The Brecon Radnor Express Carmarthen and Swansea Valley Gazette and Brynmawr District Advertiser

? BY UNCLE TOM." £ ? ? I ..1 11 -I- vYv ->Yr jft >1|, rtrf ljfr 'f'r:¡'F;.n. Brecon, March 7th, 1916. My dear nephews and nieces,—Another week has gone and I have now to fulfil my promise in communicating to you some of the examiner's re- marks on the letters of the prize-winners, and the very highly commended efforts. I submit them in the language of the examiner himself as fol- lows :— 1st, Miss Athel Sayce (Builth Wells).—English and spelling perfect and writing excellent. In- telligence was very good, but considerably below that of ten other competitors, who dropped through detailed attention to English, writing and spell- ing. Athel kept within the bounds of 300 words, but her letter was, perhaps, a little too general and not as informing as some of the others. 2nd, Miss Cissie Edwards (Glasbury).-Intel- ligence, excellent, and the letter well arranged, uiving in equal divisions much valuable and ac- curate information. Cissie's writing was very good, and so was her spelling. She made one mistake and thus lost two marks. She lost 12 marks on English through several minor errors, principally in punctuation. Her style was -rather abrupt. Cissie tried to crowd too much in and thus sacrificed her usually good style of English. 3rd, Miss Eleanor G. Evans (Upper Chapel).- Intelligence, excellent, and a most informing let- ter-full of fact and interest. The communica- tion wa;s briefly and properly introduced, orderly arranged, and Eleanor just dealt with the main points of each name and place-name. She made three spelling errors, and lost 6 marks. Her English was exceedingly good, but the writing needed care. 4th, Miss Nellie Holder (G-lasbury).—Intelli- gence, excellent, one spelling error (Cefnbedd for Cefn-y-bedd), and several minor English mis- takes. Nellie used capital letters in one or two instances unnecessarily, and repeated herself in the use of phrases. For example the form, "In 1642, &c. was to freequent, and commenced one or .two of her sentences with it, although no noun preceded to indicate what the pronoun represented. Nellie obtained 70 marks for her handwriting. One or two of her facts required correction. Tre- tt,.coa, was a Calvinistic Methodist—not a Baptist College, and Llewelyn was probably buried at Abibeycwmhir-not Cefn-y-bedd. 5th. Miss Esther M. Morgan (Gwenddwr).— Intelligence, excellent, and writing, very good. Esther made 3 spelling errors, viz., pioneer, mar- tyr and Maesllwch. 'Some of her capital letters should have been small ones, and Esther must give detailed punctuation a little more attention. 6th. Miss Clara A. Prosser (Gwenddwr).— Intelligence, very good, and English also very good. Writing was also a creditable specimen, but could he much improved to Clara's advantage in these competitions. Eight marks were lost through four spelling errors. The words "niece" and "independence" were, for example, written wrongly. One fact also needed correction, viz., that Cefnbrith is nearer Llangammarch than Merthyr Cynog. 7th, Miss Gladys Edwards (Glasbury)4.—Intel- ligence, excellent for a pupil of nine, and spelling, too, was very good. "By and by" should have been by and bye and "Cefnbedd"—Cefn-y-bedd. "Offas' Dyke" should have been written Offa's Dyke, and a capital "c" used for Church, repre- senting. as it did, a place-name. Repetitions were slightly too frequent, and the letter was inclined to be abrupt in style—too much matter again being crowded in at the expense of good English. I intend giving more comments next week, and have pleasure in announcing below our March competition. Miss Gwendoline M. ltees (Khulan School, aged 10) sent in an excellent letter, and, al- though dated 25th ult., it only reached me on the 1st iiist.-tl)ree days late. I handed her letter to the examiner, and the marks he awarded her were:—Writing, 71; English, 70; spelling, 78; intelligence, 138; total, 357 and 8th (bracketed with another little niece) on the list—a very creditable effort. With sincerest regards to you all, I remain, Your affectionate. UNCLE TOM. |

FEBRUARY LETTERS. 1% Very Highly Commended. 4th. "Ffynnon-Gynydd School.—Dear Uncle Tom. Howel Harris. Howel Harris was born at Talgarth in 1714. He received a good education and on his father's death he supported himself by preaching. In 1735 he was greatly impressed by a sermon, and resolved to lead a new life. He went to Oxford to study religion. He founded a college for Cal- vinistic Methodist ministers at Trevecoa. John Penry. John Penry was born in the parish of Llan- gammarch in 1559. To prepare himself for the work of a clergyman, he went to Oxford. In 1587 lie published a pamphlet in which he intend- ed that the services of the Church should 'be in Welsh. For writing this pamphlet lie was sent to prison, but, after a time, he was released only to be imprisoned again. He died a martyr's death. YaYasour Powell. Vavasour Powell was born at Knucklas, Rad- norshire, 1617. He was educated at Oxford and returned a strong Puritan. In 1642 he had to leave for London. In 1649 he took a part in secur- ing the preaching of tb? Gospel in Wales in the Vllr,h language. He was imprisoned in 1656 for 'writing against Cromwell. Maesyronen Chapel. Maesyronen Chapel is one of the oldest chapels in Wales. It lies in the parish of 1\.11 Saint's, Glasbury, on a hill overlooking the river Wye. It is half way between Glasbury and Howes. It is &aid that Oliver Cromwell once worshipped there, and his soldiers drank Ffynnon-Gynydd well dry. Offa's Dyke. OSa's Dyke was built by Ein? Offa, of Mercia, in 750 A.D. It was to stop the Welsh comin- I into M,-mia, It was a boundary for Wales and Mercia. It runs between Knighton and Chester. Offa's Dyke is still to be seen in places MOW. The dvko wa-s a kind of trench. Prince Llewelyn. I Prince Llewelyn was the last Welsh Prince of Wales. In 1282 at Builth and its neighbour- hood many battles were fought for Welsh free- dom, in the last of which Llewelyn was killed. Llewelyn went to Builth for shelter, because the English were after him. He was slain in a dell called Cwm-Llewelyn and probably buried at A,bboyewmbir.