The Glamorgan Gazette

Maesteg Football Club. The annual meeting of the Maesteg Foot- ball Club was held at the White Lion Hotel on Wednesday, when Mr. J. J. Martyn pre- sided over a very large attendance. Mr. W. Redmond read the balance-sheet for last sea- son, which showed a credit of 6s. 4^d. on the year's working. There was a long discussion on the debit balance-sheet of the previous year. Mr. J. P. Gibbon, J.P., was re-elected president. A strong working committee was elected. Mr. James H. Davies was elected secretary and. Mr. Idris Williams treasurer, whilst Mr. Evan Evans was elected captain.

If yon bare any difficulty in securing the Gacette," write to the Head' Office.

I GREAT IRONMONGERY I I 1. (Late BUCKLEY & Co., Ltd.).

THOMAS BROS., Merthyr,

having purchased the Stock, now offer same at Immense Reductions.

1 Mowing Machine, 0 9 Reduced to £$10s. Od.

I 1 Churn, -45, Reduced to £3 10s, Od.

1 Cheese Press, £ i 12s. 6d., Reduced to 37s. 6d.

I 1 Churn, £3 Us. Od., Reduced to £ 2 2s. Od.

0 Thomas Bros. do not intend carrying on the Business AFTER SALE OF STOCK.

BRIDGEND COUNTY COURT. Yesterday.—Before His Honour Judge Bryn Roberts. PROCEDURE. On taking his seat His Honour stated that it was his intention to commence the business of the Court at 10 o'clock in future, but as he understood that inconvenience would be caused to a number of litigants from the valleys if they were forced to attend so early. he would arrange that no case should be struck out until some time after the arrival of the valley trains at about a quarter to 11. Alderman Hughes asked His Honour to say that no contested cases should be taken before a quarter to 11, and that applications should be made first, if convenient to those con- cerned. His Honour agreed to this. Judgment summonses would follow the applications, but if the parties were absent when first called, a further opportunity would be given. A COMPENSATION AWARD. Mr. Hill Kelly, Cardiff (instructed by Messrs. Walter Morgan. Bruce and Nicholas, Pontypridd, the solicitors to the South Wales Miners' Federation) asked His Honour to apportion the compensation paid into court by the Insurance Company, in response to the claim of Mary Ann Tellam. of 3 Green- meadow, Bettws, against the Ton Phillip Rhondda Colliery Co., Ltd., in respect of the death of her husband. Michael N. Tellam. Tellam, who was a collier, was following his employment at the Ton Phillip Colliery on March 30th, 1906, when he was run over by trams, sustaining injuries which resulted in his death. His wages previous to the acci- dent averaged 30s. per week, and the sum of £ 232 Is., claimed by the widow, had been paid into court. Counsel suggested that His Honour should award the widow £80-approximately one- third of the full amount-which should be paid to her immediately, and that the re- mainder should be invested for the benefit of the children, who were aged three years and two years respectively, and that 3s. 6d. a week should be paid to the widow in respect of the maintenance of each child. His Honour I think 3s. 6d. is too much for each child. Mr. Kelly: I understand that half a crown is the sum usually allowed for each child, but in this case they are small child- ren. and I understand that the maintenance of children at this age is more expensive than when they are older. His Honour: I don't think so. I shall award the widow JE80. and the remainder shall be invested for the children, the mother being allowed 2s. 6d. each weekly for their maintenance. MAESTEG GROCER'S CLAIM. Isaac Isaacs, 25 Castle-street. Maesteg, a grocer, for whom Alderman T. J. Hughes ap- peared, sought to recover 1:17 14s. from John Evans, 9 Jersey-street. Penygraig, near Swansea, foreman, blacksmith (formerly of Maesteg). Defendant was represented by Mr John Jenkins, solicitor. Swansea. Alderman Hughes said the case came before His Honour at the last court, when the plain- tiff gave evidence in support of the claim. Defendant was not, however, present, and the matter was adjourned for a month, sub- ject to the payment of the costs for the day. The only point in the case at present was, he understood, whether or not the Statute could be pleaded in respect of the account. On May 31st, 1897. the balance due to the plain- tiff was £ 25 13s. 4d., and from that time until now no further credit was given, but small sums, amounting in all to t8 10s. 6d., had been paid from time to time on behalf of the defendant, the last instalment being paid on May 12th, 1900. This action was com- menced on May 2nd. and consequently the Statute could not be pleaded in respect of the balance. The reason why plaintiff had not taken proceedings before was that he could not trace the defendant, who left the district in 1900. Every effort had been made to find him, but it was not until March of this year that he discovered his whereabouts owing to his being concerned in another matter before the Court. Plaintiff gave detailed evidence as to the account, and, declaring that he was as hon- est as the day," he would make no admissions during a vigorous cross-examination. His Honour Every men has an idea that he is the honest man concerned in the case. (Laughter.) Mr. Jenkins Did you at any time supply defendant with a detailed account?—I took an account myself. Was it a detailed one?—Always, when they were at Maesteg. His Honour Answer, man. Was it a full detailed account ?—Yes, sir we were bound to give him that. His Honour: You were not questioned as to your obligations. Apparently you did not give a detailed account. Mrs. Isaacs, plaintiff's wife, said a detailed account was supplied. She also gave evi- dence as to the accuracv of the account. Defendant's wife said the instalments had been paid by Mrs. Lewis, her sister-in-law, and she had no authority to pay the last in- stalment on May*512th, 1900. She denied em- phatically that the money was owing. Mr. Jenkins argued that the account was Statute barred. His client was 1 simply staggered" to receive the account. His Honour People who run into debt ex- travagantlv are usually staggered and aston- ished. Money has been paid by Mrs. Lewis. and I do not think she would do it without authority. Judgment was entered for plaintiff with costs. Defendant was ordered to pay 7s. a » month. MAESTEG COLLIER S DEBT. John Rees, 8 Green-street. Bridgend, grocer's traveller, as assignee of the book debts of Mrs. Elizabeth Evans. deceased, Maesteg. sought to recover t59 lls. from John Stephens, 22 North-street. Caerau, col- lier, in respect of groceries supplied. Mr. Evan E. Davies was for plaintiff, who gave formal evidence as to the assignment. Mrs. M. S. Hitchings, executrix of the estate of the late Mrs. Evans, deposed that defendant owed Mrs. Evans E59 lis. lOd. Witness kept the books (produced), which bore out this statement. His Honour This amount is for groceries ? Witness: Yes, sir. How came you to let the defendant get into your debt to such an extent for gro- ceries?