The Cambrian

1 COUNSEL PLEADS INSANITY. The actual trial of Mr. Harry Thaw, the millionaire, 101' tEe murder of Mr. Stanford White, the architect, began in New York on Monday, and, says the New York repre- sentative of the "Daily Mail" "The opening address of the Assistant District Attorney, Mr. Garvan, lasted barely ten minutes. Ha spoke in a low, deliberate voice, informing the jurors that the object of the trial was not vengeance, but the protection of society. He recounted the details of the crii and said that a few hours before he was shot Mr. White took his son and his son's chum to tne Cafe Martin for dinner, afterwards driving them to the theatre. On leaving them 1.1r. White drove to the Madison-square Roof Garden to attend the opening performance of a new musical play, "Mile. Champagne." Mr. Garvan described the Roof Garden, and ex- plained that Mr. White took his seat 35ft. from the stage, sitting with his chin in his hand. "The defendant was already there," 6aid Mr. Garvan, "with his wife, Mr. Truxton Beale, and Mr. Thomas McCaleb. After a while *the prisoner suggested that the party should leave, and escorted them to the elevator. Then he turned, and, walk- ing up to Mr. White, shot him, the bullet entering the left eye. "As though he were not content with his work, he tired again and turned away. Then he wheeled once more and fired a third time. Mr. White fell to the floor dead." Mr. Garvan recounted how Mrs. Harry Thaw, who had not left the Roof Garden, threw her arms around her husband after the arrest. « "It was a crime.' concluded Mr. Garvan; 'we contend that it was a cruel, deliberate, premeditated, and malicious taking of life, and we ask for a verdict of guilty of murder in the first degree.' All witnesses, including prisoner's mother and wife, were then ordered out of court. The "Daily Mail" correspondent continues: "The line of defence was soon disclosed. Counsel explained that he made no appeal to any higher law, to any "unwritten law" such as had been invoked in newspaper dis- cussions of the case. He relied merely nd solely upon the law of homicide and the statutes of the State of New York. "The defence would be that at the mo- ment he killed 'lr. White MT. Thaw was insane according to the legal definition of insanity—namely, such a state of mind that he did not know he was doing wrong in iilling Mr. White. So far from knowing that he was doing wrong, counsel impres- sively declared, Mr. Thaw believed, as the defence would be able to show—he not only believed, but he had cause to believe—that he was justified in killing Mr. Stanford White. Moreover, he regarded himself as the agent of Providence in so killing him, At the moment when, as described in the evidence, Mr. Thaw left his own seat, walked over, and fired three shots at Mr. White Mr. Thaw was in such a conditior of a md that he tfeUeved the killing an act of Providence, and himself the r-:sn± of I Providence. "Mr. Gieason engaged in a long cisquisi- tion on the construction of the brain the operations of the mind, and the effect of various influences upon both. 'It was a story of throbbing passions,' he said, -Which, in combination with other causes, deranged the complex system of cells and constituted such stress and strain as the delicate organism was incapable of with- standing. Moreover, it would be sliown that Mr. Thaw's mind was rendered in- capable by the mysterious influences of heredity of withstanding soch stress and strain. Mr. Thaw the exposition of the ivh J +h suggestive of deep shame. Wnen the woid insanity was first pronounced h<r <?«?red his face with his ugly, short-nailed fingers, and did not look up again unti counsel had finished speaking The first witn^swa. tte murde^ma^s son, Lawrence Grant W hite, aged 19 de scribed as a tall, handsome boy, with frank, engaging manner and appearance & pleasant voice, and an air of culture and refinement which suggests his father's at- tractive personality. He gave ready and clear replies, without a trace of emotion to the lawyer's questions. Mr. Thaw with quivering lip, looked at him intensely but the ooy did aot return the In the course of his evidence TP' nofc even mentioned- ?6 after dir.ing with he ,C|fe Martin on the night of the crime he left hun W3at to fhe Harvard Club where >ater he heard of the tragedy from the reporters. Two witnesses gave evidence a« (l Ml shooting of White, but add £ tn^,act" materiaJ to the details already r,1Van court adjourned until Wednesday.

