—.Lorr', T brieve meacirg, "Lord, I believe—.Lorr', T brieve --now!" He was «Mendsd to by Mr. Rob. erts, acd presently grew calmer. Mr. jipherts. m an intervs', declared that the revival would not be < -v d t<o Britain, but WC JH spread throughout the worid. I The overflow meeting in Cbapei was well attended also, and < y itnul-er BCllle the incidents of the big •; f-i.tng were re- peated. Mr. Mc-Taggart 7,11 Hev. Joseph I Gimlett were the conductors a id a strong English elemoit, was TanifeU. Mr ,T. Davirs. one o' the ueacor s -.f Spar?'on s Tabet aaeie, a. notable fit with a toil I bushy beard, roused m entiK?^ias-ii. | "Since the Roman down! the House of God at Jeri; "I." he de- dared, "Gk)d had no house i- m the vvorld, but was continually knoc :r at the door of their hearts." I A gentleman from Essex S"; ,1 1"" had down to Wales to catch t' hi- of the re- vival he had got what ht carre for. This meeting was also coi to a jate hour, as was a smaller at Bet'har, a Chapel. I YOUNG DAN ROBERTS 'I MULTITUr Ystalyfera is aiire at I j-or several I weeks an expectant multi -i has t>rpyevl for the revival, and it eamt !!■•. Oa Thurs- day, however, their prayer .e a.os'vered. Evan Roberts did not come üt his br-othet I did, atnd the long-pent up iet.iiigs of local religionists burst forth as e mighty torrent- Only a plain, pale-face-' ma,a, ""ith a quiet voice, yet what wonderful uiiioejico he wields over his congregation. Whether he utters great truths, or makes remarks, he is listened to with rapt tien- tion. The same sweet smue and joyftd ges- tures as distinguish his better-known bro- ther. The similarity is striking, To aid I him in his mission a-i 3talyfern hv;, haa silver-tongued Mjs: Anriic ;)avies, and Miss S. A. Jones, Nantymoei. L r The afternooiT maeting v, he^fr v the j English Gong egaticoal Chape.. Ttus -itt-Je I buildii-ig loii, beware the tune vinounced for j the service 0 coihrnetjee wa_- iwronged with worshippers and inquirers. Roberts opened the meet. ng "wi t-h ? sv>srt- jsddroas. He spoke of the ;w :nfiuenoC ift hjs career, and explained how it had ti-aaigod his out- look "on life. Then his fa^e lighted up as hi t short, concise sentenoeihedrovehome by f^ quent repetitions the truths he had come to teach. Afterwards the meeting was thrown open, and prayers were offered and confes- sions made by various pemor;. it W6.,S a very inspiring meeting, but not n7Larkel by tlte wild scenes which distinguisued tit" evening service. Half an hour before the meeting-fcnr.ounoe<i TO take place at. Zoar Chap-«. the buijdinp was packed. There must, have been at jeit. 1,500 persons present. After Pan had addressed the meeting, HWT1' | Hughes., Llangollen, got up to speak, bu. h'j had hardly started when h" was mtff- rupted by an outburst of singing, ihis was fo'lowed by half a dozen P,C¡;'S, as many as three piuyiug at the same time. Rev. D. Evans's (Penrhiwceibr) adiir -s5 whic;h fo' lowed was brought- to a clOfK ], y another out- burst of hvmn-einging. B this tire: meeting was aflame. Your g iW-" :iiiont-ed out prayers until they fell back in 3hoeoer ex- hans-tion. A oathetic incident now :> ■ orred. Annie Jones, while in the rritidle of an ad- dress, burst into tears. Her friend twined her arm round her waist ac: started one of her sweet melodies. The scenes which followed defy descrip- tion. The place appeared in a turmoil. amd yet there was no disorder. Somo prayed: others sang. In one part, or the.chapel were laughing, clapping hands, and waving handkerchiefs in joyful excitement, while a short distance away groupt; might be sffft praying in tones of agony .«jid sliedd'Ttg bit.teT tears. Men, women, and children ¡.)1St control over themselvjes, and nl:MtV fain^-ed with excess of enotauti, One young enthusiast shcut-ed, 1. boys, dewch yn mlaen, m'r Yspryd dotl o'r diwedd." A conversion ther nounced. This was tJ-- -or *-r< break such as YBtaljfera has beit,re witnessed. The half dozeo preacl^is in the pulpit danced with joy, and !>*& Rol- exulted, while the e-ont- !o-ch Iddo" for about g, quarter of "• One of the ministers, Rev P ?en- rhiwoeibr, lost 5 cont.ro' o r tuttu# %nd shouted out "lesn Grist for ever A young man began praying for the removal of the devil from the meeting. "Yes, that's right, give him another," cried an enthusiast. Prayer was offered up for Evan Roberts by a wnng man, when somebody broke m with the words, "Yr ydym ni wedi cr.ei 'lessons' pur gydag ef beth bynag." Auothei who was suffering from hoarseness offered to forfeit a thousand pounds for a better voice with which to shout for Christ. When the standing up test was applied, the scenes became reiniarkabie in t,he er. treme. At one time in haa a dozen centres prayers wore being tyfiered for the "prodigal sons" who had returned. About half-past eleven the meeting came t> an end, the number of converts being eighteen. In announcing this result, Dan Roberts remarked, "Some have had shcts to-night from which they will not. recover. The meetings are to be continued on Satur- day. Before the evening meeting at Pantte; Chaped two processions will parade the streets, one starting from Godre'graig, the other from Gurnos. MORRISTON TABERNACLE SUFFERS DAMAGE. When h ityn Jones, pastor of Taber- nacle Chape?