The Aberystwith Observer

APPOINTMENT OF A POLICE-SERGEANT 1. FOR ABERYSTWYTH. The following document, signed by the mayor, many of the magistrates, professional gentlemen,,and nearly all the leading tradesmen in the towp, was forwarded on Wednesday morning to Capt. Freeman, at Aberayron. The importance of h-aving a prolwr person appointed to the post which the tate Sergeant Thomas so ably occupied cannot be over-esti- mated — 7o Capt. Freeman, Chief Constable of the Cardigan shire Curtstubulary. We, the undersigned inhabitants of the town and liberties of Aberystwyth, beg leave to convey through you, Sir, a sense of our regret for the great loss which this important petty sessional division has suffered in the death of the late Sergeant Thomas Thomas, No.1 of the Cardiganshire constabulary, and to express a hope that his successor may be chosen for those qualities of integrity, untiring devotion to public duty, and of urbanity as well as strictness in the exercise of his duties which won for the deceased Sergeant Thomas such general confi- dence and esteem. Towards securing such a satis- factory appointment, we with all courtesy take upon 11s to suggest to your consideration for the vacant post police-constable David Evans. now stationed in this town, and who stands one of the highest on the list for promotion. The conduct of police-constable Evans during his two years' residence here leads us universally to the belief that he would in every way prove a worthy and welcome successor of the late Sergeant Thomas, he being a man of intelligence, untiring energy, and unexceptionable character. At the present moment your appointment of P C. Evans to the vacant post would prove singularly satisfactory to this district at large, with which Evans is intimately acquainted, having a perfect knowledge of the various tramps and suspicious characters with which we are infested, and being perfectly conversant with the duties of a sergeant of police, he h iving filled Sergeant Thomas's place in the town during the protracted illness of that officer. We therefore have every confidence in recom- mending to you P C. Evans for the vacant post, and are sanguine thatyoii will accede to our wishes, and so give universal satisfaction in this district.

TO CORRESPONDENTS. APPOINTMKN'T OF ScnooLMrsTRUSS AT THEWoRK- IIOU'SK.—Mr William Joseph Davies has forwarded us a long letter on the above subject, which we decline to publish for various reasons. The writer disapproves the appointment of a school- mistress, but unfortunately in doing so he deals in personalities, which no newspaper would be justi- fied in circulating. If Mr. Davies would consent to put aside such unworthy weapons, and argue the question fairly and dispassionately upon its merits, we should be most happy to be the channel of giving his arguments publicity. CADNO.—Had this letter been signed with the real name of the writer we should have had some hesi- tation as to whether it would be improper to pub- lish it, but as the writer hides himself behind a nom de plume we have no hesitation whatever in c1eclining. There are many very forcible argu- ments used by the writer, which, however, are weakened, not strengthened, by anadmixture of personalities. We agree with. Cadno that all public buildings for the town ought to be openly competed for, and that there should be no monopoly or favouritism in the matter. But this does not justify Cadno in stating that not only a certain work designed by a certain gentleman is an un- sightly building," but also that all future designs which the same gentleman "will be able to pro- ducewi.t he a (lisgrace," and that they will of necessity be unsightly as well as expensive" Then, too, as comparisons are notoriously odious, it would not be fair to the other gentlemen whose names are mentioned complimentarily that they should be thrust unknowingly into a false posi- tion. The last sentence in Cadno's letter we have much pleasure in printing, because it is pregnant with important truth,—"It is of great importance to Aberystwyth," says Cudno, to have our public buildings properly designed, and a town architect ought to be at once appointed, instead of allowing specrdative builders to erect houses such as are now in course of erection." Recent events will have testified to the justice of this remark.

THE TOWN" PROPERTY. TO THE EDITOR OF THE ABERYSTWYTH OBSERVER. Dear Sir,-In asking space for explaining my views for the best mode of dealing with the large property vested in the corporation of our town, I trust the medium selected will enable all persons interested to more thoroughly and quickly under- stand the question, and so enable the representatives of the town council to deal with this matter. Mr Parry, town clerk, with the approbation of the council, suggested a letter to the public s at theiT last meeting, on the 13th inst. To fully appreciate the importance of the qnestion. a brief outline of the property will be necessary. Tt consists of leaseholds, which, with a few exceptions, have from 40 to 50 years to run, paying only nominal ground rents, if any, the gross rental from this source being 200Z. per annum, whilst the gross annual rental as per rate book- is 7,000/ and yearly increasing in amount. With such a prospect before the council, I strongly urge upon all parties in- terested in the welfare of our town to consider the propriety of doing such good as can be done without awaiting, as we are now told by our legal advisor we must, for the expiration of the terms originally demised. The future progress ot the town will be impeded, and opportunities unequalled by any other town in Wales be lost, unless some such course is adopted as is now suggested. It moreover implies the want of legality in such leases as have been renewed, where the old buildings have not been pulled down and others built in their place. To prevent the loss of time and expense in apply- in any instance to the Lords of the Treasury, I would suggest an Act of Parliament as the easiest means of overcoming the many difficulties which beset this question. There are several instances where large plots of ground have been leased, and these plots divided into numerous parcels, which again have been sub-divided, making the surrender of the original lease next to impossible, and even then the legality is questioned There is a considerable acreage of land between the railway station and the Rheidol which falls to the corporation on the 25th March next. It is pro- posed to convert this into a valuable property, by making a road, 72 feet wide, from Pontcorry bridge, near the gas works, as far as the Manchester & Milford Railway, and parallel with the Cambrian station and railway, past the intended public slaugh ter house. The parallelogram thus made will afford one of the best and most convenient sites for a smithfield or cattle market that any town may desire, giving access by rail to all parts, without necessitating cattle traversing the public streets. The frontage towards Lewis Terrace will be avail- able for a market hall, combining every possible advantage, and supplying the greatest want the town now suffers from To build this market, levy, tolls, &c., will involve the raising of a sum of money, which the corporation should do, and the outlay will be a remunerative one. It is, moreover, deemed desirable that in the event of the town deciding to adopt the late Mr Thomas Duncan's plan for bringing for all future time the water for the town from Domen. it would be a safe course to obtain these powers under an Act of Par- liament, and for this purpose both representative bodies in the town should coalesce Another and wider question, open to some oppo- sition, would be to otim-ge our municipal borough to the area of the parliamentary borough, and so enable the most desirable building grounds at present out- side the municipal limits to avail themselves of the town sewerage, lights, scavenging. &c &c. In addi- tion to the actual good, it would destroy the anomaly of levyirw rates at Rhydyfelin. Priidinas, &c". omitting the site of the National Schools, barracks, and other buildings actually in the town. The plan proposed will greallv facilitate the com- pletion of all these desirable objects, and will cer- tainly bring considerable sums of money into the treasurer's hands. Let the council take powers to convert on equit- able principles the whole of their building land into perpetual leaseholds, on payment of a fine—say one year's annual value of the property for each term of 2o years renewed., such leases never to have a lllng-er terra than 75 years, and all renewals to be made before the expiration of 50 years of the 75 ytsars term. The result would be the payment almost at once of one year's value on property, and in 10 or 15 years two years' value, or 14 ,0(>u £ might be calcu- lated upon The greatly increased value of the property may safely be looked to. to compensate any nppa rent loss to those who live 40 or 45 years hence. I hope all will become convinced that no intention exists of alienating any portion of the town property, but simply to avail ourselves at once of some port ion of its value to expend in public improvements, and thereby vastly increasing its annual value. I venture to anticipate such an impetus will be given to the improvement of the leasehold premises ill this town as will more than compensate fur any fines levied in anticipation of the expiration of the present leases, and our town will not risk being outbid by other watering places, whose lands are not trammelled by similar restrictions. We take the lead, and I trust we shall retain it. and see Aberyst- wyth deservedly praised for advancing with the times. Having already extended my letter farther than I intended, I will at a future time seek permission, Mr Editor, to explain more in detail tne plan proposed, and cite some instances where other town., have obtained parliamentary sanction to deal with their property for the public welfare I remain yours faithfully, JONAIHAN PELL.

