The Brecon Radnor Express Carmarthen and Swansea Valley Gazette and Brynmawr District Advertiser

Talgarth's Postmaster. Tribute to Old Inhabitant. LARGE AND IMPRESSIVE FUNERAL. By the death of the esteemed postmaster, Mr Alfred Willis, which took place on the 16th inst., Talgarth loses a great landmark, for, he was one of its oldest residents. Because of his official duties he did not take the prominent part in public affairs which he would have wi.,bed-nevertheless, in a quiet unostentatious manner, he did much good. So closely did he always keep in touch with his duties that he did not take a holiday for 40 years. He was practically one of the Post. Office officials, who had held office longest—extend- ing over a period of 55 years. A native of GLasbury, he wa.-< educated with the Vaughans at the Hampton Gram- mar School. He eventually went to London and was engaged in some of the large drapery warehouses as a woollen buyer. In the early "sixties" he came to Tal- garth from Woolwich, when he took over the old estab- lished business of the late Mr Moses Webb, silk roeroer. and became Postmaster of Talgarth through the re- quest of the late Col. Watkius (Penoyre), who was at that period M.P. for the county. A* briefly stated in our last issue, he was most assiduous in his duties, dis- playing tact and courtesy, and, as a result, he won the confidence of a large number. The late Mr Willis was secretary of the St. Gwen- doline's club—a beneficent society long since defunct, but which, in its day, did a good work in the parish. He was interested in the "Gwvnne Holford Charity" and always supplied the local requirements. The deceased gentleman was the last link of the old Wesleyan Church at Talgarth, where, for years, he acted as the precentor. He was chairman of the old Market Committee and was instrumental in raising a large portion of the cost of the present Town Hall and Market Hall Building. When the "Roches" of Tregunter were young men, ac- tively engaged in cricket and football, Mr Willis acted as one of the first secretaries of the cricket club. His demise has caused a gap in the busines.3 and town life of Talgarth. Always a great reader, he was well- versed in current events, taking a broad outlook of things generally, his sane, straightforward opinion al- ways being welcomed. THe Funeral. The funeral, a very large one. took place on Satur- day, the interment being in the St. Gwendoline's Church- yard. There was a large attendance of the general puMJc. The inscription on the oak coffin was, "Alfred pijt)ljc. ?' died December 16th, 1917, aged 84 years." The undertaker was Mr S. Davieg. The bearers were Mr Ray Willis (son), Mr J. Parry (son-in-law), and Messrs. Rupert and Harvey Parry (grandsons). „ A hort service was condtir' ) ,I t th. house In Rev. C. A. Harries (Wesleyan mivi.-ier, Brecon), who, subse- quently, also gave a short address at the grave. Before leaving the house, the hyinri. "Lead, Mlhdly light," was sung. The surpliced choir met the pro- cession at the Church gates, the officiating clergy being the Vicar of Talgarth (Rev. D. Williams, B.A.), and Rev. T. H. Bevan (vicar of Hronllys). The service wa., fully choral, and 3" '1' cortrge entered church, Mrs Mills played "0 res! the Lord," and, when leaving, the "Dead March" ;i the organ. The choir sang at. the grave, ",r;>r •. vt-r with the Lord." The chi .« i:r;ier.. in addition to the bearers, were Mrs J. Par: C. Thomas & Miss Willis (daughters), Mrs Ray Wi !i "(daughter-in-law), and Eira, Mona, Alfred and Jessie (grandchildren). Included i-i the funeral \Jroession were the Vicar, Rev. T. H. Bevan. Hev. C. A. HarriM, Rev. Tudor Jones, B.A., Dr. F. J. J a > 11 •, Mr W. T. Da vies, Mr Edwards (late postma.st?r at Brecon), A)dtrman Mervyn T. Davi, Mr J. P. Pros?r. Mr Morgan (P.O., Glasbury), Alderman J. R. Griffiths, etc., etc. ) ====== i

