Abergavenny Chronicle

Military "In Memoriam" Cards, stamped with Regimental Crest, may be obtained from Morgan & Co., Chronicle Office. ♦

BIRTHS, MARRIAGES & DEATHS. BIRTH. FRASER.-On September 14th, at Frogmore- street, Abergavenny, the wife of Percy R. Fraser, of a son. MARRIAGE. BEVAN-DAVIES.-On Sept. 12th, 1917, at Hope Chapel, Pandy, by the Rev. Gwatkin ice, B.A., Francis Oliver third and youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. John Bevan, Stanton, to fifth and youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Davies, Brynawel (late of Great Fwddog). 9 DEATHS. THOMAS.—On the 6th September, at 15, Stan- hope-street, Abergavenny, Jane, widow of William Thomas, foreman carpenter, L.&N.W. Rly., aged 84 years. KILLED IN ACTION. MORGAN.—Killed in action (France) June 8th, 1917, Ernest Oliver Morgan, 44th Battalion A.I.F., late of Quindanning, Western Aus- tralia, seventh son of the late Mr. and Mrs. William Morgan, Glenusk, Nantyderry. IN MEMORIAM. In Loving Memory of Rifleman Charles Daniel, beloved son of James and Sarah Webb, 21 Trinity-st., Abergavenny, who was wounded in France, and died at Albany-road Military Hospital, Cardiff, on Saturday, Sept. 9th, 1916, aged 21 years. Good was his heart, and in friendship sound, Patient in pain, and loved by all around .His pains are o'er—his grief for ever done, A life of everlasting joy he's now begun.

CONCERNING THE MEN THAT DID ARM, I AND THEY THAT DID NOT. CHAPTER I I Now it came to pass in the time that the nations were at war that there arose a great conflict of tongues in the town of Gobannium, which is set by the gate of Cymru. Yea, verily, was there much argument among the Dids and the Did Xots, and among the elders of the people. And it happened in this wise Be it known that when the nation sent forth its soldiers to do battle against the despoilers, they were out-numbered by the hosts of the enemy. Therefore did he that was set in authority over the Army of the King call forth in a loud voice, saying, More men, and yet more men. And many men of that country heard the voice, and hearkened unto it. And they came forth in their thousands to the places appointed and they were provided with suitable apparel and prepared for war, and ere many moons were passed they too were sent forth to battle. Nevertheless were they not strong enough to overcome the innumerable hosts of the enemy. And he that was set in authority continued to call forth in a loud voice, saying, More men, and yet more men. Then did the chief rulers become troubled, and in solemn conclave did many of them commune among themselves, saying, Woe unto us, who listened not to the true prophets in time of peace from false security have we become weak and unskilled in the making of war, and now that we are unprepared our enemy hath taken advantage of us. Peradventure, if we raise not up a mighty host of men and horses and chariots the enemy will overcome us, and then shall we be undone. In that day what shall it profit us that we believed in the goodness of heart of our enemy and that we hearkened unto the voice of him who spake unto us, saying, Wait and see. But how shall we raise a mighty host with which to destroy the enemy and to keep him from our shores ? Anct alter much deliberation they came to a great determination, saying, We will make a law, and the law shall be that if a man be come to half a score and eight years, and if he be not more than two score and one years, then shall he be held liable to serve as a warrior. But lest haply there be reasons that he may not leave his habitation, we will provide that he may be excused, and for the deciding of this matter will we set up in each town judges who shall have the power to say, One shall be taken, and another left. And it was so. CHAPTER II. And in the town of Gobannium there did gather together the chief magistrate and the elders of the people, and they did commune among themselves, saying. Let us, by virtue of the powers vested in us, form a Tribune, and we will summon from among the people one or two men of wisdom to the;r counsel. And they did so. Then followed there many strange happenings which caused the minds of the Tribune to be much perplexed. For those that were set in high places gave many orders and sent forth many epistles which changed in substance more quickly than the weather. Also did there come before the Tribune many men who sought to be excused from wearing the apparel provided freely by a generous nation. And their excuses were verily of divers kinds. And though many of them had hitherto hid their light under a bushel, now did they set forth their talents and prove that the value of their labour for the nation was without price. Verily did the cloak of modesty fall from their shoulders. But, strange to say, though in one manner did they proclaim with a loud voice their merits, in another manner did they publish the tale of their failings. Yea, though to the outward eye did they seem to be as fit as an instrument of music, yet were they full of bodily infirmities, and at this were many greatly astonished. And the tale of their infirmities, is it not written in the scroll of the physicians ? Howbeit, the Tribune were not easily per- suaded, and for their better understanding did send them unto a town which is near unto the sea that the physicians appointed for the purpose might look upon them with a critical eye when they were bereft of their apparel. And the physicians did attach unto them strange letters and numbers. Yet were the Tribune not persuaded in all cases, because of their knowledge of the matter. Moreover was it revealed that the physi- cians themselves were not of one mind, for when at divers times they did look upon the same men in the flesh they did attach unto them signs and symbols that were not alway the same. And whether they were moved to do so ac- co d n. to the seasons of the year, or from some other mysterious source of inspiration, no man shall say. Now all these perplexities did cause the Tri- bune to implant the forefinger on the crowns of their heads and rub their cerebral coverings with a to and fro motion, for this was the manner of means employed from of old to induce deep thought. Nevertheless did the Tribune pursue their course and discharge their functions as it seemed to them best. And one was taken and another left. Then there arose much murmuring among those whom it was judged should be taken, and some of them made speech, saying, Are not my labours as useful as So-and-So's ? And why should not What's-his-name be taken ? Others, again, said, Am I not more full of years than A. N. Other ? Yet he remaineth behind. Yet