MEDICAL EXPERT'S COLLAPSE. TTarrv- ThS? ff7 °f the act,Jal tn'al °f Mr. Harry TTiaw. the millionaire, foT the muj. der of '•he architect Stanford White, began day Wgan and ended with «vrde[M mteIlcW to demonstrate prisoner's insanity The special correspondent of the "Dailr Mail says that the prisoner, as he -od to the bar, looked as if he had passed a bad night. His face was swollen, his eyes bloodshot. He nedded to his counsel with an air of surly discontent, and yawned re- peatedly as he addressed himself to the tosk of examining the pile of correspondence awaiting him. The defence proceeded straightway to evidence supporting the insanity theory by ogling Dr. C. H. Wiley, a Pittsburg -ecial- ist in mental diseases. The doctor was not only ready to give suitable expert testimony, but also to give suitable evidence of fact, 118 reflated how, in the simmer of 1905* ba. I saw Mr. Thaw in a Pittsburg tramway-car, when the voung millionaire became so an- noyed by the light circumstance that a curtain was drawn which he wanted open that he created a disturbance, engaging in a violent altercation with the motor-man and conductor, forcibly adjusting the cur- tain to suit his desire, and then suddenly rising up and leaving the car. Such violent fury on slight provocation, the doctor recognised then, indicated in- sanity. The Pittsburg specialist was also prepared to support to a certain extent the hereditary side of the insanity defence. There was, it appeared, a cousin of the Thaw family who was insane. This family taint served to strengthen the doctor s opinion that Mr. Harrv Thaw's exhibition of temper in the street-car indicated insanitv. Considering the kindly intention the I good doctor was manifesting, the yoing gentleman on trial did not seem gratc-f 'l- Indeed, Mr. Thaw was drumming ^n" g^rs in nervous annoyance on the tible, with his blunt f+atirc:; puckered in r re- sentful scowl. For the doctor's expert opinion strengthened as his evidence irro- ceeded, and ov the time his evidence was ended there was no single circumstance o: Mr. Thaw's conduct on™that night in the Roof Gardens which the doctor did rot re- cognise as convincing proof of insanity. Mr. Jerome's cross-examination of this witness was savage and unrelenting. The District Aitornev has a nimble mind, a ready tongue, and a biting hurrour, as his political opponents know well. But his present task was easy. Mr. Jerome began a series of police questions, such as whether the witness was really an expert in disorders of the mind, whether anybody else besides nself re- garded him 305 an expert, whether in his own private mind he really considered his opinion of any importance, and whether th" medical profession regarded him a" a" anthcritv. Mr. Jerome then proceeded to engage the doctcr in a discussion of defini- tions. the doctor preferring always to agree rather than disagree. Mr. Jerome procc-:v!e. to psk. with regard to ea-ch and every circumstance of the shooting, whether" it. in the witness's ex- psrt view, indicated insnnity. For example, he asked whether the fact that th" 6hoot- 11;g took place in .1 crowded theatre indi- cated insanity: whether the fact thrt Mr. Thaw deliberately shot Mr. White th ee times was indicative of insanity; whether the fact that he said he murdered Mr. White because he ruined his wife indicated a kind of insanity which ren- dered him unable to distinguish between right and wrong: whether it was the fact of jealousy which enabled ths expert to say that Mr. Thaw was insane: whether rage resulting from jealousy was not th-e cause of nearly every crime of passion. To all these questions the bland doctor, growing momentarily more and more per- plexed, returned answers more and ror* hesitating. Finally Mr. JeTome, h^Fing Tj> duced the witness to a hopeless condition of confusion. forced him to admit that Mr. Thaw's conduct in the tramway-car wag a mere exhibition of noisv ill-temper, that the cousin's insanity was nof necessarily related to Mr. Thaw's condition, and finally that Mr. Thaw's actions on the night of the murder, apart from previous history or cb- servation. did not disclose any symptom which in itself indicated insanity. It was a merciless sledge-hammer croas- examination, for, having discredited the doctor's conclusions, counsel proceeded to impugn his knowledge, his scientific !eam- ing. and his qualification for describing himself as an expert. Thus was brought to completion the doctor's discomfiture, for in the afternoon Mr. Jerome compelled him to admit that he had spent the luncheon interval being coached by another expert nn the "jse and anplication of this test Finally counsel asked him, out of the volume of h's ex- pert knowledge, to name any single nerve in the human body. the commencement, termination, and functions of which he could accurately describe. The best the doctor could do was a somewhat limited description of the optic nerve. Other witnesses who succeeded the un- fortunate doctor in the box included Dr. Chas. Bengamman, of Pittsburg, who de- posed that Thaw was always nervou^, had been treated for a nervous disease, and was neurotic. Alfred Lee Thaw deposed that his own father, who was the first cousin of defendant's father, died insane. The court adjourned with a general feel- ing that the prosecution had scored up to date.

THAW'S SOLICITORS AT LOGGER- HEADS. WHO IS TO LEAD THE COUNSEL? (Press Association Foreign Special). New York, Wednesday.—It is said that late yesterday after the confer- ence between Mr. Thaw's counsel, five of the latter informed Mr. Gieason that j unless he delisted from conducting the case individually, irrespective of their wishes, they would withdraw from the Court Room this morning, and sever all connection with the case. Mr. Delmas, on leaving the court yester- day afternoon, declared flatly he was dis- satisfied with the day's proceedings, -nd intimated that he was surprised at the do fence being entrusted to Mr. Gieason in- stead of himself. Mr. Delmas thought that Dr. Wiley should never have been called to the witness stand yesterday, and perhaps not at all. He added "I expect to conduct the case, and am surprised that M'r. Gieason should have done it." It is stated that Mr. Gleason insists that he has not usurped the -senior counselship, but that he had taken the initiative at the request of Mr. Thaw, and that when be heard the ultimatum he said that the wishes of his client were paramount. When the council broke up Mr. McPike dining with Mr. Delmas, said, We have no more idea of what will follow the open- ing of the court than the merest "layman, and we have not arrived ft any. decis-on. Action depended entirely on what ccurs and we have not arrived ft any decis-on. Action depended entirely on what ccurs at the opemng. The Times" and "Tribune" says Mr Delmas is to assume the chief counselship p

————/ SWANSEA MUNICIPAL TELE- PHONES. SALE TO NATIONAL PROBABLE. NEGOTIATIONS PROCEEDING SATIS- FACTORILY. We have excellent authority for stating that the negotiations for the sale to the National Company of the Swansea Municipal Telephones are proceeding satisfactorily, and with every prospect of an eventual settlement. The terms likely to be obtain- ed, however, whilst substantially batter than those offered by the Postmaster- General. are not so good as the members of the sub-oommittee had been led to expect, after their interview with Mr. Gaines, the general manager of the National Company. With regard to the implied contradiction of the statement that the negotiations with the Postal Authorities have virtually ended, we may say that one of the first questions put to the deputation, when visiting the National Telephone Company s head offices, and answered in the affirmative, was "Have you ended your negotiations with the Post- master-GeneraJ ?

FOUND DEAD ON THE FLOOR. GLYN NEATH WIDOW EXPIRES SUDDENLY. The Neath coroner was notified on Satur- day of the death of Martha Davies. widow, Glyn Neath, aged 68, who died suddenly on Friday night. Mrs. Davies had been in her usual health a.nd was out a few minutes before death. At 9.45 she went upstairs to go to bed. She was left sitting on a chair. A few minutes later she was found dead on the floor. Deceased leaves two sons. Mr. John Davies, grocer, Glyn Neath, and Mr. Tom ^avies, grocer, Trefcerfccrt.

