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

t. AT>][ -*S are the only Agents for "Lotus "and" Delta" in the District.-Builth, Llandrindod, Taigarth and Llanwrtyd. XOH! DEAR DOCTOR! ?? STOP ONE MOMENT.  x MUST MY DARLING DIE? ? _?? THERE IS VERY LITTLE HOPE, BUT TRY TUDOR WILLIAMS' Patent BALSAM OF HONEY WHAT IS IT? Tudor Williams' Patent Balsam of Honey Is an essence of the purest and most efficacious herbs, gathered on the Welsh hills and valleys in the proper season, when their virtues are in full perfection, and combined with pure Welsh Honey. AU the ingredients are perfectly pure, WHIT IT DOES I Tudor Williams' Patent Balsam of Honey Cures Coughs, Colds, Bronchitis, Asthma, Whooping Cough, Croup, and all disorders of the Ihroat, Chest, and Lungs. Wonderful Cure for Children's Coughs after Measles. It is invalu- able to weak-chested men, delicate women and children. It succeeds where all other remedies fail. Sold by all Chemists and Stores in 1/1 J, 2/9, and 4/6 bottles. Sample bottles sent by post for 1/3, 2/9 and 51". Great savings by purchasing larger size bottle. WHAT IT HAS DONE FOR OTHERS I A Stipendiary and Magistrate in the County of Glamorgan remarks :— "I feel it my duty to inform you that I have been using your Tudor Williams' Balsam of Honey in my family, which is a large one, for Siany years, and have proved its great value, having used nothing else for Cough during Measles, Whooping Cough, and Bronchitis, and can highly recommend it to all parents for such complaints. YOU NEED NOT SUFFER! Disease is a sin, inasmuch that if you act rightly, at the right time, it can, to a great extent, be avoided. Here is the preventative. The first moment you start with sore throat, take a dose of TUDOR WILLIAMS' Patent BALSAM OF HONEY It has saved thousands! It will save you. It is prepared by a fully qualified chemist, and 18 > by virtue of its composition, eminently adapted for all cases of Coughs, Colds, Bronchitis, Asthma, etc.; it exercises a distinct influence Qpon the mucous lining of the throat, windpipe, and small air vessels, so that nothing but warmed pure air passes into the lungs. The Children like it. It's the product of the Honeycomb chemically treated to get the best results. THEY ASK FOR IT 1 I So different from Most Medicines. Nice to take. Cures Quickly. For vocalists and public speakers it has no equal. It makes the voice as clear as a bell. Be not deceived. The popularity of Tudor Williams' Patent Balsam of Honey has resulted It). many imitations being placed on the market. When buying, therefore, see that the name l'UDM WILLIAMS is on each bottle, and refuse any Preparation advanced as being "Just as good," or 4 little cheaper." Insist on Tudor Williams', BALSAM OF HONEY. Manufacturer: D. TUDOR WILLIAMS, MEDICAL HALL, ABERDARE. LOCAL AGENTS.—Messrs. W. Tudor, Charles and Gwillim, J. C. B. Morris, Chemists, Brecon; G. M. Perkins, Chemist, Knighton; T. A. Colt- man, Chemist, Builth Wells; D. 1. Williams, Chemist, Llanwrtyd Wells: W. Thomas, Chemist, Talgarth. b939

j Parish in Arrears. I L.G.B. AND VAYNOR BALANCE. At the last meeting of Merthyr Board of Guardians a letter was rea-d from the Local Go- vernment Board with reference to the report made by the district auditor in regard to the large balance against the parish of Vaynor, shown in the parochial ledger of the guardians. The let- ter stated :—"The Board understand that the balance referred to has been accumulating for some years, and I am to point out that during that time the parish has not contributed its pro- per share to the common fund charges, and that other parishes in the Union have consequently been called upon to contribute more than their proper share." They further pointed out, with reference to the guardians' instruction that zC50 be paid by the parish of Vaynor each half-year for the reduction of the 'balance, that at that rate it would take nine years before the amount outstanding was paid off, and it was suggested that the guardians should seriously consider whether Vaynor should not. be called u pon to provide not less than X200 Per annum towards the reduction of the balance. Mr Joseph Price, J.P. (Penderyn) asked for a little consideration, as Vaynor might be in a bet- ter position to pay JE200 or £ 300 a little later than at present. "I have found out, added Mr Price, "that auditors have no soul." Eventually, it was decided to adhere to the previous resolution of the Board that Vaynor be asked to pay £ 50 each half-year towards "wip- ing ont" the balance. '1

