The Cambrian

NEATH. I Neath Vestry on Friday raade a rate of 4s. in the £ for the half-year. j f Darnel Thomas, Tonna, collier, was at Neath on Friday ordered to pay costs for keeping an unlicensed dog. At Neath on Friday, David Jones, collier, Seven Sisters, paid 10s. and costs for travei- ling on Neath and Brecon line without a ticket. "Neata. County Bench on Friday issued warrantd against Mark Williams, collier, William Davies, labourer, Seven Sisters; and Jno. Hughes, labourer, Yst-rad- gynLais, for disorderly behaviour. William Henry Richards, grocer, Bail- bury, was a-t Neath en Friday summoned ioi r.on-maintenance of his mother. A sum of £ 2 was due. The magistrates made the usual order and costs. At Neath, on Monday, Geo. Cuff, Paniy- r'aeol, and George Abson, King's Head, were each fined 55. and cost5 for causing an obstraction in Windsor-road by fighting and using bad language. The ^a".h has occurred at Briton Ferry Police Station, of Mrs. Marv Bennett, wife of Inspector Bennett. I eceased, who was 46 years of age, had been ill a long time. She will be buried at Newport on Wednes- day. At Neatn on Monday, Edward Connor, Glyn Neath, labourer, was remanded on charges of stealing a sovereign from the pocket of Alfred Sergeant, fellow-lodger, and with stealing a pouch and purse and 5d. trom another lodger named Parsons. At Neath or; Monday, John Sullivan, a labourer, was remanded on charges for drunkenness and disorderly behaviour and smashing three windows at the house of Wm. Bater, coal merchant, Skewen, on Saturday night last. Defendant had been employed to do digging in Mr. Rater's garden. At Neath on Monday, James Brown, PowellVcourt, was fined 5s. and costs for having been drunk and disorderly.—Elijah <)w C Lowe, Cecil-street, had to pay 5s. and costs for using profane language.-Thoma.s Rees, 10, Bush-row, Melyn, paid 7s. 6d. and costs for having been drunk. At Neath, on Monday. Emma Gilbert (19) now at Neath Workhouse, summoned Jen- kin Jones, hauiier, Abergwynfi, to show cause, etc. The child was boro on May 14 last. Defendant had only paid 15s. since its birth. He had promised to marry, but had not done so. The Bench made an order of 5s. 6d. a week. On Monday morning, Mrs. Mary Davies, a. i aged woman, wife of Mr. David Davies, The Green, Neath, died suddenly. Deceased was a basket seller at Neath Market, and was engaged a.t her business until late on Saturday night. She appeared to be in her usual health, and was not taken ill until about midnight, when Dr. Morris was sent for. She died about 1.30 a.m., heart failure being believed to have been the cause. The annual concert of the English Con gregational Church, Briton Ferry, was held on Thursday, the building being crowded. The engagement of the Tawe Glee Society, under Mr. Liew. Bowen, was an attractive feature, ar-d Miss Miriam Morgan, Swansea, was pronounced a great success. Messrs. Griff. Thomas. John Lewis, Robert Hughes, and Llewelyn R. Bowen also helped to make the concert a pronounced success. Mr. Horace Samuel accompanied. At Neath Borough Police Court on Mon- day, John Hancock, batcher, and William Hancock, sailor, brothers, were summoned for drunkenness and disorderly behaviour. According to P.C.'s Morgan and Jones, de- fendants were quarrelling in Old Market- street, late on the 19th inst. Both used bad language as they were struggling on the ground. After difficulty t h-ey were locked LLp. John Hancock did not appear, and Wil- liam said he was trying to rescue his brother trom being knocked down by a bicycle. Both men, who had good characters, were lined 5s. and ccsts. At Neath on Monday, Arthur Jones, no settled abode, pleaded not guilty to a charge of being on premises in L'antwit- road on Saturday to commit a felony. Stephen Lewis Coilms, builder, Cimla- road, found the prisoner in a house in course of erection where tools were kept, and which had been meddled with. There was evklence that prisoner had "inspected" L 1) ail the houses. Prisoner pleaded to be a.1- lowed to go away, as he was looking for work. P.C. Edwards, on previous witness's in- formation, arrested prisoner. In reply, pris- oner said, "I was not there to ccmmit a ielony. I was looking for some food." Mayor: Whose food were you eating when Mr. Collins came in? 0 Prisoner Food I found in the house, sir. Bench gave the prisoner the benefit of the doubt, and after warning him dismissed the

FFORESTFACH TECHNICAL STUDENTS. CERTIFICATE DISTRIBUTION AND SOCIAL" AT CADLE VESTRY. On Saturday, Fforestfach Technical Classes held the annual "social" and distribution of certificates at Cadle Vestry. About 300 guests were present. Mr. Wm. Thomas (Star-row) beguiled intervals with gramo- phone selections. Rev. John Davies, the initiator of the classes, presided over the concert and after proceedings, supported by Mr. Thos. Owen. M.E., treasurer; Mr. David Jones (mathematics), Mr. Thos. Thomas, hon. s&c- Mr. Geo. Jeffreys (hygiene), and Mr. John Thomas. Piano forte solos and accompaniments were con tributed by the Misses Lizzie Evans and B. Thomas, and songs by the Misses E. A. Thomas and S. J. Davies, and Mr. Harry Thomas. Mr. George Parcell, a young elocutionist gave humourous recitation3 in Welsh. Recipients of certificates were as foilows —Glamorgan Education Committee (mathe- matics) 1st class—Thos. C. Williams (fourtb in the county); David Davies and Thomas Davies (11th in the county); Thos. Williams, W m. Thomas, John *Ma in waring, John Thomas, and D. J. Richards; 2nd class: W m. Thomas (Star Row), D. J. William-i, and Gabriel Eopkins; 3rd class: D. R- Thomas, Thos. Avery, Wm. Gear, D, J. Thomas, end W. R. Thomas. Board of Education certificates (principles of mining), 1st class— D. J. Richards; 2nd class- John Thomas, T. C. Williams, John Main waring, William Thomas, David Davies, and Thomas Davies. In recognition of his services rendered during the session 1.904-5, handsome 'ramed photographs of the group of students were presented to Mr. Henry Davies, Mr. Thomas Owen, M.S. ilreasurer), Mr. David Jone3 (mathematical instructor), and Mr. Thomas Thomas (hOil: sec.) Praise is due to the following ladies who arranged and attended at the toa Mrs. David Jones, Mrs. fToweil Jones Mr. Walters, Mrs. Job, Mrs. Mun- day, Mrs. Tommy Davies, Misses Rees (two), M A. Williams. — Parry, Lizzie Munday, Sarah" Thomas, M. J- Avery, and Rachel Thomas.

