South Wales Daily News

BOARD OF TRADE RETURNS., BY MABON. FBOM THE "CAEDITF TIMES AND SOUTH WALES WJEKKLY NEWS." MINERS' CONFERENCE. The impor4 and exports aliku as presented in the Boa'-d of Trade returns for January, which were issued on the 7th mst., looked ah from all standpoints must be considered very satisfactory. It had been feared that the politcal disturbance which has existed for some time past now would have an adverse effect upon the foreign trade of the country, but so far from this having been the case the figures for January show that con- tinued activity is manifested in our foreign trade, and that trade has greatly expanded. What is more encouraging is the fact that the improvement has extended to almost every industry. It is true that the comparison is with a comparatively poor month last year, when there was a falling off in imports of about 1% million sterling, while the export only showed v gain "of L72,000 but even allowing for this, the past month's figures are remarkably good imports compared with January, 1895, show an increase of over 4 per cent., and are a little better than even those of 1894 while the exports as com- pared with the level of both periods, there is an expansion of about. 16 per cent. VALUE OF EPPORTS. The actual increase in the exports for January compared with last year has reached £ 2,902,932, or, as we have stated, about 16 per CPnt. Every class of goods shows a considerable increase in value, particularly textiles, metals, and miscel- laneous goods although the quantity of cotton piece goods exported shows, a decrease of approximately 27,500,000 yards, the declared value is still 2113,000 in excess of the return of January, 1895. The principal increase has been in yarns and textile fabrics, which are responsible for £ 845,738. The increase under the head of metals is £ 525,000 in machinery and mill work, 2214,000; in raw materials, P,223,000, which by the way is mainly in coal and in "all other articles," 95AOOO. Again, an increased business has been done with most countries, but the improvement is most marked in the case of Germany, British South Africa, Australasia, the East Indies, and the Argentine Republic. Turning to the IMPORTS, there is an increase of LI,730,375, or about 4% per cent. In all probability the improvement would have been much greater bad it not been for the large decrease in our purchase of raw materials for textile manufacture, which were £ 624,047 less than in January of last year. This decrease is entirely due to cotton, our imports of this product from the United States having decreased £1,736,000. which was neutralised to the extent of nearly half a million by our purchases from Egypt. Wheat is less, owing for the most part to smaller shipments from Russia, but wheat flour, thanks to the heavy shipments from the United States, is larger both H1 quantity and in value. The principal increases were-in chemicals, £ 215,000; oils, £ 146,000 raw materials for sundry industries, L426,000 and manufactured articles. 2403,000. GOVERNMENT AND AGRICULTURA. LISTS. Last week was again prolific of deputations, including one from the Church Temperance party, which Lord Salisbury flouted and Mr Balfour snubbed. But by far the most important in character and dangerous in element was the one that waited upon Mr A. J. Balfour and Mr Walter Long representing the agricultural interests of the Eastern Counties. It is not quite clear what the difference is between this deputa- tion and the one that preceded it a few weeks ago from the whole of agricultural England. For what the "landed interest" in the Eastern Counties wanted is what is desired by the same interest everywhere else-relief of local rates. The occupiers of lands are forced on to this undoubtedly by the owners of land. Their proposal comes to the same thing as an Imperial grant in aid. They want to throw as many as and this they will do unless they are keenly watched and opposed in every possible way. Their policy is an extremely objectionable one. In the first place, what justification is there for specially protecting this one interest at the expense of every other ? This would be extremely unjust. As we have en- deavoured to show very recently, what the agricultural interest desires is to be relieved of local rates, because it is depressed. But it is well known that some of the greatest of the country's manufacturing interests are becoming more and more depressed from exactly the same cause that has depressed agriculture, viz., foreign competition, notwithstanding the little improve- .1.4. ). .&1 T -1= UICUU UII- uno UDOU IUAUUD^UCU 1x1 v AUWIJ VI. "IIIQ year. Germany, for instance, is as depressing to the British iron and steel worker as the Western American States are to the British corn-grower. But is the British iron and steel worker entitled on that account to expect relief from local burdens, or is the same thing to be extended or even asked for by the colliers who for the want of trade are kept idle for weeks and months in the year ? If not, what right has the British agriculturist to it ? If they are relieved where is the process going to end ? But, supposing that relief was granted to the agricul- turists, what would happen ? Would the farmer be benefited by it ? Nob he bub his landlord would. A landlord's agitation for higher rent is at the bottom of it all. The farmers are con- tinually, and very properly so, asking for a reduction in rents because their rates are so heavy, and because American competition is severe, and occasionally they do get portions of the reductions required, and the landlords announce the faot as if it were evidence of a great self-sacrificing spirit and patriotism. The more the farmers are relieved the more money will go into the pockets ol the landlords. Evidently then we were justified in saying that this is at the bottom a landlord's agitation for rents—and as such should be strenuously opposed. NATIONAL MINERS' CONFTRENCE. One of the most successful, and the most repre- sentative, miners' conferencejthat we ever had the pleasure of attending was that held in London last week to consider the new Mines Bill and the Eight Hours question. The conference had been convened chiefly at the request of the South Wales miners, and with the view of securing the solid support of the miners of Scotland, England, and Wales for the Bill when introduced into Parliament. The invitations to attend the conference were accepted by every district in the United Kingdom, and the gathering represented over 500,000 workers in and about the mines of the country. The unanimity and cordiality with which the work of this conference was carried through was marvellous and exceptional. In order to secure this, and the solid support of all mining representatives when it is introduced into the House, the conference had accepted a sug. gestion made on behalf of our Northern friends by Mr John Wilson, M.P., to withdraw from the Bill the two clauses dealing with the hours of labour of men and boys in the mines, Both the Mines Bill and the Eight Hours ques. tion were dealt with, and appropriate resolutions appertaining thereto were passed. A deputation of miners representatives was also appointed to wait upon the Home Secretary—which interview took place at noon on Tuesday. Mr Thomas Richard, Ebbw Vale, was appointed to represent the views of Welsh miners and he, as usual, acquitted himself with great credit and with honour to his colleagues and the community he represented.

