The Merthyr Express

I LOCAL INTELLIGENCE (CONTINUED.) "V'I' Cantata Performance.—A grand perfor- mance of the sac-red cantata, The Blind Maid of Bethany," will be given by the Choir of Market-square Congregational Church, on Good Friday, March 25th, 1910, at Market-square Church. when a rare musical treat is assured. Admission, Is. 6d., Is., and 6d. CONSTABLE Dismissed.—A private mefcting of the Merthyr Watch Committee was held on Tuesday, the Mayor presiding, when the Chief Constable reported that a member of the police force had misconducted himself in conveying prisoners from Merthyr to Swansea gtol.- Upon Mr. V ilson's recommendalion, and after hearing evidence, the officer was dismissed the f or-e. PP.OPERTY Sale.—At the Globe Hotel, Mcr- i thyr, on Thursday night, JI.. Dan. Xiion^is olfeisd.. fov sale by public auction the* icaseh6ld property, die B4aiwg {nn> ns cotta-es at the rear—>7os. u and"7,*vV iitfirlocf- jtreet, Merthyr, now let to monthly tenants at rentals producing £ 16 18s. a > ear. The property is held for a term of 99 years from 1st May, iS'ifj, the apportioned ground rent being, Balance Inn El IC)s., adjoining cottages and yard £ 1 10s. Tho property was sold in one .%)t 10 Mr. Thos. Phillips, Bethel House, George- town, Merthyr, for £ 15-3. Messrs. G. C. James, Charles and Davies, Merl were the solicitors for the vendors. Shiloh, Merthyr 'I Missies Haia.—i through the kindness of Mr. Rolwi-t Hum- phreys, P.rynmawr, a very enjoyable evening "was spent on Thursday of last week. A large eumber of both adults and children came to- 1 gether and all were taken by magic-lantern for a tour through beautiful seencry in North W ale. 'Qie slides shown included such historic and Interesting places as Ruthin, Denbigh, St. Asaph, Rbuddlan, P.hyl and intermediate tillages. The Liwyd river and the lovely landscapes of the vale vreve special features of the lecture, and greatly admired by all present. The views were interspersed with hymns, which were heartilv sung by the congregation. On the motion of the Rev. H. O. Hughe?, seconded; by Mr. Wm. Edwards, Tr. Humphreys was tery heartily thanked for his much-appreciated Bervices. Organ P.cital.—The attention of readers is drawn to an advertisement in another column vnnoimcing all O:>U1 r<v ital, which -Is to te givOi in Zoar Chapel, on Thursday evening next, by a very talcr.tc.l yoi>ng Welsh tn.isi"iaii, Mr. Caradog Roberts, of Rhos, who is a Mtis. Bac. and a F.R.C.O. This is tLe < c^ti^n-an who last year sat for the decree of p:, (or of Music, and although his composition accepted, it seems he cannot loiallv i-se U-ut titl.) until a certain period ot. lime; has efy.sed; be is too young. However, that dis-n^ilification is fast passing away, and h" will soon have the honour- able distinction of f €ing the youngest Doctor j of Music in this country. During the intervals cones will be rendered by Miss Annie Pees, of Dowlais, and Mr. Lewh Jones, of Heolgemg, two rising local -artisie*. who do not require any introduction to a Merthyr audience. A finfe musical treat may le looked Sonvard to on this eveniag. The ? will te devoted towards th,e> fr.nds of the small struggling church 1n the Tai Valley.

Merthyr Branch of Young Liberals SUCCESSFUL CONVERSAZIONE. The Merthyr branch of the National League of Young Liberal1; is destined to take an im- portant part- in future Parliamentary elections in the Merthyr Borough. On Tuesday night a conversazione wao hejd at the Angel Assembly Rooms, with the object of recruiting new leaguers, and the meeting was attended with the great succ?s~. Over 200 Liberals, iadies and gentlemen, paid for admission, those pre- sent including stalwarts who have for years supported the banner of true Liberalism, and the sons and daughters of stalwarts who have passed to the great majority. The president of the conversazione was Mrs. H. M. Lloyd, and the secretary Miss Morgan Jones, who wers supported by a strong committee of ladies and gentl-emen. Refreshments were supplied, and a musical programme was gone through. Mr. W. R. Edmunds, solicitor, president of the Merthyr Liberal Association, presided, and in extending a hearty welcome to all present, explained' the objects of the League of Young Liberals He referred also to the general desire to have two prominent Liberals to repre- sent the Borough, and said this important question would be considered as matters devel- Qpèd. Mr. W. B. Foster Bovill, from the Central Branch of the League, London, attended the meeting, and a'so delivered a short address. The object of th" National League, he said. was to show the right to live, the necessity o. a living wage, and the righty of liberty with justice. The democracy meant all peop.?, hot one section of the community (applause). The League was already a very strong band of Liberals, and their influence was felt at the last election (applause) Miss M. Morgan 'ones, in the course of a neat speech, referred to women's interest in politics, and said she considered it women's duty to take part in the affair; of the, nation. | She urged the women of the Merthyr Borough to take a greater interest in the < measures broushv before Parliament, so that they might wield a greater influence at election times (ap- pi a use). Councillor Isaac Edwards, in moving a vote of thanks to Mr Bovill for his address, said that tliis was a day of leagues, the strain of political and ether quest ons drawing folk of kindred sympathies into organised bodies for the sake of furthering tho objects they had in common. He dwelt upon the theme of Mr. Bovtll's address, namely, that democracy was a far greater thing than a party that it was a spirit, that could not be t'd down to hard and fast lines, but new moving onward to- wards ita goal. Th? < i:ty of the present- day was that a fe,v claimed to have a monopoly of this &P't; nd, indeed, tried to gull the public into li':l:?t;ng that it was at their absolute control. He Teferred to the work which the various League branches did during thg teoenl clccnon, and said that if so much could be done without time for thorough organisation, how mirch more could be done if the whole of the Bo: ouch was covered by the Leac'ue movement and aU the branches working in unison. Wi*. h reference to the re- marks Q made as to the advisability of the Liberal Patty running two candidates for the constituency," l. Edwards stated that that was a matter which the future wou!d determine ?.s events developed, and lie would urgo them to be patient, and, above everything e&e, be ful net to plav the enemy's game.—Mr. Ired. Jon-6 seconded the resolution, which was car- ried with acclamation. < Too musical programme was contributed to by Mr. Dan Rqx, Mr T. Morgan Jones, Miss Annie RSN, Dowlais (the popular candi- date for the Mail" Scholarship); Mr. R G. Owen. Mr Robert Lewis (violin solos), Mr. Jc-jse Taylor (recitations), and Mr. Edgar Reynolds was the accompanist. There are now about 200 members of the local branch.-Readers are reminded of the great public meeting to b held at the Drill llilJ on April 9ti), when rhil chief speakers will b* :\1, E. G. Hemmerde, KC., M.P., and Mr. Ed^ar Jones, M.P.

