The Rhondda Leader

EXTRAORDINARY COINCIDENCE! Last Week Seventeen Chimneys were all clean swept at one blow by HOULT'S Chimney Cleaner I Clean, Cheap, and Efficient. F'Jll Particulars from R. T. Jones, Sheffield House, Treherbert. 26

TREORCHV. We regret to announce the death of Mr T. H. Morris, a young man about 19 years of age, who acted as assistant at the Post Office for some time. Deceased had frequently been compelled to give up his work owing to ill health-attributable to consumption, and this dread disease at last claimcd him as its victim.

PENTRE. Those who were present at the concert at ^ethesda,, Ton, on Thursday night, the 14th inst., enjoyed a most musical enter- tainment. The Band of Hope choir, aided by adults, performed the sacred oratario "God with us" (Trowbridge), in a brilliant banner, under the conductorship of Mr Francis Howells. The recits and songs Were rendered by Madame Gwen Erasmus- Bo wen, soprano; Miss S. Da vies, contral- to Messrs D. Davies, tenor; and Ben Devon aid, bass. The chair was taken by Mr D. S. Thomas, the Bazaar. The oratorio was opened by a duet on the piano by the accompanists, Misses Eunice Morris and S. J. Lewis. Special mention must be made of Madame Erasmus-Bowen, whose brilliant and pathetic renderings fairly held the audience spell-bound.

TON. nf^A/r^ £ reat, rGKret we announce the death °seph John, residing at Victoria Street, TDl, who was suddenly killed at ■ 8 on Saturday last, owing to the Tnv, a massive stone from the top. Mr f ~jj was well known at Ton,, and was one tiie deacons of Hebron Baptist Chapel, ne accident occurred between 3 and 4 is fu ^e. afternoon. Great sympathy fatu w*^h his son, who, working with his awier at the time, witnessed the fatality, fni news of the accident caused a pain- w St?sa^on throughout the district. He as 55 years of age, and leaves eight father- ess and motherless children to mourn tneir in !'• e has a brother, Rev. Jacob John, Tu8 *?a^ve county of Pembrokeshire. lof,"6. inquest was held on Monday, the T tou118^ the Ton Library, by Mr R. o' coroner. Mr Dyer Lewis, H.M. ev'ff1USPect°r Mines was present. The thi showed that the deceased was in wlf drawing down a slip of coal, nen a large piece of clod fell without any arnmg, killing him instantaneously. He MrW11 collier. The overman, he Bees, in his evidence, stated that always very careful and attentive to << uKes- The jury returned a verdict of accidental death." f?n 'ast Wednesday afternoon a very inter- Wng presentation took place at the Ton tl? rr the recipient being Mrs. S. Williams, wh t ^^st,eS8 of the Girls' Department, fn^°V c,er years service under the Ystrady- School Board, is now retiring from ~ve service to eujoy a well-earned rest, „v The presentation took the form of an exquisite lady's travelling bag fitted with -T ■j reciuifites, with handsomely chased sterling Ve* fittings, subscribed to by the staff of the ys and Girls' departments. On the out- e were the initials S.W. in gold lettering, j r-T'T. Jones, head master of the Boys' partment, remarked that it afforded him on f P^easure to make the presentation in v. °* the teachers, as a token of esteem nror f h they heId Mrs- Williams. Tlie the va'UE Perhaps was not great, but c ,?• was prompted out of pure regard, f personally, he could say that he had al« I a ^rue and faithful friend, and had a ? found her honest, straightforward decidedly conscientious in her duty. He Si. 2, u"ed by wishing her, on helialf of all the all ev'ery future happiness, and trusted that e w°uld live long to enjoy her leisure. Williams very tersely and feelingly al« »» 'he staff for their nice present, and Ri? j'r. Jones for his kind remarks; and oliL she would always look back with at the time spent as head mistress <* the Ton Girls' School.

YSTRAD RHONDDA. On Thursday evening one of a series of even- ts entertainments was held at Bechcar Con- gregational Church, when solos, duetts, reci- ations, readings, dialogues, &c., were ren- i ?red hy Miss E. A. Jones, Miss S. J. Haw- £ ins Mr Thomas Neill, Miss A. Smith, Mr J. »mith, Mr Evan John, Mr B. Smith, Mr An- wifiT a?9^R» an(l Mr W. Beynon, together tinn 8\n§mo by the Juvenile Choir and selec- MaU?e nm,1C °n the baSPipes by Mr A. lOT3f Sunday evening, the members be- Cb v ,1^1, Calvinistic Methodist Ystrad, Rhondda, decided to offer fr Pastorate of their church to the Jtlev. l- c- Thomas, Bedlinog.