I Radnorshire Smash-Up. I 40 CATTLE KILLED IN RAILWAY ACCIDENT. A heavily-laden North-Western goods train ran off the line while rounding a sharp mountain curve at Knucklas, near Knighton, on Friday, completely blocking the single line between Shrewsbury and Central Wales. A number of trucks, cattle-laden, were smash- ed and ahout 40 of the cattle killed. The driver, ifreman and guard escaped injury. Another report states :—As a goods train was moving down the decline between Llangunllo and Knighton, on the Central Wales branch of the London and North Western Railway on Friday looming, three empty corridor coaches and a large number of trucks, including nine filled with live stock, became derailed from some unknown cause. The coaches ran into a high bank and the other Wagons smashed into them with such force that many were telescoped. A score of cattle were either killed outright or so badly injured that they had to be slaughtered, while the permanent Way was badly cut up for about 250 yards, and the single line blocked all day. A passenger service was maintained by trans- ferring passengers to waiting trains. Nobody Was injured and the rear part of the goods train remained on the metals.

I THOUSANDS OF LAMBS PERISH every season for want of proper nourishment. WHY? Because the ewe has not sufficient milk, and what She has is of poor quality and deficient in fat. If you feed Bibby's Sheep and Lamb Cakelettes to your ewes they will rear you strong and healthy lambs. healthy la-bs. Prices and particulars from J. S. DAVIES, Silverdale, Builth Wells- L

i # B? UNCLE TOM." Brecon, March 21st, 1916. My dear nephews and nieces. To-day is the first day of spring, and, after so long and cold a winter, I am sure we all welcome its advent with sunshine, green fields, bursting buds and the singing of the birds. I am very much indebted to a Hay lady, who is kind enough to make some suggestions for what might very well be our subject for April competi- tion. She writes :—"I was veiy much interested in the survey of the children's papers on Offa's Dyke, &c., and I wondered if you had ever had a competition on wells and their local traditions. Every village 'has had its well, and all sorts of gossip and folk-lore attach to these interesting places. The very names indicate some feature of their history, the name people call,the wells, any stones about the wells, situation of the wells and description of its appearance, any particular vir- tues belonging to the waters, and any old names of the wells. In these days of pipes, tanks and taps, the youngsters will forget there ever was a time when the well loomed large in village his- tory, and you would rescue from oblivion a mass of very curious traditions and superstitions, if you could set the youthful antiquarians on this quest- say 'The Wells of my Own Parish.' I hope you may see your way some day to make use of this suggestion. Yours, &c. I quite agree that research on the lines suggest- ed would be most interesting to the children of the two counties and lead them to investigate and bring to local light much almost forgotten folk- lore and tradition. Below I give further comments from the ex- aminer's pen on the interesting items of February competition. References to the 15th, 16th, 17th and 18th competitors will appear next week. With sincerest regards to you all, Your affectionate. UNCLE TOM. ? ? iji

FEBRUARY LETTERS. EXAMINER '.s COMMENTS. 11th, Miss Maggie Davies (Senny).-Writing was fairly good, and Maggie has the foundation of a neat, legible style of penmanship. English, too, was good. Repetitions were found here and there, and paragraphing required attention. Spel- ling was Maggie's weak point. Words, incor- rectly spelled, were, Cefnybedd, formerly, Knuck- las, persecuted, Ca-radoe, Offa's, and niece. Intel- ligence was slightly above the average. Maggie failed to say much about Offa's Dyke and left Maesyronen entirely alone. 12th, Miss Dorothy Belcher (Senny).—Writing required attention, and English was also below the usual competitive standard. Dorothy, how- ever, had never tried before and should persevere. Her spelling was satisfactory, apart from two or three words, viz., independent, baptised, Knuck- las and preach. Dorothy failed to give any in- formation on Maesyronen. and only touched very meagrely on Offa's Dyke. 13th, Master W. Williams (Senny).—Willie should pay attention to his handwriting and Eng- lish. His spelling was fairly good, the only mis- takes being independent and Clun. He should not have used capital letters for schoolmaster, sacrifice and lords. Intelligence was very good as far as it went. Willie, like other competitors, had but little to say on Offa's Dyke, and, for some reason, ignored Maesyronen altogether. 14th, Miss Margaret Evans (Senny).-Ma.r- garet's writing was good, but she must pay strict attention to English composition. She wrote, for instance, "become" for "became," and "cruel" for "cruelly." Her sentences were all too fre- quently commenced with the pronoun, "he." Composition should be varied in language as well as bright, terse and interesting. Margaret's let- ter was of average intelligence, but she, too, should read more about Offa's Dyke and Maesy- ronen. The words, independent, governor, de- nomination and niece were spelt incorrectly.