others said, I am fit only to labour in the apparel which is not khaki. If the apparel which is khaki be put upon me, then shall I become sick unto death. And there were still others who held forth, saying, Have I not many offspring ? (though, be it known, they boasted not of it in times of peace) Nevertheless, the Tribune pursued their course unmoved by these protestations, even though they were subject to anathemas. But the wise who were solicited to become members of the Tribune held aloof. And the people generally declared with fervent breath that they would not sit in the seats of the Tribune for many shekels. I CHAPTER III. But there came to the Tribune a time of greater difficulty and perplexity, and it arose in the manner set forth. Be it known that certain men of zeal in the land had raised a host of Freemen, and their purpose was not that they should journey to foreign lands but that they should go to battle against the enemy if, peradventure, he invaded their country. And lo many men who were in the prime of life, and many who were of riper age, yea, even some who had reached unto threescore years and ten, arrayed themselves together. And throughout the land the Guard did swell in numbers, and their captains did instruct them in the use of the implements of war, and in the turning of the body and in the motions of the feet. But there were many who for divers reasons did not go to the captain of the Guard and say unto him, I pray thee, make me one of thy unpaid servants to do with as thou wilt. Howbeit, as they were Freemen, so could they not be compelled. Then did some that concerned themselves with these matters take counsel and say, Verily, we will get them. Let every man who hath been excused of casting off hIS apparel of divers colours be bound by a condition, and let him be informed that no longer will he be excused if he enrol not himself under the captain of the Guard. Then did the Chief Magistrate of Gobannium indite an epistle unto those which were excused. And some did read it in fear and trembling, and straightway did they go unto the captain of the Guard and beg of him to inscribe their names on his scroll, for they said in their hearts that they knew not the day nor the hour when they might be called upon to change their apparel. In this manner did the Guard wax stronger, and for a time there was peace in the town. But some who employed their time in places of business or in counting-houses, or whose day's labours engaged them until the setting of the sun, did begin to find the fulfilment of their duty burdensome. For oftentimes they had but few minutes wherein to go to the place appointed for the meeting of the Guard, and perchance they were late it was looked upon as though they were not there. Moreover, the meetings were many, and the Guard were called together even on the Sabbath, and they which had been accustomed to an afternoon snooze, behold they were done out of it. Now it chanced that many of the Guard were of a proportion of body which was ample, And it came to pass that by reason of the constant exercise of their limbs they were made to become heated, yea, even to perspire, Whereby in time they lost their rotundity of body, and their apparel hung loosely upon them, even though their zest for the things of the table was not abated. Nevertheless did they feel as fit as an instru- ment of music and become alert of step. And as they took their walks abroad they looked and saw that some which had been Excused were not in their ranks. And they were sore grieved that some of these men did point the finger of scorn at them and did utter things which were not to their ad- vantage. Yet in the charity of their hearts did they seek to render unto the scoffers a turn which was good, For they said within themselves, Lo see what fine men the Captain of the Guard hath made of us; verily, how he hath made of us men of good condition and bearing. And hath made our limbs of a suppleness which is desirable, and our hands cunning in the use of the implements of war, and hath in- structed us into the mysteries of the forming of fours. Now, therefore, let us noise our good fortune abroad that others may take heed of that which they lack, and let it be known that we desire not to keep unto ourselves all those benefits which have fallen to our lot. And it may be that the Tribune will hear of these things, and will give voice, saying, Let every man that hath been and that shall hereafter be Excused be urged, and he love his freedom, to make his peace with the Captain of the Guard, and at the appointed times agree to turn his steps toward the place which is near unto the court of justice. And it may be that the Did Nots will come to believe that we seek only for them that which is good, and they will render unto us thanks, and praise our names. But it was not. Rather were the Did Nots displeased, and they regarded the motives of the Dids with suspicion. And they did proclaim and make known that they were not consumed with jealousy, and, furthermore, that they desired not to rob the Dids of any glory and honour which was their portion. And as to the great benefits which the Captain of the Guard might bestow upon them, they sought them not. Now there were divers reasons wherefore the Did Nots became not Dids, and some of them murmured and said, What man shall set himself up in judgment on his neighbours, or know what is in the inmost recesses of his heart, and of the nature of his goings out and of his comings in, and of all the why and the wherefore of the matter ? Howbeit, the Dids continued to gird up their loins and to possess their souls in patience. I CHAPTER IV. I Now these things came, to the ears of the Tribune, and, in secret and solemn conclave did they deliberate on the matter and take counsel together. And after much exchange of opinion did they agree among themselves, saying, Let us now summon before us the Did Nots that we may question them as to the why and the wherefore that they be not Dids, and it may be that if we but make known unto them the power which is in our hands, and that they are in danger of being no longer Excused, then may they be of an inclination to consort with the Dids, For there be much complaint among the Dids as to the number of the Did Nots, and with expectant eyes do they look unto us to turn them from their devious ways. Therefore were the Did Nots summoned before the Tribune. But in the meantime did it become known to some which were of that company that this business was afoot, And inasmuch as they did have a proper regard for their skins, and out of the dread in their hearts as to the issue of the matter, they did