LLWYNVPIA. A+vi«e fiends bf Miss Mary Ann kiriK T'I Ug ter Mr and Mrs John At- deat'h fTyny,Pla' wiU regret to hear of her of lq heart disease, at the early age months a^Sj aL-ter rS,n Alness of about two Sf w/diatl0?- £ he funeral took place T. G T#>nl^, «y Trealaw Cemetery, Rev. tvag laden The coffin, which "14 lalieu with heautiful wreaths seat by the family and Mrs Williams, De Winton Hotel, was conveyer in an hearse, followed by mourning coaches containing the par- ents of deceased, Mr ana Mrs John Atkins, Miss Susie Atkins (sister), Mrs Day and Miss Bessie Day, Sherwood, (unt and cou- sin) Mrs Beynon, Mrs Evans, and Mrs Janet Atkins (aunts), Miss Williaxn^ Sher- wood, and others. Messrs Johnhj and Willie Atkins (brothers), Mr W. Day, fr Beynon, Mr Evans and Mr W. At-kin*. following on foot. The funeral was largely attended, and much sympathy is felt for the sorrowing family in their bereavement.

CLYOACH VALE. At a meeting of the local branch of the Miners' Federation, held at the Royal Hotel, Mr W. Morgan, checkweigher, was nominated aa the local representative.

TONYPANDY. A "tea and social" was held by the local shop-assistants' association last Thursday. at tlie Parish Hall. The reputation gained by the ladies on past occasions for the ex- cellent fare they provide no doubt was the means of drawing together such a good at- tendance. There were two tables, presided over by the ladies of Compton House, and Commerce House, respectively. After the masticatory proceedings, games and danc- ing were indulged in until eleven o'clock. These meetings are a great success in the locality, and are to be encouraged. They are an excellent means of strengthening the Union's funds, and what is more important still, increasing the number of members. Only in one chapel in Mid-Rhondda was there a solo rendered last Sunuay. This was at the English Congregational Chapel, Tonypandy. A great improvement is needed in this direction. In a locality where there is such a plentitude of good vocalists, there ought to be a solo sung in every chapel every Sunday night. Our choir-conductors should emulate the re- ligious services of the Cardiff and other towns' chapels, and then, perhaps, we should see better attendances at our Sun- day meetings. The idea of the Tonypandy and Trealaw Library Committee to get a billiard table for the use of the members was a very happy one. It has been splendidly pat- ronised, it being very difficult to get a game in the evenings unless the table be booked. It may be mentioned, by the way, that the secretary is developing into a crack player. A splendid illustration of self sacrifice was given last Sunday, by the Rev. E. Richards, Tonypandy. A reserve, who had an excellent position in France, was called up to join his regiment. When he "chucked his job" and came to London, he found that he was 24 hours too late to sail with his fellow soldiers. He, however, in- stead of returning to his more lucrative employment, paid his own passage out by the next boat to lend a helping hand to his Queen and Country.

PORTH. Prizes were offered some time since by Mr Williams, of Cardiff, district manager for the London, Edinburgh and Glasgow Assurance Co., Ltd., for the best results obtained by the local agents during the nine months ending September. We are pleased to learn that the second prize PS 8s. has been won by Mr D. James, super- intendent, Porth, while the third prize of £5 5s. falls to Mr E. E. Edwards, superin- tendent, Tonypandy. -{ On Monday and Tuesday evenings, the pupil teachers attending the Porth Centre held social teas; the former for the junior years, the latter for the senior years, and ex-pupils, with the object of reuniting the old students and those now preparing for the Queen's Scholarship examination. An enjoyable tea was prepared by some of the pupil teachers, superintended by Miss Younger, one of the P.T. Centre staff. The room was decorated. After the tea, a mis- cellaneous concert was held, under the able presidency of Mr R. D. Chalke, B.A. Among the soloists were Misses M. Jenkins, M. J. Bevan, Gertrude Davies, Eliz. Evans, Edith Leeke and Mr Isaac Thomas. Miss Edith Davies gave a recitation in Welsh, and Missess S. J. Lewis and L. Williams played a duet on the piano. Following the concert was a farce entitled "Box and Cox." The characters engaged in the play acted their parts splendidly. Terminating a most enjoyable evening were a few games, and a most patriotic speech by the head- master, Mr Chalke.

