The Merthyr Express

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ABERDARE VALLEY NOTES. [By Muu DAIL] I The Glamorgan Water Bill, in spite of the great opposition, has passed through the House af Commons Committee. The most objection- able clause, as far as Aberdare is concerned, has been somewhat modifed. but even in its present form it is highly objectionable as it allows the Water Board, when constituted, to apply to the Local Government Board to include Aber- dare, or any other District Council in the fcheme. It is well known that Aberdare has already provided an abundant supply of water, sufficient for many years to come, and in some fifteen years the last penny of the loans will have been repaid. Under the Bill, as it now stands, the Water Board will be permitted to sell to Aberdare what is really its own water, at 4W. a thousand gallons, which will mean the throwing of a cost of from 2d. to 2M. per thousand gallons on the rate. The only point pained, apparently, is that the Water Board, If they get the consent of the Local Government Board to buy, will not be permitted to buy as they hoped to under the original clause in the Bill, at their own terms. What Aberdare objects to, however, is to be compelled to sell its valuable a5set at all, and, acting on the advice of the learned Clerk to the Council, the members of the Council in London, on Tuesday, declined to take any part in the discussion of clauses, in order to be free to fight the Bill again in the Lords. No doubt this will be done, and costly as these actions are, it will be far wiser for the District Council to do that than to allow the Bill, even in its present form, to go through. This is another strong argument in favour of incorporation, and I hope the H*gh Constable vail not lose sight of it when he takes up the project on which he is so keen, viz., that of securing a Charter for the town. If that could be secured, and Aberdare once made a borough, it would not be long before it would become a county borough, and thus able to. meet the County Council on equal terms. « Speaking of the High Constable reminds me that he is taking a very keen interest in the Welsh National Pageant, and has arranged to preside at a meeting next week to be addressed by that gallant Welsh soldier, Captain Vaughan (Owen Rhoscomyl), the historian of the Pageant, who will speak on Welsh history, and the bearing of the forthcoming Pageant on that subject. < Mr. D. A. Thomas, the senior member for the borough, has returned from the Continent much benefited by his holiday. On Monday he made iiie appearance in the House of Commons, tvhere he was warmly welcomed by his fellow- Liejibers, and congratulated by constituents trom Aberdare, Mountain Ash and Merthyr, who wore up in connection with the various Parliamentary Bills. Readers will join in wishing the hon. member a speedy restoration to complete health. f I was delighted with the way the Llwydcoed children went through their exercises on Empire Day. No one will charge me with being a Jingo, but I believe that Empire Day can be used to teach real patriotism to the young, and I should like all the schoels taking this up..

The Court of Appeal on Monday upheld the verd"ct of £ 1.750 damages in the libel action by Mr. T. A. Jone-, barrister, against the proprietors of "The Sunday Chronicle." After some extraordinary scenes in court, the summons by the unoffici la I Unionist candi- date for alleged a?sau)t. at the declaration of the poll at Sheffield by-election was dismissed. Lord Brassey, Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports, on Saturday, at Dover, took the stroke oar in bis yacht's boat from the beach, and set his crew the pace across the bay to the Sun- beam.

ir Cookery is a LIIHM an Open sook ho an users of H IBORWICKS J \BAKING POWDER# THE MOST SATISFACTORY JBM BAKING POWDER j

Accidental Death. KILLED B\ A COAL CUTTER AT ABERDARE. I' FIRST ACCIDENT OF THE KIND. An inquest was held at the Aberdare Police Station, last ihursdav, touching the death of Georgo Lewis, a collier, employed at the Llwvnhelyg Colliery, Aberdare. who was killed by being drawn into the bar of the coal cutter, and practically disembowelled. The inquest was conducted by Mr. R. J. Rhys, coroner. Mr. Trump, H.M. Inspector of Mines, watched the case on behalf of the Home Office, and lr. W. Thomas (instructed by Mr. C B. Stanton) on behalf of the family and Federation. As this was the first fatality in this district arising from the use o: a coal cutter, much interest was taken in the inquest. Abednego Lewis gave evidence of identifica- tion. Deceased, he said. was his son, and had been working at Llwynhelyg Colliery for three or four month; and about two months with the I coal cutting machine. Evan Davies, the driver of the machino, said that deceased was working with him. About 1.30 p.m. 011 the previous Tuesday deceased was taking the cutter bar out of the coal in order to change tho teeth. The machine was then running, and the deceased must have slipped against the bar, and been dragged under it. Witness stopped the machine at once. It wis driven by electricity. Deceased was fast under the ba.r, and terribly cut about the lower part of his body by the teeth. It took two hours to get him out. Gorllwyn Seam was only 18 inches thick, and some two inches of bottom were cut as well. making 20 inches in all. They had, therefore, all to work lying down. The bar could only be removed while in motion r once it had bored into the coal.—In answer to Mr Trump, witness eaid that it was by I reversing the motion that the bar could be worked out. of the coal. That was what deceased wa.s doing at the time of the accident Witness had worked with the machine for two years at the Wimber Colliery and Llwvnhelyg, and had always changed the teeth in the same way as on that occasion. They changed the teeth two or three times a day. After he stopped the machine, the bar would continue to revolve about one minute. — In reply to Mr. W. Thomas, witness said that there was no brake on the machine. There was no room for the deceased to get between the machine and the gob to do the job, and he had, therefore, to lie on the face side of tho machine almost over the bar. He was operating the spindle nearest the face. It was often done that way; other times it was done from the gob side. — In reply to Ir. D. R. Llewelyn, the owner of the colliery, witness said that owing to the cutters being blunt, the machine had been driven or orced backwards abo\JI\ half a yarù. Isaac Davies, who was working in a stall some 20 yards away, gave evidence of the attempts made to get the deceased out. Mr. D. R. Llewelyn, the owner of the col- liery. said the machine was a "Pick-Quick" Machine of the bar type, driven by electric power. The bar was 3ft. 9in. long, and had 32 teeth in it. The bar worked at right angle to the machine, and it had to be backed out of the coal to change the teeth by means of elec- tricity, as was done on that occasion. It was worked at the rate of 500 revolutions a minute. The seam had underneath two inches of rak- ings, 18 inches of coal and two inches of soft holing above. Over that there were six inches of bast, which was not brought down. The wit- ness Davies was a. most experienced driver, and the deceased was a very capable man. Witness described the position of the deceased when he arrived ten minutes after the accident. One of the teeth must have caught his clothes about the thigh.—In reply to Mr W. Thomas, witness said that brakes had neve.r been put on those machines. He admitted it would be safer to do the operation deceased engaged in from the gob side. The Coroner, in summing up, said tnat the jury and himself were face to face with quite a. novel situation. He had heard of these coal cutters, and seen pictures of them, but that was the first fatality which had been caused by one of them in his district. They should do nothing to prevent the use of machines of that kind for probably some of the thin seams could only be so worked on the other hand, they should try to do everything to minimise the risk. A verdict of "Accidental death" was re- turned.