FURTHER FEBRUARY LETTERS. I Highly Commanded. I 9th, "The Council School, Upper Ohapel, near I Brecon, 23rd February, 1916.-Dear Uncle Tom, I have collected the following facts concerning the eminent men and places of our county, and I trust they will interest you. Vavasour Powell was born at Knucklas, near Knighton. He was a great Welsh evangelist, and greatly persecuted for his religion. He died in prison in the year 1670, and, for the last eleven years of his life, he was almost continually in prison. John Penry, the Welsh martyr, was born at Cefn-brith, on the slopes of the Eppynt, 1559: The great desire of his life was to bring the blessings of the Gospel to his countrymen. He suffered much for his zeal, and in the year 1593, on 29th May, he was hanged. Prince Liewelyn was the last native prince of Wales. He was a true patriot, for, he gave his life for his country. He was killed at Cefn-y-bedd in 1282 while fighting for the inde- pendence of Wales. Offa's Dyke was a deep trench, cut from the Dee to the Wye by Offa, king of Mercia. It was probably a British boundary dyke, fortified and utilised for defence to prevent the Britons over- running Mercia. Howell Harris was born at a farm-house called Trefecca-fawr, in 1714, in the parish of Tal- garth. He was a powerful preacher, and died July 21st, 1773, at the age of 60, and was buried in Talgarth Church. Maesyroneei is the place where Oliver Crom- well is said to have attended divine service on one occasion. It is a very ancient place of wor- ship, and is believed to be the oldest chapel in Wa.les. With kindest regards, I remain, your affec- tionate nephew, Roger T. Davies (aged 12)." 10th. "The Council School, Upper Chapel, near Brecon, 22nd February, 1916.-Dear Uncle Tom. I trust that the following facts about the noted men and places of our county will he of interest to you. Vavasour Powell was a great evangelist. He was horn at Knucklas, near Knighton, and was persecuted for his religion. Vavasour was in prison many 'times, and died in Fleet Prison on October 27th, 1760. John Penry, the Welsh martyr, was born in 1559 at Cefn-brith, near Llangammarch. He suffered great persecution and, on May 29th, was j hanged, because of his religious views. No one knows where he was buried, except :the Master Whom lie served. Prince Llewelyn was the last native prince of Wales. He was killed at Cefn-y-bedd, near Builth, while fighting for his country's indepen- dence in 1282 A monument, erected to his I. memory, marks the sad spot where he was slain. He was the son of Gruffvd. Offa's Dyke was a deep trench, constructed be- tween the Dee and the Wye by Offa, king of Mercia, to prevent the Britons from Wales mak- ing incursions into Mercia. Its remains are still to be seen. Howell Harris was born on the 23rd of Jan- uary. 1714, in a farm-house called Trefecca-fawr, in the parish of Talgarth. He died on July 21st,