Merthyr Catholic Y.M.S. On Monday nieht, a dinner was held at Bent lev's Hotel in connection with the St. Mary's Catholic Young Men's Society, to cele- grate the tenth anniversary of the organisa- tion. The Per T. A. Hind. O.S.B., is the chaplain, the president is Mr. J. Crowley, and the vice-president Mr. O. Mahoney, and an able secretarv is found iu lr P. J. Kivilin. INIr. J. Oiff ord is the treasurer. A capital programme was gone through, the toasts in- cluding '"The Pope and the Kins; proposed by the president: "St. Mary's C.Y.M.S." by Mr. P. J. Kivilin; "The Irish Nation," Rev. Mr. Clarke, O.C..B-, etc. Songs were sung bv Mr. J. MaoDonnkl, Mr. M. J. Kivilin, Mr. Max V/ehrly, Mr. J. Collins and Mr. J. Heafey. The accompanist was Mr. W. J. Collins. The gathering wa.s most enjoyable, and thanks were accorded Mr. Prancombe for his admirable catering.

Merthyr Guardians Election. _0- Mr. Pees Morris, a candidate for the Merthyr TW n Vs ard, is v, Hi known. He was a candidate for the Hearts of Oak delegate vacancy, and came second on tho list out of the competitors. He is a worlini" and mdicd builder, with a thorough knowledge of the buildine trade, nnd rû blie works contracts. Mr. Morris is a native of Merthyr, and hem :a worker himself, appealo to oywry other v.cvker. He aiso appeals ts tradesmen for their support, on the grounds that his business experience an be used to advantage on the Guardians, if eie; ted.

¥ A J |'i CU nee<i not keep a dog, you need (I I not try scientific esperiroents. Jost 0 A get a box of Sanford's Rat Poison '^and yoav trouble is over. Rats o A get a box of Sanford's Rat Poison antl yoav trouble is over. Rats fjt Z, i co;ae f«f it ea^erh'; just ?ay the tw' 0 U train, tttey do the rest. Farmers, TSSj&fr&r brewers, store-keeperi, hatisle- holders sav it is the best. Why j Va not try it to-day ? Your chemist afjE- stocks it ai;d it costs bat (id. ,Jt Sanford's Rat Poison sold by all f&e chemists, or direct from J .t (r J 3w{wl < Sm, Sn<r 1((l M ~P' 3 } m &JIB5, | 6d. to SI- i Oi U I l<tir, £ J JL I exterminator. p £ J JL I exterminator.

Theatre Royal, Merthyr. The visit of the latest and greatest musical comedy, The Arcadians," this week, is another success for the enterprising management. The praises of this delightfully picturesque piece have already been sung far and wide by the press, and the pompfny arc entitled to the tfiaMtheip £ e'seht3tlea ffttiS thrt yerry little .short of the original production. Mr. !XiP ^tepB38Bison*f drollery as iSitorlieitas*' is hugely enjoyed, and Mr. Alfred Peer's "Peter Doody," tho jockey who pathetically describes himself as an aiso ran," found a prominent place in the estimation ot he audience. The | gallant Jack Meadows" was taken by Mr Arthur S. Macdonald. Miss. Molly Mclntyre is dainty and captivating as Eileen Gavauagh," and sings very prettily, as also does Miss Sybil Tancredi, in the part of the graceful and demure "Sombra." Mrs. Smith received forceful expression at the hands of Miss Gertrude Aylward. Next W, eel. Her Road to Ruin is a new and original fonr-act drama, full of interest, with many exciting scenes, and deals with the important "woman" question. The cast is a strong one, and the audiences should be large every night during the week. There will be a Matinee on Easter Mondav, at the usual time. i t Ma. ALEXANDER BEADLE r. Mr. Alexander Bradley, The man who was to blame," in Mr. Frank Melville's great play Her Road to Ruin." Mr. Bradley is one of the finest exponents of the" villains" of modern drama. Graceful and debonair, yet with a keen incisiveness that carries conviction with every word. A much-travelled man, he has played leading parts in a great many of our modem dramas throughout Great Britain, Africa and Australia. Amongst other dramas too numerous to mention, Mr. Frederick Melville is also author of the present rage of London. It is entitled, The Bad Girl of the family," and is now being played to crowded houses nightly at the Aldwich Theatre, Strand, London, W.C.

Merthyr and District Ma) Horse Show. THE SHORTAGE OF SUBSCRIPTIONS. The annual meeting of the Committee, which was well attended, was held at the Castle Hotel, on the 16th inst, Mr. Hy. Owen presiding. Tne balance sheet, showing a surplus of £63, was unanimously adopted and recommended to be printed for distribution to all S I bribers. The Chairman, commenting on the balance sheet, and on the general working of the show, said that last ye&r was an experimental one in manv respects, and although they did not realise their antieipationa, still they had their experience to profit by now. He regretted, the fact that the show was not yet self-supporting, the subscriptions, as they had heard, being £ 41 15s. ed. less than the previous year, while the prizes offered were E25 6s. 6d. over. He attributed the shortage in the subscription iwt to the lack of zeal and exertion on the part -t the collectors, and not to any antipathy "r lack of lovaltv and support on the part of the townspeople in general. He could not help feeling that the May Day show was as populai now as ever, and certainly in as good a hnancv [position, but it was evident from tneir ex- perience—and they should profit by it—that the horse show element should be elimmaiea. The show should be regarded at a Day Show and Parade," pure and simple. There was a general simmering of a complaint through out the district and Glamorganshire that horses bought specially for show purposes sliou.d not be allowed to compete in this particular parade, I and that in previous years, and especial y of late, no opportunity was given to a bona ncie tradesman's horse. He was of that opinion himself, and trusted that in future the classes I would be arranged to meet the demand of the public and not any particular class of horse, or any particular class of trade. It was a- so mentioned that Merthyr, situated many miles from the main line, was not having the support it should from the railway companies m the way of conccssion in rates to exhibitors in ^ne open classes, and that representation should be ma e it should from the railway companies in the way of conccssion in rates to exhibitors in ^ne open classes, and that representation should be ma e at once to head-quarters, with a view of obtain- ing the privileges granted to other towns an. shows on the main line, and especially p*or> the schedule was prepared. He had hopea and wished that their surplus this year would have been such that a sum could be voted to the charitable institutions of the town, but unfortunately it was not so. He maintained that a. balance of not less than £.100 was required to carry on the show successfully, and in his opinion they would not bo justified in touching the reserve fund just now. Old faces were missed that evening, some through indisposition and others throuch the fortunes of circumstances. He wished them a speedy recovery and a speedy return as their services were indispensable, they could not very well do without them. The election of officers was then proceeded with, the retiring chairman (Mr. Henry Owen) being elected president; Mr. John Evans (the Roval Stores), chairman of committees; Mr. W. R. Lewis, Pontmorlais, vice-chairman Mv., i Edward Sones, London and Provincial bank, treasurer; Mr. W. T. Jones, secretary; Mr. Arthur Jones, honorary veterinary surgeon, Messrs. Harrv Millward and Harry Wariow, auditors. Th« next show is to be held on the 12th May. 1

