The Merthyr Express

Aff An 1L 1 ANuD s FFIPNIUT. GETHRE BEFSRTlES E A6—r\ rIsN lDNEPPDECNUDPEENBNT KIDENAEd LERS j|I IIII I fight to keep the Quality Up and the Sthmi^Z// Price Dowit. I; I d £ fy Competition with both tfte Quality '-••••• and the Price of Black Cat Cigarettes. I fight to save the money of the British ^EKSSjk Public by giving a pure, high-class Virginia Cigarette of the famous 1904 Crop at the popular of the Black Cat jRsj MEDIUM K0^\ Cigarettes jKMfa^SS | at f or Pid Try a Box. Smoke Black Cat Cigarettes in Competition with any other Virginia Cigarette. 4-AL I defy competition with Black Cat quality-a Black 3d. 11 i Of all Tobacconists, OP from CABRERAS, LTD., 7 Wardcur Street, London, W. Est. 1788. j Whatavei* Cai*»*epas Say—!t's Right."

RELIGION AND SOCIALISM. DISTRUST OF THE CHURCH. i DRIFT OF SOCIALISM IN THIS COUNTRY. The Rev. J. M. Jones delivered the second of the series of discourses on Religion and Socialism," at Hope Chapel, Merthyr, on Sunday evening. There was a very large con- gregation, and the remarks of the preacher were followed with great interest. Mr. Jones took for his text Isaiah iv., 3-6 verses. He Said: Last Sunday evening I tried to explain to you candidly and without reserve the motive tad the object of these addresses, viz., to promote the reconciliation of Religion and Socialism. I said I believed that the democracy could be won to the Christian faith; and that he result of this conversion would be an immense gain to the Church and a tremendous Unpulse to the progress of the human race in 411 the arts of life. I also said that the promoting Of this reconciliation was the high calling of God to the Church of the twentieth century. In taking these statements I was well aware that I was exposing myself to the suspicion of a hnister motive, the desire to exploit the demo- cracy in the interests of the Church. If by the Church be meant the fellowship of true believers in the Living God, and true followers of Jesus Christ, there would be some truth in the impeachment; but if on.y some outward and visible association of Christians be meant, then J need not trouble myself to deny the charge. I have lived in this town for eleven years, and if I have an enemy here I am willing to let him be my judge in this matter. The suspicion is Only a symptom of a deep mistrust of the Church that prevails extensively among the iemocrary, and is ready to break out at any foment into an open charge of bad faith and mischievous intent. Indeed, many Socialists teem never weary of denouncing Christianity !'8 the treacherous foe of the people's cause. It ts true that many Socialists repudiate this I position, but so far as my observation goes their protests carry little weight; indeed, they effect ELO other purpose than that of easing some difficult situation or achieving an apparent Victory in debate. The unmistakeable drift of Socialism, even in England, is in the direction of an ever-increasing mistrust of the Church and Christianity. That is one reason why I prefer to deal with extreme rather than with moderate forms of Socialism. Or, to put the matter toore correctly, with Socialism itself, and with Socialists who are also Christians I have no business in these addresses. My concern is th the irreligious and anti-Christian elements the Socialistic movement, and in particular, ^ls evening, I want to address myself to this Suspicion and criticism of Christianity to which have alluded. SYMPATHY WITH HERR BEBEL. It is more convenient to me, and I cannot bhirik that it will be any disadvantage to you » m this address again, I take Herr Bebel as J*e spokesman of Socialism. I do not accuse Flerr Bebel of falsehood. I don't even complain • his exposures. Indeed, in some of his most itter sentences I feel a deep sympathy with ,rQ> although my judgment disagrees, and in jjpoie cases I am almost entirely at one with him. °r example, when he say3 that the State and yfkgion have always understood each other fcK was a <luesti0n of exploiting the people," acre *is only one word to which I object. If had said OFTEN instead of ALWAYS, I should te compelled to admit the impeachment, is trlble as it is. It is not true that Christianity the enemy of freedom and culture. It is J"* true that Religion is a power that exploits e poor in the interest of the rich. But it is rue that the Church has often been found in an holy alliance with the strong against the weak, Oflth an ungodly aristocrary against the poor jo land who are fighting an unequal battle i,r their most elementary rights; and it is true jo t in every age men have exploited religion r selfish and political and anti-social ends, that they do it still. It is this fact that 6 fcifies Her Bebel's bitter attack, and excuses its unfairness. It is this fact that is the ^ea,test obstacle in the way of a reconciliation a. Religion and Socialism. And it is this fcn«?reJ>ancy between the conduct of Christians the religion which they profess that shall 0 CuPy our attention during the remainder of t time this evening. It is a painful subject dangerous to handle. But if anything is "e done towards the reconciliation of the *b!»l0Cracy matter must not be kept in y&nce. And here I need not go far afield, it will be advantageous if I address 'I myself to tacts which we ourselves observe every day Let me repeat what I said last Sunday eve ling If we are to convert the democracy to 1 he Christian Religion we must first of all, and above all, be able to show them the reality of tl at religion in ourselves. They believe only in s<>lf-interest, we must prove to them that love is a reality by holding it up before their eyes in our own characters. They do not believe that there is a higher life than that of eating and drinking and material prosperity we must let them see that there is a higher and nobler life by living it in their presence. No other argument will avail. Sermons and books and disputations are so much waste of breath without this demonstration in fact. The most rabid unbeliever in Merthyr to-night, whether 1; Socialist or Individualist, does not expect', perfection from us but he does expect sincerity and a practical proof that what we call our Christian faith is a reality to us, and that it is the supreme and dominant