Glamorgan Free Press

> ABERGWYNFL Again, the parish is thrown into the throes of another election campaign, this time for three District Councillors. Two of the retiring candidates are in the- field, viz., Mr Daniel Evans, County Alderman; and Mr David Rich- ards, grocer. The other candidates arc Mr Howell John, colliery manager, Abergwynfi, end Mr Lewis Davies, schoolmaster, Cymrner. It is very difficult to forecast the result of the District Council Election which takes place on Monday next. Two of the candidate-, viz Mr Daniel Evans and Mr David Richards, ate retiring members, and have on this, as on :111 previous occasions. issued a joint election address. The other two candidates from Aber- gwyr.fl a:-(' jh f1.:w.-I[ John and. ldris Waters. Mr Jehn is enthi>;ia>tie;i>ly supported bv a considerable section of Lis workmen. Mr Idris Waters appears before the electors a" i., Labour and Socialist candidate. The other two candidites, Mr l>v.-is Davies and Mr J. Howelis, hail Jrorn Cymrner and Glynoorrwg, ectivelv.

J.}.. L..t .I CAERPHILLY. TOWN WARD. Tito four candidates in this Ward who are contesting the three seats on the Council arc busily stirring themselves into activity, and meetings are being held almost nightly. On Monday evening, Councillor William Thomas. the present vice-chairman of the Council, de- livered a telling address, a verbatim report of which appears elsewhere in this issue, and thoroughly and satisfactorily gave an account of his stewardship during his past term of office. His meeting was a very enthusiastic one, and his re-election is assured, and de- servedly so. No member of the Council has done more for the sanitation of the district than Mr Thomas, and his determined efforts to secure for the Caerphilly Urban District a perf ct sewerage syst-emand a pure supply of water should be well borne in mind on Mon- day. —o- Mr James Powdl, Bradford Cottage, held a most successful meeting on Tuesday. Mr S. Wilson in the chair, and public feeling strong- ly inches--io the opinion that he will run a good second to Mr Thomas. The other two candidates are on the alert, and straining every nerve to make their return certain. The four contestants are thoroughly good men and capable for the work required, but unfortun- ately the door must be cicsed to one, and we are afraid that the unfortunate one will turn cut to be Mr John Evans. A sporting friend has furnished us with the latest prices quoted on the course. They are:- Dwfr Pur, evens (takcn and offered). St. Fagan. 2 to 1 against (t). Bethel, 3 to 1 against. Theodolite, 5 to 1 against.

Caerphilly fioqcof|formists and te District Counci! Election. A conference of representatives of the Free Churches of Caerphilly and district was held at Windsor Restaurant recently, under the presidency of the Rev R. E. Cape, Wesleyan minister. A vote of condolence with Bethel Welsh Independent Church and the family of the late Mr Henry Anthony. J.P., Bryncen- ydd, was passed. Mr Phillip Davies, builder, Caerphilly, who iook the initiative in this movement, strongly urged the advisability of forming u Free Church Council for the town and district. After a lengthy discussion it wa3 ultimately decided to form such council, which v'as proposed by the Rev A. O. Hopikns (B.). and seconded by Mr D. T. Salathiel. -(1- The Rev C. Tawelfryn Thomas, Groeswcn, then read a paper, in which he advocated a Public Cemetery for the parish of Eglwysilan, and explained the Acts bearing thereon. Sub- seouently, it was decided to form a committee of the following gentlemen:—Revs R. T. Cape. T. Jones Davies. C. Tawelfryn Thomas, A. O. Hopkins, and Mr Phillip Davies, secretary, to draw up the following series of questions to be submitted to the candidates now contesting the various seats -()-- Sir,—On behalf of the Caerphilly and Dis- trict Free Church Council, we beg respectfully to call your attention to the following facts, and in view of these facts to submit to you two question—1. Free Churchmen consider a Cemetery necessary for the parish of Eglwys- ilan 2, Application for such a Cemetery has already been made to the Distric tCouncil. 3. Unless granted by the said Council applica- tion will bo made to the Local Government Board, when the matter will be carried out at greater cost to the ratepayers. 4, We do not object to a public religious service at the open, ing of such a Cemetery, to be conducted by the Christian ministers of the parish. 