Welsh Gazette and West Wales Advertiser

Y COR BACH. A WARM TRIBUTE. To the Editor of the Welsh Gazette" SIR,—It will doubtless interest your large circle of subscribers to read the testimony of some, who were present and heard the singing of the Rheidol Juvenile Choir at the National Eisteddfod last week. As old fellow-townsmen of the genial con- ductor, Mr. J. Brenig Edwards, and his gallant little choir, it was with no small interest that the Aberystwythians in Cardiff looked forward to their appearance on the platform of the Eisteddfod. To us, their promised performance constituted by far the chief item in a progromme bristling with events, and calculated to run its course through five, long, crowded days. It was, however, with no small regret that we found the little choir on their arrival at the Pavilion to be suffering terribly from a long and heated journey, and that theyi had arrived just in time to discover, alas! that the competition was proceeding and that they were drawn for the twelfth place. Worse than all it grieved us to hear that some of the children had fallen sick on the journey, and that the efforts we made to place the choir last on the list were proving to be utterly futile. Let any reader imagine if he can, the contrast of children thus situated with those of the other choirs, all of whom came from v. it i j" an easy reach of Cardiff, and wh(J,; concert. had been secured beyond all question. There remained not, unfortunately, even time available to give the children any refreshment, however slight, on the Eisteddfod ground. The heat was intense, the little choristers were tired and worn, and it will be"safe to say that the change :of climate from the refreshing breezes of the sea, joined to the exhausting confinement of the journey, added unduly to their discomfort in comparison with the rest of the choirs. But there was no flinching, nor complain- ing, and the faces of the children, as the writer addressed them previous to filing on to the plat- form, showed that those who had so generously helped them to come thus far, and who had accompanied them there that day, were not to remain the inglorious patrons of a weak, faint- hearted contest. To the cry of Rwan fechgyn! cofiweh am ar hen dref," came the louder and ready response, Gwnawn, Syr, Gwnawn," and their resolute, but smiling faces showed plainly that the Cardis meant all they said, and perhaps more. And so, enthusiastic but travel-worn, simple and undecorated, they filed slowly up to the plat- form, looking the most truly Welsh of all the Welsh choirs that appeared. Compared with the rest, indeed, they appeared rustic in the extreme, but beneath all their plain fustian and absence of gaudy attire, the audience caught at a glance the spirit, meaning, beauty, & truth of the ancient Eisteddfod of the people, k. cheer after cheer rang forth as the little choir gmodestly took their places. For a moment, they gazed expectant on the serried rows of seats around, their lithe conductor meanwhile acknowledging the presistent shouts of applause, and finally with a sweep of his baton leading them on to the attack of Awn yn mlaen," gwhich was under the conditions already noted, a very credit- able performance, and well received in all parts of the huge pavilion. Now and again one would catch in the air the spirit of Ysgol fach Tanycae, and if there were some things in the singing which attracted our attention more than others, they were the sweet, native freshness of voice and the strong Cardi courage which accompanied it. The render- ing of "Sweet and Low" was decidedly not so good, the choir too evidently carrying the martial spirit of the first piece into a performance requiring the nicest technique and delicacy of expression, and failing somewhat in these respects in comparison with some of the other choirs. gAs one of the adjudicators afterwards stated to the writer, this last piece was decidedly unsuitable as a fair test for children's voices. One fact, however, loomed large throughout. If the Rheidol choir had not secured either first or second place, they had at least touched the hearts and won the warm approval of the audience, who repeated their plaudits again and again and cheered in no stinted manner and, it ADerystwytllllas tailed to produce a cnoir, who can satisfy the nice and perhaps over-sensitive ears of Eisteddfodic adjudicators, it can be proud, and we join in its pride in thinking, that it sent to the Cardiff Eisteddfod a conductor and a choir, whose sweet voices, amidst odds of distance, in- convenience and competition, charmed the ears of all who heard them, and enhanced her reputa- tion as our Western Athens in this Empire of music and song. Rouse, ye gales; ye surges seethe, Aberystwyth fu, a fydd R. EDWARDS JAMES (" YSTWYTH ")