reality of our lives. Until they see this they will go on being streng- thened in their unbelief in Religion. thened in their unbelief in Religion. PROFESSORS OF CHRISTIANITY. Now, what are the facts. There are many thousands of well-to-do people in our land- some of them in this town of Merthyr to-day- who profess Christianity, who would be offended if you said they are not Chirstians, who are ready enough on occasion to curse Socialists because they are not Christians. But let me ask what value do they themselves set upon I their Christianity ? They are never seen inside a church except when some social convention- ality demands their attendance. They are as ignorant of the Bible as if it had never been translated into their mother tongue. And how do they spend their Sundays ? They are horrified because the workmen hold political meetings on Sunday, but they are willing for them to work on Sundays. And they approve ofjSundav concerts, and they think it quite right to go for a walk or a drive on Sunday afternoon' and then meet for a card party or some other intellectual pastime. And what is their attitude towards Religion in daily life ? Very often a thinly-veiled contempt. Indeed this attitude is the most difficult for an honest man to bear. These people put on an air of superiority. They give one to understand that in their esteem religion is something for the common people- the ignorant masses—they with their education, such as it is, and their culture, as it may be, have no need of religion. They seem to think that the parson, on the whole is a useful institu- tion, to help to keep the lower classes in their place, and therefore they invite him to their tables and give donations to his church, if he is not obtrusively religious and has a proper sense for social distinctions. Their interest in religion is of the most detatched character, except when they need its support for political and other sinister purposes. Believe me, the hostility of numbers of the working-men of our land to-day is largely due to the example of these hypocrites who have less claim to be called Christians than many of those desperate defeated men who loudly proclaim, in Hyde Park, that they are atheists and anarchists. NEARER HOME, But 1 must come still nearer home.. How many of us that are within the church are free from the same hypocrisy ? I think we may say that what is called class feeling" has diminished considerably in all the churches within our own mcmoy. In Nonconformist churches there is seldom much scope for it, and it does not prevail to any great extent. I know Wales well—that is, Welsh Wales." I have visited hundreds of its churches and I have met with little of it. On the contrary, I could tell you good stories of its utter absence. I could paint you a picture, if I were a good word painter, of a village church meeting. Its leader was the roadman, but a man of wonderful culture. Among the rank and file were two eminent professional men, and none submitted more humbly to the rule of the rord maker than these two. And I scarcely need tell you that in many such villages the social problem does not exist—or, at least, it is reduced to a minimum. And I think we can congratulate each other that the practice of exploiting the Church for political purposes has received a great check. The doctrine that has been assiduously preached in this pulpit for eleven years is echoed to-day in circles far more in- fluential—the doctrine, to wit, that the Church is the place where men shall forget their differences in the sense of a holy brotherhood, and yield themselves to the influences that shall infuse courage and joy into their whole life. But, on the other hand, we must confess that we are far from being able to face the democracy outside the Church, with a convincing, irresis-

Merthvr Board of Guardians. MR. CHAS. FENWICK'S CANDIDATURE. The candidature of Mr. Charles Fenwick, cashier of Messrs. Guest, Keen, and Nettle- fclds, Ltd., Dowlais Works, was opened on Monday evening, at the Assembly Room, Odd- fellows' Hail, Dowiale. The room was packed, although the meeting was held at the early hour of 6 p.m., and many prominent persons failed to get in. Those present were repre- sentative. of all cia-sse^ in Dowlais, and showed the popularity of the candidate. It is well known that Air. A. W. Houlson, consequent on his iong illness, has found it batter to resign vhe part of representative of Messrs. Guest, Ke&n, and Ncttlefokls, and of Dowlais Ward, and give a more vigorous person than himself an opportunity of serving the ratepayers and the Company. Mr. Thomas Thomas, Penywern, was voted to the chair, and ex press-: d the pleasure it gave him to do anything to further the candi- dature of Mr. Charles Fenw.ck. who was well worthy of their confidence, and was really one of thom.selvcsr—the working classes. He also stated that Mr. Fenwick came out plainly as a representative of Messrs. Uuest, Keen, and Nettlefolds, and he seated that the Company should have one seat in the future as they had in the past. The cause of the Company and the inhabitants was cne, and while he claimed a seat, for the one, he (the Chairman) also claim- ed fair play for the other (applause). Mr. Fenwick hero read a letter just received from Mr. A. W. Houlson with reference to his ill-health, and at the same time making it clear that it wa? his wish that, the warm and enthusi- astic support he had received should be accord- ed Mr. Fenwick in his candidature. Mr. C. Fenwick then gave an add-ess. which was exceedingly well received. lie taid that after several requests from friends, and having been asked bv Ins c-mplovers, he thought it wa.5 his duty and pleasure to come forward as candidate for their suffrages. The Dowlais Company paid such a large proportion of the rates that it had been' admitted by the town generally that they were fairly entitled to one of the seats, on the Board of Guardians. The large interest* of the Company, which were really the interests of the whole or the Dowlais people, ought to be directly and fairly I represented (cheers). He claimed that mono- I poly was not good, and one seat out of seven was not an unfair ratio. He was him self a ratepayer, and in this democratic age. no one would dispute but that