The Merthyr Express

To those about to be MARRIED. THÐMAS & eo/s PATTEBK WEDDING RINGSr No. No. 2 No. 3 NO. 4 ftOHND. MEDIUM. WIDE. EXTRA WIDE WEDDING RINGS- every SIZE EVERY WEIGHT, EVERY PRICE. KEEPER RINGS- ALL QUALITIES. ——— ALL PATTERNS, ALL PRICES. ENGAGEMENT RINGS BEST PATTERNS, ——— BEST QUALITY, BEST VALUE. Pin VAT* ROOM roa WEDDING RISG CCSTOMKRS, and a IIANUSOM WKHDINO PltkSltST with each Ring. You can have a set of our plated Fingsr Ring Sizes on appl[leat' jit-tlie only means of correct iy measuring tha aizo of the fingers—to be obtained only from us. We oell only 22 CARAT. GOVERNMENT STAMPED, WCDDINQ RINGS. THOMAS & CO., Ring Dealers and Jewellers, Commercial Street, Aberdare. TOM oix, BOOT HOTEL MEWS, ABERDARE. NEW FURNITURE VAN Of most modern and approved construction. Adapted for Removing Furniture from Cottage or Mansion by Road, Rail, or Sea. Packed by Experienced Packers. Estimates Free upon application. TERMS STRICTLY MODERATH ABERAMAN BILLPOSTING & ADVERTISING CO. Proprietors of the largest and most prominent Hoardings in Aberaman and the surrounding districts. All orders promptly attended to. Apply: SECBETAKY, Billposting & Advertising Co New Public Hall and Institute, Aberaman, Aberdare The Aberdare Billposting and Advertising Co., Limited. OFFICES. NEW THEATRE, ABERDARE. Estimates given for Posting the whole of Wales. Lis of Stations arranged in Route order. ■BBggBBgggBBggggg»l"»^»

ABERDARE VALLEY NOTES. I [BY Myfxb DAiLl The attempt of the Trades and Labour ^Council to cope with rackrenting is a com- tnend&hle one, but it is clear that the difficulty in their way is very great. It will be re called that a few months ago they sought a conference with the ministers of religion in the town, and it was then arranged that tha Executive of the Council should obtain some further particulars in order to bring the mat- ter before the ministers in a concrete form. Little has been done, the difficulty being to get the tenants who have complaints to make to come out. This is not to be wondered at far if they talk too freely they get notices to quit, and, houses being scaroe, they know not where to turn. However, it is to be hoped that the Committee will be able to give some particulars of the more serious and glaring cases ■ < It must be admitted that the remedy lies in the erection of mora houses. As long as the supply of houses is inadequat3 rackront- ing will continue. The delay on the part of the District Council in erecting the work- in ?'s dwelling houses, which they have now secured powers to earcet is a serious matter. Their action in seeking poweers doubtless caused private enterprise to slac&en, and, as the Coun- cil itself have jet done nothing, the slate of affairs is a serious one. I trust that those who are interested in the matter will make a strong effort to push it forward without further delay. < I heartily congratulate the Ab?rdare Cham- ber of Trade on the completion of the first year's work, and on the very successful ban- quet held last week. The work done by tho Chamber during the part year is such that the members need not be. at all ashamed of, but there remains much to be done in the coming year. I am well aware that public bodies and public companies are slow to move, but it is by continual pressure that much needed im- provements can be secured. The Taff Vale Railway Company has been induced to do something tc reduce the delay at the Commer- cial-street crossing, and they have also prom- ised to do something to improve the station accommodation at Aberdare. The establish- went of a depot for the examination, etc., of weights and measures at Aberdare is a great boon to the trading community. These are one or two of the improvments secured by the Chamber, while the Secretary is still pressing the Great Western Railway Co. to Supply the greatly needed motor service be- tween Quakers' Yard and Glynneath. Among other matters which the Chamber should take up is that of the need of a proper County Court at Aberdare. Long before the death of the late Judge Gwilym Williams, I beard him appeal to the solicitors practising in the County Court to take up this matter, and I believe that the Merthyr and Aberdare Law Society did take it up at the time, with what result I do not know. Now, however, jthat we have a strong and energetic Cham bar of Trade they should go into the matter with the Treasury, and press it forward to a suc- cessful issue. I am glad to see that the Chamber has also taken up the question of the improvements of the roadway leading to the Recreation IGround. It is oertainly a disgrace to "Sweet 'Berdare." A Merthyr gentleman to whom I spoke about it as we were coming out of the field on Saturday, after the Merthyr v. ,Ton Pentre match, told me that Merthyr fwould run an election on that matter, and that any candidate who would not pledge him- eelfto get the road made would stand no chance of being returned. I am not certain as to the powers of the Urban District Council in the matter, but surely someone can be compelled to do fomething to get rid of this disgrace.

ABERDARE. IF YOG HAVE DEFKCTIVE EYESIGHT, consult the most experienced Eyesight Testing Expert in Mer- thyr. Mr. HENRY M. LLOYD. Ophthalmic Optician and Chemist, Merthyr (opposite Market doors). DON'T FORGET to enter for the Aberdar-e Dog, Poultry, and Cage Birds Show and Am- I bula.nce Competitions on Easter Monday and Tuesday. Good classification. Ten Cups. Specialist Judges. Further particulars, apply T. J. DAVIES, Hon. Sec. CONCEBT.—A concert arranged by the local postmen was held on Thursday evening at the Memorial Hall. There was a good attendance, and a capital programme was gone through. The proceeds were in aid of the Postmen's widows and orphans TRINIn.-The Rev. W. Davies, pastor elect of Bethania Welsh Calvinistic Methodist Church as successor to the late Rev. William James, occupied the pulpit at Trinity English Calvin- istic Methodist Church, on Sunday last. The rev.- gentleman preached two excellent sermons. NOTED MTSICIAN DEAD.-—The death occurred on Friday, at Bryncynnon-terrace, Cwmdare, at the residence of her son-in-law. Coun. W. Harper, of Mrs. Kruger Evans. Mrs. Evans was, when a young girl, a well-known singer at Aberdare, being one of the three Misses Forey, of Abernant, well-known at that time in Eisteddfodic circles. At the Eistecldfod held in Merthyr in 1859, in connection with the Cymrodorion Dirwestol, Miss Forey and Mrs. Kruger, as she then was, took the prize for a duet, and they, as well as their sister, subse- quently Mrs. John Mathews, were frequent win- ners at the Abergavenny and other Eisteddfo- dau, including some of the Carw Coch Eistedd- fodau at Aberdare. It was at the 1859 Eis- teddfod at Merthyr that Miss Watts, who de- lighted Wales with her singing, also won one of her first prizes. After the death of Mr. Kruger, Mrs. Kruger married Mr. John Evans. butcher, Aberdare, and her children were, like herself, good singers. Mrs. Kruger Evans was known in Eisteddfodic circles as Morfydd Morganwg, but of the present generation but few will recall her musical success. To the older readers of the "Merthyr Express," how- over. her name will be familiar.