Merthyr Detachment,. 5th Batt., The Welsh Regiment. DRILL SEASON, 1910. The Officer Commanding Detachment notifies all ranks that company training will commence during week ending 23rd April, 1910, and the following *11 be the weekly programme unless otherwise shown in detachment orders, published in the" Merthyr Express and posted at the Orderly Room, Merthyr and the Armoury, Dowlais :— DRILL NIGHTS (MEBTHYR).—Monday, recruit drill and N/O-'s class, 7.45 p.m. Wednesdays, company and recruit drill, 7.45 p.m. Fridays, recruit training. 7.45 p.m. MPSKETBY.—Thursday* and Saturdays, as specified in detachment orders. Musketry course for trained-men standard, at Dowlais j on Easter Monday and Tuesday, commencing at 10 a.m. Recruits w'rll be detailed special days to attend. CAMP.—Divisional Camp will be held at Aberystwyth, from 24th July to < th August, this year. Attention is drawn to the ordpM at to attendance at tamp. To qualify for pay trained men must have completed 10 company i drills and musketry course; recruits at least 20 recriiit'.s and musketry course, by the date of camp. | CHARGER LOADIKG RIFLES.—'The charger loading rifles having been issued to the Battalion the C.O. trusts that evc»y N.C.O. and man will make himself acquainted with the same. Rifles, and bayonets will invariably be returned to the Armoury immediately after parades or musketry. Company PABAOES will be held at Merthyr, in drill ordt'r. on 30th March ajjd 0th and 115th I April, to enable N.C.O.'s nnd men to take their places in section and company drill before the t actual company training commences. These drills will not count for efficiency, but will for drill prizes4