PUGILISM IN AMERICA. FITZSIMMONS v MAHER. FIGHT POSTPONED ILLNESS OF MAHER. EL PASO, F't-iday.-The prize fight between Fitzsimmons and Maher, which was fixed for to day, has been postponed. Fitzsimmons, Mr Julian, and several reporters have examined Maher, with the result that Fitzsiminons has agreed to the postponement of the fight, and will not-claim forfeit. The doctors say that Maher 'will not be able to fight for a week. -Jkuter. Nzw YORK, Friday.-A despatch from El Paso says the Mabar-Fitzsimmons fight has been post- poned until Monday.-Central Newt.

SMALLPOX OUTBREAK AT BRYNMAWR. On Thursday three cases of smallpox came under the notice of Dr. G. H. Browne, J.P.. medical officer of health for the Brynmawr Urban District, and a special meeting of the District Council was hastily summoned, when full power was given to their officer to-deal with the patients.

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CARDIFF. LLANBAFF CATHEDRAL. Qainquagesima Sunday. In residence, the Very Rev. the Dean and the Ven. the Archdeacon of Monmouth. Holy Communion, 8 a.m. Morning—11,0 a.m., Preacher, the Dean. Te Deum, Benedictus; Garrett in F Litany hymns, 210, 225. 156. Afternoon, 3.30 p.m.—Preacher, the Archdeacon. Magnificat, Nunc Dimittis, Garrett in E flat; anthem, "0 where shall wisdom?" Boyce; hymns, 213, 229. TRKDEGARVILLK BAPTIST CHAPEL.—The annual sermons m connection with the Baptist Missionary Society will be preached here to-morrow. In the I morning the service will be conducted by Rev. J. > Williams. In the evening the deputation from < the society, Rev. G. B. Farthing, of China, will i occupy the pulpit. Special collections will be taken. MINISTERIAL.—The Rev. D. Davies, of Lisvane, near Cardiff, has received a cordial and unanimous invitation to take the oversight of Salem Baptist Church. Briton Ferry. PARK HALL SERVICES—The address to-morrow (Sunday) afternoon will be given by the Rev. J. T. L. Maggs. The music includes the anthem, Rejoice in the Lord," and a bass solo, For ever with the Lord." The service commences as usual at 3 p.m;, but selections on the great organ will be given at 2.30 p.m. Councillor Robinson will preside. YOCNG WOMEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION.— The meeting of the temperance branch of this association held on Wednesday evening was the most successful of the season. Every item of the bright and varied musical programme was admirably rendered, and those who took part in it-Mrs Maggs, Miss Rhodes, and the Cambrian Male Glee Society-were heartily applauded. The address, given by the Rev*. J. D. Watters, was a practical one. SUDDEN DEATH.-Rachel Sbevens (60), of 82, Bri(3gft-freet, Cardiff, died suddenly on Friday morning. At the inquest held before the coroner in the evening s> verdict of Death from natural causes was returned. CAKDIFF TEMPERANCE AND PROHIBITION ASSOCIATION.—Attention is directed to an adver- tisement in another column announcing that the annual public meeting of this association will be held this (Saturday) evening in Wood-street Chapel. Tiie chair will be taken by the presi- dent, Mr John Cory, and tho chief speaker will be Mr James Whyte, of Manchester, well known in the temperance world as the general secretary of the United Kingdom Alliance. The annual report will also be read, and the Blue Ribbon Choir will render some special pieces of music. TRANSMISSION OF SEAMEN'S WAGES.Witliin the last few days a petition to the Right Hon. the President of the Board of Trade has been signed by over 300 seamen at the Missions to Seamen's Institute, Bute Docks. The petition prays that the operation of the seamen's wages transmission scheme, which has worked with such signal success for some time at the port of Dunkirk, may be made to include the ports of Antwerp, Hamburg, and Rotterdam. At the request of the Rev. J. T. Wordsworth, chaplain, acting on behalf of the petitioners, Mr J. M. Maclean, M.P.. has presented the petition to the Right Hon. Mr. Ritchie, from whom a very favourable ar-nwer has been received. A YEAR'S WORK AT THE SAILOR'S REST.—The report for 1895 of the Cardiff Sailors' Rest Iugtitution affords excellent evidence of good work done amongst our seafarers on shore. The committee regret a lack of space at the Rest, a defecb which circumscribes the extent of their religious and philanthropic endeavours, especially amongst foreign seamen. It is pointed out that in order to maintain the work of the mission in its present state, the subscription list must be inn.rpa.spd bv ,\1; least B100 per annum. THE NEW MUSEUM.—The committe having in hand tbR new municipal museum, proposed to be erected ;n Park-place, met in the Town Hall last night. Alderman T. Rees presided over an attendance comprising Councillor E. Thomas, Councillor Trounce, Councillor Evans, Rev. W. E. Winks, Dr. C. T. Vachell, and Mr J. L. Wheatley, with the curator (Mr Ward). The architect (Mr Edwin Seward) submitted plans of the museum for final revision, and after being carefully examined in detail they were passed. UP-TO-DATK."—The overwhelming success which attended the performance on Thursday night, at the Park Hall, of the cantata Up-to- Date (composed by Mr Reginald Atkins to the libretto of Mr W. H. Sonley Johnstone) has necessitated a repetition, and this will be given to-nighr by the pupils of the Higher Grade School at the Park Hall. The proceeds will be handed over to the Cardiff University College. ACCIDENT AT THE CARDIFF DOCKS.—Yesterday a man, named John Skinner, residing at Barry Dock, while working on the s.s. Wellfield, lying in the West Dock, Cardiff, fell down her hold. First aid was rendered by P. C. Hurley, who conveyed the injured man to the Infirmary, where he was detained suffering from severe injuries to the head and back.

