Pontypool Free Press and Herald of the Hills

VOLUNTEER PRIZE DISTRIBU- TIONS. «A" COMPANY 3kD V.B. S.W. BORDERERS. Tilt; annual ptize distribution in connection with this Company was held at ttra Clarence Hotel, Pontypool, on Wednesday evening week.. After a march through town, headed by their fine band, the members of the Company and a few friends assembled in the brg room, where tables had been arranged on wbtich ware dis- played a tempting lot of geese, ducks, fowls bottles of spirits, &c. The cb?ir was occupied by Mai or 1). M. Lleweilin, wl?>> was -Mippoi ted by Capt H. J. Parkharst, G»pt. D. S. Divies {Abersychan), Surgeon J. R. Essex, 'and Sergt.- jnajor Johnston. At the outset, the Chairman said ne regcetteu "very much tbat'CoL Jacob aua jor Mitchell were not present to distribc-te theorizes. He had. masked them 'to corle, and had had avery kind letter from Major Mitchell sa3riog he could not be present, Colsnel Jaob said ne wotdd come, but he had not arrived, acid no doubt omething lad prevented him from. being raresefft. It there- fore devolved u pon hies, (the yhairnrin) todis- tribute the .prizes. If those i>entle*aen had at- tended, they might have tokl them more .*bout the inside working of the brigade than he? ould. As regarded their brigade camp, all he cou&d ten them was that from ?/eports whicb came down. General Fr«-emantte spoke very kughly ct them as a brigade. (Applause.) Without saving tui- ther, he (the ehaK-man) would distribute the prizes, and .call upoo. the ftiembcs to oome for- ward. according to their names. The prises were then distributed as follows REM, U- ITS PIUZ: E. C. Guttter, < s S i T.Wil-i liams, 5s; Jack Lewi*, Willie Morgan, atid William Jervisr5k (3d each. C'ORPS PRIZES. •-Sergt. €. Humphreys. £ 2; Bfend'sergt. G. Jerri?.' £llÙs: Ser-rt. 1:Y. Llcryd, -1;;1 5s Pte. E. Jordan. £ 1 Corpl. f. James, A2.">S Bandsman W. Watkhw, -12s fid: Drum-major A. Jarvis.'Q uartermadter-ser.L't. A. Lew is. Bandsmen E. Osborne aiu-I D. Bowen, Sercrt. H. J. Pasbhurec. Pte. C. Field. Bandsmec. J. 'Watkins. W. Maseley. W. Kisir. and'E. J. Roderick. 108 each.—Bandsmen E. C. G-,unter PLn Hiley. Ben •George. W. Howell; Pte. J. Barnes, landman .la-k Bowen. Bugler F.-Brace. Lance-corporal M. "Waite. Pte. Wm. Merediih. and. Bandsman T. Adev, 7e :d each.-Coril. Joe Edwards, Ptes. E. Phillips, J. Brown. Bandsman G. Whitfield, Bandmaster S. T. Roderick, Corpl.T.Moore, and Senrt. R. Jonclan. 5s each.—Ptw~. T. Prosser, J. Lewis. Wm. Morgan, Bandsmen A. J. Harris, D. R. Hiley, W. H. Janes, and T. George. >-6d each. The Chairman next called upon Surgeon Essex to present tbe -band prixf-s. Surgeon Essex said he would like to say how pleased he was with the band this year, and how pleased the officers bad been. The attendances had been so exceedingly good,.and the men had been an example to the regiment. He could en- -dorse fully the words of the commanding officer when he left the camp at Ewenuy With re- gard to the lrind, they have always given the .greatest satisfaction, and always been a guod example in their attendances and discipline on .all ocasions." He .(Surgeon Essex) would like to point out that out of a possible 110 attendances for practice and parade, Bandsman B. George had attended 107—only missing three times—and most of the hand had attended 90 times. (Ap- plause.) He thought that was saying a good deal. It was no use having-a band unless they attended well and stuck together, and at all times tried to work as one. He was very pleased last year., and, if anything, was better pleased this year- For a man to attend 107 out •of 110 times was a most creditable thing, and one which all who had an interest in volunteering must be very pleased with. '(Hear, hear.) With regard to the prizes, he wished they were more. They were got up under adeal of difficulty, as the band fund this year was at a low ebb. Owing to the inclement weather, they were only able to play 11 times in the Italian Gardens during the summer, and the expenses exceeded the receipts by £ 35, so that really thexe would have been no prizes whatever only for one or two kind friends. He (the speaker) found the town bad been dunned so much that they could not go to people again, but fortunately, as he said, one or two kind people came forward and gave the money, but really on the distinct understanding that the band would work well together next summer. Surgeon Essex then presented the prizes, as fol- lows BAXD PRIZES. B. George, £ 2 lOs; J. Watkins, Y.1 10s; Sern-t Jarvis, n 5s E. Adey, £ 1 J. Bowen, 16s Wm. George, 14s W. King'. 13s; W. Watkins, 12s A. J. Harris, 10s G. Whitfield, 8s 6d; J. Lewis, 7s (id A. Moses. 5s D. R. Hi-hley, 4s; E. J. Roderick, 3s; -0. Munday, 3s W. James, 3a. The Chairman said the next was what he con- fiidered the most important prize of all, and that was Mr. Hanbury's, who had always been .kind in giving the prize, as also did his father before him, the late Mr. Hanbury Leigh. (Ap- plause.) It was to encourage shooting, which was essential in every respect. It was, however, much better to have good average shooting than to have two or three crack shots. It was very Mud of Mr Hanbury to present the £ 10 annually, and he hoped their worthy Squire would long -continue to do so. (Applause.) The winners of the Marksmen's Prizes were as follows :— MR. J. C. HANBURY'S PRIZE. iColour-sergt. G. A. Macdonald (40 points) £ 10 MAJOR D. M. LLEWEjLLTN'S PRIZE. gt..major Johnstone (3-t poises) £3 The recipients were loudly applauded on step- ping forward. Capt. H. J. Parkhurst, after apologising for being present in mufti, said he had attended every presentation of prizes since he had bad the honour of belonging 'to the bs ttalion, excepting -once, in 1887, when he was ill bed. They had heard him very often in that room and other places, but it never gave him more pleasure than to. propose a hearty vote of thanks to the donors of the prizes. (Applause.) Tliere were many about them. and he could testify from experi- ence that when they appealed their friends they hardly ever got, a rebuff. They always gave, and save willingly, and he only wished that all the companies in the county were as well sup- ported with prizes as the "A 7 Company of their battalion. (Hear, heir.) Vabiabk. money prizes were given them by Mr. Hanbury and Major LleweUin: and many friends contributed in kind. Mr. Hanbury contributed tlO aimually ever since 186ft and when be (tbe speaker) wrote him in 1874, Mr. Hanbury kindly told him that the prize should be contInued. Long might he live to give it. (Applause.) Next to Mr. Hanbury, their worthy Major and his -esteemed father had given a second prize, so that the members had a chance of two prizes. He asked them to give a hearty vote of thanks to Mr. Banbury for his prize, and for his kindness in giving the use of the Italian Gardens for the Thursday, evening concerts also to Major Elewellin and eie other .donors ofypsrizes. (Hear, hear.) Surgeon-Essex said he would like to support the proposition thoroughly in 4wery way, as he felt, representing the band, that they owed a .great debt.of Gratitude. Flrstf all the band were greatly ijiaebted to Mr. B-aabury for allow- ing the use. of the Italian Garden* on Thursday .evenings throughout the summer, v and he .