Glamorgan Free Press

THE PEACE CRUSADE. THE NATIONAL CONVENTION. AN HISTORIC GATHERING. BY W. T. STEAD. Snow was falling outside. London looked its worst. The bad luck in the matter of weather which has pursued the Crusade in the metropolis from the first clung to it to the last. The cold and the snow, however, were left without St. Martin's Town Hall, and in that building all was glowing warmth and enthusiasm. The Convention was a fitting close to the series of meetings in connection with the Crusade of Peace which have been held in the fine building at Charing Cross. There, early in the London campaign, one of the more crowded and enthusiastic of the metropolitan meetings was held. There, at a later date, assembled that great gathering of Labour delegates which sent to their co-workers throughout Europe the striking appeal to lend their energies to the international move- ment promoted by the Aurocrat of All the Russias. Last of all comes the National Convention, a meet ng historic in its importance—an importance infinitely greater than that suggested by its numbe s. Never in the history of this country has there been such an assembly as that which gathered in St. Martin's Town Hall on March 21st. From time almost immemorial the people of England have been accustomed to assemble in their town's meeting, with the Mayor in the chair and the officers of the Corporat;on present. That. is the oldest, form of expressing public opinion which exists. No nearer approach to a 'plebiscite is po-sible in Great Britain. Yet never since there first were municipalities have so many great meetings been held to promote one object as have been failed in connection with the approval of the Czar's lit,ser-pt.. In every case opposition has Levn invited, and in no single instance has any attempt to carry an amendment to the resolution supporting tho action of the Czar met with any- thing but ignominious failure. From first, to last Kit! nuttings have been unanimous, sympathetic, :nd enthusiastic. Each gathering has appointed its delegates to the National Convention, which repre- sents the quintessence of the opinion of the otiiitrv. Comparntive'y small in their nuirbers,the delegates spoke v.i;h the voice of a people. 0 it was good to gaze from the platform upon the six hundred delegates. Strom, earnest faces were even wh* re. The men and the women who looked towards the speakers were the cream of the whole (o-intry. In th-ir own districts they are the lenders of municipal, religious, social, and political life. Busy men with many duties,thev had left a'l to hurry to the metropolis at their own exnense, in order to give expression to the national conscience on the si bject of the Czar's Rescript. The vast n p jorit v were men and womcn past. the meridian of ife, who have won their hard way to the posi- hn of leaders. Yet their heartiness was undinllned and they lau.hed, cheered, and uppblldcd wit, the utmost enthusiasm. The attention given to every was intensely close. The gathering vcs. in fact, heart and soul with the wising of the Cz;!r for i,eitee. It tne meeting was striKing, the platform was none the, so. In the chair was the Earl of Aberdeen, taking his first active part in public affairs since his return from Canada, and in putting himself in the front on such an occasion well upholding the traditions of his family and of his own public career. On his left were Lady Frederick Cavendish, Sir Henry Bemrose, M.P., Captain Pirie, M. P., Archdetcon Sinclair, Mr. Robert Cameron, M.P., and Sir Lewis Morris. To the right, were Sir Wilfrid Lawson, the veteran temperance advocate and upholder of peace, Mr. Herbert Whiteley, who came as a delegate from the great Lancashire constituency which he represents in Parliament, Mr. W. R. Cremer, who for so many years fought the battle y 11 of International Atbitration almost single-handed in Parliament, and Mr. Fred Maddison, who stands for Labour. In almost every case these leaders of thought had a character outside their own public positions as leaders of men. They came