Herald of Wales and Monmouthshire Recorder

RAPID TRA?Srr. | ELEC-TRI Fl CATION OF MUMBLES i RAILWAY. As was reported on Tuesday. the the Corporation intend v> idenmg the Mumbles-road. Mr. Tegetmicr, the oliairman of the Swansea improvements and Tramways Co., has been in town for the la&t few day?, and it has- been stated that he is! acting as chairman of the new Motor Traction Co. which has for its object the provision of speedy services between the tramway termini of the borough and the outlying districts. Among other things, it is stated that motor omnibuses of handy typo should bo run down the Mumbles road. The" Herald" is in a position to state that a schema will shortly »e put into operation by which motor omni-I buses will be run to the outlying dis- tricts. There aro several part* of the town which cannot be reached after a visit to a, theatre or concert except by those who are content to take a taxi- cab. We the new com- p&ay will make a .speciality of arrang- ing services between the termini of the 1 various tram services and places like Clydach, Pontardawe, Y stayifna, Llan- gennech, etc. Mumbles Electrification. I Meanwhile, it should be borne in I Mind that the scheme for the electrifi- cation of the Mumbles Itallway is pro- gr&ssuig, and ib is a matter of fad that. Mr. Tegeftmier's visit has direct refer- ence to the c'arryi&g-out of this project. It can be said that next ye?r the I Mumbles railway will be transformed l into an electrified railway, and while there are unsurmountable difficulties in the way ot making ail electric tramway to the Mumbles, negotiations are in progress, and there is a scheme on foot I to make it an elect-rifiedw railway with ten-minute service.

DEATH OF MRS. DAVIII LEWIS. Suddenly Passes Away in London. I We regret to record the death of Mrs. Jane Lewis, wile of Major David I' Lewis, of Fern hill, BlackpiJJ, and of the Diliwyn Works, Gorseinon, which oc- curred in a London Nursing Home on ¡ Tuesday morning. Mrs. Lewis had been ill since her return from the Continent last y<3T a.ud ¡ about three months ago she was taken to London by Dr. Lloyd Jones, and was placed in the charge or Dr. Milsoin left the Mumbles to de- J vote his attention to the patient. 1 The body will be brought back to Blaekpill. and the funeral will take phce at Penllergaer. T: deceased lady, who was or a quiet and homely disposition. was greatly respected and very popular in the district in which she resided. She was a daughter of the late Mr. John Howell Gibbs. of Llannant. She left no children, but there are two sisters left, one of whom is married to Mr. Tom Lewis, of Bryn- gWYll Hall. Gorseinon.

"THE BARD." Proposecf Production at Swansea, f An. interesting announcement concern- ing the futnrè of the Swansea Musical Society was made hy Dr. Vaughan Thomas at a meeting of the members, held at St. Paul's Schoolroom on ilsn- day evening, Mr. Harry WiUiams pre- eidics. Dr. Thomu.?. ? ho wag euthu?fasticaUy) cheered on making hLs appearance, con- gratulated the members upon their H1C- gr,?tulate(I tl!ie meinbers upon theii- point of view, at the recent penorm- a-iica of "The Apostles. Dr.) lhonias made special mention of the services of Mr. Samuel Jones (the hon. secretary), and Mr. LI. Bevan. With regard to the future he intimated that the Committee had decided to continue the bociety next season, and that in j the meantime a number of works would be put in preparation. They had al- ready tackled on.e of the biggest things ever written, but it seemed to him that what they wanted was to get the later developments of the English scbooi of composition, and bring them before the public,# sandwiched between some thoroughly modern orchestral work. N The Bard. r~ • I -i Ul0 v.ur;l1ltt.ee had paid him what ae considered a very great compliment m selecting as one or the pieces to be performed, "The Bard'' (Cheers.) This would occupy about three quarters of an hour, and would require the service of one soloist, but a compe- tent orchestra. The other works would i be Mr. Joseph Holbrook's "Queen Mab," an orchoshra! tone poem, In(i; and j "Israel in Egypt (Handel). 'fhe-so wtl 1 be given in November and March',j 1913. Mr. Harry Williams said that ai-i though the financial result of the con- cert was not as satisfactory as they had hoped—there was a deficit" of on the concert, in addition to a loss of £"20 on the sale of copies of the work to the choristers, a total of about £ 75-— the committee were not going to be discouraged by this circumstance. Mr. Samuel Jones also spoke, refer-j ring especially to the excellent assist- ance .given to the secretary by Mr. Harry Williams.