Glamorgan Water Bill. PREAMBLE PROVED After a very stubborn fight before the Select Committee of the House of Commons, lasting over a fortnight, the preamble of the Glamor- gan County Council's Water Bill has been proved, and it seems now highly probable that it will not be fought in the Upper House, most of the opponents being satisfied with the clause inserted in the Bill instead of the orig- inal one in reference to the District Councils which have not yet joined the scheme. On Monday, the opposition of Aberdare was taken. Mr. Kean, chartered accountant, London, was called to give evidence on the Bill from a financial point of view. The Chairman remarked that upon any ap plication for a provisional order, the financial question would be considered. Mr. Wedderburn (for Aberdare) said the ob- ject of this witness's evidence was to show now that the financial aspect of the Bill was so vague and indefinite and so certain to result in a deficiency that the Committee should re- ject the Bill. The Water Board would not be able to make both ends meet. The Chairman: State that before the Local Government Board when a provisional order is applied for. Mr. Wedderburn: But they would seek to take us in to make us help to pay for the de- ficiency. The Chairman: I think not. They will make both ends meet, either by the rates or a charge (laughter). Mr. Wedderburn: Ah, by the rates. There must be a heavy deficiency and a heavy rate in aid. Why should we run a risk of being brought into it? The Chairman: When the application is made for a provisional ordq, you can try and show that the Water Board and its finances are in such a position, you ought not to come in. Mr. Wedderburn: Wo are here to show that, now. The Chairman: Well, you had better get on with the evidence. In examination by Mr. Hutchmson, the wit- ness eaid there was no detail given as to the cost of the works that would be required, and without that knowledge it was impossible to say what the annual loan charges would be. Witness quoted the Metropolitan Water Board as an instance where the amalgamation of water companies bed led to increased expanses. In regard to the evidence given by Mr. Middle- ton, the witness gave his opinion that the prob- able population—and, therefore, the probable revenue—in 1897 had been over-estimated, and that the percentage allowed for expenses, J2j. was too small. It should have been a.bout 25 or 35 per cent. Cross-examined by Mr. J. D. Fitzgerald, witness said he believed the finances of the Water Board would be in a precarious state almost immediately after its formation. Mr. Thomas Gray, chairman of Margam Urban District Council, was then called by Mr. Honoratus Lloyd. He said the water ccst the Council ld. per 1,000 gallons, and Ta,5 sold at 3¿¿. There was a plentiful supply with available sources for an indefinite pericd. Thre was no reason for the district to be associated with the Water Board in any way. At the suggestion of the Chairman, it agreed to amend Clause 5 of the Bill so is to allow that any granting by the Local Govern- ment Board of a provisional order for the in- clusion of districts should be accordingly a.3 terms, conditions, and circumstances r. ght re- quire "for each district." On Tuesday, the amendments to Clause 5 (5a) made on the suggestion of the Committee were submitted by Mr. Gerald Fitzgerald, K.C., on behalf of the promoters. The clause, which embodies some of the most keenly-con- tested points in the whole of the Bill, was made to read as follow; :— If at any time the Local Government Board, on the application of the County Council (so far as relates to their representa- tion) of any constituent authority, are of opinion that the representation on the board of any constituent authority ought to be altered, or if at any time the Local Govern- ment Board, on the application of the County Council, or of any local authority not being a constituent authority, are of opinion that any borough (not being a county borough) or urban or rural district ought to becomc a constituent district and to be re- presented on the board, the Local Govern- ment Board may make a Provisional Order dealing with the case. and containing such terms, conditions, and provisions as that board, having regard to all the circum- stances in each particular case, may in their discretion think fit. and may by any such Order alter the total number of members of the board. Provided that in the case of any borough or urban or rural district of which any part is within the county oc Monmouth, the con- sent of the Monmouthshire County Council shall be requisite to the making of an Order for constituting such borough or urban or rural district a constituent district. Mr. Forbes Lancaster, K.C., on behalf of the Mountain Ash Urban District Council, rais?d the question of the inclusion of a clause pre- serving certain sources of supply in the Moun- tain Ash. district. Mr. Fitzgerald said no promise of any such clause was made by the promoters. The Chairman as there was no objec- tion to the alterations proposed, he might say, on behalf of the Committee, that they were satisfied that the alterations to Clause 5 (5a), and also in regard to Clause 13, were in ac- cordance with their decision. They would pass the clause as amended.

