The Aberdare Times

QT. FAGAN'S SCHOOLS.— Mr. Wilkin- v" sort, the Manager of Messrs. Elliot & Compa- ny's Collieries, has decided that' their workmen at the Owmdare Colliery may henceforth send their children either to St. Pagan's of the British School. Money will be received at the Office on behalf of either school.

„ i BIRTH. On th" 22nd inst., the wife of Mr. William Morris, Postmaster, of this town, of a son.

SECESSION AGAIN! Hirwain threatens to secede from the Public Health District of Aberdare. Encouraged by the success of the vastly more numerous com- munity of Mountain Ash, our friends on the Common are going to try their hand. In their Cass, however, for reasons which are too ob- vious to need enumeration, the game will not be found an easy one-ie. if winning be the result sought. Mountain Ash is peculiarly situated Aber- dare drew a large amount of revenue from there for which it could give no adequate re- turn the place is densely populated by a peo- ple called suddenly together to meet the de- mands of the labour market, and from the fact that the larger portion of these lived beyond the boundary of the Aberdare Board of Health Distriot, they could have little or nothing done for them in a sanitary point of view. For these and other reasons which operated with even greater cogency, a separate board was readily awarded to our Mountain A sh neigh- bours, with a boundary for which they need be specially thanktul. Example is certainly more moving than precept, and we are not at all surprised, though we are a little amused, to find that two or three thousand people—or rather a few ambitious representatives thereof —are aiming to accomplish what has been done with great ease, if not with much grace, by their near neighbours. At first, we are told ;1 portion of Penderrin, which would include the Hirwain Ironworks, was intended to form a p:trt of tho projected district at Hirwain. Hut not finding the people of Prnderrin as lvady to join them as they expected, the pro- moters of the secession movement curbed their intentions, and they now only aim at including n area upon which there are about 3000 living souls. AVe have taken the trouble to consult Hansard, but we have been unable to discover that the promoters in Parliament of1 the Public Health Act of 1-848, or the Local Government Act of 1858, ever contemplated the establishment of a Board of Health under the circumstances by which Hirwain is sur- rounded. Though it contributes but £120 or £ 130 a year towards the general outlay of the Aberdare Board of Health, there has been about £ tOO a year on scavenging and repairs of roads alone laid out for its special benefit. This being the caso, the margin left, we trow, is a very small one wherewith to cover all the multifarious expenses attached to the working of a properly organised Board of Health. What, then, is the cause of complaint upon which our Hirwain friends ground their claim for a separate Board ? They were among the most eag^r to establish a Public Health Dis- trict in the valley, and up to the falling off of Mountain Ash they manifested no symptoms of disaffection; they have been most ably and honestly represented, their member, Mr. Pow- ell, being one of the most diligent and practi- cal members of the Board, and they have never, so far as we know, had any particular occasion to complain of a want of attention on the part of the Board. Indeed, we aie told that the rwil c'mse ef complaint arises from the circumstance that the place is too carefully looked after--that, in fact, it has too much attention* lavished upon it. One of the can- didates for honours in the event of a separate Board being formed for Hirwain is reported to have eaid. "We ean't build even a pigstye without haviag Hall (the surveyor) poking his "■'Tiose into it. We'll establish a Board of our own, and then we can build as we like." Is this the explanation of the whole movement ? or is the fact that in addition to this sore question as to buiMing powers, the honours of office have been two circumscribed to suit the aspirations of a few of the most restless public spirits at Hirwain to be taken into account ? To paraphrase Mr. Peter Magnus—"partly one and partly the other." This is undoubt- edly the answer. The people of Hirwain can- not possibly want sruch an expensive thing as a separate Board of Health, except for the self-glorification of a few gentlemen burning for the honours of office. It may be that the inhabitants of Hirwain have some complaints to make as to the manner in which they are dealt with by the Aberdare Board of Health. There never was a board against whose con. duct something could not always be said for boards of health, like all other human institu- tions, are leavened with imperfection. Mr. Hall, the sinful surveyor, may not be a man of silken ways, but we do believe he is an honest and faithful servant of the Board, and should there be any charges to bring against him or any of the other officials of the Board, let them be advanced in a manly and out-spoken man- ner. There is no excuse for stabbing in the dark, and there certainly is no occasion for every little district to petition for powers to govern itself, especially when self-government involves unnecessary taxation without any corresponding advantage. Let the ratepayers of Hirwain find any fault theyjhave a right to, and let them by all means point it out to the Aberdare Board. This they are fully justified in doing, and If our assistance will avail them in such a course it shall be at their command. Apelles, the renowned Greek painter, was pleased with the criticism of the shoemaker who found fault with the shoe in one of his pic- tures, and availed himself of the critic's ad- vice. but when this son of Crispin, encouraged bv the success of his first remark, proceeded to extend his censure to other portions of the pic- ture, Apelles grew irate, and gave utterance to the oft-repeated advice—ne sutor ultra crepi- dam. With all necessary deference we quote this sentiment for the behoof of some of our Hirwain friends Let them complain, and let them struggle for anything which may have been denied them, but let them not go be- yond their "last." As there is a limit to everything human, every man should limit his desire to serve the public to what is fair and possible, and above all should he strive to escape the dangers into which vaulting ambition" so frequently leads men who are even greater than village politicians.