LESSONS FROM ANCIENT GREECE. ZAM-BUK THE MODERN SUCCESSOR OF THE OLDEN VEGETABLE BALMS. The charioteers and gladiaters of Ancient Greece seldom emerged from their contests without some severe bruise or gaping wound, and to anoint each injury carefully with a favourite healing balm was quite a part of the day's programme. It is significant that this fine raoe of people preferred preparations of vegetable origin. The ideal of the Ancient GreeJ;— an ideaJ that =hau!d be a.n example to all time was to combine power with purity, and among modern preparations this ideal i* realised only in Zam-Buk, Nature's own skin-healer. Ordinary ointments, salves, and embroca- tions are generally composed of rancid animal fats and mineral poisons. The skin cannot absorb suah coarse concoctions, and they are exceedingly harmful to a. tender or broken surface. Zam-Buk, on the contrary, is a vegetable healing balm of remarkable purity and ack- nowledge! efficacy. It is composed of highly refined saps and juices got from certain rich medicinal herbs, m unique and superior in all points, and eveTy household may rely on its healing aid. When the little one runs in from his play with a wry face and a smarting, dirt filled s-rape on his knee, simply wash the part and smear with Zam-Buk, bandaging if necessary. When father returns from work with a cut hand, the handy box of Zam-Buk again meets the emergency, and the housewife or mother continually finds it a real friend in need for the burns she receives while cook- ing, the scalds of a washing day, or the knocks and bruises of dusting. The children like Zam-Buk because it is 00 cooling, soothing, and pleasant. Their elders value it more highly because it is perfectly antiseptic, preventing poisoning or festering because it is a natural skin re- pairer, growing new tissues in Nature's way; and because it is good for the tender- eet, skin. A box of Zam-Buk should be kept handy in every home, not only for everyday hurts, but to prevent or cure chaps, chafings, chil- blains, cold-sores, pimples, and skin troubles.

SAT UP LATE TO SMOKE. SWANSEA WOMAN WHO DIED AT THE WORKHOUSE. Deputy-coroner Morr.6 held an inquest at Swansea Workhouse on Tuesday, touching the death of Margaret Fortune (65), an in- mate, which occurred on Sunday evening. Tbos. Murphy, 261, Carmarthen-road, la- bourer, son-in-law, said Mrs. Fortune met with an accident on Xmas Day while living at 6, Cwm-street. He did not observe the accident, but she told him afterwards she was sleeping by the fire. She woke to find her clothes on fire, and was brought to the Workhouse. Daniel O'Leary, who lodged at 6, Cwm- street, described finding Mrs. Fortune with her clothes on fire. She had been sleeping before the fire. She was not able to say much except, "Oh, I'm done for." By a Jur-or It took place at four o'clock in the morning. A Juror: Was she in the habit of staying up late then? Witness She used to sit up late and had a smoke sometimes! Dr. Hughes said Mrs. Fortune was ad- mitted to the institution suffering from bums on the left thigh, neck, etc. She appeared for a while to progress favourably, but the exhaustion was too much for one of her ago. Verdict of "Death from exhaustion, follow- ing burns" WM returned.

SWANSEA MAN'S VISIT FROM AMERICA. # CARMARTHEN TROUBLE: MERCIFUL VIEW. TAKEN. At Carmarthen on Monday, Sidney Hop- kina (34), no address gtvenr Vras ag&iil charged with stealing an overcoat, property of a YQrkshire cattle dealer n&med Waljc^, from King's Arms Inn. P.C. Llewellyn found defendant with the coat in his pos- session, sleeping on top of a rick at Aber- gwiil. Mrs. BoRa. Thomas, Kmg's Arms, said on January 29th defendant asked for a glass of beer. He drank a little of it and went out. The coat was then missed. Mr. Brunei White, for the defence, said tltM defendant came over from America seven months ago on a holiday and had plenty of money to keep himself comfort- ably. He visited Swansea, Llanelly, and Carmarthen, but found all his old. friends were dwd. He left four children and his wife with his brother-in-law in America He, unfortunately, took drink with so-called friends. He had intended working in Swan- sea for some time and earning money to cross to the U.S.A. again when this hap- pened. He had taken this coat it was no use to deny, but if it was proved that he took it by mistake, and with a bona fide claim, however unfounded, it was not a felony. He had a grey coat when he came from Swansea or Llanelly to Carmarthen but had mislaid it. Hopkins said he did not ^remember any- think tnat happened that night., Magistrates discharged defendant and the verdict was received with applause.

DEATH OF MR. F. J. GIBBINS J.P. FIFTY YEARS' COMMERCIAL LIFE AT NEATH. Mr. F. J. Gibbins, J.P., of Gilfach, near Neath, died on Sunday after a few days' illness. Deceased was seized with a stroke on Thursday, being paralysed on his left side. He never fully regained consciousness. Deceased, who was about 76 years of age, had been closely identified with the com- mercial life of Neath, where, for the put fifty years, he conducted the Melyn Chemi- cal Works. He leaves a widow, throe grown-up sons, and two daughters. The sons have inherited the commercial abilities of their father, for each of them is a works manager Mr. F. W. Gibbins of the Eagle Tinplate Works, Melyn; Mr. Theo Gibbins, of the Melyn and Ferry Tinplate Works; and Mr. Edwa.rd Gibbins, of the Melyn Galvanising Works. A week ago Mr. Gibbins was in fah-lv good health, and on Monday he took Dart in the magisterial inspection of nfteenH censed houses in the North Ward in view of the approaching brewster sessions. He was an ardent temperance reformer taking a.n active part in the local total ab- stinence society and in temperance propa- ganda generally. He had been a justice "f the peace for the borough of Neath for many years. Of an old Quaker family, the deceased gen- tloman was the soul of integrity and honour NEATH MAGISTERIAL TRIBUTE. At Neath Police Court on Monday the Mayor referred in feeling terms to the death of Mr. Gibbins. and said the news would be received with regret bv the bur- gesses generally. Mr. Gibbins' death --mid be a great lost to the court. To the be- reaved widow and family the magistrates extended their deep sympathy.

CASH BOX VANISHES. PORT TENNANT GROCER'S LOSS. Early on Monday morning, Mr. Roche greengrocer, near Union Inn, Port Ten- nant, left his cash-box containing J314 7s. 6d. on the counter for a few minutes to find on his return that it had mysteri. ously disappeared. The police are on the alert, but so far no arrest has been made.

