The Cardiff Times

QUARTER SESSIONS. 1 GLAMORGANSHIRE. LORD DUNRAVEN AND THE ASYLUM COMMITTEE. REASSESSMENT OF THE COUNTY AN IMPORTANT REPORT. The county business of the Epiphany Sessions for She county of Glamorgan was disposed of on Monday, Mr R. O. Jcmes presiding, and there being also present:—Sir Hussey Vivian, Sir Joseph Spearman, J. T. D. Llewelyn, W. C. Williams, Gol. Hill, Mr F. E. Stacey, Mr D. L. Owen, Mr R. H. Rhys, Mr J. S. Corbett, Mr J. Blandy Jenkins, Mr I. T. Jerkin, Mr Edward David, Mr James \V àJ?), the Rev, C. R. Kmfcht, Mr Griffith Phillips, Mr J. H. Evans* Mr David Duncan, Mr J. Cory, Mr G. T. Clark, Mr Gwilym Wiliia as, Mr E. N. Jones, Mr R. RiekartU, 11t, G. William* (Uanraamey), Mr R. E. W. Lewis (Uandan), Gol. Lee. Mr T. W. Broker, Mr Heavy Lawi", Mr Henry Jones Evans, Mr Wai, Rees, Mr T. Shepherd, Mr J. Jones, Mr E. Davies, Mr E. N. Jonas, Mr G. Lewis Clark, Dr. Carne, Mr M. S. Williams, Mr D. P. Davies, Me Graham Doruford, and Dr. Paine. THR XiATE MR LUARD. The CHAIRMAN, before the commenceaaeni: of the business, remarked that the county had lost the services of the treasurer, Mr Luard having died suddenly a.t Gloucester Oll Saturday. The eourt was quite a.wa.re of the valuable services which Mr Luard had rendered for many years, and be wa- quite sure they would all feel great regret at his death. It would be necessary to make some arrangements for the carrying on of the business of the treasurership during the in- terval between the death of Mr Luard and the appointment of another treasurer, whatever form that appointment would take, and Mr Shirley, who had been associated with Mr Luard for 20 years, had kindly offered to rentier any assistance he could to the county in the interim. He thought that Mr Shirley was perfectly cognisant of all the business, as on many occasions he bad to carry it on during Mr Luard's absence. He thought that if the court woald adopt the course of entrusting Mr Shirley with the superintendence of the treasurer's work, it would be much to the advantage of the county. Sir HUSSEY VIVIAN was sure it would be a source of very great regret to all the members of the court present that they had lost the valuable services which Mr Luard had for so many yea.rs rendered to the county as its treasurer. The an- nouncement of his death must have eomeupon all of them most unexpectedly, and as a blow a*id a loss. The proposal of the Chairman, in favour of acceding to Mr Shirley's offer, was agreed to. Mr STACEY remarked that Mr Shirley wished it to be clearly understood that he would carry out the duties purely as an amateur, as he was anxious not to fetter or tie the hands of the court with regard to the appointment of a suc- cessor. Mr SHIRLEY, who was present, said he would assist the court in any way he could. The CHAIRMAN moved that it be referred to the finance committee to consider in what manner the office of treasurer should be dealt with in the future. There might, he said, be differences of opinion as to how it should be dealt with. He suggested that the finance committee should be re quested by the court to meet a fortnight hence, and after they had considered the subject, an adjourned sessions might take place to consider the report of the committee, and determine what form the treasurership should take, then at the April sessions the election could take place. At the appointment, aad on the occasion of an increase of salary, a question was raised as to whether the duties of the office should be per- formed by a banker or otherwise. It seemed to him that the proper course would be to refer the matter first of all to the finance committee to make a report, and then ask the court to hold an adjourned sessions to determine what should be done. This course was adopted by the court. POLICE SUPERANNUATION FUND. The report of the county auditor stated tha,' the police superannuation fund now amounted to je34,055 7s lid, viz., JB17,915 13s 8d due from the county, £4,619 3;; 3d consols, and £1,522 lis with the treasurer. Upon the report of the finance committee, together with that of the county auditors' report, be ing moved and seconded, The Rev. C. R. KNIGHT pointed out that the amount now standing to the credit of the police superannuation fund was £24,000. From a return which the county auditor (Mr Dever) had sent him, it appeared that the pensions paid last year amounted to JE387, whilst the interest upon the whole fund was £1,894. He suggested whether the time had not arrived when they should con- sider the rate at which police fees were pain in the different patty sessional courts w r;> a view to a readjustment of them. It seemed to him that they were receiving a very much larger sum than necessary for the maintenance of the fund. Perhaps the chairman of the nuance committee would consider the matter, and if he thought it desirable, bring it before the next meeting of the committee. Mr J. T. D. L LEWELYN remarked that Mr Knight had mentioned this matter to him at the close of the last meeting of the finance committee. Perhaps a fitting way would be for Mr Knight to give notice that he would bring the matter before the next meeting of the quarter sessions, and in the meantime it could be considered by the finance committee. Colonel LINDSAY (the chief constable) remarked that there were some very old officers now coming on to the pension list, and this would increase the amount outgoing. The Rev. C. R. KxiGHT There is now abso- lutely J61,000 a year more than is required for the paymens of pensions. The reports were adopted. THE MTKTINGS AT SWANSEA. On the motion of the CHAIRMAN, it was decided that the meetings of the court and the commit- tees at Swansea take place at twelve o'clock in the future. POLICE COII MITT EE. This committee reported that, as it appeared from the surveyor's report that the sergeant's residence at Mountain Ash police-station was improperly crowded, the committee recommended the county surveyor and the chief constable to consider with the magistrates resident there the best means of improving accommodation, and re- port to Easter sessions. In the meantime, the committee thought the ehief constable should be authorised to provide the sergeant with some out- side accommodation. The report of the surveyor referred to stated that upon his visiting the Mountain Ash Police- station on the 8th December, be found the sergeant's daughter laid up by erysipelas, and his son by consumption, both having to occupy the same bedroom. The committee recommended that before any money was laid out ia bringing gas into the court at the Merthyr Police-station, a report be obtained from the stipendiary magistrate as to its necessity for the purposes oc the sittings of the magistrates' court. A letter was subsequently read from Mr Bishop, the stipendiary, stating that he did not require gas, as he seldom sat after daylight. The committee also reported that the Secretary of State having declined to approve the increased pay ordered at the last quarter sessions to be given to the inspectors and sergeants of the county constabulary force in the absence of reasons showing its necessity, the committee had approved of a lettor to be sent to him, with the comparative statistics that were before the court when it made the order. The report was adopted, on thr motion of Mr J. T. D. LLEWELYN. CHIEF CONSTABLE'S RSPORT. The report of the chief constable, which was adopted, stated the number of persons aummoned and apprehended during the quarter was 3,511- males, 3,183; temales, 328. Of these, 4o were committed for trial—31 at the sessions and 15 at the assizes. THE COUNTY LUNATIC ASYLUM.—THE COMMITTEE AND LORD DUNRAVEN. The Clerk of the Peace read the following :— In compliance with the statutory requirements, the committee of visitors of the above asylum submit to quarter sessions the following report as to its condition and management during the past year, and they also desire to inform the court as to the progress being made with the new build- ings at Pare Gwvllfc. At the date of their last annual report on December 6th, 1883, the asylum contained 355 males, 295 females—total, 650 and there were then boarded at other asylums 19 males and 97 females—total, 116 showing a total on the books of 314 males, 392 females—total, 766. The numbers in the asylum to-day are 352 males, 293 females—total, 645 and boarded out there are 44 males, 115 females total, 159 and the total on the books is of males, 396; of females, 408; of both sexes, 804. The above figures show an increase of 22 males, 16 females; total, 38 during the year. In consequence of this increase it became neces- sary in August last to enter into a second con- tract with the Visitors of the Abergavenny Asylum, and temporary relid was obtained by sending there a number of male and female pa- tients. The admissions of the year have been 100 males, 81 females—total, 181. There have been discharged and removed to other asylums 60 males, 56 females—total, 112. There have died 43 males. 27 females—total, 60. The continuous increase in the number of patients on the asylum books exemplifies forcibly the necessity for the additional accommodation now being in course of preparation at Pare Gwyllt. The health of the inmates has been satisfactory, and no epidemics have occurred amongst them. The buildings are in good repair, but require con- siderable attention, care, and expenditure to keep them so. It is most desirable that the land (about 10 acres) belonging to Lord Dunraven, situate 8ft the east side of the river Ogmore, should be acquired without further delay. Early in the year, by request of the committee, Dr. Pringle submitted a report on the condition wf the institution as regards facilities for the escape of the patients in the event of fire occur- ring, and also as to the means of extinguishing an outbreak and it was resolved to carry out all his recommendations, which included the purchase of a fire-escape, the fixing of additional hydrants, and the erection of a convenient and central house where the fire eugine, escape, and other apparatus could be kept. Subsequently, at their annual visit, tue Commissioners in Lunacy re- commended tnat there should also be a number of additional exits for escape, and plans have been prepared and approved by them for six external staircases at certain places where the inmates might be cut off by a tire from the only outlet available. This work is estimated to cost about £23ó, and the committee propose carrying it out under the authority of the 38th section of the 16th and 17th Victoria, which enables them to expend £-1-00 in any one year on additions or alterations. The new workshop block is nearly completed, bus has not yet been handed over by the contractor. The committee are glad to be able to report that rapid progress has been made during the year with the aew buildings at Pare Gwyllt. The official, adraioiatrative, and laundry blocks are roofed and partly plastered, the female infirmary block is smrly ready for the roof, and the foundations are placed for the epileptic blocks on both sides, J Advice has been obtained as to the best modes of supplying water and gas and the provision of suitable farm buildings is also engaging the atten- tion of your committee. Application will shortly be made to the court for money to carry out these works. The road intended to form a communication between the present asylum and Pare GwyIIt will ere long be completed. The Commissioners in Lunacy visited the asylum