The Amman Valley Chronicle and East Carmarthen News

NATIONAL EGG COLLECTION FOR THE WOUNDED. To the Editor, Amman Valley Chronicle. Si ]r,- Your readers will be interested to learn that, in conjunction with the Ladies' Kennel Association, Incorporated, and Our Four-Footed Forces," we are organising a special" Dogs' Week for November 16th to November 23rd. The idea is that every dog in Great Britain should for one week collect Eggs and Egg Money for our Wounded Soldiers in the Base Hospitals in France. ave: 41),000,000 Eggs have already been gi en by the public to date, but a million are neetled each week to satisfy all demands. Th" following rewards are offered to dogs taking part:— To ev-ry dog collecting 48 eggs and over —a Certii.cate. To every dog collecting 240 eggs and over —an Inscribed Collar. To the three dogs collecting the highest number of eggs-three M- dais. To every child's dog collecting 48 eggs or over-a Ceiwficate. To every child's dog collecting 240 eggs and over-an Inscribed Dog Collar. To the three dogs, owned by children, collecting the highest number of eggs-three Medals. Egg boxes will be supplied tree on i and eggs may be sent in these by passenger train free of charge to the N.E.C. Central Egg Depot at 30/31, Great Queen Street, Kingsway, London, W.C., whence they will be sent direct to the Hospitals in France. Any help the dogs of your district can give will be appreciated by the Wounded, by Yours faithfully, F. CARL, I Hon. Director.