II'" i- v j COUNTY COURT, ABERYSTWYTH. Tuesday, 19th January, 1869. Before Thomas Humphreys, Esq., deputy-judge. His honour took his seat on the bench about n o'clock. The earlier 1o..tion of the day was, as usual, taken up in healing undisputed and unimportant cases. INTERPLEADER oAlm. William Letrit v. John Hughes. The good 4. the value of which was in dispute, were claimed by \Ir Edward Hughes. Mr Hugh Hughes appeared for the defendant, and Mr Crealock for the claimant. An informality or misunderstanding existed as to the delivery of the bill of particulars. His honour directed the case to stand adjourned to the following court. i ni O /» TROVER. E. J. Gregory v. C. Green. Mr Crpalock appeared for the plaintiff, and stated it was an action brought for two dogs, value for Ill., which, sincp the action was brought, were returned to the plaintiff at Cheltenham. The only question now was one of costs. Charles Green, sworn: Witness sent the dogs back last Tuesday, from the Trawscoed station. They arrived that night in Cheltenham. This is a swindling affair; that's what I call it. The dogs could not help arriving there that night. [The conduct of the witness bere became humorously yiolen t] Here, your honour, is a letter [letter handed inj. Judgment for 1/. 2s. Od. costs. Mary Davies v. Isaac Evans. Mr Crealock appeared for the plaintiff. Mr Hugh Hughes for the defendant. This was an action brought for balance of 4I. 2s. 6d. on account for goods sold and delivered. Mary Davies, sworn, examined by Mr Crealock Witness sold the defendant a cupboard, value 21., and 2 cwt. of hay. Mr Hughes said there was nothing about hay in the particulars. Witness: Sold wire and poles for 7s 6d. at an auction six years last May. Sold a calf also, about a wppk before May. Judgment, for plaintiff for part of the amount claimed and the usual allowance for witnesses. JURY CASE. Page v Hall. Thomas Lloyd, sworn I reside at Welshpool, and am agent for Page, brewers, &c., Ironbridge. On the 31st March last I asked my employers to send ale and beer (No. 3) to defendant On the 6th April defendant wrote to say that it was muddy and I bad. [Letter read ] I came here about the 7th or 8th of May. The beer arrived about the 2nd April If beer is tapped directly it will be muddy. B beer ought not to be tapped for a fortnight, and the ale about nine days. It was called No. 3 Ale, 36 gallons. I saw the defendant in May. when Mrs Hall was excited. Asked him to go with me to the station to tap the beer, and if it was not good I would send it back, but he would not coine 1 asked Mr Williams. who worked for Mr Hall at the time. Went to the station, and we tapped the beer. Allsopp's store clerk was also present. We plugged two barrels, and tried the third, separately. The bitter ale was not qu'te so clear as the others, which were nice and drinkable. The others also tasted the beer. Mr Williams said it was rather weak. After examininu- themltook some mild ale inaglasstoshow the de- j fendant. Subsequently I wrote to the firm. I have seen defendant several times since. Crnss-examinfd Mr Hall gave orders for the beer. Don't remember there being any talk of send- ing the goods back if they were not good. When I went to the station I do not remember being asked what they were to do with the beer. Itappedthei three barrels the bitter was not quite clear. The others were perfectly clear. The beer ought to be clear in nine days. John Mellings, sworn I have dealings with the firm of Page. I remember Mr Lloyd bringing me some ale about the 8th May to taste. It was mild ale, and in a nice condition. Cross-examined by Mr Crealock Don't know where the ale came from. Mr Lloyd puts up at my house. Henry Mitchell, sworn I keep the Nanteos Arms. Had two barrels about the 8th March last, called X, and found it very good. Cross-examined by Mr Crealock The number of one was 1,357. Don't remember the number of the other. Went to the station about the 8th May to taste my own ale. I was not preseot when the ale in question was tasted. Roderick Williams, sworn I went with Mr Lloyd to taste the ale, in May last. It was clear. Examined I saw them draw the beer. The three were clear, but there was a difference in one—it was not so clear. Jane Hall, sworn I remember Mr Lloyd calling in March last. An order was given, on the terms that it was to be returned if it was not good. Took it to the cellar nearly a week before we tapped it. We tapped only one, and seeing that it was muddy we sent it back to the station. We kept it for about three weeks. Mr Lloyd said the beer would be good after a time. He said he would send us better beer. [Sample produced.] It was taken out in three weeks' time before the barrels were returned to the station. Cross-examined by Mr Atwood The beer had no strength. I mentioned that to Mr Lloyd. Did not draw this bottle full. Roderick Williams told me when he came back that he would not sit down to such beer as that. Thomas J. Jones, sworn I keep the lerminus Vaults. Remember going to the station last August to taste some beer for Mr Hall. Tasted the beer ot each barrel. The bitter was the best the other was clear, but tasteless. I would not take that beer to my house for any money. Cross-examined The shed was not the proper place for the beer. Robert Ellis, sworn I am clerk in the goods station. Remember barrels of beer arriving on the 2nd April for Mr Hall. We undertake the delivery to the house. They were sent back to the station in three or four weeks afterwards. The traveller called upon me on the 8th May to taste the ale. I asked him if they were to be returned, and he said 1 should know afterwards. I tasted the beer when Jones went there. One was clear, and the other dark, with a bad taste. Cross-examined: Two casks were clear, and the other dark. John Campbell, sworn I am clerk at Allsopp's storehouse. Was at the station when the beer was tasted, and tasted it myself. Two were pretty clear, and the other muddy. They were not up to the mark. James Richard Corbett, sworn I am clerk at the railway station. Conduct the correspondence. I remember in the month of July writing to Ironbridge station to know what to do with the barrels. We kept them on hand. according to the Ironbridge in- structions. Mr Hall said he would take the two casks that were good. I wrote to Ironbridge, and had an answer stating we couid deliver the three, but not two. Walter Rogers, sworn I remember tasting some beer at Mr Hall's. It was the oddest thing I ever tasted. I did not see it after it was taken down to the station. J. J. Griffiths, sworn I remember being taken down to Mr Hall's. I saw the barrels tapped in Mr Hall's cellar. The beer was muddy, and very weak. [ tasted it before it left the cellar. It had not im proved at all. Tasted it in about three months after. It was improved in colour, but not in taste. Cross-examined Proved having written several letters to plaintiffs. I was satisfied at first it was not fit to drink. It was exactly the same taste as at first. Robert Ellis Mrs Hall sent the barrels to the station with the intention of returning them, and afterwards told me that I was to keep them till tbe traveller came, that she had heard from the house Verdict for the plaintiff in the price of one barrel. Col. Powell v. Capt. Jenkins Mr Hugh Hughes appeared for the plaintiff, and Mr Crealock for the defendant. This was an action brought to recover the sum of 10/ being four years rent due to the plaintiff. David Edwards, (woodman.) sworn I was in the employ of Col. Powell in March, 1802. I know de. fendant. I let land to him for Co) Powpll in 1 Sfi:.o at a rent of 2l. 10s. a year, and a promise of a lease. He took possession on the 25th March of the same year. It was a small field. I have been asking him for the rent, and he promised to pay when he would get his money from the Mine Company. Cross-examined by Mr Crealock: Col. Powell and Capt. Phelp were present at the time of letting. I do not remember whether they referred to the map. The house was not in his letting. The lease was to be for 21 years. It was for the purpose of building. He was to have a £ of an acre. Only the field was mentioned. I remember having a conversation with the defendant at a public-house as to the rent. He said if he had the f of an acre he would pay the rent. I do not remember his saying that the agreement was for | of an acre. Cross-examined bv the defendant Know the place well. Nothing but the field was let, and be (the defendant) knew that well. Capt. Jenkins, sworn I had a conversation with Col Powell with respect to the taking of this land. Capt Phelp was not there. I took a piece of land v.hichwas referred to at the time on the map. I took possession of a of an acre. I was to have it for 00 years. I paid the rent whetr-first applied to. Col. Powell premised me I should have the rest of the land. Irefused to pay the rent because they would not give me an agreement. Cross-examined by Mr Hughes; I knew the piece ofground, I took from them of au acre. I told Griffiths I would pay if I should have lohe, whole land agreed for. Thomas Davies, sworn: I remember the conver- sation between the defendant and 'David Edwards. David Edwards asked Jenkins if he was going to stand to-tis bargain, artd Jenkins said he was if he should harie the f, and that he was willing to pay rent' for the land be hid'. J. G. Williams, (Glo'ster Hall',) sworn I made the map [produced.] Judgment for the plaintiff, with costs. Wednesday, 20th January, 1869. His honour took his seat on the bench at 10 o'clock. M W'L OIL; WILL CASE. I" John James v. David James. Mr Atwood appeared for the plaintiff. Mr C. T. Woosmna (Newtown) for the defendant. This case stood adjourned from the last court, for the production of further evidence. Mr Woosnmu addressed the court for the defen- dant. He saiii the sou" of John James had left bith, and a meeting of the family was held to consult as to the making of,a will and providing for his future maintenance. It was there arrallaerl that the defen- dant was to take charge of him, and his household goods and ready money to be divided amongst bis other children This in verbiage was testamentary, but .it really.was in the opinion of country people in presenti. A document was prepared byoneJones, u writer, purporting to be the last will and testa-* ment of John James. All the parties were in the room, in whose presence it was read over, al1d as th^ old man could not write, his son, the p'aintiff, gfgiied it for him, and it was-duly attested; andthis was the document which the plaintiff, claiming to be heir-at-law, came here now to upset. About p years ago the old man died, and this will was.acted upon, and the defendant was in possession, and remained quietly so until this action was brought, five years after the old man's death, and when the witnesses to the will were all dead. David James, sworn, examined