The Carmarthen Journal and South Wales Weekly Advertiser

LLANWENOG TEA PARTY AXD CONCERT.—The annual tea- party and concert, in connection with the .National School, caino off recently. In the afternoon a. treat, of tea .2IIHI cakes was given to the school-children, number- ing nearly 100, by Mr. and Mrs. Griffiths lS«lch- mawr, and the little ones did ample justice t j tho innumerable delicacies provided. After tea each dJild was presented with an orange and a. bun by the :-ame land donors. The adults were next. enter- saincd, and It is needless to say that both young and old thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Tho following iatlies presided at tho tables.—Mrs. Griffith. llwJch- tnawr; Mrs. Jones, House; Miss. Sally Davus, Pen- uader; Miss Rees, Machpelah; Miss Evana. Tyny- f ron; Miss Fox, National School; Mies Thomas, National School; Miss Rees, Penffordd; Mm. Davies, Mountain; whilst Mr. Griffiths aod Mr. Jones (schoolmaster) were kept busy cutting tho cake. After tea the concert was held. Long before the appointed time the room was overcrowded, and it is a. iuty that a larger room is not available for aanual per- formances of the school-children. Tho parents, wero in a strong muster, eager to seo their little ones performing on tho stage, while Llanybyther was very well represented, and a strong contingency had eoiuo even from Lampeter, Llanllwni other places, but they were all amply repaid for coming, as the lengthy programme was most interesting from beginning to end, and was carried out without a hitch. In the unavoidable absence of Oapt. B. Davies, Evans, of Bwlchbychan, the chair occu- pied by Mr. Griffiths, D.C., Bwlchmawr, who proved 40 bo an ideal chairman. The action songa of the children, as usual, wero most creditably performed, and gained loud applause from the audience, especially "The Tramps," "The Welsh Girie." "The Little Cooks," etc., whilst the younger ones recited in a most commendable manner. The singing- of Welsh airs by a choir of about 30, all dressed in Welsh costumes, was the hit of the evening-, with Granny, (Miss Mary Thomas, Sexton Park) at the spinning wheel. The dialogue, "Cwpanaid o De," liy Miss Fox and Miss Thomas (assistant teachers), and Miss Chiverton, fairly brought down the house, whilst the "penniillion" singing of Mr. Da vie 3, Llan- gyiJi (school attendance officer), and Mr. Jones, schoolmaster, caused roars of laughter. Thj- excel- lent, manner in which the children want through their parts reflects the greatest credit ujion Mr. Jones (the headmaster) and his assistants. We understand also that Miss Thomas, sewirg- mistress at the school) was responsible for the getting up of the Welsh costumes, which turned out to be 50 suc- cessful. The following ladies and gentlemen also rendered solos and duetts, and were loudly en- cored, viz., Miss Davies, Pencaderr MLM Ray Davies, Llanybyther; Miss Rees, Rhuddian; Mr. tJwvn Davies and Mr. Prince, auctioneer, LIan- ivenog, and Mr. Davies, Llangybi. A hearty vote thanks to the chairman, the pianist. and ail who had sang and taken part to make the treat and concert, a success, was proposed by Mr. Jones (schoolmaster). Bardic addresses to Mr. and Mrs. Griffiths, for their great kindness and generosity, were, delivered by a dozen school-children, and evoked much laughter. Miss Evans, Tynygron, acted as accompanist throughout in an able manner. The singing of save the King" brought a Jllost enojyable day to a close.

WIlL CF THE LATE MR. LLOYD, LLECHRYD Mr. Thomas Edward Tdoyd, of Coedn^re. Lieeh- rvel Cardigan, J.P. for Carmarthenshire and Car- diganshire, ex-M P. for Cardiganshire. member of the Carlton, Garrick, and Welsh Club, ho died on the 23rd of September, aged 89, sor. of the lafe Mr. Thomas Llovd, of Coedmoi-e, lord-Mt"iiant of Cardiganshire, left estate of the gross of £172,913, with net personalty £142.173. Probate of tho will, dated tho 6th of Febri^ry, x. was granted to his widow, Eliza Mary Lloyd. Tin- testa- tor desired burial at Golders Green with the Church (If England service. The sum of JB600 was left to each of his nephews and nieces, childn-n of his In other Edmund, viz., Colonel Thomas Lloyd, Charles, Lloyd. William Lloyd, Walter Henry Lloyd, Gertrude Thomas, Milly Jones, Emnieiine Lloyd, Jessie Lloyd. Charlotte Ed-wards, and Alice Miller; j6500 each to the children of lus brother Walter, nanielv, Walter Lloyd, Lewis Howard Lloyd. Charles Lloyd, Llewellyn Lloyd, Florence Addison, Agnes Marion Brown, and Catherine ('harlotto Attlee: £ 50 to his wife's mother, Eliza Bennett: £ 50 to his wife's aunt, Marion Boultbee: £10 each to his parlourmaid (Ellen Jenkins), his dairymaid (Hannah Davies), his coachman (Griffith Thoma--), his irarden labourer (William Hazzlebyj, and Ins bailiff (.John Williams). He left the Trewern Estate upon trust for his wife for life, with remainder 1 (J his nephews Colonel Thomas Lloyd, Charles Lloyd. Walter Henry Lloyd, William Lloyd. Edmund Lloyd. Walter Lloyd, Charles Lloyd, Howard Lloyd, and Llewellyn Lloyd.

■rmmm TO MOTHERS.—Mrs. Window's .S-oihiiig Syrup has been used for fifty years by millions of Mothers for their Children while Teething with perfect suc- cess. It will relievo immediately. Ir is pleasant to 111ste; it produces natural, quiet sleep by reliev ing the child from pains, and the. little cherub awakes "as bright as a button." Of all chemist.?, price Is. lgd. per bottle.