-as wire the people of Pontypool also Belt the 'boon very much. They were also uwifebted to 51r. Pegler for hi-3 veW handsome aid, aad to Mr- E. Jones and Mr. Butler. (Applause.j)- The proposition t?as carried with .acclamation and three cheers. The Chairman anscounced that the Christmas prizes would now be«listributed, adding that Mr. Wm. Parkhouse had kindly predated a pair of K boots, valued at 30s, whch would be -changed if they did not fit the winner. C!3!B3S33ftiS PRIZES. pt, Vaughan. pair of "K boots: Col.-sergt. 3IeDoui»ell, Corpl. C. Morgan.Serprts. C. Humphries. Ser«t.-major J. Johnstone, Band-sergt. G. Jarvis, Pte? A. Moxley- Ser;jrt. W. I^oyd, Pte. E. Jordan, -Corpl. J. James, Bdiidsmipa \V. IL Jarvis. Pte. W. fiearciu -Bandsman -ilv. VVaatins, Drum-major A. Jarvis. Pte. A. Mor E. Osboraae, D. Bowen. Jaanee-corpL G. Sergrt. H. J. Park- Jwrr#t.Baiiueiuan J.Wa,tkiX^ .Field, Bands- ram W. Ki^ir, W. Mosc-l^v. Pie, W. Wdljams, Baads- men E. J. Roderick. Ll. Giinter. F^. troose each.—Bandsmen D. Hij-y, -B-George. "W. Howells, Pte. J. Barnes. Bandsman J, Botfen. Pte, J. Williams. Bu-ler F. Brace. Corpl. Wait*, Pte. W. Meredith. Bandsman E. Adev, Corpl. J. Edwards, Ptes. G. Phillip. J. Browsi, Bandsman G. Whitfield, Bandmaster »S. T. Roderick. LorjUa^yhoa. Moore, R. Jordan. Ptes. T, Prosser, • .,ew3 Morgan. Bandsaien A. J. Hans«, D. K. Hil^y W.-H, Jones,T. (jeorjrft Ptes. W.Harvey, W BL Jarvis, J. Munday. a duolc each.—Baaasinen A. Moue», J. Thomas, J. RubdaT. D. Franoio--a fowl each. A secondseloeiieti was made by the first dozen, each receiving a bQttle of brandy or whisky. The Chairman having proposed the toast of .4t The Queen," wbieii was loyally honoured, jbe next proposed "Tlie bealths of Qmrteim2Lanter t Lewis and Corporal W. H. Jones," whv had got together the poultry prizes. Thr, toast was cordially drunk, and Quarter- master-sergeant Lewis and Corporal Jones suit- .-blv rnded.. pt. P. S. Davies next proposed The health fj&pi. PArkil urst," who, he said, on fot rffnitely -^ii«out to leave tbe regiment. HehadJcnowa Parkhurst for about 21 years, and did not thi €) ever a better quartei'- toast drunk with musical honours and tklSpte1?Parkhui^t. in reply, said he thought there was only one iSfwt m the battanon who «*c«eded hm «H wroce. th^t waa Lieut.-Colonel Jacob. His term of service wn^ nearly 30 years, and lie had spent those years in great pleasure and happiness amongst the oat- talion. Time tola upon all men, and he fylt he ought to have one long before. ("No, no. ). He knew masy of them thought what a surly beggar lie was. (Laughter.) Nevertheless, he did it for theis good. (Hear, hear.) A lot of work had been done both on parade and m camp that appertamed so the good of the company, without anyone ;ing it. Sometimes they had fouild him in serving out their r.v<10ns not quite satisfactory. StiM, he did the best for thewi, and he ttiought they would beaT comparison if they were not at the too of the ttee-with aT--y other battalion in the surrounding counties, for the rations the* H*.d supplied to t'jent in ciunp. \Ap- glause^) fie could^omly thank Laptain Davies, who was a voting orticer., for his kind remarks. Captain BaVies w;ts a very jolly fellow, and look- ino, at him;tlleli, lie was a very jolly command- iug EL c(,A-pany. (H<>ar, he^r.) He had raised a ce mpany ill a very-short time, and had been ■gazetted as the captain of 'the company. (Hettt, h«ar.) He ( £ he speacker) laoped he would 1300K lbecc) amarjoc, it not a of ttie :battali<in. (Applause) This was in all probability the last time he (the speaker) would address them as an officer of the corps, and he (MtuldiRot let the opportunity *pass without allu- ding'to the woi-th of one <of their officers, viz., I- rr4, .r Johnstone. (Applause.) He had had ma: v years of close ivork with him, aud had ireeeivu<i many hifits which bad put him in the "way 0!' -workiiio, :for their comfort and the ■comfort of ethe whole ;battalion and to Sergt.- 'm'or Jokistone lie tendered his very sincere thanks. To his brother officers, from whom he had receive< i great kindness, he also tendered his grateful txanks; and to the men of the battalion he would say, that whether he had pleased them €ir not, ht had done his best for tbm. He wished them all-a happy Christmas and many years of prosperity with the battalion. (Applause.) Surgeon Essex proposed the next toast, that of Sergeant-mail or Johnstone, whom he highly eulogised for the manner in which he had dis- charged l is duties for many years. The toast was druak with musical honours, and three cheera. Sei^t.-major Johestone returned thanks for the compliment paid him, and said he believed Surgeon Essex had spoken more highly of him than he deserved. ("No, no.") However, he had endeavoured to do his best, and tried to do it for the benefit of one and all, irrespective of rank. (Hear, hear.) He would advise the mem- bers of the company to keep their work up to the mark. It was the rule of the presen*; day, and if they did not do it they would throw the work 011 someone else's shoulders. Like Captain Parkhurst. he felt that his military age was drawing to a close, and he could only thapk everyone, from the private to the General, for the help accorded him in times past. (Ap- j plause.) I The Chairman next proposed The health of Surgeon Essex and Bandmaster Roderick, who, he said had taken a great interest in the band, and brought it to its present state of efficiency. (Applause.) The toast was cordially drunk, and Surgeon Essex and Bandmaster Roderick responded. The remaining toasts were "The health of Captain Davies and The- Chairman," which were heartily drunk and duly acknowledged, after which the company broke up with mutual wishes for "A merrie Christmas."