WANTED a Junior Reporter in the lower part of the valley.—Apply giving full particulars to the Editor of this paper.

HAFOD. AccrDENT.—On Thursday afternoon a ser- ious accident happened to a man named John Gray, residing at Pontypridd. He was em- ployed as a general haulier by Mr Bendle, of Pontypridd, and was taking a load of coal from the Great Western Coal Yard. As lie was crossing the bridge over the river he fell under the cart, and one of the wheels passed over his legs, breaking both of them below the knees. He was conveyed home, and a medical man was soon in attendance. He is reported to be {making satisfactory progress towards recovery. PUBLIC HALL.—A preliminary meeting to consider the question of erecting a public hall in this place was held at the Bethel Vestry on Thursday evening. The attendance was very unsatisfactory considering the importance of the matter to be discussed. However, those present took the matter in hand, and appoin- ted a committee to make enquiries, and report upon the various sites suggested for the erec- tion of the hall; and a public meeting will shortly be held to deal further with the mat- ter. It is to be hoped that the general public will take a keener interest in the subject than qhey have hitherto done, as there can be no question as to the need of a hall in this place. FATAL ACCIDENT.—A fatal acoident befel a man named Thomas Jones, of 2, Rheola ter- race, on Friday evening at 5.30. Deceased was engaged as a haulier on the Lewis Merthyr Colliery yard, but owing to the pres- sure of work lie had during the pa-it few days been employed as a. siding haulier, and it was while he was thus employed that the accident happened. It appears that a truck had been drawn on to the turntable, and was been turned round for the purpose of getting it on to another road. Deceased was standing be- tween the truck and a wall, and before he had time to get away he was caught by the buffer of the truck and severely crushed against the wall. He was conveyed to his home with all Eossible speed, where he died about three ours later. An inquest on the body of de- ceased was held at the Vaughan's A'ms Hotel on Tuesday, before Mr E. B. Reece, the dis- trict coroner. The jury, of which Mr James Edwards was foreman, returned a verdict of Accidental Death." SINGULAR FATALITY.—A saddler named Thomas Davies, employed, at the Great Wes- tern Colliery, met with his death in a singular manner on Sunday. It appears that he had been working in the morning, and was pro- ceeding home to his dinner when, just as he had descended the steps leading from the saddlefs shop to the yard, he was seized with a violent fit of coughing and burst a blood- vessel. He expired almost immediately. De- ceased was a native of Llandovery, and had only come to this locality a f w days prev- iously. ACCIDENT. An accident happened to a man named William Lewis at the Great Wes- tern Colliery on Tuesday. He was employed as a master haulier, and was engaged in shackling some trams together when the horse beanie restive and suddenly backed the tram to vjiich it was attached, and Lewis was se- verely rushed between the two trams. He was taken to his home at Walnut Tree, where he lies in a veiy precarious condition.

