The Merthyr Express

Mr. E. T. Davies, F.R.C.O., Condustor Merthyr and District Choral Society, Honorary Examiner and Local Representative Royal Academy of Music and Royal College of Music, Member of Council of the Incorporated Society of Musicians, Local Secretary Trinity College, London; Music Master* Merthyr County School, etc., etc., GIVES LESSONS IN Singing, Organ and Pianoforte Playing, Harmony, Counterpoint, Orchestration, &c. PUPILS PREPARED FOR THE R.C.O., R.A.M.. AND ALL RELIABLE EXAMINATIONS. Recenb successes of Pa pi Is include:-A.R C.O., L.R.A.M. (2), Advanced Honours Associated Board 14.A.M., R.C.M. Senior and other Certificates Trinity College, London; First and Special Prizes Royal National Eisteddfod, &c., &c. Fine 3-Manual Organ. For Tormb lerma CARTREFLE, MERTHYR TYDFIL. MR. W. jTwATKIHS, KR.CJ. L.R.A.M. (piano) (Organist St. John's Parish Church, Conductor Dowlaia Male Voice Party, Member Incorporated Society of Musicians, Solo Pianist and Accompanist), GIVES LESSONS IN- Singing, Organ and Pianoforte Playing, Harmony, Counterpoint, Musical Form, &c, Engagements accepted for Organ Recitals, Concerts, Eisteddfodau, &c. II For Terms apply 18, MORLAIS STREET, DOWLAIS; or at BURR'S MUSIC WAREHOUSE, MERTHYR. Abercynon visited Müncbys-3, Mountain Ash-road. I Burr's Music Warehouse. Merthyr, Tuesdays

Rhymney Valley Echoes. [Bt ''ftECOllDEB."] The Rhymiey School Managers' meeting was a veritable Upper House. The room was full of congratulations as one after another of the newly-elected County Councillors arrived. Among those were Mr. J. Edwards, Mr. Al- bert Thoma Mr. W S. Nash, and Mr. Rees Harris. The managers sat from half-past two till six o'clock, the last hour-and-a-half being devoted to laudable work of trying to adjust the chronic differences of Rhymney's two famous rival choirs. To a certain extent, it was like ploughing the sands. Their rivalry is so keen that they cannot even unite to vanquish a choir from a remote part of Wales or England. Again, their rivalry is so keen that they are not allowed to compete in Rhymney's own local Eisteddfod—possibly from the fear that the decision of the judges mighi favour one choir more than another. In 1908 they competed, and the prize was divided between them. Last year neither choir Was allowed to compete, and, I understand, they are both standing cut again this year. To be without an ear for music must be a boon in Rhymney, since it would keep a man (pom giving a judgment for or against either choir. It is a pity, for they are two good choirs, and re their works as harmonious as their tones, they would be capable of doing excellent work by enabling people to value the sentiments ex- bree&ed in song as well as the blend of tone. Both choirs will soon have to look to their Jaurels, for there are good choirs making head- way lower down the v alley. s Mr Gus "one-, who has been selected by the I fiargoed Chamber oi Trade as their candidate fo.r the Barrced Ward, has long been a promin- ent figure in the public life of that town. If elected, he will fill the seat vacated by the re- tirement of Mr. D. S. Jones. Mr. D. S. Jones has been prominent in Bargoed ever since B&r,-oed has been Bargced. Ifc was at the earn»-t solicitation of numerous friends, at the time of the first Urban District Council election, that he was drawn, perhaps, wb reluctantly into again taking a part in Council affairs. Ho was for some years on the County Council, and he is now a candidate j' for the Merthyr Board of Guardians. As a native of Mi-thyr, he has a warm place in his heart for th-A. "Hardie" Borough. I, Mr. Lewis Williams is retiring from the Caer- philly Council, where he has been a diligent representa^ve of the interests of Nelaon. He has, in my time at any rate, been one of the most regular members. Mr. Williams is likely 10 be succeeded by a former member of the Council, Mr. Tom Elams. who was defeated last year by Mr. J. R. Leigh Thomas. Mr. K vans's return, I ho* ij5 no* expected to bo opposed. The rumours of opposition to the return of the Rector of Gellygaer cannot, until the actual nomination vskes place on Thursday, be said to oe confirmed.. but it is openly stated by those in the cc .i of hi3 propeotive opponent. I believe it to be true, and some of those prop3rty is on the East side of the rail- way are speaking of the need of "infusing new blood" into the Gellygaer Council. To out off some of the most useful and necessary mem- bers of the body in orde r to infuse it is P°or suregry inde«I. Why loo off fruitful branches The Rector has been by no means a dead branch, as th9 records, both of press and I Council, will abundantly prove. The Council has been "slow," say some of the Rector's critics. That was not the fault which cpuid be charged against the late Pari.-h Council. That Council was fast, and the parish has had to pay well for the epeed. The owners of property on the East side of itio railway want the proposed new main road .from Pengarn to Ystrad Mynach to hug the 'river bed, and come out just below their own property at Hengoed, and pass under the via- duct. That route has been found to bo more Dostlv than the route on the higher ground on the West side of the line, where the great bulk of the houses of Hengoed are situated. It is natural for owners of property to look after their own interests, bu the public QlUstlJee to it that they are not made to pay for those in- terests. Where the main road goes, there* will build- ings spring up like mushrooms. If that road runs along the river bed, close to the valley sewer, which is to come along ths.t way, the people who inhabit the houses will have to live in the most unwholesome and dangerous spots in the valley. Anyone may ace some of Hen- "0 goed's sewage now running over the Ap4 which would then be but it. upon. ,;0 9m-1\t The catastrophe at Ciydech, in the Rfeoaddn last week, should be a ifehoiesome warn org against building so low dofwn in the vaiiey. Can people have so soon- forgotten the flood in the Rhymney Valley of Octobsr 19th, IW6? That flood of itself should cause people to op- pose, teoth and nail, the idea of building bouses in such a position. It is self-evident that where the main thor- oughfare goes, there will the houses of the future inhabitants of this part of the valley be erected; and that, will be fraught with danger to health and peril in times of flood and storm. to life. The welfare of the community should I be a councillor's first consideration, and they who are contending for the higher position of the road on the West side of tie line are evi- dently doing the wisest and best thing for the convenience of the public at large. Moreover, a full half-mile of the proposed route is already constructed from Ystra.d Mynach Railway Bridge to the end of Cefn-road, Hengoed. That the work of proceeding with the road has been postponed from time to time we know, but that has been with the view of getttng the best terms possible. Other things have moved slowly. The Local Government Board itself does not move even so fist aa the District Council; perhaps they move slowly because they are less imprudent than some more nimble people. Gellygaer would have had a happier story to tell if, in times past, it had not been so fast. It is to be hoped that Hengoed will not do itself an injustice by lending support to private .interests where such private interests would clash with tlad well-bding, of thousands of com- ing residents. < Some profess to fear that a main road on the west side will tako people to Bargoed for their shopping. People at Hengoed and Penallta will not go to Bargoed for their shopping when Ystrad Mynach can meet- their demands, and the road past the Council OFaces will be moro convenient for Hengoed residents for Ystrad Mynach than would a read on the other side of tho line. The facts as I have here stated them may be seen and verified anybody in broad daylight; but in the 4arknms of night, they would not, of course, be seen—nor with closed eyes.

