Glamorgan Free Press

Pontypridd. he eighth prize shoot of the Pontypridd. Shooting Club was held at the Treherbert range on Wednesday. A good muster of members assembled to compete, and some exceptionally food scores were made, the prize-winner being rivate Lishman, -who at the last prize shco\ put ou the first possible 35 points ever made in the Club Shoots at 200 yards. The new rifle has made a great difference in the shcotino- the scores having greatly improved, but tlio lion. secretaiy, who visited Bisley last w^ek is dis- satisfied that more possiblrs are not made, as there aid not seem to be much difficulty in putting them on there. He hopes, however, to send some representatives of the Pontypridd Club up to compete at Bislev next year, to bnug down some of the prizes, and it is hoped the members will back him up and do their best to Become possible makers. The Pontypridd range, "wiich is expected to be ready early next year, will give them some chance of practice. A Pnze presentation and general meeting will be held on the second Wednesday in August at 8 P-m., at the Colliers' Arms, to present the prizes Won by Colour-Sergeant Phillips and Private Lishman. The town rings with the news that FRANK •THOMAS ("My Hatter,") sells the best 3/9 Hat. 2838 'COOMBKS' for best Bread; Dr ALLISO^ ILRMVN Bread Cake of all kinds best and cheapest M ucins, Crumpets, and Pikelets- fresh daily. Agent Xipton's leas. LEWIS BROS, for Provisions—Pontypridd and 'geir^ Fourpawr's Gigantic C.rcus and is announced to visit this town on AVednesday next, and Porth on Thursday. There is a menagerie attached to the show, and am B novelties will be a motor car. >e P formances, afternoon and evening, are sure to attract a Large crowd of people. For particulars see advertisement in another column. I'KTKBRATE the "Diamond J iibilee "by trying B^CTBIC iL-in lead packets at Is 8d, 2s,g_and 2s 4d per lb. Groceries, Best and Cheapest, LEWIS BBrs., Taff -street. 326lr Colonel Marsh, R.N., a Local Government Board Inspector, held an inquiry at the Council Chamber on Thursday into the merits of the Council's application for sanction to borrow a sum of L350. This amount is intended to be applied to the cost of erecting the much-needed bridge over the River Rhondda, and connecting .Hopkinstown with Pwllgwaun. The Council was represented by the Vice-chairman (Mr P. Gowan, Hopkinstown) and the clerk (Colonel H. Ll. Grover), who is now gradually recovering from his long and severe illness. There was a small attendance of ratepayers. Mr Rees, sur- veyor to the Council, explained the scheme and proved the urgent necessity of such a bridge to accommodate the people of Pwllgwaun, and also of the Graig Ward. Colonel Marsh, ac- companied by the surveyor, visited the bridge, which is in course of erection. Opposition to the scheme was offered by Mr Arthur Seaton and Mr Dewi Llewellyn, both of whom dis- agreed with the principle of any kind of bridge at this spot, and added that it was not required by the public. How far they were authorised to lay the objection in the name of a. large section of the ratepayers did not transpire, and there oan be no doubt that the Inspector will endorse the Council's wise action in providing a boon so long demanded by the working-classes of the locality. PONTYPRIDD SCHOOL OF MUSIC.—For terms apply to B. P. MILLS (Professor of Music), Court House Street. 3295 Yet another victim sacrified at the treacherous Berw Pool. On Thursday morning, at about "half-past eleven, a young man named John War- ren, aged 17, lodging at No. 84,Middle street, was seen to walk into the river Taff near the well-known whirl-pool. He waded in for a dis- tance of three or four yards, and then appeared to slip from a ledge of rock into the deep water. He was unable to swim, and before any assist- ance could be obtained he sunk a considerable depth, and came up to the surface twice. Two boys residing at Trallwn saw what was happen- ing, and. immediately ran to give the alarm. P.C. Lewis, Norton Bridge, and P.S. Jones, 'Trallwn, arrived in about ten minutes, but by this time the body was lost to view. The officers and some civilians dracqred the pool with grap- pling irons and long poles, but the body was not .Tipcovered 'Until three ofcloctk, when, of Oourse, life was extinct. Deceased was a la- bourer at the Albion Colliery, and belonged to New Tredegar, where his widowed mother re- sides. An inquest will be held, probably on Saturday. WHY go to Cardiff for your Game, when FENNELL, Taff Street, Pontypridd, can supply you ?

Treforest. A concert which was noticeable for its high mark of artistic excellence was held by the Tre- forest Male Voice Society at Libanus Chapel on Thursday evening. Alderman W. H. Morgan, Forest House, was announced to occupy the chair, but as he was unavoidably absent, his place was filled by Mr Frederick Hill, another leading citizen of Treforest. who is to be numbered amongst the Society's warm sup- porters. It goes without saying that the attend- ance was large, and as appreciative as numerous. The soloists,all of whom were aocorded a hearty reception, whose efforts were loudly applauded, were Miss Gertie Wedlake, the sweet young Songstress from Cardiff; Miss Gwen Foster, Penygraig, whose pure voice simply delighted her hearers; Mr Tom Thomas, A.C., Ynvshir, and Mr David Evans (Eos Cynon), Abercynon, both of whom shone with their accustomed bril- liancy. An artiste who appeared to distinct ad- vantage in another department was Mr Mathew CJeoree, Pentyrch, an elocutionist whose powers always command a sympathetic ear. The Male Voice Party, in whose singing the improvement is becoming more and more marked, did very well indeed in their renderings of "Long Day Closest," "The Martyr's," and "Comrades in Arms." It need hardly be said that the party and their gifted conductor, Mr D. Davies, F.T.S.C., came in for a full share of applause. ELECTRIC TEA s specially blencierl for the water of this district-Is 8d, 2s, and 2s 4d per lb. 2873 On Thursday Mr James Richards provided a pleasant little trip to Penarth for the lady mem- bers of his class at Saron Sunday School. The Party numbered about 20, and included Mr and Mrs Richards, and the pastor, the Rev D. M. Jones, and Mrs Jones. The journey was made per brake, and a very enjoyable time was spent '™rttbe beach at tbe famous Welsh seaside re- The members of the Treforest Male Voice Society were keenly disappointed at the an- nouncement that the competition at Earl's Court bad been abandoned for lack of entries, but a large number of the party were desirous of still carrying out the trip to London. This trip, however, the treasurer persuaded them to forego pointing out that if they did so they would find themselves without any funds. With much reluctance, therefore, the outing was abandoned and a trip to Weston on Wednesday substituted! A large number undertook the journey, and needless to say, they enjoyed themselves tho- roughly, some of them experiencing very lively tunes.