—The amount has been going on for years. Mrs. Stephens (defendant's wife): I have not paid a penny for years. His Honour Have pass books been issued to the defendant? Mr Davies: Yes, sir but she will not pro- duce the latest. Defendant: There haven't been pass books for years. loan John. grocer. Maesteg, formerly an assistant in Mrs. Evans's shop. gave evidence in support of the claim. Defendant always had a pass book. John David Morgan. Caerau-road. Caerau, who was in the employ of Mrs. Evans until 22L years ago. said defendant had a pass book at that time. There was over t40 owing when he left. Mrs. Stephens You are telling an untruth you are. Come and speak the truth and not a lot of lies. He never gave me a book. I have not paid a penny for eight years. His Honour That does not matter. You have not pleaded the Statute. Defendant persisted in saying that the money was not owing. His Honour: I am afraid you must pay. Defendant They have been saying -an- truths. His Honour: Judgment for plaintiff. The instalments of payment were fixed at 10s. a month. BRIDGEND ACCIDENT SEQUEL. His Honour spent nearly two and a half hours in hearing the claim of William John Thomas. Splott Farm. Llantwit Major, farmer, against Morgan John. 29 Ogwy- street, Nantymoel. posting master and hay merchant, for t20 damages for injuries to plaintiff, and the value of a bicycle damaged irreparably, owing, it was alleged, to neg- ligent driving by defendant. Defendant counter-claimed t4 in respect of injury to the horse. Alderman T. J. Hughes was for the plaintiff, and Mr. Hill Kelly (instructed by Messrs. Morgan, Bruce, and Nicholas, Pontypridd) for the defendant. Plaintiff deposed that on Sunf.-y, May 20th. he was cycling through Bridgl nd on his way home from Margam Park, and when at the top of Caroline-street he perceived a horse and trap driven by the defendant com- ing down Nolton-street. Witness was pro- ceeding very slowly at the time. As an extra precaution he took a long sweep in turning to Nolton-street. passing the electric standard, in the centre of the road, on the left side. On getting into Nolton-street witness kept within a yard of the kerb on the left side of the road. Defendant's trap came down Nolton-street on the proper side, but when within a few yards of witness the trap suddenly swerved right across the road. Witness was struck down by the horse, which trampled upon him, and the right hand wheel of the trap passed over hint. Witness was able to get up. but he soon lost consciousness and the next thing he remembered was being attended to at the Cottage Hospital. He remained at the hospital some days, and was then taken home. where he received further mprliffll attendance. He was not able to resume his daily work for six weeks. He claimed E5 for bicycle, L7 2s. for personal in- juries. 7C6 6s. for loss of employment, and the remainder of the claim was in respect of medi- cal attendance, damage to his clothes, etc. In cross-examination, witness said he rang his bell while rounding the corner, but he did not shout to defendant. P.C. Phillips, who was an eye-witness of the accident, gave a corroborative account. Plaintiff, he said. was proceeding at a rate of only four miles an hour, and kept to the left as far as possible. Defendant's trap. which had been coming down on the left side, suddenly dashed across the road into plain- tiff, who was unable to dismount. Plaintiff was trampled on by the hurse, and the wheel passed over him. The right wheel of the trap was rubbing against the kerb on the right side of the road, so that defendant was entirely on his wrong side. Witness assisted Thomas, who could not speak. The horse bolted up Station-hill, and when defendant returned, witness asked him how he came to dash into plaintiff. adding "You ought to be more careful, especiallv as you have been in similar trouble before." Witness was cross-examined at length, and he denied that he asked plaintiff whether he was going to the station. He heard plain- tiff's bell ringing. After further cross-examination, counsel asserted that the witness had contradicted himself, but His Honour did not agree. Sidney George Birt. licensee of the Castle Hotel, gave a similar description of the acci- dent to that of P.C. Phillips. Evan Thomas, father of the plaintiff, spoke to a conversation he had with the defendant some time after the accident. He alleged that witness's son was to blame for the acci- dent, but offered t4 to settle. Witness had had to engage a man to do his son's work on the farm for six weeks. Dr. Edmund Thomas (Bridgend) described the plaintiff's injuries. He was suffering from concussion of the spine. David Evans. manager of the branch estab- lishment of Messrs. D. E. Evans and Co., said he had inspected the ghastly remains of the cycle," which were not worth half a crown. (Laughter.) Mr. Kelly: Surely it is worth more than that. Alderman Hughes: If my learned friend thinks that. I will offer him the bike for 5s. Mr. Kelly You have no authority to make an offer, perhaps. Defendant admitted that he was driving on the wrong side of the road at the time of the accident, but the plaintiff was partly to blame, as after commencing his way up Nol- ton-street he turned round as if to proceed to the railway station. Witness intended to go through Coity-street. and he had to turn to the right to pass the electric standard. After stopping the horse, which bolted, wit- ness returned to the scene of the accident, and asked plaintiff how he was. He replied Look at my bike." He totally denied the version of P.C. Phillips and Mr. Birt. He alleged that damage had been caused to his horse to the extent mi JE4. In cross-examination, defendant admitted that he had been concerned in a similar affair at the very same spot, and he willingly paid 30s. in that case Defendant's wife, who was also in the trap, said plaintiff seemed uncertain as to what he was going to do; he seemed to change his mind after turning up Nolton-street. Miss Williams, of Ogmore Vale, also gave evidence. Mr. Kelly addressed His Honour at length, arguing that plaintiff was guilty of contribu- tory negligence, and he also submitted that the claim was extravagant. Alderman Hughes said he regarded it as a moderate claim. His Honour, after viewing the scene of the accident, said defendant was responsible for the accident, as he had plenty of room to pass. The policeman's evidence—and he was an independent and reliable witness-was very clear. He agreed with Mr. Kelly that the claim was extravagant, and he thought £ 8 8s. would be sufficient recompense. He gave judgment for that amount with costs. The counter-claim would be dismissed. The Court was adjourned until to-day (Fri- day). The counter-claim would be dismissed. The Court was adjourned until to-day (Fri- day).