LUCKY LITIGANT. IRISH LADY RECEIVES JB650 FOR BREACH. Mias Josephine Allison, of Killaloe, was awarded JB250 damages in Dublin on Mon- day for breach of promise of marriage. She was awarded JB400 damages on Fri- day against the father of Monday's defend- fint for libel. \i

I SWANSEA AMATEUR OPERATIC SOCIETY^ H FLASHLIGHT PHOTOGRAPH OF THE "GONDOLIERS" PFRFftRMANrF AT THE GRAND THEATRE, SWANSEA AFTFR TTT* TT-PTATXT UUlNLfUL.llitlO FiiKFO RM ANCE. JSpccial Photo takan for t.w £ ,C1pHA1J AT THE FULL DRESS REHEARSAL ON MONDAV vmrrr i..— arj A. -.son, To,mole-street, Swansea). 1 Mll. JOHN ROBERTS, As "Marco. (Photo by J. W. Richards, Swarusea.)

SWANSEA AMATEURS PERFORM- ANCE. SUCCESSFUL PRODUCTION OF "THE GONDOLIERS." PRETTY AND EFFECTIVE REPRE- SENTATION OF A POPULAR COMIC OPERA. UNSTINTED PRAISE ACCORDED ON THE OPENING NIGHT. Taking all in all, the perrormance of "The Gondoliers" by the Swansea Amateur Operatic Society at the Grand Theatre, Swansea, on Tuesday evening, was a meri- torious one, and will rank amongst the best efforts seen in this direction. The audience—and one hopes there will be crowded houses for the remainder of the week, as the' amateurs thoroughly deserved -were delighted, and at the close unstinted praise was extended frcm ever part of the theatre to principals and, choru* ahke. The latter struck one as' being particularly effi- cient; there was the necessary balance and the harmonious blending, and with excellent time maintained—which was Ionly once no- ticp-ably exceeded by the enthusiastic ania- teurs-one would have tr ought the company were professionals. But. the.y were ama- teurs to the backbone, and rightly wed did they show the care and perfect pitch to which they had been trained. And if tjhe chorus is spoken of in such terms, what must one say of Mr. John Roberts and Miss-Lily Ha ? The former was in capital voice, and the-most popular solo in "be opera, "Take a pair of sparkling eyes," wtvich falls to his lot, was faultlessly rendered. !};he house went into raptures on Tuesday even- ing and reeled Mr. Roberts twioe. In his part throughout Mr. Roberts was equal»y successful he is resourceful, and combines a capital stage presence with a distinct na- turames*. Miss Lily Hayes scored a distinct success as "Tessa,' which role she invited with vivacity and piquant mannerisms. Every moment she was on the stage she was mak- ing her ooints, and either as a dainty dan- cer—in which Miss Hayes was wen to parti- cular advantage—or as songstress, the charming young lady was perfectly at home. In a word, Miss Hayes caused a very pleasur- able surprise. The "Guiseppe" of Mr. W. H. Curtis was original, and in many respects clever. is on the "go" the whole of the time, the in- carnotion of good-humour and effectiveness. Mr. Curtis showed that he grasped the part in every detail, and never once is he found lacking. Mr. C. P. Palmer takes the part of "The Duke"—the amusing aristocrat, whose sense of humour tickles vastly. The representation is a good one. As "The Duchess," Madame Hannah Jones has not a part that makes many demands upon her fine powers. She, however, shows herself to be a finished artiste, whether in song or ac- tion. And the "Luiz" of Mr. A. D. Ben- nett, attracted by "Casilda's" charms, was a performance quite abcve the average. The artiste, who has a fine S+:¡ge presence, should make more of his baritone voice in the fu- ture. We are not forgetting Miss Ailie Cbegwid- den as "Gmnetta," whose rich soprano voice MR. w. H. CURTIS, NEATH, As "Guiseppe Paimiere. (Photo bv J. W. P-ichards., Swansea.) MADAME HANNAH JONES,; I As the "Duchess ofPtazo-Toro." (Photo by J. W. Richards, SwMspa.t is her particular charm. In this connection Miss Chegwidden, inakes too best use of her opportunities, ana she is heard to capital advantage. Only fault could be found with the "Cafiil<Ja," of Miss M%ud Williams, and that was an apparent nervousness ot. ac- tion, which will ^undoubtedly wear off with further acquaintSaico- She hps one of the best voices in the -company, and sings excel- lently. Great regret was experienced on account of the absence of genieJ Mr.. George Isaacs in the role of the "Grand Irtouisitor" —an absence due to ill-health. Tni» char- acter would have suited Air. Isaacs "down to the ground." In his place Mr. Henry Lef- fler (the producer of the opera, from the Savoy Theatre) takes the character at very short notice. Other principals are Misses: j Hilda Henson, Kate Eaton, Gwecnie Howell, Margrett Trickev, and Messrs. C. E. Allen, F. R. Davis, H. Eaton, and Bert Sims, and of each it may be said no fault I can be found. The chorus of Contadico are Misses Mar- j jorie Knoyle, Ashbridge, Gordon Alicp. Howell, May Holmes, G. Hopkins, M. Hop-1 kins, A. Parry, W. Davies, D. Foy, E. Wil- son. E. A. Dennis, A'. Jones, G. Jones, I. Jones, and P. Foy, and the chorus of Gon- doliers, etc., Messrs. L. J. Kempt'Torne, W. W. Watkins, D. W. Cox, J. R. H. Rees, j Ivor Lewis, H. Norton Nash, C. L. Vander- pump, M. H. Clarke, F. Hayes, G. C. Rog- ers, John Owen, S. Ewart Owen, D D. Newman, and G. Brinley Bowen: ? Miss Viola Parry and Mis3 Joan Lott make two very pretty pages. • The augmented orchestra, unde? thu ba- ton of Mr. Donald W: Lett, was perfection. MISS LILY HAYES, As "Tessa." (Photo<by J. W. Richards, Swansea.) MR- C., P. PALMER, As the "Duke of Plsteo-Toro." (Photo by J- W- 'Richards,- Swansea.) The general stage setting left nothing to be desired, and. the stage management .was in the .capable ,'hajids (>f Messrs. ,Arthur An-, dreWs^ and Graham Pockett. The costumes were gorgeous, and the, whole production; such as to commend itself to the general pub- lic, by, whom, !L should be liberally patronis- • ed as the artistic success dese!'ycs. ,The amateurs may well take credjt for. the pro- duction of a very pretty and effective opera. "CORA" DESCRIBES THE SCENE, Our lady correspondent, "Cora," writes It Was really vary gratifying to' see so full a house on the first night of the amateur per- fommnoe. of the "Gondoliers," and although it is quite unnecessary for me to remark on the stardard of success t ha.. our local tal-j out has achieved this year—a full criticism of which appears in another column—I can- j not let the occasion paas without offering a tribute. We are all familiar with the great beauty of Gilbert and Suilivan's works, which so successfully <yho the true significance of the libretto; there is nothing weak about the scores, and the comedy is rich and never vulgar; and to hear the melodious works of these composers so faithfully portrayed by our local artistes is, really very flattering to Swansea folk, and especially to the musical} aoid "toIge directors. I admire the commendable zeal with which some 'of them take up amateur theatrical work; Aproviàeos certainly very fascinating and also instructive enjoyment, calls For graceful gesture and charm of maimer, sue! enviable pfwseesicns, and promotes sbeiabi! ity.f What is there for me to say but th.. MISS AILIE CHEGWIDDEN, As "Gianctta." (Photo by J. W. Richards, Swansea.) I everyone thoroughly enjoyed it on Tuesday, and thought it remarkably free from hitches for a first night. We should have liked to have seen Mr. Geo. Isaac in his place certainly; then, a ctr eider able improvement in Miss Ailie Ch^wid.d.eu's acting is to be noted, anA.,P looks very girlish and pretty ?h her cos- tume; whilst Mies Lily Hayes is always a great favourite, and dances beautifully and with considerable grace. Mr. John Robert's was delightful, as was testified by the re- calls in "Take a pair of sparkling eyes," and Madame Hannah Jones, though ta-king a minor part, is a true artiste—in fact, all the parts are wonderfully strong. The dresses in this year's opera, too, are veTy pretty everything about them so har- monious and artistic the. coloUrs: are. bril- liant, but tbqr,- is an absence,,of .those so glaring Iii>. tö -be termed "hideous"; aH are effectively- \5r0rn. wearers. The most gorgeous were certainty those worn in the second act by Madame Hanntah Jones as the "Duchess" fashioned vof cham- pagne brocade, the tight bddiee terminatihg in bunched Pomp-adour style over a gleam- ing white sitin skirt. The white wig was surmounted wcth a .head-dress of black and palo yellow ostrich feathers, whilst the lorg twilight purple brocaded train was carried by two little beare-Ts. Mies Maude Williams' gown,was the other—also in the second act which was fasfeion^d in the style; thts overdress of riah penk btwade, 'and the pejttiooat .of pale bluiv the white wig in this case bearing a long lace scarf of creamy tinted .silk laoo draping over too shoulder, from which also hung a, train of white; goM+erabrbid&ed satih.! The chorus of contadiiue costumes of course were in ncasant style,, with brightly-coloured skirts and aprons, and corsages over a white chemisette. The scene on the stage was bright and pleasing to the ,eye, and the acting exceeded expectations, and will 110 doubt improve as the week ad- vances. > I did not recognise many people in. the circle, but I did see MTS. Charles Wright, who was wearing soft black draperies with laces about the throat. She was accompanied by her husband. There was also Sir R. Morris' party, Miss Morris wearing. white with a pink corsage adornmemt, under a powdier-blue cloak another lady enveloped in a soft white cashmere wrap, and yet a third in a pre-tty coloured wrap with pink relieving the gown. Mrs., Parry was in. a black gown with sable stole. Dr. and, Mrs. David Edwards, Gorse-lane, were also present. Mrs. John Rosser, Sketty,: wore a wfap with ecru lace drapiitg tihe shoulders, and was accompanied by Rossar, in a coat of white cloth, with ermifne threw-over. Mr. S. Saunders was accompanied by .Miss C. Penrose Thomas, wearing an everting wrap of soft white cashmere over a creation of palest pink. Mr. R, Sails and party Mr. S. Bar- low; Mr. and Mts: Siedle, the latter in a vrap of ivory satin. But it was really diffi- jlt to get a glimpse of anyone. 10'