A REVIEW OF AGRICULTURE DURING 1909. BY A PRACTICAL FARMER AND AGRICUL- TURAL JOURNALIST. (COPYRIGHT.) The end of the calendar year is neither the most convenient nor the most natural time for writing a review of the agricultural year. For, as the two periods are not coterminous, it follows that an agricultural review, written towards the end of December, and extending back 12 months, covers portions of two agricultural years. As, however, it is always difficult to fly in the face of custom, and as it is the invariable custom to review the agri- cultural situation at this period, the inconvenience incidental thereto must needs be endured. To review the farming experiences of the past 12 months is by no means a pleasant task. The year, as a whole ,has been one of adverse climatic condi- tions. Almost from the very outset, right to the I very end, the cereal crops encountered weather hardships. It is truo the wheat seeding was com- pletod under favouring conditions, with the result that the young plant got a good start before the advent of winter. This initial advantage was never altogether lost during the succeeding months. Bo- ca uso of that excellent start, the wheat crop Jater on made headway under conditions which must other- wise have told very heavdy against it. The cold weather that prevailed throughout the whole of the spring season seriously impeded the growth of the spring-sown cereals, and kept the pastures tare h r:g long after tho new herbage was due. When one looks back at the many adverse conditions which beset the young cereal crops, one marvels that they survived the trying ordeal at all. Frosty rights were common right into the summer season. W:e use the term "summer season" mainly for conveni- ence. As a matter of fact, summer weather never arrived at all, except for a few odd days. Instead of the expected and hoped-for sunshine, rain came. The summer and autumn seasons have yielded very little sunshine, and precious few fine days. Low temperatures and continuous rains have almost monopolised the long-day period of the year. Despite theso adverse conditions the cereal crops struggled through their several stages of growth somehow, and towards the end of June the pros- pect was fairly bright. With plenty of fine weather to follow, the crops, as a whole nromised to yield fairly well. But the hoped-for fine weather never arrived. The crops ripened through age more than anything else. And then, to crown the farmer's year of climatic troubles, a wet autumn succeeded a. wet summer. The crops that had struggled to maturity were sadly damaged in the harvest field, For the most part, they were gathered in a very indifferent condition. And many acres of bulky crops were never gathered at all, except as manure. Tho bedraggled wreckage of a few crops is afield at this moment. The story of the harvest is in very truth a dismal one. It is a story of few crops well saved, many crops badly damaged, and some en- tirely destroyed. Nor have the misfortunes of the year yet been fully told. The crops, bulky in straw through the excessive moisture of the season, wero costly to har- vest. In many eases it was impossible to employ the labour-saving self-binder in the reaping ot them, and expensive hand-labour had to be resorted to. And where it was possible to make use of the machine, the soil was subjected to a mauling, the effect. of which are certain to be seen in next year's crops. The carting of the cereals in a damp condi- tion has meant a poor sample for the market. Stern necessity has compelled the majority of farmers to thrash crops that were not in condition to thrash, with the result that the markets have been glutted with illconditioned grain for two months past. Prices have gone down in consequence. The story of the hay harvest is almost as dismal as that of the corn harvest. The cold weather of the spring delayed the bottom-growtli, which is to a large extent the measure of the crop. And when the cutting period arrived the rains also arrived.. The bulk of the hay crop was considerably spoiled in the gathering. Good hay cannot bo made in sun- less weather; and this year the days were damp as/ wall as sunless. The farm returns collected on June 4th revealed some rather remarkable cereal fluctuations when compared with those of last year. They showed a big increase in the wheat acreage, and an almost equally extensive decrease in the oat acreage. Bar- IIPY showed a slight decrease. As, however the autumn of last year was so highly favourable to wheat-sowing operations, and the markets promised further improvements, these circumstances probably account for the extended .acreage in the bread cereal. And this encroachment on the cereal area rendered a diminished area of one or another of the spring cereals inevitable. The following com- parative table of acreages will, however, afford readers some interesting information in regard to general tendencies over a 10 years' period 1909. 1908. 1898-1907. Acres Acres. Average Acreage. Wheat 1,832,563 1,626,733 1,751,067 lhirlev 1,664,394 1,667,437 1,863,404 Oats 2,981,789 3,108,918 3,056,811 Beans 313,864 295,024 258,480 Peas 183,910 163,749. 168,325 Hye 55,566 52,744 62,262 The reliability of the "Times" crop estimates has been fully attested in former years; and we may as well givo a summary of its estimates of crop yields based on returns oollected and published on October 1st. Counting full crops at 100 points, the figures of estimate were as follow:— Wheat. Barlev. OatE. Oct.1 Oct.1 Oct.l Oet.l Oct.l Oct.l Average of 1909 1908 1909 1908 1909 1908 England 95.7 90.6 93.9 86.0 87.6 84.0 Wales 94.8 87.0 95.8 85.3 95.5 82.0 Scotland 98.4 90.5 ..j 88.1 90.0 97.0 91.4 Great Britain 95.7 90.5 93.28 86.36. 91.0 86.26 The Board of Agriculture in its preliminary state- ment, gives the following estimates of yields, with comparative figures:— I Average per acre. Average for 10 yrs. 1909. 1908. 1899-1908. Whptlt 33.76 32.29 31.46 bushels. Barley 33.63 32.82 33.09 „ Oats 41.31 39.77 39.65 Beans 28.66 30.16 29.97 I'om 25.89 28.21 27.35 It will be seen that, despite the adverse weather, tho three principal cereals compare fayourably this year with those of last year, and with the decadal average. These estimates may, however, prove too sanguine. figures of value have more interest for farmers than figures of yield nowadays, and the general teudenoy in the direction of higher prices for wheat and barley of late years has done much to re-hearten them, and to foster the hone and ex- J)(.ctation that at last 'times are on the mend.' Since 1903, the price of wheat and barley has gradually improved; and the same tendency, but with greater fluctuations, has been manifest in the case of oats Tho following figures tell their own story Wheat. Barlev Oats. 1903 26s. 9d. 22s. 11 .17s. 2d. nernr 1904 28s. 4d. 22s. 4d. lfe. ^;rjerrlr* 1905 29s. 9d. 24s. 4d. 17s. 4d 1906 28s. 4d. 24s. 3d. 18s. 7d. 1907 30s. 7d. 25s. Od. 18s. lid. 1908 32s. Od. 26s. Od. 17s. lOd. During the current year, the "corner" in tho United states has caused a considerable fluctuation in the price of