WELL-KNOWN PASTOR. I THE LATE REV. A. HAMER, SEVEN SISTERS. I A RADNORSHIRE MAX. I We regret to announce, that the Reverend Abraham Hamer, Baptist Minister, of Seven Sisters, recently pas- 500 away, after a short illness, at the house of Mr Geo. Price, of Cwmdynant, Velindre, Three Cocks. The late Mr Hamer was the eldest son of the late Mr Abraham Hamer, of Knighton, who was a well- known member of the Baptist Denomination of Rad- norshire, especially during the last thirty years of his life, whilst deacon of Knighton Baptist Church. The reverend gentleman was born near "The Gravel" in Rad- norshire. He subsequently entered the service of the London and North Western Railway, and acted as st&tionmaster at Dolau, Llanarthnev, and Llandilo Bridge. Owing to failing health, he retired from the railway service a few years ago. He had been most successful as an apiarist and amateur gardener- having won numerous prizes for honey, etc., at Shrews- bury and other shows, also for vegetables at a number of shows in the Principality. He had been an active member in various branches of the Baptist cause—Sun- day school teacher, also school superintendent, and was well-known in Radnorshire and other counties for over 40 years as a local preacher. After retiring from the railway, he went to reside at the Mumbles, and took over the charge of the Baptist Church at West Cross, leaving there to start an English Baptist cause at Seven Sisters in June 1914. The services were first held in the Reading Room at Seven Sisters, and, after strenuous efforts having been put forth, a chapel was built at that place. He was assisted in his efforts in this direction by hie wife, and the local Baptists, also by the Baptist friends in Swansea. Port Talbot, etc. Dur- ing the last four years he had done excellent work as a missioner in the counties of Brecon, Glamorgan, etc. He had completed a series of mission services at Capel-y-fyn and Henllan on Tuesday, the 4th inst., and proceeded from there to Velindre on the following day. He was met by some friends, and was taken ill on the way. He was taken to the house of Mr George Price, of Cwmdynant, where he was nursed moist tenderly by Mrs Price and his sister, Mrs Woolley. Mns Hamer was sent for. but notwithstanding medical treatment and constant attention, he parsed away on the 32th inst. The funeral took place at Penvrheol Baptist Grave- yard on Monday, the 19th. when the service wais con- ducted by the Rev. T. Richards, of Talgarth. The mourners included the widow and two sons (Mr W. Hamer, of Crewe, and Mr A. Hamer. of Port Talbot); Messrs. R. and A. Hamer (brother and nephew); Mrs Woollev (sister): Mr Woolley, and nephews and nieces; Mr and Mrs George Price, of Cwmdynant; Mr W. Price, of New Court; Mr C. Morris, of Tynewvdd; Mr and Mrs Powell. of Capel-y-fyn; Mes>srs. Morgan and Lawrence, of Port Talbot; Mrs Aaron and Messrs. Ed- wards and Jones, of Seven Sisters; Mrs Williams (sister of widow), and Mr Williams; and a number of other friends from Seven Sisters. Penyrheol, Onllwyn, Swan- sea, etc. Although there were no flowers by request, a b eautiful artificial wreath was sent from the Church at Seven Sisters, and a wreath also from Mrs and Miss Russell, of Velindre. The coffin, which was of oak and brass fittings, was supplied by Messrs. Walter Price and Son. of Velindre. rllch sympathy is felt for the widow, sons, and relatives in their sad bereavement.

Builth Wells Postmaster I RETIRES ON HIS PENSION. I Owing to ill-health and, on medical advice, Mr Rowland W. Morgan. >ub-postmaster of Builth Wells, retires on his pension at the close of the year. Mr Morgan, whose sight is much impaired, has only just recovered from a long and trying illness. Hi^»retirement will he much regretted, for, his exceedingly kind dis- position and courteous manner have won for him a large circle of friends in the Wye-side town. Mr Morgan succeeded the late Mrs Powell to the charge < t'" P.i'iUh Wells Post Office five years last November. He has 43 years' service to his credit, and wais assistant at ailsworth (Gloucestershire) till 1900, when he was made sub-postmaster of that office. Since Mr Morgan's advent to Builth several structural im- provements for the convenience of the public have been effected at the Pest Office, and. prior to the outbreak of war. he did his utmost to effect various improvements in the town deliveries of letters. He also "supplemented -tining for the town the proposal of his department in obtaining for the town an all-night telephone service—a public boon in case of emergency. Mr Morgan, we learn, return., to Xailsworth, where we wish him a long and happy retirement among hw old friends and a

Builth Wells Wedding I 0 CROCKFORD-DAVIES. A pretty and itoeresting wedding took place at St. Mary's Church, Builth Wells, on Wednesday morning, the contracting parties being Miss A. Davies (third daughter of Mr and Mrs John Davie?, Ivanhoe, Builth Wells) and Sergt. A. E. Crockford (e-Ide&t son of Mr and Mrs Crockford, Maidenhea.d) The bride, who wore a cream cloth costume trimmed with skunk, and a cream hat to match, was given away by her father, while her little niece, Lilian Muriel Kenneddy, of Swan- sea, dressed in soft white silk trimmed with shadow lace and a cap of shadow lace, acted as bridesmaid. The bride carried a bouquet of a sheaf of Madonna lilies to the ceremony, and the bridesmaid, a bouquet of pink carnations. Rev. S. H. Wenham officiated, and the b"st man was Mr E. T. Davies. A reception was afterwards held at Ivanhoe, from where the happy couple proceeded to Maidenhead to spend their honeymoon. The bridegroom. who was in khaki, belongs to the M.T., A.S.C., and returned from active service in Franee for the occasion. I

