The Merthyr Express

;¡" I TO-WrS DIOPUY AT H. fs'kt&AUng-staftling in it$ 12pfot_ ileal, in its T"ioty. in its freahnesig, in •Mr r bbmIstomlly Mw*'pires l'opFERs°'inber W 1 WATCHES, CLOCKS, RINGS, ALBERTS, NhbM *_)«r Br». BROOCHES, SILVER GOODS, PLATE, imfgg&SHk CUTLERY AND LEATHER GOODS. LTTm See this aniqne^lght ?j>-DAY. To see It property, the woudaie of 'the Waftb Ladies'L-ng SOLID "YIM? (usually 35/)" j V; I'OCKKT, 10IB. Com. fi £ i^tlu GOLI> «:M AL&\ (FCJ) a with Nw-klct 1716. I.r d go act. -na a= f Goid fro. 3A Sig.. f.th.r Rings to from .9 of every kind neatly jij 4§\ /«. SAMUEL'S MARVEL g?~t THE Ir^l R PARCEL. Knives, J rrks,^ ^|)|3py\Y fj^ H 3(IBK^ R-a^S I! 'L^clcy' WedSS* p., ok, jC^O jl COLO L |8/B^* Rtag Home. Ring, from 7/6 ;to F.r 25/- (ViJ £ 5 BR ACS fan* ^Ba 3a. Private Selecting Room, vf H.SAMUEL &5|H fr^l Si («tMBi»V«—IT jf«gfe^>, /»a SOLID GOLD "» »#^ /'MKNFIt will sellyoa |fcv a n°*W ft dffr^ ^Yyak n T BROOCH, with /s 8*4 y CRUST th«best fiE*\ fiw^ I ^JT*jjB naiQv Flctal Centra f /(nwaOS/S Watch in j&w? VllrBNrt^^Srg hL^rt^mPHandsome design. In /TalueJJPfc f#fc Britain— Vi^V if SHTCI 2/*» A QYF S ^?S tbe firaoos rgi^Yj FCJJG 4*ACMES' IN ONE 'ACME' fk "v™ l'i^?J|Bllf'fflW 4 OF YOUR 'ACHE' jSWfll J5f T -theWweh ^*»fX i «*»**»; y xotkhb, 2 FOR mr BOMS ? gfflO? P o»« /^M,U UD a «» TkA I It 150,000 Lg vtna» =«—'•Sr.*p-Baa.15., RS7 £ £ .$s§r USEL-^r x iJf^n t»°e^oo° fgSSg tobSSI^ os»,/ ,& £ £ n »«*• Bailie II ■jlHBIBSJEUUCHSaBOHBHIiY-^f ^^iT<CraTl8|UCR jjron||a^ S L I- ll ll B2BkBEC33$lffSmBYWKEREM Mn fp QUALffY IEVOTYWRUEII 1 I H fwz MORT" TIM ON A" PURCOME A" YOUR I 3 S Iff EJUL tUSM FAUX UK. PUS0HA8BS OF 25/- AND UP. mU |; \l-l, H. SAMUELiUj| 119, HIGH ST., waTm. maM iEK TC!^ JOk*. JEm is EASY— SO IS LOSING THE TRAIN YOU MEANT 'I t I (J, No. 52.—MAY, 1909, 1 d" ] "TOTHYR EXPRESS" c 0: 8> ¡ « 'J i ABC AND TIME TABLES RAILWAY CUIDE Devoted to the important Industrial District covered by the "MBRTHTR BBCPKXSS," including The Mcrthyp. Abardare, Rhendda, and Wwt Manmeuthshlrc Vallest iBE CAREFUL! THE WHOLE SERVICE ON THE MAIN ONES CHANGED. SECURE THE Merthyr Express' ABC Time Table WITH THE COMPLETE ALTERATIONS. ISSUED FRIDAY, "EXPRESS" OFFICE, MERTHYR.