GELLYGAER. I ROBBED His BROTHER.—Da-id Williams (41), fitter, pleaded guiity at tho Glamorgan Assizes to breaking and entering the house of his brother, John Williams, at Gellygaer, and was sentenced to six weeks' hard labour. to breaking and entering the house of his brother, John Williams, at Gellygaer, and was sentenced to six weeks' hard labour. '———- —-«.—————.

The Late Mr. Lewis Evans. The funeral of Mr. Lewis Evans. whose death was briefly recorded in last week's issue, took place at Gellygaer Churchyard, on Friday, the Rector (Rev. T. J. Jones) officiatinfr at the church and grave, and the Rev. James, vicar of New Tredegar, at the house. The deceased gentleman was born at Cefnlhvynau, Gellygaer, on tho 22nd September, 1831, and spent the whole of his life within the boundaries of his historical parish. His father, Edmund Evans, lived at Hendai, Gellygaer, and was the dis- tributor of the Gellygaer Charity, and Mr. Lewis Evans followed in his steps as the distribu- tor until the charity was taken away from the parish. The last recipient of the charity was a person named Simmonds, of Fleur-de-Lis. Another interesting incident in the life of the late Mr. Evans was that he was a boy at the Blue Coat School, Gellygaer, and walked in the procession from the old school at Gelly- gaer to the new school at Pen gam. By the death of Mr. Evans, the Rhymney Valley loses one of the oldest and most respected of its in- habitants. The deceased leaves three sons and a daughter. The coffin was of unpolished oak with brass appointments. The arrangements wero in the bands of Mr. Felix Davies, of Bargoed. Among the mourners were: Mr. T. Evans, Mr. E. Evans, and Mr. Lewis Evans, sons; Mr. Jen- kins, son-in-law; Mr. T. Wendon Edwards, Bargoed, nephewMr. Richard Gweene. Maesycwmrner; Mr. W. Edwards, Trclyn; Mr. E. Edwards, Quakers' Yard; Mr. W. J. Evans, Mr. Tom Rees. Angle Hotel; Mr. Henry Rees, Post Office; Mr. Leyshon, architect: Mr. John Jones, Gwerthonor; Mr. R. Edwards. Cwmdu; Mr. Tom Lewis, Mr. Wm. Lewis.' There were wreaths from Mr. T. Wendon Edwards, Mr. E. Edwards, the sons, and son-in-law. SERVANTS can easily be obtained by the use of a small Want Ad. in these: columns. State your requirements, and you will be sure to get suited at once.

South Wales Miners' Federation. TRIBUTE TO THE LATE MR. EVAN THOMAS. The ordinary meeting of the Executive Coun- cil of the South Wales Miners' Federation was held at Cardiff oa Monday, Mr. W. Brace, M.P., in the chair. Mr. Torn Richards, M.P. (the general secretary), and Mr. John Williams, M.P., were also present. Mr. W. P. Nicholas, solicitor of the Federa- tion, sent to the Council meeting a framed en- larged photograph of the late Mr. Evan Tho- mas (uain agent of the Rhymney Valley), with the request that it be hung in the Council Roocae.-It was resolved that the photograph be accepted with thanks, and the request com- plied with.—The inscription on the photograph read, "The Bishop. Presented to his colleagues on the Executive by his friend, W. P. Nicho- Jas.It should be explained that the late Mr. Evan Thomas was so highly esteemed bv his colleagues that for years before his death he had beert affectionately known amongst ihem as "The Bishop- Mr. Johd Williams, M.P., was appointed to attend the obfefereBoe called by the Parliament- airy Committee of the Trades Union Congress in London to comiderthe repoti of the Royal Commission on Mining Accidents. A letter was read from the Enginemen's and Stokers' Association requesting a meeting of the Joint Committee of the representatives of their Association and the Federation, and it was resolved that the meeting be arranged at an early date. It was resolved to appeal against the decision of Judge Bryn Roberts in the case of Pope v. Hill's Plymouth Colliery Company, in which the widow of the deceased workman had been refused compensation in consequence of the Judge holding that the accident did not arise out of and in course of employment. Representatives upon the Board of Manage- ment of the South Waies and Monmouthshire Miners' Provident Fund were re-appointed. I

:j. "1"# i- 'í- ;I:L,rt.<I' "Back to Nature" Cgs^LJ^need not mean j wearing sandals and A '1.. I (¡ eating grass. I Get back to Nature's way of ensuring health and strength by the common- sense plan of eating delicious QaakerOats The great food value and low cost of Quaker Oats f!rr^7Z?-r\ 1 make it the ideal food | for those families who c want to get the greatest ^4^ good from what they eat. ^|3j0|ra Forty platefuls cost six- pence Cook as. directed rc^||j £ ^|r on packet. I < -J i

