The Glamorgan Gazette

OGMORE VALE. Success.—Mr. David Williams, Fromven, insurance agent, was the nappy recipient of ilL gold-mounted fountain pen last week from Iris employers on account of tne successful way in which he discharged his duties during fcjje past year. Philadelphia.—On Wednesday evening at Philadelphia Mutual Improvement Society, two very ably papers were read by Mrs. J. David, on "Samson, and Boobyer on Christianity and Daily Lite Respectively. The attendance, 0 fttr. Thomas Williams presided, was very fcatisfactory. Competitive Meeting.—A very s^ce^ful Competitive meeting was held m connection (with the Mutual Improvement Society a* Bethlehem on Tuesday evening. There was II; good attendance, over winch Mr. John Davies presided. The duties of adpudica Hrere' cat rusted to Mr. Jenkin Williams an Bdr. Gv.cntfryn Jones, who gave the utmost batisfacticn in their impartial awards. Ogmore Valley Rifle Club.—The annual loeeting was held at the Range to bp point officers and committee. All the old (Officers were re-elected, but H. Leighfield and lA Burford were elected on the committee te' W. Culliford and J. Harrison. The fcalanee-sheet was read and showed a few ipounds on the wrong side, but it is hoped Ifchat this will be recovered by next quarter. (The club has had one representative in the KVelsh team at Ely, and one representative for Glamorgan County, besides holding the Record score of 541 for the whole of W.A. lLeac7110 Division. The match at Barry, last Batuitl v. as anticipated, resulted in a win Iwith the record score of 541 to 517. Scores: pgmerc Yale-W. Mees, (36; W. Berryman, (39; O. Hartland, 69; H. Leighfield, 65; C. Berrvmon, 68; A. E. Marks, 70: R. Foulks, B7; J. Tuck. 67; total. 541. Barry: E. Davies, 02: R." Jord an, 65; W. Wakeham, 63; R. Owen, 66; A. Buckley, 65; A. Storey, 67; H. Waters, 62; G. James, 67; j total, 517. Operetta.—Two very successful perform- ances, in full character, of the interesting operetta The Merry Milkmaids," by Clias. tl. Gabriel, were given at the Workmen s- hall, on Wednesday and Thursday evenings, in last week, by Hermon C.M. Choir, under j the leadership of Mr. Jeremiah H. Lewis, A.C. Great credit is due to this choir and its energetic conductor for taking up work of this kind every winter. Last year they performed" The Captivity," by Mr D. Emiyn Evans. Mr. Lewis is ably assisted in these undertakings by Mrs. T. Llewellyn, whose ability in performances in character is so well known, also by Mrs. J. Morgan Ardwyn, who always acts as accompanist for the choir. On this occasion the stage had been very ap- propriately fitted up as a dairy. The hand- ling of the milk pails and other utensils was watched with great interest, especially the churning by Miss A. David, and the making of butter by Mrs. W. G. Williams and Mrs. Jenkins. Miss M. M. Jenkins, of Tondu, represented the Queen of the Dairymaids," with her usual ability. Miss E. A. Rattray rendered the part of "Dorothy" in a natural manner. Mrs. T. Llewellyn, as "Monica," made an ideal Indian fortune-teller. The other characters were faithfully represented by the following, viz.: "Margery," Mrs. W. M. David; "Ruth," Miss S. A. Joseph. "Juanita," Mrs. E. Humphreys; Janet Miss M. J. Stanford; Anita," Miss Abigail Griffiths. The character of "Judge" was sustained with dignity by Mr. Robert Tre- harne. The dual characters of The Com- modore" and Beggar" were well rendered by Mr. F. C. Williams; while those of the Doctor" and Pedlar" by Mr. TV E. Evans, fairly brought down the house. Mr. George David as Farmer Jim" Mr. J. Jones as "Farmer Joe": Mr. W. M. David as "Cap- tain"; Messrs. J. Davies and R. Foulkes as Two Jolly Farmers" gave great satisfac- tion. The choruses of Farmer Boys, Farmers' Brigade, and Jolly Gentlemen were well received, but what gave the greatest de- light of all perhaps was an action song by the children, which was gone through with such perfect movement that th" performers won rounds of applause. The hall was crowded on Wednesday and well filled on Thursday, so that the concert was a success in every re- spect on both evenings. We understand the performers have been asked to repeat the performance at the Workmen's-hall, Nanty- moel, for the benefit of the sufferers through the strike at the Wyndham Colliery. HIGHER ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS. The Glamorgan County Council Education Committee, upon the recommendation of the Ogmore Group of Managers, have resolved to build Higher Elementary Schools—one for the Garw and the other for the Ogmore Valley. On Tuesday afternoon a Govern- ment inquiry was conducted at Ogmore Vale relative to the proposal. Mr. W. Edwards, H.M. Inspector, and Mr S. S. Kkirrow, H.M. Inspector of Secondary Schools, attended the inquiry on behalf of the Board of Education; Mr. W. Bryn Davies, F.E.I.S., Council In- spector, on behalf of the County Council; and Mr. T. H. Job, Dr. D. J. Thomas, Aid. W. Llewlelyn, Mr. J. Maddocks, with the clerk (Rev. Chas. Williams), represented the Group Managers. The representation of the School Managers were very favourably re- ceived by the Government Inspectors, who will report to the Board of Education in due course.

MINERALS AT LLANGYNWYD. In the Chancery Division (before Mr. Justice Joyce) an adjourned summons in the action of Turbervill v. Cory came on for hearing. The matter in question had refer- ence to a lease of minerals under Moel Gwilym Hywel, Llangynwyd, the plaintiff Gwilym Hywel, Llangynwyd. In the action plaintiff claimed that the defen- dants (Messrs. T. Cory) were jointly and severally liable to pay to him any unpaid balance of rent and royalties payable under a lease dated February 28th, 1891, and made between the late Colonel T. Picton Turber- vill (plaintiff's predecessor in title) and the defendants. He also asked for a declaration that the coal gotten, worked, or raised under the said lease, out of the Coodfaid seam, was, within the meaning of the lease, bituminious coal. Further, he claimed the payment of jEl,226 16s. 7d. alleged to be unpaid balance of royalties. In the alterllative he asked that inquiries should be directed to ascertain the amount of the unpaid balance; and, if necessary, administration of the real and personal estate of the said William Thomas, deceased. The present summons was that further proceedings in the action might be stayed, until further order, pursuant to section 4 of the Arbitration Act of 1889, and that the differences between the parties might be re- ferred to arbitration. The motion was complied with, and an ar- bitrator appointed.