wheat. Starting at 32s. per quarter in January, the price went up to 34s. 5d. by the end of February, to 36s. by the end of March, to 41s. 4d. by the end of April, to 42s. 6d. by the end of May, to 44s. by the middle of July, and to 44s. 9d. by the 1st August. Then the tendency was down- ward; and as soon as the home cron became avail- able for market there was a heavy fall owing to the indifferent condition of the grain. From 37s. 2d. P<;r quarter on September 1st, the price fell to 32s. 2d. by October 1st, and to 31s 4d. by the middle of that month. Since then the price has graduallv improved a little as the condition of the grain has improved in the stack. Barlev iias not shown any considerable fluctuations during the vear. There has been the customary fall during" the summer months, consequent upon the exhaustion of th malting portion of the crop; but the price has been fairly consistent, and stands now at almost exactly what it was last year at this time. Oats followed the usual tendency, and improved in nrice as the summer advanced. As in the case of barley, the price is now almost exactly what it was a year ago. The- tendency to convert more and more arable land to pasture still continues, and the area under ''permanent grass" is returned at 17,452,405 acres, ns compared with 17,415,869 acres in 1908. It is not- able, too, that the tendency is to graze rather than to mow, for while there is an increase of 208,768 acres "not for hay," there is a decrease of 172,232 acres "for hay.' Under the head of 'clover and rotation grasses"—temporary pasture, that is—the acreage has diminished from 4,421,587 acres in 1908, to 4,214,580 acres. And here again there is a do- crease of 196,526 acres "for hay," and also a de- crease of 17,471 acres "for hav." Tho explana- tion of theso decreases in the hay figures is to be found in the fact that pasturage was so short in the spring and early summer, owing to the cold days and frosty nights, that farmers were compelled to grazo fiekls that, originally would have been mown. The tale of the cold weather is also told in the figures of yield of the permanent and temporary hay crops. Thus, the total weight of the temporary cron is computed at 2,936.177 tons, as comnared with 3.506,784 tons in 1908. which, after accounting for the difference in acreage, gives a crop of 28.85 cwts. per acre, as compared with 31.42 cwis. in 1908, and a. decadal average of 29.73 cwts. The total weight of the permanent hay crop is computed at 5.432,360 tons, as compared with 6.213.355 tons in 1908. Again allowing for differences in acreage, this gives a yield of 22.75 cwls. per acre, as com- pared with 25.11 cwts. jn 1908, and a decadal aver- age of 23.80 cwts. Here we get a tofal shortage in the fodder stores of 1,551,602 tons ,as compared with 1908. This big deficiency is nretfv certain to have a marked effect upon prices as the present winter advances; and should the spring be late in arriving we may look for exceptionally stiff quotations. Although there was a big slump in the potato trade last spring, growers were not deterred from increasing their acreage, tho figures being 575,461, as compared with 562,105 in 1908. All things con- sidered, the computed yield, as stated m the returns recently published, is better than one could have expected, being given at 6.39 tons per acre, as com- pared with 6.97 last year, and a decadal .average of 5.85 tons. The total weight of the new crop is put at 3,675,994 tons, as compared with 3,917,bl8 tona in 1908. It is to be expected that thexe will be a good deal of waste "when the pies are opened," as disease has been somewhat prevalent, and the crop has come up wet and dirty, and, to some extent, was caught by the early November frosts before secur- ing. Paradoxical as it may at first thought appear, growers prefer a moderate to an exceptionally heavy crop. A big crop means almost of necessity a low selling price, whilst a light crop means as a rule a good price. The labour bill on a heavy crop, with selling prices abnormally low, is apt to swallow up all tho profits. The great scarcity of potatoes in the United States last spring came as a boon and a blessing to English growers, as it provided them with a market for a surplus that would otherwise have been unsaleable. It remains to be seen what fate is in store for growers during the coming year.' There is a slight increase in the acreage under turnips and swedes, and the crop is computed at 16.16 tons per acre, as compared with 15.33 in 1908, and a decadal average of 13.49. The total tonnage is put at 25,132,497, as compared with 23,768,235 last year. Against this excess in the turnip crop has to be put a decline in the mangold crop, the yield of which is put at 20.95 tons per acre, as compared with 21.03 in 1908, and a decadal average of 19.62. With an increased acreage, however, the total weight of the crop is put at 9,565,523 tons, as compared with 8,995.267 tons. These heavier stores of roots may servo to mitigate the hay shortage. The total number of horses in the country on Juno 4th was 1,552,993, as compared with 1,545,671 last year. There has been an increase of 12,690 under the head of "horses used for agricultural purposes," and a decrease of 5,368 of unbroken horses. JThe classification of horses in the n-turne is far from satisfactory, as no indication is given of what the proportion is as between the heavy and lighter breeds. And that is a matter of interest and importance in these days of motor traction. Cattle show a substantial increase from 6,905,134 in 1908, to 7,020,982. Cows and heifers in milk 6how an increase of 34,455, and there are increases of 58,435 cattle between the ages of one and two years, and 81,490 under one year. Against these increases has to bo put a decrease of 54,473 two-year- olds and upwards. These figures indicate a further development in the fresh milk industry, and in the tendency to earlier maturity in fat stock. Sheep havo also increased from 27,119,730 in 1908 to 27,618,419. There aro big increases under all divisions, and tho increase of 241,387 in ewes pro- mises well for a further big increase in tho near future. With mutton prices what they have been this year, this increase tells of more hope in the future of the wool trade. Pigs have decreased from 2,823,482 in 1908 to 2,380,887. But pig figures fluctuate very consider- ably from year to year. The remarkable fecundity of the swine creation enables breeders to regulate the supply to the demand qufckly, and the high price of bacon is pretty certain to result in a big increase of pig numbers during the next year or two. Tho keen demand for young porkers will, of course, tempt breeders to kill where they ought to spare. But they will not be minded to see a profitable trade go abroad for long. And the pros- pect is bright for those who defer immediate salea in order to increase their breeding stock. Thoro have been several eventful happenings in the agricultural world during the year, some of which call for special notice. The wheat "corner" in tho United States, the effects of which were severely