it Rhydfeleq 7aave is with feelings of sincere regret that we to, chrolicle the death of Mr Albert Evans, ^reforest" ^7^ Evans, butcher, Rhydfelen and day morn' sad event occurred on Wednes- °f age, ^eceased, who was twenty years _where lr n*ember of Saron Chapel, Trefor- tnusiastic •«,*ather is also an active and en- 'Voice Society £ and of tJie Treforest Male about three weet wa~s never very strong, but was seized with whilst in the hay-field,he weaker despite thnsroke.and became gradually Davies, I'ontypriij,] es'A ett°]'ts of Dr Howard young fellow at all'r A quiet and agreeable liked by those who kroes, deceasell was much bands are to be heard him. and on every heartfelt sympathy with of genuine, family. The funeral tiL° 'K'roavo(l parents at Saron, the officiating lllini I)Iac(- en Monday D. Morgan Jones, pastor. or keing the Rev LEWIS BROS. sell the Fillest n R t 3261 r

Williamstown. "*HEN En"!ish VVE:LF'.V Church Ve-trT J™'1.11 as held in the%Velsh w i H: me(,t'ng will Work t r'nY, an(] (,v,,rv L I. It tie (;1'

Porth. Last Saturday, Mr E. Robinson Hv-hes, of Porth, student of the University College, Cardiff occupied the pulpit of Tabernacle English Bap- tist Church. Mr Hughes began to preachabout three years ago, and delivered his first sermon at cl,„rehB He i» son of the veteran preacher H. W. Hu |ies wystl, author of the popular Welsh ° Thomas Rhys Davies.. Thou^5 of he W sh- not preach Welsh, he is possessedofthe W e^n man's intensity of feeling and ot gination which are so indicative of true pulpit eloquence.. TROt-BLB.—Wliat shall I drink ? 31820 „ 1 We are verv glad to find that Mr Sydney only successful in the intellectual department, At 1^ Skmv^agaiS ^0" home" team.^Mr Sydney lfghT more'in The that^lTy"is not jinterfer- iS with bis progress in the real department of tfe We can only wish 1dm further continued honours to uphold the good name and fame of his worthy father as a type of the genuinely all round man. STLVEK'S On. (Creydon). Silver's Oil speed- ily cures rheumatism, eczema, wounds, bad legs, sore throats, bronchitis, neuralgia, and all aches and pains. Free of pain in five, minuta.Money returned if not satisfied. 8^, ls_^and 2s. Agents, Thomas and Evans, Stores, Porth, and at Pontypridd.

Perjrhiwceiber. The Rev Tkomas Williams, of Abertillery, has accepted the invitation to become pastor of the Calvinistic Methodist Forward Movement church meeting at Penuel, and commenced duties on Sunday. We have been informed that Mr Williams was very succsssful in his formei sphere of labour, and trust he may be so in his new circle. He will find good and devoted lieu- tenants in Mr E. T. Williams, postmaster; Mr D. Lewis, draper, and others who have been very encrgetfe in their efforts to make the move- ment a success. ELECTRIC TEA. is always great in strength and full of flavour-Is 8d, 2s. and 2s 4d. 2S73 The Rev W. R. Jones,, the devoted pastor of Jerusalem Baptist Church, has just returned from his holidays, looking much better for the change. Mr Jones is a most studious young man and devotes much of his time in his study, which every minister should if lie desired to excel. The committee of the Public Library kindly and generously have authorised their caretaker, Mr D. Pope, to send parcels of newspapers and magazines to Pontypridd Union Workhouse for the "perusal of the'inmates. Their kindness is highly appreciated by the officials and the in- mates. The Co-operative Society had intended taking a trip to Barry on Monday, but failed to char- ter a tram. We understand the- have not given up the idea, but will make arrangements in a month hence. The society is in a flourishing condition under the mangement of Mr W. Lewis, and the secretaryship of Mr W. N. Mathews. Mr Lewis is a born business man, and is held in high esteem by the public at large. We are glad to note that the Rev D. Howells, after a. prolonged illness, has returned to his flock after some months' absence. He has con- siderably recuperated. We wish him many years of usefulness. On Saturday night. Mrs John Owen, Glanlay Villas, accidentally fell at the rear of her resid- ence whilst busily engaged with her domestic duties. Her fall was so serious in its effects that she succumbed to her injuries early on Sunday morning. She leaves a widower and six children to bewail their loss. Her funeral took place on Wednesday, at Mountain Ash Cemetery, the Rev. R. Thomas officiating. Another serious accident occurred on Satur- day night. Mrs. Edward Thomas, of Glyn ,a whilst returning home from shopping, came in contact with a heap of mortar which had been left on the side of the main street, for some weeks. It being dark she did not see the ob- struction, and knocked herself against it so heavily that she fell backward in a faint, and was obliged to be carried to a house near at. hand, where she lay unconscious for a long time. Later on she was carried home, when she regained consciousness. We regret to say the lady is still in great pain. We cannot too severely 'condemn the practice which has been too prevalent in our district of leaving obstruc- tions of this kind to the great danger of pedes- trians and vehicles. This lump of mortar has been known to be on this spot for the last fort- night or three weeks. Where are our District Council authorities? We must say that they are very lax indeed in enforcing their bye-laws. We hope that they will in future see that the streets are kept clear of all such nuisances and annoyances to the public. We hope that Mrs Thomas will soon recovert as she is one of the most respected women in Penrhiwceiber. Ought not the police to interfere in these matters? Mr Hugh C. Roberts, a very faithful and use- ful member of Carmel Congregational Church, has been unanimously invited to commence preaching. He and Mr J. E. Thomas, son of Rev R. Thomas, will occupy Carmel pulpit next Sunday.

Senghenydd. It is with regret we chronicle the death of Mr D. H. Jones, of Park Road, who died very suddenly after about an hour's illness on Satur- day morping. Mr Jones was a faithful member of (the Calvinistic M!ethodis,ts, being also a deacon and superintendent of the Sunday School. The sad event cast quite a gloom over the locality as soon as the news was made known. He was highly respected by all. His remains were interred at Groeswen on Tuesday, and a very large concourse of people attended to show their last tribute of respect to one who was ever ready to assist in any good cause. Much sym- pathy is felt for the widow and children in their sore trial. LEWIS BRúS., Cash Stores, for Mild Breakfast Bacon. 3261r On Monday all the Sunday Schools held their annual demonstration in glorious weather. There were in all eight schools, viz., English and Welsh Congregationalists, English and Welsh Baptists, English and Welsh Wesleyans. The procession was really an im.posng sight as it marched trough the streets and then returned near the Metricdist Chapel, when splendid addresses were delivered by Mr E. Shaw, M.E. and Rev D Jones The singing at this spot was conduc- ted by Mr B. Price. Afterwards the member., went to their respective places of worship to partake of a splendid tea, subsequent to which all went to the field kindly lent by Mr Tliomas Gelh Farm, where games were indulged in.' Mention should be made that a committee con- sisting of representatives from each school was appointed to carry out the arrangements, tii- chairman being Mr Godwin, and the secretary the late Mr D. H. Jones, whose death we re- cord above, and who had been indefatigable issue 01 0 bnn& event to a successful

