The Glamorgan Gazette

Did you td your wife yon wmir 'n't home till ta.tc? B>binson (carelessly): CVr- 11)" "You did?' "Yes, I should think "Alxl what di ishe say?" "Well, as n as I had told her,l rang off the telephone." Yes," said Storm%ton Barnes, "I'm going 1 retire to private ifc." You'll be missed 'u you leave the «*ige," "rejoined his friend. 'tats just tbo rea»\ I'm going to retire," lined Mr. Barnco; I'm tired of being liit." think the baby has your hair, ma'am," s'the muse girl, lookng pleasantly at her mie- ti Gracious! Oclaimed the lady, glanc- irlp from her novel. "Run into the nursery a.ak(\ it away from lim. What will that child dc,xt? I, ly (to applicant): Yes, I advertised for a ul,of-all-work. Are Jdu an early riser?" Ap- pht: "Indade, an' Di am, ma'am. At me l^Laoe Oi was up an had breakfast ready an' all beds made afore mybody else in th' house wap, ma'am."

Mission!.—The Rev. Carey Evans, M.A., of Carmarthen, comauofced a two days' mission at Hermon Chapei, t'aerau, on Thursday and Friday, last week, under the auspices of the Free Church Council. Christmas Gift.-l'he chairman and mem- bers of the Caerau Constitutional Club, actuated by the lestive season, generouoiy gave oranges and apples to all the children of the surrounding neighbourhood on Christmas Day. The obikiren were delighted, and thankful to the kind donors. Caerau.—On Monody aiternoon a tea and sale of work were held in connection with St. Cynfelyn's Cnuron, uacral-1, at the Blaen- Tlynfi Schools. At the sa1.e of work there were side-shows and various amusements. A Large number attended and a pleasant evening was spent. Wedding.—A very interesting wedding took plaoe on December 24th, the contracting parties being Mr. Alfred W. Slade and Miss Rosaniia Oorp, both of Caerau. The marri- age oeremony was periorntod at Bridgend. The bride was given away by Mr. John Stephens, while Mr. John L. James acted as best man. Canaan.—The quarterly meeting of Canaan j Sunday School was held on Sunday afternoon, the superintendent, Mr. Edward Petty, pre- siding. Vocal solos were rendered by Miss Lizzie Jones, Mrs. Josiah Thomas, Mrs. Wm. Thomas, Mr. G. Hili, and Master Willie Da vies; a flute solo by Mr. Josiah Thomas recitations by Messrs. Edward Davits. David ■ Evans and Mrs. Ada .Lewis. "The Birth of ChTin.At- Bethesda Chapel, Llangynwyd, on Thursday evening, last week, under the presidency of Mr. D. Evans, M.E., a performance took place of the cantata, The Birth of Christ." The choir was conducted by MT. T. Thomas, Etna Cot- tage, the accompanists being Mr. E. Thomas, Mr. B. Rees, Air. Caradog Davies, 3.1 r. W. J. Dunn, and ivnss Dunn. The chapel was crowded, and all the aTtistes took up then parts excellently.. A sacred performance took place in the same edince on Friday evening, presided over by Mr. T. C. Evans (Cadrawd). Tliere was again a larce audience. Cant,at.a.A)n Christmas Day at Ebenezer Chapel, Garth., a very interesting cantata, entitled, "Christmas Visions," was performed by the Band of llope Choir, under the con- ductorship of Mr. Moses Reeis. Miss Mabel Lewis presided at the pis.no, and was as- sisted by the following inst-rumentalists:- Miss Mary Movie, Messrs. E. L. Armstrong, Ben Bees;, W. J. Dunn, and Caradog Davits. The principal characters were taken by D. L. Williams, J. Davies, Rees John, T. G. Thomas, Misses A. M. Richards. Jennet John, and Gwen Cox. In the unavo-idable absence of Mrs. E. E. Da vies, County Councillor E. E. Davies performed the duties of distributing prizes to the children, which he did in a pleasing manner, and gave the children en- couraging advice for their future guidance and welfare. Hockey.-The Llangonoyd Hockey Club played1 their first match of the season on Fri- day on the Coronation Field, Llangonoyd, their opponents being the Maesteg Wednes- days. Both teams were mixed, having an equal number of ladies and gentlemen on each side. After a pleasant) but keenly con- tested game, JL/liangonoyd won by 5 goals to 2. The scorers for Llangonoyd were E. L. Morris (2). L. R. Griffiths, J. Jones, and R. Hanson, other prominent players being A. Roderick and the Misses Cusse and Dagg. For the losers the scorers were W. Richards and H. Jenkins. H. Jenkins, D. Williams, and tho Misses Jenkins and James were also sc-,en, to advantage. Tea was provided after the match at the Llangonoyd Schoolroom and thoroughly enjoyed by all, thanks for which are thie to the Misses Loveluck, Hanson and Evans. A Pretty Wedding.