MERTHYR TOWN COUNCIL THE NEW LABOUR EXCHANGE. MR. RICHARD BELL AND SIR W. CROSSMAN APPEAL FOR CO-OPERATION. PROPOSED INCREASE OF LIBRARY RATE. The monthly meeting of this Council was held on Monday, the Mayor (Coun. F. T. James) presiding. There was a full attendance of members with the exception of Coun. A. W. Houlson, who is indisposed. From the minutes of the General Purposes Committee it appeared that the Town Clerk had reported that Air. L. L. Llewelyn had in- terviewer! j'im with respect to the proposal that the Co on and other adjacent local au- thority dd acquire the Glamorganshire Cana^ < ;e. was directed ,to communicate witb.^|t.and SMcuiit^in Councils, <tnd\I1,¡;" n^gatv ftoiinjy Council,} suggest- ing "i^ncfcvfor f^to^rhicpaso ;of discussing the rtiai;yr. — Aid. A. Wilson moved that the Corporation take no action in the matter, but the Mayor assured the Council that the confer- ence would not commit them to anything. Coun. Ed. Edwards asked when the widen- ing of the main road at Graigberthlwydd would be carried out.—The Surveyor said he was taking action, and the improvement would be proceeded with a3 soon as the tind was obtained. Aid. T. J. Evans complained that there were no roads in front cf new houses at Penyard, and the Surveyor replied that he had sent an estimate of the cost of making the roads to the estate owner. He hoped the work would be commenced very soon. It was reported that thvee tenders wcro re- ceived for the construction of a gallery in the Court of Quarter Sessions, viz., Mr. John Jen- i i THE Hash "MR. 'Mattetew TECHAI?, CT_P. (See Page 1L) kins, Canal Wharf, M 118.. Mr. N. Moss, F,87 15s. 9d., and Messrs. J. Williams and Sons, L98 15s., and that the Watch Committee had accepted that of Mr. Moss.-Ald. J. Har- pur asked why the lowest tender was not ac- cepted.—The Mayor said he was told that Mr. Moss's tender was accepted because that con- I tractor was already in possession of the court, I altering it to plans, and Mr. Moss had accepted E85. The Mayor moved that the Council acoept the offer of the executors of the late Dr. Draffin to sell the surgery at Merthyr Vale, for con- version into a police station, at C52.r).-Ald. E. Morrell seconded, and it was agreed to. Aid. Wilson drew attention to the report in the Finance Committee's minutes that the General Education Committee's account was overdrawn £22,636 10s. 10d., and said he was told that £ 6,000 was due to the Corporation in grants.—Aid. Morrell said the Education Com- mittee would receive about gll,OLIO at the end of March.—Coun. Dan Thomas: The overseers do not owe anything. Coun. Marsh moved, and Ald. J. M. Berry seconded, that the present overseers be re- elected, viz., Aid. J. Harpur, R. Evan3, and Ivor Abraham, Coun. J. W. Lewis, A-. W. Honlson and Dan Thonias.-Ald. E. Morrell said he would like Coun. D. J. Lewis to be an overseer, and moved his appointment.—Coun Dan Thomas: Oh, that's too serious a matter for him (laughter).—Coun. Dd. John second- ed the proposal.—It was agreed by 14 to 13 votes that no alteration be made.—The Labour Group called for the names of those who vidted to lie recorded. The following were appointed on the Joint Farms Management Committee:—Aid. J. Har- pur, Coun. Dd. John. E. Edwards, and H. M. Lloyd. On the motion of the Mayor, seconded by Coun. N. F. Hankey, a Museum Committee was appointed to deal with the provision and maintenance of the museum at Cyfarthfa Castie. The Mayor said there would be a very interesting summer exhibition, including another loan of works of art from the South Kensington Museum. A letter was read from thfe Local Govern- ment Board complying with the application of the Corporation for powers to purchase com- pulsorily a portion of St. David s School site, and the same was received with applause.— The letter was referred to the Law and Par- liamentary Committee. A letter was read from Mr. Jackson Withers inviting the Mayor and Corpovatioh to attend the Theatre and witness a performance of "The Arcadians." The offer was accepted. Twelve tenders received for the erection of a new bridge at Aberfan wero referred to the Public Works Committee to be tabulated, with plenary powers to accept the lowest. Coun. Dan Thomas referred to the fact that tradesmen whosfe tenders were accepted had to pay 10s. 6d. for the stamp when the oon- tracts were sealed. Ho said that having regard to the fact that tradesmen "cut" prices, this seemed hardly fair.—The Mayor said the Au- ditor insisted upon a stamp being affixed to contracts for over 950. INCREASED ASSESSABLE VALUE. j Upon the minutes of the Finance Committee coming up for adoption, Coun. W. Jones re- ferred to the statement that the basis for county rate for the parish of Merthyr had been increased from L271,462 to £ 279,950.—Aid. D W. Jones said the figures were correct. The assessment of the Borough had increased, —Aid. J. Harpur (an overseer) The figures are quite correct.—Coun. Dan Thomas: Yes: the rateable value is £ 9,0C0 more than last time. THE JOINT ASYLUM. The reports of the Committee dealing with the proposed joint Asylum as Swansea, which have appeared in extenso in our columns, were referred to.—The Town Clerk report-sd that a sub-committee had met representatives of the Swansea Corporation, and the latter said they would be prepared to pay the Merthyr Corporation £ -300 a year from the rates as soon as the asylum premises proposed to be erected jointly were included in the County Borough of Swansea.—Tho Council considered this satisfactory, and the Town Clerk was in- structed to reply accordingly.—Coun. Grif- fiths: Is it arranged that we are to join Swan- set in the erection of en a-svlum?—The Mavor: Yet;. STAGE PLAYS ON GOOD FRIDAY. Upon the licence for the performance or r-tage plays at the Drill Hal! being renewed, Coun. IT. M. Lloyd said there were only three towns in the country where stage plays were allowed on Good Fridays, and he did not think Merthyr should be one of the three. He moved that in future the licence be granted on condition that r.o performances taki; place j on Good Fridays. He thought the majority of people would be in his favour.—Coun. Marsh seconded.Couu. F.-S. Simons said he did not see why people should be deprived of seeing a performance on Good Friday if they wished to, and lie moved the previous nuestion.—Coun. Dan Thomas: I hope Coun. Lioyd won't open his shop on Good Friday.—The proposition was lost. PARK FOR TRfcHARRIS. Coun. Wf L<5W)s, Treharris, proposed that the Park, Corrrhit^ee dfcal with the question of acquiring a site for a recreation ground at Treharris without further delay. He said that Merthyr had done very well. and Aid. D. W. Jones's name ought to be in)-riortalised.Ald. Morrell seconded, and said that he was cflad that Aid D. W. Jones had converted Coun. Lfcwis to see the need or public parks.—Aid. I D. \V. Jones said he l:aJ never known Mr. Lewis in a more genial mood (laughter). The j Committee weri very anxious to get open spaces throughout the Borough (applaufe). The ion wis earned. SUGGESTED INCREASE IN LIBRARy j KATE. Coun. J. Ditties (Dowlais) had given notice to move That the r.ewssary steps bo by the to a for the purposes of the Public Libraries I within the Dg.Touib qf thret halfpqjkop in the JE. The Town Cierk said an Act of Parlia- ment would be required first.—Coun. Davies: I understand that. But I have heard also that some authorities have been empowered to levy a twopenny rate.—The Mayor: I must rule you out or order unless you move that we take steps to promote an Act of Parliament.—Coun. Davies: Then I move that. He said the bor- ough was so scattered that a penny rate was totally inadequate.—The Mayor Let the mat- ter stand over until -Coun. Dan Tho- mas Until he is a member of Parliament (laughter).—Coun. Davies: Oh, that won't be very long (renewed laughter).—The Mayor: I was going to sav until later on. We may have to promote a Bill in Parliament, and this could be included.—Coun. Davies: Very well. I'll withdraw. THE LABOUR EXCHANGE. Sir William Grossman. ex-Lord Mayor of Cardiff, and Mr. Richard Bell. as representa- tives of the Board of Trade, with Mr. Davies, of the Merthyr Exchange, attended before the Corporation and asked for the assistance of the,.Council. worj £ i<efril;he,rthyi:i>i:aodj" of-,tji&'vLapoyc, 'Exc^afjg?- ) jkjjpr-. Bolhf is -» natiye -o^-McEi^iyrj at th, Outset said he was proud of the progress the old town was making. He hoped that, progress would continue, and, that 110 would live to see the day when Merthyr would have a Lord Mayor (applause). The deputation came there to ask for the Council's assistance and co-opera- tion in putting the new machinery cf the La- bour Exchange into operation, and to obtain from it the greatest possible result*. Very frequently it had occurred that when a man left his house to go and look for work he turned to the right, and got no work, whereas had he turned to the left he might have found a situation. The object of tho Labour Ex- change, therefore, was to mitigate this hard- ship, and so put an end to the sufferings caused through unemployment. They wanted men to go to the office (situated opposite t'e Town Hall), register their uam-ts. and work would be found for them as soon as possible. But this labour machine oould only operate successfully with the co-operation of employ- ers, the Corporation, and other local bodies, In various parts of the country Corporations had engaged their labour through the ex- changes, and he trusted Merthyr would do the same. Over 200,000 men had registered their names, 32,500 vacancies were notified, and 19,907 positions had been filled (hear, hear). Whatever might be done by breaking up poor law Boards of Guardians, they could do noth- ing unless they provided some machinery in its p!ace. This was a necessary social reform.— COUl). Dan Thomas: Tariff Reform.—Mr. Bell: I could argue with you on Tariff Reform but I do not suppose I should be allowed to do so at this table (laughter). We want you to make it known to workmen and employers that this exchange is open, and we want you to en- gage your labour thrpugh the exchange. Coun. Hankey: What is the relation be- tween the Labour Exchange, and the Distress Conllnitke ?-The Mayor: The idea is instead of the Distress Committee meeting and select- ing men that we should go itoross to the Ex- change and say we want so many men for road-making.—Mr. Bell: That is the main ob- ject, bu'fi for the present the best is to work hand in hand as far as possible. A Labour Ex- change cannot make work, but a Distress Com- mittee can do so. Coun. Isaac Edwards: The Distress Com- mitter takes up the most deserving cases. Un- less circumstances are taken into account you cannot help our relief committee.—Mr. Bell said that the Cardiff Relief Committee had be- come part of the Exch&nge; He agreed it did away with favouritism. Ati Exchange did not inquire into circumstances like a Distress Com- mittee did. They regn.rded all out of works as distressed.—In reply to Aid. T. J. Evans, Mr. Bell said he did not think the unemployed grant would be renewed.—Aid. Morrell: When men are found employment the Exchange does not fix the waes ?-Mr. Bell:. No, we find men tvork, *and find out for them and and tell them the wagesj>aid and the hours worked. In Mer- thyr the Corporation could fuld the work, and the Exchange would find the men. Aid. D. W. Jones. after referring to the fact that the people of Merthyr thought a great deal of Mr. Bell, who was a. Merthyr boy, said he believed Merthyr would have been over- looked by the Board of Trade had it not been for the Corporation. He assured Mr. Bell that the Parks amd Cemeteries Committee would help the Exchange all they could.—Mr. Bell said it was contemplated that advisory com- mittees; consisting of workmen and employ- ers. would be formed. He had grca.t hopes that in the future the country would not see so many wastrels. Sir Wm. Cross roan also spoke. He said he thought the Exchanges would be a great boon. At Cardiff, the Exchange had found work for many men.—The deputation were thanked for their attendance.