by Mr Woosnsm Witness is defendant in this case, and son of John James, of Alltglais. In 1859 there was II mcc-ting of the family to settle father's affairs. It took place in the Unicorn, in this town John James, the plaintiff, William James, Richard James, a. sister, father, myself, Hugh Jones, a farmer. Lewis Morris. the landlord, Jones, the. clerk, and. Lewis Lewis, shoemaker. My father had to chouse with. M'hiuh of his children he would goto live, and he chose me, who undertook to maintain him, and bury him, and for that the house and field was to come to me for ever. The other children were to have 41. each. and Jane the sister 5L Jones, the writer, was there to I write the will between us, and I was to pay one sovereign to bar the claims of the other children. A paper was drawn out by Jones.the clerk. It was read out to witness's father by Jones, who wrote it. John James, the plaintiff, signed it at the request of my father, who could not write. It was witnessed by Hugh Jones, as trustee, and that he was to pay the money. Cross-examined by Mr Atwood Witness and the other parties were at the Unicorn for a long time Went there in the morning, and left in the evening. They were there two hours, in the parlour. It was a will Jones was told to prepare, as my father did not wish anyone but me to have the property My brothers and sister were present all the time. They saw and heard as much as I did, and made no objec- tion. I was to find my father in keep, for which I was to have the house and field Father gave each ofthem4<andwitnessgaveK.ext.r!ttobartheir claims. That ll. was then and there paid. It was given to Hugh Jones, because he was the trustee to pay the other money. Father said he was going to give 16i. The plaintiff said something about 20/. He asked father where the 20/, was gone, but did not get an answer. Nothing was said to Jones, the clerk, abollt 2M. There was no money then paid in the room, but the plaintiff received some money before he returned to Birmingham. Hugh Jones acted as trustee. P.tidHughJonusU.t.obttrthe others from the property some time after. This meet- ing took place in the summer 0f 1859- Father died about four years ago. Part of the 1(;[. was in the bank, and the remainder elsewhere. On my father's death a letter was written to the plaintiff in Bir- mingham, to inform him of it. Received no answer, but got the letter back from the Dead Letter Office. Neither of the brothers came to the funeral..After the funeral there was no formal reading of the will. Remember about two years ago getting a letter from Mr Atwood. asking under what document I claimed. No one had a right to ask me any question. Could not read the letter, and did not show it to any one The messenger explained to me the purport of it. I have not got that letter, and had it not a month ago. In the following May an action was brought in the court, and I employed Mr Roberts, and the action was dropped before the court. I have con- formed to everything in the will. Father had household furniture, which were divided between Richard and Jane James. That was soon after the making of the will. Jones read the will in English and WeLh in the presenee of all. The plaintiff signed father's name to the will, my father being unable to write. John signed at father's request. It was next signed by Hugh Jones, as trustee. No one else was requested to sign, and no one else did sign, to my knowledge. I was in the public house when all this business was being done. There was no ale brought in—nor drank there at all tiil after :he will was written and signed. The will was kept by Hugh Jones after it was signed. Did not see it again till after the testator's death. Jones, the clerk, was sober at the time—as sober as you (laugh- ter in court). Lewis Lewis was sober. Did not know he was called King of the Cobblers," nor that Hugh Jones was the King of Clarach." To the judge Jones, the clerk, wrote this will in the room that day. To Mr Woosnam: My wife generally opens my letters. David Lewis, sworn, examined by Mr Woosnam Witness is son of the late Lewis Lewis. shoemaker, of this town. I have seen the will in question [will placed in his hands]. The signature of my father is in my father's handwriting. b Mrs Jones (widow of Hugh Jones), sworn, identi- fied the will as being a document given her by her husband, sealed up, and I gave it to the wife of David James, the defendant. Mr Atwood then addressed the court for the plain- tiff, and argued that on the evidence of the defendant the will breaks down, because he says that only the plaintiff and Hugh Jones signed the will, and it bore oth r signatures, which were not appended in the presence of the testator. His honour did not feel satisfied that the defen- dant understood the question put to him. The defendant recalled. To the judge Saw John Jones and Hugh Jones sign the paper, and no one else After the will was written it was read. Then it was sealed up. It was read before and after it was read by John James. Lewis Lewis and Lewis Morris were witnesses. Lewis Lewis signed his name. I saw him sign it. The judge Why did you not say so before. The witness Because I did not understand. Saw John James, Hugh Jones, and Lewis Lewis sign it, and no one else. Am certain of it. his honour said he was bound to take the attes- tation clause, stating they signed in the presence of each other. John James, sworn, examined by Mr Atwood: Witness is the plaintiff, living in Birmingham. Was at the Unicorn in June, 1859, with my brothers andsistprs. [Will handed witness ] Thesignature John James is not my writing. Certain of that. Don't know whose writing it is [ The witness here wrote his name on a separate piece of paper, and his honour compared it with the signature to the will]. Witness was at the Unicorn from about eleven till two. There was beer drank by every one there. There was a paper written by Jones, the clerk. It was an arrangement where my father was to stay. He was a very old man, close upon 80 when he died. ■ \1)" sister, Jane, lived wilh hilll for years. 8he re- mained with him till she was to get married. There was a bit of money to be divided amongst us. I had my share about a year after that. Don't remember anything about Ii. to be paid to Hugh Jones. Jones, the clerk, wrote out a paper, folded it up, but I do not know what they did with it. It was not signed by any one there. Lewis Lewis came in about I o'clock, and remained there all the time after. Did not hear the paper read out. It was not sealed in my presence. My father was not asked to put his mark to it, nor did my father ask me to sign it for htm* Heard of my father s death about 18 months after it occurred. Did not see the paper signed by any one. My sister Jane was present. So was my brother Richard. My uncle, Thomas James, was there. He is bedridden, being nearly 90 years old. Cross examined by Mr Woosnam Don't know who sent me the 41. Wrote a letter acknowledging it to Hugh Jones. Merely that. Did not say it was under the will. Jones, the clerk, wrote out the agreement. I did not see anyone sign it. I dare say that was the regular routine way of business. The paper was not explained to my father. The judge Who told Jones what to write ? Witness My father told hun be wanted to remain at Alltgluis. All the directions given were by my father. Mr Atwood What directions did you hear your father give ? Witness: He was a great age. He said he wanted to live with my brother at Alltglais, or rather my brother to live with my father. It was not said that the defendant was to have Alltglais after my father's de9th. That signature is not in my writing. Richard James, sworn, examined by Mr Atwood Witness lives in Trefechan, and is a labourer. Is brother of the plaintiff and defendant in this action. Witlless was present at themeetingattheUnicorn. The object of the meeting was to make arrangements hat his fat her should remain at Alltglais. Jones, the clerk, was to draw up a paper to this effect, and my urother, the defendant, was to live with my father, rent free, during his lifetime. There was 110 money divided that day, but it was between us all. My father had his own furniture, which was to be divided between my sister, self, and brother David. '-L' That division did ta:1,e place. Juries wrote ^oirife- thing there that my brother was to maintain my rather at Alltglais while he lived. I did not see my brother John signing any paper. I did nut see John Jones or Lewis Lewis signing any paper. Jones read the document be had written in English. We had some beer there before commencing the business. Jones was drunk before we left,' and Lewis Lewis was in drink before he came into the room. Cross-examined by Mr Woosnam I am not con-' cerned in this matter. It was not of much impor- tance to me what took place at the Unicorn. It was some time before the last court when I was asked about this fuatter by my brother John. I had not met my brother for years before then. By the judge I believe I received my share of the raoney-from Hngh Jones, of Tanyfoel. Jane Evans, sworn I am the wife of Lewis Evans, Tailor, and a daughter of the late John James. I was present at the meeting at the Uni- corn. Lewis Lewis was not in at first, but he came in afterward- It was agreed that my father was to remain at Ailtglais during his life. Previous to my marriage I lived with my father, and kept house for him. When I left my brother went to live with my father. The object of the meeting was to arrange as to who was to live with my father. It was not said where Alltglais was to go to after my father's j death My father had some money, and it was mentioned how that and his furniture was to be dis- posed of. What furniture he had was previously divided. Saw Jones, the clerk, writing. Wrhen he finished writing I don't know what was done with the paper. Did not see James James or anyone else, save Jones, the clerk, write on the paper. No one could have signed the paper without my seeing them. I did not see my brother John for more than a year before thr last court. Cross-examined by Mr Woosnam No one signed the document after Jones wrote it. Don't know what became of it. Had my share of the furniture and money. This closed the case for the plaintiff. Mr Woosnam addressed the court for the defen- dant. Mr Atwood replied for the plaintiff. His honour summed np, and dissected the evidence | at considerable length, and pronounced Judgment for the defendant, wrth costs. In delivering judgment, his honour ssid he was satisfied that John J'ames, the plaintiff, did sign the will for b's father., He was satisfied that that was the signature of the plaintiff from comparing it with other signatures of his. Upon the witole, the will had been proved to his honour's satisfaction. [■ Mr Atwood applied to have the will impounded by the registrar. His 'honour refused to hear the application.