Important Sale at Aber- ystwyth. Air. J. E. James offered for sale by public auc- tion at the Lion Hotel, Aberystwyth. on Monday, the following freehold farms, all situated in the parish of Llanrhystyd :— Bryneiddwen, 23a Or, 38p, in the occupation of Mr. David Evans, withdrawn at P-140. For Tynewydd, 24a, Or, 8p. Bidding rose rapidly from Z100 to £280, at which it was knocked down to Mr. Evan Phillips, the tenant. Pistyllgwyn, lOa, 2r, 23p. Sold to the tenant, Mrs. Evans, for £75. Rhydyfudr,, 142a, Ir, 38p. The bidding started at £ ,bUO. it was declared.an open sale at F,1,000 and was sold to the tenant, Mr. Jenkin Evans, for zi,ioo. Cefngronllwvn, 23a. Or. 22p. in the occupation of Mr William Edwards, soldto Mr.jDaniel Edwards, Gwarolchfa, for £ 150 and T&nlluast, 51a. lr. 3p. occupied by Mr. David Williams, sold to Mr. E. T. Jenkins, London for Z700. Lluesinewydd, 58a. lr. 35p. occupied by Mrs, Sarah Evans. Bidding eonnmniccd at Z500. The sale was declared open at £800, at which sum it was knocked down to Mr. Jones, Ynysfach. Talwrnhogfaen, 47a. 2r. 27p., sold to Mr. Wm. Lloyd, Talongoch, for £ 425. Caregyddol, 15a. 2r. 27p. withdrawn at £125. Rhosfach, 49a. Or. 30p., withdrawn at £250, Gwarolehfa, 39a. 2r. 27p., sold to the tenant Mr. Wm. Edwards, E350. Rhosyrolciifa. 28a. 2r. 22s. withdrawn at £ 250. Hafodronw, 25a. lr. 29n. aiso Withdrawn, a part, of this farm, 15a. Or. 7p. sold for £ 95 to Mr. Lewis Davies, Tynvfynydd. Talwrngoch, 80a. Or. 20p. sold to the tenant, Mr. John Lloyd, for IC700. Lluesthen, 36a. 2r. 5d., sold to the tenant Mr. David Williams for £450. Bryngwyn. 32a. 2r. 18p., withdrawn at £ 525- Mr. James also sold at the same time and place the following: Glancledan House, Lbllon, Mr. Daniel Davies, 2, Bridge-street, 100. Messrs. Roberts and Evans were ihe solicitors for the vendors.

LLANBADARN FAWR. PERSONAL.—Intelligence reached this neigh- bourhood this week that the Rev. Griffith Parry, who is on a visit to the States, had been taken uddenly ill. His numerous friends wish him a peedv recovery, and it is hoped he will soon be amongst his congregation again. t, 0 1 SCHOOL BOARD.—A meeting of the School Board was held on Wednesday, July 19th. Present Rev. N. Thomas, vicar: Messrs. R. K. Jenkins. R. e' Edwards, J. P. Thomas, R. L. Thomas, Benjamin Jones, and T. H. Evans, deputy clerk. — The minutes of last meeting were read and confirmed. —The Attendance Officer's report and lists were gone through, and instructions given thereon.—The Attendance Officer's application for an increase of salary was deferred until the last Board meeting in December.—It was decided to close the schools on the 28th July, and reopen on the 25th August.— Only one application being received for the post of mistress of Comminscoch School, it was decided to adjourn this appointment until the 26th July.— Consideration of Mr. W. P. Owen's bill of costs against the Board regarding the charities was also adjourned.

