The Glamorgan Gazette

PORTHCAWL. Death of Mrs. M. Jackson.—We regret to record the death of an old and highly re- spected inhabitant in the person of Mrs. Martha Jackson, widow of the late Mr. Joshua Jackson, which occurred at her resi- dence 6 Well-street, on Thursday evening, last week. The deceased lady had been ail- ing for many months, and was confined to her bed for eight weeks prior to her death. She was 64 years of age, and had been a communicant of the Church of England since girlhood, and it is interesting to recall that she was a chorister under the late "Rector Knight." She leaves five sons.—The funeral on Monday was largely attended by all classes, and on all sides there were signs of sympathy and respect. The coffin was con- veyed by hearse to Newton Parish Church, in the graveyard of which the interment was made. Lead, Kindly Light" was sung be- fore the cortege left the house. The ser- vice at Newton Church was conducted by the Rev. T. Holmes Morgan (Rector), who also performed the last sad rites at the graveside. The chief mourners were Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Jackson, Mr. and Mrs. T. Jackson (sons and daughters-in-law), Mr. Sidney Jackson and Mr. Henry Jackson (sons), Mr. and Mrs. William Thomas, West Farm (brother and sister-in-law), Mr. and Mrs. Griffith Thomas, Tydraw, Pyle (brother and sister-in-law), Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Thomas, Westfield; Mr. and Mrs. T. Powell, Grove Farm; Misses Cissie Thomas and Ethel Elias; Messrs. Wm. and John Elias; Mr. and Mrs. Doune, Rock Hotel; Mr. and Mrs. Rees Thomas, The Hall, Pyle; Mr. and Mrs. Robert Elias; Messrs. David and John Thomas, Tydraw, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas, Mrs. Johnson, etc. Four nephews—Messrs. W. and J. Elias and David and J. Thomas—acted as bearers. There were numerous floral tri- butes from the relatives and from Mrs. R. W. Gordon, Nottage Court; Miss Annie John, London, and Mrs. J. Grace.

BETTWS, Death of An Old Inhabitant.—Mrs. Ann Jones (widow of Mr. William Jones, and mother of the late Mr. William Jones, Ap Gwilym"). passed away peacefully on Tuesday at her son's residence, 3 Glannant-row Shwt, at the age of 65. The deceased lady lived at Shwt nearly 40 years, and leaves four sons and one daughter to mourn her loss. The Late Mr. Stephen Matthews.—The large number assembled at the funeral of Mr. Stephen Matthews, senr., on the 1st inst. afforded testimony of the respect in which he was held by the residents of the district. The deceased, who was 63 years of age, had been an active church worker for a great many years, and had held the offices of churchwarden and lay reader. He had been superintendent of the Sunday School for 15 years, and he will naturally be missed in the locality. Rev. Henry Morris (Rector of Bettws) conducted a brief service at the house, and prior to the departure of the cor- tege the hymn" Jesu. Lover of My Soul" was sung. The Rector also officiated in the Church and at the graveside, and the hymns were" Guide me, 0 Thou Great Jehovah" and "0 Fryniau Caersalem." The chief mourners were the widow, four sons and daughter. Among the many messages of sympathy received by the bereaved family was one from the Bishop of Llandaff.

LLANHARRAN. Amateur Theatricals.—Mr. and Mrs. J. Blandy Jenkins, Llanharran, arranged and organised an entertainment last week of amateur theatricals in the Old Parish School- room, the proceeds being for assisting and defraying the cost of building a. new Parish Hall in the village. Two favourite plays were very successfully performed by well known members of county families in the dis- trict, much to the pleasure of the good com- pany present.

BRYNCETHIN. Correspondent.—The Gazette corres- pondent at Bryncethin is Mr. H. Leyshon, of Penheolrhys, Bryncethin.

GILFACH GOCH. Musical Success.-We are glad to announce the success of Elvira Davies, daughter of Mrs. Tom King, butcher, Gilfach Goch, in passing the 1st grade, with honours, of the International Union of Musicians, held at Merthyr recently. She is a pupil of W. T. Matthews, A.O.V., I.U.M., Gilfach Goch.

I — Town Hall Theatre, Maesteg. LESSEES POOLE BRCS. MANAGER MR. J. H. STEPHENS. Monday Next, January 14th, for 3 Nights only, Messrs. POOLE'S Own I PALACE mm OF SELECTED TALENTED ARTISTES, including Z!> MACK OLIVE (In his Original Whistling .Scena). As performed by him over 1,000 times in The Belle of New York." SILL & SILOOTT. JomsrsoiET <sc PELHAM (Tle Handcuff King LEO SELWYN and Jail Breaker) and JaIl Breaker) Who has been locked up in 51 Prisons and succeeded in getting Free. TIME AND PRICE AS USUAL. THE VALE OF GLAMORGAN COAL AND MANURE 00., EAST STREET, Llantwit Major. AGENTS: Cory Bros., Ltd., House & Steam Coals. Lawe's Chemical Manures. Molassine Meal. Bibby's Oil Cake and Feeding Stuff. All ,Farm Requisites. Enquiries Solicited. Speciality-Best English Wallsend House Coal. Give it a trial.