Refuge Ass-uranee Co mpany Ltd. INCREASED PREMtUM REVENUE E134,000 OVER PREVIOUS YEAR. To prove that our nation is gradually b- om- ing more and more thrifty, one has only to olancc at the work accomplished by tho leading Industrial Insurance Offices year by year. The Refuge Assurance Company, -whose balance sheet is printed in another column, has, despite the depressed state of trade, had au excellent year. The income from premiums alone amounts to E2,601,230, which is over L134,000 more than that received during the preceding year. The. ramifications of its business extend to nearly 'every village and hamlet in Great Britain, and it certainly holds a very high position in the confidence of the people. Its claims for the vear amounted to £ 1,131,426- It tfOuld be impossible to judge with any degree of accuracy the amount of suffering and sorrow that has been Softened and alleviated by the payment of this huse sum in the hour of trial and bereavement. Since the inception of the Company it haa paid away in claims, over 13 million pounds; truly a stupendous record. It is worthy of note that locally in South Wales, the Company paid in claims last year £ 69,000. The bonus in the ordinary branch, on with-prout policies is well maintained, and a substantial surplus has been carried forward, which virtually guarantees the maintenance of the bonus at this high standard. No disaster of any magnitude involving the loss of life, occurs, but what the Corupaný is called upon to pay claims in con- sequence. The recent sad disaster of the Manx mail-boat, "Ellftu Vannin," which was wrecked in the Mersey last December, is still fresh in our memories, and this involved the Refuge in seven claims, amounting to £ 315. The colliery explosion at Deri, near Bargoed. in the fall of last year, also produced twelve claims, amounting to 24.01. One of the outstanding features of the Company is its promptness in paying its legiti- inat-o without any irksome formalities åud to thig much of its success is attributed. Its solidarity is beyond question, as the total, funds stand close npon seven million pounds, having.been increased Iflst year by considerably over half-a-millioit pounds. Another special feature in -th* fever-increasing amount of endoiv- monfc assurance transacted, being a sort of savings bank combined with insurance pro- tection. The business in this branch is going u o by leaps and hounds which says much for the 'thrifty habits of our population. The Refuge" is what its name implies, n vorititble olac.e of safety, and is destined to become, a mighty power in the Insurance World.

l Shrop^-Mrs's oldest rnedieal practitioner, Dr. T'\>lio11 J.Sand'on?. has died at Market D<ay- ;u' c; S3. •»!« was one o; c^ae.c '.liomban of the Royal College of Sarjaofts,

Is Nothing from lis. All from the Public. Remarkable Letters. BRYri?uAWR. MR. J. GARDNER," OLD BRECON ARMS, .-■kmtiftg-uftn >•$»$] f 2|-i&SMfiroh; t9.Hh sa>ya: "ll'catii of contradiction that Dr.1 Tibbie' Vi-Cocoa is the: best. I have been t&k-j itiT: it tor this last two! years and I have found! that it is a very finei relish. I always take it to work with le, and ) find that it is giving me 1. better appetite."

WSGAN. lIm. J. KXOWLEIS,| 12, VVESTMIN'STEK GRTSESOUGH ST., WIG AN, writing ou the Sth March 1910, SAY, Having! used various kinds I con-j S'dcr the best and by fai j the most superior of j them all is Dr. Tibbies' Vi-Cocoa, which I have been using now for nearly five years. 1 honestly say I find it; beneficial. As a work-, ing man there is nothing! that does me so much! good when I come home! from work as Vi-Cocoa.] No matter how tired II am it always brightens] and cheers me up. An-i other reason why I shall) always use Dr. Tibbies": Vi-Cocoa is that I find it! 1 ,I very strengthening 10I1 children. I have hadj one little boy very ill. but by using Vi-Cocoa 1 am glad to say that he isi coming to his old self once again, so you may be sure that I shall always use and praise) Dr. Tibbies' Vi-Cosoaj for all that it is worth.

MKTLAKE, S.W. MR. E. M. RICHARDS 2, OAK VILLAS, WEST E*i>, Lot\rKR !RJCBR»n>?fE>i rftD.1,. s:w.ii 1910, says am writ-: ing to say that after trying almost all ldnd.s,1 we at last gave Dr.! Tibbies' Vi-Cocoa a trial! and to our pleasure it! proved so far as ourj [judgment went the best; iof all we had tried, with] ithe result,that for the! last ton years we have, not used 01 any other. Ij [always get it sent down- with other things from, town in the Is. 6d. tins,l which wo think goes' farther, and certainly, keeps in a nicer 'way, while in use."

MANCHESTER. 3mS. TALL AS,j 161, HEKDHAM VKLF QUEEN'S PARK, MAN-| CHESTER, writing on the 28th February, 1910, says: <:I have been a: user of Dr. Tibbies' vi-I Cocoa for nine years. II have tried others, but] Dr. Tib'oits' Vi-Cocoa H the best.

DERBY. MRS. T. SMITHYMAN] 27, CAM EBON P.D., MANTON, DF.R3Y, writing; on the fsr(I February, 1910, says: "We havel been taking Dr. Tibbies' Vi-Cocoa for five years. We have derived great benefit by it. We could! not be without it in my! household for it is a] great source of strength")

PENGE, S.E. MR. W. T. INKPEN, 6, SOMEBATI.LE ROAD, PENGE&S.E., wrfting op the 2ml March, 1910", *4ys: I^My. had been suffering with Ner- vousness, and had had indigestion for a long time. She had beerj going to the doctors foi about six months lot medicine, and had seem- ed to derive no benefit from it, and she got nc better until one day ow of Dr. Tibbies' little books was left at the door and I advised hei to try some of it. It did a lot of good in a very short time, and 1 will never be without it. I used to always fee] done after a day's work, but now when I am done and have had my cup oi Dr. Tibbies' Vi-Cocoa I can go out and do a lot oi gardening or anything I else that wants doing about, home. I shall always recommend it to anyone who asks me anything how it is I go on so easy to what ",a to previously."

WEYMOUTH. MRS. COOMBS, 2, N^WBERY CAFVDENP, WEYMOUTH, writing on the 6th March, 1910. says: "We have used Dr. Tibbies' Vi-Cocoa for this last ten to twelVE years and have founc great benefit from it. I can sav it is the best ] have tried."

LEICESTER. MR. C. GRAY, 92,! GEASSMERE ST., LEICES- TER, the..24341),; ^eimsiy, says"^ ^J'feyve used Vi-Cocoa for tlie past! [ twelve year?, and I can! honestly say that I have) proved it to be very! -inourlshing beverage."

j BEDFORD. MR. W. B. A VIS,| >iSlLVKRDA LE, FORD E^l>, VROAD, QDEEN'S PARK,! ;,BEDFORD, writing on the. ';31st January, 1910, says: "I have used Dr. Tibbies" 'Vi-Cocoa for over five; "yoara now. We like itj "because of its pleasant, jjtaste, its sustaining pow- jer, and its power to en- tourage appetite. There !iis not another to equal :|it, I intend to use no :fother. I can also aedl :1 ithat I use it twice a ;jday."