Pentre. On Sunday anniversary services were held at the Primitive Methodist Chapel, Windsor-street The morning and evening services were con- ducted by Mr Pointing Monks (Fishpond, Bristol), and in the afternoon by Mr Smith Treorky. The services were all fairly weli attended. Collections were made at each service in aid of the new chapel, which it is hoped to be able to commence at an early date, the present building being quite inadequate and inconvenient to meet the requirements of worshippers. LEWIS BROS. Is 7d Tea, Pure and Fragrant. 3261r On Monday the Sunday School members of the Nazareth Welsh Methodist Chapel, Pentre, held their annual treat, when a very enjoyable day was spent at Caerphilly. The worshippers at the Siloh Congregational Chapel, Pentre, journeyed to Jersey Mame to ppend their annual holiday. Beautiful weather prevailed, and a happy day w«s spen On Thursday evening at the Siloh Welsh Con- gregational Chapel, Pentre, a very interesting lecture was delivered by the Kev Jones (the blind preacher), late of Pe' £ hF^e" draeth, but now of Pentre. Tne chair was oc- cupied by Mr J. Williams, M.fr, Pentn The subject of the lecture The niodes O. purring education to t r.e Hind." f .:e procoe s were in aid of a Pentre miner.

Trealaw. Miss Lizzie Alice Davies, daughter of Mr David Davies, Maesyffynon, Trealaw, has suc- cessfully passed the recent Local Musical Examinations connected with Trinity College, London, in Harmony-Intermediate Division— held on June 19th, and in pianoforte playing on July loth. The examiner for the centre was Mr G. Bambridge, L.T.C.L. Miss Davies is a. student of Upland College, Stroud, of which the principal 15 Mrs Bagger.

Treorky. The members and worshippers of the Horeb English Baptist Chapel, on Monday, availed themselves of the opportunity of a trip to Barry. On Bank Holiday the annual treat of the Sunday School members of the various chapels of Treorky took place, and passed off as usual very successfully. The members of the follow. ing churches turned out that day, and a pro- cession was formed headed by the members of Bethania and Eamah (Congregational) Sunday Schools, with the other chapels in the following order Tabernacle (English Wesleyan), Noddfa and Ainon (Welsh Baptists), Bethlehem and Gosen. (Welsh Methodists), and Herman (Welsh Congregationalists). The procession was a very lengthy one, the total number being about three thousand. The roads were thickly lined with interesting onlookers, while tunes and anthems were sung en route. The members ultimately returned to their respective chapels, where tea had been provided, after which the children re- paired to the Taff Field, where the games were carried on until dusk.

Treherbert. The members and worshippers at the Carnafl: Welsh Congregational Chapel on Monday had their annual trip. The place selected was Barry and a very enjoyable day was spent. The Sunday School members of the Horcb Welsh Methodists Chapel and the members of. the English Methodist Sunday School also had their trip to Aberavon on Monday, and it call). off satisfactorily. The members of the Blaenycwm Welsh Bap- tist Chapel had their trip on Monday to Aberavon. The inhabitants of Penyrenglyn were in a state of enthusiasm and rejoicing on Wedu-esday night on hearing of the success of Mr Wabkin Rees, the blind harpist, in the psnillion singing competition in the Newport National Eisteddfod. Banners, flags, and bunting were displayed in every house, and Mr Rees's success was evidently very popular. On his. asrival hone that evening he wis accorded a right royal re- ception.

Ferqdale We are pleased to note that Mr Henry Davica milk vendor, 1, Beech street, Ferndale, success- fully passed the Sanitary Inspectorship Exami- nation which was recently held at Cardiff. Mr Davies has studied hard and under many diffi- culties, and we most heartily congratulate him 011 his excellent achievement. The many friends and admirers of the Rev D. G, Williams, Tabernacle, Ferndale, will re- joice to hear of his triumph at the National Eis- teddfod on Tuesday. Mr Williams, whose nom de plume was "Gwynlliw," was one of three competitors who sent in essays on the "Folklore of Gwent," and it. must be very gratifying to Ferndalians to know that "D.G.'s" paper was termed by Mr Ernest Rhys, one of the adjudi- cators, as "the most scientific of the three," and again, "as an illustration of the colloquial dia- lect, and folklore of Gwent. He supposed nothing of the kind had ever been done so well. This is Mr Williams's sixth prize at a National Eistedd- fod. Unfortunately, Mr Williams's triumph is sadly clouded, for on Monday evening his young- est child died, and the fond parents have to mourn the loss of another dear one, following so terribly close on the death of the second child. Warm sympathy is extended to the parents in this hour of bereavement and glowing triumph. Many will be pleased to know that the Tudor Hall is about to be altered and greatly improved. The plans are now ready, and the alterations are to be commenced immediately. We understand that after these alterations are completed the hall will be one of the most comfortable in the district and will hold over 1,500 people. It is expected that the improvements will take about three months before the hall will be ready The Fern/lale Horse Shomr turned out a grand financial success, the committee netting about E70. Of this sum the following donations has been subscribed to public charities: The Ferndale Band Institute, £ 5; Porth Cottage Hospital, E5; and the Porthcawl Rest, £ 5. We heartily congratulate the committee and its able officials on such a successful and satisfactory issue.

The Shop Assistants' Movement in the Rhondda. Writing to the Shop Assistant" for August, Mr G. P. Roberts, the devoted secretary of the Pontypridd Branch of the N.U.S.A., says:- "In connection with the membership of our branch, I have a very encouraging statement to make. I find that a large number of the affiliated members are becoming full members. This fact shows that members are taking a greater interest in the Union,and that our branch at Pontypridd is taking firmer root. We have already had two very successful picnics, and intend having one monthly if possible. At the last we collected the sum of 13s. Gd. for the I S. A. organising fund. We hope for more to follow, later on. Our branch committee visited Tonypandy on the night of their meeting, called to start a branch of the Union. We had only one day's notice, or many of our members would have peen present with us. We did not arrive until 9.15 p.m. There was a large hall full of enthusiastic shop assistants awaiting us, and we were told that these were but a sprinkling of the shop assistants in Mid- Rhondda. If this is a fact, and I have no cause to doubt it, there is a sufficient number there to form a branch or branches that will outrival Cardiff. Mr T. S. Thomas (of Richard Lewis') was the chairman. A telegram was read from Mr T. John, editor of the "Glamorgan Free Press," expressing regret at his inability to be present. Addresses were given by Mr T. S. Thomas, Miss Clarke, Messrs Lewis, Walters and Roberts, Pontypridd, who congratulated the Mid-Ilbondda shop assistants on their decision to organise and join the National Union. It was decided to ask Mr T. John to become the first president of the new branch, and I hope he will be able to accept the office he can give them many a lift. Mr T. S. Thomas was elected chairman. He is the right man in the right place, and will make the branch go. He has a thorough grasp of the wants of shop assistants, and how they 3an be obtained. Mr Owen was elected as secretary, and two young ladies, Misses Griffiths and Jones, were elected to act as joint treasurers. A strong committee was elected representative of every trade. If this should meet their eye, let me appeal to them as well as to the members, to give their secretary every help they possible can. He will need it.

