The Cambrian News and Merionethshire Standard

DEATH OF MR. PIERCE. The news of the sudden death of Ml: John Pierce, Maesllyn, Builth Wells, was received with great regret. He had re- sided in Builth Wel's for a long time, and represent the ratepayers on various'local bodies. He represented the parish of Builth for many years on the Board of Guardians. When the scheme for boarding out child- ren from the Workhouse came into force- Mr. Pierce became a. member of the com-1 mittee a.nd acted as secretary. Up to his death he was a. member of the Urban Coun- cil, and had been chairman for several years. For some time he was an alder- man of the Breconshire County Council. He served as chairman of the local Liberal Association, and took a leading part in the formation of the local branch of the Free Church Council. He took great interest in the old Builth Wells and District Philhar- monic Society, the Wells Agricultural Show Society, and the Mid-Walbs Health Resorts. Association, but nowhere will his services be missed more than at Alpha. Methodist Church, of which he was a deacon and secretary. His death occurred on Wednesday of last week. He was a native of Bow-street, near Aberystwyth. Prior to his removal to Builth Wre!ls, he was master of Aberystwyth Workhouse. Interment was made at Bwlchygwynt Cemetery on Monday afternoon, the body arriving hy the two o'clock train from Builth Wells via Abcrystwyth. The offici- ating- ministers were the Revs. L. James, Alpha. Builth; Robert Jones, Aberdovey, and Morgan Evans. The chief mourners were Mrs. "Pierce, widow, who is a sister of f Mrs. Morgan, Talbot Hotel • Mr. and Mrs. Tudor. Aberystwyth (brother-in-law and sister); Mrs. Morgan, Talbot Hotel (sister- in-law); Mr. Evan Williams, Chester (brother-in-law); Messrs. Richard Jones, Joli ii Williams (uncles); Mrs. Edwards (cousin); Miss Pierce, Talybont (cousin); Airs. Hughes (aunt); Mr. and Mrs. J. Dav- ies. Feathers Hotel, Aberayron (nephew and niece); Mr. and Mrs. Phillips, Aber- ayron (nephew and niece); Mrs. Wigley Jones. Cardiff (niece); Mrs. Jones, Bro- dawel (niece); and the Misses Jones, Miks Nancy Me gan (Talbot Hotel); Mr. and Mrs. D. D. Williams, Gwynfa; Mr. and Mrs. W. R. Morgan, Ystradcaron; Miss Patsv Jones, Cardiff; Mr. William Wil- liams, London; Mr. John "rilliams,Tre. gai on; Airs. Rowland Jones, Aberayron (cousin); Miss Williams, Chester. Among others present were Mr. Meredith, Mr. A. P. Morgan, and Mr. Weatherley, fellow deacons of the deceased. A number of wreaths had been received from Mr. Evan Williams. Chester; Mr. and Mrs. Morris, Croydon; Mr. Sneyd Wil- liams. Builth; Merlin and Meredith, Builth; Miss Nancy Parry, London.

DEATH OF P S. LEWIS. The death occurred on Monday night at Aberystwyth Infirmary of Police- Sergeant James Lewis and the news caused great sorrow in Tregaron and district. The news was as unexpected as it was unwelcomed. A more popular officer and a more respected inhabitant it would have been difficult to find anywhere. The sorrow felt by his friends and acquaint- ances was accompanied by a deep sense of f-yinpathy with the family. P.S. Lewis was on duty on Friday, though for the past few months he had complained of internal pains which passed off. On Friday night he was taken ill, but it was not thought that his illness was serious. An operation was found necessary and on Sunday afternoon he was conveyed to the Infirmary in the motor car of Mr. D. n. Williams, Gwynfa. The same even- ing an operation was performed by Dr. Ellis, Dr. J. Lloyd (Tregaron) and the House Surgeon. All that medical skill could do was done for him but death oc- curred at 8.50 the following night, shortly before his son arrived to see him. r A native of Ffynonoer, Llanfihangel Ystrad, P.S. Lewis was fifty-six years of age and had served thirty-four years in the Cardiganshire constabulary. He was one of the members of the force decorated with the long service medal on the occasion of the King's visit to Aberystwyth and was entitled to retire on superannuation. It is stated that his father intended him | for the Unitarian ministry; but he wanted to be a solicitor. His father, Mr. Stephen Lewis, was a small farmer and tailor. The son was educated in the school of Rev. R. Cribin Jones at Lampeter and was appren- ticed to a carpenter. At the age of twenty- two years he joined the police force and was first stationed at Aberystwyth. Among his col leagues at that time were Supt. Phil- lips and P.S. Jones, Talybont, the county constabulary being then under Major Ba.< sett Lewis as chief constable. As a con- stable, Mr. Lewis showed that he possessed more intelligence than the ordinary. Hav- ing had wide experience and superior edu- cation, lie was regarded as an able and efficient officer. Among other places he was stationed at were Pontrhydfendigaid, New Quay and LlandyssuT. H was promoted sergeant when at Llandyssul and was re- moved to Tregaron nine years ago. In I the performance of his duties he was strict and impartial tmd displayed tact and knowledge of legal and local conditions. Nevetheless, his geniality and good humour endeared him to all residents who came in contact with him and earned for him the respect of all with whom he had to deal He was a well-read man and took great interest in Welsh literature, as well as in social and political matters. As a member of St. Caron's Church. ho had acted churchwarden and was actively connected with the Guild and the Sunday School where his zeal and enthusiasm will lw greatly missed. He leaves a widow is a native of New Court), two married daughters (one of whom is at home), and a son, the Rev. Stephen Harries Lewis, cur- ate of St. Mary's, Porth The body was removed from Aberystwyth to Tregiiron on Tuesuav afternoon. cortege including representatives of the police force with Col.-Sergt. Housden, Sergt. J. L. Bevan, Sergt. T. Ross and twelve men of the 1st Monmouthshire Reserve Battalion (by kind permission of the Commanding Officer. Col. Bervel Anthony) as escort to the railway station The coffin, which was covered by the UDlOJl Jack was met at Tregaron by a large number of townspeople and the blinds of houses were dnnvn as a token of respect and sorrow. The funeral will take place on Saturday at Capelygroes, Llanwnen. From the Station the body was conveyed to the Church.