I BUTTER fRICS ) PROSECUTION AT BRECON. I WARNING FROM THE BENCH. At Brecon, on Monday, before Messrs..lames Morgan and J. C. H. Morris, Mary J. Jones, Alltybrain, Lla.n- defaolog, was summoned for offering butter for sale at a price exceeding that fixed by the Food Control Com- mittee. Mr Jones Powell (Messrs. Jeffreys and Powell, solici- tors) appeared for the prosecution. Defendant did not appear, but was represented by her father, who pleaded that his daughter was misled by a resolution, passed at a Farmers' Union meeting and reported in the papers, asking the Food Committee to increase the price of but- ter to 2/0. Mr G. Hyatt Williams, Executive officer, gave evi- dence. He said the price fixed was 2/2 a lb. The Or- der had been published in the local Press, and had not been revoked and was still in force. P.c. Pearce said on the 14th inst. he wa.s on dutv in plain clothes in the Brecon butter market.. He heard a woman, named Mrs Watkins, ask defendant if she had any butter to spare, and at how much a pound. Defendant replied "two-and-six." Witness then spoke to her and asked her if she meant to charge 2/6 a lb., and she replied "Yes, my mother told me to charge 2/6, and I saw it in the 'Brecon and Radnor' last week." Mr Jones, defendant's father, produced a paper, and Mr .Toner! Powell, perusing this, said this had reference to a resolution passed by the Farmers' Union and sub- initteed to the Food Committee that 2/6 ought to be the price fixed. Mr ,Tone»s said his daughter was misled by the talk she had heard, and, alter Pearce had spoken to her. she ascertained that the price had not been altered, and she sold no butter at all that day above 2/2 a lb. Mr Jones Powell pointed out to the bench that (k- fendant was not summoned for "selling," but for offer- ing for ale. Mr James Morgan said as this was the first case to be brought before that court they had decided to deal leniently hv fining defendant R3 7s, which would in- clude costs and advocate's fee. They would deal more severely with future cases that might come before them. "I don't recognise any difference between thi- and profiteering," he added.

I Assize Clerk. SLANDER srIT AGAINST MR. GLASCODINE. On Wednesday in last week Justice Darling and a special jury, in the King's Bench Division, heard an action by William Wynn Evans, solicitor, Chester and Wrexham, against Charles Henry Glascodiue, first assistant clerk of Assize, on the South Wales Circuit, for slander, plaiutifV alleging that defendant accused him of altering a magistrate's certificate, and that plaintiff ought to he. in the dock. Plaintiff said he was granted a certificate for his costs, and he added witness's costs. Defendant pleaded fair comment and privilege. The jury found that defendant spoke the words alleged, that there was malice, and that they were not fair comments on the facts and circumstances then known, and assessed damages at ;CIOO. The Judge held that the comments were not of public interest, and were not. privileged, defendant having discharged his official duties at the time. Judgement nccordingly for the plaintiff for £100.

I FRIENDLY SOCIETY OFFICIAL I CHARGED AT CRICKHOWELL. I CHAIRMAN AND "GROSS CARELESSNESS." At Crickliowell police court, on Wednesday, before Mr A. Beckwith and Mr Wm. Rosser, Thomas Prosser,, late secretary to the. Llangattoek Court of the Ancient Order of Foresters.was charged with withholding £90 6s Id, belonging to the members of the Court. Mr. Vaughan, Crickliowell, who appeared to prosecute on behalf of the trustees, said it was a somewhat seri- ous ease. £ 90 (is Id had been received by Prosser from members of the Court, but was not accounted for in the Court books. What happened was defendant received the money from members, receipted their contribution cards, but, instead of crediting the sums to his society, used the money himself. These irregularities had been going on since 1913. Evidence was given by A. Arnold, district secretary, John Lewis, Kridge Street, and John Lewis, White Hart, Criekhowell, two members of the A.O.F., and W. G. James, one of the auditors appointed to balance accounts after defendant's resignation. The latter said that when Prosser was asked whv certain members had not contributed, he told the trustees. they were out of compliance. This was not true in fact. He did not be- lieve Prosser knew where he stood, and had got into difficulties through overwork. The chairman said there seemed to have been gross carelessness on the part of the society in not discover- ing irregularities extending over a period of four years. This kind of thing encouraged wrong doing. Prosser said he had got into arrears through over- work, and asked for leniency. The bench made, an order for payment of the £ 90 6s id by instalments of Cl a week, with costs added. Having regard to the fact that for 16 years Prosser served the society without complaint, they did not impute fraudulent intent. There had been gross carelessness on his part. and the society were to blame for their lax oversight.

I Radnorshire Ploughing Orders 1'h\'l'l' is a feeling approaching consternation amongst I farmers in Radnorshire in respect of the Ploughing Or- ders sent out by the War Agricultural Executive Com- mittee. It is contended by many that the Orders exceed what is passible. Many farmers, however, say they will put their backs into it and carry the Orders ont to the very letter. Many appeals have been sent in. Forty-five have already been heard, and in not a single instance haa the Order been reduced.