TOWN COMMISSIONERS; ABERYSTWYTH. Tuesday, 19th January, 1869- An adjourned meeting of the town commissioners was held in the Town Hall on Tuesday last. The commissioners present were Messrs. Juhn Matthews, (mayor.) in the chair, Dr W. WUliams, Charles Hac'kney, Jonathan Pell, David Williams, Dr. C. Rice Williams, Richard Morris, G. T. Smith, Ben- jamin Hughes, J J. Atwood, Hugh Hughes, and W. H. Thomas, clerk to the town commissioners. Mr Siviter, manager of the gas works, was in at- tendance. The various fortnightly bills for labour, &c., were examined and discussed. StVITEIt's SALARY. Mr Siviter, in reply to the chairman, said that his bill was for keeping lamps in repair, and for doing all the necessary work connected with the lighting of the town. As he was on this subject he begged leave to make application for an extra ll. to the al- lowance made him by the commissioners. When he undertook the work for st. a year there were only 80 lamps in the town, whilst now there were IOU. He could not continue on the terms on which he had taken the contract, aud if the commissioners did not accede to the application, he would be obliged to give up the office. He had seen by the OBSERVER that Mr Hackney objected to his having even the 51. of which he was at present in receipt, and he had only to say in reply that he should be glad to give up the office if they could find any one else to under- take its duties. Mr Hackney thought the present the proper time to discuss the question. He thought that the pay- ment of that 51, a year to Mr Siviter ought to be dis- continued, and that the board should take upon it- self those duties. At present the streets were being constantly broken up, and not properly repaired by the gas men and whenever he enquired why it was so, the only excuse he received was, that they had no mason to mend them. The commissioners were pay- ing Siviter for doing work which he did not do. There was at Dr. Jones', next door to bis own house, the street broken up and left in a most scandalous and dangerous state, so much so that people might break their necks or limbs in passing there. lie be- lieved that if the board was to take this in their own hands they would effect a great saving. Where, he should like to know, were the materials kept with which this work was supposed to be done ? Mr Siviter At the gas works. Mr Hacknpy Then why should the town's ma- terials be kept at the gas works ? Mr Thomas You make a mistake, Mr Hackney; they are not (he town's materials, they belong to thp gas company. Mr Hackney Oh, well then they ought to be- long to the town. Mr Siviter They are got from the gas works the same as if I got anything from your shop. When I took this contract, as well as having less lamps to attend to, I had the assistance of Lewis Davies. mason, who used to come with me and open the ground in order to get at the pipes that are break- ing or rusted. Now when I have to do it I am obliged to pay a labourer out of this 51. I cannot hold it any longer 011 the same terms, and I am quite willing to give it up. As to Dr. Jones' house, I did the best I could there Mr Vaughan saw the work since, and he said it was impossible for any one to do it better, the Hagtfing was so bad. When I can r always have the flagging put down properly; but the flagging in this place was shameful. Mr Thomas That was a private affair. Mr Pell If there was any fault to be found in this case, it was with Dr. Jones or the gas company. Several other persons here began talking. The mayor One at a time, if you please. I must put a stop to this unseemly conduct of a number of people talking at once. Let us proceed with some sort of order. Dr Williams Who is the proper party to do it ? Mr Thomas The commissioners can call upon the gas company or the owner of the house in the case of private lights. Mr Siviter As to private lights, I tell them that if the company don't do it to the satisfaction of the surveyor, they must do it. The public lights is the work of the commissioners. Mr Pell wished to know who was the person responsible for repairing the damage done to Mrs Leon's house in putting up the gas lamp there? Mrs Leon had complained of it to him (Mr Pell). When they proposed doing the work they said they were going to put the lamp over the door, instead of which they° had placed it between the two sitting-room windows, and had knocked the plaster off the wall. It was stated at a former meeting here that Mrs Leon had given her consent to the work being done. But that was not so, and she expected the commis- sioners now to make an order to have the damage which had been done repaired. Dr. Williams It ought to be borne in mind that none of us are commissioners out of this room, nor in any way authorised to act as such. He begged to move that an order be made that this work be done under the supervision of Mr Vaughan, the town surveyor. Mr Pell seconded. Carried unanimously. Mr Siviter Include the flagging as well. Dr. Williams Oh. certainly. Mr Petl The commissioners are jealous of the gas company touching their pillars. There is a jea- lous feeling existing between the two bodies. Is it not so, Mr Thomas ? Mr Thomas I can't see why it should be so, as by far the greater number of the committee of the gas company are themselves commissioners. THE FINANCE COMMITTEE. The mayor said that the bills presented for ap- proval at the corumisioners1 meetings ought first to be examined by the finance committee. Mr Pell understood that the arrangement existed that the finance committee were to examine and cer- tify all bills before they were placed on the table. Mr Thomas But there are no bills on the table to-day save the ordinary bills for wages. Mr Pell: Yes but even when there are they are not certified by the finance committee. The mayor The fact is, there is n. system in the transaction of business. After some further discussion it was arranged that Siviter's affair be referred to the finance committee for adjustment. THE WATER PIPES. Dr. Williams made application on behalf of Jesse Morgan for an order to obtain a further supply of lend, the 500 lbs. weight already ordered not being sufficient to raise the water pipes at Craigydon to the level of the new road He begged leave to move that Jesse Morgan be empowered to get as much lead as he might waut for jointing the main pipes neces- sary in consequence of the alteration in the road. This being seconded, and carried nem. con., the meeting separated.