ABERAYRON. PERSONAL.—The numerous friends of Mr. Rees J. Evans, 3, Queen-street, will he pleased to hear of his success in passing the Board of Trade examination, qualifying him to act as Master Mariner. BIG FISH.—Master Percy Lloyd caught three large salmon last week, weighing" 16, 15, and 14 lbs. respectively. SUCCESS.—Messrs. Alban Jones and A. P. James, of the County School, have been successful at the recent London Matriculation Examination. The former, an old student of Mr. Gwyn Jones, passed high in the second class, and the latter, who was coached by Mr. Hughes, came out in the first class. ATHLETIC SPORTS.—The Athletic Sports were held on Wednesday, the 19th inst., in beautiful weather. There was a large attendance and a good gate was realized. The track (the only specially laid in Mid Wales) is in grand condition. The competitions on the whole were keen, most of the afternoon fun was with the latter part of the programme, the Gymkhana. The first event was half-mile open handicap bicycle race. The first in the final was Dd. Rees, of Llantrissant, beating his brother Will by about half a length. Then followed an exciting ladies bicycle race, first prize a beautiful cycle stand, won by Miss Edith Davies, Lampeter, and second, a ladies bicycle shopping basket, won by Miss Jenkins, Feathers Royal Hotel, Aberayron. Two mile open handicap bicycle race, again Dai Rees was to the front, followed a good second by L. T. Evans, Pontypridd. Then followed the Gymkhana: Threading the needle," Competi- tors had to ride once round track and dismount, run for thread and needle, thread same and race home to tape. All the competitors were quite excited, and a good time elapsed before the winner brought back his needle threaded, first being Mr. J. D. Jenkins, Feathers Hotel. Bobbing for apple," again competitors had to ride once round track, dis- mount, run to tub full of water, bob for apple with mouth only, ride again once round track finishing with apple in mou; h untouched by the hands. Mr. John Morgan Evans won one heat, and Mr. D. Rees, Llantrissant. the other, but the Glamorgan- shire man beat our "junior in the final. "Shoe race competitors had to give up their shoes, and ride round track, run to bag and find their own shoes, return with same properly fastened, after again riding once round track, 1st, Mr. J. D. Jenkins, Feathers Hotel. Mathematical race," riding once round track columns of figures were handed. Competitors add same correctly and race to tape, 1st, Mr. William Rees, Llantrissant. The most interesting of all competitions was for the silver bugle which was presented by Mr. J. Davies, Feathers Royal Hotel to the cycling club which showed the best attendance. Two clubs contested, Aberayron and Lampeter. The latter having a large majority carried away the prize. They mustered 124. A question rose if one fourth of them were bona fide members, as three-fourth of them had paper badges stuck on. But they were given the benefit of the doubt. The account of yesterday's races will be given in our issue of next week. URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL.—THURSDAY, Present Mr. J, T, Evans (vice-chairman), pre- siding, Revs John Davies and Evan Morris, Messrs. David Evans, E. Lewis, J: R. Evans, J. A. Jones, B. C. Jones (clerk), John Watkins (surveyor). The minutes of the last meeting read and con- firmed. A CORRECTION. In our last report of the Urban Council, it was stated that Mr. B. C. Jones (clerk) had said that as regards converting Pier Cottage into a slaughter-house. Mr. Jones explained that he did not say that the Council did not adhere to the Monachty Estate Authorities agreement, but, that they must eject the tenant themselves before the Council would have anything to do with the house. THE GUIDH. The Clerk reported that he had sent 160 Picturesque Aberayron" to the principal hotels, newspapers, &c„ and institutions in South Wales, and was again sending to the leading English towns. FURIOUS CYCLING AND DRIVING. The Rev. Evan Morris called the Council's atten- tion to the rate of spfeed cyclists travelled into and through the town, and asked if the Council had power to put a stop to this, and he (Mr. Morris) proposed that three boards be erected on each of the roads leading to the town. Mr. John Rees I second Mr. Morris' proposition, provided that driving vehicles be added. Mr. J. H. Jones I propose that the:Council leave the matter drop as we have nothing to do with it. Rev. E. Morris I have not proposed but wha other Council's have proposed and passed. Mr. J. R. Evans Isn't 'it the work of the local police ? Rev. Evan Morris: Well, I propose that our clerk write an official letter to the Chief Constable. Mr. David Evans: Yes I see no harm in calling the attention of the police to the matter. After further discussion the matter was put to a vote, and the Rev. Evan Morris's proposition was carried. BOATING. Owing to the sad boating accident that took place at Pwllbeli, the Council decided to take the best steps possible to prevent the over-crowding of pleasure boats. Mr. J. H. Jones proposed that they ask the opinion of two experienced master mariners, as to what every boat would carry, and if possible to compel the boat-owners to register their boats with Mr. Lewis, H. M. Custom House Officer, Aberyst- wyth. Mr. David Evans said he believed there was a law as to what every boat shall carry, according to the length of keel, and he (Mr. Evans) seconded Mr. Jones's proposition, which was unanimously carried. OLD AGE PENSIONS. A form of memorial petition was read from West Ham in favour of Old Age Pensions. Mr. J. H. Jones proposed that it be left on the table for every member who is interested in it to study it.

TREGARON. PETTY SESSIONS.—At the Petty Sessions on Tuesday Thomas Jones,J Cwmelyn, Llangeitho, was charged by Supt. Phillips with selling milk adulterated with water., from which some cream had been removed in the Parish of Llangeitho on the 17th June.—-The case was adjourned for a month. Ebenezer Evans, Tvn- domen, ^Llanio, was charged by Superintendent Phillips with selling milk from which at least 15 per cent of cream had been removed.—The case was dismissed. Thomas Davies, Voelallt,Llanddewi-brefi, was charged by Supt. Phillips, with selling milk in which at least 10 per cent. of water had been added and was not the quality demanded at the Parish. Firted 10s. and costs, and to pay analysis fee.—John Francis Davies, shoemaker, and Morgan Price labourer, both of Llanddewi-brefi, were charged by charged by James Thomas, water bailiff, with put- ting poison lime or noxious material in the water called Brenig, with the intention to destroy fish, on the 19th June. Both were fined Ll and costs each Evan Francis, tailor, Penstar, Llanddewi-brefi, with aiding and abetting John Francis and Morgan Price in committing the offence of putting poison lime in the water called Brenig to destroy fish. Fined 5s and costs. SUCCESS.-At the examination in connection with the London College of Music, held at Aberystwyth on Friday, Miss Cassie Morgan, Talbot Hotel, passed the elementary stage in pianoforte playing, and Miss Jennie Jones, Emporium, passed in the Advanced Senior Stage. Both candidates were pupils of Mr. J. T. Rees, Mus. Bac. The examiner was Mr. Trehearne, Mus. Bac. (Oxon).

