The Brecon County Times Neath Gazette and General Advertiser for the Counties of Brecon Carmarthen Radnor Monmouth Glamorgan Cardigan Montgomery Hereford

A Christmas Day Venture. Interview with Mr, Sparrow. Possible Part Purchase by the Prince of Wales, Mr Sparrow granted a "County Times I representative an interview on Monday after. noon, at his residence, ^.shford, Taiybont-cu- Usk, where he was found in happy possession of bi3 new treasure. He and Mrs Sparron-, writes our represent- ative, received me. cordially in their cosy drawing room, which commands a beautiful view of the Usk Valley, particularly picturesque to-day, as the whole countryside was in a white mantle of snow which dazzled brilliantly before a mid- winter sun. Mr Sparrow, who is on the right side of forty, is the son of the late Mr J Eyre Sparrow, formerly of Wolverhampton, where the family at one time possessed large i'on and other works. They left Wolverhampton ia 1890, and since that time have lived in Brecooshire, their first residence being at Lhmgynidr. Sub- sequentiy the late Mr Sparrow removed to Asbford, where he died abcut twelve months ago. Ac the mention of stamps Mr Sparrow smiled, and in repiy to a leading question slated that he had taken a g: eat deal of interest in their collection since a child. As a youngster at school," he added, I used to collect all the stamps I could get hold of, and had a stamp book, which, ü course, is no longer in existence. I made many xetianges with the boys, and it was immateiiul whether they were British or foreign." w How came this great deal about ?" I enquired. (Jèj, it was a v, ry quick deal," my host said. II I heard of it on Wednesday last week, and it was telegraphed down to me that there was a chance to purchase. Consequently, I went up to town on Christmas Day, and that night and the following morning (Boxing Day) I saw the late Earl of Crawford's collectiou. After making a careful examination, in company with Mr Healey, of Messrs Edwin Healey and Co., I made an offer." At what figure ? Oh, it was close upon Y-20,000, and it took the London dealers by surprise. They are, of their kind, the finest collection in existence, and they are entirely British stamps. The col- lection is full of stamps that are not to be found in any other, and the condition generally is magnificent. If the stamps are sold separ- ately they ought to command a much higher price." What do you estimate they would be worth ?" They ought tc. reach £ 40,000 So you have m'\Je a really good bargain ?" Well, yes. TLt. interest in the collection is greatly enhanced, as you see here, by the history of the stamps written by the late Earl raw ford himself, and that was lucludea in the sale. The collection is much more interesting for me, being historical. One of the large albums contains the famous Id black V.R. series, which will fetch anything from Y,10 to £15 apiece, according to their condition. There is one sheet which contains 228 stamps, but this is not quite complete, as there are a few cut off the top, and you can imagine the value of that sheet alone. Then there is the unheard-of sheet of 210 of the 2d blue stamps of 1840, and there is a sheet of 2: Y.R. brown stamps, which are unique, and they ought to fetch about 120 apiece. They are both perforated and unper- forated brown. There is also a stamp which is known as the Cardiff Id (in red, not perforated), and they are supposed to have been issued at Cardiff in 1870, and have a plate number 160 What do you icfer:d doing with the col- lection ? I iLquired. "Ob, a large portioc of them," Mr Sparrow 1 replied, "I do Dce want and if possible I will sell them; there are many that I don't take any interest in at all. What interests me in the collection is the historical part of them. There are, for instance, the errors of the ltd. V.R. stamps issued in 1870 and which are very rare. There is a volume of embossed and tbeytham- selves would fetch ovsr £ 1,000. an i there are some official stamps of the nominal value of 5/ 10/ snd XI which shoold roughly make from .£750 to jGl.000. Many of the stamps are in complete sheets and an extraordinary thing is that í.be.re ia one sheet knowu as the Imprimatur sheet, 01 perforated, and which, before tbfY were issued to the public were put into tbu LO( cllivhl at Somerset House as proofs. In this collection there is a complete set which shows the controi number on the corner of the sheet. These are absolutely anique. With regard to tbe V.R. blacli Id. stamps they were withdrawn after the few first issueo owing to the fact that it was easy to rob the postmark off. For tbe black Id. V R stamps the late Lord Crawford himself paid over JE2.000, and the blno V.R. Id. stamps are probably worth £ 2,500. Th: two together should fetch over 15,000. After tbese stamps come the Id. V.R. red stamps and from the first issue I have them until they have four letters on the corners. They are complete from plate No. 71 to No. 225. Theo comes the lilac colour V.R. Id. stamp issued in 1887 and which bear the advertisement of Pear's Soap, for which the Government w, rf, paid a huge sum. There is amongst the collection a nam> < Lf Oxford and Cambridge stamps and I am goine to send them to the Prirce of I Wales. His R" High'jrp- takFI r degd of interest in University stamps and there is t ie, ability that he will be a pnrehaHer. As I iiuVfcj already stated it is the proofs and essays of the stamp.' toat I am particularly in t' ■; sted in, the stamps before they were iesu < to AhE: pn^l»c. and before ifrty tinted and coloured. These are more difficult to get hold of then the actual stamps. Bat I believe that I cow possess a complete net of stamps iassut-G IJUUJ -h- tci'LoL to date." Apart fi~m stamp collacting Mr Sparrow takes ao active interest in shooting, fishing, to date." Apart fi.-M stamp collacting Mr Sparrow takes an active interest in shooting, fishing, -AI. :'waG1L football and cricket. Since be bas resided in Breconsbire he has played for the Usk Valley cricket team in many noted matches. He is also a great collector of early blue Worcester chioa and it wa only last week that he made a large purchase, which ran to four figures, of blue Worcester china from Mr Gibsoa Dyson, Leominster.