on March 26th and 27th, and reported that they found the condition of the asylum and its inmates highly creditable. They made some suggestions which have received attention. The committee have much pleasure in testifying to the ability and unremitting zeal and attention of Dr. Pringle, who, with his assistants and subordinates, devote their best energies to the benefit of the institution and its numerous inmates. The Rev. Gaoigts Thomas, B.A., has during the present year resigned his office of chaplain upon bis appointment to the vicarage of Newcastle, a.nd in his stead the Rev. James Jones has been appointed chaplain, tha duties of which be per- forms satisfactorily. Mr J. T. JEN KIN, in moving the adoption of the report, spoke of the desirability of obtaining the additional ground referred to from Lord Dna- raven, and said that if any steps could be taken by means of which the transfer of this ground could be effected, the committee would be very glad indeed, because the boundaries of the asy- lum would thus be completed in a most essential way. The CHAIRMAN I believe that negotiatons have been carried so far that everything is pre- pared for a conveyance. The Clerk of the Pe-.tce: The conveyance is completed, and it was handed to Lord Duuraven's solicitors, but they declined to execute it.. The CHAIRMAN • Perhaps the Clerk of the Peace will draw the attention of Lord Dunraven to the report of the committee, and then his lordship may see his way to carry out the agreement. The Clerk was understood to say that an agree- men t which could be enforced in a court of law had already been made with Lord Dunraven. The CHAIRMAN asked whether the court would instruct the Clerk of the Peace to commun cate further with Lord Dunraven. The Clerk I think everything has been done that can be done through the solicitors. They say Lord Dunraven declines. As the court is aware, it was not known at the time Lord Dunraven offered to sell the land that it was intended to be used for sewerage purposes. Sir HUSSRY VIVIAN pskod whether it was absolutely necessary for sewerage purposes. Mr J. T. JENKIN replied in the affirmative, I and said that it could be so used without creating offence. They wished Lord Dunraven would visit the spot, for then he would be satisfied that the course intended to be adopted would not be injurious to adjoining property. The committee were anxious that no hostile proceedings should be adopted; still they wanted the contract com- pleted. Mr CLARK remarked that the sewerage farm at Merthyr gave rise to no offence. Sir HCSSEY VIVIAN moved that the report of the committee be communicated to Lord Dun- raven, and that he be invited to meet the com- mittee on the spot. The Rev. C. R. KNIGHT asked whether by adopting that course the court would not be rather waiving their right. The Clerk of the Peace already reported that all correspondence was exhausted, and also that in his belief there was a contract which could be enforced in law. He did not quite understand why they should go out of their way and treat this as a mere private matter. It was a matter of business. The Lunatic Asylum Committee told tha court that it was an urgent business, and it seemed to him (Mr Knight) that they ought to give directions to the Clerk of the Peace to proceed to enforce this contract. The CHAIRMAN I don't want to go kfto the question again, but I think the court is. so situated it would be improper and unfair to attempt to enforce this contract by law. The Rev. C. R. KNIGHT I don't know of any secret not before the court, but it seems to me this would be a very plain proceeding. The CHAIRMAN said that at the request of the court. Sir Hussey Vivian communicated with Lord Dunraven, and the understanding was that Lord Dunraven would dispose of this land if he did not find it inconvenient. He (the chairman) thought the court was very much bound by what passed between Lord Dunraven and Sir Hussey Vivian. Sir HuasEY VIVIAN said that the communica- tions between him and Lord Dunraven did not nrocesd in any way upon the idea that this land was to be used for sewerage purposes. At the time they were in a great difficulty in regard to a O r: for the new lunatic asylum, and Lord Dun- raven expressed his willingness to meek the county very fairly, and let the court have a por- tion of his ground, considered very necessary for the extension of the asylum. Well, it turned out subsequently that it was proposed to use this ground for sewerage purposes. They could quite understand that anyone would object to having his property damaged by that adjoining being used for sewerage purposes and he thought it quite reasonable under the circumstances that a landowner should reconsider bis decision. Lord Duuraven was quite willing to accommodate the county so long as the land was wanted for the J orJiuiUY purposes of the lunatic asylum, and the negotiation proceeded upon that assumption, I there being, in the fiur. place, no question of using it for purposes of sewerage, when it Wag proposed to use the land for oth r than the ordinary purpose:; of tho asylum, and for purposes possibly objectionable, Lord Dunraven, as he (Sir Hussey) thought very properly, said ho must reconsider his decision. If it could beshownVs Lord Dunraven,a.s he (SirHu-sey) thought it could, that no damage would acrue to his adjoining property, i he would meet tha county fairly and reasonably, as he was desirous of doing before, bus to attempt ¡ to force him would be most improper. The Rev. C. R. KNIGHT had understood that when the contract was made there was no stipula- tion as to the pnrpose for which the land was to be used. The report was then adopted, it being under- stood that Sir Hussey Vivian's proposal as to inviting Lord Dunraven to visit the spot would be carried out. PROPOSED ADDITIONAL POLICEMEN FOR PENARTH. Mr CORBKTT said he had been requested by his I fellow magistrates to give notice that at the next I quarter sessions additional constables would be t applied for for Penarth. The population of that district was so continually increasing that the number of constables was below tbe require- ments. There was also a larare fluctuating population, which was not always of the gentlest to deal with, besides which the construction of the Barry Dock brought a large number of navvies and rough characters into the neighbourhood. He asked Colonel Lind- say whether in the meantime he could not send an additional constable or two to Barry. The CHAIRMAN said the magistrates of Penarth should sign a requisition to the clerk of the peace. If possible they should get the contractors at Barry to appoint policemen and pay them, they being at the same time under the orders of Col. Lindsay. COUNTY ANALYST'S REPORT. The County Analyst (Mr Morgan, of Swansea) reported as follows :—"I beg to inform you that during the last quarter I have received and examined 40 samples of food, drink, and drugs, viz. :-1-lilk, 14; tea, 1 coffee, 5; flour, 1; bread, 1; oatmeal, 1; tapioca, 1 mustard, 1; pepper, 2; lard, 1; confectionery, 1; jam, 1 milk of sulphur, 1: tartaric acid, 1; cream of tartar, 1; senna leaves, 1; whiskey, 6. With regard to the foregoing—the samples of milk were all equal to and a few of them far above the adopted standard of quality. The samples of tea, Hour, bread, oatmeal, tapioca, mustard, lard, milk of sulphur, tartaric acid, cream of tartar, and senna leaves, were all genuine. Three of the coffees were genuine, one contained 80 per cent. chicory, and one marked Coffee mixture," con- tained 35 per cent. chicory. The confectionery was a sample called Jelly fruit," and it appeared to be perfectly free from injurious inerredient-1. The jam was a sample of raspberry jam, it was genuine, but of an inferior quality. One of the peppers was genuine, the other con- tained an excess of earthy or mineral matter. The whiskies were respectively Si, 27 £ 295, 37, 58^, and 59j degrees under proof—that is to say, five out of the six samples were diluted beyond the prescribed limit of 25 degrees under proof. THE LOUGHOR TOWN HALL. Mr J. JONES (in the absence of his father, Mr B. Jones) proposed that the county acquire the Townrhall of Loughor. He said that it included a police-station, rented by the county from the Loughor Corporation. The corporation would be dissolved nextyeai, under the Reformed Corpora- tion Act, and if the court did not deal with it before March, 1886, it would go into the hands of the Charity Commissioners. Mr RHYS What is the value of it ? Mr J. JONKS: It cost £300 to build, and has been enlarged at a cost of £ 200.—The matter was referred to the police committee. COUNTY RATING—THE nSPORT OF THE ASSESSMENT COMMITTEE. The following report of the county rate assess- ment committee was read:—" Thecannnittee have completed a partial revisionof thecounty rate basis, which they were required by the last midsummer quarter-sessions to undertake. They proceeded by examining the return of the valuation of all the parishes in the county for union purposes, which were sent in by the clerks of the uuion assessment committee. In every case where they found the union valuation to exceed that for county purposes by 10 per cent, or £2,000, they required the at- tendance of the officers, and after hearing them and making any correction which appeared from J1 J testimony to be called for, they have de- cided to make the alterations shown in the follow- ing table. Notice of the [alteration of this basis has been sent to each parish, and an opportunity giveu for its reconsideration by the committee. One parish (Ystradfodwg) which availed itself of this oppor- tunity has been informed by the committee that it adheres to its alteration, and will report it to the session. The parish is entitled to object to the alteration before the sessions, which may then make such order as to them as appears just. If the reported alterations are confirmed, the result will show an increase of the valuation for county rate purposes of the county of B556,095, which is distributed amongst the several unions as follow :—Bridgend, £3,204; Cardiff, £203,4)7; Gower, £351; Llaneliy, £3,9H; Neath, je3,573 Newport, £232; Pontar- dawe, £2,708; Pontypridd, JE109,595 Swansea, jei9,022 total, £356,096. The very remarkable increase shown in the Cardiff and Pontypridd Unions must be at- tributed in great part to the fact that the assess- ment committees of these unions have lately caused them to be valued by professional valuers, and the result now first appears. The Merthyr Union and the Bndgend and Cowbridge Union were also professionally valued some years a^o, and the result, a considerable increase iueach case, appeared at the time. No increase is now found in the Merthyr Union and the Bridgend Union, The committee wish to express their opinion that, considering tha enormous commercial and manufacturing properties, so difficult to value properly, in the western unions, and with a view to maintain an equality of assessment as far as ) possible throughout the county, it is expedient to employ professional assistants in these .anions, j for the purpose of revising the local valuations. BKIDGEND INION— Old. New. Bettws £ 4,916 £ 7,507 St. DonaU's' 1,493 1,591 j St. Hilary 1,663 1,992 Laleston 3,788 4,065 j* Totals £ 11,871 £ 15,075 11,871 £3,201 CARDIFF UNION— St. Andrew's £ 3,899 £ 4,600 Ca.,loxton 1.119 1,381 Canton 4,200 61,000 Cogan 1,992 3,100 St. George's 1,941 2,213 St. Joh'i ■ 95,000 130,000 Llanriaif 20.701 26,0-00 Llauduugii 6,353 11,445 LJanishea 7/.28 12,000 Leckwith 605 67b Lisvane 1,943 2,5.12 St. Marv 164,102 270,186 M ichaeistoae-sapdr-Bly 533 706 | PeBurtii 31,005 50,000 Peatloyian 3,831 4.262 Pentyrch 9,140 10,556 Peterstone-suoer-Ely 4,592 5,180 Hadvr 11,668 18,110 Koath 63.131 86,000 Rndry 2,609 3,669 Van 2,015 2,960 WhitCtiurch 16,715 21,200 £ 518,604 £ 72T\Q71 £518,6C4 EM,467 GOWBR- lis ton £1,504 m,661 Llandevvi 1,078 1,271 £ 2,582 £ 2,933 2,582 1s51 LLAN ELLY— Loughor £ 4,944 £8.888 4,944 I £3,944 NKATH— £ 3,944 (Jlyne £ 3,270 £ 3,945 (iiyncorrwg 5,03a 6,78l> Liangonoyd (Higher) 5,354 12,077 £ 14,229 £ 22,802 14,223 £ 8,573 NEWPORT— Llanvedi £ 2,022 JN,254 2,022 232 PONTABDAWE— Parcelmawr £8.445 £ 9,615 Ynisymoad 3,549 5,067 11,944 14,702 11,994 2,708 PONTYPRIDD— Old. New. Eg'iwvsilan £ 36,104 £ 41,213 Llantrissant 56,000 72,594 Lla Hwit Vardre 41,147 54,841 Llanfabou 12,941 15,787 Llan won no 106,000 127,000 Ystradyfodwj; 211,000 261,352 ~463,192 572,787 463,192 109,595 SWANSEA— Llansamlet, Higher 219-441 M, 4.