LLANYBYTHER. SAD DROWNING FATALITY. -.News reached this district on Tuesday, of the sad death by drowning at Sully of Mr. Evan James, formerly of Pencarreg. It appears the deceased had, in company with some of friends gone out for a bathe in the sea, and through some unaccountable reason James went bevond his reach and failed to return to land. He was the eldest son of Mr. Price James, tailor, Pencarreg, and only left here a few years ago for Barry. lie was very popular in Llariybyther, and his death has cast a gloom over the whole neighbourhood. The corpse will be brought to Pencarreg for burial.

TOWYN. VISITORS.—A great deal more have arrived this week, and a large number is expected next week. THE COUNTY SCHOOL.—This school came out well at the recent Matriculation Examination of the London University. Four pupils, Edward Jones, David James Roberts, Taliesin Davies, and Elizabeth Wynne Richards passed in the first division. FISHING.-An extraordinary haul of mullets was made at the end of last week by Messrs. Francis (brothers), and that veteran fisherman, Mr. D Davies (Dewi ap Dewi). They caught at one. stretch 229. These expert and hardy catchers did surely "Cast the net on the right side of the ship," The fish were fine specimens and were quickly sold at good prices. CYCLING.—Anent the remarks of last week's issue on the error of cyclists and fast driving- through streets. Great complaints are being made and not without just cause-by wheelers and drivers of the delay and inconvenience occasioned to them in the persistent obstruction of gates on the roads between Talyllyn and Towyn, via Llan- egryn and Perfeddnant. These roads are popular with cyclists and hirers of vehicles to Talyllyn Lake, Bird Rock, Castell-y-Bere, and Abergynol- wyn, &c., through beautiful and romantic scenery. It is only a matter of a little compensation and arrangements to farmers and landowners by the County Council to rid the public of the remnant of turnpikes, and free the roads. THE VOLUNTEERS.—The "F" Co. S.W.B. returned from Porthcawl on Saturday, and were met at the Station by the Towyn Brass Band, and as on their departure, so on their arrival were heartily cheered by crowds of townspeople and visitors. For cleanliness, smart appearance, and efficient drill, the brigade throughout was highly praised by the Brigradier General, Col. Vivian. The sports proved of great interest, and were tenaciously contested for, The Towyn Co. winning the Cup in the Tug-of-war competition. The Bugler of this Co, (J. T. Williams) won the 2nd prize in the 220 yards Bugier's race. The men of this Co. had a trip to Cardiff. Their expenses being paid by Capt. Kirby. All the Companies of the Battalion meet at Newtown for inspection on August 8th. NUPTIALS.—The marriage took place on Thurs- day, July 20th, at Yatton, a pretty village near Ross, Herefordshire, of Mr. S. W. Jones, of Towyn, and Miss E. Brown, of Yatton. The vicar and curate of the parish, officiated on the occasion and the pretty wedding was witnessed by a large circle of friends and neighbours. A goodly company sat down to the wedding breakfast, &c., and subse- quently at supper, given at Laburnum Cottage, Yatton, the home of the bride. Miss Brown lived at Towyn for some years, and the bridegroom is the son of Mrs Wynne Jones, Mawddach house, Bar- mouth, widow of the late Rev. Owen Wynne Jones, Glasynys, the well-known Welsh Bard and writer. Mr. Jones is also son-in-law, by his first wife, to Mr. and Mrs, Evans, the Green, Caersws. The bridal party returned to Towyn on Wednesday. CRICKET. TOWYN V. MACHYNLLETH. This match was played in beautiful weather on the Corbett Arms Hotel Grounds on Saturday, July 22nd. The following was the score:— TOWYN. J. S. Pike, c R. Hughes, b Vaughan .3 Rev. W. E. Gibbons, c Kenyon, b Vaughan 10 J. F. Edwards, c Edwards, b Vaugban.32 E. C. Owen, not out.28 J. W. Stealey, b Vaughan 9 Roper, b Jenkins 13 Extras. 5 Total 100 MACHYNLLETH. J. G. Jenkins, b J. F. Edwards .2 L. Fielding, b J. F. Edwards .1 P. Vaughan, b J Chidlaw Roberts .12 C. R. Kenyon, b J. Chidlaw Roberts .0 Dr. Davies, c Edwards b J. C. Roberts .0 J. Edwards, c Pugh, b Roper 7 R. Hughes, c Pike, b E. C. Owen 8 Lloyd Jones, b E. C. Owen .0 W. T. Arter, b J. Chidlaw Roberts. John Owen, b E. C. Owen 0 Ted Hughes, not out .0 Extras 6 Total 37