To Adv«rti»er».—Advertisers who send as am all advertisements that come under the various headings of our prepaid scale, which appears on the 4th pace, are requested to kindly send remittance with order.

I A TALE OF NEW YEARS EVE. By W. H. COUSINS, Author of Greater Love," The Dreamer," &c. New Year's Eve I A time of reminiscences and new resolutions (broken within a week!); t memories that bring a smile, memories that call forth a shadow; bright hopes, great am- bitions the funeral of many hopes, the birth of greater ones. It is an ideal night. The full moon in all its splendour, with its train of a myriad stars, throws a glamour over the snow- covered country. The mountains never looked more glorious than now, their white carpet glistening as if set in uncounted dia- monds. The air is crisp and invigorating. ( The time is near midnight. The old year is in its last extremity, life is ebbing rapidly, I and there's pathos in the scene. But there is also joy! The birth of a new year is nigh, and watchers wonder what he will be like. Will he bear the countenance of his ances- tors? Will there be a visual evidence of heredity ? Some such thoughts as these are passing through the mind of Tom Hammond as he strides briskly along the deserted highway between Ogmore Vale and Blackmill. He is bent on seeing the old year out and the new year in, as he has done for the last ten years; and the house is too stuffy on such a glorious uight as this. As he strides along, his mind engaged in serious thought, the sounds of the pleasure-making crowds that throng the streets of Ogmore Vale, are borne to him on a gentle breeze. Suddenly 'he stops. The colliery hooters" are announc- ing the death of the old year with all the vigour that engine-drivers can produce by dint of full pressure." For five minutes the hideous noise continues unabated. Then there is a momentary lull, followed by a final blast. The New Year is born. The church bells are pealing a welcome, and to the soli- tary listener on that deserted road comes mentally the old song The Miner's Dream of Home." He murmurs some words of the refrain: 'Twas a night that should banish all sin, For the bells were ringing the old year out And the New Year in." A night that should banish all sin," he murmurs again, as he inhales a deep breath of the life-giving atmosphere and turns his footsteps homeward to Nantymoel and slum- ber. Passing up through High-street, Ogmore Vale, he finds the place all agog with life— life in all its exuberance. A score of greet- ings are shouted to him as he hastens along, A Happy New Year I" As he nears The Square a respectably dressed man comes reeling along, his hat missing, and his dress bearing evidence of many a fall. In his hand he carries a bottle of liquor, while its companiion protrudes from one of the coat pockets, preserved by some evil genius from disaster in the falls of its owner. The be- sotted creature comes staggering along, and as he passes Hammond he looks up with a drunken leer and says thickly, "A Happy New Year, misther; lots of fun and plenty of booze," and he flourishes his bottle with a proud look of possession. In the distance a choir is singing, and the refrain comes clearly through the frosty air Crown Him Lord of all." Hammond's mind is very busy and his head bent as he ascends the steep Aber hill. He is going along mechanically, when be hears L ..1 a "groan. Pulling himself up quickly he looks sharply round and sees the prostrate form of a woman a few yards in front of him. He is quickly at Iter side. Bending over her he finds that she is unconscious. A brook trickles noisily 011 the opposite side of the road, and to this he hastens. Taking off his bowler hat, lie ladles up the crystal water and returns to the inanimate form. The icy water acts like magic. Long silken lashes are raised, and a pair of luminous dark eyes look enquiringly at him. Where am IP" asks a sweet voice. Hammond explains briefly. The voice awakens some chord of memory, and lie looks keenly into the lovely face before him. With an effort he stifles an exclamation. He has recognised his strangely-met companion. Old memories crowd through his mind and his thoughts are far away. He pulls himself together quickly and gives his attention to his companion. "Are you badly hurt?" he asks with concern, as he assists her to rise. No I don't The sentence is cut short with an exclamation of pain as she puts her foot to the ground. My ankle," she says faintly. I think it is dislocated. How painful it is! I cannot bear my foot on the ground." Tom was in a quandary. "Where were you going?" he asks, after a moment's thought. To Blaenogwy," is the reply. I am visiting friends there. I have been to a private party at Ogmore Vale, and missed my friends. I was returning alone, when I slipped on the ice and fell." Here's a fix!" murmurs Tom to himself. The New Year is decidedly going great guns.' The road was deserted save for his companion and himself. The noise of the merry-makers had died down. There was no sound save the low roar of the Ogmore River rushing seawards. Turning to his strangely-met companion, Hammond said, There's no help about, and you cannot walk with your foot in that state. I shall have to carry you to Blaenogwy r" She looks at him in amazement. But you cannot do that!" she exclaims. With a bewitching smile she adds, I am heavier than you imagine, Mr. Hammond—Tom Hammond. I am a surveyor, employed by one of the colliery companies who have a colliery in this valley." And my name is Wynn—Dilys Wynn." Well, there is no alternative, Miss Wynn. I must carry you to your triends in Blaen- ogwy. You cannot remain here all night. I'll manage all right," he adds with a smile, drawing himself up to his full six feet of muscular manhood. But first of all, allow me to unfasten that shoe; it will bring some relief." A stile is near at hand. He picks her tenderly up in his great arms and carries her thither. Very tenderly, almost reverently, he unbuttons the offending shoe. The foot has already swollen badly. Again she protests that he cannot carry her all the way to Blaenogwy. But he is all assurance. "It will be a novel experience," he remarks laughingly, "a good start for the New Year," and he again takes her in his arms and continues his interrupted walk. Twice only does he call a halt in that memor- able journey. 'Twas surely a kindly fate that placed these seats by the roadside," he says with a contented laugh, as he tenderly places her on one of them and seats himself at her side. They must hare foreseen the incidents of to-night," she replies. The colour has re- turned to her face, and she speaks cheerfully. Is your foot very painful ?" Hammond inquires with solicitude. Oh no, thank you I" The tones are con- vincing, but had Tom seen the spasm of pain that crossed the beautiful face by his side, he would have been much perturbed. The dainty little woman with the luminous eyes had grit. "What a delightful nieht!" she adds, after a pause. Isn't it glorious. I always love the moonlight, and your mountains look so beautiful. It's an ideal New Year's Eve— or should I say dawn?" she asks laughing. Tom looks up quickly as if disturbed in a long train of thought that was alien to the question at issue. Yes I it is a beautiful night. While I was listening to the bells that announced the birth of the New Year, the memory of an old song came to me. One line runs: Twas a night that should banish all sin.' It is indeed a glorious night." Yes!" is the simple response; "there is surely inspiration in a night like this. Surely nothing impure or unholy could be met with to-iilglit. Earth's crammed with heaven. A sigh escapes the lips of the listener as he thinks of the scene on The Square at Og- more Vale. "Come," he ays, rising, "You'll be contracting a chill if we sit here." "You must be tired." There is gratitude, not unmixed with admiration in those won- derful dark eyes. "Oh, no! I never felt more fit." And again the homeward journey is resumed. r Blaenogwy is reached at 2.30. Tom carries his charge into the home of her friends, and with a brief word of explanation prepares to leave. As he rises to go, he meets those luminous eyes again, those eyes that "talk unspeakable things." A dainty hand is outstretched, "How can I thank you enough? Had it not been for you I might have frozen there on the road. I cannot say how grateful I am. And you must be so tired." There is real concern in the sweet voice, and-ses, there are unshed tears in those eyes. "It was really nothing," he replies; "any other man would have done the same in my