taxation and representation should go together. Although a nominee of the Company, he ventured to cay he was a fit representative of the town gener- ally. He had spent his life in the town, was known to everyone present, and was well ac- quainted with the difficulties and needs of the poor (hear, hear). He was one from the ranks; he had climbed from the bottom of the ladder, and had attained his present position by sheer hard work (loud applause). He was anxious to do all that was poffiible for the benefit of good old Dowlais and its inhabitant?. He was no great talker, and business was best done with few words. The training he had received, ho claimed, fitted him to deal with and to see that the large amount incurred by the administration of the poor-law in the Union would be effi- ciently and economically expended. Still. he would advocate a sympathetic administration of the poor-law (cheers). The deserving pcor would always receive, his most generous consider- ation; wastrels who would not work should have no pity from him (hear, hear). To the best of his judgment, he would deal justly to all. His interests and theirs were identical. He would pay special attention to relief cases and the condition of the inmates of the Union. The Report of the Royal Commission on the Poor Law and the relief of distress, a mat- ter thai fcUimed a, d of e p I time, should have his earnest and best atten- ] tion. Drastic changes were proposed, and the main object of the proposed changes was to prevent destitution, which is far better than alleviation. "Prevention is better than curc." Mr. Fenwick added that he would endeavour, if elected, at all timss to fulSl the duties de- volving upon him as one of their reprosenta- tives, to the best of hi6 ability (cheer.;), lie hoped there would be no contest—he had b2-en assured there would b i none—but it there was to b? a fight, lie would enter into ii with con- fidence thai lie would be returned by them (loud applause). The Chairman proposed that a vote of sym- pathy with Mr. Houlson, in his illness, should be sent to him, thanking him for his services in the past, and the Secretary was asked to convev the resolution.—This wus Geconded bv Mr. Fenwick in a few wel!-chosen words, and was passed by the audience standing. Mi. Evan George proposed a vote of con. fidence in Mr. C. Fenwick as follows: "That this representative meeting of electors of Dow- lais Ward, having heard the views of Mr. Charles Fenwick, consider him a fit and proper person to represent this ward on the Merthyr Tydfil Board of Guardians, and hereby pledge themselves to do all in, their power to return him as their representative" Mr. George, in a short speech, dwelt upon the qualifications of the candidate for a seat on the Board of Guard- ians." Mr Sam Jones seconded the resolution, and he menitoned that as a workman he had no objection to the Company to claim and to have one of the seats on this Board.—Mr. Thomas Jenkins followed in the same strain, and the pre nor al remarks of the speaks r 6 were that Mr. Fenwick was a man of character ajid of ability; was very firm, yet courteous in his dealings with everybody. The subsequent speakers were Messrs. Thomas James, White-street; D. H. Edwards, accountant; D. Morgan?, Morlais- street; John Evans, Shoe Shop, High-street; and Inspector John Edwards, G.W.R. and Rhymney Railway.—The resolution was carried unanimously. Mr. Alfred Williams proposed, and Mr. Wm. Jones. Garden-row, seconded, a resolution that all those present should form themselves into a. committee to further the candidature of Mr. Fenwick.—This was carried amid applause. Mr. Fenwick's nomination papers have been handed in to the Returning Officer, signed by the following gentlemen :—Proposers Mr. John Evans, Gwornllwyn cchaf; Mr. Howell R. Jones. Trewern: Mr. W. Morgan, J.P., Pant; Mr. R. P. Reer-, chemist; Mr. Evan George, 10, G7ig.terr; Mr. Ed. Walsh. 6, Church- street; Mr. David Williams, 30, Gwladys- stree'. Mr. Samuel Jones, 27, Lower-row, Pen- YWGn: Mr. Patrick Mansfield, High-street; Mr. J.bn Morgan, Gwernllwvn-fach. Second- ers: Mr. Thomas Thomas, Frotiheulog, Peny- wern :\10. George L. Reeves, 124, High-street; Mr. William Richards, 2, Graig-terrace; Mr. Morgan Da vies, outfitter; Mr. Thomas •James. 25, White-rstroet; Mr. John Enoch, 20, ancis-streot; Mr. David Thomas, 16, Wim- bc-rj'f-f-fcreet: Mr. Alfred Williams, 28, Ifor- st-ree/i. Mr. Tsaac Lewis, 23, Caeharris; and Mr. A. W. Houlson, Caeharris House.

Dowlais Ladies' Choir Concert. 7he Dow!ai« Ladies' Prize Choir held their concert on Thursday evening last, in tis-Uianif, GJuI,pe! (kindly lent). There was a large and appreciative audience, the chapei beiiifull. The committee had provided an exeeilent- programme, the artistes being: So- prano, Madame Laura Evans-Williams, Lon- don bass. Mr. David Hughes. Swansea; solo violin, Mr. Wm. Henley, London; accompan- ists, Mr. W. J Watkins, F.R.C.O., L.R.A.M., and Mr. Arthur P. Hughes (the latter being vhe permanent accompanist of the choir). A Lew minutes past eight o'clock the conductor, Mr. Wm. Hughes, presented himself on the platform to conduct his excellent choir through the first item, "Who is Sylvia' a composition by a local musician, Mr. D. T. Evans, who was heartily congratulated by a larg-e number of friends after the concert upon the originality and general merit of his work, and upon the excellent performance of it by the choir. Mr. David Hughes gave a magnificent rendering of the recit. and air from Hende't's "Acis and Galatea," "I rage, I melt." and "0. Ruddier than the Cherry," and was enthusiastically en- cored. In response, he sang "Blow, Blow, Thou Winter Wind" (Sergeant), with great dramatic force Mr. Hughes voice has lost none of its charm; it is as beautifully mellow as ever. Madame Laura Evans-Williams was heard next in "The Jewel Song" from Gounod's "Faust" The audience bore testimony of its appreciation of her performance of this diffi- cult but very beautiful song by demanding an enoore, Madame Williams responding with "Doli." The violin solo, "Tzigane" (Nachez) by Mr. William Henley (who is now well known in the district) was rapturously encored. He then played an Austtian Hymn with variations (without the piano) accompanying