AMMANFORD. I Don't forget the Grand Competitive Con- cert at Llandebie on Saturday next. Cham- pion Solo, S4; Champion Recitation, £ 2 2s. Record entries! Keen competitions! Priv. Bernard Fletcher, Royal Welsh Fusiliers, son of Mr. and Mrs. Thos. Fletcher, newsagent, College Street, has been home on leave from Heme Bay, Kent. He returned to his duties on Tuesday. O.S. Joe Griffiths, son of Mr. and Mrs. David Griffiths, Wind Street, who is in the Royal Navy, has been home on short leave, looking fit and well. Before joining up he was engaged as a haulier with his father. Priv. Trevor Jenkins, son of Mr. and Mrs. Jenkins, Villiers Road, who is attached to the Royal Engineers, is home on leave from Bedford Signal Depot. Priv. Jenkins is well known in the district as an accomplished musician, and holds the degree of A.L.C.M. A very large number of Ammanfordians attended the fair held at Llandilo on Mon- day last. Vehicles were on the move at an early hour, and the trains were crowded with people who were going to the fair. In most of the compartments there were at least 20 people. Priv. D. Williams, a son of Mr. and Mrs. Williams, of Waunfarlais Farm, Amman- ford, is home for a few days' leave from Ireland, where he has been in training for some time. Priv. Williams looks well after his experience in the Land of the Shamrock. Priv. W. J. Lloyd, whose home is in Llandebie Road, has written to his parents conveying the news that he is suffering from the 'Flu," and that he is a patient at a Sheffield Hospital. Priv. Lloyd was home on leave a few weeks ago. His many friends wish him an early restoration to health. Priv. D. Morgan, R.A.M.C., son of Mr. and Mrs. David Morgan, 61, Margaret Street, is home on fourteen days" leave. Priv. Morgan enlisted in October, 1915, and has been in France for 2 years, but was latterly at Tournai, Belgium. Previous to enlistment he was employed at Ammanford Colliery. Priv. David Jones, son of Mr. and Mrs. 1. Caleb lones, 5, New Road, was home on s hort leave during the week-end. He as attached to the Royal Air Force, and is stationed at Blandford. Previous to enlist- ment, Priv. Jones was in the scholastic pro- fession, and latterly held the head-teachership of Nantygroes Council School. i At Skewen Cage Bird Society's show on the 9th inst., Mr. W. Lodwick, of 3, Union Street, won the following prizes with his canaries:—! st and special in the Yorkshire Class, 2nd in the Norwich Class, two very highly commendeds and one commended. Such a record illustrates the quality of his exhibits. Mr. Lodwick is well known as a very keen cage bird fancier. Congratulations. Sergt.-Major Owen Roberts, who is at- tached to the Royal Welsh Fusiliers out in Salonica, has written to a relative stating that he has been awarded the D.C.M. He has seen several years' service in the Army, and has won a distinction of which we feel proud. Sergt.-Major Roberts has a large number of local boys in his company. His many friends congratulate him on the distinction he has gained. There was great excitement in Ammanford when the glad tidings were -made known that Germany had agreed to an armistice on Mon- day. Residents of the town were acquainted of the fact by the obvious hooters which were blowing, and in a few minutes the town p-J _n attractive carance. Flags and bunting were in great demand, and great crowds of people assembled in various parts of the town to discuss the good news. On Wednesday, the 6th inst., the funeral took place of Mr. Fuller, of 3, Norman Road, the place of interment being St. Michael's Churchyard. The deceased, who had been discharged from the Army, was a painter by trade, but had latterly been work- ing at Tirydail Colliery. He succumbed to pneumonia after an attack of influenza. A sad feature is that this is the third death in the same family since April-the others being two children. Intimation has been received by Mrs. W. H Williams, of College Street, that her husband, First Class Stoker W. H. Williams, has been promoted to be Leading Stoker. The hero has seven years' service to his credit, and has taken part in the Jutland, Dogger Bank, and other naval engagements. He is well known and very popular, and his recent promotion will give great pleasure to h: s many friends. We extend our congratu- lations to him. The United Fellowship Meeting, held monthly under the auspices of the Free Church Council, was held at the English Congregational Church on Thursday even- ing last. In the absence of the appointed chairman, the Rev. W. Nantlais Williams presided. The Rev. W. E. Thomas, Eng- lish Wesleyan minister, delivered a masterly address on Jesus Christ—The Young Man' s Hero." Others who took part were Messrs. James Lewis, Sam Roberts, Henry Julien, and T. Rosser. The special prayer and thanksgiving meet- ing for the signs of peace, which had been fixed by the Free Church Councj some time ago to take place on Monday and Tuesday last, were, most remarkably, held on the very day upon which Germany signed the armistice terms. The prayer meetings were very impressive. On Monday morning, the service was held at Bethany, and in the Even- ing at Ebenezer Baptist Chapel. On Tuesday morning, at 10 o'clock, another prayer meet- ing was held at Ebenezer Chapel, and was very impressive. ■ On Saturday last, the funeral of the little girl ? Mr. and Mrs. Griffiths, of 2, Tyle- gwyn, TIfydad, took place at Bethany ?,lia,- ground, and was largely attended. The deceased Was a scholar of Elim Sunday School, and was a very popular little girl. The. scholars of the above Sunday School, 1 together with the teachers, attended the funeral. The Rev. W. Nantlais Williams officiated. Great sympathy is felt with the I family in the tragic loss of their little child. The co?in was surmounted by several beau- tiful floral tributes. We regret to record the death, which occurred op Saturday morning, of Mr. Jonah Williams, Bettws. Deceased, who was only 26 years of age. was a baritone vocalist of exceptional promisee ?nd always ready to give his servicesia aid of any charitable cause. He was a frequent competitor at eis- teddfodau, and a less frequent winner. The cause of death was pneumonia following an attack of influenza. The funeral took p lace on Tuesday at Hen Gapel burial- ground, Bettws, the Rev. B. Ellis Jones, B.A., officiating. Great sympathy is felt with th: (Ww au, young children in their loss. News has been ic ived by Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Thomas, or 99. College Street, that their son, Bombr. T. H. Thomas, who w, attached to the R.F.A., has sustained a deep wound in the thigh during recent fighting in France, and that he had been transferred to •c'• -•" War Hospital. Bombr. ThoITc nas served for over three years on the Wes- tern Front, and was formerly a prominent member of the Tirydail Cowboys A.F.C. His numerous friends wish him a speedy recovery. Bombr. Thomas has two brothers in the Army, Battery Sergt.-Major David Thomas, who has been serving in France for several years, a-id ( Priv. Danny Thomas, who is also doing his bit in France. On Tuesday last, the mortal remains of Mrs. Thomas, the beloved wife of Mr. W. Thomas, M.E., manager of Pantyffynnon Colliery, were laid to rest at the Christian Temple burial-ground. The funeral was largely attended, and was fully representa- tive of the wide circle in which deceased and her respected husband moved. The Rev. D. Tegfan Davies, deceased's minister, officiated at the house, and was assisted in the Christian Temple by the Rev. D. E. Harris, Rev. W. Nantlais Williams, and the Rev. Meirion Williams, Mr. Gwilym R. Jones presiding at the organ. The deceased was of a most kind disposition, and the hand of friendship so cordially extended will be missed by many. Touching references, bear- ing testimony to Mrs. Thomas warm-hearted and sterling character, were made by the ministers officiating. Beautiful floral tributes, with their silent but eloquent testimony, bore the following names:—F rom Husband and Son; from Blodwen and Lizzie; from Dick and Family; from Olwen and Mary; from Mr. D. Morris Evans, Nursery; from Messrs. Hughes and Phillips, 36, High Street; from the Neighbours; and from the Pantyffynnon Colliery Officials. The deepest sympathy is extended to Mr. Thomas and his only son in their sad bereavement.