LOCAL INTELLIGENCE CONTINUED I.LP.Open-odr meetings will commence, at the Park, on Sunday next, May 2nd, at 6.30.— Speaker, Mr. James Winstoii. If wet,, I.L.P. Institute. SPIRITUALISM. The Merthyr Spiritualist Society will meet next Sunday at Abermarlais Girls' School, when Mrs. Barnstaple, of Car- diff, will oooapy the platform and give clair- voyance. HARD TIMES.—At Merthyr County Court, on Wednesday, his Honour disposed of 318 judg- ment summonses. Many debtors pleaded that they were unable to pay owing to the stoppage of Cyfarthfa Works. PRESENTATION.—The beautiful gold watch and chain, presented to Mr. T. M. Jones, at Zion Chapel, was supplied by Mr. C. H. Flooks, watchmaker and jeweller, Pontmorlais, and was much admired by the recipient and his many friends. SHILOH.—Special services will be held at Ehiloh Chapel, Church-street, on Sunday next, when the Revs. J. H. Williams, Aberayron, and EL R. Owen, Dolgellau, will preach. Services at 11 and 6 o'clock, Welsh. Y.M.C.A.—A draughts competition for silver medals and championship of above starts in the rooms, in Church-street, on Monday evening next, at 8.30. Sixteen members have entered for competition, and some exciting games are being looked forwrad to. Gnrrs TO THE WORKHOUSE.—The Master acknowledges receipt of the following for the use of the inmates :—Magazines, etc., from Mr. J. F. Thomas, Netherwood, Cefn literature, Mrs. Judd, Thomas-street; eggs, Salvation Army friends; and papers from Mrs. A. Lewis, 100, Thomas-street. CTFABTHFA DISTRESS.—The weekly tea, at Panttywyll Vestry, for the little ones, took an unusisalform this week. Throuyh theenerosity of Mr. F. Maddocks, butcher, Brecon-road, they were regaled with a good meal of bread and home-made brawn. Mr. Maddocks gave 271bs. of brawn; Messrs. Price Bros., 18 large loaves of bread; and, anonymous, 1s. DiSESTABiisHiOiOT.—At the cla-.s of the ser viice at. Zion Welsh Baptist Church, Twynyr- odyn, on Sunday evening, the following resolu- tion was unanimous!j passed:—'That we, as a church and congregation worshipping at Zion Baptist Church, Merthyr, desire to express our sincere thanks to the Government for introduc- ing the Bill for the Disestablishment and Dis- endowment of the Church in Wales. Also, that wo eariietly desire the Government to do everything in their power to carry the measure through the House of Commons." MPV. JO:{SDALE'S VISIT.—Owing to the Increased demand for his services, Mr. R. Lonsdalo, medical electrician, of 25, New Oxford- street, London, W.C., has arranged to again visit Merthyr on Mcnday end Tuesday next, ¡ May 3rd and 4th. It is no wonder this gentle- man is kept busy, for such a remarkable number of testimonials in favour of a treatment is seldom seen. Mr. Lonsdale has been visiting Merthyr for the past 30 years. This alone is a tine testimonial in itself. A spooial feature of this visit is that all consultations are free. N ODD FA, PENYDABEEK.—The quarterly meet- inga of the Sunday School were held on Sunday. The afternoon meeting was presided over by Mr. W. J. Lawrence, and the evening meeting I by Mr. W. A. Lev/is. The following took part: —Recitations, Miss Mary L. Jones, Bessy Parry, Blodwen Williams, Grace Thomas, Sarah Parry and John Thomas; songs were sung by Messrs. Joseph Jones, Thomas Williams, Jonah H. Price, T. Hopkins, William A. Lewis, D. J. Lawrence, John Jenkins, and Miss Sarah Jones and Miss Violet Heard, and a quartette by Mr. J. H. Price and friends. Those who took part did their work creditably, and the meetings were well attended, especially in the evening. NATIONAL CHAMBER OF TRADE.—It will illterest the traders of the district to learn that the Federated Chambers of Glamorganshire. Monmouthshire and Brecknock were represented at Gloucester, at the annual conference of the National Chamber of Trade, which was held on Saturday, Monday and Tuesday last. Mr. W. R. Edmunds, president of the Federated Chambers of Trade, and Councillor Isaac Edwards, honorary secretary of the same body, took an active interest with delegates from all parts of Gerat Britain, in discussing the various questions set down for consideration. It Was pleasing to find that the Gloucester friends, headed by a Welshman, Alderman Jones, as their chairman, had made ample preparation for the gathering, and the various questions submitted were duly weighed and decided upon. We would strongly urge all traders to attend the meeting of the local Federation, which is to be held at Penarth on the 12th prox., when a detailed report will he submitted, and an opportunity given for going into these matters in detail. FUNERAL OF MRS. MATTHEWS.—The funeral took place on Friday, at Cefn cemetery, of Mrs. Matthews. wife of Mr. Edward 3M atthews- She was a member of the Ca-lvinistie Methodist Church and Sunday School at Panttywyll,'and during last year waspresidellt of tbeMerchedy De Lockre at Panttywyll. She took a prominent part in the various relidous movements, and the poor of the district will raiss her greatly. The funeral was of a public character, and was largely attended. Among the societies repre- sented were Mere bed y. De. The Rev. H. J. Hughes (C.M.) officiated at the house, and at the graveside a service was conducted in which part was taken by the Revs. R. T. Williams, Con- gregational T. J. Edwards. Calvinistic Metiio- (list; D. G. Evans, Calvinistic Methodist; It. i T. 14,03 ^ajyisusaeJM^thodisti Jaceo Jones, j: Congregational; and W. Davies, Calvinistic Methodist. BAND or HOPE TEA.—The annual tea in connection with the Ainon English Baptist Church Band of Hope was held on Tuesday, at the close of the winter's work. About 120 sat down at the tables, liberal provisions having been provided by the members of the Church. Messrs W. Harris and Son supplied the cake, in several varieties, free of charge. The following assisted at the tables:—Miss M. J. Davies, Miss E. Williams, Miss A. Rees, Miss A. Powell, Mrs. T. P. Lloyd and Mrs. Richards. The Band of Hope is very prosperous under the care of the pastor and his wife. Following the tea came an entertainment, presided over by the Rev. T. P. Lloyd. The programme con- sisted of songs, solos, duets, recitations, etc. the following taking part:—Percy Lee, Tommy Richards, D. R. Morgan, Lewis Williams, Enid Lloyd, Jennie Rees. Annie Jones, A. M. Pritchard M. A. Smith, Cissie Waselev, Beatrice Briant, Muriel Hier, Jennie Vanghan, Ainslie Lovell, Ethel Lloyd; Peggie. Davies, Evelyn Chanter, Myfanwy Davies, Maggie Oates, Lizzie J. Rees, Susie Rees, Lily Trickett, and Mr. Herbert Oates.