REFORM! SHALL ABERDARE HAVE A MEMBER OF ITS OWN? The question whether Government would or would not bring in a lieform Bill has long ceased to occupy the public mind and the inquiry now is. what sort of a Bill will Ministers introduce ? The opinion appears to gain ground that in his recent speech at Roehdale Mr. Bright's remarks were founded, if not upon an actual knowledge of ministerial intentions, at least, upon a toler- ably safe surmise of ministerial probabilities. Should Ministers introduce a Reform Bill extend- ing the franchise to £ 10 occupiers in the coun- ties, and £6 in the boroughs, We may make up our minds to a vigorous opposition. The change 18 so vast that the territorial influence of the Legislature may reasonably be expected to array itself against it, while the great body of the "Conservatives will naturally oppose, on political grounds, what they will consider too violent and sweeping a change entirely in one direction. Everything foreshadows a determined struggle on both sides. On the one hand the country is l'airly around in the exp -ctftion of a large mea- sure of representative reform, and on the ntr.er t .e lauded aristocracy and the Conservative party will probably energetically oppose any such measure as that to which we have referred, not only on account of the terms of the bill itself, but recognising that ib is hut an instalment, the commencement of an eraoF reprtsentative reyo lution. Should the question of the franchise alone be treated, the Legislature and the country will know full well that behind this measure will be the ballot and a re-distribution of seats—qu°s- tions only second in importance in the public mind to 'that of the franchise. Even supposing then that the House of Commons pass such a measure, it becomes a question how far tIle House of Lords are likely to entertain it. The Upper House is far more Conservative in its ten- dencies than the Lower House, and the idea of such a sweeping reduction of the franchise mu-t be distasteful to the majority. That they will pass such a measure willingly and heartily we do not for a moment believe, but they may do it from motives of expediency, lest a worse thing befal them." The question of there-distribution of seats, if we may judge from Lord Russell's reply to the deputation which waited upon him recently touching the nromised Reform Bill, is one which has not sufficientiyengaged the at- tention of the framer or framers of the measure referred to. That a re-distribution of seats should form a feature in the forthcoming Bill is one which no one who has carefully watched the pro. gress of our country can see any reason to doubt. Row many little b -roughs have we seen fall off into comparative nothingness in point of popula- tion and commercial importance since 1832? On the other hand, how many places have grown from rude villages to majestic town since that period? Take Aberdare as an example. Who knew anything of or eared anything for Aber- dare thirty years ago? At present who is there that does not regard it as one of the most rising of the mining and manufacturing towns of Wales ? Aberdare has a population of some 3>,000 —daily on the increase, be it noted—and yet it is without a political representative of its own. True, we have the advantage of Mr. Bruce's able representation, but as he has but one vote to record on behalf of his numerous constituency, and he is in reality the Member for Mei'thyr Tydfil," we think we have some reason to com- plain. Anyhuw, the whole question as to the redistribution of seats demands the most careful attention of the Government, and we shall be much disappointed if, amongst the many political reforms we have a right to expect at their hands, we do not find Aberdare down for a parliamen- tary representative of its own. On this subject the Daily Leader says: "Large and populous towns in the coal and iron districts have fewer members than agricultural counties ¡ that have not half so many householders. Soon- er or later a day of calculation must come. Fi. gures and statistics must gain a victory in the end. If we take, for instance, Merthyr, Dow- lais, Aberdare, and Mountain Ash; these towns, with their vast works and immense population, instead of having only one member, ought rightly to have two, if t.0t three. Towns that are in- creasing in commercial importance should also increase in political responsibility and power. Merthyr is not the village that it was, nor is Aberdare composed of the few little cottages once so solitary:in the valley. There was a time when one member was sufficient for both, and even a less able one than Mr. Brucl" would have done. But the advance of civilization and the spirit of enterprise have wrought a wondrous change. Those places have attained a position which it is useless for the State to ignore, and towns that exercise a considerable influence on the trade of the nation ought to have a corres- ponding influence on the nation's politics The old Reform Bill gave additional members to the large manufacturing towns of England, and we may reasonably expect that the new Reform Bill will act with equal justice .towards the large manufacturing towns of Wales."

