Herald of Wales and Monmouthshire Recorder

a ABERDULAIS. The annual concerts given by the Bap- tist Juvenile Choir on Christmas Eve and Saturday night were most successful. The Old Brown Pitcher and Ma-in- Law," with various action songs, de- lighted the audience. Those taking the various parts are to be congratulated. Great credit is due to the conductor, Mr. D. P. Richards, for his untiring efforts in providing the village with such a rare treat. The accompanists-Misses Blodwen John, Edith Thomas, and Mr. T. D. Thomas-rendered splendid service to the performance. ¡ Enthneiesim prevailed in the village on Saturday, on the occasion of the return of 31 r. Ned Daviea. 2nd Welsh Regiment, who had. been on Active eervioe since August, bavins gone through 16 engagements, and was wounded by shrapnel from the German j-una, eent back -to Nuley Hospital, end is ap.in convalescent. A most patriotic re- ception mm Kiven him. He was met. by a hraas band. Mini Lindsay's Scouts, the Boffadoee in full regalia, headed by the Vicar of Toana, and about fifteen hundred of tbe iribaixLtaaiie. A -halt was made at Tynyrheoi. Speeches of congratulations upon his return home wQ6 given by Mr. W. Jonee, J.P.. ltev D. G. Joné6 and G. Chaloner Lindsay, the Vicar. The prooession wended jta way through Toirna, to Åooiuulej, Lon- don Hooiaet being beautifully decorated. Mr. Ll, D. Howell spoke in eulogistic terms of the brave defender. The euiging of Rule Britojinw." and "God 4eve the King ter- minated the receiption. Special mention should be made of the mounutd police, M,ü. hor BvaLI6 and Cnurcii, who marshalled the procession. ————'

BRll Ul .r .t:.H.R Y I Mies R.'Norvick, who is well-known in the town, has just peussed with honours the advance stage in vocal music. A promising artiste » little Kiddy Ken- nedy, a Britonferry juvenue, who is this week fuiiiilijag an engagement an London. Miss R. Norvick, Caroline-terrace, Britonferry, has successfully passed the advanced local centre with honours in vocal music. In the list of successful candidates for first-class certificates (elementary) in pianoforte playing offered by the London College of Music appears the name of Miss Gertrude Beryl Smith, ot Park- street, Britonferry. At Bethel Chapel on Boxing night, the Khaki-clad boys home on Ohrietmas fur- loiigh-and there are many of them—were entertained to a social re-union. The Rev. John Davies. B.A., presided, and a rignt joily tune was spent in music and eong. A warm reception was given the honoured guests of the livening. Ohristmaa Day was quietly observe& The usual services were heid in the places of worship in the morning, and a football matah was played in the afternoon between Park Umted and the Albione. A spirited game resulted in a two-gjoal draw. The proceeds were given to Eddie Wilkinson, who wais recentiy injured on the football field. A hockey match between Briton- ferry and Neath Y.M.C.A. ended in a, run- a. way victory for the 'Ferryxtee by ten goaia to one. A correspondent wlitos- I notice that your repeated efforts have at Laat effected an improvement in the p.wing of Neatli- rftCMi. 60 perhaps you will be a8 Gnergctio in regard to the pathway outside the INeath- roivd Council School. It is in an awful st-tte, and if we get a. E-uoceeeion of rainy d ayR-and we can expect them-the eiu&h and mud will be too terrible for words. Keep pegging away until it is lItI- proved. a-zid, you will deserve the Iron Croa# Under exceptionally ead circumstances, Miss Hilda. Richards, aged 17 years, daugh- ter of Mr. and M.N. Riohard Richards, Rockingham-terraoe, p. away on Mon- day. A fortnight ago abe underwent un operationlor appendicitis at Swansea lil-- pikal, which was reported to have been øue- cceaful. Pueamenia,. however, intervened, and ended a. most brilliant and promising musical career for one eo young. She was a faithful and active member of the English Congregational Church, and also a/saistant organist. Her daaAh has oooasjoned pro- found sorrow. On Christmas night the eacred oa-ntata. Songs of Angela. was successfully pre- sented by Bethel Band of Hope, led by Mr. Thomas. Tbe accompanist was Lizzie Edwa-yd?s.—At ?imb?Lh a miscellaneous concert was, given, the Rev. Henry HugheS ? præidi oveT an appreciative ?.ud e?ce. The accompanist wa? Miæ Gwyn, B.A.M.— At the Engilsh Baptiz? Chapel' the children II entertadned a Crowded attendance with action soijgs and other pleasing items. Mr. Wm. W'Llii??.?pr-!Oed. and the conductr?w vae ?i&5 A. T?mond. with Miss PaÍryJohn L.LkC.M..?%csontpanMt A quief- CliristinM Day was observed at Britonferry i-vices were held at senral f the churches in the morning. At the '.ootball field a Soccer match >vas played cfctwcGii Park XJiiitod iiiid. Albion teams j lor the benefit of Edward Wilkinson, who fcad Ms arm broken while playing re- cently. The result was a draw of two goals apiece. In the afternoon a hockey match between Britonferry and Neath "Y M.C.A. resulted in an easy win for the former by 10 goals to 1 goal. In the RTpnjng, concerts were hd at various frhoolrooms, whtl? th? Public Hall Cinema ?nd Piature&ouxe w am largely atteadeC The death took place on Tuesday of Mr. William Saph, late rate collector of Britonferry, at the age of 75 years. De- ceased had been ill ior some time past. He had been rate collector for 28 years, a position he resigned in 1909. being suc- ceeded by his son, Mr. O. H. Saph, who still holds the appointment. Mr. Saph came to Britonferry in 1870 as shipper to the Neath Abbey Coal Co. He was elertt to the old School Board from 1881 up to the time the Education Act came into force in 1902. Mr. Saph was an ardent churchman, aud a Unionist in politics. Ho leaves a widow, a daughter and two sons. He was brother-in-law to Coun- 1 cillor M. G. Roberts, the late Alderman Jenkin Hill and Mr. Robert Roberts.

