The Amman Valley Chronicle and East Carmarthen News

AMMANFORD. A well-known local character was 'Vhy don 't you the other day asked, Why don't you join the Army?" "What!" he re- plied. Has General Haig been re- called?" V A fatal accident occurred at Panty- ffynnon Colliery, on Wednesday after- noon, "the victim being a collier named John Morgan, single, about 40 years of ae. who lodged in Wind Street, Ammanford. It appears that a tram being hauled up the deep became I derailed, and dislodged a pair of tim- bers, resulting in a considerable fall of the roof. Another man, Willie Francis, Tycroes, was injured, though not severely, and one or two others had slight injuries. On Thursday evening next week, lovers of refined inusic will have an opportunity of listening to the Amman- ford Ladies' Choir, in the Palace Theatre, who, under the baton of Mr. T. J. Rees, will render a series of glees and choruses. There will also appear a number of the leading local artistes, and those who remember the admirable concert of last year, as well as others who intend being present, may anticipate an even greater treat. As the proceeds are in aid of the Amman- ford Urban Council Our Boys Reception Fund, tickets should be taken as early as possible to ensure the success of the concert. Home Nursing.—An examination under the auspices of the Red Cross Society, on Home Nursing," was conducted recently in Ammanford by Dr. Phlllllips, Llandilo, when the fol- lowing candidates from the Amman Valley satisfied the examiner, viz.:— Miss Winifred Clutterbuck, Miss Annie Grace Davies, Mrs. F. T. Evans, Miss Dilys Herbert, Miss Florence Hughes, Mrs. Inman, Mrs. M. J. Jones, Miss Emily Jones (Llan- debie). Miss Maggie Harries, Miss Muriel Fisher, Miss Neilie Fisher, Mrs. Jno. Lewis, Miss Ivy Lewis, Mrs. Mary Roberts, Mrs. M. A. Thomas, Miss Violet Thomas, Miss Hilda Treavett, Miss Florence Jones, and Miss Letty Davies.

BRYNAMMAN. Under the presidency of Mr. D. D. Thomas, Tanymynydd, a successful eisteddfod was held at Bethania, sammaan, on Saturday evening. Mi. T. W. Jones accompanied; Mr. Evii4 Eyans, Grenfield, was secretary; arid Mr. Griffith Williams, treasuret. The adjudicators w--re:-Music, Mr. J. Pia Morgan; literary, Mr. D. B. Thomas. Appended are the decisions: --Solo under 9 (five competed): 1st, Mary Elizabeth Hicks, Rhos- 2nd, Katie Jones, Cefnbrynbra,in. Solo under 12 (five competitors): The first and second prizes were added and diivided equally between Ina James and Bessie Jones, Brynamman. Solo for girls under 16 (two competitors): 1st, Mary A. Jones, Cwmllynfell; 2nd, Mary Adelina Evans, Bryn- "amman. Solo for boys under 16 (five competitors): 1st, Willie Hicks, Rhos- amman; 2nd, Jacob Haydn Williaics, Brynamman. Bass solo (two competi- torsh Mr. Oliver Jones, Brynamman. Soprano solo: Prize .divided between Mrs. Esther Neidol and Mrs. Oliver Jones, Brynamman. Recitation under 12: ]st, Bessie Jones, Brynamman; 2nd, Tydwen Williams and Morfydd Bowen (equal); nine competed. Recitation under 16 (two competitors) 1 st, OIwen Bowen, Brynamman; 2nd, Hannah M. Bowen. Open recitation (five competitors): Prize divided be- tween Mrs. J. Trenchard and Mrs. « Olwen Jones, Cwmllynfell. Treatise (two competitors): Mr. David Bowen, Brynamman.

CROSS HANDS. The Medical Board conducted examinations at Tumble and Cross Hands last week. The Colliery Tri- bunal, consisting of Mr. Dyer Lewis, H.M.I, of Mines, and the assessors, Messrs. Evan Williams and 1. D. Morgan, sat and consideed the cases passed by the Medical Board. In aid of the Penygroes Silver Band, a concert was held at the Cross Hands Public Hall. Mr. D. F. Davies, M.E., presided. The follow- ing took part:Soprano, Mrs. Lang, Cross Hands; penillion, Mrs. Gibbon, Gorslas; tenor, Mr. Harry Williams, Cefneithin; baritone, Mr. Gwilym Evans, Cross Hands, and Mr. Dyfnant Davies; Penygroes; violinist, Master Morris. Penygroes; elocutionist, Miss A. Thomas, Llanelly. Selections were rendered by the band. Mr: Tom James. T-,C.L., accompanied.