as the delegates of vast communities. At first the Convention required rousing. The Earl of Aberdeen was earnest, cultured, telling, but he spoke briefly, merely introducing the subject of the Convention. The earliest note of warmth and p:<ssicn came from the Mayor of Wolverhampton, appointed delegate at the finest town's meeting held in the town which he represents in the memory of living men. lie moved the first resolu- tion in these terms: "That the memorials to the Emperor of Russia and the British Government, which have been so extensively signed in connection with the National Movement of the Crusade of Peace, in support of the objects of his Majesty's Rescript, be hereby approved by this Convention." A seconder for this was found in Sir Henry Bemrose, who defeated Sir William Harcourt at Derby at the General Election. One was bound to remember, listening to his strong, heartfelt support of the motion, that, from the beginning of the Crusade to the end, ail efforts to extract ona word of sympathy or even approval from Sir William Harcourt have proved unavailing. From Lady Frederick Cavendish came the first thrill which went through the meeting. Standing by the side of Lord Aberdeen, this lady, pathetic in her widow's weeds, spoke with a simple earnest- ness, directness, and humour which brought an imnv diate response from the meeting. When the resolution wa3 put to the meeting, the hand of every delegate went up in its support, and a burst of upplaufo confirmed the demonstration. The second work of the Convention was even more important. The meeting was asked to pass a resolution in the following words: "That the following persons be nominated for the presenta- tion or the memorials to her Majesty's Government and the Emperor of Kussia: The Right Hon. the Earl of Aberdeen, the Right Rev. the Lord Bishop of London, the Right Rev. the Lord Bishop of Rochester, the Right Hon. Earl Grey, Sir Joseph Pease, Bart., M. P., Sir James Kitson, M. P., the Right lion. John Morley, M.P., the Right Hon. Leonard H. Courtney, M. P., the Right Hon. Herbert Gladstone, 11.P., the Right Hon. Lord Farrar, the Right Hon. Shaw-Lefevre, S. Woods, Esq., M. P., the Right Hon. James Bryce, M. P., Thomas Burt, Esq. M. P., the Rev. Dr. Clifford, J. A. Bright, Esq., W. T. Stead, Esq., Councillor Martineau (Birmingham), W. Randal Cremer, Esq., John Battersby, Esq. (Glasgow), J. G. IFolyoake, Esq., Lady Frederick Cavendish, and that the General Committee be entrusted with the necessary arrangements and the mode of presen- tation." Briefly and earnestly moved by the Arch- deacon of Loudon, the resolution was seconded by Mr. Herbert Whiteley, M.P. I spoke in support of the motion. This second resolution having been carried, a third, which was not on the programme, was intro- duced by Canon Rawnsley and passed. It pledged the Conference to the opinion that the work which has been so gloriously begun should not cease. What wo hope is that from the nucleus of the brief Crusade will spring a great central organisation working for Peace'and human brotherhood, forming a centre round which the frequently warring Peace societies can gather in unity of purpose. Last of all came the vote of thanks to the chairman. With this broke up a meeting such as has never previously been held in this country. I am writing this column in the brief interval between the Convention and the great meeting in the Queen's Hall. Mr. John Morley, who was to be the principal speaker at this, is ill, but his place will be taken by Mr. Leonard Courtney, than whom no better substitute could be found. A word about the Crusade in Scotland must suffice. I have hurried back to the metropolis from the far North with the echoes of the great meetings still ringing in my ears. Scotchsmen we not usually demonstrative, but they have given their opinion of the Czar's Rescript with no uncertain sound. At Aberdeen the meeting was kept going until eleven o'clock at night, and the audience scarcely dwindled. The whole nation it enthusiastic for an arrest of armaments.