"G" COMPANY,! 3RD V.B. S.W.B. On Tuesday, the 22nd ult., G Company, 3rd Vol. Batt., South Wales Borderers, paraded at the Armoury at 7.30 p.m., and marcned to the Pontnewynydd Schoolroom for the distribution of the annual prizes. Mr. W. H. Davies, Gian- syeban, presided. Captain D. S. Davies gave an account of the company since its formation in April last. He complimented the non-comtnissioued officers and men on the progress which they had made, also upon their excellent attendance at drill and the very good shooting of the company. He said he was glad to report that the number of members of the company had remained at 81 since its formation. He then thanked Mrs. Edward J ones, Snatchwood, for kindly consenting to distribute the prizes, and the gentiemeu and various trades- men for their generous donations to the prize fund, which enabled him to give 5s. to all mem- bers in the company who haa made themselves efficient for the past year. The prizes were then distributed. Surgeon J. R. Essex, 3rd Vol. Batt., South Wales Borderers, then addressed a few words of encouragement, also giving some wholesome advice to the members of the corps. Mr. W. II. Davies, Glansychan, replied on behalf 01 the visitors, also recalling the time- some 15 years ago-when he was immediately connected with the old Abersychan corps of Volunteers. Captain Davies then called for three cheers for Mrs. Edward Jones, which was responded to with a will.—Cheers were called for Captain Davies, and also for the visitors. Mr.W. Davies, Glansychan, returned thanks on behalf of Mr. Edward Jones, and the pro- ceedings terminated. A report will appear in next week s paper, shewsng the names of the winners of the trades- men's prizes in kind.

"B" COMPANY 3RD V.B., S.W.B. On Wednesday, the 23rd ult., "B" Company 3rd Vol. Batt.,S.W.B. paraded at the Drill Hall, at 7.30 p.m. and marched to the Garndilfaith schoolroom, headed by their excellent band, under the leadership of Band-Sergt. Wm. Jones, for the distribution of the annual prizes. Capt. D. R. Jones, commanding, proceeded to give an account of the Company for the past year, alia expressed himself as highly satisfied with the non-commissioned officers and men, on their efficiency, both in drill and shooting. J. He also referred to Mr. Edward Jones, J.P., Snatch- wood, who gave a prize of £.5 annually to this Company, and the great interest it excited in the different members of the Company who com- peted for it, and he was positive that it gave a great impulse to the members of the corps to become good shots. He also referred to another prize of 15, given by Mr. W. T. Ellis, Hanbury Hotel, Garndiffaith, which he hoped would in- crease the intemat in the shooting of the Com- pany. He took that opportunity of thanking those gentlemen in the district who had so generously given to their prize fund for the year 1:891. The prizes were then distributed to the dif- ferent members, named below SHOOTING COMPETITION. Mr. Edward Jones's prize, £ 5, Sergt. I. Hardin? marksman's prize, £ 2 10s, Corpl. Aaron Bright; best shot; in second claas, £ 1, Sergt. Wat-kin Jones; second, lIJs, Pte. Joseih Higg-s; best shot in third class, ct: L Pte. "William Thayer second, 10e, Sergt, Isaac Harding third. 5s.. Pee. George Jones prize for marking, 1:1, Pte. Silas Deacon ditto, E 1, Pte, John Thayer. COMPANY PRIZES.. Corpl. Aaron Bright, 12 Jos; Ptes. J. Dicks, £ 2; Albert Hopkins. £ 110s; Amb.-Sergt. Wm. Coles, Ü 5s; Sergts. W. Jones, £ 1 Henry Goombs, K-s; Corpl. George Watkine, 25a; Ptes. Silas Deacon, 12s; Evan Rees, 10s; W. G. Jones, Corpl. Alfred Ball, Ptes. J. Higgs, John Wintle.. Evans (2nd), John Price (2nd\ each; Ptes. W. Owen and J. Johns, Is each; Pte. Wm. Thayer, Sergt. Edwin Coles, Corpl. William Wilcox, and Sergt. Wm. Jones, os. .each. DRILL ATTENDANCE PRIZES. Col.-Sergt. W. G. Lewia, Sergt*. I. Harding, Silas Deacon, Qr.-Master-Sergrtu W. Coles, Ptes. Samuel ■Goj'es. John Price (2nd), CcrpL G. Watkins, Pte. J. Thomas, (2nd), Sergt. Henry Coombs. Corpl. A. Kail, Ptes. W. Evans G. Simmonds. F. Coombs, W. Evans (1st), W. G. Jones, I. ilinnersley, Elias F,.v,m. IUs each. Afthe distribution of the prizes, the Com- pany saarched back to the Drill Hall, where they thoroughly enjoyed themselves till 11 p.m.

