The Glamorgan Gazette

MAESTTEG A; HISTHKH :J (lll GAZ r! I K, "Workman Idle.—u« Lo the breaking of a "cog" wheel of one of hauling engines at the bottom of the Coegnant Colliery on Monday afternoon, two hundred workmen have been rendered idle. At Bethany C.M. Church, Caerau, on Monday afternoon a very sncceseful tea, en- tertainment, and salo of work were held, in aid of the church funds. At the tea a good number of friends sat at the tables, which were nicely decorated and presided over by the members of the church. The sale of ( work in the afternoon was well patronised. The entertainment was held in the evening, when the church was very well filled. Solos and recitations and addresses ere given, and a very enjoyable evening was spent. Service of Song.—At the English Congre- gational Chapel in Castle-street on Sunday evening the cantata rom the Manger to the Cross," was performed by the chapel choir, under the conductorship of Mj-. D. W. Thomas, assisted by the following artistes: Soprano, Madame Bronwen Williams; con- tralto, Miss M. 0. Thomas, Neath-road; tenor, Mr. Maldwyn Evans; bass, Mr. John Phillips; and an ochestra conducted by Professor Gomer Jones. Mr. David Rees presided at the organ, and the Rev. J. Wil- liams, pastor of the church, presided over the service. The chanel was completely pAoked. Much credit is due to the able con- ductor for the creditable performance of the work. Rev. Glasnant Jones's Cail.-The following article appeared in the Tyst" for last week:—Rev. Glasnant Jones, of Slioh Chapel. Nantyffyllon, has accepted a call to Oross Keys and Wattsvjile Churches, M'on., where he intends commencing his ministry early in March. The church at Siloh, and the 'inhabitants of the town, feel very disap- pointed that he is leaving. The whole of the communicants and non-members attend- ing Sliob Chapel rose to their feet recently to 6liow their appreciation of his services, the confidence they had in him, and their love towards him as their respected minister. The six years during which the rev. gentle- man haa been at Siloh has been happy and successful. Since his advent he has given the right hand of fellowship to nearly 200 new members; he received 75 members the same evening; and a month later he received 4-5. the majority of which have since become baok-sliders. After all, there remains at Siloh a large congregation, and a flourishing Sunday School. A substantial amount of the debt has been wiped off, £400 being the total debt outstanding. Very recently a new vestry has been made underneath the chapel to accommodate 250 persons, the opening ceremony of which was performed on Christmas Sunday morning by Mrs. Glasnant Jones, the respected wife of the minister, who has always filled her position faithfully. The contractor handed her a silver key with which she opened the door and declared the vestry open for Divine service. The con- tractor and architect was Mr. T. S. Morris, Maesteg, who has creditably completed the work for the sum of £400. The Rev. Glas" nant Jones delivered a lecture at Siloh, the subject being "Watcyn Wyn," by which a clear profit of R57 9s. was made and devoted to the church funds." Cantata.—On Wednesday and Thursday evening in last week, the Juvenile Choir of Noddfa Chapel, Troedyrlnw-garth, under the conduc-torahip of Mr. vV. H. Williams, performed the cantata "Day in the Woods." The accompanist was Mr. Thomas Harris, and the chairman on both occasions was Mr. Peter Allen, M.E., of Elder's Navigation Col- lieries. The Derformance was quite a suc- oess. and the chapel was crowded on both evenings, the doors hiding to be closed long before the time to commence. A stage had been erected by the young men, and the ladies undertook the work of decoration, which was done with a very pleasing effect. Before the cantata was gone through, a mis- cellaneous programme w-s given, when the following took TJart in a most praiseworthy manner:—Misses Annie Jane Bastian, Cein- wren Davies, Mrs. Sarah Rees, and Mrs. Har- riet Thomas, and the Misses Williams, Mas- ters W. H. Hnxtable, and T. J. Huxtable. Messrs. John E. Jones, D. J. \V iiliams, W. H. Williams, Philip Richards, Wm. Harris, etc. Mr. Thos. Harries, the organist of the chapel, rendered a pianoforte solo in excel- lent style. The fc'loxi.