-ø_ RHYMNEY'S RIVAL CHOIRS. I "MUSIC IIATH CHARMS." MANAGERS TRY TO MAKE HARMONY, "A BOOK OF MEANNESS" At the meeting of the Rhymney Valley School Managers, on Monday, a deputation; from the Rhymney United Choir and the Gwcnt Choral Society wero received respecting the claims of each choir to the use of the Middle Rhymney School for Choir practices. Mr. John Edwards, who had presided at the previous bus- iness, thought it better, as a Rhymney man, to vacate the chair in order to discuss the mat- ter, and Aid. N Phillips was elected to preside. The two deputations were taken into separate rooms adjoining the Council Chamber, whilst the Managers discussed the facts of the case a.s submitted by the Deputy Clerk, and then the Gwent Choral Society's representatives were ushered in to present their sido of the case. The discussion lasted about an hour and a half, and to give a detailed report would take up a lot of space with much unnecessary repetition of statement; vsnd.,«u*gument, So that "rotter' served- by' a descriptive summary. The deputations were received by the Managers own wish in conse- quence of letters having been written to the Managers by both choirs, in which each claimed the right or privilege of using the Middle Rhymney School, and the Managers thought if representatives of the choirs came before them (the Managers) they might be able to do some- thing impartially to lessen the friction exist- ing between them. THE CLERK'S STATEMENT. Before the deputation was received the De- puty Clek mooe a statement to the Managers concerning the use of the school by the two choirs, from which it appeared that the Rhym- ney United Choir were granted the use of the school for Wednesday practices in 1906, and had used it exclusively up to November, 1909—124 times—and had paid 2s. a night for it. That choir used it in July and in November of 1909, but in November ceased to use it because of alterations being carried on there.—Mr. Bees Harris: But the Gwent Choral Society used it every night whilst the alterations were going on.—-Deputy Clerk: The Gwent Choral Society applied for it, and you granted the use of it.— Mr. Rees Harris: The other Choir had only used it on two occasions since June, 1909.— Mr. D. W. Price said that to deal fairly with both parties it seemed to him that the use of the school should be granted to each in turn. The discussion amongst the Managers pro- ceeded at some length on these lines in the en- deavour to find a way of reconciling the inter- ests of the two choirs, and then it was decided to call in the representatives of the Gwent Choral Society. Mr. Hopkins and Mr. James Evans. Mr. W. S. Nash remarked, "Music hath charms."—Mr. Albert Thomas: Am I to ask both deputations in together?—The Chairman: No. One at a time, please (laugh- ter). GWENT'S APPLICATION. Mr. Hopkins, speaking calmly and persua- sively, said he thought the Gwent Choral So- ciety were right iij making this application to the Managers for the use of the school. They had not done so in an underhanded way. All had been perfectly straightforward. Their Choral Society had suffered great persecution over getting a place after being chucked out first from the Victoria Hall, then from the Con- gregational Tabernacle, and now the school.— The Chairman Who were the "chuckers" out in the other cases'—Mr. Hopkins: The other choir, sir. If the school had been in use on Wednesday evenings, we should not have ap- plied for it, as we have no desire to do anything unfair.—The Chairman: From 1906 to June, 1909, we are told, the other choir had the use of the school. Was that in your knowledge when you applied ?—Mr. Hopkins It has been a well-known fact that the other choir had practised there on Wednesday evenings pro- vided there were no counter attractions to draw their members from practices. The other choir also practiced on Tuesday and Fridays at the Victoria Hall and the Library, when- ever there were no other performances going on at the Victoria. Hall, but the Gwent Choral Society had always held their practices on Wednesdays',—The Chairman The Clerk tells us they have used the school 124 times between 1906 and 1309. Where did you meet during that time?—Mr. Hopkins: We met at the Hall (Victoria).—The Chairman: If they had it so long you would admit they have some small claim?—Mr. Hopkins: I don't think so, sir. We gave them every opportunity to use the school, and made application for the Taberna- cle Hall. We had it on one Wednesday even- ing, and on going the following Wednesday were told it had been booked till further or- ders—so they turned us out of that. I do not see that they have any claim. Their practices were held on Tuesday nights, and so it was that we applied for the school on Wednesdays. Our choir nas been noted for being straight and above board. Turning to Mr. J. Edwards. Mr. Hopkins said: I ask Mr. Edwards to say if I have ever asked anything unfair? THE MUSICAL LOVERS. The Chairman: Can you give me any reason why the. other choir did not. meet at the school during the six months from June, 1909?—Mr. Hopkins: They have two organised bodies, and in June last year we applied to the headmaster for the use of the school on a Wednesday, and he said, "There is nothing to prevent your having it," and so we announced our practice, but when we got there we found "The Musical Lovers" (The Music Lovers) there, which is another part of the Rhymney United, and they had sub-let the school to the "Musical Lov- ers.—The Chairman: We shall ignore that sub-letting entirely. We disagree with that, and shall rule it out of the argument altogether. —Mr. J. W. Price: The speaker is trying to show that the other choir has taken a mean ad- vantage of them.—Mr. Jos. Evans (the other representative): It will occur again. Our prac- tices have always been on Wednesdays. Tues- days is their practice night. When we got to the school in June we found the Music Lovers there. Is it fair that we should have to fight the two bodies?—The Chairman: We ignore that point; but we are told they used the school 124 times.—Mr. Jas. Evans: That is quite untrue, sir.—Mr. Hopkins: On Saturdays we had been using the school right along, but when we WQnt to renew the application to the master we found the secretary of the other choir had informed him that we did not want it as we had the hall.—The Chairman: How many members attend your practices?—Mr. Hopkins: The average number for an attend- ance is 153. The ohoir numbers to-day 187. The other choir are able to practice at the Library without any difficulty.—Mr. L. Watkins: Do you imply that they have wilfully obstructed your practices?—Mr. Hopkins: Yes: first at the HaJI on Sundays, then at the Tabernacle Hall on Wednesdays, and now at the school. Our practices are 011 Sunday afternoon: the lead- ers on Monday evenings, full practice on Wed- nesday evepings, and male voice on Fridays. THE UNITED CHOIR. The deputation of the Gwent Choral Society having retired, the representatives of the Rhym. ney United entered, Mr. Griffiths and Mr. Harry Davies. Mr. Griffiths referred to the ap- plication made to the Clerk in October, 1906, for the use of the school, and said that they received a reply asking them to see Mr. John Edwards about it, and two. or three of the Choir's officials did so. with the result that permission was granted for the use of the school on Wednesday evenings pending the con- firmation at the following meeting of managers. A letter wa.s then received from Miss Hughes, of the Gwcnt Choral Society asking for the use of the school, and the Managers decided that the two choirs were to come to terms, and he (Mr. Griffiths) and Mr. Hughes went and came to terms. The terms arranged were that the Gwellt, Choral Society were to practise on Sunday and the Rhymney United on Wed- nesday evenings. After this Mr. J. Edwards and Mr. Beddoe also visited Mr. Edwards.— Mr. Rees Harris: I don't know anything about that.—Mr. Griffiths: A letter was received on the 14th November, 1906, granting the United Choir the use of tho school for Wednesday evenings, and we .held the school until the time of the alterations last year. We went there on November 17th last year, and had to wade knee deep into the corridor and on the 24th, when we had to use candles. We could not use the school during the alterations.—Tho Chairman The alterations made no difference to the other choir. They used it.—Mr. Griffiths: We saw in the report of a meeting in January that the Gwent Choral Socitey had been granted the use of the school on Wednes- days. We wrote asking whether it was correct I and reoeived confirmation, of it. We consider it only fair that our choir should have the use of the school on Wednesdays seeing I that others use it on Sundays. It was also re- ported that the other choir were practising tor a, coaoert in February, whereas we have a vary important competition coming off at Mountain Ash a, fortnight today and have no place in which to practise. It was also men- tioned that we practise at the Library. It is quite true that we have the Library on Tuesday nights, but you cannot get all the members i in there. It is true we have had the Tabernacle, but the Gwent Choral Society also had the use of the Tabernacle. They were there from September to December ten times, and they have also had Beulah Chapel and the English Congregational for practise. You see the dilema we are in.—The Chairman: Why can't you meet some other night?—Mr. Griffiths: We c&nnot do it, sir.—The Chairman: You are all in the same town, and the same class of people, I talra it.—Mr, Griffiths: The original arrange- ments were perfectly fair.—Mr. R. Harris: Why do they want the school on Thursdays now. when their practises have always been on Tuesdays?—Mr. Griffiths: That is not so. The first practise we had was on October 2nd, 1006.—Mr. R. Harris: Tuesdays have been your nights all along for years.—Mr Davies: Mr. Rees Harris is interested in the other choir and I don't think it fair he should say anything.— The Chairman: When did you practise a.t the Hall?—Mr. Griffiths: We met on Tuesdays in 1907.—The Chairman: How many times did yfcu use the school between June and Deoeoibwr, 1909?-Mr. Griffiths: We were there in Nove81 bcr.— Mr. D. W. Price: Has it been your Cág to: to hold your full rehearsals 09 Tuesday? —Mr. GrifEths: Yes, sir, and on Wednesdays. —Mr. D. W. Price: Why want to alter that, night to Wednesdays ?—Mr, Griffiths Wo 't '108¥-J Tuesdays is because the Gwent Choir have the school OD Wednesdays.—The Chairman: Your choir broke off from the school m June did they not?—Mr. Griffiths: Wo WGC there twice between June and Dee-ember.. TOOK IT FOPv GRANTED. The Chairman: You have made no applica- tion for the school since 1905.—Mr. Griffiths: I admit that. We took it for granted we could go there.—The Chairman: Is it a fact that you ¡ left the school to the Music Lovers?—Mr. Griffiths: Yes, sir, there was a section of our choir there.—The Chairman: They had no right.—Mr. Griffiths: We always have done it.—The Chairman: I don't, blame you more than anyone else. You really have no author- ity after 1906.—Mr. Griffith?:: I admit that.— The Chairman: But is it right for any par- ticular choir to monopolise any particular night? —Mr. Griffiths: Is it right for a choir to monopolise it for two practise nights?—The monopolise it for two practise nights?—The Chairman Why don't you agree to terms?—Mr. Griffiths: We ask for fair play for the two choirs.—The Clerk: Why not go to the school on Tuesday nights?—Mr. Griffiths: We want the hall on Tuesday nights. We are sticking to our Wednesdays.—The Chairman: Both choirs want the same night. I £ id«r" whethfeKono pai'ty'^tfiJPhave it the same night always.—Mr. L. Watkins: The Gwent Choral had the school on November lOch and on the 17tb the Music Lovers were in occupa- tion, and that seems to suggest that there is some amout of spleen between the two choirs. —Mr. Griffiths: I am trying not to create greater animosity.—The Chairman: You know the other choir wants Wednesdays'?—Mr. Grif- fiths: Why do they alter their days?—Mr. J. W. Price: They are wishing to retain their practices as usual. You have got the Library. —Mr. Griffiths: We can't get all our members in.-The Chairman What is your average at- tendance?—Mr. Griffiths: One hundred and seventy. We have our part practices on Mon- days, Fridays, and Saturdays.—The Chairman" Can you compromise the matter by arranging to exchange for certain periods?—Mr, Griffiths: The have had their period; and a fortnight to- day we are in for a competition.—The Chair- man Then your trouble will bo over in two weeks?—Mr. Griffiths: Yes.—The deputation then withdrew. DEPUTATIONS MEET. The Managers then discussed at some length the evidence given, which, to give in extenso, would entail repeating much of what has been already recorded. Mr. J. W. Price asked whether if the Rhymney United Choir practices were attended by 170 they wero Likely to put only 135 on the stage at a performance?—The Chairman: I suggest that we give them (the United) two weeks to prepare for their. coming competition, and that after that the ether choir have it for three months.—This suggestion was slightly modified finally, and the two deputations Were brought in together. The Chairman then said that the Managers had decided to let the Rhymney United Choir have the school for the next threa months on Wednesday evenings, and after that the Gwent Choral Society were to have it for three months.—The Deputy Clerk (to Mr. Griffiths): Of course, you will not put any obstacle in the way of the Gwent Choral Society using the Tabernacle.—Mr. Hopkins: They don't meet themselves, but put obstacles in the way of others.—Mr. Griffiths: That is untrue, Mr. Hopkins.-The Chairman We are wishing that friction may die out.—Mr. Griffiths: We don't stand in their way. If we could go over the history of all we" could tell you something. I could write a book on it.—Mr. J. Evans: And I could write a book on their meanness.—The deputations then with- drew.

