Abergavenny Chronicle

Abergavenny Stock Market. I There was a larger entry of calves on Tuesday fat calves making up to 25 10s. apiece, but there were no fat pigs on offer. There was a small entry of sheep, principally tegs, but the quality was better. The entry of cattle was also smaller than the previous week, but the quality was good, first grade animals being in evidence. The number of cattle in the market was only 30, compared with 63 at the corresponding market last year, and the number of sheep 83, compared with 203. The supply only permitted of one beast being allocated to every 5-' on the pur- chaser's certificate and one sheep to every 15. We understand that under the new arrange- ments there are many more buyers than formerly coming to Abergavenny market, though the Monmouthshire markets are confined to pur- chasers in the county. .&.

Abergavenny Man's Croix de Guerre.—We are pleased to learn that Corpl. E. W. Hughes, loth Batt., R.W.F., and youngest son of Mrs. Hughes, 36, Richmond-road, Abergavenny, has been awarded the Belgian Croix de Guerre, and has alreadv been presented with the ribbon and will receive the Cross on his return home. Corpl. Hughes has been out at the front for 16 months. Seed Potatoes for Allotment Holders.- The Allotments Committee are procuring 12 tons of seed potatoes for allotment holders. These in- clude 4 tons of Gn at Scot (mid early) and 4 tons each of King Edward and Arran Chief (main crop). Abergavenny Glee Society.—The Abergavenny Glee Societv intend to give a sacred concert at the Town Hall on Easter Sunday night, when two choruses out of the oratorio St. Paul will be rendered. It is hoped that all the members will make an effort to attend the practices on Sunday and Monday nights regularly in order that the best results may be attained. Lady Footballers' Record.—Last Saturday the two local teams of lady footballers played a match at Merthyr in aid of the Y.M.C.A. There was an attendance of about 5,000, and the « gate amounted to about £15°' Altogether the ladies have raised some £ 300 for various funds. The local teams, who have been trained by Mr. F. W. Blanche, are to be congratulated on the fact that three of them have been selected to represent Wales in a match with England. These are Miss Vera Day, Miss Doris Lloyd and Miss Vaughan. A Successful Dance.—The dance held at the Town Hall on February nth, in aid of the Soldiers' and Sailors' Reception Fund, proved very successful. The total receipts were ^30 I2S. id., and the expenses £ 5 7s., leaving a balance of 4_25 4s. id., which has been handed over to the treasurer of the fund. In our report of the dance it was stated that the refreshments \vere supplied by Mr. Woodhead, but we are in- formed that the whole of the refreshments were given by the ladies' committee and supporters of the fund, and the refreshment department Was in charge of Mrs. E. Evans (hon. secretary of the Dance Committee) and other ladies. The committee accord their hearty thanks to all who assisted in raising such a handsome sum. A Distinguished Local Artist.—Abergavenny has reason to be proud of the mark which one of its townsmen, Mr. John Wheatley, son of the Mayor and Mayoress, is making in the artistic World. Though only 26 years of age he has already shown himself possessed of a genius in conception and execution which is destined to carry him into the very tront rans 01 rjigiJ&n artists. With the pencil or the brush, at land- scape, portrait or figure subjects, he is equally adept, and his versatility is one of his most remarkable traits. Leading art critics have on many occasions eulogised his work and pro- phesied for him a brilliant future. The well- known American art magazine, Vogue," in a notice of an exhibition at the New English Art Club, Suffolk-street (of which Mr. Wheatley is a member) says "I am first attracted to Mr John Wheat ey's Lavinia," simply the head of a girl, in a scheme of colour which we associate with the art of Mr Augustus John. We re- 111ember Mr. Wheatley for drawings that by their Sentiment provoke memories of old masters, but here he paints directly with a touch so sym- pathetic as to promise much to us from his paintings in the future." The .subject of Lavinia," it may be mentioned, is Mr. Wheat- ley's own daughter. Mr. Wheatley has no less than four pencil drawings in the annual ex- hibition at the National Portrait Gallery, Bond- street, the subjects being (I) Capt. Francis Howard Paget (2) Mrs. Meresco Pearce (3) Mrs. John Wheatley and (4) Norman Wilkin- Son. Mr. Wheatley, who was for some time in the Artists' Rifles, has now been discharged from the Army as unfit for further service. His wife is well known as a clever artist in miniature, of which she has done some exquisite specimens. I&-

ABERGAVENNY GIRL GUIDES. I Mrs. Solly-Flood, the Pentre, writes :— i have been asked by the Hon. Mrs. Walter Roch, County Commissioner. of Monmouthshire Girl Guides, to try and restart the Abergavenny Company. A meeting will be held (by kind per- mission of the Mayor and Town Council) at the Corn Exchange, on Wednesday, February 27th, at 6 o'clock, and it is hoped that as many as possible of the original company will attend and any other girls from 14-18 years of age who are anxious to be enrolled. The meeting will be only for girls wishing to join, and their parents who care to come." A