CWMAMMAN. The pulpit of Bryn Seion Chapel was occupied last Sunday by the Rev. Ben Davies, Panteg, Ystalyfera, who delivered most powerful and impressive sermons throughout the day. Heartiest congratulations to Miss Rachel Ann Llewelyn, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thos. Llewelyn, Glan- amman, on her success at her recent pianoforte examination held under the London College of Music, in the Elementary Section. She received 90 marks out of a possible 100. The funeral of the late Mrs. Mary Hughes, who lived with her daughter and son-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. John I Thomas, Brynonen, Glanamman, took place last Thursday afternoon at Bethesda Cemetery. Deceased passed away at the ripe age of 96. She was better known in the district as Mari Hughes, Abergrenig." The funeral rites were performed by the Rev. John Thomas. A very pretty wedding took place at the Registry Office, Llandilo, on Saturday of last- week, the contracting parties being Mr. Maelgwyn Jones, the only son of Mr. and Mrs. Morgan M. Jones, ironmonger, Glanamman, and M'ss Annie Powell, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Powell, organist of St. David's Church, Maes- teg. We all wish the happy couple good luck. An excellent lecture was delivered to a large audience at New Bethel Chapel, last Saturday evening, by the Rev. J. Lee Davies, Brynamman, on the subject, Gwrthodwr y Goron." The chair was taken by Mr. Thomas Morris, J.P., C.C., Carnant. The. proceeds were in aid of Mr. Evan James, Orange Villa, Glanamman, who has been unable to follow his em- ployment for a considerable time. Amid every sign o-f deep sorrow and sympathy, the mortal, remains of the late Mrs. Lewis, the beloved wife of Mr. John Lewis, 9, Evans' Terrace, oeidrim Road, Glanamman, were laid to rest last Wednesday afternoon at Christ Church. bujrial-ground, Garnant, in the presence of a large number of mourners and sympathisers. The funeral rites werp performed by the Rev. Jno. Thomas, Bethesda, and the Rev. Wm. Williams, 'B.A., vicar. The deepest sympathy is extended to the bereaved husband and his four little children in their lrr^narakl/* Incc 'l' .'Vv. Last Wednesday evening, a "hearty welcome concert was held at Bryn Seion Vestry, in honour of Priv. David Griffiths, of the II th Royal Welsh Fusiliers, son of Mr. and Mrs. Wm Griffiths, High Street, who was home on ten days' sick leave. Priv. Griffiths has been on active service for many months on the Western Front and at Salonica. At the latter place he fell a victim to malaria, and was confined to hospital at Malta, where he was under treatment for many months, until he came over to this country to be treated in a hospital at Manchester. His health has now been completely restored. There was a very large crowd present at the concert, and all highly appreciated the programme. The chair was taken by the Rev. Rhys J. Huws, while Mr. Stanley Jones was the pianist, and Mr. Thos. Bevan the harpist. The following contributed to the pirogramme:Solos, Miss Jennie Evans, (Garnant), Miss Lizzie James (Garnant), Miss Blodwen Rees (Gar- nant) Madame Llewelyn-George, I Miss Daisy Williams, Mr. Tom Owens, Mr. T. L. Thomas, Mr. Evan Lewis, and Mr. John M. Llewelyn; recitations, Miss Nancy Jones, Miss EirHys Griffiths, Miss Annie James, Miss Ceinwen Jones, and Mr. Morgan R. Roberts; penillion singing, Master David Bevan (Berach Bach); pianoforte duet, Misses "LHian Jones and Doris Jenkins. The hero of the evening was presented with the amount collected by Mr. Thos. Thomas, The Schools, and also with a £1, cheque from the Soldiers9 and Sailors Fund, which he suitably ac- knowledged. The concert terminated with the singing of" God bless' the Prince of Wales and Hen. Wlad fy Nhadau." Priv. Griffiths left last Monday afternoon for Liver- pool. where he has to join the 3rd Royal Welsh Fusiliers.