livery body fcaows that s is an admirable food, the nicest and most nutritious beverage for the breakfast table. It is made in a moment with boiling water or milk, and its sustaining qualities are COCOA; 4R Invaluable

| LLANDOVERY. POWDDWRETTES. 1 | By "DyfiL") Mr. Hojtv Watkins took a team down to Garnart on Saturday to play against the Amman Utned. T h 3 LlalJJdoverians aided by a few Llaneilvites, won by a point, th3 final scores being 3 tries to 1 goal, 1 try. Mr. Ben Davies, the Llanellyite, and ex- International!, figured in the encounter, and was in great form. He has this week become landlord of five King's Head Hotel, and ail friends wish him success There is now every possibility of a rattl- ing good football team being iormed here nejtt season. But I sincerely hope this will not be the means of abandoning the hockey pastime This would be a drastic step, on top of the exceMeni record held by the club. Talking about hockey reminds me that the names of Messrs. Dan. Jones and Edgar Evans were omitted from the names of those players who practically constituted the team during the past seasons, and Mr. D. Roberts from the vacancy-fillers. Mr. Evan Williams, Victoria House, has just been awarded a third class elementary certificate in siiorthand, after only two months' tuition. He is a pupil of "Dyfri. Revival meetings have been in full swing here during the past weeks, enthusiastic meetings being heiid in all the Nonconform-' 1st places of worship each evening. There is a rumour afloat that a steam omnibus service has commenced, but Llan- dovery is still on the look-out for it. Motors are already numerously repr0~c~- ted in the district. Something should oe i done to stop the practice of turning corners at such express speed. TTrs is a source of danger, and Clarenoe Corner is one of the spots. Motorists, be- ware! The valine of a finger was amply shown at the last County Court. Of course, the com- pany had to pay the "piper." A grand ooncert will be held on Good Friday by Salem Chapel Choir. The Town Ambulance Class have just shown how they can appreciate the assist- anoe of a skilful accompanist. Vide presien- tation report. I have to thank Alderman J. R- James for the historical sketch of the borough inserted in the last issue. Mr. A. C. B. LDoyd, a College master, who met with a serious accident a.t hockey the other day, is making favourable pro- t gress. LLANDOVERY AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. The general annual meeting of the Llan- dovery Agricultural Society was held at the Town Hail, on Saturday afternoon. Alder- man C. P. Lewis, Llandingat, presided over a large attendance. Mr. C. Michael, the manager of the Llan doverv Bank, -uid treasurer to the Society, presented the financial report, which showed a balance of 3213 to the credit of the Society, or £2 in excess of the preceding year. The following officials were unanimously elected:—Piesident, Alderman C. P. Lewi3, Llandmgai; vioe-president, Mr. Morgan Peel, Danyrallt; hon. secretary, Mr. J. James, M? eiycoed hon. treasurer, Mt. •j. Michael' The whote of the committee (numbering 21), were re-appointed. A new rule for measuring horses was made. It was resolved that the Entire Horse Show be held cn April 17 (Fair Day,, and that the classes bo tJie same as »ast j year. It appear that the Carmarthen Entire, Horse Show will take plaee on the same date, and it is likely that this may affect the entries. It was decided that the General Show be held on Friday, September 21st. The revision of the schedule was next discussed at some length, and the following alterations were decided upon Ineie will j be only one class for Hereford bus is. The second class for Shropshire sheep was sub- stituted by a class for Highland sheep. In horses, it was agreed to establish a new class, namely mare and foal of the collier breed. Two open classes for horses over and under 14.3 hands, under saddle, were added to the list of competitive items. It was resolved that the whole show be held on the field this year, and as to the "Miln Yield Class," another innovation, for which orizea of £ A, £3, £ 2 and £1 are subscribed by Mrs. Davies-Evans, of Highmead, this was left in the hands of the committee and stewards. Judges to both shows were also appoin- ted. LLAN DOVERY PETTY SESSIONS. These fortnightly sessions were held at the Town Hail on Friday, the magistrates present being Mr. C. P. Lewis, Llandingat-, and Mr J. Williams, Tirypentre. TRANSFER OF LICENSES. The licence of the Bear Inn was trans- ferred from Mr. George Williams to MT. John Davies. The license of the White Hall was trans- ferred from Mr. W7illiam Davies to Mr. George Williams. Mr. Ben Davies aJso applied for the tem- porary transfer of the license of the King's Head Hotel from Mrs. Walters to himself. The application was granted. DRUNK. P.C. Dd. Davies summoned Thomas Jones, a labourer at the Vale of Towy Inn, Llan- wrda, with being drunk in the borough on Sunday, the 18th inst.—Defendant admitted the offence and was mulcted fa the sum of 5s. and costs. LLANDOVERY FARMER SUED. At Birmingham Assizes on Tuesday David Philip Jones, dairyman, of Aston, sued Daniel Nicholas, farmer, of Llandovery, to recover JtM50 due on a promissory note. PLaintiff until recently lived at Llandovery, and defendant was his brother-in-law. In 1903 plaintiff alleged he held a promissory note from defendant for JS100, which he in- creased to £150,. defendant giving him a promissory note in exchange. Defendant de- clared he never signed the promissory note, but simply an undertaking to advance plain- tiff JB150 if he required it for a. new business at Birmingham. In cross-examination plaintiff said defend- cult wrote English as well as Welsh. They o-enerally conversed in Welsh, and corres- ponded sometimes in that language, but the promissory r.^te was in English. Defendant's counsel askcii if it was not a fact defendant! did not understand English, the reply being in the P"c.;>Hl\ Plaintiff resented tne sag- eestion that he endeavoured to bring undue influence upon an ignorant hill-side farmer, Plaintiff's- wife said her brother could speak, read a-id write English. The defendant, o-tve his i-vulence in Welsh, Superintendent Morgan acting as interpreter, an amusing scene taking place in taking his knowledge of English. .v Eventually the jury xound for piaintin. PRESliNTATION TO MISS M. J. THOMAS. On Thu s«iav evening Miss M. J. 1 nomas, Rock Gottatrethe talented daughter of Mr. T. Thorny (station master) was presented by the memix-rs of the Town Ambulance Class with a 'nandsomely bound boo-A of songs a.nd music, entitied -"Songs ot Wales, by Alaw Ddu, in recognition of the valuable services rendered by her as accompanist at the recent competitive meeting. Miss j Thomas, who tendered hi.s services gratiut- ously, highly appreciates the gift. CONFIRMATION AT LLANFAIR. On Friday last the Bishop of Swansea held a. continuation service in Llanfair Church, both morr.ing and afternoon. At the former xneetmg 50 candidates were presented fixjm the parishes of Llandingat, Llangadock, Llanfairarybryn, and Mothvey. In the i afternoon 22 students at the College were confirmed. Large congregations witnessed I the solemn and impontant ceremony, and ap- predated the stirring and instructive dis- course of his Lcrdship. ..I 1. l J.. l, L \¡ 1 LLANDOVERY COUNTY COURT. I At the County Court on Saturday, before His Honour Judge Bishop, the only de- v .1 fended case was an action brought by Frederick Weaver, oi the Bear Inn, LIJll- gadock, against the Coedshone Quarry I Company, Ltd., Llangadock, to recover compensation for injuries received wiiilst being an employe under the Company. Con- siderable interest was centred in the action. Mr. R. T. Leyson, solicitor, Swansea, re- presented the applicant, whilst for the re- spondents Mr. Hugh Jones, barrister-at- law (instructed by Mr. Harry Wriiliams, solicitor, Ne-ath), appeared. Mr. Ley&on, in opening, stated that the applicant was a foreman qua-rryman under the respondents, and on the 24th November last met with an accident which necessita- ted the amputation of the third finger of the left hand. He was totally incapacita- ted from wrork for ten weeks from that date, and was still partially incapacitated. At the time of the accident the applicant was earning 40s. per week wages. He had re- ceived £6 as payments from the respond- ents. Frederick Weaver the applicant, deposed that he was a quarryman in the employ of the respondents up to 24th November last, when his earnings were 40s. a week. On that day he met with an accident, as stated in the particulars of claim. In consequence of this he was totally incapacitated., and up to the pr .'lit day, had done no work since. His third finger was amputated close to the left hand. The accident occurred whilst chiselling some stones. The chisel, which applicant held, slipped aside, and the hammer held by another man, hit him on the fingers, and thus caused the in- juries. He had since been paid £6 by the respondents. He saw Mr. Davies, the sec- rotary to the company, in the Red Lion, Llangadock, some date in January. He was called aside to a room where there was no light. Mr. Davies offered him work at 5s. a day, and witness replied, ''That's 10s. a week drop, and the loss of a finger." Mr. Davies said the finger would get right after a bit, when he wculd get the tuil money back again. He told witness that arrange- ment would finish with the compensation. In consequence of the injuries he could not earn as much money a« before. Cross-examined: "T& accident occurred 18 weeks last Friday. He was sure of that, and entered the respondents' employ on the 7th March last year. He entered the em- ploy of the company as a cutter, and denied getting the wages of a foreman cutter. Week by week the average wages of appli- cant were £1 18s. 6d. per week. He had received no notice that his wages were to be reduced. Before Christmas last he did not remember telling the foreman that he would go back to work for 18s. a week. His Honour What has ail this to do with it? There is no agreement registered. We are not trying the agreement, but the lia- bility oi respondents. Mr. Hugh Jones Yes, but I wish to show that the applicant was offered certain wages for certain work. Cross-examination (continued) It was rtoA true that he declined to return to work because he could not get his former wages. He was now under a Monmouthshire doctor. Dr. Hopkins attended him at first, and amputated the finger, which hea.led up in three weeks. He could not quite cIgsl- his hand yet. Mr. M. Davies, Glansawdde, stated that he was now a farmer, but ha.d previously been a quarryman. In his opinion no man could work the same with such a damaged hand as the applicant had. His Honour: I venture to agree with you there, so you can come out of the box. (Laughter). This was the case for the applicant. For the defence, the first witness called was E. Davies, the secretary to the com- pany. He remembered a conversation he had at the Rod Lion Hotel, LI, angadock with applicant as to his resuming *work. Applicant said the doctor had told him he could start work in a fortnight, and would do so if the Insurance Company would pay him 18s. a week, and the quarry company made up the balance of the wages. This was in January Inst, and witnessi told him the <omperusatiou would cease onoe he re- started working. He then told applicant that he had been authorised by the com- pany to offer him wages at the rate of 5s. a day, as they could not pay two foremen. Applicant agreed to go back on these terms. He did not commence, but wrote to him on the 20th January. His Honour Oh, bother the letters. Cross-examined: He considered the ap- licant was able to perform the work offered him. His Honour Do you hold that the left hand is as good as before Witness If the finger is healed. His Honour: Don't put any "ifs" please. Witness I have not seen it, as it is bandaged. Re-examination: He never intended to pay the man £2 a week. Dr. Hopkins, Llangadock, stated that he attended to the injuries sustained by ap- plicant, and performed the operation. The finger was cut off at the joint. He had not seen it for five weeks, but he could have gone back to work seven or eight weeks from the date of the aocident. The hand would improve with exersising, and appli- cant lvcum be able to perform his employ- ment practically as well as before. Cross-examined: The hand would, of course, be more tender. Dr. Evans, Llandilo, said he agreed with Dr. Hopkins' conclusions, but admitted the grasp would never be the same. His Honour: I must disagree with the doctors. I fail to see how a man can hold •a chisel so well with a hand damaged in that manner. If the company did not care to give t-iie appluant ught employment, why did they not offer him oompensa.tion Y Mr. Hugh Jones He wanted to turn it );"o a pension for life. Hifl Honour: The doctors are perfectly i-isht in respectl to the exercising of the hand. Thomas John, the present foreman a.t the quarry, who succeeded the applioant, said that the latter told him after Christmas last that he was willing to go back to work at the quarry if the company would make the money up. Mr. Levson That is what we are here for. Thomas Davies, Glansawdde. was the next witness. He first asked his Honour f he could possibly give his evidence in Welsh. His Honour No, it is impossible. You 'peak English well enough, so don't take double the time of the court. Witness: Applicant asked Mm if he coidd go back to the quarry) work. His Honour: What had you to do with that? Witness As one of the company. The applicant was agreeable to work if the company would make up the difference bet- ween the insurance money and tlu: wages he would earn at the quarry. Cross-examined The whole dispute was as to why the wages were reduced after the accident. Mr. Hugh Jones submitted that the re- } spondents had made applicant every reason- able offer of employment at 30s. a week. His Honour But the dispute is that he claims being entitled to some compensation for the 8s. 6d. a week lost in wages through the accident. Mr. Hugh Jones: The applicant had been succeeded by another foreman, and therefore could hardly expect the same rate of wages. He submitted the respondents had made a most handsome offer to the ap- plicant. The company are prepared to re- [ peat it. and a declaration of liability would be sufficient. Mr Leyson: If the oompany consent to give 30s. a week for light employment only, the onh» question between them would be the difference between the 40s. and 30.1s. in wages. His Honour (To applicant) Why don't vou go back to work? Applicant: My finger is too sore, and there is no work there to do with oneha-nd. Mr. Hugh Jonps The work offered him at the first w*s sanding the machine, which was.-a light job. 0 Mr. Leyson It the respondents agree to give applicant 30s. a week for that still, he was quite willing to return. His Honour: Why not give him Slight employment? Mr. Leyson: You see, sir, they won t guarantee it. His Honour, in summing up, said that the facts had taken a long time to go into. The applicant had met with an accident which had undoubtedly partially incapaci- tated him from performing his usual work, and no doctors could replace fingers again on top of people's hands, and therefore lie coulid not work as before. This was appar- ent on the face of it, and it was common sense to say that two hands were better than one. That he wa," entitled to compen- sation was beyond doubs and he gave judg- ment for the applicant for £ 1 a week from the date cf the accident up to the day of thki hearing, with costs under Scale B. LLANDOVERY COLLEGE RACE. A mile race, confined to students at LlaIi- dovery College, took place on Friday even- ing, in which 13 competitors toed the mark. A capital contest for supremacy was wit- nessed by the large number of spectators a-sembled on the ground. The result was as follows:—1st, A. M. Griffiths; 2nd, R. Lloyd; 3rd, D. L. Williams; 4th, G. M. Jebrevs. Time 5 minutes.