place. There is no need for thanks. It is ample payment to have been of some little service." With wishes for the New Year he departs, after promising to call on the following afternoon. The marble clock in his bachelor quarters in Dinam-street, Nanty- moel, chimes three as he enters the house. Pulling out hits favourite pipe, he draws an easy chair to the fire. At the thought of bed he shrugs his shoulders. There is no sleep in his eyes to-night. Taking his poc- ket book from his breast pocket, he opens it carefully and with tender fingers produces a faded flower. And as the clock chimes and chimes again, the solitary figure sat on. But the mind of the man. the ego, the "I," the Man, was far away. The mere shell sits on inert, lifeless, unseeing, unheeding time or space. The man is not there. The fire dies out. and the lamp follows. Yet the still, silent firrure sits on. Merely a frame, and a faded flower-lifeless both. In the snug front room of Mrs. Tomlin- son's house, which is furnished with delight- ful taste, a huge fire burns brightly. Out-" side the snow is falling rapidly, but here everything speaks of comfort and luxury. On a couch near the window Dilys Wynn reclines gracefully; the glow of health on her beautiful face, and happiness in those luminous eyes. In an easy chair sits her companion of the previous night. Formal greetings are over. She has assured him that with the exception of her foot-the doctor had said the ankle was dislocated—she felt none the worse for her accident. Dilys surveys the offending limb with mock solemnity and laughs brightly. "I shall have to remain in-doors for a few weeks. As Pat, my father's coachman, said when he broke his leg, Begorra I'll have to walk with two crutches and a stick.' And again she laughs. You'll find it monotonous indoors," com- ments Hammond. Oh, no I" is the cheery rejoinder; "with a book and plenty of company the time will pass quiclly. I shall enjoy outdoor life all the better afterwards. The conversation drifts into the question of the poverty and suffering likely to ensue in the district in consequence of a lock out at one of the collieries. Dilys is filled with compassion. These horrid disputes!" she exclaims. "How much suffering and trouble they cause. And it is always the women and children who suffer. It makes my heart sick to think of it. I have witnessed so much of the dire conse- quences of these disputes: women going about their duties with pale faces, sunken cheeks, starving themselves to give the child- ren the food for which they cry; children with pale faces, tattered clothes, shoeless and hat less, going hungry to school. Oh, it's awful to think of these things," and she shudders. If they open a relief fund you must let me know," she adds in a tone that carries conviction of her sincerity. The conversation passes to Hammond's position and duties. Incidentally he tells her that he has only that morning received the announcement of his appointment as one of His Majestv's Inspectors of Mines. Her face lights with pleasure, but she simply says, "I am so glad." Thank you, Miss Wynn. It is a good thing for me; more so than it appears. It brings me a Tittle nearer the dawn." The dawn ?" she queries but he does not hear. He is looking with unseeing eyes into the nre his thoughts are evidently far away. She watches him intently for some minutes and then remarks with laughter in her voice, A penny for your thoughts. Mr. Ham- mond." He looks up with a smile. "They were worth more than that. Shall I tell you?" Dilys settles herself expectantly for an in- teresting story, as she says "Yes do!" I was far away when you spoke," he be- gins. "The scene is a quaint old country school. It is playtime. In a secluded cor- ner of the playground a lad of fifteen years is talking earnestly to a girl, his junior by a year or so—a girl with a sweet face and a pair of wonderful eyes, such eyes as talk unspeakable things.' These two have been boy and girl 'sweethearts' for some time. Noit he is leaving school, and also the neigh- bourhood. He is talking with grim earnest- ness. I am going away. I'm going to make my fortune, and then I'm coming back to marry you.' There is conviction and as- surance in his tones. He knows none of the doubts and fears that will come to him during those years of struggle and waiting. His companion looks shyly up and says quietly And I'll wait for you. I'll wait till you come back.' The conversation is cut short by the school bell calling the little girl a' i7 to her lessons. The boy hastily steals a kiss and with cool assurance takes possession of a beautiful rose that is fastened in her dress. 'I'll keep this,' he says, 'till I come again.' The years go by and the boy meets with vary- ing luck. He does not find it so easy to make his fortune. He has grown to man- hood. and has to fight grimly in the battle of life. Often as he pulls a faded rose from his pocket book he sighs heavily and wonders if that little girl is still waiting for his return. She has long since removed from the old vil- lage, and he has lost all tiace of her. But the promise is not forgotten, though the night is long and dark, and he looks with anxious eyes for the first sign of dawn; and sometimes wonders if it will ever come. He has reached an important position in the coalfield, but there is something Quixotic in his temperament, and he does not think that the conditions prescribed in that farewell scene have j et been fulfilled. He carries ever in his mind his youthfnl ambition. And still he oherishes a faded rose." The story-teller pauses in his tale. Dilys had been listening with strained attention. Now she is looking Into space with eyes that do not see. Her face tells a tale of strange emotions. « Hammond watches her intently for several moments. There is hunger in his eyes, but his mouth is set grimly, his hands clenched. The story has cost him much, and he needs all his will-power now. She is the first to break tile silence. Very softly the words come: "Yes, but you have not finished your story." Tom rises and begins stalking the room. He is irresolute for a few minutes. "Per- haps," he says at length, "your woman's wit can supply all that remains untold." The words come slowly, disjointedly; then, seiz- ing his hat he holds out his hand. Good- bye I Good-bye, Miss Wynn." Again there is silence. Her face is averted. As he hesitates, she speaks again, in the same low tones, And do yom know where that little girl is now?" Hammond hesitates a moment. He takee a step forward, and pulls himself up sharply. "Yes," he replies, 'but circumstances have altered since those old days. Then her par- ents were not rich. Now her father is re- puted to be the richest man in the coalfield. That boy must dig a grave and bury those long-cherised hopes. He cannot aspire to such a height. They have nothing in com- mon now. It would be ungenerous under the circumstances to expect her to keep a promise made so long ago." Again he moves toward the door Good- W bye, Miss Wynn!" Again there is no response. Her face is still averted. He is about to pass out of the room when he is arrested by the sweet voice once more. The words are almost in- audible: Perhaps-perhapc, that little girl is still-still waiting. What if she has not forgotten her promise F" He gazes at her wonderingly. Hope dawns anew on his face. With a quick stride he is back at her side. Hsr face is hastily turned away, her head bent. Once mere he hesitates. His eyes stray to a pair of dainty hands over which that lovely head is bent. Something falls and glistens like a diamond on one of them. He hesitates no longer. He places one hand tenderly upon her shoul- der and in a voice that quivers with sup- pressed emotion, says eimpiv Dilys She looks un. The teaws are streaming un- checked down her cheeks now Tom "You great bear! You 11 smother nw: Do let me breathe." There's happy laugh- ter in the sweet voice now. The dark eyes are more luminous than ever. Hammond laughs, and there is a. new ex- pression on his face, as after a further em- brace he releases her. "It seems like a dream!" he exclaims some minutes later. Tell me, Dilys. did you really remember your old promise?" Yes, Tom! I never forgot it. I be- lieved you would come back some day. I recognieed you while you were carrying me home last night, and"- a blush spreads over her face—"I was very happy." Drawing his pocket book from his pocket, Hammond extracts a faded flower-faded be- yond all recognition. Very carefully, re- verently, he handles it: "Dilys, I have brought bac-k your rose. The dawn has come!" [THE END.]