Brynmawr Territorial Prize Distribution. The 55th annual distribution of Christmas prizes to the "B" (Bryntuawr) Company of tbe Breckccckshire Territorial Battalion, Sooth Wales Borderers, was held on Dec. 23rd. Lieut. W R Lewis, the Officer Commanding the Company, in proposing a heariy vote of thanks to the donors of prizes, referred to the very pleasant time the Company had in camp last year and how proad they all were of win. ning tbe Haverfordwest Challenge Bowl, for a Marathon race, open to every battalion in the Brigade. He hoped "B" Company next year would be represented by more than one man in that event. Lieut. D G Harris seconded the vote and said that tbey bad underguBe several changes since the beginni- g of the last tciriiorifci year. They bad iao-, a new GeLtta!, Captain D«xo;; (who did his beetfor tbe Company), bad r signed. One of their N.C O'e had ket). promt.ltd to Commissioned I R, uk slid their Instructor (Col. S Brabseti), bad retired. I Lieut. Lenin ih;u presented be Marathon medal to Pr A Gafiru r, H.d the Territorial Efficiency initial io Ptt. A Dennu^, i I cheer-. t ATTENDANCE PRIZES i TLe Section yCiz- wr £ 5 5, t';»r the S..cticn J making the- bsHt attendee at dribs during J the year, is.eiaoiu'g Church parades, was divided into three prizes, No. 1 Section beu-g first with a total 437. N 2 b, second with total of I 43C, t^ad No. 4 cotoinii U-ira with 420. No. 3 S ctioL. taking the w; od< u spoon with a total of 397. Ouly three men pos u tbe pop»)i-l* Liumb-r, viz., Coi. Serg*. R P atiarns, Pes. J Lovett, &eu> S Pcic-e, and tbcJ; -were awarded special money pr»z<- MONEY PRIZES. T;;e snoual m-irey pnz-. sboot for £ 10, h i"; in Ocloher, resulted as fallows :— Pte H Pemb-i-'g'' £1, C S I Brassett 17/6, Corpi S P. 'c 15/ P' D Evrins 14/ Corp: R Jeremy 13/6, Scrt-t J A Bnrston 13/ Pte A H Price 12/6, Pte D R, L Fi 12/ Le. Corpl A S Price 11/6, P,e J JobDSuu 11/ Pte F Ro v. berry 10/6, T J G. OViH 9/6, Sergt D Rel-S 9/ Cory) C T Cla> k- 8/- Pt- W J Evans 7/6 P e T H Rees 6/6. S rgt F Puce al., Pte I Britton 4/ Tee WictH rs d prize* -In which were nousnallv numerous valuable were Pte D Evans, Pie J RuwLh rty, Piei H Pembrioge, Seryt F E legiam, Pte J Jobnsoe, Pte A S Price. S'rgt. A J Bur-ton, Pre A Uudf-rwood, P T H Hagties, Corpl S Prioe, pr" E Watts, Co! -Sf rgt R P AdamB, Pte D R-e«, Corpl A H Price, Corpl R Jeremy, p{, W J Evans, Sergt D RfeB, Pte T J Swales. p," LI. Williams, Pee J E Thomas, C..q,! A Bayiiss, Pte J Lovett, Corpl J Corccck, Pie G H Wade, Pte T H Rees, Sergt T J Grovier, Pt: J Cox, Pte G H Bradford, Pte A D jrji,,g, Pie T H Jaiiics, Pt; G H Morgue, (II Pc, J 0 D.^vies, Pte G Jobs, Pte H Morris, Pte R Jones, Pte F Dow iiog, Pte W H Davies, Pit, W Williaws, Corpl C T Clarke, Pte F Trotman, PU1 G James, P.e G C Evans, Pte G H Morgan (I), Pte T Davies, Pee B Harding, Pte Jones, Ssrgt F Price, Band- master J Roache, Pte W Morgan, Pie J D Stevens, Pte I Brition, Pte W J Resales.

rLADIES FREE-. LADIES should write to tna before parting with L their money for so-called cures, and I will send them a FREE SAMPLE of my renowned American treatment for all Irregularities. I guarantee it to be quite effective, even In the most obstinate and most unyielding cases. It will not interfere with the ordinary duties of life. No purging pills. No nauseous drugs. No USSIOM Injsotlonsk Act like magic, failure impossible, so why worry ? Send no money, but write to me and I will send you a Free Sample, sufficient for a cure, & testimonials. A Free Copy of a very valuable book, "THE WIFE'S HANDBOOK," CoDtalalHf prlce>e81 information. will also be sent. Send no money. I will send the book and remedy sufficient for a cure, and all directions quite free so that yoa may try this remedy before buying it. Price 4/6 and 11/- MRS. EVSTT KINCAID. Renowned .American S?ec5cll3t (DepS. PL ). | 3, MEW 0X?Ona STSV.ET. 10KD&M, Yf.C. I 'U!'hfllt.!P"ti!J'2'Ji.1r-o.i!ffD;l:r-I\)2,