SW ANSEA. APPOINTMENT OF A THROAT AND EAR SPECIAL- 1ST ATNHE HOSPITAL.—A special meeting ot the Swansea Hospital Committee was held on Thurs- day for the purpose of appointing a throat and ear specialist at that institution. Dr. Richards was appointed by a a large majority. THE BOROUGH ANALYST AND HIS REMUNERA- TION.—On Wednesday afternoon Mr Leyler, the borough analyst, attended before the General Purposes Committee of the Corporation and com- plained of the smaUness of the remuneration he received for the large number of samples tested by him, and asked that the number be reduced or the amount of payment increased. The existing agreement is the payment of 2100 a year for the analysis of the first 400 samples and the payment of a special rate for any articles analysed above that number. ACCIDENT TO A TeG.-On Thursday afternoon the tug Staghound was found in a sinking con- dition, and this was found to be due to her side having been stove in, in consequence of her resting on a stone at her berthing place. The damage was speedily made good. DEATH OF MR JONES-HEUSON.—We regret to record the death of Mr Jones-Heuson, who for very many years was master of the Swansea Workhouse, Mr Jones-Heuson WM 67 years of age.

LLANELLY. BOROUGH COUNCIL.—A meeting of the Sanitary Committee of this Council was held at Llanelly )0 Friday, when special rrrangements were made tor the reception of any smallpox cases that might be imported. THE CURRENCY.—On Friday Mr Peel, secretary >f the Standard Defence Association, read an interesting paper on the currency. The chair was taken by Mr Daniel Williams, president. LLANELLY FOOTBALL CLUB.—Mr Rees Harry, the secretary of the Llanelly Football Club, has bendered his resignation. A successor will probably be appointed at the next meeting.

BRITON FERRY. DISTRICT COUNOIL,-The usual monthly meet- ing of the above was held on Thursday evening, Mr M. G. Roberts, J.P., in the chair. Upon the recommendation of the Street Committee, the surveyor's salary was increased to j360 from BM. Mr Alex Clarke was appointed deputy surveyor. The'medical officer's report showed a birth rate of 45, and a death rate of 18 per thousand. It was decided to adopt the Notification Disease Act. The Chairman reported that he bad seen Mr W. H. P. Jenkins with reference to a site for an isolation hospital, and that Mr Jenkins would arrange to meet the board upon the matter. E:SALic.-At the Royal Dock Hotel, Briton Ferry, on Wednesday afternoon, Mr W. Harry Rees, Neath, sold by auction the paddle steamtug Blanche. The lot realised B60, Mr Hurley, of Bristol, being the purchaser.

CRICKET AT THE CAPE. LORD HAWKE'S TEAM v. SOUTH AFRICA. [BY OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.] POBT ELIZABETH, Thursday.—Lord Hawke's team opened a three ^days' match here bo-day against an eleven representing South Africa The weather was fine, and there was a good attendance of spectators. The wicket was matting. Lord Hawke WAS indisoosed, and OIR • captained Ithe English team mhra^ead his Lordship, however, going in to bat. The vwitors went in first and ran up a scoreof 185, Messrs Fry and Hill and Heywood giving a splendid display. Mr Hill was unfortunately run out just as he appeared to be well set, and was scoring rapidly. The Colonials were a good totting team, but Lohmann was at his deadliest, Hearne and Rontlddge alone making anything like a stand against him. They were all dismissed for 93. Subjoined is the score TApn HlWKES TJSAM—sy i. \J. O'Brien cTl7 Lord Hawke, b, 0 S. M. J. Woods, c, 7 • C B* Fry b, 43 Heywood, c, 30 H. Bromley- Davenoort c, 26 C. T. Wright, b, 19 Butt, c. 1 ATI? Hiil. run out, 25; A N. Miller, not out, 4 Lohinann, c, 0 extras, 13 total, 185. SOUTH AFUICA-First. innings. Routledge, b, 20; Poole b. 11 Sinclair, b, 4 HlUle, b, 0; Hearne, c, 25- Halliwell, b, 13 Fuliardt, b, 4 C-ook, b. 9; Willoughby, b, 0 Greelo"- 4;