Glamorgan Hunt Ball. The members of the Glamorgan Hunt held their annual ball at the City Hall, Cardiff, on Friday night, when about 250 members and guests were present, including Colonel Homfray, M.F.H and party; The Mackin- tosh of Mackintosh and party; Sir John and Lady Gunn, General Tyler and party- Mr. O. H. Jones and party; Mr. Williams, Roath Court, and party; Mr. C. C. Williams and party; Mrs. Robert Forrest and party; Colonel and Mrs. Banfield; Colonel and MTB. Shute; Major Edmondes and party; Mr J H. Brain and party; Mr. W. H. Brain and party; Mr. and Mrs. C. Auckland Aleen, etc. Mr. Walter Shirley discharged the duties of secretary; Mr. Fred Rooerts's orchestra supplied the music; Mr. Stevens (The Dorothy) was the caterer; and the decora- tions. which were very tasteful, were supplied by Messrs. James Howell and Co. The mem- bers of the club were in hunt costume.

Mid-Glamorgan Conservatives. At the Constitutional Club, Port Talbot, on Saturday evening, Mr. R. J. Richards, late secretary and agent, Mid-Glamorgan Conservative Association, was presented with an illuminated address a purse of gold, and several volumes of books, on the occasion of his departure from the district to Pembroke- shire, where he has been appointed Conser- vative agent. Councillor David Williams, Aberavon, presided, and uiere were repre- sentatives present from Maesteg, Aberkenng, Tondu, Caerau, and other parts of the con- stituency. The Chairman said they were sorry to lose the services of Mr. Richards, but they congratulated him upon his ap- pointment to such an important district, and wishes him every prosperity. Messrs. Silas Watkins and James Newman (chairman and secretary respectively of the Presentation Committee) made the presentations. Messrs Sampson, Maesteg, and D. Saunders Davies, paid tributes to Mr. Richards, and said that both Conservatives and Liberals bad gladly contributed towards the presentation. (Cheers.) Mr. Richards suitably replied.

SITTING MEMBERS AND OPPOSITION. At a mass meeting of the Albion Colliery workmea, Cilfynydd, on Saturday evening, Mr. D. Watts Morgan (miners' agent), in reply to questions, said the Parliamentary scheme of the South Wales Miners' Federa- tion did not of necessity mean any opposition to sitting Members at the next General Elec- tion unless the present situation changed, but it was intended to be prepared with can- didates who would take the field if called upon. Mr. Morgan added that he had al- ready been invited to address a meeting in the Avon Valley and other parts of Mid-Gla- morgan, and East and West of Carmarthen, but he was entirely in the hands of the No. 1 Rhondda district of miners in the matter. He had been approached by several lodges in East Glamorgan connected with his own dis- trict to allow his name to be submitted as a candidate for that division. He didn't feel any strong desire to be adopted, but if he were chosen he should consider it were a high honour to be selected by the people among whom he had lived and worked the whole <3 his lifetime.

——1 — TOWER TEA. i "A REAL REFRESHER." ycicien colour the cti;> o: ;«■ t: S:KI aUorimik): addec. not thai oj" spoonful. [ of 1

A Profitable Oat Crop. Mr. Ernest Parke's manurial experiments on the growth of oats at Kineton, in War- wickshire, have been carried out for another year with the co-operation of Dr. Dyer. The oats followed beans, and were a good ttop, the favourable effects of the season feeing such that even the portion of the field left unmanured yielded 42 bushels of oats bad nearly a ton of straw per acre. A cfressing of 3ewt. of superphosphate per acre raised the yield to 55 bushels of oats, with 24cwt. ef straw. When the superphosphate was fol- lowed by a top dressing of iewt. of nitrate of soda, applied after plant was up, the crop was 67 bushels of oats and 1" ton of ert*Mr; while a second handredweight of niffaijbe, put on a few weeks later, raised the yielo to 74 bushels of oats, with over 2 tons of sl^naw, per acre. On these two plots the manuring oost. roughly, 20s. and 32s. per acre respec- tively, while the returns obtained in increase of crop were over three-quartersjof o ;v with three-quarter ton of straw, per acre in the one case, and four quarters of oats, with jover one ton of straw, per aore in the other. The mangold manuring experiments this year were spoiled by the irregularity of the crop, owing to failnre of the young plant through drought.