felt within the States, had a somewhat dis- turbing result in .the British markets. Producing countries with surpluses for disposal were indisposed for a time to part with them except on a speculatve basis, for thero was, at one stage of the "operation" of Mr. Patten's plan, a possibility that, the U.S. Government, under the pressure of public opinion, would temporarily remove the tariff barriers and admit wheat from other countries, including Canada. This disturbing factor gave a. strong impetus to the tendency towards a rise in values, due to a general shortage of wheat. But as soon as the acute stftage of the American crisis passtd away, the British market resumed its normal condition, and supplies arrived in fair sufficiency to meet require- ments without impairing the rising tendency. Following tho wheat "corner" in America, came a "Meat War" in England. The quarrel was betwixt the farmers and the butchers, over tho vexed ques- tion of a warranty. The dispute had been simmer- ing for a year or two. The position was thus: Under the stricter regulations relating to the slaughter of fat cattle and the confiscation of tuber- culous carcases, the butchers contended that the farmers take upon themselves the risks of confisca- tion by givng a warranty of soundness with every animal sold. The farmers, not unnaturally, de- clined to do this, although they were disposed to compromise the matter on tho basis of an insurance scheme. Conferences were held; but they came to nothing, because the leaders of the National Federa- tion of Meat Traders' Associations declined to meet the farmers by making any concessions on their own* side. And so, in an evil hour—for themselves-tho leaders of the Federation issued an ultimatum. They declared that on and after May 3rd members of the affiliated Associations must decline to purchase cattle except with a warranty from the vendors. It was an ill-advised course to take, for those responsi- ble for it took no note of the fact that the farmers, if put. on their mettle, held tho whip hand of them. They mado the further mistake of imagining that they would have the support of public opinion. And perhaps the biggest miscalculation of all was that the affiliated butchers would respect tho instructions issued to them. The "war" that was to make his- tory never developed into a. war at all. Here and thero the boycott, established by the butchers was partially successful for a few days. Some in- convenience was caused to a number of farmers. But for the most part there were always sufficient butchers, unattached or breaking away, to render the boycott ineffectual. After a .few days of de- sultory warfare, the Federation's plan of campaign broke down entirely, and the great war that was to be, fizzled out most ingloriouslv. In this dispute between the farmers and butchers, the Farmers' Union rendered valuable service to the attacked side by stiffening tho backs of its members with assurances as to the justice of their cause and the strength of their position as a united force. And, during the year, that Union has developed into a national organisation. Born and cradled in Lincolnshire, it has, within the brief space of five years, invaded many other counties. The various county organisations have now affiliated, and the National Farmers' Union is the result. Tho popu- larity of the movement continues to increase as its possibilities of usefulness become more and more manifest. Already a scheme for financing its own direct representatives in the House of Commons is in operation, or at any rate developing rapidly towards practical application. A prominent feature of the Union's activities is the pledging of Parlia- mentary candidates to the various items of its pro- gramme. If all goes well with it, this Union pro- mises to be, a few years hence, one of the most powerful organisations in the country. Farmers have, at length, recognised tho wisdom of combining for the furtherance of their common cause. In the present state of political tension, it is a somewhat difficult and delicate matter to refer to tho Budget proposal without offending people's susceptibilities. As. however, the question of agri- culture has been involved in those proposals, it is necessary briefly to review tho situation. We prefer to say nothing on the vexed question of whether or not agricultural land has been sufficiently safe- guarded aainst the two taxes proposed upon incre- ments and "held up" sites. All that we arc called upon to touch is tho proposal for earmarking tho motor-car and petrol duties ,and some odds and ends of taxes and balances, as the nucleus of a development fund. The money thus accruing, it is proposed, shall be devoted to the improvement of our main roads, the establishment of schools of forestry, the endowment of schools of instruction in stock-breeding, co-operation, and, in short, to any schemes "which appear calculated to develop agri- culture and rural industries." The Budget esti- mates allow for rather more thaø half a million sterling per annum for tho next five years for theso development purposes. The Development Bill which has become law this session is the machinery provided for adminstering this development fund. The final destruction of the Budget in January would, of course, leave this new Act without any finances to make it operative. It. would, equally of course. be in the power of the Conservative party, if they should be restored to power, to providd money for this new Act in their Budget. Tho situation at present is that tho Budget which was to provide the money for these development pur- poses is non-existent, while the Development Bill which provides the machinery for administering the fund has reached the Statute Book. Amongst the miscellaneous matters which call for a word of comment: is tho continued prevalence of swine fever. Year after year, despite the utmost efforts of the Board of Agriculture to stamp it out, the diseaso continues to claim its thousands of vic- tims. The wrirer of this article has contended for many years past that the proper course would be to treat tln\ disease as typhoid, and attempt to grapple with it by means of regulations for the sanitation of styes. Perhaps some day the authori- ties will take that view of the problem. Horses, cattle, and sheep have had a year of good health, so br as reJates to infectious or contagious diseases. In the. breeding of y><y]igree stock, the year has been one of fairly good business, unmarked by any- thing sensational in the matter of prices. The weather, keeping up its reputation, has bee/i very adverse to wheat-sowing operations this autumn. It is nor possible to say anything definite as to the extent of tho acreage that, has been got 'n: hut it is to feared it will fall short of that of last autumn. And it is to be further 'eared that a good d",1I of that which has been sown has got in under conditions that have been far Lor. satisfactory. In their anxiety to profit bv whit is generally regarded as an improved outlook, farmers have, it is to be feared, incurred the of a poor plant in the spring.