Church Fete at Glanogwr. A pleasant and well organised fete in aid of Nolton Church expenses fund, was held on Wednesday in the picturesque grounds of Glanogwr, kindly placed at the disposal of the organisers by Mr. and Mrs. S. H. Byass. The event was favoured with ideal weather, and attracted a large attendance. The Rev. E. S. Roberts (Rector of Coity) presided at the opening ceremony, which was performed by Mrs. Byass. He said the ob- ject of the fete was to clear a debt of about JE70 on the Church funds. The incidental and general expenses in connection with the church were, as might be imagined, very con- siderable in the course of the year. The church was very much indebted to Mr. and Mrs. Byass, not only for the material sup- port which they always extended to the church, but for the regularity and consis- tency with which they attended the services; they set a very good example to all around them in this and other respects. (Applause.) Mrs. Byass, in declaring the fete open, said the promoters had been fortunate in the selection of the day, as the weather condi- tions left nothing to be desired. She wished to thank all the kind friends who had so heartily responded to her appeal for help in the preparations for the event, and she hoped their efforts would have a good result, and that the object of the fete would be fully rea- lised. (Applause.) Mr. George Harris proposed a vote of thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Byass for lending their grounds. Churchpeople in Bridgend owed a great deal to Mr. and Mrs. Byass, who always took a keen interest in every movement which had for its object the fur- therance of church work. (Hear, hear.) Mrs. Byass had worked most assiduously in making such admirable arrangements for the event, and he hoped that those present would assist her and her many helpers in making the fete financially successful. (Hear, hear.) Rev. M. C. Gower Williams (Coity) seconded. The ladies and gentlemen who were sometimes invited from a distance to open fetes, knew little of the hard work which had to be done in making the arrange- ments, but Mrs. Byass was not in that posi- tion she had laboured for a considerable time in connection with the fete. The vote having been carried with ap- plause, Mr. Byass acknowledged. There were two nicely arranged stalls on the lawn. the stall holders being:—General fancy: Mrs. George Harris, Miss Roberts (The Rectory). Mrs. M. C. Gower Williams, and Miss Gladvs Harris. Fruit and flowers: Mrs. S. H. Byass, Mrs. J. W. Hughes, Mrs. Allen (Llwyn Celyn). Mrs. Edwards (Grove- road), Miss Watkins, Miss Stratton, and Miss Allen. The refreshment tent was under the supervision of Mrs. Birt (Castle Hotel), who was assisted by Mrs. Evan John. Mrs Walters (Coity-road), Mrs. Evans (Red Lion), Mrs. Rose (Sunnyside), the Misses Evans, and Miss Dyer. Miss Queenie Allen gave palmistry delineations, and Master Geoffrey Byass was in charge of the bran tub. Mr. George Harris had charge of the bowling green, and Mr. Arthur Atherton of the shooting gallery. The Tondu Coronation Silver Band (con- ducted by Mr. J. Barton) discoursed an excel- lent selection of music during the afternoon and evening. A feature of the fete was the performance of the Nolton Minstrels, con- ducted by Mr. W. Rees. The troupe, all of whom acquitted themselves admirably, was composed of the following:—Misses Lewis, Abbott, Delahay, Harding, Griffiths. Messrs. Cameron, Evans. Venn. JjaSertv. E. John, Delahay, W. Howell, and Rowe, with Miss Abbott as accompanist. Sports were organised by Mr. Bert. Glad- win. Mr. G. Grant, and Mr. Lewis Thomas, the following were the results — 100 Yards Young Ladies' Race 1. Miss G. Abbott: 2. Miss Griffiths, Grove-road. 100 Yards (girls under 13): 1. F. Abbott; 2. — Davies. Men's Race: 1. Arthur Stew. Laleston; 2, T. Dicks, Bridgend. Hurdle Race: 1, D. O. Evans; 2, G. L. Lafferty. High Jump: D. 0. Evans. High Jump (ladies): 1. Miss G. Abbott; 2, Miss Griffiths. Boys' 100 Yards: 1, George Johns, Grove- road. 120 Yards (ladies): 1. Miss Gwen Davies. Slow Bicycle Race: 1. B. Tom; 2, W. Abbott, Grove-road. Slow Bicycle Race (under 14): 1, Abbott; 2. T. Davies. In the competition for the best decorated bicycle, the first prize was won by Mr. Dicks, the second by Master Geoffrey Byass, and the third by Miss Cossom. Sunnyside. A quoit handicap was won by S. Davies. The stalls and the minstrels' platform were kindly erected by Messrs. Chas. Jenkins and Son.