-I remain, your nffectionate niece, Nellie Holder, aged 12. 5th, Gwenddwr, Erwood, February 25th, 1,916.-Dea-r -Uncle Tom, Prince Llewelyn, grandson of Llewelyn, the Great, fought a great battle, at Builth on December 12th, 1282. At Aberedw he was betrayed, whereat is the cave in which he hid. At Cefnybedd he fell by the spear thrust by Adam De Francton. A monument to his memory is erected at Cefnybedd. Llewelyn was brave, active and strenuous in battle. Vavasour Powell, bom at Knucklas, was of a very high Welsh family in 1617. Educated at -"¥_ Jesus College, Oxford. A successful evangelist of his day and a great sufferer. Imprisoned in thirteen prisons. Yet in spite of all this his good name still lives. Died in Fleet Prison, October 27th, 1670. Buried at Bunhill Fields. John Penry, born at Cefnbrith in the year 1559. Educated at Cambridge and Oxford. Was the pioneer evangelist of Wales. Imprisoned for preaching the gospelan4 executed. He was call- ed the martyr saint of independency. The place of his 'burial is not known to any one, except the "Great Master. Howell Harris, born at Trefecca-fawr, in the parish of Talgarth, in the year 1714. A powerful preacher. He became captain of the "Militia" when the French seemed likely to invade this country. He married the daughter c;f Williams, Skreen, Erwood. He died July 21st, 1773, and was buried at Talgarth Church. Offa's Dyke was a rampart, the remains of which can still be traced from Flintshire to Mon- mouthsbire. It was built by Offa, the famous King of Mercia, in the eighth century, A.D. Maesyronen is in the county of Radnor. The present structure dates from 1696. The site was given by Lewis Lloyd. Esq., Maesllwch. It is called the oldest chapel in Wales, it being the spot where religion flourished at an early period. The .building, both outside and in, retains its old fashion appearance.—I remain, your loving niece, Esther Myfanwy Morgan, aged 13." Highly Commended. 6th, Gwenddwr School, near Erwood, Febru- ary 23rd, 1916.—Dear Uncle Tom,—I do not know whether I have understood your competi- tion rightly. I could write more on these t men, 'but your number of words will not ?How me. Vavasour Powell was a Baptist. He was bom at Knucklas, 1617. In 1640, while preaching in a house in Brecon- shire, he was arrested and put in prison. He was in thirteen prisons and was executed in October, 1670. Preaching was the great work of his life." Offa's Dyke. Offa was the king of Mercia from 757 to 795. To prevent the raids of the Welsh he built a ditcli from Flintshire to the Severn near Bristol, which was known as Offa's Dyke, between Eng- land and Wales. Prince Llewelyn, was the sole sovereign of Wales. He was offered a hundred pounds if lie would put down his sword, but lie refused. He fought gallantly on the banks of the "Wye until lie fell at Cefn-y-bedd, December 10th, 1282. After the death of I Llewelyn, Wales for ever lost its independence. Howe] Harris was one of the early Welsh Methodists. He was horn at Trefecca-fawr farm, Talgarth, January 23rd, 1714. He helped to bring about a most powerful revival. He was intended to be a clergy- man, but he changed his religion when he was 21. causing a. grea.t awakening to Methodism. In 1738 he was persecuted by clergy and mobs. and, in 1759, when there was danger of French invasion, he joined the Breconshire Militia. He was the means of establishing Trefecaca College. He died when the Was sixty years old. John Penry, the martyr, was 'born at Cefnbrith, Llangam- march. in 1559. When nineteen he went to Cambridge. He was called "The Morning Star of the Reformation in Wales." He took his "M.A." at Oxford. He devoted his life preach- ing the gospel around the Welsh mountains. He was cast into a dreadful prison for preaching and was martyred. Maesyronen is an old fashion Congregational Chapel about one mile from Glasbury. Oliver Cromwell is said to have worshipped there. The first minister was "David Price." Christian worship began there about 1648. The present chapel still resumes its old fashion apearance.—I remain, your loving niece, Clara Amelia Proaser, aged 10. 7th. "Ffynnon-Gynydd Seliool.-Dear Uncle Toiii,- Vavasour Powell. Vavasour PoweII was born at Knucklas in Rad- norshire. He was educated at Oxford and went to London in the year 1642. Then, he looked after the finance of the Nonconformist move- ment in Wales. He was imprisoned in 1656 for writing against Oliver Cromwell and at the Re- storation in 1660, Vavasour was imprisoned un- til his death. Howel Harris. Howel Harris was born in 1714 at Talgarth in Breconshire. He had a good education, and, on his father's death, he supported himself 'by teach- ing. He went to college at Oxford, but he did not stay there long enough to take his degree. After his return home he went about the country preaching, and, in six or seven years, his name and fame had spread throughout Wales. He help- ed the Countess of Huntingdon to found a college for ministers at Trevecca. John Penry. John Penry was born in 1559 in the parish of I Llangammarch, Breconshire. To prepare himself for the work of a clergyman he went first to Cam- bridge and then to Oxford. When he entered Cambridge he was a Roman Catholic, but, by and bye, he became a Protesta.nt, and, at Oxford, he also "became a famous preacher. In 1587 he pub- lished a pamphlet in which he contended that the services of the Church should be conducted in Welsh. For writing this pamphlet he was sent to prison and put to death. Prince Llewelyn. I Prince Llewelyn (ap Gryffydd) was the last Welsh Prince of Wales. In 1282 Builth saw the last struggles of the Welsh for their freedom. Llewelyn came, to Aberedw to interview some Welsh chiefs. He was surrounded by the Eng- lish, slain at Cwm-Llewelyn and buried at Cefn-y- bedd. Offa's Dyke. King Offa. of Mercia, built the dyke to keep I the Welsh out of Mercia. It ra.n from Chester to Knighton and served as a boundary line as well. It was built in the year 750 and served the people till 1066. Some of the remains can still be seen. Maesyronen Chapel. Maesyronen Chapel is overlooking the river Wve. It is the oldest chapel in Wales. Inside it has a. stone floor and seats like big boxes. There are also stone pillars holding it up. Outside in the wall there is a sun-dial. There is also a bur- ial-place. Cromwell worshipped there.