YOUNG LABOURERS. I Lightly Dealt With at Swansea. At Swansea Police Court on Tuesday William Williams (19), and John Hi¿- cock (23). both labourers, were brought up an remand on a charge of stealing and receiving a quantity of ie-ad, value 2s. t roin the Hafod Phosphate Works, the property of Messrs. Vivian and Sons. Williams was to-day also charged with stealing and receiving a pair of trousers, value 6s. 6d., from Nos. 1:.3 and 14, College-street, Swansea, the pro- perty of it. Freedman, on January 24th, and stealing and receiving an overcoat .value £1 from No. 224, High- stroei, the property of John Lewis, on !j the tame date. In the first ease David John Morgan,! a plumber in the employ of Messrs." Vivian and Sons, said that between the Copper Works and Phosphate Works a pipe conveyed acid. When the pipe leaked he used to mend it, leaving the oid pieces of lead on the ground until there was enough to remove. He misled thre pieces ot lead on January 29th. He identified two of the pieces which were in the possession of the police. P.O. 71, Harris t>aid prisoner came to him and asked to be locked up. Both defendants elected to be tried summarily, and pleaded guilty. ?'iHiams .stated that the lead because they wanted food, but thev ? cm?d not. sell it in Ie?, quantities tha.n n(,-t, ??,e 11 it in le-s-i fjuantit-Le?i !.hall Both were bound (ji-er in the sum of ;0 n ech for twelve mouths. In the second case an assistant from Mr. Freedman identified the pair of trousers. Supt. Roberts applied that the troufeers be returned to the owners. An order to that effect was made. A boy from John Lewis' also identified the coat, and this, was ordered to be re- ted. )

BRYNHYFRYD LADY'S FUNERAL.) The burial took I place Wednesday at Cwmgelly Cemetery, near Swansea of fri; Mary Francis, widow of the late Mr. John iraiicis, of 301, Pen. vilu-A-road, Brynhy- i'ryd, Swansea. The mourners were Mr. Thomas John, Llau- gennc>h and Mr. Geo. John (brothers), Mr. John Hopkm John, Mr. Dd. John, Mr. and Mrs. Daniel John, Mr. and Mrs. Win. John (Seath), Mrs. Lloyd, Mr. Wm. John (Pontardulais), Mr. Thomas John, Mrs. Daniel John (Morris toii) Ifrs Mary John, Mr. and Mrs. Walter Williams. Mr. and Mrs. G. D. John, M. and Mrs. John Powell, Mr. J. £ Powell, B..V, Mr. D. F. John, Miss M. A. John, Mr. and Mrs. W. (- Mr and Mrs Wm. Lewis (newsagent?. Mr. Boaz John, Mrs. Thomas (Haverfordwest), Miss Miggie John. Mr. and Mra. n. F. John, Mrs. Henry Griffith, Mre. John. Mr. Griffiths, Mrs Ben- Ilett, liearci. aii(I Mrs. Statler The Rev. Samuel Williams, of Siloh, Landore, officiated. There were also presp-iit: I r. Wm. Williams, J.P. (Wernj, Mr. IJcw. Llew- elyn, Mr, Wm. Thomas, and Mr Johnny Hughes

BIC TENEMENT SCHEME. i; We understand that 3Tr. Davjd I Yaughan, the well-known lodging-house keeper, of the Strand, Swansea, has de- cided to extend his business. Tn the near future he intends erecting 80 new tenements ou the Strand, at a cost of £ 10,000.

FELL OVER DOORSTEP. I At an. inquest on Tuesday oa Raehel Owens (74), wife of Thomas Owens, 89. Kilvey-road, it was stated that on the 31st ulto., s he fell over the door-i step, sustaining an injury to her el-1 bow. SheNdied from gangrene of the arm on February 1st. A verdict of accidental death wae re- turned.

SWANSEA MARKET. LAST YEAR'S OEOREASF. iN I REVENUE. A meeting ol the Swansea Market and Slaughterhouses Committee was held on Wednesday, Mr. G. llili pre- siding. Tenders were recei ved for painting the Market gates, and the tender of Messrs. Pugsley and Son, of £ï ]Os was accepted. The tender of >lr, W7. H. Harding, of t- i t- 10s.. for painting at the cattle and slaughterhouses, was also accepted. The Manager reported that the roofs, of the sheep, pig and cattle pens were in a very unsatisfactory state, and were constantly in need of repair. The question arose as to whether it would be advisable to sustitute tiles for the slates, and the Borough Architect was asked to report on the matter. Market Revenue. The market manage- (Mr. J. • W.j Davies) reported that the market revenue for the 41 weeks ending January 31st Rd. against £ 6,484 7&. 6d. the previous year, a decrease of JC309 14s. Hkl. £ 1540 14s (ki, as against £ 1793 9s. 7d, a decrease of £ 252 15s. Id. There had been a decrease in the number of cattle slaughtere d of 402 beasts, 2,538 sheep, 853 calves and 3,953 pigs, a total decrease of 7.746. The Profits. t The Chairman: How long is it since the market became unremunerati ve ill. J. B. Owen: 011, it has not come to that yet. Mr. J. W. Davies said fhe gross pro- fit on the market during the la-st twelve veans Mas the net profit £2)326.