LLANBEDR. I CONCERT.—A very successful concert was given in the School on Friday evening, the 15th inst., in connection with the C.M. Church at the above place. The annual tea had been aban- doned this year owing to the scarcity of pro- visions, and the friends are to be congratulated on the success of the evening concert. The room was packed and many were unable to gain ad- mission. Mr. Dodd, Forest, was the chairman, and the proceedings were kept quite interesting as well as entertaining to the close. A short sketch performed by Miss Howatt, Miss Main- waring and Miss Rumsey was very amusing; in fact the whole programme was well rendered and evoked much applause. ———— 4,

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Shall We Rob the Working Man of His Beer? AN APPEAL TO THOUGHTFUL WORKING MEN. To the Editor of tile" Abergavenny Chronicle. SIR,-The above quotation formed the head- line of a bill advertising an Anti-Prohibition meeting, and the first question that arises from this very subtle quotation is this To which of the two subjects referred to is the greater interest attached by the promoters of this gathering-the working man, or his beer ? One may venture to say that the product of the brewing industry is the cause for all this feverish anxiety on the part of those who put this question, not the working man. Dividends abnormal, not the liberties of the working classes. This question also casts a slur on the integrity of the worker, and I venture to say it is not asked with that honesty of purpose it appears to be put. Beer is not the sole object of the British artisan's life, except in the minority of cases, and for an educated man to state that this great Empire owes its greatness not to cocoa, but to beer, is to utter one of the grossest misstate- ments that might appear in the pages of history. We loathe the profiteer, and among them—on the word of Mr. Bottomley—is placed the brewer, who is so (?) anxious for the liberty of the working man. I might tell these champions of freedom that the working man is quite capable of looking after his own interest, and these interests are certainly not wrapped up with the interest of the Licensed Victuallers' Association. What freedom is there in the tied house system ? and what freedom ever came to the working man from the representatives of the brewing industry ? Fellownien, compare the wages of those en- gaged in the production of what is known as the national beverage, and their hours of labour, and then vou can arrive at some idea as to how far our interests trouble them. Profits are of more concern to them than a living wage. Men, beware There may be more of a political significance about this campaign than we realise, and some may have sold their right to govern themselves for a pot of beer in the past. Be loyal to yourselves. You are the guardians of your own liberty. The product of Mr. Bung, on the word of many who take it, is hardly worth the drinking. Profits are soaring. Shares in the brewing industry are among the best-paying investments. Why all this concern for the working man's beer ? Because if the worker thinks carefully about this problem the hope of their gains is gone. Fellowmen, what interest do the representa- tives of the Licensed Victuallers manifest in the burning questions of food distribution and con- trol ? This is an up-to-date question. Land Reform, Education, and Housing Reform are of more vital importance to us than what is termed the one eternal question with some—beer. Food is rationed—much more scarce than beer- but no mention is made of this fact. Do not be misled by these false prophets of freedom. Think for yourselves and exercise your own judgment in these matters. Will these men sacrifice nothing for the national interest ? Profits are of more concern to them than the working man, hence all this outcry against the restriction 011 the beverage of so much controversy. In the annual report of Sir J. J. Dobbie, Government Chemist, I find that out of 4,466 samples of beer taken from premises of publicans, 101 cases of dilution were found, some to the extent of 10 to 15 gallons of water in a 36-gallon cask. Who robs the work- ing man ? In the case of non-alcoholic drink none was below par, the majority being on the right side. We say, again, these things won't do. We are sorry for these poor suffering fellows, but we hail the dawning of a brighter day, when liberty and freedom on a larger scale shall be m.ts. It will come, only as working men put forth the best that is in them, to thoughtfully pursue an ideal, based upon a surer foundation than that of beer. In closing. I shall be charged with avoiding the real issue of this question, but I am not a fanatic, but a man who believes in temperance in all things, and one who believes in the British artisan's ability to work out his own salvation unaided by these meddlers and false champions of the rights and liberties of the working man. Yours, &c., A WORKING MAN. I JL

Why Kansas and Not Abergavenny ? To the Editor of the Abergavenny Chronicle. I SIR,-The Rev. Gwilym Davies in last week s issue of the Chronicle dealt with Mr. J. B. Maddocks' recent speech in no half-hearted way. In his criticism of Mr. Maddocks the rev. gentle- man raised a point that touches a spot perhaps farther than he intended. Under heading (5) the Rev. Gwilym Davies accused Mr. Maddocks of a serious offence in holding up Kansas State, U.S.A., to public contempt and ridicule. The rev. gentleman claims that it was not just, at this time of war, to do so, seeing that Kansas men are offering their lives in the trenches of France for us and ours." I quite agree with you, Mr. Davies, we should consider the homes and patriotism of those who sacrifice for us. Taking the same standpoint, I should like to know why Mr. Davies has on so many occasions publicly held up poor little Abergavenny to public contempt and ridicule in his public writings and sayings. Lads of Abergavenny have been in the firing line from practically the first week of the war, many of our bright, happy lads lie buried somewhere in foreign soil. Every week adds to the number. The war has cast a gloom over so many once-contented Aber. homes. Surely, then, the homes of Aberga- venny, the homes of our soldier lads who have given the greatest of sacrifices, deserve as much consideration as Kansas does from Mr. Davies. Why, then, has the Rev. Gwilym Davies made so many contemptuous references in South Wales about Abergavenny's faults. Within the last few weeks I noticed two glaring examples all calculated to give South Wales people very bad impressions of Abergavenny's desirability as a residence. Probably the rev. gentleman was concerned over Kansas because it is a Pro- hibition State. Abergavenny is not—that makes all the difference to him. Yet the rev. gentleman has the effrontery to declare I am no Teetotal fanatic." What is he, then ? For his own sake, I trust he is not an advocate of the Teuton-like trait of condemning others for doing deeds that they do themselves. The controvery between Prohibition ex- tremists and beer adyocates is truly deplorable, from a patriotic point of view, and the arguments used are generally revivals of the old example of the pot calling the kettle black." Extremists of all kinds can certainly find more patriotic openings for their abilities than stirring up dissensions that help to destroy that national unity that alone can bring us through victorious. The lads at the front demand unity at home. Are they likely to get it ? Perhaps Mr. Davies can tell us. Yours faithfully, n I Abergavenny. I' A I' 1'4- I A berga ,"cnllY. HARRY E- JFAJFLI.