HEACHY&L&ETH. Commission.—Mr. D. W. Bradwell has been gazetted seconci lieutenant in the 6th (Merioneth and Montgomery) Battaliou R.W.F.. dated December 10th. Comforts for the Front.—ITie members of the Girls Guild which meets twice weekly at the On-ain Glyndwr Institute in connec- tion with the British Women's Temperance Association have been busily engaged mak- ing scarves, etc. for the local men at the front. Last week they sent out five par eels to the local men who are- serving their country in France. Enlisted.—Almost weekly local men are enlisting in the various branches of tho ser- vice. This week Mr. John Haydn Jones, who has done good work for some years as assistant scoutmaster \with the local Boy Scouts, and Mr. Alun Lewis, second son of Mr. Henry Lewis; Tower House, have joined the North Wales "Pals" at Llan- dudno. Messrs. David Vaughan and Evan Price haycn joined the 7th (Reserve) Battal- ion Territorial Army stationed at Aberys- twyth. i he late Mr. John Evans.—The remains of the late Mr. John Evans, Maengwyn Stores, whose death was reported last week, were interred at the Cemetery on Saturday afternoon. Despite the wet weather a large number -of his old friends from the town and district came to pay their last tribute to the memory of one who was a "friend" to all. A sfrort service was held at tho house conducted by the Rev. Henrv Willia ins (Graig). Prayer was offered by the Rev. W. Thomas (Aberhosan), and a hymn was sung. The cortege left the house for the Cemetery in the following order Clergy and ministers, medical men; mem- bers of the Oddfellows Lodge (of whom de- ceased was treasurer); members and officials of the V rban District Council; men; coffin and bearers, followed by the mourners; and lastly the women. At the graveside eloquent tributes to the admirable traits in the deceased's character were paid by the Revs. Henry Williams and E. Wnion Evans, but unfortunately owing to a ter- riffic hailstorm and boisterous wind which raged throughout the ceremony, little of what was said could reach the large con- course. A large number of wreaths and floral tributes adorned the coffin. The sym- pathy of the whole neighbourhood is extended to his three sons, Messrs. William Pea rce, John and A lliert Evan*, and the only surviving daughter, Mies Louisa Evans, in tho loss of a loving father. He is survived also by his brother Edward, with whom much sympathy is felt. Cor- poral Albert Evans, his youngest Son, left on Monday to rejoin his regiment,—the 7th Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers, at Cambridge. A memorial service was held at Grn.ig (Congregational) Chapel on Sun- day evening, when a beautiful sermon, set- ting forth the admirable traits in deceased V character, was delivered by the Rev. Henry Williams (castor)'. The Dead Mateh was performed on the organ by Mrs. Trevor Jones (church organist). Miscellaneous Meeting:.—A miscellaneous meeting was held at the Owain Glyndwr Institute on Monday evening in connection k with the Young Men's Society. The Presi- dent (Mr. D. E. R. Griffith, L. and P. Bank) presided over a fair attendance. Songs and recitations were given by several of the members and a pleasant evening was spent. Weddings.—On Friday the marriage took place at Graig (Congregational) Chapel of Mr. William Howell Jones, Esgairweddan, Pennal, and Miss Mary Jane Evans, Bridge Cottage, Pennal. Mr. Hugh Jones acted as best man, and Miss Gwladys Jen- kins as bridesmaid. The Rev. William Thomas, Aberhosan, officiated.—On Mon- day at the Registrar's Office, the marriage* took place of Mr. Thomas Lloyd, butcher, Talywern, and Miss Annie Morgan, Pcn- rhos Arms, Cemmaes. Mr. Edward Mor- gan Jones acted as best man and Miss Lena I Humphreys as bridesmaid. Uwch-y-Carreg. — Cynhaliwyd eyfarfod cystadleuol yn Soar nos Lun. Etholwyd Mr. Edwards, Midland and City Bank, 1'1' gadair. Llywyddwyd ac arweiniwyd gan y bardd Wnion. Trefn y cyfarfod oedd fel v canlyn :—Ton gynulleidfaol; anerchiad gan y Llywydd; cystadleuaeth adrodd i rai dan 12eg oed 1, Lizzie Annie Jenkins; 2, Cath- erine Evans; 3, R. Jenkins; can gan Mr. John Jones; beirniadaeth y llawysgrifau a'r pencil sketch: 1, Sarah Wigley Jones; 2, Marv Evans; y "drawing": John Jen- kins, Hengwm; cystadleuaeth canu; 1, Evan Reynolds Jones; 2, Sarah Wigley Jones; adrodd i rai dan l5eg oed: Lizzie Annie Jenkins; 2, Catherine Evans* ysgrifennu llythyr: Rhanwyd y wob1* rhwng Miss Jones, Byrdir, a Miss Lizzie Evans, Tycapel; unawd: 1, Miss Jones, Byrdir; dadl: 1, Evan Reynolds Jones a Richard Davies; can gan Mr. John Jones; sillebu geiriau ar y pryd: 1, John Jones. Cwmdwrdu; adrodd: 1, Miss Lizzie Evans- Tycapel; pedwarawd: Parti Mr. R, J ones, Byrdir. Y beirniaid oeddynt: Cerddor- iaeth, Mr. John Jones, Forge; llenydd- iaeth a'r adroddiadau, Parch. Wnion Evans; y llawysgrifau a'r pencil sketch, Miss Myfanwy Morgan, ysgolfeistres.