betake themselves unto the Captain of the Guard, and spake unto him, saying, Lo, are we come. Now after a brief season were the Did Nots who had not become Dids summoned before the Tribune. But the Tribune did find the matter no easy one to deal with, for they were not all of one mind, and one made question as to whether they did have the right to transform a Did Not into a Did. I And another did seem to doubt the wisdom of calling a man a Freeman if he be compelled to do that which was contrary to his inclination. And after many words had passed, and he that sought to make men cast off their many-coloured garb had had his say, it did appear that though the Tribune might not possess the right, they did assuredly have the power to convert a Did Not into a Did, For if he went not to the place appointed at eventide and after noontide on the Sabbath, then could they hand him over to them whose business it was to make war, and his habitation would know him no more wherefore was it verily a case of Hobson's Choice, as the saying goeth. Then did the Tribune resolve to deal with the Did Nots according to their merits, and they called them unto them. And the Chief Magistrate did question them, saying, Hast thou any reason why thou should'st not become a Did ? I And one after another did make answer and did argue with much persuasion that this thing was not possible, and for reasons which they hastened to make known. And their reasons were many and various, and at times were the Tribune persuaded and at other times were they not. And the chief reason was that the Did Nots were bereft of sufficient leisure to become Dids. And the tale of their labours did cause the Tribune to marvel at the endurance of mortal man, For many did affirm that they laboured from the rising of the sun until the going down of the same, and even far into the watches of the night. Nor was it only on the six days that they did labour, for many which had hitherto appeared pious and of good living did throw off the cloak of virtue, And they did solemnly affirm that they laboured on the Sabbath. Now the Tribune had agreed among them- selves that it was not possible for some men to go to the place appointed at all the times which were set down in writing by those in authority over the Guard, which were half a score and four in every moon. Therefore did they proceed to apportion the number of times which they might go. And to one that did set up the record in the hours that he laboured they did speak, saying, Go thou eight times. And they did so out of regard for his health and that he might not provide more work for the physicians, for they said, Verily, it will do him good. And whether this Did Not was pleased in his heart no man shall say, but his face it did seem to bear the expression which, being interpreted, saith, mat which 1 do most require be not more motions of the body, and of the feet, and of the hands, but a larger portion of sleep and rest, and assuredly shall I not find it among the Guard. Nevertheless had the decision of the Tribune gone forth, and it was not to be gainsaid. Another did aver that he enjoyed not suffi- cient leasure wherewith to cultivate his vine- yard. And another Did Not made oath, and said, I desire that my service may be of the most value therefore shall I not become a member of the Guard, but willingly will I lend my chariot, even the chariot which runneth without a horse, and I myself will drive it. And though the Chief Magistrate did agree, yet did the Tribune say that he must go ten times to the place appointed. And another did fervently acclaim, saying, As my soul liveth, am I absolutely full up. Yet did he not mean his words to be given an inward application, but that of leisure he had none. And because of this the Tribune were moved, and therefore they allowed him to remainl. a Did Not. ftf 1 Yet another avowed his belief, saying, Though do I not make objection to going to the place appointed, yet be I not full of zeal, for I see not much good in it. Yet did the Tribune say unto him, Go thou eight times. Whereupon the Did Not made bold to aver, If so be that ye were in error aforetime in telling I men to go to the place appointed, why should ye continue in your error ? And at this the Chief Magistrate said unto him that if he so desired he could go before a higher Tribune. Now be it known that the higher Tribune had not yet told any man that he should go to the place appointed, neither half a score and four times, nor yet one time. Therefore were they which went unto the higher Tribune in very truth Freemen, where- fore did the other Did Nots look upon them with eyes of envy. So did the Tribune deal with each of the Did Nots as it seemed to them best. And one which was told to go eight times spoke up and said, How can the Tribune ensure that I shall not be required to go more than eight times ? If I become a Did, shall I not then be subject to the Captain of the Guard. vud can. he not -do with me as he will ? And one who was of the Tribune answered, Verily, it may be so. Therefore is it clear that we can make no such bargain. And this added to the perplexity of the Tribune. Furthermore, while the Tribune sat in solemn conclave, it was whispered among them that the Captain of the Guard would not receive with open arms those that did not undertake to go to the place appointed the full number of times, as it was written. At which some of the Tribune smiled the smile that did not easily come off. Yet though it seemed that their labours might be of no avail, even so did they continue to apportion the number of times that men should go to the place appointed. But the Chief Magistrate did say unto them that they should not take heed of the injunction until they received from the Tribune a further order. for until the Captain of the Guard had signified his will on parchment, not content were the Tribune to impose their condition nor, unless the Captain of the Guard were agreeable to the number of times stated, would they be of an inclination to press the matter further. And after they had done these things, the Tribune did betake themselves to their habi- tations. Also did the Did Nots go their several ways, somewhat perplexed in their minds. And as to the outcome of the matter, will it not be found in the Chronicle of the town of Gobannium ?

NOTICE TO CORRESPONDENTS. A RATEPAVER. "-This letter can only appear over your own name. ▲

——— V St. Mary's Church.—We beg to draw the attention of our readers to the monthly organ recitals to be given by the organist on the third Sunday of the winter months. The first will take place on September 16th, after the evening service.