KENFIG HILL. Parochial Committee.—Mr. T. J. Davies presided at a meeting of this committee. Mr. Hurley wrote explaining that in consequence of the illness of Mr. Thompson, the work at the Graig extension and reservoir could not be proceeded with at present. Bills pre- sented for lighting, etc., were passed, and or- dered to be paid. Wedding.-At Neath, on Saturday, the marriage took place of Mr. Rees Thomas, son of the late Mr. David Thomas, of Cwm Farm, and Miss Sarah Howell, or Bryn Farm. The happy pair returned to Stormy Farm, the re- sidence of the bridegroom's uncle (Mr. Geo. Thomas), where the honeymoon was spent. Shafts Snapped.-On Monday last, a cart, loaded with coal, was being driven up Bed- ford-road, and when opposite Siloam Chapel, it was met by anothei horse and cart coming down. In consequence of a very narrow road, the cart was precipitated into the gutter, and both shafts were broken. South Wales Women's Temperance Union. -The members of the above union held their tea and concert, when there was a good at- tendance. In the evening a concert was held at Moriah Vestry, presided over by Mr. John Matthews, when the following pro- Was gone through —Song, Master I TM1 S .recitation, Mr John Lloyd; violin solo, Mr. David Reece; address, Mrs. Wil- liams song, Miss M. J. Jenkins; recitation, Miss J. Thomas; song, Mr. David Richards; recitation, Mr. John Stenner; violin duet, Messrs. J Howells and D. Reece; recitation, Miss Saiah John; song, Miss M. A. Richards. Miss M. A. Richards accompanied. Votes °f to all who helped, and the singing of Men wlad fy nhadau" brought a pleasant evening to a close. Tythegston Higher Parish Council.—The above Council met at Cefn Council Infants* School on January 2nd. There were pre- sent Messrs. W. H. Thomas (chairman), T. J. Davies, David Marks, Thos. Richards, Geo. Thomas (Stormy), and John Matthews (clerk). It was reported that the Margam Urban Dis- trict Council had carried out small repairs to Waun Cymla Footpath, and the clerk was in- structed to write and ask them to complete the work. The condition of the footpath from Kenfig Hill, via Heol Fadog, to Aber- baiden Colliery was brought to notice, and it was pointed out that, while the Margam Urban authority received the rates from this colliery, very little repairs were made to footpaths. The clerk was instructed to bring the condition of this footpath to their notice.

PYLE. Pyle and District Ploughing and Agricul- tural Association.-A meeting of the above Society will be held at the New House, Cor- nelly, on Monday, January 14th, 1907. Members should make an effort to attend.— A. M. Maddocks, Secretary. 5187 Cattle Market.—Mr. T. J. Yorwerth held his monthly sale at Pyle on Monday, when there was a large attendance of butchers. Stock was not equal to the demand. Forty yearlings from Mr. Jenkin Thomas, averaged 51s. Beef sold at (ij-d., and porkers at lls. 6d. a score. Printed and Published by the Central Gla- morgan Printing and Publishing Company, Limited, at the Glamorgan Gasette" Offices, Queen-street, Bridgend, Gl.. morgan. FRIDAY, JANUARY llth, 1907.

Teams for To-morrow. BRIDGEND 'QUINS v. PENCOED. At Pencoed. Harlequins: Back, Roy Urch; threequar- ters, A. Hockings, W. Hockings, Sid Thomas and J. Davies; half-backs, A. P. Thomas (capt.) and D. H. Griffiths; forwards, W. David, A. Richards, G. Singer, A. Deerman, H. Quant, P. Burke, S. Bevan, B. Hapgood, E. Thomas, and T. Davies. Players to be at station by 2.40 sharp. PORTHCAWL v. BETTWS. At Bettws. Bettws: Back, T. Bush; threequarters, E. Blosse (capt.), A. Llewellyn, Spearman, and C. Blosse; half-backs, John Thomas and D. Watkins; forwards, selected from, E. James, R. Hitchings, W. M. Richards, Frappel, J. Williams, W. Williams, Edmunds, Burgess, T. Lloyd, and Watts.

VOLUNTEER INTELLIGENCE. -+- 2nd VOL. BATT. WELSH REGIMENT. BRIDGEND DETACHMENT. Orders for Week Ending Saturday, Jan. 19. 1.—Morris Tube Practice, Semaphore Sig- nalling, and Scout Training every Monday and Friday, at 7.30 p.m.; plain clothes. N.C. officers and men under instruction in signalling are requested to attend the Class as regularly as possible on the dates published in Orders. 2.—Band Practice as usual. 3.—It is notified for information that the Company will be exercised in Route March- ing on Monday, 28th inst. Dress: Marching order. Band to attend. It is hoped that all ranks will make a special effort to attend this important training. N.C. officers and men must wear a strong serviceable pair of laced boots and woollen socks. 4.—Young men of good character desirous of joining the Detachment can be enrolled any Monday or Friday evening on applica- tion at the Drill-hall between 8 and 9 p.m. 5.—The following extract from Battalion Orders, dated Cardig. 4th January, 1907 (is published for information — (2) Musketry.—The Commanding Officer has much pleasure in publishing for the in- formation of all ranks, the result of the Musketry Course fired by the Battalion last year. He considers the result satisfactory, but hopes to see a still further improve- ment during the current year. Figure of merit of the Battalion is, viz. Part I., Table B, 69; Part II., Table B, 38. Recruits' Figure of Merit: Part 1.. Table A, 87; Part II., Table A, 37. Best Shooting Company in the Battalion, A Company (Margam). Best shot in the Battalion, No.. 15 Col.- Sergt. Hopkin D. Jones (BridgeAd), 108 points. Figure of Merit. H Company, Bridgend: Part I., Table B, 72; Part II., Table B, 36. Best shot of Company, No. 259 Sergt. George Jones, 100 points. H. J. RANDALL, Captain, Commanding Detachment.

HOCKEY. BRIDGEND v. SWANSEA Y.M.C.A. Played at Bridgend on Thursday, resulting in a win for Bridgend by 5 goals to 2 goals. Scorers—for Bridgend, Roy Jenkins (3), H. F. G. Harvey (1), and F. C. Coath (1); for Swansea, F. Hansard and G. Richards (1 each). Herdman, Whitton and Roy Jenkins were the pick of the Bridgend team, and Hansard, Richards, and Johnson played well for Swansea.

Up-to-Date Appliances for taming out every dam of work at competitive prices, at the" Glamorgan Gazette" Printing Works.