LEEDS. MR§. G. H. ROBIN- IJSON, 5, USIOK PLACE, IMARSHALL ST., HOL- BECH, LEEDS, writing on the 6th March, 1910, says: ''I have been a user of Dr. Tibbies' Vi- iCocoa for about ten lyears, and am taking the] jopportunity of writing a ifew lines on its behalf. I ,jhave always found it an !excellent beverage. Sly j hi?r-band used to suffer Tv'ith indigestion, but Jnow he finds great bene-1 liftt from Dr. Tibbies' Vi- riCocoa. It is as good as [|medicine, and we shall IreveT be without it."

SOUTHAMPTON. MRS. E. H. DAY, SOUTHIER^NAY, 93, MAL: JIESBURIY ROAD, FBJSE- ■^jatiug oat UP i)tlj Maxich 4 >910, says i -"We ha.$ been users of Dr. Tibbies Vi-Cocoa for twelve years. My husband never takes anything else but Vi-Cocoa. I have seven children, who often get a drink of Vi- Cocoa, as I think it does them good. I do not think anyone can speak too highly of it. My hus- iband has been a scldiei [nearly all the time he has jused it but is a Pensiorei now. We first took tc Vi-Cocoa. on coming ihomo from India, twelve years ago."

KETTERING. MR. J. H. KNIGHT, ;93, REGENT STREET/ [t he Srfl' F i: -j have' used-Dr. Tibbies' Vi-Cocba for ionic years past noW» jand have found it very igood, with good an(1 staying powers.

] CALVERLEY. SIR. J. HOETON, 25i ■JO.IPET. STREET, CAIA~EB- iLEY, NR. LEEDS, writing ;)on the 22n.d Februaryil. :jl9I0, say3 We hav»: >jused Dr Tibbies' Vi-' Cocoa for fifteen years ;xnd we think there is ao jother like it

COCOA: The valuable properties of the finest cocoa are well-known. KOLA Of extraordinary sustaining properties preventing undue fatigue or exhaustion after strenuous work. MALT: Rich in digestive power and | easily assimilates other foods. HOPS Soothes the nerves, acts as a tonic, and promotes healthy sleep. All these valuable ingredients are com- bined in .t'if)-æ The most perfect Food-Beverage ever invented. The Press and public are unailimous in saying: There is no Cocoa like VI-COCOA." Do not ask your grocer for cocoa. I Ask him for VI.CoCOA.-it makes all the difference. Every grocer sells VI-COCOA in 6d. packets and 9d. and Is. 6d. tins'.