WIFE'S TERRIBLE TALE. BRIDGEND MAN SENTENCED. DREADFUL REVELATIONS. At Cardiff Assizes, on Saturday (bofore -he Lord Chief Justin) Wm. Thomas, a rcspec table looking la-bourer; was arraigned on a charge of attempting to murder his ./lie, Margaret Ann Thomas, on January 65th, at Bridgend. Air Parsons prosecuted, ,.nO prisoner was defended by Mr. Lovett Fraser. The prosecution alleged that on the c .en- ing of Jan. 24th prisoner came home iL a drunken, quarrelsome mood. Neighbours were called in, and prisoner said, referring to his wife, "She will soon be in A neighbour replied that the curse of Cain would be upon him. P.C. Dagg was sent for, and later on the children had to seek refuge in the house of a neighbour, because ,t prisoner's threats. The next day Mrs. Tbomas was cleaning Garth School, viien prisoner came there and renewed the threats, saying "1 have told you your time on earth is short, and it has come upon you this morning." He then BELABOURED HER WITH A POKER 011 the head and shoulders, inflicting nine or ten distinct wounds, some of which pene trated to the bone. A little boy in the school, who had also been threatened, escaped through a window, and his screams attracted assistance. In cross examination, Mrs. Thomas said her husband, from whom she had been sepaf ated, but agreed to live with him again, had several times threatened to kill her. He was awfully jealous, and if she went to a. re vival or prayer meeting he would say she had been with men. Prisoner was found guilty, and in sentenc- ing him to five years' penal servitude, the Judge said prisoner, when in the solitude, of his cell would reflect upon the fact that he was not there on the capital charge.