A PUBLIC MEETING was held at Hirwain last (Thursday) night for the purpose of adapting steps for the establishment of a separate board of health for the place. A full report of the proceedings shall oppear in our next. CARDIFF CASTI.E MUSIC HALL Penny Readings were well attended on Monday night, although there were many counter attractions in the town. Several good pieces were rt-ar1 by the Rev. J. Joseph Georgn, Mia. Simmonds, Master Sim- monds, and Mr. Dince. Also several good songs were givim by Messrs. D Davits (Welsh,) R. Evans, W. Thomas, and John Davie*, and the meeting terminated with a fantasia on the piano- forte, by Master Evans, which gave general satis- fation. LECTURE ON AMERICA.— On Tuesday evening the Rev. J. Thumas. who recently returned from New England, delivered a most instructive and entertaining lecture on America," at Ebenezer Chapel. The chair was ably filled by the li-ev. William Edwards, and there was a numer- ous and attentive audience present. The usual complimentary votes closed the proceed- ings. We are glad to learn that the proceeds of the lecture are intended to be added to the build- ing fund of the British Schools, a fund which we trust will never lack supporters iu the parish. Strenuous efforts are being made to cover the expense of erecting those splendid and well-con- ducted Schools, and all who have the cause of education at heart would do well to contribute after the manner of his means" to so good an object. Tux; CumsTY MINSTRELS.—Little Roberts's talented company of Christy minstrels have re- cently been delighting the Aberdare public with their performances. Entertainments w«»re given by the sable gentlemen on Friday, Saturday, Monday, and Tuesday last, at the Temperance Hall, and a numerous audience attended on each occasiou. The performances were certainly most entertaining, and the burlesque portion thereof was real'y side-splitting. The musical part of the proceedings deserves any amount of praise, but as each of the contributors merits a separate notice, and our space is limited we refrain from singling out any name for special encomium. Little Roberts was, if possible, funnier and moremirth- provoking than ever, and we can only express our hopes IthHt when he and his exceedingly meri- torious troupe pay us another visit, they will be rewarded with even more widespread patronage than they received on this occasion. PRSENTATION MEETING. On Monday evening, January 22, a meeting was held in the Lydia Williams Lodge Room, at the Greyhound Inn in this town, to present Mr. David Williams, one of the founders of the Lodge, with a very handsome silver wntch. The Rev. Dr. Price, Grand Master of the Unity, was elected presidunt; and Mr. P. john, grocer, Grand Master of the District, was appointed to the vice presidency. The following gentlemen were called upon and took part in the meeting :—Messrs. Joshua Jones, Thomas Howells, John Williams. Henry Djvies, Evan Jones, William Hopkins, Williams, J. Phil- lips, D. R. Lewis, P. Pendry, Thomas Botting, and the Rev. Thomas John. The watch was gracefnlly handed over to Mr. Willliams, by Miss Jones, daughter of the host. The Witch was of excellent make and bore the following inscription Presented by the Lydia Williams Lodge, No. 5259, of 1.0. of O.F.M.U., to Mr. David Williams, P.P.G.M. for valuable services. Aberdare Dis- trict." Mr. Williams is one of the most useful and hardworking members of the friendly socitties, and is deserving of the respect of all who take an interest therein LLWYDCOKD PENNY READINGS.—A very plea- sant and successful entertainment came off fur the first time at the long room, Corner House, on Thursday, last week. In the absence of Mr. Wil- liam Williams, (Carw Coch,) Mr. Rees Davies occupied the chair. In opening the proceedings the chairman said, that it afforded him great pleasure to see that the Penny Readings had at last come into existence at Llwydcoed. He was of opinion that they would prove very beneficial to the place. The following was the programme: — Welsh reading, Mr. E. Gwynne; Recitation, Mr. William Jones; Song, "Toriad y Dvdd," Miss M. Hoivells; Welsh Reading, Mr. Jenkin Davies Song, Ymweliad y Bardd." Mr. Daniel John English Reading," "The Cockney's Excursion to Wales." Mr. L Edwards Song, Mr.T. Williams; Violin Solo, Mr. E. Williams Welsh Reading, Mr. David Lewis Song, Mr. Thomas D. Howells; Song, Marian Lee," Mr. Daniel John Welsh Reading, Mr. T. George Song, Mr. J. Jenkins; Song. Mr. T. Howells; Song, "Annie Lisle," Mr. T. Williams; Glee, Mr. T. Howells and party Duett, Minute Gun at Sea," Messrs. T. Williams and Daniel John; Finale, "Hen Wlad fy Nhadau." The chairman then propos d a vote of thanks to Mr. Thomas Howells and party, for the kind assistance which they had ren- dered. and this was seconded by Mr.John Howells. Mr. Williams, Station Master, then moved that the hearty thanks of the meeting be given to Mr. John Howells for his liberality and kindness in placing at their disposal, free of charge, the room in which the meeting was convened. This was seconded by Mr. Thomas Howells, and carried unanimously. The pleasant and orderly meeting then terminated.—COR. PKESENTATION. — On Tuesday evening last Mr. D. R. Lewis, secretary to the Prince of Walas" Ivorites Lodge, held at the Cardiff Cas- tle Hotel, was presented by the members of that lodge with a beautiful silver watch and chain value £9. Before eight o'clock nearly 400 Ivor- ites and their friends had seated themselves com- fortably in the large Music Hall attached to the hotel, awaiting the arrival of the chairman for the evening (the Rev. Dr. Price), who, when he took his seat, commenced the business of the evening in his usual happy style. The worthy chairman was supportei on the platform by the Rev. Mr. John of Ynyslwyd, Mr. Louie, colliery manager, Mr. Purcell, a commercial gentleman from London, and several other gentlemen of this town. The Ynyslwyd Baptist choir contri- buted considerably towards the evening's enter- tainment by singing several choice pieces; so did Mr. Woodcock on the cornet, and Master L. H. Evans on the pianoforte. Then the most impor- tant part of the business was gonf through by the chairman calling on Miss Margaret Mary Evans (daughter of the host) to present the watch and chain to Mr. D. R. Lewis, which she did in fitting style, informing him that she had the honour of presenting him in the name of the members of the Lodge with that beautiful watch and chain." The recipient then acknowledged the present in a feeling address. Several good son s, together with speeches from the rev. chairman, the Rev. Mr. John, Mr. Louie, and other gentlemen followed. Two hours were spent most pleasantly, when the meeting came to a close by the whole audience joining in singing God bless the Prince of Wales."