CHOKED BY MEAT. SECOND FATALITY AT THE ASYLUM. An inquest was conducted at the Monmouth- shire Asylum on Wednesday afternoon by Mr. J. A. G. Price (Deputy Coroner), touching the death of Annie Bibbey (53), who died on Monday as the result of choking. This is the second fatality of the kind which has occurred at the Asylum in a little over a week. Dr. N. R. Phillips (Medical Supt.) said that the deceased was a single woman and a seam- stress. She was admitted to the institution on the 27th August, 1913, from one of the London county asylums. She was very feeble and had been in the infirmary ward ever since her admis- sion. She could do practically nothing for herself, and she screamed when touched. Her mind was completely gone, and she could not converse or give any account of herself. She was, however, able to feed herself, but she had her meals apart from the other inmates, because she would seize their food and lay her hands on anything near her and put it into her mouth. At about five minutes to two on Monday witness was called to her because she was choking, and he found her in a comatose condition. Artificial respiration was being performed by Dr. Rose, but deceased died about two o'clock from suffocation by choking. Nurse Talbot, who is in charge of the in- firmary ward, said she was in the sick ward and heard the second nurse calling for her. She ran to see what was the matter, and found the deceased vomiting. Witness saw that her mouth was full of something, and tried to ex- tract it. She succeeded in getting a piece of meat out of the deceased's mouth, but as she did not seem any better witness sent for the doctor. Nurse Lewis said that she was in the scullery when a patient came and told her that deceased was in the lavatory, vomiting. Witness went there and found the deceased's face was dis- coloured, and she called for the charge nurse. Witness had previously taken another patient named Annie Shone into the corridor. A patient named Miss Spencer stated that she saw Annie Shone give the deceased some meat from the scullery. Dr. Rose said he was called from the dispensary to the deceased about a quarter to two. The nurse had then got a piece of meat out of her mouth. Witness tried to remove the remaining obstruction, and, failing to do so, kept up artificial respiration until Dr. Phillips arrived with a longer instrument. They kept up artificial respiration for fully half an hour. Another large piece of meat was got out of the deceased's mouth. (Witness here produced two large pieces of meat and gristle). Medical Superintendent's Explanation. I Dr. Phillips said that they had gone for many years without anything of this sort happening, and it was a great anxiety to have a second case following so soon on the other. The patient was extremely demented. The charge nurse had carved the dinner, and these pieces of meat and gristle were rejected from the joint, and the nurse had put them in a bucket in the scullery ready to be taken into the wash- house. Annie Shone was a most interfering, restless patient, and she would constantly push her way into corners, pick up leaves and chew them, and interfere with other patients. She had no business to be in the scullery, but she would push her way there and pick anything out of the scrap bucket. She was put in the corridor, but came back again, and wandering into the scullery picked out the pieces of meat from the scrap bucket and gave them to the demented patient, who tried to swallow them. He thought that it might make the matter clearer if he made that statement. The jury returned a verdict of Accidental death from suffocation," and found that there was no blame attached to the Asylum author- ities or to the attendants.

+ LLANTILLIO PERTHOLEY. SCHOOTCHII.DREN'S GIFT TO THE NAVY.— Recently the schoolchildren of Llantilio Per- tholey sent a quantity of fruit and vegetables for the Navy, and the following letter of thanks has been received from the ship's company of H.M.S. Ostrich :■—" Mr. Green. Dear Sir,- Just a few lines thanking you for gift of fruit and vegetables which were received by us to-day. They were greatly appreciated by the ship's company. Again we thank you very much for thinking of us lads in blue.—I am, yours respect- fully, JOHN H. DESERT. On behalf of ship's company.

I Red Cross Hospital Supply Depot. I The Hon. Treasurer (Mr. F. R. Hobbes) has I much pleasure in announcing the following donations for the fortnight ending 13th Sept. I Previously acknowledged £970 2 8 Sale of covered tennis balls (per Mrs. Edlin) 0 5 0 Market stall 3 15 0 Market stall 1 14 2 Part collection in Park (per the Mayor) 015 o Weekly subscriptions 15 o Total £ 977 6 10

T Endorsing Inks, 1 each, in black, red, or violet.—" Chronicle Office. ♦ r4 A 1I"Ki I The Welshman's Favourite. jlMABON Sauce I As good as its Name. a DON'T FAIL TO GET IT. Um* X aL peow a.. Calrda

