The Cardiff Times

BY D. EMLYN EVANS. A TALENTED MONMOUTHSHIRE MUSICIAN. We learn with much regret of the death of Mr James Conway iirown, which took place a few weet3 since at the Guildford Hospital. Having been born at Biaina, Monmouthshire, December 27th, 1833, he was in his 70tb year at the time of his passing away. • The deceased was the son of Mr James Brown, who, at the period of his son's birth, was one of the proprietors of the Blaina. ironworks; and who was afterwards well-known in New port, of which town he was mayor three times. Mr James Brown's father —according to a. docu- ment placed at ouf disposal, and which, as we understand, received Mr Conway Brown's sanction—" was intimately associated with Trevethick in the construction of one of the earliest locomotive engines at Merthyr." The maternal grandfather of the subject of our remarks was Air Joseph Conway. Pontrhydyrun tmworks, near Pontypool while his uncle was Mr Thomas Brown, J.P., managing direc- tor of the Ebbw Vale works, and who was high sheriff of. the county of Monmouth in the early fifties. It is therefore not surprising that young Brown, alter a rather markedly successful edu- cational record at both Camberwell Coliegiate School and King's College, London, should have been sent to Ebbw Vale to learn the business of an ironmaster under his uncle's di- rection, But be had already shown His Predilection far Music, and had obtained considerable mastery over the yioiin at an early ago. thanks in part no donbt to the advantage he had enjoyed in receiving instructions from one of the hest teachers in London at that time, Mr William Watson, of the R.A.M. And at Ebbw Vale, music claimed his attention and devotion probably at the expense of business studies for we are toid that he was continually taking part in concerts, either as pianist or violinist and he also pos- sessed considerable talent as buffo vocalist, which made him a favourite with the music- loving audiences of the locality. He frequently played on the organ or harmonium, too, in various places of worship, and was often found playing: with the band of the 7th Monmouth- shire Rifle Volunteers, under the leadership of Herr PtciiTer he himself being a lieutenant with the 2nd Manraouthshire. in 1861 we find hira in the MiUiyxH ^ironworks, London, where. true to the ruling bent of his life, he formed a rerv effective braes band. However, he soon iccided upon abandoning the iron business ftualJy and fajly, and to follow Music as a Profession. Mr Conway Brown's first- professionat ap- pointment as cm. orssniat was to Alderahot Parish church, 1869 tn connection with which the Sfcac.of Gwent. for November 2Ctb of that year had the following congratulatory an- nouncement. :—" We have much pleasure in recording the appointment of Mr James Con- way Brown to the position of organist to the Parish Church, Aldershot. This gentleman is the son of ouf respected townsman. Alderman Brown, and his welcome services at many pub- lic concerts. charitable and otherwise, must Still be fresh in- the memories of the musical, public here amd;on the hills." "Asa composer," the Star continues, Mr Brown has dis- tinguished himself since leaving this neigh- bourhood, and at the (National) Eisteddfod meetings at Carmarthen and Ruthin, lie was awarsied four prizes lor an anthem on Matt, xxiii., 37. a song on the late Sir Thomas Pic- ton, a song and chorus suitable for the opening of the Eisteddfod, and four original part-songs." The above Eisteddfodau were held at Carmar- then and Ruthin respectTveiy the former being known as Eisteddfod y gwlaw." on account of the torrential rain which fell during the week, and the latter as the last of the Yr Eisteddfod series which,however, had prac. ticaHy received its death-blow at Carmarthen. In the above competitions the composer's col- laborator as librettist was the late Mr Downing Evans (Leon), Newport. So far as we arc aware, none of these pieces have been published with the exception of two of the part-songs, which came out in the Cerddor many years afterwards. Mr Brown-does not seem to have followed the Eisteddfod up very closely As » Competitor. Perh3r>$lite thought, and, if*so, thought wisely," that th Kecoftio a slave to the mania of com- petitiolf was neither advisable nor profitable in the long run. In any event, we have not observed his name in connection with the institution for some years after the Ruthin date, and then only once, vii., at Carnarvon, 1886, when he proved victorious on the an- them, which was declared to be, in the adju. dicator's award, "one of the finest composi- tions which had been sent to any Eisteddfod during thê last twenty-five years," and that h the prize was quite inadequate for such a magnificent production." His address was then given as Farnbatn, Surrey and we find that he was appointed organist of Hale Church, near Farnham, in 1875. and to the Parish Church, Farnham. in 1879, a position he was continuing to hold at the time the biographi- cal document already referred to was written* Mr Brown passed some highly satisfactory examinations for musical diplomas in the Met- ropntis and was awarded the prize by Sir Michael Costa for a sonata for violin and pianoforte, a work which was subsequently printed. We are afraid that Wales in this, as in other Instances, hae been somewhat guilty of neglect- ing—of failing to keep in touch—with one of her talented sons, whose presence and whose productions at our national gatherings would have been to our musical profit and benefit. However, Mr Conway Brown did Shis day's work in OtVrr directions, having been actively engaged, not only as an organist, as we have seen, but as conductor of various choral and orchestral societies, teacher of singing classes, singing, piano and violin playing, as well as ether iaatruments, and musical composition.