-. Morriston, was asked by a "D&ily Post". :representative whether the crnshi.ig and crowding at the recent revival meet:nee? at that place of worship had, aso ruinoiifed, caused damage, he replied "Oh, d<n.r. ves fo what c-xt, iit. Mr. Jones? "To the pillars and walls, the paint and the lobby, wmcVw-fraroes—in fact,-gen,ral, damage." Aiiked wheUi the members would allow i tsihiar such 111<f igs to be held ag-ain, the reverend gentlem-m replied "If they de spiritual good, we don't mind the oast. This morning I received a New Year's card ,vii 0 a postal order for 10s. 6d. towards the "What will the damage amount to?" "Some cay but this has not vet been 9 «5/> r o 1 r> -p*n SPARKS FRO.Vf THE GREAT FIRE. liim as Thy speaking trumpet," prayed a P#-rtre man of Evan Roberts. Mr. D. iif-rrs. Llansamlet, supplies the folioTnfcg i-ri'-nslevitm of "Diolch Iddo" :— Here's a Saviou,- for lost 6inners, Hcaknr for either'd race; Here is one loves to pardon Yi'e trri.n2,~<' -.ors. 0, what grace Thinks • ever, For redvKttTung .rthly dust. "Well-Wisher writes:—Meetings have been armn- held at Ebenerer Chapei at 2, and at T-huty Chapel at 7 p.m., on Tuesday ;iext. Jut it is very clear that these chapels will be much too small for the then- sands who will attend, and who wish to catch the fire. I suggest therefore tha.t overflow meetings be held at the Methodist Chapel and the Welsh esleyan Chapel (both in Alexandra-road: the afternoon, and at Capel Gomrr aaa Capel Henrietta-efepeet in the evening, ■ r more of the missioners could take par; r 11 these meetings. Thou- sands would he gioddenfed, too, if the heads ot our business houses in Swansea recognised the great upiifti- g work of this revival by closing their hocuses on Tuesday afternoon, and thereby ens Vie their assistants and ser- vants to shave „ lessings. I An old won- rayed at, Pentre for a coasin of here wi., had "fallen," and had been taken to the r-. lioe-station. "Tl»ri^ will be a demand for Bibles," said "Pena-r" after the whole congregation at Pentre had risesi and promised to read the Bible daiiv. So impressive ?- s the afternoon meeting at that Mr Roberts made the remark, ? a terrify p-ace. I have never felt the terrible as imoch as to-night before." Mr. Evan Ri>L»erto has promised to visit Cardiganshire M as arrangements can be made. There was some -aotiful solo singing in the Pentre overflow -eetings. Mr. J. Williams, of Port Talbot, writing of it revival criticism, says that the excuses r-j ."cco mt for so.ne the conversions, such as the law of toe land compelling parents to look after their farad as, etc., are ridiculous in the extreme. Sirica, when does the law of the land compel to join the House of God? ) Ar, Atheist wa Averted at Cardiff on Sunday. A. worisn, who :2"!t -rwards said she had meant to drown herself, looked into a Barry meant to drown herself, looked into a Barry HIEETIJIG, AND WAS T-» WD. Swanaoa poTicenien did invaluable service in controlling the crowds at Mr. Evan Ro- berts' meetings on Sunday. Mr. Harry Jane. acting editor of the "Daily Cllronicle," J.ondon, was among those present fit. Siloam, Pectre, on Sunday after- nor. The revival is fast- destroying interest in football in S^va-nsei Valley. Among the convene at a revival meeting at Pantteg were a farheT ana eon. "The deril hss alrt^d.y a black eye," said a Loughor convert. "Give him another." A Llarasarrdet corr»"pondent writes —The friends of the district desire to offer their warmest thanks to the "Daily Post" fcr its sympathy and good sorvioe in helping on the movement

Neath Crowd Hoots the Referee. The referee at the Neath and Bridgend mat-eh, Mr. W. M. Jv. of Cardiff, was vigorously hooted by the crowd who saw Saturday s game at the qnoll. "After J lew my whittle*to terminate the garno" "he "arid as going to get my coat, the ec-oWl¡ &he crowd in a tur- bulent mood. closed ir tround me and ac- ¡ o.-rapaiied t}.e to ihe. ird-in-Hond Hotel. The crowd <;f. heotir and shouting, a-nd (with a shr\:r} it was s very unoomfortable time, I assure you J v sh to make it per- fectly clear, iimw^r. that I received no per- sonal violec.<«, s there any mud JT stones: thrown. 6ir position, as I have said, was very 'iiicoini "table to say the least of it. lie crowd "!&d no other inten- j tion apparently tha,n in 'making me uneasy, the oreeenoe <"4 the police preventing any- I t!iin;: more serious." J ••'Did the committed es3ist ip quelling the v ^ii, re<iduy repnonded Mr. Doug- did in their power, and after 1 had been a-v the hotel a short time I was able to r'" to the station un molested." "Evida&tlT, there ""t,> dissatisfaefcon as to mv decÏSliOt.l' in several instances, but I was there to inteirsre! the rules of the game 86 I nnd the: 1 I did so regard- less of cois0eciupr,cr to? some time there has been a fooling. the rules of Rugby iiK/th-fll haye -nod out in Wales as stri- :i., they ought to be. Meetings Society have been held at, CaN'.ff, Swansea, Llane < ■jj.d Neatii' at these meetings th re femes were rlí6tm,.1 that they must hot hfw: 'taO to the ruies camed" out 'n their entir^y* Vibe1.1 has now gsained so prominent m the Principality that unless the -fe3 jilay a.re strictly adhered to g«.:< i< "J nstioof pastime must de- generate, uir ha., to be made some- where. "The to be more cleanly playod by i their opponents 1 repeatedly t'd the flayers against off- side play and of rides in other ways. Fot SoCt?*>n L of Law 11 provides in "1 a scrimmage, that players must Jt""l' T, "Iii on the ground until the ball tree-r. p>»t into the scrim- mage. T\)\* r«'e Avactty disregarded by the Nea&b oJthough one cn oc- cacnon T called to each conduct by placing mv h..rG he leg of a hlayer who had raised his h'ad oecn put in. I 1 r ?*>«r? no a^ternative but to penaii^ Ui each time a violation of rules xook "Another f;^tu?e, ,°f for which I had repeatedly to wa-" the vdlation of a feci ion -1 14")i wh-ich provide the; offiiicte playe? ^5a*t no- p^iv the tall, nor during the t.i'U"(\Jr:-<>¡dnt has Ùe ba'l, run. tackle, oc or passively otsfcroct I twr may ",uL¡Uy remain wcth- in ten yards." affair is ht '1 u r 3dxt»» tbe UMOQ.