THE PRODUCTION OF SMALL COAL. [BY OARHON.] At the present time, when so much is being said and written on the vexed question of pay- ment for small coal, it may not be uninteresting to the public to have some information as to -the extent to which the cost of coal production is affected, having regard to the proportion of small sent out with the large. The figures given below were taken f om the pay-sheets ana cost-books of one of the South Wales collieries for the month of October last. The total quantity worked was 13,529 tons, of which 3,184 tons, or 23k per cent. passed through the Billy, and the remainder was large. screened coal. The cost of the whole delivered into rail- way waggons at pit's mouth, exclusive of the cutting price aiid rovalit3- was 13,366, or 4s. ll'7d per ton. Add to this a royality of 3d per ton, and we get the cost of the small coal-58. 2.7d. The large coal cost is then made up thus :— Per ton. s. d. Cost as above. 4 11*7 Paid collier for cutting 2 2'9 Boyalty 0 7 7 9*6 The small coal on being sold realised 3s. 5'7d per ton at pit, showing a loss of Is !1d per ton- £278. It follows that this loss of C278 must be charged against the large coal cost, which it thereby increases from 7s I.(jd to 8s 4'ld. It should be borne in mind that iarge coal is the product on which owners depend for their profit, and for which the collieries are worked the loss on small cannot therefore be dealt with except as a factor in the cost of large coal. The management pointed out to the writer the disas- trous consequences of working high percentages of small, and in the pit referred to it was stated that th ordinary care the coal could be worked with not more than 12k per cent. of small. But notwithstanding that the colliers' earnings are made upon-the large coal only, they could not be convinced that filling small into their trams was not only a serious loss to their employers, but tended m the long run to reduce their own wages. To illustrate the effect of a minimum produc- tion of small, it was pointed out that at the pit in question, if the coal were worked with 122 1 per cent., of small instead of 23i- per cent., the large would have cost 8 0'5<:1. as against 8s 4*1 d, the loss on the lesser quantity of small being reduced from £ 278 to £ 148, repre- senting a saving at this one pit of over tl,500 a year, and this having would not entail the loss of a single penny to the collier, whilst it would, of course, provide the owner with a larger fund for the payment of the wage w I bill. It may also be mentioned as a strong argument, to the advantage of both owners and workmen, that with small kept within proper limits, it is sent out clearer, more free from impurities, and therefore commands a higher price in the market —a better relative price to large. To a certain extent the price of large coal is dependent upon tke price of small, and with an excess of inferior small in the market prices rapidly decline, bringing the price of- large coal down at the same time. There can be little doubt there are many per- sons who consistently believe that small coal is a commodity of considerable value to the colliery owner, where, it is worked without a direct cut- ting price as distinct from that paid on the large, and if the facts and figures given above, and taken from actual work carried out at a typical colliery, will tend to a more accurate knowlege on the same subject, the writer's object will have been gained.

BURNED TO DEATH. On Christmas Eve a labourer named Jarvis Foster, of A] bion-street, Derby, met a woman in the street with a baby,and took her to his home. She slept with his wife, and he lay on the sofa. On Friday night Foster and his wife went out to supper, leaving the stranger in the house. Shortly after midnight smoke was noticed issuing from the house, and the police breaking in found the woman lying in flames at the bottom of the stairs with a broken paraffin lamp near by. With much difficulty theyot upstairs through the smoke and rescued the baby, which was in bed,almost suffo- cated. The name of the woman is not known, but she told Foster she was a music-hall artiste and had come from Birmingham. She ex- pected at Derby to meet her husband, who was also a masic-hall performer, and was coming from Manchester. y

A CHRISTMAS EVE TRAGEDY. At Limerick, on Saturday, John Carey, 25, labourer, was committed for trial charged with causing the death of his child. The prisoner quar- relled wtitii his wife on Christmas Eve, both being intoxicated at the time, and in struggling the child was killed. At the inquest the doctor swore the child's death was the result of violence, and the jury returned a verdict accord- ingly.

ALLEGED MANSLAUGHTER BY A BRIDEGROOM. Solomon Cunningham, a bricklayer's labourer, who got married on Saturday, is celebrating the event in Belfast Gaol. Some youths, serenading the happy couple, bscame too demonstrative- Vunningham: it is alleged, thereupon rushed o*ut and knocked one of them, named John Irwin, down. The latter's dying depositions were taken on Saturday evening in Belfast Royal Hospital.

HOLLOW AY'S PILLS.—Everyone has frequently experienced sadden personal changesf rom gaiety to gloom. The wind and weather oftentimes re- ceive the blame when a faulty digestion is alone the cause of the depression. Holloway's Pills can be honestly recommended for regulating a disordered stomach and improving digestion. They entirely remove the sense of fulness and oppression after eating. They clear the furi-ed tongue, and act as a wholesome stimulant to the liver, and as a gentle aperient to the bowels. They healthfully rouse iboth body and mind. Holloway's pills are the best known antidotes for want of appetite, nausea, flatulency, heart- burn, langour, depression, and that apathy so characteristic of chronic derangement of the digestion. Of all the bread which has recently teen put to the test, the analysts have adjudged Furlow's Housekeepers' to be the very best.-Ad, t.