At the end of April there were in Enola-nd i 808,525 paupers, a* compared witl: 793,511. cr. the same day a vear ago; in London me iiuni- ber wu 123,280, "ccmsftrad

l ABERDARE POLICE COURT. WEDNESDAY.—Before Messrs. Levis N. {Williams and Owen George. EJECTMENT ORDER.—Mr. M. T. Morgan applied for an ejectment order against George Morgan, 9, Catherine-street, Aberdare, and having proved his notiecs, the order was made. -—Mr. W. Thomas, applied for an ejectment order, on behalf of the Nant Building Club, against George Shenton.—This was granted. OCCASIONAL LICENCE.-Mr. T. E. Griffiths applied for an occasional licci;ce on behalf of Mr. J'. Jones, of the Coxvbridte Arms, for the sports to be held on Whit-Monday, and this was granted. A EIGHT IX THE STREET.—Moms Richards and Richard Thomas, broke drivers, for ob- structing Commercial-street by lighting, were fined 10s. and 20s. and costs respectively. DOGS NOT UNDER CONTROL.— John Hughes, for not keeping his dog under control between sunset and sunrise, was fined 5s. including costs.—William Foley, who did not appear, was similarly fined for a like offence. OhSCENE LANGUAGE.—Walter Clark was summoned for using obscent language. Mr. W. Thomas prosccutcd.-—John Davies said that on Saturday night, 15th inst., lie was going home in the motor car, from Black Lion Crossing to Cwmaman. Defendant used very obscene language in the car. Complainant remonstrated with him, and in order to prevent any unplea- santness, witness loft the car. The following morning defendant used some vile and obscene languago to him.—David John Davies corro- borated as to the language used on Sunday morning.—Mrs. Emma Jane Davies, com- plainant's wife, also corroborated.—Defendant said that John Davies and his wife were like wild Indians on Sunday morning, and he walked away from them. Complainant and his witnesses were afraid of him.—Ernest George Taylor said he did not hear any Lad language. They were talking very loud.—A fine of 10s. and costs was imposed. DAMAGE TO FENCE.—Thomas Collins was summoned for damaging a force, the propf-rty of Hopkin Hopkins.—Mr. T. E. Griffiths prosecuted.—John Jones, a farm servant in the employ of Mr. Hopkin Hopkins, Ceneral Picton, said he was watching a fence, which was con- tinually being broken. On the 14th inst. he caught defendant getting over the fence to make a short cut to his home. The damage was assessed at 2s. Cd. The fence had been there for fifteen years at least.-P.C. David Thomas, who was ith last witness, corroborated, and said there were notices put up to warm tres- passer?.—Defendant, who said he thought it was a bye-road, was ordered to pay the damage, 2s. 6d., together with 5s. and costs. ASSAULT.—Phillip James Cartwright was summoned for assaulting Edward Cox.—Mr. J. D. Thomas appeared for the complainant, who said defendant uscd to lodge with him. Before they parted he explained to defendant the account owing. On the 14th inst. defendant came to see him and struck him in the eye.— Cross-examined: There was some talk about defendant's wife.—Rose Cox, the wife of the last witness, and Annie Chambers corroborated. —P.C. Barnes said that complainant saw him after the alleged offence, and he had a black mark on one eye and a red mark on the other eye.—Lefendant said that complainant had made certain allegations which led to a fight. It was a fight and be (complainant) got the first blow in.—Lester B. Colman said he went with defendant to see what Mrs. Cox had to say about witness's wife. He said Cox shivered like a baby, and admitted that defendant did not hit complainant once.—Defendant was fined 20s. and costs. A VIOLENT WOMAN. COWARDLY ASSAULT ON HER COUSIN. Margaret Thomas was summoned for assault- ing Mary Jane Jones.—Mr. W. Thomas appeared for the complainant, and said this was a very serious and unprovoked assault. The baby which complainant had in her arms was marked. -Complaiant said defendant was her cousin. On Friday she was passing defendant's house, at Aberaman. Defendant and her sister accused her of making some allegations about defendant. She then went on. On her return defendant came out and asked her to put down the baby in order to fight. Witness refused to put the baby down and defendant struck witness in the mouth. Witness bled profusely. Defendant also struck the baby on the face. There was a mark on the baby's face. She had to send for a doctor. Cross-examined: Com- plainant said she did not strike defendant.— Catherine Williams, who was standing on the door of her own house, said she saw defendant strike Mrs. Jones, who had the baby in her arm. Complainant bled profusely. The baby, whose face was streaming with blood, was taken into witness's house. Defendant's sister tried to take defendant away.—Sarah Phoebe Probert, Station-street, Aberaman, and Lillie Davies, corroborated.—Defendant then told her story. She said a row had taken place in the house. Later on complainant came in and wanted defendant to come out and fight. Defendant put down her baby and complainant, who had her baby in her arms, struck defendant three times. She (defendant) then struck com- plainant.—Morgan Thomas, brother.in-law of the defendant, said complainant struck the first blow. He advised his sister-in-law not to quarrel.—Rachel Thomas, the defendant's sister, told her story very volubly, but she admitted that her sister hit complainant in the face, and that Mrs. Jones bled. She tried to separate them and took her sister to the house. Cross- examined It was a bad assault on both sides. —While the Magistrates were considering their decision, the defendant, who had been somewhat excited in the dock. fell back in a faint, but a constable caught her before she reached the ground, and she was carried out moaning. After being in the open air for some time she recovered, and was told by Mr. Williams, the presiding Magistrate, that the Bench considered the case a very bad one. It was very cowardly to strike a woman with a young baby in her arms. She would be fined 10s. and costa or 14 days.—Defendant, who was apparently in a violent temper, said, If I take 14 days, that will be five months less than-" The end of the sentence was lost in her excitement, and she was advised to take time to consider what she said and what she did.—Later on she paid the fine and departed.