% Clase 36,305 40,300 Penderry 9,136 11,533 Swansea Towa 155,092 160,760 St. Thomas 21,482 2-\452 £ 241,459 £ 260,481 241,459 I £ 19,022 j Mr RHTS moved that t!w report be adopted. i The assessment committee, he said, went very I carefully into all the books and lists brought .1 before them, and they bad done substantial jus- tice to all parties. Ystradyfodwg bad ob- jected, but he thought he had since convinced those who objected that justice had been done to them as well as to the other parishes. The fact was there had been no alteration in the valuation of j the cottages in the Ystradyfodw^ Valley since j 1866 and 1867. In the Merthyr district the com. I mittee had increased the valuation of the col- I lieries 72 per cent. Mr GRIFFITH PHILLIPS seconded the report. I The CHAIRMAN gave notice that at the next court of quarter sessions he should call attention to the paragraph in the committee's report which stated that it was expedient to employ pro- fessional assistance to revise the valuations in the western unions. The report was put, and adopted. There was no other business of public interest. The tvi-di oi pfisoners commence this (Tuesday) uiorr, ing. TRIALS OF PRISONERS. The trials rif prisoners at the Epiphany sessions for tha County of Glamorgan commenced at the Town-hall, Cardiff, on Tuesday. FIRST COURT. Before Mr g. O. JONKS and Col. LEE. GRAND JURf. Tiie were sworn on the j gr-.an jury —Messrs F. J. Be-.van (lotfcax.wi), WI)). Angel, Richard Benjamin, Win. Austin, D. j B-jwen. Tlios. John Evvn., Thowa* Evger Evans, Peter I'\ H.quoil, James 'dLeru, DJ. Jones, J. I 0. Joae-, E. S. Lock, Joseph Milner, D. Morgan, Thomas Morris, W111. Phillips, ChiP. Ross, Hy. Handed, J. 13. Wallace, and Jno. Williams. The Chairman, in charging the grand ju-y, said they hai rather more to du thau they had been accustomed to of late. He believed that there were 56 or 57 prisoner but as several of them were in the same inl-ctmeot, there would be abor t 45 cases to be presented to the grand jury. Thors was a considerable number of larcenies, about which lie was nvt g >ing to j trouble them, many being a. es of rob- bery from s,<i!rs. lie was sorry to say thai the number of cases of unlawful wounding wi< very large, the largest that he remembered in { his experience there. There were, he thought, j 15 cases in which persons were charged with uu- lawfully wounding other persons, A great many of these cases had arisen from quarrels some of them had arisen without any quarrel, and in all the j ca>:es various weapons had been used—shovels, | bars, knives, and bricks—and anything that came j to hand. In all these cases he thought that, with- out exception, the cireurustances were wucli the grand jury w^uld find it their duty t.) put the i persons charged upon their trial. f N2W MAGISTRATE. I Lord Windsor was qnaiitied as a magistrate and took his seat on the bench. A BASTARDT APPEAL.—DA V!D DAVIKS v. BACBBL EVANS. This was an appeal against an affiliation order made by the Caerphilly justices on the 27th of May last. Mr. B. F. Williams appeared for the appellant, and Mr Abel Thomas for the respondent. It appeared that both the appellant, a married man, and the respondent were employed at the Plymouth Works, near Taibach, in the spring of 1883. They lived next door to each other, and the young woman was in the habit of going into the man's house, where she would clean his boots, i,nI, as she said, Wash his back" after work. According to her testimony, there took place on these occasions several acts of familiarity in all cases, excepting one, without her consent, which led to the birth of a child on the 17th of January, 1334. She attempted to father the child upon him before Mr Bishop, the stipendiary magistrate of Merthyr, but the case was then dismissed for want of corroborative evidence. Subsequently the girl took a situation as a domestic servant at Quaker's Yard, and while there instituted affiliation proceedings agaiost Davies before the Caerphilly magistrates, she then having some additional evi- dence. The Caerphilly magistrates made an order upon Davies to contribute to the support of the child, and against this judgment he now appealed.—In cross-examination by Mr B. F. Williams, for the appellant, the re- spondent admitted that she went to Quaker's Yard, in order that she might go before the Caerphilly magistrates to get an order which had been denied her at Merthyr.—Mr Williams thereupon submitted on the authority of the case of the Queen v. Miers," reprinted in the 22nd volume of the LaIO Journal (magistrates cases), that the Caerphilly bench had no jurisdic- tion.—Mr Abel Thomas took exception to such an objection at this early stage, and proceeded to put some ques- tions to the girl, who said that she had no evidence but her own before Mr Bishop. She went to service at Qualcer's-yard, and had been paid wages there.—The Chairman, alluding to the objection of Mr Williams, decided to go on with the case.—Ellen Bryant spoke to seeing the parties together at the works in the spring of 1883, when Davie3 was behaving improperly.—Daniel Williams, an elderly man, stated thathe had remonstrated with them upon their conduct, and another witness named Williams who was in the company of Davies after the case was dismissed at Mertbyr, repeated a statement alleged to have been made by Davies, which amounted to an admission of undue familiarity between him and the girl.—The appellant, David Davies, an elderly man, was next called, and denied all the allegations made against him, after which his wife, and Wm. Peak, spoke on his behalf.—After hearing Mr B. F. Williams, the bench allowed the appeal, with costs. NO BILL. The grand jury threw out a bill charging David Hopkins with stealing 6s from Catherine Jenkins, at Ystradyfoawg, on the 10th November. A LICENSING APPEAL FROM MERTHYR. In this case Mr James Isaacs appealed against a refusal of the licensing justices to renew the licence of the Canal public-house, Dynevor-street, Mer- thyr.—Mr B. F. Williams was for the appellant, and Mr Abel Thomas for the respondents, the Merthyr magistrates.—Mr Williams said that the whole matter turned upon the 2nd subsection of the 42nd section of the Licensing Act, 1872. What took place was this—the licensing meeting was fixed for the 6th September. Before that day no written or other notice had been given of objection to the renewal of the licence to the present appellant. Before the parties entered the court on the 6th Superintendent Thomas went into their private room and laid before them Mr Thomas (interposing): My friend is now, stating facts which I don't admit.—Mr Williams continued that as a result of what took place in the justices' room, the magistrates, came into court and announced that all the licences would be renewed, excepting those ncluded in a list then read out, the licence of the present appellant being upon that list. The bench said that with regard to those whose nam were on the list, the meeting would be adjourned until the 27th September. Before that day, lie (Mr Williams) thought on the 12th, a written notice of objection was served on the appellant, signed by Supt. Thomas, notifying his intention of opposing the renewal of the licence at the adjourned meeting, on the ground that the present appellant had been convicted of offences under the Licensing Act, that his house was not structurally or otherwise adapted for a licence, and that it was not required in the district. Really the point was this-titidee the 2nd sub-section referred to it was stated that" the justices shall not entertain any objection to the renewal of such licence, or take any evidence with respest to the renewal, unless a written notice of an inten- tion to oppose bas been serycd or the owner not less thun 7 days before the commencement of the general annual licensing meeting, providing the licensing justices m&y, notwithstanding that no notice has been given of an objection being made, adjourn the granting of the licence to a future day." The whole thing, said the learned counsel, turned upon what was the meaning of the words" 011 an objection being made." The question was, did what took place amount to an objection.—The chairman was understood to say that what took place in the magistrates' private room could not l?e evidence.- Mr Williams said that other magistrates had de- cided in similar cases that no objection having been made in court the proviso did not apply.— The appeal was allowed with costs. THEFT AT CARDIFF. Frederick Loveridge (62), hawker, pleaded guilty to having stolen a coat, the property of Datuel Davies, at Cardiff, on the 27th December, and upon two previous convictions being proved against him, he was sentenced to nine months with hard labour. CANNIBALISM AT TNYSHIR. William Smith (25), haulier, was indicted for maliciously wounding Wm. John, at Ynyshir, on the 29th November.—The evidence of the pivse- cut or, who appeared in the box with a b.111 lage around his head, was to the effect that upon leaving the Butchers' Arms on the night of Ratur- day, the 29th November, he saw the prisoner and another man fighting. He (prosecutor) told pri- soner to let the man alone, whereupon he (prose- cutor) was tripped, and when he fell prisoner got on top of him. Prisoner seized prosecutor's right ear with his teeth, and bit a piece out of it. Prisoner, it was alleged, then exclaimed, "I haxe got his ear right enough, and added that he would ett the prosecutor and his clothes too.—After some evi- dence ha.d been given on behalf of" the case for the prosecution, prisoner Killed several witnesses, whose testimony went to show that he acted in self defence. These witnesses deposed that they beard prosecutor say that ho would murder the prisoner, and they aIM stated that they saw him attempt to strangle the prisoner in an affray on the road, when they w-jie on the ground together.—The jury found prisoner guilty, and he was sentenced to six month's hard labour.—Mr B. F. Williams pro- secuted. ROBBING A WATCHMAKER AT PONTYPRIDD. Caroline Hopkins (24), dressmaker, and Thas. Thomas (32), labourer, were indicted, the former for stealing a silver watch of the value of £558, the property of MrlsidorKutier, at Pontypridd, on the 27th Nov., 1884, and the latter for receiving the watch at Llantrissant on the 29th November, knowing it to have been stolen.—Mr Abel Thomas prosecuted, and prisoners were undefeaded.