I FEDERATION OF TRADES UNIONS. I To the Editor of the Abergavenny Chronicle." DEAR SIR,-In your report of the Council meeting, last week, the name of Mr. Wycherley was given as representing the Steam Boiler Makers' Union. It should have been the Steam Engine-makers' Union. Trusting you will publish this to avoid any complications. Yours sincerely, JOHN STARK, Feb. 19, 1918. Secretary. A

WELCOME HOME FUND AN OFFER FROM I THE Y.M.C.A. To the Editor of the Abergavenny Chronicle. I, I SIR, At the meeting held at the iown nan on February 9th His Worship the Mayor stated he took the opportunity of reminding the town that the Committee took up the challenge to hold the meetings off licensed premises, provided the same accommodation was available elsewhere. It gives me great pleasure to say that the Committee of the Young Men's Christian Association would be delighted to do what the Mayor asks. We have one of the best rooms for the purpose in the town, and if the Welcome Home Fund for our gallant sailors and soldiers can be agreed upon a town basis, what more suitable headquarters than that of the Y.M.C.A. ? I need not refer to the great work that has been done and is being done on all our fighting fronts, and it is the privilege of the Y.M.C.A. at home to do all in its power to help forward any movement for our wounded soldiers while they are on leave. Hoping that the offer will be accepted. I am, yours faithfully, I R. BEA VANs Hon. Sec.

The Rev. Gwilym Davies & Mr. Maddocks. I To the Editor oj the I I Abergavenny Chronicle. SIR,-A kind friend sent me this morning your issue of last week, otherwise I would not have seen the effusion appearing over the name of Mr. Gwilym Davies. His posing as the injured innocent" is more likely to create amusement rather than the sympathy he evidently seeks. I was not aware until I saw his letter that Penarth had been honoured by his presence, or that Professor Nicholls had been in this locality. I am not certain, but (I) I have a vague idea that a Mr. Gwllym Davies was an advocate of State Purchase. If it is the same Mr. Gwilym Davies who spoke at an anti-State Purchase meeting, will he inform us how he reconciles this double event? (2) Mr. Davies charged me with the same statement in a Newport paper three weeks ago. I at once replied that my statement was the United Kingdom Alliance, the Free Church Council, or others who were responsible for bringing over these men from Canada, the United States," &c. Mr. Lief Jones, of the United Kingdom Alliance, has admitted that he was largelv responsible for their advent. W ill Mr. Davies, as he knows all about it, tell us who the others are ? Or does he think the people are iiirgs enough to believe that Prof. Nicholls, James Simpson, and Company, are philan- throphists ? (3) I remember the exact words I used nere. I did not go to Abergavenny on February 1st to contradict that I had stated from the same plat- I did not go to Abergavenny on February 1St to contradict what I had stated from the same platform on January 17th last. At the tornier meeting I dealt with a statement made at sibey- ystwith on the authority of Jlr. Simpson. in which he said that 20,000 Canadians who had come over to fight for the cause of liberty, pure and sober, had been sent back to Canada drunkards, without ever having seen France." Now, Sir, the meeting at Aberystwith was ilr. James Simpson's meeting. He was advertised to speak, and not a soul that attended the meeting knew that lie was absent until the chairman in- formed them. I was invited to attend to put questions to Mr. Simpson. This was refused, not by the audience," as Mr. Davies states, but bv a man who was supposed to represent Mr. Simpson, who did not turn up. So that when I last spoke in Abergavenny I referred, and rightly referred, to Mr. Simpson's meeting at Aber- ystwith, simply because it was James Simpson's meeting. Certainly Mr. Davies seems very hard up for something to quibble about. (4) I charge Mr. Davies with wilful misrepre- sentation here. I stated, in referring to the nativity of our Blessed Lord, that He did not object to be born on licensed premises." A very different thing to saving what Mr. Davies puts into my mouth. And I can do without any interpretation he may put upon that particular inn. Ancient history, in referring to the inn, tavern, or hostelry (ancient landmarks in our country which Mr. Davies and his associates would destroy) is sufficient for me. (5) Now for the injured innocent." In referring to niv remarks relating to Kansas, he charges me with bad taste," and would hand me over to the proper authorities for making sneering and contemptuous references to our magnificent Allies," &c. How delightful I am to be dealt with by the Defence of the Realm Act for defending the truth against a campaign of lies. Mr. Davies knows that leaflets were circulated in Abergavenny, on the back of which it was stated that Kansas, after 30 years of Prohibition, has the largest bank savings ac- counts per capita in the Union." I proved this to be a lie, from the report of the United States Commissioner of Internal Revenue, which shows that whereas one person in every nine has a savings account in the country as a whole, in Kansas only one in 87 has such an account, besides showing the lowest average savings per depositor. I neither attacked Canada or America. I attacked those men only who have been brought over to England to wilfully mislead the people and who have lieingly charged us with being a drink-sodden nation. It is time the lie was thrown back into the teeth of such men, whom Mr. Gwilym Davies is so anxious to defend. (6) And when Mr. Davies speaks of waste," he shows absolute ignorance of the whole question. Experts in Parliament have over and over again explained the waste bogey, so there is no need for me to comment further on that point. Mr. Davies is a teetotal fanatic, and it is no use of his posing in any other charac- ter. He will not meet me on any platform in the interest of the truth. Oh, no I have challenged him. Let that be sufficient. Let me, however, warn him to be very careful in the future, as a strong and powerful body is being raised up to see that political Nonconformity shall be scotched and killed before we allow our- selves to be further dominated by such intolerant hypocrites. I am, &c., I Penarth Feb J. B. MADDUV^o. Penarth, Feb. 20, 1918. <4.