—I re- main, your affectionate niece. Gladys Edwards, aged 9." Acknowledgments. The following acknowledgments have been re- ceived :— "Fern Lea. Builtb Wells, March 6th, 1916.— Dear Uncle rrom,-I was very pleased to receive your letter, and to know I was successful. I thank you 'for the 2/6 postal order, which I also received safely. With love to you and all your nephews and nieces, your affeotionate niece, Athel 'Sayce." "Coedyglas. Glasbury, 3/2/16.—Dear Uncle Tom, I am writing to thank you very much for the P.O. for 1/6, which I received this morning. I 'was very pleased to know I had won a- prize. With much love 'from your affectionate niece, Cissie Edwards." "The School. Upper Chapel, near. Brecon, B-3.16.-Dl'1' Uncle Tom,—Thanks very much for P.O. of 1/ which was third prize in the February competition. I also thank you for your kind coiigra-ttil-ations.-I remain, your affectionate niece, Eleanor G. Evans." I March Competition. BeSit essay on "Llangorse Lake" or "Elan Valley Waterworks." Open to elementary school children in Brecon and Radnor. Include name, address, and age in ydur con- tribution. Marks will be given as follow :—Intelligence, 160; English. 80: snelling. 80; and hand-writing, 80.. 3rd, 1/ The essays nitist. not exceed 250 words. The compositions must also be the bonafide work of competitors themselves. The last day for receiving essays will be Friday, March 31st. and these should be properly stamped and addressed to Uncle Tom, care of "Brecon and Radnor Express," Brecon.

Grateful fer Parcels. LETTERS FROM BUILTH "BOYS. Miss M. A. Walters (headmistress, Infants' Department, Builth Wells Council School) has just received some interesting acknowledgments from local men, who are serving their country in various places. Pte. J. Stephens (Welsh Regiment) writes, thanking Miss Walters and all the scholars and teachers of the infants' school for their kindness in sending the parcel he received quite safely. He observed that it was very nice for him to feel he was not forgotten when so far away. Pte. Stephens added that he has quite recovered from ,his wound and now enjoys the full use of his arm again. Lieut. Harold V. Jones, writing from "Itis little dug out in the West," states :—"The parcel of smokes and toffee arrived last night (26th Feb- ruary, 1916). We were very delighted with them. Please accept my sincerest thanks and convey the same to the teachers and children. I shall trea- sure the little card enclosed. It was 'topping' and I was awfully bucked up with the gift. I read in the 'Express' about your fine achievement on the 'boards,' and my one regret is that I was unable to attend—the train service being qttite unsuitable!" Trooper T. H. Fletcher filth Hussars), writ- ing from France, wished to take the opportunity of thanking the teachers and scholars for their welcome parcel. He was quite surprised to hear from the kind friends of Builth. Trooper Fletch- er also referred to the enjoyable time he had among his Builth friends when on leave less than two months ago. A similar letter, full of thanks and gratitude for a parcel, also came to hand from Pte. J- Beavan. R.S.M. Astbury also wrote:—"Flanders, 29th, February, 1916.—Will you please convey my thanks to the teachers and scholars of your sec- tion for the very nice present they sent me. Just now I am up in the front line trenches, and your parcel reached me Jiere and came as a welcome surprise. I have been tramping about in 'slu d ge al' the evening and dry socks were the very things I needed. The toffee was just splendid and raY- self and another "Daddy" tucked into them like school-boys. I am more careful about the cigar- ettes, so that they will last me a long time, heard about your concert, and was pleased to hear it was a success, as I am sure yourself aDd the teachers deserved it to be. after all the trouble you must have tal-en."

j. No chemicals in i SIMPLE SIMON JlJPI* It possesses thfc remarkable (J&gjgfln property of taking up oxy- NaMHMM gen from the } air, and uses I this natural oxygen for I' bleaching and purifying without injury. There's a SCIENTIFIC REASON for SIMPLE SIMON I Ask your grocer; he knows. ¡ Ccsts 3ird. Worth ?s. J Fti

Pearl Assurance Company. ANNUAL REPORT. The directors of the Pearl Assurance Company, Ltd., in 'the course of their annual report state that during the year 6,504 war claims have been met, amounting to £ 76,089. During the year 4240,000 has been paid in excess of the previous Year. The valuation of the company's business shows a surplus of X198,910, after providing for all liabilities. Despite the war, the company con- tinue to increase their business, for the total pre- mium income for the year amounted to R3,295,080 —an increase of £ 159,503. The premium in- come in the ordinary branch showed an increase of £ 44,873. The number of policies issued in this brandi was 25,740. assuring the sum of V1,871,132, and producing a new annual pre- mium increase of £ 85,440. The company seems to have made good progress also in their personal accident and employers' liability policies, for 3,440 -were granted, representing a new annual premium income of £ 8,431. The total income for the year amounted to X3,627,051, or £160,154 over that of the previous year. It is interesting to note that the total claims paid for the year amount to £1.591,186, which, added to the sums preiously paid, make an aggregate. of £ 17,977,926. The total funds of the company, together with the capital paid up, are 210,659,910.