-—■■■■ Canada for Farmers and Others. VIEWS OF A WELSHMAN. Last week Mr. William Griffiths, Canadian Government Delegate, spent a day in Aber- dare, and had interviews at the office of Mr. D. M. Richards, Wenallt, emigration agent, with a number of likely emigrants. Our re- presentative had a lengthy conversation- with him as to the class of emigrants most likely to succeed in Canada. Mr. Griffiths, who is a Welshman from the IfjJe of Anglesea, said he himself went out eight years ago, and start- ed working on a farm, and soon was able to take a farm of his own on easy terms from the Government. He is now a landed proprietor. There were always plenty of demand and open- ings for agricultural labourers. Government guaranteed work to every one who was pre- pared to go on a farm, and experienced hands could earn 300 dollars a year and their keep; while an unexperienced man, willing to work, could get at least 150 dollars a year, with board and lodgings. For farmers there were first-class openings, especially if they had some capital. They could buy a farm in any of the older provinces with good substantial brick house, better than the majority of farm houses in Wales, outbuildings for 40 head of cattle, buildings in which to keep the hay and corn under cover, and plenty of timber for fire- wood for £600. Further west, in Manitoba. Saskatchewan, or Alberta, they could get free grants of 160 acres and as much land as they wanted for £2 to £3 10s. an acre. The opening out of new territory by the Grand Pacific Line through some of the finest agri- cultural land in the world was a new epoch. At present this gave splendid opening for navvies and labourers, who earned from 1 dol- lar 60 cents to 3 dollars a day. Welsh miners who have been working on hard ground could do well in this direction. Along the route towm were being rapidly built, and there was plenty of work here for masons and carpen- teN. the building trade never having been better than it is just at present. The mis- take this class of people often made, however, was to remain in the older provinces, where building operations were quiet. General deal- ers with capital would also do well in these new towns. He advocated the Far as an excellent field for "peculators, and referred to the new tinplate industry in Morrisburgh. Ontario, as likely to supplv work for a larct-^ number of coal miners, who might generally find work in the coal mines in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick. and British Columbia. He also drew a glowing picture of "Coh11t," where such extensive silver deposits are being found. Unemployment was, he alleged, much exaggerated, and in every case it was caused bv the refusal of the emigrants to go inhnd. Welshmen have proved themselves excellent colonists, and in Llewellyn, in Saskatchewan, there is an extensive Welsh colony. Bangor bin the station there for the new line pass- ing through it. To-day there is a_ steady im- miration to Canada from the United States, and the fact that Canada is an integral part of the British Emnire should induce Welsh- men to emigrate there in preference to ihe States. Mr. Griffiths will be pleased to reply anr letters addressed to hint in rr l!»f'r;h. I/etters fehou'd he addro sed < Mr, D, 14. Richards, Yteoaljt, Aberdare." j

OAL TRADE CRISIS. MR. C. B. STANTON AND THE OWNERS' MANIFESTO ) Mr. C. B. Stanton, the agent for the Aber- dare district, was seen on Wednesday by one of our representatives, and asked for his views on the present position of affairs in the South Wales coalfield. Reference was made to the owners' manifesto, and Mr. Stanton said no doubt the Federation would issue a counter- manifesto, but as the executive would not meet until after the International Conference in Ger- many, to which most of the officials and mem- bers of the Council were proceeding, they would not be able to do so for some time. They would, however, givo it a complete and s<Ltisfac- tory answer as far as the general public were concerned. He t;10ught the employers had been very unwise in issuing the manifesto, which ap- peared to him to be a very weak one indeed, h was llothiu2: new for the 0lJJp]oycrs to at- tempt to use their big baticry of lockout to compel the workmen of South Wales b giro up what the law had decreed. In the case of the payment for small coal. When the highest covirt in the land decided that the men were to be paid for small coal they compelled them to sign away their rights or be locked out, and although since that time small coal had risen three or four times even at its highest point they had never suggested even a small recog- nition to the men who procured it. When the Workmen's Compensation Act was passed the miners had to meet the bitterest op- position. The eoalowrners told the public that it would cost 6d., 9el., or even Is. more per ton for coal, whereas now it does not cost 2d. In- deed, he believed it was less tlun lid. on the average. Worst of all the employers shirked their liability and abused the Act, using it for inquisitorial inquiries into a man's character, pretending it was done for the purpose cf the Act, whereas it was really done to ascertain what men had been victimised in other districts. It was really nothing more or less than the revival of the discharge note. In addition to that, where injured men became fit for light employment, they endeavoured tc use them to reduce the wages to the lowest of labourers from 2s. lOd. to 2s. 6d. and 2s. 4d. It was, therefore, little wonder to the miners' leaders that the em- ployers now did all in their power to oppose the introduction of the Eight Hours Act, and to get something out of it in any way possible. If the employers would grant greater facility for cleaning and more eoual distribution of hours so as to secure continuous employment during the day, he wa.s satisfied that it would bo an agreeable surprise to the employers and the general public to see the extent of the out. put under the Act, but if there was to be a de- creased output there was no excuse for the South Wales employers to try and prevent the working of the Act. for a decreased output would mean increased prices. Asked if it was not a fact that at present the haulage roads were worked to the utmost of their capacity, and that any attempt to increase this would be a source of danger, Mr. Stanton said, "We are quite agreed to meet this by ar- ranging for a few men to do that kind of work by clearing the roads after the men have finish- ed, but not to cut coal." They would oppose a double shift because of its dangers, and the de- mand of the employers to work an hour extra one day a, week. As to the money paid for overtime, in the past it had often been put down for overtime when it was nothing of the kind. It was often paid to hauliers and drivers and such like for additional work done at in- creased risk. and surely this should not be taken away.