Aberdare Young Liberals. SHOULD LOCAL ELECTIONS BE FOUGHT ON POLITICAL LINES? ON POLITICAL LINES? On Saturday evening, at the Assembly Rooms of the Aberdare Liberal Club, a debate took place on "Should local elections be fought on party or, political lines?" The chair wad occu- pied by Mr. George Powell (chairman of the Executive), and there was an enthusiastic at- tendance. It i worthy of note that this branch of the League is developing rapidly, number ing at preterit, according to the statement of Mr. Evan Wi liiams (treasurer), some 210. The Cwmaman branch is also is a moot flourishing condition. The opening paper, dealing with the affirma- tive side of the question, was given by Mr. Jjunes Evamy Pcnyb-ryn, Gadlys. He dealt with the significance of the terms "party poli- tics." He hoped they belonged to one party or another from conviction, and not from the fact that their forefathers were Liberals or Conservatives. Party politics ruled imperially in our Parliamentary contests, and why should not politics be effectively recognised in local elections? Locally, they had towers of strength in the cause of Liberalism, and in every dis- trict good work might be done if they only united together. If politics were introduced into local elections, it would afford better and more adequate criticism; it would also be a safeguard against "red tapism" and cliquism. Mr. Evans referred to the uselesmess of non- party men with whom they were familiar. In local elections, it was possible to get a fair knowledge of taxation, levying of rates, etc. Ho felt that the 104 seats lost last election would not have been lost had there been con- qsntrated party political effort. Mr.. Reea James, Llwydcoed, in dealing with the negative side, said that it would never do to be bound down to any particular party. There were excellent men in their locality who had done much for the place. They were good administrators, although they had never pro- fessed to be belonging to our party. The, should fight and work for the. man, regardless of his political colours. It was very different when it came to Parliamentary elections. The men chosen for the latter should be the best from the Legislature point of view; while local- ly they required good administrators of the laws that were framed by Parliament; and the Liberal is not bound to be the best administrator. The Ab-rdare Park and the water supply were the work' of a great pioneer who was not al- ways Liberal in politics. Another reason why he advocated non-party politics in local elec- tions was that it did not give proper represent- ation according to taxation. One colliery in the locality paid, one-fifth of the rates; still, it only had one representative. This and other facts were given by Mr. James, and a very in- teresting discussion followed. One of the subsequent speakers challenged Mr. James as to the pioneer of the Park and the water supply, and the one who worked for other improvements in Aberdare, being other than Liberal. He wars proud that he was Lib- oral always, and was not sure whether he ever professed otherwise.—Mr. J. Griffiths, Park Schools, also spoke of the separation of Llan- wonno, the Hirwain Common, etc.—Mr. Evan Williams said it was necessary to differentiate between legislation and administration: that Parliament and local elections did not under- take the same wo-k.Mir. W. R. Williams said he always thought of the various departments in Parliament under any Government as being similar to our local administrative bodies. He felt there was no place for "ups and, downs" of party politics in local elections. — Mr. B. Jones, Cwmdare, also expressed his views on the subject, aj did Mr. W. J. Phillipv Aber- aman; Miss Alice Williams, Miss B. M. Rich- ards, Mr. Aubrey Roberts. Mr. George Parr, Miss B. M. Griffiths, Mr. T. Marchant Harris, Mr. Dan Howells, Mr. Richard Evan;, and Mr. T. Rees, Cwmdare. The latter said he thought thsre was some legislative work. attached to local bodies, particularly in the passing and making up of bye-laws.—Mr D. George Davies claimed that if party politics were introduced into local elections, such might be the nursery for training in good work — both administra- tive and legislative. After some time it would then be possible to select a candidate, say, for I Parliament, from amongst their own towns- people and party—one well grounded in work of aj! kinds, which would oertainly be of great benefit and pride to the district from which he I was sent.—Several others took part, but no vote was recorded.—The openers briefly responded.

The master of works of the past should be ¡ the standard of the works of the present.— Franz. It is much easier to be critical than to bo correct.—Disraeli. I The bread of life is love; The salt of life is work; The sweetness of life. poesy; The water of life, faith. -Mrs. Jamieson.

FITEE, TO WOMEN. I ANN BROWN'S FEMALE SYRUP has ob- ¡ tained wonderful results in the cure of all fe- male irregularities. I. will send any woman a trial bottle free on receipt of two stamps to pay postage and packing, if "Merthyr Express" i* mentioned. Do not neglect this offer, but write me to-day.—Ann Brown, 21, Station Parade, fcoutbfields, Lcudoo,