MAESYCWMMER. CONCERT.—A first-class concert in aid of the chapoi funde was given at Tabor Chapel on Thursday evening. The concert oxcited special losai interest by reason of the appearance of Mr. Gwilym Wigley, now w^U known in music- al circles in London as one of the most promis- ing tenor singers of the day. Mr Wig-ley's family have bean associated with Tabor Cnapel for many years. Other well-known artistes also took part, and it was an open question as to which among them was most appreciated, for the crowded audience tumuituously applauded the efforts of each, but Illr Haydn Gunter's violin playing provoked the greatest enthusi- asm. Mr. D. Rees, solicitor, Pontypridd, pre- sided, and the appointment was an excellent one in every re^i>act. A vote of thanks, pro- posed by Mr. Brice Thomas during an interval in the programme, seconded by Mr. Thomas Wigley, nicely expressed the conciseness and brevity which distinguished his introductory re- marks. Mr. D. Rees, in acknowledging the compliment, said that it wae the association of the minister at Pontypridd which had caused him to accept the invitation to preside with roadiness and pleasure; but the excellent eolos lie had heard, indeed any one of them, was worth coming from Pontypridd to hear. The artistes wero:—Tenor, Mr. Gwilym Wigley, of London; bass, Mr. Harry Ciist, of Ebbw Vale; contralto, Madame Sambrook-Jones. Maesteg; soprano, Miss Lizzie Jenkins, Cardiff; violinist, Mr. Haydn Gunter, Clifton; accompanist, Mits Annie Rees, L.R.A.M.. Maesycwmmer. Pro- gramme:—Mr. Harry Clist, "Revenge" and "Honour and Arms" Mr. G. Wigley, "Mova, my girl," and "The Sailor's Grave"; Madame Sambrook- Jones, "The Enchantress" and "Abide with me" Miss LizÚe Jenkins, "Heart's Desire" and "Va,inka's Song" Mr. Haydn Gunter, "Romance" (Wieniowski), "Air Irland- aise" (Papini), and "Souvenir D'Amerik' (Vic- rix Temps); duetts, "Come, my heart's delight" (Messrs. Wigley and Clist), "Springtide" (Mme. Sambrook-Jones and Mis-, Lizzie Jenkins); quar- tette, "A Regular Royal Queen," the four ar- tistes. Nearly all the pieces were enthusiastic- ally encored and responded to, notwithstanding the Chairman's request to show consideration to the singers. The concert closed with the I' singing of "Hen Wlad fy Nhada-u."