DEATH OF MR. R. L. BASSETT. We regret to announce the death of Mr. R. L. Bassett, of Waterhall, Bonvilstone, one of the leading farmers of the Vale of Gla- morgan, who was much respected in the county. He was a frequent judge at shows, and acted as steward at Cowbridge and other shows. The funeral took place at Radyr Church- yard on Wednesday afternoon, and was at- tended by a large number of agriculturists. The service was conducted by the Rev. D. Phillips, rector of Radyr. and the Rev. J. R. Buckley, vicar of Llandaff. Among those who were present were Alderman Illtyd Thomas, Messrs. A. H. Bullock, John Moon, and S. A. Moon (Cardiff). Dan Rees, Lewis Loughor and David Loughor (Llandaff). J. H. Hallett, W. H. Evans, and Ivor Lowrie (Radyr), Thomas Rees and John Moore (Ely), E. Akers, Pentrebane; W. Emerson, Swel- don; Oliver T. Greave and Thomas Thomas, Wenvoe; William Thomas and Richard Thomas, Caerphilly; R. Templeton, Black- weir; Daniel Jenkins, Pencoed; William Williams, Splott; Edward Thomas and A. C. Stewart. Canton; T. D. John. St. Fagan's; Thomas Davies and Edward Williams, Whit- church; W. C. Blake. Cogan; W. Thorne, Fairwater; Lewis Bassett. Maesllech; W. Beer, Penpergwm; W. John, Rhua: T. Watts. Sheepcourt; David Evans. Burden's Hill; W. Benjamin, Cyntweil; Oliver Wil- liams, Great Hamstone. and T. French Thomas, Little Hamstone. In recognition of the deceased's services on the Llandaff Parish Council the Llandaff Fire Brigade at- tended in uniform.

TONDU & ABERKENFIG. The Drawing in aid of Mr. C. J. Jones, Cefn Hirgoed, is postponed until August 2oth owing to the large number of books not re- turned.—E. Hopkin, secretary, 4293

Flower Show at Newcastle. A most successful flower and vegetable show organised by local members of the Girls' Friendly Society and the St. Agnes' Guild (Newcastle), was held at the Newcastle Par- ish-room on Tuesday, there being a large number in attendance. The object of the event was to provide funds for the mainten- ance of a missionary lad in Central Africa, in connection with the Universities Mission of Central Africa. The room had been artis- tically decorated under the supervision of Mr G. T. Hardwick, Mr. E. Brown, and Mr. John Rose. The judging commenced at 1.30, the following ladies kindly acting as adjudica- tors: Mrs. J. 1. D. Nicholl, Merthyrmawr; Mrs. R. L. Knight, Tythegston Court, and Mrs. Godfrey Williams, Newcastle House. The Vicar of Newcastle (Rev. David Phillips) presided at the opening ceremony at three o'clock, which was performed by Mrs. R. W. Llewellyn, of Baglan Hall. The Vicar, in formally introducing Mrs. Llew- ellyn, said there was really no need for intro- ducing her to a Bridgend audience. He heartily welcomed her to the parish, and thanked her for coming to open an event in aid of the Girls' Friendly Society, in which he knew she was keenly interested. Mrs. Llewellyn, who was loudly applauded, said it was indeed a great honour to be al- lowed to open that interesting event. She had always taken a deep interest in the work of the Girls' Friendly Society, and was glad that the erroneous opinions held by her in by-gone days had been removed. One could not but realise what an excellent work the society was doing, and the ideals of the so- ciety were worthy of serious consideration. One of its chief objects was to teach girls to work for one another. The show that day reflected great credit on the girls of New- castle and the other exhibitors. Mr. S. H. Stockwood proposed a vote of thanks to Mrs. Llewellyn, and Mr. M. L. Letcher having seconded, the motion was car- ried with acclamation. Among the ladies who worked hard to en- sure the success of the show were Miss George (the Vicarage), Miss Stockwood, Mrs. Hard- wick, Mrs. Carie Evans. Mrs. D. James, and Mrs. Richard Evans. The local members of the Girls' Friendly Society presided at the tea tables, which were beautifully decorated. They included Misses Crocumbe, Lily Apse, M. Hardwick. Annie Davies, Felicia Evans, Dolly Willis, Gladys James. Ethel Purfield, S. Brown, J. Brown. Hettie Evans, Annie Roberts, Minnie Jones. Annie Jones, Maud Isaacs, Annie Smith. The making of the tea was entrusted to Mrs. Gomer Davies and Mrs Hurford. Those engaged in selling button- holes included Misses Olive James, Olfa James, Elsie Brown, and Winnie James. The show of flowers and vegetables was of a high order, the exhibits being of good quality. Handsome prizes were given by the Rev. and Mrs. Phillips. Mrs. S. H. Stock- wood. Mrs. Godfrey Williams, Mrs. R. L. Knight. Mrs. J. 1. D. Nicholl, Mrs. J. C. Coath, Mrs. Egbert Williams. Mrs C. H. Price. Mrs. Herdman. Mrs. Williams (The Rhyl), Mr. W. E. Lewis, etc. The winners of these prizes included the following: — Best Bouquet: 1, Dolly Bowen; 2, Jane Brown. Decorated Basket of Flowers: 1, Minnie James; 2. Maggie Hardwick; 3. Alice Jones. Table Decoration: 1. C. Crocumbe; 2, Jane Brown; 3, Maggie Hardwick. Bouquet of Wild Flowers 1. Olive James 2, Annie Wood; 3, Ethel Purfield. Flowers in Pots: 1. Dolly Willis; 2 divided between Ethel Purfield and Annie Davies. Merit prizes were awarded as follows:- Black currants, Mrs. Stiles, senr.; raspber- ries, Mr. Hodges; carrots, Mrs. Spencer- peas. Mrs. Moss beans. Mrs. Wyndham Ran- dall; pots, Mrs. J. Morgan; cabbages, Mrs. ,J. Morgan: lettuce, Mrs. Eli Evans; rhu- barb, Mrs. T. Tamplin Lewis; turnips, Mrs. Harry Stiles; cucumber, the Vicar of New- castle; beetroot, Mrs. J. Morgan; onions, Mrs. J. Morgan. In the evening a pleasant concert was held, a capital programme being carried out. The performers included the Excelsior Quartette, conducted by Mr. Tom Hopkins.