Merthyr Libera} Federation. 0,- I ANNUAL MEETING AT ABERNANT: MR. EDGAR JONES, M.P., ON THE ¡' POLITICAL SITUATION. The annual meeting cf tho Merthyr Liberal I Federation was held last Friday evening at Bethel Baptist Ch-jpel, Abernant, Alderman D. W. Jones in the chair. There WSTO also pre- sent:—Councillors Isaac Edwards, Dowlais (sec- retary) W. Thomas, Aberdare (treasurer); Mr. Edgar Jones, M.P., as well as delegates from every- part of the Borough. On the moticn of the Chairman, votes of condolence with the families of the Rev. J. Hathren Davies, Cefn, and Councillor Griffith George, J.P., The Laurels, Aberdare, who had passed away since the previous meeting of, the Federation, were passed. A RECORD MAJORITY. The Chairman &aid that although the Feder- ation was only formed some three or four months ago, it was now necessary under their constitution to hold that annual meeting. Since the Federation was established, they had work- ed harmoniously, and had done well. After the poll was declared, one of the members claimed it as a victory for Socialism. He (the speaker) however could tell them, whatever else it was, that it was a great victory for Liberalism (loud applause). They, doubtless, remembered the figures: Mv. Edgar Jones, 15.488; Mr. J. Keir Hardie, 13,841; the Conservative securing only f 4,75&; giving the Liberals a majority of 10,&92 —the biggest majority ever recorded for a Lib- j eral member of Parliament (loud applause). I Since 1892, there had been nothing like it, and i the record majority up to that date was 9,452. That, too, Was in that constituency (hear, hear)., He (the speaker) was then acting for Mr. D. A. Thomas, as his suli-agent in the Merthyr side; and he had the supreme pleasure of sending a telegram to Mr. Gladstone—(loud applause)— announcing the result, and he well recalled the reply he received complimenting the Merthyr Borough on the splendid result achieved, and expressing a hope that it would have a far- reaching effect. Mr. Jones went on to sa.y that the result in Wales generally must have an important effect upon the question of the Disestablishment of the Church of England in Wales (hear, hear). Mr. Asquith, in his Albert Hall speech, had specifically referred to the question, and it was one of the planks upon which the la-?t General Election was fought. What was Wales's reply to the challenge? Although they lost two seats, the increase in the Liberal votes was 34,973; while the in- crease in the Unionist. vote was only 214, giv- ing a net Liberal increase o-f ,34.-759. The fol. lowing figures, giving, the Liberal majorities at the last three elections, would probably interest them. In 1900 it was 45,570; in 1906, 74,403; and in 1910, 109,162 (loud applause). What about taking a census after that? (A Voice: "Senseless.") He agreed it was senseless and absurd (applause). The result in Wales was excellent, and Scotland made a good second, but many were disappointed with the general result. Considering, however, the powerful in- terests arrayed against them, it was a great victory. The money spent by the Uniomste was enormous, and the Liberals had reason to rejoice that they had done so well. The King's Speech contained references only to two great questions—the Budget and the restriction of the veto of the House of Lords. The speaker then referred to the present member as a brilliant young man, of whom much would be expected in time to come, and thanked all the members of the Federation for the valuable services they ungrudgingly and freely rendered at the elec- tion. He was also delighted to refer to the great services rende.red by the young people in the Borough, both young men and young wo- men. He was delighted to find the League of Young Liberals doing so well in the Borough, and it was apparent from the speech of Mr. J. Keir Hardio that that gentleman feared that the new organization among the young might be the undoing of the I.L. P. (laughter and cheers). The Secretary then read the minutes of the last meeting and of the Executive meetings held since that date, as wed as the finanoial statement of the receipts and expenses since the start, which showed a balance in hand of £ 4 14s. 9d. An appeal for subscriptions by the Treasurer resulted in a large sum being pro- mised. It was then decided that Alderman D. W. Jones, Councillor Isaao Edwards, Dowlais, and Mr. D. M. Richards, Aberdare, be the repre- sentatives of the Federation' on the Committee of the National Liberal Fed,-ration.-It was resolved that the whole of the Executive Com- mittee be elected members of the Weleh Nation- al Liberal Conucil. and that each ward in addi- tion elect otie.-The whole of the officers were then unanimously ro-eleoted for the forthcom. ing year.-On ths question of the election of the Executive, some* discussion ensued, but it was resolved to adhero to the existing rules for the pre»?nt, and it was decided that the ward committees should elect one each on the Execu- tive, in addition to the vice-presidents. THE LIBERAL WHIP AND LOCAL ELECTIONS. The Rev. J. T. Rhys, rodrevan, moved the following resolution "That this meeting of the Merthyr Liberal Federation, in annual meet- in assembled, earnestly appeals .to the Chief I Whip not to consent to the surrendering of any seat held by Liberals to any other party with- out first consulting the local Liberal Associa- tion. Such a. course tends inevitably to divide rather thon unite the Progressive forces." Dr. Arthur T. Jones seconded^ tho resolution, which was supported by Mr. W. R. Edmunds, who complained of the prominence given to the telegram from the Chief Liberal Whip in reference to Mid-Glamorgan. The result of that, he feared, would be detrimental to the cause of Liberaliem in Mid-Glamorgan (hear, I-r).-Tbe resolution was carried with acclam- ation, and copies were ordered to be sent to the Chr Whip and the Secretary of the Welsh Liberal Party. An attempt was made to raise a discussion as to the future action of the Federation in caee An attempt was made to raise a discussion as to the future action of the Federation in caee of another General Election, but it wits ulti- mately decided not to raise the question at mately decided not to raise the question at that meeting. SPEECH BY MR. EDGAR JONES, M.P. Mr. Edgar Jones, M.P., who was accorded an enthusiastic welcome on rising, said he was as pleased to meet the' members of the Federa- tion as they were to meet him. Ho was giad to recall the fact that,, thanks to the wise coun- sel of thoé "leaders of the Federation, they con- ducted the recent election without making a single mistake, and carried tho Liberal flag to victory, unsullied (loud appiiuse). He had had considerable difficulty in leaving the House even considerable difficulty in leaving the House even considerable difficulty in leaving the House even for a few hours that afternoon, the Whips fearing snap-divisions, in?isted on their presence every hour from 3.15 p.m. to 11 p.m., or find- ing a livo pair. He protested again«t th-3 charge brought by the London correspondent- of a daily paper against; tho Welsh members j foi' cot being- ia their placsa to support Mr. M'Kenna in the Navy debate. They were in the House to a man every evening ready to vote. That was what was reallv of import- ance. Ho had already learnt that a member could do a great deal of work, not by spaaking or by listening to debates, but in other ways. Ho might instance one or two of the things he had been able to achieve in that way. Merthyr made an application for a Provisional Order to enable them to acquire-the site of St. David's School for the purpose of erecting thereon a free library and other buildings. Since the application was made, he had been pestering Mr. Herbert Lewis and Mr. John Burns on the matter, and that morning Mr. John Burns told him that it was going through with the maxi- mum rapidity (applause). The Mountain Ash Water Bill, too, was blocked by certain Con- servative members, and ae all the time was taken up by the Government, them was no chance of getting it through without removing that block, and he was pleased that he and ML Keir Hardie had managed to do that (applause). He referred, too, to hie effort to secure a Lab- our Exchange to deal specifically with the South Wales and Monmouthshire Coalfield, and he hoped that Mr. Buxton would eee his way clear to grant that (hear, hear). His efforts to secure '& Welsh-speaking lady irtspector of factories were also referred to. When he read the regu- lations with regard to the juvenile department of the Labour Exchanges, he found there was no provision made therein for the wishes of the -parents to bo consulted, so that it was pos- sible for a boy w girl to go to these exchanges, obtain a post in Manchester or some other town, and get their fares paid, and so enable them to TuA away without the consent of their parents. Mr. Buxton, when ho (Mr. Jo) draw his attention to it. at once had the matter put right. FAITH IN TIIEPltlME MINISTER. Dealing with the political situation, he wish- ed to say, in the first place, as a Welshman, devoted to the aspirations of Wales, and one who had gone into the House of Commons as an out-and-out opponent of the Lords, that looking at tlie situation u it had developed, his faith and confidence in the Prime Minister was stronger than ever (loud applause). Mr. Asquith lit the bonfire at the Albert Hall, and aa Liberal candidates they all lit their torches thereat, and they rallied the industrial centres and went back to fight. They were, however, at the moment engaged in a miserable waiting position in a bivouac, trying to find the position of the enemy. Thoy were still holding councils of war, and perhaps at that very minute the Prime Minister was laying down the plan of campaign in Oxford (applause). It was all very well to criticise the Prime Minister, but they had to romembar that the Government was holding its position by the toljerancs of the Labour and the Irish Parties. The Prime Min- ister had not only to meet th& wishes'of his own party, but also those of the other two parties, and in that way to maintain his major- itv of 120. So far he had so, and with patient coura.se they might still win the day (applause). They were still willing to wait, and in the words of Lincoln they "P t going to -'rf' no swop horses in mid-stream (hear, hear). It was not so much veto or budget, or budget or veto. By one master stroke, almost at the eleventh hour, the Cabinet had, by a clever strategic move, so arranged the votes that in the midst of May, provided no catastrophe occurred be- fore, there would be fio authority to borrow or spend money for tho civil service. The Gov- ernment had been wise enough not to include tho Army and Navy test they would give their opponents a cry. Before that the Budget would padB the Ilmm oi Commons, and Mr. Aeqtiith would be able to go to the King and obtain from him some assnrartos for the passing of the veto resolution. If that was obtained, everything would go on without a hitch, but if such assurances were not forthcoming, he would tell His Majesty that he must dismiss his min- isters, and that for a month or six weeks at least, the Executive Government would be without any moneys or means ef providing it. IF MR. BALFOUR ACCEPTED OFFICE. If Mr. Balfour accepted office under those conditions, then dissolved Parliament, and was returned with a majority to the House, it would take him two or three months to pasd a Budget through the Housa of CQmmons. This would be the situation which Mr. Asquith would have bo put before His Majeety, speaking M the constitutional Minister of the Crown, to a constitutional monarch, and he would be able to appeal to him to place the carrying on of the finances of the country above tho privilege of a Second Chamber (applause). If the Gov- ernment could hold on in that way, they might, yet win. Even if Mr. Balfour could, upon ac- cepting office, before dissolution, induce Lord Rothschild to lend him money, what would happen if that gentleman came back and found the state of the Houfe of Commons what it now was? That opened out vast possibilities, but in order to carry out this policy, every link in the chain must be maintained intaot. That was clearly the policy Mr. John Redmond, Mr. John Dillon, and Mr. T. P. O'Connor were ad- vocating, and the one. that many Radicals were inclined to go with. He saw one or two dan- getoue places in the links, but all he could say at present was that, knowing that Mr. Asquith was the greatest constitutional authority in the Hou&e, it was clear to him that if he could not carry it through, it was because it was impos- sible to do so, in which caqe another election was Inevitable. He hoped, however, before another election came, that the Budget would become law, as it would much lessen the op. "nul position of the puhlicAn and landowning classes, as they would have lost faith in the House of Lords. In any case, it behoved them to be loyal, for the fight haci to be won even at the cost of ihore than one General Election- The dissension aiftorig the Liberals at present was nothing like as keen as it Mies among the other parties in the House. Dealing with the de- mands for the Navy, he expressed a hope that the Liberal- GoYernnrJeiit would scon take a great plunge and call a European Conference to con- sider the position. The continued growth of the jingo spirit among the working claries was serious. It was beoomiffg go strong that even the Labour Party was afraid to speak out against it. Wales, however, had never been afraid to take £ bold step for an ideaL and he for one hoped that their great Welsn leader might still take a step in that direction, recol- lecting that saerifioa wa* never made in vaip (loud applause). On the motion of Mr. Ishmael Harries, -a vote of unaba-ted confidence in the Government was unanimously Pas,d. --The Rev. J. T. Rhys, Godfeaman, then moved a vote of thanks to Mr. Jones for his eloquent address.—This was seconded by Dr. Arthur T. Jones, Mountain Ash, and supported by Mr. W. R. Edmunds, Merthyr, and carried unanimously.—Mr. Jones, in returning thanks, Mid he had arranged to contribute weekly notes during the session to the "Merthyr Express," so as to keep the con- stituency in touch with the affairs of Parlia- m-.rit,This announcement was received with I delight. The meeting then terminated with a vote of thanks to tho President* < _1