AMATEUR THEATRICALS AT MERTHYR. The Temperance Hall, Merthyr, (>;1 Tuesday night, was crowded with a fashionable audiencc to witness a series of amateur theatrical per- formances. The programme consisted of two short play., and a short farcical sketch, in one act. This was a departure from the general custom of haying one set piece with or without a curtain raiser. All three picces were highly successful, and they were all very tastefully staged, the details being well arranged. Th-9 actresses had the advantage of beautiful dresses, etc., and the points were quickly taken up by the audience. All this helped them consider- ably It was refreshing to see a complete change of local amateur players, and we con- gratulate them upon their success. It was an excellent entertainment all round. The players sta.rted well, and soon won the sympathy of the audience, which they held throughout.. The first piece was the old one-act favourite, "lei on Parle Francais." The costumes are modern. The scene is laid in the general room of a comfortable seaside house, facing the sea; and. as Mr Spnggms observes, "with a fine view of the bathing machines. The characters arc a tragedian, a Frenchman, a low comedian. an old woman, a young lady, and a maid of work. The faroe is very popular, and it may tsafelj be said that amongst amateurs it is more frequently acted than any other play. Mr. Spriggins studies French before breakfast, which requires more application than the majority of us possess. He displays "Ici on Parle Francais" in his window to catch lodgers among distinguished foreigners who do not know the difference between a. franc and a sovereign. Mr. E. W, Richards, as the fire- eating "Major Regulus Rattan," gave a very good idea of what a jealous, infuriated major might do if he was upset. Of course, he was supposed to be somewhat annoyed, but he came on in such a fury that he overstrained his voice somewhat. A little of the fury might have œen held in reserve for eXDlosion when occasion demanded, with enhanced effect in the general presentation of the chara.ct?r. "Victor Dubois," the Frenchman, was ably im- personated by Mr. C. F. Williams. His accent and make-up were excellent, and he played the part easily, but appeared to us to be rather cool for an excited Frenchman with a grande passion. His elastic vivacity was, perhaps, affocted by our damp, dull climate, or was it. "Angelina's" want of response that cooled his ardour? Mr Pulliblank played "Mr. Sprig- gins." He was disguised and made up to look like the late Lord Beacqn-fifield, and did hLs part wonderfully well—quite the best thing he has done so far. These wig arrangements are sometimes funny inventions. We must associ- ate the tuft or "sprig" of hair, which was the sole adornment of the top of his bald head, as a Sprigging speciality, A little more spring in "Mr. Spriggins" would have been an im- provement. Spriggins," the unfortunate wife of the enterprising "Spriggins," was im- personated by Miss Nevine BiddJe, who carried out her part very successfully. The tufØof ha.ir on the top of "Spriggin'5" head seemed to be at tinier too much for her, and she appear- ed now and then to appeal to heaven, and not to "Spriggins." It was not an easy part to play, but she sustained it very well to the end. "Angelina," the daughter, was in the hands of Miss Mattie Evans, who was gentle and quiet throughout. She did her part very nicely, and conveyed to the audience an excellent portrait of the poor daughter crushed by "Pa Sprig-) gins." "Mrs. Rattan," the wife of the fiery major, was gracefully done by Mr: J. T. Har- rap, who took her part in a perfectly natural manner, and played as if she were the real Mrs. R-attan indeed. The prospect of tempering the fierce major gave her no anxiety, and she ac- complished her task as if she had done it a score of times. She looked tha part, and had a very pleasing manner on the stage. Mks Daisy Griffith*, as "Anna Maria" (maid of all work), was a capital make-up, and she carried out the part exceedingly well—perhaps a little more exaggeration would have brought the humorous side of the character into greater re- lief. The second piece wM a short farcical sketch in one act for three ladies, entitled "Two Misses Ibbetson," a very cleverly-written sketch by Ina Loon Cassilis. The scene is a room in a country house. Mrs. Aylward goes to live in the country, and is called on by the two Misses Ibbetson, who so overwhelm her with their gossip and scandal that she is to return to town again. Miss Queenie Web- ster made a most attractive young widow as "Mrs Aylward." and did it nicely. Miss Cora Biddle and Miss Nora Ward, as tho "Two Misses Ibbetson," were vory successful. They acted the two old maiden ladies splendidly. Their make-up was exceedingly good, and they rattled off their words, putting the neces- sary bv-play in, and gave a faithful representa- tion of the author's idea. This little sketch pleased the audience very much, and was loud- ly applauded. A comedy in two acts. by Henry Ar- thur Jones, entitled, "The Deacon," was the last piece put in. The characters are four—a young gentlemen, a young lady (comedian), a roiddle-aged lady, and an elderly gentleman. The plot hinges on tho following: Tom Demp- ster is in love with Rosa Jervoise, an actrs-s. Hf1 i3 visited by his uncle, Abraham Boothroyd, a deacon, who is a bitter opponent of the stags. Mrs. Bolingbroke, who has brought up encounters the Deacon, induces him to visit the theatre, and rapidly changes his ideas. Tho uncle discovers Rosa to bo his own grand- daughter, and consents to her union with Tom. There you are!