ABERDARE POLICE COURT. TUESDAY.—(Before G. Williams, and R. T. Roberts, Esqrs.) ORUNK AND RIOTOUS.—David Watkins was charged with the above offence on the loth inst. The case was proved by Sergeant Matthews, and defendant was tined 5s. andcosts. Griflith Edwards, High-street, was charged with a similar effenc".—P.C. Morgan said that at I 7 o'clock in the evening on the 27th ult., he was called out to High street to quell a disturbance. He found a great crowd of people—about 200- and defendaut in the middle of them. drunk and pushing about. Witness asked him repeatedly to go into the house, but he refused. He ulti- mately succeeded in getting him into the house, but he came out again, and he had great diffi- culty in dispersing the crowd.— Defendant de- nied that he was drunk, only excited. He was trying to put up the shutters, but people would not allow him.—Morris Vaughan, drayman, re- meaibered seeing defendant on the night in ques- tion. He was verp drunk and creating a dis- turbance. There were a great many people about defendant's door, which was forced in by the crowd.—Eliza Thomas said Edwards was making e great noise, and the p tticernan asked him t,) go into the house. Sile believed he was drunk. Fi Md 5s. and 8s. 9d. costs. SELLING BEEH AT AN ILLEGAL POUR.—Ed- ward Lloyd, landlord of the Cross Keys, Mill- street, was charged with having bis house open for the sale ot beer at an illegal hour on Sunday, the 14th inst.—Sergeant Thorney said that at a quarter before 12 in the morning, he saw a boy go into the Cross Keys an I come out with a tin jack containing a quart of beer. As the boy came out, he saw the landlord's shirt sleeve as he was turning back from the door. Witness took the boy and the beer into the house, and told the landlord he had seen the boy come out with beer in the tin jack. and that he was doing wrong. The lan 1 lord said nothing in reply.—In defence the landlord said he was in the back and his wife was ill in bed at the time the beer was drawn. It was tho seivant drew the beer.—In considcra- tion of this being his first offence, their Worships fined him 20s. only and costs. AFFILIATION.—Margaret Griffiths, Mill-street, charged John Gronow with being the father of her illegitimate child, born on th. 2nd of Novem- ber, 1864. He had paid h^r £4 10s. and half a sovereign.— He was ordered to pay 2is. a week and costs, 18s. 9d. Margaret Davips u. John Davies, collier, for a similar offence. Paternity admitted. Ordered to pay 2s. G 1. a week from date of summons, and 13s. 611. costs. ASSAIU.T.— Gwilym Williams, Aberaman, v. Alice Williams.—'Harriet Harwood, a married woman living at Aberaman, said tint on the 10th inst. shp saw defendant throw a stick atcom-ilain- ant—a little bov 5 years of age—which struck him on the leg. She did not examine him as to the injury done. Tho bov first threw a knife at de- fendant.— Defendant said the little boy had given her gr< at ^provocation and was constantly annoy- ing her. On this 'occasion he threw a stone into the house. and her father narrowly escaped being struck with it on the head. She had complained to the parents hut they took no notice'ofjit.—Watkin Williams gave corroborative evidence and said complainant's mother was urging him on to strike de,endant with the knife, and defendant afterwards threw at hirn a small piece of stick which she happened to have in her hand at the time.—1 heir Worships considered the assault a very trivial one and dismissed the case. AFFILIATION.—Catherine Thomas v. Thomas Williams. Mr. Simons appeared for the defend int. Complainant said she was a single woman living at Cardiff-road, Aberaman. She had had a child, born two ypars the 15th of last J une, and defendant was the father. He had paid her at different times 4s., 10" and 6s. Defendant had left the place and returned eight weeks ago.—Several witnesses were called by complainant. Sarah Thomas, wife of William Thomas, said defendant stated to her after his return that he never intended to deny the child as he was the father. Mr. Simons stated that the defendant denied having paid complainant any money, and had never heard of the affair until after his return to Aberdare. The nayment of the money was purely:an invention.—The Bench considered the case clearly proved, and in consi- deration of defendant haying treated complainant so badly, ordered him to pay 2s. 6d. a week, from the date of summons, and £1 3s. costs. TR^NSFER^ OF LICENSE.—The following transfer was made The Prince of Wales. Aberaman, from Howel Reynolds to David Griffiths.