NEW YORK PRICES. fEEUTEJTS TELEGRAMS.] Money easy. Sterling Exchange steady, Stocks-Early inactivity was followed by general weakness in the final hour the closings were weak at the lowest figures of the day. The losses were notably in high-priced stocks. Cotton advanced awhile on better cable, but declined on indications of full interior movement, and the market closed easy spot quiet. Cotton oil dnll and one cent lower crude 22e yellow 26c. Petroleum dull. Lard has been steady. Wheat after a weak opening recovered on good buying orders, but again gave way owing to general realising, and closed weak spot closed easy. Flour opsned firm, but closed quiet. Corn opened easy, then advanced on covering, but again eased with wheat, and closed quiet spot steady. Sugar firm and unchanged. Coffee declined on foreign and local selling, and closed quiet spot steady. Tin quiet and five points lower. Iron easy. Copper steady. Feb 14 Feb 15 j Cal Money U.S. Gov. Bonds 3r .c 4 p.e Ditto, other Securities, 3 r..r Ape xchange on London, 60 day? sight 4 8'% Ditto. Cable Trausfers- 4.88 1.88 Exchange Paris, .1)0 days'; sighr 5.18% ".131;8 F,Xchavjge on Be.-IiiD 5 (¡!Iii Four per Cam. U. Funded L^ n i (19 œl, Western Union Telegr .)hS'l:(S 857j, 116%' Atchison Topeka, it S. Fe 16% 17 Do Do. 4 p.c. M'sr 78-i 78% Do. Do. 5p. Income.. 25% 25 Baltimore & Ohiol— 36 371 Canada Southern Shares 50*4 5 Canadian Pacific .w.. 57^4 5S's Genual of New Jersery^. 107 10711,1, Cent-ral Pa-ife Shares. 15Vi 15;,2 Ches%PO,%)-,e& Ohio C-mrw-va: 17% 175!s Chicago, Burlington & Qaincey. P0V« 81% Chicago A North-Western, Ord 100%, 104 Chica-gr & N. Weston Prefer;ed. 15 "5 Chicago Milwaulr.ee, and ^St. Paul 75% 7ili, Chicago <fc Rock Island 72y2 73'/4 Cleveld,Cln., Ch., & St. Ls. Ord. 58 ?9 Delaware & Hudson l?7y4 '-27% Delaware Lackawa-.ra 161 y2 "61% Denver & Rio Gir.sdeShares ..«, 13 13% Denver Preferred- 46% 47% illinoisCentral Shares Sq 95 LakftShore & Mieh&an-So1.? hern 114% LouisvileA Nashvifk *Shar;s .J 50% 51% Michigan CentiaISl»r«i 8;' 96 Missouri Kansas, and T « 12% 13Vj MissouriPacific «•■ 23% 24% New York, Lite Erie, & V." in 16% 16% Ditto, Second MottjageB os 77', 77% New YorkOemralA H><d>iuRivei 97% 98 New York. Onteriodt W-ioern.Ord 15% 15% Northern Paoi c C'iir.n 4 3% Northern 15 14% Norfolk & Western Psefe-led — „ 7% 8% Ohio ajid Mississippi 0-j. Stores IL Pennsylra^iia and PhilfuMphia 53% 55% hiladelpliia and Reading Sh -res 13% 14 liladelphia&Reading 5p.c.lstlnc 34% 34% Do. do 4 p.c, Mor 79 79 Union Pacific Shares 6% 7% Wabash St Louis, & Pacific 7% 7% W bash S Louis <fcc. Pref. Srs IB 18% C TTON AND PRODTTCE MARI;I-,TS. otton, day's receipts at U.S.ports 21,000 6.00G Cotton, day's rec'pts at G llf ports 6,00u 7,000 Cotton, day's export to G» Britain 9 000 23.000 Cotton,day's expt to Continent. 14,000 7 000 Cotton futur, Mar delivery. 7.74 7.76 Cotton utu May Del ^ery 7,8, 7 86 C:>tton,middlingupIandNewiS'o k 6% 811s Cotton, middling Iv-wOrM n 7jg Petroleum.reSned n cases. 8.50 3 5i< Petroleum, sta card White N. <^rk 7 60 7 60 Petroleum, st'd wbjt ePW^vi^inhia 7 56 7 55 Petroleum .Pipe £ Mar 142*?- 143 Spir fca oi Tutpeni ne 25% 29^ Lard.WDeox1 sSpot 5.70 5.32% r,iuow PrimeC <y 3,11 3tf S.igar, lairreajung Mtwsv; <w.. 3% 3% Do. 96;p.c, Centri £ aj0dt 4 ;,y. Corn, New mixed, WestBrnspftt. 3"% 37% Corn futures Feb 36% 36% Corn insures May, 36v« 36% Spring Wheat, No. l. spoU-. „ 75% 75% Whea red winter, on haa^cst 82 82% Wbeat, deliver J Mar 74% 74% Wheat, delivey May 72% 72% Coffee RioNo.7 ]3% 13 (Tee, Rio, No. 7, Low-Ord Mar 12.50 12.60 offee ditto May deliv 11.95 12.15 Flour, ex State Shipping brands.. 2.80 2.75 Iron, No. 2, Northern.— 11.50 1L53 Tin,Australian — — 13.45 11.50 Copper 10.50 10.25 Steel Rails 28 28 Freight Grain Liverpool steam rs 3d 2 /„d Freght.Grainsceajns: KL ndon 2d 2%d Freig Cotton to Liv pool — Silver Bullion — 67% 67 Wheat, Chica o, May delivery 66V* &5% Com, Chicago, Maydelivery 30% 30% Turpentine Savannah 27 is5%

SWANSEA CORPORATION AND LOANS TO OTHER BODIES. The Finance Committee of Swansea Corpora- tion on Friday afternoon received a communica- tion from the Local Government Board, stating that ib was proceeding with a Provisional Order to enable the Corporation to borrow money and to lend to the Board of Guardians and the School Board. The consequence of this will be a saving on the guardians' loan of per cent., and on the School Board loan of 1 per cent. sav

A new idea is cigarettes made of tea, and it is said that there is a ladies' club in London where none others are smoked. RICH BRIDAL CAKES, from JE1 Is and upwards always in stock. Two Gold Medals awarded.—T. Stevens, French Confectioner and BrideCake Mannfac- The "Dwrosny" and Queenrstceet, Cardiff. 6707

CARDIFF MUSICAL SOCIEJLI. I SECOND CONCERT. On Friday evening the Cardiff Musical .1 Society held their second concert of ? the season in the Park Hall. Cardiff. There was a large and appreciative audienoe, the seats downstairs being well filled. The programme consisted of choral and orchestra pieces. The first piece—" Hochzeitozug, from Feramcs," by Rubinstein, written in the master's dashing style was rendered with great spirit by the orchestra. In the first chorus, Lord Ullin's Daughter," by Hamish r McCunn, the orchestra once or twice was > j too loud and overpowered the voices of the chorus. The music is very appropriate to the words, and the quiet ending was most -,fie: Miss Either Palhser receiving hearty appiausf. -ud was recalled after her excellent rendering 1- Elizabeth s Greeting, from Tannhauser," M> David BisphaII4 who also oaose a song trcrs. Tannbauser," Star of Eve," has a magnificent voice, full j and round, with a very clear enunciation. The last verse of the song was beautifully sung, the orchesbral accompaniment being renaered with greas expression. The first item of the second part was a pianoforte Concerto, Op. 16 of Grieg, which was given by Mr Oscar IMeyer, the well-known bnlliant pianist, who is ? also distinguished as a composer. His performance of the concerto was very fine, and he received hearty applause a for his brilliant rendering of the piece. After several calls, he was at length prevailed upon to j! give an encore, and gave a charming solo, whichhe played with great expression and delicacy of touch. 7.; Miss Palliser sang "The Bird and Rose" by j-, Horocks, with much expression, but the |' i flexibility of her voice was very noticeable in a ) ] charming French song, Aime Toi," by Chopin. Her powers of vocalisation were admirably shown, and she received hearty and prolonged applause. The orchestra gave a spirited rendering of the F overture to "Tannhauser. "which was well received. Mr Bispham sang four songs, composed by Mr Oscar Meyer. Before the Dawn," I know a Maiden," "Longing," and "Maytide" were the titles of the songs, which were, accompanied by • • ihe composer.

PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY ft COUNCIL AND ALLOTMENTS | A meeting of the Local Government Committee 1 of the Pen brokesbire County Council was held at Haverfordwest on Friday afternoon. Mr G. P. Brewer presided, and the other members 7' present were Mr Roch, Mr Joseph Thomas, r Mr Lewis James, and Mr Lemuel Jones. > Communications were read from the Parish Councils of Carew and Moylgrove, asking the Council to acquire land for them for the purposes of small holdings within the respective parishes. The committee, after giving full consideration to the communications, agreed that they were not sufficiently explanatory, and ordered that the Parish Councils nam^ should send deputations to the committee at its next meeting.—Mr Lewis James introduced a letter from the Lampeter Council to the effect that having received an application for an allotment, and being desirous of supplying the same, after trying unsuccess- fully to secure the same by agreement. they represented the case to the County Council with the view to the issue of a compulsory hiring order. The allotment desired was located on the i, properly of Mr Evan Evans, at Waungron, ij near Whitiand, from whom Mr James read the following letter addressed to the Lampeter Parish Council. Swansea, November 15th, 1895.— In reply to yours of to-day, I am not prepared to employ Parish Councils to do my work as agents t just yet. My intention is to make my own w* allotments for my own tenants. I have several | houses on the land, aud I intend to build more and add four acres for each of them, but not to outsiders." The committee, after hearing: an explanation of the case from J Mr Lewis James, decided that it was i such a case as called for an inquiry, and for the j! purposes of the inquiry the chairman, Mr Roch, | and Mr Lemuel Jones were appointed a com- p mittee.—The meeting then took into consider*- tion the advb.ableness of extending the boars of I polling in connection with Parish. Council elections, and the following was agreed on :— With an electorate of 150 and upwards, 12 t.o 8 o'clock under 150 and above 100 electors, 2 to 8 o'clock and under 100 electors, 4 to 8 o'clock. «

PLYMOUTH (MERTHYR) COLT1ERY DISPUTE. NUMBER OF REGISTERED DISTRESSED. The number of workmen m actual distress, at j ascertained on Friday, was 315. J SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING. 1 On Friday evening, at the Boardroom of the I Workhouse, a special meeting of the Merthyr District Council was held for the purpose of resuming the discussion upon the scheme for providing public relief works for the unemployed. 1 —Mr T. H. Bailey, J.P., chairman, at the outset | suggested that they should nppoiat someone else | as chairman that evening, as they might possibly think he was interested in the matter of the dispute.—Mr Thomas Thomas moved, and it was agreed, that Aldernurai David Davies act as chairman for the evening.—The Clerk (Mr G. C. J ames) read correspondence which had passed between himself and the Local Government Board as to obtaining the sanction of that authority for the proposed loan and expenditure on public relief works proposed. A final telegram which he expected that day had not yet been received on the subject.—At the request of the Chairman, Mr Harvey (the engineer and sur- veyor), gave his report as to opportunities which existed in the locality for road making. In the net result it appeared there would be an opportunity found, as estimated, tor the employ- ment temporarily of 195 men.—Mr J. Evans said he had a list of 315 men who were in need.—It was moved by Mr Thomas Thomas, seconded by Mr J. Evans, that work be provided for the 195 men-three days a week for each.—This was agreed to, the hours of work to be the same as obtaining at present under the Council.—Mr Thomas Thomas moved, Mr J. Evans seconded, and it was decided, that the rate of pay be 3s 2d per day. Other detail arrangements were' also made. IMPORTANT STATEMENT BY MR BAILEY. In answer to subsequent inquiries by our reporter, Mr Bailey stated that there was absolute power left in the hands of Mr Edmund Jones, Varteg, to conclude the dispute on such terms as he might think fit on behalf of the employers, with Alderman David Jlorgan. the miners' agent, and that this was a matter which apparently had not been represented to the workmen. The negotia- tions were still open, and Mr Jones was waiting to hear from the miners' agent.

BARRY NEW EAST DOCK. IMPENDING REMOVAL OF A FAMILIAR LANDMARK. We are given to understand that in accordant with the decision of the Barry Dock and Railway Company's directors on Friday in last week to allow Messrs Price and Wills, the contractors for the new dock, to proceed with the second section at the eastern end, Mill Cottage will shortly be taken down. This will be necessary in order to construct two tips near the spot m addition to the four now being made along the side of the new dock. Mill Cottage has been for many years a favoured spot, and being in close proximity to the Warrer, Tump, which has now completely disappeared, was the haunt of the children of Barry and Cadoxton in the days before the present dock way built.

ABERDARE SCHOOL BOARD A WIN FOR THE ECONOMISTS. At the meeting of the Board held on Friday, under the presidency of Mr R. H. Rhys, J.P, (chairman of the Board), the committee reported by 3 to 1 in favour of salaries of teachers being allowed to remain as they are as against a scheme proposed by Mr Heppell whereby a scale for the various grades of teachers would be introduced in which the salaries of the various head teachers, would to some extent depend on the success of schools, it being proposed by him that a certaiv portion of the grants earned be allocated to the head teachers. The Chairman having formally proposed the adopbion of the report, Mr W. J. Heppill moved an amendment to the effect that the question be referred to a committee of the whole board for further con- sideration. Mr Heppell's amendment was seconded by the Rev. D. Davies, and supported by the Rev. J. Griffiths. Mi W. Charles spoke against the amendment. The Revs. D. M. Davies, J. Griffiths, D Griffiths, and Mr Heppell (4) then voted for th< amendment, and the Revs. W. James. H. R Johnson, Morgan Powell, Messrs R. H. Rby% D. P. Davies, W. Charles, and T. Railtot (7) for the committee's report, which Jwml carried. The tender of Mr J. Morgan, Monk- street, of £579 for the alterations of theCwmbach School, was then carried.