BUILTH ROAD. RIFLE CLUB.—Oo Monday fivening the members of the Builsh Ro ;d Mioature Rift", Club met at the Iron Roo o, when the Christmas prizes were distributed by Mies Evan-Tbomas. The cbsir was oconpied by Mr H. E'^n- Thomas who bas taken keen interest in the club from its formation. Iu ths course of bis introductory remarks the Chairman foX. plained how the handicapping had b"eo done and said that 00 the whole it bad worked out satisfactorily. The prizes were awarded as the result of a shooting competition as follows:-Mi- Pritharn (scores 2059 with 330 (handicap), Mr G N-kili (1978 with 330 handicap), Mr R e- Edwards (1974 wHb 34 handicap), G V ugh an (1973 on scratch), Mr Percy Davies (1966 with 53 baodicap), Mr T Williams (1962 on scratch), Mr E Hill (1957 with baIldio",p 34), H Morgan (1955 with 320 handicap), Mr Lewis Richards (1954 on scratch), Mr Hughes (1953 on scratch), Mr P Lewis (1948 on scratch), Mr E T Jonr-s (1947 with 370 handicap), J Jones (1947 with 70 handicap). Mr J Davies (1937 with 65 handicap), Mr H Devenport (1926 with 12 handicap). The competitors were divided into three groups and special prizes were awarded as follow:—Mr G Vaughao, Mr Edwardes and Mr C Pritcba'd. Miss Evan- Thomas remarked that it had been a pleasure to her to distributed the prizes. They were exceedingly pleased to fiad so much enthusiasm in connection with the Christmas shoo! (Applanse). The committee siooerely hoped that the enthesiawta would not stop, but that it would continue during the coming year. She was going to give a booby prize to the one who made the lowest score so as to increase the interest (applause). Another pleaaare to bar was to make a small present to the secretary Mr T Newman foe the meritorious services, wbioh were erataitons, and to wbioh tbe great success of tbe olub was mainly due (applause). The Chairman also expressed bia gratifications to find so much interest taken in the Christmas Sboot and congratulated tbe committee oo getting together so many valuable prizes. It was bis sincere hope tbat their enthusiasm woold cuatinue. On the motion of the Rev. J. L. Bryans a vote of thanks was accorded the donors of the prizes and on the morion of Mr E. T. Jones) seconded by Mr T. N-wman, a vote of thanks was accorded Miss Evan-Thomas.

Wedding Cards. I Oall 1hud see the Beautiful Designs In Endless Variety at the COUNTY OFFICE, I BRECON. I

DRESSMAKING AT HOMB. By SYLVIA. Suggestion for Renovation. The question of renovations having been re- oently under discussion, also the utility of the tunic in such a connection, I have reproduced my suggestion thereon ae the first of this week's skstche,c-No. 1,746-in the hope that it may help others besides my querist out of a difficulty. In the case whioh was the cause of the design shown it was a question of making an evening drees for a small amount, and, if possible, utilis- ing a dress which had done good service last year, also some oddments of lace, &c., whioh were also relics of the past. PATTMN No. 1,746. I The skirt was cleaned and remodelled, and ae the lower pa!t was somewhat worn this was cut away and the upper part of the skirt set on to a fairly deep yoke, which not only did not show under the fulness of the tunic, but obviated extra bulk here, and allowed t'he fulness to be arranged in slight drapery to give it an up-to- date touch. The old bodice was cut down to extend just below the arms, as modern taste is all for loose and semi-itransparent effects where evening bodices are concerned. If there had been no bodice it would not have mattered, as the chif- fon ooirld have been made up over white, cream, or flcsh-eolourcd chiffon, with a band of lace Carried round the lower part. The vesi was composed of a piece -1 velvet found in the oddment box, likewise the strip of beaded lace above it, which just gave a pretty finish. If. however, you have not these con- venient oddments you could arrange the vest differently, or make the over-blouse entirely of the chiffon. The tunic was fairly long, of the minaret" order, and for the sake of eoonomy was obtained from f of a yard of chiffon cut selTedgewaye, which also gives firmness to tie edge and keeps it even. The chagrins show the two portions of the pattern arranged on the ohiffon, of whioh you will require Ii yard-No. I. the bodice, Nc'. II. the Itundc. When making up flimsy materials I find it is best not to cut out the blouse-part til you have outlined this by means of tack-threads, in order to keep it even and prevent stretching. This particularly applies to the neck-part, which ie easily put out of shape. Having joined the sides together by meane of French seams, slit up the centre front nearly as far as the line for back of neck, snip it here to enable you to turn it in; then turn buck to the mark, cut off only just what is unnecessary, and thm hem. Arrange the vest as in the sketc'i. to the left, side of front, neaten, and sew the fas- tenings to the right side; then arrange and sew into the band, with the chiffon lining, which is made up separately. Now hem the sleeves, and sew the marabout edging on kodioe and sleeves M in the sketch. DIAGRAMS FOR PATTERN No. 1,746. I The tunic fastens at the left side, the edges being turned in to form a fairly wide he-n. finished off with beads or French knots. On the right side the two edges are caught toger.bpr with loose knot-stitches, and at the left, side just high enough to leave a piacket-ooening. Hem the lower edge over a cord, if you- wish I to give .it !he true" min'areit" eff.,(,t and "i"Y on the marabout edging. Gather the wuist-p. ■ t. arrange and secrir-3 this to the lower edge of belt. to wfoich the skirt is also s c- w n st itch on firrniv, sew the j>ortion projecting beyond t' e vest to a strip of ribbon, and fbr-h off with the fastenings and band as in the sketch. A Matron's Skirt. » The model I have selected for the next sketch —No. 1.747—is one which some of my matronly readers may be glad to see at this festive season, since it is of a slightly dressy type which exac:!y adapts it to afternoon or simple evening wear. It M quite an easy pattern to make up, the PATTERS No. 1,747. Drna merit at ion consum- ing of the V-shaped piece in front, which may either be em- broidered as in the sketch, if the wearer or maker feel cqmd to the task. or an :d; a which may please tnr in better will be to insert a piece of handsome brocade here to give it the appearance of opening over an under- skirt. This latter sug- gestion, I think, will be preferred bv the majority, though I have another to offer which may aleo com- mend itlf to those who are thinking of making up the skirt and want it to look smart. To theee I might euggest that if satin or velvet be em- ployed, for either of which fabrics the t. tern is quite suitable, the opening could be filled in with a deep Bounce that would be suitable. When making up I this skirt the fronit must be arranged in poerfiori and tacked and stitched before tacking the other seam, together. The placket-opening is in- tended to be arranged I in the front, under I the hem of the right tide. which crosses slightly over the left. I About 2 yards of doitble-width goods will be required, the pattern being cut for figures of 28-inch to 30-inch waist measurements.