-j took leading parts in the cantata: "Queen,' Miss Jenny Rees. Tymaen Farm Grandmother," Mrs. D. R. Mazey. Neuadd Denies F-rln; "Gipsy Girl," Miss Beatrice Davies, Maiden-street- The conductor had made a very happy selection in giving those named tiie leading parts, ar, they performed admirably. Duets, solos, and recitations were given by the following: Mrs. Joseph Bastiii., Mrs. M. Thomas, the Misses Williams, Miss Gladys Rees, Miss Elizabeth Re-es (Tymaen Farm) and Miss Cein- wen Davies, Miss Annie Harris, Miss Eliza- beth A. Davies and Miss Annie Davies, Miss Blodwen Owens, 'Miss Gwen Davies (Overt House). Miss Liiv Huxtable, Miss Margaret L. Rees, Miss -.label Matthews, Miss Gwen Davies. Miss Hnn; h Harris, Miss Elizabeth ren Richards. Miss Mary Ann Phillips, and Miss Lizzie Ann Davies, Mr. Morgan Evan Rees, Master TI rhomas, and Mr. Thos. J. Williams. vill rendered their parts in good style, and when it is considered that this is the first i:in'9 that- anything of the kind has been attempted at Noddfa, it re- flects the highest praise to Mr. Williams, who must have vorked hard to get up such a performance. Mr. Thos. Harris has been most assiduous in his duties as organist and the way he presided at the piano at each performance deserves great credit. At the close of each performance the Chairman moved a vote of thanks to the conductor, choir, and all who had worked towards pro- viding such an •cr+ t^ent. Tho pastor of the church (Rev. D. Morris) responded, and moved a vote of thanks to the chairman, which was ca,rr-Nl with acclamation. ORATORIO AT THE) TOWN HALL. A performance ot urowbridge's oratorio "Lrod with llli, was given at the Town-hail Oil VVedllesday evening last week by the ■Nantyffyllon ciiorai society, under the leadership 01 ÚH. Ù. J. Watkins. Dr. H. Sinclair presided. The principals v. ere — Soprano, Mauame M. iviorris Evans, Tonyre- tail; contralto, xvuss iViorrydd Williams, Car- diff; xenor, x\xr. John Roberts; bass, Mr. J- liurry Morse; while the incidental music was supplied by a capable orchestra conducted by Professor Gomer Jones. Mr. Watkins at once set the audience at ea^e with his mas- terly wielding 01 the b-iton. "Now when j sits" was suu- in good voice by Mr. Burry Morse, and tne cuoir gave a fine rendering of the chorus, And thou Bethlehem," the sopranos being particularly good. Mrs. M. Morris Evans gave a nice rendering of the recit "And tilers yx-it; 111 the same country," and the other principals united with her in the quartette And, lo, the angel." Mrs. Evans kept the lead with And suddenly there was with the angels," until the choir Iili, in with the declamatory chorus Glory It) (<od in the Highest." Then followed a j tit and air by Mr. Roberts, "Let us go to iethlehem." This vocalist has a very power- ltd voice, but has a tendency to be a little metallic. And they came with haste" was very nicely rendered hy Mrs. Evans, and was followed by the pretty quartette, And the shepherds ret^i^cJ." In the next solo, And, behold, the-e was a Man," Mr. Morse was heard to good advantage. He posses a voice of good quality and compass, and his enunciation is quite distinct. After th" choir had sung, "Lord, lettest Thou thy ser- nmi." Mrs. Evans gave a fine rendering of And there was one, Anna." The chorus. And the child grew strong" was followed hy And when He was thirty years old," by Mr. Morse, after which Mrs. Evans sang "And in His ministry." and "Come unto Me." Jesus said" was very effectively rendered by Mr. Morse, and the contralto, Miss Williams, did justice to Blessed are they," while the rendering of Salvation beiongeth unto the Lord." by the choir, brought the first part of the work to a close. In the second and third parts the principals and choir surpassed their early efforts, and were warmly appluded by the audience. The performance, taken all round, was exceedingly good, and reflected great credit on the conductor. The following composed the orchestra:—First violins, Mr. W. Whitaker (Swansea). Miss Winnie Phillips (Bridgend), Miss Ceinwen Kitisey (Op-more Vale); second violins, Mr. G. R. Oliver (Swansea), Miss Tilney (Abertil- lerv). Mr. George McPherson (Maesteg), Mr. R, Lewis (Swansea Valley), and Mr. J. Howells (Kenfig Hill); viola, Mr. W. E. Thomas, Aberdare; 'cello, Mons. M. Gond- man, Swa.nsea; double bass, Mr. Abel Jones, Ogmore Vale; flute, Mr. Josiah Thomas, Maesteg; clarionet, Mr. T. J. Coughlin, Car- diff oboe, Mr. J. Pardoe, Cardiff; trumpet, Air. E. Hardiman, Mountain Ash; tymbal, Mr. J. Hushes, Cardiff; grand organ, Mr. 07. J. Kictiards. The chairman of the com- mittee was Rev. T. Esgar James; hon. secre- tary, Mr. G. E. Thomas; assistant secretary, Mr. W. D. Morris; treasurer, Mr. W. J. Griffiths.