OGMORE AND GARW BILL. MEETING OF OGMORE RATEPAYERS. STRONG OPPOSITION AN TIC 11 ATED. An informal meeting of Ogmore Valley ratepayers was held at the w orkmcn's-hall, Pricetown, on Wednesday evening to con- sider the promotion of a Bill in Parliament by the Ogmore and Garw District Council, (1) for the provision of a bridge, roadway and other works in connection therewith at Gil- fach Goch; (2) the acquisition, extension and improvement of the existing works of water supply in the Ogmore and Gilfach alleys; (3) the acquisition, extension and improve- ment of the existing works of electric light- ing in the Ogmore Valley. Mr. Jacob Edwards, J.P. (chairman of the Council) pre- sided, supported on the platform by Messrs. D. T. Williams (deputy clerk), T. W. Job (chairman of Undertakings Committee), T. Lucas, Jenkin Williams, E. Griffiths, T. Wil- liams, J. Canniff, W. Davies, H. Dawkin Williams (surveyor), etc. The attendance was far below expectations. The first speaker was Mr. D. T. Williams, who stated that under the Act governing ap- plications to Parliament by local authorities, it was provided that the electors should be the persons to decide whether any applica- tion should be made or not. Only one meet- ing of electors had been provided for in the Act, and the Council, seeing that it would be somewhat inconvenient for the electors of the three separate valleys to journey to one place for the meeting, had resolved to hold three separate informal meetings—in Nanty- moel, Gilfach Goch and Pomycymmer respec- tively—in addition to the statutory meeting at Brynmenin. The object of the Council was to afford the electors such information as they deserved to have with regard to the application to Parliament. At the statu- tory meeting the majority of the electors would decide whether the Bill should be put as a whole or in separate parts. If the decision went against the Council, they would be entitled to demana a ballot; and if, on the other hand, the vote proved to be in favour of the Council's proposals, a ballot could be demanded by a notice in writing to the Chairman of the Council, signed by at least 100 electors. The question of the acquisition of the undertakings and of the erection of Gilfach bridge had engaged the attention of the Council for a good many years, more especially the Gilfach bridge, which had been continually before the Coun- cil for 12 years. The inhabitants on the Evanstown side of Gilfach had undoubtedly suffered great inconvenience by reason of their being cut off from access to the other side of the valley, and there was no doubt they were entitled to have better provision made for them. The Council had been nego- tiating for several years with the Llantrisant and Llantwit Vardre Rural Council, and with landowners and others, seeking their co-oper- ation in providing this much-needed boon, but the Council had met with nothing but difficulties. The negotiations resulted in the definite refusal of the Rural Council to meet the Ogmore and Garw Council for a discus- sion of the question. The latest stage of the negotiations amounted to this: The Rural Council were willing, provided the Dis- trict Council erected the bridge at a cost of £6,000 or £7,000 and spent another £2,000 or £3,000 in providing a roadway at the top of the valley, to make the" magnanimous" contribution of £500. (Laughter.) The Dis- trict Council, he need hardly say, re- fused such a miserable contribution. Even that day he had received a telegram from the Parliamentary agents stating that the Rural Council were, as matters now stood, opposing the Bill. The whole of the difficulties in this direction arose from the fact that the Council were not empowered to spend money on works of this kind outside the district un- less they complied with the Highways and Bridges Act, 1891, which enabled adjoining authorities to enter into an agreement for the construction of a joint bridge. If the Rural Council had given a nominal sum to- wards the cost, the Urban authority might have proceeded, but, for some reason or other the County Council refused a contribu- tion. It might be said that it was a hard- ship that the rest of the Council's district should be asked to contribute to what might be termed a purely local improvement, but Gilfach, in its turn, had contributed to large expenditures in the Ogmore and Garw Val- leys. Dealing with the acquisition of the waterworks, the speaker said it could not be denied that, as a general principle at any rate, it was desirable that the water supply— water being one of the first necessities of life should be in the hands of the local author- ity, who were the custodians of the public health. (Applause.) The Ogmore Water Company had been undertaking a duty which belonged to the Council, and they were en- titled to fair treatment. They had not a proper title to their water, and they were not bound to supply water if called upon to do so, and, as far as the Council knew, no provision was being made for future develop- ments. Even if the undertaking could be acquired by agreement, the Council would have to go to Parliament to perfect the title and make provision for the future. The Council had not hesitated to get the very best advice, and in the future the Council would move with great caution at any rate, they would if they took his advice. (Laugh- ter.) They had consulted eminent engineers with regard to the efficiency of the water supply and its liability to be interfered with by mining operations. As to the scheme which the County Council were considering, they had no guarantee that the inquiries now being made would end in any action, and, if action were taken, they did not know that the supply would serve the Ogmore and Gil- fach districts; in fact, they had been ad- vised that if the proposed scheme were car- ried out, that district could only be served at an absolutely prohibitive cost. With re- gard to the purchase of the electric light works, he pointed out that the Council were heavy customers. They had taken the ad- vice of an expert on the value of the con- cern, and had made a fair offer to the Com- pany, which had been refused, and the same remark applied to the Gas Co. Mr T. W. Job said the Gilfach Bridge ques- tion was before the Council long before he got there, but he did not know whether it would have been disposed of before he left. Mr. Canniff had a terrible tale of woe to tell, how they had to climb up tips and scramble under trucks. (Laughter.) Whatever their opinion in regard to municipalisation in general was. there could be no difference of opinion with regard to water and lighting concerns being under the control of the Coun- cil. The Electric Light Company derived more than one-third of its gross revenue from the Council, and they paid JE600 or jE700 each year for the public lighting. The Coun- cil had a complaint against the Company be- cause they did what no other Company did, so far as they could find out, in charging more for public lighting than for private lighting. He submitted figures to show that 6d. per unit was paid for the public lighting, which he considered a high figure. The Company had been serving the district when there was no enterprise on the Council, and a fair price should be paid for the under- taking. They were prepared to do this, and had offered to purchase at even a bigger price than they were advised to do by the expert advisers they had called in. lie did not think the company would get as much as they had been offered if the case went to arbitration. The Council were satisfied the concern would be run without being a burden on the rates. Dealing with the matter of water supply, Mr. Job said he regarded this part of the Bill as of greater importance than the others, be- cause the health of the community was closely bound up with the water question. That Council had much to complain of in regard to the Water Company, for things were not what they should be even now, and he was afraid they would get worse. The water undertaking required development, and owing to the pressure not being sufficient, it was useless to fix hydrants in that part of the district. The experts whom the Council had consulted bore out this statement, and as the property to be erected in the future would be on high ground, there would be an increas- ing risk of danger from fire. He said the Company had no legal right, and that they did nothing to filter the water or provide for storage. Mr. Canniff snoke in support of the pro- posal to erect a bridge at Gilfach, and re- viewed the negotiations which had taken place between the Council and the adjoining authority, the County Council, the landlords, etc. He asked the Ogmore and Garw people to Come over to Macedonia and help us." (Laughter.) They were completely isolated in Gilfach, and he thought they were entitled to receive this boon. The Gilfach district paid jEl,225 a year, roughly speaking, in dis- trict rates, and the average for the last 19 years was JE900 odd. He calculated that they had paid £17,100 in district rates, and with the exception of maintenance of certain roads, an incomplete drainage scheme, and some lighting, they had received not a brass farthing in return for their contributions. He contended, therefore, that Gilfach had more than a strong moral claim to the bridge. Mr. Jenkin Williams did not think any place had suffered like Gilfach, and they were entitled to consideration. The Council had been very cautious in dealing with the under- takings, and had had the best expert advice, and it was stated that the undertakings would prove remunerative. Mr. Evan Griffiths spoke in favour of the municipalisation scheme, stating that public authorities were now realising the import- ance of water and lighting undertakings being under their control. He thought they would prove a source of profit in that dis- trict, and be a relief to the- rates. They had no cause of fear as regards the stability of the undertakings, and the Companies evi- dently had none. (Laughter.) They were willing to deal honourably with the Compan- ies, and he was surprised that they should offer any opposition to the Bill. What was the use of opposition unless it came from the ratepayers? (Laughter.) The Chairman hoped the electors would support the Bill if a ballot were demanded. He was convinced that it would be beneficial to the district at large if the undertakings were municipalised. Mr. George Adams, the secretary of the Water Company, rose" to put a question," but proceeded to rebut some of the state- ments made by Mr. Job. He was told that only questions could be allowed, but he pro- ceeded to argue the matter amid interrup- tion. It was very difficult at some points of a district such as that, he said, to keep up a high pressure without mechanical power. It was incorrect to say that the pressure was unsatisfactory, and they had often tried the pressure at high levels. They could get a pressure of 40 lbs. to the square inch, and at the lower points they had to reduce it be- cause it became dangerous to the service—— The Chairman You shall have an oppor- tunity to oppose the Bill, and I understan 1 you are organising opposition. Mr. Adams, proceeding, challenged anyone to say that there was not sufficient pressure. As to the quality of the water, he understood that the Council had sent satisfactory samples so often that they had been told there was no necessity to keep on sending samples." The Chairman: Mr. Adams, we cannot allow you Mr. Adams: You bring the ratepayers here and I claim the right to speak. You have no right to ask me to sit down if this is a ratepayers' meeting. Proceeding, Mr. Adams said he disputed the accuracy of Mr. Job's calculations, and it was not fair to make the comparison between public lighting and private lighting there, and in other places, because one party had to pay renewals, etc., whereas the other had not. Replying to Mr. Edward Edwards, the Deputy Clerk said it would be competent to discuss the question at the statutory meeting at Brynmenin and to adjourn the meeting from the Council Offices to a chapel. After several other questions had been an- swered, the meeting was declared closed.