GWAUN-CAE-GURWEN. I vwmgorse School War Savings Association is now up to £250. The fund was only started a week ago. Hearty congratulations to Master Edgar Morgan, Minyrafon, on dividing the first prize in the violin solo Com- petition at the Twyn Eisteddfod, on Saturday last, out of six competitors. On Sunday morning, our local squad of the V.T.C. turned out 'in full force for an inspection and route march under Lieut Kingdon. The marth taken was from Abernant Brewery to Khydyfro and back. On Saturday, a very smart wedding was solemnised at Christ Church, Gar- nant. The contracting partes were Mr. Willie Mason and Miss Winnie Moore, both of Tai'rgwaith., The duties of best man were carried out by Mr. Johnny Davies, Tai'rgwaith. On Thursday evening, at Siloh Chapel, a grand organ recttat and mis- cellaneous concert was held for the benefit of the widow of the late Mr. Morgan Roberts, Neuadd Road. The concert was presided over in a very able manner by the Rev. Clement Evans. Mis D. J. Evans, C.R.A.M., Gwaun-cae-gurwen, cleverly manipu- lated the organ, and he was, assisted by the following 'artistes:-Soprano, Miss L. A. Davies (Llinos Blaenau), Llan- debie; contralto; Miss Mary Rees, Gwaun-cae-gurwen; tenor, Mr. Gar- field Roberts, Brynamman; baritone, Mr. Evan Howells, Gwaun-cae- gurwen; elocutionist, Miss Bessie Roderick; penillion, Mr. John Evans, Cwmgorse. On Monday evening, at St. David's Church, Tai'rgwaith, a reception and presentation concert was held for Corpl. Albert Moore. Corp!. Moore has seen much active service, both in the Galli- poli campaign and in Iran-ce, where he was wounded. The meeting was very ably presided over by Mr. Willie Thomas, C.M., and Mr. Johnny Davies made an efficient accompanist. The hero was presented, on behalf of the Soldiers' and ^Sailors' Fund, iy Mr. David Jcnes, and Mr. Philip J. Rees made a presentation on behalf of the Ladies' Guild. The following contri- buted to the programme :-Mary Hughes, Oswald Davies Tommy Jones. Hannah M. Rees, Mrs. Usr, Mrs. Mason, Mr. Willie Thomas, Miss Beatrice Howe. Speeches were delivered by Mr. David Morris and Mr. Stanton.

I LLANDDEUSANT. I A successful concert, in aid of St. Dunstan's Home for Blind Soldiers, Regent's Parie, W., was given at the Council School, under the presidency of Mr. Morgan Jones, Cilbrydwen, who in his opening spech sympatheti- cally referred to the object of the con- cert, which was taking place when almost every family in the land is oppressed by grief or anxiety regarding loved ones sworn to defend the coun- try and the sanctity of its hearth. Not- withstanding these conditions, an in- fluential Ladies' Committee had striven to cast forth the spirit of gloom, and to strike a more joyful note in getting together a host of musical and literary talent. It would be invidious to indi- vidualise any performance. The con- tributions were all of a very high stan- dard, and much appreciated by a packed house. The concert will live long in the annals of the mountainous district of Llanddeusant, and bring much credit to Miss Mary Lewis, Miss Maggie Roderick, and Mr. Lewis Lewfe for the splendid programme they had pro- vided. A substantial sum will be handed over to the above deserving Home.