CYMMER. At the Aberavon County Police Court' on Monday, Arthur Osborne, 86, Margam- j street, Cymrmir, was charged with as- saulting Leonard Browning, on the 18th > inst. Defendant: We have become friends over the Christmas holidays. Complainant: I should like to with-! draw the clise, as wc have become frienda over Christmas. Complainant, in evid. ence. said he and defendant had an old grievance. They met in the Cymmer Hotel and had a few words, and defeu., dant struck him in the face. Abraham Beach corroborated. There was a further charge brought hy defendant against Albert Osborna. In this case also both complainant and de- fendant said that they had become friends over Christmas, and added that there had been an old family feud, but they had agreed to bury the hatchet for the New Year. The Chairman expressed the wish that! the parties would adhere to the New. Year resolution, and ordered the defend-; ants in each case to pay the costs. j ————— 40. —————

CWMAVON. 1915.-H. S. ARNOLD wishes his j Numerous Customers and .Friends Peace, Happiness and Prosperity during the Coming Year.—Avon Valley Phar- jiiacv, Cwmavon. An interesting feature at the Tal)emwle and Rock entenainroent6 was the appear- j a-nce of some of the Belgium refugees, who nad been invited to attend. They appealed to enjoy the proceedings immensely. At ■ Lhe former place Dr. R. T. Wiiliaane ad- arepsed them briefly in English, and presi- dent (Hyfreithon) in Flemish, and the Banck of Hope lustily sang The in French. Many items of the programme vvere in Welsh. Chri-strai&tide passed off as merrily as circumstances could permit. Whilst many were enjoying themselves at home the | ?,ve,3 at home t h thoughts of the -majority went out in eym- pathy to those who were suffering terrible; hardships in the trenches. It is gratifying; to think that those tokens of sympathy were in many instances crystalised into a' practical form for thoae who are sacrificing tjheir lives. for their country. Christmas was heralded in my carol singing, and thp usual morning services were held at the various churches and chapele. Tabernacle alone ventured with an eis- teddfod during the afternoon, ind this was -?. The Rev. J. Owen crowned with success. The Rev. J. Owen Jones (llyfreithan) presided, and also ad- judicated the poetry, essays, etc. Mr. W. \V. Williams (Zion) adjudicated the various recitations, whilst Mr. Dan Waters, u.T.S.C. (Penuel) held the balmce of justice with the musicians. The accompanists were Madame lalwyn Morgan, Miss L. H. Davies, and Mr. Joseph Thomas. The principal awards were :-Duet, Messrs. Tlom George and Eben Davies; poetry (six corapetitors), Mr. John C. M or gin; baritone solo, Mr Tom George; tenor eolo, Mr. Eben Davies.. Four different competitions of recitat-ions (spe- cially composed for the occasion by Hy- freithon") prizes won as follow: Mr. J. islwyn Morgan, Miss Lizzie Hannah Daviea, Mise Mary Ann Ilvana, and Miss Morfydd Roberts. With the exception of Bethania, all other churches had wisely and well catered: for the youngsiters and others on Christmas Day. As deual. preaching services were! held at Penuel Baptist Church, when the Kev. Trevor Jones (LlaneMy) officiated. In alie evening an excellent rendering of a. service of song was given at Zion under the conductorship of Mr. D. H. Webbe. The Tabernacle Band of Hope performed Buy Your Own Cherries," conducted by Mr. Eben Davies, illustrated by limelight views, the lantern being manipulated by Mr. Richard Jenkins. Tabor Band of Hope gave the sacred cantata "Emanuel," when Mr. W. G. Miller conducted and Mise Ruth Thomas, A.L.C.M., L.L.C.M., accompanied. Successful miscellaneous entertainments were also given at Salem and Rock chapels. The presidents respectively were the Revs. "Seiriol" Morris, "Morlais" Davies, "Hy- freithon", Giles Williams, W. J. Levi, And D. Bees. »■ iii —■ ■

GLYNCORRWG. At the Aberavon County Police Court on Monday, Albert Childs and Arthur Childs (Cymmer) were charged with ae- saulting Charles Sidoli, sweet and chip potato vendor, of ], i)unraven-street, Glyncorrwg. Mr. Lewis M. Thomas prosecuted, and explained that defendants had visited complainant's shop. and were supplied with two pennyworth of fish and chips, for which Albert Childs declined to pay more than a half-penny. Complainant closed the door, and demanded his proper payment, upon which hp was at- tacked and struck by defendants, Arthur Childs striking him with a poker on the shins, and the other defendant striking him on the face, badly damaging his left I cheek. These facts were borne out by complainant and P.S. Tarr. Defendants explained that thaj were having a jollification over the return of an old! schoolmate from India.—Defendant Albert, who had a record, was fined 40s. and costs, and Arthur 20s. and costs. ————— —————