HOW TO OBTAIN PATTERNS Our paper patterns are specially cut for us from designs exn •' -:y prep.-ired fnr this column. :>r>d the cost of eacn complete pattern is bid.. pos: f: oe. = « pJi 1.rto' StfirnTIS tV1'- P;; t('r', t..o "Sylvi<1." V"1'itr'"ri' Wonse. 0'; rr;;eV •> London. C. 1 ie sure i,i mention the ¡:U¡¡:.H: of the r,ttf- n when orde'irg. Patterns w.h l-,« i within three days of the nppli oa-tion btnn received.

A Notable New Year Number. I A very brilliant New Year number is pro- vided in the January issue of the "Windsor Magazine." Among the ficion by famous novelists is to be found a large second instal- ment of Sir H. Rider Haggard's new romance from the career of his famous hero, Allan Qnartermain, ''The Holy Flower," in which the interest of this strange adventure mounts steadily higher. Then there is the second com- plete episode in Halliwell Sntcliffe's chat wing new seriea, 'The White Horses," ia which the author's characteristic style gives charm to a period of English history somewhat earlier than those which he bas previously treated with such success; and that master of rustic comedy, Eden Pbillpotis, contributes one of the most delightful short stories of Devonshire life and character that has yet come from his prolific pen. Among the other stories &re a very beautiful and touching little romance by Warwick Deeping, a brilliant comedy by Dorn ford Y.?.te«. and a strenuous story of adventure by Fred. M. White. Among the articles is an interesting account by Miss N, Hadden, the well known artist, of a journey made by herself and two friends with the Bedouins to Wady Abu Salamu, cu their annual pilgrimage, v. hicb is accompanied by a number of illustrations I from the am hot's drawings made at the time. Charles G D Roberts contributes a t:'JF study of Wild Life, which is as picturesque as any of its predecessors. A series of portraits of well. known men oi our time who belong to groups of two or mora brothers! of either parab^l or diveigent ialen'.s includes Lord St. Davids and t-is two bro hers. Colonel Ivor Phiiipp* and ir 0.0;" li Phiiipps. Trie art fe-ure <.on:«isia I of a survey of the art ..f tbat versatile Victorian I painter of In .n. T?iblic;l ,nd o-,ie,- his orical subjtcis, Edward Armitage, RA which is I accornf anied by seventeen reproductions from h s priricipat pictures, including a finely-printed plate in colours from his dramatic paint inc. 'Julian, the Ape.state." j

News and Notes from Trecastle. (BY Novus HOMO). ineiuding thy ceo.-bravi.i of th-- Holy Cummnniou, wf-ro held as uf-.oil a. St. Divid't Oharab, Llywel, -,n,i St. Mary's Church, Ttciiingbi.?, oa Cbrhtms,* Diy. Tbe | vicar in r <?cb c vi: officii'?. • The R'v. J C Eeaos, of Borth. Cardiyio-- ahire, aoiivett d tv pawerful sermon at Tynowydd C.M. Chi pal on Christmas night, and tbe service was larg ly atiteudsd by memk..r8 oi all the denomkiatiotiF). Treca tie en Boxing Day was full of life and gaiety dnricy the time of weddieg ceremony that took place at the C.M. Chapel. Chapel street one Lime lull of carriage< and oiher "Licks couveyiog parties attending the weddiug. A good number of strangers paid a visit to TrLcastle daring the Christmas holiday?, and as usual a large number of onr VOUOJ people who are away iu different, schools have re turned to spend the Chriftmas vacation -t their respective homes. Miss Sybil J fft ys Camden, who is now at home speodiu" her holidays, presided at the organ in St. Mary's Church, Trai..r:,¿li'I, last Sunday, and her services were greatly appreciated. Congratulations to Mr Morgan W Thomas, of Beifout Farm, on his success in passing his fical examination tor the B.A. degree at Lam- peter some few days ago. Wo were all s'rry to hear of the death of Mf Jot e?, wife of th" Rev. J Volar-d-r Jones, of Pentretygwyn, near Llandovery, formerly of Cwmwysg and TrecasVe. Her mortal remains were inierre.i tiitb taosa of ,-ever->l members of the family in the burial ground of tb: C d- viDxstie M ihodist Chapel at Treeastle. The m-. mbe! of the Dramatic Socie' v at Tr"castle are making good progress ill their rphearsal-i of the Welsh dtama "Cyfoeth ceu Gymeriwd," which will b-i performed early next mouth.

VELINFACH. RENT AUDIT,—Oo Thursday. December 18-lb, Mr Evans Be van, Higb Sheriff of Breoonehire, held his half-ye;rly rent aadit a'. the Griffin Inn, Veliufech. An excellent dinner pro- pared bv Mrs James. There were present Mr Even-i B-van (iü the chair), Mr Davies ingent), Mr G rieg (Portyhat). Mr Price (Trephillip), Mr Ricket-ts (Treharried) who occupi'd tha vice chair, Mr Watkins (Cefowerp), Mr Williams (Tref^-inon). Mr Eckley (Courrdlacca), Mr Evans (Builder, Talgaribj, Mr Morgan (Liaiigorse), Mr Davies (Trc-benry), and others. Tb,- loyal toasts having been honoured, Mr J. F. Ricketts gave "The health of Our Landlord," and remarked that it -nnst be a plenpnre to Mr Bevan to know that his term of office as High Sheriff would ehortly expire without his having" the unpleasant duty to haDg Thi- toa«it was drueb wi: b cheer- and the singing I, of "For he's f. jolly good fellow." Replying, Mr Bevan thanked Mf Rickett-. and tenant!? for tbe cordis) manner in whioh th.'y bad drock bis health. He considered it a com- pliment to any landlord to see the oood feel- iDg exieting between his tenants and himself. ¡ (Applause). Mr Bevsn also tbauki-d ten- ants for the way they had w;:t his agent that day, and said if ther° was any ai^jasta:ent needed, they could do it themselven, without any iijb>r?erer<c:e from other sonrcts. (Ap- plause). Before sitting down Mr Bevan gave tbe health of Mr Ricketts, remarking that he hoped tbe vice chair would always be as well fill ed. Other tOt\Bts followed, including—"The 1 health of Mr Davies" (agent), proposed by Mr Ricketts "Mrs Bevan and family," proposed by Mr Price, Trephillip "The visitors," pro- posed by Mr Bevan etc. Songs were sung I by Messrs Ricketts, W. T. James, E. Jones (LlaDgor&e), and others.