At the Church school room, the Maerdy amateur dramatic society treated the audience to the splendid acting of a farce called "My Little Husbaiv}," Those pre- sent were kept in an incessant roar of laugh- ter. The realistic acting of My and Mrs Munday, Eveline Villa, deserves special mention. Mr and Mrs Munday alha gave same Gramophone selections and orchestral music from a mechanical contrivance. There was a crowded attendance, and some splendid solos were rendered at the end. An eisteddfod is to be held at Siloa Cha- pel, on Christmas Day. There are numer- ous entries, and some exciting tussles for the chief prizes may be expected. At St. David's Hall, a grand evening concert in connection with the Maerdy Male Voice Society was held on Thursday, the 14th inst., under the conductorship of Mr J. Michael (Eos Dar), whilst some emi- nent local artistes, winners at National Eisteddfodau, contributed to the success of the evening with their splendid render- ing of solos. The chair was taken by B. Griffiths, Esq., M.D. The programme con- sisted of a pianoforte solo by Master Henry Jones glee, "Comrades in Arms," the Glee 3ociety song, "Gwlad y Tywysog," Mr W. Rees (Eos Cynffig); song, "The Soldier's Song," Mr Gabriel Williams; song, "Hoff Wlad. fy Ngenedigaeth," Miss Janet Gar- nett; duet, "Flow gently. Deva," Messrs Rees and Williams; chorus, "Martyrs of the Arena," the Glee Society; song, "The Promise of Life;" Miss Janet Garnett; trio, "A Maiden Fair," Messrs Williams, Rees and Miss Garnett; glee, "Away to the Forest," Glee Society; duet, "Sol-ffa," Miss Garnett and Mr Williams; song, 'Queen of the Earth," Mr W. Rees (Eos Cynffig); song, "Bugail y Cwml" Mr Gabriel Williams; song, "Y Gauaf Gwyn," Miss Garnett; shorus, "The Destruction of Gaza," Glee Society; interspersed with penillion singing by Eos Dar. The accom- panists were Messrs G. Lewis and Master Henry Jones. Many of the artistes were encored over and over again. The hall was crowded, second seat ticket holders having to stand throughout the evening. The concert was a huge success financially and otherwise, and the secretary, Mr Llewellyn, cannot be too highly compli- mented on his organising attainments. The Male Voice Society is only of recent organi- sation, but have been very successful since the inauguration, having won prizes at several eisteddfodau. On Thursday last at the Maerdy Conser- vative Club, the Maerdyites beat Ferndale by a substantial number of points. It should be noticed that Maerdy are only 2nd Leaguers, whilst their opponents are first, thus making the win all the more creditable for Maerdy. A grand tournament of bil- liards and other games is now in progress at the club. There are numerous entries. A good many persons have entered for, the Maerdy Hotel tournament, and play has commenced. A grand tournament is now well in pro- gress at the Maerdy Coffee Tave'rn. The games are 150 up. About 40 competitors entered and have already played. The second heat is now going on. The secre- tary is Mr J. S. Richards, backed up by a strong committee, including Messrs W. H. Miles, W. D. Smith and Harry Jones. The prizes are a gold medal, value 25s. a silver mounted walking stick, value 10s. 6d. and a box of cigars, with a pocket knife, to the player who gets beaten by the least number of points.

FERNDALE. At the Penuel Calvinistic Methodist Chapel, the third of a series of interesting meetings was held on Tuesday evening. The duties of the chairman were ably con- ducted by Mr Dd. Walters. 'Mr Morgan Lewis criticised the merits of the various soloists, whilst Messrs J. Lloyd Evans and John Davies adjudicated the recitations and literary compositions. The Band of Hope, under the baton of Mr Edward Rees, rendered one of their choruses at the com- mencement of the programme, and followed by recitations by Misses Emily Walters and Mary Aerona Davies. The following were the prize winners:—Alto solo, "Bugail Israel," divided between Cledwin Powel Watkins and Sidney Chas. Evans; recita- tion for children, Miss May Evans soprano solo, divided between Misses Gwennie George and Adelina Jane Lewis; three best stanzas on "Gideon," Mr James Evans essay, Mr Cledwin Powell Watkins; tenor solo, "Hen Iaith fy Mam" (T. D. Edwards, Pontypridd), divided between Messrs Jonah Howells and Edward Rees the best wit for those under 16 years of age, Sidney Chas. Evans the best wit for adults, divided be- tween Messrs Dan Davies and Dd. Hum- phreys spelling bee, Cledwin P. Watkins The chief interest of the evening was cen- tred in the contest for the bass solo, "Uchelgais Cymru," the winner, by a hard tussle, being Mr Evan Henry Evans. Miss Mary May Evans, in her rendering of "Somebody's Mother" was highly eulogised, and Mr W. Lewis, the popular baritone of Ferndale, received some appreciative com- ments for his singing. The usual vote of thanks brought to a close a very pleasing meeting. The collection of the workmen of the Ferndale Collieries towards the Reservists' Fund has now been completed. A sum of P,50 2s. 8d. has been transferred over to Miss Hughes, headmistress of the Ferndale Infants' School, for that purpose. Miss Hughes is the local agent for the Soldiers and Sailors' Association, and she has worked indefatigably during the present crisis for the succour of the wives and children of poor "Tommy Atkins," Mr J. 0. Lewis and Mr T. Beavan, cashier of the Ferndale Collieries, are also to be complimented for their efforts in raising this money towards the Reservists' Fund. The Ferndale Male Voice Party, which has had a very successful career under the conductorship of Mr Gwilym Jones, is now again in harness, and preparing for the Liverpool National Eisteddfod of next year. They intend giving Ferndale a treat early in the year, when a grand concert will be held and some very eminent artistes will take part.