LIFE OF WORRY. "WH Y? Worry, Trouble, Anxiety, Irtitations, and Pain than Ailment of the SKIN, FLESH, BONE AND JOINTS. Immediate Relief is obtained if you only use GOMER'S BALM. My leg has been very bad for a long time, Burning Pain almost un- bearable, until I used GOMER' s BALM,' which at once eased the pain and very soon cured me." Gomer's Balm is now well known throughout the lands as the most useful and successful remedy. USE Gomel's Balm for All kinds of Skin Rash, Sores, Wounds, Ulcers, Cuts, Burns, Scalds, Excoriations, Abrasions, Bad Legs, Varicose Veins. I Gomer's Sctlm for Eczema, Breakings-out in Children's Heads, Ringworm, Gallings, Irrita- tions, Itchings, in Women and Children.. Gomel's Balm for Piles, Scurvy, Inflamed Corns, Bunions, and 'Gouty Joints, Rheu- matic Limbs, Stiff Joints: Lumbago. THIS VALUABLE REMEDY SHOULD BE KEPT AND USED N EVERY HOME. It will soon put an end to all Worry. Ask for "GOMER'S BALM," and see that the name in full is on the Box, also the name of "JACOB HUL*HE5," without which non* is genuine. Sold by Chemists and Stores at 1/3, 3/ 5/- (including War Tax), or send 1/4, 3/2, or 5/3 (in stamps or postal order) to Maker- Jacob Hughes. M.P.S.. L.D.S., MANUFACTURING CHEMIST, PENARTH. Cardiff.

< ;• <" -> « —. ■'» f i » K* t J I • CWMLLYNFELL. 'I The Upper Cwmtwrch Dramatic Society gave an excellent performance of the Welsh drama, Ar y Groes- ffordd (R! G. Berry ).! The orches- tra was led by Mr. D. L. Edwards, A.V.C.M.

LLANDEBIE. I Quarrymen's Wages.r—The quarry- men of Llandebie, to the number of 115, are dissatisfied with the result of negotiations with their employers on the question of an advance in wages. Mr. Jno. Twomey, general secretary of the National Amalgamated Labourers' Union, has presented the men's case to the employers, and* is requested to fur- ther press the matter and report to a future meeting. A resolution was also carried and ordered to be forwarded to the Carmarthenshire Education Com- mittee, to the following effect:—"We, the members of the Llandebie branch of the N.A.L.U., recognising that the elementary schools provide the only means of education for the huge majo- rity of the 'working classes, enter an emphatic protest against the continued degradation of our schools of the Car- marthen Education Committee, and, further, recognising as we do that within certain limits efficiency must bear some relation to remuneration, we cadi upon the Committee to review immediately the present grossly in- adequate salaries paid to its certificated teachers, and to pay some regard to the fact that the cost of living has increased as compared with pre-war cost by over 90 per cent." Mr. Dan Thomas, branch secretary, was the mover, and Mr. Jno. Twomey, in supporting the resolution, pointed out that the nation had 'shewn backwardness in the present national and international • crisis, and- this, he claimed:, was entirely due to the fact of insufficient education on the part of the present generation. On the other hand, Germany had shewn much scientific knowledge during the present war.

I LLANDILO. The death occurred, on Tuesday evening, of Master jack Williams, the 15-year-old son of Mr. Tom Parry Williams, stonemason, of Aeron House, who had been ailing for a con- siderable time. Much sympathy is felt for the parents in their bereavement. The following weddings are re- corded at the Registry Office, vit. Henry Walker, farm servant, Cross Road, Golden Grove, to Eleanor Watts, Broad; Oak, Llangathen; Join Ivor Jones, 2, Dogsbrook Terrace, Sairon, to Elizabeth Ann Williams, of the same address. 1 His many friends regret to learn that news has been received in reference to Priv. Alec Davies, son of Mr. and Mrs. J. Young Davies, that his wounds received in France have turned out to be mose serious than was anticipated. It is also reported that Sergt: Willie Davies, son of Mr. Thomas Davies, late Farmer' s Arms* who was wounded in France last July, had the misfortune, when convalescent,. during the recent frosty weather, to slip on the ice and break his leg. Anybody wanting a lesson in war- time economy should have attended a sal e of household furniture in the Drill Hall, on Wednesday. There was an admirable collection of articles, some really high-class, and these had drawn a considerable crowd. The result was that prices soared up, in many cases much above what the goods would have cost in a shop, to the satisfaction of the auctioneer and his clients, and to the amusement of several onlookers, who gibed among themselves at the keenness of Llandilo people for bargains! A: ""Gvvyl Dewi meeting was held in connection with the Young People s Guild, at Ebenezer, On Tues- day. Mr. T. C. Hurley presided, and songs were given by Miss Maggie Davies, Mr. Owen Jones, Mr. D. J. Rees, Miss Raddiie Richards, Miss M. Williams, Miss Cwennie Morris; a pianoforte duet by Misses Roberts and Davies; and recitations by Miss L. Davies and Miss R. A. Evans. The accompanists were Miss Williams and M;iss,kel,lie Griffiths, and the pro- gramme was arranged by Miss George and Mr. John Morgan.