I Our portrait is of Miss Ruth C. Hart, of 129 Pedro Street, Clapton Park. London, N.E., who writes "I was suffering from abscesses in the glands under my left arm, having eight or nine in suc- cession, and was in such Agony I did not know what to do. I was under a doctor for many weeks, but did not derive much benefit. Then I was recommended to take 'Clarke s Blood Mix- ture' by a friend who had 'been completely cured of Rheumatism by it. so decided to try one of your small bottles, and it gave me such relief it was really marvellous. Having finished it, I bought an 11/- case, which completely cured me. It is now 12 months since I took your 'Clarke's Blood 'Mixture. which did not fail." If it's any disease due to impure blood, such as Eczema, Scrofula, Abscesses, Ulcers. Bad Legs, Boils, Pimples. Sores of any kind. Glandular Swellings, Piles, Blood Poison. Rheumatism. &s., don't waste time on lotions or ointments—to be cured permanently you must cleanse the blood of the clogging impurities, the Voot catiso of all your su?ering. There is no other medicine thatpnnnes tKkxSl so thoroughly as Oarke s Blood Mixture, that's why so many remarkable cures stand to its credit, Pleasant to take, and free from anything injul'i('nrs. I', I Clarke's Blood Mixture CURES ALL SKIN AND BLOOD DISEASES. Of all Chemists and Stores. 2/9 per Bottle. Refuse Substitutes.

I SAINT DAVID'S DAY LOCAL CELEBRATIONS. I THE LESSON OF PATRIOTISM. I Llandrindod Intermediate School Ald. C. C. Rogers, J.P., chairman of the County Education Committee, hoped to have ad- dressed the pupils at the above school, hut, owing to his having contracted a chill, the address had to be deferred. Mr W. Saunders, B.A., B.Sc., headmaster, appropriately called attention to the day, and read the letter of General Sir Owen Thomas appealing for support for the national movement on behalf of the soldiers of the Princi- pality on service and disabled. Conference fol- lowed, and the pupils decided to take up the move- ment with enthusiasm. Arrangements were made for weekly contributions to be given for the ensuing twelve months, and it is also hoped to raise further sums by means of concerts, enter- tainments, &c. Council School-Prize Day. I St. David's Day is observed as prize day at the Council School, and, as usual, a special gathering was held. Mr D. C. Davies (chairman of the managers) presided, and he was supported by Mrs D. C. Davies, Mrs Seymour W. Edwards, Mr T. L. Vaughan, C.C., Mr Jeffrey Jones, J.P., Mr H. D. Phillips (correspondent of the school), and Mr David Jones (headmaster). The chairman said this was the third time they had met there on St. David's Day, and he could assure them that he regarded it as a great privi- lege to be there. It was quite an inspiration to him and others to come there and see the 'happy, cheerful face of the scholars, and they were re- minded of the happy days when they themselves were in school. They were all indebted to the headmaster and staff for doing all they could to make the children happy and to give them a good start in life. (Applause.) Economy was much talked of in these days, and a Parliamentary Com-, mittee had been sitting on the matter. The re- port had now been issued, and, with regard to education, the report said that the committee "re- cognised the feeling in many quarters that educa- tional economies were dangerous, and may in the long run be unremunerative." (Hear, hear.) He hoped those words would be taken 'to heart by their administrators, and that they would see a progressive policy adopted in the county with re- gard to education as in other matters. (Ap- plause. ) The following choruses were rendered by the I scholars, under 'the direction of Mr David Jones, with Miss G. Jones at the piano, viz.,> "Soldiers I and 'Sailors," "St. David's Day," "March of the Men of Harlech," "Before all lands," "Land" Of my Fathers," and "God save the King." By special request, Miss Maggie Brooks gave one of the songs out of the operetta recently performed by the pupils of the school. Prizes. The County Council prizes for regular attend- ance were presented by Mrs D. C. Davies, the winners being as follow :Ist, Allan Millward, Raymond Edwards. George Brooks, Ivy Pritch- ard, Elsie Vaughan, John Millward, Nora Bent- ley Jones, Lawrence Jones, Roland Oliver, Edgar Jones, Edith Davies, Victor Davies, Mabel Beard, Cissie Morris, Elsie Robinson, Stanley Francis, Donald Jones, Tom Weale, Jack Brooks, Jack Weale and Mary Davies; 2nd, Mary Morris, Fred Thomas, Esther Steadman, Hilda Phillips, Olwen Jones, May Vaughan, Muriel Williams, Violet Bradley. Dick Millward, Olwen Harris, Doris Francis, Seymour Richards. Reginald Harper, Frederick Swain, Elsie Price, Ronald Edwards, Dilwyn Price, Raymond Price, Reggie Pritohard, Moreley Harper and Evelyn Morris. Mrs D. C. Davies, in a pleasant speech, said she felt it a great honour 'to be asked to distribute the prizes. She could not make a speech, but she had thought how fortunate the children present were. When she was a little girl. she had to walk seven miles to school, and when she got there on a day like that, with the snow on the ground, the school was not always comfortable like theirs was that day. These prizes were given for regular attendance. Apart altogether of the benefit which it was to the children themselves to attend regularly, regular attendance was a great advan- tage to the teachers. To be present one day, and away the next, was not a credit either to the chil- dren or the teachers. As a -Sunday school teach- er, she knew a little of the great disadvantage of irregular attendance of the children. The work of the teachers was not done when the school was dismissed, and the children should remember that the teachers often had a good deal of work to do after they had gone home. In conclusion, she again thanked the headmaster and the governors of the school for the honour which they had done her in asking her to attend to present the prizes. (Applause.) Mr David Jones (headmaster) said 21 first prizes and 21 second prizes had been presented. That- was a fairly