The Glamorgan Gazette

ABERAYON POLICE COURT. I Saturday.—Be ton: Alderman Win. Llewellyn (chairman), Alderman John TL-omas, Col. J. 1. D. Nicholl, Dr. E. J. Parry, Messrs. R. L. Klligllt, Thomas Bevan, T. E. Lewis, T. ii. Hopkins, D. Lewis, Evan David and G K Blundeil. War Time Excess.—David Roderick, collier, Pontvcymmer, was fined 15s. for being drunk and disorderly in Budgeud Road, Pontycymmer, on Nov. 26th:-For a similar* ofience in Talbot Street, Maesteg, on Dec. 1st, James Evans, col- lier, Nantyffyllon, was also fined 15s. Straying Horse.—William Clarke, butcher, Keniig Hill, was tilled 5s. tor allow my a horse to stray on NOT. 28th. Fatal Failure of Non-Production—Ivor Jones, collier, Tondu,, was charged by P.C. Spencer (Bridgend) with failing to produce his motor- car license. The officer said that on the previ- ous Saturday he saw defendant with his car in Adare Street, Bridgend, and asked him for hit licence, which he tailed to produce, 'ihough he did not carry it with him on this occasion, de- fendant, as a fact, was in of a license. —lined 10s. Bad Words.-John Donovan, labourer, Maes- teg, was lined £1, and Mary Hopkins, of the same place, 15s., itir using improper language. I ndiscreet.-Lewis Bevan, collier, Pontycym- mer, was filled los. for an oience in Tempie St., Maesteg, on Nov. 27th. The constable who proved the case stated that defendant at the time was in drink. Out of Collar.-A rather excited defendant, by name John Davies, a stoker, of Maesteg, was summoned for owning a dog openly destitute of a cellar, with the inscribed name and address of the owner. A policeman, giving evidence, said that on the 7th November he saw the oolllrless dog ill th street, near defendants h<)tise. Dedfoeg L???nt explained -that his wife had taken off the collar to give the dog a bath.- Defendant now said "It's only a small pome- ranian dog, it is." Producing two callare, de- fendant protested that at the time in question the dog was "not outside the door. lhe Chair- man (to defendant) Don't let the dog again go out without a collar. You can go now. "Didn't Know It Was Necessary."—So said • Mis. Hannah Hopkins, Castle Street, Maesteg, on being informed by a Police Constable that the dog following at her heels was not adorned with the regulation collar.She was fined 2a. 6d. Registration Act.—The following were fined His. each for "failing to notify" ;-Ll. Horrigan, collier, Maesteg; William Horrigan, collier, Maesteg; and John Pettit, collier, Heol-Laethog. The latter, described as a "rfiendly alien," said he thought he was a British subject, because he volunteered for the British Army. After Hours.—Bridget MuTphy, shop keeper, Maesteg, was summoned for keeping her shop open after 9, and Geo. Griffiths, a collier, who at 9.30 on the same evening, negotiated for 3d. worth of sweets, was charged with aiding and abetting. The principal offen,der was ifn,(I +;I, and Griffiths 5s. Stiff Penal ities.-FAIgar Thomas, motor car proprietor, was fined < £ 2 for using a false iden- tification number in Commercial St., Maesteg, l lov. 4th; ..£1 :"ùrr using an unregistered motor u. and 10s. for not giving sufficient warning of his approach in Talbot Street, Maesteg.

"THE GENERAL PICTON," PORTHCAWL. Sunday Night Police Vigil. At Bridgend Police Court on Saturday- before Alderman W. Llewellyn and other Magis- trates—Mrs. Carrie Matthews, licensee of the General Picton Hotel, Porthcawl, was sum- moned for supplying liquor on a Sunday to George Bennett and Frank Cousins, both of Porthcawl.P.c. Vallance deposed that on Sun- day Last, in company with P.C. Stockford (Laleston) and P.C. Gomer W. Lewis (Bridg- end), he kept the "General Picton" under obser- vation from 7.15 p.m. At a quarter to 8 they saw two men leave the premises together by the side door. In the back room they overheard conversation, and looking through the window saw the curtain "had not been drawn close to one side." They saw the landlady bring in a glass of beer. In a moment, she returned with the empty glass, and brought in another full glass, and again returned with tlie empty vessel. J list afterwards, a man left the room, and went towards another part of the premises. W itness and Stockford went round to the side door, and left P.C. Lewis at the back door. Witness knocked at the side door, and upon its being opened by the licensee, they saw the man, whom they had previously seen leave the room, close by the door, which had been opened for their admittance. Seeing them, he attempted to pass through before they could close the door. Witness prevented him, and took him to the room they had seen him leave, and there they saw the landlady and her husband, and another man named Bennett, sitting$y the fire- As they entered, the landlady and her husband rose. Then he told Mrs. Matthews they had for some time had the house under observation, and on two occasions had seen her take a glass of beer into the room. She said, referring to the two men, "Tliey are my guests." Cousins said "I am here as a friend," and Bennett said, "I am here on business, and have had no beer." At the same time he got up from his seat (which was a low chair) and removed it so that they might look underneath it. Next he told the landlady they had previously seen two men leave the house, and asked her to account for that. She made no reply. Witness told the two men they would be reported for consuming beer. They then proceeded to the bar door, which was open. On the shelf were four glasses quite wet. In the bottom of one glass was a "small por- tion of beer." and in the bottom of another a "small portion of stout." On removing the glasses, it was found that the places on which they had stood on the shelf were "quite wet." The landlady's attention was called to this, and she explained that the glass had been "left over since Saturday night." He then pointed to the condition of the floor under the 2 casks, where there was a considerable amount in one case of fresh beer, and in the other of fresh stout. She said the "taps were leaking," but on examina- tion witness found that that was not so. They took possession of the glasses, and told Mrs. Matthews she would be reported.