Cenerosity.—The inmates of Temple- buildings were taken for a drive on Satur- day in brakes, which had been kindly placed at their disposal by Mr. Charles Evans. Mart.—There was a good attendance at the fat stock sale at the Mart on Tuesday. Trade was brisk all round and prices were good, especially for beef. Fat cattle were sold at prices ranging from £ 15 to 1£24; yearling mutton, up to 5id. a pound; ewes, 4d. and 4Jd. a pound; fat calves, 4!d to 5d a pound. There was a flight advance in pigs, which averaged 8s. a score alive. Daath.—The death took place on Mon- day. at 1. Mill-street, of Mr David Jones, stonecutter, at the age of forty-eight years. Deceased had -sundered a long and painful illness. He will be buried to-day (Friday) at Alltyblacea Churchyard. He leaves a widow and four children, to whom much sympathy is extended. Ffair Cblin.—This fair was held on Mon- day. In years gone by it was one of the biggest held in the town. Now, however, it is very small. There were no cattle offered for sale, but a few pigs in the Market-place were sold at 15s. and 16s. each Will.—Mr. Thomas Owen, 12, Station- terrace, retired stationmaster. who died on November 30th, left estate of the gross value of £1,151, of which the net person- alty has been sworn at Probate of his will, dated 10th December, 1908, has been granted to his widow, the sole execu- trix. The testator left a life policy for £100 to his daughter. Alice Rose Owen, his leasehold premises, 12, Station-terrace. Lampeter, and his household effects to his wife, and all other of his property to his wife for life. with remainder to his four daughters, Mary Emily, Annie Louisa, Allee Rose, and Ethel May, in equal shares.

Belgian Refugee Committee. A special meeting of the Town Council was held on Monday night at the Victoria Hall for the purpose of receiving the re- port of the Belgian Refugee Committee. The Mayor (Alderman WTalter Davies) pre- sided. The Town Clerk read the report of the Committee, which recommended that a new committee, should be formed from among the subscribers, a* they maintained that their work had finished under the terms of the resolution passed by the Council in November. The Mayor contended that it was a matter for the Council to decide, as the Council invited the. refugees and obtained the necessary accommodation. He felt they would not be justified in appointing another committee when the present mem bers had worked so well. He had intended it. to be a permanent committee, but it was for the Council to decide. Mr D. Davies- "That has this committee done ? Mr. Lloyd said it had finished its work. Alderman Lewis Jones said that accord- ing to Principal Bebb the present com- mittee could go further without consulting the Council. Mr. D. Davies asked if a resolution had had been passed apopinting two members from each denomination to collect sub- scriptions ? The Mayor explained that a resolution had been passed and rescinded because it was found out that some members of the chapels lived four or five miles out of the town, and it was then agreed to divide the town into sections. Mr. Price thought the Committee had done its work extremely well and proposed their reappointment Mr. D. Thomas seconded the proposition Mr Wm. Davies moved an amendment to adopt the recommendation of the Com- mittee: Mr. Idris Jones seconded the amend- ment. After a lengthy discussion. Mr. Price's proposition was carried. Messrs. D. F. Lloyd, W. LI Footman and W Lewis were added to the Committee. The Mayor was elected chairman, and Mr. D. F. Lloyd treasurer. A further proposal that four members should be appointed by the sub- scribers wa.s also carried.

YSBYTTY YSTWYTH. Obituary.—Gloom was cast over this dis- trict on Monday morning when the news was received of the death of Mr. Daniel Davies, Wesley-terrace, Pontrhydygroes, in an accident in the coal mine at Treorchy. Only a fortnight ago he left his home for the coalfield, which was the first time he ever left the district to work. No parti- culars have been received as to how he met his death. He was a son of Mrs. Mai-v Davies and the late Mr Edward Davies, Llwyndrain. He leaves a widow and three young children with whom much sympathy is felt in their liereavement. 1 Generosity.—On Monday the Earl and I Countess of Lishurne distributed blanket* I' and money among the ppor of the dis- trict. The Crosswood family have endeared themselves to the poor by their kindness and generosity in the past. and we are glad to see the present- Earl and Countess main- taining the tradition of the family in this respect. All were glad to see his lordship recovering so well from his recent illness. and it is the sincerest and universal wish of the district that ere long he and his bride will be able to settle down peaceably once, more «among their tenantry.

STRATA FLORIDA. Seasonable.—The Earl and Countess of Lisburne motored to Pontrhydfendigaid on Monday and distributed blankets and money to a considerable number of poor and aged women. The recipients were grateful to the noble donors for their valu- able charity, wishing them heartily everv blessing, happiness and a long life.

NANTCWNLLE. The Welsh Horse.—Last week it was nounced that Mr. D. Gordon Davies, son of the vicar of Nantcwnlle, has been ap- pointed second lieutenant to the Welsh Horse Reserve, now stationed at Newtown Lieutenant Davies is an undergraduate of Cambridge where he has gained distinction as an athlete, having secured his "blu«" on two occlusions

LLANFAIBCLYDOGAU. Army Officer.—On Thursday of last week the" London Gazette" announced the ap- pointment of Mr. E. Aldrcd Evans, son of Mr. and Mrs. Evans, Glanrhyd, as second lieutenant in the Soutlt Wales Borderers, 5th Battalion, now stationed at Basing- stoke. lieutenant Eyans has had consid- erable training in militaVy matters, having been for some yean? attached to the Civil Service HiRes. His promotion is deservedly popular with his many friends in London and in the neighbourhood of Lampeter where he is well known.