PRESIDENT'S ADDRESS. The President remarked that he would say by way of introduction, Heddwch, heddwch a e-Yllys dda i chwi gyd, cyfeillian." He was afraid his Welsh was somswhat rusty many perhaps who were present fairly understood the vernacular he had given expression to many perhaps did not, and he would therefore render it in English for the information of all assembled. It was Peace, peace, and goodwill to you all, friends," and at this season of the year—a season which commemorated the birth of Christianity— no more timely words of welcome conld be found or uttered. And, as time rolled on how refreshing it was to them as a Christian com- munity, to find that the celebration of Christmas became an event of greater importance, in his- tory, and more honoured in its observance all over the habitable globe. (He;ir, hear.) He would pass on to the business for which they had been specially convened, and he rejoiced to see so many present; his hope was that their estimate of the proceedings would be summed up in the words, the day had been well spent," and that their enjoyment was of a truly bracing, beneficial, and intellectual character. Now, he was not going to inflict upon his hearers a long, dull, or prosy speech, but; in as c .oneie a way as possible he would endeavour to preface the pro- ceedings with a few observations of interest and practical bearing. First of all he would deal with the historical side of eisteddfodau. (Hear, hear.) These were sessions of bards or min- strels, and had been held in Wale* for centuries owe was held at the town of which place might be considered, the nursery of the Gorsedd. In remote timef-ahe judges of the eisteddfod were appointee). »• Royal Commis- sion of reigning Welsh princes; but, after the conquest of Wales, by the kings of England. A commission for holding ah eisteddfod at Caerwys in 1568 still, exists in the pd^ession of the Mostyn family, together with the silver harp which had from time immemorial been in the gift of their ancestors to bestow upon the chief of the faculty. This badge of honour was about five or six inches long and furnished with strings equal to the number of the muses. Since that time—-the days of glorious Qtieen Bess—-no Royal Commission has been issued for holding an eisteddfod, yet exertions have not been lack- ,o ing in recent years to secure Royal patronage for this institution, and to bring about a revival of the bardic profession and the encouragement of Welsh literature. The term bard is the uni- versal Celtic name for minstrel poet, and Tacitus calls their songs war cries, as indeed they might very fittingly De described: The information, though, which remains to us relating to the bards from classical sources is very scanty, and this is largely explained by the fact that they were oral historians of all past transactions, both public and private. They rehearsed the great events of State, and retained the memory of numberless stories, both mythical and actual; which otherwise would have perished-in oblivion. They had, too, undoubtedly another talent which probably endeared them more than all the rest to Welshmen,' but more particularly to the Welsh nobility. they tickled the vanity of the early Welsh aristocracy they were accomplished genealogists and to a. large extent inspired Cambria's sons by their songs of battle, and by recounting the mighty deeds oi ancestral and valorous Welshmen from the most distant periods. Mill>y perhaps will say'these antique features constitute the most glorious passages in eisteddfodic history. John Milton, an old Eng- lish ironside, was an ardent admirer of t.he Welsh character, and, in his inimitable composition; "Comus," says that "Wales was an old and haughty nation, proud in arms." But, friends, whilst the sincere testimony of a great man may be gratifying to our national pride, we must guard against the reception of that flattery which is so cloying to the ears of men of sense, for fame of forefathers is all a cheat 'tis peironal virtue only makes us great." To-day, as sensible men and women, we ought to feel thankful we do not assemble here under the protection of spears or bows and arrows, or that we have tc do as our ancestors did,.rimely, to consider our homes our castles so long as we can defend them but no louger. We meet here to-day under the blessed security of centuries of peace, and how grateful we ought to be that the civil war of race between the Englishman and Welshman is at an end, and that for ever, that national strife has ceased that the common brotherhood of man asserts itself with equal force on both sides of the Severn and Dee and that both are welcome and entitled to pursue the arts of industry, contentment, and peace. (Cheers.) As Welshmen, though, we justly regard the eisteddfod as part and parcel of the nation's life, as an institution deserving onr highest esteem. It is a living and exemplary 'n 11 p illustration of the docti me of the "survival of the fittest." Through ages of battle and bloodshed, and amid the change of dynasties and political turmoil, the eisteddfod has invariably held its own, and to-day reart. its head, more potent than ever, a factor of progress and good. (Cheers.) Now, I come to deal with the present and practical side of eisteddfodic work. This is an age of keen competition, au age wherein the ceaseless struggle for existence becomes and grows more dense daily, Pi-ici this applies to both individuals and communities. Old methods of doing things have' been tested, have in a large degree been worn out and exploded, and it behoves us, one and all, to keep abreast of the times, if we would be in the swim of progres- sion. As an educational factor the eisteddfod has a big future before it. (Hear, hear.) It can, nay it must, do a large amount of useful work in this respect, embracing that which is both exhibitive and competitive, and in stimulating young Welshmen to get- a proportional share of civil service prizes, as also some of cae choicer pickings of the learned professions law, medicine, and divinity. Our chances of success in the world's great highway are how stronger and clearer than ever. A system of free elementary'education has been established by Uw, aud this is being largely supplemented Isy technical and intermediate schools, and with dtie deference to contrary opinion, having regard to existing aids to self-help; there never wa, ,i more favourable opportunity than the present for the studious youth of this coiintry to rise to the surface and establish a solid position in life. He had endeavoured to show that from an educational standpoint there is much expected from the eisteddfod in the future It has in the past erected one of the foremost planks in Welsh national life,and surely with improved education at its elbow, with the desire of succeeding generations to eclipse the achievements of former ones,, the eisteddfod has a great perspective within view of shaping the character and moulding the destiny of Welshmen: of bringing out patriotic men whose voices will often ring out clear and strong, above t .e mere level of party cries, of developing men whose faces are set with unflagging z ;al aud earnestness towards the goal of promoting the moral, social, and intellectual advancement of the country, and the expansion of the best and freest institutions in it. (Applause.)