SWANSEA CONGREGATIONALISM New Edifice at Manselton. VISIT OF SIR COMPTON RICKETT, M.P. The Mansetton (Swansea) English Congrega- tional Church—an imposing and spacious edifice which has been erected to meet the requirements of an ever-growing population in one of Swansea's most progressive industrial suburbs-WHs opened on Saturday. The neces- sity for stIch a penna-nent place of worship has been long felt, but it was not till 1906 that. an effective step was taken. The seating accommodation of the new church is 615. The stvle is Gothic, local soft stone and Bath stone being used. The interior is light and airy, and exceedingly comfortable. At the opening ceremony there was a large attendance, including Mrs John Williams, Dnlais House, who gracefully discharged the datv of declaring the edifice; open Mr John Williams, Sir Joseph Compton Rickett, D.L., M.P., a former president of the Congregational Union of England and Wales, Mr Tnœ. Roberts (who has been the life and son) of the movement). Mr and Mrs J. Aeron Thomas, Mr and Mrs Oakley Walters, the Rev. and Mrs Penar Griffiths, the Iters. T. Sinclair Evam, Evan Jenkins, J. N. Davies, W. James, Emlyn Jones, Dr. Jones, John Williams, JtiM. Da vies, Evan Thomas, Picton Jones, B. Evans, Rickard, J. Rtchacds. Da vies Williams, Mr Richard Lewis, and Councillor Lovetl. A souvenir key having been handed to Mrs Williams by Miss Bet Roberts, she ex- pressed the hope that God would prosper the work, 8il' J. Compton Rickett, M.P., preached the dedicatory sermon. 45ip9y Smith at Mountain Ash. Mountain Ash Free Church Council mission. j which is conducted by (tIpsy HOlith, is result. ing in great good. On Saturday afternoon the missioner conducted a service for young people at the Pavilion, winch was crowded with young folks from 10 10 20 years of ag*. The chair was occupied by Mr Owen Jones, Bethahia, Mountain Ash, and addresses were delivpced by Rev. E. Bash, Caerphilly; Rev. J. E. Thomas, Treforest, and Gipsy Smith". The musical part of the service was excellently arranged. In the evening a Gospel temperance mission was held in the Pavilion, and an im- pressive address was delivered by the mis- Bioner. The united choir, consisting of 1,000 voices, under, the conductorship of Mr T. Glyndwr Richards, gave renderings of Gospel hymns. On the motion of Mr G. A. Herbert Price, secretary South Wales a,nd Monmouthshire. Free Church Councils Federation, seconded by Rev. E. G, Thomas, Baptist minister, Pen- coed, It '.was.' unanimously resolved at a mass meeting held in Mountain Ash Pavilion on Saturday night in connection with the Gipsy Smith ission, whilst rejoicing at the pro- posed extension of Sunday closing to Mon- mouthshire, strongly urges upon the Govern- menUo embody a clause in the Licensing Bill prohibiting the sale of intoxicating drinks in all clubs in Wales and Monmouthshire on Sundays.. At the meeting over 300 pledges were taken. On Sunday afternoon a crowded meeting was hefd in the pavilion, and the choir, num- bering over a thousand, under the conductor- ship Of Mr Glyndwr Richards, sang a number of hymns, which were taken up by the con- gregation with much effect. Gipsy Smith took as his text, Mark 5, verse 30, And Jesus per- ceiving that virtue had gone out of Hini," and made an eloquent appeal. He closed his address with a telling personal appeal to the audience.

The retirement or superannuation of Mr. Roberts. atatlonmaster, Abercarn, took place on Friday evening, after a aeryice of 50 years, 35 years of which he spent at Abercam Sta- tion. and he now retires under the age limit of 6&t

Rhondda Tramways. PREPARATIONS FOR THE OPENING. Preparations for the opening of the Rhondda tramways route are being speedily pushed for- ward. On Monday the chairman of the Urban Council (Mr Edward Jones). and a number of his colleagues were. at the invitation of the general manager, Mr Nisbett, conveyed on a trial trip over the Rhondda Each section and to Pont Rhondda on the other section. Mr Furness, of the consulting engineers' staff, was the driver of the car, and as the party pro- ceeded along the route they were greeted enthusiastically by crowds of residents. The car negotiated the bill at Tylorstown, which has a gradient' of one in nine, with perfect ease, and also the Tynewydd hill, near Porth. The electric plant to be installed will be of the latest type, and 50 double-decked cars will be available for service over the route, which extends to Treherbert, Ferndale and Tre- hafod. At the last-named point it is antici- pated that a junction will be formed with the Pontypridd tramways. The- company contrl-olling the tram ways will be known as the Rhondda Tramways Co., the I Council having leased to them the powers obtained through Parliament. The Council sought powers to establish their own tram- way service, but a proviso wa-3 inserted in the Bill prohibiting the Council from directly undertaking the venture hence the trans- ference of the powers to the company. Under an agreement the company will pay the Council a rental of £ 2.250 per annum, which will he set aside as a reserve fund for the pur- chase of the undertaking at the expiration of a term of 42 years. The Board of Trade inspection of the route is expected to take place shortly, and the cars will commence running immediately the inspector gives his sanction.

A PONTYCYMMER OFFICIAL. Few "officials connected with collieries had a wider expedience than the late Mr Thomas Rees, Pontycymmer, whose death i3 just recorded. Born at Llandilo, Carmarthenshire, 68 years Ago, he was taken to Glamorganshire, and commenced work as a door boy at the LATE MR THOMAS REES. early age of eight years. Step by step he be- came workman, fireman, and overman, and finally under manager. He had over 30 years' experience as an official. For many years he was engag-erl at the Plymouth Collieries, Merthyr Tydfil, from which place he went to the FfaJdau Collieries, Pontycymmer, where he became highly popular.

"WESTErtN DAILY PRESS." A Journalistic Jubilee. On Monday the Western Daily Press." of Bristol, attained its jubilee, and presented its readers, in the form of a supplement, with a facsimile of the first issue, dated June 1st, 1858. To our vigorous and influential con- temporary, which for the long span of 50 years has played a noble part in spreading the principles of Liberalism and progress" in the West of England, we offer our heartiest congratulations. The 50 years covered by the life of the Western Daily Press," we are re- minded, constitute, in various respects the most noteworthy period in the development of British journalism, and we may add that in the all »ta> bo&fc features, the Western Daily Press-"hae always been found in the van, though with characteristic modesty our contemporary makes no claim to its own share of credit for the marvellous achievements accomplished in the world of journalism. The changes brought about may be realised at a glance from the contrast between the modestfour page sheet of the first number with the 16 pages of eight columns each, bearing news from all parts of the globe, which make up the jubilee number. To Cardiffians, the first number now repro- duced has many items of interest. A column is given to a description of the annual meeting then held at Cardiff of the Bath and West of England Agricultural Hociety-Cardiff, we read. being the first spot west of the Severn which the society has honoured with a visit. Mr Chas. C. Williams was then the mayor, and the show was held in Cathays Park, and, in the course of the day there was held an Eisteddfod. or meeting of Welsh bards and minstrels. at which Nichol Carne. Esq.. LL.D.. presided." Special features of Monday's issue in cele- bration of the jubilee, include a history of the Daily Presa offices, the recollections of a reporter, a review of old advertisements, and an article on Journalism old and new from the standpoint of a sub-editor. On Saturday evening, at the oiffces of the Western Daily Press," Mr Walter Reid. the proprietor, was presented by the staff with an illuminated address and a silver rose bowl. Mr Reid brought out the first number of the journal, has shaped its policy, and directed its fortunes for 50 years, and is still in vigorous health. The amicable relations which have always existed between the proprietor and the men who serve him is shown by the fact that of the present "staff (128 in number) two members have the full record of 50 years' ser- vice, two have 40 years and over, and there are eight of 35 years, 14 of 30 years, 12 of 25 years, 25 of 20 years, 12 of 15 years, and 18 of 10 years and over.