Local War Savings Committee. I The Executive Committee at their meeting on February 12th discussed the request of the National War Savings Committee to raise the sum of £22,500-the cost of nine aeroplanes—by the sale of War Bonds in the Business Men's Week," March 4th to March 9th inclusive. It was decided to form a special committee to deal with this matter, and Mr. Alfred Williams (St. Arvans) was asked to act as secretary and to gather round himself a band of workers. On Tuesday, 18th inst., this special com- mittee met in the Council Chamber, when there were present Messrs. J. B. Walford (chairman), H. Gethin, A. T. Cotton, D. Howell James (National Provincial Bank), S. Rawlins (Capital and Counties Bank), F. R. Hobbes (Lloyds Bank), P. Gibbs (London City & Midland Bank), Trevor Jones, S. Ruther, C. Davis, W. Llewellin, W. Crutchley, W. Devereux, Councillor A. Graham, Councillor W. Horsington, Mr. W. Rosser (general secretary), Mr. Alfred Williams (sec. of sub-committee), and Mr. A. J. Duck (Press secretary) Can Abergavenny Raise 150,000 ? The Chairman explained the object of the meeting, which was to discuss the best methods of raising the sum allotted to the district during the week March 4th to 9th. The sum we are asked to raise works out at about £ 1 5s. per head of the population, and as many towns had in- vested £ 20 per head during a Tank week, it was confidently expected that a total of £ 50,000 would be reached. One gentleman intimated that a goodly sum was already promised, and suggested that prospective investors should hold up their in- vestments until the Boom Week." Councillor A. Graham promised to provide a 40-rung ladder to show the hourly and daily rise of the total investments, and Mr. Trevor Jones promised to drape the same. On the proposition of Mr. C. Davis, seconded by Mr. S. J. Ruther, it was decided to appoint a sub-committee from those present to arrange details and to report to the Committee on Thurs- day next. The following were elected to serve and set to work at once Messrs. H. Gethin, A. T. Cotton, D. Howell James, S. Rawlins, F. R. Hobbes, P. Gibbs, F. R. Britton, and the secretaries (ex-officio). The National Committee had suggested several methods of propaganda work, and some of them were adopted. Aeroplane Asked For. The Committee adopted the following resolu- tions :-(i) That Mr. Reg. McKenna, M.P. (ex- Chancellor of the Exchequer) be asked to give an address on some evening during the week, oreferably on Thursday. (2) That Mr. Morgan, Hereford, be asked to place his wool shed in the Cattle Market at the disposal of the Committee on Tuesday (March 5th) so that application forms could be there filled up under the direction of some responsible person in charge. (3) That the Red Cross workers in Abergavenny be asked to provide six ladies to act as canvassers in the town and get application forms filled up. (4) That the National War Savings Committee be asked to arrange that an aeroplane visit Abergavenny on some day during the week, preferably on Tuesday (market day). (5) That Mr. J. O. Marsh, J.P., C.C., be asked to grant the use of the premises in Cross-street, now used as the Labour Bureau, to the Committee for the week, March 4th to March 9th. (6) That tradesmen be asked to give part of their advertisement spaces in the local papers to booming the sale of War Bonds during the Business Men's Week." (7) That the Rural Executive members of the General Committee be asked to act as canvassers in their own districts, and to bring the matter before likely investors. (8) That the directors of the Coliseum be asked to exhibit War Bond films before and during the "Boom Week." (9) That every member of the Committee be asked to pledge himself to help forward, by every means in his power, the sale of War Bonds during the week.