PIT TRAGEDY. I Inquest rm a Liansamlet Haulier. The Borough Coroner held an in- quest at the AJexandra-road Chapel, Swansea, on Wednesday, touching the death of James Rees, a haulier, of Lon- la; Liansamlet, who died in the Swan- I sea Hospital on Tuesday ruorning as a result of injuries received in an acci- dent at the Cwrt-y-Bettws Colliery on January 21st.—Mr. Lewis, 11.M. In- spector of Mine?, Mr. Davies, miners' agent, amI Mr. BulL who represented the employers, were present. Evidence of identification was given by deceased\s son, James Bees, of Lon- j las. Lansamlet. who tated that his father had been employed at the col- liery for 17 or 18 years. Thomas Davies (19), Railway-terrace, Skewen, who is a tipper, said that de- ceased was working some trucks. His attention called eiiortlv after two o'clock to deceased who shouted out that he saw live waggons moving along towards the tipping slieds. After the waggons had passed he the de- ceased on .the ground lying across the rails. When witness got within twenty yards (- shouted: Come quick, Tom, my leg is cut off. Come and stop my blood." No time o tirne was Jost in getting him to the Swansea Hospital..No one witnessed the, acci- dent. Dr. Gabe, house surgeon of the Swansea Hospital, said that deceased's leg had to be amputated owing to a compound fracture. Death was due to heart failure and pleurisy following the accident. A verdict in accordance with the medical testimony was returned.

DANYCRAIC EISTEDDFOD. 11 ( Highly Successful Event. The tenth annual ei-steddfod in con- nection with Mount Calvary Bapti&t Chapel, Danygraig, on Saturday proved a great success, the standard of sing- ing being very high. Tho officials were: Adjudicators.—Music, Messrs. Jacob Gabriel, G. and L. Argoed, and Tom Jones, A.R.C.O., li.lt.A.M., -Aberdare; recitations, Rev. J. T. Rogers, Pertre- chw.vt-h; arts and crafts, Mrs. Stanley and Miss Mary Grove, Tyrisha. Bonymaen; accom- panists, Miss Edith h error, Swansea, and Mi&> Lilian Stratton, Swansea; conductor, Rev. E. Mjrddin Thomas. Mr. Rhys Lewis, Gwydr-crescent, Swansea, who presided, alluded to the vahip cf the ?teddtod to Wales, at- tribut'ns to it the remcirtion of many naional characteristics. In the P.st, he <'a)d. Wales had ?unpred from an over- do&e of humi!Hy, but she is b(\Ônning to wake up and make progress. Ho was convinced that the eisteddfod would become a greater power in Wales, and will prove an inspiration to the people of the Principality. Chief Choral: Fabian's Bay, St. Thomas (Conductor. Mr* Tom Morris). Second Choral: Libanus. Cwmbwrla (con- ¡ ductor, Mr. A. Evans). Chief Male Voice: Pentrechwyth (con- ductor, Mr. T. n. Williams). Second Male Voice: Neath Minstrels (con- I ductor, Mr. Joseph Pickerell). Soprano Solo: Mrs. M. Richards (Birch- grove). I Contralto Solo: Divided between Misa Dili's Jones (Penartbj and frli. Kato Ellis (Trealav\). Tenor Solo: Mr. Syd Charles (LlanellyJ. Bass Solo: Mr. Ben Thomas (Treboeth'i. Open Novice: Miss Dilys Jones (PeQarth). Boys' Solo: 1. D. R. Lewis (Plasmarl); 2. Glyn Pricc (Manselton); consolation prize. Charles Davies (Swansea). Girls' Solo; 1. Haidee Davies (Swansea); 2, Beatrice Aathonr (MaoselU>n). Duet: 1, Ha idee Davies (Swansea) and D. R. I.ewis (PlasmarlJ; 2, Stanley and Chas. Davies (Swansea). Pianoforte 140108 -Under JO: Beatrice Powell (Swansea); under lZ: Dilyr, D.ivies (PIaeiJiarJ): under lS: Dilys Davies (PJas- marl); under 14: Divided between Dorothy Powell (Caerau, MaestegK and Huphemi? Doris Rees (Swansea); under ?5: Edith ?inne* (La?ndorc?; under 16: Anne Beatrice Williams (Llansamls»t). Recitations-Under 10: Annie Stock (Danv- graig); under 7: Cisey Williams (Port '{",n-I rant); under 12: Robert George (D?ny- graig) Arts and Crafts. I Best cake d'oyley: Miss Ivy (Mynydd- bach I. Best tray cloth: Miss Ivy (Mynydd- bach>. Best afternoon tea cloth: Mies Ley- shon (FoA-hoie). Best cushion cover or table centre: Divided between Mrs. Gilbert (Kidwelly), and Miss M. M. Thomas (Cwm- bwrla). Best hemmed tea, cloth: Elsie Wil- liams (Port Tennant)

WASSAIL-SQUARE HOUSES. A petition signed by Messrs. Merrells, Dd. Matthews, Milled, a.n.d G. Col-will, ail members of the Swansea Council, has b??n directed to the Local Govern- mcnt Boud ur?n? an inqmry into the condition of certain houses in Wassail- square, Swansea, with a view to issuing closing orders. The matter was discussed at the last meeting of the Council.