WRITING FOR THE PRESS. An esteemed correspondent favoured' us-last week with a short report of the installation of the Rev D. Davies, as pastor ofGadlys Baptist Chapel. For want of room we were obliged to hold over the following remarks which were appended to that report, and to which we nowA cheerfully give insertion :— We trust he (Mr Davies) will frequently favour us with his writings. By-the.bye, Mr Editor, talking about writing, can you tell me how it is that we so seldom See anything in your well- oonducted paper, or indeed, in any other paper, from thepen of our ministers ? Surely, they have a splendid sphere for doing good in this way. It seems to me it would be capital practice for them to enlighten us upon topics and movements which are of general, public, social, and moral good. Surely, no one need be deterred from fear of hard work, for this oftentimes only contributes to good health. I really should much like to see some of our good ministers occasionally entertaining us with their views upon topics of public interest. There is plenty of material for them to work upon. For instance, as matters of local interest, they can take in hand th" viain Drainage ques- tion, or the want of a Fire Eagine, and more fire-plugs. Our lieading-room would give plenty of matter for a d >zen articles. Tne old account system might coma in for a due share of attention. The propriety of pioviding an infirmary for Aberdare, and other questions of importance to the working men, might engage their skilful pens. Should they prefer a more extensive sphere and wish to soar aloft on eagle's-winga, and view the wants of the wide, wide world, the claims of the freed- men of America, who by millions are crying out for aid, might command their attention, or the efficiencv of com mercial treaties in binding the nations of the earth in peace and amity might have their earnest thought. In calling attention in this manner to what may certainly be deemed an omission on the part of our ministers in the discharge of tlleir.cluties as leaders and instruc- tors of the public, the writer may be deemed pre- sumptuous. That he does not much mind, if he by so doing can succeed in effecting a little good. There are worthy subjects which no men could better treat upon than our ministers which are now weekly left unheed.d, and if. as I suppose there is. there is room enough for their discussion in newspaper columns, I pray they may no long- er be allowed to remain dormant. I should like to know what you, Mr Editor, think abjut it. TIMOTHY.

EDUCATION OF THE WORKING CLASSES. It is well-known that, before the establishment of Sunday schools, working-men were much more illiterate and less moral than they are at present, and that the good which these beneficial inst'tu- tions have done is beyond human estimation hut as these schools have been commenced by religious societies, are carried on by them, and held on the Sabbath-dav, their object is very properly the enlightenment of the mind in the matter of religion. There is therefore still want- ing a secular means of instruction, recommending itself to working-men of all ajes.and I think that suoh a provision could be easily supplied by the establishment of night schools by friendly societies, after the manner that the schools which are held on Sundays are established. Next to religion itself friendly societies have already done the most towards the elevation of tho working-c'asses. Having for their objects the relief of their members in sickness and in- ability, their decent burial, and that of their wives at death, and enjoining on those of whom they are composed their duty to observe the laws of God and man, they have not only taught many to respect independency of character to sym- pathize with others in distress, but also to feel their own individuality, & to believe that they are capable of something besides the rough duties of their daily employment. These societies, meet- ing as most of them do once a fortnight, afford good opportunities for arousing the indifferent; and, having in them a great many members who are particularly interested in the welfare ot their societies, and also the welfare of all their fellow-inen, it is my opinion that it would not be a difficult task to establish night schools in connection" ith many of them, on the free prin- ciple which the Sunday schools are established on. That there is a class of persons who, from the peculiar manner in which they have been brought up, shun everything which seems to carry with it the solemnity of religion, and would rather show their illiteracy to persons connected with them in a secular society, than to the same per- sons in their connection with a religious one, and would avail themselves of a means of instruction established by the former, is the opinion of many with whom I have conversed on this subject. Free night schools established by friendly so- cieties would open a new door to education for such unfortunate persons as these, would afford a fine opportunity for doing good to those whose education has been better cared for, and would certainly prove a powerful means of men- tal improvement to all who would take an active part in carrying on the work of such an excel- lent institution. In these night schools, classes could be formed according to proficiency, and I believe that. by mutualllBlp audo the assistance of books, almost any branch of learning could be mastered. By the way, I wish to inform you that a friendly society night school is now being carried on at Aberaman, of which I wdl say nothing more at present, but will give you further information concerning it on some future day. A WORKING MAN.

REPORT OF THE MEDICAL OFFICER OF HEALTH. The following interesting report of the Medical Officer of Health to the Local Board was unavoid- ably omitted from our last. In the matter ot deaths the medicidomcer reports cheerfull y, there being a diminution of no fewer than 125 in the last quarter of 1865 as compared with the num- ber of deaths which took place during the last three months in 1864 When we consider that oar population must be much more numerous at present than it was a year ago, this must be re- garded as a favourable indication in a sanitary point of view but, doubtless, the main cause of the decrease of mortality is traceable to the ex- the decrease of mortality is traceable to the ex- traordinary mildness of the present season. Many of the streets, too, are in a better con- dition, and the sanitary state of the town alto- gether was no doubt somewhat improved during the year that has just ended. In the matter of births, too, the Medical Officer tells us the cheer- ing fact that there was an increase over the deaths during the last quarter of 170. Sad to relate there were 23 deaths from various accidents du- ring the period referred to. The efficient inspection which has existed for some time past has so effectually scared away the rascally introducers of bad meat and other un- wholesome fool as to have left the officers with- out any work to J.¡ during the last quarter in 1Rô5, For this every inhabitant—for we are all po*s' ssed of stomachs—should be "truly thank- ful." Overcrowded houses have had attention, and this has no doubt made fever less prevalent, and helned t" stave off diseases which so inevitably flow trorn the overcrowding of human beings in habitations which are not over hpalthy at the best of times. Altogether, the report, though not a lengthy one, is full of interesting particu- lars relative to the health and numerical strength ot our town. To the Members of the Aberdare Board of Health. GENTLEMEN,—The returns of mortality for the last three months in the year 1865, indicated a favourable condition of the public health, as compared with the same quarter of the previous year. The number of deaths being 200, which, compared with the corresponding quarter of the year 1864, will show a decrease of 125; and, if compared with the previous three months, will show au increase of 14. The chief cause of mortality has been —bronchitis, 18; pneumonia, 15; pthisis, 15; and diptheria, 4, diseases that are generally pre- valent during the winter months. Twenty-one deaths from fever were registered during the same quarter. I find that fever is confined chiefly to those streets that have not been pro- perly made, there being no surface drains to carry offthe house impuriiies thrown into them. During the three months that have expired, there were 370 births, showing an increase of 10 over the corresponding quarter of the previous year, and a decrease of 00 over the previous three months, and an increase of births over deaths in this quarter of 170. Twenty-three deaths by various accidents occurred in the same period. The mai ket and slaughter houses have been duly inspected, and, during the last three months, the Inspector has had no occasion to seize any meat or anything else as being unfit for hu man food. I have examined several houses as he*ng overcrowded and prejudicial to the health of the inhabitants. I have the houour to remain, Gentlemen, Your most obedient servant, D. DAVIES, F.R.C.S., 4*C. Medical Officer of Health. Bryngolwg, Ian. 9th, 1866.