MARKETS GRAIN. NEWPORT, Wed., Dec. 15.—There was a good inquiry on 'Change here to-day. Wheat was very firm and offered at 6d advance on the week. Maize strong and 6d dearer. Oats and barley unchanged. Milling offal in good request at about late rates. CATTLE. NEWPORT, Wed., Liec. 15.—The increasing popu- larity of the Newport Christmas Cattle Market was clearly apparent here to-day, when a large supply of choice cattle briskly sold among a good attendance. There was also a plentiful supply of sheep, lambs, and pigs, together with a moderate number of calves. Quotations:—Best beef 6d to 7d, seconds 6d I to 6id, best Irish cattle 6d, cows 4d to Sid, best wether mutton 7d, ewe 5d to 5!d, lamb 74d, and calves 6d to 7gd per lb. Pigs: Porkers lis 6d to 12s, f and baconers 10s to 10s 3d per soore. LEICESTER, Sat., Dec. 18,—Supplies of store stock were of only moderate extent, and though demand ruled dull, prices were well maintained. Quotations:—Choice milch cows, £23 to £25 10s per head; useful lots, JB19 to £21; seoondarv, JB15 to J617 10s; barren cows, JB8 10s to JB11 10s; Irish bullocks, J612 10s to £15 10s; calves, 15s to 40s per head. CHEESE. NEWPORT, Wed., Dec. 15.—A moderate supply offered here to-day met a brisk demand at the follow- ing prices.—Caerphillys 56s to 62s, fancy dairies 63s to 64s. doubles 60s, truckles 65s to 70s, Cheddars 60s to 63s, and singles 566 to 60s per orrU BUTTER. CORK, Wed., Dec. 15.—Firsts 105s, seconds 96s, thirds 91s, fourths 81s, superfine 108s, fine 96s, fresh from 104s to 92s per cwt. PROVISIONS. CARMARTHEN, Sat., Dec. 18.—Quotations:— Butter—cask Is 2id, roll Is 4d to Is 5d per lb; dressed poultry—fowls 5s to 6s per couple, ducks 3s to 4s 9d, geese 6s 6d to 8s 6d, turkeys 8s 6d to 12s 6d each; eggs, 8 for Is; cheese, 38s per cwt. LLANDILO, Sat., Dec. 18.—Owing to the Christ- mas fair to bo held on Monday and the markets to bo held again during the week, there was very little produce at thia market to-day. Quotations .-—Butter —fresh Is 2d and Is 3d per lb, tub Is 2d, Aus- tralian Is 2d; eggs, 7 for Is; cheese—Welsh 6gd per lb, cream and Caerphilly 8d; honey, Is 3d per lb; poultry—live turkeys 21s a pair, trussed Is per lb. 'live geese 9s each, trussed Is per Ib, live ducks 3s 6d each, trussed Is per lb, live fowls 4s 6d to 6s a couple, trussed lid per lb; game—pheasants 5s 5d a brace, hares 3s 6d each. Flannel: White Is per yard, shirting Is, serge Is 6d, hopsack Is 4d, costume Ban- net 2s 6d and 3s, blankets 21s a pair, rugs 18s each, shawls 12s 6d each, turnovers 2s 6d each, ready-made blouses 4s 6d each, ready-made shirts 5s 6d each; wool—white and grey in-and-out-the grease 2s 2d per lb. black Welsh 2s 8d, best black 5s 3d and 3s 6d, German fingering mxed colours 3s 8d per lb. LLANDILO CHRISTMAS FAIR. Llandilo Christmas Fair was held on Monday, and was a very small one, owing to the frosty weather prevail- ing. It was also a late one as there was some diffi- culty in bringing the animals to town. Such as were for sale realised fair prices. Messrs. William and Walter James, auctioneers, held their mart at the council fair ground, when some 60 lots were dis- posed of at very good prices, some cattle reaching as much as £25 a-piece. In the poultry department there was a small supply of liye poultry, there being no trussed poultry for sale. Turkeys sold 'at Is Id per lb, and geese Is per lb. In the flannel depart- ment there was a good supply, but the demand was small. Quotations:—WThite Is per yard, shirting Is, white serge wide width Is 6d, navy* blue serge Is 4d, blouse flannel Is 2d, skirt lengths 5s 6d each, white blankets 21s per pair, grey 18s and 19s per yard, apron flannel from Is 9d to 2s 3d per yard, cloth for suitings 3s 3d a yard, costume flannel 2s 6d and 2s 9d, costume cloth (double width) from 3s to 3s 9d, large nursing shawls (white) 15s 6d each, coloured 12s, wraps 3s 9d, turnovers 2s 6d, rugs 15s and 16s; wool—black Welsh 2s 6d and 2s 8d per lb, white and grey in-aad-out-the-greasc 2s 2d.