—A very pretty wed- ding was solemnised at CarmeL Chapel. Aber- avon, on Christmas morning by the pastor, Rev. R. C. Lewis, B.A., the contracting parties being Mr. David Price, chief account- ant of the Rhos Colliery Company, Ltd., Ammanrford (son of Air. and Mrs. John Prioe, Caerau), a,nd Miss Minnie Singleton, Curwen Terrace, Port Talbot. The bride was given away by h>»r brother. Mr. John Singleton, and Mr. T. 0. David, Port Talbot, acted as best man. The bridesmaids were Miss Lizz'e Singleton, Forth (sister of the bride) and Miss Nellie Price, Caerau (sister of the bride- groom). Master Leona-rdi Gwyn Singleton, who was very prettily dressed, acted as page boy. The bride was charmingly attired in a sil'k corded violet velvet dress, with mauve hat to match, and carried a handsome bouquet of lilies of the vailey, chrysanthe- mums, etc. The little page wore a cream ,dres3 with violet coatee and a cream felt hat. The two bridesmaids were neatly dressed in oream, with hats to match. After the nup- tial knot had been tied, the guests were en- tertained to breakfast by the bride's mother, and received the congratulations of a number of friends. The happy couple were the re- cipients of very useful and costly presents. MALE VOICE PARTY'S SUCCESS AT CARDIFF. CONDUCTOR SATISFIED WITH BRIDGEND ADJUDICATION. In an interview, Mr. W. T. Williams (Gwilym Taf), the conductor of the Maest-eg Male Voice Party, said he quite agreed with the adjudication at Bridgend Eisteddfod, where his choir was defeated on Boxing Day. though It won in, an equally strong competi- tiOll at Cardiff later in th'e same day. The party, at firlclgoii-ci, tt- said, took the tempo too slow, and thus lost the spirit of the piece, causing the tenors to shade in the pitch. The intonation, therefore, must have been faulty. Had the party sang at Bridgend as it did at Cardiff, the result would have been different. As an additional reward and encourage- ment to the party on its success. Mr. J. P. Gibbon, J.P., has generously presented the party with a cheque. A MAESTEG "KLEF'T'OIANIAC." At Bridgend Police-court, on Monday (be- fore Messrs. Oliver bheppard and W. J. Lewis),'Frank C.-as. Western, Maesteg, was brought up in custody charged with stealing a. piece of baoon, value Is. 9d., from the shop of T. Phillips, The County Stores, Maesteg, on Saturday night. Sidney Rees Phillips, an assistant, spoke to seeing the prisoner enter the shop, take up the bacon from the counter, and walk away with it. Witness raii after him. and he was eventually stopped by Sorgt. Rees Davios. Prisoner I took it quite openly, didn't I? —Yes. Sorgt. Davies spoke to arresting prisoner, who had the bacon in his possession. On being charged with the theft. Western snid, It's kleptomania I am bound to have some- thing." Asked1 if ho had anything to say the pri- soner implied1. "I took it for crub. I had no 'lodgings to go to." He was sent below for 14 days. EISTEDDFOD AT SILOH. On Monday an eisteddfod was held' at Siloh Chapel, Nantyffyllon. In the unavoidable absence of Mr. J. P. Gibbon, Mr. Daniel Waldin, overman of the Coegnant Colliery, presided. Councillor Thomas Rees apolo- 'd, gise for Mr. Gibbon's absence and said lie had kindly sent a cheque towards the chapel funds. The adjudicators were:—-Music, Messrs. T. Waldin, G. and L., Caerau, and W. H. Williams, A.C., Nantyffyllon; Jitera- ture. MT. Griffith Jones, Caerau. Mr. W. B. Evans, Nantyffyllon, accompanied. The trea.surer waa Mr. Ernest Martin, Nanty- ffyllon, and the secretarial duties were ably carried out by Mr. Wm. Rees. Aiva.rds: Alto solo. Duw Daniel": Master Thomas Anthony. Special prizp. Miss Mary Sarah Rees. Sop;rano solo, i: Duffryn Cwyù": Miss Katie Hughes, Nantyffyllon. Tenor solo: Mr. John Davies, Nantyffyllon. Recitation Mr. James Rees. Bass solo Mr. W. R. Stra-t-ton. Quartette, I surrender ail": Messrs. J. Daviea and friends. Duet, Betty Wyn" Messrs. Daniel Griffiths and Daniel Jones. Reading music at sight: Mr. Daniel Griffiths, Caerau. Reading literature at sight: Mr. James Rees. Children's Choir: Garmel (conducted by Mr. Rowland' Jenkins). Chief Choral: Maestog United Choir (con- ducted by Mir. Dtavid Maddock Lloyd).