CASTLE-STREET CORNER. I At last a start is to be made with the 1 buildings on the corner of Castle- ",treet and Welcome-lane, which will complete the Cattle-street improve- ment scheme. The site was secured some time ago by the Prudential As- surance Company who propose to erect a palatial suite of officer at an approxi- mate cost of £ 17,000. Tho contract haes been let 1.0 Messrs. Henry Billings aul Sons. who will prob- ably make a start 011 Monday next. 1

DUST BIN PROBLEM. TOWN TO BE CIRCULARISED ON THE QUESTION. A meeting of the Swansea Health Com- mittee was held on Tuesday, Mr. D. V il. liims presiding. Dr. T. Evans (medical officer of health;, in his report, sta.tcd that he had closed Pentrepoeth and Morrfcton ikrhoois owing to the prevalence of meagles. He h: id 'iv-,t closed the Graiir Schonl, although the per- centage of attendances there was from 20 to 30 per cent below the avernge. Mr. Powlesland a,skeJj whether that vras not sufficient justification for closing the Graig Schooi. Dr. iivir6 said he really could not do any good by closing the schools for mea-sies. The chief mischief w..ib done outside by the children mixing with others in the streets. He further added hat they ha(f no control over the Sunday schools. Sunday Schools. M.r, Lewis tfiougiit if the auf.hcritie-s of the Sunday schools were apjiroachcri iii 1he matter they would close them if-necessary. Dr. Lvariri eaid it was the first, time ihoy li.-3(t had an cpidemk in Moriiston for t \e j-.yirfi. The Medical Officer next reported that he had purchased four insulation dust-bins, jWhich were waitinp for the inspection oi the committee. This led to a discussion 011 tiic general scavenging of the t-own. and Evans, in reply to Mr. Morgan Tutton, slid the Health Committee emptied the receptacles as often as they liked. The Chairman eaid the Superintendent of the Scavenging Department had the control of the collection of refuse, and in some dis- tricts it W.18 done once a day; ih othsrt districts twice a week, while in eome places it was done twice a year. (Laughter.) A discussion arose as to whether the owners or the tenants of houses should ray for the dust-bins, and the Chairman slid if they put the char?p on the owners t'jcy would put it on the rents, and they would keep ?p the rente for 40 years for a thing which did not cost 20s. Corporation Should Sell Dust-Bins. it, was suggested tuat the Corporation should pay for the receptaeies and allow the tenants to pay them oif by easy in- stalments. Mr. Tutton: We could become a trading community, and deal with them in that way. Tho Chairman: These receptacles are, in the interests of the borough, and 1 think we ought to provide them. It WaÆi ultimately decided, on the motion of Mr. Powesland. that the town should bo circularised on the question of providing these receptaclcs for householders. A letter wa-e read inviting the committee to send delegates to the Victoria League Imperial Health Conference at the Imperial Institute from May 18th to May 24th next. The Chairman tuid of the making of con- ferences there vaA no end, and they were overlapping each other. He suggested that the letter lie on the table. This was agreed to. The committee, on the recommendation of the Chief Sanitary Inspector, granted an honorarium of five guineas to Mr. Nener, sanitary inspector, for extra services in connection with some sewerage work in the borough.

SWANSEA'S UNEMPLOYED. Alderman Pdsrroils Opposes Starting Distress Work. Alderman T. ilcrreils, J.P., chair- man, presided at a meeting of the Swansea Highways Committee on Tues- day afternoon. Arising out of a report by the Deputy Surveyor (Mr. S war brick) as to distress work. The Chairman .said that he dkl not consider it the time or the year to open distress work. He thought the money would be better spent when there were exceptional distress condi- tions. Alderman Miles remarked that there were 300 general labourers out of work in the town at the present time. Mr. George Hill said that when soliie time age the Surveyor sent out cards for labourers, not a quarter of the num- ber turned up. Inevitable Margin of Unemployed. The Chairman said that in a, town of the size of Swansea they must always have a certain amount of unemployed general labourers all the year round. The question was whether this Was an exceptional time. At present they could not get a mason for a pound a day. Alderman Miles: In other words, you suggest that we should wait until the distress is more keen? The Chairman: I do. Jf we took your view we would have to provide dis- tress work all the year round. There must always bo a certain margin of un- cut ployed. Mr. Laugharne Morgan: Does it cost more to do it by distress labour ? The Chairman: Yes; 50 per cent. more. Mr. Laugharne Morgan: Does the Government grant make up for the addi- tional cost ? The Chairman: No. The matter then dropped. a _pc d

Richard Thomas (14) was fined 2s. 6d at Swansea on Tuesday for, that he being a person under 16 years of age, did engage in .street trading on Sunday, January 18th. Mr. Henry Thompson, I who defended, said to was instructed by the Shopkeepers' and Small Traders' Association, London. They had been advised by the Home Office that. the mere delivering of papers ordered be- fore hand was not street, trading.