PORT TALBOT. I A draft of about 150 cyclists arrived- in Port Talbot and Aberavon on Wednes- day, and will be billeted in the town. 'ihe mail steamer Sculptor, of Liverpool, with had a, general part cargo from Liver- pool a-nd oompleied her cargo a.t Port Tal- bot, also conveyed the Soyal mails for Brazils, the mails being made up at Port Talbot fotr Peimmbaco, For the purpose of assisting various war funds, an excellent concert and dra- matic entertainment was give-at the New Theatre, Port Talbot, by the kind per- mission oi the lessee, Mr. Edward Fur- jl nian, who also contributed to the pro- gramme. The Margam Glee Choir, under the direction of Mr Ddck Henry, rendered some excellent choruses,.and a number of splendid, bioscope films had been kindly lent, by Mr- J. Mathias, proprietor of the Public Hall, Aberavon. The role of Sherlock Holmes is suc- cessfully played by Mr. Charles Yorke; Mr. S. Herbert Humber is excellent as I the villainous Doctor Rylott; and Miss Beryl Forbes as Enid Stoner is admir- able. On Saturday night two perform- ances will be giveii, commencing at 6.45 and 9 o'clock.-Next week the manage-] ment have secured the great problem play, The Blindness of Virtue," which will be presented by Mr. Marcus Draper's Company. Mrs. Morgan Thomas and Mrs. Angus, who took such an active interest in raising a fund to send comforts for the local 7th Welsh CyoliSi.8 in camp a- Bcrwick-cn-Tweied, wish to thank the following for kindly con- tributing Mesdamea David, M. Thomas, Grovee, Curtis, Quick, Byeze, Evans, E. Tjew is, Misses David, Evans, Groves, and i unking. Messrs. Dr. J. H. Davies, M.D.. T. Bamford, T. Nicholas, M. Thomas, Williams, H. Walsh, D. Wilde, R Grant, Cooper, j. Franchi, Maddon. j. O'Suliivao, Gardner, < R. Hanford. Splendid programmes of intt-cl&ss pictures ire to be seen -.t ilii p,,I-ulai- Forge-road Electric Theatre this veek. Large audiences are nightly delighted with the excellent entertainment pro- vided. During the first three nights the continuous display of pictures included a really fine film entitled, "Master of the World," also "Under Suspicion," "A Flirt's Repentance," "He's a Lawyer," and two War Graphics by the Gaumont and Eclair firms. There were numerous other dramatic, comedy, and interesting subjects. For the latter part of the I, week the features are "The Devil's Gap," "The Wedding Day," a screamingly funny Keystone comic picture, supple- mented by a gallery of numerous otheri star pictures. The usual children's j matinee will be held on Saturday after- noon at 2.30 p.m. Patrons of the New Theatre, Port Talbot, are well provided for this week, where Messrs. Horsfield and Woodward's Company present the detective drama from the pen of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, entitled The Speckled Band." The play deals chiefly with an adventure of Sherlock Holmes, the celebrated fiction detective, who with characteristic cleverness nnravells the mystery of The Speckled Band," and also succeeds in saving the heroine from a terrible end, and in foiling the villainy of Dr. Rylott. The cast is an exceptionally strong one, and the characters are well sustained. At Port Talbot General Post Office over Christmas considerable business was ex- perienced, which was well dealt with by the staff and also an addition of auxiliaries to the number of 48, exclusive of outlying districts, under the super- vision of Mr. Morgan Thomas (post- master) and Mr. W. E. Jenkins (chief Clerk). The pressure was most expe- ditiously dealt with. There was con- siderable impetus given to outward parced dispatches by the large batches of parcels sent from the town and district to the soldiers serving at home and abroad. The number of letters dealt with over Christmas was approximately I 480,000, as against a nonn&l of 80,000 for the week. the number of parcels dealt with was 12,000, as against a normal of 5,600. The telegraph, telephone, and other postal items also attained a high figure. To cope with the work the whole j of the staff was employed (, 'Iti-,Iuort LY from the morning of the 24th up to 7.30 cn Christmas Morning. A correspondent sends a very gratifying account of the continued musical success of Mr. Stanley Henry, a young Aber- avonite who is winning his way to fame in America. Mr. Henry is a son of Mr. and Mrs. Llewellyn Henry, Maesycourt- terrace, Port Talbot. Mrs. Henry is one of the surviving members, of Caradog's far-famed choir, and her son has obtained access to the principal American opera companies, an d at present acts as an under-study of Mr. Clifton Crawford (the original Tony in "The Quaker Girl.") k At Pitteburg Mr. Stanley Henry is recog-1 nised as one of the finest baritones who has appeared on the American stage. By a coincidence while he was appearing at the Teck Theatre in Buffalo. Freddy I Welsh, of fistic fame, was also giving exhibitions in his particular line. The entire opera company accompanied Mr. j Henry to accord Freddy a real Cymric t welcome. Our correspondent remarks upon the wonderful improvement in Mr. Henry's voice and his masterful interpre- ta?iona. w1ùch ro&ct srae?crodtt o& tlwl early training derived from Mr. J- H. iloody, of Port Talbot, a fact which Mr. Henry readily admits. It is highly creditable to Wales that her sons keep up the reputation oith Cymric race in America, and while it is acknowledged | that Welshmen make the best of c: 1 izen«, Mr. Henry emphasises the truth that Wales is a musical nation and tho h.Ild of aoag. It will be remembered that M, r. Stanley Henry, a few years ago, carried j off the boy alto solo prize at the National j Listfiddfod twice in succession, and later: on (in 1913) he won the baritone solo at Mountain Ash. SAILORS FATE. On Monday morning, at Port Talbot I Docks Mortuary, Mr. Howell Cuthbertson (District Coroner) heid an inquiry into, the circumstances attending the death of j Carl Peterson (37), a Danish seaman, be- longing to the s.s. Headlands, now lying j at Port Talbot Docks, whose body was: discovered in tho New Dock, Port Talbot, on Christmas morning. A verdict of "Found Drowned" was! returned- I returned. XiOBBED HIS -FATHER. At a spCda! &iH?Lg 01 me ADeravon .County Court?on Monday, a L?d named Albert Palmer, ag' 13. eon of W. Palmer, 1, Maasel-street, Port Talbot, was charged i with stealing JE25 during the put six months from hia father in vaiTouj- sums. P.S. Govern deposed to arresting de- fendant, who admitted the thefts. Supt. Ben Evans asked for a remand until Monday, for the lad t-o be 6ent to the Bonymaen Reformatory-School, Swansea. STTCCESSFTL CONCERT. I A most successful concert in aid of the I local funds for Christmas oo S, t??, distributed to all the local soldiers and sailors serving their country, was held at I the Xew Theatre, Port Talbot, on Christ-] mas night. The theatre was lent for the; opcasion, free of charge, by Mr. Edward Furneau, the popular lessee-allager, I who also rendered the committer valuable assistance in the promoti-on and organ-isa- tion of the concert. The fine theatre was packed when at 7.30 the programme opened with an ex- cellent specially selected overture by the theatre orchestra (under the direction of Mr. Frank Pickering). The Abby Glee Singers, conducted by Mr. Dick Henry,- gave spirited renderings. During these. items the stage was lined by a section of the National Reserves, who are ndw sta- tioned at Port Talbot, in charge of Sergn Mathias, together with a number of local Boy Scouts. The martial and picturesque affect of the tableaux was very striking. The Green Eye of the Yellow fcod," was recited with dramatic effect by Mr. Leslie. Miss Kate Thomas, of Margam, who sang very sweetly, was given a great reception. A one^aot comedy sketch, entitled A Kiss in the Dark," was much enjoyed. Mr. Edward Furneau made a welcome re- appearance in the part of Salem Petti- bone," as played by him at the Globe Theatre, London. Mr Furneau was, assisted by Mr. J. Leicester Jackson, Miss Blanche St. Albans, and Miss Holly Hazelwood, of Mr. Chas. Harrington's company. Miss Evelyn Bailey, Mr. Wm. James, and Mr. W. "PaDdy" Reee all contributed excellent items. During the intervals cinematograph pictures were shown, the films being lent for the occa- sion by Mr. John Maihias, of the Public ¡ Hall Cinema, Aberavon. I The Mayor of Aberavon, Mr. W. J. Williams, for whose fund the concert was originally promoted, heartily thanked the i workers, who were responsible for the sue-1 cess of the concert; Mr. Furneau for the: free use of the theatre, and Mr. Mathias: who provided the picture entertainment, also for his valuable aid in assisting to make the concert such a success as it was. The Mayor also expressed the deep gra- titude of the committee to the artistes who came so readily forward to give their free service- and to the public generally, for their kind and enthusiastic support. It is hoped that the net proceeds will re.3. lise a sum of between X40.or ?50, which will be divided between, the Aberavon and Port Talbot Fund,.4, ————— A