INSURANCE COMMITTEE. I- Breconshire and the Memorial Association. j A SUGGESTED CONFERENCE. I i At the Breconsliire Insurance Committee held at Brecon on Wednesday in last week, Mr Trevor Richards presiding (in the absence of the chairman and vice- chairman) there was little business of public interest. With regard to the dispute pending between the Breconshire County Council and Welsh National Memorial Association, by which the latter have given notice to terminate their agreement with the Council and the Insurance Committee. A communication was received from the Council to the effect that they had instructed their special committee to confer with the Insurance Committee's Sanatorium sub-committee and that the meeting was fixpd for the following Friday. The Chairman invited expressions of opinion as to what should be done by their representatives at the conference. Mr Idris Davies r-aid he saw Mr Miller (Chairman of the Insurance Committee) a few days ago. He was very much interested in the question and expressed his regret that the difficulty had arisen. Mr Miller thought the best thing to do would be togctu conference of the County Councils and Insurance Committees to discuss the question independent of the executives. He was anxious they should circularise the Welsh Insurance Committees OIl the matter. Dr. Black Jones said he had hoped that the Associa- tion of Welsh Insurance Committees would have been approached, because they were the body who ought to have taken this matter up. They were a body of con- siderahle expcoriplwe and inliuence and they might do something. Proceeding Dr. Black Jones said lie was of opinion if the County Council took this matter in hand they would line it very serious work. If they could make satisfactory arrangements with the Welsh Memorial and have some supervision over the ex- penditure it would be by far the best plan. Their I Committee had only about C'lOO to spend on this work. and he pointed out the difficult position they would be in if they broke with the Memorial Association. Mr Idris Davies That is what Mr Miller feels and t is his wish that there should be a conference. Professor Joseph Jones said the County Council would not depend only upou the £ 500. The Memo- rial Association asked for a three-farthing rate-they could spend that on their scheme. He asked what was the object of the proposed conference. Was it to consider the whole question or patch up the dispute with tho Memorial ? Mr Idris Davies said the idea was that they ought to meet to try and secure uniformity of action. They were now approached by the Welsh Memorial; Gla- morganshire was appro ched and they did not harmon- ise. Mr Miller's opinion was that they should have a cant. rence to try and obtain uniformity of action. It woinl a great pity if the question were allowed to drop. Prof. Jones said he agreed that a National Confer- ence to consider the whole question of tuberculosis treatment in Wales would be mo-t valuable. On the motion of Dr. Black Jones it was decided that the Association of Insurance Committees should I be asked to approach the ounty Councils of Wales on the matter. Compliments to Clerk. I The Chairirau said the Clerk (Mr T. J. Parry) had The Chairii- .au ,;i i ( I tli(, (, completed his first year of office, and had carried out his duties iu a satisfactory manner. There was i:)0 increase in salary due tj him. Personally he (the chairman) thought that Mr Parry had carried out his i% o, Ic in masterly form. (Hear, hear.) Priil". Jones supported the Chairman in his remarks, anu proposed that the jtlo increase be granted. —Mr N. Cootes seconded. t Dr. Francis, in supporting, said it gave him great pleasure, on behalf of the medical profession, to say how very much they appreciated the way in which Mr Parry had conducted his duties. He had done every- thing most satisfactorily, and they were deeply grate- ful to him. Miss Adelaide Williams On behalf of the ladies, I should like to support the proposal. The motion was unanimously agreed to.

Former Llandrindod Pastor. 1 RECOGNITION SERVICES. I The recognition services of the Rev. James Jones, H.Sc. (late of Llandrindod Wells) at Chelmsford took place on the 12th inst. The afternoon service was con- ducted by the Rev. Thomas Phillips, of Bloomsbury, who delivered a stirring sermon upon the needs of the times. The evening meeting was extremely well attended, and was presided over by the treasurer of the- Baptist Un- ion. Mr Herbert Marnham. The Secretary of the Church read letter* of com- mendation from the Church at Llandrindod Wells, the Baptist Women's Prayer Meeting in connection with that Church, and from Principal Edwards, of the Car- diff Baptist College. Letters, expressive of goodwill, were also read from the Bishop of Chelmsford and other clergy of the Established Church. Addresses were delivered hy the Revs. H. E. Stone (former pastor), Edward Spurrier (who represented" the Essex Baptist Association, with the treasurer (Mr W. H. Collier, J.P.), T. Olgivie (who welcomed Air Jones on behalf of the Free Churches of the town), and the new pastor. Pastor A. C. Durman represented his old Church at Aekliill, of which Mr Jones was hon. pastor from 4ts commencement, and also spoke of Mr Jones' successful work at Llandrindod. Air Jones has had a very en- couraging start and look* forward with confidence to the future.