THE REV. DR. PRICE. We abridge the following from Crayon Sketches," in our popular and well conducted London contemporary, The Christian World: The Nonconformist ministry of the Principality furnishes many striking instances of men who have risen from humble life to till posts of eminence and extensive inftuencs. Among these, the gentleman whose career we present in this Sketch is one of the most conspicuous. Thomas Price was born in an obscure hamlet, in the parish of Ltanhamiach, in the county of Brecon, South Wales, on April 11, 1822. His father was a farlll bailiff of limited means, and who was, therefore, not able to give his sou any education, beyond that of the most ordinary kind. While very young, the lad entered the service of a gentleman in the neighbourhood, and remained in this situation three years Already his motto was, "Excelsior i" so, having savel sufficient money for the purpose, he apprenticed hunself to a plumber and painter in his native plane. It was while serving his apprenticeship he began his career of Christian usefulness—a career which has since become so bright 1n -] dis- tinguished,—by taking a class to teach in the Sunday-school aft lched to the Baptist chapel. Having completed the term of service for which he had bound himself to his master, he received from that gentleman a proof of his satisfaction, esteem, an good wishes, in the shape of a gift of five pounds, and with this sum he resolved to begin the world for himself. His resolutions, thus formed, was soon put into practice. No less important a place than London would satisfy the aspiring Welsh youth of twenty one. After purchasing a few necessaries in the way of clothing and tools, he set out to travel on foot to the plaoe of his destination. It was a long and tiresome journey of one hundred and fifty miles but a laudable ambition and a true courage sustained the traveller. At length, weary and foot-sore, with only a few shillings left in his pocket, he reached the metropolis. He at once sought employment, and was fortunate enough sneedily to find it. His work was that of a house-painter but, while he wrought at this during the hours of labour, he devoted much of his leisure time to the acquisition of the more difficult and advanced departments of his calling. In a short time he began to feel the importance of intelleotual culture, and sought to satisfy his cravings for knowledge, and to discipline his mental powers by hard study in the olasses of a mechanics' institution. Here he learnt his first lessons in writing, grammar, history, elocution, and drawing. During his residence in London he was a member of the Welsh Baptist Church, Moorfields. In the Sunday-school connected with this church he laboured as one of its most diligent and useful teachers. At this time also he commenced his course as a Christian Jminister by preaching among his countrymen resident in various parts of the metropolis. His talents and earnestness as a preacher were soon reoognised, and his early labours were greatly blessed. It was, therefore, only natural that his friends should turn to him as one destined to devote his life aid labours to to the service of God. in the Gospel of His Son. At the earnest request of the church of which he was a member, he resolved to relinquish his trade, and to consecrate himself wholly to the work of the Christian ministry. Application was conRe- quently made for his admission into the Baptist College, Pontypool, into which institution he was received, and where he prepared himself for his future engagements. Passing through his college course with satis- faction to his tutors and oreditto himself, he left his Alma Mater, at the Christmas of 1845, having accepted the pastorate of the Baptist Church. Aberdare. Glamorganshire. He was ordained on January 1, 1846, aod has filled that pastorate, with ever increasing usefulness and honour, to the present time. At the time of Dr. Price's settlement the church was small and feeble, con- sisting of only ninety-one members, all of whom belonged to the working class. The chapel was also small and much dilapidated. Since then Calvary, the large and commodious chapel in which he and his people now worship, has been built; and six other chapels have been erected by the church and congregation under his care. During his pastorate Dr. Price has dismissed from his own church to form new churches in the six ehnpels erected, the following members :—In 1819, to Aberaman, 121 in 1855. to Mountain Ash, 89 in 1852 and 1856,58 and 81 respec- tively, to the English Chapel, Aberdare; in 1862 to Abernant, 163; in the same year, 131 to Yn- yslwyd and in IS65, 149 to Gadlys; making a total of 781 members dismiss'd in the course of twenty ypars to form new churches from a church thatat the beginning of that period inly numbered ninety-one in its fellowship. It is a pleasing fact that all these new churches left the mother church in the most perfect harmony and love, ana that still that church is in a most flourishing state, numbering nearly 600 members, with a Sunday school of upwards of 1.°.)0 children. In personal appearance, Dr. Price is prepossess- ing. He is of average stature, well-built, rather inclined to corpulency, the very picture of robust health and vivacious spirits. His ruddy features and beaming eyes are always cheerful, and when animated in preaching or speaking are very expressive. He has been married, but is now a widower. Through his late wife he be- came the owner of a considerable mine and coal property in the Valley of Aberdare. He is also well supported by his church, and is, therefore, in easy circumstances,—in such circumstances as we should like to see every Christian minister. His hospitality is large aui generous, especially to the poor and aged of his congregation, who are often invited and welcome guests at his table, and by whom he is regarded, not ouly as tho-If minister, but also as their wise counsellor and faithful loving friend. Several gifts presented by his church and congregation at various times prove the affection with which they regard bim, find other testimonials, of a more public character, show the high position he occupies as a citizen in the confidence and esteem of his fellow-towns- men. Dr. Price uses the English langage as appro- priately and as fluently as his native tongue. As a proacher, a lecturer, and a platform speaker, he is in the first rank of Welsh ministers. He is nlways'sensible, ready, energetic, full of Welsh fire, oftentimes humorous, ricy, and eloquent, He is, moreover, a skilful debater and a power- ful opponent in argument. Thoroughly evangpli- cal in doctrine, and in his views of church polity and discipline a Nonconformist and Baptist to the backbone, he is yet a man of comprehensive charity. He is no ascetic at the same time, he has maintained a spotless reputation. He can joke, and joke well and yet he is a deeply- serious and earnest man. For many years, Dr. Price has taken an active part in spreading secular and saored knowledge throughout Walos by the medium of the press. He was joint-editor of the Givron newspaper, one of the best conducted papers in the Welsh lan- guage. lie was the sole editor of the Gweithiwr, a cheap weekly periodical, having for its object the benetit of the working classes; and is still editor of the Seren Cymru, the weekly organ of the Welsh Baptists. He has, moreover, published seven or eight small theological works, and a number of Sunday school tracts. In all public movements in his own town and neighbourhood he has ever been among the foremost leaders. In 1842 he was elected a director of the Aberdare Gas Com- pany, and in the same year was elected to fill the office of Poor-law Guardian. In 1854 he was ap- pointed a member of the Abetdare Board of Health, and in 1857 was made a member of the Burial Board. In all these posts he has display- ed a genial kindlinebs of spirit, great wisdom and energy, and untiring devotion. The more general movements in Wales have always had his sympathy and earnest help. He has been of eminent service to working men, es- pecially in the part he has taken in the esta- blishment and direction of friendly societies. With several of these societies he is connected by membership and office; but his time and abilities have been more especially devoted to the exten- sion and prosperity of the Independent Order of Oddfellows, Manchester Unity. Of that Order he has been a member for twenty years, filling all its various posts of honour in succession, until now he holds the highest office, being chairman for the present year. There is some probability of Dr. Price aban- doning the pulpit for the House of Commons. In consequence of the death of Colonel John Lloyd Yaughan Watkiris, the late Member for Brecon, that borough has been rendered vacant, and at the request of many of the Liberal elec- tors, he has offered himself as a candidate. His address, as a whole, is intelligent, out- spoken aud manly. Nevertheless, we are not quite sure that Dr Price is doing the wisest and best thing in seeking a place in the senate. In our estimation he fills already a higher office than that of a Member of Parliament. Dr. Carey was heard to say of his son Felix, who began the Burmese mission, but who at length gave up missionary work to accept an embassy to Ava, "My son Felix was a missionary, and now he is shrivelled up into an ambassador." We confess to great sympathy with Dr Carey's views, and, therefore, while we wish Dr Price long life, more extensive usefulness, and an ever-increising measure of happiness; yet we can scarcely say that we should like to see a minister of Christ who has been astaboriousand successful shriv- elled up into an M.P.