good record, 'but it ought to have been better. Attendance had, however, been af- fected recently by -epid,emics. Unfortunately, they had no framed certificates to present that day. These certificates were given to children who had won 'four first prizes, and next year he hoped they 'would have the privilege of presenting a few of these. There seemed every likelihood that a few of the children would be entitled to them. (Applause.) St. David's Day Speech. I Councillor Jeffrey Jones, J.P., was the special speaker this year for the St. David Day Festival. In course of a stirring speech, he declared himself to be a Welshman wherever he was, and he said lie was proud to have the honour of giving the address on that day to the boys and girls in that beautiful school. He did not, however, propose to say anything to them about St. David as the 'boys and girls probably knew more than he did about the patron saint, but he proposed to say a little about their nation, and its people. (Hear, hear). Although most present had unfortunately lost the Welsh language, they were all Welsh peo- ple, and lie hoped they were all proud of that fact. They had every reason to be proud when they looked back to the past history of their na- tion. They had behind them many noble charac- ters—some of the finest the world had ever seen —men and women who had been at it hard, and whose chief endeavour had been at all times to uplift the little Welsh nation. (Hear, hear). They were men and women who had sacrificed much, and their sacrifices were made on behalf of those who were living in Wales now. Those present were enjoying privileges which these great people had fought and laboured long for, and he hoped the boys and girls would ever remember that the privileges they now had had been very dearly bought. (Hear, hear). Every inch of ground had been fought for, and he hoped they apprecia- ted very much the great things which had been prepared for them by the sacrifice of others. (Hear, hear.) Radnorshire had not been devoid of its share of great men. Many had done great work for them here in this county, but he would only refer to one or two, and those without men- tioning names. To -one there was a monument 'erected at New Radnor, and another lived at Knucklas, near Knighton. Those were both great men who had done noble work for the county of Radnor. These men and others like them dif- fered in their views on many things, but their great aim had been to uplift the Welsh nation and the Welsh people. (Hear. hear). After these men had done so much for them. it was their duty as members of that school to aim at some- thing which was noble and great. It should be theirs to take up and carry forward the great work which they had left unfinished. They all had their part to do, and he hoped they would co- operate in every way with their splendid head- master. who was a thorough Welshman from the heart of Wales, so that they might all become qualified to do something to assist in the great work which had been begun in their native land. Many of their young men thad gone to the front to fight the battles of their country. Why were these young men sacrificing their lives for their country? They had nothing to ga.in. They knew not whether they would return or other- wise, but they had willingly gone forth to fight their battles and to sacrifice oQ. their behalf. They ought to be proud of th" young men who had gone forth from Llandrindod Wells—(applause)—who were making sacrifices in order that they might be there in peace, enjoying themselves in that festival of the Patron Saint of Wales. They were fighting for the freedom of small nations. That came closely home to them, for there was one present who belonged to one of the small nations they were fighting for. (Cheers). He under- stood that he was a very worthy member of that school, and joined with the Welsh boys and girls in all the enjoyments of life. He hoped they would make much of him, and show him every kindness. (Hear, hear.) Owing to the great sacrifices made in the past, Wales had been called the "land of white gloves." Crime had disap- peared to a great ext-ent from their noble little Wales, and when the Judges came to their Assizes they were presented with white gloves instead of having to sit on the Bench to try poor prisoners. It was the work of the boys and girls present. now that the County Goal at Presteign, had been turn- into an Intermediate school, to keep up these tra- ditions, and to do their best to be noble in every respect. (Hear, hear). It was not only in the past that they had had noble men in Wales. They had them still. Locally, their chairman (Mr D. C. Davies) was a good illustration of this. Ever since he (Mr Jones) had been at Llandrindod Mr Davies had been working hard for the good of the town, and he remembered how many years ago he fought hard with a view to securing such a school as they now had. In national affairs, Wales stood to-day higher than ever it did, and their noble countryman, Mr Lloyd George, who was one of the statesmen at the head of affairs, had been hailed as the saviour of the nation. (Hear, hear.) eH and others in the opinion of many nations stood at the very head of affairs to-day. The splendid achievements of living Welshmen in many walks of life was a call to them to go forward, and to pursue all that was great and noble. They heard much of patriotism I to-day, and when they spoKe ot it tney tnougnt Of the noble men who had gone forth to fight their battles. They could not do that yet, but the way for them to become great and noble and patriots in the true sense, was to be good. The greatest patriot was the good man—the man of character, and all good men were true patriots, and if the boys and girls present formed and maintained noble characters they would be patriots in the true sense, and they would be doing the very best they could to uphold their country. Concluding, Mr Jones said he hoped the boys and girls present would always be proud of Radnorshire—(cheers)— never ashamed of Llandrindod Wells wherever they went—(renewed cheers)—and proud