THE MANUFACTURE OF WATCHES AND CLOCKS.— A more interesting and instructive little work, describing briefly, hut wIth great clearness, the rise and progress of watch and dock making, has just been published by Mr J. W- Benson, of 25, Old Rond Street, 99, Westbourne Grove, and the City Steam Factory, 58 and 00, Ludgate Hill. The hook, which is profusely illustrated, gives a full description of the various kinds of watches and clocks, with their prices, and no one should make a purchase without visiting the ahove establishments 01' consulting this truly valuable work. By its aid persons residing in any part of the United Kingdom, IndIa, or the Colonies, are enahled to select for themselves the watch best adavted for their use, and have it sent to them with Iwrfect safety. Mr. Benson, who holds the adpointmellt to the Prince of Wales, sends this pam- phlet to any address on receipt of two postage stamps, amI we cannot too strongly recommend it to the notice of the intending purchaser.

j¡ "PHTTY SESSIOTSS, A Widn 'fitj, '20"t fJanriary,ltG§ "Before John Matthews. Esq.mayor TRAVELLING, WITHOUT A TICKET, Henry Uren, of Bowstreet, a joiner, appeared io a summons charging him with having travelled by the Cambrian Railway from Aberystwyth to LJan- filiangel, on the 1st of January just., without paying his fare, and with intent to defraud the company. John Evans, of Bowstreet, joiner, was charged with a like offence. 1 John Large, .$'worn.: Witness is station-axaster at Llanfihangel station. On the 1st inst., on the arri- val of the train leaving Aberystwyth at 3 45 p. m" witness observed the two defendants making their escape on the wrong side of the train, and going across the goods yard. Witness followed them, and they ran away. Overtook them, and brought them back, and took their names. They offered witness the third class fare for Bowstreet, which he declined to take. Witness then reported the case. John Mitchard, Station master at Bowstreet, sworn: When the train in question passed Bowstreet witness was on duty there. There wns lill one else at the station. No one applied for tickets although there would have been plenty of time to do so. As the offence took place outside the borough, the mayor found he hal no jurisdiction in the case. OLD ACQUAINTANCES. John Jones, of North Parade, carman, was sum- moned for having two of his donkeys wandering at large ibout the streets. P. C. David Evans, sworn: On Saturday last,' between 8 and 9 inthe morning, witness .noticed two donkeys, the property of the defendant, straying about the streets without anyone to take care of- them. The defendant said he did not see the donkeys himself but the boys were in the habit of mounting the donkeys in the field, and rode them through the streets. The mayor: Have you got any gates on your field? The defendant I have, sir, but the gates were broken. Discharged with a caution. ••

GOGERDDAN ANNUAL PLOUGHING MATCH. The above match took place on the 21st instant, in a large field near the mansion. The day being favourable, there was a great number of people from the surrounding neighbourhood present. By 9 o'clock, 45 ploughs entered the field, men and horses well equipped, ready for the contest. The ploughing was exceedingly well done; and considering the nature of the land, being a very ofrf pasture, it was a hard task for men and horses, every nerve being taxed to the utmost. The judges were, Mr David Jones, Abercairo, Mr William Jones, Bry n'rodyn, and Mr James Thomas, Bronsaint, who had a difficult task to perform, owing to the competition being very close. The prizes were awarded as follows: — FIRST CLASS. Prize. £ s. d. 1. Owen Rees, Gogerddan 2 0 0 2. John Morgan, Gwarallt 1 10 0 3. John Jones, Penuwchfawr 0 15 0 4. David Price, Bronygof 0 7 6 5. Richard Morgan, Go^erddan 0 5 0 Commended-Evuu Jenkins, Dolgamlin, and David Jones, Glanlerry. SECOND CLASS. 1. William Rees, Torglwyd 1 0 0 2. John Jones, Rhoscellanfawr 0 15 0 3. John Samuel, Llwyngronw 0 10 0 4. David Rees, Ty'nyrabbey 0 5 0 5. Richard Davies, Blaencynon 0 2 6 Commended David Jenkins, Glanymor, and John Jones, Penrbyncoch. !I

GOGERDDAN RENT AUDIT. The rent audit of the Gogerddan estate was held in the Lion Hotel, in this town, or Thursday last. The attendance of tenants was more than usually large, and they were in the afternoon entertained at dinner in the Assembly Rooms, the new agent, H. C. Fryer, Esq., taking the head of the table. The health of Lady Pryse, Sir Pryse Prysc, and Col. Pryse were drunk with enthusiasm. Mr Killin, of Llanbadarn, proposed the health of Mr Fryer, and the toast met with such a reception as speaks well fur the popularity of the new agent.