THE COMPETITIONS. For the recitation, The Water Mill," for boys and girls under 14 (prize 10s. (id.), no fewer than 12 youthful elocutionists entered the lists, the competition disclosing an exceptionally high order of merit.—Dr. Edwards, in announcing the result, said they might well congratulate themsclvbs-UPOn the competition, with which he was exceedingly pleased, and he did not think, as a whole, the competitors could very well be beaten in any part of the kingdom. After point- ing out the faults of some of the competitors, Dr. Edwards said he had decided to divide the fit prize between No. 3 and No. 8. Two others were very good, and ran them exceedingly close. He referred to Nos. 1 and 12. He should give a prize of 2s. 6d. to one, and perhaps someone else would do likewise with regard to the other. (Cheers.)—Mr. W. B. Witcliell said he should be pleased to respond to the adjudicator's appeal. (Cheers.)—The winners of the first priae were Lily Jones, Talywain, and Llew Bach (a little boy whose real name did not transpire), the second prize falling to Kate Jones, Blaenavon, and Benjamin" Jelly, Garnvacii, Nantygto, -w;ho was invested by the Rev. J. Cole. i. For the best rendering of the contraltb solo, 0, rest in the Lord (prize £ 1 Is.), there were seven competitors.—Mr. Harding said he was extremely pleased with the rendering of the solo. One important fault that he noticed in < the majority of the competitors was with regard to their phrasing, taking broath in the middle of. w, ords and also between wyrds which were gram- matically connected. After considering the merits of the various singers, he had come to the decision to divide the prize between Nos. 1 and 4. (Cheers.)—The winners were Mrs. Dare, Abersychan, and Master Samuel Morgan Price, Abercarn, the former being invested by Mr. W. Protheroe, and the latter by Mrs. Brace. In the treble solo competition, "Tell me, my heart" (prize JE1 Is.) only Mrs. Dare appeared, her singing of the piece eliciting vociferous de- mands for its repetition.—Mr. Harding said the audience appeared very anxious to hear the song again, and he would be very happy if the lady would oblige them. (Cheers.) He would sug- gest that with a little more training she ought to take foremost rank among their Welsh singers. (Cheers.) She was quite worthy of the prize. (Cheers.)—Having been invested with the prize, Mrs. Dare again sang the piece, to the evident satisfaction of the audience. Dr. Edwards next delivered his adjudication upon the essay competition, the subject being "Free Education and its Future Resuits," for which a prize of 12 2s. was offered. He said Three essays have been received, bearing the signatures "Meiros," "Marion," and J. A." 1. The essay written by "Meiros is a voryshort one, but good as far as it goes but its treat- ment is necessarily meagre, and is a mere sketch of the subject. The writing and style are good, and one is under the impression that "Meiros" could have produced a much better essay. 2. Marion has written at length in a free, flowing style, in excellent English. "The writer gives a fair account of the progress of education throughout the centuries, and of the adoption of free education by, and its working in, various countries of Europe and in the colonies but more than two-thirds of the essay is taken up with this-so that the result of the adoption of free education in this country, which should Jvi- dently be the main theme, is not dealt with at all fully or in a concise and systematic manner. In this part Marion deals with generalities, and at the close of the perusal of the essay one does not see how the fresh departure recently taken will affect the future. At the same time one is cpnscious of reading the production of a well- informed and intelligent writer, who writes in a graceful style and with much enthusiasm. "J. A." is not equal to the other competitors in correctness of style and mastery of diction, and his spelling sometimes is faulty but he has evidently laboured more than they. His reading and observation have been wider, and he has taken great pains to master his subject. He has not been forgetful of what has been done by free education in other countries. and lie well his faots to sustain his positions. He estab- I *lshes its rigbtness in principle, and its wisdom in policy. He does this on social grounds, on moral grounds, and on religious grounds. He points at the benefits that will result from it, especially when free education will become free indeed. He quotes from the chief educationists of the day, and points out what is still defective in our- system, which must be removed to insure the best results Whilst, therefore, we highly corn- mend the essay of Marion as a very meritori- ous production, in our judgment J. A." fully deserves the prize. (Cheers.) — The winner proved to be Mr. P. S. Jenkins, Abersychan, who was invested, amid applause, by Mrs. W. Lewis. The President, on behalf of Mrs. Lewis, next gave the adjudication on the knitting competi- tion. He said that seven or eight samples had come to hand, and after close inspection of the different kinds of hose, it hnd been decided to divide the prize of 10s. fid. between two, who proved to be Miss R. Thomas, Goytre, and Mrs. — Lewis, Abersychan. Mr. W. B. Witchell, at the request of the pre- sident, here delivered a brief address. After ex- pressing his pleasure at being .present for the first time at an eisteddfod, the* speaker dwelt in appropriate terms upon the educational value of such gatherings, and said the contestants in the various competitions proved that they possessed a knowledge of the theoretical and practical part of the work, (Hear, hew.) He would not say a discouraging word to any of them, but would say to all, If at first you don't succeed, try, try, try again." (Hear, hear.) He was delighted with all he had seen and heard on that occasion .and he had no doubt that as the boat was launched it would return to shore safely, and that they would have another eisteddfod next year. (Cheers.) The Rev. D. Lewis also delivered a brief address in the vernacular, dtcr which the morn- ing sitting was declared closed.

AFTERNOON MEETING. The first competition in the afternoon was for tenors, the subject being The maid of the brook" (Jenkins). Four, out of a considerable number who had been before' the preliminary adjudicator, competed. The prize (1 gnillea) was declared. in favour of Mr. T. Stephens, Abertillery. Two juvenile choirs sang, for the prize of £ 3, a number in San key :s Songs and Solos"—tbe Primitive Methodist, Abersychan (conductor, Mr. Edwin Allsopp) and the Weslevan, Garn- diffaith (conductor, Mr. J. Evans).—Mr. Yideon Harding, in adjudging, said that the first choir were very nicely balanced, and the sopranos remarkably fresh in quality. The altos were not coarse: The piece was rendered with nice taste and expression. The second choir were too harsh, and kept in the major instead of going into the tonic minor key. The first choir was far superior to the second.—Mr. Witchell in- vested Mr. Allsopp, and in so doing referred to the late brother and father of the successful conductor. The prize of 11 ls: fopae best performance of any solo to be sung m. V» elsh. Ten comoeted the winner being Mr. 1 • Stephens, Abertillery. Fourteen c ompetitors on the bass solo, The Collier (prize £1 Is.), in the preliminary trial were reduced to four who sang before the large assembly. Mr. John Davies, Blaenavon, was awarded the prize, invested by Miss Kathleen Evans, Pontypool. The duet, for a tenor and a baritone, Ex- celsior (Balfe) had tour renderings, the per- formance by Mr. T. Stephens and his friend being declared best. The.prize was £ 1 10s. The male-voice parties entered for the com- petition on "We are the young Musicians" (Grwent), for the best rendering of which a prize of £ 5 was offered, but only the Aber- sychan Glee Party attended and sang. The ren- dering, the adjudicator said, was well worthy of the reward.—The conductor, Mr. Waiter Protheroe, was invested, amid applause, bv Mis. W. Lewis. The chief event of the meeting was not com- peted for, though, of course, .the choir which entered were bound to sing well, else the prize (. £ 20) would have been withheld. The singing of the Abersychan Choral Society, conductor. Mr. Roger Protheroe, was extremely true in in- tonation and the difficult passages allotted to every part were, with but one or two slight ex- ceptions, accurately done. So the adjudicator also that he was surprised to hear such ex- cellent, rich voices. He was quite sure that they were better than Glamorganshire could furnish. (Loud applause.) Mr. Roger Protheroe was then called upon to receive the prize, with which Mrs. W. P. James invested him, amidst loud cheering. Mr. Brace, in. delivering his adjudication on the timbering competition, for which there were is seven entrifes, said With your permission I will endeavour to discharge my duty very briefly. In the first place I should like to say that the quality of this class of work is considerably above the average. We had a good roof, good light, a goodiprice,andgood workmen to compete. In my opinion there has been a very keen com- petition, and I feel sure (,ch competitor has done his best to win. The con ditions laid down are such as to put to the test- a timberman's knowledge of his work, by having to use his own judgment as to the height, width, &e., of his timber. I think we may safely assume that the road or place to be timbered on this occasion is somewhere within the South Wales coalfield, and the difficulties and dangers to be encountered such as are to be met with here too often. Among others we may mention, (1) top weight, or pressure from the roof. (2) Side squeeze, or pressure from the sides. on Upheaval of the floor, commonly called hard packing bottom. In forming my opinion to-day as to the merits or otherwise of the different competitors, I may be allowed, to say that I have carefully examined each competitor's work, and that I consider it my duty to award the prizes to those who have stood the timber in the best position to resist the greatest strain or pressure from each of those three points. The first prize ( £ 1 Is) was awarded to Mr. W. Parrv, Garndiffaith, and the second (10s 6d) to Mr. — Evans, Ebbw Vale. At the close of the afternoon session the Chairman said he congratulated all- present on the success of the proceedings of the day. Things had been hit off, leaving nothing to be desired. The adjudicators knew their work, and they had discharged it admirably, as only trained and cultivated men could. I he audience, too, had been most orderly and well conducted throughout, in fact so strucK had one gentleman been with this circumstance that he asked him (the Chairman) if they were all teetotallers pre- sent. He replied he could not vouch for so much as that, but this he knew that all who had attended their eisteddfod that day were mem- bers of' the gre&t temperance party of Aber- sychan. (Laughter.) Tljeir behaviour had been a credit to the locality and a great encourage- ment to the committee. (Cheers.) Votes of thanks to the adjudicators-Mr. Harding and Dr. Edwards-and the conductor and the chairman brought a most interesting eisteddfod to a close. We are pleased to learn that both numerically and financially the eisteddfod proved successful. A grand concert was held in the evening, and proved an unqualified success. The artiStes were Soprano, Miss S. A. Jenkins, Blaina con- tralto, Miss Annie Lewis, Dowlais tenor, Mr. C: Videon Harding, Carmarthen bass, Mr. A. H. Perkins, Cardiff (prize winner at the National Eisteddfod, Swansea.)