Heaven and Hades. AN ARTICLE OF CHURCH IANU. FACTURE. LECTURE AT ABERDARE. On Monday afternoon and evening, the Rev. E. W Lewis, of Clapton, preached a.nd lectured at Tabernacle English Congregational Church, Aberdare. Mr. Lewis was engaged by the members of the Religious Discussion Class, held by Mr. Jones weekly at the Tabernacle Schoolroom, and they are to be congratulated on securing such an intellectual treat for Aber- dare. In the afternoon, the rev. gentleman, taking for his text, Eph., iv., 10, "He that descended, it was He also who ascended," preached a most eloquent and impressive ser- mon on the duty of self-sacrifice, pointing out that it was only by such self-sacrifice that the highest good was attainable. The sermon was listened to with rapt attention. In the evening the rev. gentleman delivered a lecture on "Heaven and Hell," the Rev. J. Morgan Jcnes, M.A. (the pastor), occupying the chair. Mr. Lewis opened with the state- ment that according to popular Christianity, heU was a place of endless torment, and added that there was no ground foi such a concep- tion in the true representation of any extant Scripture. Such a conception was incompatible with the moral and Divine order of the uni- verse. He contended that all punishment was for moral ends, and if not SQ, it was no longer punishment but bloodthirsty vengeance. All true punishment was for cleansing, better- ment. Hell was an article of Church manu- facture, which had been credited to God, and those who had done so had not realised that by doing so they had put not a God but a devil on the throne of the universe (applause). The popular conception of hell—and that was what he was speaking of all through—meant endless wickedness, and made God unable to cope with sin, compelling him to find a place for it in His Universe. In fact, it dethroned God, and made Him fail in wisdom, power, and love. Passing on to deal with the Scrip- ture proofs of the existence of a hell, he said that he would never allow the letter of Scrip- ture to be supreme when it conflicted with his own enlightened moral consciousness. Bib- liatory was the last enemy to be destroyed, and they were destroying it in these days. He then pointed out that the teaching of the ancient Jewish Scriptures, which had been adopted by the early Christians, depended on a conception of the Universe which none be- lieved to day. It was that the universe was three-storeyed, earth being the living room, hell being the cellar or lower room directly underneath, and heaven the upstairs room, divided by a solid firmament from the earth. He traced this conception throughout the Scriptures, and ako pointed out how the opin- ions of the Jews about hell or the grave. Hades, as it was called by the Greeks, had changed and modified, and that the scene of the final triumph as it was depicted in the New Testament was to be on earth and not in heaven. Hell, if the word was to be retained in Christian theology, was a state or condition, and that as much at present as in the future. He emphasised this idea, and illustrated it at considerable length, apd then passed on to deal with the idea of Heaven, which he pointed out would have to be similarly changed, and made not so much a place as a state. He pointed out that all conceptions of Heaven were based on the best that those who laid down such conceptions hoped for and desired. He illus- trated this by the picture of Heaven given by Mahomet in the Koran, as well as by the writer of the Book of Revelation. In a real sense, Heaven could be entered here and now; it was internal, not external. The lecturer then passed on to deal with the ideal of the early Christian Church of Heaven as a king- dom, and pointed out that latter-day Christian- ity had far too exclusively dwelt with the other world, despairing: of saving humanity in the mass in thi; world, which was the higher ideal. No man could enter fully into Heaven in ad- vance of the race. It would be impossible for him to be in Heaven while there was one soul in hell (loud applause). He behoved in a Heaven on earth, not only for himself, but for all. and there were some signs of its coming even in these days. In answer to a question by the Rev. Mel- chizedeck Evan", the lecturer said he believed that they would all retain their individuality and self-consciousness in Heaven. In reply to Mr. John Davies. who a. ked which was the most effective method to bring the ideal about, personal effort, or change of the environment. Mr. Lewis said both should be used. and there was some danger for of them who were Socialists to forget that, and to decry personal effort. Change of en- vironment was not sufficient, and the effective environment could be changed, a.nd often wa" changed by a change of the individual. He gave a very apt illustration of this. Mr. Jones (the chairman) then, on his own behalf and on behalf of the congregation and the ciass, returned thanks Lo Mr. Lewi*.

Emotion and the Eyes. Has it ever occurred to our readers that the colour and clarity of the eyes is strongly in- fluenced by their emotions? Contrast the deep colour, the soft glow and clearness of the eves of the healthy, happy woman, with the faded, tired, and restless orbs of the victim of nerves. Nervous strain plays havoc with the most beau- tiful eyes, and we have it on the authority of the famous Society beauty, Mrs. Una de Louth, that even the most distressing nervous disorders readily yield to a course of Phosferine. Mrs. Una de Louth says:—"Phosferine has done more good for me than all the doctors, for long standing and severe gouty pains in my head. A few drops of Phosferine gave me in- stantaneous and lasting relief."—8, Landsdowne Square, Hove, Sussex.

CWMDARE. PRESENTATIONS.—A series of presentations took place at the Council Schools on Friday ovening. The presentations had been got up by the school staff, and the recipients were: Miss B. M. Richards, late headmistress of the Infants' Department, and Mr. J O. Lewis, late assistan. in the Upper Department; while Mr. J. Howells, the assistant master, was also lion oured on account of his recent marriage. r..lis Walters, the present headmistress, presented Miss Richards with a gold pendant (set with amethysts and pearls), while Air. Jame3 Tho- mas presented a pair of bronze figures and a gold scarf pin to Messrs. Howells and Lewis respectively. Each of the recipients suitably, responded. An cxceiler.t programme of nnu-ic was goue through, and were indulged in. V -v. „ .1