I GLASBURY MEMORIAL SERVICE I THE LATE GUNNER BEAVAN. I STRIKING TRIBUTE. The memorial service of the late Gunner Wilfred Beavan, R.F.A., who fell in France on the 12th Novem- .ber, was held at Penyrheol Church on Sunday morning. There was a large congregation. The chief mournere were Mr and Mrs P. Goodwin Beavan (parents), Mr Gil- bert Beavan, Mr Reggie Beavan (brothers), also a younger brother and sister, and near relativee3 of the family. Special hymns were sung. There was a very impressive service, which was conducted by the Rev. D. C. Lloyd, Hampton Grammar School. The Rev. D. C. Lloyd in the course of his sermon said: We are gathered together to hear heldpful words of comfort from our heavenly Father. The occasion was sad, the cutting down of a young life in its opening yeans. It was sudden, unexpected, and, in its human aspect, invoked deepest regret. The sorrow of those nearest and dearest to the dear young friend who had departed was lightened by the fact that the heavy bur- den A-as shared by the sympathy of hundreds. It was not the speaker's purpose to emphasise the sadness of the event. He might dwell on the purity, the youth, the promisi: of great usefulness, the loss of his society, the hardness of the ease, the supreme sacrifice for King and Country, for honour and the service of humanity. all which would he easy to do. but we had a higher, nobler, purpose; it wa", that father, mother, brothers, s ister, near relatives of the departed, and those who that day hy their presence expressed their sympathy, should not only be reminded that none have a lease of life, hut should hearken to the Eternal Father comfort- ing us, soothing the aching heart ,and binding up the spirit's wounds. The passages of Scripture on which THE LATE GUNNER WILFRED BEAVAN. the sermon was based were Deut. 33rd chapter, 27th verse, "The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. John 11th chapter, 25th and 26th veises, "I am the resurrection and the life; he that bclieveth in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live, and whosoever liveth and bdieveth in Me. shall never die." Having shown how God's strong, warm, and heavenly arms 0 beneath the deepest grief, the speaker proceeded to l ow that the words of Jesus to believers are that they shall "never die." These words (should be taken in their sublime grandeur, and not "explained" away to dilute their strength. It was certain that Jesu., denied physical death to the believer, that He taught that He will come to the believer at the moment of what we commonly call death and take him to Himself. Jesus imparts divine life to His own. He is in heaven to day in human form: and, at our dissolution, if we believe in Him, He will be both physi- cally and spiritually our life. Jesus also not only taught the immortality of the soul, aB also do philosophers,, poets, and the best elements in all nations, hut lie also proved it, for He rose from the dead and ascended to glory never again to die. It was very gratifying to receive the testimony of those who Gunner Beavan since he left this locality as to the nobility of his character. His officer, Lieut. Goulden, stated he was wounded on 12th Novem- ber, and died shortly after his arrival in hospital. His loss was greatly felt by all his comrades. He WM a splendid soldier, and did his duty thoroughly until the end. Schoolmates had also written testifying to his sterling friendship. The speaker could distinctly re- member him when a pupil under his charge. He was quiet, thoughtful, and thoroughly devoted to his lessons. He was a pupil who commanded respect and was loved by all v, li(, knew him. He had finished his course. He would not return even if that were, permissible. May the Gcd of Peace abide with them all

A BRECONSHIRE WORTHY. I The La e Mr. John Thomas. I HIS RECORD OF PUBLIC WORK. I Wereg'Ct to announce the death of Mr John Thomas, Brynmawr, one of the best known Local Government ) officials in South Wales. The deceased gentleman, who was 86 years of age, was one of the most notable cliaricter., at lirynmawr, and was well known throughout Breconshire and Mon- mouthshire. In early life he was a collier, but at the age of twenty years entered the Normal College, Swansea. lie was one of the original members of the Breconshire County Council, but retired from that body on account of failing health some years ago. He had been clerk to the Brynmawr local authority for 60 years, and resigned a few years ago owing to advanced years. One of the founders of Bailey Street Presbyterian Church, Brynmawr, he was senior deacon there, and aho a very active worker. He held the long service certificate of sixty years as a Sunday school teacher, and for 52 years was secretary to the local Bible S-jiety. He was a member of the Libera- tion Society for over forty years. He had been secretary of the Brynmawr Education Committte, and clerk of the County School Govern rs for many years. He also served on the Llanelly Hill School Board, and was one of the first members of the Aberystrath School Board. He was present at the opening of the Nanty- glo National School in 1837. A strong Liberal, he was also an ardent temperance advocate. Though he was only eight years old at the time of the Chartist lisings, he could well remember his father refusing to leave home to' joiu the procession on the eventful march to Newport. The deceased gentleman was one of the very few who voted Lberal in the election of 1868, when it was by open voting, and was fond of relating that Mr Crawsliay Bailey, the industrial magffStte of that time, remained near the polling booth all day, and kept his eye on the voters. He leaves one son, Dr. J. L. Thomas, tuberculosis physician under the Welsh Memorial Scheme for the County of Monmouth, and four daughters.