WE understand that the banquet to be given to the twenty-three Liberal members returned by Welsh constituencies, is to take place on the 24th February, at the Freemason's Tavern, London, under the pre- sidency of the Right Hon. H A Bruce, the Secre- tary of State for the Home Department. NOTHING LIKE LEATHER.—There is a familiar story of a beleaguered city in old time, whose in- habitants, on taking counsel as to the best means of defence, were strongly urged by a party of tan- ners to clothe themselves, their gates, and their walls, with leather, inasmuch as there was nothing: like leather" for toughness and protecting power. The disinterestedness of the proposal was obvious, and, of course, ensured its adoption. The tale, though old, ha* fin application even to the new Reformed Parliament. As in preceding sessions, a large proportion of the members of the Legisla- ture are personally interested in the maintenance of an extravagant military and naval outlay, either from being themselves the recipients or channels of the public money, or from having relatives who are similarly circumstanced This class of persons are now alarmed at the manifest tendency of public opini n towards retrenchment, and the reduction of the jobbery and profligate waste of taxation which has hitherto characterised successive administrations of each political party. They are therefore bring- ing their influence to bear upon some of the" lead- ing" journals with a view to criticise and hamper the course of prudent economy to which Mr Glad- stone's government is pledged. The necessity for maintaining the efficiency of the forces" is the parrot-cry which will now be dinned into the ears of the public by the organs of the classes personally interested in extravagant outlay. The tax-pnyers must maintain a vigilant eye, and exercise a con- stant pressure upon their parliamentary representa- tives, or they will find that the promised retrench- ments are only (as so often before) a delusion. The memorable words of that sagacious statesman, the late Sir Robert Peel, cannot be too often repeated If the House of Commons listens to the opinion of military men who are naturally prejudiced upon this subject (war expenditure), they will illvolve the country in an outlay that no revenue can bear." The present prevalence of pauperism and distress are largely owing to the waste of money and the permanent burdens involved by be regard paid "V past parliaments to these interested military and naval advisers. "luxuriant and Beautiful Hair is the distin- puishinn budge of Youth." MRS. S. A HAIR RESTORER OR DRESSING never foils to quickly restore ft rati or Faded Hair to its youthful colour and beauty, arid with the first application a beautiful gloss and delinbttul fragrance is given to the Hair. It stops the Hair from falling ott. It prevents bald- ness. It promotes luxuriant growth it causes the Hair to grow thick and strong. It removes all dandruff. It contains neither oil nor dye. Ih large Bottles— Price Six Shillings. ZYXOUALSA. MUM (MRS. S. A. ALI.F.VR) far excels any L'oinade or Hair Oil- To those whose Hair is naturally dry, requiring frequent dressing, its cheapness and great value will be proved. Its early use on Children's Hair will insure an abusulant and bountiful supply from Youth to Old Age. In large Bottles Price Three Shil- lings. Sold by most Chemists and Perfumers. Depot, 2GG, High Holborn, London. HOLLOW A Y'S PILLS.-Enfeeblpd Existence.-This medicine embraces every attribute required in a. seneral and do. mestic remedy; it overturns the foundations of disease laid by de- fective food and impure air. In obstructions or congestions of the liver, lungs, bowels, or any other organs, these Pills are especially serviceable and eminently successful. They should be kept in readiness in every family, as they are a medicine without a fault for young persons and those of feeble constitution. They never cause pain, or irritate the most sensitive nerves, or most tender bowels. Holloway's Pills are the best known purifiers of the blood, and the best promoters of absorption and secretion, and remove all poisonous and obnoxious particles from both solids and fluids.

THE TOWN HALL. A correspondent, whose letter we publish to- day, ve!:y pertinently calls attention to the pre-r t sent euteot the Town Hall —a building whtcli b«th- externally and it ternaHy lias l»ee'ti\aU •fo%W><i t £ ) fall into a stafe of/driapidatioti dis- graceful to the town authorities. There are many, ainungst the town authorities, we are .aware, who would thlow theoousof keeping the Town Hall in repair upon the County, hut so far las we are acquainted with the circum- stances of the case, such an attempt to. shift the weight of responsibility from their shoul- ders on to those of the county seems unjustifi- able. The Town Hail, it is true, was erected partly at the expense of the county, partly at the expense of the town. But since its erec- tion the building has beeu in the custody of the town, and used by the town for all public meetings of borough magistrates, town council, town commissioners, harbour trust, &c. whilst there is but one ffllall chamber known as the property of the county, and even this is occu- pied weekly by the borough bodies above men- tioned. The county surveyor, in his recent estimate of the property of the county, only included this one room, consequently ieaving the rest ot the building as the property of the town. Probably this one room is the only por- tion of the building in anything like a tolerable state of repair, it is certainly the only chamber in the building decently furnished. The great hall itself is, as our correspondent describes it, a perfect barn, constructed without the slight- est attempt at comfort or convenience, or the least respect for principles acorusttc. The fit- j tings are ofsuch a massive and mighty charac- ter, that one might fancy they were placed there to accommodate a court ef Titans instead of the "cwrt bach," which most frequently occupies this portion of the building. It may be said that the said court is not an institution of the town; but strange to say neither is it of the county, albeitthat it is ycleped the county court." The county treasurer, in reply to the cbairmari at the la'st Quarter Sessions in Aber- ayron, stated his impression that the county court vraS entitled to hold its sittings in any public hall without paying for its occupation of the same. There can be no doubt about it, according to the arguments already before us, it is the duty of the town council to renovate the court house, and place it in a proper state for the reception of the judges of the land, who have been in- vited to hold their sittings here. Of course we know it will be for the convenience of the county as well as of the town that assize should be held once if not twice a year at Aberyst- wyth but still, as the town which was the ad- vocate for the alteration of existing arrange- ments, embodied in its arguments the fact that they were prepared with a suitable assize hall, they must make good their word if they do not choose to suffer the taunt of misrepresentation. ¥