Webb Collieries for Frenck Owners. The South Wales Daily Post" learns, pa excellent authority, that the sae tof the Vhe- excellent authority, that the sa)e of the duke, Caedr, and Mountain Coffieries hvre been completed, the purchaaera being mem- bers of a French syndicate. "With regard to another French syndicate's acqwisititm bf two Pontardawe Collieries, togefhec jrafc- three others, negotiations are in a fair wot to settlement.

PONTYCYMMER. Convalescent.—Her friends will be glad to learn that Mrs. D. John, of Bridge House, is now convalescent. Sympathy.—The many friends of Mrs. Abel, Station House, will regret to hear of her trouble through tho bereavement of her sister, who resides at Treforest. Preaching Services.—The pulpit at St. Paul's Primitive Methodist Chapel on Sun- day was occupied by the Rev. J. Watkins Liverpool, who preached three edifying and instructive sermons to large and appreciative congregations. On Monday night the rev. gentleman delivered a lecture on the sub- ject "Three Hours in a London Inferno." [rhe lecture was very instructive, and a goodly number listened to the discourse. The chair was occupied by the Rev. W. Saunders, C.C. Noddfa Young People's Improvement So- ciety.—Mr. W. Thomas, Tynton, presided at Tuesday evenings meeting. Mr. Robert Roberts read an excellent paper on The Nature of the Church," and he was followed by Air. John Phillips (Cerddor Ffrydwyllt), whose subject was Church Discipline." Mr Phillips dealt with his subject in a masterly ;way. Favourable comments were made upon the papers by Mrs. Lawrence, Mrs. E. T. Evans, Messrs. Nathaniel Watkins, David Thomas, William Evans, and Wm. Rees. Tabernacle Church.—A happy hour en- tertainment" was held under the auspices of the Band of Hope at the above church on Tuesday night, presided over by the pastor, Hev. D. Hughes. The adjudicators were: Singing, Mr. James Garfield, and literary, Mr. Robert Williams. An excellent solo was given to introduce the meeting by Mr. D. T. Jones. Prizes were awarded to the follow- ing —Recitation for girls, Misses Blodwen Gai-field and Theodosia Williams; solo for 'girls under 16 years of age, Miss May Hill; duett, Miss Lizzie Morgan and Mr. J. Jones solo for boys under 16 years, Master Thos. J. Morgan, 2nd prize Masters Trevilian Owen and Rhys Williams; spelling in Welsh, Mas- ters Thos. J. Morgan and Willie Jones. HThis is the first entertainment which has been held since the opening of the new ves- try, and so large was the attendance that it has been decided to hold a series of these en- tertainments. Miss G. Morgan, as secre- tary, should be congratulated upon her splen- did method in organising the above. Juvenile Concert.-A good company pat- ronised the concert held at the Public-hall ion Wednesday evening in last week in con- nection with Zion Band of Hope, and the Concert was quite a success from every point of view. This youny organisation of total abstinence advocates has previously held similar concerts, which have invariably proved successes. Although a good propor- tion of the audience was comparatively young, perfect silence was maintained thioughout. The chair was occupied by Mr Morgan ilughes, draper, who was well jpleased with the children's performance. {The first part consisted of a service of song, "The start in life," performed by nearly 150 IToices, and considering the average of the children, it was rendered in surprising style. The conductress, Mrs. Reynolds, G.T.S.C., ôeserves the best praise for the energy and patience exercised by her in training the little ones so carefully. The connective readings were given by Mr. Wm. Morg-n, and the Garw Orchestral Band, under the leadership of Mr. John Edwards, was an in- Taluable aid. The principal parts were ably toustained by the following: Misses M. A. (Davies, A. Thomas, and C. Ellis, Messrs. B. Williams, W. Bowen and D. Pearce. Miss Ceinwen Howells presided at the piano. The second part of the programme was of a miscellaneous character, in which all the artistes mentioned took part. A pleasing feature was the action songs. The little mothers," in their doll performance, highly pleased the audience, and the Stocking- tnenders" went through their work admir- ably, while the" Busy Housemaids" caused roars of laughter, and wound up a successful eoncert.

BLAENGARW. No Fires.—Owing to there being no coal lit Blaengarw Infants' School on Wednesday, last week, the children were dismissed and the building closed. Oratorio.—The Nebo Choir, under the leadership of Mr. John Llewellyn, gave a per- formance of the oratoria "Paradise" on Wed- Snesday evening. A report will appear next feeek. Forthcoming Election.—Several prominent Ratepayers journeyed from Blaengarw to Gil- fach on Saturday to view the site of the pro- posed bridge so as to be able to form an QpilllGn whether a bridge is absolutely neces- 6arv. It is said they are likely to vote fcgamst the Bill at the forthcoming poll. Notices.—About 1bU workmen employed at the Blaengarw Colliery tendered a fortnight s j!ptice on Monday to terminate contracts in consequence of a fellow-workman who served in the capacity of secretary of the lodge re- fceiving notice to quit from the employeis- EChey will be supported by the Western Dis- trict, to which they belong. Young Peoples Society.—The usual meet- ing on Thursday evening, in last week, at Bethania, was well attended, Mr. David Eraus (president) presiding. Three^ very in- teresting papers were read, viz., Bethle- hem," )1:1'. Wm. Howells; Nazareth, Miss E. Morgans; "Jerusalem," Mr. D. P. Jones. Who Rev. W. A. Williams, Messrs. D. Mor- gan, Philip Davies, J. Brown, S. Jenkins, aDd T. Matthews also spoke.