5, We do strongly object to the consecration (legal or otherwise) of any portion of the Cemetery, an i for the following reasons: (a) Consecration involves important legal and pecuniaarv conse- quences affecting all the inhabitants of the parish, whether they be Churchmen or Dis- senters. (b) In consecrated countries parochia.l incumbcnts. clerks, and sextons have the same rights and authority in regard to burial ser- vices, and are also entitled to receive the same fees as they have previously received, and re- ceived in the parochial churchyards. These fees include the ope-ning of graves, the right to erect tombstones, monuments, and railings. Moreover, they are payable to the incumbent even when he does not officiate, and the services arc conducted bv Nonconformist minis- ters. c). Marten's Act confers on the Bishop of the Diccese certain authority in eonseera- teel cemeteries. A chape), must be built. A chaplain (approved by the Bishop) must he appointed. A eatary must lie paid to this cbciplain, which salary must be fixed by the Bishop, and paid by the ratepayers. The questions we desire to submit to you arc as follows: 1. Are you in favour of a public cemetery for the parish of Eglwysilan? 2. Will you, if elccted, oppose the consecra- tion (legal or otherwise) of any portion of such a cemetery, and thus affirm that, however divided men may be in life. in death there shall be no distinction or separation. We shall feel grateful if you will send your answers to the above questions to the secretary on or be- fore next Wednesday. We may add that both questions and replies will be printed in the "Glamorgan Free Press." and also in circular form. We are, Sir, On Behalf of the Council, Yours faithufliy, Robert F. Cape, T. Jones Davies. C. Tawelfryn Thomas, A. O. Hopkins. Phillip Davies, Secretary. -0- The replies of the candidates are as follows: CAERPHILLY.—TOWN WARD. Councillor W. Thomas, in reply to he first question, answers, "Yes, certanily, if desired by the ratepayers," and to the second ques- tion, "I should oppose any consecreation or distinction, or separation that would tend to increased charges upon the rates, or tend to take (tway any of the control from the repre- sedatives of the public, who provide the ceme- tery. Mr James Powell, answers thus, "Yes, providing the application comes from a public meeting of ratepayers especially convened for that purpose. To the second question he e,tt- swers '"Yes." Mr John Evans says 'That if a public cemetery has become a necessity, I shall be ready to (To all I can to estabilsh it." As to the second question, he thinks it should be submitted to a candidate for a seat on the Burial Board, rather than to a candidate for q seat on the District 'Council. At the same time he thinks that there should be no distinc- tion between ono plot of ground and another in a graveyard, supported out of the public rrtes, and that the bye-laws of the Burial Board should administer alike to one and all. Mr Joseph Howell says "Yes," but on the pur- chasing of the necessary land, laying and draining, the same for a cemetery, the erec- tion of boundary walls, chapel, and caretaker's house, would meftn the expenditure of a large sum of money. I should, before moving in the matter, call a meeting of ratepayers and ascer- tain what their views would be as to its loca- tion and time of commencement. To me second question he again says "Yes, for I con- tend that inasmuch as the cemetery will have to be provided and maintained by the public. that the public, both Conforimsts and Noncon- formists, are entitled to equal privileges and benefits. -J- ABER WARD. This Ward has three seats, for which there ure five candidates. Mr David Thomas' replies are "Yes" to the first question and to the second question, "r will oppose the consecra- tion of any portion of the cemetery by the re- presentative of any religious sect whatever. -o- Mr Eleazar Lewis. To the first question he says "Yes, decidedly," and to the second, "1 am prepared to do my utmost in opposing the consecreation (legal or otherwise) of any por- tion of such cemetery. -0- Mr Edmund Evans. Aber, says: "I am in favour of a public cemetery. If elected, I shall oppose consecration in any form. --8-- Mr Robert Lotigher and Mr John Lewis afe both candidates for seats in this Ward,, but as both candidates for seats in this Ward,, but as yet no replies have been received from them. The duties of Free Churchmen in Aber Ward at the forthcoming elections can easily be dis- cc-rned from the foregoing replies, and it is to b hoped that they will be loyal to their Non- conformist principles. May they realise that this a part of the battle for religious equality. I urge upon them to record their votes for Messrs Thomas, Evans, and E. Lewis, and to do their utmost to secure their triumphant re- turn.—Yours faithfully, PHILLIP DAVIES, Secretary. Caerphilly and District Free Church Council.