I Pandy Horticultural Show. I A SUCCESSFUL REVIVAL. The Pandy Horticultural Show used to be a popular event in the neighbourhood some years ago, but the Society was allowed to become defunct and the show has not been held in recent years. Several enthusiasts, however, got to- gether some months ago and decided to try to revive the fixture. Their efforts met with general support, and the result was a very successful show in the field adjoining the Llan- vihangel Crucorney Schoolroom on Thursdav, the field being kindly lent by the Vicar, the Rev. A. R. Blundell. The weather was threatening all day, and rain fell in the afternoon and heavier still in the evening, but in spite of this there was a large attendance. From one point of view the unsettled weatner was an advantage, for manv who were present would otherwise have been engaged in harvesting operations. The pro- moters thoughtfully decided not only to en- courage horticulture but to help the Red Cross at the same time, and a part of the proceeds were I I I ucvoieu 10 tnis ooject, while further assistance was provided by the sale of most of the veget- ables and fruit by auction in the evening, Mr. Montague Harris kindly undertaking that office. The exhibits were staged in a large marquee, and their excellent quality was favourablv com- mented upon both by the judges and the public. Mr. Henry Pitt, who has officiated at several shows this year, expressed the opinion that the potatoes and carrots were the best he had seen. Mr. John Price had the distinction of winning the special prize for the one who secured the largest number of prizes, and he had eight to his credit.. There were various attractions provided in addition to the exhibits, and these included houplas, shooting gallery, etc., and an excellent sports programme comprising 23 events. The Abergavenny Borough Silver Band were in attendance, and under the conductorship of Mr. Thomas played pleasing selections in the after- noon and also for dancing in the marquee in the evening, the latter proving a great attraction. The ladies dispensed tea in the Schoolroom, and had a busy time. The Officers. I The president was Mrs. Barneby (Trewyn), and the officers were as follows :—Chairman and hon. treasurer, Mr. Allen James vice-chairman, Mr. Joseph Griffiths; hon. sec., Mr. George Caldicott, Llanvihangel Crucorney committee Rev. A. R. Blundell, Messrs. S. Addis (Alterynis), W. Bevan, R. Bridgewater (Longtown), W. Davies (Llangattock Lingoed), D. L. Dodd (Forest), D. Edwards (Pandy), W. Edwards (Pandy), W. R. Howell (Llanvihangel), M. Knight (LIanthony), J. Lewis (Oldcastle), J. L. Parry (Pandy), J. Parry (Pandy), J. Phillips (Pandy Inn), R. Probert (Great Park), W. E. Sayce (Pontrilas), W. Williams (Llanvihangel), G. Watkins (Pandy), J. Williams (Cwmyoy). Ladies' Committee :—President and treasurer, Mrs. Barneby; hon. sec., Mrs. Preedy Miss Addis, Mrs. Blunt, Mrs. W. Dodd, Miss Griffiths (Pentwyn), Miss K. Griffiths (Werngifford), Mrs. Howell, Mrs. J. Jenkins, Mrs. Jones, Mrs. Kings- cote, Mrs. Knight (Llanthony), Mrs. Lewis (Old- castle), Mrs. Nott, Mrs. Parry (Glannant), Mrs. Parry (Great Goytre), Miss O. Parry, Mrs. L. J. Parry, Mrs. J. H. Parry, Mrs. Phillips, MLs Phillips, Mrs. Price, Mrs. Rhys Probert, Miss Prosser (Llancillo), Miss Watkins (Grosmont), Miss Watkins (Bridge), Mrs. G. Watkins (Glan- nant). In the marquee Mr. Percy Fraser, seedsman, of Abergavenny, had an interesting exhibition of potatoes, marrows, sweet scabious, kentia belmoreana palms, asters, gladiolas and chry- santhemums. The judges of the vegetables and fruit were Mr. Henry Pitt, of the Brecon-road and Hereford-road Nurseries, Abergavenny, and Mr. Oliver Williams (Tredilion), while Mr. C. Williams (Maindiff Court) judged the gardens. The Awards. The awards were as follows SECTION A-VEGETABLES AND FRUIT. Collection of vegetables (Fraser's seed)-I John Price; 2, W. Williams. Collection of vegetables (G. C. Williams's seed)-I, F. Frampton 2, Mrs. Caldicott. Collection of vegetables (Peake & Son's seed)- 1, W. Bevan 2, T. Powles. Two cabbages- i, J. Michael 2, J. Lewis. Two red cabbages i, F. Frampton (Gros- mont) Two cauliflowers—2, J. Price. Two lettuce- i, John Price 2, W. Dawe. Four leeks-i, J. Price 2, Mrs. Caldicott. Four carrots-I, F. Frampton 2, W. Dawe. Two sticks celery-i, John Price; 2, W. Bevan. Autumn-sown onions-I, Mrs. Chas. Lewis; 2, L. T. Morris. Spring-sown onions-I, W. Keats; 2, F. Frampton. 3, W. H. Wood. Beet-I, F. Frampton 2, W. Dawe. Rhubarb-i, John Price 2, Chas. Parry. Shallots-I, F. Frampton 2, L. Arrowsmith. Vegetable marrows-I, W. Williams 2, John Price. Early potatoes-I, C. Parry 2, L. J. Lewis 3, H. Hybart. Main crop potatoes (round)-I, F. Frampton 2, T. Williams 3, W. H. Wood. Broad beans-I, L. J. Lewis 2, J. Michael. Runner beans-F. Frampton 2, Mrs. Chas. Lewis. Dwarf French beans—2, Mrs. Caldicott. Cucumbers- i, W. H. Wood 2, J. Michael. Dessert apples- I, John Price 2, W. Bevan. Culinary apples- I, J. Michael 2, J. H. Parry (Panteg). Black currants—Mrs. Chas. Parry. Collection of herbs—L. T. Lewis 2, Mrs. Owen. Collection of farm produce-i and special, Russell James. Neatest and best cultivated garden-I, John Price 2 and 3 divided between Thos. Powles and W. Bevan. Neatest