—It appeared that on the day uaaied the female prisoner entered the shop of the prosecutor, inTaff- street, Pontypridd, and asked whether he had any cheap watches for sale. Prosecutor showed her some, and then left the shop in charge of his daughter (a child). The female prisoner still being there. He subsequently missed the watch, and guve information to the police, who searched the bouse in which the male prisoner lived, at Uantrissant, and in a drawer in his bedroom found the missing watch. Up >n Thomas baing apprehended and taken to the police-sta.tion he made a statement implicating the woman. The chairman remarked that there was no case against Thomas, and directed his acquittal. The jury found the woman guilty, after wiuch she admitted a previous conviction for felony at Pontypridd, and was now sentenced to three months' imprisonment with hard labour. WOUNDING AT ABKRDARE. Richard Nicholas (on bail) was indicted for maliciously wounding Henry Morgan Phillips at Aberdare on the 8th of December, 1884. The evidence adduced was to the effect that the prL-oner lodged with the prisoner at Incline-row, Cwmamman, Aberdare, and that upon his entering the house on the day named, with the object of removing his furniture, the prisoner rushed at him with a knife. He (prose- cutor) pushed away the hand which held the knife, and then rrceived a wound over the right eye. This wound penetrated to the bone, and was about two inclies in length. Prisoner now denied having stabbed the prosecutor, and said that he only acted in defence of himself, as the prosecutor smashed his door open, and behaved like a madman. The jury found prkoner guilty of a common assault, and he was sentenced to a months hard labour. FRAUDULENT COLLIERS AT ABERRANT. Lodwick Sake (16), collier, and Evan Richards (16), collier, were indicted for falsely pretending that coal in certain trams had been cut and worked by them, by means of which they attempted to obtaiu from Evan Lewis and others certa!11 money with intent to defraud, on the 14th November. Mr David Lewis prosecuted. — Richards pleaded guilty, and Sake net guilty.— Both prisoners were employed at the River Level Pit, Abernant, and although they worked only one tram load of coal within a certain time, they so marked other trams with their number as to represent that they had cut the contents of tive trams. The fraud was discovered, however, before the prisoners had been paid for the work which they claimed to have done.—The jury found Sake gnilty, and recommended him and tbe other, who had pleaded guilty, to mercy on ac:oanc of their youth. — They woie eachson- tenced to iwo months' imprisonment. AN OLD OFFENDER. James Williams, alias Henry Toland, alias James Davies (41), blacksmith, pleaded guilty t.i stealing a putxe aad Is from Sarah Hooper, at C rliif, on the 8U1 November. Prisoner said he took the purse as he was in want of food. A Bristol police-constable proved a long list of pre- vious convictions against the prisoner, who, it appeared, had gone under various aliase- He was sentenced to six months' imprison men;, with Lard labour. FALSI-: PRUTKNCKSI BY A ROY. Will iani Slater (15), collier, pleaded guilty to having by false pretences obtained from Thomas Riches and others the sum of £3 10.i, at Ystrady- foùwg, on the 29th November. He was sentenced to two months' imprisonment, with hard labour, the Chairman expressing a hope that at the ex- piration of his term of imprisonment something would be done for the boy by the Discharged Prisoners' Aid Society. The court then adjourned till 10 this (Wednes- day) morning. SECOND COURT. (liefore Mr J. C. Fowleu and Mr H. JONES.) PLEADED GUILTY. Frances Maud (54), needlewoman, was charged with stealing a petticoat, of the value of Is. 6d., the property of John Jones, at Mcrthyr. She was sentenced to three months' hard laoo11r. BKOTHKL ROBBERY AT CARDIFF. Elizabeth Leary (34) was indicted for having, on the 24th of December, at Cardiff, stolen from John James Moses, a sailor, £6 in money. Mr W, P. James prosecuted. Siie was found guilty, and sentenced to six: months, hard labour. ROBBERY IN THE STREET. Honora Macarthy (25) and Elizabeth Donohue (25), both women of bad character, were charged with stealing a purse and £4- in money from the person of John Dob-son, at Cardiff, on the 28th November last. Mr Gibbons appeared for the pro- secution. Thejuryfourtd both prisoners guilty, con- sidering that they were acting in concert. Macarthy had been twice previously convicted, Donohue once. Macarthy was sentenced to twelve months'hard labour, and Donohue to six months hard labour. HEAVY SENTENCE ON A IIOU3EBRKAKEK. Llewellyn Llewellyn (21), haulier, pleaded guilty to feloniously breaking aud entering a saddler's shop and stealing a book, handkerchief, and other articles, of the value of 6s, the property of John Evans, at Ystradyfodwg, on the 20th October, 1334. He also pleaded guilty to feloni- ously breaking into and entering the office of the Bute Merthyr Colliery Company in the Khondda Valley, with intent to commit a felony, 011 the 20th October, 1834. He had been twice pre\iously convicted for breaking into and entering, and it was also stated that he had broken into the office of the Tyla Coch Company, but on each occasion the prisoner was unable to steal anything. The governor of the gaol at Swansea, Major Knight, said that the prisoner was at the present time under police supervision, and was a very bad character. The court sentenced the prisoner to seven years' penal servitude, and afterwards to seven years' police supervision. UNLAWFULLY WOUXDING. William Thomas (22), haulier, was indicted for unlawfully and maliciously wounding John Lewis Thomas, Ystradyfodwg, on the 25th October. Mr T. W. Lewis prosecuted. The parties live at the Mardy. On the evening of the 25th October complainant and his father were standing outside the hotel. Prisoner was turned out of the hotel in a very noisy state. He threw his cap in the air, and said that '"he was the best man there." Prisoner then took up a large stone and threw it at someone in the hotel, but it struck complainant a violent.blow on the head. He was found guilty, and sentenced to eight months' hard labour. UNLAWFUL WOUNDING. William Blake (31), labourer, pleaded guilty to unlawfully and maliciously wounding Thomas Williams, at Dowlais, on the 19th November. Both were employed at the works. Some words on that day ensued, and the prisoner took up a shovel and struck the complainaut a violent blow on the head with it. The Chairman said that it was one ofthenumerous cases which he understood that they had to deal with at the present sessions, in which violent injuries to the persons of the com- plainants had been inflicted. It would be neces- sary to endeavour to repress this class of crime, which was evidently on the increase, and inflict such punishments as would deter others from committing this offence. He would be sentenced to nine months' hard labour. FALSE PRETENCES. Henry Ashman, a respectably-dressed man, 26, clerk, was charged with unlawfully, by false pretences, obtaining a shoe brush, of the value of Is 3d, from Frederick Talbott, the property of Charles Pugh, with intent to defraud, at Cardiff, on the 20th November. Mr Martin prosecuted, and Mr B. F. Williams defended the prisoner. He was a clerk in the employ of Mr Pring, Custom House-street, advertising agent. He went to Mr Page (who also lived in the same street) and stated that he wanted a shoebrush for Mr Pring, and would pay for it on the following day. Prisoner then left sor Somerseshire, where his father resided. The account was sent to Mr Pring, who repu diated the purchase, and the warrant was subse quently taken out, on which the prisoner paid the money, and it was said now that the prisoner intended the shoebrush for his landlady, and had no intention to defraud the prosecutor. The defence of Mr B. F. Williams was that the prisoner had no intention to defraud. INDECENTLY ASSAULTING A LITTLE GIRL. Charles Shepherd, a labourer, was indicted for indecently assaulting a little girl, eight years of age, named Louisa Jane Dance, at Aberdare, on the 31st December. Mr B. Francis Williams prosecuted. The parents of the child keep a Coffee Tavern at Aberdare. The prisoner on the 31st December went to the tavern, and called for a cup of coffee. The child carried the coffee to him and also some change out of a. sixpence. He then behaved improperly to her. She left him and told her mother. When accused he admitted the offence, and expressed his regret, and hoped she would not say anything about it. He also admitted the offence to the police constable. He was found guilty, and was to prison for four months with hard labour, „ The court th«u row, Tue trills of prisoners at the Epiphany ses-ims for the countyof Glamorgan were resumed at the Town-hali, Cardiff, on Wednesday. FIRST COURT. (Before Mr R. O. JONES and Colonel LEE.) WOUNDING BY A BOY. Ephraim Owen Jonas, nboy, on bail, was indicted for maliciously wounding George John, at Merthyr Tydvil, on the 27th December.—Z\Ir David Lewis prosecuted.—It appeared from the opening of the learned counsel that on the day natned pro- secutor a boy, witnessed a quarrel outside the Royal Oak public-house, George town, Merthyr, between prisoner and a boy who had only one arm. Prisoner pushed this lad about, whereupon prosecutor struck at tiie prisoner, who retaliated by drawing a knife and stabbing the prosecutor upon the arm. It transpired that the prisnner and several other boys had been drinking together in a public-house prior to this occurrence. On being charged with the offence by tlie police, prisoner admitted that he cut the plosee-lltor, and said that ha did so because the latter kicked him,—The jury took a merciful view of the case, and acquitted the prisoner. A MOUNTAIN ASH WOUNDING CASE. John Davies and Daniel nowen, on bail, were charged with maliciously wounding Evan Davies, at Mountain Ash, ou the 9th iNovetnber. — Mi- Abel Thomas prosecuted, and Mr B. F. Williams defended.—It appeared that on the day named the proseautor left the house of some friends at Penygraig, an I proceeded to his home at Moun- tain Ash, having in his pocket a bottle of brandy, the top of which protruded so that it could be seen. When nearing Mountain Ash, and upon taking a short cut to his house, he met the prisoners, who asked for a drink of brandy. Prosecutor declined to give them any of the spirits, and endeavoured to escape, when one of the men picked up a stone and threw it at him, the missile striking him on the hea.d, and inflicting a wound which bled pro- fusely. Prosecutor eventually sought refuge in a farm house, and gave information to the police. It appeared that the stone was thrown by Boweti, and that Davies kicked the prosecutor. The jury found both prisoners guilty, and they were sen- tenced to nine months' imprisonment with hard labour. WOUNDING AT SWANSEA—A BOY SHOT. Samuel Norman was indicted for maliciously wounding and inflicting grievious bodily- harm upon John Clement Francis, at Swansea, 011 the 26th of December. Mr Brynmor Jones prosecuted, and prisoner was undefended.