LLANDYFAN. A most enjoyable evening was spent at Soar Chapel when the quarterly meeting was held. The members of the Sunday School were assisted by those of Caersalem, Drefach, in com- piling a most delightful programme. The meeting was ably conducted by the Rev. T. Thomas, pastor. Miss Muriel Thomas presided at the organ, and was kindly assisted by Miss M. Eunice Thomas. The Caersalern Choir was conducteed by Mr. A. J. Wil- liams, Hendy; the Soar Choir by Mr. W. Roberts, Cefnblewin; and the Juvenile Choir by Thos. Thomas, Tirygoitre. The following also took part:—Mr. Dl. Davies, Misses M. Eunice Thomas, Rose Smith, Ethel Rowlands, Elsie Rowlands, Annie Richards, Jennie M. Thomas, Muriel Thomas, Annie M. Griffiths, Maggie James, Anne Thomas, Maggie Davies, Charity Lewis, Florence Rowlands, Annie Mabel Thomas, Louie Lewis, Gladys Williams, Nancy Olwen Mor- gan, Dilys. Lewis, Carol.ine Evans, Miriam Thomas, Masters Mansel T. Morgan,* Harding Thomas, Gwyn Williams, Harding John Thomas, D. J Gri, Danny Jones, and Meurig' •Williams. The pastor warmly, thanked all who had. contributed towards the success of the meeting.

VALE OF TOWY. A miscellaneous concert was held at Llansadwrn Council Schools on Friday evening, presided over by Mr. Mervyn Peel, Danyrallt Park. There was a crowded audience, and the proceeds are to be handed over in presents to each of the local men that have joined the Colours. On Wednesday evening, a meeting was held at Llansadwrn Reading Room, when there was a splendid at- tendance of agriculturalists. The object was to form a Bull Club in coniunc- tion with the Board of Agriculture Live Stock Scheme. It was unani- mously resolved to form a club, and a treasurer and secretary were ap- pointed. We have this week to announce the sudden demise of Priv. John Davies, of the 3rd Batt. Welsh Regiment, now stationed at Rhyl, North Wales, which took place on Thursday after- noon last at Denbigh Hospital, after a few days' illness, at the age of 26 years. The deceased was the eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Davies, Llwyn- buch, Llansadwrn, and. had only been with the Colours for one month. He was well known and very highly re- spected throughout the Vale of Towy, and the news of his death cast a gloom over the whole neighbourhood. On Monday afternoon, amidst every mani- festation of sorrow and regret, a large concourse of people assembled to- gether' from far and near to pay him the last tribute of respect, when his body was conveyed by rail to Llan- wrda Station, to be interred at. the burial-ground attached ot Llansadwrn Parish Church. The Rev. L. Morris, vicar, and the Rev. D., Jones, curate, officiated at the church and graveside. whilst the Rev. W^. Llewelyn Davies, deceased 's pastor, gave out a hymn. a