SEVEN SISTERS. I Mr. M. J. Phillips and Miss <?U? P. Phn- ¡I lipe, Pan,tyddrainen Hotel, Benwen, at th< I recent London College of Music Local Exam- j inations held at Swansea,, gained the-, L.C.M. i Intermediate Oertifiea-re, Both had already. been awarded the Primary and Elementary Certificates (in April and July respectively). | They each haw thus the distinction of gaining three certificates: of the college in-I one year. i

SKEWED. The entertainment at Calfaria Chapell on Christmas night was presided over by the Rev. J. S. Hopkins. The adjudicator was Mr. Tom Stephens, *L-T.S-C. There I were competitions, solos, recitations, etc. The meeting was well attended, and most enjoyable. The Crown Spelter Works, Skewen, which up to recently gave employment to some 80 men, have had to close down. The reason given is that the works werei not remunerative. The stoppage of these; works, in addition to the two collieries, Cwrtybettws and Garnet, means a great loss to the district. For some time the Cardonnel Tinpiate Works have onlv worked part time, and this week are at | a dead stop, owing to slackness of trade; occasioned by the war embargo on the tinplate trade. The English Wesleyans provided a well- laden Christmas tree for the children, the tree itself being the kind gift of Mrs. Moord-Gwyn, of Dyffryn. The evening's proceedings, amounting to about X4, went to the Trust funds. Mr. W. J. Reason preached an appropriate sermon at a special service. In the evening there was I a magic lantern entertainment in aid 01 Dr. Stephenson's Children's Homes. The 'I subject was, "Men vho face death; j Britain's Soldier Heroes," Mr. William Ho wells giving the lecture, and Mr. D. NicbolLs working the lantern. An enjoy- able evening was spent. At Hermon C.M. Chapel there was a U Plygain" at 6 a.m., a feature of it be- ing the large number of young people present. At 6 p.m. there was an enter- tainment, when the pastor, the Rev. J. Beynon, presided. The adjudicators were: Music, Mr. D- W. Jenkins, Llansamlet; writing and drawing, Mr. R. T. Williams; knitting, Miss Griffiths, Wern-road. (The prize scarf is to be sent to the front.) Mr. Lewis Davies rendered the opening 1 solo. Miss Bronwen Bevan and Mr. D. J. Owen were tho accompanists. The meeting was largely attended, and closed I with Hen Wlad fy Nhadau. There was an early celebration of Holy Communion at St. John's Church on Christmas morning, the Vicar (the Rev. T. C. Phillips) and -his assistant -210 1 being the celebrants. ThM was followed during the day by the ordinary services of the Nativity of our Lord. In the evening, at St. Mary's Church, a series or beautiful lantern slides, illustrative of the first Christmas, ware shown- by the Rev. J. C. Boynon, B.A., senior curate, the-lantern-being manipulated by Mr. W. J. Wedlake, Clifton Villas.. Miss Olwen Davies, Neath • Abbey,: rendered Angels ever bright and- fair," and Mr. Edward L. Body combe "The Heavenly Song." Mr. Salter was the orga'nist. --Special Christmas antheme and carols formed a feature of the day's celebrations. The day started at Gorphwysfa C.M. Chapel with a Plygain at 7. In the afternoon a Band of Hope entertainment was given, when Mr. Robert Wyn Jones presided. In the evening a miscellaneous entertainment was held, Mr. Richard Williams in the chair. Bps?<te<f<?cdm' petitions, solos were rendered by Miases Annie TrMtam and Hannah Morgan, Messrs. W. J. Stephens and Jeffrey Jones. dTi?s by ILissm SM? ?ersan aod Jmet A. Williams, Messrs. Ry. Davies and Jeff- rey Jones, W. J. Stephens and D. J. Jones; pianoforte duet by lii.s. S. L. McNeil and 31r. C. Krieseher; recitation by Miss. McNeil; dialogue by Mr. Ivor Thomas' and friends; Mr. J. Stephens and party gave selections. The a.ccompanist> -ere Miss Jessie Davies and Mr. Arthur Owen. At Bethania a competitive meeting war- held on Christmas night, the pastor, the Rev. S. Evans Gealy, in the chair. The adjudicators were: Music, Mr. Benjamin J. Davies (Llew Bacti, miscellaneous, Mr. Evan Joshua; accompanist, Miss E. A. Davies. Mr. W. Phillips gave the open- ing solo. The awards were as follow:— Recitation: 1, Miss May Bendle. Chil- dren's-party: Two competed, prize being divided. Recitation (under 14): Miss Maggie Williams. Solo: Miss SaTah Phil- lips. Prize bag: Mrs. Francis Evans. Paimting of daffodil: Master John Phil- lips. Painting, subject—front of chapel {undAr lit: Master Evan Howells. Best story: Mr. John Roberts. EE-sar on St. Paul: Mr. Rhys Williams. Solo (under 16'): Miss Edith Davies. Solo, Llydaw » (over 50): Mr. David Abraham. Quartette: ilr. Lew. Jones' party: At 10.30 on Christmas Day a service wag held ax Tabernacle, the minister, the Rw. J. Evans Jones, officiating; In the even- ing an entertainment was held, including competitions, the pastor in the chair. The adjudicators were—Music, Messrs. Tom Lloyd and Evan Lewis; recitations, Messrs David Griffiths end T. H. Davies; accom- panist, Mrs. J. Evan-s Jones. The follow- ing was the programme:—Opeuing solo, Mr. Ben Davies; pianoforte duett, Mrs. and Miss Evans Jones; duetts, Misses Katie and Mattie Hughes, May and Bron- wen Lewis, Messrs. D. W. Lewis and. 1)1. Lewis; recitations, Miss Agnes Bevan. Master Aulwyn Davies, Mr. T. 1-1. Davies; vioiin solos, Master Emyr E. Jones, ii, Ivor Francis; sketch, Mr. David Griffiths and Co. The awards were as fo-Ilow:- Juvenile solo (under 10): 1, Miss Frances J. Davies; 2, Miss Sarah Lewis. Girls' solo (under 14): Miss Bronwen Lewis. Boys" wlo (under 14): 1, Master Ieuan Evans Jones :2, Master W. H. Davies. Recitation (under 14): 1. Master Emyr E. Jones; 2, Miss Ceinwen Lewis. Champion dolo: Mr. LvaJi Davies. Quartette: Mr. Ivor Francis' party. Love letter: Mr. Samuel Jones. A competitive meeting was held at Horeb Chapel on Christmas evening, Mr. Thomas Lloyd presiding. The adjudica- tors were: Recitations, etc., Rev. T. Mor- gan; music, Mr. T. Ll. Tucker: ambu- lance, Mr. Fred Williams. Mr. William Griffiths opened with a solo. The awardto were as follow:—Hymn reciting (under 12): Miss S. J. and Master T. J. Beasley. Solo (girls under 15): Misses Bessie Maeon and May George. Questions from Cate- chism Misses B. Ma.son and S. J. Bent- li?y. Ambulance test: Messrs. Evan Evan- and D. J. Thomas. Solo (boys): Masters Idris Morgan and Gwyn Richards. Rea<i ing music at fit sight: Miss Maggdt Davies.- Other ) wa, ds: Miss Irene Evans. Masters L. Griffiths, D. Jons. and Ton- Jones. Essay on "Humility": Mestsrs D. LL -Davies and J. Thomas (prir.t. shared). Chief choral: Mr. Algernon W j j li.amB" .choir. The accompanist was Mr. Tom-Thomas. On Sunday lagt the Sun- day School quarterly meetings were held. J. Thomas presided in the mornir" and the Rev. T. Morgan in the evening. Included in the respective nrogrammt were the following: Portions of Scripturc Messrs. D. E. Gibbs and Fred Williams 6010", Misses B. Mason, May George, I A. Thomas, Dorothy Jones, Master Gwy: 1tichards: recitations, Misses La^zie Bear ley. Hilton Da-n-es, Master Idris Morgan and Mr. Alg. Williams; duett., Messrs Alg. WiPlains and W. Griffiths: selection by putya conductor 1,ú. D. John.