LAMPETER. GOLF.-This increasingly popular game is not without its votaries at Lampeter. Mr. D. H. Hurry, a professional golfer, at present acting as coach to the Borth Club, visited the town the other day and inspected the course, and gave the benefit of his experience to the Lampeterians. WEDDING.—On Friday, the 21st inst., the marriage was solemnized in the Shiloh Calvinistic Methodist Chapel in this town of Mr. John James, of Aelfryn House, Bridge-street, cabinet maker, and Miss Jane Davies, of St. David's College, cook at Professor Walker's. The interesting ceremony was performed by the Rev. Howell Lloyd, of Bwlchyllan, uncle of the bride, in the presence of a number of spectators. The bride was given away by her father, Mr. Evan Davies, of Felinfawr, Llangeitho, and was attended by Miss Walker and Miss Agnes Evans, 1, Station- terrace, as bridesmaids the bridegroom being attended by his brother, Mr. Daniel James, of Llandilo, as best man. After the nuptial ceremony was over the party, who included besides those already mentioned, Mr. Thomas James (father of the bridegroom), Master John;Thomas James (nephew of the bridegroom), Mr. Howell Llovd Davies (brother 9 of the bride), and Miss Jones, of Teifi House, drove to the residence of Professor Walker and his good lady. The bride and bridegroom afterwards departed by the 9.33 a.m. train for Llandrindod Wells, where they are spending their honeymoon. Both bride and bride- groom were the recipients of numerous valuable and useful presents. ATHLETIC SUCCESS.—Miss Edith Davies, Spring Gardens, of this town, was amongst the successful competitors at the Aberayron sports on Wednesday, the 19th instant. Miss Davies captured the first prize in the Ladies' three-lap bicycle race in fine style, finishing with a marvellous sprint. CYCLING.—The Lampeter Cycling Club's weekly run on Wednesday of last week was to Aberavron, where sports were held, and a silver-mounted bugle valued at zEl 10s. was offered for the largest muster of cyclists from any recognised club. At the meet at 3.30 the Lampeter club entered the field with 124 members, and easily captured the prize, Aberayron coming second with a muster of 32. The captain and the secretary are to be congratulated on the success of the Lampeter club, as they worked very hard to muster up such a good number. HOUSE BREAKING.—On Tuesday, the 25th inst., at the Clerk's Office, before John Fowden, Esq., John Jones (alias Morris), native of Brecon, tinman, and Edward Jones, (15 years) his son, were brought in custody by P.S. Thomas Thomas, and charged with bkeaking and entering Chapel House, Brondeifi, in the parish of Lampeter, on the previous day and stealing therein one watch chain, brooch and 7s. 6d. in money, the property of Miss Hannah Davies. John Jones was discharged and Edward Jones was re- manded until Friday next. SUNDAY SCHOOL Ti-.ip.-Tlie annual outin" of the members of the St. Peter's Church Welsh Sunday School took place on Wednesday the 19th inst, the place selected to visit being Aberayron. It turned out to be a lovely day and a start was made from St. Peter's Boys' School at 9 a.m. when about 150 mem- bers availed themselves of the opportunity of the drive and a day at the seaside. Ystrad was reached about 10 o'clock where a short stay was made for refreshments. Journeying through the beautiful vale of Aeron and passing Llanerchyron mansion and church, the party arrived at Aberayron at 11 o'clock. There was lacK of amusements and attractions at Aberayron, some enjoying a bathe in the briny ocean, others the bicycle races, whilst others perhaps pre- feried the riverside walk. At 4 p.m. tea was pro- vided for the Sunday School members at the Town Hall, when Miss Edwards, Crown, Aberavron, catered in a most able manner. The presence of the the Vicrr and Mrs. Jones who were at the time spend- ing their holidays in North Wales greatly, added to the pleasure of everyone. The homeward journey was made at .7 o'clock from the Feather's Hotel and Lampeter was reached, after a most enjoyable outing the school have had for years, at 9.30 p.m. PETTY SESSIONS. The monthly sessions were held at the Town Hall on Friday last, before John Fowden and David Tivy Jones, Esqs., and the Rev. T. C. Edmunds. DRUNKENNESS. Joseph Chick, of Lampeter, butcher's assistant, was summoned by D.C.C. David Williams for being drunk and disorderly at Lampeter on the 24th ult. Defendant pleaded guilty, and said that he had been working at the hay and somebody had put some whiskey in his beer. The Chairman said they would deal leniently with defendant this time, but gave him a warning not to appear before them again and fined him Is.—David Boswell, late of Lampeter, hawker, was fined 10s. and costs for beino- drunk and disorderly at Lampeter on the 12th instant. FISHING.—James Foyle, of Red Hill, Silian, groom, in the employ of Mrs. Jones, of Glandennys, was summoned by Thomas Jones, of Fort Farm, Llanfair- clydogau, gamekeeper, for fishing on land belonging to Frederick Arthur Gerwyn Jones, Esq., at l'entre Llanfairclydogau, on the 22nd May last. Defendant admitted the offence, and stated that he had made a mistake between the meadow of Mr. Gerwyn Jones and that of Mr. Morgan's, the Ilallt. The two meadows joined, and he produced a written authoritv from Mr. Morgan's, the Rallt, to fish on his land, but that he entered Mr. Jones' meadow in mistake. The summons was dismissed. TRANSFER OF LICENCE.—Mr. D. F. Lloyd applied for I the transfer of the licence of the Ffowdywhiad Arm?, J Cribin, from John Rees to William Armstrong Scott, gamekeeper at Neuaddfawr.—Granted. |