CWMAMAN. INTERMENT. —On Saturday last, the funeral took placo of Mrs. Gwen Jones, Aman-street, who died on Tuesday after a long illness. De ceased, who was 67 years of age. was much respected in the locaiit), having lived in the village practically all her life. She was a member of Soar (C M.) Chnp!. CONCERT.—On Saturday, at the Public Hall, a repetition performance of the cantata, en titled. "The Little Old Wo/nan thac Lived in a Shoe," was given by the Soar Band of Hope Choir. The chairman was the Rev. W. D. Morris, and the choir was under the conductor- ship of Mr. David Davies. Two action songs, "The Soldier's Song" and "Nellie's Doily." were rendered by a children's party, under the conductorship of Mr. \V. 0. Lloyd. CONCERT.V-^On Monday evening ji mi seel Ian-, eou- concert was held at the Public Kali, un- der the au-pices of the Scion Juvenile Choir, who intend competing at the Caerphilly ELS, toddfod on Whit-Monday. The choir is under the conductorship of Mr. \Y. Clav Jenkins, who has won many prizes in the principal E s- teddfodau. The chairman was Councillor T. L. Davies. The following was the programme: -Soprano solo, Miss M. E. Griffiths; piano- forte Miss Annie Mary Phillips; contralto nolo, Miss Morfydd Lloyd; soprano solo, Miss Annie Evans. Aberaman; reclwtion. Miss Margery Williams: mouth organ solo, Mr. W. .Tones, soprano solo. Mis-v M. J. Davies; con- talto solo, Miss Maggie Jones; pianoforte cluett, Mi-ses Morfydd Lloyd and Beatrice Evans; chorus by the Juvenile Choir, entitled, "Over the Hills of Clover"; recitation, Miss Kate Matthews, soprano solo. Miss Mary Wil- liams; harp solo, Mr. T. Davies (Telynor Arnan): solo, Master Llew. Jones, recitation. Miss Rhoda Lewis, bass solo, Mr. MaJdwyn Jones; mandoline 6olo. Mr. Fred Wreaver; ro- citation, Mr. Jones; penillion einsring, Mr. Isaac Jones; tenor solo, Mr. William Thomas; bass solo, Mr. Evan Evans; contralto solo, Miss Blodwen Stephens. Aberaman; selec- tion by the Cwmaman Silver Band; chorus by the Aman Glee Society, under the conductor- "hip of Mr. Edward Lewis. A.C.. finale, ren- dering of the test niece at Caerphilly by the Children's Choir. The accompanist was Mr. Austin John. FREE TEA.—On Monday, the members of the Soar Band of Hope Choir were entertained to tea by Mrs. (Dr.) R. F. Thomas, in recog- nition of the excellent manner in which they performed recently the centata, entitled, "The Little Old Woman that Lived in a Shoe." At the conclusion of tho tea, a cordial vote of thanks was accorded Mrs. Thomas for her gen- erosity, upon the proposition of Master Enirys Evans, which seconded by Miss Maggie Llew- ellyn. The juvenile members then wended their way to the park, where a number of competitions were held. Mrs. (Dr.) It F. Thomas provided the prizes, and the following is a list of the winners:— Boys' race, under 10 years of age. 1 Bryn Ivor Davies, 2 Emrys Owen, girls' race, under 10 years of age, 1 Jane Daniel, 2 Bronwen Evans; boys' race, under 13. 1 Elwyn Rowlands. 2 Johnny Tho- mas; walking match for Band of Hope officers, Mr. D. Lloyd; walking match for adult ladies, Mrs. E. Howells; giris' race, under 13, 1 Annie Daniel. 2 Maud Evans, tu^-of-war be- tween married and unmarried ladies, victory for the unmarried, tug-of-war between married and unmarried gentlemen, victory for married; tug-of-war for boys under 13, Milwyn Lloyd's team of four; race for adults, 1 W O. Lloyd, 2 Lewi- J. Evans; walking contest for ladies, Mis, Eleanor Evans; race for girls over 13, 1 Miss M. H. Griffiths, 2 Miss Mary E. Evans; boys' race over 13, 1 Master Johnnie Davies, 2 Master Thomas John Davids; race for girls ever 16, 1 Miss 1. H. Griffiths, 2 Miss Ellen Daniel three-legged race, 1 David Ebenezer | and Lewis Daniel, 2 A. Milwyn Lloyd and Eiwyn Rowlands: race for adult officers of Band of Hope, 1 Mr. W. R. Evsns, 2 Mr. W. 0. Lloyd. The programme ended by the Band of Hope Choir rendering the following pieces: "Sweet Flowers thai Deck," "The sunlieht o'er u, now is streaming," and "Mi fynnaf cldweyd am Iesu."

Fatal Accident at Hirwain. On Monday, 17th inst., John Waines. 44 years of age, a native of Somerset, lodging at 7a, Merthyr-road, Hirwain, employed as a navvy at the Ystradfellte new waterworks, was se- verely injured on his head by the fall of a stone while working in the trench. Dr. Tre- vor Jones, Aberdare, and Dr. Powell, Hirwain, were immediately in attendance. The man's skull was dreadfully injured, and a trained nurse was cal1ed in. The unfortunate man suc. cumbed to his injuries on Sunday morning last. An inquest was held at Bodwigaid Hotel, on Wednesday morning, before Dr. W. R. Jones. Mr Harry Waines said deceased was his brother and was about 44 years of age, and a single man. When out of employment he was depen- dent on his three sisters. He was by trade a stone mason.-HalTY Fairley, a foreman, said that at the time of the accident he was six yards from deceased. He heard some one call out that a man had been hurt. The trench was 60 feet deep, and the man was working at the bottom. He was hurt by a fall of atone. He could not say from what part the stone came. The man was taken to the ambulance station aoout 200 yards from the trench.-Thomas Gor- den, a co-workman, said that he was working at the time of the accident close by deceased. The weight of the stone which struck deceased was about 28 lb., and most likely had fallen from the side of the trench. — Mr. Joseph Burdge, a navvy missioner, said that he gave first-aid treatment to the man. He kept at the station all things needed for the first-aid treat- ment..—Mr. James E. Morrison, agent for the contractors, said that he was responsible for the charge of the work.—The Coroner: Did Mr. Henry, the manager, inform you of the suggestions made about the month of September last year when another fatal accident happened at the work?—Witness: Yes.—The Coroner said it would be his duty to report to the Board of Trade.—Dr. Powell having given evidence, the Coroner said he wished to emphasise two points.—First, to prevent accidents they must get more proper protection for the men. Se- condly, they must make better provision in case of accidents. He proposed to correspond with the Neath Corporation.—A verdict of "Acci- dental death" was returned.