ABERDARE DISTRICT COUNCIL SITE FOR THE PROPOSED INFECTIOUS HOSPITAL. NEW CEMETERY REGULATIONS. The monthly mcting of the Au<rda.re Dis- trict Council was held at the Town lJaJl on Monday, Councillor E. Stonelake in the chair. There were also present :-C-ounci:lor6 T. Lw: (vioe-chairmari). U. P. Davies, Wi J am itee6, David Davies Thomas iioweri, William Har- per. Owen Po'vell, William Thomas, T. Walter Williams, A. P. Jones. J. Owen (!;orge, Illtyd Hopkins, D. Tyssul Daviis, JJ Jackson Tho- mas, M. J. Harries, with Messrs. Thomas Phil- lips \c;2;;k), llenry Bedd00 (deputy clerk), Owen Williams (surveyor), A. S. Morris (d^purv sur- veyor), and- Dr. M. J Roes (medical officer of health). All th? old overseers were re-elcctcd. Tbi Clerk said that owing to the failure of Mr. D. J. Dav;es, the contractor for the new tcadto Cwmaman, the Council had taken over the plant, and he now asked the Council to authorise the sal-3 of the sam?, and to take the nccce^ary proceedings, against the suret:es for the baJance of the lo-s sustained.—Tri s was Mr: John Howell, Aberaman, being ap. pointed auctioneer. Th., Chairman and Vice-chairman, together with th chairmen of all the standing commit- we-e appo nted to examine the annual and half-yearly tenders, with power to accept. Thø Clk 6uprarsted that a preempt should be mad? out. for £25 for burial purposes, to put the bur'al account, in credit at the termination of the financial year —This was ordered to be done. BIG INCREASE IN EDUCATION RATE. Mr. John \r<>"Tjs, the clerk to the Education Committee, intimating, that a precept for £ 22.000 wo>ild b" required for th purpose of education fV>r th forthcoming yea-—Col. Phillip, pointed that this was £3,000 more- than the last, p-w-ept. It was also pointed out that, owing- to there not being, a quorum at tn" last meeting of th Education Committee, tha1 stirn3.te1:Ja.d pot b'en before th Education Committ.-Dc D, P. Davies, dealing with I the increaee, said that. in the, past the Education Committee had always hC.(",r. overdrawn at the bank to the extent of at the I end of the year. The Auditor had strongly objected to that. and had indeed sweharfed some interest paid on such overdraft. The Fir: mce Committee of the Education Committee had, therefore, decided to put in the estimate an extra £100 a year linn that was clen-ed off. That accounted for £100 of the increase. It W:J.3 pointed thû,1 that would in the l<->n:T run save paying interest on th? overdraft —It war resolved to refer the estimate back to the Edit cation Committee, and to hold a opecial nri-^et ing of the Council on Wednesday to deal —ith it. The Finance Committee reporlcd they had cons'dered the application of Albert Haw ker, a plumbe-.r in the employ 0Í the Council, ror an advance of wagei. and r"coYY1mrnck(: that the same be déerred for a month. Thev recommended that £.50 for the necond. and £ 25 fcr th-- third bc5 design for the now Hospital, and they also recommended the pay- menti of accounts amounting to £1.17,6 16s. The report was adopted. INFECTIOUS HOSPITAL. It was reported that the Health and Financ Committees had inspected sites at Abernant on the Old Forge Brickworks Yard for the propos- yd new infectious alio pita!. After explanations gjv n as to the coal-working, the Committee came to th conclusion that the site was not • uitable. The Committee next proceeded to in- spect tin site at the bottom of Llwydcoed-voad. where the ord shale tip is bin" removed by the Gadlys Estate Company. The Surveyor was instructed to make a rou.ah survey of the same, and to prepare a drawing showing how the site would lend itsf for the erection of the prop^s">d U03pita.1 Bulldngs. The Surveyor was instructed to obtain a copy of the Hi.1 wain Common Allotment Award, with special refer- enoa to the ownership of the minerals. Mr. T. Walter Will'am, pointed out that the site at tho bottom of Llwydcoed-road was not tlve one the Committee was instructed to visit. He felt certain tho County Medical OflioBr of Health wci'd not pass that site it was much too near th2 railway.—Mr. Stonelake said that the site previously sugg3stÆd up at Llwydcoed would prove an exceptionally expensive GI.1) The hauling of materiaJs to build the Hospital in the firot p'ac^ would be very expensive, and as long as the Hospital would be in existence, it would b) an cxka expense to send any sup p'i up to it. and it would be very far for tha Medical Officer to visit. The Committee, there- fore, felt it would b inadvisable to erect the same on that site. That was the real reason they did not visit it.- The report was adopted, the Surveyor promising to see the County Medical Officer on the matter before going far with it. CEMETERIES COMMITTEE. This Committee reported that they had con- sidered the letter received from Me.ssrs. Jone^ Bros., of Aberaman, as to the erection of crosses over common graves, and resolved that a new bye-law be framed permitting cr05, of a height not exceeding 5ft. 6in. to be erected over common graves, at the owner's risk. They recommended that notice boards be placed in each of the Council's Cemeteries showing tho scale of charges for cleaning graves; alio thai such scale be printed, and a copy given to overy applicant for burial papers at the office. A letter from the Rev. C. A. H. Green was read, calling attention to the unsatisfactory state of the vestry of the consecrated chapcl, and asking that something be done so as to render b3tter facilities to enablo hearses and ooach<<3 getting nearer the graves in the New Cemetery Consecrated Ground than at pro rant. The Surveyor was directed to call the attention of the sextion to the state of the chapel. The Deputy Surveyor stated that the exension of tho cross road in he new cemetery was inoonte-mplation, which would meet the request contained in the above letter. The Clor kwas instructed to write to tho Rev. C. A. II. Green informing him that both matters contained In his letter were receiving attention. —The report was adopted. SURVEYOR'S REPORT. The following report of the Surveyor was adopted:—The rainfall recorded at the Nanthj., Reservoir for the month of February was 10.29 inches, being an increase of 2.21 inches on the previous month, and an increase of 9.38 inches on tha corresponding month of last year. Kain felil on 28 days, the greatest fall being on the 20th, viz., 1.18 inches. I beg to report that the supply of water to the top houses in Queen- street., Cwmdare, and Blaennantygroes-road, Cwmbach, is very irregular, owing to want of pressure, even in winter time when the reser voirs are overflowing. I bog to recommeno that a small tank to hold about 1,500 gallons b« constructed at the top of each street, which would b-3 filled up at night and would be suffi- cient for a day's supply to the houses affected I I beg to submit tenders received for the repair of Brook-street, Abera.man. I have received a. number of the building plans, and being in I accordance with the bye-laws, I be to recom- mend that the same be approved. Number of houses approved, 7; number of houses prev- iously approved. 10,559; total number of houses approved, 10,566. VARIOUS. The tender of Mr. Durstone for the private improvement of Brook-street, at £665 4s. d., was accepted. The Fire Brigade Captain reported two fire calls during the month. The police reported two cases of overloading, and the Clerk was ordered to prosecute in each case.—The Finance Committee had submitted the names of three for the post of junior clerk, viz.: EmJyn Da- vies, Milton-street, Cwmaman, aged 19; Richard Evans, 14, Harries-street, Hirwain, aged 22; and Idris Phillip" 7a, Georga-stroot, Aber- aman.—Davies wns appointed. It was resolved that the land near the Park be let to Mr. Thomas William, Brook Villa, for JB92 10s. a year.—An application from Col. M. Morgan re water suppfy to new houses at Cwmaman was referred to the Surveyor to re- port theron.—It was resolved to appoint a committee to meet representatives of the Coun- ty Council. Merthyr Corporation, and Moun- ain Aish District Council re taking over th canal for a road.—In reply to a letter from Mr Hann re the paving of the county road. the Surveyor said it was being done.-The Clerk explained with regard to the combination' of the rates that the sanction of tho Auditor ana the Local Government Board had not yet been obtained, but he was still pressing them. — A proposed new bye-law as to the height of rooms in dwelling-houses was referred to the Housing Committee.—A complaint re the pathway from the Bwli'fa No. 3 Pit was referred to the Sur- veyor and the representatives of the Gadlys Ward on the Committee. The Vicar of Aberdare wrote calling atten- tion to the condition of the fence surrounding the old Parish Church.—The Surveyor said that he had given orders for the necessary repairs to be carried out.—Mr. A. S. Morris, secretary of the Aberdare Free Library., wrote pointing out that half of the term of the lease-had ex- pired.—The Vicar also wrote pointing out that the leasa had been taken out for fourteen yea. and that'at the end of this term it could not be renewed.—Applications were received from the various theatres a,nd music-halls for permission to open on Good Friday.The application was granted. Mr. J. D. Thomas, clerk to the County School, claimed the return of £4 5s. 4d. in respect of over-payment for supply of water ai the school.—The C'erk remarked that he had had no time to inv,til!ate tho matter, and it was thereupon decided to defer the same.—Mr. T. Lewis asked whr there was so much dil.ty in reference to the liobertstown Surveyor: The delay is because we have not had the consent of the landlords interested. STREET IMPROVEMENTS. Mr. D. Tvssul Davies had given notice of the following That .private.- improve- ment- works be done and carried out; to Stag- street, Trocynon, Aberdare, under the Private Street Works Act, 1392; and that the Surveyor in pursiianoe of, and in accordance with the said Act, prepare plans, sections, estimates, and provisional apportionment of the cost of repairing the said street. (2) That private im- provement works be done and carried out to Clive-ctreet, Trecyncn, under the Private Street Works 1892.' &:ul that the Sj/vey in pursuance of and in accordance with b i II said Act, prepare plans. sections, estimates, and provisional apportionment of the coot of re- pairing the said street. (3) That private im- provement works be done and carri?d out to Clive Place Street, Trecynon, under the PJ i- vate Street Works Act, 1692, and that the Sur- veyor, in pursuance of, and in accordance with the said Act, p,cpare plans, spec. fictions, sec- tiens, estimate?, and provisional 3pporLon- ment of the ccst of repairing the said street." Before Mr. Davies spoke, Mr. Owen Powell and other members urged that tho order was a. very big one —Mr. Davies thor-iupon con- sented to take C.ive-street only. lie said he felt that it wa, high thno that jome:hing was done to th s ror.d, and he had mUC;1 pleasure in moving the motion dcwn on the agenda.—Mr. T. Lewis seconded, and Messrs. ,\1. J. Harrij-s and T. Walter Wiliiarns suppo.tod tho motion, which was carried. Mr. E. Slonelak? moved: "That the Roads and Street Committee be in-rtweted to vbit :11, following streets, viz., Cardiff-road, from Hill-"trcet to its junction with Regent-street: Brook-street. Recent street, B ynheulog, and Jubiloe-roud lind suggest to th-e next Counc.l a remedy for the frequent flooding of all those streets with an estimate o: the cost of cariying lout any Euch M. J. Harries .seconded, and asked that Ilo foM-terrace, Cwm- da.re, fihould be :nc!uded.—The Surveyor said that this street had already rece.vcd attention. -The motion was carriod. On the motion of Mr. D. Jack:on Thomas, a VO of condolence was passed with Mr. A. Watkins. clerk to the Burial Board, on the death of his mother.