WYNDHAM COLLIERY DISPUTE. A deputation of workmen of Wyndham Colliery, Ogmore Vale, attended a meeting of the Miners' Federation Executive on Sat- urday, and gave in full the reasons for the lock-out. They reported that the new owners—Messrs. Cory Bros.—refused to al- low the workmen to commence work upon the 1st of January upon the rates and customs which were in operation under the previous owners. They sought to reduce wages in a number of instances, and also to re-arrange the hours of work. It was resolved that these workmen be granted strike pay from the 1st of January, and that Messrs. Evan Thomas and Vernon Hartshorn be appointed to investigate the matters in dispute with a view to settlement, and that the attention of Mr Dalziel, owners' secretary of the Conciliation Board, be called at once to the action of Messrs. Cory Bros. in this matter, and that he be asked to ar- range for an early meeting of the Board to deal with it. MEN AND NEW PROPRIETORS. Mr. Evan Thomas, Mr. Vernon Harts- horn, and Mr. T. Lucas, local Miners' Execu- tive representatives, accompanied by a depu- tation of workmen, attended at the Wynd- ham Colliery Offices on Monday, and dis- cussed with Mr. Whyte, colliery agent, and Mr. Richards, manager, matters now under dispute. The company refused to recognise the awards made by the hauliers' sub-com- mittee in relation to wages to be paid to hauliers on the ground that the wage was only intended to run during the time the colliery was owned by Messrs. North's. They desired the men to return to work on the wages paid prior to the award, but allowed the matter to be again brought before the hauliers' sub-committee. This the workmen declined to agree to. The company insist upon having price lists for each of the four seams worked at the col- liery before resuming wofk. As one seam has hitherto been worked on day wages it will necessitate considerable delay in the settlement. Another matter in dispute is the rate of wages to day men. The company are also seeking to alter the number of hours previ- ously worked by the men. The workmen's representatives urged that the men should return to work on the old rates of wage and conditions existing at the colliery when it changed hands. HAULIERS' SUB-COMMITTEE'S MEETING. A meeting of the Hauliers' Joint Sub-Com- mittee was held at Cardiff on Wednesday, Mr. Hann presiding on the owners' side, and Mr. Evan Thomas on the workmen's. The position at the Wyndham Colliery was dis- cussed at some length, and Mr. Whyte, re- presenting Messrs. Cory Bros., was present. Mr. Hann contended that Mr. Whyte was justified in maintaining that the recent award entered into at this colliery settling a new rate for the hauliers was only binding during the ownership of Messrs. North's Navigation Collieries, Limited, and that Messrs. Cory Bros. were not in any way tied by the agreement. The workmen's represen- tatives, on the other hand, contended that even if it was only a temporary arrangement it was arrived at in accordance with the terms of the general hauliers' agreement, and no other arrangement was possible. The workmen's representatives arso pointed out that the refusal of Messrs. Cory Bros. to re- cognise the award which had been made with Messrs. North's Navigation Collieries, Ltd., was responsible for the present deadlock at the colliery. In spite of a lengthy discus- sion, no settlement was arrived at, and the workmen's representatives are now endeav- ouring to get a joint meeting of the Concilia- tion Board to discuss the question.