     There is nothing b j like *'Wincarais' to $ • ? \"? make you feel so hfo \?? ? wen so QMicidy ???? V, ? ?C??/ when you ??? ??v? Weak, Anaemic, ""¥¥1 if "Nervy," "Run-down otbíng so quickly overcomes Weakness—nothing so speedily w P, banishes Anzeniia-nothing so promptl), rectifies Nerve Troubles I J |f —nothing so surely gives new life. Because I Wincarriis' is a Igj m ToDic, a Restorative, a Blood-maker and a Nerve Food-all in 1|| If one. Every wineglassfui imparts this four-fold benefit. Thus, M every wineglassfui gives you more strength than you had before- f more vitality than you had before—more rich -red blood than you ||. I had before-and stronger nerves than you had before. That is why, I oveMo.ooo Doctors recommend it.. is called" the wine of life," because it actually repairs and renews the 1 II tissues of bo+h body and brain, and also enriches and re-vitalises the 1 m ? blood supply. Thus it surcharges the whole system with new life, if giving new strength to the Weak, pew blood to the Anasmic, new j e if nervestbe" Nervyr" and new viWity to the "Run-down" It/ Jj 11 makes you well and keeps you ;11, because the new life it i ? gives is lasting. And it does not contain drugs; therefore, it can be fjg| Hi iakenwithperfectsafetybytbeweakestlnvalidandbyotdpeop?. || ;a.. If you are Weak, Anxmic, "Nervy," t Run-down," a martyr to Indiges-l t a tion, or exhausted by illness-begin i taking Wincamis' to-day. The" result will be a revelation to you. All Wine Merchants and licepsed /g g Chemists and Grocers sell c Will you try just Jgg g one bottle? Begin to get weD FREE Send the coupon for a f i-ce tria.1 bottle not, a mere taste- but enough to do you -good. \fjjijil ij j £ l COLEMAN & CO. Ltd., W 230, Wincarnis Works. Norwich. Mi 1 r Piease send me a Free Trial Bottle of "Wincarnis^ I tact" j jjj^jjj^ l three penny stamps to pay carriage. Namr J 1 (, of W a.le6," Ja.n. z.!915..1 -1

I EISTEDDFOD AT. CWMGORSE. A anooeseful children's chair eisteddfod wae heM at the Tabernacle, G-wmgorme, on Christmas niaht. The president was Mr. Wm. T. Rees, whilst the Rev. T. 1L Bode,; rick oonductod. The adjudicators werer— Music, Mr. John Clan Williams, Brynan- man; literature, Mr. Charles Williama*r Rhydyfro. Mr. DaTid John Bvona, O.B-A.M~ accompanied throughout. The winners were 38 follows :-OeU?t. Friends. conducted by Mise Mary Kate Bees, Cwiagoree, Duet, Dan Lloyd, Cwmgoree, and Mary Kate Bees, Cwmgorse. Solo (under 16 for girle): 1, Rosie Philiipe, Gron-road; 2. Maggie Ree*, Waunleyahon. Solo (under 16 for 1.<■» Dan Llo-d, Owmgoree; 2, Dd. Hy. Morrif. ^0» Cwmgorse. Solo (under 13 for giiis): 1. Roeie Phillips, Gron-road; Z, Dini-h -• Gron-road. Solo 4under 13 for boye). Cyril Jonee, Cwmgorse; 2, Dan Lloyd, Owm-- goree. Solo (under 10): 1, Glyn Davies, Aaunleyehon; 2, Jane Evans, XJwya- rhydia-n. Pianoforte eoto: 1. Rebecca Mor- fran, Gat-o-ertreo-t-; 2, Bessie Williams, Owm, gorse. Recitation (under 16)—prize ohair r ilichol Davies, Waunieyehon. Recitation™, luricier 13): 1. Beeeie Roderick, Wa-unleyeho-n: jj. 2, Geinwen Jones, Cwmgoree. Recitation. (under 10): 1. Mayveril Jones, Wonnleyshon.; 2, Gwennie Thomas, Bryna.mma.n. Letter: 1. Maggie Evans, Gate-street; 2. Mitnnia Evans, Dyffryn Olwyd. Speech: 1, D. Oyril Davies, Owmgorse; 2. Jaae F-Tame, Wwyn- rhydian. Ajpwering questions in the life of'" Ohriflt: 1, PUane Evans, Llwynrhydian; 1.,(Ot;, f Stanley Jenkins. Rhydyfro. Meencry teat Dan EvaJts. Wa-unleyshon. Biack-board drawing: Joeeph Evane, OwTngoreft. A mission eerrice was held at Satam O.N. on Christmas Day, the special preacher, being the Rev. H. Ffynant Morgan, GlaTi7 MnTnaJi. I —

A enocearful eisteddfod wae held at Talley Council School on Christmas Nighty over which the Rev. J. Evans (pastor) presided- The remains of the late Mrs. Daviee. — — Pantybedol, Llansadwrn, were laid to rest »» on Wednesday. The Rev. W. LL Davies, dlw ceased's pastor, conducted a. short service at the house, whilst the Rev. L. Morris,- vicar, officiated at the cjhuroh and p-a. side.

I. FOR COLDS AND CATARRH. j No matter how bad you may be with Cold -i in the Head and Catarrh you will get iniBie- dia-e benefit by using "Nostroline-" It clears your hoad instantly. It relieves the distress- ing i-rrita-tion in the nostrils. It stops the ranning discharge. It gets rid of the thick germ-laden mucus in your nose and throat. It enables you to breathe freely. It quickly banishes catarrh and spothee your col a away! >on know. that is doing you y good the minnte yon try it. Bee-into-dav. Tubes lili and 2'9, most chemists, or post free s from makers. Harold E. Matthew* and Co., C-bemista, Clifton, Bristol !>■■■■■ — — ■ .<

JERSEY MARINE. Accidental death was the verdict of a coroner's jury at Jersey Marine on Mon- day on the body of Rosaline Samuels, aged six years, of Bald win's-terrace, who suc- cumbed to burns sustained on Christmas Eve. It was stated tbsft the mother and father left the little girl at home while they went to Swansea shopping, and re- turning at 9.40, found the duld in an un- conscious condition.