Change of Day of Publication. On and after April ist next the Aberdare Valley Edition of the Merthyr lxpYess" will be pub- lished as formerly, OIl Friday morning, and not on Thursday afternoon. are doing this in order to ensure the publication of reports of Thursday's events in the current weeks issue, instead of holding them over for the following week, which we feel assured will be more satisfactory to our readers. ""II. -4- 14

ABERDARE POLICE COURT. WEDNESDAY.—Before Sir T. Marchant Wil- liams (Stipendiary), Mo.sre. D. P Davies and D. YV. Jones. EJECTMENT ORDERS—Mr. Winstone Rees ap- plied for an ejectment order on behalf of Mrs. Catherine Thomas, against Davtl Priced of 3, Green-street, A bet da re. A like appicaiion was made by Mr. M. T. Morgan, 0:1 oehalf of Mr. Thomas Williams, against Henry Jons, Primrose Cottage, Hirwain.—Both were grant- cd. AEFILI \TTON. — Elias Lloyd, Penrhiweeiber, was summoned by Mary Gethin, of the mme place, to show cause, etc.—Air. W. Thomas ap- peared for tho complainant, who said 1h<Jt the child died three months after birth.—Defend- ant, who admitted the paternity, was ordered to pay the costs. DANGEIJOUS DOGS.—J. H. Powell was sum- moned for being the owner of a dangerous dog. —Mr. E. J. Hughes defended.—John Williams, a farmer, said he saw the dog chasing sheep on the mountain. He managtd to catch the dog. —The case was dismissed on payment of costs. Frank Cooper was summoned for a like offence.—John James, a mason, said he saw defendant's dog chasing sheap at Cwmaman. The sheep ran down to the river.—P.S. Evans said he subsequently saw one of the sheep dead, wId:) other; had been badly injured. The dog had since been destroyed.—Defendant was let off on payment of costs, the Stipendiary remark- ing that defendant would havo to pay for the sheep. "NOT FIT TO HAVE A WIFE." David William John was summoned by his w.fe, Florence John, for assault.—Mr. Wm. Thomas appeared for defendant.—Complainant said they lived with her husband's sister. On March 8th she suggested that they should go into a house of their own, whereupon d0fendant struck her several times, and she was in a very bad condition.—By Mr. Thomas: Defendant had always ill-treated her. It w&-> no* true that she visited the Albion Inn. Abaraman, in com- pany with other women. On one occasion her husband compelled her to visit this house, and said that if she refused, he wouJd give her a pair of black eyes.—Elizabeth Higgins, mother of the complainant, also gave evidence. — The Stipendiary said that defendant would have to go to prison for two months. "Such a man as this was not fit to have a. wife. A man like thi-s was a real brute," he added.—Mr. W. Thomas has given notice to appeal, and for the time being John has been liberated. MARRIED TWENTY YEARS. WIFE'S APPLICATION FAILS. Mary Griffiths, of 37, Pembroke-street, Aber- dare, applied for a. maintenance order against her husband, William Griffiths.—Mr. W. Tho- mas appeared for the complainant, and defend- ant was represented by Mr. J. D. Thomas.— Complainant said she had been married to de- fendant for twenty years. There was one child oi the marriage. She had private means when she was married to defendant. They had kept several licensed houses. The last bouse they were in was the Park View, Trecynon. While here, there were frequent disputes between them. Her husband frequently left her, and while he was away he did not send any money towards her maintenance. An agreement had been drawn up, in which it was decided that defendant should contribute 3s. 6d. a week to- wards the child. There was no provision made for her by this agreement. He had taken away the furniture, the greater part of which belong- ed to her.—By Mr. J. D. Thomas: Her hus- band had made no complaints about her drunk- en habits. He had no cause to do this. She had lived at Penydarren, Merthyr, for some time. Defendant never complained of her fre- quent visits to Aberdare. She know a man Farr, who frequented the Park View inn. She remembered an occasion in June last, whan the police visited the Park View at 11.15 p.m., and found Farr on the premises. Her husband was not in the house at the time. Soon alter this he returned home, and turned her out of the She went to Cefn, in company with her child. Being further press- ed by Mr. Thomas, she admitted that Farr w. also with her, and that they applied for apart- ments at the Crawshay Arms, Cefn. She stay- ed in that district for some time with Farr.— Upon this admission, the Bench dismissed the application.