THE MOST NUTRITIOUS. E P P S'S GRATEFUL-COMFORTING. COCOA BREAKFAST-SUPPER

Pontypridd. Tea, Tea, Tea.—Why is T. Harris' Tev like the Britltih Army ? Because it cannot be beaten I Try it. 4540 "You can see with half an eye" that FliNX THOMAS ("My Hatter,") sells the best 8/9 Hat. 2838 Council candidates' portraits taken and blocks supplied at short notice by THOS. FOBBEST and SONS, Cambrian Studi6, Pontypridd. 2871 Mr Alfred Harris, Havod, will conduct the morning service at the New Town Hall next Sunday, and Mr Lewis Davies, Abercynon, the evening service. Trallwn Wesleyaa Mission Hall has recently been renovated, and a sale of work will be held on the 27th of April, to raise funds to clear expenses incurred.fimrs M. T. Jones, Merthyr Road, gave a tea to the committee and friends on Thursday evening, the profit being for the same object. Mrs J. Evans (Eglwysbach), Cardiff, will preach at the above hall next Sunday evening at 6 o'clock. For Best and Cheapest Working Boots at 3s lid, 4s 0d, 4s lid, and 5s lid, go to Davies, FREE PRESS Buildings, 23, Taff street, Pontypridd. 4539 Seats may be booked at Messrs Thompson and Shaokell's for the Frederic Griffith and Llewela Davies Concert on Batter Monday any day between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. after 21st February. 4599 On Friday evening, the Mission Guild held their meeting at the new Parlour, when an interesting and instructive address was given by Mr W. J. Davies on Poetry." There was a good attendance. Mr Thomas Williams, vice. president, ably presided. At the close a cordial vote of thanks was accorded Mr Davies. The Guild will hold a devotional meeting this evening (Friday). For all kinds of Game go to FENNELL'S, 12, Market street, Pontypredd (opposite the Post Office). PORTRAITS painted in Oil by G. F. HACKER from sitting or from photo, and framed in any style.-Arcade Studio, Pontypridd. 4559 Y.M C.A. The effort to open a local branch of the Young Men's Christian Association meets with continued success. The committee have been constantly at work striving to make the start a successful one. The rooms at 36, Taff Street, Pontypridd, by the time this issue is published, will have been opened. The reading room will afford opportunities for reading and correspondence during the day, and occasionally for various meetings at night. Games are provided in another room, and still another room will be available for committee meetings, &c. Intending members will do well ta join without any delay. All information will gladly be furnished on the premises or by any member. Young men are very affection- ately invited to join. A cycling club is in course of formation. Half a pound of 1/4 Tea, pleise. Mother says it U the beat in town at the erlce." T. Harris, 75. Taff Street, Pontypridd. 4540 NURSERY HAIR-WASH promotes the growth of the hair and keeps it free from nits, &c. 6d per bottle, or post free 9d.-Key, The People's Chemist, Pontypridd. 422fin The next local examinations in music in connection with the Victoria College of Music, London, will take place at Pontypridd as follows :-Organ and pianoforte playing, sing- ing, the playing of all orchestral instruments, &c on Monday, May 29th, entries for which close May 13th, 1899 theoretical examination July 6th, last day of entry being June 17th, I 1899. In addition to the certificates, silver and bronze medals and special book prizes will be awarded at the Pontypridd centre to dis- tinguished candidates or those obtaining the highest number of marks, without restriction as to age oesection. The Diplomas of Associate (A.V.C.M) and Licentiate (L.V.C.M.) are also awarded to successful candidates. List of requirements with all necessary information may be obtained from Mr Geo. A. Stanton, Secretary, 11, Burleigh Street, Strand, London, W.C., or from Mr T. D. Edwards, Professor of Music, Haydn Villa, Pontypridd, the local representative.

A GREAT SUCCESS.—WP all remember Pro essor Desmatie a few years ago coming amongst us a. perfect stranger, and it is worth noting that today he has five places of business where he may be consulted free of charge. on any complaint or disease whatever. Something like 10000 persons hava had his treatment. And many who were considered Incurable are liviug testimonials of his great skill. His residence is 23, Station Terrace, Pontypridd, opposite Taff Station, where he may be consulted personally or by letter. Business hoursall day Wednesdays and Saturdays, and until noon other days. Ystrad Temperahce Commercial Hotel, Tuesdays, 2 inatil 7.30, opposite Railway gates. K'omi a so at Ferndale, Cardiff, and Merthyr. His motto is "Actions speak loud^ r than words.' [Advt. 4621