I Abergavenny Federation of Trades Unions. SUPPLY OF MEAT FROM COLD STORES ASKED FOR. The Federation met at Headquarters on Tues- day last to hear and consider the result of their efforts to get representation on the Food Control Committee. Mr. W. Rosser presided. A report from the deputation that waited on the Mayor on the 12th inst. was received and considered, as was also a report on the deliberations of the Town Council on the 19th inst. with reference to appointments on Local Food Control Com- mittee. It was reported that the Federation had now succeeded in having three of their nominees appointed 011 the Food Control Com- mittee, namely, Mr. J. Stark (hon. sec.), Mr. S. Owers, and Mr. Thurston. It was resolved to instruct the representatives on the Food Contro Committee to approach the Executive Officer to get a supply of meat from the Commissioner to release to local butchers on Saturday evenings for distribution to those people who find it im- possible to do their shopping until Saturday evenings. It was pointed out that for several weeks there was no meat supply for those who did not receive their shopping money before Saturday afternoon, and consequently they had to go without. Representatives were instructed to press this point, in order that Abergavenny may enjoy equal privileges with other centres that have acted in the matter. Distribution was then under discussion, and the wishes of the conference will be conveyed to the Food Contrcl Committee per their representatives. .6

LOCAL FOOD CONTROL I MEETING OF ABERGAVENNY RURAL I COMMITTEE. A meeting of the Abergavenny Rural Food Control Committee was held on Tuesday. There were present Mr. Robert Johnson, J.P. (chair- man), Mr. Edgar W. Lewis, Mr. John Baynam, Mrs. Lily S. Biggs, Mr. Matthew J. Knight, Mr. John Jenkins, with Mr. J. H. Farquhar (Execu- tive Officer). Rationing Food. I A letter was read from the Divisional Com- missioner asking if the Committee wished to adopt the London scheme of individual cards, or any other system. The consideration of this matter was deferred. Potatoes in Bread. I The Clerk reported applications from the Asylum and elsewhere for potatoes to be used with flour in making bread. He could only charge the bakers (3 10s. a ton, the balance being paid by the Mniistry of Food. With the exception of a small supply in Grosmont, he had been unable to procure any potatoes from growers, and had written the Ministry of Food for orders, but in their reply, which was rather ambiguous, they said that the bakers of bread for sale had been assisted to induce them volun- tarily to use potatoes and incur the additional expense of machinery and labour. It was hoped that large institutions and every domestic bread maker would assist the Food Controller by using at least 10 per cent. of potatoes, and so effect a considerable reduction in the consumption of cereal flour. Not Hoarding. I Mr. Knight enquired if any food had been given up. The Clerk mentioned one case in which a lady, whose husband was in very bad health and required, under medical orders, a certain kind of food, had about two months' supply, but no more could be procured until the autumn. He read a list of food in the house, and said he was satisfied that there was no intention to hoard. The Chairman said he knew the case to be a worthy one, and proposed that the Committee take no action in the matter, as it was a matter of necessity for the man to have a particular kind of food. This was agreed to. The Salaries of Officials. I fe-Mr, Baynam enquired if the Clerk s salary had been paid. The Clerk replied that he had now done six months' very heavy work, and so had his lady clerk, Miss Mabel Watkins, but up to now nothing had been settled. The Ministry of Food were going to pay all salaries and expenses, and he had heard that it would be done on a liberal scale. -+-

ABERGAVENNY ODDFELLOWS ANNUAL MEETING OF GWENYNEN GERDDII GWENT LODGE. The annual meeting of the above Lodge took j place at the Central Chambers on Monday night last. P.P.G.M. F. J. Davies presided at the opening, and N.G.P.P.G.M. Fred Sadler laetr. The report of the auditors, Bros. D. E. Thomas and O. F. Watkins, was considered satisfactory, and the balance sheet for 1917 showed an in- crease in funds of £ 101. The capital of the Lodge now exceeds ^3,263, exclusive of the Lodge share in the District Funds. It was de- cided to make a further investment of "ioo with the Abergavenny Corporation. A Juvenile Branch. The report of the Management Committee on the formation of a Juvenile Branch was brought forward by Bro. F. J. Davies. It recommended the establishment of such a branch, the meetings to be held monthly the same evening as the Adult Lodge, prior to and independent of it. It Was decided to accept members of both sexes from birth to nine years for a premium of id. per month for substantial death benefits ages 10 to 12, for sickness and death benefits, 4d. per month 12 to 14, 6d. per month 14 to 16, 8d. per month without medical examination on attaining to the age of 16 years and with free initiation to the adult lodge without further waiting period for full benefits. Parents are asked to give this matter their attention and get their children affiliated with the largest and strongest Friendly Society in the world. The officers of the branch were appointed as follows :—Bro. Charles Rosser, President Bro. F. E. Wingrave, Vice-President Bro. F. J. Davies, Secretary and a strong committee was elected. The opening night of the juvenile branch was fixed for Monday, March 18th, at 7 p.m. Various suggestions were made to popularise the branch, and the N.G. P.P.G.M. Fred Sadler has kindly promised a watch for the boy or girl who during the first year proposes the largest number of candidates who come forward for membership.