LANDORE EISTEDDFOD. SECOND ANNUAL EVENT: AWARDS. The second annual eisteddfod of Salem English Baptist Chapel, Landore, took place on Saturday. Adjuticators:—Music, Messrs. Wm. Thomas, Treorky, and David Williams, G.T.S.C., Swansea; literature, Rev. W. Casnodyn Rhys, Swansea. Accom- panists, Miss Maggie Jones, L.R.A.M., Swansea, and Miss Amelia Parton, C.R.A.M., Landore; hon. secretary, Mr. Matthew John, Plasmarl; hon. treasurer, Mr. F. Bevan, Plasmarl. Mr. J. Rhys Davies conducted the afternoon meeting. Awards Pianoforte solo (boys or girls under 12) 1, Lily Morgan, Brynhyfryd; 2, Gladys May Davies, Waunarlwydd. Recitation (children under 9): 1, Maggie May Lewis," Waunarlwydd; 2, Arthur Workman, Swansea. Solo (children under 9): 1, Ivor Sims, 16 Morriston; 2, Dolly Jones, Swansea. Recitation (children under 12): 1, Maggie May Lewis, Waunarlwydd; 2, S. Victoria Jones, Swansea; 3, Nelly Isaac, Manselton. Solo (children under 12): 1, May Evans, Swansea 2, Annie Walters, Manselton. Recitation (boys or girls under 16): 1, Esther May Jenkins, Pentregethin, Cwm- bwrla. Violin solo (under 16): 1, Stanley Evans, Waunardlwydd; 2, W. H. Hopkins, Lbn- samlet. Solo (girls under 16): 1, Maggie Cox, Man- selton 2, Maggie Davies, Llanelly; 3, Nancy Beale, Hafod. Solo (boys under 15): 1, Ivor Sims, Mor riston. Prize Bag: 1, Miss Hattie Daviee, Cly- dach. Pianoforte solo (under 16) 1, Dd. Wil- liams, Clydaeh; 2, Lily Morgan, Brynhy- fryd. Recitation (ladies only): 1, Mrs. T. Bidder, Plasmarl; 2, Mrs. Richards, Plasmarl. A protest was made against Victor Stanley Evans, on the ground that he was over age, but he was able to produce a satisfactory birth certificate. Solo (those not previously won a prise of 10s. 6d. or more): 1, Miss Bessie Morris, Ammanford. At the evening meeting, Mr. John Wil- liams, Dulais House, Swansea, presided. Awards Open pianoforte solo: 1, Master Ivor Owen, Manselton.. Soprano solo: 1, Miss Edith Jones, Lan- dore. Recitation (ladies under 18): 1, Y• ->; Oissy Trafford, Manselton. Contralto solo: 1, Miss Kate Phillips, Gowerton. Tenor solo: 1, Mr. David Beddoe, Llan- samlet. Recitation: 1, Mr. David James, Tre- boeth 2, Mr. J. P. Walters, Plasmarl. Pianoforte solo (under 16): 1, Mr. David Williams, Clydach; 2, Miss May Lewis, Pontardawe. Baritone solo: 1, Mr. Ben Thomas, Hafod. Violin solo (open): 1, Miss S. Annie Wil- liams, Llanelly. Bafis solo- 1, Mr. Aneurin Morris, Gor- seinon. Champion solo (open): 1, Mr. John Brazell, Llanelly. Juvenile choir: 1, Pwl] Cwm, Landore, conducted by Miss Edith Jones 2, Forward Movement, Morriston, conducted by Mr. J. P. Llewelyn.

'———. s STOWAWAY ON THE "MINNE- SOTA." RUSSIAN REFUGEE CHARGED AT SWANSEA. At Swansea on Saturday Jekab Gaigai (19), described as a ropemaker, was charged with "stowing himself away on board the s.s. Minnesota. bound for America. from London. (A Russian interpreter had to be found. J The chief officer of the Minnesota said they left London on Tuesday morning, and on Wednesday found the defendant on board. Defendant, through the interpreter, said that he secreted himself on the steamer, in- tending to come to Cardiff or Swansea to look for work. The chief officer was recalled, and asked "Have you much trouble with stow- aways?" "Well," he replied, "we have a. good many out of London as a. rule, and our com- pany. have to protect themselves as much as possible, because there's a heavy fine in the Stales for landing such men. I believe ar'.i a Russian refugee." Mr. Richards: Do you wish to press the charge? Witness Oh, no. Defenda.nt was told he would be detained till the rising of the court, and then dis- missed.