MiESTfcG GROUP OF SCHOOLS. The monthly meeting of the Maesteg 1 Group of School Managers was held at the Plasnewydd Board-room on Friday after- noon, Councillor John Howells (chairman) presiding, and there were also pres-ejit Messrs. J. Roderick, T. Rees, High-street; T. Morgan. E. Williams, the clerk (Mr. R. Scale) and the architect (Mr. Nash). ABSENT THROUGH FATHER'S DEATH. A letter was read from Miss M. Hopkins, of the Nantyffyllon School, stating that £ 1 8s. 3d. had been deducted from her salary for the last month, her usual payment being L6 Is. 4d., and she only received E4 13s. Id. Her absence from school was caused by the death of her father, and inasmuch as no sub- stitute was paid in her stead, she thought, under these circumstances, she was entitled to the full amount. Mr. John Roderick, who is one of the managers of the school, said he thought it was ha.rd lines to deprive Miss Hopkins of a portion of her salary, seeing that her ab- sence was quite unavoidable. She received telegram on a Monday morning informing her of her father's death, and it was quite natural for her to go home. He moved that the managers recommend the Education Committ,et- to pay the portion deducted. The Chairman said the managers should be careful in the consideration of this case, as whatever they did would form a precedent. Mr. T. Rees agreed with the motion under the present circumstances, but thought the managers should have regard to the chair- ma.n'a remarks as to forming a precedent. Mr. E. Williams: We could arrange a limit. The Chairman If we recommend payment in this case, the next teacher will expect similar treatment, and perhaps it would be an uncle or an aunt or a cousin, and we rlo not know where we should be landed. Mr. E. Williams thought they could ar- range for payment in cases of absence through the deaths of the nearest relatives, such as father, mother, sisters, and brothers. Mr. T. Rees seconded the motion, and it was agreed. SUPPLEMENTARY TEACHERS. A letter was read from Miss Gwladys Evans, daughter of Mr. David Evans, Llynfi Lodge, asking to be put on the staff as a supplementary teacher. On the motion of Mr. Morgan, it was agreed to allow the application to stand over for a month, in order to consult the inspec- tor in the matter. RESIGNATIONS. Mr. G. B. Davies, science master at the Maesteg Higher Standards School, wrote tendering his resignation. The Clerk stated that Dr. James was ad- vertising for a successor. Miss Dora Roberts wrote resigning her position as pupil teacher at the Plasnewydd Infants' School on account of ill-health. She stated that if her health improved sufficiently she would again apply to the managers for a position in one of the schools. The resignation was accepted. TRANSFER. Dr. James wrote that Miss E. A. Job had been transferred from the Plasnewydd In- fants' School to the Nantyffyllon School. TEMPORARY SCHOOL. In reply to the Chairman, Mr. Nash said the temporary building at Nantyffyllon was practically ready. He thought it would be completed in about a week. On the suggestion of Mr. Roderick, it was agreed to recommend that Mr. Grice take possession of the new building and use it ae he thought best for the extension of his school accommodation. A HARD CASE. The Rev. H. W. Cotton, minister of the English Wesleyan Chapel, wrote on behalf of Mrs. Herbert, a member of his church, ask- ing the managers to exempt her son from at- tendance at school. It was really necessary that the boy should work to provide for the family. The father had gone away, and this was the only boy the mother had to de- pend upon. There was a large family. This was a very exceptional case. The Chairman said unfortunately the man- agers had had many similar cases. He sym- pathised with the parent. It was a hard- ship in many cases that parents were com- pelled to keep their children at school. Mr. E. Williams expressed an opinion that the managers had no power to deal with the matter. The Chairman thought the managers had power to deal with extreme cases. They ought to know the circumstances of people in the district better than any other body out- side the district, and he thought such discre- tion should be allowed the managers. He proposed that an application be made to the Education Committee to grant the managers reasonable discretion to exempt children from attending school where there was actual need. Mr. T. Rees seconded, and it was carried. RETURN TO SCHOOL. A letter was read from Mr. David Williams of St. Michael's-road, asking the managers to allow his son. Corner Williams, to be put on the teaching staff. He had served his time at the schools, had passed an examine tion, and was allocated by the managers to commence teaching at the Maesteg Merthyr School, but by some misunderstanding the boy did not. commence. He now appealed to the managers for their indulgence to place the lad in the same position as those who passed at the same time as he did. In reply to a question by the Chairman, it was explained that the boy had since been apprenticed to the drapery and had got tired of it. It was eventually agreed to recommend that he be put on the staff. TRADESMEN THREATENED. It was resolved that the managers disap- prove of the action of some of the trades- people ill Commercial-street in employing children of school age. and during school hours, to distribute bills advertising their goods, and in future to take strong measures against offenders. LAND PURCHASE. It was resolved that the clerk write Dr. James recommending the purchase of a plot of land on the north side of the existing schools at Garth for school purposes. FAIR DAY. It was unanimously agreed to give the school children throughout the district a holiday on the first Monday in February on the occasion of the. local fair.

DEATH OF CORPORAL H. HUGGINS. Corporal Henry Huggins, of St. Bride's Major, formerly of the Royal West Kent Re- giment, who went through the Crimean War and Indian Mutiny, died at the residence of his daughter on Friday morning, at the ad- vanced age of 86. Deceased was well known in Pontypridd, where he resided for many years. He was an ardent Liberal and a life member of the Pontypridd Liberal Club and Gelliwastad Institute. The remains were interred at Glyntaff Cemetery, Pontypridd, on Monday after- noon. As a tribute to the veteran's memory Major J. S. Davies, the commanding officer of the Pontypridd Detachment of the 3rd V.B. Welsh, invited the corps to attend the obsequies, so that the funeral might take place with military honours. There was a large number of Volunteers and ex-Army men, and the coffin was surrounded with the Union Jack and with florai tributes. The band, under Bandmaster Norton, played the Dead March," and at the graveside a firing party fired a salute. "The Rev. G. Parry Williams (St. David's Methodist) officiated, and among others present were Major J. S. Davies. Sergeant-Major Knowles, Sergeant Lewis (R.A.). Drill-Instructor Sergeant Row- ley, Sergeant Jones (Devoirs), Recruiting Officer S. M. Hasserd, Messrs. Maybery Wil- liams., Morgan Charles, and J. Harries.