F Thjngs Theatrical. CLARENCE THEATRE, PONTYPRIDD. PROViiD TRUE." The above emotional and sensational drama which occupies the boards at the Clarence this week has been well received each evening, ,i)le company consists of Miss Emma Rainbow's fltmous o- 1, including Mr Herbert Princep as Robe< t .Tbynne." The songs introduced in the plav are charming and sprightly, and the singers each eveniug soon establish themselves as favourites, possessing as they do exceptional talent in this direction. The clrima, which is ooo of the finest produced at this popular place of amusement, without a doubt deserves a v'sit from all play-goer.-?. "THE SIGN OF THE CROSS." Patrons of our local theatre cannot complain of the diversity of the dramatic menu provided to satisfy their appetites by Mr Jones. Next Monday will be presented for the first time at the Clarence Wilson Barrert's masterpiece, I "The Sign of the Cross," which will be per- formed in its entirety by Mr Ben Greet's well known company, this will be repeated on Tuesday and Wednesday on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, the grand Cambrian Miustrel Troupe make their first appearance before a Pontypridd audiance, there are forty artistes announced, including a number of the Roya, Male Voice earty. The company, piloted by Mr Fred Harris, the champion tambourine player, will have a full band and chorus and bids fair to draw crowded houses during their visit. A special grand sacred concert has been arranged for Sunday night, April 2nd, par- ticulars of which wdl ba announced in our next week's issue. I

Church Sunday School Association. St. JOHN'S SCHOOL, GHAIG, WINNER OF THE SHIELD. At a quarterly meeting of the Pontypridd Church Sunday School Association, held in the Pari-di Rooms on Monday evening last, St John's Sunday School, Graig, was reported to I have done more real hard work during the last q'ai ter. and had shown more development a.nd growth than any other Church School in the Parish, and was, therefore, the winner of the much coveted Competition Shield presented by Mr Firbauk King.

Llwynypia. An interesting and edifying lecture was delivered on the Dominion of Canada at the Co-operative Hall, Llwynypia, on Wednesday evening.

Tonyrefail. An enthusiastic meeting of the H. arts of Oak members was held in the Board Schools on Saturday. The chairman and several other prominent members spoke highly of Mr F Judd, who addressed them in reference to the forth- coming contest for seats on the Delegate Board. A vote of confidence, as well as a pledge to further support his candidature, was accorded to Mr Judd.

Tonypandy. Two grand performances of G. F. Root's sacred cantata entitled, The Building of the Temple" were given at the English Wesleyan Chapel, Tonypandy, on Thursday and Saturday evenings, by the chapel choir, conducted by Mr George Symmonds (member of toe Royal Glee Society), There was a large attendance on Thursday evening, the chapel being filled to its utmost capacity. Aid. R. Lewis J.P., presided on Thursday, while Mr D. W Davies did likewise on Saturday evening. The choir and Sunday school children, who presetted a very smart appearance, went through their choruses without a hitch from beginning to end. their singing being of a high standard and was undeniably of a very instructive character and well appreciated. Mr Simson opened the proceedings in prayer, while the chairman, Aid. Richard L"wis, J.P., delivered an elaborate address. The reader baing the Rev R. Kennedy pLtor of the church. The soioists were :— soprano, Miss C. Jones, Penygraig contralto, Miss P. Nicholas, Trealaw tenor, Mr Henry Rees, Coedymeibiou; bass, Mr George H. Hayer, Tonypandy. Trio pieces were also rendered by Misses C. Jor.es, P. Nicholas, a d P. Cousins. The organists were Mr J. R iduer, atid Miss M. Tasker; accompanist, Mr Tom Stephens flautist, Mr Maddocit, Coedymeibion Mr Symonds, as instructor and conductor deserves credit for the able way in which he had prepared the choir for the occasion. The proceeds were devoted to the jWesleyan Trust Fund. On Sunday at the English Weshn an Chapel, Tonypandy, the pastor, Rev It Kennedy, preached the funeral sermon of one of the oldest preachers connected with the English Wes- leyans, the late Mr John Smart, who was recently buried at Trealaw Ceme tery by the officiating ministers Revs Geo. Making and R. Kennedy. Previous to the intermeuc an im- pressive service was held at the above place of worship when the Rev J. Bacon, Primitive Methodist, Revs R. Kennedy and G. Making, ministers of the Rhondda Circuit, witti Mr Phelps of Treherbert, delivered most eloquent addresses to the old gentleman's relatives and friends, while the following hymns were sung, which had been seiected two years ago by the deceased and given to Mr W. Williams, who conducted the singing on the day of his funeral, "There is a world above," "Give me the wings of faitil to rise," "For ever with the Lord, Hippy Souls," "All Hail the Power," "Lead kiud-y Light," etc. The Kev R. Kennedy took for his text on Sunday, the 14th chapter of Revelations and 13th vease "And I heard a voide from Heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from tl eir labours and their works do follow them."