I EVAN ROBERTS AT j • PENTRE. Crowded Congregations and White-Hot Emotion. Examples of the Great Revivalist's Simple Eloquence. Curious By-product at Tabernacle Chapel. In the descriptions of the revival scenes at Pentre listyll Chapel, irwansea, which have appeared from time to time in these columns (writes a representative of the "Daily Post"), emphasie hac been laid upon the distinguish- ing tone of deep devotion, upon the absence of much of the worked-up emotionalism occa- sionally prevalent at such gatherings, and upon their inspiring sincerity. In no Bet-lie) io Walos has the quickeneing fire burned brighter than at Pentre. Nowhere have the results been more convincing, more genuine. In few has the rBstJess aggressiveness of a rejuvenated church been better shown. Evan Roberts on Sunday came upon soil well tilled aaxl sown, but there were some barren plaoei for his influence to work upon. After the morning and afternoon meet- ings at the chapel, he privately said of them, "Y eyfarfodydd pnraf eto a gefais." The Iransiation is "The purest meetings I have yet had. At the conclusion of the evening service I sought to obtain from him a mes- sage for the Swansea chnrcDes. "Could you, Mr. Roberts," I asked him, "give me a New Year's message for Swan He closed his eyes for a few moments, and then answered "No." Again there was a pause, and he qn»lified hie reply thus "I would have been very glad to give you a message, but I have arked the I Spirit, and it savi; 'No.' The three meetings had moods. That of the afternoon, "Penar" told me, was the most intense he had experienced. That of the evening started quietly, became infected with the r-hecriness of the evangelist, who bubbled over with joy, and lastly got ablaze. Once only was there an antagonistic influence at work. It was towards the close of the afternoon meeting, when the front doors were opened, and the constant movement caused a spirit of listlossness to break m. Those who have followed the meetings through the Rhondda Valleys al-Fo defected 2. new side to the etrength of the leader ne ir. developing a Spwrgeonic gift of telling sen- tences. Drama-tic qualities 01 voice and ac- tion, too are being discovered in him. Once Mr. Roberts moved th? congregation to pro- found emotion with a portrayal of the down- ward road. "Down, down i" he said, and he leaned over the pulpit desk and his ha-nds pressed the words home, "Down, down, down Picking and chosing here and there I col ••icted the following sayings of the Evangelist during the day. They are disconnected, but they could not be aught else, for he never sets himself to continuous argument. "This is not the time for discussion," he often said f- effect during the meetings — "&me peopte'e heaven will be a very 11 one. They want to go to heaven on tip-toes, without anybody's knowledge. I am afraid nobody will know they are there. "Don't think yen should be aolemn in God's house. Can you imagine people solemn in heaven? No; they are all happy tneie. Sanctificd joy I "[t kills the meeting wh-en too much at- tention is paid to me. "If you want to be like the Master, we must do everything for Him. 'I will do this but not that.' No, you must be willing to do all. 'Yes, yes, but my dignity!' says a man, and stands aside. But here is dignity —God's Son washing the feet of the disciples! There's going down for you "Everybody who comes to God must be a worker. Some come to the church for quiet ness. Woe to. those who want ease in the church. They arc obstacle". "Christ ha^ three medals to give. On one will be inscribed the word 'Cold.' an an- other 'Lukewarm,' on the other 'Hot- Which ar? you going to wear? There are many who want to have one arm around the world and the the heavens- T-ou WIre ee bouhoto serve one or the other. "God is hero this afternoon, filling the place. Is there a thirst amongst you, a thirst for God? Well, you can have it re- moved. Don t say when you leave that it was hard and cold. Don't say that, Why? Because you condemn yourself. It is you who was hard and cold. You can all be warm of heart. There is enough fire to keep you all warm. "What then can we da? Pray for the fire to burn us. "Do you think that Jesus Christ tells the truth? Oh, yes, yes! What does He say? 'Without Me you can do''—a.ll? No. 110: 'Without Me you can do nothing.' 'Dim! Dim!' "Few of you K&ve praved before vots came here this afternoon If I asked vou, how many of you would rise? Weil, here,it; half- a-minute to ask Him that He will bleas this meeting. "Have you felt glad that Jesus has died for vou--for me, me? Are you thankful that I Be died, for us to get heaven? j, "Go with Him to the Garden; be there in His company a little. And they went t ■> sleep there! Oh, dear, dear! But dent condemn too early. Whijc Jesus \v~.f. Gpeak- ing to me I slept, too- I thank God I talk [ with Jesu.s now. I e "You can see neaven in people's J. "We should pray that God shouJd bend us. The churcnes have sometimes to—every- thing but God. But He has *jade them bend. "If we had seen Him ip the Garden, if we. had seen Him as He w*-s—a ''i'H picture of Him-He would cp-ff lls -li-h irresistible power. "Be not apJ"°us- It shows a want of faith. heW At ^ternoon meetir.o- he related a i»»^nai experience and broke down into tears while giving it. "Do you know: he said, "that God hides his faeG from you sometimes? I know it One night I went to pray. I could have thought God was dead. I went to bed, hut no rest, no rest! It was terrible, ter rible! God had hidden his face. Oli, iiave you had that experience? Couldn't get hold of GodlzThere was nothing in the Bible to me. There was a weight upon my heart. I went to pray, 'My God My vv hy hast Thou forsaken me. The evangelist's foice had been full of t-cam- throughout this narrative, but when he gave Christ's words of agony he sobbed aloud and sank back into his seat. "If it was bad for me, he cried, "think what it must have been for At the same gathering, the afternoon meeting, one of his helpers also succumbed to the picture her vivid imagination con- jured up. Mass Annie Davies, of Maesteg, is a short, sweet-featured young ladv. with great wondering eyes. She sat restlessly in an arm-chair in the set fawr. fac- .ng the con- grecat;on,and prayed silently.her little figure I working with emotion. Then suddenly she broke into a low wailing prayer, soon changed into a sobbing pelation. "Jesus j Christ died for me," she moaned, "for niE, I t Diolch i Ti, 0 Lord who bent me.' 'Lower and lower sang the voice, slowly the sobs subsided, but, long after the congregation had started singing, her lips were moving, and her hands beat the arms of the (' h,ÙI' j in anguish. Twice in the evening r..