—Mr. L. M. Thomas put it to the witness that on the licensed premises there was no cask of stout on draft.—Do you know the difference'between beer and stout? Oh, yes. (Laughter.) Asked whether the contents of the glasses might not have been "hop bitters," witness answered in the negative, saying he looked in vain for the "head," which was always noticeable on beer. (Laughter.—P.C.'s Stockford and Lewis cor- roborated, after which Mr. L. M. T ho mass, for the defence, submitted that it was not reason- able to suppose all the incidents fitted conclu- sively as alleged, and arguing that the police story was "too tall" to be true in every particu- lar. If the police were satisfied that what they saw was beer, why did they make such a minute examination of the premises?—The landlady, a vivacious little woman-who gave her evidence in earnest and dramatic fashion—swore that Cousins was a friend, and Bennett was there on business with her husband, and neither of them, she positively averred, partook of any intoxicat- ing cbrink. She also said there was no cask of stout on the premises.—MT. Thomas: The police say they saw a cask of stout?—" They couldn't," replied Mrs. Matthews, "because we can't get any stout."—By Supt. Wm. Davies: I didn't bring in a single glass of beer.—Defendant's husband (Arthur Matthews), dentist's traveller, denied that his wife ever left the room to fetch beer, as alleged by the police.—George Bennett (Porthcawl), also a dentist's traveller, and in the same employ as the last witness, agreed that Mrs. Matthews did not leave the room until the police arrived, and beer was not supplied to either of them. Witness partook of tea in the kitchen.—After further evidence, Mrs Matthews was fined Y,3, and Bennet and Cousins £ 1 each.

BEVRN&Co., Ltd., CARDIFF, NEWPORT, PONTYPRIDD Abo., Predicted several Months ago a Famine in Furniture, and proceeded to cram every Branch wnd every Reserve Warehouse with Huge tocks of Furniture, Pianos, Carpets, &c., <&c., and are thus able to suppiy every- thing for Complete burnishing very much under to-day's Usual Prices! Furriiture FOR THE v" Mi(a llio of the: FURNITURE FAMINE! Has arrived Many Firms are very short of Stock We still have Immense Stocks Which we are offering much under the pr,: sent Values Delivery Free by Koad or Rail up to 2O(t railee from any of our numerous Branches. The Train Fares of Cash Customers paid.

ABANDONED BABY AT BRIDGEND. I Maesteg Soldier's Wife. "Couldn't Understand How She Did It." Accompanied by her father and friends, Martha Lewis, 15 Gelli Street, Caerau, a respect- ably dressed young woman, of 19, the wife of a soldier, who has been two years in Mesopo- tamia, attended at Bridgend Police Court on Monday, and (before Mr. D. H. Lloyd and Dr. E. J. Parry) answered a charge of wilfully abandoining her female child, aged 3 weeks, at Bridgend on Friday night, Dec. Tth.—Nellie j Lodwick (aged 12), Elder Street, deposed that at 6 o'clock on the night in question she was near the Bridgend Central Post Office, when a woman with a baby came up to her, and said, "Will you hold the baby, and I will return soon?" With that the put the baby, wrapped in a shawl, in witness's arms, and gave her 6d., dropped a parcel in white paper, and never re- turned. The baby began to cry. Witness took it to her mother, who gave it food, and herself stopped with a Mrs. Robbins, hoping the woman would return, but she never did.—Mr. D. H. Lloyd What became of the parcel? She picked ] it up, and took it away.—Would you know the woman again? iNo.-(Pointing to the defend- ant) Is that the woman who gave you the child?—I don't know.—Defendant, asked if she had any questions, replied in the negative.— Sergt. David Davies stated that from informa- tion received from the Bridgend police, at 3 p.m. on Saturday, he went to 15 Gelli Street, Caerau, and saw prisoner in her parents' house. He cautioned her, and asked "where was the infant child?" She at first replied, "I have given her to a lady in Cardiff, and she will adopt her for me." Witness afterwards tooK her to the Police Station at Caerau, and form- ally charged her with abandoning the child, Winifred May, aged 3 weeks and 3 days. In reply, she said, "I gave the baby to a girl, and went to the Railway Station. I thought some one would take her, and look after her."—Mr. D. H. Llo-d asked: Where was the baty born.— Inspector Rees Davies replied: At 14 Hlackstone Street, Cardiff.-Asked what she had to say, de- fendant began to cry, and said she couldn't understand how she came to do it.—The father said the girl had been working at Cardiff and Barry, and latterly she had stayed with him. One day they had a "couple of words," and, to his daughter he said in the heat of the moment, that if she wasn't careful she nor the child should stay under his roof. On that occasion he lost his temper, and perhaps he was a "bit to blame," and to some extent responsible. De- fendant had another child two years of age, and was in receipt of a separation allowance of 19s. 6d. per week.—At this stage it was mentioned thart a Porthcawl lady was willing to take the. child, and that defendant consented to the transfer.—Mr. Lloyd (to defendant) Are you willing to give the child away? Yes.—The Bench, after consultation, made an order for mother and child to go to the Union for a fort- night, Supt. Wrii. Davies meanwhile to make en- quiries if the lady was prepared to carry out her promise, and if so whether the home offered is desirable.