SOUTH WALES UNIVERSITY COLLEGE BUILDING FUND. The subscriptions are coming in rapidly towardf the building fund of thisCollege. Since the meebinf of the Court of Governors last Wednesday morning the following subscriptions have been promised Mr Charles Morlev, M.P., sends 2100; Dr. Thomas Wallace, of Cardiff, promises R25; Mi John Jenkins, chartered accountant, of Cardiff, sends £10 10s. Mr A. A. Williams, of Pontypool, ought to have been entered in out columns as a subscriber of 23 3s and not 21 Is.

LOCAL PATENTS. The following record to February 12bh is Gap plied by Mr N. Watts, chartered patent agent, 31, Queen-street. Cardiff; 22, Ruperra-street, Newport; and 58. Wind-street, Swansea APPLICATIONS FOB PATENTS. No. 2,930, February 8th.—S. H. Wright, nea: Moiimutith-ait improved method of conveying air or other gases, and of producing vacua thereby, with apparatus therefor. No. 2.628, February Sth.-JosePh Mallinsot and W. P. Gibbs, both of Cardiff—improvements in and relating to engine governors. AN INVENTION PROVISIONALLY PEOTECTtD. No. 676, January 10th.—Flora Owen, Cardiff-— an improvement in the construction of envelopes, APPLICATION TO BKGIBTEE A TRADE 1IIABL No..192,501, Class S.-W.-A, Baker, Now

NEWPORT. APPLICATION^ BANKRUPTCY.—At the Newport County Court yesterday Fred Maggs, bank- rupt, who formerly carried on business aa a boot and shoe salesman in Commercial- road, Newport, applied to his Honour Judge Owen for his discharge.-His Honour granted the application, but suspended the issue of the certificate for two years.

HAVERFORDWEST. FOOTBALL ACCIDENT.—During the progress of an Association football match in the Bridge Meadow, Haverfordwest, on Thursday, Mr John Elliott, a clerk employed in the relay depart- ment of the Haverfordwest Telegraph Office, sustained a very serious injury to one of his ankles, and had to be carried off the field. CONCERT.—A highly successful concert, or- ganised by members of the Haverfordwest Women's Liberal Association, was held in the Temperance Hall on Thursday evening. The concert was preceded by a public tea, to which a large number sat down. The proceeds will be devoted to the Haverfordwest Liberal Club.

ABEBAVON. THE RHONDDA GLEE Sociwff.-The Rhondda Glee Society, uuder the able conductorship of Mr Tom Stephens, gave an excellent concert in the Public Hall, Aberavon, in aid of the Mayor's Fund for the relief of the distressed tinplaters in that town, on Thursday evening. There was a crowded and appreciative audience, and the splendid singing of the ohoir was a treat. In the midst or-the programme Alderman J. M. Smith moved, and the Town Clerk (Mr M. Tennant) seconded, a hearty vote of thanks to Mr Stephens and the choir for their gratuitous services. Mr S. H. Byass was also thanked for his handsome donation of 210 10s to the fund.

TENBY. COUNCIL MZMNG.-AT a specially-convened Council meeting held on Thursday, a resolution expressing regret for the Town Council's past actions was passed and will be forwarded to the Local Government Board, together with an approved reply to former letters from the Board.

BARRY. LOCAL POLITICS. Both the Liberal Four Hundred and Radical Association of Barry are together making an efforb to induce Mr H. Asqnith to visit that place on his approaching appearance in, South Wales. The Conservatives are also, we learn, endeavouring to obtain a promise from Sir Edward Clarke to address a meeting in the locality.

TONYPANDY. ATHLETIC BALL.-On Wednesday evening the ball in connection with the Llwynypia and Tonypandy Athletic Club came off at the Town Hall, Tonypandy. The place was beauti- fully decorated, and the refreshments were sup- plied by Mr Hughes, Thistle Hotel. Over 70 couples were present. The music was provided by Messrs D. Lloyd and Mellon.

MERTHYR. ENTERTAINMENT AT ST. DAVID'S &ZOOM- On Thursday, evening an entertainment-was given ft.Ae*4t118811D..a. I in aid of the day school fund. The programme was varied, and included a short operetta, by F. J. Knapp and W. J. Varney. THE ACCIDENT AT A QUABRY. -On Friday morning, at the Lord Raglan Inn, Cefn, Mr Jones, Senny Bridge, coroner, held an inquest j upon the bodies of Matthew Berryman, Cefn,} and Edward Nicholls, Rhiwias, who were OVIW- whelmed by a faU of stone at the Vaynor Quarry on Friday. A verdict was returned of Acci- dental death."

TRECYNON. ■ PRESENTATION. —On Wednesday evening- very interesting meeting was held in the Earl ni Windsor Inn, under the presidency of Mr Griffith i Thomas (Gutyn Hydref), for the purpose oq presenting Dr. Cnthbertson, assistant to Dr. ( Bankes; at Trecynon, with a purse of gold and a silver-mounted walking stick on his departure to j South Africa.

PENYGRAIG. I FrnE-A fire broke out at the warehonse of Mr D. R. Thomas, Liverpool House, Penygraig, Wednesday night. The whole of the stock w;«-v i spoilt or burnt, and the Joss runs into about £ 200.