— The prosecutor was a. little boy, who appeared in the witness box with his head covered with bandages, and who said that he lived at 16, Little Madoc-street, Swansea. Between seven and eight o'clock on the evening of Boxing- day the prosecutor was standing upon a stone looking through a window-pane into tha circus, when the prisoner, ready dressed for a performance, appeared with a gun in his hand, and pointed it at the boy. He then, as prosecutor and a witness alleged, put down the gun and took something out of a bag with which he loaded the weapon. He again raised the gun and fired, and at the same time the boy, who received the charge full in his face, fell to the ground insensible. The evidence of persons employed at the circus went to show that the gun was simply loaded with blank cartridge, and prisoner asserted that he took nothing out of the bag to put in the gun. It appeared that the weapon was given to him with which to play his part in apiece called "The Soudan War." From the evidence of Mr Jones, the house- surgeon at Swansea Hospital, it seemed that on the boy's admission to that institution his cheeks and nose were stained with gun- powder, and that three days afterwards glass was found under the upper lip. The doctor expressed a fear that the boy would lose the use of his right eye.—Prisoner now stated that he did not know that the guu was loaded, and he only meant to frighten the boy.— The jury found prisoner guilty, and sentence was deferred. Later in the day prisoner was sen- tenced to six months' imprisonment with hard labour. WOUNDING AT SWANSEA. William Williams (28), labourer, on bail, was indicted for maliciously cutting and wounding John Rees, at Swansea, on the 25th December. Mr Benson prosecuted, and Mr B. F. Williams defended. It soeuts that the prosecutor is the chief inspector of the Swansea. Tramway Com pany, and that it is his duty to collect tickets on the trams at certain times. Prisoner had not a ticket, and was therefore told that he must pay his fare. After some words had passed between prisoner and the inspector the former produced a shilling, and the inspector proceeded to give him change. As prisoner was receiving the change he struck prosecutor a violent blow on the head with a stone which he had in his hand. Prosecu- tor was knocked down, and prisoner ran away, but prosecutor pursued him, and he was eventually giveitifto custody.—The jury found prisoner guu :,y, and he was sentenced to nine months' imprisonment with hard labour. Mary Ann Peake (22), married, was charged with maliciously cutting and wounding William Davies, at Swansea, on the 11th December.—Mr J. Jones prosecuted, and the prisoner was un- defended.—It appeared that the man and woman were in the Enpneera' Arms, in the Strand, on the day named, and that the woman threw a plas.3 in his face, inflicting thrtc wounds.—The prisoner aliened that she had only acted in self- defence, the prosecutor having taken hold of her and insulted her. She admitted that she had formerly led an improper life, but that she was now a different woman," and that the prosecutor was quite a stranger to her. While giving way to tears she £:xpre8sed her sorrow for what she had done, :1"\ pleaded great provocation.—The jury found pii- feoi; ."1 guilty, and recommended her to mercy. She was ordered to undergo two mouths'imprisonment witii hard labour, npo i hearing which sentence she wept bitterly a-i she was led to the cells. I NO BILL. The grand jury threw out a bill in which Jane Meylin (46), charwoman, was indicted for stealing a purse, containing j64, from Carl Frederick Lewerdowig, at Swansea, on the 27th December. INDECENT ASSAULT AT LLANSAMLET. Thomas Jenkins (18), on bail, was charged with having indecentlyassaulted. beaten, wounded, and ill-treated a girl, 16 years of age, named Elizabeth Mugford, at Llansamlet, on 13th November. Mr Abel Thomas prosecuted, and Mr B. F. Williams defended. It appeared that the young man and woman were employed at works in the neighbour- hood of Llamsamlet, and that, according to her statement, he endeavoured to take an improper advantage of her on the way home. The jury found prisoner guilty, and recommended him to mercy on account of his youth. He was sentenced to six montlu' hard labour. THEFTS AT MAESTEG. Henry Singer (55) rag collector, pleaded guilty to stealing 1 cwt. of coal, of the value of 6d, the property of Archibald Johnston, at Maesteg, on the 24th November and also to stealing a leather belly band, of the value of 2s, the property of the Llynvi and Tondu Company, Limited, Maesteg, on the 23rd November. He was sen- tenced to five months' imprisonment with hard labour, SHOP ROBBERIES AT SWANSEA. Ann Plummer (71), married, was charged with stealing a piece of flannel, the property of Ernest William Smith and another, at Swansea, on the 20th October.—The prosecutor missed some flannel from his shop door, and detective Morris, of Swansea, discovered a quantity of flannel at her house in Orchard-street, but as there was no satisfactory evidence of identity of the material, the chairman directed a verdict of acquittal, which was returned. Ellen Williams (45), married, was charged with stealing a pair of boots from the shop of Mr Wm. Wallace, Swansea, on the 12th December The boots were found in the possession of the prisoner, and upon the police going to the shop of Mr Wallace it was found that they had been stolen from that establishment. Prisoner now alleged that a woman gave her the boots to pledge. She was found guilty, and a previous conviction having been proved against her, she was sentenced to four months' imprisonment with hard labour. ALLEGED FRAUD UPON THE GLAMORGAN COAL COMPANY. The calendar contained indictments in which Isaac Protheroe and David Price, on bail, were charged with obtaining from the Glamorgan Coal Company, Limited, various sums of money by false pretences, at Llwynpia, on the 1st May, 1884; and also with conspiring together to defraud the company.—Mr Benson was retained for the prosecution, and Mr B. F. Williams for the de- fence.—Mr B. F. Williams alluded to some fresh charges which had been recently introduced into the indictment, and said that he ought not to be suddenly called upon to answer them.—Mr Ben- son argued that the new charges were so similar to the others that they presented no fresh diffi- culty.—Eventually it was decided to refer the case to the assizes. ALLEGED HOUSEBREAKING AND THEFT AT SWANSEA. William Hanford (17), labourer, was indicted for having broken into the counting-house of the Great Western Railway Company, at St. Thomas, Swansea, on the 22nd September, and stolen a jacket, of the value of 7s 6d, belonging to Thomas Mallet, an inspector of-the railway. The jacket was left in the office on the night of Saturday, the 22nd September, and upon Mr Mallet returning on Monday morning he found that the place had been broken into "and the article stolen. The jacket was found on prisoner's back two months afterwards, when he said that he had bought it in Lancashire. Prisoner now stated that he found the jacket at Swansea. He was found not guilty and discharged. Mr Brynmor Jones prosecuted, prisoner being unde- fended. A FRAUDULENT BAILEE AT LLANSAMLET. John Joseph, 29, labourer, was indicted for having, as the bailee of certain money, belonging to Wm. Tomkins, converted the same to his own use, at Llansamlet, on the 10th November.—Mr J. Jones prosecuted, the prisoner being unde- fended.—It appeared that the prosecutor was a horse slaughterer at Llansamlet, and that on the day in question he entrusted the prisoner with £1 to buy a horse at Aberavon. The prisoner, however, according to his own admission, went on the spree and spent the sovereign. He now expressed his sorrow for what he had done, and upon a previous conviction being proved he was sentenced to three months' imprisonment with hard labour. ■ GROSS ATTACK ON A GAMEKEEPER AT SWANSEA. John Griffiths and Edward Griffiths (on bail), father and son, were indicted for maliciously cutting and wounding William Fancourt, at Swansea, on the 3rd December. Mr Benson prosecuted, and Mr B. F. Williams defended. The prosecutor is head gamekeeper to Mr Dillwyn, M.P., and on the night of the day named saw the two prisoners going in the direction of a cover on Penyfodau farm, over which Mr Dillwyn has the shooting right. The gamekeeper concealed him- self, but he was observed by Edward Griffiths, the son, who pointed a gun at him. The keeper approached, when the younger prisoner reversed the gun and made a blow at him with the butt end, at the same time calling out Dad, oh, Dad come and help," The keeper closed with prisoner and they both fell to the ground, the gun being broken in halves in the struggle. The elder prisoner threw a stone at the prosecutor, which struck (him on the shoulder, and afterwards each prisoner seized a part of tbo broken gnn, and belaboured him (the keeper) till he W.wue uv^e'isible. The prisoner* were ;sub-e piei't'y apprehended. Tlie defeeee w.s ,<:) ahbi, "o prove which Mr B. F. Williams p:-< <588 lei to call witnesses. Six witnesses were called, who distinctly swore that both prisoners were not at the place alleged, and that they were [tt [t place some distanc3 :1,w[ty from a period before and for some time after the occurrence. The case occupied a lo;;g time. The jury retired to consider their verdict, and, after a delay of a few minutes, returned a verdict of not guilty against both prisoners. Thecourtthenro-e. SECOND COURT. (Before Me J. C. FowmR and Mr H. JONES.) CUTTING AND WOUNDING AT CARDIFF. Padlas Kavadagas, a Greek sailor, -was indicted for unlawfully and maliciously cutting, stabbing, and wounding Thomas Stephens at Cardiff, on the 8th November last. Mr Gibbons appeared for the prosecution. On the night of the 8th November there was a row among some Spanish and Greek sailors in Custom-Iwus0<:treet" the complainant interfered, and it was alleged by the prisoner that he was knocked down and kicked by some of the roughs. He was on the ground with Stephens under him. Prisoner was then seen to draw a knife from his pocket and stab complainant in two places. He immediately got up and ran away, and endeavoured to conceal the knife under a door -step. A boy saw him, and handed the knife to the police. It was then covered with blood. The prisoner alleged that he had no knife, and that the stabbing was done by two Spaniards. The jury found him guilty, but recommended him to mercy in consequence of the provocation. The court considered that there was not sufficient justification for him to draw a knife. As be had, however, been imprisoned for two months he would only be further impri- soned for two mouths with hard labour.