Ciltynydd. A grand bazaar was held in the B ard Schools, Cilfynydd, on Saturday, Monday, and Tuesday, in connection with the Moriah Weisli Congrega- tional Church. The stalls and schoolroom were very prettily decorated by lady members of the church assisted by Messrs T. B. Evans, Bristol House, and Evan Evans, Cambrian House. The opening ceremony was performed on Saturday by Miss Spickett, Bronwydd, Pontypridd; on Monday by Mrs Jones, Albion Villa, Cilfynydd cu Tuesday by Councillor W. R. Davies, Pont- ypridd. The stalls were provided over by the following ladiesNo. 1 stall (drapery and fancy goods) Mrs Williams, School House.; Mrs Evans, Bristol House Mrs Davies, Tea Caddy Mrs Davies, Marj Street Mrs Isaac, Mrs Davi(is, Ann Street; Miss Gronow, Miss Williams and Miss M. A. Davies. No. 2 stall (drapery and fancy ggods), Mrs Williams, Moriah House Mrs George, Mary Street; Mrs Evans, Tea. Stori-s Mrs Jonec, Richard Street; Miss Davies, Carmarthen House, Pontypridd: Miss Williams, Berw Road, Pontypridd and Miss Sarah Davies, Howell Street. No. 3 stall (drapery and fancy goods), Mrs Thomas, Em- porium Mrs Evans, Cambrian House; Mrs Coristopher, Mrs Thomas, Ystwyth House; Miss Jones, Albion Villa Miss Blanche Llewelyn Miss Laura Thomas, and Miss Winnie Thomas. Flower stall—Mrs Roberts, Mrs Evans, Richard Street; Mrs Jones, Richard Street; Mrs James, Howell Street; Miss M. Thomas, Ann Street; and Miss Lizzie Jones, Workmen's Hall. Fruit and sweet stall—Mrs Evans, Ann Street; Mrs Williams, Howell Street; Mrs Williams, Ann and sweet stall-Mrs Evans, Ann Street; Mrs Williams, Howell Street; Mrs Williams, Ann Street Mrs Mathews, Ann Street Miss Gwen Llewelyn, Miss Emma Gronow, Miss Hodges, and Miss Nellie Williams. Refreshment stall- Mrs Phillips, William Street; Mrs 'Harris William Street; Mrs Harris, Ann Strep Mrs Williams, Wood Street: Mrs Roberts, Richard Street; Mrs Williams, William Street; and Mrs Jones, Jones Street. Provision stall—Miss Maggie Brown and Maggie Evans. The bazaar was a thorough success and a handsome sum of money was realised.

Uantrisant. A grand concert was held at the Penuel Calvinistic Methodist Chapel on Wednesday when the following eminent artistes took part: soprano, Miss Eleanor Jones, R.A.M. contralto, Miss Cassie Rees, R.A.M. tenor, Mr Richard Thomas, I.lanelly bass, Mr Gabriel P. Williams, Treherbert accompanist, Prof. T. D. Edwards, Pontypridd chairman, Mr P. Dunn, Crofta Hall. Appended is the programme:- overture. Prof. Edwards song, Lend me your aid," Mr Thomas gonir, Revenge, Timotheu9 cries," Mr G. Williams, encored, responded with an effective rendering of Hiraeth song, 11 Vainka song," Miss Jones, encored, and sang Lieiii y cariadau song, The voice of the, Father," Miss Rees. encored, responded with the beautiful solo from Elijah, But. the Lord is mindful of his own": duet, "Hywel Blodwen" Miss Jones end Miss Thomaq, encored; pianoforte solo, Professor Edwards, and was vociferously encored. He responded with one of his own compositions and was greatly appreciated; song, "Tears," Miss Jones, encored, and sang Gwlad y Delyn": son, "True to the last," Mr G. Williams; song, "Queen of the Earth," Mr Thomas, encored, and gave a line rendering of "Mary Lee"; song, "A Summer niciht,' Miss Rees, encored duet, Love and War," Messrs G. Williams and Thomas: quartetf, "In this hour of softened splendour.' Misses Jones and Rees and Messrs Thomas and Williams Great p.aise is due to the committee in organ- ising su, i-I a grand concert. The programme was a very classical one and 8,11 tV* :,r,istes acquitted themselves in a most, creditible manner. One of the artistes, Miss Casaie Rees (contralto), was the wiuner of a gold medal at the Royal Academy on March 13th out of 28. After the usual vote of tltanlf to the Chairman, the concert cam" to a close in singing. "Hen Wlad fy Nhadau," the solo boiog taken by M as Jones.

COMPESTION ACT. OPINION OF Mr. JAMES MILES. Mr James Miles, agent of the National Colliery, Wattstown, speaking at the Conservative Club, Pontypridd, on Tuesday night, when Mr Gordon Lenox presided, referred to the late strike, and declared that those who did the most mischief also profited most by it. It was only after waste of resources and au industrial war un- paralleled for its terrible consequences that terms wtre eventually arranged—terms which might and ought to have been accepted at first. Dealing with the Workmen's Compensation Act, Mr Miles stated that Mr Ben Piokard, president of the Miners' Federation, had described it as one of the most contentious, most fruitful in litigation, a.uI most harmful of Acts. Mr W. Abraham (Mabon) happened to be present when Mr fickard expressed that opinion, and as he offered no comment they took it by hi-i silence that he tacitly acejuiesced in the accuracy and justice of Mr Pickard's forcib!e remarks. Not- withstanding the passionate appeals of Mabon and his friends to the miners to cling to the. benefits of the Act, no less than 22,0u0 Welsh miners had contracted out of it. County Court Judges had confirmed Mr Pickard's opinions, and bad also condemned the Act as one of the most unworkable ever placed on the Statute Book. Since it was passed accidents had increased instead of decreased, as was promised The Act, however, had its redeeming features.