RHONDDA VALLEY. RHONDDA VALLEY. DISTRICT OOUNCIL, --At yestetday's meeting of the District Council, Mr W. Jenkins, J.P., ) presiding, t1" >f'»l of the Council was ordered to be affixed to 'l- petition for presentation against :1 the Ystrad Gas and Water Company's Bill. Ib was decided to give a fixed salary of J3450 per annum to the collector, Mr Evan Llewellyn.

ABERDARE. PERFORMANCE.—On Thursday evening the choir of Carmel English Baptist Church, under the conductorship cf Mr R. R. Price, gave an excellent performance, in full character, of Dr. H. P. Fisher's sacred, opera, "Ruth, the Gleaner." SAD ACCII)PNT. -About four o'clock yester- day morning Win. J. John, a cleaner v 0 employed by the Taft Vale Railway Com- pany at Aberdare, in jumping from an engine which was being shunted to the main line fell, with the result that his leg was smashed. He was taken to the Aberdare Cottage Hospital, where it was found that amputation would be necessary. The operation was performed by Dr. Trevor Jones. The lad lies in a very weak state owing to loss of blood.

GLANAMMAN. SYMPATHY.—The Baptist Church at the above place, of which the Rev. Hugh Jones is the minister, collected on Sunday last the sura of B2 10, towards the Ty,orstowti disaster. They also passed a vote of sympathy with the widows and orphans.

TYLORSTOWN. AMBULANCE.—The ambulance class, which Dr. E. J. Morris, Tylorstown, has been conducting during the past session, was recently examined by Dr. Evan Jones, of Aberdare. The results are to hand, and show that of the 26 who went in for the test 25 were successful.

LLANGELER. MINISTERIAL.—The Rev. H. Evans, Llanyboi, has accepted a unanimous call from the Congre- gational Church at Siloh, Llangeler. He intends removing to his new sphereof labour at the begin- ning of April.

TREDEGAR. MINISTERIAL, The names of the Revs. Cyn- wyd Thomas, Cardiff, and Charles Williams, Gwalchmai, have been submitted for the pastor- ship of Penuel Calvinistic Methodist Church, Tredegar.

CAERPHILLY, LITERARY AND DEBATING SOCIETY.—Ab the usual meeting on Thursday evening, Mr Thomas Rees, of Cardiff, gave some selections from Dickens, which were rendered in capital style. Miss Howell and others sang. The chair was occupied by Mr Williams, schoolmaster.

GILFACH-VARGOED. LECTURE.—At the Welsh Calvinistic Methodist Chapel on Thursday evening a lecture, with limelight views, was given by Mr R. W. Jones. B.A., Pengam, on "Stanley and Darkest Africa,"

NAVIGATION. DROWNING FATALITY. —Between four and five o'clock yesterday morning the body of a collier, aged 22, named Richard Thorne, was found in the Glamorganshire Canal at Navigation. Ib appears that Tborne was a member of a minstrel troupe, and had assisted at an entertainment given by the troupe at Navigation on Thursday evening, in aid of the widows and orphans left by the workmen who were killed aboub three months ago at Dowlais. The discovery was made by some men, who informed P.C. Nitcholls.

PONTYCYMMER. MISSIONARY MEKTINGS,-On Tuesday special meetings, under the auspices of the various Baptist Churches of the Garw Valley, were held at Noddfa Baptist Chapel, when the Rev. Thos. Evans, the well-known missionary from India, pleaded the cause of the Foreign Baptist Mission Society. He was assisted by his son (Rev. E. Rowe Evans, Neath) and the Rev. G. James, Bridgend.

LAST NIGHT'S GAZETTE." PARTNERSHIP DISSOLVED. I H.fS.'Blackborow and E. P. Beilski. at Newport, Mon., accountants, auditors, auctionears and valuers E. P. Bielski retires. WINDING-UP NOTICE. The London Gazette states that a company called the Barry and District Land Development Corporation, limited, has been wound-up voluntarily Mr A. Harlow, 5, Bisbopsgate-street, London, is liquidator. RECEIVING ORDERS. Richard C. Jenkins. trading as R. Cook Jenkins and Company and Eastern valleys Tinplate Company, Swansea, Caerleon, Pontnewydd, Monmouthshire, and Vauxhall-road, Liverpool, tinplate manufac- turer, merchant, and general commission agent. Thomas Williams, Wood-street, Cardiff, tailor's cutter, lately Newport, merchant tailor. Stephen W. Morgan, Blue-stre et, Carmarthen, fruiterer and fi,h salesman. David J. Evans, Union-terrace, Merthyr, hosier. Edwin White, of Pontmorlais, High-street, Merthyr, frame maker and artists' colourman. John Jones, High-street, Newport, Monmouthshire, rubber and waste dealer. Austin Hobart, "r Swanseaand Ystxadgunlais, Brecon- shire, colliery proprietor.

LOCAL PRIZE WINNERS AT THE LONDON DOG SHOW. Amonst the local prize winners at Craft's great dog show, held in the Royal Agricultural Hall, London, this week, we notice the name of Mr Paul Brailli, of Llanishen (Cardiff), who won 2nd with his mastiff Duke of Orleans. In the setter class Mr J. E. Gunn, of Cardiff, was reserve with his exhibit Duke of York. Ur E. C. Lewis, of Clytha Park, Newport, with his smooth dog Claudian, took third honours. In the Irish wolf- hound class the Rev. W. J. C. Lindsey, of Abergavenny, fared better, securing 2nd and special with his puppy Morogh (95). In the class for spaniel puppies Mr Fred W. Lewis, of the Grove, Haverfordwest. carried off third with his black field spaniel puppy Elfrida (95). In the greyhound section Mr J. L. Lloyd, of Newtown, Mon., won similar honours with his bitch, Lady Langtry. Mr Harris's four Welsh terriers took no less than 17 prizes against all comers, includ- in two champions. --n

MRS ROSKELL'S CONCERT. Musical treats of a high order are being showered upon us just now in high-class concerts. Last week we had the great Stavenhagen, and to- night we have another equally great pianist in the person of Herr Reisenamer, and all musicians and piano students should nob miss hearing him. There will also be an excellent quartette, the distinguished Herr Eldenhorst as first violin, Eayres as second, Berzon as viola, and the able 'cellist, W. Squire vocalist, Mrs Trust. Mrs Roskell deserves our support, and we feel sure the Town Hall will be packed, Lords Tredegar and Windsor are patrons.