1- London Letter. i [FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.] London, Wednesday Afternoon. THE QUEEN'S PRIZE. It has been a, disappointment that Private Jones just missed winning the Queen's Prize this year. He had tied with the winner with two shots in hand, and were it not for the momentary excitement his position caused him, would undoubtedby have won. Sergeant Davies, of Llnnelly, is I believe the only Welshman who has won this coveted distinction. In this branch of the military or sporting art, Scotchmen and Englishmen decidedly outshine Welshmen and Irishmen. One would expect, and indeed one finds that Welshmen excel as athletes, especially in short races, and the success of Mr. C. Thomas, at the English- American University sports on Saturday is a proof of this. It is true that he also was placed second, but his running by all accounts was superb, and he was only beaten by a foot in spite of a bad start. TIIE HEAT. The heat has been insufferable during the last week, indeed few can remember anything like it. The barristers in some of the Law courts were allowed to divest themselves of their wigs, much to their relief. An amusing story is told of an incident in an assize town in Kent.—The judge had, owing to the great heat, given permission to the bar to take off their wigs. A rubicund old farmer, who bad been called on the jury, watched the proceedings with interest, and as soon as he heard the judge giving permission he turned to him and said aloud, And very good advice too, sir, I think I'll do the same myself," and immediately proceeded to take off his coat, and to sit placidly in his shirt sleeves. The judge was too much overcome to make any comment, and the trial proceeded as if nothing had happened. THE AFRICAN QUESTION. There is a distinct improvement in the position of the Transvaal affair this week. The Jingo press has cooled down, and a settlement may be looked for at an early date. Mr. Schreiner, the South African Premier, has come out of the affair with flying colours, and has undoubtedly strength- ened the Africkander position. It is surely one of the most absurd anomalies in our Government system that a man of Mr. Schreiner's ability and experience should have to keep quiet in circumstances such as those which prevail at present in South Africa, while Mr. Chamberlain, whose knowledge of Colonial affitirs is but recent, and who I believe has never visited South Africa, should have the final say -in the question and the pratical conduct of all the negotiations. The same remark applies to Mi-. Goschen, of the Admiralty, as was very well shown by his answers to Mr. William Allan last week. Mr. Allan, whose breezy personality is well-known to all within a mile of the Palace of Westminster, is an authority on the building of battle ships, denounced the Government programme for the Navy with much vigour. MR. 0. M. EDWARDS. There seems little prospect of the House rising before the 8th or 9th of August, but by that time a number of bills will have to be squeezed through, and some time devoted to the debate on the Colonial and other burning questions. Mr. O. M. Edwards was present on Thursday night for the third reading of the Tithes Bill, though he is at present very hard pressed as examiner in the final History School at Oxford. Welshmen in London are looking forward to seeing him at their meetings next winter, for though Mr. Edwards' name is so well-known, comparatively few people up here have ever set eyes on him. THE NATIONAL EISTEDDFOD. The Eisteddfod is a thing of the past, and as on previous occasions in the South Wales mining districts, there is a deficit, in spite of the withholding of a large number of prizes and of a heavy subscription list. It is a remarkable thing that while a small upland town like Festiniog can make the Eisteddfod a huge success and clear a considerable balance, the largest town in the Principality, with its cosmopolitan population can neither make the Institution a success or clear a balance. The fact is that no amount of paper excitement and bastard nationalism can help a gathering such as the Eisteddfod, it must be the sincere aim of all the persons connected with the management to place the interests of the Institution in the front, and not make use of it merely as an advertisement for a large and flourishing town. THE PRIZES WITHHELD. Considerable surprise has been caused by the fact that prizes were withheld. The fact is, however, that there are plenty of reasons for the apathy on the part of competitors. In the first place large prizes have been given in the past for very inferior work, and the standard of Eisteddfodic literature is, and has been for many vears. remarkably low. In the second place the adjudicators, especially in the literary subjects, should be chosen with more care. No man will place his work in the hands of adjudicators conspicuously inferior to himself.