WRITING to the agent entrusted with the purchasing of the stores for the forthcoming Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedi- tion, Sir Ernest Shackleton uses these words IMI consider the question of the concentrated beef supply is most im- portant- s it must be Bovril" Men who trust their lives to their food take no risks, and Sir Ernest Sbackleton, planning this expedition" with as intimate a knowledge of stores as of ice and snow, has recognised the scientifically proved value of Bovril. The independent scientific investiga- tion which proved the Body-building power of Bovril to be trom 10 to 20 times the amount taken was carried out by one of the foremost physiologists of the Kingdom on behalf of a Govern- ment Department, and the results obtained applied to Bovril and Bovril alone. ,<u, 1 A FINANCIAL STATEMENT. METROPOLITAN BANK, (OF ENGLAND & WALES) LIMITED. HEAD OFFICE, 60, CRACECHURCH STREET, LONDON, E.G. COUNTRY OFFICE, BIRMINGHAM, TRANSFER OFFICE, BIRM I NGH". Capital, £ 7,500,000 in 150,000 Shares of\ £ 50 each. Paid-up Cilpital, tsr)n,ono Guarantee Fund, £ J3J,000 Ba!anca of Profits Carried Forward, £ 58,984 DIRECTORS. FREDK. WM. NASH; Esq., Managing Director and Chairman. Rt. Hon. the IJOrrl GLANTAWE. Depnty Chairman. STANLEY BALDWIN, Esq., M.P. W. H. BANKS, Esq. HENRY C. FIELD, R?q. JOHN GLASBHOOK, Esq. ROWLAND HILL, Esq. LOFTUS B. MORTEM, Ecq. F. E. MUNTZ, Esq. Lord ERNEST J. SEYMOUR. Sir JOSEPH WESTON-STEVENS. General Mana,ger-.F..r. HUGHES. Secretary JAMES SMITH WOOD. Chief TnspectoV —JAMES E. AYTOUN. I/ondon Manager-A. E. OLD. London Sub-Manaarer-THOS. THOMSON. BALANCE SHEET, 31 St DECEMBER, 1913. LIABILITIES: ASSETS: 1- d. I £ s. d. Due by the Bank on Current. Deposit, Cash jn hand and at the Bank of England 1,348.937 9 8 and other Accounts 11,761.265 10 9 Cash at Call and at Short Notice 1.900.226 17 S Seven Days and other Drafts 5.1S4 18 0 1 -— Foreign Bilk Negotiated, as per 17 (j 3.249,164 4 7 4 Bills for Collection, as per contra ]32,4.03 19 9 N- 17 Rebate on Bills discounted 9,418 1 1 British and Indian Gov- ernment Securities £d3,900 0 11,964,853 16 1 Colonial Government PROPRIETORS' FUNDS: Securities, Raihvay Paid-up Capital &550,000 0 0 I nd Corpora.tion Guarantee Fund 380,000 0 0 Stocks, and Debcn- 930,000 0 0 tura Bonds 838,336 19 0 Dividend J,?%2,2'(4? 1 6 0 February next 41,250 0 0 Bills of Exchange '920?6715 8 Profit and l?o?-? Account balance carried forward 50,982 8 9 5.732,429 9 0 ————————— 92.232 8 9 Due to the Bank on Current and other Acounts after deducting provision for had and doubtful debts and contingen- cies, and including Kington Bank Pur- This statement o< ).iah'))H<? does not. include chase Account 6.mn.42.37 :t Ioes iio?,. ? -elude el.?ia,e Aef-oiiiit I 6.(,'91,42,5 7 't This Bank s Fuaran.ee of' £ 44 643 to the York- Foreign Bill:; Negotiated, as '6 ? 691 425 7 *t .asper contra. 56:580 17 6 amr. icnnj bank, Limited. [„r Collection, as per contra 132,103 19 a Bank Premises and Furni- ture at Loudon, Bir- mingham and B ran eh e s, at cost Jess amounts written off 436.785 0 5 Less Bank Premises Re- I ..1 t" F 1 (") -3-' 9 1 demption Fund 62.538 9 1 ———————— 374.246 11 4 £ 12,987,086 4 10 £ 12,987,086 4 10 Signed on behnlf of the Board. FREDERICK WM. NASH, Chairman. F. J. HUGHES, General Manager. GLANTAWE, Deputy Chairman. AUDITORS' REPORT. We report to the Shareholders that.Ave have obtained all the information and explanations we have required. Wa have examined the Securities held against money at Call and Short Notice, and those representing the Investments of the Bank, and have satisfied ourselves of the correctness ofthe Cash Balances. We have, as usual, visited all the Branches of the Bank, and in our opinion this Balance Sheet is properly drawn up, so asvto exhibit a true and correct view of the state of the Company's affairs, according to the best of our information and the explanations given to us, and as .shown bv the hooks of the Compan' y. London, 16th January, 1914. TURQUAND, YOrXGS & CO., Auditors. LOCAL BRANCHES- SWANSEA-Castle Square, High Street, DDCks, St. Helen's, T. W. ISLAY YOUNC, Manager. AMMANFORD, GARNANT, CORSEINON, MORRIS- TON, MUMBLES, PONTARDULAIS C. J. C. NASH, Leibrandt, Sub-Manager. YSTALYFERA, YSTRADCYNLAIS, ABERCRAVE, CWYS-H. D. WOODLIFFE, Manager.