EISTEDFODD AT ABERCARN. The annual grand eistedfodd in connection with the English Baptist Church took place at the Public Hall on Ciiristmas Day. The presi- dents were Mr. E. Harris (Cottage), morning meeting, and Mr. D. W. James (Twyncarn House), afternoon meeting. Mr. Dan Jones (Anchor House) acted as conductor, and the adjudicators were Mr. T. Hopkins (Porth), in music, and Mr. E. Williams (Pontymister); elo- cution and essay, There was a fair attendance in the morning, but in the afternoon the Hall was crowded to excess. The recitations were as follows :— Macbeth to the dagger vision a prize of 7s 6d, given by Mr. T. Jones.—Divided between Mr J. B. Hiley, Pontyruister, and Mr. Phillips,New- bridge. The Main Truck, or a Leap for Life prize of 7s Gd, given by Mr. T. Morgan, was awarded to Miss Christy Harrhy. Three com- petitors.; Best essay on Spare Moments, and how to use them a prize of 10s 6d, given by Mr. D. Davies, was awarded to Mr. Willie 'Thomas,. Bridge-street, Abercarn. Three competitors.

VOCAl; COMPETITIONS. Contralto solo, Fatlier of Heaven a prize of 10s 6d, given by Mr. T. James, was awarded Master Price (Eos Gwyddon), Abercarn. Soprano solo, "Jerusalem, thou that killest | the Prophets a prise of 10s 8d, given by Messrs 4 J. Prince and W. E. Bcacham. No competition. Tenor solo. The Pilgrim of Love;" a prize j of 10s 6d, given by Messrs. G. Terrell and A i Jenkins, was divided between Messrs. Andrew Jones and T. L. Jainea, Cardiff. Five competi- tors. Bass solo, "With Pious Hearts;" a prize pf 10s 6d, given by Mr. J. Morgan, was awarded to Mr. E. Beacbam. Five competitors. Trio, Disdainful of Danger a prize of 15s, given by "A Friend," was awarded Miss Jones, she being the best singer of the trio. No other competitors. Male voice party, not under 25, for the best rendering of The Soldiers'Chorus a prize of 15, subscribed for, was awarded to the Blaina choir. Three choirs competed. To the choir, not less than 80 in number, for the best rendering of Hallelujah, Amen (Juàa. Maccobæw;), á prize of £20 was offered,, and an easy chair to the successful conductor given by Mr. W. H. Jones, Oakfield House, Abercarn. Choir (conductor, Mr. Alex. Davies)" carried off the prize. Three other choirs com- peted, viz.. Pengam, Blaina, and Newbridge. Everyone present appeared well satisfied with the decision.

A GRAND CONCERT was held in the evening, under the presidency of Mr. Daniel Jones.' Tb: programme was as fol- lows:-Solo. pianoforte. Mr. D. R. Davies solo, Every valley." Mr. W. T. Williams (Gwitym 1 Taff) solo, Entreat me not to leave thee," Miss Bowen solo, "Revenge," Mr. G. P. Wil. liams solo, Star of Bethlehem," Miss Morgan;, solo, violin, Mr. £ Williams; comic, Mr. 'D» Beynon duet, Exeeisior," Mr. G. P. Williams; < selections, violin, Mr. E.Williams solo, "Pribry gate," Miss Morgan; solo, "Toilers," Mr. W. T. Williams; soio, "Sweet Kildare," Miss Bowen solo, Off to Philadelphia," Mr. G. P.. Williams; solo, u Rock to rock" (own composi- tion), Mr. E. Williams duet, "Solfa," Miss I Morgan and Mr. G. P. Williams; comique, Mr.. 1 ,D. Beynon quartet, "Misses Morgan and Bowen and G. P. and W. T. Williams ? God save the Queen." Mr. D. R, Davies was the accompanist through- out the eistedfodd and concert, and much praise is due to him for the admirable manner in which. J be acquitted himself. y The eistedfodd committee, of which Mr. John. f Thomas was chairman aud Mr. John Phillips- | treasurer, must feel greatly indebted to Mr. J. | Sykes for the very artistic way in which the scenery was arranged. Great credit is also due to Mr. Edwin Davies, who undertook the labo- rious task of arranging all the details of the pro- ceedings.. {