himself. S. Coleridge Taylor's part-song, "From the Green heart of the Waters," was next given by the choir. It, is a piece bristling with difficulties in laotos and expression, which were got over with apparent ease by the choir. The peculiar sub- tle charm which finds expression in all of Col- eridge Taylor's compositions was very cleverly and effectively brought out by the choir. It is the test-piece of the Abergavenny Eisteddfod On Easter Monday. The old favourite sont of Mendelssohn's, "I'm a Roamer," was next sung by Mr. Hughes in a masterly manner. The rapid articulation and runs in the song were done by Mr. Hughes with perfect clearness. The first part of the pro^mme wa.s brought to a close by the rendering of Rossini's "La Carita" by Madame Williams and the choir. It is a beautifully melodious' work abound- ing with ever-changing tone-co! ours, and is dis- tinctly in the Italian vein. It was charmingly sung. In the course of the interval Mrs. (Dr.) Lewis-Hughes, the president of the choir, Ad- dressed the assembly. Jti a neat little speech Mrs. Hughes thanked the audience for their patronage, and informed them that the object of the choir was to give concerts and to compete at Eisteddfodau, their immediate intention be- ing to compete at the Abergavenny Eisteddfod on Easter Monday, and afterwards at the Na- tional Eisteddfod at Colw.vn Bay. The speaker thanked the Bethania friends on behalf of the choir for kindly lending their chapel for the concert The second part of the programme was open- ed by the rendering of the "Spinning Chorus" from Wagner's "Flying' Dutchman" by the choir, Miss M. A. Watte singing the solo parts. An encore was irresistible, and the choir sang the piece again. Mr. William Henley then played "Hungarian Variations" (Ernst), on the violin, with consummate skill, and was again encored. The Welsh ballad, "Merch y Cad- ben" (R. S. Hughes) was sung in excellent style by Mr. Hughes. In the next item (a) "Suo-gan," (b) "Gwcw Fach" (Welsh airs), Madame Williams completely captivated the audience, and in response to an encore appeared again. At this juncture she was the recipient of a beautiful bouquet presented by Mrs. (Dr.) Hughes. Madame Williams then sang another charming little song, "The Cuckoo Song," in English, and by the united skill of the accom- panist (Mr. Watkins) and the songstress, a second encore was demanded, and Madame I Evans yielded by singing "Clychau Aberdyfi." Mr. Henley then played "Chansons Russes" (composed by himself), and again had to re- I spond to an encore. A duett, "Watchman, j what of the night' (Sergeant) having been | suner in a most impressive manner by Madame j Williams and Mr. Hughes, the concert was brought to an end by the rendering of an i S.S.C. arrangement of "Yr Haf" ((Gwilym Gwent) by the choir. Tliev were, again en- cored owing to their beautiful rendering. The glee was sung without accompaniment. The I audience then joined. in singing the National Anthem, and in dispersing there was a general ) titter in praise of the artistes and choir. The choir and their conductor have the best reasons I for being well pleased with themselves in their I venture in organising their first concert. By general consent it ranks with the best treats I that a Dowlais audience has listened to for many years. A word of praise is due to Mr. j Watkins, the chief accompanist, for his artis- j tic playing of the acootnpaniments, which con- tributed materially to the success of the con- cert. The clearness and the absolute accuracy of his playing of extremely difficult accompani- ments were a real pleasure to listen to. The accompaniments of the choral items and of Mr David Hughes' rendering of "Merch v Cad- ben." were efficiently, played by Mr. Arthur P. Hughes, son of the conductor, Mr. Wm. Hughes. Owing to the recent sad bereavement in the family of Miss Edith Davies, Regfent- street, the duties of secretary were faithfully discharged by Miss M. G. Richards. Awelftyn. Penydarren. and valuable service was rendered by Miss M. A. Watts, Mount. Pleasant-stroot, as treasurer. Since its formation about eigh- teen months ago, the choir has been a marked success, and readers will heartily wish them further success in their future efforts. j

Make your Own Hair Tonic. I A SPECIALISTS ADVICE. In a recent issue the Daily Mail of London published a special article on. the care of the hair in which was given the formula for a home-made hair tonic that was highly recommended for its remarkable hair-growing properties, as well as for stopping falling hair, revitalising the hair roots, and destroying the dandruff germ. This article was of special interest to me, as the formu- la was one which I, myself, have seen used in countless cases with most astonishing benefit, thus confirming my belief that home-made-hair preparations are the best. For the benefit of those who have not seen it before, I give the formula herewith. Procure from your chemist a four-ounce bottle containing three ounces of Bay Rum, one ounce of Lavona de Composee (Smith's) and t dram Menthol Crystals. Dissolve the crystals in the Bay Rum, and then add the Lavona de Com- posee shake thoroughly and apply night and morning to the roots of the'hair, rubbing into the scalp with the finger tips. This preparation contains no colouring matter, but restores grey hair to its original colour by its action on the hair roots. If you desire it perfumed, add half a spoonful of French Fon Fleur perfume, which combines perfectly with the other ingredients, and imparts a most pleasing scent, (Do not apply wfcerejiw is Mt,