—a story mado to your hand. "Abraham Boothroyd," wholesale bacon factor. Mayor of Chipping Padbury-on-the, Wol. anJ senior deacon of Eben^zer Chapel, was in th? capable hands of Mr. C. F. Williams., who dis- played more than ordinary histrionic ability in delineating the part. His make-up was very good, and not overdone. The tremor and pitch of the voice was most effective. He gave us a refined "Abraham Boothroyd," which, if the programme did not tell us differently, we should associate with a dignified, solemn, retired Non- conformist minister. Perhaps the shade of his venerable ancestor wu in his mmd û eye. and helped him to play the part so well. Mr. Pulli- blank, as "Tom Dempster," a young barrister, did the part nicely; but considering he was in love with a volatile young actress, he must have been what is termed a young blood, with youthful energy and cpirits in his nature, and he should have thrown a little more go in the part. Ermine Rees made a charming picture as "Rosa Jervoise, the new Juliet. Her dressing for the part was artistic and ad- mirable, and her acting was very graceful, but sho appeared to have overlooked the fact that she was a volatile, bright, young actress, and her interpretation of the character W3.5 come- what quiet and -subdued. Both these parts re- quired to bo played with more vivacity and en- thusiasm than they received at the hands of their impersonators. "Mrs. Bolingbroke, J the Juliet of twenty years ago. was a remarkably well-preserved woman, considering she was sup- posed to have adopted and brought up "Rora Jervoise." It roquired a wide stretch of imag- ination to get over thi r, when looked at the strikingly handsome young actress on tho stage. Miss Lcrna James, who played this part. She has a fine stage presence, a good voice, and spoke her lines clearly. Having a splen- did part in her hands, sho made the mart, of it. Mr. W. B. Harris, as "Tibbetts," the butler, was splendid. The stolid, staid, old butler, who moved about in a dignified fashion peculiar to well-trained house servants, he did to the letter. At the conclusion of the performance, all the players had a enthusiastic call, and were loudW anplauded for their very snccecs'ul efforts. The proceeds are to be npplied in aid of the Mcrthvr District Visiting Society. The Temperanc Hall Orchestra played some enjoy- able selections betwoen the pieces. The stage managers were: Mr. C. F. William-?, Mr. Geo, McCloskie, and Alice Harrap. Great cr..dit is due to Mr. James Harrap for the trouble he went to as property manager: he certainly forgot nothing that was essential to the success of the performance. A lot of the hard work in arranging the details and carry- ing out the business wa-s done by Mirr- Cora Biddle. who deserves to be congratulated upon the result of her labours. Miss Gledvs Webs'er acted as tr&asirrrr. Mr. Israel Pr.:ce his ■staff were very kind, and the p'ayers appreciat- ed their help very much. Mr. W. H. Duncan, of Cardiff, v/a- responsible for the make-up of th" nliy-rs, in he was very successful. Mr. Harrv Jones nnd Mr. Gunter also renderpd valuable assistance.

Fire at Merthyr Vale. On Saturday night, about 10.50, an outbreak of fire was discovered at 19, Aberfan-crescent-, occupied by Mr. William Pugh. It appears that the fire occurred in a room on the ground floor, which is used a? a Learoom. When first discovered by Mr. George Morris and Sir. Idris Jenkins (checkweigher), tho whole of the linon and articles of furniture were ablaze. It is supposed that the candle left burning inrnited some clothing. P.S. Ho wells «' Skelton were promptly at the r.ons:, ••ut*. flames were quickijr «*iiag"iM§l*e £ k

In and Out of the Merthyr County Council. [By COUNCILLOR DAN THOMAS.] Cefn for years ha.s suffered grievously by rea- son of its sanitary condition. Fevers have been always existent, occasionally in an epidemic form, and of a. serious nature, attributable, no doubt, to the absence of a good working system of drainage. The local sanitary authority, it must in fairness be conceded, have long acknow- ledeged the want of perfect sewerage, and sought to remedy the existing deplorable state of things. Several schemes have been submitted to the Local Government Board, and as many forma! official inquiries, prior to sanctioning the required loan for the work, have been held, bin always by a different inspector. What onc genius from the Circumlocution Office approv- cd of the next considered unsuitable, and poor Cefn is still without its sewerage system though the parish has had to pay for plans and in- quiries In a few days another inquiry is to be IJCid, let us hope with more, success than pre- vious ones. The inexplicable part of the busi- ness is that one of tile propounded schemes was approved of, and actually carried out in Hir- wain, and, therefore, why not a like one for Cefn? The order of the day—a la Board of Guardians—is,.if you disagree with London offi- cials, call upon Members of Parliament to move a reduction of salary as a sort of revenge. Here is a legitimate case in which our two Par- liamentary representatives and all the groups in the House might take up and sec if that, em- porium of red-tapism—the Local Government Board—will explain its devious ways. The taking phrase—back to the land—was quoted several times at our last monthly Coun- cil meeting, and created some mirth amongst members, as well as amongst the spectators seated in the gallery. I,ike many other well- worn platitudes which grace the utterances of Councillor D. J. Lewis, Chairman of the Libraries Committee—to set forth his full dis- tinctive position at the Town Hail—it did not seemingly carry much weight. There wp-re cal. lous listeners, who interjected with the ready advice thftt those who wanted to could go bad to the land whenever they cho.se. No one would stop them they need not hesitate on the order of going, but go instanter. But where, do we discover such well-meaning and self-sacrificing individuals?. Once a taste of tho "sponclolucks" of a thriving colliery dis- trict,, and these hitherto innocent yokels have no disposition to retrace their steps for agri- cultural pursuits. Unfortunately this is all so much ,the worse for Welshmen. The Cousin Johnnies, the moonrakers, the Dumplings, the <1targ.