PQNTYGWAITH. An excellent performance was given of the cantata, "Parliament in School," at Hermon Baptist Chapel, on Wednesday and Thursday, by the juvenile choir of j the place under the able conductorship of Mr Theo- philus Thomas. It is a credit to the locali- ty that such a choir is in existence there,. Those fortunate enough to witness the per- formance have only one opinion to pro- nounce, that it was excellent. Mr Speaker, Prime Minister, Chancellor of the Ex- chequer, and all the members acquitted themselves well. Many important "Bills" were introduced, and passed into "Law," now awaiting the "Royal Assent." In fact, it would well repay our present Government to be there, in order that they may have a clearer idea of how to make laws of a more practical and beneficial form. Dr. Morris and Mr David Smith, D.C., acted as presidents. Mr Edward Thomas Wood as accompanist, and Mr Thomas Jones as sub-conductor. Great credit is due to all concerned in assisting to bring about such an excellent treat.

ROUND THE SHOPS. Christmas Preparations. Great arc the preparations made by our local shopkeepers to enable the public to spend a. cheerful and festive Christmas. Both the outer and inner men have been cartered for, as a glance into the gaily decorated windows will readily prove. From Maerdy to Porth, and inn,. Forth to Treherbert, a, lavish display of artistk decoration has been made bv the tradesmen in every biatich. To describe all one sees would-require several issues of the LEADER. Mrdy. At Mamly, Mr. B.vi^es, jeweller, has a splendid show of Christmas presents, and New Years gifts, and is offering photo albums from 6-d. to 25/- E 's guinea organette would make an acceptable gift for the season. A big show of clothing, underwear, ht>.tf;, ties, and such like requisites for men and lux is being made by Mr D. B. Short, 42, Maci by- road. Customers may depend upon being well served here with articles of good quality at the right price. If the unreasonable weather should give yon a cough or cold, Mr Lewis, the chemist, says his linseed lindus is the best remedy. Ferndale. At Ferndale, the shops present a particularly bright appearance, one of the most conspicuous being that of Mr E. T. Jenkins, 41, High- I street, whose immense stock presents a variety almost bewildering. At his establishment may be purchased every description of gold and silver goods suitable for presents for this festive season, buthdays, or weddings (wedding rings included). The low prices quoted for watches by Mr Jenkins are quite surprising; boys watches as low as 2/9; ladies silver watches from 15/- each, Ynyshiro. At Ynyshir, Mr Lougher, Toy Shop, has made a special preparation for the Christmas demand. His stock of fruits and general groceries cannot be beaten. His Wiltshire bacon is noted for prime quality, and his teas at 1/7 should certainly be tried. Porth. At Porth, Mr T. Davies, chemist and stationer, has a plendi(lassortiiieiitof Christ- mas and New Years carls with a fine show of perfumes and fancy goods, and has a similar show at his Tonypandy shop.—The Christmas display at Messrs. Thomas & Evan" Stores is very effective, and judging J om the bustle and activity at their shops they must be doing an immense trade. Those who are averse to the use of intoxicating drink even at the festive season of Christmas, should lay in a good stock of the Welsh Hills Hop Bitters or the Welsh Hills Lemonade, manufactured by this enterprising fii-iii -If you want to make a boy 11 e an acceptable Christmas present why not try a football ? You can get them from Herbert & Evans, Saddlers, London House. They have a good assortment of other winter goods, leggings, &c.-If during culinary preparation-* you have an accident with your tinware, it can be repaired or replaced by J. Holman, 43, Poutypridd-road. Penygraig. At Penygraig, Mr Thomas Jones, iron- monger, has a good show of furnishing iron- mongery, cutlery, and useful household uten- sils, and has laid in a new stock of wall paper for the coming season.—Mr Novinski has a good assortment of Christmas presents at 6'.t, Tylacelyn-road (near the Swan Hotel). He 'makes a speciality of fancy rings, and being a maker's agent, gurrantees a saving of 25 per cent in purchases from him. Tonypandy. Mr Evan Treharne, the Stores, has made ample provision for those in need of liquid refreshment, having in stock a large quantity of Anglo-Bavarian ales and stont in casks and bottlek.