and best cultivated garden, by woman householder-I, Mrs. Wilde, Queen's Head Cottage 2, Mrs. Morgan, Forest Coal Pit. SECTION B. Machine-made shirt for soldier-I, Miss Gladys Jenkins 2, Miss E. Isbell; 3, Mrs. M. A. Jenkins. Hand-made shirt for soldier-I, Mrs. C. A. Williams 2 (divided). Miss Gertie Jenkins and Miss Ruby Morgan 3, Mrs. B. Woodford. Pair of soldier's socks-i, Mrs. Hedley Jones 2, Miss May Davies 3, Mrs. Joyce Jones. Pair of bed SOCkS-I, Mrs. M. A. Jenkins 2, Mrs. Hedley Jones 3, Mrs. Edwin Jones. Soldier's vest-I, Miss Amy Jenkins 2, Miss Gladys Jenkins 3, Mrs. Joyce Jones. Hand-made pillow-case-i, Miss Helen Griffiths; 2, Miss Edith Powell; 3, Miss Doris Griffiths; 4, Miss Evelyn Lewis. Special competition for shirt (competitor who has previously made not less than two articles for the Red Cross)-I, Miss N. Preece 2, Mrs. W. Watkins. Vest—Miss Lottie Griffiths 2, Mrs. M. A. Jenkins. Pair of knitted socks for soldier-I, Miss Love 2, Mrs. R. M. Howell. SECTION C—HOME PRODUCE. Home-made loaf of bread-I, Miss Williams, Treveddw 2, Mrs. Preece, The Greig 3, Mrs. James Parry. Butter- i, Miss L. Bayliss, Oldcourt 2, Miss K. Griffiths; 3, Mrs. Kingscote. Brown eggs-I, Miss Williams, Treveddw 2, Mrs. B. Edwards. White eggs-I, Miss K. Griffiths. Home-made jam—Mrs. Jas. Parry 2, Miss Williams (Treveddw) 3, Mrs. Edwin Jones special prize, Mrs. Hedley Jones. Home-bottled gooseberries (without sugar)— 1, Mrs. F. Griffiths, Pentwyn. Cheese—2, Mrs. Griffiths, Pentwyn. Mrs. Barneby distributed the prizes, and Mr. Allan James proposed a vote of thanks to her for her kindness and generosity. tIe also paid a tribute to the work of the secretaries and the stewards and committee. They were all jolly good people there, especially the inhabitants of the place, but he could not help saying that there were one or two sharks in the neighbourhood who did not belong there. He had always thought that if a man wanted to be brought to his senses, a little bit of law was a good thing for him. He hoped things would pass off more pleasantly than he expected, and he would not allude any further to the matter. Three cheers were given for Mrs. Barneby, who briefly responded and spoke of the excellent needlework which had been done. Mr. Caldicott thanked the subscribers and also Mrs. Preedy for her work. The Sports. I The sports were of a varied character and the I various events were well contested. The secre- tary was Mr. Geo. Watkins and the officials who I assisted were Messrs. Allen James, J. Williams (Queen's Head), J. Phillips (Pandy Inn), John Lewis (Oldcastle), Joseph Griffiths (Wern- gifford), C. Jones (Triley), Russell James (Pendre) and F. E. Jenkins (Pant Glas). The following were the results I 100 yards girls' race-I, Edna Husbands 2, I F. Simner 3, Ivy Blackwell. 100 yards boys' (centime* at foot 0/ next t*hmnj.

Abergavenny Police j Court. j Wednesday.—Before Col. V. Williams (in the I chair) and Mr. D. Howell James. r Made the Constable Move. George Barrel, farmer, ot Dulas, Hertfordshire, was summoned for driving a horse and trap to the danger of the public, on the 28th August, at Llanvihangel Crucorney, and Edward Jenkins, labourer, of Cwmyoy, was summoned for furiously riding a horse to the danger of the public at the same time and place. Jenkins pleaded guilty, and Barre] said he i-a, ::ot going very fast. I Y-C. Blunt said that at 4.20 p.m. on the 28th ult. he was on duty on the Here;ord ntv< road, at the bottom of Penbiddle-Iane, Pandy, in com- I pany with Powell, the roadman. Witness heard horses coming from the direction of Llanvihangel at a full gallop. Then he saw Jenkins coming along the road at a full gallop and Barrel was close behind him in a trap with another man. He and the roadman had to jump clep-T to the side to avoid being knocked down. Witness told Barrel that he would be reported, and he replied There is nothing the matter with me," and drove on. Later he saw Jenkins, who when told that he would be reported replied "It is all Barrel's fault. He was coming behind me galloping at such a reckless lPace that he frightened my horse, and I had to go to get out of his way. I can't understand how he did not knock down and run over some of the children coming from the school." Defendants had had some drink, but nothing to complain of. They seemed as though they were racing to see which would beat. Thos. Powell, roadman, corroborated. Barrel turned near to the side, and witness had to get out of the way. Both defendants were fined 2-1. including costs. Cruelty to a Horse. Charles Aubrey, haulier, of GoviJon, was sum- moned for cruelty to a horse by working it in an unfit state, at Llanellen, on the 5th of Septem- ber, and Thomas Jones, contractor, of Blaenavon, was summoned for causing the horse to be worked. P.