I THE WELSH PLAYERS. f I Exciting American Voyage. The Welsh Players had all exciting voyage to America. Terrible gales de- layed the Majestic, the liner on which they travelled, but she reached New York on Saturday, when the second- class passengers signed a memorial ex- pressing their admiration of the fine seamanship displayed by Commander Beadnell. Among the tirstelass pas- sengers were President Wilson's daugh- ter and her husband, who were return- ing from their honeymoon in Europe. The incidents of the journey were, however, not exhausted when the har- bour was reached. The Majestic was steaming at about five knots when the dock-tug Nicholas drew alongside. But the tide was runn ing so rapidly tha t as the tug s lowed down she was swung across the liner's bows, and a violent collision resulted. Flames shot up d'om the tug/Is. deck, and the engi- neer and deck hand leapt overboard, but the captain shouted that he meant to try and beach the vessel, so the two men climbed back, and an attempt was mado to reach the Eric Elevator Pier, Jersey City. With skope and flames issuing from I her engine-room, the Nicholas was driven ahead at full speed, with her! decks awash. But s' e was sinking rapidly, and another tug, R. N. Bar- nett, raced to her assistance, and the crew were taken off in the nick of time, ?ho vessel disappearing beneath the water. The Majestic was afterwards safely docked. A Concert. ) During the voyage the Welsh Players gave a concert, and the Americans par-I ticularlv enjoyed the Welsh comic songs which Mr. Will Hopkin gave. A collect-ion, amounting to JE2 14s. 6d. was made on behalf of the seamen's charities. The Players are staying at the Mor- gan Hotel, which is kept by Mr. J. H. Joseph, a native of Llangennech, near Llanelly. For the production of Change," the Booth Theatre, Broad- way, has been finally settled upon, and the American managers are sanguine of success. New Strike Play. lhe Drumr, Society is bringing out a new Welsh play, by Mr. T. R. Evans, at tho Rehearsal Theatre, on Sunday next. There is a triplo 'bill on the occa- sion, and Mr. Evans' play is entitled "Kani-y-Brodvr" — a Carnarvonshire play, it Mill be actod entirely ijt Welsh but the, programme will contain a full English synopsis of tho story. The theme is tho expulsion from the Sri at of a strike leader—a subject that is pe- culiarly topical and appropriate at the present time, and the ciu;t includes, be- sides Mr. Evans himself, Miss Janet Evans, M iss Cordelia. Rhyc;, Miss Megan Williams, Mr Gwilym Aeron, and Mr. H. D. Jones

THE FREEDOM CASKETS. I Question of Losal Work Considered. I Swansea Parliamentary and General Purposes Committee meeting on Tues- day, Mr. Dd. Matthews (chairman) pre- siding, considered the question of de- tails oonc-crning the conferring of the honorary freedom of the borough upon Sir John Llewelyn, Bart., Alr. David Davies, M.P., Mr. Roger Beck, and Mr. John Dyer. J. P. It wa-s stated that on the occasion of the honour being conferred upon Baroness Cederstrom, the casket was mad e at the Swansea. Municipal School of Art and Crafts, and it was decided to ask Mr. Grant Murray, the principal, to submit a design for the present caskets. Whether these are to 1w made locally depends upon the time in which they cou ld be executed, and Mr. Murray was asked to attend the next meeting of the Committee. P<)tier. the A letter from Mr. Potter, the general manager of the Great Western Railway Company, on the subject of the proposed improvement of the High- strool. station, was, referred to the next meeting.

OYSTERMOUTH-ROAD.. Town Clerk Instructed to Take Steps for iis Improvement. On Tuesday afternoon a ,special meet- ing of the Council was held at the Guild- hat!, the Mayor (Ald. T. T. Corker) pre- siding. Alderman T. Merrells, J.P., Chair- man of the Highways Committee, al- luded to the previous meeting of the Council to visit the Oyster mouth-road. He said that the committee had made up their minds. as to what should be done, and having inspected the sit-c and seen plans submitted by the Surveyor, recommended that the Town Clerk be instructed to take the neces- sary steps to carry out the scheme. Mr. Geo. Hill seconded.. No Negotiations Entered Into. The Mayor Gaid that they were all perfectly satisfied with the lino laid out ily Nil-, Swarbrtck (Deputy Surveyor) for the laying out and widening of the road. Answering Mr. Barclay Owen, tho Mayor said that any details would hi decided by the Highways Committee in the beet interests of the burgesses of the town. (Hear, hear). Answering Aid. Ben Jones, J.P., the Mayor said that, if it was necessary to va.ry the proposed line, the next best thing would he obtained. That was a inatt,er for future consideration. It was further stated that at present negotiations had been entered into be- tween the Council and the Mumbles Ra.ilway. Both that company and the L. and N. W Railway Co. would be I as'ked to do certain .things. If they approved of the principle there was plenty of room for negotiation. In answer to a question by Mr. J. Powlesland, it was stated that there was no suggestion to restrict the present yard space in front of the L. and N.W. Railway Station. The Deputy Sur- veyor (Mr. Swarbrick) expressed him- self as being surprised if the company would think of it. At the present I time the approach was steep., and if they took anything off it would make it steeper. Sold for 9400. 1 Mr. J. H. Lee pointed out that at present there was large enough room to turn a carriage round in the carriage way. Let them not prejudice their chances by asking for impossibilities, The ex-Mayor (Mr. Dd. Williams, J.P.), said that it was not for them to point out impossibilities. Alderman Dd. Davies thought they would be able to get the L. and N.W. Raitway Company to agree to an ex- change of land. The lack of foresight on tho part (jf the Corporation in the past had been simply appalling. Nine- teen years ago they owned ail the land, and they had old the freehold to the railway company for C400. If they got it back the railway company would probably want £4,000 for it. They were flow going to beg back a small piece of the land which they had sold. Alderman Merrells I hope Alderman Davies' statement will not be reported The Mayor: Mr. Davies is speaking. Alderman Miles thought they should agree with the principle that day and leave the details to be discussed after. (Hear, hear). Eventually the proposition of .Alder- man Merrells was carried.