Too Late for Classification. t T^ENDERS are invited for connecting 56 JL Houses at Long-row, Alma-street, and Bull's-row, Tynewydd, Treherbert, with Main Sewer; also to rebuild a number of Water Closets. Plans, at Fernhill Collieries Office, or at Mr W. R. Davies', 14, Bute-street, Treherbeit. The lowest tende. net necessarily acoeptt d. D. H. JONES, 3413] Fernhill.

MTION.M EISTEDDFOD OTE LETS. Honours for Pontypridd. MAGNIFICENT VICTORY OF THE PONTY- PRIDD LADIES CHOIR. Never in the history of the National Eistedd- fod has the great Welsh festival been fraught with such vital issues for Pontypridd and the surrounding districts; and never have we cf the Taff and Rhondda Valleys had more reason to congratulate ourselves npoa the distinctions won by our representatives* On Monday the Cymmei" Colliery Brass Band, conducted by Mr Martin; secured second prize (Ll5), obtaining 54- marks out of a possible 100. Monday evening brought the gladsonw news to Pontypridd that the first prize in the glee singing competition ( £ 15) was won by Ponty- pridd vocalists, eisteddfodical 1 v indicated by the title "Glamorgan? Glee Singers." The con- ductor cf this talented combination was the veteran: leader, Mr T. H Maddock, all the lady members being diniwa from the P jntypridd Ladies' Choir. This was a splendid augury of what the week's competitions would bring forth. But we are anticipating. It should be men- tioned that the Glaiaorgan Glee Society sang with a precision and artistic feeling which won the highest eulogiums from such leading musi- cians as Mr D. Emlyn Evans, Mr Lv5 J. Thomas and Dr Rola.nd Rogers. Brynfab, the eminent hill-side p< et of Eglwys- ilan, was on Tuesday declared winner of the prize for eight "Cywyddau" onche subject of "Electricity," Amongst the parties who competed in the se- cond choral contest were Pontypridd Philhar- monic Society (Mr W. Thompson); Efail Isaf United (Mr John Lewis); and Blaenycwm Choir (Mr Evan Watkins). The prices, however, did not travel in this direction. On Wednesday the bass soib contest attracted 70 entries, and the singing was of an exception- ally high standard. The test pieces were Bene- dict's "Rage, thou Angry Storm," and E. Evans "Dreams of Homeland." Two competitors were selected to appear on tite platform, viz., Mr David Chubb, schooler, Pontypridd, and Mr T. G. Llewellyn, of port Talbot. Tile pnze was awarded to Mr David Chubb, a pupil of Ma- dame Clara Novello Davies. Miss Clara Butt, the eminent artist, invested the winner, one great singer, as the jenductor put it, investing another. The success of Mi D- Chubb (writes our pavil- ion contributor) as a soloist at tl-i,- National Eisteddfod brings another houoiu- to Pontypridd, and especially so to the locality of Mail Isaf, whose choir was: commended on Tuesday. The singing in the second choral competition was very keen, a)#Í has until another competi- tion takes nla-je given a local pre-eminence to Mr J. Lewis. The balance of this choir and the singing of Eijijyn's glee without accompaniment brought the ehoir its speciaJ distinction. Now that one of its singers in the person of Mr Chubb has won the bass solo, it fairly mastered the situation ideally. Thus the Newport 4<Argus":—Mr David Chubb. (of Pontypridd) has been highly honoured. He won the prize for the bass solo, and at the request of the conductor Miss Clara Butt made the award. Two great singers together," iaid ,CyioDfardd." To b coupled with Miss Clara Butt is honour indeed. Mr Ben Davies afterwards tried to persuade the great contralto that it was her duty to kiss the successful competitor, but though she knows little of the picturesque little customs of Wales, she declined to believe it. Writing on Wednesday from the Pavilion our representative savs* Whether the Pontypridd Ladies' Choir win the prize or not, they have every occasion to congratulate themselves upon the fine performances of two of their members at the Eisteddfod n Wednesday. A prize of £ 5 5s was offered in the mezzo-soprano solos, "My heart is weary," and "The Silent Singer," and out of 63 competitors Miss Maggie Morris, Tonyrefail, and Miss Janet Garnet, Cilfynydd, (both members of the Ladies' Choir) were the two selected to appear on the platform. After an exceptionally brilliant rendition, Miss Morris won first prize, and Miss Garnett was awarded second. May she long continue her successful march in eisteddfodic honours. Wednesday found Brynfab once more crowned with laurels, he being the author of the best Hir a Thoddaid on .Wales's Lament after the Lady Llanover." Thursday was a dabig with fate for Ponty- pridd, for did we not stake our musical repu- tation on the achievements of the Pontypridd Ladies' Choir? Miss Annie Delaney Williams and her dear girls, marshalled by anxious Mr Maddocks, left by an early morning train for the scene of the great fight, and every one of us offered up something like a prayer that they would come back laden with honours. Oh, how long were the weary hours of waiting! The town clock, wearing an air of unusual import- ance, chimes the quarter hours, an dwe wait, and listen, and hope. Five o'clock! Ah! here comes a post office messenger, telegram in hand, his face red with much exertion. For even post office messengers can hurry on such an im- portant occasion. A telegram is placed in the sub-editorial hands. It is from the Editor, and reads: "Pontypridd first, Swansea second." Glorious news! The buff message is gummed to the office window, and soon the street is lined with thousands of enthusiastic Pontypriddians, anxious to learn for themselves the news that seems almost too good to be true. Of course, other telegrams with the result had been flashed to the town, and soon the whole place is in a state of delirious joy. Groups of people discuss the all pervading topic, and everywhere are to be heard loud praise for our plucky song- stresses and their talented conductress. Mad- docks? Oh, it's "O'r Jfaddocks ag e" all over the place! Once more our Pavilion representative: We are once again delighted with the success of the Ladies' Choir, ably led by Miss Delany Wil- liams. It is gratifying to find that Pontypridd ladies, at any rate, are able consistently to up- hold the reputation of the town, and that our Ladies' Choir looks that its progress up the ladder of fame is going to be well-sustained. The two other Rhondda choirs were not success- ful in bringing home commendation. The Swan- sea Choir interposed and took away the second prize. We congratulate lMiss Williams, and confidently predict for her and her noble band a bright and prosperous musical career. The test pieces were: (a) "The Fairies Song" (Bishop), and (b) "Good Night" (Marie Wurms), and a first prize of R25, and a second prize of £ 10 were offered. Eight choirs had entered, viz., Treherbert Ladies' Choir, Swansea Ladies' Choir (Miss M. A. Jones), Pontypridd Ladies' Choir (Miss Delany Williams), London Kymric La- dies' Choir (Miss Francis M. Rees), Blackpool Prize Choir (Mr Herbert Whittaker), Rhondda Female Musical Society, Aeron Ladies' Partv, and Cardiff Ladies' Choir (Madame L. H. Rees). Of these, only four appeared, and sang in the following order: Rhondda., Pontypridd, Swan- sea, Treherbert. The choirs had to sing the pieces unaccompanied, and the competition on that, account was a very difficult one, the ques- tion of keeping in tune being of paramount im- portance. In addition to being difficult, the competition was a keen one, and to the unso- phisticated there was little to choose between the first three choirs, at least. Sir Alexander Mackenzie delivered the adjudication. He said they had had four delightful choirs, each of which had excellent points, and he could not. say that none of them would fulfil the Dromise they made in one of the pieces—"we will cease to sing." He was not going to enter into the merits of each choir, but, adopting his usual practice, wou.a tell them at once that they gave the second prize to a choir which sallg exceed- ingly well, and satisfied them better than the two which they placed oil one side. He must- repeat what he said the -revious day, that the excitement produced the 'effect of finishing much too sharp. In this case, even the choir that he was about to name did it, and there was one particular part in the Fairies Song" which not one of the choirs sang as it was written. How- ever, they were perfectly satisfied with the choir which haded from Swansea, and gave them second prize. (Applause). Another choir was intelligent in its sin-ring, the colour was srood and delgate, and there was just sufficient strength. Altogether, they found-there was no getting out of it-that, the choir worthy of the first prize was number 2-Pontyprirld. :Cheers). Miss Delany Williams, the conductress of the winning choir, and Miss Jones. the conductress of the second, were invested amid renewed cheers. The Ladies' Choir returned with the eight o'clock evening train, and their reception was of a most cordial and enthusiastic nature. Long before the train was timed to arrive, the pre- cmcts of the station were crowded with thou- sands of neople, all anxious to be the first to nour forth sincere congratulations. Mr Mad- docks was immediately shouldered, and a huge demonstration was at once formed. Headed by- the Town Band, under the leadersh p of Mr Foxall, the procession marched triumphantly along the streets, still bearing aloft the choir's representative in the person of "T.H." It was a scene of intense evcitement, and one worthy of the town. Eos Dar has upheld Iiis huge reputation as the national penillion- singer. No greater fa- vourite was to be found at the Eisteddfod, but he must take a suggestion from us.. We cer- tainly think that when he gives a representation of this special feature of the Eisteddfod, it would be more characteristically done were he to robe himself in the bardic garb. If the chair- ing ceremony is enhanced in effect by the new vestures we think also that the penillion singing -,vou-,t be likewise more in tone with its sym- bolic features.. Rev D. G. Williams, Ferndale, took awav another C21 prize on Thursday- The Taff Vale Company had made excellent arrangements t3 carry eisteddfodwyr to New- port. Indeed, the arrangements were of such a character that fous times the number could have been transported to the great festival. The Rhondda did not turn up eitsteddSodically strong at all. Only Blaenycwm and Pontypridd choirs represented the great mining district on Tues- day and when. mixing in the crowds on the first days,, it was striking to notice the absence of Rhonddaites. It is-a pity that there was no choir entered from the Rhondda in the chief chorel competition. The talent is ,,)Iii,ntiful, for or-a nntic* d vocalists like DaviJ Dsuvies, TndcL Jouts, Jubji Thomas, Tom Thomas, and outers, a sitigers of other choirs, aud it b obvious t;idSj witucut Rhondda singers many 1>1 t;le leading choirs uo not feel themselves w'dl equ ^yed for the blue-ribbon fray of an Eisteddfod. The Rev. J. T. Job, of Aberdare, was the chaired bard.