of gal- lant little Walse—(renewed cheers)—and then they would be true soldiers of this great Empire to which they were all proud to belong. (Cheers). A Pleasing Presentation. The chairman next mentioned that a little in- cident happened at the recent entertainment which might have been very tragic, but which happily was not. It gave an opportunity for one of the boys of the school not only to be courageous, but prompt, and as one mark of gra-titude to him a little presentation was to be made that day. (Ap- plause). Mr D. Jones then stated that Mrs Watmough, of The Beaufort, had sent a. book to be presented to Marcel Joostens, the Belgian lad. in recogni- tion of the presence of mind and distinguished courage shown by him in extinguishing the flames on her little daughter, Peggy, at the Albert Hall in Feburary. (Applause.) A suitable in- scription had been written in the book, which was now to be presented. Marcel Joostens was received with a great out- burst of cheering, which was again loudly renew- ed as little Peggy Watmough, the chief actor in the unrehearsed drama, presented Marcel with the volume. Scripture Essays. Even this did not end the pleasures of the even- ing, for the chairman now adverted to the ins- pection in 'Scriptual instruction which was con- ducted at the request of the 'Managers last sum- mer. and he recalled how he had offered prizes for the two best essays en the life of Moses. Forty essays were sent in, and they bad been very carefully examined by a professional teacher. Instead of two prizes, be found he had to give six to boys and girls who were bracketed equal- (Applause). The winners were Agnes Lloyd, Hilda Phillips, Mary Edwards, Nora Bentley Jones, Arthur Selwyn and Marcel Joostens. (Applause). The book prizes were then presented, and sub- sequently .the chairman read a detailed adjudica- tien on the essays which were sent in. The Chairman next mentioned that apologies for absence had been received from Mr Hurst, Mr Bufton, Mr Seymour Edwards, and Mrs Care- less (managers of the school), and he mentioned 1 that Master Paget Careless who had taste and skill in drawing, had won a scholarship for three months at Bournemouth in a competition which was open to competitors up to 18 years of age.— (Applause). Mr T. L. Vaughan, C.C., in an excellent speech in which he expressed great pleasure at being preseeit. nioved a vote of thanks to the sihairman, Mr Jeffrey Jones, Mrs Davies, Mr Jones and the pupils, and this was seconded by Mr H. D. Phillips, and carried with enthusnasm. Welsh Soiree-Remarkable Gathering. In the evening there was a Supper and Soiree at the Emporium Restauant, the dining hall being tastefully and appropriately decorated for the oc- casion with national flags and emblems. Nearly the whole of the 115 Welsh-speaking people of the town were present, plus a large number of mem- bers of the Welsh unit of the R.A.M.C., and also several wounded soldiers from the Highland Moors Hospital and the Nursing Home. Every county in the principality was represented, and also each of the three University Colleges and most of the Theological Colleges of the Principal- ity. Councillor Jeffrey Jones, J.P., presided over this striking and memorable assembly, and amongst the letters of apology a-nd greeting re- ceived were messages from Sir Francis Edwards, M.P., Mr William Lewis, London (secretary of the Welsh Comforts Committee)a, Mr F. Llew- elyn Jones (barrister-at-law), Mold, who is Liberal candidate for Preston, uncle of Mrs R. M. Morgan, B.A.. and Mr Edward Jenkins, Gwalia, who to the regret of all was too poorly to be present. There were about 180 present, the Chairman (Mr Jeffrey Jones) being supported by Mrs Jones, Mrs R. M. Morgan, B.A. (hon. sec.), Mr Rhys R. Williams, B.A., Pte. D. Morris Jones, M.A., B.D. (Bala College), Pte. J. J. Pugh (Cardiff Bap- tist College), Rev. D. Arthur Davies,"Rev. James Jones, B.Sc., Rev. Father Kane, Mr R. M. Mor- gan, M.A., Mr John Phillips, Mr and Mrs Mor- gan Morris, Mr E. R. Davies, Mr O. E. Hughes, Miss Euronwy Jones, and Miss Olive Evans. By the kindness of Miss Venables (commandant), the Welsh wounded soldiers form the Highland Moors Hospital, were able to 'be present, and by the kindness of Sister Murphy, the Welsh wound- ed soldiers at the Auxiliary Hospital were also present, whilst Nurse Jones, of the Auxiliary Hospital, wore a complete Welsh costume. The tables were beautifully decked with daffodils, and there was a good profusion of leeks and of flags bearing the Red Dragon and Union Jacks. The menu of the supper and the pro- grammes were printed in Welsh. and the only English used was in ,the singing- of the National Anthem, which was sung twice. The menu was as follows Ymgomwest Gwyl Dewi. 1916. Arlwy. Morddwyd Mochyn Tafod Eidion. Eirin. Cwstart. Cymysgfwyd. Teisenau aapChaws. Te. CofIi. Gwin Anfeddwol. After the singing of the National Anthem, the chairman gave a hearty welcome to the Welsh Unit, saying that Llandrindod Wells was very fortunate in having this unique unit of the Army billeted in their midst. The unit was composed of some of the best characters and the most bril- liant intellects in the nation. Although they had dedicated themselves to the Army, he (the chair- man) hoped they would dedicate their talents to the town whilsf they were amongst them. (Ap- plause.) He also had great pleasure in welcom- ing sons of Wales who bad been through the awful fray, and who, though wounded and suffering, had been spared to return to their native country. (Applause.) He (the chairman) hoped one and all would enjoy the evening. In submitting the Royal toast, the chairman mentioned the splendid example which the King bad given to the nation in his own personal con- duct by taking the total abstinence pledge—(ap- plause)—and in giving his eldest son to the work of the Army and allowing him to take his share of the dangers in France. (Applause.) The King himself had also braved the dangers, and, though he had suffered a deeply deplored mishap, he had been spared by a wonderful Providence to return home to them. (Applause.) The