Farmers and the War. Breconshire Agricultural Committee. FARMERS' INTEREST AT APPEAL TRIBUNAL. A meeting of the Breconshire War Agricultural Committee was held at the Shire Hall, Brecon, on Friday, when there were present Messrs. Owen Price (chairman), W. S. Miller, Morgan Morgan, J. Edwards, J. L. Davies, T. Morgan, H. W. Richards, David Williams, Walter Wil- liams, H. F. W. Harries ( clerk to the County Council) and D. J. Thomas (county .agricultural organiser). A letter from the Board of Agriculture invited the committee's consideration of a resolution of the Welsh Agricultural Council in favour of some steps being taken to ensure that the claims of agriculturists and other persons who should be exempted from military service in the interests of agriculture should be properly considered by ap- peal tribunals. Mr Harries stated that, as clerk of the County Council and clerk of the County Appeal Tribunal, lie had received from the Board of Agriculture an instruction that a representative of the Board would attend all the tribunal meetings in the in- terests of farmers. He believed Mr Owen Price was the representative of the Board of Agriculture and would attend probably every Tribunal meet- ing, except when cases relating to the Brecon Rural district, where he was chairman of the Local Tribunal, were being considered. He did not know who would act in those cases. The chairman said he had been appointed by the Board of Agriculture, who had asked him to nominate someone to take his place when lie could not attend or act. It was his intention to resign the chairmanship of the Local Tribunal, but, of course, he could not take part in the cases which lie had already heard. Mr Harries I understand you have submitted the name of Mr Mervyn Davies? The Chairman Yes. I refused to act at first, but they have sent me my appointment and asked me to act for them. Provision of Seed Potatoes. I Letters were read showing that arrangements had been made by the Carmarthenshire War Ag- ricultura.1 Committee and the Somersetshire County Council for the supply of selected seed potatoes at as near as possible cost prices, in the latter case the interests of small-holders being kept particularly in view. Members were of the opinion that most people in Breconshire looked after themselves very well ;n this respect. Mr Harries observed that there were a large number of co-operative societies in the county through which supplies might be ob- tained. Mr Miller I think that should be our answer. No action was taken. Swine Fever Restrictions. Cambridgeshire War Agricultural Committee: invited support of a resolution to the effect that the only way to increase the quantity of pigs in the country would be to abolish the restrictions in relation to county boundaries, to open all markets without police licences, and to make the affected area a defined circle with the actual spot of out- break as the centre.. Mr Harries thought the adoption of the county boundary was a wide question, as swine fever was very prevalent in some parts of the country. Mr Miller I move that the letter lie on the table. Agreed. Exportation of Cattle Feeding Stuffs. Warwickshire and Glamorganshire War Agri- cultural Committees forwarded resolutions in fav- our of prohibition of the export of cattle feeding stuffs during the war, but the latter made an ex- ccption in favour of our Allies. Mr Walter Williams thought this proposal might be supported, though he was surprised to hear that there was any exportation. The chairman was also inclined to support the proposal, but said he thought it would not mean very much, as there was very little going away. The committee decided to support the move- ment.

HAVE CURED WILL CURE YOU. Mrs King, Runwell Road, Wickford, states :— "Duty compels me to tell all who suffer that your pills cured me after years of pain." HOLD. ROYD'S GRAVEL PILLS, a positive cure for four years. The pain in my back was entirely gone. Robt. Eades, of Weybridge, writes — "I bought a box yesterday, and after I bad taken the second two I felt better than I had done for over GravA, Pains in the Back, Dropsy, Bright's Dis. ease of the Kidneys, Gout, Sciatica. 1/3, all chemists. Post free, 14 stamps.-HOLDROYD'S MEDICAL HALL. Cleckheaton.

*These columns are freeljopen to the ventilation of any matter of public interest, local or general. Offensive personalities or abusive epithets are, however, rigidly excluded. Every communication must be duly and* properly authenticated. In cases where anonymity is desired, the writer must privately and confidentially furnish the Editor with his name and address, as a guarantee of good faith. The Editor cannot undertake to return any rejected communication. Letters received on the Saturday preceding the week of publication are more likely to be in- serted than those arriving later.

"CONSCIENTIOUS OBJECTIONS," I ir,-R:indly allow tne space in your well-cir- culated paper to express my views regarding the treatment which "conscientious objectors" of the present day receive from the local tribunals. It seems a universal practice of these tribunals to misconstrue the motive and ridicule the opinions of the "conscientious objector." The teachings and counsels of the New Testament are the foun- dation upon which objectors take their stand, and, as such, their case should be respected and dealt with in a Christian manner. We call our country "a Christian land," but how can this title be justified when Christian principles are ignored and- disregarded? The men who offer ob- jections are those who possess such a high con- ception of human life that their conscience will not consent to their taking any part in its de- struction. It may be suggested by members of the tribunals that there are some whose appli- cations are false, and that they are shirkers, who use merely a newly-born conscience as a defence' to shield them from military service. But, sure- iy, from the attitude of the applicant and cross- examination, a sincere objection can easily be de- tected from a feigned one. When it is evident that an applicant's request for exemption on con- scientious grounds is a reliable one, it certainly should not be treated with levity and prejudice. One may justifiably ask questions of this nature :-Do the members of the tribunals under- stand what the feelings of the "conscientious ob- jector" are-? Do they know-, wliat the power of conscience is? Are they disposed to respect and revere Christian beliefs and convictions? The attitude of some members of the tribunals impels an observer to answer these questions in the negative. It is a deplorable fact that con- scientious. Christian opinions are not estimated at their correct value. Would not ancient inhabi- tants of the "Motherland" be ashamed of her if they knew that some of her present inhabitants are being scorned and derided because they wish to act in accordance with the dictates of their conscience? Also, would not our forefathers, in these two counties of Brecknock and Radnor, be reluctant to acknowledge their connection with them if they became conscious of the fact that. men of the present day are not permitted to ad- here to the convictions which they have so long cherished? Yes! and should not we be ashamed of it.—Yours, etc.. BELIEVER. I