—Antonio Toza, a seaman, was indicted for unlawfully aud maliciously stabbing and wounding George Den- nison, an the 11th Nov. last. Mr G. C. Thompson prosecuted, and Mr Abel Thomas defended the prisoner. On that night there was a disturbance in Sophia-street, and a number of seamen left a boarding-house armed with pokers, sticks, and other weapons. They struck and hit at every one in the street. Prisoner went over to the place where the complainant was stand- ing looking on, Prisoner was armed with a knife, and complainant, on seeing the prisoner rushed at him, struck the prisoner a blow on the mouth. Dennison was then knocked down, the prisoner falling on him. When on the ground the prisoner stabbed the complainant in back. The defence was that Dennison and his companion were bullies," and that they were frequently in the habit of quarrelling with foreign seamen. They on that evening were in reality the attacking party. The prisoner was violently assaulted, and thrown down by the prosecutor. He was injured, but some other person standing by stabbed the prosecutor. The wife of a boarding-house keeper also swore that some per- son, not prisoner, entered her house, immediately after the row, and washed his hands. The jury found the prisoner guilty, and he was sentenced to eight months' hard labour. SHOP ROBBERIES AT CARDIFF. Mary Hayes (37), a married woman, was indicted for stealing three coats from the shop of Mr Colman Follick, pawnbroker and outfitter, Bridge-street, on the 17th November. The coats were missed from the doorway, and the prisoner was in a few minutes stopped by the prosecutor's assistant with the coats under her apron. She was found guilty. Several previous convictions were proved, and she was sentenced to nine months' hard labour, the lenient sentence being given in consequence of her having an infant in her arms. —Robert Graham (28), labourer, and Edward Wilson (18), sailor, were indicted forstealing three pairs of stockings from the shop of Mr Coleman Follick, pawnbroker and outfitter, Bridge-street, on the 13th November, 1883. Mr Gibbons pro- secuted. The prisoner Wilson offered the stock- ings in pledge at the shop of Mr Barnett, when he was detained while a police-constable was sent for. On the constable leaving the shop Graham came up and said, I gave them to Wilson to pledge. I stole them from Mr Follick's shop but he also said, We made it up —one to steal and the other to pawn them." They were found guilty, and sent to prison, each for one month with hard labour. STEALING A WATCH. William Henry Fox, a sailor, was indicted for stealing a watch and chain from the person of William Creech at Cardiff on the 7th November. He was also indicted for receiving the watch. Mr Jeffries prosecuted. Complainant was in the Rose and Crown on the night in question. He had then his watch and chain. He left, but on arriving at Black-weir he missed his watch and chain. How it was taken he did not know, as he was much the worse for drink at the time. The prisoner said that a sailor took the watch from the prosecutor and gave it to him to pledge.—He was found guilty and sentenced to six mouths' bard iabour. STEALING A WATCH FROM THE PERSON. Margaret Higgius, a married woman, was in- dicted forstealing r. watch, the property of Wm. Thomas, at Cardiff, on the 26th December. Mr Evans prosecuted. The prisoner and a woman named Watts were charged at the polic3- court with stealing the watch. Prosecutor was at the Royal George on the 26th, having comn down from Penrhiwcyber on the previous day. Both women were of bad character. They spoke to him, and Higgins asked him to let. her see his watch. He gave it to her to look at, then began to talk to the other woman, and while so engaged the prisoner left the room, and on the following day attempted to pledge the watch, but was apprehended. Watts was discharged by tho magistrates at the police- court, and prisoner was committed for trial at the quarter sessions. She alleged that the prose- cutor gave it to her. She was now found guilty, and sent to prison for three months, with hard labour. STEALING A GOOSE, ETC. Hannah Conway (39), a hawker, was indicted for stealing a goose, a piece of beef, and some sausages, the property of Soloman Andrews, on the 20th December. Mr Gibbons prosecuted. A butcher at Penarth sent on that day a goose, a piece of beef, etc., to a lady at Canton. Ha de- livered it at the 'bus office, Penarth. Prisoner travelled in the 'bus from Penarth to Cardiff, and saw the parcel put under the seat. When she arrived at Cardiff she took the parcel from und*r the seat and walked off with it. The police were informed of it, and went to prisoner's house, where the sausages were found just cooked and partly eaten, and the goose concealed under the bed, between the bedding and the sacking. Prisoner said she found the parcel in the street near the 'bus office. Prisoner had been previously con- victed several times, and was now sent to prison for nine months with hard labour. ATTEMPTED POCKET PICKING. Martha Lane, a married woman, 52 years of age, was indicted for attempting to steal a purse and 15s, the property of and from the person of Martha Vanstone, at Cardiff, on the 20th December last. Mr Michael prosecuted, and Mr Gibbon defended the prisoner.—The prisoner was watched by Detective Smith, who was on duty in the Cardiff market on the 20th Dec., He saw her hanging about some stalls, and seeing her go up to a. woman, he watched her still closer, and on seeing her go up to Mrs Vanstone, push up against her, and seemed to examine her dress, he went up to apprehend her. She then left. After an elaborate summing up of counsel and the chairman the jury returned a verdict ofguiJty, and prisoner was sentenced t(;¡ one month's imprison- ment with hard labour. INDECENT ASSAULT. Morris Dooley, a young man 19 years of nge, was indicted for indecently assaulting a young woman named Margiiret Davies on the 1st December. Mr Evans prosecuted. The com- plainant was on that day walking over a moun- tain near Cymmer. Prisoner overtook her, then made improper overtures to her, and on her re- fusing them he followed her some distance, threw her down, and behaved in a very indecent and improper way. She, however, succeeded in escaping from him, leaving her cloak and hat on the ground. Prisoner then ran away, but on the following day, when he was apprehended, she at once recognised him as the person who assaulted her. Prisoner was found guilty, and sentenced to six months' imprisonment with hard labour. STEALING MONEY AT SWANSEA. Martha Thomas, a young married woman, was indicted for stealing and taking away a sum of money amounting to 9s 4d,;the money of Giacamo Corvetto, at Swansea, on the 23rd December, 1884.—Mr Griffiths prosecuted.—Prosecutor met the prisoner in some street at Swansea, went with her to acoffee-house, where they had some coffee and some food. He gave the landlady half a sovereign, and prisoner went to the bar and took the change, but, as prosecutor alleged, he never intended that she should keep the change, but she left the house with it.—Prisoner, however, affirmed that she gave the prosecutor the change, and when she was apprehended only one shilling was found on her.-The jury returned a verdict of not guilty. The court then rose,

CARDIFF. STREET ACCIDENT.—Wm. Mullins (52), of 51, Tyndall-street, painter, was knocked down by a vehicle on Monday while crossing a street in Cardiff, and was severely bruised. He was taken to the infirmary. ^SHOOTING MATCH.—On Monday afternoon, a shooting match for JB10 a side came off in the grounds of Rompney Castle between T. Rees, of Cardiff, and T. House, of Mansfield. Rees killed 14 out of his 15 birds, whilst House only succeeded in flooring 13 out of the same number. The betting was even in favour of Rees. THE HIGHER GRADE SCHOOL. —A special meet- ing of the Cardiff School Board will be held on Friday, for the purpose of selecting science master and assistant teachers in connection with the higher grade school. We understand that there has been a large number of applications. ACCIDENT. William Ealey (35), residing in Lewis-street, and employed at Messrs Spiller's mill, was engaged on.Monday in lifting a heavy weight when he felt a pain as of something giving way in his side. He was taken to the infirmary, and found to have severely hurt himself by a strain. He had injured his side a few weeks pre- viously. He was detained. WOOD-STREET CHAPEL.—Ou Monday evening the annual tea-meeting in connection with this place of worship was held in the schoolroom, when over 800 of the scholars, teachers, and friends partook of a good supply of tea, bread and butter, and cake. After the tea a miscella- neous entertainment was given by members of the choir and others in the chapel. Mr Daw, the superintendent of the school, presided, and addresses were delivered by the Rev. W. Wat- kiss and others. There was a large attendance, and all present appeared to have spent a pleasant evening. INQUESTS.—The borough coroner (Mr E. B. Reece) held inquests on three separate cases on Monday, at the infirmary into the cause of the death of Michael Elwood, of 12, Mulberry Terrace, Blackweir, who fell out of a swing at the back of Bute-street and fractured his spine, on the 23rd December, dying on Sunday, and in which a verdict of ''Accidental death was re- turned on the six months old child of John Gray, at 32, Arthur-street, who died suddenly,- verdict, "Natural causes and at the Town-hall on the body of Gertrude Annie Mitchell (8), re- siding with her parents at 5, Wood-street, who had been weakly from birth, and died on Sun day evening, the verdict being the same as tha immediately preceding. Mr Franklin Tuttle has just executed a portrait in oil of Mr Alfred Thomas, J.P., of Park-place. The portrait is life-size, and repre- sents Mr Thomas seated in a library chair. There is a certain amount of originality in the artist's treatment of his subject, and he has produced an effective portrait, which will probably be generally appreciated by Mr Thomas's friends. Mr Tuttle has recently done a considerable amount of work at Oxford and Cambridge—at the former place executing portraits of the principal of St. Edmund Hall, Dr. Harper (principal of Jesus College), the Rev. Canon Ince and at the latter place, Dr. Waldstin, Mrs Sidgwick, Mr Prior, the college tutor of Prince Albert Victor, &c. Amongst a variety of other portraits, he ha'3 painted those of the Mayor of Brighton, Sir Curtis and Lady Lampson, Lady Dingle, of Malta Mr Hoppin, the first secretary of the United States Legation, Scq, A meeting of the exeoiu-ive of the Glaiuo.-g-in County Conservative Association was held on Saturday, ntths Angel Hotel. Among those pre- sent were Co!. E. S. Hill, Messrs L. Carr, 0, H. Joiies, and Vye-Parminter. The proceedings were strictly private, but it is understood that the Conservative scheme for t-h* apportionment of the county was fully deliberated, and several impor- tant alterations made. DINNER TO LORD WINDSOR.—The Cardiff Conservative Club cm Saturday gave a dinner to Lord Windsor. There were over 150 guests, among whom, we are informed (the proceedings were private) was Mr Haiben. ST. MARY'S SISTERHOOD.— On Friday an entertainment was given in aid of the above charity at Bute-lanee School. The vicar pre- sided, and a crowded audience thoroughly enjoyed a very interesting programme. A number of very little ones caused much amusement and some surprise by their clever performance. A hearty vote of thanks to Miss Webb and the other performers brought to a close a very pleasant evening. SOUTH WALES DAILY NEWS "CHAPEL" DINNER. —A dinner in connection with the" chapel" of the South Wales Daily News was held at the Cattle Market Tavern, Quay-street, on Saturday. Mr R. Fleet, the father of the chapel," occupied the chair, Mr E. Wheeler filling the vice-chair. On the removal of the cloth, a toast list was gone through, including The Health of the Queen and Royal Family," "Success to the South Wales Daily News and South Wales Echo, The Printing Profession," The Overseers, The Proprietors," The Literary Staff," &c. The post-prandial proceedings were enlivened with songs and recitations. The catering of the host, Mr H. J. Perris,ga,ve every satisfaction. FIVE GENERATIONS LIVING.—During the last few days a grandchild of Mr David Evans, Cardiff, has had a child born to him. Mr David Evans is the son of the Rev. William Evans, Tonyrefail, who, though 89 years of age, is in the full enjoyment of health, and recently preached an admirable sermon at Bethania Chapel, Loudonn-square. The Rev. William Evans is, therefore, a great-great-grandfather, a position which it is the lot of human beings rarely to attain. TRAP ACCJDENTT.