PONTYPRIDD OHAMBER OF TRADE The Common as a Park. FEEBLE ARGUMENTS AGAINST THE PROJECT. MR SEATON'S. "RED-HERRING TIU: YNYSANGHARAD SITE. The monthly meeting of this Chamber was feeld at Cooiubes' Restaurant on Wednesday. Mr H. Porcker presided, and there vere also present Messrs W. H. Key, J. Coomhes. W. Seaton, F. H. Gibson, F. Thomas, A. Seaton, and T. Cule, with the secretary, Mr George Marchant. A motion stood in the name of Mr John Evans that the Common should be CONVERTED INTO A PARK, but Mr Evans was not present- The question was talked over for a long time, and Mr W. Seat-on expressed surprise that there was a dis- sentient voice against the idea of purchasing the Ynysangbarad site for a park- They would not be able to grow a potato on the Common, as there was not much moire than an inch of soil there. Ultimately, Mr James Coombes proposed that the Common should be laid out as a recreation ground and park at a, cost not exceeding £ 4,000. and that nothing should be done towards pur- chasing land at Ynysangharad. The latter place, he contended, was in the centre of the town, and it should be utilised for building purposes. They WANTED TO CENTRALISE PONTYPRIDD as much as possible, and if they took the Ynys, angharad for a park where would they obtain building land ? There was about 40 acres there, and this would cost them about £ 50,000. The Common was the property of the town, add there were over 38 acres there, so i. would not be wise to purchase any other land when that was available. The District Council had ob- tained the opinion of an authority on those mat- ters, and that gentleman stated that the Com- mon could be converted into a very beautiful and ornamental recreation ground and park. There was a suggestion of making a lake there, but he thought it would be better to throw a weir across the Taff near the Maltsters' Arms. Mr T. Cule seconded. Mr W. Seaton moved an amendment to the effect that efforts should be made to purchase the Ynysangharad site. He did not object to a reasonable sum of money being spent to IMPROVE THE COMMON, in placing covered octagon seats there, and in making a few walks; but he thought it was was^n'o r»oiP there," an"}" a" person" "could hardly stand on it, much less plant trees there. Fur- ther, there was no water there to make the place fertile or to make a lake. Was it right to consider self-interest and to reserve Ynys- angharad for building purposes? In the near future, when the Bute Railway was constructed, there would be pits between Rhydyfelen and Upper Boat, and it was there that the building would take place. The idea of paying £ 50,000 for Ynysangharad was absurd; he had no doubt that if the trustees were approached they would be able to buy it for about £ 16,000. Mr Frank Thomas seconded, and said the Com- mon was more charming in its I RUSTIC SIMPLICITY ihan it would be when converted into a park. The Common was not central to all the locality and it would take the people of Hopkinstown, for instance, a day to get there and back. Mr Arthur Seaton supported the amendment. He understood the object of the amendment was not to obtain the whole of the Ynysangharad, but merely the river front, which could not be utilised for building purposes, and he thought if the owners were approached they would be able to obtain it at a nominal price. He thought L500 spent on the Common would be ample; they could form very good RECREATION GROUNDS with that sum. Mr Key also supported the amendment, be- cause he thought L4,000 would be inadequate to do any good on the Common. Thev would Ie- quire about two miles of walling to enclose it, and this would cost an enormous sum. Besides, this, it would cost about jESOO to obtain an order to enclose the land, and £ 500 for a care- taker's house. Mr W. Seaton: And you would require about £ 150,000 to get some stuff there to make the trees grow. (Laughter). Five voted for the amendment and two for the proposition. It was decided to forward a copy of the resolu- tion to the District Council.