Seqghenydd. On Tuesday, Mr Dan Lloyd, schoolmaster, delivered an interesting and edifying lecture at a well-attended meeting of the Senghenydd and Aber Debating Society held at the Assembly Rooms. The lecture was illustrated by lime-light views.

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to act Cd [Jf': Gas cuid Water Conimittoe. and should n ,In make a very useful member. —o— Mr Samuel's candidature is held in high es- teem, and the ambitious spirit in which he has entered the contest should be repaid. He possesses high talents, which, if given a. chance of action. are bound to repay the voters for the co' leneo asked of them. --0-- Mr one of the old members, is so he needs no lengthy refer- ence. The pub :e h ve in Mr Jenkins a repre- sentative t"iat fcr taeo and ability we could not wiyh tetter. He has enjoyed the confidence cf the electorate for a period extending as fat- blck: '15 lo/8. During tli- interval he has scrveci on the School Board from its formation ill 18i3; on the old Local Board, for a large manlier nf years: :1' since t.hat Beard censed to exist en the present Urron District Council. He has. undoubtedly, through his practical knowledge in wricus directions, combined with h!s sound judgment, a big share in many of Lhe and sanitary improvements which the has benefited frem. On all matters relating to the routine of the Council's duty, we can unhesitatingly consider Mr Jen- ktns as expert. No more efficient repre;?cnta- tiv on our pnoi/c bofnes could be secured, and Mr Jenkins' devoted interest in the place, to- gether with his ceaseless efforts to promote the v.-f•{'arc of the community .are virtues which should chim for lÙll valuable support in the present contest. He had a particular interest in the transfer cf the Gas and Water concern to the Council, a'1í that such an e\"nt has prove! a been to the district is an evidetv, fact. We cannot, dwell too much puon Mr Jenkins' claims and qualities, and in taking into bis laborious and faithful services int lie past, we cannot but anticipate his easy return on the present occasion. It be the duty oc the electorate to place in him a renewal cf confidence, for the services ot snc'a a valuable member could not be ig- nond. -0-- Mr W. T. Jones is the other old representa- tives seeking re-election. He places his ser- vices for re-election on the unanimous wish cf a ratepayers' meeting. Surely no other course could ha™ been adopted, for when we take Mr Jones' fine record for the last three years into ccn.-i'l'-raticn. it would only be natural on the part of the electorate to repose further confidence in him. We are being infcrmed that Mr Jones has gained a notorious distinction by his popular and enterprising debut, on tha retiring Council. By his manifesto we are told that he consistently advocated the re- division of the Wards, and the 'polling booths, whereby the Trcorky district has gained a great deal, and Cwmnark blessed with the privilege of a polling pJact" of its own. The importance of this radical change finds its importance in the more able and just representation, es- pecially to this Ward, Mr Jones enjoyed the privilege of being chairman of the Finance Committee on the last Council, and has distinguished himself in that capacity. Mr Jcnes also held a record attendance on both Council and Committee meetings. A retro- spect of lir Jones' labours in connection with the work of the Council should convince the electorate of his claims, which are certainly appreciative. -0-- Mr E .P. Davies, with previous election ex- perience, once more piaces his services at the disposal of the community, and in so doing claims to know the requirements cf the district. He appears to lay stress upon t,he fact that I.. .L h3 is a defender and supporter of the poor. and may be hi:; period of service as Guardian confirms this fact. Wo cannot confess to admire all In* points urged forward in his elation manifesto. The subject. of back strcrts seems to have a peculiar interest for Mr Davies. Being a resident in such a quarter himself he is certainly entitled to air their grievances. He gives prominence to the sufferings of bye-street inhabitants from want 0: light and roads- worthy of the rates incurred We would \vi-b to press the fact forward that if the Council have no control over such neg- lected portions, then they are not to blame for the deficiencies. This is a matter that should be first placed before the estate owners antl if r.ropcr attention is elicited from that quarter, or the roads transferred to the Coun- cil. then the latter can proceed in the matter. Mr Davies is perfectly right in giving vent to the necessity of such improvements, but if reeled could not hope to do anything mater- ial hevod placing the bare facts before the Council for the consideration of the latter. r. Davies also promises to do all in his power to keep the rates down, which impracticable thing eoupid never be done without seriously interfering with the efficiency and healthy con- dition of the locality. We certainly are aware that the rates are burdensome, but still the more important attention to th: people's wel- fare from every point of view must be con- sidered before a mere £ s. d. matter. Mr Davies holds a considerable influence, and is sure to cause endless troubles, if not actually elected, as hie promise to the Relief Committee during the Cord Crisis (if such a fact carries with it any qualifications) will win for him a surprising omotiut of support. Wliaetver ^may be his actual claims as a cnadidate, we can- not vote approval to his election manifesto. —o—■ The election wliich is to take palee in the Rhonada next Monday has not as yet aroused -th interest which is usual in contests of this kind. The electioneering development has been somewhat sluggish, and poor John Jones begs to be left alone to rest in peace with his .own home and his little industry. 