—Mr William James, contrac- tor, residing at Fonmon, sustained a severe acci- dent near the Angel Hotel, Cardiff, on Tuesday afternoon. He was in his pony trap with another man, when it was brought into violent collision with a heavier vehicle proceeding in the opposite direction. The shock overturned the trap, and dashed the occupants heavily to the ground. Mr James had a flesh wound in the head, from which he bled somewhat copiously, and was also much bruised. He was taken to the Red Cow Inn, and afterwards to the house of a relative in Cardiff. His companion got off more lightly with a few superficial bruises. » MAYOR'S TREAT TO THE DEAF AND DUMB.— On Monday evening the New Year's tea given by the Mayor and Mrs Fulton to the adult deaf and dumb of Cardiff took place at the Mission House, Windsor-place, Cardiff. About 30 deaf mutes assembled, including some from Merthyr and Aberdare. There were also present Councillor Alfred Thomas, the Revs. D. Young, J. D. Walters, N. Thomas, G. Hargreaves, and A. Roberts, and Messrs R. Pardoe (Aberdare), R. Benjamin (Cardiff), and Thomas, missionary to the Bristol Deat and Dumb. After tea a statement written by the Rev. E. Rowland was read by the Rev. D. Young. Mr Rowland strongly urged the advisability of something being done towards clearing off the debt on the mission premises. Mr R. T. Casson, the secretary to the fund, stated that the total list of donations to the fund up to the 31st Dec., including J336 6s 4g paid by Mr Cory for furnish- ing the room in which Sunday services are held, amounted to J3417 289 lid. The total expendi- ture had been £301 11s 6id, leaving a balance in hand of £1166" 7d. After a brief discussion it was resolved that the secretary be authorised to issue a fresh appeal, together with a full list of subscriptions, with the view of obtaining the £384 still required to clear off the debt. The deaf and dumb were afterwards addressed by Mr Rowland and Mr Thomas, of Bristol. Hearty votes of thanks were accorded to the mayor and mayoress for their kindness in giving the tea. Mrs Rd. England, of Windsor-place, sent a hamper of apples for the deaf and cumb, who thoroughly enjoyed themselves. PROPOSED CAMBRIAN SOCIETY FOR SOUTH WALES.—It will be seen from an advertisement that, in accordance with a suggestion put forward in our issue of yesterday, the meeting of the pro- posed Cambrian Society will be held at five o'clock instead of three, on Wednesday, the 14th inst., so as not to clash with the mayor's ban quet to Mr Mundella. ACCIDENT.—Thomas Donovan, a child of 10, residing in North William-street, Newtown, was playing with some companions on Wednesday, when he slipped in turning round sharply, and fractured his right thigh. He was admitted into the infirmary. AT a tea given to the Bethel Choir, Mount Stuart-square, on Friday last, the organist, Mr C. C. Thatcher, was presented with a valuable tea and coffee service, on his resigning the post through ill health. Mr Thatcher has been organist of Bethel Baptist Chapel for nearly 12 years, and Mr Chapman, in presenting the service on behalf of the choir and friends, spoke in most praiseworthy terms of the manner in which Mr Thatcher had filled his duties during that period. Mr Thatcher, in returning thanks, expressed great regret that he was obliged to leave them. INFIRMARY CONCERT.—A concert in aid of the children's ward of the Cardiff Infirmary will take place this evening at the Town-hall, by the kind permission of the mayor (Councillor A. Fulton), under the special patronage of Mrs Lewis (the Bishop's Palace) and Mrs Vaughan (The Deanery, Llandaff.) A most attractive programme has been arranged, amongst those announced to take part being Mrs Templeton, Mrs Terry, Mrs J. B. Rosnell, Mr J. P. Thompson, Mr J. 'Lane Herbert, Mr A. W. Thomas, the Rev. W. A. Downing, the Rev. K Skrimshire, and the Llan- daff Orpheus Union. MUTUAL IMPROVEMENT SOCIETY.—The inaugu- ration of the spring session of the Roath-road Wesleyan Mutual Improvement Society was held on Wednesday evening, in the schoolroom. The Rev. A. L. Barley, the president of the society, occupied the chair. An interesting musical pro- gramme was rendered by the choir, under the leadership of Mr Minty, the choirmaster, and Miss R. Jenkins, the organist of the chapel, assisted by ladies and gentlemen of the congrega- tion. Recitations were effectively given by Messrs E. White and C. C. Kernick, and a spirited address was delivered by Mr Lewis Williams, J.P. Refreshments were served by Mrs Buston, Mrs Barley, and Mrs Nicholls. SMUGGLING.—At the police-court on Monday—- before Alderman Cory and-Dr Paine,—JohnWm. Reynolds, the master of the British ship Ameer, from Hamburg, was charged by the officers of the Customs with illegally concealing 3J, lbs. of tobacco, the single value and duty of which was £ 1 3s lid. Defendant did not appear, and was ordered to forfeit his bail, £315s.-Albert Schru- der, a carpenter on board the same vessel, was also charged by Mr Mitchell, the examining officer of Customs, with illegally concealing Ii lb. of tobacco, the single valueand duty of which was 10s 6d. Ordered to pay single duty and costs, or to go to prison for seven days. ASSAULTING A MOTHER.—Thomas Dameny (28) was charged with assaulting his mother on the 29th ult. Complainant, when she applied for a warrant, stated that the defendant struck her and beat her severely, but she now said that the defendant only struck her once. Defendant bore a bad character, and had been previously sent to prison for three months for assaulting complain- ant. He was now sent to prison again for three months with hard labour. ASSAULT.—Thomas Davies (36), was charged with assaulting John Hcpkins in the market, on the 3rd inst. ComplainantisabutcheratLlandaff, and keeps a stall in the market. On Saturday night he missed a piece of beef from the # stall. He suspected a ma.n named Fullinlone, and went to several public- houses in search of him. When in the Arcade he saw Fullinlone with the piece of stolen beef, and gave him into custody. Defendant, who was with Fullinlone at the time, afterwards went up to him and struck him a violent blow on the eye. Defendant was fined 20s and costs. ASSAULTING A WOMAN.—Henry Sammerhill was charged on a warrant with assaulting Jane Court on the 17th ult. Complainant lives in Pearl-street. She was attending to a lodger, when the defendant entered the room, struck her a violent blow on the mouth, loosened her teeth, and knocked her down. The bench fined him 4Qs and costs, or to go to prison for 14 days. STEALING A WATCH AND CHAIN.—Thomas Wilson (21), Edward Faulkener (21), and George Clarke (23), were charged with stealing a watch and chain from the person of William Yorath, at the Cottage Hotel, East Moors, on the 31st ult. Detective Smith arrested the pri- soners at Merthyr. He told them the charge, and Wilson said I took the watch and (chain from the man in the back-yard of the Cottage Hotel. The other prisoners knew nothing about the rob- bery. I met them near Merthyr, andasked Clarke to pledge the watch and Faulkner to pledge the chain. They did so,.but they did'not know but that the articles were mine." Complainant said that he was in the Cottage Hotel. He treated Wilson. Wilson followed him to the back yard, and while there he felt someone tug at his watch. He looked round and found that his watch and chain bad been taken from him, Wilson had in that time left the hotel. The value of the watch and chain was £10 10s. The prisoner Wilson now pleaded guilty, but said that he was drunk at the time. Ha was sent to prison for four months with hard labour the other prisoners were discharged. ROBBERY AT THE CARDIFF MARKET.—Henry Fullinlone (26) was charged with stealing a piece of beef, of the value of 6s 8d, from No. 52 stall in the Cardiff Market, on Saturday night, the pro- perty of John Hopkins, butcher, Llandaff. Pri- soner pleaded entity, but said that he was drunk at the time. The bench sent him to prison for two months with hard labour. SHIP ROBBERY.—Thomas Fenly, a young man, was charged with stealing a brass cap from the snip Vivian, in the East Dock, on the 4th inst. The prisoner was watched by one of the dock police, and seen to leave several steamers. When leaving one he was stopped and searched, and the ca.p found on him. P.S. O'Garman, of the dock police, said that within the past week there had been eleven or twelve robberies from ships, and in some cases five, six, or seven caps found to have been taken. Prisoner pleaded guilty, and was sent to prison for one month with hard tabour. ASSAULTING AN OLD MAN.—Mary Shea, a young woman, was charged on remand with assaulting and wounding ai* old man named Daniel Murray, on the 15th June. Complainant was in bed, when the defendant entered his bed- room, threw a brick at him, and then took up the handle of a frying pan, and beat him with it on the head. She subsequently threw a bucket of water over complainant and his wife, and, as a parting salute, threw a pop bottle at them. De- fendant denied the assault. She had previously been committed for assaults, and was sent to prison for one month with hard labour. TAKING A DRIVE.—George Long was charged with assaulting and kicking William Masters and Henry Helps in Crockherbtown. On Monday night prisoner engaged Masters, a cabman, to drive him about, and after enjoying this luxury for up- wards of two hours, be expressed a wish to be | v"K>y< £ i 10 Newport. Aske 1 f..r .a sovereign ill proj-.tyment, lie seized the drher by the throat aad orooeeded to assault him. Henry Helps, a resiaurant-keepjr, was passing at the time, and went to Mastersassistance, receiving for his pains a kick on the leg from the prisoner. Fined- 10s and costs, or 14 days' hard labour. NSELECTING TO MAINTAIN A WIFE AND FAMILY.—At the police-court on Wednesday—be- fore Aldermen Lewis, Cory, and Dr. Paine- Henry Morgan, labourer, was brought up on a warrant charged with neglecting to maintain his wife and three children. Mr Pritchard, of the union, stated that prisoner's wife and three chil- dren had been in the workhouse since the 8tli December. The family were admitted also in May last, subsequent to which he promised to take them out and maintain them. He had not; however, done so, and his parents had paid the expenses to the guardians instead of him. In July of the same year the wife came into the workhouse, and a child died there. The bencb considered that prisoner was determined not to pay, and sent him to gaol for a month's hard labour. LEAVING VEHICLES. UNATTENDED. — Henry Martin, cab-driver, was charged with leaving his horse and cab standing ten minutes unattended; in Westgate-street, on the 5th inst. Mr Price appeared for the defendant, and sought to prove that he had merely gone round to St. Mary- street, with which the cab-stand in Westgate- street is temporarily connected, to see if any vacancy was there for his cab.—The officer stated that the defendant came from a different direc- tion. Defendant having offended four times before, was tined in the full penalty of 10s and costs.—Arthur Creese, who neglected the pdTiy and trap of his father in Trinity-street, on the 27th December, was fined Is and costs. VACCINATION. cgJJohn R G. Collins and Wm. Morris were separately summoned for omitting to have their children vaccinated.—The vaccination officer proved the cases, and the defendants were ordered to pay costs and to comply with the act forthwith.