RHONDDA COLLIERS' DEATHS. Fatal Falls of Stone. On Monday an inquest was held touching the death of Thomas Rees (31), Wyndham- street, Treherbert, who died on Thursday evening. A fortnight ago last Friday at the Tydraw Colliery a stone weighing about 12 to 14 lbs. fell from the edge of the, rippings and caught deceased on the head, inflicting a wound and rendering him unconscious. De- ceased went to work the following Saturday morning, but was unable to do anything. He again went to work on Monday, but was obliged to go out about 1.30 p.m. Dr. Hine said deceased had a scalp wound about half an inch long and a quarter of an ineh deep. Acute pain in the head developed. Deceased became better and then worse, and on May 29th died in a fit. Witness was of opinion that deceased died from an epileptic convulsion caused by the injury to the head. A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned. Mr Saint, Inspector of Mines, re- presented the Home Ofnce Mr A. T. James (Messrs Morgan, Bruce, and Nicholas), Ponty- pridd, was for the relatives; and Mr Prosser (Messrs Kcnshole) was for the Tydraw Colliery Company. At Treorchy on Monday Mr R. J. Rhys, the district coroner, held an inquiry into the death of William Thomas (40), of 40, Tynybedw- of William Thomas (40), of 40, Tynybedw- streetT Treorchy, who was killed by a fall of roof at the Abergorky CoQiery on Thursday morning. Deceased was wedging top when a stone,. about 9ft- long, fell and killed him on the spot. A verdkt of Accidental death was returned. Mr Saint, Inspector of Mines, represented the Home Office, and Mr Tom Evans, miners' agent, watched the pro ceedings for the relatives of deceased.

GREATNESS OF LIBERAL- UNIONISM. Scene at Cardiff, Scene: Richmond-road, Cardiff, and Mp J. Farnsworth, Liberal Unionist, addressing a crowd which includes many supporters of the Government. Mr Farnsworth This Government -was elected or erected—— A Voice: By the people. Mr Farnsworth On misrepresentation. ("No, no. "Leave, the. man- alone." Give order there.") On misrepresentation— ("Never.") Mr Farnsworth (proceeding): It is living on the suffrancc of the people. A Voice bo are you. (Hear, hear, and laughter.) Mr Farnsworth (speaking very quickly): And not making as much out of it as Ramsay Macdonald and PhiliprSnowden. (Uproar.) It is living on suffranee. A Voice As you are. (Laughter.) Mr Farnsworth's voice Was bere lost in the din which followed and which was kept up for -an hour and a half whilst the speaker emphatic- ally endpaypured tq instil into the minds of his ir bearers the greatness of Liberal Unionism. He pleaded that the only way to save the country from anarchy and its utter undoing was to join the Liberal Unionist party.

MOTOR CAR SMASH. New York. Monday Mr W, P. Goubsaud and Mr Thomas Nolan, both members of Madison Club, Brooklyn, a well-known democratic or- ganisation, were killed onthf-spot this morn- ine through the overturning of a. motor car in which they were returning from Coney Island. There were two other persons in the car, both ffwiifm were injured, it is believed, fatally.- Reuter. 'er.

WELSH NATIONAL CHRISTIAN ENDEAVOUR CONVENTION. I »ll WIIIWIPHIII mini — The Local Executive Committee, Top Row—Mr. P. IlogA-s, Mr R. T. Codd, Mr W. G. Napier. Second Row—Mrs E. Williams. Mr J. W. Hobbis, Mrs W. Higgs, Mr C. J. Youngs, Mrs L. Handley. Mr H. J. Woodman. Third Row—Mr W. Higgs. Mr L. Michael, the Rev. W. J. Zeal, Mrs C. J. Youngs, Mr E. Paske. Fourth Row—Miss L. Irwin, Mr V. Williams.

I PARADE OF THE 53rd BATTERY R.F.A. AT CARDIFF. The last gun leaving the drill-hall for the parade ronnd the town. Following the gun are three of the officers. ("S.W. D.N. "photo.)

Newport Harbour Board. THE TRIENNIAL ELECTIONS. Proposed River Improvements. The triennial election of members of the Newport Harbour Commissioners was held on Monday, Mr A. J. Phillips (clet-k. F acting as re- turning officer. The result showed that all the old members were returned. Those elected by shipowners were Messrs L. T. Beynon, J. H. Carney, J. C. K. Gething, T. L. Handford, Bonn H. Jones, Mark Mordev, Thomas H. Mordey, W. L. Moore, W. J. Orders, and T. E. Watson. Elected by iron smelters Messrs Isaac Butler, Panteg: W. R. Lvsaght, Newport Frederick Mills, Ebbw Vale R. J. Nicholas, Ebbw Vale and D. E. Williams, Panteg. Elected by miners and workers of coal Messrs J. W. Beynon, Castleton G. F. Col- borne, Edward Coulman. H. C. Evans, James H. Winn, J. H. Murrow, Newport; Llewelyn Llewelyn, Abersychan Edward Steer, Mal- pas. At a special meeting of the Newport Chamber of Commerce on Monday Mr F. P. Robjent was elected as the Chamber's representative on the Harbour Board. The representatives of the lord of the manor of Newport and the lord of the manor of Wentlooge and the lord of the manor of Rogerstone, Great Western Railway Company, and the Alexandra (Newport and South Wales) Docks and Railways Company are elected by their respective nominators. In view of the proposed river Usk improve- ment, a good deal of interest was taken at the Newport Corporation on Monday in the elec- tion of 12 members to represent the Corpora- tion on the Harbour Board. The 12 old members were re-elected, the fol- lowing being the voting :-Messrs T. Golds- worthy 32, J. Moses 31" J. Moxon 31, T, Can- ning 30, G. Greenland 30, F. Phillips 30, W. J. Lloyd 27, A- R. Bear 26, J. Davies 24, T. H: Howell 22, W. Evans 21, and R. Wilkinson 19. Not elected—T. Parry 16, H. C. Pa.rfitt 8, W. Jesseman 8, Peter Wright 7, W. C. Phillips 6, F. E. Burfitt 5, M. Mordey 4, G. W. White 3, C. Collier 3, C. Thomas 3, W. A. Linton 3, A. E. Tonks 2, R. J. Searles 2, J. McGinu 2, .T. Liscombe, W. M. Blackburn. H. Duckham, R. V. Sutton, C. P. Simmonds, F. P. Robjent, T. G. Lewis,, C. O. Lloyd, and E. A. Charles one each. 1-?