'ThQ terrible strike struggle of only seven months ago has iett him in that lethargic condition wihch is incompatible with the effervescent luxuries of ■flamboyant speeches, irrepressible innuendoes, and the addresses of love, admiration, and a deep sympathy for his eternal welfare, which he receives from a ho3t of humble and obed- ient servants, ready to sacrifice Lnw, money. hth.'U-. ALL. yes, ALL. for his vote and inter- in the c-cwmg election. The truth is, the in Ins trial classes of this teeming population are under water. <ind it will take a Goliath to rouse them to an electioneering pitch of enthu- siasm. The Lillipnt aspirant for any honours that co:r.cs his way is neither sauce for the goose nor for the gander. Such is the general fJU look of affairs throughout the distirct. Still. ihp election must take place oil the 27th inst., the poll, although it will not he so heavy :1S it has been, will probably be a fair one. For candidates they are "Galore." For three w,At-; in the No. 3 Ward there are nine aspir- ants, alt of whom hail from. the Ward, and Who arff, ivithout- cxceplion. the vieticjs of heavy rates and an exorbitant expnediture.For the reasons I have noted, as well as the fact that the majority of the candidates are prac- tically unknown quantities to public affairs, it is difficult to prognosticate the result of this contest. There seems to be no difficulty in finding the Bottom of th3 Poll. He is a gentleman who unfortunately, notwithstanding his great sympathy with the poor and needy, and his sacrifice and untiring efforts at all ur.ttes for the benefit and the amelioration of the poor working man. is unconscionably to be letT out in the cold, and according to the gen- eral opinion of the nonce, is to be unmercifully left, not in the limbo of forgetfulness, but the Bottom. What has surprised the natives is that he has not taken to the hust- ings and shown his practical knowledge of sur- veying, sewers, and adoptive measures, and also his great intellectual eapaicty and his un- bounded confidence in his ability to shine, anti. to outshine the eight satellites who are his rivals. We can only infer that his silence on this great and momentous occasion is due to the lack cf public accommodation in the dis- trict for holding public meetings. We expect every day to hear of his having taken to the Kialto an 1 the by ways to proclaim his genius to this ignorant and short-sighted populace. We do not wish to say who this wonderful personality is, neither shall we give a prize to any of our readers for naming this unfor- tunute phenomenon. Well, what about the Top of the Poll, i.e., No. 1? The prediction i- that the old veteran, the treasurer of the Miners' Association, will run hard for that position. His professions arc simple and un- ostentatious, and although his address is a little strong, and, perhaps, confidant, he can aff undoubtedly to appeal with greater fores and confidence for the colliers' votes than any odter of the: c;Jndid:-itrs. —o— Now for No. 2. The opinion goes with the builder from Ton, who has P. very good and sterling reputation, and who, they say, will he or useful service to the Board. Very few we found to venture the name of No. 3. It will, they say. be a race. and a very close one, be. tween the ironmonger and the heavy weight solicitor. Amongst a large number of the electors, the heavy-weight solicitor is person- ally most popular, and his advent into public life would oe welcomed by a host of admiring friends. Remarkable it is that Old Coffee seems to be forgotten by the knowing ones. He has been many chocs underrated before and to the chagrin and dismay of his enemies he has managed to outstrip them in many a race. Still we believe that his career is draw- ing to a close. The opinion expressed is that his chances lie in the fact of there being so many candidates, and that the old Coffeeites are, therefore, strong enough to just push him in. The heavy weight solicitor will very likely beat the lighter cne. because of his personal popularity, and also because he is chaperoned and looked after by that old veteran, the Welsh General. There is a strong opinion in favour of having on the Board one of Her Majesty's gentlemen of the Law. If the young one happens to boat the older one, with all his advantages, it will surely be a famous vic- tory. It is purely f. matter of speculation. But who is No. 3? That is the question. Is it the so-called