POSITION RESIGNED THROUGH ILL-HEALTH. A business girl quite prostrated by Indigestion and Anssmra. Resumes duty, cured by Dr. Williams' Pink Pills. The miseries attaching to the ftimiliar phrase "position resigned through ill-health," were fully realized some months back by a girl book-keeper, Miss Florence Brain, who resides at 51, Bankes Road, Small Heath, Birmingham. Her statement deserves to be borne in mind by all girls and women worker?. Miss Brain rema.rks About twelve months ago I became very debilitated and bloodless. Like thousands of other girl-workers my health was a constant worry to me. A doctor said that my state was due to working too many hours every day, and never getting exercise. I had always been more or less Anaemic, but now my colour completely faded, I always felt tired, dizziness seized me very often, and my legs trembled so that I could hardly stand. In time I became nervous and so that I could hardly stand. In time I became nervous and Do, you melancholy, and got thin. Medicine e did me no good, and food caused SUIter pain, in mv chest. Sometimes I the Same ? could feel the Indigestion right; across my shoulders, followed by scalding pains in my stomach. Even a short walk made me gasp for breath my heart palpi- tated and seemed oppressed by some heavy weight, and on occasions my back felt broken with pain. "As the medical opinion was that I was blood- less, and needed more nourishment and change of air, I had to resign my employment, and at length went away foi- a rest. But I' lost ground,' and there did not seem to be any warmth or nourishment in my blood. I had severe head- aches and slept very badly at nights; soon I felt so melancholy that I did not expect to recover. At this time I happened to hear of several girls who had been cured by Dr. Williams' Pink Pills. So I began taking the Pills, and not long without improvement. A bright and hopeful feeling oame over me I enjoyed getting out and a.bout, and felt that life was a pleasure again. After about the third box of the Pills my appetite returned, and I ate heartily without any pain following. As I went on with the Pills headaches ceased to trouble me the colour returned to my face, and mv breathing became quiet and regular. Soon, New, Red Blood filled my veins palpita- tions ceased, I had no more backaches, and my health became regular. So all traces of Bloodlessness disappeared I slept well at nights and arose fresh and invigor- in ated in the mornings. I soon resumed duty again and can work more hours a day and harder than ever. I think it only right that other women workers, who are bloodless, should know how Dr. Williams' Pink Pills brought back my health and strength." Dr. Williams' Pink Pills make the New, Good Blood needed by workers of both sexes in all iisorders that arise from brain fag, overwork, chills and influenza. These Pills have also cured Anaemia, Indigeston, Dyspepsia, Eczema, Rhen. matism, Sciatica, Nervous Disorders dreaded by meD, and the aehes and ills that afflict women only. Of most dealers, or post free 2s. 9d. one box, or 13s, 9cL for six, from Dr. Williams' A- l