(ONIARIOSS I CANADA the land of g yj2T opportunities—a week from Liverpool. « ■ pay in rent. Dairying, cattle raising, fruit growing, gm

HARDWICKE. CHRISTMASTIDE.-The Parish Church was most tastefully decorated for Christmas and there were large congregations. There were two celebrations of Holy^Communion, with an unusually large number of communicants. Appropriate sermons were preached by the Vicar, the Rev. M E Harper. Among the special mutic lendered by the choir was a new setting 10 the Te Deum, Turner's evening service in F. and the anthem "Thine, 0 Lord/ is the greatness" (Kent). After the evening seAnce u number of carols wese sunfe. Ivir C G J'ortmsn, the organist, ably presided at the organ, and played for the concluding voluntary the "H<illelujj.h Chorus." The decorators were Mrs H tbe Yicara.se Mrs Yanghan, Westbroof: Manor Miss Watkin?, Castlefieid and Miss Bebb, the Green Mrs Ballinger, Royal OÚ; Mi-s Davies, Hardv-dr-i e Miss Lewis,. Lifle Mountain Mrs Uunuy and Miss A Calico. Thé flowers and for the eLa.»oe>! were sera by Mr and Mrs Graystr.ne, the Moor.

Railwaymen Y. Llanfaes Brigade. The annual match between the Brecon Railwaymen aud LiaufaeE3 Brigade took place 011 the Newton Meadow on Xmafc Day aud attracted a fairly larye crowd. The Mayor, Councillor Evan Morgan, who was accompanicd by Aid. Thos. Williams, kicked off amid applause. The Railwaymen fielded a fairly good team, but the Brigade's eleven included many reserves. It was not a very interesting match, but. the Brigade made several exciting rushes for goal, and ooght to hive scored several times. The Railwaymen played a fairly good game, their defence, particularly that of S-llivao, being good. Gwilvm Price and Hardest were r q ialiy good for the hom e t-am, aad E Evans was the pick of the halves. For the Rail «'aymer) F R rerts rd ved a stnbbo-n yaiiie in the haif o^cU line. The only goai rAgitered in the first half came as a result of a good rT1 by A W;hh. A seramhhi in frowfc of the Raiiwaymeo'e tusaed, but Webb got the best of things and had uo difficulty in net- ting a moment later. The Railway men's equalising 0f11 came after aboot twenty m.-uii-s olay in th-.> s< eaai half. This orat. also result of a scramble ia the goal mouth. The Brigade s'rove hard to gaiu the lead and tbey were o«j th ? verge of scoring 00 se"e:ral occ.rdoos. Final. Briga-le. 1 goal. Riilwaym 1 Tue referee WT-I Mr J Salhv^u, huo I i. erF. I 4 Rail'-vavmen: F TLt > F S'J1!iVg1 iind G D m-.he? W F R b rtu ae, i T B. vau WD.i'ie^, W Jvk U ivJoi, H Daviea nnd M f J v.* i Bcipade: G/e t; Gvy<■?.• i Pt'ic.e snti Har.Me^t; T J Richards, E g.. :t:.1" and W Jenkir-s P P ) A W. bb. T Wd I ,JJ: Tudor Webb n-i E w-

Merthyr VaID v. Sports Club. This [ti<t"0b, pUyt-d ou UP Sports Club ground, provided an attractive game for a fairly numerous crowu oa Batik Holiday. «'I& will bei r»: aiembered that la-tt. month tha M rthyr V-ite team plaved the Sports Club in the thi-.d roond uf the South Waies Junior Cup and won, a-i I a 'n-trjru friendly" wes arranged lor, TUl' Sporcsuien uosv held their own and broke the V.tt- men's uebeaten record of 'his B -asno. The game, a!though played 0." very greasy and heavy groaud W boih.terou^ weather, wa fali/r excitement and thrilling moments.* 'c Mr Harris, Sennybridge, had charge of the teams, which lined op as follows :— Merthyr V LÐ :-Gudi Jer Divies and Edwards Foalkes, French and Williams Fletcikr, T Lloyd, D J -;L,fjs, 0 -ven and R Jo'ies, Sperts C'lt)b :-R,ll W V.»u:iban aud Urael Williams Parry Button and Beech B>-eokes, J Davies, Monty Green, Hoddiaott and Kuigbt. Aided by a strong wind the Sportsmeo sooa took the p!ay ilJ:o the visitors' irea and tbey experi'-rc--d hard luok in not scoring. Hoddin- nott soon became promiueno and after about twenty minutes play be smartly tricked tbe visitors' defence scored the finest goal of "ij: mateb, beating Gardiner ail tbe way. Ooce or t-eioe the Valemeu got into tbe Breconian«' half, but Vaugban and Williams made no mistake aud kept them well at bay. Tue home halves placed a very good game and were frequent spoilers, particularly Button. The home forwards strove hard to increase the lead, but ihsir shots were widt. O. croc"- ing over the Valermm went away with a dash and once or twice: became dangerous. Hall, the home custodi-.n, was severely tasted, hut he acquited himself admirably ^n each occasion. The home forwards afterwards played a re- m-irkably fine game, their oo ubiaatioa being blmont perfect. Kuight and Brookes on their respective wiag-t sent in some flue centres, while J D avies, Monty Green an d Holl-iinott were too good for the visitors b.cks. It was s a jr, suit of a very fine movement that Hoddinott scored tho second goal for the homesters and he again gave Gardiuer not the ghost of a chance. Merthyr Yale were awardtd a penalty, but the shot went wide, PreseLtly the homesters gained a penalty, and Monty Green placed tbe issue beyomi doubt. Merthyr [were now hopelessly ocaten, and although aided by a strong wind they were outclassed at every movemnt. Their outside right, Fletcher, made aorcie good rocs, bat bis ensu- ing shots were met by the home defence. Knight got away on his owu and oeutri d beau- tifnlly, bIt the ball was öuut acro" to Brookes. He dashed on and s..r.:t to the goal mouth and a scramble ensued. Brookes dashed on and registered number four foe UjtJ Sportsmen. A fHw miuutes later time was called and broogbt to a clo-a one of tbe most thrilling games playeii on the Sports Club grouud. Final score Brecou Snorts Club 4 yoals. Merthyr Vaie 0