BRYNAMMAN. Among the many soldiers at home is r light Sergt. Walter Howells, Rose Cottage. Sergt. Howells was latterly on service in the Dar- danelles, and has been through the world- war campaign. He also took part in the South African War with the Mounted Police. He looks well, despite his great and trying expenences. The regrettable news has reached Bryn- amman that Lieut. Frank Howells, son of Dr. and Mrs. John Howells, Swansea, has suc- cumbed to fever in France. Lieut. Howells had been through almost the whole campaign, and passed away, as it were, at the dawn of peace. Dr. Howells is the son of Mrs. Howells, Rose Cottage. On Sunday and Monday evening, the Rev. J. Vernon Lewis, M.A., officiated at the half-yearly preaching services in connection with Gibea, together with the Rev. Rees, Ystradgynlais. Large congregations listened to forcible Scriptural discourses. Mr. Thos. Howells led the singing, and Mr. D. D. Williams presided at the organ. During peace celebrations on Monday even- ing, Ceredig Llewelyn, about 8 years of age, and son of Mr. and Mrs. Thos. Llewelyn, New Road, was struck in the eye either by a stone or a cracker, and so injured as to necessitate his removal to Swansea Hospital. At the time of writing, fears are entertained that he will be deprived of the sight of the injured eye. On Saturday evening last, the Rev. J. Vernon Lewis, M.A., Liverpool, opened the winter session of the Brynamman Welsh Society with an appropriate address dealing with the benefits and advantages accruing from such a movement. There was a strong assembly, which highly appreciated his re- marks. Many new members were enrolled at the close of the meeting. The Rev. W. D. Thomas occupied the chair. The Brynamman lady vocalists have decided to formulate a Ladies' Chpir in the village. The idea has been accorded a hearty welcome amid the female choristers. The movement promises to become a very success- ful one. Madam Kate Morgan-Williams has been elected conductress, and the choir in- tend giving their concert on March 1st. The proceeds will be devoted towards military charities. There is ample material available. With a little perseverance and fidelity the movement should develop into a great factor 7 -i-xll' 0 mns.U*r*l 1;(.. \v;t "¡'l1t the male choristers? News has been received by Mr. and Mrs. David Evans, Cannon Street, that their son, Priv. J. Elwyn Evans, has been seriously wounded. Such was the first report to hand. Subsequently the parents have had a note from their injured son, written by himself, that he is better, and is being treated at a French hospital. It appears that Priv. Evans was hit by a shell bullet, and has been injured in the right shoulder, the missile penetrating the affected part. It is hoped that better news still will be received by the parents. The unfortunate incident happened on November 5th. The hero had only been in action since October 11th.

CWMAMMAN. Don't forget the Grand Competitive Con- cert at Llandebie on Saturday next. Cham- pion Solo, 14; Champion Recitation, i2 2s. Record entries! Keen competitions The death took place on Monday of Miss Lilian Jones, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Evan Jones, Bodiwan, Glanamman. Deceased was a faithful member of the Bryn Seion Congre- gational Church, and took active part in all the organisations connected with the church. She was a member of the choir, and her ser- vices as accompanist in concerts and children's meetings were frequently requisitioned. Her death, at the early age of !9, of pneumonia, is greatly deplored, and heartfelt sympathy is extended to her parents and their only son, David Aeron. The interment took place to- day (Thursday) at the Old Bethel Cemetery.

cwrLL YNFELL A reception concert in honour of Sapper Maldwyn Bevan, R.E., and Stokers Watkm Thomas and Johnny Lewis, R.N., was held at the Council Schools, Cwmllynfell, on Monday-evening, under the presidency of Mr. D. Morgan, who, on behalf of the inhabi- tants, presented the guests with suitably inscribed gifts.