NANTYMOEL. Sunday School Trip.-The scholars and teachers attending Dinam C.M. Sunday School, Nantymoel, had their annual outing at Porthcawl on Saturday. The weather was not all that could be wished, yet a most en- joyable day was spent by the large company that journeyed to breezy Porthcawl. Sunday School Anniversary.-The Sunday School anniversary in connection with Horeb English Baptist Church, Nantymoel, was held on Sunday. The proceedings throughout were an unqualified success, and reflected the highest credit on all the workers in connec- tion with the school. The presidents, who very ably discharged their onerous duties, were Messrs. R. G. Lord, assisted by John Evans (morning); William Lewis (superinten- dent), assisted by John Lloyd (afternoon), and in the absence of Mr. John Allen through illness, the superintendent, assisted by Mr. G. Murray, presided in the evening. Crowded congregations assembled at each meeting, when appropriate recitations, dia- logues, solos, and quartettes were excellently given by the scholars. The singing of the choir, under the able leadership of Mr. Wm. Evans, was highly pleasing. Miss L. M. Davies. A.L.C.M., rendered excellent service at the piano. On Monday the scholars were given their annual tea. On account of the unfavourable weather, the usual demonstra- tion had to be curtailed, and the scholars, with their teachers, only paraded Ogwy, Commercial and Dinam Streets. The pro- cession numbered over 300, but another 100 sat down to an excellent tea. which was pro- vided in the vestry of the chapel. To the great disappointment of the children, the usual games had to be put off to a future date on account of the rain. Horeb School is the largest Sunday School at Nantymoel, the average attendance this year falling just a little short of 300. This must be highly en- couraging to the church, its Sunday School officers, and the esteemed pastor, the Rev. H. R. Byatt.

Caradoc Vale Disaster. Sir D. Brvnmor Jones has submitted an interim report of the inquiry into the recent disaster in the Caradoc Vale mine, which he undertook on behalf of the Government, but the final report will not be presented until the result of the trial at the Assizes is acer- tained. Sir D. Brynmor Jones and Mr. Lloyd Morgan will attend the trial on behalf of the Treasury to prosecute.