THE DEATH OF SIR OWEN ROBERTS. THE OF TECHNICAL EDUCATION. The death of a great man is a serious blow to the. upward progress of humanity. The death of a good man is a loss to the moral force which operates among a people. We have to chronicle this week the sad loss of a vivid personality, a strong intellectual character, and a kindly, sym- pathetic, and generous Welshman. Sir Owen Roberts, whosu death is announced, was one of the best-known men in intellectual and educational circles in London. He has been aptly described in the "Times'' as the pioneer oi technical education. Born in Carnarvonshire and always most keen to help a Carnarvonshire boy or girl to mount the educational ladder, lie had himself a distinguished career at Oxford. He entered the War Office and was called to the Bar at the Inner Temple in 1863. Three years later he left the IN ai- Office to become clerk to the Clothworkers Com- pany, an effiee he held for over forty years, being elected master after his retirement in lb09. He always strove to show that a City Company has its duties as well as its privileges. He was the first to urge that the endowments of city companies must be used for patriotic and special services. His sphere of usefulness and activity covered a much wider area than the confines of the City of London, for it was due to his exer- tions that the clothworking and dyeing industries of Yorkshire and the West of England were revived on a scientific basis by the foundation of special chairs, suitable buildings being founded in the Yorkshire College at Leeds and at the University College at Bristol. Through his influence those Colleges were raised to university rank. He had great sympathy with women's work; and the, cause of women in the widest sense has lost one of its most con- vinced, as well as strongest advocates, by 'his death. He was one of the promoters of Somerville College, Oxford, where his mature views as well as prescience in regard to the higher education of women fciund practical expression. It was at Sir Owen's suggestion that the Clothworkers Company some time since undertook to defray the fees of all women graduates of the older Einglish Universi- tics who might proceed to the ad eundem degrees at Trinity College, Dublin, and so obtain the title of Master of Arts they had deserved at their own Alma Mater. It was publicly acknowledged by a deputation from the Incorporated Association of Head- mistresses that the name of Sir Owen Ro- berts was foremost in regard to benefits conferred on schools and colleges for girls. He never claimed personal credit for his work. All his influence was used or directed for the great Citv Company whose affairs he managed with so much skill and personal devotion and for so many years It was only last year that Lord Bryce and Lord Morley referred to his work as of more than national service. He was the prime mover in the institu- tion of the City and Guilds of London Institute, acting as its honorary secretary from 1876 to 1888, and for eleven years he served on the Technical Education Board of the London County Council. From 1891 to 1902 he acted as chairman of the Poly- technics Committee and for the same per- iod he filled the office of chairman of the London Polytechnic Council. He was for many years a member of the Senate of the University of London and was a member of the Royal Commission for the reconstruc- tion of the University of London on a teach- ing basis. His interest in educational affairs never relaxed. In his retirement he acted as vice-chairman of the Board of Governors and chairman of the Estates Committee of the City Parochial Foundation. His work in connection with the Parochial Charities of the City of London were nro bably unique in regard to any institution. He it was who consolidated the various charities under one direction. He was the initiator of the scheme which was drafted for the utilization of the income of the charity on broader lines than had previously been the case- The scheme successfully carried through in spite of much opposition and against the cry of "confiscation" was finally approved by. Parliament and has since received the unbounded appreciation bt, those who first opposed it. Sir Owen Roberts was chairman of "Governors of the Central Foundation Schools of London, a position he held for fifteen years, being associated in that work with the late Rev. Prebendary Rogers. He was also chairman of Governors of the Sir John Cass Educational Foundation. He saw it rising from a parochial school to become a technical institute that ranks among the foremost in London for the good work done in fostering the great art of craftmanship. He was the chairman of Governors of St. Dunstan's Educational Foundation, chair- man of Gbvernors of the Allhallows Exhi- bition Foundation, chairman of the Central Technical College Committee of the City and Guilds Institute, vice-president of the Society of Arts, and had been chairman of the Council as well as its treasurer for twenty-five years. He was a trustee of the Mitchell City of London Educational and Eleemosynary Charities, and a trustee of the London Prison Charities Endow- ments for Convalescent Hospitals. He was a member of the Council of King's Col- let and of the Governing Body of St. Bartholomew's Hospital and of the New Imperial College of science and Technology at South Kensington. To Sir Owen Roberts membership of a committee was no sinecure post. It was a living and earnest actuality. He never spared himself, but was a strenuous worker with a wonderfully exalted sense of duty and there was nothing he admired more than sincerity and zeal in others. He took the keenest interest and devoted much of his energy of late to the North-West Lon- don Polytechnic. He helped in the initia- tion and in much of the completion of splendid educational work for the rising generation in the Metropolis; and. it is universally acknowledged that not only London but the Provinces owe his memory a. deep debt of gratitude. Wales, too, owes him a debt of gratitude* for he took a lively personal interest in its educational dawn and contributed gener- ously to the support of the educational movement in North Wales. He had tho capacity to attract young men and the facility to retain their admiration and friendship. It was through his influence that the Clothworkers Company undertook the interests of the blind, and many are the blind of Wales who have been and are tho recipients of pension through his help. I-Ilo was one of his Majesty's lieutenants for the City of London, a deputy lieutenant for the county of London, as well as for the county of Carnarvonshire, of which he. was high sheriff in 1908. He was a justice of the peace for the counties of London, Surrey and Carnarvonshire. Sir Owen Roberts was greatly appreci- ated in intellectual cirques in London. He was a refined and cultured scholar and was elected an honorary fellow of Jesus, his old College at Oxford. He was also D.C.L. of Durham University -and LI.D. of the University of Leeds. He was a member of the Committee of the Athenaeum Club, and for many years treasurer of the Society of Antiquaries, being always greatly inter- ested in the antiquarian lore of North Wales Sir Owen Roberts was knighted in 1888. He was three times married, his surviving widow being the daughter of the late Mr. John Chadwiek. J.P., D.L., of Stockport. For twenty-seven years Sir Owen and Lady Roberts have resided in Wales, during a, part of each year at his residence Plaa Dinas. Llanwnda. which parish received generous help from Lady Roberts and himself. It may be truly said that he loved his Welsh home and it gave Lady Roberts and him- self the greatest pleasure to entertain their many friends at Dinas during the summer months. Wales, and in particular the county of Carnarvon is the poorer by his death, for he took great interest in his tenants. He was a generous benefactor, always ready to sympathise with distress and suffering; always cheerful and joyous; a kind neighbour and a staunch friend He is best described as a strong and love able man, with a high sense of equity and right. His illness was a serious one, and also an unexpected one; but he received the loving constant care and the tender affection0 of a devoted wife and of two daughteri- who survive him, the elder, Mrs. Arm- strong-Jones, the wife of Dr. Armstrong- Jones, of having made her horae at Ping Din as during the past two years;, and the younger is the wife of Mr. W. H. Davidson, mayor of Kensington. Sir Owen Roberts was buried at Highgato Cemetery on Saturday, the funeral service being conducted by his old friend, Canon Page Roberts, dean of Salisbury, at St. Peter's, V ere-street, London. It was at- tended by members of the Charity Com- mission, the Fducational Committee of the London Gov;uty Council, by a, large rtuiii- her of his personal friends, a!so by repres-entatives of the numerous bodies, in- stitutions, schools and colleges, societies and companies with which lie was con- nected. His two sisters arc the Misses Roberts, of Brynmorfa, Carnarvon, and his brother was the late Clerk of the Peace, h. John Bodvel-Roberts.