MAESTE6 MAINTENANCE CASE. John Davies, labourer, Bridgend-road, Maesteg, was summoned at Bridgend on Satur- day for the maintenance of his wife, Elizabeth Davids, who is chargeable to the common fund of the Bridgend Union. Mr Thomas Phillips, Pontypridd, defended. The defence was that Mrs Davies had summoned her husband at Pontypridd last year before the learned Sti- pendiary, and that the case had been dis- L missed on the evidence that she had left her husband and had gone to live with Evan Prichard, now dead. Mrs Davies had also sub- sequently summoned her husband at Swansea, but the magistrates there immediately dis- missed the case on hearing that it had been dealt with by the Pontypridd Stipendiary. Mrs Davies, giving evidence before the Bridg- end magistrates, sa.id that she left her hus- hand because he took all his money to the public-house and did not provide her with pro- per maintenance. When she left him she went as a housekeeper to a man named Evan Prichard, to whom she had been housekeeper before she married defendant. She denied that her relationship with Evan Prichard waa in any way improper. In reply to the magis- trates, defendant's solicitor said that the sum- mons at Pontypridd was in respect of alleged persistent cruelty. The Chairman (Mr R. W. Llewellyn) said that this case was apparently not on all fours with the one heard at Pontypridd. There was no evidence that Mrs Davies had been guilty of misconduct. The case would be adjourned for a fortnight to enable defendant to come to terms with the Guardians. °-

EISTEDDFOD AT HIRWAIN. A chair Eisteddfod was held on Satur- day at Ramoth Baptist Chapel, Hir • wahl. In the unavoidable absence of County Councillor Rees Llewellyn, J.P., BwlIfa, the chair was occupied by Mr Owen George, J.P., Maesydderwen, Hirwain. The conductor was Rev. Dr. Gomer Lewis, Swansea. Chief awards :—Solo, girls, Mary Hannah Jones, Skewen recitation, boys, W. T. Evans violin solo, juveniles, Symon Jones, Morriston prize bag, Miss Evans, Bodwigiad, Pcnderÿ-n; recitation, girls, Mary Hannah Jones solo, boys, W. Arthur Buoys piano- forte solo, Miss Sarah James, St. Thomas, Swansea juvenile choirs, 1, Cwmaman Juveniles, 2, Hirwain recitation, girls, over 15 years of age, Miss Coles, Hirwain, and Miss Myfanwy Lewis, Trecyrton, equal merit essay, The true basis of pure social life," prize divided between Mr J. Rees Jones, Hirwain, and W. n. Davies (Ab Daniel), Llwydcoed contralto solo, Miss Catherine Lewis chair prize, pryddest on Tangnefedd (Peace), Brynach, Llanfrynach, who was represented by Mr Jonathan Morris, Hirwain bass solo, Mr D. Davies, Alltwen soprano solo, prize divided between Miss Lily Hampton, Newport, and Miss Mary Phillips, Cwmaman duet, Mr D. Jones. Abercrave and friend recitation, adults, Mr J. Thomas, Merthyr Vaie tenor solo, Mr Llew Jones, Aberdare chief choral i contest, three choirs competed, viz., the Hir- wain, Skewen Music Lovers, and Sion Choir, Merthyr first prize was awarded to the Skewen Music Lovers, and the second to Sion Choir, Merthyr quartette. Mr T. Beynon, Mr John Jenkins, Miss Hannah Jane Morgan, and Miss Esther Jones, all of Hirwain.

On Saturday Captain Bishop, an elderly gentleman, of St. Helen's.-road, Swansea, while crossing St, Helen's-rokd. was knocked down by a runaway hors", and is now suffering severely from shock.