NOT DUE TO CLIMATE. CATARRH IS FOUND EVERYWHERE. Catarrh is at home anywhere and every. where. While more common in cold, changeable climates, it is by no means con- fined to them, but is prevalent in every part of the kingdom. The common definition of catarrh is a chronic cold in the bead, which if long neglected often destroys the sense of smell and hearing but there are many other forms of the disease, even more obstinate and dangerous. Catarrh of the throat and bronchial tubes, as well as catarrh of the stomach and liver, are almost as common as nasal catarrh and generally more difficult to cure. Catarrh is undoubtedly a blood disease and can only be successfully eradicated by an internal treatment. Sprays, washes and powders are useless as far as reaching the real seat of the disease is concerned. Catarrh sufferers are advised to use a new preparation, sold by chemists, called Stuart's Catarrh Tablets, because actual analysis has shown these tablets to contain certain anti- septic qualities of the highest value, and being an internal remedy, pleasant to the taste, convenient and harmless, can be used as freely as required, as well for children as for adults. A solicitor and public speaker, who had been a catarrh sufferer for years, says:— Every autumn I would catch a cold which would settle in my head and throat and hang on ali winter long, and every winter it seemed to get a little worse. I was continually clearing my throat and my voice became affected to such an extent as to interfere with my public speaking. "I tried lozenges and cheap cough cures and sometimes got relief, but only for a short time, until this winter when I learned of the new catarrh cure, Stuart's Catarrh Tablets, through a newspaper advertisement. Two small boxes which I bought at my chemist's cleared my head and throat very quickly, and to guard against a return of my old trouble I keep a box of the tablets on hand, and whenever I catch a little cold I take a tablet or two and ward off any serious developments." Stuart's Catarrh Tablets deserve to head the list as a household remedy for checking and breaking up coughs and colds, because unlike many other catarrh and cough <_ures j these tablets contain no opiate, cocaipe or any injurious drug. Stuart's Catarrh Tablets may be obtained Stuart's Catarrh Tablets may be obtained of any chemist at I/I j, 2/g and 4/6 a box, or send your name and address for free sample package to F, A. Stuart Co., 86 Clerkcnwd/ R9a 1 1

Aberdare Chamber of Trade. FIRST ANNUAL BANQUET. INTERESTING SPEECHES. A successful banq\lt was arranged by the Aberdare Chamber of Trade on Thursday even- ing at the Boot Hotel. Host and Hostess Hughes provided a most sumptuous repast, to which those present did ample justice. The chair occupied by Mr. Illtyd Williams, the retiring president of the Chamber, who was supported by Mr. Thomas Lloyd, the president Mr. T. W. Griffiths, solicitor, hon. secretary; W. Thomas, High Constable; Ccun. F. Sydney Simons. Merthyr; Coun. Isaac Ed- wards, Ir. A. J. Howfleld, Mer- thyr; Mr. J. Owen Jones, president of the Mid-Rhondda Cbnnber of Commerce; Mr. T. L!oyd Evans, Newport, etc. Among those present were Messrs. A. Lea. E. D. Lewis (Aberaman), C. M. Lewis, Thomas Lloyd (jun.), W. R. Morgan (solicitor, Aberdare), W. D. Morris, R. D. Williams (Caecoed), /A. J. Pros- per, A. J. Paddock. David Phillips. Henry Powell, Stuart Powell, A. S. Plcace, D. M. Richards. J. L. Rowlands, George Thomas, E. Ruther, T. Roberts (Abornman), C. Reed, J. Roderick (builder), G. W. Ruck, ,1. E. Sbden, W. Owen (Industrial School). A. StrusMicrs, J. E. Thomas. G. A. Treharne, C.C.. Isaac E. Thomas (Aberaman), Alec S. Cameron (archi- tect), Prance Williams. D. W. Williams. Mor- an Watkins, J. Williams, Hy. Williams. Emlyn Morris, W. R. Morris, J. Davio.s. E. Evans, W. T. Evans, J. Evans, T. E. Smith. W. Oxenham. John Williams. John Rees R. H. Moi'es, E. Emrys Evans, W. II. Flocks. J. Pnrfitt (Aberaman), E. D. Jones, J. Lewis, D. Morris Powell. Ebcn Powell, C. R. Vicary. J. McCormack. J. Beswick. Coun. D. Tyssul Da- vies, W. Thomas (Llangeitho. Newport). Ar- thur Bowen, J. Lane. David Hughes. C.C.. J. Bick, F. G. Burge. W. Caunt, D. E. Davies. John Davies. Ivor Davies. Major W. D. Phil- lips (solicitor). W. Kensholo (solicitor), J. A. Evans, Fred D. E. Gcorrre undertakers), J. M. Evans, C. W. Bowles (Hirwain). Morpan J. Harries. C.C., F. Hodges, A. E. Karmston, J. C. Harmston, J E. F Hodges, F. W. HajJ. D. Rees Jones. E. J. Hughes (solicitor), J. Com- loy (Llwydcoed), Ieuan Davies, D. R. Griffiths, etc. Letters of apology and regret for iheir In- "bilitv to be present were read from Sir W. T. Lewis. Bart., Messrs. Lewis N. Williams, J.P. (Caecoed), Rees I.lewclyn, J.P. (Bwllfal. J. G. Rees (president of the Federation of Chambers of Trade). F. W Marnier (Olanynvs), .T. Llew- elyn Smith (architect, Pa>-k-!ane). W F. Parry de Win^on, G. J. Tuckfield, and W. Rees Ed- munds (solicitor. Mcrthyr). During the dinner a choice slection of music was rendered by Mr. D. Fred Davies s strong band, composed of the following: Messrs. D. Fred Davies, piano: D. J. Maddox. F.V.C.M.. violin; Levi Morris, clarionet: T. Lawrence, flute; W. J. Jones 'cello, and Tom Davies, viola. At the postprandial proceedings the president proposed "The King" in a felicitous speech, and the same was drunk with musical honours. VERY COMPLIMENTARY. Mr. T. Lloyd Evans. of Newport, then pro- posed "Tbe Town and Trade of Aberdare." He said he had always looked upon Aberdare as the fnirest city up the bills-(applausc)-and all those who came in contact with him had a good word to say of the town. In the course of an eloquent address, he dealt with the past his- tory of Aberdare. From Norman days, he said, it had been the battlefield for some of the most momentous contests, and the men of the present day were worthy of their sires. Mr. W. Thomas, High Constable of Miskin Higher, thanked Mr. Evans for his very flatter- ing remarks. They were all. as Aberdarians, he said, very proud of the compliment he had paid them, and the town they loved so much. He referred to the cloud which hung over the hori- zon in the coalfield, but expressed a strong hope that it would pass away. and that those who wore at the helm on both sides would exercise great wisdom. Mr. C. M. Lewis. L. &, P. Ba.nk, in respond- ing. paid a very high tribute to the Local Board of Health, the District Council, and the Edu- cation Committee, and expressed a hope that the Chamber of Trade would co-operate with all these bodies to make Aberdare better (loud applause). WORK OF THE FEDERATION. Mr. R. H. Miles, in proposing the Federated Cha.mbcr of Trade, expressed a hope that he would live long enough to be able to address the High Constable of the town-whom they were all delighted to see among them (hear, hear)— as Mr. Mayor (hear, hear). Dealing with the work of the Federated Chamber of Trade for the South of the Principality, ho said it had done excellent work, and they were delighted that evening to have so many of the representatives of the Federation present. The toast was drunk with acclamation. Mr. A. J. Howfield (Merthyr). in responding to the toast, said the Federation had done ex- cellent work in the past in the interests of the trading community. The Federation was the link which bound the local Chambers with the National Chamber of Trade, and their Federa- tion had been successful in securing for the traders in South Wales and Monmouthshire many much needed improvements. It might bo news to some of them that it was the Federated Chambers of Glamorgan, Brecknock, and Mon- mouth. as it was then known, that secured the through arrangements for passengers from Mer- thyr, Aberdare, and the Rhondda Valleys via T.V.R. and Cardiff to the Great Western Rail- way (loud applause). A few years ago, in con- junction with the National Chamber of Trade they were able to put a stop to the proposal of the then Postmaster-General to, introduce the "Pay on delivery system," in connection with the parcel post, a scheme which would, if in- troduced, have been a great loss to the local tradesmen (hear, hear). He pointed out that the Home Secretary had recently referred the Shop Hours Bill to the Chambers of Trade for consideration before it was introduced into Parliament (hear. hear). That in itself was a proof of the value of such organisations (hear, hear). Mr. Isaac Edwards (Dowlais) also responded to the toast, and said he was delighted to learn what the Aberdare Chamber had done during the past twelve months. He. however, would like to remind them that they must not Jet their enthusiasm coo! (hear, hear). They were just now in the paper fire stage, and had blaz- ed up well, but wood and coal would have to be added to the fire to keep it alive and to give heat. He had strong faith in Aberdare, al- though he found everybody had not a good word for it. It WEUS said by a famous man dur- ing the recent election that the only class not to obtain proper rerpesentation and consequent remedies of their grievances were the middle class, the shopkeeping class, and there was a vast amount of truth in that. If was they who were most heavily burdened, but Chambers of Trade and Federations such as theirs would do a great deal to help them in that respect. LOOKING FORWARD. Mr. S. Sydney Simons, of Merthyr, then in a brief but interesting address, proposed the toast, of "The Aberdare and District Chamber of Trade." He highly complimented them on their success during the past year, and ex- pressed a hope that during the coming year they would be even more successful, and would go on increasing in strength as they grew older (loud applause). Mr. Thomas Lloyd, the president, in respond- ing, said Mr. Illtyd Williams was the father of that Chamber. He worked very hard for its formation. His first idea was to call it the Aberdare Chamber of Commeroe, but when the actual christening came the present name was fixed upon (laughter). He then faoetiously dealt with the child's teeth cutting, and its first outing to Ragland (laughter). The Chamber ha.d already done some good work, but much still remained to be done. Reference had been made to the question of Incorporation. That had been already discussed and the Chamber should give it their very serious consideration. In other directions, too, much remained to be done, the fact that the interest of tradesmen had been neglected was largely due to their own apathy (hea.r, hear). He referred to the ques- tion of improved train service, which should be followed up, and other matters. Mr. T. W. Griffiths, solicitor, the secretary of the Chamber, re-echoed the words of Mr. Lloyd that the establishment of that Chamber was en- tirely due to the energies of Mr. Illtyd Wil- liams. In many respects the Chamber had been very successful. It had brought people together to consider their various grievances. Finan- cially, the Chamber had been a success. They had in 14 months a membership of over 100. All this was largely due to Mr. Illtyd Wil- liams (hear, hear). Mr. Griffiths then dealt with the various improvements which had been se- cured through the Chamber. He had just re- ceived a letter from Mr. Beasley promising some much needed improvements at the Aber- dare station (applause). They had obtained in the town a department for weights and meas- ures, and had assisted in defeating the Glam- organ Water Bill. As to incorporation ho would very much like to see the High Constable take that matter up in earnest. Another im- provement, they had secured was the lessening of the delay at the Commercial-street crossing. He thanked them for the way they had accept- ed the toast. PRESENT FOR THE PRESIDENT. Mr. T. Lloyd then said he had now a very pleasing duty to perform. The Chamber had unanimously decided to present their first president and founder of the Chamber, Mr. 111- tyd Williams, with a silver salver in recogni- tion of what he had done (hear, hear). The salver, which was. a very handsome one, bore the following inscription: "Presented to Mr. Illtyd Williams in recognition of his valuable services as first president of the Aberdare Chamber of Trade. 1909." The presentation was made amid loud cheering, which was-renewed again and again. Mr. Illtyd Williams, in responding, said he very,highly appreciated the kind feelings which dictated that action on their part, though lie could not agree with all that had been said. The'suecess of the Chamber was largely due to tin-excellent committee which they had. No position he would attain to in future would ap- peal to him like the present one, and no present would be so, highly valued (hear, hear). He looked upon his position as eciual to that of the High Constable of Aberdare almost (hear, hear). lie hoped that during the coming year the members would accord to his successor the same I loyal gupport they had given him (applause). j i Mr Morgan Watkins then proposed the health of the visitors. It was only natural, he said, for the Chamber while glorying in its success, to invite their friends to the feast—(hear, hear) —and they were very glad to see that those friends had turned up in goodiy number. Mr John Owen Jones (Mid-Rhondda), in re- sponding, referred to the fact that a' an early stage of his career it was his privilege to spend some time in business with the father of Mr. Illtyd Williams, the late Mr. David Williams, of Cornpton House, at one time High Constable of Aberdare. and the wise counsel and ad vies cf Mr. Williams had been of great advantage to him in his career. He, therefore, was delighted to be present with them to do honour to the son (loud applause). Ho then dealt at some length with the value of such organisations as that, and urged them to make it more and more powerful in various directions. Excellent songs, etc., wero provided by Messrs. Eben Powell. George Jackley, of the Empire (who appeared by the kind permission of Mr. Victor Rowe). Arthur Bcwcu. Sydney Jones (who appealed by the kind permission of Messrs. Poole), W. Thomas, Llangeitho, and others.