MACHYNLLETH. SCHOOL BOAKD.—The ordinary meeting of the Board was held on Saturday morning, the Rev. W. S. Jones presiding. A very satisfactory report was received from the Education Department upon the work of the schools. The Department expressed a strong hope that the present buildings, which were old-fashioned, inconvenient, and not well arranged for teaching, would be replaced by entirely new premises. SUCCESSES.—Master Thomas Phillips, of Cemmes, a pupil at the Machynlleth County School, succeeded in passing the London Matriculation, obtaining first class in honours and an exhibition of £ 15 per annum for two years. Miss Frances Anne Reese, Mount Pleasant, also Matriculated. At an examination held in Wrexham in connection with the Incorporated Society of Musicians, Master Goronwy Davies, son of Mr. Hugh Davies, chemist, passed the preliminarv examination (Grade I.), coming out in the honours' list, gaining 87 marks out of a possible 100. He is a pupil of Miss Minnie Clarke, A.L.C.M., Newtown. Miss Mary Hughes, daughter of Mr. John Hughes, Dovey View, succeeded in passing the examination held in connection with the London College of Music. Miss Hughes is a pupil of Mr. J. T. Rees. Mus. Bac. Mr. David Jones and Mr. E. R. Evans succeeded in passing the examination held in connection with the Post Office. They were coached by Mr. Tom Powell.

FESTINIOG. INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL.—Mrs. T. E. Ellis has kindly presented this school with an excellent portrait of the late Mr. Ellis. THE MORE THE MERRIER.—Mr. Armstrong has made a presentation of books to the Public Library, for which he received the thanks of the District Council, and of many a reader. ELECTRIC EIGHT.—It is to be hoped that this town will be lighted throughout by electricity before many winters are over. There is ample water power in the immediate neighbourhood, and the light ought to be provided to the public, and also to private users, at a very moderate charg-e, Its introduction would be a boon and a blessino- to the place. THE STAPLE INDUSTRY.—It is rumoured that Pantmawr Slate Quarry has changed hands, and has been bought by Messrs. Solomon Andrews & Sons, and that they will continue to work it with the same staff. Messrs. Andrews may, if the rumour be well founded, give a new life to the west side of the Moelwyn, and make things hum better than ever. All the Quarries are fully occupied, there being fully 4,000 men working in the whole at the present time, a number which has never been exceeded, if ever quite reached.

BALA. I>KIVE.— On Thursday morning last a four-in-hand drag h'tr tne nite Lion Hotel for Bettws-y-coed, in charge of Mr. Owen, the proprietor. The se«ts .were all occupied, and had there beeen more space avail- able., several more would have participated in the trip. Ine party had a pleasant day, and the weatlwr was being all that could be desired. Their return home was watched by a latge number of spectators. CniCKET.—On Saturday last en inl t-restirig and some- oli "patch vvas played between the County- School and the Town on the ground of the former. Ihe Town went in first, and scored 23 runs the school followed with 29 runs to their credit Ir\ the second innings the Town managed to score 31 and at the time of drawing stump the School stood 28 with only three wickets down, so that the result is a decided success for the School. OBITUARY,—We regret to record the death of Mrs Evans, the beloved wife of Mr. David Evans, butcher, Bala, which took place on the 19th July in the 61st vear of her age The deceased was a daughter of thft late Air. Edward Jones, butcher, Dolgelley By her death, the Independent Church here has lost one of its most faithful, generous, and energetic members io her neighbours she was always kind and sympath- etic, and was held in great esteem to the town generally. Much sympathy is felt with the bereaved husband, only daughter, and three sons in their great atliiction ancl irreparaule loss. The funeral (private) last LlanyCli Churcl>yard on Friday morning GmLs' COUNTY SCHOOL.-As the result of the lvcen examination in connection with the Royal Oriwinw Society, we are glad to learn that the lollovvh* suc- cesses are recorded .—Division I—Honours • F H Ruddy Mair, A. E. Roberts, Marv Lloyd Evans' Pass Jennie Jones Edwards, Ellen Grace Hunmhrevs F ItoberfyS 1)ivisi^ Hl-Pass M;nr, A. Jones ° 'S hdvvanJs' and Maggie THE LATE DEWI HAVHESP.— AS is pretty generally known, the young people s Society at Ll'andderfel Cy mdeithas Plant Derfel reproduced the work of with4a ■^ew'1of^^•oting'1^)(^^J■ot.l(•,ud^)1'?oam!lla,^S' Lo iec;ul-e a suitable headstone to his grave. TIIP commendable anticipation, and the culminatfr^olnt win °be reached when, in October next a statue £ pejorate the memory of the departed will be unveiled with the usual ceremonies. The same Society are alsfc by means of an annual concert enabled to offer a scholar- ship untenable for one year at the County School for competition among the indigent children of the indigent children of the parish. The concert will be held this year in October next. THE ('iioi,,ts.-Tlie mixed juvenile and male choirs arc busy rehearsing their respective pieces for the Corwen Chair Eisteddfod. On Friday night a section of the male voice visited Llanderfel to practice the piece in conjunction with members from that district The townspeople. judging hy the iai-ge attendance at. v,'Siry Koom on Sunday evening are takine a great interest in the choirs. waning -TV2IT?NC,ICLIXG- ACCIDENT.-On Tuesday last about 1.30 p.m., information was given at Dr. Williams surgery that James Evans, a telegraph messenger, had been conveyed to his home in Arenig- stieet, suftermg from a serious nijurv through a bi- cycle acc.uem. I-rom the facts it appears that Evaos was on his way to Rhiwaedog Hall with a teleo-nm and that he had hired a bicycle to tate him S £ £ After gaining the summit of Penygarth Hill, and there is a sharp turning followed by a steep declivity. In negotiating this hill it is conjectured that Evans' lost control of the machine, and was Precipitated with great violence through thelledge on the other side of the road on to the field beyond. He was conveyed to a house in L losygwaliau, ponding the arrival of a J1' 15ala; Countess Telfener, who has < Rh'waedo^ ;I:l!], sent a man and trap tor that purpose. On reaching Bala the patient was at once borne to his home where Dr. ms and his assistant, Mr. W. Roger Jones, were promptly in attendance. They found'their patient to c be suffering from dislocation of both wrists and shoulders, and fracture of both shoulders and fracture of both wrists. It is little short of a miracle that Evans escaped with his life. Under the careful at- tention invariabiy tendered by Dr. Williams and his assistants, Evans will, no doubt, soon pull ronnd. It goes without saying that the affair caused great ex- citement in town.