PENARTH. FATHER AND SON.—John Fisher, charged his son, John Geo. Fisher, with' assaulting him. Complainant said that on the 21st inst. his son struck him on the head. He did not wish to press the charge against him all he desired was that he should keep away from the house. — De- fendant said he merely entered the house and asked for his tea, whereupon his father assaulted him with a poker. In reply to the bench he admitted having done no work for two years, but urged that being a cripple he was unable to follow any occupa- tion. He had previously appeared in that court. Fined 5s and costs, in default seven days' imprison- ment.

NEWPORT. NEW COUNTY MAGISTRATES.—The names of Sir William H. Marling, Lieut.-General Barnard, C.B., and Mr Harley Rodney, have been added to the commission of the peace for the county of Monmouth. FIRE.—Late on Saturday evening, as a youth in the employ of Phillips & Son, outfitters, Com- mercial-street, was pulling down the blinds inside the shop front, they became ignited from a gas jet near, and were soon ablaze. A large crowd assembled, the members of the fire brigade turned out, and some time elapsed before the fire could be put out. This was not done before much damage was done to the contents of the shop and also to the permanent fittings. MYSTERIOUS FIRE.—Early on Sunday morning flames were observed proceeding from a house at the village of Liswerry, which was rented by & shoemaker named Cambeiy. Two or three weeks ago Cambery locked up the premises and went to reside at Newport. P.C. Porter states that he passed the house at midnight, when everything appeared to be safe. At two in the morning the upper floor was discovered to be on fire, and an entrance was effected by the front door shortly before the roof fell in. Some of the furniture in the downstair rooms was rescued before the fire burnt downwards and destroyed the entire building. As no fire or light had been used in thejhouse for three weeks, the police have a theory that the fire is due to incendiarism. NOT ON SPEAKING TERMS WITH HER MISTRESS. —Ellen Sullivan, 20, domestic, was charged at the Newport police-court on Monday, with stealing a gold scarf pin, value 20s, the property of Emanuel Jacob, 1, Lansdowne-place. The girl, on her own admission, found the pin in the dustpan, and stuck it in the front of her dress, intending to return it. She and her mistress were not, however, on speaking terms, and had not been for three weeks. Ultimately she gave the pin to John Ephraim, of Cwmbran, and now admitted that she took it, but did not steal it— a distinction, as one of the magistrates explained. without a difference.—Prosecutrix rrecommended prisoner to mercy, as she baiieved she had been led away. — The magistrates' clerk; Led away By whom ?—J ohn Ephraim ?— Prosecutrix: Yes.—The Mayor (to prosecutrix) She says you were not on speaking terms with her; what does that mean ?—Prosecutrix I really do not know what she means.—The Mayor ad- ministered a caution to the prisoner, who was.a well- dressed girl, with a good character, and fined her 40s, or one month's imprisonment in default. A "DIFFICULT" MEAT TBANSACIION.—John Perry, butcher, formerly of Cardiff, was charged before the same court with stealing apiece of beef, value 3s 6d, the property of Margaret Rourke.— Mr Ensor, Cardiff, defended.—The 'defendant keeps a stall in Newport general market, and on Saturday evening the prosecutrix purchased the piece of beef. She put down three shillings, which defendant took up, and as she was getting sixpennyworth of coppers out of her pocket, de- fendant said, U I ill not going to let you have that meat for sixpence." Prosecutrix said she had given him 3s, and called his man to witness it, but he said he saw nothing given. A wordy warfare ensued, and defendant ultimately took the meat away from her. Prose- cutrix's daughter-in-law corroborated the evidence of her mother.—Mr Ensor called three witnesses to prove that prosecutrix attempted to dodge his client by putting down the money and then picking it up again. Perry then remembered that she was the same woman who six weeks before had taken meat, and refused to serve her.—The Mayor said the case was one of very grave suspi- cion, but gave the defendant the benefit of the doubt. A LURCHER AND THE TWO POLICE-OFFICEBS.— William Richards, 13, Bishop-street, Barnard- town, was charged at the same court with stealing a parcel of groceries, the property of a man named Parsons. The prosecutor went to the Castle beerhouse on Saturday night with his wife's parcel, and the prisoner was seen to take it up, and. policeman met him carrying it under his anou P.C.'s Nursey and Tooze went to search prisoner's house, when the latter called up a lurcher dog, an4 told the animal, "good dog, to turn the'officer out of the house. P.C. Tooze got his staff ready, and the dog thought better of it, and made friends with his master's visitors.—Prisoner, who declared that he took only his own property, which consisted also of s. parcel, was found guilty and sentenced to seven days' imprisonment.—Prisoner: Thank'ee, gentleman, but I'm innocent. SWEEPING OFF CHRISTMAS POULTRY AT MALPAS. —Robert Taylor and Chas. Hall, labourers at the new gasvorks, Crindau, were charged on remand with stealing 11 ducks and two geese, the property of Chas. Brunt, Greeacourt Farm, Malpas. Between CliristmasEve and Christmas inorning,the ducks and geese, which had Lean spared from the Christmas slaughter, were found to have been killed and taken away. Access to the farm had been obtained by the owners of two pairs of feet distinct tracks of which were found in the clay or the field. These tracks corresponded with the boots found at prisoners' lodgings, where also was found a blood-stained bag, with feathers adhering to it. Prisoner sold one goose for 4s to Mary Ann Stirch, Marshes road two ducks were found suspended in a new chimney at the gasworks. Prosecutor and his bailiff (James Taine) 'spoke to the identity of the birds pro- duced, which had been reared on the farm. The duck.house must have been broken open after mid- night, because the bailiff was to and fro in the yard tending a sick pi_g._—Mr Parker, for the defence, set up an alibi, and called Thomas Barnes, bricklayer, who ponel that the prisoners were indoors from 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. When apprehended, prisoners said they won the geese at a shooting match.—Tha bench resolved to make an example of the prisoners, as several fowl robberies had been committed of late, aad sentenced them to three months' hard labour. ROBBING A MASTER. — At the police-court on Wednesday, Sarah Ann Boww, a young woman, was charged with stealing several articles of dress, the property of Michael Chapman, on the 7th of October. Prose- cutor is an outfitter in Commercial-road. The prisoner, who is from Cwmp, near Ebbw Vale, had been in his service for a month. At the dateU in question she left, and a number of articles were missed. She was appre- hended in Newport en Monday afternoon last, when a pawn ticket was found upon her, showing that [prisoner pledged several articles belonging to Mrs Dipman at Mr Freedman's. At the police-station prisoner said her home was at Ebbw Vale, and on Mrs Lipman going to the address given, there was no such person to be found. Afterwards prisoner said her home was at Cwm, and this led to a communication with the police, stating that the prisoner had robbed her mother also that she was known by the name of Mary Powell. This prisoner denied, but it was not a little singular that she gave the name of Mary Powell when she pawned the articles. Prisoner now pleaded guilty. Sentenced to two months' hard labour. A LOST CHILD. — At the conclusion of the business atfthe Newport police-court, on Wednes- day, the magistrates present being Messrs. R. F. Woollett, R. G. Cullum, and A. J. Stephens, a respectably-attired woman named Rhoda Cullen. applied to the bench to assist her under the following circumstances :—Eight years ago she entrusted the guardianship of her child, then four sears of age, to a sister residing at Newport, one now wished to have the child back, but her sister refused to part with it, and had spirited it away.—The bench pointed out that they had no jurisdiction in the matter. They could not compel the sister to return the appli- cant's ehild, but would request the superinten- dent of police to cause inquiries to be made as to its present whereabouts.—The applicant, who said she had come over from Bristol, and who was apparently deeply concerned, thanked their worships and withdrew.

RUMNEY. SCHOOL BOARD.-The ordinary meeting of the Rumney School Board was held on luesday, Mr Travell presiding. The master (Mr John Row- lands) tendered his resignation, and also that of his wife as sewing mistress. Miss Rowlands, assistant-mistress, also resigned, as Mr Rowlands, who had received a Government pension of .£25. bad decided to leave the pansh. The resigna- tions were accepted. Mr Westyr-E vans pro. duced the correspondence that had taken place with reference to the school site rince the last meeting, and a committee was appointed to con- sult with him, with authority to institute legal proceedings, if necessary, to enforce the comple- tion of the coutract.

A Lloyd's telegram from Mauritius, dattd December 24th, states that the Hereford, from Calcutta for the West Indies, bad put in with 15 emigrants dead from fever. i