Portly A fairly representative meeting of Hearts of Oak members assembled at Davies' Restaurant, Hannah Street, on Saturday evening, presided over by Mr Bond. Mr F. Judd, delegate, and Mr J. T. Evans, Pontypridd, attended and were accorded a hearty reception. Mr Judd dealt at considerable length on the recent changes in the society's rules and also the importance of the last delegate meeting, and being the only representative from the Rhondda Fawr present he recognised the importance of the respon- sibility and the honour conferred upon him by the confidence they renewed annually in him. Bro. J. T. Evans followed and appealed to the members to combine and follow the example set by other active centres and urged upon all present to rally round their old and tried candidate who had so faithfully carried out the pledges made. A vote of confidence was passed in Mr Judd on the motion of Mr Marsh, seconded by Mr Davies, and supported by othpr prominent members present, all pledging to further support his candidature. We deeply regret to record the death of Mr T. R. Evans, Porth, who died of that insidious disease, consumption, on Monday, after a painful illness of nearly seven months. Mr Evons was, previous to September last, engaged on the staff of the Glamorgan Free Press," by whom he was held in the highest esteem on account of his sterling worth and unassuming nature. Our sympathy is extended to his sorrowing parents, to whom it is a severe blow to lose their son when on the verge of manhood. The funeral took place yesterday and a report will appear next week.

^bergwyrifi. An interesting lecture entitled Ddiarhebion y Bobl" was given by Rev. D. Oliver Edwards, in Caersalem Baptist Chapel, on Monday even- ing. The lecturer dealt with his subject in a very interesting manner, and his audience was delighted. The chair was filled by the Rev. B. V. Davies, Abergwynfi. An eisteddfod was held at Tabor Independent Chapel on Saturday, under the auspices of the Tabor Sunday School. Though the attendance was not large, the proceedings were very enthusiastic.

Ystrad Rhondda. In our last issue we inadvertently stated that the Rev. T. H. Williams, L.D curate in charge of St Stephen's Church, Ystrad Rhondda, had received and accepted the living of Anglesey, North Wales. The reverend geutleman has decided to remain with his flock at home, consequently, has declined the living of Anglesey, North Wales. Quite a gloom waa cast over the inhabitants of Ystrad Rhondda on Monday when it became known that Mr Joseph Maddocks. brake pro- prietor, who was about 50 years of age and well known in the locality, was found dead in his bed early the same morning at his residence, Ystrad Road, Ystrad Rhondda. On the previous evening he retired to rest about 10 o'clock, apparently enjoying his usual health. Deceased was a widower and leaves seven children to mourn his loss. Much sympathy is felt for them in the locality.

Ton. The annual sermons on behalf of the Church Pastoral Aid Society were preached at St David's Church of the above place on Sunday last. The preacher in the morning and evening was the Rev Llewellyn Lloyd Davies, M.A., vicar of Llanwonno, who delivered able discourses to very large congregations. In the afternoon, at 2.30, an address: to the Sunday School scholars was given by the Rev Ll. L. Davies, vicar of LIaawonno, which was very much appreciated by the scholars. Collections were made at the close of each service in aid of the society. At St John's Parish Church similar services were held on Sunday last, when in the morning and evening the Rev Peter Williams, vicar of Troedyrhiw, delivered most impressive sermons to very large congregations. In the afternoon, at 2.30, an address to the scholars was given by the same reverend gentlemen which was thoroughly appreciated. Collections were made at the close of each service in aid of the Church Pastoral Aid Society.

Pentre. The annual sermons on behalf of the Church Pastoral Aid Society were preached in St Peter's Church on Sunday last. The preacher at the morning and evening service was the Rev S. Rowland Jones, rector of Glyntaff, who delivered most eloquent sermons to very large congregations. In the afternoon, at 2.30, an address to the Sunday School scholars was given by the reverend gentlemen. On Monday evening in the Pentre Church Schoolroom a public meeting in connection with the above society was held, when the Rev Samuel Rowland Jones, rector of Glyntaff, addresed the meeting. There was but a very meagre attendance. The Rev Precentor Lewis, R.D., vicar of Ystradyfodwg, presided in a most amiable manner. The speaker, the Rev S. R. Jones, rector of Glyntaff, advocated the claims of the above society for nearrly an hour and a half, his remarks being attentively listened to by those present. During the evening St Peter's Church Choir, under the able conductor- ship of the Rev T. W. Welsh, L.D. (curate), rendered the anthem, Who are these," in a manner which reflected the greatest credit on the choir and its conductor. Collections were made at each service in aid of the Church Pastoral Aid Society.