-Tlie tastefully decoroted windows of Mr J. W. Richards, chemist and stationer, are attracting much attention, especially the fine show of photographic views of Llwynypia, Tonypandy and district, a book of which is retailed at the low price of one shilling. Many other novelties suitable for Christmas presents will be found in Mr Richards' exten- sive and han'dsome new premises.—For the present treacherous weather a pair of water- proof boots are an absolute necessity- The waterproof K"boot sold at the various es- tablishments of Alderman Richard Lewis, will keep out the heaviest deluge, and are most comfortable to wear, and of the right price.— The Rhondda Providers (near the Dunraven Hotel), are catering for the needs of the dis- trict in groceries and provisions, and drapery, and are just now making a speciality of their Ceylon blend of tea at 1/6 per lb.—Of wines, ales and spirits, the Wain Court Cash Supply (next door to the Court Hotel), have a splen- stock, which they are ottering at specially low prices.—Mr D. R. Davies, of Cheltenham House and Library Buildings, has opened his Christmas bazaar. The display of dressed and undressed dolls is especially attractive to the little folk, while for those of more mature years, there is a choice variety of useful fancy goods suitable for presents. All the latest fashions in millinery may also be seen at Mr Davies' establishment.—Mr J. Brooks, hair- dresser, has a fine stock of pipes, pouches, walking sticks, ornaments, and other fancy articles suitable for Christmas presents, and those who enjoy a good cigar, cannot do better than pay a visit to his establishment, opposite the Post Office and 12, Dunraven-street.—Mr D. J. Jones, the Emporium, has a choice selection of hats, caps, and gent s mercery, and gives special attention to the gentlemen's tailoring department, having competent work. men engaged on the premises, fit and style can be depended upon.—Mr J. Kinstley's windows are attracting general attention, being replete with the latest novelties in every description of fancy leather goods, albums, photo frames, cigar, and cigarette cases and holders, rneershaum, and other pipes. Gold and silver watches and jewellery in immense variety. There can be no difficulty in selecting a suitable present from the im- mense and valuable sto(-k. Mr T. H. Griffiths (late with D. W. Davies & Co.,) has made his new shop, 21, Dunraven-street, very attractive with a new and up-to-date stock of hosiery and general outfitting.—During the holidays our young men will have a good opportunity of enjoying a game of billards, pyramids, or pool, at Mr R. Heycocks, 36, Dunraven-street, whose rooms are very central and convenient, and whose charges are very moderate, Ystradf Opposite the Railway Station, Mr P. Halewood has a fine ishow of boots and shoes. His working boots at 6s. lid. are much appreciated and cannot be beaten. He has branches at Maerdy, Pontypridd, and other centres. Ton. Mr J. P. Williams, the Welsh Maket, has made very special preparations for the Christmas trade. In addition to a large consignment of turkeys, geese, ducks, and fowls, direct from farms in Carmarthenshire and Cardiganshire, he has laid in a special stock of John Hill and Sons' noted Christ- mas puddings, and rich cakes, together with an exceptionally fine display of Christ- mas fruits, fruit wines, jellies, and other delicacies. Pentre. Mr S. Rogers has the largest and most varied stock of boots and shoes to be seen in the district, and invites custom by most reasonable prices, with the additional ad- vantage of the presentation of trading stamps to all buyers. Treorchy. Mr Daniel Thomas, the well-known iron- monger, has on/view a fine selection of electro plated goods, table and other cut- lery, and every requisite for household furnishing, with a fine,display of lamps, stoves, and articles suitable for presents well within the means of every class of pur- chaser. Customers can rely on getting sound value for their money at this estab- lishment. So many pictures and engravings come to hand about this season of the year that it is well to know that they can be framed at very reasonable prices at Mr Richard Thomas's, 20, High street. Treherbert. Mr R. T. Jones, of Sheffield House, is making a good display of furnishing iron- mongery, and has a very large stock of articles from which a good selection can be made by those desirious of making a present to their friends. Mr J. S. Morgan, of the Boot Exchange, 147, Bute Street, is making a (rood display of boots and shoes at reasonable prices. They can be depended upon for good wear.