DOWLAIS. J. JEREMIAH. Plumber, Gas Fitter, and Honse Decorator, 5, North-street, Dowlais. Lowest prices coinpatilile with good workmanship and materials. A trial solicited. Also open to negotiate for the sale or purchase of property privately. Note the address, 5, NortU-street, Dowlais. GREAT SHOW OF CLOTHING for Summer Wear at W. MORGAN DAVIES. 115. High-street, Dowiais. lioys', Youths', and Men's Suits in great variety. Au inspection invited. Hats, Caps, etc.. in the newes) shapes. JOHN GREENER, Gwalia Stores, Dowlais. Agent lor the "Double Crown" Tea. Noted for Welsh Bacon and Ilom.madc Bread and Cake. JOHN GREENER, Gwalia Stores. Dowtais. j A BTTDGET of Virtues, Perfection of Fit, Sound. Ilard-wcaring Materials, combined with Ele- gance and Exclusive Style in every pair of Boots or Shoes you purchase at W. H. \TILLIAMS' BOOT DEPOT," ili,(h-street (opposite I.iptou's), Merthyr. Sole Agent lor "K." Dr. Jaeger's,"Queen," and "Lotus'' Boots and Shoes. SENIOR BOYS' (DOWLAIS SCHOOL) CONCERT, March 21st. Choruses, anthems, part songs, Welsh airs. Reserved, Is. 6d. admission. Is., 6d. Object, funds for Boys' Guild and Library. GOOD FRIDAY. — W. "TOOMEY. fishmonger, bogs to inform his customers that he will have for Good Friday a large supply of Fresh Fish, ail of prime quality and lowest market prices. Order early. BETHANIA CHAPEL, DOWLAIS.—Keep open Thursday, 31st March Mr. John Watts, Lon- don. will deliver his lecture on the late Mrs. Watts-Hughes' "Voice Figures." together with limelight illustrations. Admission, Is. and 6d. DON'T FORGET to enter for the Aberdare Dog, Poultry, and Cage Birds Show and Am- bulance Competitions on Easter Monday and Tuesday. Good classification. Ten Cups. Specialist Judges. Further particulars, apply T. J. DAVIES, Hon. Sec. ANNIVERSARY — Last Sunday, the anniver- sary services of Elizabeth-street Presbyterian Church were hold, three sermons being preach- ed to large congregations by the Rev. E. P. Jones, Plasnewydd Church, Cardiff. Solos wore rendered by Miss Annie Rees and Mr. Daniel, who both sang exceedingly well. LIBANUS.—A correspondent writes :1n your last week's report of the "Sunday Circle" long service medals, no reference was made to the manner in which these were obtained. Having learned the conditions, a worthy member ef the church, in the person of Mr. David Mor- gans. 2, Morlais-street, communicated with the publishers, and his efforts were, as usual, crowned with success. PERSONAL.—The Rev Rhys B. Jones, the well-known Baptist Evangelist, of Porth, Rhon- dda Valley, will be shortly going to the United States of America. Mr. Jones has been invited to conduct a series of special missions in the Welsh churches of Wilkesbarre and the Scran- ton Districts in Pennsylvania. Mr. Jones is a native of Dowlais. and learnt his trade at Ifor fitting shops, and then passed into the draw- ing office of the Dowlais Iron Company. BRYN SSION.—On Tuesday evening, the Lit- erary Society listened to a paper on the late Rev. O. R. Owen Glandwr, by Mr. J. W. Grif- fiths. This was followed by a lecture by the Rev D C. Griffiths (Monah), on "Professor Drummond." enumerating the chief facts of his life, summarising his chief works and em- phasising his beatific character The lecturer pointed the way to the great thoughts and in- spiration to be gained from Drummond's works and character, and the lecture was made most interesting by the scintillating and pointed wit of the lecturer. The Rev. R. M. Rhys (pastor) was the chairman CYMREIGYDDION. — Last Friday evening, a very interesting meeting was held, the Rev. Perer Price, the president, reading a paper on "Morgan Llwyd o Wvnedd," who lived between 1619-1659, and suffered persecution and im- prisonment, and finally died in Wrexham, where he lies buried. His most noted and best- known work is a dialogue called "Llyfr y Tri Aderign" ("The Book of the Three Birds"), which gives an insight into the state of religious and political parties at that period. Messrs. Tom George, T. T. Jones (Darenog), and Evan Thomas (contractor), read portions of the work, each taking the character of the "Eagle," the "Raven," and the "Dove." CAEKSAT.E?;.—A successful entertainment was in the vestry of the above place on Satur- day. The chair was cocupied by Mr. S. Young, and I o following contributed to the pro- gramme1 :—Solos: Messrs. D. Rees Williams and loan Jenkins, Mri. Phillips, and Miss A. R. Price. The accompanist was Mr. Dan Davies. The meeting concluded with a humorous sketch, entitled, "The Trials of a Patient Man," th-3 characters bring well sustained bv the fol- lowing :—Mis?ss Ruth Jones. Mary Evans, F. A. Davies, A. R. Prioe, and Messrs. Roderick Williams. Dan Jones, and D. T. Davies. The prize to the blindfolded competitor who execut- cd the best, drawing of a pig was won by k. James Griffiths. MRS. M. B. DONOVAN, 14, Wind-street, Dow- lais. writing on tho 3rd March, 1910, says:—"I suffered very much from indigestion until about five years ago when I began to use Dr. Tibbies' Vi-Cocoa. I am glad to say that I am st-Jl using it, and I also recommend it to tnj friends." Dr. Vi-Cocoa promotes tone and vigour to those who use it. and brings back roses to the cheeks. The tired, languid feeling, which is the result of nervous exhaust- ion and brain fag, disappears when Dr. Tibbies' Vi-Coooa (a 0; wTrch can be obtained for sixpence) is daily used. This is owing to the great sustinent and vitalising powers which Dr. Tibbies' Vi-Cccoa so readily rives to those who Uie it regularly. EASTER SHOW.—Messrs. J. S. Davies and Co.'s great, annual Easter show is a positive fact, so much a fact that the number of people who visited their establishment last week—in- side and outside—was something enormous. Judging by the thousands there wrs but little trade anywhere else in the town of Dowlais. We said a week ago rhat the show wouid be an uncommonly fil one. and so ič was; but there a chango this week, and our headers are strongly advised to take a stroll—or strolls— down to High-street to see this weeks show. They will not be satisfied with looking at the windows, but the temptation will be so strong that they wilt be obliged to go inside, and see more—a great deal more—than is to be seen from outside. All the stock is not in the win- dows. DISHONEST COLLECTOR.—At Merthyr Police- court, on Friday, Hy Terry, until lately em- ployed by Mr. Gabriel Freedman, house fur- nisher. Union-street, Dowlais, as a collector salesman, was sent to prison for a month for embezzling the sum of 10s.—It was stated that defendant gave himself up to the police at Gloucester, and he was handed over to Detec- tive Rees, of the Merthyr Borough Police, to whom he gave a written statement. Defendant said that "while under the. influence of an in- sane impulse," he took money to the extent of £2 10s. He also pleaded that the small wages which he earned, his lack of personal comfort, and his surroundings and ill-health, affected his mental balance, and he was at the time he converted the money to his own use incapable of realising the consequences. OBITUARY.