Maerdy. A dinner was held at the Royal Hotel here on Thursday evening on the occasion of presenting Mrs A. Divies, Pencoed (late land- lady of the above hotel), with a testimonial. About 150 friends assembled, and a most enjoyable evening was spent. Amongst those present were :—Mr Willie Davies, Pencoed Miss Evans, Pencoed Mr Tom Lewis, Dyff ryn Hotel, Ferndalo; Dr Green, Commercial Hotel, Female; Mr J. T. Wheeler, Maerdy Hotel Mr and Mrs Dobson, Cross Keys, Tcnyparpdy Mr and Mrs L. H. Evans, New Inn, Cymmer Dr and Mrs Dukes, Porth Mr W. Edwards, cashier, Mardy; and Mr Robert J. Stevens, Pontypridd. A letter of apology for his inability to attend was received from Dr T. W. Parry, Ferndale. After the tables had been cleared, a capital programme of songs, &c was gone through. Songs were rendered by Messrs Jnc. Griffiths, Ferndale George Peel, Ferndale L. H. Evans (Ap Eos Dar); Mark Spriggs; Win. Bray and W. Tarrant and a recitation was given by Mr Walter Morris. Mr W. Edwards presided, and Messrs G. Lewis, The Schools, and Mr Fehx, Pentre, acted as accompanists. The presentation, which con sisted of a splendid sterling silver tea and coffee service, was made by Mr Wm. Williams, Royal Cottages, Mardy, as one of the oldest inhabitants, and as one of Mrs Davies' best friends. He made a touching, though short speech, which elicited loud cheers. Mrs Davies replied with a few words of thanks which were signalled with a burst of applause that made the rafters shake, followed by the singing in stentorian tones of She's a Jolly Good Fellow from a hundred lusty throats. Mr G. Lewis, The Schools, sang seme excellent pennillion, composed for the occasion by Mr Gwendraeth Williams, Mardy (who, unfortunately, was unable to be present). The pennillion will appear next week. A splendid set of verses were also composed and read by Mr Caleb James, Mardy. Speeches were made by Messrs Rees Owen and John Morgan on behalf of the Rose of Mardy Lodge, expressing the great loss caused to the lodge by the departure of Mrs Davies, and regretting the loss of her active services towards the welfare of the lodge. Mr J. T. Wheeler, Mardy Hotel, entertained the company with a few selections on the Gramophone, and after a vote of thanks was given to the host and hst. ss, Mr and Mrs D. Jones, for their excellent catering, the proceedings were brought to a close by the singing of the Welsh National Anthem.

Ynyslpr. A large number of the friends of Mr Tom Thomas, Ynyshir, who is a well-known and acceptable vocalist, propose formulating a com- mittee with the intention of working up a com- plimentary concert so as to enable him to proceed with his musical studies. We wish the movement all success.

Senghenydd. On Friday evening a lad named David John Evans (13) fell into a stone quarry and sustained fatal injury. He was trying to reach a stray pigeon when he fell. At the inquest on Monday a verdict of I Accidental death was returned.