I PONTYCYMMER. D.C.M. Wounded.—We regret to learn that Sergt. Roney, of Pontycymmer, who has been awarded the D.C.M., has been severely wounded in. France by a gas shell, and is now lying at 83rd General Hospital, Boulogne. His wife re- sides at 34 Albany Road; Pontycymmer. All Garwite-s wish the hero a speedy recovery. I.O:G.T.-A meeting was held on Wednesday last week, the Chief Templar presiding. Solos were rendered by Sister P. Spear, Bros. J. Spear, E. Lewis, J. Föx, W. J. Totterdale, E. Greenslade, and recitations by Sister Rowlands and Bra, Bertie Bibbon. Bro. Job Fox deli- vered an address in opposition to the State Pur- chase of the drink traffic, and the members pledged themselves to support the crusade. All Saints' Church.—The readings" in con- nection with the above' church were held on Tuesday; chairman, Mr. Evan John. The ad- judicators were Mr. J. P. Jones (music) and Miss Comley (literature); accompanist, Miss S. Bale. Awards: Chief choral, "Evening Hymn," Tabernacle (conductor, Mr. Jenkins); Champion solo Mr. D. Lloyd Thomas, Ponty- cymmer. Bass or baritone solo: Prize divided between Messrs. E. Rosser and D. Luther Thomas, Pontycymmer. Tenor solo: Mr. G. Treharne, Pontycymmer. Novice solo: Mr. A. Whitford, Pontycymmer. Solo (for children under 12): Prize divided between Carrie Poor and Phyllis Treharne. Recitation for child- ren under 12: 1, Gwyneth Hopkins; 2, Dulcie Smith; 3, Bobbie Coleman. Best wit: Mr. A. Whitford, Pontycymmer. Best love-letter: Mrs. Phillips, Pontycymmer. Miss Escott gave a capital recitation. Mr. W. T. Morgan, hon. secretary; Mr. Coleman. hon. treasurer. Pontycymmer Sergeant-Major. — Company- Sergant-Major Zebina ddavies, Pontycymmer, has written to his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Davies, Blandy Terrace, Pontycymmer, as fol- lows:—"Just a line to let you know that I have arrived in England, and am at present in hos- pital at Hampstead. I daresay you have read of the big push at Cambrai and Bourlon Wood. It was at the latter place I got wounded. I was taken to hospital and operated upon. They told me I had been fortunate, as the enemy had only succeeded in fracturing the right front of my skull. The operation has proved beneficial, and I am progressing satisfactorily." Sergt.- Major Davies enlisted soon after the outbreak of war, and his promotion has been rapid. In civilian life he was employed as a haulier at the Ffaldau Collieries, Pontycymmer, where his father is employed as overman. Tabernacle.-The quarterly meetings of the above church were held last Sunday, when Mr. James Garfield presided at the afternoon meet- ing. The scholars of the following classes took part:—Mrs. (Rev.) David Hughes, Miss Jennet Hill, Mrs. David E. Morgan, and Miss Ceridwen Hughes. Recitations were given by Gwyn Smith, Gwvneth Thomas, Nancy Jones, David M. Richards, Eluned Hill, Olwen Richards, Olwen Smith; and solos -by Ceridwen Harris, Florence Edwards, Doris Edwards, and Gladys Thomas. At the evening service Mr. J. R. Jones presided. Solos and recitations were given by Eynon Rosser, Mary E. Samuel, David J. Davies, Nancy Jones, May Garfield, Arthur Whitford, John Lewis, David Lloyd Thomas, Gomer Treharne, David L. Thomas, Bradford Evaii,4, Hemy Williams, and Thomas Roberts. Great praise for the excellent programme pro- vided is due to the two superintendents, Messrs. E. T. Evans and John M. Owen, and the secre- tary, Mr. Llew. Harris.