BIUjPOSTIXG IN ABERYSTWYTH. Trying to do business without advertising is like winking in the dark. You may know what you are doing, but nobody else does." SEND YOUR POSTERS TO THE ABERYSTWYTH AND DISTRICT BILLPOSTING CO., Proprietors of the largest and BEST Hoardings in Aberystwyth and District. Send for list of Stations. Billposting done on most reasonable terms. Advertisers invited to inspect the Hoardings of this Company. Satisfaction guarantced- Address all communications and parcels to- HERR PAREEZER, BILLPOSTINC. CO., PARKKZRR HALL, QUEEN'S SQUARE, ABERYSTWYTH, SEXD YOUR PRINTING TO THE WELSII GAZETTE" PEIXTERIES, JgRIDGE s TIIEET, A BERYSTWYTH. SHIPPING NEWS. Of Local Interest. SS. Feliciana discharging at M.uleira. SS. Glantivy discharging ac Cape Verde. SS. Glenvech on passage to Fernandina. SS. Glanhaheu UH Lv I ei'nai^iiiia. SS. Isle of Anglesey arrived Garston 20th July SS. Isle of Caldy left Barcelona 24th July for Parman. J SS. Isle of Ramsey arrived barrow 21th July.

THE MARKETS. è ABERYSTWYTH.—MONDAY. Wheat made 5s Od to 5a 6d per 65 lus; barley, 3s 6d to 3s 9d white oat s,2s Od to 3s Od black oats 2^ fid to 2s 9d. Eg.,s, 20 lor u. M. bufer, M to M Si lb. fresh butter, 9d. to lOd. Fowls were sold at is yd to 4s Od per couple, chic kens 3s 6d to 4s Od. Ducks, 4s 6d to 5s per couple. Old Potatoes, 2s 9d per cwt New Potatoes, Id per lb. u per cwt. BUTTER. CARMARTHEN, Saturday. —Again another small and early market. Farmers returned home soon owing to the hay harvest. They had another i-cl advance, which we this week quote at 31J tu lad per lb. CORK, Saturday.—Ordinary—Firsts, 78s per cwt seconds, 77s; thirds, Ytis. Mild-cmvd—superfine' 83s; fine, 81s; choicest boxes, 77s choice boxes* 77s. Fresh butter, 80s to 84s. In market—343 firldns' 115 nnld, 13 boxes. POTATOES. LoNDon, Monday.—Good supplies and a very quiet trade at the following prices :—Teneritfes 8s to 12s • Jerseys, 7s to 7s 6d Cherbourg*, 5S 6d t0'6s percwtf.r Lisbons 3s to 3s 6d per box old Dunbar, maincropsl 70s to 80s; Lincoln niaincrops, 70s per ton. DEAD MEAT. sides, 3s 8d to 4s ditto" shorts, 4s 4d to °4s 8d^ American, 2s 8d to 3s 6d inferior, unaltered British mutton, 4s 4d to 5s 8d foreign, 2s 8d to 3s 4d lamb per 81b. = 3s W "> < P* 5Jto 3s per 8tb. LEAD. Lead-English, IOs; opanisn, i;i4 7s 6d.

Births, marriages and Deaths. BIRTH. WILLIAMS.—July 20th, at School Hous-, Brithdir Dolgelley, the wile of Mr. W. Pryce Williams, of a son. DEATIib. MORGAN.—On July 21st, ai Portland-street, William Bunce Morgan, aged 78 years. DAVIES.-Oll July 21st, at Eli/n.both Davies, aged 39 years. JONKS.—July 24th, at Bryn Tivy, Lampeter, inirs, Mary Jones, of Dalston, London, aged 32 years. -¡:m- Printed and Published by the ProprioMT-. Gkoro'e. REES, at the "lVi. il j'nnteric'f' Bridge-street, Aberystwyth, in the County of Cardigan, Thursday, July 27th, 1899