NORTH'S OFFICIALS AT DINNER. ENTERTAINED BY MESSRS. BOYD HARVEY AND GIBBON. THE COAL OUTPUT OF THE LLYNFI VALLEY. INTERESTING FIGURES. Mr. J. Boyd Harvey, J.P., managing direc- tor, and Mr. J. P. Gibbon, J.P., agent, Nl- t,ortaine,d the officials of Messrs. North's Navigation Collieries Co.. to dinner at the White Lion Hotel on Saturday evening. There were present about 160 employees, with a. number of visitors, including Rev. Canon Kelly, xvev. S. J.aelkson (vicar), Rev. lorwerth Jonee, Dr. Bell Thomas, and Dr. W. Kirkby. The room was tastefully decorated with suit- able mottoes and drapery, and the tables nicely Laid. Mr. J. Boyd Harvey presided, and opened the post prandial proceedings by proposing the loyal t-oast, which was heartily received. This toast, he said was not more heartily wel- comed in any part of the kingdom than in Wales. The Chairman then' proposed The Guests. and expressed his great pleasure at seeing so many of last year's guests again present. He was pleased to have the benefit of their com- pany again, and hoped1 to have it for many years to come. Next. year they proposed to meet at a more seasonable period. It now being the end of the yea.r. he was pleased to review the work -done. at the collieries. The output of coal from the Llynfi Valley for the last year was 1,100,000 tons—(applause)—and they had in their emnloy -4,100 workmen, whose honesty and integrity he appreciated. (Hear, hear.) He had been associated with the company fifte-e-n years—he could not go back 50 years, like his friend, Mr. Joshua Williams—and the output now t as double what it was when he commenced. This out- put entailed a great deal of supervision and persistent energy on the part of the officials. The company had enjoyed a fair share of the prosperity during the year. Their officials were chosen from the best class of the work- if the superiors ssw any merit in a workman he was promoted to the gt-ff. He deeplv regretted the absence of Mr. J. J. Smith, the ohairman of the company, who took a keen interest in the welfare of the town. He was not only interested in the col- lieries from a monetary noint of view, but in the success of trade, and he also took a keen interest in the education of the town. Mr. Smith was the pioneer of the libraries and in- stitutes which had done so much for the town. He (Mr. Boyd Harvey) honed they would make the best use of these nlaees. He also regretted the absence of Captain Crane. He was pleased the district had been so free from accidents during the past year. He felt that no effort was lost on the part of the officials in this direction. He recognised seriously the obligations and responsibility of the offi- cials. The company had still a large amount of money in hand which they would like to spend to increase the labour in the town, -jnd so benefit other trades and industries. If he posscL3sed a fad of any kind it was to employ men. His brother, Sir Robert Harvey, em- ployed 20,000 workmen, and if the company received their co-operation it was their inten- tion to further develop this district. The large area in their possession would permit of their sinking another pair of pits. There was no limit to opportunities in the district-. He had every reason to believe that this pros- perity would go on, and there was no one more desirous of this continuity than their chairman (Mr. Smith), Mr. Giboon, and the directors generally. The coal trade for the year was fairly assured. Welsh coal had come to stay, particularly, of course, the coal of that valley. (Laughter.) He was pleased to have. the company of the officials for the evening, and wished them a Happy New Year. (Apnlause.) Mr. Gibbon, who spoke in support of the toast, had a hearty reception. Referr- ing to the proposed formation of an ambu- lance and rescue brigade among the officials of the collieries,, ho said he hoped the latter would not ue required, but in case circum- stances arqse for service in this direction, he trusted every official would do his part in fos- tering the movement. It was the- intention to get one station established in the Llynfi Valley, but it had not been defin- itely decided whether the station would be at Maesteg or at Tondu. With regard to am- bulance, this branch of knowledge was essen- tial and was required' to alleviate the suffer- ing of those who unfortunately met with acci- dents. He was desirous of training the officials, not only to enable them to gain certificates of proficiency, but to go through all the stages and keep in continual practice. He hoped to have a qualified brigade in the district, and for this purpose classes would be established, to be held in the mornings and evenings. His company had voted a sum of £ 300 for the pro- motion of these classes—(applause)—and the matter was now in the hands of Dr. Crane, whose services were at the company's disposal. He did not mention Dr. Crane with any diffi- dence to the local medical men, because he held Dr. Kirkby, Dr. Bell Thomas. Dr. Sin- clair, and Dr. Jones in the highest esteem, and he was sure every man in that room shared with him the same opinion of these