Spa Junior Cup Final. Builth Wye-Side Swifts Y. Brecon Sports Club Juniors. Played at Builth W Ihi on Bt)xit,,g Day. There Wt!8 a ood I. gate II cousidcriog the weather. Teams ^— Wyeside Swifts C Pritcbard B Jones and G Jones. C James, T Rolbrook, and F Sp&r.kes F Thompson, G Phillips, M King, Fox, and Maiue. Brecon Sports Club Juniors Hughes Krab and Perry V Williams, Lichfield, and Roberts Palk, R Phillips, J Davies, Brookes, and D Rees. The referee was Mr J Davies, Rhayader. The Swifts played the first half with the wind, which blew very strong at the time. They attacked early, and if their forwards bad shot straighter most have secured an early lead. When the Breconians at length got iuto their stride, Pritcbard bad some trouble in clearing several low shots. The Swifts again attacked, and their supporters bad many disappointments, Phane.) after chance of scoring being missed. The vigitors rallied, and Palk got away and made a nice centre, wbioh was only partially cleared, and Brecon pressed till a free kick for offside was given against them. Sparkes was putting in some splendid work in the half-back line, and experienced hard took on mor- than one occasion with long pops. At haif-time there was no score. Scon after the resumption the visitors took the aggressive, and Phillips, receiving from the iighi wiLg, tcored a good goal, putting the ball out of Pritcbard's reach. The Swifts, though facing a strong wind and raiu, attacked on several occasions, but found the difenoe too strong. Brecon came again, and through a misunderstanding between tbe goalkeeper and the Vcks, Palk found the net. Three more goals"were soored for the visitors by J Davids, their centre forward, two of them iudividual efforts and the otLur from a equare centre by the outside right. The ple.y in this half was not so one-sided as the tcjre wonid iudic-*te, but undoubtedly in pace and cleverness the visitors were tbe better team. The final Pleerc- wa,4 Brecon Sperts Ciub Joniors. 5 go*.1 s. BfJiltb Wefls Wr ,oÏr!é, Swifts. 0 Mr Llo;1 p, presided Orsp '0 he winners on behalf of the donor, Mr R T Wostbington, and congratulated tbcm en their success.

LADIES Should W1UTK TO-DAY one losing *Ump for VALUABLE BOOKLi'/r. T K S TIM ON IA L S ana FUKK SAMPLE of BLANGHARDS PILLS 'X.ieyaiv 'inriv.Uled f0a:a.il Irregularities, ivi' aad sj-.n Jily atford relief and never fail to nlleviate all sufe-iin; They supersede Pennyroyal, Pil Cochia, Bitter Apple, &e. u:J\NCHARD'S are the best of all Pills for Women." in l>ox/s I'1.1 by all Chomiats, orpost free, same price, frmn LESLIE MARTYN, LTD. CHEMISTS, 34, DALSTON LANE, LONDON

MID-WALES LEAGUE. Builth Wells Outclassed by Llanfaes Brigade. By defeating Builth Wells ou Saturday, on the Newton Meadow, the Llaufttei Brigade accomplished a great achievement. The Builthocians fielded a strong holiday team which included A T Jones, a former Notting- ham Forest player, who his secured a place in the next Welsh amateur triai match, and the Brigade were also at full strength. Unfortu- nately a strong cross wind played havoc with the game, the bali continually going out of playing area. It was a bitterly cold afternoon, but notwithstanding this there was a fairly large crowd of spectators. The teams were in charge of Sergt Instructor Green, Talgarth, and they lined up as follows Builth: J Stephens; A T Jcues^ned T Mytton; D T Williams, Smith aid Pugh Steers, R Jcnes, Rees, Pritcliord ana Smith. Llanfaes Brigade: E G> fen; Gwiiyn Price and Hargert; N rbury, E Evans and W Williams; T Willisms, A Webh, J Llewelyn, Tudor Webb and H Lewis. From the outset the Brigade, aided by the wind, set np a fast p«ce and soon the visitors' banks were severely teste*). They momentarily c<e.*red and T William* t:or. possession and centred splendidly. H L <'•>» relumed and A entitred Aplendidly. H L relumed and A Webb placed the bad i em of Stephens' reach. Builth strove hi- bn heHdw*y only to find their proi_>. ,.H stubbornly E ud W Williams, who fed their b.rwaiM S ¡ aUtic- ward rr Williams reg^?nt-<* nnmoer 2 ir i-e Brigade witn a HiU'-ut Tjmi w cueticuahy hard prt w* ■■ kbtdr tr. queutlv failed to eflt :i:?ely. S.i pbens pl'.yed a capital the sucks. J Llewelyn led to tbe scomg of ,h" third goal. fli-, brought the ball frotii the left wing and sent into the goal mouth. A e endued A Webb netted. A i>. v, ,uh, hhd' Tll'h,r Webb sent iu a sb.yi winou oaireU uude" the ero! hi-" aiid b u • St. At halt time the score r-ad LI anfaes Brigade 4 Biiiith W- i;e 0 O J resuiuing it was tbon,),? the Builthomaos would give the bnm":JSei.4 F wartu lime, with tbe aid of tbe wind, hut their play was disap- pointing. Tbey failed to eet up any salined combination a; :I their d f t.u broke wn cu several critical occafio:;s. S.epbeus bad to run out of bis ctmge -t era' time,* io av; rt :"tack9, Tbe brigsdt improved ai:, time went en but- their shots were sometimes wide. J L!ulV- \lyn made no mistake with a penalty and just before time H Lewis added the homes Jrs sixth and last goal. The Brigade were, from tbe outset, ->nt to wiu, and by their deter- mination and grit they took the wind out of the Bails of their visitors before they could geti settled down to form. Tin last ten mmutes of tha game were played in semi-darkneas. The final score was Llanfaes Brigade 6 Bdlth W"lh 0 Talgarth v. Hay. On Saturday the Hay Team visited Talgarth in the Mid-Wales League competition, and met a team weakened by their^natch at Presteign in the semi-final of the T)tway Cup. Mr Corsham, Builth Road, had charge of the game, and the teams were Hay F Cook S E "ans and A Evans G Watkins, J Davies, and W Watkins; F Morgan, C Rosser, T Jones, U Evans, and H Wede. Talgarth E Bv wis V Davies and T Pugh L Humphries, W Shelton, and A Williams W Barnet, R Parry, S Hughe-, J Jenkins, and C Ptice Talgarth, playing down the field, for some time bad the best of the game, but could not score. Hay then attacked, and T Jones gent across for Rosser to score first goal, Jones sent several more shots across the goal mouth, hot without effect. Half time came with Hay leading by 1 goal to nil. On the restart Humphries ran up the wing and passed t) Williams, who sent wide. Talgarth shewed some pretty head work by W Shelton, A Williams, C Price, and Parry, as the result of which Jenkins made the score level. Hay then attacked, but Vin Davies relieved. Next the visitors got a corner, but no goal resulted. Sticking to their work, the Hay forwards put the ball into the net, but the whistle had gone for off-side." Several corners fell to each side, but no goals came of them. T'llcprth were pressing when no-side went. R '-011 Airaw-l goal each. The Talgarth Committee are reporting rough usage of players at Presteign on Christmas Day.