WEST WALES TRA^ RETURNS. FOURTEEN THOt'sXjTD TON INCREASE AT SWANSEA. GRATIFYING ACTIVYTY IN COAL SHIPMENTS. Swansea, Monday—The imports during the week were again under the avei age. but the exports developed considerable activity and the returns, on the whole, were batisfactcry The total trade exceeded 100,000 tons, and, in comparison with the corresponding period of 1906 giverf an inci-etl&e of 14,000 torn*. The coal and patent fuel trades c-ntinue to dis- t-lay increasing activity, the shipments in the week amounting to 81,200 tons, and the general exports were most gratifying. Imports include—France, 410 tons pit wood and 112 tons general; Spain, 620 tons pit- wood; Germany, 810 tons general; Algeria 600 tons zinc ore, and 1,211 tone copper ote; Chili, 50 tons copper ore; and 874 tons blende ore. Coal shipments-Swedea, 3,525 tons; Ger- many, 6.570 tons; Holland and Bel- gium, 2,175 tons France. 21.590 tons; Spain, 2,850 tons; Italy, 14.103 tons; Algeria. :,750 tons Brazil, 1,600 tons; and home ports 6,887 tons. Patent fuel—France, 4,290 tons; Spain, 5,710 tons; Italy, 300 tons; Austria, 4,250 tons- Algeria, 1.200 tons. Imports, 12,405 tons. exports 89.999 tons, and total trade 102,404 tons, compared with 98,578 tons the previous week, and 88,250 tons the corresponding week last year. Shipments of coal 63.450 tons. patent fuel 15,750 tons. and tinplates and general goods, 10,799 tons. the latter for Batoum and Odessa. Germany, Holland and BClgium. I France, Italy. Japan. New York.- Philadel- phia., and heme ports. Shipments of tinplates 103,463 boxes, and receipts from vorks 95,067 boxes. Stocks in the dock warehouses and vans 118,726 boxes, Compared with 127.424 boxes this ttayw-asfc, and 160,821 boxes ai..this' date last year. To load general #argo in the c rmnt -SeabeU (Itio < i^ieiro am'd Sanfcosl, 8ark (San, Fraaci.i -o), Kansas City and Jersey City (Sot York). Assioat iJt&ly). a Tajr* (Lisbon and OportoJ, Veghtstroom (Amster- dam), Hero and UFasso (Rotterdam 'and Ant werp), Douro (Orf>onhagen and Stettin). Vessel's in dock-1Saturday; steam 36. sail 28, total 64. BUSINESS BRISK AT PORT TALBOT There wn still another increase in the trade at Port Talbot Docks last week, the froyt not having quite such a severe effect a-s during the previous week. There was a geed supply of tonnage for foreign exports and the patent fuel works were also fairly brisk. The exports, however. were less than tbe previous week, there being a decrease, cf 895 tons. This was counterbalanced by an improvement in the imports, which showed an increase over the previous week of 1990 tons. Pit-vooi and timber imports were bri3k ai;d 1,506 tons of coal wM also dis- charged out of t-he "Mezlcy." which was ie- eently refloated after the explosion. The tota.1 shipments show an inorr-P. cm the week before of 1.P97 tons and oi 10.437 tens in the corresponding period pf • last year. The returns are aa follows:— Exports—Ccal 1 foreign ports). 29,590 tons; coal (coastwise), 2,078 tons; patent fael. 2,400 tons; ctke (foreign) 115 tons; tinplates 80 tons: total. 34.263 tons. Imports—Caal (ex. Mczley), 1,500 tons; pit- Woe d, 1,000 tons: haUast,, 90S tons; timber. 812 tons- scrap, 60 tons; pitch, 500 tons; total 4,77/ tons. Total shipments, 39.040 tons Vessels in dock on Saturday—Steam 16, sail 16. total 31, INDIFFERENT WEEK AT LLANELLY. 1 here Was not much of an improvement in the trade of the. Llanelly port for the past L vvoek, and the aggregate showed ,but; a slight increase on the previous week's low total. c nj.il the improvements in the channel are pompleted possibly m'ich of an alteration' cannot be expected. The total amount of. W^age. handled was 6,800 tons ae cpnapared 4'960 ton's. last week..The exports were 4.000 tone, 3,700 tone of coal and 300 tons of tmplates. Jmpprts were 2,800 tons, consist- in8_ Pbiefiy of pig iron and scrap iron. 'J positiop in the coal trade is if any- tmng firmer than last week and the market Jnu DOJW an exceedingly strong position. The demand is remarkable for all kinds of coal and prices are better now than they have been for some years. The profits at many of the collieries must be unusual and there should be good balances on the right side at the end of the half-year. Colliery proprietors at many of the pits are extend- ing and a large amount of money is being spent in improvements. The house coal trade ie very brisk and owing to the sharp spell of wintry weather the coal merchantis,. are inundated with! orders. Their carts may be seen hauling coal until nine o'clock at night and it is impossible to, keep pace with orders. The miners' agents are not long in recognising the present state of things and have applied for a five per cent. advance in wages; which application will be considered next week. It is doubtful whether the five per cent, will,, be granted, but 2\ per oent. they wMl be cer- tain of. The tinplate trade is moving steadily. There is not much of a pressure, but orders are sufficient to meet the make. The steel- works are still very preeeed with orders and all furnaces are in full work.