å.zers; the white-faced ones, the Radnor boys, and the demonstrative North Walians, once in our midst, find their El Dorado, and pitch their tents. All the Pecksniffian de- crees of Councillor D. J. Lewis will not alter the JX>Sition. Ratepayers will shortly realise with, I fear, painful emotions, that their local burdens are not decreasing, and some restraint must be placed on Councillors and officials, otherwise our rates will become still heavier. They are now at such a figure that we should exclaim with the Shakesperian player's ardour, "Hold, enough." For the ensuing six months our rates will be at tho rate of 4s. 4d. in the It is well to re- member that when rates are spoken of, pay- ments in respect of water supply are not in- cluded. In Merthyr there is no such claim as a water rate. The payments for water are properly and legally designated water charges. Private companies, such as the gas and electric traction, flourish in our midst. but we do not speak of a gas or an clectric light rate. Tbe water charge must be calculated in addition to the 4s. 4d. which comprises money required for general purposes, for borough fund require- ments, education and poor. Why the increase, I am unable just now to explain. It is inexplicable, but the details are available for public consumption. It is to be hoped that some of your far-seeing readers will be able to unravel the mystery. When Coun- cillor F. T. Jame3, Clerk to the Guardians, submitted his demand to that Board, he made the cheerful announcement that the poor rate would be less, as there was an appreciable diminution in the amount of the Guardians' precept. This is how the matter stands. For relief of the poor and other expenses of the Guardians, there was demanded for the last half-year £8,347, and for county contributions £ 3,927—a total of £12,774. The Guardians this half-year require £10,430 for relief of poor only. and nothing for county contributions; so really less money is required. The former county contribution is now included in the bor- ough fund, but last half-year the overseers in- cluded for this fund £4,200, In the estimates of receipts and expenditure for the coming half-year, presented to the Over- seers, this borough fund demand is £7,850, an increase of £3,650. as a set-off against the coun- ty contribution of £3,927. This is a decrease of £277. The expenses of the Education Com- mittee are estimated at £12,500, as against £13,000 for the last half-year, and the like amount for the corresponding half of 1908. This decrease of £ 500—nearly a Ad. rate—is however swallowed up by the Overseers' esti- mated increase under (he heading of "Com- pounding with owners, allowances and appeals" of £ 3,5(j0, as against for the last half- year. I hope to discover the reason for this. I trust we are not preparing for costly appeals for costs of appeal are charges upon the Union. What is meant, I gather, is loss to tho rates following appeals 'to the Assessment Commit- tee. Is this a sort of tacit admission that cer- tain assessments are too high. I know of many that are too low. The other expenses of Over- seers are insignificant, if we leave out the demand of the Cemeteries Committee for £625, and the Libraries Committee for £1,137. These items, however, have nought to do with the Overseers as such; they have only to be regard- ed as details in the Council's precept. For two days the Council, by its various Committees, considered the coming tweleve months' requirements, and, after careful exami- nation of comparative statements, kept down the estimates for the yea.r to a total figure which worked out at the same rate as was lev- ied last year. In this total I wish to repeat and emphasise, is included the amount that was formally called for by the Guardians for county contributions, and if the Council, with a decreased assessable value and the inclusion in their estimates of the amount previously de- manded by the Guardians, are able to can for the same rates as last year, it .is obvious that that body have made an effort tÛ retrenchment, and succeeded to the extent of /providing for the requirements which hitherto shown a.s county contributions Seeing, therefore, that the Council's demand? would:not call for an increased rate, it was only reasonable to hope that the total rates for the year would be less than last year's, but on the amount demanded for the first half there is no decrease. It is said that the reduction in the assessment of the Cyfarthfa. Works, con- sequent on the stoppage of the mills and furn- aces there, means an increase of 2d. on Last year's rates so as to obtain the same revenue, but the unfortunate position of Cyfarthfa Works also applies to the Council's revenue, FO if the Council, by a little care, can s&ve their share of the twopence, the Guardians should also make an effort to do the same. I have no de- sire.to make this theme of rates wea.rÏJ3ome, so enough for the present. Your readers may re- ly upon my a-gain dealing with the subject in future notes when, perhaps, I shaJl have learnt what will certainly be to me a satisfactory rea- son for continuing to levy the abnormally high rates of last year. Finance in local affairs has a fascination for inquisitive ones especially if they are able to find out where the rates go to. A return which I quoted in my last, week's notes was a most interesting one, and. with permission, I will again refer thereto. Our expenditure on mat- ters educational is appalling, the amount esti- mated for the next year being £53,937 6., the amount required to be raised by rates being os. 6d. for elementary and £838 for sec- ondary education, a total of £24,065 8s. 6d. The Council thought there should be a margin, and put down the a.mount at £ 21\Q00, as com- pared with £26,000 for the yea" ending 31st March. 