I Radnor Boys in Palestine. I HAND-TO-HAND FIGHTING. I Pte. G. Powell, of the 1st Herefords, "A" Co. writing home to his parents atPreteign gives a description of the recent. Palestine battle when Captain Russell was killed. He says. "I got through and also Wallace (Burgess). It was the worst lighting I have ever seen, and was hand-to-hand fighting, so you can guess what it was like. Several poor boys had it. George Price was wounded but cni.N. slightly, and also H. Greenhouse and W. if. Pugh. [am otie of th, lucky ones, and got through without a scratch, but I can tell you I had some narrow escapes, the <same ai the other boys. We had a great victory here, and we are back down now, having a rest which we have well earned after three fighting. We never had a shave or a wash be- cau.se' water was so scarce, hut the colonel (Colonel Drage) did his best to get us some. I can all you we gave "Johnny Turk .something to go on with this time; he hasn't stop',>ed retiring yet, and I hope he won't for a bit. I am sorry to say that Capt. Russell was killed. I wa. with him at the time and I was at his burial. I am pleased to say that he was buried decently with a tidy grave. We were sorry to lose him as lie was a good soldier, and he will be badly missed by the boys.

I Penybont SVIan KILLED IN ACTION. We regret to report that Pte. Reggie Mills, son of Mr and Mrs Mills Baileymawr, Penybont, has fallen in act- ion in France. HisO.C., in a letter to his parents, says: "He was very popular in the company, and his death is felt keenly hy all of- u". It is, perhaps, some email consolation to you to know that he was killed instantly, and can have suffered no pain. All the officers and men of B Co. send their warmest and deepest sympathy to you in your sad bereavement." One of the fallen sol- dier's comradets saiv", in his lettoer :WiII you please allow me to convey my deepest sympathy in the loss of Reggie. It must be a terrible blow to you. He wished me to write to you if anything happened to him, so I am doing so at the first opportunity. I miss him very much, as we had been pals together ever since he join- ed our battalion. Please console yourself by knowing that he did hi,s duty." I

Are you a WAR SAYER ? THE-War is costing considerably more this year than last T year, and the cost is still growing. Therefore it is neces-  sary that everyone should save considerably more than thev did last year, and lend their savings to the State. Those of us who are not in the Army 01 Navy must help to win the War by lending to the State all the money we do not require for absolute necessities. Buy all the 15/6 War Savings Certificates you can. In- crease your holdings of Certificates if you already have some, and if you are not a holder start buying. them to-day You can get them at any Post Office. Bank. or through your Local War Savings Association. Keep each 15/6 Certificate for five years and the Government guarantees to pay you El for it in cash. If you need the money in the meantime, you can cash your Certificates at the Post Office. They increase automatically in value year by year." Save at least 6d a day for this purpose. When you have 15/6 buy a Certificate Each member of a family can-hold up to 600 of them. They are entirely free from Income Tax. It is the best way of saving to prepare f r a boy's start in life or to start a small busi- ness Save for the rainy day it is sure to come sooner or later. Saving helps yru towards success in life. Begin at once to save and so help your country and yourself ISSUED BY THE NATIONAL WAR SAVINGS COMMITTEE.