NANTYMOEL. Blaenogwy Postal Arrangements. — The Ogmore Valley Trades and Labour Council held a meeting on the 17th inst. in Nanty- moel-hali, when it was decided to again ap- proach the Ogmore and Garw Council with reference to the postal arrangements at Blaenogwy. Concert.—The annual concert in connec- tion with St. Peters' Welsh Church, Nanty- moel, was held on Saturday evening, when the choir gave an excellent performance of the well-known cantata. 'Israel in the Wilderness." The large and appreciative audience quite enjoyed the proceedings, the success of which reflects The very highest credit on the promoters. The proceeds were devoted to the church funds. Lecture.—On Wednesday evening at Horeb English Baptist Chapel, Nantymoel (kindly lent for the occasion), in connection with the Local Salvation Army. Madame Florence Worth, the converted actress, gave her thril- ling life story to a very large audience that were deeply moved and impressed by her stir- ring and eloquent narrative. The Rev. H. R. Byatt, pastor of Horeb, ably presided over the proceedings. The great success of the lecture is mainly attributable to Captain Lemon, the officer in charge of the local corps. A hearty vote of thanus to the lec- turer and chairman terminated a very en- joyable evening. School of Mining.—In answer to a ques- tion submitted by Mr. Edward Edwards, Og- more Vale, at the public meeting on Tuesday evening re the suggestion that the miners of South Wales should contribute JS10,000 as their quota towards establishing a School of Mining for South Wales, Mr. T. J. Jones, F.R.E.S., said that so far as he understood the object of the school, the coalowners would benefit by having trained men as en- gineers and colliery managers, but so far as the material advantage of the workers was concerned, it would be more to their advan- tage to contribute £ 500 to Ruskin College than L10,000 to the School of Mining. Public Lecture.—A public meeting was held at the Workmen's-hall, Nantymoel, on Tuesday evening to give Mr. John Rees, Pool- Law Guardian, a "send off" on his departure for Ruskin College, Oxford, for a year's resi- dence. The scholarship has been provided by public subscription. INIT. John Thomas, chairman, Ocean Federation Lodge, ably pre- sided. Mr. T. J. Jones, F.R.E.S., Ferndale, a former student of Ruskin College, delivered a very able address on John Ruskin-the man and his mission." Mr. Edward Ed- wards moved, and Mr. Wm. Morgan secon- ded, a hearty vote of thanks to the lecturer for his interesting address. All present united in wishing Mr. Rees success at Ox- ford. Pretty Wedding.-On Saturday a pretty wedding was solemnised at Llangeinor Parish Church between Miss Louisa Hill, second daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Mark Hill, Brookland-terrace, Nantymoel, and Mr. Daniel G. Allen, fourth son of Mr. and Mrs. John Allen, Brookland, Blaenogwy. The in- teresting ceremony was performed by the Rev. J. Jones, Vicar of Llangoinor. The bride, who was charmingly attired in a plum colour costume, with hat to match, was given away by her father. Miss Annie Ridgeway attended as bridesmaid, and Mr. Morgan J. Hill (brother of the bride) discharged the duties of best man. A large circle of friends, amongst whom were the Rev. H. R. Byatt and Capt. Lemon, joined at the wed- ding breakfast at the bride's residence. After the interesting ceremony at the church the happy couple drove to Bridgend to catch the 10.55 a.m. train en route for Cardiff and district for their honeymoon. The newly- wedded couple, who are held in high esteem, received the felicitous greetings of a very large circle of friends and were the recipi- ents of very numerous and valuable presents.

Ogmore and Garw Bill. The consideration of the Ogmore and Garw Urban District Council (Water Supply, etc.) 'Bill on Standing Orders stage has been adjourned until next week.

f LATE WYNDHAM MANAGER SECURES POSITION IN THE RHONDDA. The many friends of Mr. D. Leyshon, late manager of the Wyndham Colliery, Nanty- moel, will be pleased to know that he has been appointed resident manager and agent to the Blaenclydach Colliery Co., Rhondda Valley. Mr. Leyshon, who is a native of Kenfig Hill, has spent a considerable por- tion of his life in the Ogmore Valley, where he received his training for the important Ipost of colliery manager. He became under- manager of the Park Slip Colliery some ten years ago, and was soon afterwards prometed to the managership, and three years ago he was appointed manager of the Wyndham Colliery and his severance with this under- taking is, of course, due to its being pur- chased by Messrs. Cory Bros, from Mr. Ley- shon's late employers, Messrs. North's Navi- gation Company.

The Wyndham Colliery Stoppage. At a meeting of the Conciliation Board for the coal trade of South Wales and Mon- mouthshire at Cardiff on Saturday, the work- men's representatives drew attention to the stoppage which had occurred at the Wynd- ham Colliery, which had been owned by Messrs. North's Navigation Company up to the end of December last, but which had since been acquired by Messrs Cory Brothers. I The workmen's side contended that the stop- page was a breach of the Conciliation Board Agreement, as the new owners were not con- tinuing to work the colliery upon pre-exist- ing terms. The owners' representatives contended, in reply, that operations had ceased at the col- liery in consequence of a formal one month's notice given by Messrs. North's Navigation Co. to terminate contracts, and that no dis- pute now existed at the colliery, as there were no workmen employed there, none having been engaged by the new owners. The workmen's representatives replied that both Messrs. North's Navigation Co. and Messrs. Cory Bros., being parties to the Conciliation Board agreement, it might be contended that a dispute exists with the new owners. The subject involved considerable discus- sion, and was eventually adjourned in order that there might be further consideration of it. To the Editor. Dear Sir,-Kindly insert the following contradiction in your next issue on behalf of Wyndham workmen. The "British Bands- man" for January 19th contains the follow- ing report in Ogmore Valley notes:- A quartette of the Nantymoel Town Band visited the adjoining valleys a day or two ago, and a number of the Temper- ance Band have gone away on the same errand, viz.:—collecting subscriptions for alleviating distress. The public are earnestly requested to with- hold any subscription they may be desirous of making until persons duly authorised are sent around, which will commence after Jan. 26th.-Yours faithfully, DAVID J. THOMAS, Sec., Wyndham Lodge, Jan. 22nd, 1907. S.W.M.F. -U-n-