FOOTBALL: TONDU WEDNESDAYS v PONTYCYMMER Played on the ground of the latter. Re- sult :-Tondu, 1 goal; Pontycymmer, nil. E. M. James, for the visitors, deserves great credit for the try he scored after a very pretty run. Edwards converted. The pick of the visitors were James, Edwards, Browning, and Baker. BRIDGEND Y.M.C.A. v. MAESTEG. This match was played at Bridgend on Wednesday, and resulted in a win for the Y.M.C.A. by seven points. Referee, Mr. Thomas, Maesteg. Dai Griffiths secored the try, which was not converted, and Ivor Howell dropped the goal. Score: G. T. Pts. Bridgend Y.M.C.A. *1 1 7 Maesteg 0 0 0 ^Dropped.

Up-to Date Appliances for turning oat ci«M of work at competitive prices, at mpe I th*" GlMBorgaa Gazette" Printing Works.

P8WER COMPANY'S POSITION. 1 HORSEPOWER GUARANTEE INSUFFICIENT. BRIDGEND WORKS NEVER LIKELY TO PAY. OVER £ 800,000 VIRTUALLY LOST." A meeting of debenture-holders in the South Wales Electrical Power Distribution Company was held in London on Monday afternoon to consider the present position of the company. Some time ago a committee was formed, consisting of Messrs. Stanley Boulton, Robert Fleming, h. A. Vernet, Geo. Collis, Roger P. Sing, and A. M. Grenfell. Mr. Stanley Boulton presided, and said that what he had to tell the meeting was a tale of woe. The company was formed under an Act of Parliament passed in 1900. Its objects were laudable, and if it had been managed with prudence it would have affor- ded a profitable field for the investment of capital. A prospectus issued in May, 1902, invited a considerable amount of capital for subscription, and in 1904 an application was made to some friends of his in London to pro- vide further capital for the purpose of put- ting the finishing touches upon the buildings and machinery so that the company might get to work and make the profits anticipated. The Mercantile Investment Trust appointed Mr. E. Manville, well-known as an electrical engineer, to investigate, and upon his volum- inous, but satisfactory, report the capital re- quired was provided. He <as afraid that when Mr. Manville stated that the business was being managed in a satisfactory manner he took a too favourable view. The investi- gations made since showed that nothing could have been more unfortunate. When he told them that over JE800,000 had been vir- tually lost, and that management was largely the cause of the loss, it was difficult to ima- gine that the management was good at the time of the first investigation. As time went on and the expectations were not satisfied, explanations were given which satisfied no one but the people making them, and at the beginning of last year they were asked to put more money into the concern, although a short time previously they were told that the concern was almost finished. There was no inclination to provide more money without a further investigation, and when that was made it showed the circumstances to be of a most unsatisfactory nature. He and his friends formed themselves into a private de- benture-holders committee, and Mr. Mertz was sent down. He came to the conclu- sion that it would be of no use doing any- thing unless half a million of money further could be provided. The question of raising the money was not the difficulty so much as whether, if it were raised, the concern would be a profitable undertaking and placed upon a sound commercial basis. A debenture- holders' meeting was held afterwards, and a curious thing happened there. Sir W. T. Lewis, who was in the chair, was accom- panied by his solicitor, and they were sur- prised to hear the statement from Sir William that the trustees were not in a legal position—that the trust deed had been drawn without there being any power for it. It seemed, therefore, that the trust deed was so much waste paper. They were told that the remuneration that had been paid to the trustees would be refunded, but up to the present none of the money had been received. There were some expenses likely to eat into it. At that meeting they were formally appointed as a debenture- holders' committee, and at once set to work. They went down to Card;' and in July met a number of influential entlemen representing colliery companies nud other actual and possible consumers. Those gentle- men were asked if they wanted the concern to be kept on or to be allowed to stop. They were told that a minimum of 40,000 horse- power was necessary, and were asked if they would try to find out how much could be guaranteed. They were also asked if they could take the works over for the company, paying such interest as might be possible from the future working. The reply now received was that only 14,387 horse-power could be guaranteed, with a possible addition of 4,785 horse-power. Upon that Mr. Mertz was again consulted, but the lowest he would ad- vise was another quarter of a million of capi- tal, with another £.50,000 for the purchase of motors and other plant to be supplied to col- liery owners and other consumers on the hire- purchase system. Another difficultv was that of the creditors, whose accounts made a total of £ 81,824. People who were providing the money now were doing so for a derelict undertaking. There had been considerable mismanagement. Continuing, the Chairman stated that at Neath they found that the only access to the works was by means of termin- able wayleaves. (Sensation.) The works at Bridgend were never likely to pay, especially in view of the terms of the agreement with the local authority there. If the concern were kept going the consumers must bear the cost. The station at Cwmbran must be shut down, and the one at Treforest maintained as the main works, but there were agree- ments under which the stations at Neath and Bridgend could not be shut down. Another difficulty was that it was a statutory com- pany. If it were a limited liability concern they would be able to put in a receiver. That could not be done now. I Mr. Callender, who represented a firm of creditors, complained that in the negotia- tions with the creditors the business had been nnduly hastened. Mr. Depres proposed that the committee should be re-appointed. Mr. Powell seconded, and this was agreed to.

CORRESPONDENCE. THE FF ALDAU LODGE. To the Editor. Dear Sir,—Will you kindly allow me suffi- cient space in your valuable paper to reply to a statement made at the last meeting of the Garw District of Miners? A Delegate said he believed a large number of the members of the Ffardau Lodge were anxious to re-join the Garw District. This statement, I believe, is made by a delegate who is entirely in ignorance of the true state of affairs connected with this lodge. At the last inquiry held at Bryn- menin. Mr. Hartshorn, the chairman, made a proposition that the lodge should take a ballot on the question as to whether the members should re-join. This ballot was taken on August 27th, and the treasurer of the Garw District promised to pay expenses, but has, I understand, not done so yet. Here is the result of the ballot: -630 against; 191 for. Thus, the delegate will see that a majority of 439 was against re- joining the Garw District. At two other general meetings, held within the last six weeks, it has been unanimously decided not to re-join.—Tours, etc., CYMRO BACH.