EBENEZER CTTAPEL, PO NT- l • NEWYNYDD. | The annual entertainment, partly cempeta-tivev M of the Ebenezer School took place on ChrisimaS f Day, when meetings were held at 2.30 and 6p.m., presided over very efficiently by the Rev. D. Phillips, the ne w iy-appointed pastor. Some time ago the teachers of the school, together with the minister, formed themselves into » ;J9 committee to consider the best and most profit' *im able way of spending Cliristmas Day and it was finally agreed that all the children of the school* under 14 years of age, should have a book eacbr varying in price according to the several 4gest and that for thos'e above 14 a series of subjects: should be arranged for competition, the teacherf and others subscribing towards getting suitablo prizes. Accordingly a sum amounting to near# £ 3 was subscribed, and the competitions caU"* off as follows :— # ,a Recitations for small children to compete upon, the prizes being given by Mrs. Davies, Pantygoilen The little red hen," success*1# competitor, Alice Coles. A little girl's la^ three competitors, Annie Jones, Annie i' and M. A. Stephens: best, Annie Bowen 2h M. A. Stephens; Is. Gd. and Is, respj»etivel3" "Bessie's cat," successful, ISrtbur, ls. Ga. Welsh recitations for those under 18 years ot age Hymn, 0 frynian Caersalim," &c., two competitors, E. ILwen and H. Bowen, success- ful, H. Bowen: prize, 2s. Hymn, Ar for tymkestlog teithio 'rwyf," successful, Robert (Robert Davies); prise 2s. (id. Hymn, "Gor- pimwych," tvVo competitors, Joan o'r Ynys and Dewi-'ap-Rhvs, best. Joan o'r Ynys; prize, 2s. bd. English recitation: H;,rah, "How firm a foundation," successful, Lyilia Bowen prize, is. (id. Singing: I h^g to be there, successful, Lydia Bowen; prize Is. Gd. u J ust a word for Jesus," competitors, H. Bowen, R. Thomas, and Beatrice oil, successful, R. Thomas, prize 2s. (5d. (Mr. England giving a prize of 1st 6d. to- H. Bowen, the second in merit, and Mr. ktowellif- to Beatrice Screen Is.) "In the secret. of His presence," two competitors. Miss E. and Miss Amelia Price, both being of; equal merit, the prize of 4a. was divided- •" Thi* garden now" (Gogerddau), two --comp.etitorS, T. M. and J. R. D., successful, J. R. D. (Mr. J. R. Davies.) si Impromptu speech -Threecompetitors, Mesur Byr, Joan, Deta,; successful, Dewi (Mr. David Price) prize 2s. bd. Adjudication' on por.iaanship The best wrifctup 1:e Psalm, competitors, R. HA and Young Hecruit, best, Young Recruit (Robert Davitfj.) p-j-se Is. The best writtell ,)p), .17 cNlr, Hejof&ul,,), three competitors. Stuwe, Jessie* Blair, arid Beatrice Screen, best. Stowe (Miss E. Bowen) prize 29. Adjudication of the.essays 1, "On the life of St. Peter." The only essay received, in the opinion of the «: d judicator, not being of sufficient merit the write." (John Lewis) wt;i awarded half the oL-'ered pviae, i". ixi.- 2, "On the birth o* Jesus Canst." 0 ..e essay to hand by one styling himself "A compositor, but not for the prize. This essay beiugfavourably criticised, the adjU- dicator insisted that the writer should receive the prize, "Skeat'o History ox the Free Churches of England, from Reformation to 1851. with a continuation by Mr. C. S. Miall down to 1891," value (}:5. 1, To finish ofc, -iaicguo was given, entitled "The seasons," from Walker's Reciter," by Mr. John Barrel. party, which brought to a. close an instructive as well as an amusing set. vice. ..The recitation;; adjudication of essays pemnansuip weio entrusted to the Rev. D. philiips assisted in the afternoon by the Rev. *»• Davies, of Warrington, and in the evening by Mr. II. J. England. Mr. England also kindlY undertook to decide upon the merits of the different competitors on singing, which happy to state gave perfect satisfaction. After proposing vote ot thanks to those who had been training the singers, to the several youg ladies (who had responded to the supply the monev bags), to the secretary, an« tbe narmpniumist lor tne help they had given bring about the success of the meeting and Mr. Etsgland for his gratuitous services on th occasion, as well as to the Rev. D. Phillips f his tact and ability in presiding over the meet- ings, the singing ot the Doxology brought tn" affair to a close. Owing tu a blunder in the transit of the boo* the cluldieudid not receive the presents in tena^J to be given "U ihiti occasion, as already to. A meeting will be convened again to the presentations.

GOI.D Mic-'AhT-rMK., SELL, FLEET*stbE^J —Tne-jury of--the Exposition Internationale la Publicise, 1891, Palais deji Beaux-Arts, r&J have a warded; Mr. Henry Sell the highest a^Le viz., the gold medal, for his "Dictionary World's Press ai:U other publications reiat to advertising.

GRAND EISTEDDFOD AT ABERSYCHAN. A grand eisteddfod-which will probably be- come an annual fixture-was held at the Board Schools, Abersychan, on Boxing Day, and met with a degree of success of which the promoters may well be proud. The weather was most un- favourable, rain falling in torrents throughout the day but there was, nevertheless, a large and appreciative audience present. Most of the items were very keenly contested. Mr. W. Lewis, Glansychan House, was the president, and Mr. T. Thomas, Newbridge, the conductor. The adjudicators were Music, Mr. C. Videon Harding, Carmarthen; recitations, &(- Dr. Edwarda, Pontypool College knitting, Mrs. W. Lewis; timbering, Mr. J. Brace. The duty at- taching to the office of secretary was ably dis- charged by Mr. J. D. Jones, Talywain and the same remark will apply to Mrs. Kay-Doel, who acted as accompanist. In the latter capacity, valuable help was also rendered by Miss Kath- leen Evans, Pontypool; Mr. Walter Protheroe, Pontypool; and Mr. W. Smith, Garndiffaith. The president was accompanied on the platform by several members of the committee and other friends, including the Revs. D. Lewis and J. Cole, Messrs. W. B. Witchell, W. Griffiths, J. Davies (Talywain), &c.