KINGS OF ENGLAND AND ITALY TO MEET. Paris, Saturday.—The Sc&o de Paris" says It itS stated in Romep Sling Edward will, during his Mediterranean cruise, meet- King Victor Emmanuel.—Renter. »

JUDGE GWILYM WILLIAMS! DEAD. ARDENT WELSH PATRIOT TO THE CORE. The news of the death of bis Honour Judge Gwilym Williams, which took place at Miskin Manor at 10 o'clock on Sunday morning, will be received with feelings of widespread regret, not only in Glamorgan, where he wac; so well known and esteemed, but throughout the whole of the Principality. His complaint was progressive heart failure, and during the nis, condition was such as to cause grave alarm. He sought a change and rest at Langiand, but this seomed to benefit him little, and la t Monday he left for his home at Miskin, where Dr. Gwyn Lawrence and Dr. W. Naunton D vies were in constant attendance. The bulletin on Saturday morning gave a slight hope, but the rally was only temporarily, and on Sainday morning the deceased gentleman quietly passed away in the presence of the members of his family. His Honour was one of the most popular men of the dis- trict. In personal appearance he bore a resemblance to his Majesty the King—a fact which his Honour was not ignorant of, and moreover of which he prided himself. BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH OF THE DECEASED. It had been known for some little time that the deceased gentleman had not been in a satisfactory state of health, this pre- cluding him from following his judicial duties during the past few weeks. It had been noticed that when he sat at the Swan- sea County Court lately he looked anything but well, and it was known that prior to coming into the court he occasionally experi- enced fainting turns in his private room. His Honour was liorn in 1839, and was the son of the late Mr. David Williams ("Alaw Goch"), a celebrated bard in his. day, and one who possessed one of the kindliest of dis- positions. Through this gentleman's active interest and generosity the National Eis- teddfod was elevated and placed on a sound basis. Like his father, Judge Gwilym Wil- liams was a patriotic Welshman, and one whose sentiment and sympathy towards everything pertaining to the good: of his beloved Wales was most marked. A wise counsellor and a sincere friend, ha made himself generally popular by his genial disposition, and when sitting in his official capacity—either as judge in the County Court or chairman of Quarter Sessions—he earned a deserved re- putation for his sound common sense apart from his legal ability, and a ready wit which would frequently make the court roar. His picturesque seat of Miskin Mawr, fam- O'6 throughout the countryside for its his- toric associations and commanding views, was purchased and rebuilt on part of the foundations of the' old Manor House by his father (late Mr. David Williams), and since the purchase the seat has undergone many changes, the grounds and gardens being amongst the finest around, and including some fine shrubs and tropical plants, to- gether with some fine old beech trees. As "has been ably pointed out by one writer, it is a strange coincidence that a Her the lapse of eight centuries a descendant of Jestyn ap Gwrgant should again occupy the man- sion, for Mrs. Williams—a daughter of the late Mr. W. Williams, cf Aberpergwm—is lineally descended from the illustrious an- cestor who himself was a descendant of the great Caractacus, Britain's defender against the Roman invasion. The future judge was educated in France, and was called to the Bar, Inner Temple, in 1863. Before being appointed a stipendiary magistrate he was made a justice cf the peace for the county. The former position he held for twelve years, when he received the appointment of it. County Court judgeship for the Mid-Wales circuit, being later transferred to the Swansea, Brecon, Pontypridd, Aberdare, Merthyr, Mountain Ash, and Bridgend cir- cuit. His first appointment as judge was made in April, 1884. Mr. Williams leaves a widow, three sons—one being Mr. Rhys Williams, a barrister on the South Wales circuit—and one daughter. WORTHY SON OF A WORTHY SIRE. The deceased Judge was tbt worthy son or a worthy sire—"Alaw Goch" who gave of his wealth with a lavish hand to the cause ot Welsh literature and music—and he stoutly upheld the traditions with which his name had "beoome so intimately associated. Though not a bard, he was a man of cu' tured literary taste, and frequently contri- buted articles in racy, forcible prose. He read papers before the Cymmrodorion and kindred societies. At Swansea on one occa- sion he gave an excellent Welsh paper on "Self-reliance." An article of his on "Learning Welsh" appeared some years ago in the "Geninen," the Welsh quarterly maga zine. In that paper his honour expressed very decided views on the duty of all who aspire to public offices in Wales to make I themselves acquainted with the language. He thought the time was at hand when no public office would be filled by any but those who knew Welsh. Subsequent events have wonderfully verified his opinion. Doubtless his words gave an impetus to the movement in favour of the vernacular. Cradled in Welsh lore and tradition, is it a wonder that be loved his country so well and allied him- self to her ambitions in the vast literary and musical fields? Perhaps, with the exception of Sir Marchant Williams, no man oi his position had such a grip of his country's lrt^rature from mediaeval times to the pre- sent. SWANSEA NEWSPAPER VENTURE RECALLED. It may well be said that the late Judge was a singularly successful man since he first saw the light at Ynyscynon. Besides making his mark as a barrister in his earlier days, he was a prosperous colliery proprie- tor, and was envied as a country squire. It is said that his experience had only known one failure, and that was. when in company with a few others he essayed to start the first "Cambria Daily Leader"—a venture that soon collapsed, and to which papeT he contributed. But as an admmis trator and interpreter of the law, Judge Williams was eminently successful. His straight-forwardness, sagaciousness, and fair dealing, irrespective of person, commended themselves to one and all who were brought into contact with him in any shape or form. His knowledge of human nature was intuitive and extensive. A WITTY JUDGE. Of his wit much might be written, and the lighter side of his Courts will lose much by his demise- It was no use for a defendant to attempt to ev.,de the penalties by not appearing personally. "Well, Mary Ann," his Honour would exclaim, as a young girl made her way forward to represent her par- ents, "did your mother tell you to say she was ill?" On another occasion an indignant defendant declined to consent to an adjourn ment by saying she was not going to walk to the court. "Well, yon don't expect me to send a cab for you, do you?" replied his Honour. Not long ago—at Swansea—a de fendant pleaded the Statute of Limitations. "What can you pay a month?" asked his Honour.—A witness was asked what a painter was doing "Sitting by the fire eating his dinner," came the reply. "Well, isn't that a part of his duty?" chimed in his Hon- our, with a smile. The deceased Judge fre- quently gave good advice to debtors, and told some they were very foolish to allow the costs to amount up so. He stoutly con demned tradesmen who gave unlimited credit, and was always insistent that means should be proved before he made an order. REFERENCES AT SWANSEA POLICE COURT. At Swansea Police Court on Monday morning Mr. Howel Watkins referred in feeling terms to the sudden removal of their friend, Judge Gwilym Williams, whom they might truly say died in harness. His genial face would" be very much missed. His Hon- our had enjoyed the confidence of all those who had business in his court, and in him was combined kindness with marked ability. Sympathy with his fami y would be shared by all the inhabitants of South Wales* where he was so widely known and highly respected. (Hear, hear.) Mr. Alex. Andrews, on behalf of the soli- citors practising, said Judge Williams was truly a Welshman of Welshmen, and one of his chief characteristics was his intense human sympathy, that had endeared him wonderfully to everybody. A vote of condolence with the bereaved familv was cwririfl^ by all in the court stend iCS.

j VIRGINIA DISASTER. TEFRRIBLE FIRE-DAMP AFFAIR i FEARED LOSS OF 100 LIVES. New York, Friday.—It is feared that a hundred men have been suffocated or j crushed to death by the disaster at the Century coal mines, fiftv miles south of Fair- mont, West Virginia. An accumulation of fire-damp caused an explosion while 120 men were working in the mine. Twenty men were taken out alive, but badly injured, and twenty-one bodies hav been recovered.—("Daily Express.")