TREMARfflSS. BAPISH.-On Sunday evening the ordinance of baptism was performed at Brynhylryd Welsh Baptist, when seven candidates were immersed. The Rev. W. Jones officiated. BICILDIUG PBOGKESS.—Thirty-four villas and cottages are being erectd near Twyn Garreg, and a little colony is being established between there and Brnyteg-place. On the oppesita side of the road, behind the Oaklands, it is reported that a drill hall will be erected. ORGAN RECITAL.—The organist and choir-4 master of Brynhyfryd Baptist Church is a-Q^ nounoed to give his first annual organ recital on Thursday evening next, the 31st inst. JudgJ ing by the demand for tickets, this event is go* ing to prove a big success—both musically and financially All the reserved seats have been booked already, and it has been found neces- sary to increase their number so as to provide for people anxious to secure the best seat.s., Professor T. D. Edwards, A.R.C.M., will be assisted by the following well-known vocalists. Madame Mill-Reynolds, L.R.A.M., Mr. Teui Smith, and Mr. W. Dan Richards, A.R.A.q-o London. A rare treat is anticipated. LECTURE.—On Saturday evening, at Bethani* Vestry, under the auspices of the Yonng People9 Literary Society, the F-e-v. J. P. Jones delivered, a highly-interesting lecture on the late lamented well-known Welsh bard, Islwyn." Thete was a large attendance over which Mr. Henry Roberts presided. Mr. James Griffiths, Oafc* lands, rendered a song appropriate to occasion, Mrs. Griffiths acting as accompanist The lecturer said in his estimation, the poetic3* abilities of William Thomas, Islwyn," unrivalled. He was an original character, and had a way of his own in everything pertaining to his poetry and works. He gave no tracfl whatsoever that he had copied anybody. H0 must havo been a man many years before hlS time. His works were considered minds in themselves, and were likely to be studied by men of great culture, who were yet 1mborn. There was no danger of forgetting him as a It was said that it was possible for an English- man to forget Shakespeare, but it was impossible for a Scotsman to forget Bobby Burns. A tru patriotic Welshman would not forget "lslw,,f a- It may be now that we were too close to him to see his beauty," and the grandeur of his meiital productions. But as the ages advanced lie would shine more and more. The lecturer a]80 dwelt on the refinement of his character, whicC was far beyond the average in his own days. seemed to possess an inordinate abhorrence to sin or any form of evil doing. Ho was a wonder' ful man as to his taste, his words being very chosen, and his thoughts equally well matured* Islwyn distinguished himself as a preach0* as well as a bard. His preaching abilities we*f well known. It seldom occurred that a bar« distinguished himself outside his own circle but Islwyn" was quite an exception. He "'f of a very speculative turn of mind, and being sOo it was very strange that he possesesd so rigJ, an adherence to the old Puritan doctrines. H1* position as a theologian would compare favour ably with any of his contemporaries the of his sermons, which was published in the 1896, furnished a proof. Tho Rev. Thomas took his bardie name from the Mynydd-Islwyn, by which the parish had bceø, known for generations. He resided at Ynvsddtl; being born and brad in the then secluded little, village in Monmouthshire, about two j down the Sirhowy valley from Trcdegar JnJ)C-\ tion (Pontllanfraith). He died November 20tbi, 1878, mourned by his wife, two sisters and. very wide circle of friend^ and admirers. API)rw) ciative remarks on the lecture were made by the following:—Messrs. D. P. Rees JoneSt. senior, Edward Thomas, David Evans, ø Owen, James Griffiths and Mrs. Hannah rliicir. A hearty vote of thanks was accorded the Rev"* J. P. James for his lecture.

Aliened Burglary at Treharris Club. Thomas Browif, &a elderly man, was charged at Merthyr on Tuesday, with breaking entering the Troharris Conservative Club, afl** stealing goods therefrom vale £ 1 16s. 6d., °j 18th January.—-George Cridge, steward the club, said the defendant was a member the club.—-The Stipendiary: He does not 1<*?? like a conservative (laughter).—Witness the man bad not been to the club for a moiltlo, and witness told him he owed 2s. 6d. money lent. Accused called for a pint of beer. tetll dered 2s. 6d., and witness kept the cha^j Tho same night defendant returned and for his change, saying unless he got it he no11' smash the windows. Witness left the club 1.30 next morning, leaving all doors Next morning he noticed the tobacco dmw" on the floor, and two pounds of tobacco missing. Seven bottles of liquor had also from the shelf. The trap' door, leading 0 the coal cellar, had beeu forced iu. A laf^ number of safety matches were about the floot. Witness gave information to P.S. Dove, later on brought bim a portion of a bot^f* which he identified as the property of the ch1?" —P.S. Dove said he found the bottle ou*sJ*L the club. He found tbat defendant did 11 sleep at his lodgings t-hat zlic, it. The same (Ul- he arrested him on suspicion. He said, was not there. I slept at my lodgings last nigh*" On the 18th defendant was brought before th magistrates, but no evidence was broub against him, and he was discharged. Saturday night, 12th March, defendant wt'J to the Treharris Police Station, and admits breaking into the club. He said he wanted 1 clear his conscience. It would not have bar, pened if the steward had given him his chapA^ He said he knew how to &et into tho because he had been working there. I* intended setting the place on fire, but matches would not burn. He admitted tgking the tobacco and liquor.—Defendant was cOOl" mitted for trial.

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