CHAMBERS OF AGRICULTURE. In a country like our own, where so large a portion of the soil is devoted to purposes of agriculture, and where so runny millions of the inhabitants have indirect connection with agri- cultural pursuits, it is matter of surprise that chambers of agriculture are of such nipdern growth. But they have of late years been increasing in number and importance, and they no doubt will continue to do so. In their several districts each association of the kind is virtually an agricultural parliament, without the power of directly making laws, it is true, hut forming public opinion out of which our laws are formed, and developing that knowledge of agriculture which ought always to be progressive, while, at the same time each chamber of agriculture ouiiht to he the means of promoting and har- monising the mutual interests of the owners, tenants, and cultivators 01 the soil. Earl Granville has, on the whole, made a capitnl speech Oil this subject as President of the Shropshire Chamber of Agriculture, at its annual dinner the other evening. There are only two points-hut they are specially impor- tant-on which we fee) inclined to take excep- tion to this eminent statenian's remarks; or, rather, we think he missed a fine opportunity for saying what he did not say. In alluding to the several questions to which chambers of agriculture might address themselves, Lord Granville placed first the question of the tenure of land. He said that in Shropshire there were some leases ai ranged on a fair and equi- table basis, while others were simply disgrace- ful—opposed to national prosperity, to the. into rest of the landlord But his lordship said nothing about the interest of the tenant. He merely remarked that thewhoie question re- quired careful consideration on the part of both landlord and tenant—first, as to whether the extension of leases was a desirable thing; and next, if it were decided in the affirmative, as to what was the best way to adopt a gradual change. Now, with all due respect to the noble Earl, we must say that he here spoke from a landlord's point of view, as might have been expected, perhaps from a landlord(though his lordship reminds us that he does not hold much land) speaking to landlords The noble chairman, in fact, rather shirked the question. If the landlords in Shropshire or elsewhere reo fuse to grant leases, on fair conditions, they in- directly prevent that thorough cultivation of the land on which so much of the people's food depends. Where the tenant has no security ot tenure for a certain time, there is a deaden- ing weight on the spirit of enterprise which 110 mere hope of continued possession will remove. The chambers of commerce may set an ex- ample to the chambers of agriculture in respect to freedom of trade. There is nothing like free trade in farming so long as the tenant farmer has no security for a fair return on the capital he chooses to invest in the land and it cannot be said that farmers, as a body, have this security so long as the system of leases is not universal, and arrangements for compensa- tion placed on something like an uniform basis. On the subject of the game laws, too, Lord 1"GranViJle missed some of the more important points. He was very humourous about the fertility of rabbits, remarking that, with the exception of poor hard-working curates of the Established Church, rabbits were the most prolific animals in the world. These laws have always been a source of heart-burning and ill- will, and even of crimes of violence innumer- able, within the memory of theoldest among us. There is some little argument on the game- preserving landlord's side, but the overwhelm- ing balance of argument is against the game laws as they now exist. In all other respects Earl Granville's speech, we think, was admirable. He points out the good work that chambers of agriculture have to do in a variety of ways. They can collect and disseminate information as to the best methods of sewage and drainage, the proper treatment ofcattte in reference to the insiduous cattle-plague, and generally on all subjects: affecting the culture of the soil; and, above all, they can promote education- not so much agricultural education as the education of the children of those engaged in agriculture. He might have added, too, that chambers of agri- culture could do something towards promoting uniformity in weights and measures used for farm produce, the variety in this matter being anything but charming. There is, indeed, an immense amount of work for agricultural cham- bers to do, and not the least is to assert the im- portance of the agricultural interest, seeing that the tendency in a country whose popula- tion so rapidly increases as does our own is towards the development of towns and com- merce, and the throwing of land out of cul- tivation.

Tim MA.N-T-I-ACTURF. OF JEWEUERY.-The striking deve- lopment of Fine Art productions in this branch of the industrial trades since the period of the great, Exhibition is admirably ex- eiriplified in a most interesting little work just published by Mr. J W, Benson, who holds the appointment to H.R.H the Prince of Wales, and H.H. the Maharajah of Burdsvan, of 2.5, 014 Bond Street, 99, Westbourne Grove, and the City Steam Factory, 58 and 60, Ludgate Hill. It is profusely illustrated with the most beautiful designs of Bracelets, Brooches, Earrings, Lockets, &e., &:e" in every conceivable style, and with prices attached and thus the intending purchaser is enabled te make a selection suited to his taste, and have it forwarded to any part of the United Kingdom, India, or the Colonies. The price of this most useful guide is twopence, for which it is forwarded post free, United Kingdom, India, or the Colonies. The price of this most useful guide is twopence, for which it is forwarded post free, anù to any one whs contemplates a purchase, either for per- sonal wear or for a wedding, birth-day, Christmass, or other present, it will b4" found of the very greatest service. Advice to Mothers.—Are you broken of your rest by a sick child, suffering with the pain of cutting teeth ? Go at ones to a chemist, and get a bottle of Mas W'INSLOW'S SOOTHING SYRUP. It "m relieve the poor sufferer Immediately; it is perfectly harmless; it produees natural quiet sleep, by relieving the child from pain, and the little cherub awakes as bright as a button." It has heell long- in use in America, and is highly recommended by medieal men; it is very pleasant to take; it sootht's the child; it softens the g-ums, allays all pain, relieves wind, regulates the bowels, and is the best known remtdy for dysentry and diarrhoea, whether arising from teething or other causes. Be sure and ask for MRS. WINSLOW'S SOOTHING SVRU P, and see that" Curtis and Perkins, Sew York and London," is on Ule outside wrapper. No mother should be without it.—Sold by all medicine dealersat Is..lAd. per Bottle, London Depôt, 205, Hig-h Holborn.

LLANILAR. MA.RKIAGE KE.;OI!CIYGS.—'This Tittle village pre- sented a very, jjay and enlivening1 appearance 011 ■ Tuesday last, the occasion being tlie -marriage of Miss Edwards, daughter of the Tate Rev. T. Edwards, Rector of Uangcitho aud Bettvvs Leiky, to the llev. J). Edwards. The.preparations that had been made "clearly. showed the high opinion entertaiued gene- rally towards the, BryuiIar family and the evident enthusiasm proved it .to be a,lab«ur of love —a slight H token of the various acts of kindivess .of the. family. ot which the bride was n<v unworthy member. had been and were properly appreciated;The rich and poor of the village and neighbourhood vied wrth oaeh other in showing their respect. They blazoned their "JaoUoes OfibiesMiig :iud prayer. n-tgs fluttered "upon turrets and towers;" continuous volleys and jubilant voices were kept up throughout the day. The whole village seemed moved as if by one senti- 1 lrient,-—viz a desire to exhibit their pent-up feel- iiigs, which only awaited a suitable opportunity to show in all their integrity. The bridegroom, toge- ther with. his friends, the Rev. S. B. Philpotts, Fel- low of King's College, Cambridge the Rev J. Fe- lix, Vicar of Lied rod; and the Kev. D. Edwards, Penrhyncoch, reached the church about 11 30 a.m v here they were received by the respected Vicar. Shortly afterwards, amidst deafening shouts, the bride, accompanied by Mrs. Edwards, the brides- I in aids—Miss E Edwards, (the bride's sister.) Miss Roberts, and Miss Mary Roberts. Tyisa, and Miss J. Lewis, IJbiwgoch — Miss Scandrett, and her bro- titers, arrived. The dresses of the bride and brides maids were much admired. The ceremonj" over, the happy, couple, amidst the congratulations of their Iriends, left the church and repaired to the bride's mother's honse. where a dejeuner befitting the ocea- MORT had been provided. The bride and bridegroom 1 ft by the -2.28 tram for Carmarthen, en route fllr London, where they intend spending the homy- i-joon. They left this peaceful little village amidst a tliousynd expressions of good wishes and blessings, j vv.hieh Wi? trust will be an encouragement to them to pursue the same benevolent line' of conduct in their new home, amidst new taews and new svenes.

VOTE BY BALLOT. TO THE EDITOR OF THE ABEItYSTWYTH OBSERVER. Sir,—Will any of the Liberal electors of Cardi- ganshire kindly inform me how it is that the name of Mr E. M. Richards does not appear amongst those reported to have attended a certain influential meet- ing of M.P.'s and other gentlemen, to advocate the vote by ballot, in London last week ? One would fancy that Mr Richards, the elect of the Radicals of Cardiganshire, would have been one of the first to advocate the glorious principles of vote by ballot llè, howevpr, appears to have been conspicuous by his absence. Is this the way he intends to carry out his promises to his present constituency ? The plain question arises, Is he opposed to, or in favour of, the vote by ballot ? If opposed, why did he not say so in his election speeches? If in favour of, why did he not attend the meeting to which I refer? If your paper reaches as far as Swansea, probably the reputed partner of the member for that incor- ruptible borough will answer the question I put. The fact that Mr Richards has no further interest in the county than that of being its nominal represen- tative does not exonerate him from the fulfilment of duties which he has undertaken. I am, Sir; A LIBERAL-CONSERVATIVE.