MAEsTfcu lilSiRiCT COUNCIL. ❖ THE TOWN HALL: bUGGESTED EXTENSIONS. I SCHEME TO COST £ 2,000. I The fortnightly meeting of the Maesteg; Urban District Council was held at the I Town-hall on Tuesday, when there were pre- sent: Messrs. J. P. Gibbon, J.P. (in the ] chair), T. Rees (Garnlwyd), T. Lewis, J. Thomas, W. Bevan, J. Howells, J. Bevan, T. j E. Hopkins, T. Griffiths, J. Roderick, T. Rees (High-street), with the clerk (Mr. R. Scale) and the surveyor (Mr. J. Humphreys). SALVATION ARMY. Mr. N. Phillips, an officer of the Salvation Army, wrote asking the Council to favour the local corps by granting the use of the Town- hall for one night at a reduced rate. He pointed out that the memoers were all work- ing people, and could not afford a heavy ex- penditure. The Chairman: What is the usual price charged in such cases? The Clerk A guinea they paid before, gas being extra. It was resolved to charge £1 Is. BIOSCOPE ON SUNDAY. Wadbrook's Cinematograph Co. wrote ask- ing for the use of the hall on Sunday for sac- cred entertainments. The exhibits would relate to the Birth of Christ and other Scrip- tural events, and admission would be by sil- ver collection. Mr. T. Itees (Garnlwyd): Do they state the time of such entertainments? Mr. T. E. Hopkins If the people went to some of our chapels they wouhl hear enough about the Birth of Christ without pictures. The Chairman: It all depends on the theology. Mr. T. Rees (Garnlwyd): Yes, the new or the old. The Chairman: What is customary with such applications? The Clerk: This is quite a new question. Mr. T. Griffiths proposed, and Mr. T. E. Hopkins seconded, that the application be refused. This was carried. NEW WATER SCHEME. A letter was read from the Local Govern- ment Board inquiring what steps had been taken by the Council in regard to a new water reservoir. The Clerk: I have replied stating that nothing has yet been done. No action was taken. HOUSING. A letter was read convening a South Wales Housing Reform Conference, at which it was intended to consider the better planning of houses. The Council weie asked to allow their surveyor to attend. On the motion of Mr. T. Lewis, it was agreed that the surveyor attend and report to the Council. IMPROVEMENT. Mr. Ree-s Rees, of 57 Tonna-road. wrote agreeing to hand over a piece of land to the Council for a road improvement, without compensation. The Chairman explained that in the first instance Mr. Rees required a sum of jElO for the piece of land, and the Council would have to spend in addition £ 17 or JE20 in doing the necessary work. M'r. Rees had re-con- sidered the matter and changed his mind. Mr. T. Rees (Garnlwyd) moved, and it was resolved, to defer the matter for a month. TWOP'ENCE A DAY. A letter was received from the licensee of the Rock Hotel, where one of the Council's horses is stabled during the dinner hour for five days a week, claiming for 12 months' stabl ing, at 2d. a day. He was not prepared to stable the horse in the future at that rate of payment. It was resolved to pay the bill. FEEDING THE "JAWS." The Labour Committee had met at the Ty- gwyn Quarry on the 21st inst with regard to an application received from the workman feeding the jaws at the stone-crusher, who complained that the work was too heavy for one man. The committee decided to invite tenders for the work. Only two tenders were received: No. 1, 5d. per cubic yard; No. 2, 5^d. The Chairman What has been the aver- age paid for this work during the last two months ? Tho Surveyor 31d. per cubic yard. The Chairman: Are we prepared to pay 30 or 40 per cent, more for this work than we have been paying? It appears very unrea- sonable, and I do not think we shall be justi- fied in making the expenditure. Mr'. Howells thought that, as the work was too heavy for one man, the men engaged at the crusher should do the work in turns-, and he proposed that they be paid 4s. 6d. per day each. Mr. J. Thomas seconded. Mr. Thomas Rees (High-street) said the men were paid the same wages when only crushing 10 loads a day; now they are crush- ing 30 loads. The Chairman Then evidently they were not giving the Council a fair day's work for a fair day's pay: they must have been idle half their time. Mr. T. Lewis proposed as an amendment that the two men get 4s. 7ia. per day each. 2 Mr. T. E. Hopkins seconded the amend- ment, which was carried. "ROADSIDE WASTE." The Surveyor stated that he had informed the G.W.R. Co.'s estate agent (Mr. Jones) that the Council had been tipping house re- fuse on the Land adjoining the river near the Nantyffyllon Station for the past 20 years, and that the land was considered by the Council to be roadside waste. He had re- ceived no reply. SURVEYOR'S REPORT. The Surveyor reported that the footpaths at Garth were being repaired where re- qured. The contractor had commenced the construction of the storm-water drain in Tonna-road. The roadway from the Ceme- tery to the boundary in the Cwmdu-road was now under repair. The roadway in High- street from the Surgery Bridge to the Iron Bridge, which was in a very bad state, was being repaired. The steam-roller had been stopped owing to the frosty weather, and the spreading of metalling upon the roads had also been stopped. The construction of the supplementary sewerage works was proceed- ing satisfactorily. NEW DRILL HALL. I Plans were submitted for a Drill-hall in Llynfi-road for the 2nd V.B. Welsh Regi- ment. The Surveyor said there was no paving shown in front. It was agreed to pass the plans, subject to the surveyor's requirements being complied with. Plans were also passed for two houses in Glammanan-terrace for Mr. G. Howells. NORTH'S COMPANY. The Chairman, referring to the metalling of certain roads, said the slag was given by Messrs. North's Navigation Company. He (the Chairman) asked for some stones at the last meeting of the Council, and it appeared in the Press. He wanted the ratepayers to know that the company also gave to the Council as well as received from them. A COMPLAINT. Mr. S. A. Munston wrote complaining of water coming to the rear of his premises from the old quarry, "in the occupation of the Council." The Surveyor reported thar, the quarry was not now in the occupation of the Council, and the matter entirely rested with Messrs. Rickards and Blosse. Mr. Rees (Garnlwyd) moved that the sur- veyor investigate the matter.