OLD WELSH FARM AND STABLE Medicines for Horses and Neat Cattle.-HORSE rHtfelL BALLS, purgative, worm expeller, or swelled legs, lOd. each. PATENT HOOF OIL specially made for Hunters and light roadsters, beautifies and preserves the hoof tins 2s. 6d. COUGH POWDERS, twelve for Is. 3d. Colic Powder, 9d.; Scour Powder, 9d.; Calving Drenches, Is.; Cleansing Drenches, Is. WHITE SCOUR IN OALVES, Lambs. —Threo doses usually completely cure worst cases; 12 doses, 2s. 6d. RINGWORM OINTMENT reo moves the white flaw, Is. 6d.; husky oough or h'oose in three calves or six lambs cured for Is 6d SHEEP.-Foot Rot, 100 feet dressed to cure for 28. Horn Preventer (in young calves), 9d. All above are old and tried remedies; are safe and sure in action, and enable the Stockbreeder to be his own vet." to a great extont, and have been in daily use for a great MAu7 ~earp' and aro sti11 used to-dav in our leading stables and stockyards, and are sent carriage paid with full instructions. —Made and sold by D MORGAN DAVIES, Licensed Patent Medicine Manufacturer, Medical Hall, Llanybvther, South (5125p

ADVENT ORDINATION ST. DAVID'S DIOCESE. The Bishon of St. David's held a general ordina- tion in the Parish Church of Abergwili on Sunday morning last, when the following were ordained:— DEACONS. John Morris Cottee,, Lie.Div., St. David's College, Lampeter, and of St. Michael's Theological College,' Llandaff Jenkin Alban Davies, Jesus College, Oxford, and of St. Michael's Theological College, Llandaff. PRIESTS. Evan Morgan Davies, Lic.Div., St. David's College, Lampetcr, curate of Llansadwrn Llanwrds, Carmarthenshire. Evan Watkins, B.A., St. David's College. Lam- peter, curate of Llandilo-Talybont. John Gwynfe Jones, B.A., St David's College, Lampeter, curate of Llansamlet. ° Thomas Wallace Lumb, B.A., Jesus College. Ox- ford, curate of Llandingat, Carmarthen. David Randell. B.A., St. David's College, Lam- peter, curate of St. Issell's, Pem. Walter Herbert Noel Seeker, B.A., Christ Church. Oxford, curate of Tenby Mr. J. Alban Davies was the gosneller, and the sermon was preached by the Rev. E. Lloyd, rector of New Quay. The bishop afterwards licensed to curacies the following:—John Morris Cottee. Lie. Div., 10 Pembroke Dock, and Jenkin Alban Davies to Christ Church, Swansea. LLANDAFF DIOCESE. The Bishop of Llandaff held a general ordination in Llandaff Cathedral on Sunday morning last, when the following were ordained :— DEACONS. Robert Denys Gwyther Chinn, Lie. J-.IV., St. David's College, Lampeter; Alban Aeron Daviesj B A., St. David's College, Lampeter, and Wycliffe Hall, Oxford: Philip Francis, a literate; Evan Jones, Lie. Diy. St. David's College. Lampeter: Hugh Basil Jones. B.A., St. David'sT'ollege, Lam peter; Frederic Hubert Playfoot, a literate; Win. Rees, a literate; Evan Thomas. B.A., St. David's College, Lampeter, and St. Michael's Theological College, Llandaff and Harold Thomas, ue-us College, Oxford. PRIESTS. Joseph Leighion Bailey. B.A.. St. John's College, Oxford, and Ely Theological College; James Bevan, a literate: Thomas Coles. B.A., Oxford University' (non-collegiate); Arthur Laue Davies, B.A., .n, David's College, Lampeter; David Dmilvkp. Uni- versity of Durham; William Edwards, Associate of King's College. London: John George Garland. Royal University of Ireland; Robert ri homa- Hughes. B.A, Jesus College, Oxford, and Kt. Michael's College, Llandaff; Richard O'Gorman Power, a literate; Charles Edgar Payne. St. Augus- tine's College, Canterbury: George Philips. M.A.. Oxford University (non-collegiate); John Richards Pugh, B.A., St David's College, Lampeter; Frederick William Rees, B.A., St. David's College. Lampeter; Jacob Towns, London University; William Earle Tyndale. M.A., Merton College. Oxford: Richard Henry Wells. Queen's College, Birmingham: Daniel Williams. Lie. Vi", St. David's College, Lampeter; and Henry Williams, Lie. Div., St. David's College, Lampeter. Mr. O'Gorman Power was enistoler and Mr. Pjay- foot gofpeller. The sermon was preached hv the Rev. George L. Richardson, M.A., vicar of St. Andrew's. Cardiff • The. bishop afterwards licensed to curacies as follows:—Robert Denys Gwyther Chinn. Lie. Div., to Llangeinor; Alban Aeron Davies, B.A. to Ma rgaret's Mountain Ash: Philip Francis, to I trebach: Evan Jones, Lie. to St. Maru-firct's. Mountain Hugh Basil Jones, B.A.. to St. George's, Tredevrar; Prederic Huliert- Playfoot. to St. Michael's. AbertilWy: William R ees, to Pen- [ maen: Evan Thomas, B.A. to St. Facan's. dare: and Harold Thomas, B.A., St. Martin's. Caerphilly.