1909. It will be instructive if I quote the other principal sources of income. Annual ¡z-rants. £13,417; fee grants, £6.680; aid grant, Education Act, section 10, £6,848: and special grant, say £3,050. On the expenditure side of the sheet we find in respect of elementary edu- ratipn that salaries of teachers alone amount to £37,000 out of the total expenditure of £53,937 6s., which also includes the following large sums:—Books and stationery, £1,700; fuel, light and cleaning, £2,900; salaries of officers and attendance officers, £1,330; and in re- spect of loans, £3,445; a.nd for repayment,, £3,200. These figures indicate the way the money goes, and afford unlimited matter for reflection. Amateur exponents of the histrionic art in our town have latelv been devoting a good deal of time and study to ma.king themselves proficient in stage sketches. They appeared at the Tem- perance Hall on Tuesday last, and their lauda- tory efforts to assist a local good cause and at the same time afford some enjoyment to their admiring friends and relatives were crown- ed with success It would be invidious to sin- gle out a.ny single performer when all did so well, especially the lady performers. There was a happy selection of pieces for present- ment, which did not unduly tax the capabilities of the amateur artistes. Joy, mirth, and frivol- itv had worthy exponents, and the responsive audience marked their approval with unstinted applause, which was thoroughly deserved. The costumier executed his part well, the scenery was appropriate, and the music by the Hall Band was excellent. It is to be hoped that a good round sum has been netted for the worthy object in view. Twelve experienced and skilled artizans ap- plied for the post of clerk of works for the new Council houses to be erected at Danyderi, and after the weeding out process the selection was left between two good local men—one from Merthyr. and the other from Dowlais. I am not calfiatr ixito question the selection, hut rather i he Town Clerk's dictum and the Mayor's action ih finally making the lI.ppöintment. The Mayor voted for the successful candidate, and upon finding the vot equal—12 for eachvave his casting vote for tho Dowlais man. The right of his Worship to exercise the casting vote at committee meetings was questioned, but the Town Clerk, with strange inconsistency, upheld the right, though he immediately afterwards doubted its legality. Such are the peculiar ways followed in the Town Hall. On Wednesday afternoon there was a meet- in? of the School Management Committee, when & eqmDiMOicatioa aasnt the forthcoming I National Pageant of Wales from the Lord Mayor of Cardiff was read. It suggested that d facilities should be given school children from 1 our district to witness the representation of < imaginative scenes connected with the past his- tory of Wales. Object lessons such as pageants J supply should be welcomed and encouraged by 1 lovers of their country, especially those who 15 have the educational destinies of the people more or less at heart. The Chairman of our i Libraries Committee, without question, ought > to be included within this category, but Coun. J D. J. Lewis, of Troedyrhiw, failed to grasp the t, position, and actually opposed the request of the Lord Mayor of Cardiff. He moved that > the letter lay upon the table, considering that J the encouragement of the proposal would be attendant with no little cost and no corres- ponding benefit. Happily this was not the view taken by Ald. D. W. Jones, Coun. Simons, and others. They argued, and very properly, that 1 money spent in the suggested direction would < be well SP(tif;" and that cur children would in < one day learn iribre of Welsh history in viewing the pageant than ail the Cymric lessons given in day schools for twelve months would do. Î Common sense prevailed, and children are to be encouraged and assisted, I hope. Three months ago, after much heated con- troversy, the question of the Town Clerk's sal- ary and emoluments was settled. The Audi- tor's forcible recommendation that extra earn- ings and fees received by the SLIRDLUNNU ings and fees receivable by whole time officials must be paid into the Corporation coffers in j the absence of a special resolution authorising such official to be the recipient, of the fees, compelled the Town Clerk to make an applica- tion to a commit tee of the Council. Mr. Rees has been desired to give evidence next week in favour of the Taff-Bute fusion, and he very naturally applied to be allowed to retrain what- 4 ever charges were allowed him. Members in- stantly became extremely generous, apparently forgetful of what took place ft the beginning of the year. Coun. H. M. Lloyd, whose previ- ous activity in dealing with the Town Clerk's j salary and emoluments was at the time much I commended, now sought to destroy the compact I then arrived at, and proposed that Mr. Rees should not only have permission to leave his Town .1-lati duties, but to receive the liberal al- lowances which a wealthy and generous com- pany, like the Taff Vale Railway Company, usually allofs to its favourable witnesses. The t thin .-end of the wedge of "extras" has been inserted, and an awkward precedent established. I Though there was a request when a division 1 was taken for names to be recorded, the Mayor unheeded it, methaphoricaily standing on his strict right that the required number of mem- bers did not support tho application. This was not my fault, but the Labour members apathy, I to use a mild term. The division was an inter- esting one. At the time there appears to have bean 17 councillors present, 11 voted for grant- ing the Town Clerk's application, 5 against, and one neutral. Those were the figures as an- nounced. I regret being unable to give the namo of tho Councillor who was the solitary neutral. The members who voted against the II concession can be supplied, and were Couns. Peglar and Davies (Cyfarthfa), D. Thomas (Town), D. J. Lewis (Plymouth), and D. Jones (Merthyr Vale). Ratepayers kindly take note.