1 Ynysybwl. The seventh annual meetings of Zion English Baptist Church were held on Sunday last when the Rev W. Edwards, D.D., Principal of Cardiff Baptist College, and the Theophilus Jones, pastor of Noddfa Welsh Baptist Church, officiated. There were very good congregations throughout the day. On the following day a very successful tea meeting was held, when upwards of 550 persons partook of the good things provided, under the presidency of the following ladies :-Mrs Tom Bound, Mrs Peter Jones, Mrs Tom Instrell, Mrs Lewis Jenkins, Mrs T. G. Dearson, Miss Agnes Hopkins, Miss Evans, Miss Dearson, and Miss M. A. Castle. After tea a miscellaneous entertainment, managed by Mr Peter Jones, was held, which was presided over in a most happy manner by the Rev Theo. Jones. The following took part in the entertainment: -Misses S. A. Jenkins, M. 'A. Bound, Mabel Lloyd, Maud Pollard; Messrs. D. J. Howells, Christmas Jarman, Ed. Williams, and Evan Evans, who also conducted a male voice party. Messrs. Gwilym Thomas and D. J. Phillips, of Swansea, were the aceompanists.

Penrhiwceiber. "Dyfed," the eminent bard, delivered his popular and interesting lecture at Hermon Chapel on "Gwlad y dyn du (The land of the negro). Mr J. Williams, surveyor, Mountain Ash, presided over a goodly number present. The Rev T. Williams, Penuel, delivered a most edifying lecture at the Public Institute, on 11 Chrstmas Evans," the proceeds of which was given in aid of a poor man. The Friends at Junction Chapel are busily engaged preparing for their coming bazaar. We are glad to find that Mrs D. Jones is taking such a leading position in the concern. Although belonging to the C.M. congregation she is magnanimous enough to extend helping a hand to the Baptists, who are struggling under a heavy burden of debt. We congratulate our fellow citizen, Mr W. Phillips, Cloth Hall, upon his being appointed one of the overseers for our parish. Mr Phillips is well worthy of the honour. We rejoice to note that our genial station- master (T.V.R.) Mr Carpenter, is convalescent after a severe attack of illness. We wish him I a complete, speedy recovery.

Trekarris. The local branch of the Independent Labour Party recently held at the Central Coffee Tavern has been disbanded. The Cefn Glas Colliery, Quakers' Yard, which was recently opened, has again been closed without any hope of a re-start in the near future. A scripture examination was held at Bryn- hyfryd on Tuesday evening, when 16 candidates Iflt. Mr Benjamin Gibbon, the Oaklands, was the superintendent of the examination. On Thursday se'nnight a dance took place at the Perrot Assembly Rooms under the auspices of the dancing class conducted by Mr Llewellyn Hughes. There was a large attendance. The dresses worn consisted of evening dress and fancy dress, and the room was prettily decorated for the occasion by Messrs Llewellyn Hughes, Richard Miles, and David Williams. Dancing commenced at 8 o'clock and continued with great spirit till 4 a.m. An adjournment for supper occurred at midnight, the carver being Mr Evan Davies. The catering of Host and Hostess Evans gave entire satisfaction. During the proceedings much amusemetjt was caused by the offering of a prize on Laziness in the best impromptu speech, there being several competitors. Tke prize was awarded to Mr William Jones, Trelewis. The dance was a great success, all having thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Mr W. J. Thomas, the blind pianist, was the accompanist. A very successful dance was held at the Public Hall on Thursday sennight under the auspices of the Merthyr and District Branch of the National Federation of Assistant Teachers. There was a good attendance, several ladies and gentlemen being present from a distance, The dresses worn were of rare quality andtaste, the combined company forming an imposing appearance. lite hall was tastefully decorated by the followisag ladies Misses Parkes, Sproule, M. Davies, Lewis, Lloyd, Hunt, S. J. Evans, H. Evans, S. J. Davies, assisted by the following gentlemen Messrs J. M. Jones, W. Evans, W. Firth, and T. Jackson. The duties of M.C. were ably carried out by Mr D. Drew, and Mr L. B. Jones. The music was supplied by Mr Dan Osborne's Band. Every satisfaction was given at tne refreshment table by Mr D. Rees, the Square, who catered. Much credit is due to the secrelary, Mr T. Jackson, for the successful manner in which the dance was carried out, which was a huge success.