ARCHDEACONRY OF BRECON. Sir,—The Rector of Talachddu has misinter- preted—unintentionally, I am sure—my letter. My object, both expressed and implied, was to prevent, if possible, that being done which would make it extremely difficult, if not impossible, for a large number of sympathetic people to sub- scribe, and, also, to prevent their being put in a false position with regard to the movement. The Rector allows, in the main, my contention as to the difficulty arising from the economic con- ditions. Whether the bulk of the people is, as he says, enjoying unexampled prosperity, or, as I maintain, feeling the pinch, there remains a con- siderable minority who would like to contribute, but, as things are, cannot honestly do so. I can only express my astonishment at the position taken up by the Rev. Church Jones. He calls the scheme simple and unpretentious, and yet, by its very conditions, it prevents many scores of humble Churchmen from subscribing, under the present stress, with its pressing calls. We all know perfectly well that the Bishop of Swansea- is not likely to measure a gift by its intrinsic value. That very fact ought to m ke Churchmen all the more anxious to make the < ift in some sense worthy of his acceptance and as J fitting of the occasion and the magnificent sanc- tuary in which it is to be placed as it is possible. I will not pursue thtit point, but will merely re- peat my conviction that it would have befcn kinder and wiser to postpone the scheme, and then to throw it open to the poorest Churchman. I am, &c.. BRYCHAN. I

MOHAMMEDANISM (571) Y. TEUTONISM I (1916). I Sir,—Whilst watching the advance of our forces, and those of our Allies on Bagdad, it is in- teresting to read the following orders, issued to his troops when going into battle, by Abubekr, father- in-law and successor to Mohammed and 1st Caliph at Bagdad, who died 634 A.D. If the Saracens still hold such ideas of chivalry, the Allies will have, as compared with the Gre- mans, quite a civilised people to contend with.- Yours, etc., T. J. CLARKE. Rhayader, 13th March. 1916. [COPY OF ORDERS.1 "When you meet with your enemies quit your- selves like men, and do not turn your backs, and, if you get the victory, kill no little children, nor old men, nor women. Destroy no palm trees, nor burn any fields of corn. l' Cut down no fruit trees, nor do any mischief to cattle, only such as you kill to eat. When you make any covenant or article, stand fb it, and The as good as your word. As you go on you will find some religious per- sons that live retired in monasteries proposing to themselves to serve God in that way, let them alone, and neither kill them nor destroy their monasteries. But you will aleo find another sort of people, who belong to the synagogues of Satan, and have shaven crowns—be sure to cleave their skulls, and give them no quarter till they either ttirn Mohammedan or pay tribute. "Ockley's History of the ISaracens, Balm. edition.

WOMEN AND HOUSE-PLANNING. Sir,—The South Wales Garden Cities and Town-Planning Association is conducting an in- quiry into the planning and internal arrangement of dwellings from the women's point of view. It is proposed, by personal inquiry amongst women all over the 'South Wales coalfield, to ascertain what are regarded by women; as the principal ¡ faults of house-planning, and, also, to receive I suggestions as to constructional materials and ar- rangements, the use of which would tend to re- duce household labour.' In addition, various sub- jects relating to the improvement of home-life will be investigated—for example;- co-operative house-keeping, hostels for single men, etc. The results of the inquiry will be embodied in a report and published. An Advisory Committee of women is being formed to assist in the inquiry, and a meeting of this committee will be held at the City Hall, Car- diff, on Saturday, April 1st. I shall be glad to receive the names and addresses of women's or- ganisations, or of individual women who will co- operate with the association In this inquiry, and to send them invitations to attend the meeting. Yours, etc., EDGAR L. CHAPPELL (Secretary, South Wales Garden Cities and Town-Planning Association). 18, Queen Street. Cardiff. March 10th, 1916.

Sir. Knowing how interested your read- ers will be to read of the care of our soldiers in the camps at home and abroad, may I. as cue who has been among them and been privileged to be in the camps with some of our Welsh lads, give a word on the work of that wonderful organisation called the poor man's church—the Salvation Army. I am a native of