Northcote Cup League. GOALS. P. W. L. D. FOR AGST P. Brecon Athletic 2 2 0 0 11 2 4 C. L. Brigade 2..1..1..0.. 7..5.. 2 Rechabites A 1 0..1..0.. 6.. 6..0 Rechabite B 1..0..1..0.. 1 7 0

Brecon Athletics v. Brecon Rechabites B. This match vvan played oa Christmas Day, and resulted in an easy win for the Athletics by 7 goals to 1. During the game a penulty was given for the Rechabites, which was taksn by A Perry, and which resulted in their only goal. The 80orers for the Athletics were I Rees (4), Turner (1), Robinson (1), and G Smith (1).

Brecon Athletics Y. C.L 8. On Satllrda iii-io-bee game took place between the above in the Northcote League, and resulted in a win for the Athletics by 4 goals to 1. The scorer for the C L.B. was W Evans, and for the Athletics Robiusou (2) and D Rees (2).

-+- Brecon Saturdays Y. Brecon Juniors. Played on Saturday, and resulted in a goalless draw.

Boys at Football. On Boxing day on Pontwillim field a match was played b> We«.u the Brecon Chnrch LaùA' Brigade and Knighton Lads' Club, in charge of the Rev. D G McPnearsou, vicar of Keighton, Although a drizzling raiti fell throughout, a good game was witnessed the result being a win by four goals to one ia favour of the Brecon Lads. Tt)e scorers for Brecon were W James, W Wood, Ivor Brookes and W Evans. The visitors we-e entertained to dinner and tea and a most pleasant afternoon was spent.

LLANBEDR. BEREAVEMENT.—Wr regret to announce a sad bereavement which has befallen Mrs Williams, of the Boot F cIrm, through the death of ber sister, the result of a motor car aocidenfc. Another year has passed away, Like flowers that wither and decay Great God, we stand before Thy face, A living monument of grace. Grant, Lord, that we may ever be Found faithful ministers to Thee. Dear friends have come, and some have gone, As, month by month, time passed along: One Friend tor ever reigns above, So constant, changeless, full of love. Grant, Lord, that we may ever be Found faithful minister to Thee. The world presents its many joys Still there are hours when sin alloys 0 purify our hearts, dear Lord, By powerful influence of Thy word. Grant, Lord, that we may ever be Found faithful ministers to Thee. We thank, Thee, Lord, for all Thy care Bestowed upon us, year by year By ministering angels blest, We march to our eternal rest. Grant, Lord, that we may ever be Found faithful ministers to Thee. S.O.G.

-n_ Brecon Library Grant Withdrawn. Mr John Lloyd, ot 15, Chepstow Place, London W., has received the following letter from Mr Carnegie:- THE CARNEGIE UNITED KINGDOM TRUST. Having transferred the administration of the made a<;ail"b! ;by me f-)r t!A,. erection of public libraries brj the procuring of church organs, within the United Kingdom, to the C-srnegio United Kingdom Trasteos, who tran- sact the business of their trait in my ustive towo of Dunfermline, I L-elg to state that all implications for grants for the foregoing pnr- poses will hereaftei he disposed of by them, aud that my offer, in 1903, of a grant in response to a reqaest f'Ora you, oa behalf of 'Town and Coanty of Brecou noc haviug been taken advantage of after the lapse of several years, want now be held a* recalled. (Signed) ANDREW CARNEGIE. 2 East, 91st Street, N York, 18ch December, 1913.