MAESTEG. I Jumble Sale.-A jumble sale in connection with Dr. Barnardo's Homes (local committee), under the presidency of Mrs. (Dr.) Davies, of Brynllynvi, was held at the English Congrega- tional Vestry on Wednesday last, and realised a substantial sum towards the funds. Accident.—Mr. Wm. Williams, of Bethania Street, met with a serious accident at the St. John's Colliery, Cwmdu, on Tuesday last week, whilst following his occupation as a collier. A large piece of coal gave way, and caught his leg between a post. He was conveyed home on a stretcher. Medical aid was summoned, and upon examination it was found necessary to am- putate one of his legs below the knee. Church Appointment. Councillor Alfred Nicholas is to be congratulated upon his elec- tion on the Governing Body of the Church in Wales. Out of 41 nominations, he came next on the list to Lord Aberdare, and was bracketed for the position with Mr. Lovat Eraser. The voting power was in the hands of the laymen of the diocese, and Mr. inichola-s' popularity among Church workers has thus been made manifest. Lecture.—Rev. T. R. Davies, Vicar of Llanfi- hangel-y-Creuddyn Ceredigion, delivered his I popular lecture on "Chwyl y byd hwn," at the Church Hall on Monday evening. Councillor Jenkin Jones, M.E., presided. The rev. gentle- man also occupied the pulpit at St. David's Welsh Church on Sunday. Omission.-W,e inadvertently omitted the name of Rev. J. T. Rees, minister of Saron Welsh Congregational Chapel, as presiding over the installation services of Rev. J. Rhydynog Evans, at Siloh, Nantyffyllon. There were 50 delegates present from Carmel Chapel, Treher- bert. "Day of Praise. "-Bethel English Baptist Church held a "Day of Praise" on Sunday last, Mr. T. J. Gimblett presiding over the morning service, which was devoted to the junior section of the church. At the afternoon service Sir W-. Beddoe Rees, Cardiff, presided. The evening service was presided over by the pastor (Rev. E. W. Probert). Each of the presidents delivered an excellent address. Mr. Tom Lloyd conducted and Mr. R. Ferrier presided at the organ. The singing reached a high standard. The conduc- tor was highly complimented by Sir Beddoe. Rees on the singing. The choir was ably as- sisted by a string quartette, under the oonduc- torship of Ir. Stanley Rees, A.C.V. Potato Exhibition.—An exhibition of potatoes in great variety was held at the Workmen's In- stitute on Saturday evening. Large numbers of gardeners and allotment holders attended. Much interest was taken in the new variety, the "Majestic," a wonderful cropper, which is quoted by some firms at 28 per cwt. At the close of the exhibition, a public meeting was held, when addresses 'were delivered on food production by Mr. Wolf (inspector of the Board of Agriculture), Mr. Chas. Yeo (county expert), and Mr. Wm. Skinner (secretary to the Mid- Glamorgan federation of Allotment Holders). A hearty vote of thanks to the speakers con- cluded a most instructive and edifying meeting. Funeral.-Tlic- funeral took place last Friday week of the late Mrs. Hilda Griffiths, wife of Mr. Jansen Griffiths, formerly of Bridgend, and now of Lloyds Bank, Llandrindod Wells, and daughter ot Mr. and Mrs. Rees Williams, of PorthcawL The deceased died at her parents' house at Porthcawl, where a short service was heid, conducted by Rev. D. A. Davies, Llandrin- dod Wells, assisted by Rev. H. P. Soutjkwell, Porthcawl, and Rev. T. Mardy Rees, Neath. The interment was at Llangynwyd, and a ser- vice was held at Bethesda Chapel, conducted by Rev. D. A. Davies. Rev. Gwilym Res. M.A., Merthyr, and Rev. J. T. Parry, Maesteg, also took part. Rev. D. A. Davies officiated at the graveside. Hero Entertained.—A smoking concert and presentation meeting were held at the Star Hotel, Maesteg, to welcome the return home on lave of Pte. Evan Williams, of Ty Bedw, Llwy- darth Road, who had just arrived from France. Mr. Gwilym J. Picton presided with character- istic geniality. In the course of his speech he said that Williams and himself were particular friends, as when he first entered the mine he worked with him (the speaker). A good musical programme was gone through comprising solos by Mes:ors. Will Floyd (Treherbert), Samuel Davies, Wm. Hughes, Masters Cynwydd and Willie Beynon, Messrs. D. P. Thomas, William Davies, loan Davies, G. Treharne, W. Jarvis, J. Jarret, Wm. Fear, Isaac Davies, T. Howells, and A. Howells pianoforte solo, Mr. T. Lloyd, and a solo by Miss May Williams. The Chair- man then, on behalf of the Soldiers' Welcome Home Committee, handed Mr. Williams a silver cigarette case and a purse of money, as a small token of their admiration and respect. Mr. Williams briefly replied. He said he valued more than anything else the warmth of their welcome, and the enthusiasm with which they had organised the concert. The singing of Hen wlad fy nhadau," led by Mr. Isaac Davies, and a hearty vote of thanks to the Chairman, brought a most enjoyable evening to a close. Choral Society for National Eisteddfod.—On Wednesday evening last week a public meeting was held at North's Memorial Hall for the pur- pose of considering the advisability of forming a Choral Society to represent Maesteg and dis- trict at the next National Eisteddfod at Neath. The hall was packed. Mr. Evan Williams (chief clerk to Mr. Vernon Hartshorn, J.P.) was voted to the chair. Mr. Tom Lloyd (Castle Street), who had convened the meeting, was ap- pointed secretary pro. tem.-It was unani- mously resolved that a Choral Society be formed, and those present promised the move- ment suppoo. Four nominations were put for- ward for the conductorship, viz., Mr. W. J. Watkins, Mr. David Watkins, Mr. Richard Powell, and Mr. Glanville Davies. A letter was then read from Mr. David Watkins stating that in.the event of being nominated, he desired to withdraw, on the ground that his choir had already decided to compete irrespective of any decision arrived at at that meeting.—The Chair- man, after reading the letter, proceeded with the three remaining nominations for selection, with the final result that Mr. W. J. Watkins, conductor of the Nantyffyllon Harmonic Society, was appointed. Mr. David Powell (colliery checkweigher) was appointed secretary, and Councillor Wm. Jon, Garth, treasurer. A strong and influential committee was elected, consisting of four mem bers from the Caerau, Nantyffyllon, East and West Wards, and two representatives were given to Cwmfelin district.