Our Library Table. The Strand Magazine for August maintains its well-established character for excellence. The most fascinating articles to many of its readers will be te" G.P.O. Museum" and "Curiosities." A. Conan Doyle contributes the fifth instalment of "The Tragedy of the Korosco." The Glimpse of Nature shown by Grant Allen in this number is A Plant that Melts Ice." The short stories —" His First Love," Stopped on the Long Stretch," His Word of Honour," and Haste to the Wedding "-are each most attractive reading The illustrations ara as usual ex- cellently produced, and include a number of unpublished sketches by George Cruikshank. -0- The Second Part of the attractive serial, All about Animals" (Geo. Newnes, Ltd.), is devoted to Elephants and Camels, and contains 20 very excellent and beautifully produced process blocks from photos. PICTURE PUZZLES are now the order of the day. We notice that a new series is started in this week's issue of Tit-Bits, Famous Men and Women of To-day," which will doubtless evoke considerable interest, the premier prize offered being a Bank of England note for Fifty Pounds.

THE CIRCULATION OF THE GLAMORGAN FREE PRESS IS INCREASING WEE TLY,

fPUBLISEED BY 3PECIAL ARRANGEMENT..] TOMMY TWADDLED THANKSGIYJNG. BY EDWAltD H. LEBENS. [COP YRIG H.T. ] Tomm.y Twaddles was tirad. lie had lived through a day of unadulterated full. as he him- self gleefully said, "nowthin' but eat in' he whole day." There was old Goby, the big gobbler, by whom Tommy bad often been, conquered, if a sedate promenade on that gentleman's part—meant pro- bably for the edification of certain turkey belles and resulting in Tommy's ignominious escape through the garden gate-could be called a con- quest. Even without the cannibalistic fun of eating him, Tommy was glad that Goby was out of the way. How often he had withed it while his fat little sausage-like less were taking him at a lively gait across the farm yard! How Goby's many good reasons for hostility towards him tiasJvi/1 through his mind at these times! How he repented of the sticks and stones thrown over the fence, of the faces he had made, of the venom with which he had stuck out his tongue and wrinkled up his nose, as soon as the slamming of the garden gate assured. him of his safety! Haw he repented of the impulse which so often caused him to run along the garden fence taunt- ing his enemy! He was awfully glad that Goby V, s out of the way. I However, there was Gobv. brown and crisp 3a the outside, white and tender underneath, with the juicy gravy dripping clown into the apple filling that spread I itself around the dish. I; Then there was, according to Tommy, who counted it off on bis fingeTs before dinner, cranberry sauce, an' apple sauce, an' oal'ry, an' sweet putaters, an' reg'lar putaters, an' chicken an' -ham, an' tongue, an" corn what came in a can, an' pickles, an' onions^ an' coffee wid four lumps of suger. 'stead of one, an' puddin' wid white stuff on top, an' mince pie, an' pmn'kin pie, an' ca-ody an' nuts 'tween tim." This had all b-sen enjoyed, and Tommy was tired. lie was seated before the fire in the large wooden rocker -n-atch:-lg the firelight, when the door opened softly, and someone entered. Tommy, supposing it to be his mother come to put him to beJ. did not turn. "Tommy Twaddles! came a solemn, sepul- chral voice. Tommy started, jerked his head around, and there stood Goby i' His body was brown and crisp, just as it had come from oven for dinner. The head, which Tommy had chopped off at the invitation of his Older brothsr, was fastened on again somehow, a red flannel cloth concealing the wound. It was covered wi-tli dust, just as Tommy had left it after kicking it around the yard vindictively, His ou-e eye was swollen from contact with Tommy's copper-toed boots. From the other he glared at Tommy fiercely. Tvnamy Twaddles!" repeated Goby, arrang- ingtb), flannel cloth more comfortably, and rest- ing his browned arm on the door knob, I have ecrito for you." Tommy grew pale, and his lips trembled so that he could utter no sound. Goby cast a furtive look around the room with his uninjured eye, and then gobbled softly three times; a wonderful thing to do consider- ing the condition of his neck. In response to th? evident signal, three gob- blers of great size and fierce demeanour entered. They stood in line, erect and with folded wings, until Goby waved his browned arm towards Tommy. Then they approached, keeping step like soldiers. One jerked Tommy out of the rocker, while the others, as if drilled in their parts, took a position on either side of him. They dug holes in his ears with their sharp claws, and passed stout lines through them. One they gave to the third gobbler, the other too -Gobs. Tommy tned to call to his mother, but the gobbler to his left clapped his wing over Tommy's mouth. And so they dragged him from the house. Tommy stumbled aft?r his captors directly to the large barn; lis hopes of rescue fading with eaeh step. When they reached this place Goby gobbled three times again—not so well this time, for the cold night air seemed to affect his throat- whereupon the great door opened magically. An immense fire burned in the middle of the barn, lighting up a strange scene. There were all sizes and colours and forms and qualities of turkeys. Old baldames and young K'—ly whn BVOwlcil beldames and walked with the buds, gobbling eoftly such tender things as gobblers can. There were drakes who walked more soberly than the fascinating gobblers, holding their arms "for the ducks beside them, and show- ing plainly that they were invited guests by the frequency with which they cautioned num. bers of ducklings, their offspring, to politeness. There were also geese, jealous of the ducks, who with their families of goslings around them, looked in vain for their truant ganders. These, having found the corn-bin, chose to partake freely of its contents with certain speckled roosters of low birth, with no characters to lose, who took their corn like topers and crowed like veterans, to the secret admiration of the ganders. There were guinea hens and cocks, running here, there, and everywhere, 'tending to things like elderly ladies at a Church fair. All the hay had been thrown from the loft, and was scattered in rows along the floor, making comfortable seats for those who