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CARMARTHEN COUNTY SATURDAY Dec. 18th.-Before Mr. L. A. L. Evans, Pantycendy, and Mr. Waiter Lloyd, Lammas-street (Mayor of Carmarthen). DRUNKENNESS. John Jone-s,, of Morfa-issaf, Llanarthney, was charged with drunkenness.—P.C. Gwilym Jenkins said that the defendant was lying helpless on the road.—Defendant was fined 2. 6d. and costs. UNFENCED CHAFFCUTTER. John Owen, Cincoed, Llandefeilog, was charged with working an unfenced chaffcutter.-P.S. Wil- liams proved the case. The knives and the fly wheel were exposed. The owner had provided a cover, but the defendant, who was working the machine, had not used it.—Fined 2s. 6d. and costs. David John Lewis, Moelfre-uchaf, Llandefeilog, was charged with permitting an unfenced chaffcutter, and Owen Lewis, his son, was charged with work- ing it.-P.S. Williams proved the case.—Defendants were each fined Is. and costs. Timothy Davies, Glogddu, Llangunnock, was charged with permitting an unfenced chaffcutter to be used.—P.C. John Lloyd Thomas proved the case. —Fined 2s. 6d. and costs. Thomas Daniel Davies, Coedcae, Llangunnock, was charged with causing an unfenced chaffcutter to be used.—P.C. John Lloyd Thomas proved the case.— Fined 2s. 6d. and costs. NO LIGHT. Dadd Jones, Cefnmeiros. LIangewad. was charged with driving a gambo without lights after dark.— P.C. Jenkins proved the case.—Fined 5s. THE DRINK. Albert Light, a timber feller, Ferryside, was charged with being drunk and k'"Orderly.-P.C. Richards proved the case. He said that, on the 4th inst. the defendant was near tho Methodist Chapel, Ferryside, cursing and swearing, and help- lessly drunk. Two farm-servants helped him home.— Defendant, was fined 7s. 6d. and costi.

CARMARTHEN BOROUGH SATURDAY. Dec. 18th (special).—Before the Mayor (Alderman Walter Lloyd, Lammas-street). RESULT OF MOLESTING. John Briekley, a tramp, was charged by P.C. Williams with being drunk and disorderly in Water. street at 10.45 on the previous evening. The de- fendant appeared in Court with his face very much battered.—The constable proved the charge, and said that earlier in tho same evening defendant was molesting a deaf and dumb man who knocked him down.—The Mayor discharged the defendant with a caution, saying that the state of his face was sufficient punishment for BIM, MOXDAY. Dec. 20th.—Before the Mayor (Alderman Walter Lloyd, Lammas-street); Mr. Hy. Howell, Penybont; Alderman John Lewis, Gwynfryn; Mr. H. E. B. Richard?, Castle House, and Mr. James Davies, Ucheldir. SUNDAY DRINKING. James Jones, Mill-street, and David Johns, Pros- pect-place, Lammas-street, were charged by P.C. W. J. Recs with being drunk.—Defendants pleaded "Not guilty.' The constable said that on Sunday, the 12th inst., at 4.50 p.m., he saw both defendants coming dowii Guildhall-square arm in arm staggering drunk. Wit- ness told them that they ought to be ashamed of themselves for being drunk on Sunday. P.C. Daniel Davies said that at 5.i0 on tho same afternoon he saw the two defendants with two other, men in Lammas-street. Defendants were verv drunk. David Johns said that they were five together and two were charged with being drunk in Guildhall- square, and they were all charged with an obstruc- tion in Shaw s-lane. If he had known that he was going to be charged with being drunk he would have asked to have been locked up so that, he could havo a, inedical man to examine him. They passed P.C. Waliers in King-street, and as he was a sharp officer, if they were drunk. he would not have let them pass. If they were so drunk it vras P.C. Rees' duty to stop them going and committing another crime. Sunday drunkenness was a nasty charge, and it touched him very much after 34 years with a clean sheet. Hy. Evans, labourer, Mill-street, said that there were four of them when they met P.C. Rees. De. fendants had had some drink, but were nearer sober than drunK. Witness could not say they were sober. Witness had not had any drink. Stanley Jones, labourer, Mill-street, also corro- borated. S Supt. Smith proved eight previous -convictions against Jones. There was nothing against" Johns. P.C. W. J. Rees, re-called, said that defendants were perfectly sober. David John was fined 23. 6d. and costs, while Jones was fined 5s. and costs. The previous defendants, together with Hy. Evans and Stanley Jones, were then charged with obstruc- tion. 17-C. W. J. Rees deposed that he saw the four defendants at the entrance to Shaw "s-lane at 5.10 p.m. on the 12th inst. There was a lot of loud talking. Defendant Johns said that half-a-dozen men could stand by the. Baby-linen Shop, and not interfere with anyone passing. Mr. John Lewis—The best thing you can do is not to Touch the drink at all. Defendant Johns—I can see now. I will turn teetotaller and ace the detective a bit on my own part. Some of these don't act the Reehabite them- selves, sir. The Mayor said that the constable did perfectly right in bringing the case. They would be lenient, and dismiss the case, and trusted that they would have no occasion to be before the Bench again. The Court then rose.

VALE OF AERON OnnTAiiY.—The death has taken place of the Rev. Benjamin Phillips, youngest. son of the late cele- brated Dr. Phillips, Neuaddlwyd, Aberayron, at tho residence of the Rev. T. Gwilym Evans (son-in-law), Aberayron, aired 87 years. The deceased, who was twice married, iN-a., appointed pastor of Tynygwndwn and Troedyrhiw, Vale of Aeron, in 1850, and to 1884, when he resigned owing to ill-health, and was suc- ceeded by the present I)Uiktor, the Rev. B. Carolani Davies. The deceased took a prominent part in the I great, Revival of 1859. NAVVY MISSION".—The men, at work on the Lam- peter-Aberayron Railway, arc now mostly lodging at Aborayron; it. is very desirable that. a room of I some sort should be at the disposal of the Missioner t (who is living at 5, Oxford-street, Aberayrn) for con- ducting services: a simple corrugated iron building, costing about JE15. has been found very suitable on such occasions; £10 is already in hand, and if anyone feels disposed to help in this mo.-t important work, subscription^, however small, would be most grate- fully received by Mr. Gent, the missioner.