*——— WEST WALES COAL MINERS. MONTHLY MEETING AT SWANSEA. Western District Miners' Association met at the Cafe Monioo, Swansea, on Saturday. Mr. Morgan Jones, CymmeT, presided. Other officials present wree Messrs. John Williams, M.P., Roger W. Williams, and W. E. Mor- gan. Regarding a letter from the Ruskin Col- lege, it was decided to invite a student to attend the next meeting, and explain .ae objects of the college, etc. Llanelly Trades Council called attention to the forthcoming municipal elections, and asked the miners to give their support to Labour candidates this request was acceded to. Swansea Trades Council wrote that several miners' lodges were not affiliated with that body, and recommended that they should 00. Chairman referred to the sad French col- liery disaster, and a vote f f condolence was passed with the relatives 8f the victims. Mr. John Williams, M.P., gave an audress and dealt with old age pensions and the Com- pensation Act, dealing chiefly with the pro- posed amendment in the Compensation Act. Compensation should be based upon tue aver- age earnings, he considered. When trade was slack, and a person met with a~ acci- dent, his compensation was greatly reduced. Mr. W. E. Morgan gave the monthly re- port, and referring to the decision of the Lords in regard to the power of employers to deduct fines from wages, said that if the House of Lords went on like that, they (the miners) would not want it abolished, (Laughter.) 1 It was reported that minor disputes had arisen at Court Herbert Colliery upon the price lists recently made, and it was decided to approach the management to amicably settle the matter if possible. It was reported that there were several cases of compensation at Morfa Collieries, and that one case had gone to the county court, and would be tried at Aboravon. The long standing grievance at the Berth- llwyd Colliery with regard to the price lists had been settled. It was stated that the Copper Pit would shortly be restarted. It was reported re payment for "ribs'' at the Treshenkyn Colliery, Abergwynfi, tha* unless a satisfactory arrangement was come to the case would also go to the courts. Attempts had been made to settle the price lis! for the 3 ft. seam at Cefngyfelach Col- liery. Another attempt will be made to settle the cutting price, and in case of failure the company have intimated their intention to refer the matter to arbitration. Reference was made to the Mwrwg Valei Colliery workmen receiving notices, expiring at the end of the month, through c'r.um- stances already explained. 500 SEVEN SISTERS COLLIERS TO TENDER NOTICES. Monthly meeting of anthracite owners was held on Saturday, at the Castle Cafe, Swansea, Mr. Evan Evans, Ammanford, pre siding. Forty-two delegates represented 12,000 men. A report submitted by the agent, stated that the question in dispute at Gellyceidrim Colliery had been submitted to the men appointed by the Conciliation Board, and dealt with during the month. Notices have been withdrawn on both sides, and the dispute as to 2d. per ton settled in favour of the men. The price list at Gwaun-cae-gurwen and International Collieries had been dealt with, and some progress mad'e. A vote of sympathy was passed with the; relatives of the colliers who lost their iives j at the Courrieres Pit in France. The workmen at Seven Sisters, 500 in number, are to tender notice, in order to protest against the employment of non- union men. The Emlyn workmen are instructed to give up the monthly half-holiday, and fall in line with the associated collieries under the general agreement.

LOYAL HALL HEDLEY LODGE. ENJOYABLE ANNUAL REUNION AT MORRISTON. The annual dinner of the Progressive Loyal Hall Hedley Lodge was held at the Britannia Inn, Morriston, on Saturday. About 200 sat to a repast prepared by Host and Hostess D. D. Howells. Coun. Howel Lewis presided, supported by Messrs. D Jones (secretary), J. Evans, etc. Following the usual loyal toasts that of the the even- ing, "The Lodge," was proposed by the chairman, and responded to by Bro. J. Evans. The Chairman commented upon the remarkable progress made by the branch. Bro. Evans stated that under present con ditions a safer and sounder society could not be found. The Chairman gave "Brothers of other Lodges," responded to by Mr. A. ill. Bevan who hoped to see the day when every man, woman, and child would be members of a Friendly Society. At the close a hearty vote of thanks was given Coun. Lewis for presiding, and Mr. Anthony closed the meeting with 'Hen Wlad fy Nhadau." The toast list was inter- spersed with a lengthy and excellent pro gramme of songs, recitations, etc., to which the following contributed —Messrs. Anthony, W. C. Griffiths, Ivor Joseph, —. Johns, Seth Davies, Dan Williams, D. Evans, Griffith Jenkins, Sam Lewis, D. James, and W. Davies

» TOUR OVER THE WHITWORTH ESTATE. LONDON PARTY'S VISIT OF IN. SPECTION. A party of gentlemen interested in the Whitworth Colliery estate on Friday went over the 5,000 acres of mountain and moor- Land which constitutes the property. Capt. Temple Stroud, agent of the Wnitworth es- tate, told a pressman that it was not in* probable the site of the two pits was to be decided upon forthwith, possibly on Satur- day. The directors included Mr. Andereon and Messrs. Eddershaw. They arrived at Port Talbot late on Thursday night. Early on Friday morning they drove in a brake round Port Talbot Docks. They hence pro- ceeded by the Rhondda and Swansea Bay Railway to Duffryn Rhondda Colliery, where they inspected the new sinkings. Having visited all the workings at Dunryn the party crossed over by the South WaLes Mineral Railway to Tonmawr, where the company intend working the old colliery at lower depths. Eventually the party drove to Neath.

PONTARDAWE PUPIL TEACHER'S TROUBLE. ALLEGED SEDUCTION UNDER PRO- MISE OF MARRIAGE. At Pontardawe on Friday, Edward taiddle- ton, master plasterer, formerly of Pontar dawe. but now of Torquay, was sum uned by Florence Amy Morgan (18), p'lpil tei- cher, Alltwen, to show cause, etc. Mr. Arthur Hopkins prosecuted. Defendant did not appear. Mr. Hopkins said defendant had seduced complainant under a promise of m-ri .ge. He had sent a letter practically admitting tho naternity, for he asked that termo might ,0 arranged. An order of 3s. a week and cos4, was made.

lWYAL PARTY AT A DEN. Aden, Saturday.—Prince Princess of Wales and Duke and Duchess of Con- na-ught have arrived here.—(Iveuter.)