-C. Ayland said that on the 5th he saw Aubrey using an aged grey gelding with long traces tushing 5cwi. or oewt. of pitwood out of a wood and down a steep incline towards the road at Llanellen. Witness stopped him and examined the horse. Underneath the collar, on the near shoulder, he found a raw wound 2ins. by z-tins., and on the off shoulder another wound 4ins. by 4-lins. The wounds were quite raw and slightly inflamed. The collar had been newly lined and an attempt had been made to pad it with stockings to prevent the collar rubbing the wounds, but they got out of place. He asked Aubrey why he worked the horse in that state, and he replied The boss looks after it, and I only do the driving." Witness ordered him to take the horse out. Later he saw Jones and pointed the wounds out to him, and he re- plied "lam very sorry. I did not think it was so bad." Defendant Jones said that he stepped into the breach to help the South Wales and Monmouth- shire Coalowners' Association get the timber. He had to get seven horses for the work, and it was not possible to always get the best. The Magistrates' Clerk said that nothing tried a horse so much as tushing timber out of a wood. Defendant Yes, but the horse was all right on the Saturday. It had several boils on it and the tops had rubbed off, but when it left the. stable in the morning the skin was like leather and perfectly hard. In order not to rub it off, I helped the haulier to fix up some pads, but it appears that they got out of place and the skin was rubbed. Sergt. Spendlove said that on the 5th he was called by Ayland to see the horse. The wound on the off shoulder was quite 4 Hns. either way and the one on the near shoulder was about 2ins. The wounds were quite new and were caused by the rubbing of the collar. Witness should think that the collar hardly fitted, and on the lower part of the big wound the skin was flaked away. It was not a scab, but a sort of blister. There was no doubt that the horse's shoulders had been blistered and the skin had come off. It was cruelty, in any case, to work it like that, and the horse must have suffered considerably. Jones was fined f), and Aubrey 10s.. including costs. Temporary Transfer. Mr. Fred Gardner applied for the temporary transfer of the outdoor licence at Lipton's from the late manager, William Henry Moss, who had joined the Army, to the new manager, William Edward Hill, who had been manager for Messrs. Lipton for st years at Bath. The application was granted. The Fur Flew 11 Over The Feathers. Margaret Barrell, married woman, of 2 Priory- walk, summoned Louisa Morris, of Lower Monk- -Nlorris, of Lower Monk- street, for assault on the 5th of September, and the defendant had a cross-summons against Margaret Barrell and her daughter, Fanny Faulkner, for assault. In reply to the Magis- trates' Clerk, Morris said that it was a tiff about some feathers. She herself did not understand it, but complainant might explain. Complainant, with a wealth of detail, pro- ceeded to say that she was going up the Mon- mouth-road by Mr. Foster's, and defendant was coming down. Witness looked across to her and asked, Have you found your feathers yet, Louisa ? (because they were school-girls to- gether). Defendant replied, How do you think I can find my feathers, when you have got them W tnes., retorted, Don't tell your wicked lies," and, following her down, she added, Come with me to the dye shoo, and we will have a settlement over these feathers." The Magistrates' Clerk Why did you follow her down ? Why didn't you leave her alone ? Complainant continued that defendant struck her in the face until the blood was streaming down, and she put her baskets down to have another go at her. Witness defended herself, and a little girl came up afterwards and found her glasses on the ground. Defendant, who also put in a lot of unnecessary detail, said she had been blackberrying and had two baskets. Complainant shouted across the road, Louie, have you found your feathers yet ? Witness replied, No, bother the feathers." Complainant shouted again and said Come here," and witness replied Ko, I am too wet and too tired I will come another day." Complainant shouted again and witness replied I don't want to talk to you" Com- plainant then came across and struck her on the body, saying, You bad, bad, wicked woman." Witness put the baskets down and defended herself and scratched complainant's face. After- wards both complainant and her daughter came to her house and leathered her. Fanny Faulkner, who gave evidence for her mother, like the other witnesses, entered into a lot of irrevelant particulars, and the Magistrates' Clerk with a resigned air abandoned the attempt to keep her to the facts. She said she had been to the Great Western station to send her husband back to the Army. As she came down the Monmouth-read she saw her mother with blood running down her face, and she said that Louie Morris had struck her with her fist and had accused her of stealing. Witness said that she would go and ask her to come to the dye shop, to clear her. Defendant was sat just inside her door, and directly witness spoke to her she fled" at her, took hold of her by the front fo the hair and by the back of the neck and pulled her down. I At this juncture the Bench stopped the case and ordered the parties to be bound over.

