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THE LIFE AND OPINIONS ROBERT ROBERTS This autobiography, which started in the June (1914) number of The Welsh Outlook." deals with the period of roughly 1834-1863. The author was bom at Havod Bach, near Uangemyw, in 1834. and is still remembered by old inhabitants in that district. XV There was a young man who used to visit cousin Robert's pretty frequently of late, and with whom I had formed some acquaintance. He was a shoe- maker by trade, an intelligent, sociable fellow, who had travelled a good deal, and a great reader. His health was delicate, and like most shoemakers, he hated his trade. He had a fancy for being a school- master, as a situation more suited to his weak health, and more intellectual than shoemaking. Some friends had advised him to go to the new Training College that was just established at Carnarvon, informing him that if he succeeded in passing a good entrance examination, he might obtain an exhibition which would help to support him for a year at College, till he would be prepared to undertake a school. When I returned home after my ill- success with Mr. Gradgrind, Robert Evans was in. He was in great glee, having received a letter from the Principal of the Institution saying that his testimonials were satisfactory and telling him to be present at the examination, which was to take place at Caernarvon in a few days. When we were congratulating him on his success, he said Why that's the thing to suit you, Robert-why not come with me and try ? I thought it too great a risk to venture without introduction or testimonials, but asked him to write and let me know how he got on at the examination; and if he was successful. I might follow him and have a trial for myself. To this he agreed, promising to mention me to the Principal, and to do what he could to further my views and he was as good as his word. In about a week I had a letter from him to this effect Dear Bob, Glorious news I I've passed with flying colours. The examination is as easy as drinking beer. I have an exhibition of 7s. 6d. a week, which will about keep me, for Caernarvon is a cheap place. OF A WANDERING SCHOLAR AS TOLD BY HIMSELF I was nearly floored in the Catechism. but they excused me, and I promised to learn it more perfectly. I like the place very well so far, and there are some good fellows here, whom you would like. I have mentioned your case to the Principal, who was very kind. He says though that you must get a testimonial from some clergyman. I told him that you did not know any, and so on, telling him a little of your history. He then said that as your case seemed an exceptional one, he thought the Committee might relax the rule but he advises you to go first to some well-known schoolmaster for a month or two, and get testi- monials that way. He said you could afford to wait, as you were so young. I told him that you were poor, like myself, and could not afford money, though you could the time. Well," said he, "as you say that he is a promising youth, I will write to John Williams, of Llanrwst, for him. He would be glad of his help in school, and won't charge for his board. Give me his address: he will hear from Williams before long." So cheer up, my lad: you will soon be teaching the young idea how to shoot, instead of carrying parcels for that curmudgeon Mr Gradgrind. Expect a letter from Williams soon. Goodbye, I am trying to learn the I desire and must have another tug at it to-night. The history, and geography, and algebra, I get on with flying. Yours pedagogicaliy, Robert Evans. Closely following this cheerful letter, there came another from John Williams. stating that he would be glad to see me as soon as possible in reference to a communication which he had received from the Principal. He said that though he did not know me