gentlemen—(hear, hear)—but Dr. Crane was at their service. He (Mr. Gibbon) had pro- mised the class at Caerau a gold medal for distinction in ambulance, and he should like to infuse competition between the various col- lieries, and thereby develop gradually a first- class brigade in the district, which would compare favourably with Newport, which had one of the finest brigades in the counhw. Referring to Mr. Harvey's desire to increase and extend the me-ans of employment in the district of Maesteg, he was pleased to say this had been accomplished to the extent of workmen during tho five years the manage- ment had been in his hands, and he contem- plated a further increase of 1,200 workmen in the next five years, providing reasonable co- operation was available to allow a simll profit on the undertaking. Mr. Harvey was most anxious to give men employment, and the company had a large amount of money in hand which they were willing to spend, and this would be for the good of the community generally, for every citizen would reap a share of the benefits. The rateable value would increase, commerce would flourish, and the promoters would gain by the outhy if they were successful. Mr. Harvey and he (Mr. Gibbon) thought Maesteg was a suitable place in which to spend this money. He congratulated all concerned on the low rate of accidents this year. A smaller number of lives by one half had been lost this year than any other year since his advent to the place. He attributed this happy state of affairs to the care exercised by the officials. The motto should be "Efficiency and Safety." and eco- nomy would follow. In conclusion, lie thanked the guests for their company. On behalf of the guests, Mr. Jenkin Jones, the senior manager, was the first to respond. He thanked the proposers for coupling his name with the toast, and for the gratifying news they had just given them. Notwith- standing the great developments of the past, they were convinced that they were on the eve of further and greater developments, and he hoped greater prosperity would accom- pany the undertaking suggested by man- aging director and their agent, )1r. Gibbon. Mr. Daniel Walden, responding, thanked the proposers for their generosity. He had spent the great<'r part of his days at Maesteg, having come there 61 years ago. He was proud of the Welsh nation and country, and deemed it an honour to be connected with Messrs. North's Company, which was one of the best in the kingdom. Mr. Joshua Williams, who is an old favour- ite among the officials, having spent nearly fifty years in the. service of the present com- pany and their predecessors, was greeted with cheers when rising to respond. Ho said lie was pleased to have an opportunity to say a word on this occasion, if only to tender his gratitude publicly to messrs. J. Boyd Harvev and J. P. Gibbon for their generosity and good-will towards their servants. He shonld always feel much indebted to them for their kindness, and for the good the people of the place had received at their hands in varioas ways. He was glad to hear Mr. Harvey speak of the progress achieved since his advent to the place, and his hearty wish was for a continuity of the company's prosperity. The speaker concluded with a few verses of humor- ous poetry, which created roars of laughter. 1r. Job, cashier, followed, and eulogised the noMe qualities of theii- genial managing direc.t.orand their capable agent. The chair- man. of the company and his co-directors placed the utmost confidence in these gentle- men, as could be steen by their readiness to advanoe capital to be spent as they deemed advisabta for the extension of the company's undertaking and the welfare of the commun- ity. From personal experience, he knew these gentlemen had the interest of the work- men at heart. The Chairman then submitted the toast of Our Visitors." He said they had distin- guished friends among them as visitors—the Rev. Canon Kelly, for whom he had the greatest respect for the good work he had done in the district- the Rev. S. Jackson, who had been serviceable between the com- pany and another gentleman in a satisfac- tory reconciliation and the Rev. lorwerth Jones, with whom he had the pleasure of sitting on the School Board as one of his col- leagues. Dr. Kirkby and Dr. Bell Thomas had also been kind enough to join them that evening. They were all estimable gentlemen and had done excellent work a.s peacemakers in the district. (Loud applause.) The Rev. S. Jackson, after tendering his gratitude for the invitation, briefly referred to the opportunity afforded him in bringing about a reconciliation between Messrs North's Company and a dear old squire in connection with some land. For this reason he thought the compilers of the programme had made a mistake in placing his name with the visitors for the evening; bavins done some services for the company, he thought he was entitled to a nearer term than barely a visitor. He claimed at least to be agent in advance, if not ono of the company. (Laughter and cheers.) He was delighted with the mctto of the company, as set forth by the superior offi- cers, "Efficiency