LLANDEBIE. Don't forget the Grand Competitive Con- cert at Llandebie on Saturday next. Cham- pion Solo, £ 4; Champion Recitation, £ 2 2s. Record entries Keen competitions We have this week to chronicle the df r, of an old inhabitant, in the person of r.: T. Davies, The Mill, and we tender to all the family our deepest sympathy. We hear that the funds of the Reception Committee are at the moment very low, an& it would be well if the committee moved: ?;• the matter at once, as we shall soon have the hoys coming home. The 'Flu is now abating, and the schools were re-opened on Monday, whilst j'1 the evening a service was held in the Parish Church as a thanksgiving for the vic- tory of Right against Might. There were great rejoicings in the village on Monday when the news came through that the armistice had been signed. A general hoiday was proclaimed on Tuesday, and many of the villagers journeyed to Llandilo Fair, where the Feed the Guns campaign was held. Will all inhabitants interested in the pro- posed Memorial Hall please note the an- nouncements of the public meeting to be held on November 21 st, and that their attendance is especially asked for, to hear what has already been done in the matter, and also to I have a report of all monies received and in hand?

LLANDILO. II Don t forget the Grand Competitive Con- cert at Llandebie on Saturday next. Cham- pion Solo, 14; Champion Recitation, £2 2s. Record entries Keen competitions All Hallowtide Fair was held on Tuesday and Wednesday. Live stock of all kinds shewed a decided downward tendency. l Horses, in instances which would have reached £ 80 a few weeks ago, were down to 150. We are pleased to note that Mr. D. Ambrose, 2, Brisken Terrace, Llandilo, has been appointed Collector of Income and Land Tax for Llandilo-fawr in succession to Mr. Wm. Thomas, Crescent House, resigned, who had held the post for 40 years. Services of praise and thanksgiving were held at St. Paul' s Wesleyan Chapel on Monday last under the auspices of the Welsh Nonconformist Churches of Llandilo. A ser- vice wa also held at the English Congre- gational Church at 7 p.m. Arrangements are also being made to hold a series of meet- ings under the auspices of the Welsh Non- conformist Churches. Miss Thomas, the secretary, wishes to thank most gratefully all who so generously re- sponded to her appeal on behalf of the Society in Aid of Poor Ladies, and espe-, illy those who worked so hard to make the sale of work a success, and also those who kindly helped to defray the expenses. The fund amounted to S-38 15s. to the head secretary of the Society, who also wishes to return her warmest thanks to the subscribers. The winner of the shawl rame was Mrs. Thomas, Glaspant, Ffairfach. The joyful tidings of the signing of the terms of the armistice by Germany were re- ceived at Llandilo about 11 a.m. on Monday. The hooters, whistles, church bells, &c., were soon in evidence, and cheers were everywhere raised. The town crier announced the same in the streets, and almost every business premises closed up for the day. The Feed the Guns Week being held at Llandilo from the 11th to the 16th, the glad tidings were quite opportune. The captured gun was brought into position in the Square opposite Red House, and speeches were delivered by Mr. A. E. Harries, J.P. (Chairman of the Llandilo Urban District Council), Mr. Henry W. Jones (Vice-chair- man), as well as many others. In the even- ing, a public meeting convened as part of the I Feed the Guns propaganda was held at the Shire Hall, presided over by Mr. A. E. Harries. The special speakers were Mr. Glyn Davies, B.A., Aberavon, and Coun- cillor Peter Wright, of Newport, who set up a stirring appeal in aid of the cause. It was resolved, on the proposition of Arch- deacon Robert Williams, seconded by the Chairman, that a telegram be sent to the Prime Minister early next morning asking for a special message from him to the people on this memorable occasion. Llandilo' s quota was "50 000, and this was exceeded by Tuesday evening. It is with sincere regret that we have this week to chronicle the death of Mrs. Ada Maria Williams, the beloved wife of Mr. Thomas Michael Williams, ironmonger, 24, Rhosmaen Street, which sad event took place on Wednesday of last week from influenza following confinement on the previous Mon- day, at the age of 29 years, after a married life of about three years. The baby is a boy, and we are told is doing well. The funeral, which was a very large and repre- sentative one, took place on Monday after- noon last, the place of burial being the Bethel burial-ground, Rhosmaen, where her parents, who predeceased her, are laid to rest. A short service was held at the house, conducted by the Rev. E. J. Rees, Aber- gorlech, and the Rev. D. P. Roberts, M.A., B.D., and the burial service was conducted by the Rev. Wm. Davies, pastor of Taber- nacle and Capel Newydd, assisted by the Rev. Stephen Thomas, of Siloh, Penybank, and Salem, Llandilo, and the Rev. W. H. Harries, of Penrheol, Llandilo. The chief mourners were:—Mr. T. M. Williams (hus- band) Mr. Howard Thomas, Corner House, Llandilo (brother) Miss Rebecca Thomas (cicter) Micc Ha vies, Corner House (aunt) Miss Davies, Cwmcib (aunt) Mr. and Mrs. Griffiths, Glenview Villa (uncle and aunt) Mr. and Mrs. Thomas, Pantyffynnon (uncle and aunt) Mr. Thomas, Trccorwg (uncle) Mr. Thomas, Brynamman (uncle) Mr. Thomas, Brynmorfa (uncle) Mr. Thomas, Rhydcwmerau (uncle) Mrs. Thomas, Letty (cousin) Misses Griffiths, Dolbont, Nant- garedig (cou&ins) Mr. and Mrs. Morgan, Brynmorfa (cousins) Mr. and Miss Harries, Tirydail (.cousins); Mrs. Harries, Llandebie (cousin) Mr. and Mrs. Williams, Hendy (father-in-law and mother-in-law) Misses Williams, Hendy (sisters-in-law) Staff- Sergt. Williams (brother-in-law). The floral tributes were numerous and most beautiful.