NEW PUBLIC BATHS. I Proposal for the Further Cofisfderation of the Council. Some time ago it will be remembered that Ald. T. Merrells, J.P.. brought up the question of the provision of a pub- lic swimming bath in the Prince of Wales-road district of Swansea. At the time it was brought up in the coun- cil, a committee was struck to consider the quest-ion. Tha.t committee has never met. It is understood, however that at the next meeting of the Council, Alderman Merrells will draw attention to this deliquencv, aud will move that steps be taken for the provision of suitable public baths in that locality. It is a significant fact that many hundreds of pounds a year are being spent in conveying children from the top end of the town down to the St. Helen's Baths for bathing lessens and swimming practice, and it is suggested that by putting public baths at a convenient &pot on what is Corporation property, this expenditure in course of tim-c ii-ottlfl more than bo recoupped in capital charges.

HIDDEN TREASURE. Swansea Detective's 'Story. At the Swansea Juvenile Police Courit on Tuesday, George Kenneth Walters (10), was charged with stealing and re- 6d., in gold and silver, hank cheque for t3 15s., and a post-a I order for s. 6d. from Messrs. Rees Davies and Co., Alexandra-road, the property of Rees Davies. George Taylor, chief clerk, said de- fendant had been employed as an errand boy after school for some time. Frederick Edwards (11), of New- street, said that on Thursday last he was playing in the street when de- fendant came up to him and said "I"-Q got some coppers." He took somo money and a bag. There was goad and silver and some paper. They shared the inonev with a Jimmy Davies, and that night witness an-d Jimmy Davies went to a ba.nk to "plant" it. This meant that they buried the money into the earth. Detective John Barry said that he and the last witness went to a bank at the back of New-street and found 18s. 6d. in silver and 2d. in copper buried there. On a waste piece ot ground by Clifton-street witness found threa sovereigns, a two shilling piece, and a threepennypi) buried, In witness's opinion defendant did not appear to realise his offence. He had throwq the cheque and postal order away. Defendant was bound over in the sum of £ 5 for t hree years under the care oi the Probation Officer. Defendant's mother and stepfather were also bourn* over.

SWANKERS' CLUB. KNUTS'" NEW ORGANISATION AT THE DOCKS. A branch of the Swankers' Club has recently been formed at the Swjin- sea docks. This clulJ has a very large membership, and several branches ID England and Wales. Tfte introductory effusion runs thus: Brother Swankers; To all true Bwankers, in whost., breastu glow the fires oi enthnsi-; asm—to whom the ancient and honourable Art of Swanking 18 indeed fhtric-he(i and revered trust—Greeting. Swankers; The hour is oame-the World awaits us. Long, long ages have passed since out- honoured predecessor—lather of all Swankers--laid down the licary and time-defying fundamental constitutions of our Fraternity. Now, at least the World awaits—nay more—clamours for Swank- ers." To swank no longer stands a term ot opprobium-it ba.9 gained its place and recognition, and stands The Virtue of the Age. To the true Swanker, the plums of suc- cess—the lucrative sinccures--the opulent offi-ce with enriching stipends—lie easy prey. To Swank is to succced. The world cla- mours for our Secrets. Shall we. the true initiated—born—not made—divulge our ancient art? No, never! Yet. yielding to the impor- tunity of the frenzied seekers after know- ledge. to whom our art is an .inpenct.rable mystery, we will give in simple and child- like phrase the inward meaning of the term. Sw.ankins is (to be simple and understandable). "a highly aesthetic, amor- phous, indeterminable, unintereomunic- able, indefinable, nonindigenous, cosmopo- litan, ubiquitous system of procedure and deportment, euphuistic in expression, sup- posititious in merit, histrionic and illu- sionary in method, hyperbolical, predotary and acquisitive in intention—observed by its votaries for the propagation, further- ance, advancement and promotion of ".lie social, political, commercial, and financial (chiefly) interests of the exponents of the Art. Such, in brief and lucid terms, is the "Art of Swanking." To the hitherto uninformed, I tl'nt 1 have proved explanatory and intelligible. To would-be Swankers 3, word of frieud3,v.1 advice. The Swanker is born—and cannot be made. We defy the assaults of the in- quisitive. Our eeerets arc inviolate and fired with a just pride of our glorious tra- ditions. Wc—Brother Swankers—will uphold the 8a.g of our Fraternity, and in 8'rt or lane, hostel, cathedral or prison, we willi maintain our Art-constant and unceasing i to our mutual gain and the spoilation of I the uninitiated. Ikan Kiddem. Laws of tha Society. ilj The Society shall be desoribed (liS here- tofore, The Swankers' Club. (Z; Its meeting place shall be moveable and in such place as circumstances—euch as temporary lack of ready cash—may occasion. (3> Swankers must not intrude' when a Brother Swanker i6 "pulling a leg "-rais- ing the wind-or" eoming it over a green 'lln." (4) When Swanker meets Swanker beta are off. (5) Swankers must not monopolise the favours or attention of lady aeeiet-ants at hostels whither they resort for refreshment; give other Swankers a chance sometimes. (6) Swankers inuat, by custom, practice and assiduity to the art, maintain the Swanker reputation. i7; Swankers' cheques are not cashed at hcetek? where Swanker Lodges are held. (8). Swankers must not smoke Shag in briar pipes or drink Four Ale in Saloon Bars '.?). Swankers who take their luncheons with them to the City must carry same in Violin Gates, or such Swaukish impeli- menta. <10). Sw. inkers must not attempt to nego- tiate or otherwise obtain indefinitely tem- porary" loans or half-crowns from Brother Swankers. It is time wasted, in addition to which there are always green 'uns" awaiting education and experience. The Pith in the Postscript. i The Swansea Branch has a membership of about 80. and when the total reaches 100 it is proposed to hand the sum of £5 to the Swansea Hospital. Jt may be mentioned that the membership fee i6 Is.