Aged Farmer's Troubles. BRECONSHIRE DEBTOR'S AFFAIRS. At Merthyr Bankruptcy Court yesterday, before the Registrar, Mr D. Rees Lewis, John Lewis, Lower Gelleia Farm, Senny, Brecon- shire, appeared for his fipst public examination. Ttae< liabilities amoupteq. to £ 1,598, and the de- ( ficiebcry to f1,398169-5^* • Debtor attributed failure to borrowing money and paying heavy interest. Debtor, now 77 years of age, commenced trading as a farmer at Glyntawe, about 53 years ago, with a capital of about £100. About two years later he removed to Pantmaes, near Defynog,where he remained for about 14 years. For the next 16 years he was at Gorslwyd, near Senny- bridge. and for the past 21 years he had been tenant of his present farm. He had been bor- rowing money ever since he commenced trad- ing. He had borrowed not only on his own account, but he had also for some years been making himself jointly responsible for money lent to his son, Thomas Lewis, Wern Farm. Cwmtaff, who was now bankrupt. Over 13-00 of his liabilities were incurred on behalf of his son. Debtor admitted knowing about ten years ago that he was insolvent. Debtor said that he borrowed an item of £10 about five or six years ago. About three years ago he accepted responsibility for money lent to his son, mak- ing his liability to the same creditor £ 37. The rate of interest lie had to pay was E3 every two months. The Registrar said that this was practically 50 per. cent. per annum, and debtor said that he thought it was far too much. He had paid the interest, but he still owed jE38 Is 9d. He had been borrowing money for the last 50 years. He first resorted to money-lenders when another of his sons went to Carmarthen College. The money first borrowed was JE20, and he signed a note for £26, and had to pay back £2 10s per month. As each £20 was re- paid he borrowed another £ 20. Debtor sald he had never had sufficient capital, but-Until three years ago he could have paid all he owed if he had sold everything he had. But in that case he would have had to leave the farm. He had signed notes with his son at the National Provincial Bank, Brecon, for JE17, at Lloyds, Aberdare, for £75, and at the Birmingham and District Bank, Brecon, f. for £57. He did not tell the ba-nk. managers that he was borrowing from money-lenders. In answer to further Questions by the Official Receiver, debtor stated that he had been getting stock on credit for years. When he got a new lot he paid for the lot he had bought the year before. He had lost £ 200 in the last two years by the failure of crops and the last two years by the failure of crops and rot among the sheep. His son Thomas had been a burden upon him for years. He helped Thomas when he started farming on his own account, and he had helped, another son to set up in business. Another of his sons. and his daughter who remained at home' had gone without their wages in order that money might be given to help Thomas. He hoped all the time that his son Thomas would get over his diffi- culties, and that he himself would get better luck. The examination was adjourned for debtor to furnish accounts showing the stock sold, the money borrowed, and the interest paid during the past year. Deri Butcher's Admissions. Daniel Jones, butcher, Deri, came up for his adjourned examination on presenting amended accounts. He said that while the previous ac- counts showed his household expenses to be £ 2 per week they were now set down at £4. Out of that £ 4 he spent £ 1 per week upon him- self. He had a. turnover in his business of £ 40 per week, and he could not say why he did not make sufficient profit to pay his way except that he had to buy dear me8,t. He obtained jElOO under an insurance policy, jElCO from his deposit account at the bank, S25 for the sale of an insurajice policy, and JE40 on a bill of sale, besides JE25 borrowed, and used these sums for trading. He admitted that the principal cause of bis failure was neglecting his; business. Spending a good deal of money in public- houses. and drawing £4 per week out of his business for household ex pcrises when the busi- ness could not stand it, were also causes of failure. The examination was closed subject to a further amendment of accounts. Bargoed Builder's Failure. Thomas Isaac Evans, builder, Bargoed, also appeared for his adjourned examination, The amount of a contract for building houses for a clul) at Bedlinog was £ 4,290- He admitted in answer to the Official Receiver that he ought to have had a capital of Z500 when he took on the contract in order to properly carry it on. At the end of the contract a sum of JE850 would still he retained in the hands of the club. Having no capital he would have had to go on working for a month, payingwa £ and buying material, without receiving anything from the club. He knew now that he took,the contract too cheaply and that he ought to have had adequate capital before be started. This he had learnt by experience. He attributed as one of the causes of his failure inability to com- plete the contract through want of money, but he now thought that even if he could have completed the contract at £ 165 per house he would have been insolvent at the end. Another tender of his for JE6,000 for the erection of cot- tages for the Cwmfelin Building Club was ac- copted, another tender for work amounting to JM,000 was accepted, but the clubs were not prepared to go on with the work. He admitted now that since he had no money his creditors would have had to run the risk. The examination was closed.

At a meeting of the Merthyr, Dowlais, and District Teachers' Association, held on Satur- day, Mr W. Harris presiding, the folio vying resolution was passed on the motion of Mr R. S. Price That this association, recognising the great importance of play in the physical I and mental i cvelopment of child life, desires to express its keen sympathy with the move- ment initiated by the Borough Council for the acquisition of playing fields for the benefit of the children in various localities in the county borough."

Newport Town Council. » "TERRIFYING" DOG STORIES. Proposed Refuse Destructors. „ The Mayor (Councillor T. Parry) presided a-t.a meeting of the Newport Corporation on .Monday. AtdeiHSi'an T-H.'0%werrobjecte3 to"a recbm-' riiendalion that the Watch Committee sbouJd not put into force the Dogs Act. The behaviour of the dogs in his district (Stow Park) was terrifying. There were bull dogs and terriers in fact, all sorts of dogs, which were a nuisance and should not be at. large after dark. The county had adopted the Act owing to the sheep worrying. The town ought to support the county. Mr J. W. Hunt seconded. Mr H. Duckham said that sheep dogs had killed several of his sheep. Dr. McGinn said it Was unfair to blame the Newport dogs. It was the county dogs which were guilty. (Laughter.) Why did they not catch the dogs and bring the owners to book ? Mr Fred Phillips said the county did not sympathise very much with the borough in the matter of removing the Assizes. At the same time, he sympathised a good deal with the farmers. Eventually the recommendation was referred back. Refusd Destructors. Col. Clifford Phillips brought up a report which recommended that the Corporation should not at present purchase two refuse destructors, but that they secure further tip- ping places. To provide the refuse destructors would mean a rate of lid in the £ beyond the cost of the present method. They proposed in twelve months time to go in for refuse destructors. Considerable discussion followed. Mr R. Wilkinson urged that they should take the refuse out between the Flat and the Steep Holms. Mr J. Moxon and Mr Peter Wright both said it was time to put a stop to building houses on refuse tips. That wai what the present system meant. Dr. J. Lloyd Daviea supported this view. He did not agree with some authorities that these tips were harmless in three years' time. The Mayor said they must not forget that they had huge expenditures in view, and he doubted whether they would be wise in adopting any scheme Ile which meant putting on another lid in the £ to the rates. An amendment that the question be deferred for a month was lost by 18 votes to 16. Eventually it was resolved to go in for the refuse destructors in twelve months' time. Merit Constables. Mr E. A. Charles, while agreeing that con- stables in order to be eligible for promotion to the merit class should have done sonie, thing specially meritorious, urged that the merit badge should also be given to officers who had displayed exceptional ability in dis- charge of their duties. Some officers never had an opportunity of doing anything strikingly meritorious. Dr. J. Lloyd Davies, J.P., supported. Messrs R. Wilkinson and J. Moxon opposed, and a motion that the ques- tion be referred back was lost. Police Helmets. Mr E. A. Charles asked why the police were not supplied with summer helmets. Alderman Lloyd Thev were given lighter helmets two years ago, and those are in use summer and winter. Mr W. M. Blackburn They are too heavy for summer, and the police are com- plaining. Mr Fred Phillips I hope you will cover the helmets with something white and summerlike. Alderman Llovd The committee will consider these suggestions. Associated Chambers of Commerce. Discussion took place on the question of appointing representatives to join the Chamber of Commerce as a Reception Committee in connection with a suggested visit to Newport of the Associated Chambers in September next. Mr Charles Thomas said it would be forming a precedent. What would they do if the Trade Union Congress came to Newport ? The Town Clerk said that the Corporation would not be put to any expense. The Mayor, l\fI'S'JI'R T. Canning, F. Phillips, and G. White were selected. St. Julian's Park. Mr G. White said that Mr C. II. Firbank had promised t(N provide seats at the St. Julian's Park, and the committee had decided to spend JE50 in providing swings and seesaws for the children. Mr J- Liscombe objected to a recommenda- tion that the cemeteries be not opened on Sundays/until 9 a,. m --ilti- William Evans re- marked that there were a. large number of working men who had no opportunity of visit- ing the graves of their departed friends but on Sundays, Mr Graham White urged that 9 f'.m. watt not too late. Very few people went there before that hour. They had to consider the convenience of the caretaker; Mr Peter Wright said the public convenience should not be subservient to the convenience of one man. It was only a quest ion of opening the gate. Mr Charles Thomas said he objected to Sunday labour An amendment that the question be referred back was lost by eight votes to 12, and the recommendation was adopted. A report of the election of 12 members to re- present the Corporation on the, Harbour Board is given elsewhere in this issue.