PENYGROES. Don't forget the Grand Competitive Con- cert at Llandebie on Saturday next. Cham- pion Solo, 14; Champion Recitation, £ 2 2s. Record entries Keen competitions We regret to hear that Mr. and Mrs. John Roberts, Gate Road, Penygroes, have re- ceived official intimation of the death in action, somewhere in Salonica, of their son, Sergt. Emrys Roberts. After the above information came through, a rumour got abroad in the locality that Emrys was alive and a prisoner of war. We sincerely hope this is the case, but up to the present his parents have heard nothing to that effect. This is the second son they have lost in this war, Priv. E. J. Roberts having made the supreme sacrifice about nine months ago. The sympathy of the locality is with Mr. and Mrs. Roberts in their sad bereavement.. We are pleased to hear that 2nd-Lieut. John D. Morgan, son of Mr. and Mrs. T. Morgan, Bryncwar, is on the road to recovery from wounds received to the right forearm on October 20th in a battle just outside Le Cateau. Jack." as he is familiarly called, has been m a London hospital for some time, and expects to zo to a convalescent home in Cardiff next week, which means that he will soon be back home again. We all wish Jack a speedy and complete re- covery. Considering all the hardships he m>.Iergor>e, we cannot helo looking upon I 1-j-. beiiir a lucky mail. i-ie was one of the first to eiihsr from our village, and has only been in hospital on this one occasion. ? he news of the armistice being signed was ,ec"d with demonstra';ons of great joy cn Monday at f ?nygroe?. As soon as the news arrivcc, flags aad bu!< ;r.g App, ared in pro- fusion, and in less than ha,f an hour the streets Lacked as though the whole British I Army to .march t hrough. The children welccn.ed the news i" ,he noisiest possible j man.r. by hunting --L-n all the old tins and j fcranag te rr,selves into M impromptu band. the ev ling, at 7.30, the adults formed a Drocession, headed l'y the Penygroes Silver i Band, under the conductorship of Mr. David i -Vi'iiams. The children tried to drown the rains of the band by singing all the latest patriotic songs. The procession started at the lop of the village, and marched through the principal streets, returning to the Square or Cross from which the village derives its name. Though the affair was impromptu, everyone seemed to have turned out, and a vast assembly listened to some able speeches in the meeting on the Square. When Mr. D. Lloyd George's name was mentioned, it was greeted with prolonged cheering, as also the references to our soldiers and sailors and the Allies. Among the selection given by the Band were the British National Anthem, the American National Anthem, and the National Anthems of the Allied countries. A concert was expected to take place, but when the Band left the crowd dispersed. The concert must come off at some future date. A grand reception concert in honour of Priv. Alfred Jenkins, Priv. John Roberto, and A.B. Henry G. Evans was held in t?? Peny groes Congregational Vestry on Friday last. In the unavoidable absence of the selected chairman, Mrs. Wm. Williams kindly con- sented to preside, and although this was her first attempt, the able manner in which she filled the office will ensure her plenty of work in the future. The Penygroes Silver Band acquitted themselves as usual, although their ranks were depleted owing to the influenza epidemic. The following artistes contributed to the programme:—Miss Lilian Hughes, Miss Lily Miles, Mrs. J. Nicholas, Mr. W. Dyfnant Davies, Mr. D. O. Jones, Master T. J. Evans, and Master Ronald M. Hughes. The accompanist was Mr. D. W. Hughes, Gorslas. Miss Morgan, Maesygwyn, pre- sented Priv. J. Roberts with the usual gift, and Miss Jennie Morgan, Bryncwar, pre- sented Priv. A. Jenkins and A.B. H. G. Evans, both ladies making appropriate speeches. The three heroes suitably re- sponded. The concert was excellent from all points, with the exception of the attend- ance, which was disappointing. Perhaps the 'Flu had something to do with this. Mr. T Morgan, M.E., Bryncwar, proposed a vote of thanks to all who had taken part, and Mr. R. D. Rees seconded. The Peny- groes Reception Committee hope that, now the war has come to an end, the public will rally round as they have done in the past, in order to ensure each and every one of our boys an enthusiastic welcome home.