TONDU & ABERKENFIG. I Preliminary Announcement.-Grand Con- cert for Railwaymen's Convalescent Home, Tondu, March 4th. 5194 Railwaymen's Dinner.—The G.W. Railway- men's (Llynfi and Ogmore District) annual dinner was held at the Llynfi Arms Hotel, Tondu. when a goodly number sat down to do ample justice to the good cheer provided for them by Mrs. E. Hopkins, the genial hostess, who has catered for this feast for a number of years with such marked success, and to the entire satisfaction and apprecia- tion of all assembled. After dinner, the tables were cleared and the company again assembled to spend a few hours socially and convivially. Mr. E. Harrington was voted to the chair. Letters were read from the following gentlemen regretting their inability to attend the social gathering, owing to prior engagements, etc., viz.: Mr. T. J. Hughes, Mr. Edisbury, Mr. W. E. Bradshaw, and others. Mrs. Williams opened the proceed- ings with a selection on the piano, and also very ably accompanied the various vocalists during the entertainment. The usual toasts were drunk with gusto and the following gen- tlemen very admirably rendered songs, duets, recitations, dances, etc., to the great appre- ciation of the entire company: Messrs. J. Bag.?s. B. Stanford, W. Sellwood, W. Davies, A. Lloyd. E. Harrington, D. Williams, J. Woodcock, and several others. A very plea- sant and enjoyable evening was brought to a close, the whole company joining hands and singing Auld Lang Syne" and God save the King." VISIT OF MR. FRED JOWETT, M.P. A Lecture was given by Mr. Fred Jowett. M.P. for the division of Bradford, at the Council Schools, under the auspices of the local branch of the I.L.P., on Monday, the Rev. D. G. Rees, Bridgend, in the chair. The lecturer, who was most enthusiastically received, spoke for over an hour on the Work of the Labour Party in the House of Commons." the burden of the lecture being a vindication of the independent policy of the party in the Commons. He claimed that the policy of independent action had obtained invaluable concessions for the people that would not otherwise have been obtained. He pointed to the history of the Irish party, as an example of what this policy had done for Ireland. Charles Stuart Parnell could not be compared to his predecessor Isaac Butt in scholarship and power as an orator, but Parnell inaugurated the policy of "Ireland," rather than Tory or Liberal, with what im- mense benefit to Ireland they all knew. This, claimed the lecturer, was the only pos- sible policy for a Labour partv. Neither Toryism nor Liberalism, but Labour and the Peonle. As particular instances of the working of this policy, he mentioned the Trades Disputes Bill. Three million per- sons had been thrust into its provisions who were not included in the Bill as first intro- duced. The same Bill, when sent into the House of Lords, brought the peers "on the knee," because they saw that they must not challenge the House of Commons on a meas- ure which had the organised workers behind it. The Workmen's Compensation Bill was another illustration of the wisdom of the in- dependent policy. As first introduced, the shop assistants were not included, but by a series of amendments, introduced mainly by members of the Labour party, each great in- dustry in the country having its representa- tive in the House, was included, and this measure was so altered for the better that it finally passed a completely transformed measure. In connection with this Bill oc- curred the most dramatic incident of the Ses- sion, said the lecturer. A Tory proposed an amendment to include domestic servants, which the Home Secretary opposed. Mr. Keir Hardie appealed to the House on behalf of the amendment, and said I do not belong to the class which employs domestic servants, but I belong to the class from which domestic servants are drawn. I appeal to the House to include this class in the provisions of the Bill." The Prime Minister was seen con- sulting with the Home Secretary, who finally admitted that he could see no harm in the amendment, and would accept it, the turn- ing point in this great concession being un- questionably Hardie's question as to what would the country think of a Tory proposing to include such a large class of workers, while the Liberals were against it? A hearty vote of thanks, proposed by Mr. G. B. Murrey and seconded by Mr. George Myers, was accorded the lecturer.

PENLLYN. Uoncert.—A very successful concert was given in Penllyn on Wednesday last week by the students of the evening continuation classes and friends. The programme was di- vided into two parts, the first consisting of music and recitations, and the second of the performance of a sketch, entitled, "A Day Out." The various items were well ren- dered and received. During the sketch the laughter from the audience was a times so great that the performers found some diffi- culty in making themselves heard. The chair was taken by Colonel H. R. Homfray, who rendered two songs in fine style.

After Christmas, herrings forsake the East Coast, and no one has been able to determine where the fish go to. A Lowestoft boatowner has fitted out a herring drifter to attempt to find the shoals between our own cost and that of Norway.

CGWBRiDGE. Shooting.—The return air rifle match be- tween Volunteers and ex-Volunteers and Civilians took place at the Druids Hotel on Monday night. The game resulted in a win for the civilians by 5 points. The Town Council.—At the monthly meet- ing of the Cowbridge Town Council on Thurs- day, last week, Mr. C. M. Davies (Mayor) pre- siding, the request of Mrs. Thomas, of Thorn Villa, that a lamp should be erected near Thorn Villa so as to light tne approach from the Bridgend direction, was further consi- dered. The Streets Committee recommended that a lamp-post be fixed at the spot sugges- ted, and on the motion of Alderman James, the report was adopted.—The Mayor stated that Mr. E. H. Ebsworth had again forwar- ded £10 for distribution among the poor of the parish. He proposed a vote of thanks to that gentleman for his seasonable benevo- lence. Alderman Edward John seconded, and the motion was carried unanimously. Limes Literary Society.—A pleasant even- ing was spent by the members of tnis Society at the Limes Calvinistic Methodist Chapel on Friday. A capital musical programme had been arranged by Mr. W. J. Evans. The pastor of the church (Rev. Emrys Davies) pre- sided, and helped to make the evening suc- cessful. Songs were rendered in good style by the Misses Bertha and Maggie Williams (East Villa), Mr. Lloyd (National Provincial Bank). Mr. Tom John, and Mr. W. J. Evans. Miss Davies and Mr. T. J. Yorwerth gave recitations in their usual able manner Mrs. Davies (Police Station) ably accompanied all the singers on the pianoforte, and, with Miss Blodwen Thomas, gave a duet. During the evening an address was given by the Rev. Wynne Rees, of Penmark, on the "Usefulness of Literary Societies." Sales at the Market.—Mr. John David held a successful sale of cattle, sheep and pigs, at the Market on Tuesday. Twenty-five head of cattle sold from £ 12 to £ 21—6fd. a lb.- porkers up to 49s. each, and sheep 43s. to 54s. Entries of cattle were received from Mr. T. Watts, Llanmihangel; Mr. T. L. Evans, Penllyn; Mr. D. Richards, Moor- lands; Mr. T. Radcliffe, Penllyn, and Mr. W. Thomas, Llandough. There was a good supply of sheep, entries being received from Mr. George Thomas, Llwynhelig, and Mr. W. Morgan, Mardy.—A successful sale of cattle was also conducted by Mr. T. J. Yorwerth. Bullocks from Mr. Llewellyn, Hollybush, fetched from £ 16 to JE21 10s.; bullocks from Mr. Thomas, Llwynhelig, up to £18 10s. En- tries were also received from Lady Price, Fothergill, Mr. Parry, Broadway, and Mr. E'. Rees, Daren.