and Safetv." The Rev. lorwerth Jones concurred with what the Vicar had said, and thanked Messrs. Harvey and Gibbon for their kind invitation. All present knew well what his views were of Mr. Gibbon as a personality and friend. He had been surprisingly favourably impressed with Mr. Harvey, and had reasons to admire him in many respects. His genial qualifica- tions should raise him high in the estimation of his officials. He noticed that Mr. Harvey was an example to hundreds of the inhabi- tants of this town in giving first place to his minister. Again towards old' officials of the company, Mr. Harvey's humanity seemed con- spicuous and deserving of praise, and his con- sideration for his officials generally was such as to enable them to cherish the best feelings towards him. The cry against dividends was L, the most foolish of all in the present day. Once North's Company, or any other indus- try, failed to secure dividends, there was little hope of continuity in that branch of labour. Mr. Harvey's respect for the wish of his mother was another proof of his human- ity, and although she did not realise her ideal the sons had more than doubly done so. Dr. Kirkby facetiously remarked that he envied Daniel in the lion's den, who knew after the banquet was over he would not have to make a speech, ^ond laughter.) He was glad1 to be so happily and closely associated with such a splendid company. from his ex- perience1 of the officials, he felt sure' there was ample material to form an excellent ambu- lance brigade. Canon. Kelly proposed the toast of Messrs. North's Navigation Collieries (1S89), Ltd. Save for the existence of this. company, he would not have had the pleasure of seeing Maesteg. He tendered his gratitude to the company for the happy days he had spent, and the good work he had been, able to accomplish in the valley. He couki not ex- press his gratifications strong enough for the courtesy of Messrs. North's Navigation Com- pany. Although the officials nresent were not of his religious persua-sion. lie had always found them a jolly lot of men. I Dr. Bell Thomas, supporting, said the senti- ment of Mr. Harvey's speech, a desire to em- ploy workmen, was very good. He thought the officials must be very proud of him as their head. The prosperity depended upon united action. Human nature was inclined to be dissatisfied. Referring to ambulance work, he said Dr. Crane was very keen on this work. and he thought the men were very pleased with his services in connection with their compensation. Mr. Harvey, in response, said it gave him much pleasure to grant freedom of contribu- tion towards the. doctors in Norths Collieries, and if he never showed wisdom in anything else, he thought he had done so in this in- stance. He considered it right for everyone to pay his own doctor, and he was now pleased to understand that all the medical men in the district were on good terms. The I company's doctor was not a detective. He was only there to see that every man got his compensation if it was due. The Act was in force, and it was their wish to carry it out. He recognised the work of the ministers and the ambulance was intended' to prevent the ministers being called in. (Laughter and ap- plause.) He was sorry to see the death-rate so high among children. The authorities should look after the quality of the milk sold in the district. Every month lie called in a vet. to examine his cows to see if they were in proper order. In Spain, tnere was a society in charge of the milk supply, and he wcukl ne very pleased to render any assistance to form a similar society in this district. Pure milk would prevent a high death-rate. Every rea- sonable and prudent man ought to provide a house for himself. He claimed to have as- sisted many of the workmen in lending them money at a cheap rate of interest. He had quite, enjoyed the company that evening. He only regretted the room was so cold." Mr. Gibbon concurred with the remarks of Mr. Harvey, and thanked LÜe proposers of the toast for their kind sentiment. Mr. David Davies. manager of the Coeg- nant Colliery, proposed The Hostess and Staff. M'ias Davies held a reputation for such functions, and her gtniiality had won for her the. admiration of all. Mr. McPherson responded on behalf of the hostess, and thanked the proposer for his kind remarks. It had been mentioned that the room was cold, which the hostess re- gretted, but as usual this was someone else's fault. The Glamorgan Gazette" had mis- lead them in savins that people were gather- ing primroses at Llantwit. (Laughter.) Mr. Harvey at this stage left, and was ac- corded musical honours, with cheers fcr him- self. Mrs. Harvey, and the family. At intervals in the prorrammo son is and recitations were rendered by the following artistes :*—Messrs. W. Isaac. J. J. Morris, Geo. Mscrh'c.rson, W. Strntton, James Mill'man, T. P. Jones, Joshua Davies, V, J. Treharne. and J. Roberts. On the motion of Mr. Josnua Williams, seconded bv Mr. David Evans, a vote of thanks was' accorded the Ohairman. and the singing of "Hen wlad fv nhadau," by Mr. Stratton, terminated an excellent evening.