Rhondda County School. Annual Pirize Distribution. Brilliant Results. EnthusiasticiProce«»dings. The annual prize distribution in connec- tion with the Rhondda County School was held at the St. Paul's Schoolroom, Porth. on Wednesday evening, the Rev. W. Mor- ris, F.R.G.S., chairman of the Board of Governors, occupying the chair. There were a large attendance of parents and pupils. The Chairman, at the outset, referred to the growth of secondary education through- out the country, and said that when the history of education in Wales came to be written by a competent hand, it would be found that education in Wales during the last half of the present century would be divided into four chapters. His memory extended back over those four chapters in the history of their beloved principality. lie remembered the period of dreams. Their fathers and mothers were dreaming, but they were never so bold or audacious as to dream of the present position of educa- tion in Wales. After the dreaming period, thev found themselves in the preparatory period-the period of agitation and peti- tion, and bye and bye, came the age oi realisation, and they were now in the period of realisation. Thirty years ago, a new epoch in the history of Wales commenced by the passing of ths Elementary Educa- tion Act, so that they had tG begin with a very good foundation laid down, and ?.& as the education of Wales was concerned, it was a splendid foundation. It would bear comparison with any part of Her Majesty's kingdom. Later, they agitated for and got University education. They had the foundation and coping stone before they had the middle part of the temple of education, and they had now a system ot education as complete as—even more com- plete than-in England. At the end of three years, the Rhondda County School, which was opened in September, Ib9ö, they were waiting anxiously, too anxiously and too impatiently, perhaps, expecting results from a system which had taken sent moment. They were expecting grand results from a system which had taken three years to organise and get into shape. But they had results, and they had been an eye-opener to him (hear, hear). The re- sults would not only bear comparison with all other schools in Glamorgan, but with even those in Wales (applause). He had a list with him of the results during the tri- ennial period, the accuracy of which he had assured himself of. Between 1896 and 1899, four pupils passed the London matri- culation, three passed first class in the Welsh matriculation, three qualified by pas- sing the senior certificate, and one passed in four out of five subjects; in the Queen's scholarship, three; one scholarship being of the value of £50, the second £40, and the third £ 30 County Exhibition, three pas- sed, the value of the exhibitions being £ 30 each, and one of jEll. The pupils from that school enjoyed scholarships and exhibitions at the University College of the annual value of £ 220. As the result of the three years, the Rhondda County School was the first in Glamorgan in the number of matri- culants of London and Welsh Universitys first in number of scholarships and exhibi- tions in the County of Glamorgan; more than that, the Porth County School had won double the scholarships and exhibitions than that of any other school (applause). He (the chairman) was very sorry to find a statement made at the prize distri- bution of a neighbouring County School that the highest distinctions were won by pupils at that school. He found that the Porth County School had won five times as many as the school referred to. (Loud applause). Summarising the position of Porth County School, he would say it had second place in Wales as regards number of senior certificates. Three schools only had ten (none more), Porth nine. In the County of Glamorgan, there was only one school before them, viz., Aberdare, with ten. The other school he had mentioned only had three. The Rhondda school was among the twelve best schools in Wales. Those were the words of those in authority on the matter. They ought to be proud of such a school which could command such good results. (Applause). Thirty-one boys and 26 girls held scholarships at the school of the value of tII9 14s. of these, seven boys and five girls received augmentations to the extent of £17 4s.; and the bur- saries amounted to £ 42 Is. 2d. The Gover- nors had still more money which they could.spend in that direction. (Hear, hear) How came those results about ? Not by in- competent teachers. They were very proud of such an excellent staff. Mr Mor- ris then introduced the staff to the aud- ience, and remarked, "The Headmaster is well known to you all. I don't know whether he is a Gloran, but he would be a credit to any Gloran." (Loud and contin- ued applause). Mr Samuel then submitted a report on the work of the school, at which the average on the roll was 200. The school was built in the first place to accomodate only 96, but the attendance had this year gone up to 216, in spite of many difficulties. The Governors had provided a spacious field for games, and a tennis court for the girls, and by next year, they hoped to have a Targe -y y additions to the premises. Application had been made to the County Council to have a gymnasium and physical laboraj-ory, and a deputation would wait upon the Coun- cil with a view to obtaining 40 extra places at £ 5 