I Painscastie's Tribunal BATCH OF APPEALS. NUMEROUS EXEMPTIONS AND REFUSALS. As briefly reported in last issue, Painscastle Rural Tribunal met at Hay, and dealt with 50 application for exemption on the 10th inst. The Tribunal sat the whole day, but were only able to dispose of 31 cases. Col. H. Beavan presided, and other members present were the Rev. Hubert G. Grif- fith, Rev. D. Morgan, and Messrs. John Davies, A. Cha-Honer, W. Moses and Edwin Lewis, Mr T. Halstead represented the military, and Mr A. Howard, acted as clerk. Miss Sarah Price (Llanybone, Bryngwyn, farmer) applied for exemption for John Rogers, aged 24. a waggoner, on the ground that she had no other man to work a team of horses. The ap- plication was disallowed. Mrs Dyke (Tyrnmonith). asked for exemption for her son, Cyril John Dyke, aged 18 years, who managed the farm for her, and, also, for Thomas Arch (28), ploughman and waggoner. The ground of the former appeal was that applicant was the only one who could help to support his widowed mother and children and see to the busi- ness, and work on the farm. Absolute exemption was granted. The ground of the appeal for the ploughman was that lie was the only man employ- ed on the farm, and could not well be spared off the land. The claim was disallowed. James Hamer (Llanbuchllyn, Erwood, farmer), sought absolute exemption. His plea was that he was farming Llanbuchllyn jointly with his brother. Arthur, who joined the forces in March last and was serving in France. Absolute exemp- tion was granted. David Pritchard (Lane Farm, near Erwood, farmer and tax collector) appealed for absolute ex- emption for his son, Arthur Pritcharl (aged 26), who worked with him. The claim was disallowed. Henry Thomas Pritchard (Penwern, Llandilo- graban) was granted total exemption. Phineas Williams (Penishapwylt, Erwood, far- mer) appealed for exemption on behalf of his two sons, John Sydney Williams, aged-22 years, and Leonard Albert Williams, aged 19 years. Ap- plicant maintained that it would be quite impos- sible for him to carry on the business without them, as they were the main upkeep of the home owing to applicant's advanced years and failing health, and, also, the serious sickness of their sisters at the present time, one being a complete invalid. Absolute exemption was granted in the case of the elder brother, and, in that of the younger, the claim was disallowed. William Evans (farmer, Llewetrog, Llanbedr, Painscastle), asked for the exemption of his only son, William Walter Evans, waggoner. Appli- cant stated that his farm was 110 acres, with ex- tensive mountain right. 50 acres being arable land and 20 acres under cultivation for crops and roots. He had 24 cattle and 200 sheep. Temporary ex- emption till July 10th was granted. John Arthur Wiliams (farmer, of Lower Rhyd- ness. Llanstephan, Boughrood), was granted ab- solute exemption, as he was indispensable for carrying on the farm. Thomas Watkins, shepherd. Cross Foot, Clyro, John Watkins, waggoner, and William Watkins, manager and cowman (three brothers) applied for exemption on the grounds that the farm could not be carried on without them. Thomas and William were granted absolute exemption, and the other claim was disallowed. Vincent Meredith (farmer, of Hendom farm, Clyro) claimed for himself and his brother, James Meredith, aged 27 years, waggoner, on the ground that their father at his great age could not man- age without them. Absolute exemption was grant- ed the former, and the claim of the latter was disallowed. Isaac Samuel (Penrhos, Glasbury) applied for his cowman and ploughman, Herbert Ernest Sheen, as he was the only man employed on his farm of 132 acres. The claim was disallowed.

Our Fallen Heroes. 1 I (By GWEN ROBERTS, Llanbister Road.) I The battle's won, and fields which but awhile Yielded their golden store to reaper's scythe Are desolate. Ne'er more the reapers smile For they, in turn, have been laid low and writhe In piercing pain, while slowly ebbs the life They freely sacrificed in the dire strife. Life's day is o'er The sun, grown weary, leaves The shameful scene, and gladly seeks to hide It's''blushing face, while darkness softly weaves A dusky veil, and soon both far and wide The sodden earth enshrouds. No sound is heard, Nought but the night wind 's moan and shrieking bird. But hark—a step—what vision now appears? I gaze aghast—'tis Death with stealthy stride Who steals abroad to view the field and leers With satisfaction. For the sons who died To uphold thy cause oh fairest Liberty Are garnered home and he the reaper-lie. Take now the blossoms they once gave to thee, With dimpled hands—then plucked in childish glee, Return those emblems of the pure and brave, And lay the garland on the lonely grave. Weep not—mourn not—though Death's the vic- tory given, Thy son finds peace—his soul now rests in Heaven.