MAESTEG EISTEDDFOD FIASCO ABANDONMENT OF A BIG EFFORT. WHAT THE MUSICAL NEWS HAS TO SAY. Maesteg and Cardiff musical pf-ople have been somewhat surprised by the sudden aban- donment of an eisteddfod on a rather ambi- tious scale which was to have been held at the Cory-hall, Cardiff, on Friday evening. So suddenly was it decided to abandon the affair that the ^ord Mayor of Cardiff, who had con- sented to become a patron and to attend, was not even notified that the function would not be held. The circumstances become very in- teresting in view of a caustic article on the subject which appears in the last number of the Musical News." The editor of that organ devotes nearly a page of his sDace to the matter, under the heading of Diplomas are Cheap To-day." Some or this article may be quoted here — We have been favoured with the syllabus of a. competitive festival to be 1ldat Cardiff towards the close of this month in connection with Ebenezer Church. Garth, Maesteg. Free advertisements do not, as a rule, commend themselves to a news- paper, but certain features about this fes- tival inipel us to afford Ebenezer Church. Garth. Maesteg, not only free, but bold, ad,vei-tigement. The principal adjudicator, the article goes on to say, was to be "E. Polonaski, Esq.. editor of the 'Violin Times,' London," and a footnote to the syllabus stated N.B.—E. Polon-as-ki, Esq.. will be glad to avail him- self of the opportunity ot examining any violin as to its make, value, etc.. at a small fee." rh is. to the editor of the '• Musical News," seems unusual work for an adjudica- tor. The promoters, he adds. were evidently quite cock-a-hoop over Herr Polonaski's first visit to Wales." Rnd proclaimed it a "Field Day for Fiddlers." The infinite humour of this wonderful syllabus." how- ever. it is stated, was found in the prize list, which was to the value of £ 150, but, while such important sections as the pianists and vocalists are allotted but £ 8 15s. 6d. their prizes "apparently dwindle into insignificance by the aide of the balance of £ 140 for violinists and mandolinists." Nc-t all of this -a Tvr-s to he in (>a,!l. A large proportion was to be civen in the of violins, music, and books upon musical subjects at specified values. The stins of the article is in it? tail, where it concludes as follows: — But still there :s more to come: the end of this marrellous li-t- is not yet. There is a feature about this festival which we do not remember to have r-een before. Diplomas may be had almost for the wish- ing:. L- t us copy the announcement litera- ti! m — DIPLOMAS. Arrangements have I)eeii with the London Institute- of Music for the follow- ing diplomas to successful candidates — 3 Fellowship Diplomas for the 3 best violinists; 4 Licentiate Diplomas for the 4 best violinists; 5 Associate Diplomas for the 3 best (sic) violinists; 5 Graduate Diplomas for the next 5 best violinists 5 Intermediate Diplomas for the next 5 best violinists; 28 Junior Diplomas for the 28 Jlc-xt best violinists; value, aoout L45. Th,-t about £ 45 is perfectly charming in its ingenuousness. One would have thought that the promoters would possess sufficient worldly knowledge to be abl-e. to appraise these distinctions to a penny. More than this. the conductor of the best band will get the diploma of L.L.I.M.. while the five best players will get eacii a diploma of graduate. No value is apparently attached to these, if one may eacii a diploma of graduate. No value is apparently attached to if one may judge oy i ii-e syiia-Dus. o valuer Incredible. We must confess to no nrevious know- ledge of the London Institute of Music." Mingled with ignorance is some curiosity. Where is its abodie P Who are the men who are at the back of it ? When was it started P If some reader could enlighten we should be sincerely grateful. In the meanwhile we should like to ask what right the "London Institute of Music" has to let upon unoffending Cardiff. Mae-steg, and the su rron nd illg districts 56 wild violinists, created diplonies at one fell swoop. Truly, diplomas are cheap to-day when they are offèrooas pr zes-vei-y cheap indeed. But what troubles our mind is this, why value tlierr. eve-ii nominally—at so low a figure? At this rate they are not worth so much as that violin, etc., for the junior violinists. We are quite ready to admit that. this is really the case, but only an ingenuous-people like those of Ebenezer Church, Maeerteg, would carelessly publish the faot. A DISCLAIMER. In reference, to this article the London In- stitute of Music has sent the following letter to the Press Sir,—My attention has been drav an article in the "Musical News, in y, b the name of the London Institute of Music is associated with the Maesteg (Cardiff) Eis- teddfod. I beg to state. that \re have no connection whatever with this "festival," and no arrangements have lx,e. made with us to graiit, and the announcement was made without cur knowledge and consent. And, further, that we award no degree of fellowship, licentiate, associate, "nor graduate, and never have done so.