A Smoking Concert and Presentation took place on Wednesday last week at the Corbett Arms Hotel, Ogmore Vale, in connection with the welcome home soldiers' committee. Mr. R. T. Lewis (manager, Lewis Merthyr Collieries) presided. In the course of his remarks he paid a, glowing tribute to the work of the committee on behalf of the brave lads. There was a splen- did attendance. Sergt. Lewis Lewis, R.W.F., of Ogmore Vale, made the presentations. The best local talent had been requisitioned, and a most enjoyable evening was spent.

"3 ——————————————————— NANTYMOEL. ) David James, junr., Prize Drawing. Winning numbers :-1279; 1242; 629; 819; 495; 2217; 291; 1532; 653; 293; 1252; 1127; 353; 827; 1042; 1164; 573; 1477; 1517; 1518. 1760 Congratulations.—We warmly congratulate Miss Wheeler, the daughter of oilr respected stationmaster, upon her recent appointment as headmistress of the Aber Girls' School, Ogmore. She was selected from among a Ion., list ot appli- cants. Half-Yearly Meetings.-Special preaching ser- vices were held by the Hope English Congrega- I tional Church on Saturday evening and Sunday last. Professor D. P. Edwards, M.A., Brecon, I was the special preacher for the occasion. There were good congregations, and the mess- I ages were exceptionally apt to meet the needs of the present time. The people listened with 'I interest and appreciation. Saron Y.P.S.—On Tuesday evening, Dec. 4th, Rev. T. Mansel Thomas, Ogmore Vale, gave a very humorous and instructive lecture on a. t quaint old Welsh character, "Will Benja." There was a good attendance, and Mr. Thomas was accorded a hearty vote of thanks for his ex- cellent lecture. Miss Rhoda Williams rendered,! a solo, and Mr. Job Baker presided in his usual genial manner. Interesting Presentation.—A goodly number gathered at Dinam Hall on WeduMay evening last week for a very worthy purpose. The Co- operative Society at Nantymoel is an import- ant and prosperous concern, which has been in existence for over 21 years. At first it coin- menced in a small way, with only 70 members, now it has a membership of 2,200. The society was fortunate in its choice of a manager in the j person of Mr. Daniel Enoch, who has filled the position in an efficient and comm«mdable man- ner. The employees and other friends thought it beooming to present him with a testimonial at the end of 21 years' service. The idea was taken up enthusiastically, and everything worked smoothly. One hundred guineas were collected, and a < £ 50 War Bond and a handsome stick were given to Mr. Enoch; a silver tea and coffee service, with silver. plate, to Mrs. Enoch; and a valuable dressing-case to Miss Gwennie Jones, their adopted daughter. The meeting was presided over by Mr. Worthy Boobyer, and the following spoke:—Messrs. Gregory, Gwilym Thomas, Kendrick Jones, Lloyd, Dyas, and Rev. J. E. Rees. They all bore high testimony to the sterling qualities of Mr. and Mrs. Enoch, and told how they had won general confidence and respect. They also paid tribute to the wisdom and insight of the manager. Songs were sung by Mrs. Kinsey- Roberts, Mr. Orlando Howells, Mr. John Hughes, and Mr. Mansel Griffiths. Mr. Enoch, in responding, said he sincerely valued the ex- pression of confidence and satisfaction. The lhual vote of thanks closed a pleasant meeting,

GARW GLEANINGS (By LLOFFWR ARALL.) i We are pleased to inform all Garwites who subscribed towards the cricket set that Mr. Morgan Hughes (treasurer) has at last received a letter of acknowledgment from Sgt. J. Wile. It transpired that Sgt. Wile has sent two letters, which appear to have been lost in tran- sit—hence the delay. • • • It was observed that some of our local minis- ters were seen enjoying themselves immensely during "the pictures" at a recent benefit con- cert. < A Ponty surface worker wanted something to hold up the cable wires while he repaired them. He was offered a 60lb. sledge hammer, and a pal with him was seen holding it. Brainy bit of work! < A gentleman meeting another from hi? native heath, greeted him with the remark that a snake was meeting a snake. They were evi- dently Aberdare-ites! • • • Outside a local business premises was seen a queue conducted by the police. • • • The order of the day was "March on"—pre- sumably a new title for butter! • • • We beg to announce to Garw wives, depen- dents and pensioner soldiers, that the authori- ties have decided to pay two weeks' Army al- lowances next week, so they'll be all right over I Christmas! I • • • "Oh, mummy, where's my doggie?" cried a I local wireless operator, but no trace of the ani- mal could be found. Was he later .heard singing, "Oh where, tell me where, is my little doggie gone" Blaengarw Chntches have united for the pur- pose of making presentations to their soldiers and sailors coming home. < < We are pleased to note the young gent who I was not allowed to hold a fur for fear of the "Gleanings" has still the pluck to carry a harp before a large crowd. 0 0 9 He apparently fears the "Gleanings" far more than a crowd of a thousand people! 0 A local lady has taken to knitting at concerts —certainly better than over-much talking. < < A Blaengarw miner was seen carrying butter to an official. 8. This is certainly one way of greasing the wheels! 8 • • A "sportsman" at the lower end of the valley who went out shooting rabbits returned minus his dog. < Is it true he shot the dog in mistake for a rabbit? A rare bit, that! • • • A wag from the lower end of the valley gives the following advice, from past experience, to those who go the pace at Crristmae time:—"Go upstairs backwards"! w < < Who were the two ladies who could never get up early? < < Were they suddenly disturbed by a trap placed in the room containing a live rat?