Aberdare Cymrotiorfon Society. "NOTED PLACES IN THE CYNON VALLEY." The, ord.nary mcet.ng of the Aberdare Cyin- ■rcdorion Society was he.d cn Fridav evening, in the Higher Standard School, Gadlys, Mr. U. M. Richards (Myfyr Dar) presiding." Mr. John Griflith-, Park Schools, read an in- teresting paper on "Some Noted P aces in Cynon Y alley." Cwm Cynon, ho pointed out, ran through three p.-vriehss,—those of Penderyn. Aberdare, and Llanwonno--and was situat'd partly in the countics of Brecon and Giamcr- agn. He referred to tho interesting study of the changes which occurred in the nomer.cia- the changes which occurred in the nomencla- tu; of places from time to time, and what might be :earnt therefrom. He then d?alt with the prevalence of the word "Tir" (land) in p^ace-names in the valley, instancing "Tir fry." formerly known as Tir Mynach" Tir Shon Ifan Rhys, Tir Dafydd Sais Isaf and Tir Dafydd Sais Uchaf; Tir loryn, T.r Morris, Tir Evan Shon Rhys, Tir Watkin Evan Phillip. Tir Bia'dd, Tir y Lluest, now contracted info Duljas; Tyr yr Argae, now cailed Ty'r Ergyd Tir William Canpunt, Tir Main, Ti- y Gwrhyd. Tir Main, he pointed out, was situated above Llwydcoed, between Tir William Canpunt and Camwrdy; and he ',air! that Camwr (a man's step) was the old Welsh name for a footbridge. Passing on, he dealt, with the situa.t.ion of tin valley in the latter part of the 18th century. There ware hardly any workmen's cottages in the upper portion of Aberdare and non in Abernant—Wenalit as it was then designated— until 1780. In 1793. the first house was erected in Trecynon, or Mill-street, with the excphm of the Mill on the Cynon. There via,; consider- able doubt as to which s-de of the Cynon that mil! stood on, but the evidence he had sccursd from old Dorothy at Ysguborwen caused him to accept the version that, the mill was on the Trecynon 6ide, and two houses on the other sid. of the .river, although he was obliged to admit that a number of the old residents in Trecynon dl-agreed with this view. The old mill was worked by the water running under- neath the wheel, and not in the usual way bv water coming down over it from a trough from above. The mill was between the bridge on the Cynon—"Pont Shcnkin Arthur"—and the Railway O'cssing, and the houses were called "Hendai" (old houses). He then dealt with the derivation of the name "Capcoch," where the first public-house in the valiry was, and incidentally referred to the fact that tin district around the Cottage Hospital was called "The Trap," becauso at one time a public-house existed on the bpot. The wives cailed it "The Trap," beoause it caught the husbands on the way home from the Abernant Iron Works (laughter). Llwydcoed was known as Tre- gibbon, and was so called because th3 first houses built there were by one Thomas John Gibbon, who was learned in the law. He then referred to the Forast, which at ono time filled the bottom of tho valley, it being traditionally stated that a squirrel could run from Pontneath- vaughan to Pontypridd without alighting. In those days the mountain tops aJone were culti- cated, and the ridges then ploughed were still clearly defined. Mr. Griffiths then dealt with the wild beasts which at one time infested the old forest on the Cynon. Wolves, badgers, etc., were plentiful, and had left their mark in ..e place-names in the district. The story of the old "taplasau" (ope-air dances) held in the valley a century or more ago was also told, it being stated that the last was held in 1789. The incitations to these were sent out by the domestic servant, and the farmers' daughters, and according to what was was said by old in- habitants, beer was not drunk at those dances, but racing, jumping, etc., as well as dancing, were indulged in. Shon Shams, the father of Die Shon Shams, was said to be the last harp- ist who played at these dances. The principal Eisteddfodau of Glamorgan were held in these days at Abercynon in that valley. Mr Griffiths next referred to numerous "Lluestai" (huts) ejected on the top of the mountains around Aberdare, which, he said, were really cabins built for the shepherds. A brief reference was made to the old monastery inside the Plasdraw grounds, and the roads leading to Penrhys Monastery, and elsewhere. It was pointed out that Abordare was originally a chapel-of-case to Llantrrsant, and one of the charters of Llan- trisant. granted by Hugh de Spcncer in 1347, was witnessed by David ab Mathews and others of that ilk, the Mathews of Aberaman, one of whom was Eleanor Mathews, who left certain cottages and jE5 a year to the poor of Aberdare. Father Mathews, the great total abstinence ad- vocate, was a descendant of this family. The estate of the Mathews had been enclosed out of Hirwain Wrgant prior to 1593. This led him to dea! with the later enclosures of the Com- mon, and to the suggestion that the Waun Tinker Common, that at Rhigos, and th3 Abor- dare Common were originally one. After a re- ference to the o:d furnace at Cwmaman and other furnaoes, Mr. Griffiths alluded to the early coal levels, and the opening of Llwydcoed Ironworks in 1799, and those at Abernant in 18C0. The first colliery to be sunk was that at Abernantygroes, Cwmbach, by Messrs. Waynes. Some of the batjlJes fought in tho Aberdare Vallev were then mentioned, as well as the sites of the various camrs and the various "disgwy!- faan" (look-outs). The situation of the various "cairns" on the Merthyr Mountain was aho given. Mr. Lewis Williams described the Jay of the old road from Aberaman. behind Abercwmboi, to Penrhiwcaradoc, and thenoe to Eglwys Wyno and Pontypridd.—Mr. Thomas, Cwmbach, ask- ed for some information re the "Cylch y Der- wyddon" above Cwmbach, and was informed by the Rev. R. J. Jones that it was erected some fifty years ago, at the request of Reej Toncoeh by the lat3 Myfyr Morganwg.—Mr. George Powell also spoke, and gave some inter- esting information in reference to Waun Tin- wer and the glacial remains around Aberdare. —Messrs. Ogwen Williams and others spoke.— Rev. R,. J. Jones said the great need of the district was a column in the local papers to die- cuss these and other antiquarian questions of local intgrst.-A vote of thanks to Mr. Griffiths was unanimously parsed. ANNUAL MEETING OF THE SOCIETY. The annual meeting of the Aberdare Cym- rodorion Society was held on Wednesday even- ing at the Higher Standard School, Gadlys, Mr. D. M. Richards ("Myrfyr D^r") in the chair. The financial statement for the last year was read, showing a substantial balance on the year's work, but it was pointed out that there re- mained an adverse balance from the previous year, and it was resolved to arrange for a lecture by Dyfed in order to clear off' the de- ficit. Rev. J. R. Dewi Williams, the vice-pres- ident was unanimously elected president for the forthcoming year. Mr. J. Griffiths, Park School, was re-elected treasurer, Mr. John Davies (Iwan Goch), secretary, Mrs. Morfudd Davies, Abernant Girls' School, assistant sec- retary. The following were elected members of the committee:—Mrs. Morgan, Trecynon; Messrs. E. Ogwen Williams, County Schools; D. Davies (Eurfab), and Hy. Lloyd (Ab Hefin). It was resolved to urge the Aberdare Education Committee to grant scholarships for teachers attending tho Summer School in Welsh, as was done by other adjoining Councils. A vote of thanks to the retiring president was unanim- ously passed.