At the last meeting of Rhayader Board of Guardians it was observed that the only two re- I plies to an advertisement for a cook came through the mediulll of the "Express." I

Funeral at Llanelwedd. I THE LATE ME. THURLOW. I The remains of Mr Georgia Antonio Luigi Thurlow were laid to rest at Llanelwedd Church- yard, in the same grave a.s his wife, who pre- deceased him by 11 months. The funeral was of a private nature, and the body was conveyed from I Llanelwedd Villa to the burial place by the fol- lowing bearers, viz., Ex-sergt. John Watkins, Messrs. W. J. Morris (Holwood), A. R. Evans (Castle Street), W. Williams (Crossway House), Howard H. Lewis (Market Buildings), WT. J. Wiiliarns (Castle Street), B. Davies (Wye Ter- race), T. Hamer (High Street), Walter Pritchard (Essex Cottage), T. S. Morgan (Taiffald), J. James (Lansdowne), Rees Griffiths (Glentworth), T. Samuel (Manchaster House), A. Twist (High Street), and T. Wilding (Station Road). The mourners were Miss Thurlow. Mr and Mrs Roger Williams and Nurse Loseby. Rev. Thomas Kane (Llandrindod Wells) officia- ted at the house and at the graveside. Mr Walter Lewis (Builth Wells) was the un- dertaker, and the breast-plate of the coffin, of polished oak with brass fittings, was inscribed, "Georgio Antonio Luigi Thurlow, born Febru- ary 8th. 1829, died March 9th, 1916." Some beautiful floral tributes were placed on the grave. I

The Recent Weather. I LOSSES IN SHEEP. I FEARED OWING TO SNOW DRIFTS. I The recent severe weather caused farmers the greatest anxiety and work. Not for very many years had the lambing season commenced under such adverse circumstances. In both Brecon- ■ sliire and Radnorshire big losses were feared. Our Rhayader correspondent writes The snow storm raged in the district for over a fortnight, man and beast suffering their full share from its effects. It wa-s feared that the losses in sheep on the mountains round was enormous, the cold and exposure causing them "the gid" and sweeping them away. Our Cray correspondent says An exceptionally heavy fall of snow, experienced lately, caused great anxiety to the large flock-masters of this neighbourhood. The Great Forest had not been covered with such a depth of snow for many years. Railway traffic was suspended twice, an engine :being buried in the snowdrifts between Cray and Pehwyllt stations.

??orOttMt.PMh'y.Puddtngt A S???m KMW)Ct(? ?? BAK!NG POWDER. ?? m:: == .= T I FOR SUBSTANTIAL, & ARTISTIC I FURNITURE ■ DO NOT FAIL TO VISIT [ LLEWELLYN BROS. IMMENSE SHOWROOMS I The Largest Stock in Swansea & District. Our Success lies in the fact that we give honest value for honest money. Goods delivered at your house by Road in our own Motor Van. LLEWELLYN BROS,, 37, High Street, and 21,7, Castle Street, SWANSEA. T i

Offa's Dyke. By SYLVANIA. A thousand years and more have passed away, Since Offa, King of Mercia, held the sway; After Northumbrian fall, no power displaced, All England's fair domain his realm embraced. Offa, the mighty, lies on history's page, The greatest monarch of that distant age. From northern Clyde to distant southern shore. Secure his kingdom free from conflict sore, Dane, Norse and Saxon rude though valiant hosts, Dared not encroach on Mercia's eastern l coasts, But in the west his border land did lie, Open to gallant Wales, where mountains high Had reared a race of warriors, who ne'er bowed To foreign yoke or quailed when conflict loud, Aroused the echoes, and when beacon red, Called to the fight, with fiercest ardour sped. Nor stayed their hand till rich with looted store, They homeward hied to Cambria's mountains hoar. There where the mighty hills her sons embower, Offa, the nlightv, durst not stake his power. So crossing hill and plain from Wye to Dee, A dyke to mark my bounds I'll make, quoth he: I'll call my councillors, my statesmen wise, And penalties severe we will devise. Then should my warriors fail to overawe. These savage hosts may show respect to law, My heralds shall proclaim throughout the land, Who crossed Offa's dyke shall lose his hand Or e'en this head as some the tale relate, Tradition loses naught at distant date. Mercia is now a kingdom of the past, No power, though mighty, reared on force can last, The sword is sheathed and Britons bold and free, United stand encircled by the sea. Naught but a grassy mound can travellers trace, For more than thousand years have rolled apace. Since Offa raised his mound from Dee to Wve. And sentry kept lone watch 'neath starry sky, The foemen sleep, unbroken is their rest, Where curlew calls, and song bird builds her nest.