<v-ing I ah-o broke down similarly? onoe during an address, and on the other occasion whilst she wae singing, "Dyma Gawad j<| y mor. oedd." "Pray for h«sr pit! Mr. Rob- erts, as she Hung herse# back tearful into her seat. One feature of the is deserving of commendation. The "Ofit rowds were ex- cellently managed, and hi.ners were so ar- ranged that there 8$ no unpleasant paek ing of tUe people tog^i;< >i Before the doors I were opened in the 2-fernoon, worship had commerced. A feW hundred outside tang all the hymns giyen a new breath of life by I the quickening, and a young girl, quavering wit.'¡ passion, herfeli sang sweetly. V,'h° i the congregation W4,, admitted, it, was Dot long before the a pel was filled, but, pro- fiting by the eJP^ence of Vardre, on Wed- nesday, and~Tai>crriacle on Thursdav v R. j Ci-upief* 'here w no overcrow r "fhilS the first necessity tor a r.meting, a Host fill people. ,as secured. U, o-f the first to off»r public worship--B-cf'V' I the proceedings really commenced—-a j .a n i young, merrv-faced girl. 3h", i-Ad a 77 stumbling ">*»• the. ic«.; wor«is in the Vvel*b, with a!! her heart in j:, and then, sinking to her knees in the set iwr, the started to pray. Her petitions f.-iT»:c wi.h h-esetation, but they vibrated so with irk-nso feeling that a flood of sv'rpothx went out towards her, "How hnrd they are: Answer, Ijord. ;uiswer?" she pleaded. And the "Aniens" filled the building. This moeaing eud.-xi, with four or e conversions, shortly hcfQ e five o'clock. Out- side a new congregation waited to enter for the evening proceedings. At six. with the chapel crowded, there were outside many hundreds who waited patiently lor a chance, whilst hundred", snare- w-cil known people amongst their number, went back to town agcin. riiroughout the meeting t-h-e strains of the snging penetrated to the (in- terior, and during moments of comparative 6ilence the effect was thrilling. There were visitors present from all pats of the Kingdom. Rev. Bowea Roes, a Sooth African missionary, and his wife, attended Mr. Bramwell Booth—a fion of the "Gen era!"—prayed with fervrur two lady wor kers in London slums sat near the hj scat and watched the scenes with wonder a Mr. Stimpson and a Mr. Houghton were there- from Northampton, a Scotch minister was in the deacons' circle. One of the vis"tors was enlisted as a convert. Standing in the front row of the gallery he sand "Reading of the meetings you had in Wales I came down, and now I resign myself to Jeoue. 1 pray He will go with r.ie to-morrow to J..on- don and give me strength to tell my col- leagues what Jesus can do. I intend to live a proper and thorough Christian lufe. I know that tp my mother in Portsmouth the news will be the greatest blessing che has had for many years, to know that I tried to say a few words in His name." It was Mr. Booth, I believe, who ofiored these petitions: "Some of us have come to th 6 meeting from afar x t b hearts t),,at a'e burnng. While men have been wTansiing and discussing, God has come. While some in our great temples have been tryring to tear the Royal diadem from Thy hpaO.. Thou hast answered them. Let not the bless- ing which followed thy servant here irom town to town be confined t.) the frontier line of the Principality of Wales." The most affecting scene of tbe day wa.?. the surrender of a grey-haired man. It was made 1t & ,cnt. His brother, in the I big sent, had just opened the Bible to read, and had said the first f'*v.T words of the cnars- ter. when "Penar" came striding up to the front. I "Can I say a word?" he- asked. The reader looked up, to receive a <WS- sage from the pastor that his brother had given himself to Christ. His joy was painful to look at. He fell on his knetee, t«>en given himself to Christ. His joy was painful to look at. He fell on his knetee, t«>en ra.n across 10 the new convert, embracer, and shook his hands. I The test6 were severe, and while many ro.™t> to show their profession of some, a good manv in their ranks sat down while the other questions were asked. Those who were in- vited to ri. were — I.Thoc;e who were church members. II.—Those who loved Jeeus Christ. III.—Those who loved Jesus Christ more than all things. TV.Tha-p who wanted to love Jesus more than all things V.—Those who read the Word of God every day. VI.—Those who promised to read the Bible everv day. VII.—those who prayed every day. VIII.—Those who promised to pray every- dav. It was the third question which made the gaps in the upstanding congregation, tor the people saw what the logical sequel to ae quiescence meant, a cheerful abandonment of all that outside Christ was loved. But there was one, a young girl, who not only stood, but said that she loved Christ more than anything else; she had "left everything for His sake." When the questions wpre put at the end of every service, the gaps were not so many, but there came an unexpected sequel. Mr. Roberts wanted those who loved Christ to rise and say so. The response was not. as ready as the sta-nding test would lead one to suppose it would be, and the Evan- gelist looked on amazed. Then, with more energy in his voice than he had yet dis- played, with a touch of indignation in it also, he pointed out that just oefore they had pjrofcased te love C'.VirUt- ivow were t slow in showing thai they did so' "Do you really love Him more than any- body else in the world?" he asked. "If go, rise'and tell Him s'J!" This time the res. ponoo was more gratifying, and the look cf sorrow on Mr. Roberts' face changed to one of happiness, as practically the whole con- gregation got up and, dr»7/ens together, gave a verse or said "I love Jesus." There were about a dozen conversions in the evening, and the force put into "Diolch Iddo" and the variation of the words sung to the tune "Caersaiem" was intensely mov- ing. The meeting concluded just after 9.33 p.m. Precisely at 9 p.m. he leaves for Hsrmon Chapel, where L another great crowd is anxiously swaiting his coming. Here for another hour and a half similar scenes are enacted. and a historic Saturday night for Pontard'ulai-s wears itself to a close. After Mr. Roberts departure watch- night service was held^at Hope. At tbe close | the Rev. P. Lhyd Morgan asked the wor- f shippers to n-.ako a- pied go which was em bc.Yltd in the following ^rice-repeated for- j r ada, "BWyrfdyn Newydd Dda i achos Ies 1 Grist'" Impressive services were held at a!i the places of worship on Sunday. At St Teilo's Church a service of song, entitled 'The Coming of Emmanuel," was given. YSTALYFERA STILL ABLAZE WHY! FERVOUR. Revival meetings were continued at Ys taivfera on Saturday. A women's meeti > £ r was held at Gurnos Chapel, followed [In hour later by a general service. Mr. Dan Roberts and his lady assistants were present. The evening service was held