NEATH ABBEY. I Mr. Tom John (Ap Iosun) took half of the recitation prize at Cilfrew Eisteddfod on Chri&tmas Day. Owietmaa holidays passed off quietly in this locality. On CEhristmaa morning ser- vices were beld at several of the pLacee of worship. The Eben-ezer Juvenile Choir gave a per- formanoe of Flora's Fancy Bamr" fin full character), on Friday ajid Saturday evenings. District Councillor Tom Williams presided. The following action eongs were given.in fiist-olctes etyleHig'bLandera, Boy Scoutav girls', hunters' end infajite* action SfOnga. Mr. D. 1. John gave a, piamoforte solo. The principal parts in Flora's Baaaar" were tatoeo| by Miss M. A- Jones (Flom),, Miss May Joyoe (Inanita), Mies E. J. Beeeedey (Meg Merritime), Meeter lie wis Jones (Ben Bowline, Miss S. H- Evans (Tellee Mlee), Masters "Xndrew Flvana (King OooJ), Joseph Jonee (Boy Soomt), &nd Willie Jonee (Jfoah Moore). The choir gave a Hive Teoder- ing of the British, Ruaeoon and Fwnoh ^Nationai Aztthems. Mies Otwem John recTted '• Tlie Day." The performance reflects great credit upon the conduxrtor, Mr. Richard 1 tvans, aaA Jtr. Ben JPetar, accompWMBfc (t