Aber. It is our sad duty to publish the burial of Mrs Meyrick, Bryntail Farm, which took place on Wednesday last. The deceased lady was an old resident in the neighbourhood, and consequently well known for her excellent, unblemished character. She was a faithful member of the Independent church at Groeswen, and although living at distance from the chapel yet made more attendances than many who lived near. A great number friends and acquaintances, as well as relatives, congregated at Bryntail, and at 12.30, the service was carried out by the Rev H. Morgan, vicar. The corpse was then conveyed in a hearse, which adorned with floral tributes made its way to Ystrad Mynacb, the last resting-place. On arriving there the Rev C. T. Thomas, Groeswen, officiated. The solemn concourse had greatly increased by now, there being five coaches and many other con- veyance carrying relatives and friends. Chief among the visitors were Mr and Mrs Wendon Edwards, Crumlin; Mr and Mrs Davies, Railway Hotel, Crumlin Mr and Mrs Edwards Ystrad Rhondda Mr T. Williams, Splott Farm, Cardiff; Mrs Thomas, Lechwan, and many local friends too numerous t3 mention. Universal sympathy is felt for the children, who, although adults, are practically orphans, for what is home without a mother."

Pontypridd and Llanwonno Overseers' Dispute. Before proceeding with the usual county* court business at Pontypridd on Monday Judge Gwilym Williams gave judgment in the case heard at Mountain Ash in which the Pontypridd overseers sued the Llanwonno oveneers for JE28 14s Id, for rates and taxes paid by plaintiffs in respect of the Vestry-hall, Pontypridd, and for coal and gas used by Mr W. Phillips, defen- dants' assistant overseer. His honour gave judgment for £2]..

Shocking Accident at Toq. COLLIER FALLS DOWN THE SHAFT. About 9 o'clctk on Saturday evening ft shocking accident occurred in the Ton Colliery (Ocean), Pentre. It appears that it is the custom on Saturday nights to raise water from the sump, which is the lowest portion of the shaft, and generally contains about 9 or 10 yards of the water which issues out of the sideS of the pit. As soon as the iron tank containing several tons of water had been brought up to the surface a workman named Edward Jones. 34 years of age, who was thoroughly exper- ienced in the work, was, it is surmised, i. the act of opening the tap to let the water out, when somehow he missed his footing or his foot slipped, causing him to fall down the pit, which is 500 yards in depth. He was not seen to fall by any one, and it was after inquiries and a search had been made that it was conjectured that the poor fellow had fallen down the shaft. The hitcher at the landing, which is a wooden structure at the opening to an upper seam in the same shaft, heard a thud. Believing that something had fallen down from the surface, he signalled to the banksman. Men were let down to the bottom, and the body was discovered in fearfully mutilated condition. The deceased had been employed at the colliery under the company for 20 years, and mostly at the bottom of the shaft or about the pit. He was unmarried and a native of Llanidloes, North Wales. His body was brought to the surface in about an hour after the accident and conveyed to his lodgings in Queen-street, Ton, Pentre. THE INQUEST. On Tuesday afternooH Mr Rhys (coroner) held an inquest at the Ton Library, Pentre, on the body of Edward Junes (45), unmarried, who lodged at 25, Queen-street, Ton, and was killed on Saturday evening by falling down the upcast shaft of the Ton Colliery, which is about 500 yards deep. Jonathan Jones, mechanic at the pit, said that after tije accident he found the cage containing the water tank, which had been raised from the sump, was up in its right place. There was about a foot of water in it. The tank was when properly fixed held in its place by two straps, one at each end at the bottom, but one of them was unfastened, and conse- quently when the tank was lowered into the water at the bottom of the pit it tilted, causing the lever used for letting out the water to get out of place. Deceased was responsible for the fastening of the straps. The tank having been raised to the surface, deceased, owiug to the displacement of the lever, would have had to get upon the fencing to replace the lever before he could let out the water, and in doing so he must have slipped from the top of the cage and fallen into the shaft. Isaac Pate, fan engine- man at the colliery, said deceased was appar- ently quite sober at the time. Mr ny. r Lewis, Inspector of Mines, and Mr Edwards, manager of the colliery, produced plans cf the pit. A verdict of Accidental death was returned.