POSSIBILITIES OF AN ADVANCE. The miners, having regard to the boom in the coal trade and the abolition last Novem- ber of the shilling coal tax, look forward to a substantial improvement in the wage-rate. In May last there was conceded an ad- vance of 21 per cent., and a further advance of 5 per cent. on September 1st; but in No- vember, when the men claimed another 2t per cent., Lord St. Aldwyn (the independent chairman of the Conciliation Board) decided against them. The next statutory meeting of the Concili- ation Board for the consideration of the wage question will be held on February 10th, and either side desiring a variation in the wage rate as and from March 1st must give notice of their claim on or before February 1st. Acting upon the instructions of the Executive Council of the Miners' Federation, the Wages Sub-committee of that body met Oil Friday at the Angel Hotel, Cardiff, to consider what claim, if any, should be put forward by the men's side. The committee was engaged for some hours in diligently perusing market reports, Cus- tom House figures, dock and railway traffic returns, and other data, and it was found that during the last three months there had been an enormous increase in the volume of trade, approximating half a million tons. The return as to average selling prices was also of a gratifying nature. As against this there may have been an increase in the cost of material and of production. The Executive Council of the South Wales Miners' Federation met on Saturday at Car- diff, but in view of the meeting, immediately following, of the Conciliation Board the pro- ceedings were brief. The Wages Sub-com7 mittee presented an interim report of their investigation into the state of the market with a view of making a demand for an ad- vance in the wage rate at the February meeting of the Conciliation Board. There was no time for discussing the report at any length, and decision was deferred until the next meeting of the executive, which will be held in ample time to give the necessary no- tice for an advance on February 1st. A statement that the Wages Sub-commit- tee made a definite recommendation as to the amount of the advance to be applied for in February, and that this amount is 22 1 per cent., has been contradicted by Mr. T. Rich- ards, M.P. It is probable that a higher demand than this will be made. The feeling in Ogmore Vale is that the strike at the Wyndham Colliery is likely to last for some time. The Ogmore Executive Committee have voted the strikers E150, and have decided to call for a levy of Is. per man per month on their behalf. The Wyndham Lodge is issuing an appeal to the general public for support.

Ankylostomiasis. At a meeting of the Lothian miners' dele- gates at Dalkeith on Saturday evening, Mr. Robert Brown, Dalkeith, secretary of the Scottish miners, said he regretted to report that ankylostomiasis, or worm disease, had been discovered to have affected two miners in Scotland. These workmen had been out in India in gold mines for some considerable time, and belonged to the Esk Valley district of Midlothian. One of the men had received a certificate that he had been cured of the malady by the Edinburgh, Royal Infirmary authorities, and the other man was being carefully looked after.

If Goddarcfs 1 jf Plate Powder For Cleaning Silver £ leetroPlate.&' I 5«id everywhere l/r2fe& 4-/0 "> B

A DESERVING LALESTON CASE. LEGAL DECISION PREVENTS AID. The statutory annual meeting of the Exe- cutive Committee of the Park Slip Explosion Relief Fund was held at the Dunraven Hotel Bridgend, on the 17th inst., Mr. D. P. Thomas, C.O. (Aberkenfig) presiding. There was a representative attendance. OFFICERS. Alderman John Thomas (Tondu) moved the re-appointment of Colonel J. P. Turbervill as chairman for the ensuing year, and this having been seconded by Mr. David Beynon (Maesteg) was agreed to. On the motion of Mr. J. P. Gibbon, J.P. (Maesteg), Rev. David Davies, Canton (for- merly of Bridgend) was re-elected vice-chair- man. Mr. J. Griffith Jones was re-appointed auditor. Messrs. David Ellis (Radyr), G. A. Evans (Mountain Ash), and Thos. Davies (Dowlais) wrote accepting membership on the com- mittee. PRESENT POSITION. From the annual report and statement of accounts, which were adopted, it appeared that at the end of the year 1906, 64 only re- mained on the fund, compared with 304 when the fund was established in 1892. The re- lief dispensed during last year amounted to £467 15s., while JE22 2s. was also paid for medical attendance upon dependent rela- tives. The sum of JE90 had been voted to the Miners' Permanent Fund, and cash at the bank totalled JE771 6s. Id. The assets of the fund amounted to £7,643 10s. Alderman Thomas moved that the income of the ascertained surplus of £3,000 for the present year, at the rate of C3 per cent., be paid to the Monmouthshire and South Wales Permanent Fund provided that they discharged their obligations to the depen- dents on the fund. Mr. D. Beynon (Cardiff): Have they dis- charged their obligations in the past? The Secretary (Mr. L. G. Jones): Yes. The motion was agreed to. A BLIND BOY. The clerk to the County Council forwarded a report with regard to the education of a blind boy named Webster, dependent on the fund, now at a' Swansea Institution. It was suggested that the boy should be kept in school for five years. The matter was referred to the local sub- committee. A LALESTON CASE. Dr. Twist, of Kenfig Hill, wrote appealing for relief for Thomas Rees, of Laleston, who was one of those rescued from the pit after the explosion. Rees, he stated, "suffered great shock at the time, and has not been the same man since, being under my care and suffering from nervous debility." The Secretary reminded the committee that counsel's opinion had been taken as to their right to grant relief in such cases, and from that opinion it appeared they were not empowered to make any grants. It was true this man had had one grant, but the opinion had been taken since. Alderman Thomas said the case had been brought to his notice, and he thought it was a really deserving one. It was true that the trust deed was against them in this mat- ter, according to counsel's opinion, but he asked them to strain all points in this case. The man had been laid up for five months, and he made a stroni: appeal on his behalf. Mr. Evan Owen (Cardiff) admitted that the committee had made » grajit :)f £10, but they did it in ignorance of the legal position. It transpired afterwards that, from a legal point of view, they had HO power to do se. The Secretary: There is 110 doubt we have done things more illegal than this. Alderman Thomas: And nothing has been said about them. Mr. D. Beynon (Cardiff) hoped the commit- tee would show compassion in this case, and he did not think they need fear the conse- qences. though strictly speaiiing, the law was against them. There were many laws which they could drive through—(laughter)—and and lie thought they could drive through this law. They would not be unwilling, he felt sure, to put their hands in their pockets and refund the money if called upon to do so. He moved that a grant of jSlO be made. Alderman John Thomas seconded. Mr. E. Owen I am sorry I cannot vote for the motion. The Secretary If Colonel Turbervill were here he would move it out of order. (Laugh- ter.) Mr. Owen I cannot see how the Chairman can legally put it to the meeting. The Chairman: I have no doubt the mover and seconder will sign the cheque. Mr. Beynon: I would do so willingly, but I want the committee to be unanimous about this matter. Alderman Thomas: If we have to pay up we will go to them for assistance. (Laugh- ter.) Mr. Owen yielded to no-one in his sym- pathy for the man, but he could not gratify his desire to render assistance from the re- lief fund in view of the legal aspect. Mr. Gibbon, while sympathising, said he could not vote for the motion. Colonel Tur- bervill had previously rnled such a motion out of order, and, if that decision were right, the present motion was not in order. Mr. Owen The law is strong. Mr. Beynon: Yes; but humanity is stronger. Eventually the motion was withdrawn, no grant being made.