ASSOCIATION FOOTBALL AT MERTHYR. FIRST LEAGUE TEAM AT PENYDARREN PARK. MERTHYR'S CREDITABLE PERFORM- ANCE AGAINST MANCHESTER CITY. The long-looked forward-to match between Manchester City and Merthyr Town was played on Thursday at Penydarren Park, and despite the weat weather a-tcracted a crowd of over 7,000 spectators. The visitors arrived in Mer- thyr from Bristol shortly before four o'clock, and were met by His Worship the Mayor (Aid. Wilson), several councillors, and the officials of the Merthyr Town Club. Although rain was falling, a large number of the public awaited their arrival, and gave them a hearty cheer. There were fully 6,000 spectators on the ground when, just before th3 advertised time, the Merthyr players put in an appearance, followed ■shortly after by -the Manchester City team, and both were given a hearty reception. The sides lined up as follow:—Manchester City: Davies. goal; Keho and H. Jackson, full backs; Eadie, Holford, Wilkinson, half- backs Brown, Wynn, Thornley, Ross, and Conlin. forwards.—Merthyr: Williams, goal; Carrier and Davies, full backs: Martin, Brom- ley, and Brookes, half backs; Pom barton, Jacobs. Talbot, Wootton, and D. W. Davies, forwards. The referee was Mr. E. J. Poweli, New Tredegar. Manchester won the toss, and Talbot kicked off for Merthyr against a slight breeze. Thof Citizens at once got down, but the ball went outside, and midfield play followed from the j goal-kick. The locals broke away, but off-sido tactics spoiled what locked like a good chance. From the free kick, the Northerners got down, and Pvo s scored the first goal for the visitors with a grand shot. Midfield play followed the lcick-off. The City forwards, by fine passing, gradually worked their way towards the Mer thyr goal. Brown, for the City, was promin- ent with a good run, but the bad state of the- ground was against good play. Maintaining the pressure, the Ciiy forwards were again busy round Williams, and R06S receiving the ball in a favourable position, made no mis- take in netting the ball, making Manchester two goals to nil. Merthyr now had a look in, and Jacobs, getting well away, centred from the corner flag, the ball dropping on the net— a fine bit of play which was loudly applauded. Wootton and Talbot were next conspicuous for some pretty play, and got the ball well down, only to be checked by Kelso. Merthyr were now aggressive, and a foul close in looked pro- mising, but Wootton put the ball <^er the bar. Manchester were soon away again, and Wil- liams had a rasping shot to deal with, which he cleared in fine style. Thornlev made a grand run half the distance of the fiold, and a score seemed certain, when Williams ran out, and saved the situation. The City still pressed, and Ross tried a lightning shot, which Williams only partially cleared, and Coulin, lying handy, netted the ball, and the City were three up. From the restart Thornley got away, and with- in a minute added goal number four. Mid-field exchanges followed, the locals holding their own when the whistle sounded for the interval, the score being:— I Manchester City 4 goals Merthyr Town 0 goals Un resuming, tiie Citizens at once made a raid into the vicinity of Williams, but Davies was on the alert, and cleared at the right mo- ment. Merthyr infused more go into their play and got woll down, a long range shot going well. The passing of the City forwards was a special feature of the game, and was quite be- wildering to the local half-backs. Merthyr were not done with, however, and Jacobs getting the ball had a splendid chance with only the goal- keeper to beat, shot wide of the mark. Still pegging awav the locals began to force the game, and the first, corner kick of the game fell to them. Brooks took the kick, and placed the ball well into goal. Some exciting play took place, several players trying to find the net, when the ball came out to Jacobs, who headed in, and scored the first goal for Merthyr. This put new life into the locals, who were now showing fine form and good passing brought t.hem well within range of Davies's charge, and Brooks scored with a splendid shot, whilst a minute Jater the Manchester goal had a narrow escape, D. W. Davies missing by inches With two goals to their credit, the Merthyr men played with determination, and the ball was again netted, but the whistle had gone for off- side and the point did not count. The Mer- thyr men were now asserting themselves, and the City defence had an anxious time, but were equal to the occasion. Talbot bad a shot at goal at long range, but Davies easily cleared. At this point of the gamo Pemberton and Ja- cobs were particularly busy, and timo after time beat the City halves, and a centre by the latter was nicely saved by the Manchester goal- keeper. Jacobs now made a grand run, and centred, Wootton being unlucky in not adding to the score. The Citizens now bad a look in, but their final efforts lacked sting, and Mer- thyr were soon busy in the Manchester half. Mid-field play followed, the heavy ground tak- 109 effect on the players. Again Merthyr went away, D. W. Daviea just skimming thenar with a header. Give and take play followed, in which Merthyr fully held their own. The clos- ing stages of the game were in favour of Man- chester City, but they failed to add to their score, and a most interesting game ended:— Manchester City 4 coals Merthyr Town •. 2 goals