I'W. Rhymney Valley School Managers. MANAGERS AND SPECTACLES. THEY DON'T SEE EYE TO EYE. The Rhymney Valley School Managers fcflid the monthly meeting, at Rhymney, on Mo; day afternoon. There were present: J. Edwards (in the chair), J. Evans, V. Williams, W. Nash, Lewis, Watkins, D. Price, Albert Thomas, Rees Harris, J. Price, B. Jones, Aid. N. Phillips, with the deputy clerk (Mr. Langway), and the mcdieai officer of health (Dr. Hail Redwood) The following resignations were submitted:— Mr. W. Gordon Price, C.A., from the Lower Rhymney mixed; Mr. James Dudley. C.A., at Abertysswg mixed, and Miss C. A. Bevan, U.A., of Pengam mixed. The Chairman ex- pressed his regret- at the resignation of Mr. J. Dudley and Mr. W. Gordon Price. Both wero going away, Mr. Price to Bala. The latter had been brought up amongst them.— The Deputy Clerk pointed out that there would be need to hold a special meeting for the re- arrangement of tho staffing of the schools,, and the Chairman said it would be well to and applications until then. The Deputy Clerk said that would be the last meeting of the present group of the managers until the new group was appointed.—Mr. W. Nash proposed, and Mr. A. Thomas seconded that a special meeting be called for the 23rd inst, at New Tredegar.—This was agreed to. The Deputy Clerk mentioned the intention of the County authority to erect a temporary school at Phillipstown. New Tredegar. Mr. Albert Thomas said that the Powell Duffryn Company were erecting 200 houses there now, and a stone building would be required.—It was decided to get further information on the subject. Miss M. A. Davies, a teacher at the Cwm- syfiog- Infants' School, asked for recognition as an uncertificated assistant, pointing out that she had been successful in passing at the Cam- bridge examination in December last.—Mr. D. W. Price proposed, and Mr. A. Thomas sec- onded, her appointment as such, and that her salary be made up accordingly as from the time she qualified.—This was carried. The recommendation of the Managers, favour- ing the extension of Mr. John Thomas's period of service for another year—he having attain- ed the age limit—was rejected by the County Authority who reported that they had enquired into his qualifications, which were not ef euch fitness as to warrant them doing this, having regard to the present day requirements.—Mr. B. Jones x-epudiated this and said that th.o Inspector's reports could not be better in re- gard to his efficiency.—The Chairman thought they could do nothing more in the matter.—Mr. B. Jones: Then it shows we cannot rely on our Inspector's reports, for those reports are first class.—Deputy Clerk': This is no reflection on the teacher. The Committee only extend the time when there is something which makes it exceptionally desirable to do so.—Mr. W S. Nash There is no doubt they are guided large- ly by the numbers of teachers out of employ- ment and naturally eay, "This man has served his time and must room for somebody else."—The subject then dropped. Miss M. Aggex, supplementary teacher, New Tredegar Infants' School, was granted an ex- tension of time—six months—in which to qualify as U.A. A letter from the Director of Elementary Education was read, drawing attention to the neglecting to test the Abertyasrwg registers.— Oh the suggestion cf Mr. John Evans it was decided to appoint certain members to under- take this work at the various schools, but to leave the appointments to made by the new group of managers. It was recommended thar a spectacles be supplied to Edith M. Harding of Rhymney, and to D. J. Burston, Abertysswg. The appli- cations were granted, but. Mr. B. Jones asked where the spectacles came from.—Deputy Clerk: Newpor:.—Mr. B. Jones: We are here to help the parents if they are poor, and at the same time to put them to the great expense of going to Newport.—The Chairman: The children go there to have their eyes tested.—Mr. Bv Jones: Eyes can be tested here just as well. as at Newport.—Deputy Clerk: There is a room at Newport specially fitted up for the purposp- Mr. B. Jones: So there is here at Pontlottyn and other places.—Mr. L. Watkins: A child which had its eyes tested by a specialist when a. doctor saw the spectacles being worn said that in another year she would have lost her eyesight by wearing them.—Mr. D. W. Price: I think we ou,«rht to consider whether it is not possible to have these spectacles locally.— The Clerk: They have a. special room at New- port- Every optician has a. special room. We have one at New Tredegar, and why on earth should we send children to Newport and pass the special rooms in our own district. The train faro is almost more than the cost of the spectacles.—The Clerk: They have the train fare paid for them.—Mr. D. W. Pries: Then it is hard on the rates.—The Chairman: I think you will see that it is best that they should no to the properly qualified men.—Mr. D. W. Price: I say we have as competent men In this neighbourhood as at Newport, men who can often go to the schools and see what the children want.—Aid. N. Phillips The county's specialist ca.n get a large quantity of spectacles for much less money, and the County Commit- tee have acted entirely in thQ interest* of the children, and economy.—The cubject then drop- ped. The following satisfactory report on Fairview School from H.M.'s Inspector (Mr. R. E. Hughes) was read "Despite irregular attend- ance and a long closure through epidemics, the teaching in this school is of a very creditable character. Much care and intelligence are shown in teaching reading: the children are taught to solve their own difficulties, and pro- per reading posture is cultivated. In the writ- ing lessons also the necessity of proper body posture is duly inculcated. The children are trained to answer in sentences. The scheme of work is properly graduated, and correlated, and the necessary notes and diaries are kept. The headmistress teaches Welsh with much suc- cess. Punctuality and personal cleanliness both show a welcome improvement. The school should be provided with a clock."—It was de. cided to order a clock. There were eighteen applicants for the ap- pointment of cleaner at the Abertysswg Infants' School. One of the members stated that by reason of the fires being lit so late in the morning, the temperature only reached 40deg. "even when the Inspector was there," and the teachers' health was continually suffering, and therefore it was necessary to get someone who would have the fires going much earlier. The appointment was given to Miss Elsie Edwards, of Abertysswg, whose testimonials aa a good servant were highly satisfactory. A letter was read from Mr. W. Griffiths, showing how he felt entitled to lID amount of £23. The letter led to some discussion in re- gard to anomalies of salaries existing amongst head teachers in the Rhymnev Group of Schools.—Aid. Phillips said he would object to d-sal with an individual teacher, as there were cases of notorious inequality down below. Their chairman should be asked to enquire whether the managers might revise existing salaries on an equitable basis. At present there was most glaring inequality. He would move that, the committee be asked to allow the man- agers to re-arrange the salaries in their group without increasing the total.—The Chairman, however, pointed out that this would open up a very big matter, and advised that it be post- poned and put on the agenda of their nest meeting.—This was agreed to.