at Pantteg Chapei. Mr. Dan Roberts was soon interrupted by an announcement from someone in the 11 gregation that four of five young men for whom prayers had been offered the previous night had' been "saved." Several women made their way to the "set fawr" to confess their sins and pray for forgiveness. Big tears rolled down the cheeks of white-haired old people in the PC w i. For some time there seemed every prospect of a repetition of the wild scenes of the pre- vious evening. One man cried out. "Let us send a telegraph message to heaver." An- other urged the congregation not to "coaf f the devil," while one called for a "vote thanks" to the Holy Spirit.. x A damper was placed on the ni9f*lR§ °>' »• couple of men—one- from Poo**fclaw'e; the other from Seven Sister, Pr'Htic:ly other from Seven ^v*° practically monopolised the proceef^1^ more than an A little girl waa Pat fo N,7 a rki by her mother to sing. This ^femoa k' cause offeree to some ardent »"evivalists, who feit that the Holy Spirit was quenched About eleven o'clock a wave of fresh el- ing caf^e over the assembly, and till midnight the meeting resumed the character it had taken during the earlier part of the evening. The new year was ushered in vnth the an nounc-o.ment of twenty-four conversions. OPEX-AIR MEETINGS AT CLYDACH. -t Carmel, Clydach, a united prayer meet- Uig held on Sunday night, lasting until 6 o'clock on Monday morning, and meetings Were held at the other churches all day. Rev. D. C. Davies, of Spurgeon's College, presided at the Baptist meetings. After the after- noon service a large number of members of I the various chapels went to Nickel-terrace, where the Mond workmen live, and held an open-air meeting. tft-erwards marching through the other thoroughfares. Another WaS ''le Glydach-square. On Saturday a. young people's meeting was I, held at Calf aria. wheii several members took a very prominent part. The meeting lasted until 10.3Q p.m. I Ton candidates await baptism in the vil- lage. DRUNKARDS CONVERTED AT '1" BOETH. The revival fervour-is at a. high P'k.i :n the Trebm ill district-. At # Caers^\3m Newydd. 0 Rev. Mr. Edwards, con- ducted enthusiastic ^aUirday. which started at the Mvnyddhn; football Ground, long before the pJayr" ■- rrived, and so"f- hundreds Were kpp" a 'A'ay from he revivalists -t's.) vjS'tra the >' 1.. mchhugs-' out^e. A"' tap' men tfce-j w- rr && T;at them, and i vr.i p ":1 ijiei/jone^rt'.r,-•• v L prayer was. Ctif. wan fifaggered inim he *Vruds-t uf thfij] fNivaliss-. i«savfit to n;e was ever<fnal!y converted, <i r.^id 'his parents woulu never beiieve :■ i; -.i j-.is fe wo-(, be TV.-N So great i the L'nji ansk-Jv to ^Xch a doors of Zoar (.Tiajjel, Carnwrlhea-ro^d. !?wan.'w>. were n'H t«> be opened until o'ebaek on Mou.dav afterrocn. p<pL«. as- scmbifMi outside ihe nr.vn griteg soon after ten o clock. At half-past twelve the erowi 1\11..1 swelled to iargo properrand. led 1 v a few entbufiicst.v, they sang with grc. .snirit « number of Welsh' hymns. The police an doty adopted the queue sysiem. It wie- ceeded admirabh. ar:J th<re was -t- more crushing than con id reasonably ]>e helped. 7he. gallery was filed firs4 it was packed before the big doers leading to (!:<■ ground floor were opened. When mtr- ua- lockeJ, at, one, d a. I then 01) lÓd(. bad iOI1 nO. seats, ihere was still room. Indeed the chapel was not, crowded ont for Kome time after that hour. The congrcgat'^n nassod nost of the hour hi singing. One nc.>worthy event was the adoption of "Aberystwyth" to a revival hymn. Dr. Parry's composition has bem nearly altogether in íiw background during th1 list few months; it is too heavy for such buoyant meetings. It was sung with much heartiness, but was soon dropped. Then Mies Susic- Williams, of Fforestfach, gave "Dyrna Gariad fel y moroedd," hut she set it to a tune few knew, and the response was poor. A Lyinr. which went witb tre- mendous swing was "When the roll is called 1; yonder r,ii be there" another English tavounte was "ThT0W out the life-line.' So the time passed, until a man jumped up m the, gaIk-y and stated theiy^ was too much singing and not enough praying. He ha.d not concluded before a young lid was on his feet, ergaged in offering such passionate petition* that the congregation was socn ab!s;e. The fiarne was fed by a fierce prayer given from the "set fawr" by a man whose whole body worked wih ,.JS e-nof ion. Towards two o'clock was a long ad- dress from a Grwaun-cae-gnrwcn collier, which provoked from one of the ministers the re- qrest that the testimonies and prayers should '<* "fyr" (short). They wanted telegrams, not letters. But the next speaker, too, was over- iong, and this time the musical closure was adopted It was agan. applied to a Leomin- ster inissiocer, who was in tne pulpit. T. ie reference to a telegram brought a prayer 'n which God was thank d that they could send a wire to Him, and L< ■ -ause there was no d.arge no matter hew many the words. r. Roberts arriwd at half-past two, with singing assistantB. He was on his feet i., a minute or two after his entrance with R warning which he delivered T. ,< He hoped they had not- come there for .-{titer- tftinmeat, but to vrorehip God. "And do not rise to show vourself; let the Spirit work alone. Perhaps some will ior.fiT and faugh. G'jd will pay all I have SK n one two paid they have had it very heaTY.) He vas mterrupt<-d rN, a prayer from mu in a far corner of the budding, ibis tti torn Ixrnc broken into by hymn-singinr rhrougho it the Gwaun-cae gorwen :ier slionted fO" prayers until f fell baf ¡ ,up irtc his seat. After h at occurred an incident whi-h n-ode th., a-asembly nrd hot. A yon ng man rof.» 1 the gallery. Remember my b-nili,-r IlfI F-Tayed "soften bis heart. He f--is Ilut not enough to bring bin to Christ. let him come back with me to Cwaitwrch lieving in Him. If I have had t bring bim t(. Swansea with me fo get J^us, it drx sn't matter. I would go for that anywhere "Where is he?" asked Fvar Ilobei^a. "Doe, h.n yieJd 7" The praying brother looked over the con gregation, and almost inctaritiy Ite fhout'/d out. "He has come!" Such a sireiug f "Diolch Iddo" followed this that people jumped with th- rhythm. Such pltifai peti- tions for help were made afterward;: that, vhen Miss Annie Davies wa. cryy-g and praying, many others, i.r- tbe "set fawr" par- ticularly, were dissolved in tears. On one occasion there wnv' tbr e -rayera being criven together. "Here is tlie rcviral startiag to burn in Sw^rve-a," 3.Í(j a dfacci, If the tcTvouT oi Zoar is an indication it is going to burn in Swansea with greater ferocity than an-,rwhc,- sin; r th." Evargeli.-t started his pilgrimace irom i-ongnor.- There w& an c.verfow meeting the h and another in tbio ofien air utaide the chapel.