Extending Waterworks in Brecon- shire, The Aberallery HJd District Water Board's Bill has been tie, isited for introduction to parll!Aynerit u-xi- It states that the Board have pu'ch:i?ed 250 acres of land in the valley of the Gnvye-s F ,\vr, in Breconsbire, and have commenced the, ef)rist of the work? euthoriseel by their I Ac of 1910. but owing te increase of population in the district < ) J'e A I L served find, it exr^dient that they sbotild be authorised h coes'rnct on the latias alreedv acquired an ;vldi:i 'ml reservoir the reservoir authorised bv the Act of 1910. Tin Board, therefore, se^k powers to coas:ract a compensation re ervoir, to be called The Hely-g Reservoir." holly situated iu toe parish of Llauelieu, in tbe rural district of Hay The reservoir will be f rmed by means of a dam across ths vallev, through which rons the stream known as the (r-'wyiio Fawr. After (he com- pletion of this resereoir pro7i?|in is made for inere,is,iip thp compensation wafrr from 750,000 gail-ms to 1,125001) unllom-.

CAT HE DIN E. WAIFS AND STRAYS SOCIETY.—Mies E M Davies, of the SCUUOI, Oaluediue, tiie local secretary for the Waifs and Strays S'ciety, was a -ain this year, with ihe help of a little band of juvenile workers, enabled to send off her annual parcel of garment to the Home at Caerleon, and for whicti he received the subjoined acknowledgment from the Lady Superintendent: S. Cadoc's Home, Cuerleon, Dec. 20tb- I write: >o thank y u very much inoeed for the nicfy^arcel of clothes you have kindly sent us. If* I expect, tbt y are made by your children, I hope you will tell them how grateful we are for them. There a;e 20 children be,-c--B. K. I [I Maekworth." Tbe following sums made up from the collection boxes have been forwarded to the secretary of the socicty (the Rev Maldwyn Davies), viz C Thomas 3- 7d; M James 4s lOd Miss Davies 2i 10d Miss Osborne Morgan 7s; G Thomas Is 7d E M Davies Xl Is G Jones 2s Id A Smith 3s 6d. XMAS DAY SERVICES -On Xmas Day an early celebration was held at the Parish Church and morning service with communion at 11 o'clock, Very prettily bad the church been decorated by the lady members of the congre- gation, The weekly services held during Advent were fairly well a'tended. XMAS PRESENTS Captain Travers, still mindful of his long association with the parish, sent round to many of the inhabitants appre- ciable expressions of his kindly feeling and good will. APPRECIATED GENEROSITY, — Mr Talbot, Treholford, who has lately had several suc- cessful dttys* pheasant shooting at Cathedine and on the All:, very generously distributed a number cf the birds amongst the residents of the district, who greatly appreciated the thought- fulness of the kindlv donor.

BWLCH. I MISSION ROOM SERVICES.—On Xmas moruiuJJ a communion service was held at the Mission Room, at which the Rector of Cwmdu (the Rev R L Morgan) was the celebrant. At the evening service the Rector of Cathedine (the Rev D H Picton) preached an appropriate sermon. As usual the de, rations earned out by the mem- bers of the cougiegation attracted a goad deal of attention.

BUCKLAND. ANNUAL DIST RI BU' (-).,i -On Tuesday in last week the aimual distribution of beef and articles of wearing app ,tierou'-jjy provided by Mrs Gwynne-Holfoiu for the employees of the Buckland esta-e took place at the Parish Hall, Bwlcb, where the arrangements for the distri- bution were carried out y Mr E C Maurice, the agent, Mrs Maurice, and the Rev D H Picton. Other of the iuhabitants were the recipients of braces of pheasants.

SENNYBRIDGE. PENTREFELTN N.P. ScnooL.—An entertain- ment was given* by the children of the above school, on Wednesday evening, the 17.h inst. The schoolroom was well filled with parents and others in erested, and the pupils went through a long programme very c;editably. The chair was taken by the Rev A Garnons Williams, who wi! h his wife and son attended under great difficulties, as they were that day changing their residence for a time. A few remarks were made as to the progress of the school and the names of the scholars who bad attended best were read out, four having won the Education Committee's prizes, viz., Edith Price, Rhoda Thomas, John Davies and Polly Price. Mrs Garnons Williams very kindly presented each child attending the school with a book and an orange instead of the .Christmas tree usually given at the festive season. The programme consisted of school and other songs, recitations, dialogues, action songs, and drills. After singing the National Anthem all dispersed having spent a very pleasant evening. The proceedsare to be spent on a musical instrument for the school. A HEALTHY COUNTRY.—Dr W R Jones, coroner, told the jury at an inquest at Brecon on Monday that he bad 550 pttienls on his list under the Insurance Act, and he bad not yet had a single de trh. He thought it was rather a record. The foreman remarked that the coroner bad plenty of fresh air in his country.

THE FOUNDATIONS OF CANADA, The Hon. Dr. Montague, shaking at Winnipeg recently, said that Canadian; bad every reason for satisfaction, inasmuch ac4 tb" country had remained true to 'he British constitation. Another matter of congratulation to the people of C 'na 'a WaR the fact that during the years 1864-1867 tu.ere were men in the country who w. ro- great enough to sink party politics and uuite themselves to form the great fedtration which trw couu.ry had to-day. The Canadians who foucofd the country were men of two class -th, Frenchmen and the United Empire Loyalists from the United States, who renounced aU they had. even to their farms, in or .er to remain citizens of the British empire, ani foand a great nation. Dr. Montague ststp-t th,.t the progress of Canada bad rot been *oo rapid the development had I been continual ami v-erjy. As tar as Western Canada. was cooct rned it bad its problems of assimilation, but the Briti-h nation itself was a oompositiou of t; Roman, Saxon, NormftO and. Celt. Th "e was auother reason for the people of Cr«u wbh h to pride themselves* and tbat was (be spirit of Canadianism wbich was grovit, op in the country. While national wealth ue 8 one thifg aud natura' tfcBOultCfl t, ILc U. I.tod," gloni-i. 48 Was the nationatr, wtih. No country," he sftidi can bec >me great unless the citizens are proud of their conutry and love their flag.