« MOUNTAIN ASH. PEXNY RE ADING-}—On Thursday last the Penny Readings were held at the Workmen's) Hall, when the chair was taken by Mr W. Mills. Great credit is due to that gentleman for the able manner in which he conducted the proceedings. After a few pertinent remarks with regard to our penny read- ings, lie then commenced the programme by calling on Messrs. Morgan Jones and Davies for a glee, which was well received reading:—What is our Life ? Mr .lame1 Jones son>r—I love Suckey dearly, Mr E, Roberts Welsh reading by Mr J. W. Jones solo concertina, Mr Thomas Harries; son«—Cap- tain with his whiskers, &c., Mr A. Pardoe, to a rapturous encore; he responded with the Song of Songs; Welsh reading—Y Glecwraig, Mr. R. Richards song—Mr Jabez Long reading—Mr R. Richards song—I'm a merry mountain maid, Mrs. Mathews, encored Welsh reading—Sion Gilpin Mr D. Davies; song John Brown, or a plain man's philosophy, Mr Callaway, encore reading— The young teacner, Miss M. Evans trio—Dame Durden, Messrs Evans and party, encore. During the proceedings the chairman gave a recitation from Shakespere The proceedings terminated with God Save the Queen. ACCIDENT.—While a caravan was coming into the town, a little boy about eight years of age got under one of the wheels, which passed over the calf of his leg, crushing it very badly. No bones were broken.