Congregational Musica1 Festival at Hirwain The Congregational singing festival was held on Monday, when over 200 voices drawn from Nebo and Tabernacle, Hirwain, Calfaria; Rhigos; and Soar. Penderyn, rendered a selec- ted programme of hymn-tunes and anthems. Mr T. Glyndwr Richards, Mountain Ash, was the conductor. Perfect sympathy ruled be- tween the conductor and choir, and a marked religious fervour and spirit worthy of the isanctuary prevailed. The morning meeting was held at the Tabernacle Chapel, and there was a crowded congregation. Mr. T. Jones, Rhigos, presided over the meeting, which was in the nature of a children's service. The selected tunes were:—"Hyfryd Ganaan" (Dd. Evans, Mus. Bac.), Cardiff), "Can j Plant" (Gwilym James Ferndale), "Edrych ar Iesu" (A. Watkins, Hirwain), "Byw i Iesu" (E. Tel- orydd' Nicholas, Ystalyfera), "Croesaw i'r PInt"- (composed by Mr. J. T. Davies, Hir- wain, in memory of two faithful members of the Band of Hope, Miss Emeline Williams and Miss Gwladys Young) The anthem, "Awn t'r Ysgol SuI." was also rendered. In the after- noon, at Nebo Chapel, the Rev. R. Derfel oberts, Tabernacle, presided, and the adult singers gave inspiring renditions of the var- ious tunes, terminating with a magnificent rendering of "We never will bow down" (Han- del). The Rev. E. Wern Williams occupied the chair at the evening meeting. The adult choristers rendered several hymn-tunes most effectively. In the anthem, "Gweddi a Mawl" (by Alaw Brycheiniog, Cefn). the singers ex- ccI1ed themselves, and a Iso in the rendering cçf the chorus, "Nl phlygwn ni i lawr" ("We never will bow down"), by Handel. At the morning meeting, a recitation was given by Miss Catherine Marv Evans. At the afternoon meeting, which was opened by Mr. Rees 1. Rees (Myfyr Cynon). Carmarthen, a recitation was given by Miss M. Davies, Penderyn and a solo, "Yr Anwyl Oen," by Mr. Rees Jones, Rhigo3. The Trecynon Orchestral Band play- ed "The Sacred Wreath" and "The Vesper Hymn," under the leadership of Mr. W7. E. Thomas. The evening meeting was opened by the Rev. T. Hirwen Jenkins. Ogmore Vale, ajid Master Trevor Evans gave a recitation. The solo, "Telvnau'r Saint," was sung by Mr. Rees D. Davies, song, "Plentyn y Nefoedd," Mr. Tom Beynon; duett. E. Jones and Mrs. H. Morgan. Mr. Richards paid tributes to the singers, to the Trecynon Orchestral Band, to the precentors (Messrs. Tom Williams and D. Jones), and also to the accompanists (Mig. Annie Jones. Miss Mary Davies. and Mr. T. Richards. Rhigos). The Rev. E. Wern Williams (chairman) proposed a vote of condol- ence with the parents of the late Mr. Timothy Williams, whose name was on the programme as the organist of the "gymi-nfa. ganu." This was seconded by Mr. T. G. Richards (conduc- tor), and carried, the whole congregation up standing. The arrangements for the festiva' I wero carried out by the following officials: Chairman, Mr. Emrys Jones: treasurer, Mr. D. Rees; secretary, Mr. David Williams; and the committee.

Gardiner (England) won the Marathon Race. from Windsor to the Stadium, on Saturday, in 2h. 53min. 23sec., Hector Labry (France) being second, 600 yards behind the winner. Mr. Walter Runciman, who addressed a large meeting at Newcastle on Saturday night, said he deplored the assumption that nothing is nqbler than war and better than beer.

MARRIED LADIES. My recent, offer of a free sample of Nurse Powell's Popular Pellets met. with snch striking success, and enabled so many !adies to prove that they do actually cure all irregularities, that I have decided to repeat the offer. Ladies should write for Free Box, enclos- ing penny stamp for postage. Delay is often dan- gerous, so write now.—Nurse T. M. Powell, Rep- lipgham Kpadt .W&B<i«wprtfr Logdoa 8tW,

HIRWAIN. BAPTISM.—On Sunday evening, at Ramcftj Baptist Chapel, five persons declared their de- sire to be baptized by immersion The sacred rite was performed by the Rev George Hague. BURGLARY.—In the small hours of Saturday morning burglars visited the Rhigos Post-office, and took away all the money that had been left in a drawer in the shop, and also all money and all M.O.'s and PO's in the Post-office, which is attached to the grocery shop. The amount of money raken was not large. OBITUARY.-We have to record the death of Mr. Daniel Edmunds, deacon for many years at the Baptist Church, Penderyn, in his 80th year. For a lengthy period he was ono of the most prominent men in the locality. The funeral took place at Pontbren Chapel graveyard 0[' Friday evening. The officiating ministers were the Rev. Hopkins (Aberdare) and Rev. Piico (C.M., Penderyn), and the Rev. Price (pastor, Baptist, Penderyn). The deceased leaves a son and daughter. W7e have also to record the death of Mrs. Sarah Powell, Henclrewyddel Farm, I), native of Rhigos, in her 88th year. She was much respected at Glynneati) district. The funeral took place on Thursday, aij Pen- deryn Cemetery, the Sev. Harris, Glyn Neath, officiating. Tlie death also took place of Mrs. Williams, Brecon-road, in her 69th year Ti-- funeral took place on Friday at Aberdare ù- mCfery,.Rcv. Geo. Hague officiating. PRESENTATION*. At the Aubrey I-xnow, R.A.O.B., on Monday night, a presentation o! a pocket communion service was made lov the Brothers of the Lodge to Primo Arthur (the Lodge's Chaplain), on the occasion of hia marriage. Bro. Howard Morgan made thn presentation, and extolled the qualities cf th* rev. gentleman. Bro. Arthur, who ww visibly moved, said he appreciated greatly the kind- ness of his Brother Buffs, and especially as then allowed him to chose what be cared to. ThtS longer he was a Buffalo the prouder he be, came of being a member of the Order, not only for the privileges the Order bestowed on him, but also for the sake of meeting his fellow townsmen under such convivial conditions. II was a privilege he greatly enjoyed of being able, as it were, to throw asiclc his purely offi- cial calling and come and enjoy the company ot his fellow members—men of all kinds of politi- cal and religious creeds. Would that more men of Hirwain could see their way to join the Or- der, for although he would not claim that Buffa- loes wore better than other men, he really thought it did much to mitigate the evils of selfishness, because every true Brother knew that philanthropy was, after all, the main plank of their order. He thanked the members for their kindness, and he hoped the communion service would be the means of proving a happi- ness to some poor sufferer who was unable to leave his or her house, or even perhaps bed, in the hour of trial and suffering Bro W. R. Edwards next spoke, and said he was pleased to have known the City Chaplain personally for a long time, longer even than he had known Buffa!oism. He felt certain he was voicing th-i feelings of all when he said that however high up the [adder of his profession the Rev Arthur attained, he would be thoroughly deserving of it, and would carry all the good wishes of his Brother Buffs. Bro. Lucas Aubrey also spoke, and wished the Rev and Mrs. Arthur long lif,) and happiness. Bros. T Edwards, D Rees, G Williams, and Commander also spoke. A very pleasant evening was spent. Brothers D. John (City Minstrel) and R. Boynes presided aL the piano.