—Faith- fully yours. The London Institute of Music. Robert J. Nelson, Principal, London. Institute of Music, 37 Hcwi-ey- place, MaiJa Hill, W., Dec. 20th. For the information of readers it may be L said that regarding the London Institute of Music, according to its prospectus, its direc- tors are Mr. Robert J. Nelson and Mr. George J. Sumpter. It was established in 18S7 for musical education and examinations in prac- tical and theoretical music." and in its list of patrons appear the names of Lord Burgh-fiere. Sir Forrest Fulton, K.C.. and the Bishop of Barking. The board of examiners includes Mr. Algernon Ashton. Mr. Oscar Be-rringer. Mr. Frye Parker, and other well-known names in music. STATEMENT BY REV. MEREDITH MORRIS. A Press representative called on Friday evening on the Rev. Meredith Morris, of Maesteg. who is, of course, a well-known vio- linist, and an authority on violins, who had been announced to act as one of the adjudica- tors. He said it was first of all intended to hold an eisteddfod at Ebenezer Chapel. Then the scheme enlarged to that of a festival in the Cardiff Lory-hall. When the latter was abandoned they fell back on the first idea and held an cantata in the chapel on Christmas Day. Mr. D. C. Williams (the secretary) had been making the whole of the. arrangements, had done all, the printing himself, and had borne all the expenses. He (Mr. Morris) was asked by Mr. Williams to adjudicate on violin competitions originally at the- chapel. Then he was told that it had been arranged to hold the meeting at Cardiff, and he was asked to act as adjudicator in conjunction with Mr. E. Polonaski. Mr. Williams mentioned that he had written to several people, asking them to give prizes; but though lie- was one of the olds>ist representatives of the London Institute of Music, the Institute did not send to him to say that application had been made to them for diplomas. He knew nothing about that matter. It was the night before when lie received a letter from Mr. Williams saying that the competitive meeting at Cardiff had been abandoned, and that he had had only four entries. It had been intended to de- vote the pra,rp(L of the meeting to a fund to clear the debt incurred by Ebenezer Chapel in building a small vestry. ORGANISER INTERVIEWED. On Monday a Gazett" reporter called upon Mr. D. C. Williams, the organiser of the eisteddfod, at his residence in Bridgend-road, Ga rtli. Asked if he was the secretary of the proposed eisteddfod, Mr. Williams jocularly replied. "Yes, I suppose I am the culprit." He addied that he was not going to make any statement regarding his own position at present, "as my tongue is tied." Replying to questions, however, Mr.

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MAESTEG DISTRICT COUNCIL. The fortnight l!y meeting of the Maesteg Urban District Council was held at the Council-room on Tuesday evening, there being present Messrs. J. P. Gibbon (chair- man), J. Howelis. J. Edmunds. G-omer Davies, John Bevan, T. Griffiths, J. Jenkins, T. E. Hopkins, T. Lewis. V. Hartshorn, with the clerk (Mr. R. Scale), and the surveyor and in- spector (Mi*: J. Humphreys). THE GIPSY NUISANCE The Olerk read a letter from Mr. Lijisconib, in answer to a oulnmuu-ication fi-o-a the Council complaining of a nuisance created by gipsies, who occupy a piece of land near the Rose and Grown Hotel, Cwmt'elin. Mr. Lips- oomb stated that he was taking thf" matter up with Mr. John .Viorgan. WAGES. Applications work, read from Samuel Rich- ards. Kees Williams, and John Jones, threc, of the Council s employees, for an increase of wages. The matter was roeferroo to the Labour Committee for consideration. BREACH OF BYE-LAWS. Messrs. loan John and T. Hacker, two of- fenders against the Dye-laws of the Council, appeared by request in answer to charges by the surveyor of erecting stables without sub- mitting plans to the Council. Mr. John was asked by the Chairman why he had erected a salable witno-at. fhtrt, submit- ting a plan to the Council. Mr. John's re- piy was t'iiat he converted an old building into a stable about five years ago. and was surprised that he had not iieard anything ,abant until now. He agreed to submit a plan of the stable forthwith. Mr. T. Hacker explained that he was not certain of remaining at his present- residence, so the stable erected was only temporary. He agreed to submit a plan or remove the build- ing. LAMT-LIGETRRS WA", S. The Surveyor reported that the committee had met on. the 20th inst. to further go into the matter of the lamp-lighters' wages. It was resolved that before a recommendation be made to the Council particulars be ob- tained from adjoining Urban District Coun- cils as to the rate of wage.* paid to their irre- spective hmtp-lighters. He had received re- plies from four authorities, giving the nwxvs- sary particulars.