Presentation to Mr. W. Rees. NOLTON CHURCH CHOIRMASTER. At the National Schoolroom on July 19th a large and representative body, representing the choir and congregation of St. Mary's, Nolton, were present at a most enjoyable social evening, to pay tribute of their appre- ciation to the services rendered during the last seventeen years by the choirmaster, Mr. W. Rees, headmaster of the National Schools. The proceedings were under the presidency of the Rev. E. S. Roberts (Rector of Coity), who was supported by the Rev. M. C. Gower Wil- liams, Messrs. G. Harris, W. Walters, G. Pratt, W. Evans, Evan John, Howells, etc. The choir furnished the musical portion of the evening, opening with a rendering by the male voices of Who will o'er the downs" in nice style. I've something sweet to tell you," sung by Miss Delahay, was much appre- ciated. The Nolton Glee Singers (Misses Abbott, Delahay, Lewis, and Harding, and Messrs. Delahay,. John and Lafferty) gave The Hop-Pickers" capitally. The Rev. Gower Williams ably introduced the primary object of the evening. He said he could not speak too highly of the way in which Mr. Rees had carried out his duties as conductor. His exemplary moral character, his musical abili- ties and enthusiasm at all times, and the high standard set by him in his work, were re- ceiving a small token of appreciation that evening. Mr. Geo. Harris followed, heartily endorsing all Mr. Williams had said. With Mr. Rees it had been entirely a labour of love and the worth of it could not be adequately estimated. As one of the senior members of the Nolton Choir, Mr. W. Walters briefly portrayed the excellent feeling existing be- tween choir and choirmaster. The Rector, describing Mr. Rees as one of the most cor- dial volunteers he had known, formally pre- sented him with a drawing-room clock and a purse of gold. In thanking Mr. Rees for his services to the church for so long a period, the Rector spoke feelingly of the spirit of de- votion in which he had carried on his duty. Mr. Rees, who was most cordially received, was visibly affected. He said he had endea- voured to do his little to the best of his ability, and was sufficiently recompensed when his standard of art had been reached. On resuming his seat He's a jolly good fellow" was sung again and again. Some amusing stories and the song When I was a boy at school" by Mr. G. L. Lafferty, created roars of laughter. Mr. Evan John's render- ing of "Down the Vale" was in his usual good style. An interval, during which light re- freshments were handed round and small talk indulged in, was by no means the least en- joyed of the evening's programme. The catering, under the supervision of Miss Abbott, left nothing to be desired.' Part 2 opened with a solo, When the flowing tide comes in," Miss Abbott thoroughly deserving the rounds of applause. Mr. Tom Hopkins was quite at his best in the "Mermaid," and an encore was insisted upon. The Nolton Glee Singers gave" Dickory Dock" and Joy and Sorrow" (Sullivan) in very good style. Mr. Tom Phillips gave "Good Company" in a pleasing manner. Mr. W. Rees, in response to general request, gave a finished rendering of Old Madrid." The Nolton Choir Boys, in "Going to Bed," fairly brought down the house, and deserve every credit for a good performance. A vote of thanks to the chair- men, the Rector and Rev. M. C. Gower Wil- liams. was carried with acclamation, as was a similar vote to the artistes and committee. The National Anthem brought to a close a thoroughly successful and enjoyable evening. The clock, a very handsome one. of Algerian onyx and gilt, was supplied by Messrs. Beha and Co., Ltd., Bridgend. and was much ad- mired.

WEDNESDAY'S CRICKET. BRIDGEND Y.M.C.A. v. PORTHCAWL. At Bridgend. Scores:- Porthcawl. J. Towns, run out 2 8. Harris, b Thomas 0 Gomer Williams, run out 32 E. Pugh, c Griffiths, b Davies. 11 W. Williams, c Harris, b Diamond 31 Roy Jenkins, c D Griffiths, b Diamond 4 Rev. W. J. Phillips, c J. Dyer, b Dia- mond 3 R. Burns, Ibw, b Harris 0 J. H. ihomas, st., b Diamond 1 D. Llewellyn, not out 2 A. T. Morgan, b Davies 2 Extras 10 98 Y.M.C.A. W. Davies, st., b W. Williams 7 J. M. Griffiths, c., b W. Williams 29 F. G. Harris, c b W. Williams 6 D. Griffiths, b W. Williams 2 H. Davies, b G. Williams 2 A. Dyer, Ibw., b W. Williams 1 D. Thomas, b W. Williams 2 E. A. Diamond, b W. Williams 4 J. Dyer, b W. Williams 0 T. Powell, run out 2 W. T. Jones, not out 0 Extras. 6 61 BRIDGEND v. NEATH. The following will represent Bridgend at Neath to-morrow (Saturday): — J. M. Griffiths (capt.), T. D. Schofield, W. Wil- liams, A. L. Ward, A. P. Thomas, Roy Jen- kins, J. P. Williams, Lewis Thomas, Gomer Williams, T. E. Lewis, and S. Harris. Train leaves at 1.52. Players are requested to be at the station not later than 1.45.

LLANHARRAN. Brynna Cricket Club.-Open dates: Aug. 18th. 25th, September 1st, 8th, and 22nd.— Secretary, David, Brynna, Llanharran. 4268