Motorist's Miraculous Escape. SHOCKING ACCIDENT AT HIRWAIN. Miss Whitting, Bodwigaid, Penderyn, was motoring from Penderyn to meet the Pontvpocl 6 p.m. train at Hirwain on Tuesday The car passed through the village all right, but at a bend in the road near the Great Western Rail- way, the car skidded, and the motorist, being unable to pull up, the car came to grief. The car shot across the roadside and went clean through the railing on to the G W.R. platform. The car then rolled over. It was feared that Miss Whitting had been killed. Providentially she did not go down on to the railway before the train. The station-master (Mr D. Grif- fiths) and his staff rendered every assistance. The injured lady was conveyed in a semi-con- scious condition to Ty Bruce. How she es- caped an instantaneous death is a miracle.

P- Empire Day at Llwydcoed. GENEROSITY OF MR. WINDSOR LEWIS. For the third year in succession the children at the Llwydcoed Council School, Aberdare, had a red-letter day on Monday—Empire Day—I thanks to the generosity of Mr. Windsor Lewis. the son of the lato Mr. James Lewis, of Plasdraw the owner of the estate. At two o'clock th'i children, all prettily and tastefully dressed foi the occasion, had met at the school-room, and were then marched by Mr. Griffiths, the head. master, Miss Jones, the headmistress, and the assistants, to the school playground, where the magnificent flag, presented to the School by Mr. Windsor Lewis on the occasion of the first celebration, lay furled. In the presence of the guests, who included the Rev. Richard Jones, Vicar of St. Fagan's, Aberdare; Councillor T. Walter Williams. ex-Chairman of the Aberdare Education Committee Mr. John Morris, Oartref, Clerk fo the Aberdare Education Committee Mr. J. Comley, agent to Mr. Windsor Lewis, etc., the "Song of the Empire" was rendered by the children, all of whom had been presented with flags which they waved loyally. The flag was then unfurled, and Miss Annie Thomas sang the Welsh National Anthem, Hen Wlad fy Nhadau." Councillor T. Walter Williams spoke to tho children on the meaning of the ceremony they had been engaged in, and what Empire Day was intended to commemorate. He pointed out how the children of Germany were, from their very earliest days, taught that it was their duty to become patriots, and they were taught much of what Empire meant and what con- stituted true patriotism. In spite of the fact that Mr. Williams admitted that he had not been used to addressing children, he made the speech very interesting to them, as well as to those of more mature growth. The children then returned to the school-room, where Mr. Windsor Lewis had very kindly arranged that they should be regaled with a plentiful supply of tea and cake, the catering being entrusted to Mr. F. W. Caunt. and it was done well. The little ones were then photo- graphed by Mr. J. W. Fyfe, of Aberdare, Mr. Windsor Lewis having expressed a desire to obtain a copy thereof. Afterwards the visitors and children sat to tea, and hearty votes of thanks were accorded to Mr. Windsor Lewis, who so worthily represents the well-known generosity of the family, and to Mr. Comley, the agent to the estate, who briefly replied on his own behalf and on that of Mr. Lewis. The staff at the school deserves commendation for the manner in which they had decorated the school-room, etc., and the villagers, who had set up flags, etc., throughout the villaes,

CWMBACH. Have you anything to Sell? Advertisa in our Want Columns, and it is as good as sold. .NIUSICAL.-On Sunday evening an innovation was introduced by the Nonconformist Sunday School of Cwmbach by the holding of a joint singing rehearsal at Bryn Seion Chapel. The object was to prepare a number of anthems and marching hymn-tunes for the annuaJ de. monstration on Whit-Monday. Hitherto each Sunday school has selected its own musical pieces, but this year the following churches have united :—Bryn Seion Sunday School, with its various branches; Bethania Baptist Sunday School, with its branch at Penuel; Ebenezer Welsh Calvinistic Methodists; and the English Primitive Methodist Sunday School. Mr. Samuel Davies, of Ebenezer, was conductor.

GREEN OLD AGE TAKING ANOTHER LEASE OF LIFS THROUGH THE MEDIUM OF A HEALTHY AND WELL-REGULATED SYSTEM, ASSISTED BY DR. MORSE'S INDIAN ROOT PILLa To reach a green old age and enjoy good kealth can only be attained by the care of the system, which may at times require a little assistance. The first essential to good health is to keep the stomach in a sound I I til, I I l I condition. It is not the quantity of food we eat, but what we digest and assimilate that nourishes the body. Growing old ought not to mean grow- ing weak and feeble. It does not mean weakness or feebleness for those who eat with a good appetite and sound digestion. It is therefore of the utmost import- ance that old people should retain the power to digest and assimilats food which is the sole source of physical strength. When age brings feebleness it is generally because of the failure to assimilate nutrition contained in food. To those in declining years who find that Nature responds less readily to the demands made upon her, and who need a mild, yet searching remedy, to keep their system in proper working order, there is nothing like Dr. Morse's Indiaa Root Pills. Sold by Chemists and Stores, price l/l per bottle, or The W. H. Comstock Co., hPi t 3L. (Aveftue,