To THE EOrToa OF THE ABARDARB TIMBS." Sir, —Having read in your paper of the 13th inst. a letter signed A Shareholder," calling the atten- tion of the Workmen's Hall Committee, Mountain Ash, and requesting some of-them to give an ex- planation to his enquiries, viz. First,—How long are you to remain in office as a committee ? Second,—Will you have a general meeting of. the shareholders to inspect accounts ? &c. [n reply to the first question, I beg to state that the end of the year, reckoning from the time the ball has been let, will be on the 25th March next, when there will be an opportunity offered to share- holders to change the committee if they think proper. And in reply to the second question, I beg to inform the Shareholder that there will at the same time be a full report of all the proceedings rendered and published, and I therefore hope that all unpaid up shares will be paid into the bank with the least possible delay.—I remain, Sir, your obedient servant, DAVID MORGAN, Secretary. Duffryn, Aberdare, 17th Jan., 1866.

To THE EDITOR OF THE" ABEBDARE TIMES." SIR,—I happened to be at St. Fagan's School- room on Monday week last, and I was exceed- ingly pleased with all that took place. The competition between the children evidently shewed that there had been great pains taken, able management, and great teaching powers used, otherwise the children, from five years and upwards, could not have made so great a pro- gress. I was delighted with the entertainment. It is a great boon to the public that there are so many National and British Schools in the parish of Aberdare, where the children are well and successfully taught. Ladies and gentlemen of any neighbourhood cannot testify their good wishes to the poor and hard-workiug men better than by preparing places where their children may be taught reading, writing, and, above all, taught their duty to Q-od and to their neigh- bours, for this is the great road to wealth and fame. I must say this much for the great em- ployers of labour in our county, they do not wish to be enriched by the sweat of their labour- er's brow and wasting sinews, and leave him in heathen darkness. Show me a man who is op- posed to the education of children, then I could point, sir, to one who is anything but a friend to the lower classes, aud such, sir, are the general sentiments If us working men. There is too great a tendency in the world to forget this great truth, that all have proceeded from the same stock. Many of the ancestors of our great princely merchants and extensive iron masters were nursed in the cottage, and the transition in many cases is easy to follow. We must never forget that the poor man is the foundation of the great social fabric. Of what value would the extensive landed estates and large balanoe at the banks be to a prince if he had no retinue of servants or labourers to be at his bidding, and cultivate his soil? Ho would soon sink to the humbler profession of being a labourer himself. Though the working man is in the lowest social stratum, it would be dangerous to pierce that stratum too deeply, lest, the great subterraneau reservoir would be reached. Look at the house on the brow of yonder hill, with its beautiful turrets, fine lawn, and extensive park, whose owner has a thousand sails whitening the world's occan-huw came he by that? By the toil of the poor man. Look again at another mansion, which has as many windows as there are days in the year, and whose owner can boast of mil- lions. The poor man made him a millionaire. Tiien let the rich and the great forget not the sons of labour. I fear I have trespassed too long upon your valuable space, but 1 hope you

TON—" Difyrwch Gwyr Harlech." Deuwch feirdd a boll gerddorion, Pawb yn gydwedd o un galon, Rhoddwn barch i'r Yawain ffyddlon, Roberts, wron eu 0 mor hyfryd a dymunol, Yw clodfori'r gwr haeddiinol, Teilwng Jywydd doeth rhagorol, Roberts fyddo i ni. Cyfaill lion, hawddgaraf, Tirion yw i'r eithaf Kid oes brad yn mytiwes fad Ein Roberts, Gadlys Uchaf Ei nodweddion sydd yn amlwg, Na choledrlir un drwg nilwg, Gau ein gwron 0 Forganwg,— Roberts folaf fl. 0 mor hardd yw'r egtvyddorioti Sydd yn llywodraethu'i galon, Taeuu addysg dda rhwng tlodion, Wna ein Roberts ni Isel yw a da'i deimladau, Mae yn caru hen ddefodau, Ac arferion gwlad ei dadau, Cara'i moesau hi. Cyfaill yw i'r tlodion, Ecyr law a chalon, Lleddfa hwn erch boenau'r llwm,. A io dan drwrn wasgfeuoa Gwr haelionus a thrugarog Yw ein Roberts mwyn, galluog, Parched pawb ef yn galonog, Gwrendy ar ein cri. Aed ar gynydd yn mbob rhinweddT Teilwng yw ein Yawain rhyfedd Fod yn aelod yn y Senedd,- Ef a fyddO'n ben Llifed cysur a dedwyddweh Pur, i ynad doeth yr heddwch, Meithrin cariad yw hyfrydwcli Mab yr Ynys Wen. Deued fel yr afon Fwyniant pur i'r gwron Oes o hedd fo hyd ei fedd Yn gyson wledd i'r cyfion Ac mae gobaith trwy'i ymdrechion, Caiff ein Roberts, y gwr tirion, 1 gydwledda a'r angylion Yn y nefoedd wen. ABERDARE Printed and Published br7 JOSIAH and THEOPHIHTS LIXES JONES, < TIMBS Office, Commiercial-place, County of Glamorgan. Saturday,, January 27,

[Dr. Price, we learn, has withdrawn from the contest, the Karl of Brecon having issued a second and more satisfactory address to the electors. A most enthusiastic meeting was held at Brecon on Wednesday evening but, we aie obliged to defer our report thereof for a week.]