FAIRBOURNE. Wedding.—On 16th January a wedding was solemnised at Llwyngwril Church between Mr. R. Thomas Hughes, second son of Mr. and Mrs. T. Hughes, Moranedd, Harlech, and Miss triadys Maud Lloyd, third daughter of Mr and Mrs. Frank Lloyd, Glanhafod. Fairbourne. The brides- maid was Miss M. Hughes (sister of bride- groom), and Mr. Ellis Williams, Morfa Bach, Harlech, acted as best man. The bride and bridegroom left Fairbourne at ten a.m. by motor cars for Llwyngwril, where the wedding ceremony was performed by the Rev. Evans of Arthog. The bride was given away by her father. After their return from Llwyngwril, the wedding breakfast was given at Glanhafod. Num- erous presents were given by relatives and friends.

ABERAYRON. County Court.(-)ii Tuesday, January 12th, before Judge Lloyd Morgan, there were but few cases down for hearing. An application was made by John Thomas and Jane Thomas, his wife, Refail lsaf. Oak- ford, under the W orkmen's Compensation Act, for payment out to them of £ 150, the amount of compensation agreed on the death of their son Enoch Rees Thomas, who was killed in the Senghenydd explosion in Uctober, lHIlI. Applicants stated that, they wanted the money to stock a farm. The Judge made an award that the. amount be paid out jointly to father and mother.—Mr. Ben Jones, Rhosgoehfawr Farm. Mydroilyn. sued Evan Lloyd, The- Mill, Talgarreg, for 15s. 6d. due for butter sold and delivered. Mr. Pennant James appeared for rdaint'ff, and Mr. Ar^olc? Davies, Lampeter, for defendant. After a long hearing, the case was adjourned sol that Lewis Jones, son of plaintiff, may appear to give evidence.

NEW QUAY. Successes.—Mr. Gerald Mears has passed the entrance examination of the N.P. Bank. Miss Nellie Davies, Chapel House, Llanon. has also passed first class in the College of Preceptors examination. Both were pupils at the Tutorial School. A Sergeant's Death.—The news of the death of. Polioe-sergeant James Lewis, Tregaron, was received at New Quay with manifest regret. He was stationed at New Quay for many years and had proved him- self a most efficient and popular officer. To the Colours.Allr. Morley Jenkins, Milford House, has joined the new army. He left on Wednesday. Sad News.—The sad news arrived on Wednesday that Mr. John Gomer Rees, son of Mrs. Rees, High-terrace, and of the late Mr. J. G. Rees, had passed away in the United States. Full particulars of the cause of death are not yet to hand. From the Front.—The following letter was received on Saturday from Private T. Jones, of the South Wales Borderers. He writes to his uncle (the Rev. E. Lloyd, B.A., rector of New Quay), and, after say- ing he had been wounded by a bullet in the right arm, from which he is now recover- ing, adds, "The Germans are very un- merciful, but we have the best of them now. I am enjoying my rest here well.- after three months hard fighting. Do you know anything about my brother David? I wrote to him about a month ago, but have not yet received a reply. Has he been in action yet? Did you receive the postcard which I sent you from the battle- field? I never thought that war was so bad; but I am sticking it with a good heart, trusting in the Lord that He will bring me back again safe some day."

CORRESPONDENCE. CONVICTIONS FOR DRUNKENNESS. SIR,-—With reference to the value of statistics of convictions for drunkenness, may I point out that they afford no criterion as to the extent of either drunkenness or drinking in a locality. That statistics for drunkenness do not furnish us with the means of estimating the sobriety or otherwise of a people with any degree of accuracy is the opinion of no less an authority than Sir Robert Giffen. In his "Economic Enquiries and Studies," he says: Statistics as to drunkenness also require a good deal of careful handling. In fact, I see no way myself of establishing statistically that one population is more or less drunken than another. The convictions for drunkenness, it is plain, like convictions for crime generally, may be very largely a matter of definition and of police administration. Before comparisons can be made, the state of legislation and of police administration in the countries compared must be considered. As regards the consumption of alcoholic liquors, again, I have never seen any statistics satisfac- torily connecting a relatively large con- sumption of alcoholic liquors with drunk- enness. On the contrary, the consumption in every community is probably at all times much more largely the consumption of sober people than that of people who drink to excess and you may have much drunkenness among a people who, like the Americans, are generally total abstainers, and little among a people like the popula- tions of the Southern States of Europes who are generally moderate drinkers. Thus the question of drunkenness or the re- verse. in a population is not to be easily treated by statistics. The late Mr Chamberlain, in speaking in the House of Commons on police statistics of drunkenness, said: "He had come to the conclusion that for any purposes of com- parison police statistics were absolutely no guide at all. Take a case in point:— Last Saturday week the total number of persons arrested for drunkenness in Bir- mingham and brought before the magis- trates there was twenty-nine. That was the total number of drunken cases which was credited—he would rather say debited —to the town in the police statistics. But during three hours of that, same Saturday night, thirty-five of the public houses in different parts of the borough—beer shops, spirit shops, arid other descriptions* of houses, were watched by persons appointed for the purpose, and these persons reported that in the course of three hours 9.159 males and 5,006 females came out of the thirty-five public houses in question, and that of that number 662 mal, and 176 females were drunk. That m. de a total of 838intoxicated persons alleged to have been seen coming out of thirty-five public houses in Birmingham during three hours on Saturday night while only twentv-nine people had been taken into custody for the offence of drunkenness. Making every allowance for unconscious exaggeration and unintentional error, there still remained such a margin between the figures put down in the police statistics and the actual facts as might, he thought, lead the House to regard, with considerable hesitation, such statistics as those to which lie had referred." Mr. Arthur Slierwell, M.P.. probably the greatest living temperance statistician, dealing with this subject writes as follows: would not be difficult to show that the statistical argument, as commonly used, in- volves a reductio ad absurdum. What, for example is the moral to be drawn from the curious fact, discovered in the course of inquiries a few years ago by the present writer, that in certain departments in France, where the consumption of alcohai is admittedly high, the prosecutions for drunkenness are practically nil ? The law of 1873 makes drunkenness in France a punishable offence, yet in an entire year the prosecutions in the Department of the Seine (which includes the city of Paris), numbered i in the Department of the Rhone (which includes the city of Lyons). they numbered 65; in the Department of Rouehe? du Rhone (which includes Mar- seilles), they numbered 14; while in the GirOllde Department (which includes Bor- deaux), there was "only one prosecution! The figures, to those who know France, are. of course, valueless and ridiculous, and thev show the absurdity of loose appeals to the statistical test of drunken- ness." Comment is needless.—Yours, Civis. I A'