Farmer's End. On Friday night John I Griffiths, farmer, aged ie, who lived with his brother-in-law at Blaencwmdu Farm, Maesteg, was found dead hanging by the neck in an out- house at the farm.

I BLAENGARW. Bethania.—Special services were held on Sat- urday, Sunday, and Monday, Dec. 1st, 2nd and 3rd, when powerful and inspiring sermons wete preached by Revs. E. Edmunds, Swansea, and, D. C. Joile4, Penygraig. The services were much appreciated. Others who took part were Revs. E. M. Evans and J. Hughes, Blaengarw; C. J. Pipe, Tylagwyn, and D. Jones, missioner from the Congo, who is home on furlough. Mr. T. B. Richards, A.C., conducted the singing and also presided at the organ. Bethania Baptist Church. The Young People's. Mutual Improvement, Society met on Thursday, and the meeting was weU attended. Soioe were sung by Selwyn Gummer and Miss M. Jenkins; duet, Misses Ethel and Bronwen Francis; recitations, Idwal Jones. A paper was read by Mrs. John Lewis on "Purity of Mind and Language." The speakers were Messrs. W. John, David J. Parry, John Bowen, John Fran- cis, and Rev. W. Thomas. Mrg. John Griffiths was the accompanist. Mr. David Meredith pre- sided. Bethania Soldiers' and Sailors' Presentation Fund.—A meeting wae held at the above church to make a presentation to Bomb. T. Eynon, R.F.A., home on leave from France. Unfortun- ately, Bombardier T. Eynon was unable to be present, having been confined te his bed for some days. The programme consisted of the fol- lowing items :—Solos, Misses Gladys Davies Winnie Tliomas, Francis M. Davies, and Mr. David Hughes; recitation, Mr. Wm. Howells. Mr. Tom 5ones children's choir gave a selec- tion, and a quartette was rendered by Mr. Jno. Francis and friends. Mr. David Howells and Mr. David Evans spoke at the meeting. Rev. W. Thomas presided. After the meeting, the Chairman and some of the members of the committee visited the sick soldier, and pre- sented him with a Bible and an electric torch. Benefit Entertainment.—A grand perform- ance of the farcical comedy, entitled, A Tight Corner," was given, in full character, at the Workmen's Hall, Blaengarw, on Wednesday last week, by the Blaengarw Dramatic Society, in aid of the widow of the late Mr. John Gear. Mr. Evan David, J.P., was the chairman. The characters were:—"Jack Hyacynth," Mr. J. J. Williams; "Samuel Qusyle," Mr. A. Gwynne; Borrington Skews," Mr. G. H. Simon; "Mrs. Pertwee," Mrs. A. Gwynne; "Clara, the Maid, Miss R. Morgan; Mrs. Jack Hyacynth," Miss A. Morris; "Carmen," Messrs. Joe Williams and G. Rastall. The performance was a huge silc- cess, the hall being filled to its utmost capacity. Mention should be made of Messrs R. Pritchard, J. A. Williams, E. Vaughan, Bert James, D. J. Vaughan, and Rev. J. Davies, L.D., for assist- ing in arranging the scenic effects. The party .filled their parta remarkably well, and much credit is due to Mr. A. Gwynne, the energetic organiser and stage manager. Competitive Concert.—The usual monthly competitive concert held in connection with St. James'' Church took place at the Church Hall on Tuesday evening, rr. C. Sansom presiding. Mr. David Lewis adjudicated, and Miss F. E. Waite, A.L.C.M., acted as accompanist. The (children under 8) 1, Miss Beattie James; 2, Master Cyril Gough. Child- rent's recitation: 1, Master Idwal Jones; 2, prize divided between Misses Maggie May Wil- liams and Nora Morris. Married women's solo: Prize divided between Mrs. Young and Mrs. C. M. Lewis. Riddles: Mr. J. Jiones. Open solo Mr. Bert Apsy. During the pro- ceedings a presentation of a wallet of notes was made to Batman W. Ingram, R.F.A., by Mrs. Warden. The artistes were Miss G. Waits, Miss Lily Dent, Mr. David Lewis, Miss Irene Rich- ards, Mrs. Warden, and Mr. A. Davies. The usual vote of thanks was accorded. Mr. J. J. Williams was the secretary. Presentation Meeting.—A social evening to do honour to Pte. R. Roberts, 18th Welsh, an old chorister at St. James' Church, took place at the Church Hall on Thursday evening. A large number assembled. The Rev. J. Davies, L.D., presided. The following contributed to the pro- gramme:—Solo, Miss G. Waite; solo, Mr. David Lewis; recitation, Master Idwal Jones; solo, Mrs. C. M. Lewis; pianoforte solo, Miss S. Singleton; conj uring, Batman W. Ingram, R.F.A.; solo, Mrs. C. M. Lewis; recitation, Master Idwal Jones. The presentation was made by Mr. C. Sansom to Ptfe. R. Roberts of a wallet of notes. Speeches were made by Mr. Sansom, Mr. H. B. Jones, and the Chairman. A pleasant evening was brought to a close by the audience taking part in. game's, and the singing of .the National Anthem. Miss F. E. Waite was the accompanist, and Mr. H. G. Simon acted as hon. secretary.