The New Anglo-Canadian Steamship Service. The announcement which has been made that the Canadian Northern Railway Company have decided to use Bristol as the port on the British side for their new steamship service between Canada and England has been reoeived with particular interest. As is well known, the Port of Bristol possesses some of the finest docks in the country, and the made by the Canadian Northern Company would appear to be a. happy one in every respect. In the mat- ter of railway facilities, it would bo hard to find a place better served than Bristo!, situated as it is in the centre of main routes to and from the North, South, East, and West. The port, for instance, is within two hours' journey of Lon- don. Fast express trains connect it with Bir- mingham, Manchester, Leeds, Bradford, Liver- pool, Glasgow, and other important towns in the Midlands and North; whilst South Wales, the West of England, and the Southern Coun- tiea are of ocurse at hand. The choioe, therefore, which has been made for the Royal Line of steamships has the effect of bringing the new ocean servica into tho very heart of the "old country," the accessibility and merits of Bristol for both passengers and freight traffic being acknowledged everywhere.

Cost of Education. FOURTEEN MILLIONS REQUIRED. The Board of Education estimates for the year ending March 31st, 1911, show that £14,064,677 will be required for the various branches of education, science, and art. Com- pared with the previous year, this is an in- crease of The principal items of ex- penditure are:—Grants to public elementary schools, secondary school and pupil teachers. other aided schools and classes, £592,275; training of teachers, Inspection and examination, £247,821; administration, £199,952; the Victoria and Al- bert Museum, £78,791; Science Museum, £16,541; Imperial Colloge of Science and Technology and Chelsea Physio Garden, The estimated expenditure in connection with the Foreign Office is £67,562, and for the Board of Trade, £449,990. The latter amount includes £127,808 for Labour Exchanges and Trade Boards. The Post Office estimates total £19,828,255. Inland Revenue £1,324,000, and Customs and Excise £2,230,400.

;Š1]7A"J1'J.'nv,' ,r', .l.<, ,\I,. | ^OMANDBMINI-RE^TTP 1 ■ Thousands use them with universal success. I I WILCOX, 49.. Hay market, Loudon. Post free, 3^6. I f "w_i' r r 25,000 Sixpenny Sample Packets of CHOCOLATE FREE for fresh Purchasers of Suchard's "Ibis" Cocoa. Knowing that Suchaxd's IBIS Cocoa ¡ need only be tried once to be used always, the manufacturers have decided to present, gratis and post free. a sixpenny packet of one of their well-known Chocolates (" Velma," Milka," or Milnut ") to every fresh purchaser of a i-lb. tin of "Ibis" Cocoa. This offer is made solely for the purpose of introducing to anyone not yet acquainted with Suchard's Specialities, a Coco^^MP^a Ckocolatfe*-?>F suMifatlve excellence. How to obtain the Free Gift. First purchase a quarter-pound tin of Suchard's Cocoa (" Ibis Brand) from your grocer. It will cost you 8d. Inside the round tin (just at the top) will be found a paper disc, which is here repro- duced. This disc you should attach to the form at the foot of this announcement, A I 4 1 (SU-SHAR Facsimile of disc to be sent with form. which, after being filled up, should be sent to Messrs. Suchard, 33, King William Street, London, F-.C. A disc from J-lb. or i-lb. tin will do equally well. In return you will receive a full sixpenny packet of one' of Suchard's well- known makes of Chocolate—"Velma," !'Milka,' or "L%Iilnut." You are Given the Choice, but whichever you decide to have would, in the ordinary way, cost you sixpence. The manufacturers firmly believe that the majority of those who thus try Suchard's Cocoa and Chocolate will be. come regular purchasers- of these Speciali- ties, obtaining future supplies, of coursei- through the regular channels of trade. Suchard's Cocoa ("IBIS" Brand). There are many good cocoas, but 110ns that can compare witl&, (."ibis more pala- table, digestible, and nourishing than any other cocoa made. It represents the very highest quality yet attained in cocoas—yow need only try it to prove that this is so. Nor can there be any doubt about its economy for family usc~*a -breakfast-cup full, at full strength, only costs a farthing* o Suchard's "V eIma. n Chocolate. Certainly the greatest achievement in Chocolate yet. In Velma" one gels fhs real chocolate flavour. It tastes of nothing but Chocolate. Until you have tried Velma" you cannot really know how delicious Chocolate-real Cliocc;iate-can reo Suchard's Milka" Chocolate. Combining ihe purest Chocolate with genuine Swiss Milk, Alilka possesses all. the good points of other Milk Chocolates.' but it has this special advantage, it does not cloy in the palate. Suchard's "Milnut" Chocolate. A Chocolate with a most delicious hazel. nut flavour. This speciality has only recently been on the market, but has already achieved a striking success. It is a char- acteristic "Suc/wrd" sweet-toothsome, nutritious, and absolutely pure. Form for Free 6d. Packet of Chocolate. I To Messrs. SUCHARD, 33, King William Street, London, E.C. Sirs,—Having purchased a tin of j's&- Suchard's Cocoa, please send in accordance with your offer, one 6d. v f j,.Vl packet of Suchard's Velma," it AT Is sM IS Milka," or "Milnut" Chocolate, I Ml If attach disc taken from the tin, which MM ll entitles me to this packet. C. iff j ""•"cross out the brand not chosen, "Merthyr Express," March 19th, 1910, J!s*&> \l ONLY ONE GIFT PACKET. SENT TO SAME ADDRESS.