—It was decided that the Gas Committee meet on Friday (to-dayi at 6 p.m. to consider the particulars received. ROCK STREET. Mr. John Howelis remarked' that the lamp near the convenience in Rock-street was in a very awkward position. It was quite d-ark and on a, curve, and one evening he had to dodge a woman and two children, neither of them could pass each other. The Chai rman I expect the woman was trying to get hold of you. (Laughter.) Mr. J. Bevan: I experienced the same thnig. Mr. Chairman; but. these were two geutiieincn. (iloud laughter.) Mir. lipi-tsit-orii I thought. Christmas was over. (Renewed laughter.) OVER-WORKED SCAVENGERS. The Stable Committee reported that they ntet on the 27th inst. to consider an applica- tion f --oiii the scavenging that they be relieved from cutting chaff after the daily work. when it was resolved to recommend to the Council that a sum of £ 50 be included in the next years estimate for the arovision of a gas engine, shafting, etc., for the driving of t. chaff-cutting machine. Mr. T. E. Hopkins thought this £50 eauld be saved by making use of the steam-roltar after it came into the yeard. Mr. Cromer Davies thought an engine to suit their purpose could be purchased ciueajp^-r than £;)0. The Chan-man agreed, and thought it world be best to have a gab engine, or, pro- bably this work could be done when other work v. as not pressing. Tho recommendation of tlte committee was adooted. FIRE BRIGADE. The Fire Brigade Committee reported that they met on the 20th iMt., to consider the provision of'fin. alarms for the fireman's houses, to oe worked from one centra! stand- I ard in from oi the Town-hall. i\ was re- solved to recommend to the Council that fire alarms be placed as suggested, on the distinct understanding that the captain of the Bri- gade gave a guarantee tlbat adequate and proper drills would be given the brigade. T'e six 80-feet lengths of firp hose had been ordered from rs.. Shand. Mason and Co. In answer to the Chairman, the Clerk re- plied that no answer had yet beE-n received from the capt-iin. of the Brigade. THE WATER RESERVOIR. With regard to a letter reoeired from Messrs. Jones aud Sons, the contractors of the reservoir, concerning the timber in tbL* trench at B1 aentwmoerwen, the Chairnaa-B, Mi. Hartshorn and Mr. Hicks were depB48d to investigate the matter, the clerk t. send the result of their investigations to the contractors.

Williams stated that it had been originally intended to have a Christmas tree, a cantata, performance. and some competi- tions at Christmastide. and he afterw ards, at the suggestion of a friend. couununicat-ed with Mr. Po'lonasrki, of the London Institute of Music. Eveiiti-ially the programme was arranged of an eisteddfod, which was to have been held at the Cory Memorial Hall. Cardiff, on December 27th, and it was decided to hold a grand concert in the same building on the following night, at which the successful candidates would appear. Why was it abandoned asked the reporter, and Mr. Williams's reply was to the effect that. the entries were insufficient, and his oommitte did not feel inclined to proceed with it because of that. Did you hold an eisteddfod on a smaller scale in Maesteg?"—"No. we had the Christ- mas tree and cantata though." The Lord Mayor of Cardiff says you did not write to inform him that the affair was abandoned," remarked our representa- tive. I certainly did write him to that effect." replied Mr. Williams, and I posted the letter on Christmas afternoon. I have the Lord Mayor's letter by me. and it dees not appear from that that he would attend the, eisteddfod. He was to have presided at the concert on the following night, and the Lv])" Mayoress was to have distributed the prizes and certificates." What were the proceeds to be devoted tor" '0 "The new vestry building fund in con- nection with Ebenezer Church." How did the proposal to grant the numerous diplomas in connection with the London Institute come about?'' All! that's a question I am not going to answer to-day. "Have you seen a copy of the letter from the principal of the Institute of Music to the- effect that- no arrangement was made with them for the granting of diplomas?" 1es. it has been shown to me." '"What- have you to say to that? Nothing nov. As. I have told you before, my tongre is tied. I suppose you are communicating with Mr lo a-s k I ?' I am taking the matter up, of course, and when the proper time comes I shall be pleased to give the Press a statement so that I mav clear mvself and the committee. Mr. Will iams declined to say anything further regarding the diplomas, except that he waa preserving all' the correspondence in regard to them. Further questioned, he said that the coID- mittee appointed the adjudicators, and the following agreed to act:—Mr. E. Polonaski. the Rev. W. Meredith Morris (Maesteg). Mr. A. F. Winkfield (Aberkenfig). and Mr. A. E. Bloor (Brynmawr). nERR POLONASKI S EXPLANATION. A London Press representative had a short interview on Tuesday evening with Herr Eugenie Polonaski. He found that the geutieman was an official of a London insti- tute of music, not connected with an insti- tute bearing a similar name,. whose head- quarters are at Maida Hill. Herr Polonaski expressed the opinion that there was no necessitv to say much about the abandoned Mae&teg" eisteddfod. All that he could say was that eome time ago he was invited to give some prizes and to assist in the adjudi- cations at an eisteddfod, which, lie under- el stood was to be held on behalf of one of the churches at Maesteg. To this he consented, and offered a number of prizes, some cf which wore of considerable value, but he. had nothing to do with the arrangements ill connection, with the affair, all of which, so far as he knew, were in the hands of the secretary. Mr. Williams.