OGMORE VALE. j Sacred Concect.—A grand sacred concert took I place on Sunday week at the Ogmore Vale Workmen's Hall, in aid of the Soldiers' Wel- come Home Fund. Mr. E. Hares (Brviiawel) presided, and was supported by Mr. E. Ratrray and Mr. James Harrison, who gave spirited speeches on behalf of the boye who are doing so much for us. The following artistes gave their services free:—Soloists: Misses Olive Bease and Elizabeth Davey, Messrs. Jas. Rees, Idris Cooper, W. H. Thomas, Oakley Morris, and G. Kinsey; elocutionist, Mrs. (Dr.) Ander- son; violin soloist, Miss Ceinwen Kinsey. Mr. W. H. Capel presided at the piano. Buffs."—A grand smoking concert took. place on Monday last week at the Ogmore Valley Hotel, under the auspices of the Nanty- ddrys Lodge of Buffaloes. Mr. D. L. Richards (manager of the Wyndham Collieries) presided, and was supported by Mr. Hockridge. There was a large attendance. Everything passed gff in a very satisfactory manner. The Chairman opened in a spirited and patriotic address, and the following artistes took part:—Pianist, Mr. G. Orchard; songs, Messrs. H. Edwards, J. Morris, Thomas (ex-sergt., Welsh Guards), G. Orchard, E. Bryant, F. Chatfield, Rufus Williams, and Effie Thomas; recitations, Messrs Morgan Jones and S. Adams. Speeches were made by Mr. Hockridge, Mr. Price, and others. Mr. W. J. Burford made an able and efficient secretary. Salvationist's Brave Deed.—The following in- teresting letter has been sent by Pte. Samuel Tozer, a brother of Mr. Arthur Tozer, 29 Sunny- side, Ogmore Vale :—"Dear Brother,—After being sick, I was sent to hospital, and in due course reached the casualty station, whence I was sent to a base hospital for an operation. During my stay there, I volunteered for trans- fusion of blood to a badly wounded so ldier. I did not know the poor chap, but eventually I got his name and number. His name was L.- Cpl. Housley, of the Yorks and Lancashire Regt. He was doing well when I left him next morning, and I believe he is still alive. I gave about a. pint and a half of blood, and am still in hospital, and have to undergo another oper- ation. I enlisted in October, 1914, and have had close on three years' active service in France."

MAESTEG URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL. The monthly meeting of the Maesteg Urban. District Council was held at the Council Offices- on Tuesday evening last week, vlion there were present:—Messrs. John Hocking, J.P. (in tlh& chair), William Jones, Henry Laviers, H. M. JÜllS, Jenkin Jones, Rees Griffiths, T. E. Hop- kins, J.P. Alfred Nicholas David Morris, John. Evans, C.C., A. J. Hicks John Hughes, Philip, Jones, and Thomas Lewis, J.P with the clerk. (Alderman E. E. Davies), the engineer and sur- veyor (Mr. S. J. Harpur), and the sanitary in- spector (Air. G. E. Howells. The Clerk read a letter from Rev. C. P.. Thomas, secretary of the Maesteg Free Church; Council, stating that at a meeting of that body,. held at Tabor Chapel, Rev. T. H. Morgan (Libanus, Garth) presiding, a resolution was passed protesting against the action of the U.D. Council in granting the use of the Town Hall for a boxing tournament, which wa% detrimen- tol to the morality of the district. The protest had been submitted te the various congregations- giving a list of the chapels where the resolution, had been carried, and asking the Council to for- bid granting the use of the hall for boxing tour- naments and dancing. Councillor William Jones said he very much resented the action. taken by. the Free Church Council in flaming: .such an indiscreet resolution. They would at least expect that a body of gentlemen holding: high and responsible positions would make- quite certain of their ground before indiscrimin- ately casting reflections upon the Council. That body had nothing whatever to do with the let- ting of the Town Hall for the boxing to-urna- ment. Everything that took place was at a. meeting of the War Charities Committee, where, an application was made by himself (Councillor Jones) for exemption under, the War Charities. Act from the entertainment tax, as the proceedq. wi-re to be devoted to the Cottage Hospital. The meeting was not concerned as to the place. of holding the tournament, neither were the- words "Town Hall" used. For these reasons he- proposed that a letter be written to the Free- Church Council informing them of the fact.— Mr. Alfred Nicholas seconded.—Mr. David Morris moved as an amendment "that the- thanks of this meeting be sent to the Free- Church Council for the action they had taken in. the matter." He certainly understood that the- application waS made for the use of the Town; Hall for a boxing tournament, and that it was. granted by a majority of the members voting in. its favour. The Free Church Council had a. right to take up the matter, and if they had not done so they would have utterly failed in their duty.