NEW YEAR" GREETING. Mayor Spring Dines the Consular Beefy. In accordance with custom the Mayor of Swansea (Aid. Spring) •■seh3"ged New \'ear'» greetings with tbo J?* »m J: asutar body at the Swansea GW'TIJ Monday at noon. The Mayer w1( iA.¡ the following gentle- nvn Dr. W, Plywes (American Consul>, Messrs. E. Goldberg (Consul tor Hawai.i, H. Burgees (Vice-v^oosui for RM,.1a and Denmark}, P. Rossi (Italian Consul), T. i' Cook (Vioe-Consul A us: r:s-Hungary). W. M. Jomis (Coi^iul for Cii- c"rI?iey Burgees (Vice-Consul for Ar n. uoiieK WC Mason (Vice-Couau W Law ifiiarbour Trust- I- n rinv ruler,•> A (I Scnenk (Engineer), V. N. Talfourd "ltrwk (Clerk), Councillors J. Moy Evans, M. T ton, the Deputy Toe. C'terk (Mr. 1J John), and the A&sis ait Solicitor to th, porÚolJ (Mr. R. Whe. Mev). A letter was read ire Sir Griffith I'hon- r;7-.c,tti-,ig his t-, pre.«^nt. a? hoping the custom i\ iated by the lat<- C< i ike would be contirn HI i'ne -Viayor, in drink.stg t!ie Health of th< representatives of tl various counrieR r" I pieeented. said it was fbt- c sire of Kin; Kdward that th 're shuuiii be peace, aad h;, Majesty held out the oiive branch to ali na tions. (Hear, hear.) > it pained h's W'r si ip's heart- to lwar cf tk u;rrib;e slaugbte of human life between ana civ-nbe" Powers. "If you !k< tne K.'ng th4 or-I. continued ..he M. r, "iorOft4 mimite, I would s 1:0 m'^re fightii-.g." (IBew, bear.) T'u* inst-ruiwmte of w»i should, in his opinion, 0 plough shares and everything^Jje- brother hood of men shou^* With mo: i^rol her hood ■ • iui Dr. '>n bensl >t<. roiisnlar ijiody wisli#ayrr am! >.ayorpss !on<r <-• pros^ritv and b"* ^reat pleasure to erri. r. -ayor and chief that was the seventh time !h. spe-ej-vr bad had the Itonour of re.-f> d' th. ms-i feetcUions of kindly f" i: on the pari of the pnayors ai.a civic authorities of Swansea. During the seven and a half years he had represented the American na- tion in Swansea, every kindness bad been ex- tended by the mayors and every other Ccn- ■s? iar representative Ht. mentioned hy name the chairman of the Harbour Trust Sir Griffith Thomas). Messrs W. Law. J. Thomas (1 own Clerk], and D. C. John (mayor's offi rial secretary). "A very sincere afld ;i Happy New Year" concluded Dr. Pr\-es, who, after wishhig Aid. and Mrs. Sj">rii?g '< very pros- perous ano successful year, referred in sym- pathetic terms to the døth., Captain Dabne (German Consul), Car, ",n Ansa!do (Italian Consul), and !\ír.. T. h. W. Mason (Consul for Greence). Mr. J. H. Burge&s said tt" cafnect- desire of the Cur was for pr-a<*» c;c) he was greatly disturbed .id distre.ss<^ i!t wbst was going on. and with thcrn k* y r,d like to ;ee a speedy end of the waf*. bey trusted media- non in;gllt come in. ffld there might'be -)Pie- thing done to stop *h< terrible slnughter. D?t us all pray it -iv be so, for there is ndhing that ili for the prosperity' of nations .k"- peac*' Mr. \Y. C: Ml* associated hiniself with th gond wisbo'i'• rosaed- Mayor, ply, said be wished <0 be mayor o/ p«>ople, 3'ul he should do b'? iiesi for 'Ussos of s<jciety. Mr. Tutf" ^Ooke. and af!<>rwards that \f1.'1 drunk, the Mayot remarking. 'V\^ryoue's good health." Mr. J. 1'urge»v proposed the health of the Har^)Ur Trust officials, and Mr. Moy Evans, *tt "conding. said jieace nr.d good IV, wo raticl Mr.. Law. in response, hoj^l the Mav<^fi -v"ar of office would i»e i mas! cora- fort*bh <■>■

=-< 'c,(,U: ,XDDA NT) SW.t\.SpA may J I: MLW a Four Per ent !V»er.t;jrc Stock wore "hon the 31st lX"c*nr.ocr.