her salvation cannot come from talking plati- tudes at a time when the enemy is battering at the gate. It needed a shock to bring home to the Russian idealistic dreamers the realities of the war situation and the greatness of the task which still remains to he accomplished. Whether j Riga will be a big enough shock remains to be seen, but at any rate Russia will before long pull herself togthernot, perhaps, in time to be effective this year, but in time to deal a shattering blow in the early spring of next year, if Germany has not already realised the hopelessness of the situation and given in. Russia may yet show a wonderful power of recovery, and one has only to read of the marvellous engineering triumphs [ she has accomplished during the war to realise what she is capable of when determined. The Stupendous engineering works which have been carried out at Archangel, Novo-Alexandrovsk, Vladivostok, and internally, under almost un- heard of difficulties, have revolutionised trans- port arrangements. No one could have foreseen all the tragic happenings in Russia during the past few months, but the pessimist who talks gloomily about another two or three years of war will surely be proved by events to hold a Wrong conception of the general situation. SUGAR AND JAM MAKING. There has probably been more grumbling about sugar than about any other commodity since we began to experience the days of shortage and high prices. The question of the distribu- tion of sugar for ordinary domestic consumption is now being tackled in a business-like manner, and before very long every household will be able to obtain the quantity to which it is en- titled. This ought to have been possible months ago, and if the late Food Controller had set about the business in a proper way it is probable that the allowance might have been more than tlb. per head to-day. The distribution of sugar for jam making has been no more satisfactory than that for ordinary consumption. Two Govern- ment authorities have dealt with the question. Firt, the Sugar Commission distributed many tons of sugar to fruit growers for the purpose of making jam from soft fruit. Now the Board of Agriculture are distributing a considerable quantity of sugar for the purpose of making jam from hard fruit such as plums and apples. The object in both cases is to increase food pro- duction. The authorities seem to act on the assumption that only fruit growers make jam, but this is altogether a false assumption. It is safe to say that the larger part of domestic jam making in the country is done by people who do not themselves grow the fruit. Those who do grow the fruit do not want to make more than sufficient jam for their own consumption, and while some have been able to obtain more sugar than is necessary for this purpose, the people who have been in the habit of buying fruit or picking blackberries for jam making are unable to get even half a pound of sugar with which to make jam. This is all the more unsatisfactory in view of the statement made in the House of Commons, some time ago, that arrangements had been made for the jam manufacturers to have their usual supply of sugar. There is no doubt that if the sugar had been made available to the public generally under a proper scheme of distribution, the total jam production of the country would have been greater than it will be. It may be said that much of the sugar would not be used for jam making if it were made available to the public generally, but there is no guarantee that it is all so used now. Many fruit growers have no doubt made the most of it, but there are numerous fruit growers who do not make jam at all and many who make but little. The people who are most concerned about saving a few shillings by making their own jam and who perhaps consume the most jam are just the people who have not the facilities for growing their own fruit. It is not much consolation to them to know that they can buy plenty of high- priced proprietary jams in the shops. While much fruit will rot because there is not the usual general demand for it, there are plenty of people willing to convert it into jam if they could get the sugar, and the fact that they cannot get the sugar is due to a large extent to faulty distribu- tion. Of course, there is the objection that if the distribution were made general each house- hold might only get a pound or two, and perhaps not that, so that it would not justify the setting lip cf the organisation necessary. On the other hand it is small wonder that there has been so much complaint, and many are of the opinion that there would have been more jam made if the supply had been made available indiscri- minately. THE FREE LIBRARY. I The Free Library is a valuable institution, but I there is scope for greater development in the interests of the reading public. While the old volumes are being worn out from continual usage, the purchase of new books is on a very moderate scale and one may look in vain for many recent novels and works by authors who have established themselves in public favour. It seems, however, that funds are very limited, and while the expenses have increased in various ways since the war the income remains station- ary. This year, too, £ to has been spent on the purchase of books for the foundation of a children's library. It is a pity that the revenue cannot be increased in some way. The assistance fom the rates is fixed at id. in the £ and that does not provide a very large sum for the maintenance of such an institution. The public, and especially those who have money to dispense to various objects, might remember the Free Library occasionally and accord it a little necessary support. We hesitate to suggest the infliction of another flag day on the public, though they would no doubt as willingly support the Free Library as many other objects which have been brought forward. Apart from mone- tary assistance, however, many people would no doubt be willing to give readable volumes from their well-stocked shelves. A good many volumes have at different times been given to the Library, but this kind of contribution has fallen away almost to nothing. Of course it is not necessary to tell donors that only readable books in good condition are wanted. +

'.conti.nut'd front preceding column race-I, Geo. Curtis 2, Chas. Caldicott 3, Reg. Griffiths 100 yds. girls' race (11 to I)- Doris Griffiths 2, Annie Light 3, Ivy Mead- more. 100 yds. boys' race (11 to 13)—1, Ivor Morris 2 and 3 (divided), Clifford Parsons and E. Caldicott. 100 yds. girls' race (13 to 15)—1, Jennie Griffiths 2, May Parry 3, Annie Townsend. 100 yds. boys' race (13 to 15)—r, Leslie Hogg; 2, Ivor Morris; 3, Leslie Hall. 100 yards-I, J. Addis 2, Cecil Powell 3, B- Evans. 120 yards—i, J. Addis; 2, C. Michael 3, A. E. Watkins. 100 yards race (men over 45)-1, Geo. Watkins; 2, J. Lewis; 3, J. Ridgeway Thread-the-needle race- I, A. E. Watkins; 2, B. Evans; 3, Joshua Griffiths. 440 yards i, Cecil Powell 2, A. E. Watkins 3, Ira Griffiths. 100 yards iladies)-I, B. Jones 2, E. Powell 3, Evelyn Parry. Throw- ing the cricket ball-I, A. E. Watkins 2, J. Addis. One mile—T. Whistance 2, J. Thomas; 3. A. E. Watkins. Slow cycle race (100 yards)- 1, Russell James; 2, W. Morgan. Point-to- pint-I, Reg. Richards 2, Cecil Powell 3, I. Griffiths. Three-legged race-i, Ira Griffiths and W. Probert 2, J. Addis and A. E. Watkins. One mile cycle race-1, J. Thoii ias; 2, C. J ones 3, F. Hall. Throwing the hammérI, J. Addis 2, A. Manns.