—The death is announced in our obituary column of an old Dowlais inhabitant in the person of Mr. Anthony Parry, who had recently resided at Waunarlwyd, Glamorgan, where he had a married daughter, the wife of the Rev. T. Michael, the curate in charge. Mr. Parry was a son of the late Mr. J. W. Parry, house agent for many years of the Dow- lais iron Company, and there are one sister and two brothers remaining, Miss M. A. Parry and Mr. J. L. Pirry, Dowlais, and Mr. J. L. Parry, Swansea* Mr. Parry was brought up in the fitting shop m the Dowlais Works, and he was the railbsnk contractor for many years, until he relinquished the contract. He then thought of emigrating to America, and went as far as California 1:h the intention of farming, but he returned in a few months, not finding the plaoes he visited desirable from his point of view. He retired, and resided in Dowlais, and about ten years ago removed to Cliiton, and for three years had lived at Waunarlwyd. Mr. Parry had been ailing for some time, suffering from Brighte disease and heart weakness, and he passed awav on Sunday evening, 6tb inst. The funeral took place on Friday last week at Pant Cemetery, the Rev. LI. M. Williams and the Rev. T. Michael, Waunarlwyd (his somin- Jaw) officiating. The following is a lid of mourners :-Firs coach Mra. A. Parrv (widow); Mr. J. T. Parry (son), Cardiff; Mr. S. Edwards; Mrs. T. Michael; Mrs. J. Oriel. and Miss R. Parry (daughters). Second coach Mr. J. L. Parry, and G. L. Parry (brothers), Swansea; Miss M. A. Parry (sister); Mrs. G. L. Parry (sister-in-law) Third coach: Rev. T. Michael. Waunarlwyd; Mrs. S. Edwards (sis- ter); Mr. J. Oriel. Bristol (sister-in-law); Mrs. J. T. Parrv (daughter-in-law). Fourth coach Mr. R. T. Parry. Mr. R. H. C. Parrv. Mr. A. Rees, nephews, Dowlais; Mise W. Rees (niece). BIBLE SOCIETY.—The annual meeting of the British and Foreign Bible Society (Dowlais Auxiliary) was held on Tuesday night, at Gwerallwyn Chapel, when in the unavoidable absence of Rev Peter Price, Mr. Wm. Richards (of Libanus) took the cliair. The attendance was regrettably small, in the face of the fact that the new district secretary for South- Wales (Rev. D. Eurof Walters), who has succeeded Dr. ) Cynddylan Jones, paid his first official visit to the town After the meeting was introduced by the reading of a portion of the Scriptures and prayer by Mr. Williams, of Gwern. Ilwyn, the chairman gave a short address. The treasurer, Mr. D. Jones, then read the state- ment of accounts, which showed. a falling off in the subscriptions, several churches in the town not contributing anything to the Society which provides them with Bibles and Testa- ments for their Sunday Schools at so cheap a rate. Mr. Walters delivered an interesti- and invigorating address on the work of the So- ciety, notably in India and China, which ought to rouse the churches to a sense of their respon- I sibility in connection with their less fortunate j brothers and sisters across the seas: After thanking the secretary. Mr. John Morgans, -¡ and the treasurer for their part, he appealed to the churches to assist him to carry on the work in the future. The meeting was brought to a close by prayer by Mr. John Morria. A.O.F. SUPPER.—A supper was held at the Royal Exchange Hotel, Dowlais. last Saturday evening in connection with Court Ifor Guest, A.O.F. The postprandial proceedings were presided over by P.C.R. Thomas Jones, P.C.R. Wm. P.ugh proposed the.toast of "The Court," and Bro. E. J. Price, secretary, responded. The toast of "Merthyr Tydfil District, A.O.F. was proposed by P.C.R. John Williams. Bro. Emrys Morgan responding. Mr. Dan Maloney gave a recitation, and songs were rendered by the following: Messrs. D. W. Shallis. T. H. Hutchins, Matt Delacey, and Tonj Pfcullji^s. An cnjoy^ble gveoins was spent. T .w.

NEW GOODS for Early Spring &. Easter AT J. S. DAVIES & Co.'s, Drapers, Milliners, Costumiers, &c., HIGH STREET, DOWLAIS. ■»—— ■ Messrs. J. S. DAVIES & Co. in making their first announcement of the Opening of the NEW SEASON'S SHOW desire to point out that every effort will be made to please their Customers in the future, as in the past. The whole of the Business being under Mr. J. S. Davies's own direct supervision, guarantees the thoroughness of the attempt, and of its accomplishment. THE LARGE DOUBLE WINDOW is being devoted to a SHOW OF BLOUSES such as has not been seen in this District before, and of a variety1 such as are seldom obtainable. BLOUSES in smart Useful Materials, Fancy Flannels, as well as: Delaines, Silks and Nuns Veiling. I The other Windows contain a Fine Selection of EARLY SPRING NOVELTIES, consisting of the Newest and Latest Productions for the master Season. MIILINERY-New Millinery. Modern Shapes in every Shade and Style. A good start for an Early Spring Hat is by securing one of J. S. Davies & Co.'s. They are the Latest Productions. • r Ne.w Flowers.-Tlie choicest manufactures of the Artificial Flowerl" Makers in this country and the Continent. New Trimmings. Feathers, Mounts, Buckles, &c. New Ribbons of all descriptions, Chiflons, and Tulles. J. S. DAVIES & Co. stock Perfexa," Rainproof, and the Peau dei Gant finished Tulles, as advertised and recommended in all the Ladies' Fashion Journals, Children's Millinery and Costumes in endless variety. Children's Hats and Bonnets in Straws, Silks, and Combination. In Children's Costumes, Pelisses, and Tunics, J. S, D. & Co. have a choice that is not to be equalled in South Wales, These 1 Goods are in Cashmeres, Lustres, Silks, and Fine Cloths. The Styles are Right! The Prices are Incomparable! Mantles, Costumes, Coats, and Skirts. This Department is replete with all that is New and Fashionable, Special Purchase of Ladies' Tweed Jackets, splendid value, 48 in. to 52 in. lengths, from 9/11 to 14/11; usual price 19/n to 27/6. Ladieb' Dress Skirts in Serges, Cloths, Tweeds, and Cashmeres, beautifully trimmed, at moderate prices. Underskirts in White Embroidered Muslins, from 1/11 £ also) in Prints and Moreens. J. S. DAVIES & CO., 118,172, 173,176, High St., I 'I Tram Terminus is opposite the Door. "All Trams bring Customers to DA VIES S."