SWANSEA FIRMS AT THE ASSIZES r ACTION BY THE CWMFELIN TIN- PLATE COMPANY. SIR JOHN JONES JENKINS' EVIDENCE TERMS OF AN INTERVIEW IN DISPUTE. At Glamorgan Assizes on Monday, the case for injunction and declaration brought by the Cwmfelin Steel and Tinpl&te Co. against tht Tirdonkin Colliery Co., was re- sumed before Mr. Justice Lawrence. Mr. Abel Thomas and Mr. Villiers Meager (in- structed by Messrs. T. W. James and Thomas) appeared for plaintiff, and Mr. S. T. Evans, K.C., M.P., and Mr. Lleufer Thomas (instructed by Mr. Clason Dahne) defended. His Lordship was asked to construe a clause in an agreement dated 1902 as to the use of a tramway on plaintiff's tipping ground. Mr. Frank Thomas, managing director to plaintiff oompany, denied in cross-exam- ination that he told Sir John Jones Jenkins at the interview, when the agreement was arranged, that he had no intention of ex- tending his works. Mr. W. Grey Walters (secretary to the Manselton estate) spoke to the leasing of land for the extension of Cwmfelin Works. Mr. T. W. James (solicitor and director of plaintiff company) said that at the in- terview, already referred to nothing was said about an extension of plaintiff's tip- ping ground, or of the refuse from the Cwmfelin Works. By Mr. S. T. Evans: Nothing could have been said between Sir John Jones Jenkins and Mr. Frank Thomas without his (wit- ness) hearing it. Nothing was said as to the power of the defendants determining the lease on 12 months' notice. Mr. Harold Thomas was at the interview but was now in the South of France. Mr. Cousens, surveyor, Swansea, produced plans of a survey made in 1902. Mr. Simon Doel, surveyor, spoke to *he alleged trespass. Plaintiff's case had lasted a day and a half and Mr. S. T. Evans opened on be- half of defendant and construed the clause in the agreement in question to limit plain- tills' user of the tramway to the. then exist- ing works and tipping ground. In support of this he pointed out that for the ease- ment plaintiffs paid only £50 per annum and not a tonnage rate, whilst in the lease dated six months later it was dear that plaintiffs read the olause as defendants did. A deed of modification also supported this and all the communications with Mr. W. J. Rees there it was suggested that defen- dants were bound to let plaintiffs a greater Lease than that secured by the existing works. Sir Jno. Jones Jenkins (managing direc- tor of defendant company) disagreed with the evidence on the other side, and said that at the interview in September, 1902 the subject of the extension of the Cwmfelin Works was discussed, and £50 per annum was arrived at, because plaintiffs said they had no intention of enlarging their works. Mr. Evans: Did you ask him if he in- tended extending the works?—Yes, and he volunteered the statement that there was no intention of enlarging the works, and that if they did anything it would be to go to the new dock at Swansea to save carnage. Witness had no idea he was in treaty for land, and was very much surprised to hear Mr. Thomas' evidence. He (witness) was a partner in the old Cwmfelin Co., and diree tor in No. 2, but he had no interest in the present company, because they wished 10 im- prove their works out of revenue, and as he held the whole of the ordinary shares, that course would have affected the ordinary dividend. Mr. Thomas had the option of purchasing these ordinary shares, but at one of the directors' meetings witness found that he (Mr. Thomas) was spending large sums of money, having had the consent of the directors. The Judge did not see what bearing it had upon the trial. Mr. Abel Thomas suggested that it showed that the extension of the works was known to the witness. Witness found that no increase of output would have occurred as the proposed expenditure was to re-roof the works. Mr. Frank Thomas had given as a reason for not extending the works at Cwmfelin, that he hoped to go to the new dock for the sake of economy. Witness was one of the oldest Harbour Trustees, of whom there were about twenty-four. Mr. Abel Thomas But I suppose the chief work is done by a very few of them? Witness: It is always so in public life, think. Counsel put it that witness had been a most active trustee, and said, "Do you sug- gest that your superintendent would have the right to refuse to grant land to a new company alongside of your dock without consulting your trustee?" Witness: I do not think he would with- out leave, and I do not think he would have done. Do you know on the 10th December, 1901, he wrote this letter:—"Dear Sir,—In reply to your letter of the 7th inst., returning tracing sent you, after giving your request careful consideration, I am afraid I cannot recommend the Trustees to let to a single firm the whole of the land you have edged red?" red?" Was not the matters before the Trustees?—I did not attend every meeting and at that date I was possibly in the South. In further cross-examination counsel sug- gested that Sir John was confusing this re- fusaf with what took place at the interview of September, 1902 but the witness said he did not know until the letter was read in court that the trustees had definitely re- fused to grant the land at the dock to the Cwmfelin Co. Mr. Abel Thomas May I call attention to the fact that the Harbour Trust nego- tiations had ceased nine months before this interview. Mr. S. T. Evans That is not the evidence of Mr. Frank 1 .amas. Witness It does not alter my statement in the slightest degree. I am as clear as possible about it. Mr. Clason Dahne also gave evidence. John Philip Rogers, the traffic manager for the defendant company, at the junction of the sidings of the Great Western Railway f,nd the Cwmfelin Company Works, was ohe ast witness for the defendants, after which counsel addressed the Court. DECISION OF THE JUDGE. The Judge, giving his decision in much detail, dismissed the action with costs, plaintiffs recovering Is. without costs on their claim for trespass. I

TRIUMPHS OF TRADES UNIONISM NEATH ORGANISER'S ADDRESS TO MORRISTON WORKERS. Under the auspices of Morriston Trades' Council an address was delivered at the Forward Movement Hall, Morriston, on Saturday, by Mr. Tom Griffiths (Neath), Steel Smelter's Union organiser, on the "Advantages of Trades' Councils to the Workers." Aid. Dd Williams (Swansea) presided.and gave practical illustrations of what Trade Councils had done for workers in the past. Mr. Griffiths dealt with various phases of the Labour movement during the last century. Immense strides had been made from the old "crafts" times, and particu- larly during the last ten years. Money, m stead of being spent on strikes, had been dis tributed in benefits. Trades Councils were the nurseries of training members, for town city and other bodies, as well as for mem bers of Parliament, and their influence weiv veTy far-reaching. He pressed upon all the branches in the district to become affiliated with the Trades Council of Morriston. On the motion of Councillor Howel Lewis seconded by Mr. John Millard, hearty thanks were accorded to Mr. Griffiths.

ONE OF THE THIN RED LINE. John Macdonald, one of the "Thin Red Line," died 011 Monday at Inverness. e went through the Crimea with the 93Td Highlanders, and afterwards got transferred to th: 78th Highlanders, and served in the Indian Mutiny. The left the Army about 35 years ago on a corporal's pension. De- ceased was 76 years of age. •-