In Eczema Cured Mr. C. Weekcs, Lower Gate, Tice- hurst, Sussex, says Seven.years ago I began to be troubled with dry eczema, the result, I believe, cf washing in h a r d water. The outbreak commenced with a few red spots on my legs. The spots came to yellow heads that fell in, leaving an upraised ring of inflammation. There was considerable itch. ing and soreness, and the effect was sickly and disagreeable. Eventually the spots aompletely covered my arms, and during the last five years I was in a most distress- ing state. The effect of an experimental trial with Cadum was so marked that I dressed both my arms all over with Cadum, and in two or three weeks the spots had all dried off and the skin was nicely healed. I never saw anything so wonderful as the way Cadum cleared my skin of the distress- ing eruption that had been on it for so long." Cadum is a new medical discovery for the cure of all skin troubles, including eczema, psoriasis, ringworm, scaly skin, rash, pimples, sores, eruptions, chafings, etc. It stop^ the itching at once, and be- gins healing wiih the tjrst application. Price 7^d., I/I £ and 2/9 per box, of all chcmists, or fromOmegajLtd.^London, N.

fj^i| I INFLUENZA A cup of OXO about I eleven in tlie morning and again before retiring for the j night is the surest and quickest way to throw off j the depression which Influ- 1 enza leaves. And you will 1 like OXO so much, you will i be sorry when the cup is I The OXO way is the | nicest way to get well and S keep well. § OXO, 4, Lloyd's Avenue, London, E.C. yi I