PONTYCYMMER Tabernacle.-The Band of Hope was pro- vided with a highly successful social in con- nection with the New Year. The facilities afforded by the new vestry and class-rooms were much in evidence. One hundred and ninety children were entertained. The first part of the evening was spent at beautifully decorated and well spread tables, over which presided Misses Gwen Morgan, Pollie Jacob, Lizzie Morgan. Maria Rogers, Mary Eliza Davies, Annie Williams, assisted by the older members of the Band of Hope and the male members of the committee. The latter part was devoted to a very enjoyable literary pro- gramme, in which the following took part: — Willie Garfield, Eliz. Rowlands, Mag. Novello Williams; Willie Hill; Wm. Enoch Davies: Idriswyn Davies; Annie Thomas; Gwyn Maddocks; Blodwen Garfield Bessie Thomas; Frances Anne Evans; Mary Cath. Davies; Thos. John Morgan; Arthur Jones; Willie Williams; Gwladys Lewis; Anne Ellen Thomas Olwen Hill; Mary Bevan Elizabeth Morgan, and Keturah Williams. The competitive translation of words from English to Welsh proved very interesting. On their departure the children were given an orange and a packet of sweets. Messrs. Jacob and Rees manipulated the gramaphone, and the music was conducted bv Mr. John Jones. The pastor (Rev. D. Hughes) pre- sided.

PONTYCLUN- Presentation.—Nurse Moore, of the Ponty- clun and District Nursing Association, who is about leaving the district after upwards of 11 years' service, has been publicly presented with a purse of money. Amongst, those pre- sent were Mr. and Mrs. Godfrey Clark, Taly- garn; Mr. and Mrs. Ashley O'Rorke, Taly- .7- garn: Rev. W. F. Evans, Cowfo*idge; and Mr. Edward Williams, Brynsadler.

MAESTEG. Musical.-Miss Blodwen Thomas, of Picton Street, Nantyffyllon, and Mr. Llewellyn Morris, of Alma-road, have bten successful in obtaining first class certificates in the ele- mentary section of the London College of Music. Success.—The many friends of Mrs Collier, of Llangynwyd, will be pleased to hear that she was successful in passing the recent ex- amination in midwifery at the University College, Cardiff. Mrs. Collier has also ob- tained certificates from the St. John's Am- bulance Association and the Medico Psycholo- gical Association of Great Britain. Bible Society.—On Tuesday evening at Jerusalem C.M. Chapel, Nantyffyllon, a pub- lic meeting was held in connection with the British and Foreign Bible Society. The speakers announced were Dr. Cynddyllan Jones, and Rev T. Gwernogle Evans:, Skewen, but Dr. Cynddylan Jones failed to put in an appearance, and Mr. Evans addressed the audience alone. Mr. Jenkin Jones, M.E., C.C., presided. Town Hall Theatre.—On Monday next Messrs. Poole's own Palace Company visit the Town-hall to open a three night's engage- ment. One of the star turns is Mack Olive, who appears in his original whistling scena performed by him over 1,000 times in the "Belle of New York." Another particularly interesting performance ivill be that if Leo Selwyn, the Handcuff King and Jail-breaker, while other clever artistes make up the pro- gramme. BIatchford."—On Wednesday evening, at Zoar Vestry, the Rev. S. Williams presiding, Mr. J. Silvan Evans, B.A., headmaster of the Maesteg Pupil Teachers' Centre, read a very interesting paper on "Blatchford." There was a good audience of young men, and Mr. Evans gave a brief biography of "Blatchford," with chief events in his life and his most notable characteristics. At the close he was loudly applauded, and several speakers com- mented on the paper In eulogistic terms. Legs Crushed.-Patsy Day, of Llwydarth Cottages, Garth, was shifting loaded coal waggons under the screen of Elder's Naviga- tion Colliery, Garth, when one of the waggons became unmanageable. in trying to stop it Day slipped and fell under the waggons, which ran over his legs, crushing one above the knee and the other below. Drs. Som- meras, Kirkby, and Gabe attended, and found it necessary to amputate both legs. He lies in a critical condition. Competitive Meeting.—The Rev. W. R. Watkins, B.A., presided over a very success- ful competitive meeting in connection with the Young People's Improvement Society at Tabernacle Chapel on Tuesday evening. The adjudicators were: Music, Mr. Joseph Morris, St. Michael's-road; recitations, Mr. E. D. Joshua, Ivor-street. Awards: Child- ren's solo, Miss Ethel Thomas, Ivor-street; recitation, under 12 years of age, Maggie Llewellyn; recitation, under 16, Ethel Thomas; open recitation, Mr. D. Williams, St. Michael's-road; reading music at first sight, divided between Messrs. Rees Jones, Tai-waun, and D. Williams, St. Michael's- road; quartette, Mr. D. Williams and friends; champion solo, Mr. Rees Jones.