Death of a Porth tyan in the Transvaal The numerous friends of Mr Henry Williams, late of Porth, and son of Mr John Williams, Rose and Castle, Caerphilly, will be sorry to hear of his somewhat sudden death, from dysentry, at the hospital in Johannesburg, on Sunday, February 19th, at the early age of 28. Up to within a few days of his demise he enjoyed the best of health. He was buried the following day at the cemetery, followed by many of his fellow-workmen from the Robinson's Reef Gold Mining Company. The following South Walians, anxious to pay their lat tribute of respect, left the Park Hotel in three mourn- ing coaches at three p m. :—Messrs James Lewis (Park Hotel), E. Morley, J. W. Pr ce, Samuel Evans, E. Edwards, Idris Williams, George Adams, all of Perth Professor Mills, Pontypridd Mr J. P. Jones, Clydach Vale; Mr Walter Morgan, Ynyshir Mr Wm. Edwards Caerphilly Mr George Hunt, and Mr W. Bay. After the usual burial service, the Rev Owen Owen, late of Porth, gave out the hymn Bydd myrdd 0 ryfeddodau ar doriad boreu wawr," after which he gave a short address in Welsh, alluding most, feelingly to his relations, so many thousands of miles away.

Treorky and District Cycling Club. ANNUAL DINNER. The doings of the Treorky and District Cycling Club since its formation have been watched with great interest, and with the increasing craze for the wheeling pursuit we cannot refiain from complimenting the club on the good work done since its formation. It is the pioneer club of the district, and carried on in an energetic manner despite all opposition. It has an influential list of mem- bers whose enieavour it is to conduct the club in a healthy and invigorating tone. Nor have they failed in their object, for the condition of the club is [now of a most healthy standard. On Thursday, the annual dinner was held at the Pencelli Hotel, Treorky, where a large and representative gathering assembled to do justice to the excellent repast so magnificently prepared by host and hostess Mr and Mrs Jenkins. The past-prandial proceedings, which were of a most entertaining nature, were presided over by Mr W. H. Owen. The following was the programme carried out in order named Song, "When on the far atlantic wave," Mr Ben Hopkins Gramapbone solo, "Kaiser's March"; Song, "In Old Madrid," Mr T. P. Jenkins toast of "JThe Queen," proposed by Mr J. Ashley and en thusiastically drunk; comic aong, "Blowing 'em out," Mr J. Phillips, which was encored and responded to with I live underneath"; gramaphone solo, Laughing Son- 11 and U Off to Philadelphia Song, Bugail Abergwm," Mr D. Evans comic, Sister Mary wants to know," Miss Beatie Griffiths" encore song, Buy me some almond rock comic song, "Slap Daf,"I Mr J. Griffiths, again encored, Could'nt help it"; toast of the "Visitors," proposed by Mr G. Ithel Thomas, responded to by Mr W. Thomas song, Mother on the Beach," Mr Ben fiopkins comic song, Out Lodser's such a nice young man," Messrs Byan Griffiths and Jenkins; toast, "The Cyclinr Club," proposed in splendid style by the Chairman, and responded to by the captain. Mr Dd. J. Ryan topical verses, Mr G. Ithel Thomas Comic, Mr D. Jeremiah, My Girl, f or which he was encored, Hungry from Dowlais" being rendered humorous recitation. "Sally's Lament." Mr E. P. Pryce; toast, "Host and Hostess," proposed by Mr D. Thomas aDd responded to by Mr T. P. Jenkins. The anini of Hen Wlad fy Nhadau brought to an end a mqst successful and enjoyable evening. The arrangements were veiy satisfactory, aDd credit is due to the officials including Mr E. J. Pryce, secretary; Mr T. P. Jenkins, treasurer; Mr D. J. Ryan, captain; and Mr J. Jones, viee- captain.