LL AN FOIST. PRESENTATIONS TO SOLDIERS.—In connection with the Llanfoist Soldiers' and Sailors' Welcome Home Fund, the second presentation of wristlet watches to Llanfoist boys home on leave took place on Thursday evening, Feb. 14th, at the Institute, the first being made a few waks before to Rifleman R. L. Williams, of the Monmouth- shires, who is now back in France. On this occasion there were two presentations. The Rev. H. Morice Jones, president of the Fund, was in the chair, supported by Messrs. S. Salter, D. W. Watts, R. Manuel and the committee. An excellent concert had been arranged, in which the following artistes took part :-Miss Gladys Williams, Miss A. Jones, Mrs. Evans, Miss Crooks, Messrs. L. Barber, J. Finn, D. W. Watts, R. Webb and Davies. The recipients were Sapper F. Vaughan, R.E., and Pte. W. Morgan. Messrs. R. Manuel and D. W. Watts made the presentations, and Sapper F. Vaughan and Pte. W. Morgan responded in a most suitable manner. Mr. A. Norman and his helpers are to be con- gratulated upon the arrangements.

LLANVAIR KILGEDDIN. ENTERTAINMENT. A delightful entertain- ment was given at the Rectory Hall on Tuesday, February 12th. The room was crowded. The musical part of the programme was rendered by Mr. Berrington, the Misses Reid Walker and Mr Swinnerton. Mrs. Reid Walker was the accompanist. Mr. and Mrs. Hobbes, of Aber- gavenny, acted two short plays, which provoked roars of laughter. Mr. Hobbes also gave two humorous recitations. During the interval Mr. Berrington thanked Mrs. Crawshay for getting up the entertainment and defraying all the ex- penses, so that the Red Cross would receive the whale of the takings, which, amounted to f 9 l is. On behalf of the audience he also thanked all these who so kindly gave their services. ▲

BUDDEN'S RHEUMATIC BLOOD SALT J is a safe and effectual remedy for Rheu- matism, Sciatica, Lumbago, Gout, and Gouty Eczema (caused by uric acid in the system), Constipation and its attendant evils, and purifies the blood. Bottles, i s. each. B U. DDEN'S S. R. SKIN OINTMENT will cure itching, destroys Eczema, heals Old Wounds and Sores, cures Piles and Ringworm, and removes the most obstinate Eruptions and Scurvy. Boxes, is. 3d. cach.-Agent for Abergavenny, Mr. Shackleton, The Pharmacy.^ < 5 J