Queen I had shown herself ever ready to minister to the suffering, and had also shown kindness to the Welsh troops and generosity to the Welsh funds upon all oocasions. (Applause.) The toast was accorded musical honours, and the following items were then rendered :-jolo, "Gwlad y delyn," Miss Evans; penillion singing, Pte. Griffiths, R.A.M.C.; recitation, "Modryb Sian" (Aunt Jane), Mrs R. M. Mor- gan, B.A. The penillion singing was a rare treat. Pte. Griffiths selected a most difficult style, and his fine performance was loudly en- cored. Mrs Morgan convulsed the audience in her character as a farmer's wife, her visit to a Welsh farm being described amidst roars of laughter. I Letters of Apology-Sir Francis Edwards, M.P., and Mr William Lewis. The letters of apology were read by Mr O. E. Hughes. In course of a most welcome letter, Sir Francis Edwards, M.P., said "while we our- selves are praising the life and virtues of St. David, let us give all glory and honour to the brave sons of Wales who have offered themselves and their lives to defending the rights and privi- leges of their native land. (Applause.) It is clear that these brave ones who have unsheathed the sword df honour have grasped the inner mean- ing of the lessons of St. David's Day." (Loud applause. ) Mr William Lewis wrote :—"I very much re- gret not being able to be present at your soiree to meet once again the patriotic and enthusiastic Welsh people of Llandrindod Wells. I am very busy here (in London) trying to do my part in increasing the comfort of our brave Welsh boys who are in the Army. (Applause.) To-morrow, I hope to see London, the chief city of the Em- pire, pay tribute to the Red Dragon of Wales. (Applause.) I hope that you in Llandrindod will have much pleasure in showing your love for our fatherland in the mother tongue. Much has happened since the meeting I had the pleasure of attending two years ago. The world has been turned upside down, but my prayer is that Wales, at any rate, will keep a tight hold upon her prin- ciples and ideals, and that, after this war is over, she will be more worthy than ever of the name of "Cvmru lan. (Applause.) I am glad to hear that there will be several wounded Welsh soldiers and members of the Welsh Unit of the R.A.M.C. present. Please give them my heartiest greetings. Kindly remember me to my friends at Llandrindod, and tell them that I live in hope of seeing them again before long." (Applause.) Builth School's Patriotism. St. David's Day was celebrated at the Council school, Builth Wells, in the usual manner. Songs, recitations, speeches, etc., were given by the children and representative gentlemen. Rev. Lewis Beynon was in the chair, and, supporting him, were Rev. Lewis James and Dr. Rhys Dav- ies. Several parents were also present. The-proceedings opened by the children parad- ing to "St. David's March." A recitation, ":Songs of Wales," was given by Miss B. Wea- therley, and a song, "Beautious Wales," was afterwards rendered by the children of standards 4, 5, 6 and 7.. Dr. Rhys Davies, in a brief address on "St. David and Patriotism," said that St. David lived about 1300 years ago. He was called a saint on account of his good works, and, in his boyhood days, he was very fond of birds. St. David lov- ed his country and was a true patriot. He ex- pressed a hope that all the children there were also patriots. Patriotism was virtue, and, as a result of their patriotism, there were to-day 200,000 noble Welshmen at the service of their country. Dr. Davies hoped great St. David woud live long in their memories. The recitation, "Love of Country," was well given by standard 4, and this wa.s followed by "The Miller's Daughter," which was pleasingly rendered by stardards 4 to 7. "Britain, my land," was recited by the fifth standard, and an address on "Sons of Brecon- shire" by Dr. Davies was listened 'to with rapt attention. The speaker said that two men of Breconshire deserved special mention, and these were the late Mr Evan Powell, who now lies in Builth churchyard, and the other, Prof. David Jenkins, of Trecastle. The former followed the teaching of Howell Harris and helped him great- ly, whilst the latter had risen to be a professor in the University at Aberystwyth. He and his father were hard-working men, but the son loved music and studied it in every spare moment he had. Later in life he wrote much and was re- nowned throughout the Principality as a very clever writer and singer. He hoped the children would think of the great men the county had produced. (Applause.) "The march of the men of Glamorgan" was excellently performed by the pupils, as was the song, "The King's Departure." The recitation. "A nation's strength," was given by standards 4 and 5, and this was followed by "All through the night." all the standards taking part. Mr C. J. Wearn (headmaster) spoke with re- gard to the old boys, who had fallen while serving their-country. Men had done great things for the Motherland, but none greater than the great- est sacrifice. Their forefathers had done their duty. and the old boys had also done theirs. There were four names on the school "Roll df Honour," viz., Stoker Lambert Evans, H.M.S. "Monmouth", Pte. Ivor James, S.W.B., Pte. Chris. Williams and Cpl. Reggie Beavan (An- zacs). These men had done their "bit," and left an example for them to 'follow. They should al- ways remember the brave men, who had given their 1jves for them. (Applause.) A patriotic tableaux was very impressively given. Firstly, the wounded hero, with bandag- ed head and arm, walked in. and, when he had gone some way, dropped down. Red Cross nurs- es were soon on the spot to give help and tend to the wounds. Following this, Welsh maids ap- peared, and a laurel wreath was placed above the head of the hero. The scene was full of reality, and each pupil played his or her part admirably. The song, "How sleep the brave, was sung by Hilda Smith, and "The Broken Cross" by stand- ards 4 to 7. The classes saluted the prostrate hero, and then marched to several Welsh airs. "Land of my fathers" was sung, and. at the