each. The school was one of the best attended in the principality, and se- cond or third in point of size among all the intermediate schools of Wales. The progress of the pupils was very satisfactory notwithstanding the newness of the sys- tem. Fifteen different inspectors had ex- amined the work of the school, and all of them reported in very high terms of the work done there. He thanked the par- ents for the great interest they had taken in the interests of the pupils. Without their assistance they would n°t have anything like the work they had been able to do. The headmaster then read the re- sults for the year ended July 31st, particu- lars of which appear in another column. The Rev. W. Charles, M.A., then ad- dressed the meeting. The large number of parents present shewed they took It great interest in the school, and were all well pleased with the staff and the teching narted to their children at the schoo was glad to find that there were children from all sections and classes of the two Rhonddas attending the school. That, and every other school would be a failure from the standpoint of their intention if they only found one class in the school. It was intended for the people, and would be a failure of the people's children were not represented in the school. He hoped the institution would long continue ..iJ and that the children of the people would long be found amongst the scholars ther The headmaster was thoroughly pathy with his pupils, and that was a most important thing. (Hear, hear). pleased to understand that the sc the best attended in Glamorga^. or second in the whole of the pn P That meant a good deal. It wa > e greatest importance that the Should be high. He a ways thought that good attendances at school refle S credit on the teachers. (Hear, h had been greatly struck with the results. They were marvellous in such a sh jve The'Rhondda school was among tw best in Wales, and when it was ^.hools. that there were 93 intermedia the importance of that positio seen. The reports of the M^rs con_ tained some exceptionally flattering q{ tences, speaking in the highes the efficiency and good orgamsa school. One inspector had reported. would be difficult to find a schoo^[of,tm_ class which is doing its work m ation ly." Again, "Energy spent on educate in the Rhondda is certainly n J while the report on chemistry stated that the work was "phenomenally brilliant." (Applause). That was high Praise*f their He aid not know why so many o{ their pupil teachers' parents and m wrench fcLir Board went in so strongly for Fren^ or German. He was -snared to debate the point as to their educational value, a educational value was worth c0 (Hear, hear). Welsh was far supenorin educational value to French ° ..u He advised the teachers Slt^5sh One Queen's Scholarship to take op W • of the candidates was the Welsh minister. To her, the pe ;;ipiTo«nria,g^»^ nave got 60 or /U. vv n^ thought ,o good at the County School? He thought it was because the staff were *ra1^ teachers, who were working wnrir throwing their energy into the ^ork. (Applause). £ heE £ were- as trained teachers, and that was shewn by the results. That reflected the greatest credit upon tie headmaster who kjd be^ exceedingly wise m selecting wr) among trained teacher^ Hear^hear). In conclusion, Mr ^v, the though they might not be sat ^rfpct]v sa;t- results of the war, they were P sChool. isfied with the results of the county school. <LKde prizes^we're then Cule, Pentre, to the following winners FORM V. Top Boy -David Davies. Top Girl-Maude Lloyd. Mathematics—Alice Cule. English—Gwynne Owen. Qn;PTlce_John Chemistry and Elemental) Sc Kane. French—Maude Lloyd. Latin—David Davies. FORM IV. Top Boy—G. B. Williams. Top Girl -L. H. Roberts. Mathematics and Science-G. B. "1111:>.1118. Latin and French—E. J- (jeVrTftphy English Grammar, History and Geo^i (Welsh)—G. B. Williams. FORM III. A. Top Boy-David Tbom". Top Girl—Mary Williams. Thomas. Mathematics and Science I f>ography English Grammar, History and t^eogr —David Thomas. _r.,i. Latin and French-Mary Williams. FORM III. B. Top Boy-Harold Harries. Top Girl—Mary Jones. n„t Treas"re Mathematics and Science && /lencrrapby English Grammar, History and —Harold Harries. Latin and French-Mary Jones. FORM II. A. Top Boy—David Davies. Top Girl—Carrie Jones. j^hards Mathematics and Science-b^pi • gfcory English Grammar, Com^^avieS. and Geography (or W £ sh)-I>^ » Latin and French-Tom Jenkins. FORM n. B. Top Boy—Edgar Evans. Top Girl—Esther Davies. Owen- Mathematics and Science History English Grammar, C <»niposit and Geography-Ivor Edwards. Latin ancf French-Agnes FORM II. C. Top Boy-John Phillips. Top Girl—Gladys Hughes. Martin. Mathematics and Science English Grammar and Geograp j Goodwin. Tomes and Albei t Latin and French-David James Sheppard. FORM Top Boy-,Jolin WilliamS. Top Girl-May Downing Williams. Mathematics and Science French Thomas Morris. History—May Downing- CkICK2LW. L. Parry- Highest Batting average Evftns< Highest Bowling averae \T VITAL INSTRUCTION. MANUAL j 8> Edgar Evans and V»vn COOKERY. Mary Jones. A vote of thanks rpom John and chairman, Pr°B°ff' n 'Wvn, concluded the seconded by Nathan wyn< proceedings.. school choir, con- During the lce, splendidly ren- ducted by Mr Tom a T10hn solo dered a numberof glees, and piano was given by Beatrice Jones and forte selection by Wss » Master £ dg*r '{