TYCROES. I Don't forget the Grand Competitive Con- cert at Llandebie on Saturday next. Cham- pion Solo, £4; Champion Recitation, £2 2s. Record entries! Keen competitions! At Caersalem graveyard, on Tuesday last, the mortal remains of Mr. David Mason, Glen View, late manager of the Tycroes branch of the Co-operative Society, were laid to rest. The Rev. J. L. Mostyn Owen and the Rev. D. S. Davies oiffciated.

With the Welsh in Palestine. We have received a cutting from the Egyptian Mail," sent by S.ergt. T. R., Williams, who is attached to the 53rd Welsh Division in Palestine, in which high praise is accorded to local Territorial Regiments. It is as follows:— Remarkably few people outside' those immediately concerned in the operations which culminated in the fall of Jerusalem, &c., are aware of the fact that it was the 53rd Divi- sion, which is a Welsh Territorial Division, which played so prominent a part in the final rout of the Turks. Previous to going to Egypt and Palestine the Welsh Territorials fought with con- spicuous gallantry at Gallipoli, being with the landing troops at Suv la Bay. The Senior Chaplain of this fine Division is Colonel the Rev. H. F. Williams, M.C., formerly Vicar of St. Matthew's, Pontypridd, who, in the course of an interesting letter to Mr. John Littlejohns, of Pontypridd, throws a wonder- ful light upon the doings of the Division, which was mobilised at the outbreak of the war. W ?". I wonder,' asks the chaplain, whether Wales, North and South, appreciates what the 53rd (Welsh) Division has done during the last three years? It is just three years since we left England, and the original per- sonnel h4 dwindled down to a very small remnant now, but the same spirit lives on, and there is not a man from the general oiffcer commanding down to the newest draft who is not proud to belong to the 53rd. It is far and away the oldest Division out here in Pales- tine, has been in the front ever since October, 1917, without a break, and has a reputation second to none in the Egyptian Expeditionary Force. The 53rd were the first troops to reach Jerusalem; they cleared the Turk off the Mount of Olives, and broke his desperate resistance beyond on White Hill and Zambe. But long before this they had borne the attack of four Turkish divisions at Khuweil- feb, eight miles south of Beersheba, so enabling the cavalry and infantry on their left —for ours was the proud position right of the line-to turn the Turk and compel him to fall back. The North Road from Beersheba up to and beyond Bethel is marked by the graves of I gallant lads who chose to offer their lives for a Great Cause rather than remain at home.'

Eisteddfod fat Gamant. i A very successful eisteddfod was held at the Twyn, Garnant, on Saturday last. The president was Mr. Edgar Rees, F.V.C.M., Garnant; conductor. Mr. Emrys Griffiths, M.E., Garnant; adjudicators—music, Mr. R. "Michael, A.T.S.C., Garnant; literature, Mr. John Rees, Twyn, Garnant; mining, Mr. J. Stuart Evans, Glanamman. Mr. John Mor- gan, Garnant, efficiently carried out the duties of accompanist. The chairman of committee was Mr. Peter Edwards, Garnant; treasurer, Mr. Thos. John Evans, Twyn; and secretary, Mr. Johnny Williams, Twyn. Awards:— I r t Solo tor children under o years ot age: I, Annie Blodwen Roberts, Twyn; 2, Muriel Jones, Twyn. Recitation for children under 8 years of age: Annie Edith Jones, Garnant. Solo for children under 10 years of age: Katie Jones, Garnant; 2, Angharad Jones, Garnant. Recitation for boys under 12 years of age: Emlyn Lewis, Twyn., Solo for boys under 12 years of age: 1, Thomas Lloyd, Twyn; 2, Divided between Cyril Bevan and Victor Davies, .both of Garnant. Recitation for children under 16 years of age- Ceinwen Jones, Glanamman. Solo for girls under 12 years of age: 1, Olivia Davies, Brynamman; 2, Thora Francis, Garnant. Pianoforte solo under 14 years of age: Bessie Rees, Brynamman. Essay: Luther," whose name did not transpire. Solo for boys under 16 years of age; I, James Ivor Jones, Garnant. Recitation for girls under 12 years of age: Gwyneth Jones, Garnant. Solo for girls under 16 years of age: Doris Jones, Brynamman. Telyneg: Sisial Ganu," whose name did nof transpire. Duet for children under 16 years of age: Katie Roberts and Olwen Jenkins, Glan- amman. Solo for those who had not previously won a prize: M. Phillips, Gwaun-cae-gurwen. Soprano solo: Miss Jennie Evans, Garnant. Tenor solo: Mr. Evan Roderick, Gwaun- cac-gurwen, Mining essay (elementary): 1, Mr, David Evans, Twyn; 2, Mr. David John Roberts, Twyn. Mining essay (advanced): J, Mr. Thomas John Evans, Twyn; 2, Mr. Johnny Rees, Twyn.