 War and Agriculture. I Radnorshire Executive. I [ PLOUGHING ORDER APPEALS ALL FAIL. j I COMMITTEE TAKES STRONG LIXE. I The weekly meeting of the Radnorshire War Agricul- tural Executive was held at the County Buildings, Llan- drindod Wells, on Tuesday, when there were present: Ald. C. C. Rogers (chairman), James Hamer, Thomas I Davies, G. R. Davies. B. P. Lewis, with Mr J. R. Bache • (suit-commi-sioner), C. S. W. Powell (machinery officer) [ the Executive Officer (Mr David Thomas), and the clerk I (Mr R. P. Gough). I Appeals. I The Executive Officer reported that the committee I had dealt with 45 appeals against the Ploughing Orders | served by the committee, all of which had been dis- I misled. It was decided to take appeals from Gladestry. New Radnor, and Presteign districts on January 1st. Ploughing Work. I It was reported that during the past week 341 acres of the laud had been ploughed by four tractors. On the recommendation of the machinery sub-com- mittee, it was decided that where tractor ploughmen and drivers tind after the commencement of ploughing th,Lt the land is unsuitable for tractor ploughing, that they he authorised to t-top work and report to tht, Machinery Officer immediately. The tractor representative informed the sub-committee that it, was necessary, owing to the increased acreage under plough to appoint a separate supervisor for this county, and that he had received an offer from Mr E. Bryan Smith. Ye Wells Hotel, Llandrindod Welle, offer- ing his services in that capacity gratis, and the sub- committee recommended that he should be nominated for this appointment.—This was agreed to. The machinery .sub committee further reported that they had considered complaints with reference to the time tractor ploughmen and drivers commenced work, and the matter was referred to the tractor representa- tive for his attention. Mr Rowland Tench, Knighton. ottered work for men engaged in tractor ploughing during wet weather and breakdowns, and the secretary reported that the county surveyor (Mr T. L. Wishlade) had also agreed when practicable to utilise the services of these men. The committee fixed the charges for the hire of teams of horses as follows, and the secretary was instructed to obtain the approval of the Food Production De- partment-Stubble land. light soil. 20, per acre: heavy soil, 22/6 per acre; sward, light soil, 25/- per acre; heavy soil, 27/6 per acre. It was decided to communicate with the Di-st-riet Com- mittee with regard to the supervision of ploughing in their respective areas, and also to instruct the Executive Officer to prepare a draft circular to be .ent to farmers to enable them to notify the committee of their progress in carrying out the ploughing in accordance with the Orders issued. Other Matters. I The Executive Officer reported that 5,000 sacks of Beed I oats would be required for use in the county. The Machinery Officer was directed to inspect a thresh- ing machine offered to the committee, now standing at I Sheepcote, and to report to the committee. It was reported that in future all seeds to be tested must be submitted to the secretary. Grain Grading Com- mittee, Room 533. Palace Chambers, Westminster, before being milled. The committee directed the Executive Officer to com- municate with the Food Control Committee, pressing to lie allowed to submit names of local persons to act as seed examiners. The Executive Officer informed the committee that Mr W. S. Miller. Forest Lodge, Brecon, had been ap- pointed a member of the Wages Board, which consisted of 39 members. The Executive Officer was instructed to render state- ments of accounts to the Food Production Department with regard to the farms taken over by the committee. The. Executive Officer was instructed as to the collect- ion of-vll ploughing accounts* Mr R. A. Campbell, auctioneer and valuer, Llandrin- dod Wells, was appointed to ilndertake the survey and valuation of any land ploughed by farmers in respect of which claim., were being made to the Losses Commis- sion. It was decided to order 30 tons each of the following seed potatoes Up-to-Date, Arran Chief, and King Ed- ward. The Supplies Committee reported that Messrs. Mark Lloyd and Sons had agreed to the use of their warehouse at Knighton for the storing of seed potatoes for that area: and that they had requested the Food Production Department to deliver the seed potatoes during the steond week of March. The Labour sub-committee reported having issued 17 vouchers of exemption, and recommending four applica- tions for open licences in respect of prospective horse ,-ales. They had received reports from the Horse Officer, and the Chief Constable, and in respect of the latter certain prosecutions had been authorised. The sub- committee had received a letter from the Western Com- mand agreeing to Mr E. Griffiths, M.R.C.V.S.. Knighton, acting as veterinary -surgeon in connection with the bu. ing of horses by Lieut. Charleton and Mr H. F. Moseley. The Machinery sub-committee reported having granted 8 applications for petrol for stationary engines. Mr H. K. Foster, Executive Officer, Herefordshire War Agricul- tural Committee, wrote stating that he would take over the threshing machine at present at Llandrindod Wells railway station, and the Executive Officer was instructed to complete the arrangements for the transfer to Here- ford The Food Production Department informed the com- mittee that the 3ft. Rushton Proctor threshing machine offered to the committee was a finishing machine, and they recommended that the same should be consigned to Builth for use in the Colwyn district. The Executive Officer was directed to hasten the delivery of the thresh- ing machine ordered for use in the Rhayader district. The Food Production Department wrote stating that they had made arrangements for the withdrawel of such Oliver tractor ploughs as were unsuitable for work in the county, and also stating that the four seed drills required for use in the county would be despatched as soon as possible.

Onllwyn Soldier's Death. ) RRAYE AND PROMPT. I Mrs Gwenllian Davies, of 9, Club Houses. Duffrvn, On- Uwvn, has been officially informed that her husband, r,ce.-Cpl. Jo!iTi Davies. Royal Engineers (Tunnelling Corps), has died from wounds received in action in France. He had seen two vear6' active service in France. A native of Pont neat h-va ii ghan, he had resided at On- llwyn for many years, working as a co!lier. It is grati- fying to the family to be told by the commanding offi- cer that "he was a brave soldier, and always did with promptness what he was told to do. He was alao very poular with hie chums."

Illegal Use of Barley. HrILTH RURAL COMMITTEE'S DECISION. Builth Rural Food Control Committee met at Builth Wells on Monday, when Mr Thomas Pugh presided. Others present were Mrs Bligh, Mr D. Woodings.( Mr Davies, Mr Jones and Mr David Jones. A letter way read by the clerk (Mr W. W. Lennard), calling the committee' attention to the Barley Restrict- ion Order. It was stated that barley, fit for human consumption, had been taken to a local mill for the purpose of grinding into pig's-food. The committee resolved to report the case to the Ministry of Food. f'0 that action could be taken againot, the offender.

Brecon Poultry Market. RECORD PRICES. There were record prices at Brecon Chrietmae poultry market on Friday. A large quantity of dressed poultry was brought in on Thursday and Friday, and ina-de a nice display. On Thursday afternoon geeee sold at 2/6 lb., and turkeys at 2/9. On Friday morning turkey.- were higher, some fetching as much as 3/- lb., although not many were old at these prices, but geese t remained steady at 2/6. Later in the day, however, there was a drop and geese came down to 2/3 and 2/ and some 1/9, while about 4 o'clock there were quite a number of birds left on the tables. Fowls were cell- ing at from 2/6 to 2/9 (P-ome went at 3/-) a lb.