1- I W. ARCHIE i GOLDEN RETORgS i RECISTEHEPggg—' gp| Facsimile oj One-Ounce Packet. Archer's Oolden Return* Tb« Perfection of Pipe Tobacoo- I C>'j" .lr;T.T, Atm FIAORANT. -.tœ.I t '>2"=- =. ¡1 I

LAST YEAR'S STORY. Memorable for the Royal Visit in July. Swansea, in 1904, will bo reraemcereM as the year of the Royai visit to the ancient borough, and for ages tho index iiuger cf Time will point to the celebrations attend- iug tho coming and the going of their Most Gracious Majesties the King and Queen. The details of the chief event of the old year are fresh in the public recollection—how King Edward VII. and his beautiful Queen arrive*! on board the Royal yacht, the Victoria red Albert, on tho morning 01 J'dy 20th, from Liverpool, the passage ciow^Ao St. George's Channel having been made a heavy thun- derstorm—with what enthusiasm the Royal party were greeted on landing—the ceremony of cutting the first sod of Swansea's new dock, followed by a knighthood being con- ferred upon the Mayor (Mr. now Sir Griffith Thomas)—and the subsequent Royal proces- sion through the gaily decorated fading thoroughfares of the town, when the plaudits of a nation rang out as with one voice in admiration of the august visitors. Finally, the departure for the Elan Valley on the morning of the 21st. These main incidents of the Royal visit can never be forgotten by the tens of thousands privileged to witness them. Next in importance in Swansea events in 1904 was the yisit of the Bath and West Show, in May last, when, but for very un- favourable weather on the two last days of fhe exhibition, the attendance would pro- bably have beaten all records. As it was 78,827 passed the turnstiles—a grand total that had only been exceeded by one other town—Bristol—whilst the aggregate takings -£5,591 lis. 9d.—represented more than the grand t-otal obtained at 24 out of 30 towns visited since 1874. Though not occurring in Swansea exactly, yet the old town shared the thrill that was experienced in West Wales over the disaster on October 3rd last, to the Milford-Padding- ton (G.W.R) express, just outside Loughor. The train was wrecked, and it was miracu- lous that only five deaths was the result, though some 60 people were more or less in- jured. The mention of Loughor reminds one that this is the home of the Rev. Evan Roberts, who. in November, began the great religious revival that was soon to set the Welsh nation ablaze. The "fire" spread to Swansea dis- trict in a few weeks' time, but 1904 closes with the opinion of a. London contemporary that "Swansea was the black eep of Wales." The New Year promises better things. Apart from the Loughor railway disaster, the year just passing was singularly free from serious disasters in Swansea and district. In March general sympathy went out to- wards the relatives of Harry Perkins, of Ma-I- vern-terra.ce, an apprentice, who with 19 other hands went down in the "Lady Cairns" —a Swansea barque, sunk in collision off the Irish coast. Beyond this, local disasters were of the individual type. Politically, Swansea stood out with some prominence in the old vear. In January, Mr. C. W. Laird, of the Lairds, of Birken- head, was selected as the Conservative can- didate for Swansea town, but unfortunately he was subsequently compelled, through ill- health, to retire from what had proved to be a very promising candidature. The same month the Conservative party, and indeed the whole town, was honoured by a from the Home Secretary, Mr. Akers Doug- las, who before a magnificent audience assembled a.t the Albert Hall, delivered a speech on current political topics, particu- I larly dwelling upon the fiscal question as it affects the tinplate trade. The war in the Far East had not then begun, and the Home 1 Secretary's prophetic announcement that "the situation is still grave, a.nd its gravity I is such that no responsible person should say anything which might in any way be open to misapprehension or doubt abroad," reflected the prudence of the present Govern- ment that has up ti1I now kept Great Bri- tain from being plunged into the thick of the fight. The following month saw estab- lished in Swa-nsea, with )11. Ernest Trub- shaw as its chairman, a branch of the Tariff Reform League, and in March the Borough member paid a visit to his constituency. The education fiasco will mark the corpor- at6 life of Swansea in 1904 with unenviable notoriety. The old year had only just opened when the town was asked for a. cheque for £124 odd to cover Swansea's share of the costs incurred over the unsuccessful man- damus proceedings in the High COUTt. And for months afterwards the Council continued to discuss the education question, till on one occasion members actually left the Council Chamber whilst the business was in progress, a.s a protest against the partiality shown from the chair, and the continued waste of public time. At length, on May 10th, the Hon. W. N. Bruce held a public enquiry into the reasons why Swansea had not adopted a scheme under the new Education Act. Then a scheme on practically the same lines as the Department had months before sug- gested, was adopted, but still the appointed day was put off to the utmost limit—Septem- ber 1st. Coming events cast their shadows before, and a recent discussion at the Council J made it pretty clear that the new year ;s to see enforced a policy of starving the volun- see enforced a policy of starving the volun- tary schools. The placing of the contrast with Messrs. Dick Kerr and Co. for the carrying out of the tramways extensions, wh'ch work is well in hand, the completion of the dust destructor, the advancement of Swansea's claim for telephonic inter-com- munication with the National Company's system, another step in the Brynmill drain- age question, the continued success of the electric lighting undertaking, and the mysteri- ous promotion of a Bill in Parliament for +he compulsory purchase of the tramways, ex- tension of the Swansea water works, and other things, are among other matters dealt with at the Guildhall during the year. From an industrial point of view Swansea made progress, and on the whole, trade was good, though the "dumping" of foreign bars continued to have an adverse effect upon the local iron and steel works. Strikes and lock- outs were conspicuous by their absence, and but for the failure of the Beaufort. Tinplate Company, the staple industry would not have been marred in any way, thanks to the loyal acceptance by the men in January last of Sir Kenelm Digby's award in favour of the masters over the Canadas and doubles question. The shipments of tinplates showed gratify- ing increases, and the trade of the port generally, when the returns come to be made up, will favourably compare with the total volume of 4,183,063 tons in 1903, and tho record of 4,&S2.175 tons for the year before I that. The placing of the contract with Messrs. Topham, Jones, and Railton for the new dock works and the practical completion of the new bridge over the North Dock lock were other matters of chief importanse in connection with the Harbour Trust. Swansea saw some litigation during 1904. The year opened with the Trueman-Knovle case that dragged on for Rome ten days, when the patience of the dl war, quite exhausted, and the 1st of the following month saw a. big fight at the Licensing Sessions, when all the forces of temperance went in support of reduc- tions in the number of licenses in a pre- scribed area. Many licenses were Tefu^ed, and the tussle was continued at. the ensuing Quarter Sessions. An alleged slander hy Mr. Richard Wathrns, that dw from Mr. Justioe Grantham, in the High Court, an important legal opinion on the, licensing ques- tion generally, and a few apologies by the