Labour Candidate from Ton, who is at present caretaker of the Ton Li- brary? They say he is backed by the Baptist, and not by the general labour party. If that is so, his claims are nil, and his title a misno- mer, and his chances, therefore, are put of reckoning. As far as we are able to find out there is very little talk of the other candi- date. who is one of the oldest tradespeople in the Ward, and who has not taken part until now in any public affairs. We only give odds on the Top and the Bottom. -r- It is election time, and even bards must not be shut out from giving his ncetiofd bile. The following lines come from the Poet Laureate of Xo. 3 Ward. We are sorry for the other can- didates for the handicap of "no poet." We insert it because it fill save us the trouble of summarising the very many strong points of Mi Treharae. If the poet snid. "Treharne yw'r dyn etholaf" instead of "ethoiion. he would have adopted a more moelest strain. —o—■ Ton. '"=-;o Eariy in the Morning." Y mac Treharne o'r Fentre'n wir Yll Gymro glan o waed cocli pur; Mae'n meduU ar gymhwysder mawr I sefyll drosom megys cawr. Cydgan: — Treharne yw'r dyn etholwn, Treharne yw'r dyn etholwn, Treharne yw'r dyn etholwn, I ddod a llc-s i ni. 0 fewn y Pentre ganwyd ef, A thrcs ei ethol dyrchwn lef; Un mawr ao blaid y gwan, A thros ei ethol gwnawn ein rhan. Cydgan :—Treharne dyn etholwn, Os ydyin am gymydog cu. I wylied ein hiawnderau ni, Etholwn ddyn o deulu da. A gweithio beunydd drosom wna. Cydgan —Treharne yw'r dyn etholwn, Cyfreitliiwr yw c. feddwl cryf I ddadlf.'ll'l} hawlinu inewn modd hyf; Yn meddu cyinhwysderau iawn I wneyd Cynghorwr cywir llawn. Cydgan -Tr!Ja.rne yw'r dyn etholwn, Boneddwr yw o werth t'r byd, A mawrcdd yn ei wedd i gyd, Dydd Llun pleidleisiwn i Treharne, Y goreu yw yn ol ein. barn. Treharne ywr dyn etholwn, Treharne yw'r dyn etholwn, Treharne yw'r elyn etholwn, I I ddotl a lies i ni. 'NO. 4 WARD. Although there arc only four candidates con- testing for District Council honours in this Ward, the activity displayed by their suppor- ters in holding meetings, and systematically canvassing the district during this week, has been phenomenal. Much greater interest is evinced than that taken in the No. 3 Ward, where over twice the number are contesting. The general opinion in the district seem; to be that Mr Thonfas Thomas will head the pel!, with Mr W. D. Wight an 1 Dr W. K. Thomas following. We sincerely regret to hear that the other candidate, Mr Evan Morgan, has been taken seriously ilL His supporters, how. ever, are leaving no stone unturned in endea- vouring to' secure his return. -0-- On Tuesday evening, the supporters of Mr W. D. Wight's candidature held a splendidly- attended public meeting at Bryn Seion Chapel, Gelly. Mr William Vaughan occupied the chair, supported by Messrs Hugh Rees. Rev T. Evans. T. Mason, Moses Reed, T. Pliippin, Duraall, J. Pearce, Mr Brocks, B. Heycock, Dan Davies, and T. Davies. In addressing the meeting, the above namer-geutlemen ex- I presser their satisfaction with the manner Mr Wight had represented them during his past term of office. They believed he had been a faithful member on the Council. He was a man of practical experience, and thut exper- ience he gave to the public, sacrificing every- thing in their interest. His motto was, "What is worth doing, is worth doing well." There was a strong feeling in the district that Mr Wight should be returned owing to his general knowledge and engineering experience, which was of the greatest advantage to the rate- payers, not only of Ward No. 4, but the whole of the Wards. Their failure to return him would certainly prove a great disadvantage and loss to them, and moreover, the Board would appear to be empty. (Laughter). Re- ferring to the new proposal of Mr White's for obtaining an extended water supply for the t district, one of the speakers said that Wales could afford to let England have their supply of water from the Welsh valleys, but they had a gentleman amongst them who was capable of extracting water from the bowels of the earth to supply them. It was unanimously resolved that in the event of Mr Wight being returned, that they extend their support to enable him to carry out that scheme. After expressing the utmost confidence in Mr Wight, it was unanimously resolved to support his candidature. NO. 5 WAIVD. Perhaps the fight in No. 5 Ward is one that illustrates the best example of a clear issue. There is no blinking the fact that Mr Thomas Evans, the Bush Hotel, did promise to stand hy the decision of the meeting held at Blacn- clydach—his own home as it were. His de- feated colleagues did the same, and they are standing down hi order to uphold the prin- ciple of the sacred character of a promise. The conveners of the meeting have issued a circu- lar to the electorate, in which this solemn fact is rubbed in with telling effect. We arc told that Mr Evans winces under its castigation, and no wonder, because Mr Evans is an hon- oured man despite his great ambiiion, and must, therefore, feel that in thus coming out after pledging his word not to come out, to cause an election, he is acting "off-side." Tho 11 electors