WEST CARMARTHENSHIRE LIBERALS MR. LLOYD MORGAN, K.C.. ADOPTED A meeting of the delegates of the various branches of the West Carmarthenshire Liberal Association, was held at the Assembly Rooms, Carmarthen, on Saturday last, for the purpose of adopting a candi- date to contest the division in their interest. The meeting was not a very large one, and the proceed- ings could certainly not be described as enthusiastic. The speeches were weak, and the applause feeble, even the appeals of the ministers failing to dispel the depression that seemed to prevade the atmos- phere. Mr. John Lewi. Meiros Hall, presided. Sir John Williams, Bart., moved a resolution thanking Mr. Lloyd Morgan, K.C., the sitting member, for his past services, and expressing the desire that should contest the seat as the Liberal candidate at the next General Election. He said that Mr. Lloyd Morgan had represented the district for twenty years, and they considered him one of the most sterling and faithful members that Wales had in the House of Commons. It would be a disaster to a district like West Carmarthenshire to return to Parliament a member opposed to the policy of the Prime Minister. Mr. David Evans, Manordaf, Whitland, In seconding, said that the House of Lords had asked their opinion and they should have it. but he was afraid they would not like it (laughter). If the Tories were returned it would mean giving up ail that their forefathers had fought and bled for. The House of Lords did not ask their opinion on the Boer war or the Education Act, but they put their foot. down on the last Licensing Bill and the Edu- cation Bill. and why did they want to ask their opinon now? Were they wiser to-day than three years ago. Persons in favour of Tariff Reform went against, the prosperity of their own country. This was a fig-ht of the peers against the people, and let them keep that in full knowledge .and not bury the hatchet until they had removed the stumbling block to Liberal legislation.' The Rev. D. G. Williams. St. Clears, supported. He related how it was said in Monmouthshire if 11 man wanted to commit, suicide he threw himself over Crumlin Bridge, and if they returned to power- Mr. Lloyd ^organ's opponent they would be com- mitting suicide over Cremlyn. This puerile pun fell very flat as it deserved. Some farmers, lie said, were being led astray by Tariff Reform. He had met many old Liberals who had said that Tariff Reform was the best tiling for the country, but they would find themselves mistaken. It was the worse thing that could happen to them. It would not be putting a little tax on little things, but a big tax on all things. The motion was carried unanimously. Mr. J. Lloyd Morgan who was received with ap- plause, in thanking them for the renewal of their confidence, said that it was 21 years since in that room the Liberals of West Carmarthenshire asked him to become their candidate, and one reflection had always given him satisfaction, that during the whole of that time, notwithstanding the honest, differences of opinion which had arisen among them from time to time, not a single man had given utterance to one unknd or ungenerous feeling with reference to himself. It was true from tune to time his conduct had been criticised, but there had never been a day when he was either afraid or ashamed to meet face to face his constituents. He had always noticed his constituents had been generous enough to acknowledge that his difference of opinion had arisen owing to causes which were quite honourable to himself. They had now got to close quarters with their foe, the House of Lords, and a they knew Nonconformity had a very long account to settle with the House of Lords. and consequently they hailed the challenge thev had thrown out, with the greatest pleasure. He did not. complain of having to face a contest, but lie would leave no stone unturned to secure a victory. Thev had got the greatest issue to determine ever pre- sented to the country in the life of any living man. The people had to decide whether they were coin' to govern themselves or whether they were to be I governed by an aristocratic or non-representative body. They had got. to decide whether they would have Tariff Reform or i ree Trade, and whether they were in favour of imposing additional duties have Tariff Reform or Free Trade, and whether they were in favour of imposing additional duties I on license holders for the sale of intoxicating drinks, or whether they wanted to put a tax on the food of the people. Those were broadiv the issues be- fore the country at the present time. If the people voted Conservative they would be voting against themselves, against their own interest, and tradi- tions, and he might almost say voting against then own country (applause). Mr. Asquith had made it plain that the sole block in the way of Welsh dis- establishment and disendowment was the House of Lords. If the Bishop of St. David's tried to make out that that question was not clearlk- and definitelv before the people during this election, it seemed to him (tho speaker) he could not claim the right to bp, considered a calm and reasonable controversialist (laughter). His speech the previous day reminded him of a bit of special pleading, ihe pleading of a man who knew lie had got a case he could not keep on its legs any longer, and it wa, more with a view of having time, and getting terms, than with any hope of ultimately winning. To give disestab- lishment. and then to allow a private religious body to have all tho national religious fund was too absurd to require argument. He gave his thorough support to the Budget-, because it taxed the luxuries of the poor and it taxed the superfluities and mono- polies of the rich. He only offered opposition to the Budget whilst, it contained a clause to tax agri- cull ural land, but when the Government withdrew that he gave it his earnest support. With, regard to Tariff Reform, he would say that if the country adopted it, the people who would COIne out. worst were the farmers. He was sorrv to hear tJuu, some farmers had leanings to Tariff" Reform, and' it must, arise from the fact. that they had not given proper consideration to it. He could under- stand workmen in certain industries believing Tariff Reform would help them, but he could not see how a constituency like West Carmarthenshire would berifir by it. How they were going to de- rivo benefit from a system which would increase the cost of every single article which was used in every-day life he was utterly unable to understand. If they listened to the nonsense talked abo.,it. a Ic- ing the foreigner pay they would believe anythiri z. If he could make all the foreigners pay all the taxes he would I). delighted, but they would be worse off under Tariff Reform, and the best way to raise the necessary money was by the present Budget. lie claimed that the taxes on land were fair and equitable. At the close of the speech a private meeting was held.

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