THE WAR During the past week weather conditions have to a large extent prevented any great movements in the western and eastern fronts. On the right flank of the Allied Forces fierce fighting has been proceeding between the French and the German armies. The French are pressing forward into Alsace and making some progress in the neighbourhood of Steinbach. but the Germans are massing large opposing forces and each step is stubbornly resisted. In the centre of the Allies line there has been give-and-take work at Soissons. In the eastern theatre of the war the Germans, having failed to advance on Warsaw, are digging themselves in and acting on the. defensive. Tho Russian columns are advancing toward Roumania, and it is reported that later on Roumania will join hands with Russia in wiping Austria off the slate and freeing Serbia from Austrian attacks. In the Caucasus the Russians recently inflicted a severe defeat of the Turks, annihilating one a.rmy corps and capturing a second, and have subsequently been engaged in rounding up the remnants of the Turkish Caucasian army. Having failed in the Caucasus and being egged on by their German masters, the Turks a-e now said to be organising an army to operate against the British forces in Egypt. The Turks in their advance over the desert will have great natural obstacles to surmount, and the inhabitants of Syria are said to be tired of Turkish mis-rule. Egypt is now strongly held by English, Australian, and Indian forces, and the arrival of the Turkish army. if ever it does arrive, is awaited with confidence. LANCE-CORPORAL FULLER DECORATED. His Majesty the King on Wednesday honoured the first Welsh Victoria Cross hero of the war by personally decorating Lance-Corporal William Fuller, of Swansea, for his great bravery at the Aisne. Corporal Fuller had arrived in London overnight, accompanied by some friends. Fr' voc at the Palace in plenty of time, ving there with his father in a taxi-cab. There large, crowds of people in the vicinity of the Palace entrance, and Fuller was at once recognised. The King received Fuller with the greatest cordiality, shook him heartily by the hand and told him that he was quite familiar with the story of his bravery, pinned the Victoria Cross on his breast in recognition of it. shook him again by the hand, and smiling gave him his best wishes. The King had before him all the neces- sary details of what Fuller had done to merit the greatest "honour a British soldier can get. Afttr the strenuous trench fighting, in which the 2nd WTelsh were at it night and morning for thirty-five days, Fuller advanced a hundred yards under very heavy rifle and machine-gun fire to rescue brave Captain Mark Haggard, a nephew of the famous novelist, and took all the hazards that were involved in carrying him back to cover. It was on that memor able occasion that Captain Haggard, while mortally wounded, gave that last inspiring appeal to his men. "Stick it. Welsh!" Fuller had little to say about his own experiences when he came back from the front. He had less to say on Wednesday about the incident of his decoration. The King made me feel quite at home," he re- marked, "by his kindly, gracious, manner, and I feel proud to have had the oppor- tunity of meeting the Sovereign we all love." LETTER FROM THE FRONT. Writing on December 22nd Private Owen Humphreys, 1st K.S.L.I., of Dinas Mawddwy, states:— I am taking the first opportunity I have had lately of writing to you a brief explanation of the time our regiment is having. For the past four days we have been enjoying a well-earned rest in a luxurious dry barn after fourteen days in the trenches, suffering from cold and awfully bad weather. On being relieved we make use of every minute to straighten ourselves and above all enjoy a good wash and shave, such luxuries not being, available while in the actual firing line. On the whole our brigade has been chiefly on the defensive and on each occasion we have had something rough and great odds to hold out against. ( In one position, which we were holding on October 24th. 25th, 26th and 27th our regiment individually suffered heavy loss from enfilade artillery fire, chiefly shrapnel. We were at the Aisne and held one position for three weeks without a break. Then one night under cover of darkness we were relieved by the French reserves, and afterwards moved rapidly up to—(not allowed to mention any names). In the same region we still con- tinue to fight. The following is one in- cident of the many which I have encount- ered:—'One night immediately after dusk had come upon us the Germans commenced to attack us all along the line. This attack was kept up vigorously for quite two hours, when the enemy, finding it a bit too hot for them quickly retired back to their trenches and consequently the deafening roar of rifle-, and guns died down. We all began to think we should not be troubled by them that night, so in turn w« lay down in our trench to snatch a. moment's sleep. Yet this was not to last, for again the firing of our ever-alert sentries soon warned us that we were in for it again. Quickly the order "Stand to arms" came down the line and in less than a second the whole line burst out with a hail of rapid fire. When it comes to a rapid fire one can always say the real thing is facing us. Yet it continued and through the darkness I could not see a single German in front of me. Consequently we had the order to cease fire. Tlie firing on our right and left continued as fierce as ever. Presently a flare rocket, which the Germans always uso in their attacks shot up tn the air and to our surprise there were the Germans strug- gling to get through the wire entanglement. Soon we had tlie order "Rapid fire," and in a short time the whole of them perished under our terrific fire. This second attach lasted until the-following morning when it gradually wore down. By three o'clock that .morning it was all quiet once again. Presently the order, Only sentries stand to arms" came down the lines, so we guessed we had succeeded in driving them off the second time. This was confirmed lcr all remained quiet. Gradually in the sky streaks of dawn penetrated and eventu- ally daylight revealed to us the result of our overnight work. There in front of 1Ul lay dozens of still grey forms. Within sixty yards of us there was a party of the enemy, who having found it impossible to get away, had taken advantage of a natural fold in the ground and were busy entrenching themselves. Luckily for them they had got deep enough to pa-event us settling them with a bullet. WTe were not the only ones to notice them for a section on the right had to take the trench at the point of the- bayonet, and the thirteen Ger- mans were accounted for. Yet they were not to have it all their own way, for on our chaps way there they were spotted by on of their machine guns which opened a con- tinuous fire or them, and by the time they returned to our trenches they had accounted for ninc of our men, five Willed and four wounded. I am thankful to say our wounded were got back safely. I hope some time in the future I shall have the pleasure of meeting all my old and youiv friends at Glandyfi and places about there'. At present-it is very wet and cold and we are back in the trenches giving some of our comrades a. chance to have a rest. So once more we wonder what is in store for us. It we encounter anything of interest I will try my ntoiost to let you know. With kind remembrance to all friends and i wishing them the compliments of' the season.