Abergavenny Police Court. Wednesday—Beicre?Ir. J. (). 1 .1 t1"J I .L' ü-1J<t.e G..J.')1 _1,- chair), Col. W. Williams, Mr. Edwin Foster, and Mr. Isaac George. Rather Give Him a Hiding Than The Rabbits. Albert Lewis. Llanvetherine, and David Wil- liams, Abertillery, were summoned for tres- passing on land at Great Tyraw, Llanvetherine, in pursuit of conies on the nth. They pleaded not guilty. Thomas Arthur Collins, son of William Herbert Collins, of Great Tyraw, said he was on the ground on the nth and saw the defendants on the bank of the river opposite to him. They were ferreting and netting. They were taking the nets off the holes as he went through the river to them. Lewis had two nets round his neck and was carrying two rabbits. Witness asked them for their names, but they would not give them. He asked them to give him what they had got, and Williams said that if he came up on the road he would give him a good hiding. He followed them up to the road. The nearest foot- path was two fields away. Defendants said that where they were they had permission to go, and they did not know it was Collins' hedge where they were ferreting. Thomas Collins, recalled, said defendants were 150 or 200 yards outside the boundary of Williams's land. P.C. Birch said that in the afternoon he saw the footmarks where he was told the defendants had been netting. There had been a rabbit recently caught at the place, and there was fresh wool from the rabbit round the hole. Defendants were fined £1, including costs, each. A Justifiable Misapprehension. I Stephen Price, junr., of Llanover, was sum- moned for using petrol for an unauthorised purpose on the 2nd inst., and also for failing to produce his licence. Mr. Iltyd Gardner ap- peared for the defence and pleaded not guilty. P.C. Ayland said that at 11.45 a.m. on the 2nd he saw the defendant riding a motor-bicycle on the Pontypool road in the direction of Llan- over. Witness stopped him and asked him what he was using, and he replied that he was using petrol. Asked where he had been, he said that he had been to Abergavenny to take his father in on business and was returning home. Witness told him that he had seen his father walking in to Abergavenny at 10 o'clock that morning and that defendant had not passed him with his motor-bicycle since. Witness had not got his driver's licence with him, but he after- wards produced it and also a petrol licence in the name of his father. He afterwards saw Mr. Price, senr., who said that his son had taken him to Abergavenny. By Supt. Davies: There was no side-car. There were two horses and traps belonging to Mr. Price and there was no reason why he should not use them if he required to go to Abergavenny. Mr. Gardner, for the defence, said that the prosecution for using petrol was entirely mis- conceived. He saw now, though he could not understand before, how it was misconceived. It was a simple mistake, and there was a complete defence in law and in fact. Mr. Price had a licence to use petrol for his business, and he had a brand new motor-bicycle which had only come in a few days before. The son was a good deal better engineer than his father, and he had the most to do with the motor-bicycle. On this particular morning Mr. Price had urgent business which necessitated him getting early to Aber- gavenny. He told his son to get the motor- bicycle out and he would ride into town, which he had a perfect right to do. Defendant got the cycle out, but could not start it, and his father said that it was no good waiting, and he started to walk into town. He walked some little way, when the son overtook him with the motor running. The father told him to go on to the top of the Keeper's pitch and he would catch him up. The father tried to start the machine again downhill, but failed to do so, but the son managed to start it and he rode his father in on the back of the machine as far as Raglan Terrace, where the latter told him to go back to see to a cow which needed attention. On his return, between the Ochran and Llanover Mills, the policeman stopped him. When he left the house he had no thought of riding the bicycle, and that was why he had not got his icence with him. Stephen Price, senr., gave evidence and in reply to Supt. Davies said that he generally walked into town, as he had no horse at home. He had not ridden the motor-bicycle into market himself. Supt. Davies It is not necessary for you to have one ?—Yes it is, because I am able to get back home quicker and have an hour more at home with my work. The Chairman said that the Bench were of opinion that there had been a misconception in the matter, but it was a proper case to bring before the Bench. The case would be dismissed, but defendant would have to pay the costs for failing to produce his licence. The Effect of a Pint. I Wm. Watkins, platelayer, Llanvihangel, was summoned for being drunk and disorderly on the 15th, but did not appear. P.C. Blunt said that at 10.50 p.m. on the 15th he was on duty on the new Hereford road, near the Pandy School, where he found defendant very drunk and making use of filthy language coming up the road. There were several ladies and children about, and witness spoke to him and advised him to use better language and go home. He went a short distance, but continued to use bad language, and witness had to see him all the way home and into the house. He was on every night as soon as he got a pint, and witness had warned the landlords in the district not to serve him, but he went to Walterstone for it, and then he came towards Abergavenny. Defendant was fined 10s. including costs. Both Parties Taken In." Florence Lewis (16), of Brynmawr, was charged on remand with stealing, in company with another girl, £ 1 10s. in Treasury notes, the property of John Williams, Church Cottage, Llanfoist, and also with stealing a jacket at Abergavenny. Prisoner pleaded guilty. John Williams, of Church Cottage, said that on the night of Tuesday, the 5th, he heard a knock at his door, and found prisoner and a young woman about 20 there. They asked him for shelter for the night. The eldest had been to his house about three weeks before looking for lodgings, and he allowed her to stay the night. He told them, at first, that he could not put them up, but afterwards allowed them to come in. They slept in his bed, and he slept down- stairs in the armchair in the kitchen. The Chairman You are living alone ?—Yes, sir. Do you take in lodgers ?—No, I took them out of pity. Witness, proceeding, said that they stayed until the Thursday at about half-past 3 in the afternoon. They went for a bottle of pop, but did not return. He got suspicious, and going to his cash-box and opening his purse found that there was a £ 1 note and a 10s. note missing. He had £3 1 os. in his purse before. The Magistrates' Clerk How did they get their meals ?-I gave them a cup of tea and their food. The Chairman Did you know either of the girls before the first one came there ?—No. 11 Still you took them in, although they were strangers, and kept them two nights and gave them food ?—Yes. What reason did they give for coming to your house p—They asked if they could come in. Did vou ask them who they were ?—I asked the eldest, and she said she lived in one of the cottages by the Great Western Railway. The prisoner said her mother was at Brynmawr and her aunt was in town. Don't you think that the proper place for her to go was to her aunt's, instead of staying at your place at 10 o'clock at night ?—She said she was going there next day. P.C. Oliver said that on the 8th Williams reported the loss of the Treasury notes to him. He obtained a warrant for the arrest of the girls, and traced them from Brynmawr to Abertillery, and arrested prisoner at her cousin's at 3, Bishop- street on the 9th. He charged her at the Police Station there and she replied, Yes, I took the ios., and the other girl took the £I, and we after- wards shared them between us." Witness recovered 2s. iod. from the girl and a new pair of boots which she had bought with theTjmoney. In reply to the Bench, witness said that other girls had stayed at Williams's house fairlycoften. In answer to the Bench, Williams said that he was 85 next birthday. Supt. Davies said that the girl had beemjbouud over for felony at Brynmawr on the 20th of August for six months, which period had not yet expired. Her father would not have anything to do with her, and her mother had no control over her. The Chairman said that the case had disck ,tI ?? extraordinary state ci tlungs. That a man of Mr. Williams's age should at 10 o'clock at night admit two young girls, one of whom he had never seen before and one of whom had already stayed one night, was an extraordinary state ot tilings, and one very much to be depre- cated The Bench wished to give the girl a chance to make a irer-n start in life. No doubt she had been misled by older women into the course she had take: but she must give them up. The mother would be bound over in the sum of £ 5 for the girl's good behaviour, and they hoped she would turn over a new leaf. This t'.e prisoner promised to do. The Chairman also said the Bench hoped that Williams would not take in any more girls, ard Williams said he would not do so. T T, n A Cheap House. J. J). < .ill, as agent, applied for an ejectment order against Donald Cameron in respect of 61, Mill-street. Defendant had not paid any rent for three months and there no sign of getting any. He worked at Abertiliery and only came down about once a month. The Bench made the order, to be suspsnded for 21 davs. No Wonder. W iliiam Lewis, grocer, was summoned for allowing a horse to stray in Chapel-road on the 13th inst. P.C. Climer said he saw defendant's horse straying at 7 p.m. on the 13th, and he had some difficulty in driving it back into the field. The fences were in a very bad state and there was no proper gateway and nothing to stop the horse from getting out. Defendant said that be had had the fences made good now. &A fin., of jS., including costs, was imposed. A warning to Newsboys. At a Children's Court a newsboy, aged 12, was summoned for shouting newspapers to the annoyance of the public. When asked why he didn't stop shouting when told, he said I thought it was only for one night." The Chairman called attention to the fact that the boy had not got a badge. The badges were introduced purposely so that the boys should be under control. There were so many newsboys offending in this way that he should be glad'if the police would do something to put a stop to it. Supt. Davies said that the people who em- ployed them knew that they must not empl-oy boys without badges. Col. Williams: You can hear them shouting all the way down from the station. P.-Sergt. Prosser said he heard the boy shout- ing all along the street. He asked him why he shouted, and he replied that he wanted to sell his papers. "itness told him that he had been cautioned before, and he admitted that he had. These boys had been cautioned times out of number, and the police had been round to every paper seller and told them that the boys must not shout, and also that the boys must have badges. W hen the boys left off selling papers they did not return their badges, and there had been no end of badges lost, and when a new boy started selling papers there was no badge for him. The paper sellers ought to see that the badges were returned when the boys gave up selling. K The Chairman said that at Newport, Cardiff and Hereford they never heard the papers shouted as they were shouted at Abergavenny. The defendant was dismissed with a caution, and the Bench hoped that the case would serve as a warning to other newsboys, for if another case of the kind came before them it would be dealt with differently. It was intimated that the boys could obtain badges from the Police Station without a-y payment.