NEATH. We are pleased to inform our soldier 1, friends in Neath that that popular and patriotic lady dentist, Miss Neft, of London-road, will attend to their teeth free of charge At Neath Police Court T. G. Thomas and William W. Thomas, head shunters in the employ of the Great Western Rail-! way at Neath, were each fined 20s. and costs each for stealing three flagons of beer from a railway truck in the sidings on the night of December 23rd. News has reached Neath of the death of Private Charles Morris, of the 2nd Welsh Regiment, who lived at Evans'-road, Melyncrithan, Neath. Pte. Morris, who ii was a keen adherent of the Neath Foot- ball Club, is reported to have died at the base hospital in Belgium. He was very well known locally as a follower of sport. Among the gifts to the Cardiff Museum is one presented by Mr. E. E. Bevan, of Cadoxton, Neath, namely, a vertical engine, about seven feet in height, which is of particular interest to the museum in that it is an example of the work of the old Neath Abbey Foundry. The engine was probably built between 1830 and 1840. It is illustrated in a handsome plate, and published in this year's annual report issued by the Council to tho Court of I Governors. Congratulations to P.C. David Evans of the Borough Constabulary, on his well deserved promotion to the rank of ser- geant to fill the vacancy caused by the lamented death of P.S. Ben Davies. The new sergeant has been in the force fifteen years, and has proved himself a most efficient and painstaking officer. Consci- entious and genial, he has won his spurs by sheer merit, and he has the confidence and best wishes of every law-abiding citizen. At the post office the officials and staff worked under great pressure to cope, with the Christmas rush, and served the public oifhciently. The war made very little difference in the aggregate, and both tho inward and outward mails were excep- tionally heavy. Indeed, if distress pre- vails in the town, it had no manifestation at the post office during Christmastide. Tho Postmaster and his staff deserve the warmest praise on the excellent way they served the fpublic. On Christmas E-e the mmatea of the Xea.tb. Cottage Homes were, according to cun^tom, most generously entertained by Mr. ajid Mre. J. B. Moore-G-wynt, of Duffryn. The tables were spread with the luxuries of the season, followed by an am-ple dessert, while provision was made for the evening's en- i joyment. Mr. aud Mrs. Gwyn were presesm. j at the' feast., a.nd their womed liberality was warmly acknowledged. A goodly num- ber of the Guardians were present, includ- ing the lady Guaxaian, Miss Curtis. A further letter has been received from P.C. Joe Pullman, the captain of the Neath Rugby Football Club, stating he is now in hospital suffering from bron- chitis and influenza. In a cheery letter he states that he hopes to be among the boys in June next, and then the war will be over. "I am writing this letter sitting up in bed," he writes. It is the first bed I have seen since August 5tli, j but I am one of the lucky men. Best, wishes to all my football pals." Having regard to the war, and its con- sequences, the spirit of Yuletide under- went a slight change in the customary festivities. Trade, however, was surpris- ingly good. Khaki-clad lads home on leave were conspicuous among the surging stream which crowded the streets on Christmas Eve, and the shopkeepers and their assistants were kept busy until a late hour. It was a sober Christmas," too, for those who tottered under the in- fluence of the festive glass were compara-, tively few. Lance-Corporal Joe Pullman, captain of the All Blacks, sends the season's greet- ings to all his football pals from a French base hospital, where he is at present de-, tained suffering from influenza and! bronchitis. Attached to the Army Vet. Corps, Lance-Corporal Jjullinan has been in the thick of the fray from the 6tart, and in a cheery letter to Mr. A. L. David, he considers himself one of the lucky ones." He adds: "I am sitting up in bed writing this letter; it is the first bed I have slept in since August 5th. I hope i to be home about June, for the war can- not last much longer." May the gallant skipper's prophecy be true! The close of the old year rings down the curtain on half a century's service as district coroner in the life of the vener- able Mr. Howel Cuthbertson. Age has made no perceptible difference; in method and custom there is no change; and in his step and manner there is the buoyancy of youth. Fifty years is a long time to look forward to," he told the writer the other day, but to look back upon it is very short." Perhaps the venerable coroner has been to preoccupied for re- flection, for during his 50 years' service he has conducted nearly 2,000. inquests. Only recently he purchased a powerful and up-to-date motor-car because he found the trains a bore. It is not generally known that Tom Phillips, the Neath boxer, who was de- feated by Young Fox, of Leeds, at the National Sporting Club last week, was seriously handicapped by illness. During the last few weeks the Welsh feather- weight champion, suffered great pain from