ABERDARE IN 1832. AN INTERESTING DOCUMENT. As an interesting contribution to the history of Aberdare the following repori issued in 133J in connection with tho Reform Biil of that .year will doubtless be of interest. The reporl is a part of a Blue Book issued recommending the boundaries of the new borough of iNlerthy4 Tydfil, the portion we quote from being that dealing with Aberdare itself, pages 91 to 94, The report is iilso accompanied with a map oA s m the parish, showing the divisions in ham ets. etc. It will be seen that the first sentence deals with the original proposals in the Bill that Abe-dare. Merthyr, Llandaff, Cowbridge and Lla.nrris.sant should be joined with Cardiff to send one member to Parliament. That pro- posal was subsequently dropped, and Mon. mouthshire was deprived of one member to en- able the Merthyr Borough (including Aberdare to secure a member. The report is signed bti T. F Ellis, junior, and W. Wylde Can an one give any particulars of these commissioncro. The report states:- (1) Aberdare has hitherto had no rhare in the representation. By the late Bill it wac to havit contributed to Cardiff together with Cowbridge, Llandaff, Liantrissant, and Merthyr Tydfil. The whole district was to have sent up one menu ber. (2) The parish of Aberdare lies on the WesteiiA side of the parish of Merthyr Tydfil, its easfc ern boundaries forming the northern part of the western boundary of Merthyr Tydfil. Tha town lies on the River Cynon, in a, valley SUl'4 rounded on all sides by mountains. Its principal mass lies about three miles in a straight hnG from Merthyr Tydfil; there is one tolerably good road between the two. which is rather eir-i cuitous. (This, of course, is the road through Llwydcoed.) The direct passage over the moun-t tain is barely passable for wheel carriages. (3) The parish of Aberdare has four hamlets, Fforchammon. Cwmdarc, Llwydcoed, Cefn-pen* nar. These four meet it the town of Aber4 dare, part of which lies in each of the hamleta. POPULATION AND ASSESSMENT. (4)Thc Aberdare Cn:"a! joins that from Mer* thyr Tydfil to Cardiff at the Southern end of the parish of Merthyr Tydfil. The boundaries of Aberdare parish are from two to three miled distant from zhe mass of the town. Aberdare, like Merthyr Tydfil, owes its prosperity to thq iron trade. In most circumstances it is strongly and intimately connected with Merthyr Tydfil; and it will be sufficient to refer to our report upon that Borough for such details as are common to the two; the more so as we do not see the practicability of coming to a de., termination upon either case without keeping both in view at the same time. The nature <3 the traclo, of the population, and of the proba- bility of increase and decrease would be dew cribed ip the same words in the two cases. Tha sum paid in assessed taxes in the parish o{ Aberdare was: In the year ending 5th ApriL 1829, JB293 14s.; 1830, 2360 8s. 6d.; 183L, £ 353 Is. (5) The number of inhabited houses in the parish of Aberdare was 218 in 1801; 415 ÍQ 1821. and 809 in 1831. (6)The assessment to the inhabited house duty of houses of the annual value of £10 and Upol wards, is as follows:-In Fforchammon, 5, td which it is said might be added 3; Cwmdare,. 24. might be added 7; Llywdcoed, 9, might be added 6; Cefn-pennar, 1, might be added 1;' total, 39. to which it is said might be add 17. total, 56. (7) The Poor Rates, taken on the same prim ciple as at Merthyr Tydfil (the nature of the occupations falling under the same observationy show the number to be: In Fforchamman, 23;! Cwmdare. 48: Llwydcoed, 26; Cefn-pennar,i 26; total, 123. It is said that about 12 might be added; total, 135. ) (8) The returns of the population arc as fol4 low5:-1901" 1,486; 1811. 1,338; 1821, 2,062; 1831, 3,961. Showing an increase of. nearly; 2JQ per con*. in tho last twenty vears. A di-< minution will be observed from 1801 to 1811* and there has been a diminution since 1828. In that year some gentlemen connected with the Bible Society numbered the population by gty ing from house to house, and made very minut4 estimates, by- which it appeared that the popui lation at that time amounted to nearly 5,000* THE BOUNDARY LINE. (9)Circumstances to be considered in chooos ing a boundary. The building of houses is still going on, though more slowly than formerly. There are very few houses in Aberdare of the annual value, including the land attached, of £ 50, with the exception of those held by the Iron Companies, as explained in the report on Merthyr Tydfil. There are several life-owners, but as these drop off the holdings will become for the greater part yearly, for the reason given in the same report. The hamlet of Llvdcoed meets the parish oi Merthyr Tydfil on the mountains. Almost all that is not occupied by houses connected witbi the town and iron works is barren mountain land. We do not see any reason for excluding any part of this, hamlet. Indeed, wc were told! that it might be expected that the houses of Aberdare and Merthyr Tydfil would meet iA this direction; we are convinced, however, that there is no probability of tliii; but the workings underground probably will meet, tha mountain being very rich in iron ore. The hamlet of Cwmdare contains, besides bare mountain land, very little which is not con- nected with the town or iron works. There id a large waste towards the north-west at the extremity of which, on the extreme north-wes- tern point of the parish, lie the Hirwain iron works, and the house connected with them. The iron works themselves are out of the parish, in Brecknockshire, but nearly all tho houses con- nected with them arc within the parish. Hir-. wain is the extreme north-western point of the mineral district in this neighbourhood; be- yond this, there is merely stone-coal. We think that there can be no question as to the pro- priety of including the whole of this hamlet. With respect to the two southern hamlets*, Fforchammon and Cefn-pennar, both contain much that is connected with the town and iron, works; the former contains some country, and the latter still more which is decidedly agricul- tural. The mineral strata dip here below the bed of the river, and, therefore, for the rea- sons given in the report on Merthyr Tydfil,' they will not be worked until the strata lyinlf higher are exhausted. We are anxious, there fore, to strike a line which should exclude the Southern part of these hamlets; but we could find no satisfactory line of demarcation, and we found it not very easy to assign the point at which the town and manufacturing popu- lation could be said to cease. A line which made allowance for their increase against which it is impossible to be secure, would leave so little out of this great parish as to make the exclusion of any part hardly desirable, and few country votes would ultimately be includ, ed by taking the whole. We are disposed, therefore, to recommend that these two ham- lets should all be comprehended. It will be seen by the map that this will constitute 16 district agreeing tolerably well with the pro- posed limits of the borough of Merthyr Tydfil. Should it be thought desirable to cut off a part of the south, we can sutrgest no better line than an imaginary one. drawn due westward from the boundary of the two parishes to the western boundary of Aberdare parish. As the eastern and western points of this line are high up on the hills, there will be no diffi- culty in connecting them by a few stones. Such a. line will shut out all which it can be desirable to exclude, and not exclude much which at present requires to be included. (10) We recommend that the Borough shall include the whole parish of Aberdare. It would be very interesting if readers oi this column were to collect references to Aber- dare in literature. What is the earliest mention of the place? Have you anything to Sell? Advertie* in our Want Cplumna, and it ii at sood H9 sold.