—Agreed. THE GAS SUPPLY. The Surveyor reported that tests had been made for the presence of sulphurated hydro- gen in the gas supplied in the Council's "workshops" and the public street lamps in Duffryn-road. Only very slight traces were found. NOTIFICATIONS. It was reported that the following notifi- cations had been received during the fort- ht I night:—Typhoid feve,r at Railway-terrace; diphtheria at High-street. The Surveyor stated that there were two patients in the Isolation Hospital. TOWN HALL ENLARGEMENT. Mr. J\ Howells, pursuant to notice, raised the question of enlarging the Town-hall and Market-place. He said the inadequacy oi the accommodation was a general complaint, and he thought there should be more accom- modation in ihu i'ovvii-iiiiii and Market- place. Maesteg was becoming an important centre, and there was a great increase in the population of the town. In 1891 the popula- tion was only 9,417; in lÐUl it was 15,015 and to-day, according to the police census, it I was 25,000. He anticipated—and those an- I ticipations were well based—that it would soon be 30,000. By that time it would be the largest town in the whoie of the district; it would be larger than Bridgend, Port Tal- bot, and Neath put together. The accom- modation of the hall had been greatly re- duced since it had been leased to Messrs. Poole, owing to the stage having been brought out over about one-third of the floor area. He was a great promoter of eistedd- fod ard any other meetings tending to ele- vate the people, but in Maesteg they had no accommodation for any laige gatherings such as festivals, etc. The present position of the platform was not adapted for local con- certs, and the performances of oratorios. In connection with the la.st oratorio perform- ance the promoters had to pay JE;5 for making a suitable platform, and this, with the other heavy expenditure, would not allow a profit to be realised, which generally was, after all, the primary object of a concert. The en- largement of the Town-hall would provide better accommodation in the Market-place. The present Council-room could be included in the additional Marketplace and other provision made. None of the members would regret the day wnen that was done, for the present chamber was more fit for a butcher's stall than it was for a Council- room. (Laughter.) No member had a right to expect to live over the age of 60 in such an old cellar. (Renewed laughter.) The hall was leased for seven years, and only half of that time had expired, but the suggested al- terations could be carried out without put- ting Messrs. Poole to any inconvenience, and the market tenant would not suffer by the extension. The Town-hall should be extended so as to accommodate from 1,500 to 1,600; there should be a removable gallery for an oratoria performance; and a Council-room should be placed on the same floor, having an entrance to Talbot-street. The present debt on the Town-hall was JE410, which could be wiped off in two years at the present rate of payment. He estimated the cost of the the undertaking at £2}000, which would not interfere with the rates of the town, for the revenue from the Town-hall itself would be sufficient to cover the expenditure, especially if they arranged for repayment in 30 years, which could very easily be done. They would then be able to congratulate them- selves upon having premises well equipped as to meet with cheir requirements. The details, he suggested, could be dealt with in committee. The Chairman Does the 25,000 population you refer to include Cwmfelin? Mr. Howells: Yes. Mr. T. E. Hopkins seconded Mr. Howells's motion., except that lie did not think it was necessary to enlarge the Town-hall. The Chairman Did I understand you to second the motion ? Mr. Hopkins: Yes. partially. The Chairman: But you are speaking against it. Mr. tlopkins: Against the iown-hall alter- ation. The Chairman: That is included in Mr. Howells's motion so you are out of order. Mr. Hopkins Well, I can The Chairman You can't say anything until the motion is seconded. Mr. T. Rees (Garnlwyd) seconded. He considered it essential that the Town-hall should be enlarged, especially as a fourth of the auditorium had been added to the plat- form which had been erected by Messrs. Poole. The space in the hall was very limited, and he did not think it was too large before the alteration. Maesteg had grown since then. M'r. T. E. Hopkins: Am I in order now. Mr. Chairman? I resemble Mr. McGaul, of Bridgend, who declares he is never in order. (Laughter.) The Chairman Go on, now. Mr. Hopkins said he was. m favour of en- larging the Market-place, but he considered that the Town-hall was large enough. He was glad that Mr. Howells and Mr. Rees were anxious to better the condition of Maesteg—they were a trio of Maesteg boys. It was essential to have a good Market-place in an important centre such as Maesteg so as to provide for the suburbs, and he moved, as an amendment, that nothing be done to the Town-hall, but that a new Market-place be provided. Mr. J. Thomas seconded. Mr. W. Bevan: What is more needed is a hospital for the workmen in cases of acci- denta. The Chairman: That is not the duty of the Council; it is for the people to arrange. Mr. T. Griffiths: There are more pressing matters at Caerau, such as better light. Tradesmen have to light candles sometimes. The Chairman They have their remedy. and a stronger one than Wto can afford. They pay for the gas, and they can cut it off. Mr. J. Roderick, in supporting the mo- tion, said some of the members were under a misapprehension as to the cost being put on the rates. The people would attend to the hospital matter, the Gas Company would at- tend to the gas, and the revenue from the Town-hall would cover the expenditure. Messrs. T. Lewis, J. Bevan and T. Rees (High-street) supported the motion, and Mr. Howells having replied to the discussion, a vote was taken as follows:—-For the amend- ment: Messrs. T. E. Hopkins, J. Thomas, and T. Griffiths—3; against—Messrs. J. Howells, T. Rees (Garnlwyd), T. Rees (High- street). J. Roderick, J. Bevan, T. Lewis, and W. Bevan—7. The motion was then put and carried. Mi4. T. E. Honkins gave notice of motion that the Council build a new Market-place, and that a public meeting be called to con- sider the matter.