(Continued from Page 5.) G.W.R. TBMPEBAXCE UNION.—The annual general meeting in connection with the Bridgend Branch was held on January 9th, Mr. Fear presiding. Mr. F. Waite, the general secretary, of London, was present. The following officers were elected: -Presi- dent, Mr. J. Perkins; chairman, Mr. J. All- bright; secretary, Mr. A. J. Stanley; trea- surer, Mr. K. McKenzie. Committee: Messrs. T. Fear, W. White, G. W. Gould, J. Durham, W. Lambert, and M. Tucker. Auditors, Messrs. Gurnsworthy and March. It is interesting to note that 93 per cent. of the staff employed at Bridgend are members of the Temperance Union. Mr. F. Waite gave a short interesting address. Owing to the great success of the concert which was held on Good Friday last under the auspices of the Union, it was decided to hold an- other. The meeting terminated with a vote of thanks to Mr. Waite, proposed by Mr. T. Fear. COTTAGE HOMES.—The Christmas tree and annual entertainment to the children of the Cottage Homes was held on January 2nd, and proved as usual an interesting function. Among those present were Mr. T. J. Job (chairman), Mrs. Richards, Mr. F. Cox, and the Rev. David Phillips, Guardians; Mr. Allen, Mr. Lucas, and Mrs. Jones, Pontycym- mer. Mrs. Turbervill, with her usual gener- osity provided the tea, oranges and sweets, a tree and decorations, and £3 10s. to furnish it. Mr. and Mrs. J. I. D. Nicholl kindly sent a cheque for 20s., toys and Rugby and Association footballs. An additional £3 Is. 6d. had been collected by Mrs. Howells among the Guardians, and 5s. was contributed by Mr. George Singer. The evening was spent in round games, which were highly enjoyed by the children. The tree was handsomely decorated, and around it appeared in oranges The Cottage Homes Xmas Tree." A large rocking horse was provided for the nursery, and chess, draughts, alma, ludo, dominoes, and snakes-and-ladders to each cottage. Mrs. Richards presented a prize to each of the 80 children.—On January 5th Mr. and Mrs. S. H. Byass sent the superintendent a cheque for £4-one shilling for each child as a New Year's gift. SMOKING CONCERT AT PARC GWYLLT.—A very enjoyable smoking concert was held at Pare Gwyllt Asylum on Tuesday evening. The gathering took place in one of the large wards, and was presided over by the head attendant, Mr. Albert Missenden. Dr. Clague (assistant medical officer) and the Rev W. Richards (Nonconformist chaplain) were also present. The affair was organised by Mr. Frank Spiller, and was intended chiefly for the entertainment of patients of the in- stitution. A capital programme had been arranged, and there was quite a galaxy of talent from among attendants and patients. The following was the piogramme :—Over- ture, Mr. F. Spiller; song, Mr. Frank Chat- held; song, Mr. Owen Jones; song, Mr. D. J. Bumford; comic song. Mr. J. Somerton; step dance, Mr. J. Regan kaccompanied by Mr. Abraham Griffiths on the accordion); song, Mr. Armstrong; recitation, Mr. Edolls. The concluded the first part, and at this juncture the patients were regaled with coffee, buns and tobacco. The second part commenced with a quadrille set, and about two dozen partners tripped the "light fantastic," after which the entertainment proceeded as follows:—Song, Mr. M. Mill- ard; recitation, Mr. J. Coursey; song, Mr. T. Chatfield; song, "Mr. Owen Jones; humor- ous song, Mr. D. J. Bumford; song, Mr. J. Rees. The proceedings terminated with the singing of the National Anthem, and the wish was expressed that it would not be long before there was a similar gathering. The accompanist was Mr. Frank Spillar. MR. ROBERT EVANS'S WILL. Further particulars of the will of the late Mr. Robert Evans, of Brynteg, Bridgend, have been published. The testator left £100 to his niece Fanny L. Craig, daughter of his brother William; £100 equally between the children of his late brother Thomas, annui- ties of JE26 each to Jane and Lucy, daughters of his brother Hopkin Evans; and he left the Laleston House Estate to his nephew Robert Christopher Griffiths for life, with remainder to his issue. The residue of his property he left as to one-half in trust for his said nephew Robert Christopher Griffiths and his wife and issue and one-half upon trust to pay an an- nuity of JE200 to his nephew John Evans Griffiths and to hold the residue of the said moiety upon trust for the issue of his said nephew. He directed that the acting execu- tors of his will should receive 5 per cent. of the net income of his estate for their services in connection with the trusts of his will. BRIDGEND DISTRICT OF ODDFELLOWS. The annual meeting of the Bridgend Dis- trict of the Manchester Unity of Oddfellows was held at the Fox and Hounds, St. Bride's Major, on Monday. P.P.G.M. Rees Rees, Grand Master, presided, supported by P.G. Lewis Lewis, Deputy Grand Master; P.P.G.M. Rees Lewis, Treasurer; and P.P.G.M. David Williams, Prov. C.S. The following delegates attended:—Earl of Dun- raven Lodge. Bro. G. T. Hardwick; Nash Point, Bro. David Lougher; Mansel Abbey, Bro. Edward Wylde; Bran-ac-Ilid, Bro. G. F. Duckett; Centre Glamorgan, Bro. Alfred Jury; Treharne, Bro. John Edward; Kenfig Borough, Bro. Daniel Owen; Friend-in-Need, Bro. D. R. Jones; Ogmore Valley, Bro. Wm. Brace; Tuskar Rock, Bro. Thomas Cooke; Quin, Bro. Alex. Smith; Caradog-ab-Bran, Bro. Lewis Griffiths. The total number of members returned was 1,660, the total levies received being £118, while the funeral claims paid amounted to £85. P.P.G.M. Jenkin -Hopkin, St. Bride's Major, was elected trustee in lieu of Mr Thos. John, resigned. The following members were appointed an arbitration committee to act in conjunction with the District officers in cases of dispute:-Bros.. David James, Bridgend; W. H. Hitchings, Tondn; Jenkin Hopkin, St. Bride's Major; W. J. Jackson, Porthcawl; Rees Rees, Kenfig Hill; D. R. Jones, Laleston. P.P.G.M. Rees Rees, Kenfig Hill; and P.P.G.M. David Williams, Pro v. C.S., Bridgend were elected to represent the district at the forthcoming A.M.C., at Folke- stone, and the latter was nominated as a member of the Unity Estimates Committee. P.P.G.M. Rees John, Laleston, was re-elected book examiner. A vote of thanks to Mrs. Lloyd for the ex- cellent dinner provided brought the meeting to a close.