80 invitations hare been accepted fa?<he Iiaaelly Cricket Club ball."

i', ItirASADA The cry for unskilled Labour greater tkin ever, Spkndid oppor- tunities for healthy rticft and women. Britain's nearest and greates; colony., V. 160 Acres Free Get your own Farm; quit paying Rent; Happy Homes; Healthy Bracing Climate} Under the o*d Flag} Cheap Fares}. Comfortable and Speedy Travel. Work is found On Farms tor eipeHeaced or inex- perienced Men, for Dpmsstic Servants, for Navvies, Carters and itll willing workers. For Maps, Pamphlets, full information nrnl directions, app!y-J.Rl<.VC; \V'AwKIC'<. Assts'a.-I: Superintendent,.Canadian .lim'uraHon, ri-t?. Chartiu Cr»*s, I. xidon, S.W., or to II. M. MUR7.AY, 81, Queen Street, Exeter.

EXPLOSIVES WORKS DISASTER. 4 AYRSHIRE FACTORY CALAMITY. 4 SEVERAL MEN KILLED. The Press Association's Saltcoats corres- pondent telegraphs :—A disastrous explosion occurred about noon on Tuesday at Nobels Explosives Works, Ardeer, near St?ven.-ton, by which several men were killed. The explosion took place on the hill where the nitro glycerine is manufactured. It was heard in all towns on the Ayrshire coast. At Stevenston, where almost an the in- habitants have relatives or friends in the factory, the greatest excitement prevailed. Several of the injured men have been --1- veyed. by special train to Glasgow.

"THEN WE HEARD A THUD." SWANSEA DRIVER'S TERRIBLY SUDDEN DEATH. An inquest was hdd at Siddall's-buildings, Swansea, before the borough coroner (Mr. Viner Leeder), on Monday, touching the death of Joseph Morgan (35), driver, of Graig-terrace. Rcic-hard Morgan, brother, said deceased on Saturday night appeared to have been seized with a fit, dying five minutes later. Deceased had not complained of illness. He was, in fact, quite robust. "No quarrel or any trouble with any- body?" asked the coroner. "No, not t*> my knowledge," said witness. "He carao home about seven o'clock. He had his tea and then remained with mother until I went into supper about 11 o'clock. He then said, Richard, I think I'll go to bed.' 'All right., go you,' I said, and he said, 'Good-night, mother,' 'Good-night, Rich.' He then went upstairs, and then we heard the thud of hi6 falling on the floor." Dr. C. S. Anderson said there were no external marks of violence of any sort. Ex- ternal appearances were compatible with cardiac syncope. Verdict according to the medical evi- dence, the jury expressing sympathy with the relatives.