A DOMESTIC DIFFERENCE. Mary Ann Howard (36), was brought i up on remand at the Swansea Police j Court on Wednesday on a ehargc of un-j lawfully cutting a.nd wounding Wm. ¡ Ho,ard, her husband, with intent to do grievous bodiiy harm. Defendant who made no reply to i charge, was committed for trial at the Quarter Sessions.

Bellringers at vShenfield Pansh Church left the large tenor bell "up," and it suddenly Slnlllg down when the sexton touched the rope. He was pulled up to the roof of the belfry, and fell to the ground, where .he was found I unconscious by the rector. At, Sw ansea on Tuesday, Glvn Daniels (15). and William (16), were fined Is. for playing football in ALartin- slreet, MorrÜwn.

MANSELTON LECTURE. At Manselton English Congrega- tional Church, on Tuesday evening, Mr. J. D. Williams (Editor "Leader'') gave a lecture entitled "Sketches of Welsh I,ife." The Hcy. Griffith J. Evans presided. A vote of thanks to the lecturer was spoken to by jUr. Arthur Lovell Mr. W. J, Owen.

SWANSEA INQUESTS. On Tuesday afternoon an inquest waa held at Landore, on the body of John James (72j, a retired railway inspec- tor, 37, Freeman-street, Brynhyfryd, \Uio died .suddenly on Saturday night last at his home. Dr. Thomas said the deceased was dead when he saw him. The deceased had had a stroke, and had fallen for- ward in his chair. He thought death was due to heart failure. Miss James, daughter, said he was ati one time a yard inspector at the Lan- dore G.W.R. Station. A verdict of death from natural causes was returned, and sympathy w expressed with the relatives. Died at the works. An inquest was also held on the body of Moses Jones (62), 65, Aberdyberth i- street, Swansea, an employe at the Hafod lsha Works, who passed away suddenly at his work on Tuesday. Dr. Powell said he had been called in shortly after death. He had known the deceased for twenty-five years. He was a very healthy man. one who took great care of himself. He thought the cause of death was heart failure. John Thomas, a fellow workman. said he saw the deceased sitting on a seat. He seemed ill, and collapsed in wit- ness's arms without a word. He waa not dead then. A doctor was sent for, and subsequently the body was taken home. A verdict of death from heart failure was returned, and sympathy was ex. pressed with the relatives.

TINWORKER BOUND OVER. At Swansea on Wednesday Daniel Hughes, tin worker, Llandilo-Talybonl, was summoned for trespaeing on the L.N.W.R., and stealing coal, value 4d., the propertv of the company, on 9th January. Mr. Rupert Lewis prosecuted, P.C. Coombe said he saw the defend.. ant carrying a bag on his, back which be said containe coal and cinders. The bad was examined and oniv contained coal. Defendant stated that he had per- mission to take it from the side of th* line from Mr. James, the ganger. Char les James, permanent way ganger, said that he had not given clea fendant, or anyone else, permission tAl pick up coal or cinders off the line. Defendant was bound over for 19 months. In the case of trespassing Detective Sergeant Darrell of the L.N.W.R. vvad called, and defendant was fined Joe. in. elusive. Printed and Published for the Swansea Press. Ltd.. by ARTHUR PARXELL H1GHAM, at Leader Buildings, ""mi nnn< ^a,tnrrl,ay. February 7, IDL4.