LLANTRISANT. LLANTRISANT POLICE COURT.—Friday. Farmer's False Declarations.—R. E. Mor- gan, Cefn Park Farm, Llantrisant, was sum- moned for making a. false declaration as to the quantity of milk he consigned on the Taff Vale Railway on the 16th, 17th and 18th August last. Defendant did not appear. Mr. Owen Beaslev, barrister (instructed by Messrs. Ingledew and Sons, Cardiff) prose- Guted, and stated that on the three occasions defendant consigned two cans of milk from the Cross Inn Station to Mr. H. E. Jones, Pontypridd, and m the consignment note deolared that the quantity the cans con- tained was 24 gallons, whereas the actual amount sent was 30 gallons. The carriage paid was Is. 3d. each day, but defendant ought to have paid the company Is. 7d. Formal evidence having been given by vari- ous witnesses the magistrates imposed an in- clusive fine of JE2. A similar summons was preferred against John Williams, New Park Farm. Llantri- sant. Fined k2, including costs. A Flat Contradiction.—Lawrence Evans, Crosscadte, Llantrisant, a well-connected young man, was summoned for being drunk and disorderly on the 29th December. Mr. A. T. James (Messrs. W. Morgan, Bruce and Nicholas, Pontypridd) defended. Evidence was given by P.C. Edwards that defendant was drunk and using obscene language. He was in company with other men who were not intoxicated, but disorderly. Sergeant Hole also said Evans was in a drunken con- dition. Defendant and five other witnesses who accompanied him that night gave a flat contradiction to the story of the prosecu- tion, maintaining that Evans was sober. A. fine of 10s. was imposed.—William Henry Cooksley, contractor, Miskin, and L. Wall, hairdresser, Llantrisant, were fined 20s. and 10s. respectively for being drunk and dis- orderly. Watched from the Graveyard.—George Pugh. landlord of the Farmers' Arms, Llant- wit. Yard re, was summoned for selling drink during prohibited hours. Superintendent Cole prosecuted, and Mr. St. John Francis Williams (instructed by Mr. J. Harrison) de- fended. P.C. Jones said he saw a woman being served with a glass of whiskey. a.nd a quantity in a bottle to be consumooi off the premises. He watched the proceedings from from the graveyard of the church. The de- fence was that the woman was never inside the house, and that she had obtained the wbiskev found upon her from her son-in-law. Fined JE2.

If you have any difficulty in securing the Gaaette," write to the Head Offio*. B. KALTENBACH & CO., "WATCHMAKERS & JEWELLERS, 108, Commercial Street, MAESTEG (CLOSE TO THE VICTORIA HOTEL). WE have the largest stock in the district, of Watches, Clocks, Jewellery, Electro Plated W and Silver Goods, Wedding Rings, Keepers, and Engagement Rings. SPECIALITIES. 3 DAY STRIKING SPRING CLOCK, 15s. 6d. 8 DAY STRIKING WEIGHT REGULATER, 35s. ALARM CLOCKS, from 2s 6d. WORKING WATCHES, 2s. 6d., 3s. 6d., 5s., 6s. 6d., and 10s. 6d. We take special pains with Repairs of Watches, Clocks and Jewellery. We have a practical staff of workmen, and we use the best material only. Our charges are moderate, and we guarantee our work for Twelve Months (No Second Charge). We fetch Clocks for Repairs and rake them home again (No Extra Charge). We take great pains in testing the eyesight; we have a complete stock of Lenses to suit a child from 5 years old to a person 80 years of age; we make no charge for testing the sight. We have a large stock of Spectacle Frames in Steel, Rolled Gold, and Solid Gold. Kindly giv usa trial. Eftat i'shf d 1880 P.O.'Telephone—12 Maesteg.