I THE CHAIN BROKE. Cardiff Timberman's Death. On Monday morning William Dowdle, of 36. Treharris-street, Cardiff, employed as a labourer by Mr John Stephens, sub-contractor for the Cardiff Railway Co., was engaged in fastening some timber baulks at the top end of the Bute East. Dock, when a chain snapped, and Dowdic was precipitated into the water. He rose to the surface once. but immediately sank again, and although there were several men in boats in the vicinity at the time, the unfortunate ruan was drowned The dock police wore, informed of the occurrence and 1 commenced grappling operations. The body of the unfortunate man -was picked up at 6.30 in the evening, and conveyed to the mortuary to await an inquest.

Silver Wedding. MR AND MRS T. S. EDWARDS. A Monmouthshire Celebration. The silver wedding of Mr and Mrs T. S. Edwards, Homeleigh, Newbridge, Mon., was celebrated byarepresentatiye meeting atAber- carn on Monday night. The arrangements were in the hands of an influential committee of the inhabitants of Abercarn and district, the officers being :-Chairman, Alderman George Jones, J.P. vice-chairmen,Dr. E. M. Griffiths, J.P., and Mr W. J. Fox treasurer, Councillor J. Richards and hon. secretaries, Mr S. A. Moses and Councillor W. Price. High tribute was paid at last night's meeting to Mr Edwards's services to the community, and both to him and Mrs Edwards valuable gifts were presented. The meeting was held at Cae Goilau Baptist Chapel, and Aid. George Jones, J.P., presided, supported by the guests of the evening, together with Mr W. Brace, M.P., Alderman S. N. Jones, J.P., Aid. P. Wilson Raffan, J.P., Councillor G. H. Nurse, J.P., Mr D. F. Pritchard, J.P., Coun: cillors J. Richards. W. Price, Messrs T. A. Matthews, T. A. Walmsley, J. Williams, A. J. Dardis, W. Lewis, R. L. Roberts, Revs. H. P. James (vicar), and J. M. Jones, Newbridge T. Thomas, Risca Ceitlio Davies. and T. A Thomas. Letters of apology for inability to attend, and expressing their esteem of Mr and Mrs Edwards, were read from Colonel Sir Ivor Herbert, Bart., M.P., Mr W. P. Nicholas, Miss Daniell, Penner; Dr. W. H. Davies, J.P., Cirencester Mr J. L. Wheatley, town clerk of Cardiff; Mr E. Southwood Jones, J.P., Risca Mr Iestyn Williams, Newport. Mr H. C. Mitchell, Newport; Supt. Porter, Risca, and others. — ,Mr and Mrs T. S. EDWARDS. Mr W Brace, M.P:, said that the gathering gave him great gratification personally on account of the esteem in which he held Mr and Mrs Edwards, and the measure of their regard was not wholly represented by the intrinsic value of the presents which they intended to present. Mr Brace paid tribute to the ser- vice* of Mr Edwards to the working men of Monmouthshire, and meqtioned that for the last 16 or 17 years Mr Edwards had been the legal adviser of the Tredegar, Ebbw Vale, Western and Eastern Valleys branches of the South Wales Miners' Federation. Referring to the Western Valley sewerage scheme; Mr Brace said that the brains of the scheme, were those of Mr Edwards, who had engineered it to a successful issue, and had established for him- self a right of recognition in the hearts of the people of the valleys. (Cheers.) Mr Edwards was a fine citizen, in the higher sense of the term, and was being honoured in his native town as one who had served them loyally and well. The meeting was also addressed by the Rev. T. Thomas, Risca Mr Wm. Lewis, Tylacoch Mr Walter Jones, Crumlin; Alderman P. Wilson Raffan. Alderman George Jones presented Mr and Mrs Edwards with a silver tea and coffee ser- vice and a canteen of silver, the latter bearing the inscription, "Presented (together with a diamond pendant) to Mr and Mrs T. S. Edwards, Homeleigh, Newbridge, Mon., on t.be occasion of the celebration of their silver wedding by some of their many friends." Dr. E. M. Griffiths*, J.P.. presented Mrs Edwards with a diamond pendant, and Mr S. A. Moses presented Mr Edwards with a pearl and diamond scarf pin. Replying on behalf of Mrs Edwards and him- self, Mr T. S. Edwards, expressed their grati- tude for the gifts, and said that they would always remember the good feeling and friend- ship which had prompted the presentation. He was flattered at the kind speeches which he had listened to that evening, but he could not claim to possess a tithe of the good qualities attributed to him, as any little soccess he might have attained was solely attributable to the support he had received from his friends in Abercarn district and to the wise and well- considered counsel of his wife. He thanked them sincerely for the handsome presents, and joaoat heartily for the good feeling of which the evjfieice. During the evening songs were rendered oy Miss Gerty Lewis and Mr Davies, the accom- panist being Miss Gladys Harper.