wished to sit down. Directly in front of the fire a divan was erected, over which was artistically draped Mrs. Twaddles' best parlour tablecloth. Here sat in state, and in all the gorg< ousness of his plumage, a peacock. To his left. on a slightly lower plat- form, sat his wife, while surrounding him was a body guard of roosters, arrayed in their shining coats of red. They strutted aroung haughtilyancf b-eld their hekis teiy1 h'^h,- thoua-h. as a matter of fact, some of them were of stock just as ple- beian as the speckled roosters in the corn-bin. There were other roosters here, some in pure white, which shone just like satin, and some in bl ick'and white like ermine, and they bowed and scraped to dowager hens and to their daughters, long-legged, short-winged, bashful creatures, who were henpecked for their behaviour, good or bad, by their mothers upon the departure of the roosters. The whole arrangement reminded Tommy very much of a qjiromo in the parlour, under which. so Mrs. Twaddles had told him, was printed "King Ferdinand's Court." As Tommy, led by his captors, approached the peacock's divan, there was a general rush from all sides. They all wanted to see him. They cackled and screeched, and crowed and gobbled, and clucked and quacked, and shoved and pushed, and pulled and tore, and elbowed in their efforts to get a point of vantage. Hereupon a small bantam rooster, evidently a cavalier, judging by his heavy spurs, acting as a cavalier, tiew on the pitchfork handle, and in a shrill voice cried: Ladies and gentlemen will please take seats and refrain from disturbing the quiet, by special command of Kiner Peacock." Tommy decided the peacock was truly a pown when he saw how rapidly even the busybody guinea hens took seats. The quiet of the grave' yard reigned throughout the barn. The peacock on the parlour tablecloth looked so stern and mighty that Tommy's eyes sought the ground in fright. Tommy Twaddles." said the peacock, after clearing hie throat and throwing his left leg over nis right. Tommy Twaddles, answer me. Do you knovr why .)U are here ? Tommy was about to plead ignorance, when he happened to observe Goby. His answer died in his throat. "Aha! said the Peacock, rubbing his claws together briskly, he knows but let everything be done fair. Lord Bantam, kindly read the charges, and then for the punishment." The fowl of "equestrian rank produced from I under his wing, which evidently served him as an inside pocket, a document of greM length, and read in a ringing voice such a 1Ü.t of crimes as rln made Tommv wonder at his own hardihood. He was accused first of cold-blooded murder. I He bad chopped Goby's head off. He was charged with having caused the dea-th of a tender duckling by stepping on it wh;ie treispa^smg m the poultry yard. This was called manslaupiiter. He was accused of chasing with a stick on various occa-sions certain defenceless females, the most noteworthy case being that of an elderly white-haired goose, who took to th<> water, and barely (soaped drowning. He was forced to hpar lhat. he had thrown stones—not only at Goby and at certain roosters—but also at a blind hen, who, not being able to dodge, had tuffexed. He was accused of having, on frequent occa- sions, interrupted the crowing of roosters, by rushing upon thfrn in the midst of their crow- ing. to the severe injury of their dignity. When Lord Bantam had finished there was an intense stillness, and everybody strained his ears to hear what ieliteiin-,the peacock would inflict. But the peacock turned slowly to (iDbv who looked decided shabby against his background of gay roosters. OoioneJ Gobv." he said, "the most heinous o £ thi. wiuitaiuii- biteik 'iiftcitd. tr>wijr,lR I you, an,rfo sficir-my apprft-a^'on of your- pa services, J now give to you the privilEge of select- I ing the method of punishing this youth." Goby bowed profoundly, and gobbling gently to try his vo,*Pe, soicl humbly: "Your royal high- ne-s. the purislirieiit I would suggest is a.t hand, lucre, in those reaping flame- fijid he waved hi-a. browned arm towards the fire. Tcinmv's knees gave way, and he sank TO tr. floor. bareEy hearing- the loud dapping of wings- and cheers that greeted Goby's speech. Good very good, Colonel Goby very appro- priate." said the Peacock, laughing loudly. "IT ø will get what you got in the oven. Ha! ha very; unique." Then he became stern again. and continued: 'Well, in order to save time md trouble, you, Lord G,i!)!iIestrong, and you, Lord Gabble- etrength, carry out tr." sentence." j words had bardiy been spoken when two immcr.-se gobblers seized Tommy and hurled him bodh- \uta the flames Mamma niamma! Tommy caSled inarticu- lately. in his anguish., The effort at speaking awoke him, and brought Mrs. Twaddles in from the kitchen, with a "Why, what's ailing voti? tt I thought I was burning up." said Tommy. no wonder, with you right on top of the fire. K (The End.) --7-NAW -,A

A TRIUMPH OF ALLITERATION. Rill Brown's babyish brothers (both being bad boys) bamboozled bandy-legged Bartholomew Braham by breaking Bernice Braham's beautiful bamboo fcunbon basket. Bernice beinfc Bartholomew's brother became belligerent because, before Bill's bad brothers broke Bernice's beautiful bamboo bonbon basket, both began behaving badly by besmearing Bar- tholomew's beautiful Bible binding. Both Browns, being big babies, boggled before Bartholomew. Bartholomew beat both Brown's badly. Both Browns, being big babies, began boohooing. Bernice bellowed :— Bravo, Barty Beat both braggadocios Barty beat both bravely.

TREHERBERT EXHIBITION A nifieVng of the general committee was held on Wednesday night, Councillor Walters in the chair. It was arranged, owing to the great scarcity of entries, to extend the closing time until August 12th. The secretary laid before the committee the request made to him by seve-al exhibitors h*, the open garden produce section; but the committee failed to see their way clear to grant such alteration. Permission was given to Messrs Wm. Calway and Co. to eshibii their patent inetibatorsa poultry house, run, and re. ring appliances in the show grounds on the day of the show. From a pleasurab'e point of view, Treherbert show stands unequalled, and shovjd not be missed by any fancier who can avail himself of the opportunity of combiring business with pleasure.