BETTWS 1st XV. v. 2nd XV. A match took place last Saturday between the 1st XV. and the 2nd XV., and resulted in a win for the Ists. I lie game gave the committee the opportunity of finding a good back division, where the team has been weak since the formation of the club. As good men have now been found, the committee ought to give them a fair trial, and if so the team should in future be a success. Some players should not be favoured to the exclu- sion of better men. There are good players with the 2nds, especially John R. Williams (wing). McCormick deserves a regular place at back; he tackles finely, and kicks well into touch, and is cool. Ben Thomas also deserves a regular place in the team as centre; he is a deadly tackier, runs and kicks well, and is the right man in the right place. Hitchings is another good centre, and he and Thomas would make a fine pair. Spearman plays a good gdme on the wing, and is a good tackler and strong runner. A. Llewellyn, the wing, is a good man, very cool, and does a lot of useful work. Thomas and Watkins always play a good game together-real good scruni workers. The forwards deserve great praise as the finest pack in the locality. Below is Old Player's pick of a Bettws team that would do justice for Bettws against any team: —Back, McCormick; threequarters, A. Llewellyn, Hitchings, Thomas, and Spearman; half-backs, Thomas and Watkins; forwards, W. Richards, J. Williams, T. Williams, W. Williams, A. Burgess, H. Williams, Frappell, and Ed- munds. OLD PLAYER,

BRIDGEND SCHOOLS' FOOTBALL LEAGUE. Owing to the inter-town match with Neath next Saturday, February 2nd, all school matches will be postponed. Neath are the holders of the Dewar Shield which they took from Newport last season. As the Bridgend League defeated Maesteg on January 19th, there is every confidence of another victory against Neath. The match is to be played at Ogmore Vale, on the Crossing Field, and a keen game is anticipatea. Kick off at 3.15 p.m. The following will represent Bridgend:- Back, E. Oliver (Ogmore;; threequarters, Howells and Kynan (Ogmore) and Sutcliffe (Bridgend) and O. Down (Cefn); half-backs. Brothers Jones (Ogmore); forwards. Smith (Cefn), Bunstone and Fitzgerald (Bridgend), Whiting (Ogmore), Hopkins (Tondu), D. J. Brown (Cefn), Elward (Ogmore) and Nicholas (Bridgend). Reserves Back, Deere (Bridg- end) threequarters, Ivor Down, Pugsley; half-backs, Emlyn Thomas and Caswill; for- wards, Martin. Rees, and Deeble.

Air Rifle Shooting. Reports of matches should reach the Head J Office of this paper as early in the week as possible. WHITE LION, BRIDGEND, v. STAR HOTEL, ABERKENFIG. At the range of the first-mentioned club. White Lion, Bridgend: W. Lewis, 30; W. Thomas, 31; R. James, 31; W. Parkins, 29; O. Lewis, 32; C. Pelfrey, 32; P. Morris, 27; R. L. Davies, 29; T. Lewis, 30; E. Barring- ton, 24; J. Morgan, 28; J. Evans, 28. Total, 351. Star Hotel, Aberkenfig: J. Matthews. 26: J. Higgins, 28; W. Bowen, 26; J. Howells, 23- S. Villis, 28; P. Morris. 28; A. Baber. 30; S. O'Leary, 23: E. J. Cooke, 26; W. Probert, 25; T. Jones, 27; D. Lord, 23. Total, 313. I WHITE LION. BRIDGEND, v. CENTRAL, ABERKENFIG. At the range of the first-mentioned club. White Lion, Bridgend: W. Lewis, 29; W. Thomas, 31; R. James, 28; W. Parkins,'33 J. Morgan, 29: P. Morris, 27; R. L. Davies, 29: E. Barrington. 24- O. Lewis, 28; C. Pelfrey, 33; T. Lewis, 32; J. Evans, 30. Total, 353. Central, Aberkenfig: B. Stanford, 27; S. O'Leary, 27; A. Sanders, 29; W. Daniel, 24; J. O'Leary, 25; A. Keepins, 29: S. Pitt, 26; W. Smithy 29; F. Harrison, 27: J. H. Keenc, 28; A. J. Bailey, 29; W. M. Edwards, 20. Total, 320.

A Llantrisant Doctor. In the King's Bench on Monday, Mr. Jus- tice Buckley resumed the hearing of the ac- tion Gubb v. Salmon, which was brought by Mr. Seymour Jackson Gubb, of Hill-lane, Southampton, to recover from Mr. Albert Salmon, of Tyr-y-Cae, Llantrisant. a sum of JE250, which had been advanced to the defen- dant, without interest, by his brother. Wm. Salmon, with the object of enabling the de- fendant to qualify himself for the medical profession. In October, 1906, however, William Salmon assigned the debt to plain- tiff, who commenced an action to recover the money. The case was partially heard on the 12th inst., when evidence was given as to the circumstances regarding the advance of the money, and the assignment. On its being called on a consultation took place be- t-ween the counsel on each side-Mr. Neilson for plaintiff and Mr. Merlin for defendant- with the result that a settlement was agreed upon. Mr. Neilson stated that the terms of the settlement were that judgment by consent was to be entered for plaintiff, with- out costs, on the terms that the defendant should pay off the debt by instalments. His Lordship said he thought the settlement was a very proper and reasonable one.