A grand organ recital was held at Gwyn- fryn Chapel last night, the organist being Mr. T. Ll. Jenkins, F.R.C.O., L.R.A.M., Cilinydd. The vocalists were:—Soprano. Madam John Thomas, Llanelly; contraho, Madam Rachel jones-Rees, Cwmllynfell; and bass, Mr. W. T. Rhys, Ammanford. A full report will appear next week. I FLU I has been conspicuous by its absence in homes where A is regularly used. FIRST AID is the scientific disinfectant soap of guaranteed power. It is made in a unique way, and its value in combating microbe-borne disease can hardly be over-estimated. In triple tablets, 7id. Made only by Christr. Thomas & Bros. Ltd., Bristol #The First Aid Book, 40 pp. of illustrated first II aid hints, free on request if usual dealer's L name mentioned. 79 79

NATIONAL KITCHENS AND RESTAURANTS. A BOON TO THE HOUSEWIFE. By SPENCER LEIGH HUGHES, M.P. There was a time when the word "kit- 'I chen was commonly used as a term of reproach, and when controversialists in the eighteenth century wished to get rid of an argument they could not answer they dis- missed it as kitchen-stuff." The eighteenth century and its methods are to-day a hundred years further off from 1.b than they were at the beginning of August, 1914. We have had to reconsider our position," fcs the politicians say, in regard to many things, and to readjust our scale of the comparative importance of men and things. The skilled agricultural labourer the very word "skilled" in such a connection would not long ago have excited derision—who used to be sneered at as Hodge has come into his own. And so with other workers. They have been sought for diligently and almost with tears as of far more national importance than many Bishops or Dukes or even Members of Parliament. And in like manner it may be said that the kitchen has eclipsed the draw- ing-room. In many and many a house what is called the drawing-room is left unused day after day — but we are reminded of the kitchen at very short intervals. We are told by good people who deserve our attention that conscience is an inward monitor con- tinually asserting itself, and this may be true but appetite or the desire for food is, I should say, a more regular monitor or reminder in most cases. The demand is universal, the supply at present is not unlimited, and it is evident that we are confronted by one of those occasions so dear to public men when some- thing must be done," and I am glad to say something, but not enough, has been done. One of the Successes of War. I The Ministry of Food, recognised as one of the great successes of our war-time efforts, has started the National Kitchen and res- taurant movement. In its initial stages it had the warm approval and the benediction of Lord Rhondda. 'He was a man who knew how to do things, nod he also had an eye as unerring as that of Napoleon for discover- ing other men who could do them—hence the fact that Mr. C. F. Spencer is the Director of the National Kitchens and Restaurants. JolinMorlev somewhere quotes with approval the saying that enthusiasts without capacity are the really dangerous. people," but Mr. Spencer, while he is an enthusiast with high ideals, by no means lacks capacity, and in ad- dition to being an enthusiast he is a practical business man, trained in the school of experi- ence. He, more than any other man, is re- sponsible, for the success that this move- ment has already achieved, and lie is anxious to stir up local authorities everywhere (some of whom have already done splendid service) to extend and multiply those successes. I have already written about the manner in which the restaurant part of the business has taken I on in crowded and busy centres and neigh- bourhoods, especially at the restaurant in New Bridge-street. One glance any day at the crowds inside ¡ a-nd the crowds waiting to get in is enough to show the place has long since passed the experimental stage. It is proof of the ad- vantages of that part of the business which has to do with Kitchens from which people may obtain tasty; varied, and well cooked meals tc; 1), ('>rid,1 lm'iip and there enioved. Taking the Food Home. There are neighbourhoods in which a res- taurant might not succeed, and there are families who would rather take their food together at home, especially where there are children. It is to meet these requirements that the Kitchen I am writing about has been established, and. to my knov. iedc*. the require- ments are being met. At first "genteel" people held aloof. They did not like the idea of taking a. basket and plates and so forth to a national kitchen aond then carrying the food home. In some vague way they associated such doings with charitable soup kitchens and out- door relief, though there is nothing different in principle between carrying home this food and carrying home a turbot or a salmon, ex- cept that in one case the food is c-goked and in the other it is not. And here we come to the main point— cooking. That process means, certainly, labour and the consumption