COUNTY COURT PRACTICE. TO THE EDITOR OF THE ABERYSTWYTH OBSERVER. Sir, —In last Tuesday's County Court a very un- seemly scene occurred in consequence of there being no official interpreter sworn in. lo save the paltry expense which the attendance of such an officer would entail, the duties of interpreter were thrown upon the registrar of the court, Mr Jenkins. The interpretation of an unsworn person—be he never so high an officer of the court—does not in my opinion meet the requirements of the law, nor is it certainly, in the majority of cases, satisfactory even to people most easily pleased. It is unfair to throw sllch a labour upon the registrar, or any other officer of the court, and it places an advocate who dares to object to the complexion put upon the evidence by the un- paid interpreter in a very false position. On Tues- day an advocate took exception to the rendering of the evidence by the registrar, and the latter gentle- man hridiing up declared he would interpret no far- ther. This decision, however, his good nature ult.- mately overcame, when his honour, the judge, in judicial tones declared that he must saddle the ob- jecting attorney's client with the costs of a paid interpreter if he persisted in his objection. This effectually closed the mouth of the unlucky lawyer who raised the objection, and he was obliged nolens nolens to accept the interpretation to which he ob- jected The lawyer may have been right, so may the registrar but although this may be law, it is scarcely equal to equity. In my humble opinion the judge ought to feel himself bound to appoint a sworn interpreter in every court in Wales. Yours obediently, AN ENGLISH LAWYER.

LLANBADARN-FAWR CHURCH. TO THE EDITOR OF THE ABEKVSTWYTH OBSERVER. Sir,—Referring to my letter which appeared in the ABERYSTWYTH OBSERVER in June last, on the subject of the two fresco paintings discovered under the whitewash on the north and south walls of the nave in the old cathedral church of Llanbadarn-fawr during the restoration as being those of St Peter and the Earl of Strygil upon further consideration I am induced to draw the inference that the figure supposed to represent a lioness on her haunches must be that of a leopard, being the coat of arms or the representative of the Crown of England before the present, one was adopted of the Lion & Unicorn, which St. Peter is appeasing by the offer of the key, and the figure of the young ass above the hand re- presents meekness and humilitv, thus allegorically showing the historical connection between this church and the Crown of England and the monastery of St Peter at Gloucester, to which this church was given by the Earl of Strygil. This splendid and almost perfect painting of St. Peter is now obliterated for ever, and shows a strong distinction between North and South Wales for a taste of archjeology, for the good people ofWrex- ham have religiously preserved the old fresco paint- tings, (similar to this in style, but not in subject,) discovered under the whitewash in their fine old church, although they were nut in such fine state of preservation. Also, in Chester, where the fresco painting has been preserved in the old church of St John after being hid for hundreds ot years. But this historical painting at Llanbadarn having stood the test of time from the 11th year of Henry 1,1111, to the 32nd year of the reign of Queen Victoria, 18G9, is now plastered over with a thick coating of mortar, thus destroying it for eved Another historical fact has also come to light, for, on taking up the flags, preparatory to laying down a new floor, an immense quantity of human bones were found immediately underneath, (scarcely six inches under the flags,) between the nave and the chancel, showing no direct order of burial, a ques- tion arises, from what cause could such a quantity of human bones be laid there ? It clin '-v e from that referred to in my work on the British En- campments, and their connection with the Mines in this neighbourhood," where, at page 3, it relates that the human bones found in the large earns at Penygarn, near Bowstreet, were removed in carts to Llanbadarn for interment, so that the probability is that they have been buried in the church, and in the spot here indicated. Yours truly, J. G. WILLIAMS.

THE TOWN HALL. TO THE FBIYOR W Wife ABERYSTWYTH OBSERVES Sir,-It was only the other day that we we were all njoicing-nnd with reason—at the success we achieved in Aberayron by obtaining the long looked for assizes at Aberystwyth To vour personal exer- lions, in the largest degree, I have no doubt we are indebted for this result. To be sure we had a right 11 expect both nssizes here, but then half a loaf is better than no bread. And now that we have got II promise of the assizes, would it not be well that we should have a fitting place in which to hold tiivni, We. have a. Town Hall, but the interior of it is a mere barn. It is cold and comfortless, and it is next to impossible to hear or be heard in it. It must be refitted within, and plastered without. There may be more rooms found necessary, and a grand jury gallery. If you don't stir up the town authori- ties we will be in a nice mess when the judges arrive here. The Council won't do much of their own ac- cord, and a gentle reminder will do them good. There is no time to be lost the work ought to be commenced without delay. Your obedient Servant, Queen's Road. W. T. JENKIKH. —

STREET NUISANCE. » TO THE EDITOR OF THE ABERTSTWTTII OBSERVEF. Sir,—Your attention has been drawn from time to time by different correspondents in your paper to the nuisances in this town. If you will kindly allow me the space I should like to point out another of the same kind which has lately began—I allude to the obstruction caused in your progress through the streets by all the dirty little urchins poking a card in your face and asking for a PENNY for the Welsh University. A SUFFERER. e-—

LIFEBOAT SERVICES — John Taylor, Esq has generously presented the crew of the life-boat with a guinea, to be divided between them, in considera- tion of the services they rendered in rescuing the crew of the smack Castle, which stranded 011 this bar on Christmas eve

REVIEWS. ALMANACS. The well-known nominal firm of Ltts, Son, and Company, which means, we helieve, Simpkin, Mar- shall, and Co., of London, have issued this year two very interesting and useful Almanacs, separately entitled Letts'* Parliamentary Register and Al- manac for 1869," and Letis^s Diary for 18G9 The former is price one shilling, and the latter sixpence. The difference in price can only be explained thus; that the latter, although a larger hook in bulk, is' simply what it pretends to be—a Diary; whilst the former is in itself a compressed National Directory. Mr Rees. of Llandovpry, has issued his 38th number of his Diary and Almanac." The great age of the publication ought to be sufficient evi- dence of its worth; and in its enlarged form, we are certain it will prove a boon to all business-men.

H U NTIN GA PPOIN T MEN TST THE VALE OF AYRON FOXHOUNDS ( "apt. I aughan's) WILL MEET ON Tuesday, 26th January Monachty Friday- January 29th Dcrry Ormnnd Pillar AT 10.30 O'CLOCK. THE GOGERDDAN FOXHOUNDS WILL MEET Tuesday, January 26th Morben Friday, January 29th Ffosrhydgaled AT 10 O'CLOCK.

Btttth On the 21st inst., the wife of Mr John D. Hughes, 7, William-street, in this town, of a son. Dratftg. On the 17th inst., the infant son of Lewis Pugh Pugh, Esq., of this town. On the 19th inst., aged 27 years, Anne, the wife of Mr Morgan Griffiths, Bwlchmawr, near Nanteos. On the 21st, inst., aged 3 years, David, youugest son of Mr David Jones, Hatter, New-street.