Typhoid Causes Bad Trade. A meeting of creditors of John Henry Jones, draper and milliner, Crane-street, Pontypool, was held at Newport on Monday. His statement of affairs showed a deficiency of £ 311. He attributed his failure to the illness of his wife for five months, depression in trade through typhoid fever, and want of capital.

MARCHNADL5 NEWYDD PENT- BONT-AR-OG ATY. Meeur—" Llwyn On." Hawdianaor, hawddamor, i'n mirohaad-le netvydd* CafFaeltad i'r draf a'r ardaloai i yw hon Masnachaetb flodeua o fewn oi magwyrydd, Yn hir ba yn gwgu, mae beidyw yn ItOQ Fe ddaw yr amaethwr a'i izynyrch dan gana, Caiff werth ar ei nwyddttu yn llawer iawn haw% Trigolion y Cymoedd i hod wnaot ymdyru, At Mari i gael monyn, a Sionad am gaws. Bydd brasder gwlad Forara.) i'v gael YIIl" rwany A hyny heb arian a ge«cv> o'm rhan I; Otri dichon er hyny awpil foi a rhainy, Rhag ofn nad ydyw I"; > b oynion fal fi; Yn ol bydd y gofyn y bydii y eyflanwi- Ychwaneg na hyny chir itigon yn aUkr, Gall sawl sy'n eu hoffi pur-l cockles Cidweli, A bara lawr ddigoll o yreigiau y mor. Bu dwylaw celfydd vi fV! pe ar eu goraa, Yn gwneyd yr adeiliad yn daclus a cblyd, Y pyrth a'n croesa*<ant, i neaadd fawr olau, Rwy'n tybied na welir ei gwell yn y byd Y prynwr a'r gwen hwr meern cysur yn ceieio, Cytnno a'u gilydd moi ddedwyrid y A", Nid baner newYII:1 a ",thu-ym;omio — Mewn dyddan le diildos, le c)'¡,a,; a chu, F,I gorwych balasdy a'i nenfwd i fy ny, h, riw o rieial mor liuniaidd y lie. AV h>iùl yn tywynn gan dywallt goleuni- Nen dangot> yn eglur fed pobpeth o dde G weitbredoedd y tywyllwcb «nhygoel annhegwch, Y rhai gvnt arferid ddart'yddanfi y 'nawr, Ar bwyp.au a meeur naae g'*veh oruchwyliwr, Cyfhwllder weinydda i fach ac i fawr. Er bisteddfodau a gorwych gyngherddaa, M.io'ri bob path ddymiutii o n'ywir y gin, Lie 1 weld, lie i glywed, lie hefyd i wleddau, A llo ar rai prydiau bydd doniau ar din Drwy- Arglwydd Dindryfan y cafwyd y c>fan, 0 neuthur hyn garnido y lleddf drowd yn Hon, Y gwyoh "dir feddianydd," yr hynaws ei annn, Ei fawlgerdd a ganwo ar alaw 41 Llwyn On." Penykoiit. 1 n-iW. G. RICHARDS.

Y FEDERATION STONE. This was the trysbing place of the several contin- ents of the Ogmore Vale Federationist* dariag the great strike of 1898. The publio-houn closo by is called The Planke. Federation Stone yw *n testun, I fy stori rhoddweb goel, Trwy y Btrike, hon ydoedd bwlpud, Glowyr dewrion Nantymoel Nid oes arall fan mor enwog, 0 sir Fynwy i sir tfon, Am byawdlerld a ffraetbineb, Ag yw 'r Federation Stone. Ar y gareg hon agorodd, Dawn a tbalent Ilawer un, Ac fel blagar ymddadblygodd, Ami i lane ya gawr o ddyn Eraill godwyd i anrhydedd- Rhai i'r Henedd, mawr yw'r son, Fa yn bidlo dwfn byawdledd, Ar y Federation Stone. O'r pregethu a'r brygwthan, Wna'n barweinydd o bob gradd, Trwy yr baf nes oedd y eycNad Blin, a'r lludded bron s'u lladd Ninau 'r dorf a'. gyddfau 'n eychion— Dyma'r syndod, beth dal son, Sut bu'r llu heb tyncu 'r Planke, Gerllaw 'r Federation Stone Oddi yma gorymdeithem, Tua'r Cefn a Bryncbwith, Oil yn gawri cedyrn, nertbol, Heb un Uabwet yn eu plith Dod yn 01 a's boliaa *n weigion, Yn wabanol iawn ein ton, I r hyn oeddym ya y boreu, W r th y Fedetation Stone. Ar ben hon y fcorfynyglwyd, Mewn mawr rwyag y Sliding Scale, Druan, a chloddiwyd twll i'w chladda, A rhoed arni lawer tdl; Yn r-i hangladd nid oedd eisiau, Elnr ddu na galar don, Yn gofadael nawr cyfodwch, Ami 'r Federation Stone. Am y gareg yr ymglyma, Hen adgofion yn yebor, A Lhrwy 'r dyfiryn fe anghofia 'r Ogwy redeg tna 'r Ac ar frig y llwyn cyfagos, Fe anghofia 'r gog ei thon, Cyn anghofia neb o'r glowyr, Am y Federation Stone. GLANYGORS.

Brynmeain Colliery Price List. Further conferences were held tut week by Alderman John Thomas (iniuew agent), and Messrs. George Myers aill J. Lydden, representing the workmen of the Brynmeniri Colliery, with Mr. Jones (the manager) and Mr. Richards (of the firm Df Messrs. Hood and Richards, Cardiff), repre- senting the owners, with reference to the price list at this colliery. The whole of the differences were settled, with the exception of the cutting price. The owners at first suggested Is. 6fd., but eventually conceded an additional id., while the mea'e representatives stood out for Is. 8d.—a dif- ference of 7d. per ton. Alderman John Thomas this week, se- cured a settlement, the management bavin* acceded to his request that the men should be paid Is. 8d. per ton cutting price. The list is now in operation, the men having sig- nified their satisfaction with it.