of fuel, and it may mean waste of much food H yl the spoiling of what is left. I know that the topic of the happy humble dinner table has been acclaimed by poets and depicted by artists, though few of the poets and artists would care to join in the delights they de- scribe or portray. A leading feature in these imaginary scenes is the beaming and happy mother who has cooked the feast, carved (somehow or other) by the sturdy and con- tented father, and gloated over bv the dear Children. Drudgery of Cooking. Now I will undertake to say that no one will welcome release from the drudgery of con- tinual cooking more than the British house- wife. I use the word "continual advisedly, for in the smaller homes preparing food, arranging the table, clearing away, and wash- ing up, illustrates the poet's line— The trivial round, the common task "— all too well. And in the present day the distracted housewife has to learn and to understand the many and quite necessary regulations and restrictions as to obtaining food. She has also to cook with appliances that obviously cannot be nearly so helpful and effective as those used at a National Kitchen. Again, she is all the time haunted by consciousness that cooking needs fuel and fuell; is scarce. Moreover, even if she is what is called a born cook —and many an excellent, woman is not, nor has she time to learn the art amid all sorts of other duties—she simply cannot manage to provide variety of diet. It is all very well to say that in order to manage a man you must feed the brute," but you will not soften the creature by offering him food if the food is always the same, sug- gesting the iteration to which Falstaff applied so strong an adjective. Now all these trials and difficulties can be avoided by the good woman going or sending to a National Kitchen. Theree will have the chance oL choosing all sorts of dishes, one thing one day, another the next, all of them of the best, cooked by those who are experts in the art. with plenti- ful portions, and all that she has to do is to get the meal home and enjoy it with the others. She has not been irritated or worn out by preparing food in almost impossible surroundings, and above all she has not had the smell of cooking up her nostrils for hours, making her weary of the stuff before sitting down to it. National Kitchens Pay Their Way. And let me add that this will cost her less in money than her own efforts. There is not so much as a suggestion of charity about the business, for these, kitchens pay their way on a strictly busi- ness basis. Yet they can by dealing with large quantities buy better than the house- holder can, they save in fuel by having one or two large gas or electric cookers in use instead of a hundred fires, and half a dozen workers will replace the labour in a hundred homes. The local authorities in many districts have done splendid work for the comfort and health of the community in establish- ing these places, and it is to be hoped that others will be stirred up to go and do like- wise. Just now we are all being urged to feed the guns—admirable and essential work. It is at least as important to feed the bodies, especially of growing children, and to feed them well, both as 'regards the quality and the quantity of food. Let us make this movement a success, and it will be a healthy community that will be able to welcome victory and peace. Nor will the public be likely to part with such obvious advantages when war has ceased to curse the world. »

RA TEP AYERS' MEETING. Tc the Editor, Amman Valley Chronicle. Sir,—Permit me a. short space in your valuable paper to make a few observations on the attitude taken up by at least one member of the Ammanford Urban District Council in reference to the ratepayers' meet- ing held recently. This member endeavoured to shew that, because the Chairman of the Urban District Council was not invited "to take the chair, the meeting had no status. He further seemed to imply that the omission of such an invitation was an act of dis- courtesy to Mr. J. E. Jones. Mr. J. E. Jones is one of our Labour members, and he will know that he has the fullest confidence of the Trades and La' our Council, who LuTI- vened the meeting. The reason for choosing a person who was not a member of tl.^ Uïb.n District Council to preside oevr the meeting ought to be obvious to anyone. The meeting wa? called for the explicit purpose of pro- testing against a certain action of the Urban District Council. It would have been rather incongruous for Mr. J. E. Jones j:) Inve been invited to nreside over a meeting Leid to pIC' 0:: :.g"w"r '.lis Council of which'he is Chairman. That is the only reason he was not asked to do so. The member referred to will have to find some more substantial reason than that for flouting the wishes of the ratepayer as expre>seJ at' the meeLing.-I am, yo..r, tkc., JAS. GRIFFITHS, Secretary, Ammanford and Llandebie Trades and Labour Council.

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