SIIARPS AND FLATS. [By "Crowder."I Two hundred years ago last Saturday was born Dr. Arne, the composer of "Rule, Brit- annia." I am glad to see the occasion was not forgotten altogether, as Mr. Henrv J- Wood, at the Queen's Hail, revived several of the com- pocer's songs with great success. Arne was essentially an English composer, not merely an imitator of foreign schools, and hift music is full oi good, sterling melody. It is sad to reflect that, to-day lie is remembered by only two or three songs and "Rule, Britannia." The latter, t however, has plaosd him with the immortals, and who &ha!l then call- his fate an unhappy one? The Battalion Band concert last Thursday was a very pleasant Junction, and great credit is due to the sound training and good conduct- ing of the bandmaster. The band pLa\ed sev- eral selectons in excellent style, and what pleased me most was the accuracy and delicacy of the accompaniments—alwavs the test of a conductor with an amateur band. Miss Elsa Ileadon Owen made a good impression, and the brilliant playing oi Miss Gething, a young girl, created .something like enthusiasm. With careful training (especially in Bach and Beet- hoven, which would supply an element lacking at present), this young lady should become one of the galaxy of musical "stars" already turned out by "Gallant Little Wales." It is pleasant to read that Dr. Strauss paid a very high tribute to the wonderful reading powers of the üovent Garden Orchestra in his very difficult opera., "Electra." krom the time of "Mendelssohn to the present day. foreign conductors have all noticed this characteristic of British orchestras. Some years, ago, Pader- ewski wrote a difficult "Po.ish Fanta.sia" for piano and orchestra. In Paris the work re quired ten rehearsals; in London the orchestra had two. and the composer declared that the work went best in the latter place. There a6re many other instances of the same nature that oxur to me, but these sufficiently show that British musicians are equal to any in the world. Probably, the cause of their exceptional first- sight reading qualities is this: On the Con- tinent, opera, etc., is generally subsidised by the Government of a country or municipality of a town. A player accepts an engagement for a very long period—perhaps for life. Con- sequently. he foils into one groove, and get-? mechanical. An English orchestral man plays at all sorte of engagements. One night be may be in his regular st at, at a West-End th-aa.re: the next night at a Symphony concert, and perhaps playing sol-OR in a provincial town the third night. Henoe his great adaptability and resource. At their forthcoming concert, the Dowlais Male Voice Party will introduce to this d'strict Mr. Charles Tree, one of the finest baritone singers of the day. Mr. Tree is generally re- cognised in the profession as being the best all- rouhd ora-torio singer since Mr. Ffranpcon Davies's retirement. The soprano, Mis Gleoe. son-White, should be another draw, as she has been very successful in Covent Garden and elsewhere in grand opera. < There are now and then some amusing in- cidents locally at rehearsals, which give salt to life and break its monotony. No* far from Merthyr some time ago, they wr performing Handel's "Samson." For some cilriotu reason, the conductor did not like the short "Sinfonia" which Handel has written to illustrate the de- ll struction of the temple. He therefore proposed that in its place the piccolo should play a polka. and it was only after a long argument that he wa- brought to see the eddness of hi, request. For non-musical readers. 1 may say that, the effect would be much like that Of introducer; a "song and dancc" turn into "Hamlet." On another occasion, a conductor who relied only on a Fol-fa-copy was rehearsing an oratorio. The choruscs were well done. but in th? recita- tives the ha-nd hr.d to rely en them as. instead of them following the ?tick, it was the conductor who gave a beat overy time the band struck a chord, only he was about half a second late each time. Th's wtnt on for about half-an-hour; at last the. 'c?llo player, a testy old soul, after one of these late beats. looked up and said, "You have another Lo, governor; you nearly caught us that time

CWM-BARGOED. RAILWAY MISSION -HAI,L.-O. Thursday last, an entertainment was g.vn by the members of the-Band of Hope and friends, when the fol- lowing programme was given:—Solo, "A Good Time Coming," Cecil Parker; temperance song, "A Cup of Tea, Band of Hope; recita- tion, "Comrades, Mr. A. Heath; action song, "Washing Day," Band of Hope; recitation, "Good Night- and Good Morning," May Jones; recitation, "The Foolish Moused" Maggie Par- ker; trio, by children; recitation, "Is there anything .else you. would lik t" Mr. E. King; song, "Cock Robin. Band of. Hope; recitation, "The Widow and her Son," Lily Morgan; song, "Come, let us be jolly," Band of Hope; recite-, tion, "Old Age," Minnie Carter; solo, Mr. Jones; dialogue, "Saved," Mr. Heath and' yo-rt.T. Edwith Edwards presided, ) .¿ ':J" ):.