CONSIDERABLE ACTIVITY IN TRADE. SWANSEA SHIPMENTS CONTINUE SATISFACTORY, IMPROVEMENT IN IMPORTS MAINTAINED. Swansea, Monday.—During the past week the trade of the port again displayed con- siderable activity, and the imports and ex- ports disclose an increase over both the pre- vious and corresponding weeks. Improvement in the import trade was maintained, and the coal trade was again brisk, although the supply of tonnage was rather Limited. There was a fair shipment of patent fuel, and the clearances of tinplata and general goods satisfactory. Imports include:—France, 385 tons pit- wood and 224 tons general; Sweden, 387 tons sleepers; Holland, 1,600 tons general; Algeria, 250 tons blende, 50 tons copper ore; Maita, 165 tons scrap iron New York, 230 tons general; Argentine Republic, 3,959 tons wheat. Coal shipments: —Norway, 200 tons; Germany, 5,860 tens; France, 20,725 tons; Spam. 3,580 tons; Italy, 6,940 tons; Egypt, 1,320 torn; United States (bunkers), 2,230 tons; Cape of Good Hope, 2,124 tons, coke 1,300 tons; and borne ports, 9,975 tons. Patent fuel —Norway, 900 tons France, 2.180 tons; fain, 1,300 tons; Italy, 2,250 tons; Greece, 4,800 tons; and Egypt, 1,600 tons. imports, 15,976 tons; exports, 77,655 tons; and total trade, 93,631 tons; compar- ed with 87,876 tons the previous week, and 90.870 tons the corresponding week last year. Shipments of coal, 56,284 tons; patent fuel, 13,030 tons; and tinpla.tes and general goods, 8,341 tons. The latter for—Den- mark, 480 tons; Germany, 480 tons; Hot- land, 618 tens; France, 890 tons; Portugal, 4S0 tons; Belgium, 580 tons; New York: 400 tens; Philadelphia, 580 tons; and home ports, 3,123 tons. Shipments of tinplate, 25,741 boxes, and receipts from works, 61,194 boxes. Stocks in the dock warehouses and vans, 239,416 boxes, compared with 203,963 boxes this day week and 223,931 boxes at this date last year. To load general cargo in the current week:—Chicago City (New York), Manan (Rio Janeiro and Santos), Glaucus (China), Rhipeus (Japan), City of Venice (Oporto, Lisbon, and Italian ports), Buescia (Portu- gal and Mediterranean ports), Ino (Ant- werp), Hero (Amsterdam), Vadso (Copen- hagen and Stettin), Hilda. (New Fairwater). LLANELLY SHIPMENTS STILL DIS- APPOINTING. Trade for the past week at Llanelly has been very backward and the volume of tonnagie handled at the dock ha.s been anything but satisfactory. No progress whatever seems to take place, and it is very disappointing that whilst other docks in West WaleJ are increasing their returns. Llanelly's trade remains practictaJlly station- ary. Since last report several large deal boats have again", b>een prevented discharg- ing their cargoes owing to the channel diffi- culty. Negotiations are still being con- tin tied for obtaining a big dredger and there is every possibility of its being pur- chased at an early date. The coal trade is improving and for the bituminous and steam coals more especially there is a brisk demand. The troubles in the French coalfields has put a check to the easy tone which had pervaded the mar- ket, and now there is every appearance that the trade will attain a high state of prosperity. Already prices are hardening and if the strike continues for any length of time, it is expected that a substantial advance will take plaoe. It is when cir- cumstances such as these arise that the coal people realise more than ever the disad- vantages they suffer owing to the coal-tax. The tinplate trade unfortunately shows no sign of improving in the near future. The position is one of extreme dullness, and some of the results are bordering on the sensational. RECORD WEEK'S SHIPMENTS AT PORT TALBOT. Another record was created in the ship- ments at Port Talbot Docks last week, every tip and crane being fully employed day ana night. There was plenty of tonnage avail- able, and a good supply of coal. The Patent Fuel Works were kept busy throughout the week; exports to foreign and home ports were well above the average, whilst the imports a1 so showed considerable improve- ment. The increase on exports over the previous week amounted to 8,251 tons, and imports 2,106 tons, whilst the increase on total shipments over the same week was 10,357 tons. The returns show an increase of 1 ~:A tons over the previous best record. The returns are as follows: —Exports: coal (foreign ports), 24,328 tons; coal (home ports), 5,732 tons; fuel, 4,250 tons; ooke, 364 tons; general, 104 tons; copper, 70 tons; total, 34,748 tens. Imports: pit- wood, 4,524 tons; pitch, 500 tons; ballast, 599 tons; total 5,623 tons. Total ship- ments, 40,371 tons. Ships in Dock, Saturday, 24th inst steam, 13; sail, 11; total 24. Since 'ast Monday. 46 boats have been loaded at Port Talbot.

SEPTUAGENARIAN SWANSEA PASTOR. REV. DD. THORN E EVANS PASSES AWAY. Rev. David Thome Evans, No. 16, Bruns- wick-street, Swansea, died on Friday morn- ing. Deceased was 74 years of age, and was a native of Llanarth, Cardiganshire. Prior to coming to Swansea in 1871, he had been Calvinistic Methodist pastor for 14 years of the English Church in Pembroke. "For 30 years be was secretary of the South Wales Home Missions, which post he relinquished in September, 1902, when he was presented with an illuminated address and testimonial. Deceased was a clergyman of distinction, and one of four brothers, ministers in tha same connexion. He had been ailing for some time past, with genera] collapse, and was attended by Dr. John Evans, succumb- ing from failure of the heart. INTERRED AT MUMBLES. The funeral of the late Rev. Thome Evans, No. 20, Brunswick-street, Swansea, who be- longed to the Calvinistic Methodist denomin- ation, and who died last Friday, took place on Tuesday afternoon, at the Mumbles Ceme- tery. The cortege left the deceased gentleman's residence at 1.30 p.m. for Trinity Chapel, Park-street, where a largely-attended service was heid, con ducted by the pastor (Rev. W. E. Pry- therch). The body was enclosed in a. polished oak coffin, with solid brass fittings. Those who followed were :-16t Carnage: Revs. W. E. Prytherch, William James, M.A., Luther Phillips; 2nd carriage: Dr. Jno. Evans, Mr. Stanley Owen, Mr. 0 ames (Sketty), and Mr. D. C. Jones (funeral fur- nisher) 1st mourning coach: Mrs. D. Thorne Evans (widow), Mrs. Dr. Harris, Mrs. Hilton Davies (daughters), Dr. j-iams and Mr. Hilton Davies (sons-in-law); 2nd coach: Mr. and Mrs. Joshua Griffiths, Mr. D J. Jones, Mrs. Harris (Liandilo), Mr. Harris (Llandilo); 3rd coach: Mrs. J ames (New Quay), Mrs. Thomas (Brynanfre), Mis. Jonathan Jones, Mr. J. Rice Jones, and Mr. Tudor Davies; 4th coach: Mr. and Mrs! Ben Jones (Northampton-place), Mr. Harris (Singleton Farm), Mrs. Sanders, and Mm. D. Jones. Others in attendance were — Messrs. Michael Michael, Morgan Jenkins, W. S. Morgan, S. Davies (deacons of lrin- ity Chapel), Mrs. W. E. Prytherch, Mis, Richard Adams, Miss M. John, Revs. Gomer Lewis, W. Davies (Landore), R. Richards (Cwmbwrla), J. Jeffreys (Ystalyfera), T. Francis (Gorseinon), W. Jameis (Ebenezer), W. Jenkins (Crug-glas), Penar Griffiths, Caa. nodyn Rees, W. James (Manselton), W. Jear kins (Morriston), R. Thomas (Landore), D. Jones (Cwmbwrla), W. Richards (Briton Ferry), L. Richards (Gowerton), W. Pearoe (Porthcawl), D. Jones (Loughor), W. Sara- let Williams (Skewen), and many others. The funeral arrangements were carried out by Mr. D. C. Jones (Castle-square).

TURKISH PREFECT MURDERED. Constantinople, Saturday.—Red.van Pasha, Prefect of Constantinople, was murdered by two men last night. The motive is believed to be private vengeance.—(Renter.)