Death and Funeral of Mrs- Istance, Treharris, We regret to have to record the death of Mrs Istance, wife of Mr D. S. Istance, Commercial Hotel, late cashier of the Ferndale and Tylorstown collieries. After a long and painful illness, the sad event took place on the 30th ult., at the comparatively early age of 45 years. On Tufsday the remains of deceased were conveyed to Beechgrove Cemetery for burial. The ccflin, which was of polished oak with massive brass furniture, and covered with numerous wreaths, was followed by the mourners, consisting of Mr D. S. Istance, husband, and six children of the deceased Mrs Jones, Wimbledon Mr Robert Usher, Abcrcarne Collieries; Mr George Usher, Treaman Collieries, sister and brothers of deceased; Mr T. Macintosh, brother- in-law, and the Rev W. D, Macintosh, nephew of Mr Istance Mr G. Thomas, Pontypool r ( Mr Robert John Usher, and other relatives and friends of the deceased lady. The funeral,'iwliicl* was a very large one, was attended by several of the leading inhabitants of Treharris and surrounding districts, amongst whom we noticed Dr Parry, J.P., Ferndale Mr T. Bevan, chair- man of the Ystradyfodwe School Board; Mr Evan Rees, account-ant, Ferndale Collieries: Dr David Rees, veterinary surgeon, Ferndale; Mr David Griffiths, manager, Tylorstown Collieries; Mr Jacob Ray, agent, Treharris Collieries; Mr Thomas Pritcliard, Quakers' Yard Mr D. Pritchard, Cefn Forest Mr R. Edwards and Mr E. Edwards, Pontanas Mr Crawshay Bailey, Quakers' Yard Councillor R. L. Phillips, Pontypridd Mr T. L. Evans, Bush Hotel, Clydach Vale Mr David Thomas, Pentre Hotel, Pentre; Mr Richard Morgan, mechanic, Gelli Collieries Mr Lewis, mechanic, Merthyr Vale Collieries Capt. Richard Lewis, Pentre Mr Evan Llewellyn, rate collector, Pentre; Mr Dan Edwards, Bodringallt Colliery; Mr Morgan Davies, under-manager, Bodringallt Colliery; Mr W. Lewis, D.C. Mr Warren, Draper; Mr Aurelius, Navigation Hotel Mr D. Clee, ironmonger, and Mr Jenkins. grocer, Treharris Mr Evans, Perrot Hotel Mr Davies, gas manager, Quakers' Yard Mr Price, printer Mr J. Williams, surveyor, Quakers' Yard; Mr Williams, traveller, and Mr Fenwick, guardian of the poor, Tylorstown. The Rev R. Davies, curate-in-charge, officiated at the hous& and grave, assisted by the Rev W. D. Macintosh, Newport. The undertaker was Mr E. Price* John street, Treharris. Much sympathy is fell? fo M Isfonce and family in their bereavement. I h.

Interesting Local Wedding On Saturday morning, at Penuet, Chapel, Pontypridd, was solemnised the marriage of Mr Fisher Morgan, Pentre, son of Ald. D. Morgan, Aberdare, to Miss Lizzie Miles, daughter of Mr T Miles, Pentre, and nieces of Mr Thomas, Brynawel, Aberdare. The officiating ministers were the Revs J. M. Davies, B.A., Centre, and W. Lewis (C.M.), Pontypridd. The bride was given away by her father, and wore a dress of pale blue satin. The bridesmaids were Miss A. Morgan: (bridegroom's sister) and Miss A. Miles (bride's sister). After the ceremony, breakfast was partaken of at the County Hotel, Ponty- pridd. and among those who were at the tablo were Mr and Mrs F. Morgan, Alderman and Mrs Morgan, Mr and Mrs T. Miles, Mr W. Thomas (Brynawel), Mr T. Rees Eastfield (Cow- brdgef. Miss A. Morgan, Miss A. Miles, Mr L. Mites, Revs W. Lewis and oJ. M. Davies, and Mr S. Crockett. The happy couple subsequent- ly drove to the T.V.R. station, and leI L for North Wales, where the honeymoon will bo spent. The presents were both exceedingly costly and numerous.

YSTRAD POULTRY FANCIERS. To the Editor, "Glamorgan Free Press." Sir,—Where are the Ystrad and district poultry, etc., fanciers? Why are they so much behind in that. enterprising spirit, which charact- erises their neighbours at Cwmpark, Treherbert,. Ferndale, and Aberdare? I should say, judging from the number of prizes and honours coming in this direction quite often, there must be soma considerable number of fanciers in this district of no mean repute. And I should like, sir, with your permission, to suggest that they form themselves into some kind of union or associa- tion. and thus raise funds to enable them, at any rate, to have a kind of local exhibition, such aa Cwmpark and many other places. At the sama time I have no doubt they would soon find them- selves in a position to hold an open show se- cond to none in the county. I hope some mora able pen than mine will c;Ve „s a few pracS suggestions next week.—I am, etc. A LOCAL LOOKER ON. ■———

BATHING IN THE RHONDDA SEWER. To the Editor of the "Free Press." Dear Sir,-j write in reference to a long-felt want—public baths in the Rhondda YTalIeys. Every day during the hot months numerous youths are to be seen bathing in that once noble, but now ignoble, river, the Rhondda—some perfectly nude. I think it is time somethirg c'n were done to try and alter this deplorable disgraceful, indecent, and easily-remedied stato of things. You cannot blame the youths so. much for bathing in the river, which is none too pure, and not all lavender; it is those whrse duty it is to find proper places for the- public to bathe in. Most towns have nuM;r paths and recreation grounds and other places of healthful amusement but in the Rhondda Valleys, with their teeming thousands, there i* scarcely anything to amuse ihe ne I am, &c., t SIDNEY FAMUEL SAUNDPRS 24, Morgan-street, Havod. l-ALi^DERS*

Time should like to draw the attention of our T T leaders to tin1 new Serial Story, t'V FLORENCE MAREYAT, r. w appearing in the I'HICK PUFSS. 0

Treharris. At the Welsh Baptist Union meeting recently held at Neath, the Rev W. Jones, Brynhvfryd, read a paper on The relationship of the church to those engaged in the liquor traffic." A Swansea contemporary speaking of this paper described it as A most powerful a.nd exhaustive one." The annual treat and procession of our Sunday schools took place on Bank Holiday in bri!liant weather. Eight denominations participated which were arranged as follows —Bethania Calvinistic Methodist; Primitive Methodist Salvation Army Tabernacle Independent Forward Movement; Bethel English Baptist and the English and Welsh Wesleyans combined. They paraded the principal streets and returned, after which they separated for their various places of worship, where toa and cake were provided for all and were much enjoyed. The procession presented an imposing appearance, and was nearly half a mile long. There were four splendid banners, and the total number of children was 1620. The chief marshall was Mr Edmund Morris, Fell street, and right well did he perform his duty. After tea, by the hind permission of Mr David James, Twyn Garreg, the young people adjourned to a field where various games were indulged in.