FOCHRIW. JJcr your Eaeter Suit and Boots at T FINE and CA4 Pontlottj n. New Stock just arrived. Men's stylish Suiti ready to wear from ;is. bd. to 45s. Youths' Suits, latest style, from 12s. Gd. to 32s. ód. The most fashionably stock of Hats, Caps, Ties, Collars and Shirts in Wales. CARM.KI,.—The weekly meeting of the Carmel Literary and Mutual Improvement Society w held at the vestry on Wednesday evening week. when excellent papers were rciid on "Courage^ by Mr. Sam. Lewis, Brynteg, and "How t<| Utilise the leisure hours of the mine," by Mr, Evan Evans. Both papers were full of -ooci advice. The papers were highly spoken of byf the following:—Messrs. Reei Rees, Thom Thomas, Rhys D. Jenkins, Mrs. David Jones* -\txs. Edith Col-e Jones, and the Rev. D. Ii, Jones. A eoio was given by Miss Margarelf Thomas, entitled, "Ha-ve courage to say and a duett was rendered by the Misses M. Ai,: Walters and Hannah .Tone. The accompanied was Mr. Thomas Walters. The Rev D. :a. Jones presided. I.O.G.T.—The weekly meeting of the StaM of Fochriw Ledge of the International Orden of Good Templars was held at the Carmeij V ostry on Thursday evening week, preeidedl over by Chief Templar Sister B-onwen Ballard.) After the ordinary business, 6ix short stories: were read by the following:—"Charity," byj Sister B. Ballard, C.T. "Bydd yn dda ¡ gwna. yn dda," Bro. William Iones; "Fable at the Rain-drop, Sister Maggie Griffiths, fin..J ancial secretary "Legend of Wine," by Sister; M. A. Lewis (sent); "Never touch another) drop," by Bro. Charles Payne, L.D Water, "so by Bro. William Griffiths. The papers appreciated by those present Addresses werw also given by Bro. Jones, Tirphil, and BroJ Davies, of Rhymney; aud a solo was sung bjjj Sister Jones, Tirphil. N ODDF A.-On Thursday evening week, at th* Noddfa Mutual Improvement Society's meeting* an address was delivered by Mr. Ben Thomas,; signalman, Merthyr Vale, on "Three Notable Characters." Mr. Thomas spent all his life in; the Merthyr "Vale district. He was born in th^j parish of Hanfabon, and can well aemembeeJ the distinguished men of the d;glr- doctors, preachers, etc.—whexse names have nofc] appeared among the ro'e of the great and] mighty, and whose works lay as obscure as theiw names; yet these men have left an indelihw impression upon the morals and literature oil the district Mr. Thomas is well versed in that history, etc.. of these parishes, and it was a' treat to listen to his interesting address abouJT three doctors who distinguished themselves through their eccentricity and ingenuity. 1fr. Thomas was accorded a hearty vote of thanla for his excellent address. Several spoke highly; of the lecture, after which Mr. Thomas thanked them for their attentive hearing. The meeting was presided o-ver by the Rev. Moses Solvap Young, who has recovered from his recent iLU ness.

I there i« a case j ) I of enfeebled ] digestion, whether 1 f from adltancicg j age, illness, or general i debility, there is a case for Benger's Focd. J I When the stomach becomes :1 'I' I weakened, the digestion of ordinary food becomes only I I partial, and at times is painful; little of the food is assimilated, and the body is consequently j insufficiently nourished. This is where Benger's Food I f helps. It contains in itself the natural digestive principles, f I I and is quite different from II any other food obtainable. I All doctors know and I approve of its composition, II and prescribe it freely. ¡' i I denle", Food U told in fins j by Chemists, etc., everywhere, j £ h

tible proof of the reality of the Christian religion. There is no church in Merthyr to-night that ha:- not a fringe of membership that is held to the church only by the most slender threads. They are church-members, communicants, but arc they Christians ? Would anybody infer it from their lives 1 And how many of us, my brethren, inpress our fellows with the reality I; of our faith and love. How many of us compel our acquaintances to think and to say Well, after all, there must be something in the Chris- tian religion. Whatever our philosophers say about the ultimate reality, that man, at least believes in a Personal, Living, Loving God. Whatever our psychologists and other scientists say about the universality of self-interest, unselfish love is a fact in that man ? How manv such men have we in the Merthyr churches to-day V My brethren, the conversion of unbelievers, yes, and THE SOLUTION OF THE SOCIAL PROBLEM awaits the appearance of such men and the preponderance of them in the churches. INFIDELITY OF CHRISTIANS. How long shall the world wait ? Let me frankly confess, I am less alarmed by the infidelity of Socialists than by the infidelity of Christiane-the infidelity which manifests itself in the lukewarmness and unfaithfulness, and frivolity, in the jack of zeal for truth and righteousness; in the selfishness and love of money, and the lust of position and pleasure; in the uncharitableness and envy and malice of church members. The conviction has grown I with the years that here we have the chief I cause of the growing infidelity of our land. I I have a fairly-wide experience in this matter. I have disputed with unbelievers of all sorts with men who were comparatively illiterate, whom I could easily vanquish in argument; with learned men and clever controversialists, with whom I was ill-equipped to dispute but in every case that I can remember the enmity towards religion was traced back in the end to the impressions made by the inconsistency between the conduct and the creed of religious people. But, you will say, the argument is not logical. My brother, suppose we leave THEIR logic alone for a moment, and come to a matter 11 that concerns us more nearly, OUR OWN LOGIC. Is our position logical ? We believe in the Living God, who is holy and righteous Love and that in and through Jesus Christ we are made His children. But we live as if there were no God to Whom all life is a sacred service. We live for ourselves, our own gain and pleasure, with littla love, often with much hatred and cruelty, much guile and falsehood towards our fellow-men. How can we think of correcting the logic of others when our own is so much worse than theirs ? I have laid painful facte before you to-night. But these painful facts, soberly considered, will help you all to share my faith that the Socialistic democracy of England can be won to the Christian religion, and that without sacrificing their Socialism; and that the Christian people of England can unite to draw Socialists into their fellowship without sacrificing anything that truly belongs to their religion. And I have made at least a beginning of my task of showing how this great reconciliation can be effected.