TALYBONT Agriculture. Mr. David Jenkins, „ Oerrigtrane, has been selected judge of black cattle at the Royal Show to be held at Nottingham this year. Mr Jenkins is a well-known breeder and successful exhibitor. From the Front.—A few months ago Dr. James. Lodge Park, collected over £ 6 for supplying soldiers at the front with tobacco, etc., and 240 packets had been dispatched ] each containing two ounces of tobacco, thii-fcy-liye cigarettes and a box of matches to the Welsh Army. Last week Dr. James J received seventeen postcards from re- cipients expressing their appreciation. Private W. A. D.;itvies wrote: "Your cigs. were very acceptable because oilt here n fag is cherished li £ e a bit of valuable old J china at home."

"T" ABERYSTWYTE Troops in Training. A NIGHT ALARM. During the week the troops have been engaged in training. New features are introduced in the form of night, marching and trench-digging. The townspeople were awakened from sleep at one o clock on Sunday morning by the blowing of bugles. Many people were alarmed, and it was thought that a German invasion was im- minent. It transpired that the officers were carrying out a night alarm which the men had been previously notified would at some time unknown to them be given. With few exceptions, the men responded promptly to the call, and after roll-call were allowed to return to their billets. A large influx of rècruits continues. On Monday evening no fewer than ninety-five, new men for the Herefordshire Battalion, with three other batches, making a total of nearly 200. arrived and were provided with billets. Though batches are drafted away, some of the billeting districts have become somewhat congested and there is diffictilty, in finding the necessary accommodation. Superintendent Phillips, who is in charge of the arrangements, lias so far, however, been able to overcome the difficulties. There are no fewer than sixteen bat- talions of the Cheshire Regiment under arms, some with the Expeditionary Force in France and the remainder in training in various parts of the country. This is a record of which any county may be justly proud of. A little magazine called "The Oak" (an oak branch is the emblem of the regiment), is being published weekly, in which the doings of the battalions are chronicled. Profits made by the sale of the magazine will he set aside for the Cheshire Regiment benefit fund. The behaviour of the troops on the whole is remarkably satisfactory and they appear to be settling down in their billets com- fortably. Their physical improvement is marked, but a large number of the men are afflicted with coughs., A medical man explains that smoking cigarettes relaxes the throat and provides abundant openings for microbes which set up constant irrita- tion and consequent attacks of coughing. Special arrangements are made for their entertainment, to relieve the monotony of their leisure hours. The Cambrian Rail- ways run cheap trips on the Devil's Bridge Railways on Saturdays and Sundays. Commencing next Monday evening, a star variety company will appear on a week's engagement at the Sylvan Palace, under the management of Mr. Alex Vaughan, particulars of which will be seen in an advertisement. This week-end "The Allies" Concert Party under the direction of Mr. Griffith Humphreys, give entertain- ments at tne Pier Pavilion. The Market- street and Coliseum cinemas are well pat- ronised. On Monday night Mr. Ernest Jones, M.Sc. County Whool, gave an illustrated lecture on (Belgium, under the auspices of the Y.M.O.A., and many of the Belgian guests were present by invitation. Mr. Eyre Evans presided. A successful concert, arranged by Councillor W. L. dliams, was held on Tuesday evening, when there was a wrestling bout between Fred Withers and Tom Atkins, both cham- pions. of Abertillery. Miss Griffiths, HafTcote Hall. Shropshire now wintering at Aberystwyth and staying at 55, Marine-terrace, on Thursday evening entertained over 1,000 members of the 1st Monmouths to a knife and fork supper. On Friday and Saturday Broadwood camp concerts were held in the Skating Rink and attracted crowded attendances of the troops. The object of the concerts is to provide amusement for soldiers in train- ing centres and to supplement the incomes of professional artistes who are suffering from the restricted demands on their ser- vices owing to the war. The concerts have given great satisfaction at the several places where they have been held during the past two months. The artistes who visited Aberystwyth occupy high positions in the profession, and it need not be said' that their singing and performances proved an enjoyable treat to all the men. 'At one of the concerts the proceedings opened with a ragtime selection by Mr. Jan Hurst and he was loudly applauded. Miss Mary Hilbard sang" W ake Up" tastefully, and in re- sponse to a well-merited encore pang Commg Through the Rye." Mr. OSley Oaklev delighted the audience with four banjo solos, and in response to encores fav.e a jariation. Nikola did smart con- junng feats. His feat of passing liquid rrom a jug into a glass was particularlv RTMSF BX h musical sketches. His performances were extremely good creat- ing rounds of laughter. In response to an gaVe a tastoful performance of men? mTi °V one-st"nged instrn- mcnt. Mr John Harrison was heard to Duwi" 111Li fers°nI',8 ,<Bey°nd the a ^-merited encore. He. also ,,itng "Take a Pair of Sparkling y f* sailg as an encore "Because" MisseRuhnSi\"i111 ?la.ke a Man of Yon>" Miss Ruby Wilson fairly brought down the nouse. She also song "Here W« Ana arv^th andi°r an encore gave "Tipper- chorus aud,en«! singing PPthe RESERVE BATTERY FOR t CARDIGANSHIRE. I Xs !n d?"ded to form a Reserve feade of Royal h ield Artillery at Cardiff There are three batteries in the Brie-ade of which the Cardiganshire battery will e,anshire Battery has been sent to Aber- ystwyth to raise 2CK) man in the town district lor the new reserve battery and is stationed at the Dnll Hall off Smithfield- /r> David, the commanding tSThJt SiTS fax as Possible that the battery should be recruited from ^rdisanshire. Special advantages will be fn!f +W uing: Smithfi and wheelwrights good r npes of Promotion wiU be TT, ir MONMOUTH GRUMBLE I he Monmouthshire "Weekly Po&t1' rmh Jished the following on January 9th wfiicb has a flavour of envy about it-Our Ten-i tonal friends who departed a few ago for Aberystwyth Vre^-identiJ not^ happy at the Welsh coast resort aTthe? were at the Gate of Wales." It seems that the Aberystwyth people have bJSl inclined to regard themselves somewhat^ superior beings where men in uniform aS concerned, and it appears that it haTw n torth as another commandment that no respectable young lady would or shoSd demean herself by taking to a TerriS 2L7n "atUraiIy feel insulted^ Tlhis attitude of the ultra-respectable and their woE^un^r11^ Aberystwyth, however, Iwav T,i i a ^reat to t*ke the troops to fl' ..knowing the money they stood ■ • x petitioned for their continuance in this pure atmosphere, Abergavenny would be glad enough to have the men back again and would not neap gratuitous insnItf-Ton them. We can- not, however, expect to see them return to Abergavenny for training. Military men consider that troops, so far as discipline is concerned, are best away from their native heath; and there may be something m that. Abergavenny, however, is hoping that her claim to be regarded as a training centre will yet be recognised, and that the town vti11 once moie assume a military appearance.