Eh PARCH US GOF Am y diweddar THOMAS HOWELL, o Forbes Place, Maesteg, yr hwn a fu fu farw Rhagfyr 22ain, yn chwech a pht'dwar ug-iii oed. Claddwyd ei weddillion yn mynwent Eglwysyr Hen Gastell, Penybont-ar-ogwy. ul Diangodd Thotnae Howell, 0 wlad y cystudd mawr, A eralar sydd o'i golii. Yn ein calonau 'n awe Er ini chwiiio'r Dwyhrau, Dramwyodd ar ei hync, Ni chawn ei weled eto, Fel yn y dyddiau gynt. Fe dreuliodd hir flynyddau, Yn ardal hoff Maesteg, Gwiw arlun o ddyngnrwr, Hebynd^o ddiui annheg Un wyddai ei ddyledswydd, A bono wntti bob pryd, Yn siriol a dirwgtiacb, A ffvddlawn iawn o hyd. Yr oedd yn ddyn caredig, Hawddgarol yn ei ddydd, Yn sobr, du wiolfryrlig, Yn un o deulu 'r fFvdd Un garai wneud dai 'oni,l I bawb yn ddiwahan, Ar lawar yn rhagori, Mewn buchedd ddidwyll lan. Yn wir y mae hyfrydwch, I Yn banes dynion da, A llawnder o ddedwyddwch, Hab gofio'r byd a'i bla Ni welwyd un mAy prydfertb, Ei rhodiad drwy ei oes, Yo gadarn megie demen, Yn ngwyneb gwyntoedd croea. Fel tad nid oedd anwylacb, I I'w blant mown tret a gwlad, Na phriod oedd siriolach, I'w gydmar lanwedd fad Un morch yn uiiig heddyw, O't teulu sydd yn fyw Boed iddi fywyd hirfaeth, 0 dan arweinia(i Daw. Hawdd gallwn ei gofrhreatu, Yn mhiith eciwo^io i fu, Haeliotus a cbaredig, I'w brodyr tlodiou lu Fe gofir ei rhinweddau, Yn hir drwy 'r ardal bon, Ni chafodd drwg- deimladau, Jldim lie o ftwfJ ei fron. Chwe' mlwydd a phedwar hugain, Y cafodd ef i fyw, Yn hynod o gysurue. Dan nodded rasol Dduw Ond huno y evir beddyw, Ei farwol rhan mewn bedd, Ond dychwtil wnaei h ei yspryd, I'w gartrd, gwlad yr hedd. Fe godir ei weddillion. Yr ad^yfodi.-id mawr, Yn anilygredig ddigon, I'r Ian o lwch y llawr Heb arno un brycheuyn, I Ond fel yr eiria 'n wyn- Yn debyg iawn i'w Geidwad, Y gwelir ef pryd hyn. Maesteg. CYNWTDFABDD. «

MYN PLENT YN FOD YN BLENTYN Oa gweli blentyn lion, Sy'n alltud i bob cyetudd, Dedwyddwch lord ei fron- Yn fywiol ac aflonydd, Bydd dirion o'r un bach, A pharod i'w amddiffyn, Os medda galnn iach — £ Myn plentjn fod yn blentyn. Mae ambell un diblant, Yn sarig a gwenwjullvd, 08 nad mor sobr a eant, Fydd plentyn llawn o iechyd, Mae'n rhaid i blant wrth stwr- Stwr plant sy 'n adsain belyn- Ni roddir pen hen wr, Byth ar yegwyddau plentyn. Os wyb heb blant dy hun, Bydd dyner o'r eginyn, Mae ef yn dod yn ddyn— A titbau 'n mynd yn blentyn A phan y byddi 'ti hen, In dlawd, ac yn fethedig- Y plentyn ar ei wen, A'th dal yn ol yn ddyblig. Mountain Ash. CYNFFIG. ■ +

A choice of Cocoa Either the most nutritious and strength-giving MPM Gratofui—Comforting. AP9R s m A delicious drink and a sustaining food. to suit your taste. Or, a lighter and thinner drink, refreshing and stimulating. Malik Amb, AMAB&D= %Z E Q MNCE Welcome at any hoar of the day. GREAT CL0TII1 SALE. SALE. The Sale OF THE Season STOKES & CO., CLOTHIERS AND OUTFITTERS, Great Annual Stocktaking SALE WILL COMMENCE SATURDAY NEXT, JAN. 19th, FOR 21 DAYS ONLY I Everything Greatly Reduced in Price during the SALE 75 Men's Overcoats, Raincoats, &c., ?2/6> 15/6, 18/11, &c. 50 per cent. under price. 60 Youth's Overcoats, from 6s. lid. 100 Boy's Overcoats, from 2s. lid. About half-price. pr Very Special Line of Men's Suits, made to measure, for 19s. lid. Hundreds of Men's Suits from 12/6 Hundreds of Youth's Suits from 6/11 Hundreds of Boy's Suits from 1/11 Hundreds of Men's Trousers from 2/11 ODD GARMENTS. Immense Stock of Boys' Jackets, Vests, Knickers, &c.; Men's Moles, Cords, Serges, Dungarees, &c., offered at very great sacrifice in price. See Windows and Doors for Tremendous Bargains in Hats & Caps, Ties, Shirts, Underclothing, &c. Everybody on the look out for Stokes & Co.'s Annual SALE HURRY UP FOR THE BARGAINS. Established 40 Years. Known all over Wales as the best and most reliable Shop. STOKES & CO., Monmouth House, BRIDGEND.