close, Dr. Davies, proposing a vote of thanks to Mr C. J. Wearn, his staff and pupils, said they were to be congratulated upon the success of the celebration. They retained the honour and mem- ory of those who had done great things in the past, and encouraged esprit-de-corps in the scholars. Rev. Lewis James seconded, and, in reply, Mr Wearn, observed he had only done his duty, as everyone should. (Applause.) The proceedings closed with the singing of the "National Anthem." Llanhamlach School. St. David's Day wa-s observed at the school with the usual ceremonies. The children sang very nicely "The Ash Grove" and other Welsh songs. Jeffrey Prosser, Percy Morgan .and Cyril Morris gave excellent recitations. Miss Mills gave an address on Evan James and his son, James, Welsh musicians. The Rector spoke on St. David and on patriotism. The National An- them concluded the programme. Three hearty cheers were given for Miss 'Mills and her sister, on the proposition of the Rector, who reminded the children of the great advantage they had in being trained by such excellent teachers. | Llanwrtyd Wells. A very successful tea and concert were held at the Victoria Hall, Llanwrtyd Wells, on St. David's Day in aid of the Red Cross Society and our Welsh prisoners df War in Germany. With such a worthy object in view, it created no surprise to find the spacious hall crowded with an enthusiastic audience. In connection with the event, the Church and the various Nonconformist denominations worked in unison to attend a great financial success, and it is gratifying to state that their anticipations were fully realised. Mr J. James (Rock House) was very prominent amongst those who made the arrangements. The hall was prettily decor- ate for the occasion. From 200 to 300 sat down for tea. The following ladies presided over the tea-tables :—Mrs Dr. Rees and Miss Gwen Wil- liams; Miss A. Harries and Miss C. Richards; Mrs M. James and Mrs M. A. Griffiths; Mrs D. 1. Williams and Miss Polly Pritchard. After 'tea the sale of gifts took place, and these were disposed of by Mr W. Williams (Myrtle House). These realised a considerable sum of money. A grand concert followed, presided over by the Rev. R. Evans, and the accompanists were Misses Bronwén Richards, Gwennie Lewis and Lizzie Williams, and Master Anglo Adami. Appended is the programme ;—Ladies' choir (con- ducted by Mr 1. Williams, "Mermaids' Evening- Song" Miss Gwennie Lewis, song, which was heartily encored; boys' drill, learning to be tIOL diers, arranged by Miss Lizzie Williams; Miss Bronwen Richards, song ("Hurrah"), which was heartily encored. 'Miss Richards responded with the well known song, "Keep the home fires burning, school children taking part in choruses; fan drill and song by girls of upper standards, ar- ranged by Miss E. Williams; Miss Gwenith Williams, recitation. "My soldier daddy": male voice party, conductor. Mr W. Thomas, "Miser- ere Chorus"; Miss Jones and friends, sketch, "An unexpected entertainment"; ladies' choir, conductor, Mr I. Williams; Miss Lizzie Wil- liams, 6ong, "The Eternal Home"; Mr W. .rrice, recitation; hand dTiii and song, girls dt up- per standards, arranged by Miss E. Williams, which was heartily encored; Miss M. J. GraiMCV song, "Loved and saved"; male voice party, conductor, Mr W. Thomas,"Comrades in Arms"; Miss Lizzie Williams, National Anthem. The great success of the tea and concert is un- doubtedly to be attributed to the indefatigable efforts of Mr James, Rock House, who spared no time in bringing the entertainment to a high pitch of excellence, and the promoters must feel gratified at the financial success. The school children came in for great praise for the well rendering of their songs, and great credit is due to Mr D. R. Gay, Council School, and staff. The talented young ladies, who volunteered their ØEIIII vices, deserve the highest commendation. Mr James at the close proposed, and Mr D. C. Wil- liams seconded, a vote of thanks to the chair- man and to all who had helped to make the en- tertainment a success. The sum of P,33 Is Id was realised to assist the good cause. St. David's Day was also celebrated in the Llanwrtyd Council School on Wednesday, when Mr D. R. Gay. headmaster, gave an address to the children on the meaning of St. David's Day, and. also, recount-id the glories of Wales in the past, and brought to the notice of the children the names and deeds of the saints and heroes of former days, and the glorious part the Princi- paiityis now taking in the struggle for freedom and righteousness, mentioning some of the deede of heroism which have occurred in the Welsh re- giments. Suitable songs were also sung by the assembled scholars. Most of them -wore the national emblem. Llangammarch Wells St. David's Day was not forgotten by the vil- lagers of Llangammarch. Mrs Evans (The Rectory) prepared a large number of leeks. These were sold by Miss Arthur, who was dressed in a Welsh costume with the tall hat, on which was p-inned a huge leek. Mrs Mackin also sold leeks. The proceeds, £ 3 10s, were on behalf of the Welsh troops, and a cheque for that amount was sent to 'the president, Mrs Lloyd George. The ladies are to be congratulated for their excellent work. A dance was held in the Assembly Room. Ow- ing to the unavoidable absence of Mrs Evans, Miss Davies (Glanyrafon) presided at the piano. The duties of M.C. were carried out by Mr S. S. Davies. The room, as usual, was decorated with flags and buntings, h some artificial leeks. Stop a Cough in One Night. TAKE VENO'S LIGHTNING COUGH CURE. A cough may be due to any of the following Catarrhal Colds Bronchitis Enlarged Tonsils Inflammation Influenza Pleurny and Croup Enlarged Uvula Stomach Disor ders Inflamed Throat Asthma A cough may be dry and hard, or loose with much expectoration; it may be catarrhal with a dry tickling in the throat accompanied by partial stoppage of the nostrils and shortness of breath. Veno's Lightning Cough Cure removes the cause of the cough, not smothering it but curing the diseased conditions which pnoduce it. 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