The Sale of Potatoes. WARNING TO RETAILERS. The Press Bureau on Saturday issued the followincr- 4 The Prime Minister has" sent the following telegram to the Lord Mayor of Manchester in reply to a telegram:—• The difficulties which have arisen in certain districts in connection with the operation of the Potato 1916 Main Crop (Prices) Order of the 1st inst., have been considered by the War Cabinet. The Order was made by the Food Controller to insure that in the interests of the consumer the price should not be unduly inflated in conse- quence of the shortage of supplies. The recent prolonged frost has reduced the available stocks and interrupted their regular distribution. It has. accordingly been necessary to readjust as fairly as possible the interests of all parties. The depart- ments concerned have therefore at my request met and conferred with repre- sentatives of the wholesale and retail trades, and have submitted the follow- ing proposals, which have been ap- proved by the War Cabin-et:-The price which the growers will be en- titled to charge dealers and merchants for potatoes held after the present date up to March 31st will be £9 per ton, tree on rail or free on board. After that date the corresponding price will be £ 10. The price at which the growers or any other person may sell to the retailer will be £ 10 10s. until March 31st, and £ 11 thereafter, in addition to the cost of carriage. The price which the tetailer may charge will be Hd. per lb. up to March 31st, and H-d. per lb. there- after till the end of June. (Signed) LLOYD GEORGE." At Swansea Market, on Wednesday, a Gower woman, the wife of a farmer, owning a stall in the Market, included amongst her commodities two half-sacks of potatoes. These she offered for sale at 2d. per it. An in- tending purchaser offered I 'd. per lb., and an argument ensued. In a few moments another would-be customer appeared and was told that the potatoes were 2d. per lb, The two intending buyers tried to prevail on the stall- holder to sell at I Id., with no result. Further customers came, but still the woman obstinately stuck to her former 2d. per lb." Soon a crowd erE from 80 to 100 people, mostly women, gathered, and assumed quite a threaten- ing aspect. Some of the women shouted threats, and others shook their fists. Someone raised the sihout, If we can't get the potatoes for I id., we'l I get them for nothing and closed round the stall-holder, who, thoroughly alarmed, tried to pack up the bags, but ow d ?v "? the crowd would hot let her. Some- one rail for the police, and a constable was soon no the scene. Forcing his way through the crowd, which had jiow considerably increased, he expl ained that she had now to sell at lid.not 2d. Very considerately he advised her to sell iri lots of 2 lbs., so that the potatoes should go round as far a spossible. In the end a very frightened Gower woman was glad to get rid of the troublesome potatoes, and the pur- chasers were no less glad to procure the coveted luxury.

I ————————————— ——————— To Reception Committees. t!" f' f/i t, DO^amjyiidLto show your appreciation of the Services of 1J Tommy &-Jack in the manner most Valued by them ? You can do so by presenting a Medal, specially designed for the purpose by an eminent Artist, depicting Britannia presenting a wreath of laurel for valour to a Soldier and Sailor, with the circum- scription "Soldiers" and' Sailors' Reception Committee," and with space on other side for inscription. To produce this Medal, a set of dies (the property of the adver- tiser) had to be specially cut at considerable expense. Don't you think our brave lads will wear and show these with pride for many a long year ? Made in Gold and Silver (with ring to fasten to watch chain). Samples and Prices on applicattion to- TOM HARRIS, Jeweller, Cross Hands, Llannon, S.O.

I Progress of, the War. I Real Progress of the War. I GERMANS IN RETREAT. The German retreat on the Ancre, referred to in another column, continues at an accelerated pace and over a wider front. Three more villages have passed into British hands—Gommecourt, at the westernmost point of the retreat- ing line; Pruisieux, on the hilly ground between Gommecourt and the Ancre; and Thilloy, the nearest village to Baupaume, from which it is barely a mile and a quarter distant. North of Gommecourt our line has been ad- vanced 1,000 yards. A slight advance is also reported j near Saillisel, on the Baupaume-11 Peronne road, where we attacked and captured a portion of German trench and took 85 prisoners. No captures of prisoners or booty are mentioned in connection with the Ancre retreat. So far the German public has been given no hint of the retreat of their troops. There are many speculations as to whether the withdrawal will be con- tinued to Cambrai, with the object of shortening the line. Cambrai is about 30 miles east of Baupaume, and around it is historic and sacred ground. The front Cambrai—Le Cateau— Landrecies was the scene of the most glorious stand by our first Army after the retreat from Mons. Another day's fighting has removed the scene of operations in Mesopotamia to a point 30 miles above Kut, where an engagement is being fought in which the Turks are obliged to defend on J three sides. The scene of this battle is fifteen miles up-stream from the point where the previous day's fighting took place-an indication of the rapid rate at which the Turks are travelling. The gunboat Firefly, which was abandoned during the withdrawal from Ctesiphon in December, 1915, has been re-captured, while the Turks have also losf two other ships. Further cap- tures of prisoners include 360 taken on Monday and 161 on Tuesday. On the Eastern Front, another en- gagement has been fought in the Buko- vina, near the Roumanian border. The Germans attacked the heights on both sides of the jacobeni-Kimpolung road, captured several, but lost some when the Russians counter-attacked. Berlin claims nearly 1,300 pr isoners.