Rev. S. Higman because of a sweeping state- ment he had made, were but side issues in the struggle. The "Swansea Corporation v. Swansea Tramways Company" case came cn before Mr. Justice Bucknill in the High Court in February, when Swansea, to its surprise found that it cannot purchase the existing tramways for a period of some 60 years. In other words, the Corporation, when it purchases one section, must leasse it to the Company for a period of 21 years, dur- ing which time no otheT section can be ac- quired- Judgment in the Cockett Tunnel I arbitration appeal by which Mr. Philip Richard secured £2.795 and cost.s against the Great Western Railway Company was also given in that month. In June. Emily Louisa Tribe, a nurse girl, created quite a sensation by running away with the baby of the Rev. and Mrs. J. Simon, and she Vas subsequently dealt with at the Police Court for theft of money and other articles at the same time. Both the Summer and Winter Assizes included several local cases, but per- haps most ;ntercst was centred round the sentence of five penal servitude unon I David Shepherd; a native of the Mumbles., for embezzlement at Cardiff, and the death penalty passed cpon Eric Lange, for murder at Pontypridd. The Great Reaper was also busy during the year. By the death in January of Mr. A. S. Merry the town lost an eminent sci entist. In March the news was received of the tragic deatli of Mr. Alan Pa ton, iron monger, who was accidentally drowned at sea; and on April Plet Mr. Wm. Williams, J.P., of Maesygwernen, passed away, the j subsequent funeral obsequies being carried out amid manifestations of great public sorrow. The following month Swansea shared in the universal mourning over the death of Air, H. M. Stajiley, the great African explorer and in June the passing j away of the Rev. David Phillips, St. George's-terrace, in his 91st year, saw the j end of one who was regarded as the lather of Welsh Nonconformity. Al r. J. Roche, J.P., Mr. James Fox of the "I>aily Lesder," Mr. J. S. Marks (relieving offi- cer), and Mr. J. T Gwynn ("Freelance") were among others laid in their last resting place during 1904. Socially and otherwise, the year just closing was perhaps not out of the ordinary. Aid. W. H. Spring was installed Mayor in November in the presence of a. good gather- ing of townspeople. Bazaars and "socials" were plentiful, the most prominent of the former being the St. David's Diocesan bazaar of a few weeks ago, when Sir John Llewelyn opened the proceedings and was generally congratulated upon the recovery of Ladv Llewelyn, who had undergone a serious illness. 'The Hospital baJI and St. Mary's "social" in January, the South Wales Grocers' Exhibition j'n August, the Mumbles Railway centenary celshrstions in June, and the unveiling of Swansea's war memorial in Victoria Park by the Mayor in April were perhaps th., other leading events under this head. The marriage of Miss Edith 1. Watkins and Mr. E. S. Rayner in April, and of Mr. R. G. Wheat-ley and Miss Kate Andrew in June, created some stir among the fair sex Mr. Glynn Vivian's munificent offer of an art gallery for Swansea, the charitable bequests and a scholarship for the Munici- pal Technical College under the will of the late Mr. Wm. Williams, the scholarships given by the Mayor (Sir Griffith Thomas) to the Swansea intermediate Schools, the departure from Swansea of the Hev. Thos. Morris (curate of St. Mary'6) and the Rev. W. Watkins-Edwards (vicar of S't. the opening of the Church Army Home by the Bishop of St. David's, who also dedi- cated the new electric organ at St. Mary's Church, and the refusal of the burgesses to accept Mr. Carnegie's offer of £ 8,000 for branch library purposes because it involved an extra d. rate, are among ottv f n stt^rs II that help to make interesting a retrospect of 1904 in Swansea. I

Soap Knowledge Wash once with Fels- tha and you will adopt it. J; You don't like long washday and backache, do you ? 1% Fels-Naptha 39 Wilson street LOMOT E. 0

TRUEMAN'S SUMMONSES RE- FUSED. Neath Bench Sharply Rebuke the Applicant. Ae Neath Police Court on Monday, The Magistrates' Clerk (Mr, Onriis) read the decisions of the lustier m Mat.te-r of the application of Mr- Trueman against Ald. TTick, J.P., and another made fort- night ago. Mr. Trueman had been &.mt for but he did not appear. The ^Magistrates' Clerk, before reading the decision, handed to the Chief Co as table to deliver to Mr. Trueman, books and papers left a fortmght ago when Air. made his aoolication. The Magistrates' Clerk added Hay-jug re- gard to the position which I have had the honour to hoid in this court, for close'on 2D years, without a single attack upon tijy hon- our or reputation, I think it only TJght that I should state publicly that owing r.o the Xmas vacation, and various other circum- stances, it was only on. Thursday a/ternoon (December 29th) that your NIVCrE!lllp,, were able to meet together to eonsider the docu- ments, although I had endeavoured, as you know, to bring about an earlier sittings The capers and books in. this instance would have been returned to the appLcaDt on Fri- day last, although lit is not custoru?ry tc hand back documents until your ^e°ision i-s given (since Mr. Trueman had kept 011 writ- ing for them) had not an uIlexpeted inci- dent occurred. In consequence 01 a. slight indisposition, I was not at business on Fri- day last quite as early as usual- and portly after my arrival at the office 1 -was informs" that an application had been ^ade behind mV back at the County Police CoIltt for a summons against me with respect to these documents—an outrageous and la.tderons allegation being that- I obtain,^ Them by false pretences, and was detaining them illegally. Not being disposed to submit to iutiuwdution or threats, whe*1 m the dis- charge of my publnc or profes6i°na\ duties, i decided, under the circnmstaPces iW:t men- p decided, under the circnmstaPces JQt men- tioned, not to return the paper:; Until to- day, and I have thought it nlore dignified and expedient to let them be 'ian^ed back as from yourselves in open, court, 1° the same manner in which they were h3,Ilc: P(i in. The decision of the Bench IU) then read by the clerk, the magistrates Sting that they had unanimously *^at they were not cases in which ought to be granted, or in which cr2rt>inal law should be set in motdon. ''I/1 °Ur view," said the Bench, the queStlon,4 involved aTe chiefly, if not exclusively, matters of ac- count, which would be mou appropriately dealt with—if at all-—in 0ne.°- the civil courts in art act;on or actions ms*Uuted by the parties alleging themseJ^ to be ag- grieved. We accordingly deCl, to grant I any of the summonses a,gked fOT. "A majority, that, is to sal, tIt". out of foar of ITS, added the decJ6wJ1, think that we should not be fulfilling olar Public duty completely unless we gave expresE^on to our opinion that it was never cof^hlated by the legislature that serious charge^ should be preferred wholesale and alrt10^ Veek after week at the instance of an ir^P^ftsible in- former, who ds not in the reino'\st degree concerned with the casts referre4 t. who has himself confessedly nothing tl 1 ose, and from whom, therefore no c("nP-)isation. or redress could be obtained, ho^evet malicious and ill-founded his prosecutions "light prove to be and we consider tha* th time has arrived for Pitting a stop (so f¡¡r as it is in the power of thos court- SO to do) to the course of persecution which to have been embarked upon bv the P'rnt appli- cant against all and sundry whom he has personal offences, when so fat as we are able to judge from the materials placed be fore us by the applicant, hilv-lf, he has no kiind of jw^ificatio-n for purstliii, such a course. „ T