—Mr. Thos. Lewis, J.P., seconded the amendment, and said the argument brought up' that the Council had not consented to let the- Towr. Hall for the boxing tournament was a. "made up thing."—Councillor Jones wanted to know how this impression got out?—Councillor < John Hughes said he would like to explain why the Caerau Churches had not taken part in the- protest. It was because he attended the meet- ing, and explained the matter to themCoun- cilloT T. E. Hopkins refuted the accusation by Councillor T. Lewis that the argument was a "made up thing."—On being put, the motion was carried, only Messrs. Jenkin Jones, Thomas- Lewis, and David Morris voting for the amend- meitt.-Th-e Clerk: Now. the vote is passed, I may say that Councillor Morris is wrong-the- matter never came before the Council, but be- fore the War Charities Committee, who have- nothing to do with the morality of the town. As a matter of fact, the hall had been let before the application for exemption was put forward lat this committee. The tournament was not i run by the Red Cross. Society, nor under the. auspices of the Cottage Hospital Committee- the tickets simply mentioned that the proceeda- I I-,ciild be handed over to the Red Cross Commit- te*. I A letter was read from Mr. F. Skinner, secre- tary of the Nantyffyllon Allotment Committee, asking for the co-operation of the Council in arranging an exhibition of produce for next year. It was decided to give the matter hearty support. Councillor J. Evans thought the. Council should adopt the Allotment Act, so as to give holders security of ten-ure.-This was- agreed to.Alr. Alfred Nicholas impressed upon, the Council the desirability of granting facili- ties to suitable applicants to take up fresh plots- for further cultivation, as the efforts already made had a good effect in view of the shortage of food in the district.-Gouncillor Alfred Nicholas (in consequence of no applications- having been received for a junior clerk for the. surveyor's department) proposed that the work be transferred to the rate collector's depart- ment, and that the rate collector be allowed a junior clerk.—Mr. T. B. Hopkins seconded, and it was carii,-d.-Afr. Rees Rees (agent for the- Celtic Collieries, Garth) wrote stating that the- Company were not responsible for the diversion; of the river near the old Maesteg Farm, and re- ferred the Council to a letter from the Company upon the same question, dated 26th June, 1913,. when it was decided that a committee of the- Council, consisting of Messrs. Jenkin Jones,. David Morris, John Hughes, and H. M. Jones, together with the surveyor visit the spot and re- port.—A notice of motion by Mr. T. E. Hopkins, that Inspector Canton be paid £10 for his ser- vices as inspector of vehicles, was carried. '1 r.

NANTYFFYLLON. Jerusalem C.M.—A grand concert was held at the above place on Tuesday evening of last week. The Trinity Choir, under the conductor- ship of Miss Jennie Griffiths, rendered their ser- vices. The choir scored a great success, and Miss Griffiths deserves much praise for its effi- ciency. The meeting was presided over by Miss- Sophia Bowen. The duties of accompanist were. ably carried out by Mr. W. B. Evans. The pro- gramme was opened in grand style with the. choir in The Fishermen's, Chorus." This was- followed ];y Mi.-s Jennie Griffiths, who sang The Songs of Wales" very sweetly. Miss Phyllis Novello Davies recited "Y Deryn Bach". very effectively. "How can I comfort thete?'* sung by Miss M. A. Evans, was well received. The choir fcLowed with "Duw a sycli bob devgryn" (encored). Miss Bessie Bevan was heard to advantage in her rendering of "Meso- potamia" (encore-'). Miss Annie Phillips greatly pleased the audience iti "Thore's a Land," which was encored, and she responded with "Perfect Day." The duet, "Tell me,. Gentle Stranger," by Misses Evans and Griffiths, received loud applause, and was en- cored. The choir contributed H Ar lau Iorddeu Ddofn" (T. Gabriel). The drama- tic manner in which Miss Phyllis Davies recited "Guilty or Not Guilty" called for an encore, which was responded to. The quartette, Ti wyddost beth ddywed fy Nghalon," was feel- ingly sung. A humorous sketch, entitled, Rhanu'r deisen," enacted by Misses Melodia Evans, Bevan and Martin Edmunds, created, much enjoyment. Miss Griffiths again contri- buted a solo. The programme closed with th& choir singing "In this hour of Softened Splen- dour." A hearty vote of thanks was accorded to all who had taken part, and a pleasant even- ing was brought to a close by the singing of the National Anthem.