--r- -c- HENGOED'S HISTORIC CHAPEL BI CENTENARY THIS YEAR. A STIRRING RECORD. The records of the WeLsb Bfcpti&t Church, Hengoed, form the history of the establishment of that denomination and its progress, not only in Hengoed, but in various parts of Wal-A and Monmouthshire. In view, therefore, of the bi-oentenary celebrations this year to com- memorate the building of tho first chapel in Hengoed, the story of its career may well be retold. The history of the church as a body dates to the stirring times of Cromwev. It is one of thp three earliest churches of the Welsh Bap- tists-the other two being Olchon, on the bor- ders of Herefordshire, and Ilston, in Gower. Thesa are regarded as mother churches, and in the early days they were in close communi- cation with and rondered mutual. assistance to one another. The history of Hengoed church up to 1R31 has been writtan in Welsh by Mr. Llewellyn Jen- kins, son of the famous pro John Jenkins, Hengoed, and is entitled, "Hangoediana." A condensed history in English is now being written by Mr. Morgan Edmunds, postmaster, Hengoed. From 1650 to 1710, the meetings of the church were held in fa-rm-housea, here and there, and in residences of the more prominent members. The chief districts where they met from time to time wereLlanharran, Llantrisant, the par- ishes of Eglwysilan and Lianfabon, and later at Barthlwyd, and apparently in various houses in the parish of Gellygaer. The years from the restoration of the Monarchy in 1660 up to tho time of the reign of William IIL were years of persecution; and the strange revolutions through which the church passed were marked by deeds of heroism and sacrifice on the part of the stalwarts. After storm and stress came a period of toler- ation during which the church increased in strength, and in 1710 a permanent place of worship was erected on the top of Hengoed Hill. Its elevated situation made it visible from r afar, and doubtless it appeared to the Christians of th-age days as place of refuge. For years, devout Nonconformist worshippers wended their way from long distances to the old church, which is a quaint building of oak. To modern- ists it might appear small and erjimped; but to the pilgrims of the past it was a true temple The pastor at the time was one Morgan Griffiths, a man who persevered with Christian fortitude to bring about the institution of the Ohureh. He died in 1738, aged 69. A tomb- stone—one of the oldest^-to his memory may now be seen in the churchyard. The members of the church in that period were scattered over a wide area, including Bedwellty; the Western part of Monmouthshire, and many parishes stretching down aa far as Bridgend. The membership in 1715 was computed at 1,000, comprising men of wealth and rank. De- spit? his unremitting energy and esal, Pastor Griffiths waa unable to minister to all his scat- tered members. He was obliged to get help, and at one time had three assistants. His policy was to develop a use in certain dis- tricts until the members could form an inde- pendent church. The outcome of this was the formation of ohurches at Llantrisant (Mon.), Penyfai (Bridgend), and Bassaleg-these being the, earliest branches of Hengoed. Towards 1730 the trouble, which was general among Nonconformists—the dispute b&tween Calvin- ism and Ariyijnian-isin-a rose in the Church. The Arminian doctrine was propounded and propagated by one Charles Winter, a mano parts and native of Bedwellty. After many years of dissension, thie controversy ended, and his adherents formed an Arminian Baptist cause at Craig-Fargroed. Men of ability and fame were associated with the Church during the 18th ceatury. One was David who became minister of the Church at Limehouse, London, and author of certain controversial theological books. Aleo Dr. Thos. Llewellyn, born at Pepallta Isaf, Gellygaer Parish. He became one of the most distin- guished mexi of the denomination. His literary works included a history of the translation of the Scriptures into Welsh. He amassed wealth, and utilised it to extend the distribution of the Bible in Welsh to the poor people. The effect of this on Welsh Nonconformity is incalculable. Morgan Griffiths, the first pastor, was suc- ceeded by Griffith Jones, Lewis James, Watkin Edwards, Jaamc-s Perrott, and the before-men- tioned Dr. John Jenkins. The latter became minister in 1808, and he was one of the meet powerful preachers. He wrote books, chief of which was a commentary of the Bible, which for a long period was regarded as & standard work. He passed away in 1853, aged 73, and was laid to rest near his revered predecessor at Hengoed. Since its foundation the church has spread its influence in all directions. This is graphically illustrated by a frontispiece to "Hengoediana." The picture shows a tree, the trunk of which represents the mother church, Hengoed, and the va/rious branches the daughter churches. In 1829 a new chapel was built, and this, with con- siderable alterations, ia the existing Baptist Church, which has attached to it one oi the largest Nonconformist burial grounds. One Richard Wiiliuams, who ministered at the branch church, Pengam, succeeded Dr. Jen- kins, He died in 1878, after labouring zealous- ly for 23 years. He was succeeded by the Rev. Richard Evans, the piiesent pastor, whose faith- fulness and devotion have for many years kept alivo the faith in its ancient home. The cause is flourishing. For many years certain services were held at a emaUl church at Ystradmynach, but recently (a larger church, Bryn Seion, was opened. The rapid growth of the district con- sequent on industrial developments leads one to predict that the bi-centenary will not only mark the attainment of the two hundredth year of the strenuous existence of the denomination, but also the commencement of an era of greater" success and prosperity. A large number of friends from far and near have signified their intention of being present at the bi-oentenarv oelehrations, which it is is proposed to hold in September next. Some of the leading men of the denomination are to take Trt. Alro an invitation is to be given to MM- rPv tod Jl.}4,J?.:t- — —'< preside over a publio meeting in connection with celebrations on Thursday, September 3th, when an outline of the history of the church from its formation in 1650 to the present time is to be given by the Rev. Richard Evans, the present patter. Have yau anything to Sell? Advertise In our Want Columns, and it is as goo4 as sold.

YSTRADMYNACH. WILL.—Mrs. Margaret James, widow, of TW; Vicarage, Ystrad Mynach, formerly of ITen-' goed, appointed tho Rev. Lemuel John J aroetl (her son) and the Rev. Llewellyn Rees, Lla.n", dogo Rectory. Chepstow, executors of her os* tate, valued £ 3,080 gross and £ 1,793 net.

"Poplinland Oak," painted by John OtO has been acquired for the National Gallery- 4. An outbreak of fire occurred at Tonyspydud; Farm, Breconshirc, on Monday night, an a bain, and other buildings were totally dØ" stroyed. Efforts to save the livo stock were only partially successful, several valuable? cattle being destroyed,

MARRIED LADIC3. My recent offer of a free sampb of Nurse rowel", Popular Pellets met with such striking success, an enabled so many ladies to prove that the, do acttl3Il. cure all Irregularities, that I have decided to rope3* the offer. Ladies should write for Free Box, enc'°s:j ing penny stamp for postage. Delay is often dan gerons, so write now.-Nune T. M. Pcwpll. FAe j atwt