CITY MEN ENTERTAINED TO DINNER. After the match a dinner was given by the Mayor and townspeople of Merthyr to the City Club at the Castle Hotel. His Worship the I it Mayor presided. After a capital repast, the toast of "The King" was duly honoured. The Mayor then proposed the "Manchester City Association Club." His Worship expressed his regret that the visitors had to leave so soon, to catch the train for Cork, to play their last match of the season. He was pleased to see such a first-class team as he had seen that day in Merthyr. He admitted being a Ruggerite, but thought the Association game a more sci- entific one. — Mr. Wilkinson, chairman of the Manchester Club, responded, and thanked the Mayor and people of Merthyr for their kind reception, and hoped to -visit Merthyr again, lie trusted the seeds of popularity as sown that day would bear good fruit in Merthyr Associa- tion football circles. He thought the Merthyr players had picked up on3 or too wrinkles, and he thought it not improbable that the City Club would some day meet them in First League football (laughter).—Mr. Newbold (Dilan- Chester) also responded- Mr. W. B. Harris responded to the toast of "The Merthyr Club," and thanked the City 1 Club for their visit. He hoped to have the pleasure of seeing them again next season in Merthyr, and probably for the opening match. Among those present were: His Worship the Mayor, Mr. Wilkinson (chairman of the City Club), Mr. Newbold (Manchester) Mr. Williams (chairman of the South Wales Association), Aid. Berry, Coun. Lloyd, Dr. Lee. Mesers. Harvey Boots, Gomer Thomas, W. W. Mere- dith, Ernest Jones, Seymour Berry. E. Biddle, dith, Ernest Jones, Seymour Berry. E. Biddle, W. B. Harris, etc. A capital musical evening was afterwards several w<j.ll-kuewu loeal I artistes eentjriJ»i||iog.;

Merthyr Soup Kitchen Fund. The secretary of the Brecon-road soup kit- chen fund has received a cheque for £ 15 from Mr. Withers, manager of the Theatre Royal, the proceeds of the recent concert given at the Theatre Royal, this including a donation from Mr. Will Smithson.

Merthyr Horse Dealing Case At Merthyr County Court on Thursday, be- fore His Honour Judge Bryn Roberts-, Isaac Burr, 21, Troedrhiwgwair, near Tredegar, claimed £ 12 15s. damages from George Cleary, contractor, Merthyr, for breach of warranty on the saie of a horse.—Mr. J. W. Lewis was for plaintiff, and Mr. F. S. Simons for defendant. —Mr. Lewis said that the plaintiff, who recent- ly started business as a general haulier and contractor, went to Merthyr on the 23rd March, and bought from defendant a horse for B12 15s. The plaintiiff, not knowing very much about horses, asked the defendant if he would allow him to have the horse for a few days' trial. but the defendant demurred because plaintiff was an absolute stranger to him. The defend- ant, however, went so far as to say that if the horse did not suit the plaintiff, the latter could return it to him, and he would repay the money. With this additional promise, the plaintiff was satisfied, but in order to make his portion all the stronger, in the event of the horse not proving satisfactory, the defendant; also expressly guaranteed to the plaintiff in the presenca of witnesses that the horse was in every way sound and a good worker, and the guarantee was afterwards reduced to writing. The plaintiff found that the horse was worth- ier to him. and he returned it to the defendant two days later; but the defendant refused to re- fund the money.—The plaintiff said that the horse was lame, and inclined to fall when at- tached to a cart.—For the other side, the de- fendant said that he sold the horse without any condition, and while they were negotiating the horse was exercised for an hour in front of Cleary's house.—Mr. James, furniture remover, Georgetown, Merthyr, said that just before the horse was sold, he borrowed it from the de- fendant, and tho animal took a good load of furniture up one of the steepest streets in Mer- ihyr.—Judgment was.. given tpr ths defendant, without esttgu J ",¿"

I MERTHYR AND DISTRICT SPIRITUALISTIC SOCIETY. I The Service will be held nexb SCJNDAY at tit usual time at AbermoHctis L Girls' School. CLAIRVOYANCE will be given by Mrs* BARNSTABLE, Cardiff.

TERRITORIAL FORCE. ORDERS FOR THE WEEK ENDING MAY 8TH, 1909. I 5TH BATT., THE WELSH REGIMENT. Merthyr Detachment.-Monday (Merthyr) I N.C.O.'s instruction. 8 p.m. Tuesday (Dowlais): Company and recruit training; dress, drill or- der, 8 p.m. (night men 10 a.m.) Wednesday (Merthyr): Company and recruit training. 8 p.m.; dress, drill order (night men 10 a.m.) Thursday (Dowlais) Recruit training, 8 p.m. Friday (Merthyr): Recruit training, 8 p.m. For duty: Lieut. H. H. Scuthey, Sergt. W. M. Macdonald, Corpl. W. Parnall. Bugler H. Wilkshiro. Next for duty: Major F. T.°Jame9, V.D., ergt. W. R. Davies, Corpl. J. Evans, Bugler T. H. Goldsworthy.—Fnnak T. Mmcs, Captain and Hon. Major, conAwid- ing Merthyr Detachment, jffjwut. the Jvelsh Regiment. fr 4f$ BRECKNOCKSHIRE BATTALION. Cefn (G Company).—Monday Recruits drill, 7.30 p.m. Tuesday: Recruits drill for rpirrlit men, 10 a.m. Wednesday: Company pelade, 7.45 p.m. Thursday: Company parade for night men, 10 a-m. Friday: Signalling class, 7.30 p.m.—(Signed) C. Hore Ruthven, Captain, Officer Commanding G Company Brecknosk Battalion. I