"REVIVAL OF SUPERSTITION." WATCH COMMITTEE AND "KISSING THE BOOK." DR. RAWLINGS URGES ECOTCH OATH. TAKING FORMULA. Swansea Watch Committee met on Tues- day, Dr. Rawlings, J.P., presiding. It was decided to send letters of thanks to Meesrs. Studt and Day for their pluck in rescuino- from the North Dock a seaman naincd ° William* and likewise to Sergt. Havelock for stopping a runaway horse. Chairman asked the committee's opinion wjtJi regard to the manneT of oath-taking by police officers. He thought the time had come when they ought to use their influence to promote some better manner, of affirm- ing truthfulness. People now tried to catch hold of a com-er of the Bible, which had not been kissed before; .if they were wise, they opened it, but as a medical man he could not but view with apprehension people kiss- ing what might previously have been kissed by filthy lips. He had aiways sworn in the Scotch fashion, and what he would like the committee to do would be to instruct the tfhitef-constable to issue an order to the police. Mr. Moy Evans said it was a matter for every man's free will. Mr. Solomon considered that if Dr. Raw- lings repeated his statement from the Bench, it would have'very great weight. Every- body wbuld see OP hear of it, and it would fetW tft^1 «h Wctfe* r- Mr.. Moy Evans Really, kissing the Book is hut a revival of superstition. I' Chairman Said he wouM do as Mr. Solo- mon sugp«p'ted.

GHASTLY TRUNK DISCOVERY. SERVANT GIRL MOTHER IN CUSTODY INQUEST ON LONDON STATION SENSATION. The City of London Coroner en Tuesday opened the inquiry concerning the deaths, of I the two infanta whose decomposed bodies were found, in a trunk at St. Paul's Railway Station, .London, a fortnight ago. The trunk was despatched by radl from Hastings eighteen months previously, and as it was not clai ned it .was opened by the railway officials. The ghastly discovery was then mkde: The mother of children is alleged to be Jane Beechan, aged twenty, unmarried, of Guildford, who was formerly employed as a domestic servant at Hastings and Brighton. She was arrested in Brighton on the charge of concealing the birth and -improperly disposing of the bodies of the children. Tne accused, who is a good-look ng £ irl, was in court on Tuesday in charge a warder and wardress. She seemed to treat the matter lightly, and while waiting com- mencement of the- proceedings laughingly chatted with the wardress. Evidence of the discovery of the „cdi.s having been given, a police ofheer stated that when he arrested Beecham at Brighton she said "I gave birth to a child, I be irve a boy, at bastings, early one morning m November. 1905. I went into a faint and next morning I found the child by my side next morning I found the child by my side dead. I wrapped it in my petticoat and put it in the box. With regard to the the other child, it. was put in the box oy a Scotch girl, who was the mother of the child." In a subsequent statement to the police, Beacham said, "Kathleen was in ser- vice at Acton at the same time as me. The baby belongs to her. I will not tell the girl's other name." Medical gentlemen call«i, said they were unabla to say that the children had ever breathed, or had a separate existence. Jury returned a verdict that they could not determine in either case the cause cf death of the children as they ha.d come to the conclusion that one of them was the illegitimate child of Beachum. But tuey wculd express no opinion as to paternity of the other

PORT TALBOT THIEVES' CHAGRIN STEAL BITTERS AND OIL IN MIS- .TAKE .FOR LIQUOR. During Sunday night a railway van con- tAiuing ship's stores was broken into lit Port Talbot Docks. The stores had been: consigned from Cardiff to the French Loire, and the van was on, a siding over- night. The thieves had evidently thought of lriv- ing an enjoyable time for they took \way a case which they considered was whisky, and another marked Cognac. They Tnost, however, have oeea bitterly disappointed when they discovered the 1f-(11 contents of their booty" foor one CJfie crn-| tamed Secresta bitters, and the vie marked Cognac contained bottles of olive 0.]; ti« broken bottles being later discovered a short distance away.

PROPOSED SWANSEA MOTOR AM BULANCE. The Head Constable has about JB125 in hand for the purpose of motor ambulance for the borough, and expects another JB50 in a week or so. There is still a good sum to make up before this very desirable means of dealing with accident cases ::<111 be intro- duced, and subscriptions are invited. The Corporation-will maintain, the motor ambul- ance provided it can be raised by private effort.

THE SIMPLE LIFE. We hear a good deal nowadays in praise )f the simple life, and there can be no doubt that simple habits, especially as regards. sating and drinking, conduce to good health and to the maintenance of all our faculties in the highest state of efficiency. Equally true is it that when any function of the body is disturbed or impaired simple remedies are best adapted to -correct the dis- order and restore the normal health. Power- ful drugs should never be employed except on the advice of a doctor, and secret remed- ies shou'd be tabooed. It is a safe rule to take only simple remedies, the medicinal properties of which are known to you and which are approved by the medical profes- saon. One of the few s'mple remedies of this kind, pleasant to take and absolutely harmless, yet possessed of definite healing and tonic value, is Angier's Emulsion- This remedy combines the soothing and healing properties of a specially purified petroleum with the tonic properties of the hypo-phosphites of lime a.nd soda. It not on'y soothes and strengthens the lungs and air passages, but it also keeps the digestive organs in a healthy condition and acts as a tonic to the entire system. It promotes ap- petite, aids digestion and builds up strength. It is no exaggeration to state that Angler's Emulsion is the simplest and likewise the best remedy for coughs, bronchitis, con- sumption, and all lung affections, also for digestive disorders and wasting diseases. It is endorsed by thousands of doctors and nurses and is largely used in hospitals. It is certainly well worth trying. If you will send us 3d. for postage and mention this paper we will send you a free sample bottle together with a booklet giving full particulars of 'ts properties and uses. Of chemists and drug stores. Is. 1-d., 2s. 9d. and 4s. 6d. The Angier Chemical Co., Ltd., 32, Snow Hill, London, E.C.