NANTEOS. Cenerosity. Captain and Mrs. Powell, oi .Nanteos, are well-known for their kind disposition, particularly towards their employees. Each of tlie workmen on the estate has again this year been the recip- ient of a seasonable giM eonsistinf sav Bra] pounds of meat. The girt Nvl" ;:ve-itlv appreciated, the moie t) in v;c\v <>f p'oont, conditions. Captain and Mrs. l-Wel* generosity is also extended to the neigh- bourhood in general, and all join in wish- ing Captain Powell, vho is now server with his regiment, God-speed and a return; also to him with Mrs. the heir (Mr. W. E. pfl-.re!h the conmli- ments of the season.

Local and District. Captain C. L. Conacher of the War Office has been graded as a staff captain. The London Gazette" contains a notice which states that the names of the under- mentioned companies have been struck off the register, and the companies are dis- solved :—Criecieth Pier and Harbour Co., Limited; George Green (Aberystwyth), Limited; Penmaehno, Corwcn, and Bet £ ws- r-eood Light Railway Company. Limited; Welsh Trawling Company, Limited The Lord Lieutenant of Cardiganshire Colonel Davies-Evans) has been indis- posed, but is now recovering.

TREGARON. Rural Council.— Mr. Daniel Jenkins pre- sided.— The highway accounts for the quar- ter were examined and passed and instruc- tions were given to the Surveyors respect- ing road repairs and the trimming of hedges. There was a long discussion on the 'piestion of a boundary bridge in Ysbytty parish connecting Aberystwyth and iregaron districts. The bridge had pre- viously been repaired jointly by the two uistriots, but each, district denies respon- sibility. Flie bridge being now in a dilapidated condition and dangerous to traffic, it was agreed that the Clerk and Mr. Abraham Morgan should make inquiries as to the conditions on which it was previously repaired. DISTRICT EDUCATION COMMITTEE, Tuesday. Present: Dr. J. Morgan, Pontrhydygroes, chairman; Rev. T. R. Morgan, Swydd- ffynon; Messrs. D. J. Williams, Tre- garon D. L. Herbert. Nantcwnlle; J. G. Morris Davies, Hafod; D. Lewis Jones, Esgerhendy. In the absence through indisposition of Mr. J. R. Jones, the clerk, Mr. Evan Hughes, one of the attendance officers, acted in his place. Managers' Meeting.—Mr. Morris Dav- ies called attention to the question of uttendance officers attending the meetings of local managers. He proposed that thev should be required to attend the meetings. The local managers with their knowledge of local conditions and requirements were able to form a better estimate of whether children were attending badly or not. In Aberystwyth district the attendance ques- tion was dealt with by the local managers. —Mr. D. J. Williams "We used to be ahead of Aberystwyth always.—Mr. Morris Dav- ies: W e are not now.—Mr. R. S. Rowlands seconded the proposition, though lie did not think the meetings of local managers were of much use except to pass bills. He also thought the managers had not justified their existence.—The proposition was agreed to. Mr. Da vies also proposed that the managers should meet alternately in the schools of each group, and Mr. D. L. Jones seconded the proposition which was agreed to. Trees.—Arrangements were made for the purchase of trees to beautify the grounds of the new school a.t Tregaron.—Mr. R. S. Rowlands objected to the expenditure.

ON SPECIAL BUTY. The Kev. Joseph Benjamin Thomas, of Rp„dwinter, died while on duty as borporai of special notice in tlie storm of Monday night, December 28th. He was forty-four years of age and .was a curate at Radwinter, a village four miles from Saffron Walden. He was indefatigable in carrying out his duties and no one could have been keener or more untiring in his efforts to give the fullest effect to the voluntarv movement called into existence at this "crísi. He died in his country's service and is sorely missed by those who had worked with him By the parishoners. to whom he was so well-known and by whom he was was greatly beloved he will be much missed. He leaves a widow with the care of two children. He was the son of the late Mr. Daniel Thomas, who carried on a drapery business at Victoria House. He was educated at St. David's College, Lampeter, and St. Michael's College, Aber- dare; ordained deacon in 1894 and priest in 1895. There was a large and sorrowing congregation at the interment. Deceased's local connections are Mrs. Mary Thomas, High-street, Doldre, aunt; Mrs. Ruth Riches, London, sister; Mrs. H. Vivian Williams, Treorcky, niece. One brother, Mr. Dan Thomas, is in South Africa, and another brother, Mr. J. Augustus Thomas, dn d recently in Australia. The Rev. J. B. H. Hiomas was one of the best vocalists brought up in the district, and was well- known as a soloist and precentor