Hay Guardians APPOINT A COOK. Hay guardians met at the Board Room on Thursday. Present were the Revs. W. E. T. Morgan (chairman). G. Leigh Spencer, Hubert G. Griffith and W. L. Crichton, Mrs E. C. Crich- ton, and Messrs. H. Yorath, D. F. Powell, E. George, J. P. Bishop, J. Jones, W. V. Pugh, E. D. Weaver, T. R. Griffiths, Chas. Butcher, W. M. Price, W. Thomas, and A. Howard (acting- clerk). Dr. T. E. Hincks (medical-officer) also at- tended. Collectors' monthly statements were received from Clyro, Clifford, Dorstone, Glynfach, Tre- gOYd and Velindre, Llowes, Whitney, Llandewy- fach, Llanbedr-Painscastle, Llanigon, GJasbury and Aberllynfi. A letter was read from Worcester Union re- lative to a man named Thomas Morgan. He had been imprisoned in Worcester gaol and had died there. The union requested the payment of his maintenance expenses at Worcester, that was, as he had been an old inmate at Hay. The clerk submitted a duplicate agreement with the Newtown and Llanidloes Union for the board- ing out of John Morgan Pugh, and the board's seal was affixed thereto. The committee, selected in respect to the ap- pointment of cook, reported that they had inter- viewed Miss Annie White, and considered she was a very suitable person. They, therefore, recom- mended her appointment. The Board thereupon appointed Miss White at a salary of R24, with apartments and rations.

CHILDREN'S COR HER -Continued. 1773, and was buried in Talgarth Church. He had a wonderful gift for preaching. Maesyronen is called the oldest chapel in Wales. It is said that Oliver Cromwell once at- tended service there. The present structure was erected in 1696. It still retains its ancient char- acteristics—its appearances, its stone masonry, and its antique fittings just as they were 200 yea,rs ago. With kindest regards. I remain, your affection- ate nephew, James Prvtherch (aged 12)." March Competition. Best essay on "Llangorse Lake" or "Elan Valley Waterworks." Open to elementary school-children in Brecon and Radnor. iiclude name, address, and age in your con- trution. Marks will be givnas follow :—Intelligence, 160: English, 80; spelling, 80; and hand-writing, 80. Prizes.—1st, 2/6: 2nd, 1/6; 3rd, 1/ The essays must not exceed 250 words. The compositions must also be the bonafide work of competitors themselves. The last day for receiving essays wiH be Friday, March 31st, and these should be properly stamped and addressed to Uncle Tom, care of "Brecon and Radnor Express," Brecon.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR-continued. the dear old county of Brecknock, and, also, served with the 1st Battalion of that county which is now in India. This organisation, pre- vious to the war, had only a small but good working branch among His Majesty's forces in institutes which were called naval and military homes. But, since the war has commenced, it has gone forward with leaps and bounds. The officers of the Salvation Army, who were raw to the knowledge of work among military men, were sent to different parts of the country to attend to the wants of the boys, and proved themselves very creditably indeed. Whatever hour of the night the boys might be coming in, and the offi- cer of that particular camp is aware of it, they have hot tea, etc., provided for them. The wives of these officers, who are angels of light to the boys, upon knowing that they have any mending to be done, most willingly do it upon request. Here is an insta.nce of thought of these people for our dear lads. A military officer appeared at a station on Salisbury Plain at midnight, went to the Salvation Army marquee, found the officer, asked him if he could provide 100 cups of tea and 100 sandwiches, and how long would it take? The Salvationist replied ten minutes. The officer, with watch in hand, timed him, and the 100 cups of tea, &c., were ready at the alloted time! That particular officer of the Salvation Army did not get back to bed until 24 hours had passed away, and was again on the move 5 hours afterwards. This is only one instance of many of the acts of mercy of these wonderful people. This is what a soldier from Gallipoli writes of one of its chap- lains. Writing to the "War Cry," he says, "He is a 'father to us all.' He even takes a turn with pick and shovel. In storm or calm, he is with us. and, after the evening meal, he will inspire us to write home, if only a few lines, himself provid- ing paper and addressing the envelopes. Then he will cheerfully trudge miles at midnight to post our letters. Oh, he's a fine pater to us boys I" This wonderful organisation is doing its bit for king and country. Over 40,000 Salvationists and adherents are now serving. What a magnificent record 1 Another instance :-A lady came to see her brother at one of the camps at Salisbury Plain before proceeding to France, and tried to get lodgings for the night and failed, and would have been about all night but for the thought of one of the S.A. officers, who gave up his bed and went and slept with the soldiers in barracks. May these people have the respect of the country. a Yours, &c., A LAD FROM WALES.