complain, that is. those who still be- lieve an honourable man ought to keep his word, that Mr Evans is not showing a good example of the purity of public life by starting by "breaking his word." For instance. Mr Evans in his address promises a good many things -he is going to see that all ratepayers are going to be served with an equality never before seen, he is going to see lights in dark places, and, of course, like every freshman who seeks these honours, he is going to reduce the rates so that the working class shall have a great reduction in house rent. Then, again, Postal delivery on Sunday at Clydach Vale and a Good's Station at Clydach. Now this is a very grand show of promises. Not only he promises to revolutionise the District Council, but the Post Office Authorities and the Great Western Railway Company and the Taff Vale Railway Company will have to know that, if he is elected on the District Council, Mr Councillor T. L. Evans will be no ordinary man when he starts on his reforming campaign But here is the rub, "This gentleman," says the intelligent voter, made a promise at Nodd- fa Hall on St. David's Day of the year, to carry out a pledge he then made, but he smashed that, and what guarantee have I that ) ho will keep all these grand promises? And hesays further, "What proof of power can he lie give that they will be accomplished?" He says that he has lived 20 years in this District, and yet the Sunday Postal Delivery and the Gecds Station are not here, and it did not re- quire that a man should lie made a District Councillor before starting to serve the public. —c—- These hard-headed workmen can see through bunkum of this sort. Any candidate who thinks he can rush the electorate with such shots is far wide of the Bull's Eye. Nothing irritates a sensible man mors than this ala. fashion hunting. It is no wonder, tehrefore, that the promoters of the meetnig are making a protest against a man who plays fast and loose with a. promise. We require some stern, cr moral stuff than that before we (al1 hope for improvement in the calizre of our public men. We have no personal quarrel with Mr Evans, in many respects he is a good sort when ho gets his own way, but as a pbulic represen- tative after this incident of St. David's Day, lie forfeits the good opinion which we should like to hold. The three candidates selected are going together, and we trust that their supporters will stand loyally to the arrange- ment. There should be but a reasonable mar- gia between the three on the poll. and the proof of keeping the (promises will be too plainly seen in the result to escape the notice of the electors. Therefore, vote for Evan Williams, Rhvs Griffiths, and John Gilmour, as the honest ticket in this Ward. NO. 9 WARD. We congratulate this Ward on having pre- vailed upon Alderman Mathias to consent to lii > being nominated. It appears that he had definitely decided to retire after serving the cemmuniiy for over 16 years. When this be- came generally known three deputations from different localities visited him, and the pres- sure was suah that he very reluctantly gave way,and allowed himself to be nominated. The result is gratifying to the community gener- ally, as he is undoubtedly an expert. He may no' indulge in great oratorical displays, but tho amount of Parliamentary work done by Inn, and delicate negotiations carried on. in- vclving the saving of expenditure of thousands of pounds, is not known but to his fellow-rnem- bers, who always select him as a suitable gentleman for such work. Mr Smith is well known, and will prove a useful member. Mr Rees is r.ot so well-known, hut we confidently expect they will work well. We cannot help; repeating our expressions cf regret at the ) withdrawal of Mr Miles, who would be a source of strength as a member of the Council. NO. 10 WARD. We are glad to find from particulars sup- plied us by a correspondent that in the new members seat from this Ward a strong man has boon found. Tho following particulars vill be interest :ng — Mr Edward Griffiths was born at Aberyst- wyth in 1550, spent some time in Beauofrt Monmoutiishira, as a draper's assistant, from which place he left for Mardy 21 years ago. -()-- He was immediately appointed Post-master, which post he has held ever since. lie is re- cognised by all as a hard worknig, mdsutrious, man, persevering, and will undoubtedly, prove an able Councillor. He was educated princi- pally under the tuition of 'his brother. Alder- man J. J. Griffiths, Pcnygraig, and has fol- kwed in his footsteps in doing all he can with every good movement, both educationally and socially. He also took an active part in assist- ing the men when on strike, subscribing hand- somely. Mr Griffiths is a man possessed of good commanding intelligence, and is an all- round good man. He is a Liberal in politics. He was unanimously chosen by the electors of Mardy to represent them on the District Council, and had there been a contest un- doubtedly Mardy would have gone solidly for him. Mardy has been neglected for many years for the want of a representative, but we are confident that in Mr Griffiths the Ward will have a keen exponent of its needs.