UNION OF JOURNALISTS. Thore was a large attendance of journalists from all parts of South Wales at the annual meeting of the South Wales and Monmouth- shire branch of the National Union of Journal- ists, which was held at the Park Hotel, Cardiff, on Saturday evening. The annual report, which was of a most satisfactory nature, showed that the membership of the branch is nearly one hundred, and that it has members in every town of im- portance, from Chepstow to Haverfordwest. The income of the branch for the past year was jE93 10s 8d, and the expenditure included payment of £65 5s 9d to the central fund. The report and balance-sheet were adopted, and ofticers for the ensuing year were elected. Special interest attached to the report regard- ing the efforts which had been made in South Wales to reduce the Sunday work of journal- ists to a minimum. The wisdom oi personal appeal to clergy and ministers and leaders of Trade Union organisations holding their meetings on the Sunday to assist journalists in attaining their end was strongly urged, and numerous instances were given of the success which had attended efforts made in this dirce- tion. Several new members were elected and the meeting, which was throughout of the most enthusiastic character, concluded with the usual votes of thanks.

SWANSEA MAN'S SUICIDE. On Monday the body of the man who was found shot at Berrynarbor, near Ilfra- combe, on Sunday, was identified as of that George Ley, fruit and potato merchant, of 35, Carmarthen-street. Swansea. The inquest was held at Ufracombe in the evening. It was stated that just previous to the time when he must have committed suicide deceased spoke to several people and was most rational. He was found bolding a revolver in his right hand, and had shot him self through the right ear. One chamber of the revolver was discharged and four others were loaded, but two cartridges had misfired. He had been depressed after a recent illness. The jury returned a verdict of Suicide while temporarily insane."

LLANELLY RIVER BANK TRAGEDY. Quarryman's Pathetic Case. r Mr W. W. Bi-odic conducted ati inquest at Llanelly on Monday concerning the death of a, quarrvman, Thomas M. Griffiths (45), Adare- terrace, Tcnypandy, who was found dead on the bank of the river Lliedi, near Felinfoel, on Saturday. D. Geo. Gwyn, Port Talbot, de- ceased's stepson, said deceased left home in search of work three weeks ago. Dr. 8. J. Roderick said the cause of death was pleurisy. In the stomach he found something very like chewed hay. Wra. Jones, Fanylan Farm, who found the deceased lying on the bank of the river on Friday, and saw him there again on Saturday, said dece £ \sedyacceptod his offer of a cup of tea on Saturday, but did not touch the bread and butter offered him. Witness telephoned for the police on Saturday after- noon. Griffith Samuel, Stepney-road, stated^ that he spoke to the deceased on Saturday morning, and half-an-hour later found him lying dead on the bank of the river. A verdict in accordance with the medical testimony was returned. in accordance with the medical testimony was returned.