National Service for All. I.. WAR OFFICE PROPOSAL TO TRIBUNALS. The War Office makes the follow- ing announcement:— The military authorities will assist the National Service Department by persuading men to enrol, and have accepted the principle that military representatives at tribunals should, so far as possible, secure as National Ser- vice Volunteers all men who are exempted from military service, and they will urge tribunals to attach the condition of enrolment in the National Service Volunteers to exemptions granted provisionally upon finding work of national importance. Serving soldiers of lower medical categories, if at any time they become surplus to Army requirements, will be transferred to the appropriate class of the Army Reserve upon undertaking to enrol in the National Service Vol un- teers. ".0" The Army recruiting staff will, when opportunity offers, continue to effect locally cases of man-for-man substitu- tion, whereby, in exchange for a man in a category lower than B 1, a man outside the Army and fit-for general service can be obtained. RUSH OF WOMEN FOR FRANCE. I The call for women volunteers for work in Ijrance resulted in busy scenes at the headquarters of the 'National Service Department in London on Wednesday. From an early hour there was a steady stream of applicants, which increased in volume, until at noon the corridors were congested. Younger people predominated, and all classes were included. The task of interviewing the applicants kept the officials; of the women's section or the department working at high pressure throughout the enttfeday. A recisfr-r was taken of the names and qualifica- tions, and the suitable candidates will be sent for when required. 6c sent for w h en reqtn re d V ALL GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS TO SERVE. The following official announcement was issued on Wednesday night:— The. Government have decided that all Government officials between the ages of eighteen and 61 should 'serve as National Service volunteers; and the heads of departments are im- pressing upon all engaged in Govern- ment work immediately to enrol them- selves, so that should the necessity arise they may be at the disposal of the Director-General of National Ser- vice for use in tne national emergency." —

Coalowners and National Service. COLLIERS TO BE RELEASED. f' A largely-attended special meeting I of the coalowners of the Western Dis- trict of the South Wales coalfield has been held at Swansea, when the ques- tion was discussed of the utilisation for National Service of labour not required at the collieries" owing to the scarcity of tonnage. It was stated that thousands of men work only a few days per week, spend- ing the remaining days in idleness, and hundreds of horses have to be fed with hay and corn without giving an adequate return for food consumed. By recognising the fact that no material improvement can be expected in this district during the war, it is possible at most of the collieries to release a large number of men, amount- ing in the aggregate to many thousands, whose services could be utilised for the country's needs. A large number of horses could be brought out of the pits at once, and others in the spring, to be put either to useful work or turned out to grass in- stead of consuming hay and corn. The following resolution was unani- mously passed:— That this meeting of reprtseaia- tives of colliery owners of the Westera District of the South Wales coalfield" respectfully draw the attention of the Government to the waste labour in the collieries in the Western- District caused through lack of tonnage, and suggest the release of as many young men as can be spared consistent with the maintenance of the output of each colliery per month to approximately the same quantity per month as was pro- duced on an average for the three months ended February 28, 1917.

Conscience Men Charged. A court-martial assembled in Dublin on Wednesday for the trial of several members of the 4th Eastern Company, Non-combatant Corps, on charges of disobeying the lawful commands of their superior officers. Accused are all Englishmen, who were sent across to Ireland some time ago. The case of Priv. Hitzeburgher was taken first, and evidence was given that when ordered to dress in khaki he refused." Accused said he had previously served a sentence of 112 days' hard labour at Lewes Prison on a charge of refusing tq obey military commands, and nothing that had happened in the intervening months had shaken his faith m the principles for which he then stood. War to him was a negation of life, and an absence of reason. The Court adjourned.

The Chronicle 'will- be sent by post to any address at 3/3 for the half-yeu or 6/6 per annum, oayablr :n advance. NOTICE TO BUTCHERS AND OTHERS. Butchers and other tradespeople re- quiring clean waste papers cap be sup- 'plied at the C/iimilcle (jEce. AmmaxH f