SCOTCH IRON TRADE. GLASGOW, Friday.—There has been a steady feeling in the Scotch iron trade. Rather less business has been done in raw iron than in the last few weeks, but the consumption appears to be on the increase, and the manufacturing branches are becoming very busy. Scotch warrants sold from 47s 2V £ d to 47s 7d, closing 3d less. Cleveland iron varied from 38s 3%d to 388 8d, afterwards receding 3%d. Cumberland warrants broughb 48s 7%d to 49" 2d, closing at 48* 81hd cash. The output of Scotch-made hematite has been increased 900 tons per week, while that of ordinary iron has been reduced 600 tons. There are now 79 furnaces in blast in Scotland, compared with 78 last week and 73 in the corresponding week last year. The prices of makers' special brands are in a number of cases advanced 6d per ton. Gartsherrie No. 1 is quoted 51s 6d No. 3, 48s 6d Clyde, 50s 6d and 47s 6d Giengarnock, 51s 6d and 47s 6d Eglin- ton, 48a 6d and 46s 6d. The pig iron shipments are smaller than last week by 1,200 tons. The finished iron market is steady, with rather more business. There is an increasing demand for steel. and the works are well employed.

MEETING OF TIN PLATERS AT PONTYPOOL. On Friday evening a meeting of the workmen oonnected with the Town Forge Tinplate Works, Pontypool, was held in <she Globe Hotel for the i purpose of considering the renlv of th« smnlovers to a final offer by the men to resume work 1 on a 12 per cent. reduction. Mr Francis was unanimously voted to the chair.— < Ab a meeting held the previous night it was resolved that the men offer Mr Davies, the manager, a 12% per coot. reduction, providing that the works should be on full time. The deputation appointed for the purpose had seen Mr Davies that morning, and conveyed to him the offer ot the men. In reply he stated that he would accept the off, providing that he could get orders. So as .'ar as things had gone there was no more hope of resuming work at present than -here had ever been, The sPeaker went on oJ say that in making that offer the men wero doing more than had been done anywhere except a Blaina and one other place, where they had offered 15 per cent. reduction. In these places, however, they had not the machinery that they had at Pontypool. It was said by some people that the men would make no concession, but they wished it to be understood that this wes not the case, and that in making that offer they were doing all they [ could in fairness to themselves and to the trade to meet the employers.—No further action was taken.

Jl i SOUTH WALES COAL TRADE. AMALGAMATED SOCIETY OF COLLIERY WORKERS. A special committee of the Executive Council of the Amalgamated Society of Colliery Workers of the South Wales Coalfield w.»s held as the Hotel Metropole, Cardiff, on Friday, Present—Alderman D. Morgan, Aberdare, chair- ai«n Mr \V. Brace, miners'agent, vice-chairman Alderman Isaac Evans, Neath Alderman John Thomas, Giirw Mr P. D. Rees, Aberaman Mr Ben D.ivies, miners' agent, Pentre and Coun- cillor John Williams, Ynysybwl, secretary. The CHAIRMAN gave a lengthy and detailed report of the dispute existing at the Plymouth Collieries. The Council dealt at length with the whole case, and ultimately it was decided that Mr Isaac Evans and Mr John Williams, secretary, be deputed to investigate I the books of the Plymouth workmen's lodges in order to elicit the number of members entitled to the support cf the association. The Chairman and Mr Isaac Evans ave a joint- detailed report of Lhn recent conference held in London on the new Mines Bill, which was received with satisfaction, and the Council ex- pressed its opinion of the said Mines Bill as far excelling any previous Bills for mining purposes. The Council tendered its warmest thanks to Messrs Morgan and Evans for their very able and lucid report. The question of the discharge note was discussed, and the Council passed a resolution that the introduction of the discharge note is contrary to present and previous customs. Also, that the same is adverse to the principles of Trades Unionism, and will prove to be a great source of detriment to the colliery workmen of the Principality.

CARDIFF AND PENARTH STEAM FERRY CO. The annual general meeting of the Cardiff and Penarth Steam Ferry Company was held at Cardiff yesterday, Mr V. Trayes being in the chair. The report stated that the profits of the past year amounted to Bill 3s 5d. No dividend was declared, and J386 lis lid was transferred to the debit for 1894, leaving E24 115 6d to be carried forward. That result was attained without making any allowance for depreciation or keeping the steamers covered by insurance; and, as anticipated, the improved railway service and the new departure of the large excursion steamers carrying passengers to Penarth so seriously affected the trade that the running of one boat was found ample, and the other had been with- drawn and laid up in dock. The result of the past year's working was such that the directors think the time has arrived when some concession must be asked for from the Bute Docks Com- pany. Messrs Valentine Trayes and Charles A. Heywood were re-elected directors, and Messrs A. J. Hili, Vellacott and Co. auditors.

ASHANTI EXPEDITION. I INVALIDS REACH HOME. The Royal mail steamer Loanda, which arrived at Liverpool yesterday from the West Coast of Africa, bad among her passengers from Cape Coast Castle several invalided officers and men who took part in the Ashanti expedition. The officers were Lieutenants Davis and Magon, of the 2nd West India Regiment, and the men belonged to the West Yorks Regiment aud the Medical Staff Corps. They had recovered wonderfully. During the voyage and on arrival I they were enjoying comparatively good health.

ALLEGED CHILD MURDER. Elizabeth Badger, servant, was committed for trial at Bridemorth charged with murdering her illegitimate child.