Neu Wreichion Oddiar yr Eingion By CADRAWB. ¡ WELSH NAMES OF APPLES. (Concluded.) ) Afal Glan y- Mor—A fine white summer apple very fond of sea breeze, and a favourite on the Severn coast. Gwledd y Forwyn—This is fond of the S(!!6 „ cttast, and best known in the Vale. Gwledd y Bugail—(Shepherd's feast), a nOC summer apple, very early, and has a fiDe acidity. I' Pipin Gwyrdd-Iydan-Flat green pippin, at Flemingstone a delicious fine flavoured fruit, the tree very dwarfish. Pipin y Meddyg—Speckled pippin,said to be very good in fevers, pleurisy, inflammation of the lungs, &c. Eaten raw, roasted, boiled. baked, or used as a posset. Afal Dewi-A fine brisk flavoured flattisb and red-streaked apple that is noted to keep long the tree is large, Fonmon orchard. Th» • apple is also called "Afal Non," the mother of Dewi, the Welsh titular saint. Afal Gwsaig y Ty—Good cook, called in some places the codling in others, the Broad- ling. Afal y Bastad—Bernard apple. The Bastoi was a very popular institution in Glamorgan" shire many years ago, and was held annually in almost every country tavern or inn, for a fortnight in some places, where a spread was provided every evening of two courses—1, mutton pie, specially made, and potatoes 2, Apple pie, with sugar and milk. The charge was a shilling. A harper was al. ways engaged for the whole of the time the Pastai" was announced to be held, and singing was briskly kept up not infre- quently during the day, as well as to a late hour every evening. No less distinguished a bard than Taliesin ap Iolo composed a song for the Gwahoddwr i Baatai y Wledd in Mertbyr. The gwahoddwr was the man employed by the people who held the bas- tai," or feast, to invite their patrons and friends to attend, the object generally being to make a sum of money to meet the demand of the landlord. The following verses wiU explain the spirit which prevailed in the country under the old condition of life, and the. sympathy displayed— Rhwydd helynt i'r teuiu wyn dyfod, wyr difai, Os rhoddweh bawb osteg, i'ch gofyn i hastai; Menywod, gwrywod, gwych parod rwy'n peri I bawb yn y llety sy'n cysgu a chodi; Yn fawr ag yn fychan, rhinweddol o fuchedd, f Gym'dogion cyfeillgar hygar eich hagwedd I gychwyn heb ddyfais 'nol arfer wiw ddifyr, At Morgan a Martha sy'n byw yn nihlwyl -r, Merthyr. > ..» Yn gyntaf daw'r Bastai, 'hoi hyny oewefa os'twng 1 i At lawer o seigiau, i'r cylla i'w gollwng, J Cewch Bastai cig ddafad, nid caled wy'Q coelio, A hono cewch gyfran a pbot-ten hoff eto: A-g amryw ddanteithion lan ddynion o ddoniau, A darfod yn felus ym mhlith cnau a falan; Cewchgwrw da nerthol rhagorol wy(n gwirio, t Ac yfed a llanw nes byddwch yn blind. Bydd yno heb rhyfyg, er cynal digrifweh, Ym mysg y ta ddynion holl gampau dyddan- weh: Y cantor a'i osles, wr parod mehis-lais, A glywir yn odli i'r delyn fal adlais Cewch arwest arbennig gan Dwm y Dribanwr, A hwuw. mae'n debyg,yn maeddu Wil Tabwr. Y bechgyn da'u geriiau yn siarad am garu, A'r merched a'u gwyr-nwyf mor siriol yn gwenu. Hen Forgan—This apple is called after Morgan Mwynfawr, the courteous, also called Morgan Morganwg. He died at Llandaff in the year 1001, at the age of 129. Afal Robin—Summer blanchet. Afal Gwyn Hydrcf-Autumn blanchet. Yr Hen Lassog.—A good green winter apple Afal Martin (?) Afal yr 'Lwvddes—Lady apple. Afal y Llaeth—Codling, used with milk. Crychyn yr Haf—Summer queening. Cry chyn v Gauaf—Winter queening. Afal y Gauaf—Winter queening. Melyn yr Hydref, Melyn yr Esgob, Melyfi y Gauaf—(?) • ■" i Melinles Mawr-Excellent for cooking. Cydymaith Da, Bola Hallt, Moinswyu Ga.uaf —Cock's pippin, Devon; Lady Jane, Glam- organ. Coeshir y Gwyn—Woodcock. Coesgwyn y Gauaf—French long stem. Calon Garreg.—Stone pippin, good for nothing till a year old at least. Melus y Dryw—A sweet tender apple. Afal y Fedel.—A fine sharp, juicy eating apple. Magi Wen—Blanchet. Llingod—Lincot. Gwledd i Frenin—Furze pippin. Penbwla—:None such. Dugoch Hir—Cat's brain. Dugoch Crwn—A small deep red apple, round pippin—a good winter eating apple. Bias y Beren -A pear-tasted apple,small and red streak in Fonmon nursery fine flavoured, and will keep pretty long. Clog y Milwr—Scarlet queening. Cawr Coch—Drummer. Gawr GlaS—Cat-head. Cawr Brith-Portugal. Brychlaw Mawr—(') Cochlwyd—Hervey russet. Bendith. Mair—(?) Yr Hen Gymro—Welsh or little greenling an excellent apple. Shwcwr Wh crw—Bitter sweet, purely Glajn. Afan. This word originally was a surname spelt Avan, and Avene and in the 16th and 17th centuries, a Van, and Vau, also Vann. William Avan of the place, Llanitltyd Fawr, married Catherine Matthews of Itadyr, the daughter of 8ir William Matthews, and left a son George Van, who by Jane, daughter Of Edward Lewis of the Vann, near Caerffili. wd father of Edward Van, who was Sheriff of Glamorgan, 1618. John Van, or Afan, last of the elder male line of the family, died 1695, when hit daughters and co-heirs sold the estate, part of which, the manor of Marcross, had been in the family for some centuries. Llantwit Place, which had been purchased from the Raglan family, was described as a ruinated mansion at the close of the 17th century, when it was acquired byllltyd Nicholl of Hame, whose des- cendant is the present owner bearing the same name. The ivy covered ruin is a conspicuous feature of Llantwit Major to-day, and one cannot visit that interesting and antiquated village'without being attracted by this con- spicuous ruin. FrOrn a daughter of the USft John Van, who was nephew to Sir John Strad- ling, Bart, and brother-in-law to Edward Thomas. Bart., descends Sir Marteine Lloyd, Bart. One of the daughters of the above William Avan was wife of Carne of Nash, and bef effigy with a numerous family appears on all elaborate monument in Cowbridge Church.

EMPIRE DAY AT NEWPORT. An Amazon Tug of War. Ho w three Newport women spent Empire Day was told at the police court on Monday byP.C. Horlor. He visited Emlyn-terrace, where the three women lived in the same house, about half-past, li on Empire night. He found the women quarrelling aboutthe ownership of iOI2tt't bed clothing, and they were using bad langu- age. "They were," said the pofice-constaWey "havbtg a tug of war with the bed clothes and using fearful language." (Laughter.) They kept up the fun till 1 o'clock. The women WOe" Hannah McCarthy. Catherine Williams, and Margaret Jones. The latter said she was not drunk, and as she did not see the police con- stable she waa sure he never saw her. (Laughter.) She « as fined 10s, and the othef two women 5s each.

GOOD WORKMAN'S FAILURE, j i' At Newport on Monday Arthur Turner (2V, Corporation-road, who is in the employment of the Great Western Railway Company as a goods porter, pleaded guilty to giving way to a sudden temptation and stealing a bicycle from the Great Western Railway goods yards. Dock- street. The bicycle bad been consigned to New- port from Birmingham. Mr Baker Joues, who prosecuted, said that. Detective 8tepbena,in tM employ of the Great Western Railway, found in the prisoner's house several small article which had been missed from the station. Pri- soner was described ao a good workman, aa4 fie said he was sorry for what he had done, and must have been mad at the time. He wit ordered to pay 21s costs, and come up fM judgment when called up.

DINIZULU'S SALARY. Statement by Natal Government. Pietermartizburg, Saturday.—The Govern- ment authorises Renter's agent to Stat that it regards the Imperial sanction of Dinizulu's re* inoval from Zuluiand as covering--the sus- pension of his salary, and that the suspension is made in accordance with the practice of tb* Civil Service, white and black. The condition* governing Dinizulu's return to Zuluiand intended to prevent his being arbitrarily dJ*" possessed of his office of Government Indutt*, and never contemplated charges of murder high treason. The Natal Government holds that mentarv discussion is calculated to prejudiC the action for the recovery of Dinizulu's which has been instituted by the chief's yers.—Reuter.