NEATH BANKRUPTCY COURT. TUESDA Y. Before Registrar Charles. TINPLATE WORKER AND THE MONEY LENDER. Jchn James, tinplate worker. 40. Manuel- street, Port Talbot said the causes of his failure were "Lealing with money lendera and heavy interest, becoming .urety for others, and illoces during th3 last twelve months." His deficicncy was £ 164.—Mr. Lewis Thomas; appeared for the defendant. Defendant Mid he had paid a local money lender hnndrcds of pounds within the last five years—the period during which he had been in difficulties. Mr Lewis n homas said debtor had Had to pay extortionate interest. He objected to Ibe application made by Mr Law that the case be adjourned. Registrar said that this was the first hear* ing and the case would be adjourned. ONLLWYN LABOURER AND THE COLLIERY. John Thomas, labourer, Onllwyn. had a deficiency of JS967 He eaid that the cause of failure was 'losses in the Cwmbach Col- liery." In 1900 he took Bryacarn Farm, Oily- bebyll, but gave it up in 1905 when he had no stock, having from time to time reali9ed the same to obtain money to put into the Cwmbach Colliery, which was purchased by him and five cthcro in 1903 for £1,000. Debtor invested altogether £235 He found that he had been ill-advised in regard, to the col- liery as it had been treviously vorked. Ul- timately an action was brought and judg- ment obtained against debtor ard his part- news to recover £750, the balance of pur- chase money. The case, was closed.

CARMEL (MORRISTON) EISTEDD- FOD. MAYOR PRESIDES:, MR. JOHN, WILLIAMS, M.P., CONDUCTS. &KEWEN CHOIR WINS: A DOUBLE I EVENT. I At Forward Movement Hall, Morristan, on Saturday, the annual eisteddfod of CMToet vr»s held. Tbe Mayor (Coun. David Harris, J.P.) pttceidcd, and was supported by the Mayoress and Mr. Morgan R. Jones (Peobryn). Conductor was Mr. John Williams, M.P., and aciodi- cators were: Music, Messrs. T. GJynxiwr Richards, Mountain Ash, and D. R. H. -'rice, Swansea; recitations, etc., Rev. Boo D vvies, Pantteg; bags, Mrs. Morgan R. Jooc s, Pen- bryn. Aocompanist was Prof. D. E. Wil- liams, C.R.A.M., and secretaries, Messrs. J. T Richards and Dd. Joseph, Morneton. Awards were —Recitation, children under 15.. 1, Miriam Maud Evans,. G-lanamman; 2, Sarah Jarue Davies, Morriston. Solo, children under 15: 1, Nancy Beale, Hafod; 2, divided between May Watts, Morriston, and Edwin Neale, Llansamlet. Open violin solo: Master Ivor Reus Shadrach, Yiusfor- gan. Prize bag, Gwen Roberts, Morriston. Stanzas, "Gweledydd," Abererave. Piano- forte solo, Miss Sarah Griffiths, St. Thomas. Pianoforte solo (under 15), Miss Lizzie Morris, Swansea. Violin solo (under 12), Master Glyn John, Morriston. Hand- knitted pair of stockings, Mrs. J. Fisber Jones, Morriston. Recitation, Mr. Morris Jones, Loughor. Soprano solo, Mis. Mor- ga-n, Glai6. tenor, John Richards, Gower- tom. Bass, Harry Roberts, Gorseinon. Duct, tenor amd bass, divided betv^n T. J. Francis and James Jones and Willie Reec and friend, Morriston. Composition 04 "Dagran'r Iesu" Iddo Ef," who did nd disclose iiis identity. Children's choir—< three choirs sang as follows: Forward Mova ment (Morriston), Morriston Schools a.nf Brynhvfryd first prize was awarded to Brymiyfryd, which was composed of boys only. Adjudicator said be had never heard a choir of boys sing 00 well. Tho singing at the Mountain Ash National Kist^cltod was nothing to equal what. h< !r •• from this choir. Chief choral—four choirs competed, viz., Soar. Morriston, S'kewen Music Lovers and Glais. The first prize was awarded to Skewen Music Lovers (conductor, Mr. Wm. Davies), who were also successful in winning the prize the same day at an Abemvoa Eisteddfod.

"GONE TO AUSTRALIA." SWANSEA COMMERCIAL TRAVEL- ~~jVS BABY. At Swansea on Tuesday Griffith Llew- ellyn, commercial traveller, HangvfeIacR. road, was summoned by Margaret Jane Manship. to show cause why. Defendant did not appear. Complainant, a little woman, said her child, a girl, was born on December 23id. She herself was 23 years old. She had been in service with the mother of defendant. I Defendant represented the firm of Llewellyn Bros- furniture dealers. They lived first at Alexander-road and then at Brynhyfryd. In March, at Brynhyfryd, intimacy first occur. red. Defendant came to her room. When she discovered her condition she went to see defendant. He told her "She would have to look about if there was »nything the matter." Mrs. Sarah Folan, a neighbour, told how she went with complainant to call on de- fendant. When they spoke of the child de- fendant said he would see her later n. He didn't admit anything. She also called on defendant after the child was born, but didn't see him. Clerk Have you seen him at all? Witness: No, sir; his mother said he had gone to Australia. Then you only saw him on that one occa- sion ?—Yes, sir. The case was adjourned for a fortnight to allow complainant to bring more witnesses.

1 GENEROSITY OF MISS TALBOT. The Mayor of Aberavon on Monday re- ceived a cheque from Miss Talbot for £100, in aid of the sufferers through the recent Market fire. Messrs. Bvass and Co. have also it a cheque for £25, and other donations NS- ceived on Monday were:—Mr. Heard, Bl Is., and the Vioar of Aberavon, £1 Is. Printed and Published Wales Post" Newspaper Company, Ltd., ""11 DAVID DAVIJS8, al: the Offices of the "South Walea Daily Pest, 211, High- street, Swansea.