carbuncles on the neck, which inter- fered with his braining. Although ad- vised by his many supporters to cancel the engagement, Temmy was too game, and vowed that he would rather suffer defeat than miss the fight. When seen by the writer, Tommy laughingly remarked, Don't make any excuses; I was beaten fair and square by a better lad. It was a great experience, but I should like to meet him again! On Christmas night the soldiers in Neath were treated with a highly success- ful coffee supper and entertainment at the Soldiers' Free Club, Windsor-road. The large club-room was crowded with soldiers, many of whom contributed to the evening's enjoyment. The first part of the programme was provided by Mr. Seymour Perrott and his party, and the re vas given by the soldiers themselves. Jt was particularly gratifying to have present Lieut. Davey and some of the other officers, and the men much appre- ciated the popular lieutenant's contribu- tions to the excellent programme. Private Cousins' renderings were also delightful. The following contributed: Miss Hilda Baker. Mr. Phil David, Mr. Dovey, Mr. Shufflebotham, and the following men of the 5th Welsh: Messrs. Cousins, Webber, T. Lewis. Williams, Reynolds, Reeves, Frazer, Evans, and Russel. A number of visiting soldiers also gave solos. Mr Perrott acted as accompanist. 1fr, Carney, of the Eaglesbush Hotel, Melincrythan, Neath, sent out cigarettes to the 6th Battalion Welsh Regiment (British Expeditionary Force), and has received the following reply from Captain Browning on behalf of his company:— Dear Mr. Carney,-Plt-am accept the best thanks of the Neath boys for the box of cigarettes. It added greatly to the Oh' istmas c heer. I handed your letter to Colour-Sergeant Bute, and it was read to the company, who gave cheers for the Fag-Jehush and everybody who visited there:-Sinc,erely yours, R. G. S. Brown- ing (captain). A highly successful musical afternoon was given by the Neath Men's Brother- hood on Sunday at the Y.M.C.A. The following contributed to an excellent pro- gramme: Miss Katie Narbett (soprano), who sang Ave Maria and Jesu, Lover of My Soul Mr. Arthur Shuffle- botham (bass), Out on the Deep and De Profundis "Miss P. Morgan (con- tralto). The Fisherman and His Child."  and Mr. J. Gwynne, Narbeth (tenor),  The Holy City" %nd Returu Unto ) Tiy But. The elocutionists were Pte. Leslie Rosser, of the Royal Scots Fusiliers, and Mr. Dan Narbett, who recited a beautiful Christmas poem composed by his brother Gwynne, a couple of verses of which we can only find room for.- Christmas Day, each quiet homestead, scattered o'er the countryside, Is bedecked with crimson holly; every t housewife far and wide Brings to light the many dainties, which she carefully has stored, And the children's bright eyes glisten as they view the festive board. And the citiee, too, are gay, each window makes a goodly sight, With its piled up show of wares all gleaming brightly in the light. While within the homes the yule log casts a welcome warmth and glow, As its flickering dancing shadows into every corner go. O! Christmas bells, ring in, in truth, the messages which you speak Of peace on earth, goodwill to men—tli-i triumph of the weak. And when again you send your merry peals o'er dale and hill, May the guns roar be heard no more, and sounds of strife be still. Then we may gather once again in glad festivity, When many families once more will reiznited be, And tales of valour, tales of death, will be re-told again, "i Of, suffering and endurance, of misery < pain. CLOSING HOURS. I On behalf of the Neath and DistTid I Licensed Victuallers' Association, Mr- A. j Jestyn Jeffries made application to the local justices to vary the hours of closing. The Bench, after a long consaltation. i intimated that they were unable to grant the application. Mr. John Morris, Mr. tvor Church, and Mr. John Thomas sup- ported the application. j BEER FOR THE BABY. At Neath Gwen Davies and Han- nah Perkins, married women, of Resol- ven, were fined 5s. and costs each tor giving a baby beer on the 19th December. Detective W. H. Morris (G.W.R.), Swansea, said that he was on duty on Neath railway station. The two women entered the bar of a third class refresh- ment room, and a man ordered three | glasses of beer. He. saw the women give a baby in arms two sips of beer, which, he added, "the baby drank, and became jI quite lively." ————— c:

iNEW APPOINTMENT FOB MB. il GEORGE DAWLINGS, M.E. I We ara given to understand that Mr. ) George Dawkins, M.E., who has been mana- ger for the last 22 years, of Cwrt'y-bettws < Colliery, Skewen (Hedleysl-, now down, has been appointed manager of tbe new Rhondda. Main Pita, Ogmore Vale, ODe" of the collieries owiuSI by the Lewie Xer- tiyr Co. 3Cr. Dawkins is one of the most efficient of colliery officials, and is thor- oughly coiiTersant with the latest life-, saving appliances for coal mines and also first-aid methods. He is the most genial of < men, and held in the highest respect by all. His appointment by the same company which he served previous to his advent to I Skewen speaks wbll for his trustworthiness as a coal mine official.