Abergavenny and the Prince of Wales' Visit.— Among those who accepted an invitation to attend at the opening of the Prince of Wales' Hospital for limbless soldiers and sailors at Cardiff on Wednesday, on the occasion of the visit of the Prince of Wales to the Principality, was the Mayor of Abergavenny (Alderman Z. Wheatley, J.P.) Railwaymen and Food Control.—Mr A. T. Vaughan, Gladys Place, Llanfoist (branch sec. of the -N.U, R.) writes The members of the Abergavenny branch of the National Union of Railwaymen desire to make it known that they decided at their last meeting to pledge their allegiance to Mr. S. H. Owers as a member on the Local Food Control Committee." Change at Abergavenny.—The well-known Welsh play by J. O. Francis, Change," which has been well received in London, is to be per- formed^t the Town Hall, Abergavenny, on Thursday, February 28th, by the Llanelly Hill Dramatic Society. The proceeds will be in aid of the Mayor's Local War Fund, the Blue Cross Fund, and the Overseas Soldiers' and Sailors' Reception Fund. The following are the charac- ters in the play :—J ohn Price, an old collier Gwen, his wife John Henry, Lewis, and Gwilym their three sons Sam Thatcher, a lodger at the Price's Isaac Pugh, a deacon Twm Powell, a collier; Dai Matthews, a school teacher Jenuie Pugh. The prices of admission are 2s. öd., 2S., and is., and tickets can be obtained or seats booked at Messrs. Heins & Co., where a plan of the hall may be seen. Horticultural Society and Allotment Holders., A committee meeting of the Abergavenny and. District Horticultural Society was held in the Corn Exchange on Thursday evening, under the chairmanship of Councillor P. Telford. The desire of the meeting was that steps should be taken to arouse the interest of local allotment holders in the society, and it was decided, accordingly, to alter the title of the society to the Abergavenny and District Horticultural and Allotment Association. A general meeting is to be held at the Corn Exchange at S o'clock to-morrow night (Saturday), when the election of the committee and officers will take place and the question of holding a show in August will be decided. The Mayor will preside and it is hoped that there will be a good attendance of gardeners and allotment holders.

BIRTHS, MARRIAGES & DEATHS. DEATHS. CUNYIN.—On the 14th inst., at Yew Tree Farm, Llanwenarth Citra, Anne, the widow of John Cunvin, Llanwenarth Breast, aged 76 years. ON ACTIVE SERVICE. SHERRATT.—February 4th, killed in action in France, Sergt. James (;rant Sherratt, 1/2 Mons. Regt., only son of Mr. and Mrs. Sherratt, The Moat, Stoke Green, Reddish. IN MEMORIAM. In Loving Memory of my dear son, Pte. B. Regan, who was killed in action on February 27th, 1917, in Salonica.—Mourned by his loving mother, Mrs. E. Regan, 60a Tudor-st. ♦

I FOREST. PRESENTATION.—On Tuesday evening, the 12th inst.. Pte. Fred Jones, R.A.M.C., and Pie. George Smith were invited by a number of their friends to a concert in the School, arranged to celebrate their home-coming from France on leave for a few days. A good musical programme had been provided, and a very enjoyable evening was spent. On behalf of the neighbours and friends, Mrs. Dodd presented each of the brave lads with a beautiful wristlet watch, and spoke in high terms of the excellent characters borne by these two young men. She felt it a great honour to present two of her old pupils on sueil a conspicuous occasion, and trusted that th-v would be again protected in the future. After other congratulatory speeches, the recipients responded and said they would return feeling inspired, and with warm thoughts of the kind words spoken about them that evening, and when they looked at the watches they would be reminded of their old friends at home. ———— ————

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