SOUTH WALES POWER Co. IMPORTANT MEETING. DEBENTURE HOLDERS AND CON- SUMERS. A circular, signed by Messrs. Stanley Boulter, George Collis, A. M. Grenfell, R. P. Sing, and R. Fleming, members of the deben- ture stockholders committee of the South Wales Electrical Power Distribution Com- pany, called a meeting of the principal con- sumers of electrical power in South Wales for Wednesday last. This meeting (said the cir- cular) has been called to discuss with con- sumers the position of the company. The committee feel that it will not be possible to raise any further funds as authorised in the Bill now before Parliament unless the con- sumers in South Wales are prepared at once to enter into agreements to take such addi- tional power as will justify the raising of further capital. Should the necessary sup- port be forthcoming the committee would be prepared to advise their friends to find the capital necessary to place the company on a sound working basis. Mr. vharles H. Merz, who has already visited the district, will ex- plain to the meeting his views as to the pre- sent position and prospects of the undertak- ing. The meeting was held at the Park Hotel, Cardiff, on Wednesday, Mr. Robert Fleming, of London, presiding. He was supported by the following other members of the deben- ture-holders' committee: -Messrs. Stanley Boulter, A. M. Greenfell, Roger P. Sing. and George Collis, with the secretary (Mr. W. K. Whigham). Mr. Charles H. Merz. of New- castle-upon-Tyne and London, and Mr. W. A. Chamen, engineer of the company, were in attendance. The Chairman said it was no use reverting to the past, which had been most unfortun- ate, and he dared say the consumers were as indignant as the debenture and share- holders. Two or three months ago, for the first time, they were made aware of the pre- carious position of the company. They had conferences, and they immediately engaged the best engineering talent they could com- mand to come down and look the situation over, and they came to the conclusion that the concern was worth saving. Their next consideration was as to how it could be saved, from a purely financial point of view. They looked at the Bill promoted in Parlia- ment for increasing the capital of the com- pany, and they found it would not cover the ground. The Bill was radically changed, and had passed both Houses of Parliament. It was now only waiting the Royal Assent, and under this Bill they had power to issue securities that would enable them to do what they wanted—raise money enough to put the plant in first-class condition; in fact, to make an entirely new plant which would make power on most economical terms, and be reliable in every respect. The next ques- tion was. Could they get the money to do it ? They had come to .1 the conclusion that they could raise the money with "proper co-opera- tion and help on the part of the consumers, and that a first-class plant on which they could all rely could be placed in this dis- trict. Mr. C. H. Merz said he did not think there was any question at all that this district could be supplied with power much more cheaply from a central plant, from a compre- hensive system for the whole district than by individual plants installed by the different collieries. Speaking from a minute know- ledge of what was necessary to secure the greatest economy in power production, he did not know of any district in the kingdom where there would be more advantage from carrying out the scheme in a comprehensive way. They could go through any item or numerous items which made up the cost of power and find what a tremendous saving there was by centralisation. Let them take the capital cost. They could buy a 15,000 horse-power turbine for a third of the price per horsepower they had to pay for a 500 horse-power. What was the use of buying a lot of 500 horse-power turbines, or turbines of that order ? No doubt the cost of supply had come up before them in some detail in connection with the present scheme, but he would like to point out that the people who originated the old scheme made a great mis- take in the way they put thiners "before the consumers. He was a great believer in cen- tralisation. For that reason he was a dis- believer in doing the thing partially. The thing ought in the first place to have been put before the consumers in such a form that it would have paid them to use power for all purposes. It seemed absurd to him that they should have a hauling engine at a col- liery and displace it by a motor, and not drive their pumps or even their fans from the same source. It was the pumps and fans that consumed the coal, and the power was there to save the coal. What was the use of trying to run a power scheme by getting all the machines which did not consume coal and running them from A central spot and leaving all the pumps and machines, which were running continuously, to be dealt with on the spot ? Those were the very things which should be dealt with from a central source. Somehow or other this arose in con- nection with the starting of this business. The result was that they had not been given terms which would have paid them. From his knowledge of what had been done, the power was used chiefly for intermittent work, and the price they paid-three farthings per unit-put in that form would not be remu- nerative to, the company. What was re- quired was a form of tariff or sliding scale which would enable any colliery and any power consumer to run any class of machine with economy. He was satisfied that if they discussed the matter frankly and in the pro- per spirit, it was possible to arrive at a form of tariff or sliding scale that they could put on any motor for any purpose with the full assurance that it would pay them to do so. Mr. Chamen said that many present knew he had been speaking for some months on this question of a sliding scale. Several col- liery owners had come to him and said that they could not put their pumps and fans on to the company's supply at three farthings per unit. They had put on their haulages and saved considerably, but that had been unremunerative to the company. The col- liery companies having this flat rate before them had sought about to find the things which paid them best. No concern could make a living by supplying haulage at three farthings per unit. If they put in their own generating plant they at once proceeded to convert everything to electric driving. They put on their fans and pumps and everything else, and in that way they gave to themselves what was denied to the company, viz., a good load factor, and were comparing things which were not equal. He hoped some of the gen- tlemen present would state what they were, I prepared to do in the way of entering into binding contracts at a minimum price. That was the most businesslike way of dealing with the matter. Mr. Boulter said if the colliery owners in South Wales thought that the power scheme was likely to be of service to them in the future, if they were prepared to show that feeling by giving it active and definite sup- port, they (the debenture holders) would as- sist the colliery owers to find the £500,000, in order to put this concern on a sound finan- cial basis. Mr. Henry Lewis asked what the minimum cost to supply the current. Mr. Merz said if one was able to go round individual works and discuss the things in detail with each consumer it would be pos- sible to give that consumer a price in any form he liked it, either in a lump sum or so much per horsepower, or so much per unit. But he had got to give the prices which would, be applicable to any purpose—to a hauling engine or a winding engine, or a pump run- ning night and day. The only way to ar- rive at such a price was by stating it as a dead rent per annum and a price per unit. He had worked this out very carefully, and the tariff on the universal operation of which the gentlemen present would be prepared to find this capital upon was a rental of £1 per horsepower, demanded per quarter plus a unit charge. Sir W. T. Lewis: That is R4 per annum. Mr. Merz Yes, plus the unit charge. That rental of Bl per quarter was on the basis, not of the horse-power installed in the works, but on the horse-power demanded from the sys- tem. Supposing a consumer had two 100 horse-power motors. If he did not run these together, or if they had not their full load, he would not pay on the 200 horse-power. He would only pay on the load taken from the system. Jf they had in a colliery 20 or 30 motors installed—which they should have if they adopted electricity universally—all those did not make a demand upon the sys- tem together. Therefore, the demand they would have to pay upon would vary from 25 to 60 per cent. of the horse-power they had installed in their works. Certain prices had been put before them upon the horse-power installed in their works, but what he placed before them was a different matter. The unit charge in addition to that rental would be id. per unit. That was a very different matter from any prices put before them hitherto. In stating those terms he was asked to say that. with a view to arriving at a rapid conclusion, the committee had put these prices as the lowest they could enter- tain, and they must be based upon a sufficient amount of horse-power being guaranteed, and upon long-term contracts. This tariff was a favourable one compared with any tariff in vogue in the United Kingdom. It would not be possible in many districts, but the South Wales district was particularly favourable to power distribution. If the scheme was car- ried out they proposed putting cables over the whole of the district, so that any colliery could get a supply at a week or a month's notice. Replying to Mr. Vivian Rees, Ferndale, Mr Merz said that, first of all, with regard to reliability, it was possible now, hf the devel- opments which had taken place in the last five years, to provide a system which would be absolutely reliable. Sir William Thomas Lewis said he did not propose to offer any opinion upon the terms, as he was not an expert in electricity, but he supported the suggestion that they should be advised by some expert in the interest of the colliery owners. It was a very complicated question. In his (Sir William's) opinion it would be very lamentable in the interests of the colliery owners if this company failed al- together. Even assuming that a large num- ber of manufacturers or colliery owners had their own supply, he thought it would be an enormous advantage to them to have the chance of falling back upon a general supply of this kind in case of accident or strike, or anything that might affect the colliery at any time. Sir William Thomas Lewis then proposed the following resolution That a committee of consumers, with power to add to their number, be appointed to confer with the De- benture Holders' Committee with a view to a guarantee being forthcoming for taking a minimum of power at prices satisfactory to them, should the necessary capital be forth- coming, to place the power company upon a sound commercial basis." Mr. Henry Lewis seconded. The resolution was put and carried unani- mously.