KNIGHTON GUARDIANS. TITHE RE-ASSESSMENT. At the meeting of Knighton guardians, held on Thursday, the relief cases were disposed of under the chairmanship of Mr T. A. Lote. and during the later business Mr J. R. Bache presided. The master reported that there were 11 inmate*. Buns, scones and chocolates had been given by the Her. J. Harrison (chaplain) and Rev. W. Williams (religions instructor), and Christmas cards and Jett-ers had been sent by Mrs McFea for the inmates. The chairman (Mr J. R. Bache) stated that Mr H. J. Bishop (in aecordance with his usual custom) had given fl to be spent on X'mae extras for the inmates, and the hearty thanks of the Board were accorded to the donors mentioned above. A circular was read from the Hemsworth guardians, asking the Board to adopt a resolution in reference to the proposed new Education Bill. The resolution etat- ed that raising the compulsory school age to 16 years would involve serious hardship on parents having lare families, and that the Government should be asked to give a subsidy to families containing more than three children of sehool age. Rev. E. Brown observed that as the Bill was post- poned till next year, when it would probably be pre- sented in an altered form, it might be as well to let the matter stand over for the present. This course was agreed to. Revision of Assessment on Tithe. The clerk .stated that, by direction of the Assessment Committee, the old assessment on tithe had been re- vised in each parish of the Union, and the revision had resulted in an increase of £1.555 5s to the rateable value. In addition,.a few other assessments of another class had been revised, which had given a further amount of £ 552 ]5s, making a total increase to tbe rateable value of the rnjon of £ 2.108. If they took the average rate to be 3/6 in the C, this increase, afteT aJ- lowing for the one half rate on land, would bring in a sum of 9325 per annum. The calculations in the revis- ion had been carefully made, and it was considered that very little (if any) of the increase would be lost as a result of subsequent appeals. The new valuation lists, whereby this addition had Ixpn created, were presented by the clerk at a meeting of the Assessment Committee, held later, wher the figures were accordingly approved.

Rhayader Guardians. KATE COLLECTOR'S SALARY. khayader guardians met at Victoria Hall on Wedne-day. when there were present Mes-r1-. Ed. Price,, B. P. Lewis, Evan Price, John Jones. P. Dav- ies. ,T. Jones. E. P. Jones, J. Evans. D. Mills. W. Eva-M. J. Philips, J. Evans. T. Davies. E. Morgan and Rev. 1). L. Thomas. It was decided to give extra Christmas relief to all out-door poor—2/- for adults and 1/- for dependent children. It was also decided to give testi- monials to the master and matron, at their request, to enable them to apply for similar post* now open. Messrs. J. Roberts, T. Griffiths and D. J. ugh gave a month's notice of their intention to terminate their contracts with the Board. It was decided on the re- commendation of the Parish Council of St. Harmon to grant Mr Price, the rate colector for that parish, £ 10 increase, in salary. It was stated that the L.G.B. had given powers to the Rhayader guardians to charge the Knighton guardians the sum of ]]/- each for the main- tenance cf their inmates till September 30th, 1918. It was stated that the matron purchased goods at the "1iJt:' at Cluster to the amount of L-14 18s.

Knighton Lady's Death. THE LÀTE MRS GRIFFITHS. It i, with regret we record the death of Mrt Alice Griffiths (wife of Mr J. Griffiths, Castle Hank House, Knighton), which occurred, with painful suddenness, at their residence on Monday evening of last wook. It appears that deceased, who usually enjoved good health, rose on Monday morning, and, after preparing break- fa.st for her husband and herself, had occasion to go upstairs. There she experienced some kind of seizuiv, and fell to the floor in a semi-conscious state,-and Mr Griffiths, who was in the room, at once lifted her on the hed. Dr. J. A. K. Griffiths, who was immediateilv sent for, was in constant attendance during the day. but the patient passed away about 7 p.m., without regain- ing consciousness. Mrs Griffiths, who was 66 years of age. had been an active worker in. and a generous supporter of, the Primitive Methodist Church, and much sympathy is felt for her husband and other relatives in their sad and sudden bereavement. Rev E. E W Ramm, assisted by the Rev. T. R. Broad, officiated at the funeral on Friday afternoon, and, at the service in the P.M. Church, the hymns, "Rock of Ages," and "Jeu, Lover of my sou)." were sung by the choir and eonce- gation. An appropriate address was delivered by Rev. E. E. W. Ramm at the close of which. Miss Cartwright played the "Dead March in Raul" on the organ. The- family mourners were Mr J. Griffiths (husband), Mr G. Langford (brother). Mr E. and Mr D. Griffiths (brothers- in-law). Mrs D. and Mrs E. Griffiths. Mrs Deakin and Mis- M. Griffiths (nieces). Mrs A. Griffiths (Willey). Mr T. Griffiths (nephew), with a large number of members of the P.M. Church a.nd seve.ral neighbours and h; friends. The wheel-bier was in charge of Messrs. Hey wood, J. Cartwright. W. Jordan, J. Davies. E. Stephens and F. Nott, and the polished oak coffin, with brass fittings, was supplied by Mr A. Jones.