It must be clearly understood that we do not hold ourselves re sponsible for the opinions expressed by our correspondents. CORRESPONDENTS must write on ONE BIBB of the paper only, and no letter will be published unless the writer sends his real name and address, not necessarily for publication, but as a guarantee of good faith.

BRIDGEND Y.M.C.A. GARDEN FETE. To the Editor. Sir,—I desire, on behalf of the Bridgend Y.M.C.A., to publicly express the grateful thanks of all its members and friends to Mr. and Mrs. Arthur J. Williams, of Plas-Coedy- mwstwr, for so kindly postponing until the 15th August, his reception of the members of the Debating Society, so as to enable them and their ladies to attend and support the Garden Fete at Elmsfield nt-xt Wednesday in aid of the Y.M.C.A. funds. I wish, with equal heartiness, to express our gratitude to the officers and members of the society, for their ready acquiescence, and our confident hope that this kindly action on their part will add zest and enjoyment to their own pleasant function. I am, sir, yours faithfully, T. J. HTJGHES. 11 Elmsfield, Bridgend. 25th July. 1906. I

TONDU FRIENDLY SOCIETIES' COUNCIL. To the Editor. Sir,—Kindly allow me a small space ill you? valuable paper to contradict the statement that the reason the Coytrahen branch of the Bristol and West of England Society did not turn out as usual in the annual demonstra- tion of the Tondu and Aberkenfig Friendly Societies' Council was that Mr. Edward Hopkin, one of the Council s committeemen, had given an address at tho Poor aw Coif- ference, at Brecon, on the Compensation Act in a manner which the branch did not ap- prove of. I may state that there was no re- solution to that effect passed at the branch, though a discussion took place on the ad- dressT There were several other reasons why the branch eould not see their way to turn out this year. I am. on behalf of the Coy- trahen branch, DAVID LEW^S, Secretary, Bettws. Aberkenfig, 24th July, 1906.

THE CAERAU OUTRAGE. EIGHTEEN MONTHS' IMPRISONMENT. At Glamorgan Assizes yesterday DaviijC Hopkins, 57, collier, of Caerau, pleaded guilty to outraging his daughter, Cendwen,. a. girl under the age of sixteen. Mr. Lovat- Fraser (instructed by Mr. Allen Pratt) pro- secuted on behalf of the National-Vigilance Society. The girl had borne a child, -and his Lordship, describing the case as one of the worst he had ever known, sentenced the prisoner to eighteen months' hard labour. Police-constable Kelland. in reply to His Lordship, said prisoner was a widower with eight children, of whom the girl, in question was the youngest but one. He had been a widower for ten years, Mr. Lovat-Fraser said the girl ha-d acted as housekeeper for the father, and he repeatedly sent the other members of the family out for walks, and then committed the offence iii question. Mr. Justice Jelf asked if there: was any overcrowding in the house. Mr. Fraser replied that he did not think so. His Lordship: Is it suggested, that a sirui. lar offence has been committed on the other children P Mr. Fraser: No, my lord. I understand only on this one. It was a matter of remark, in the family that prisoner treated this girl differently from the others. His Lordship, addressing- the prisoner, said this was a shocking crime, not onl) very wrong indeed against any girl, but espacIally so. against one whom he was bound, ty every; principle of life, to love and cherish. He, had been living with this poor girl as it she was hts wife. Inasmuch as she was between the ages of thirteen and sixteen years, th& law did not permit him to give prisoner more than two years' hard labour, and he had been considering whether, as it was one of the worst cases he had known, lite ought not to extend the period to the full' tw> years. But as it was a very heavv set/teuce, he had decided to commit the prisoner for. eighteen months with hard labour. The report of the Police-court proceedings will be found on our 7th page- Printed and Published by the Central Gla- morgan Printing and Publishing Company, Limited, at the "Glamorgan Gazette" Offices, Queen-street, Bridgend, in the Parish of Oldcastle, in the County of (Ve, morgan. FRIDAY, .JULY 27th, 1906.