The Aberystwith Observer

ABERYSTWYTH COUNTY COURT. TUESDAY. (Before Homersham Cox, Esq., Judge.) There were 20 adjourned summonses, 80 new plaints, and 12 judgment summonses set down for hearing. ACTION AGAINST A SEA CAPTAIN. Curran r. Danes.—Mr A. J. Hughes appeared for the plaintiff, a draper and outfitter, carrying on busi- ness in Queenstown, and the defendant (for whom Mr J. J. Atwood appeared) is captain of the brig Hermia. The action was brought to recover 231. odd for goods supplied to some of the crew of the Hermia Mr Hughes in opening the case said it had been sent down from the Court of. Queen's Bench, aad the facts were as follows :-In May, 1870, the Hermia, Captain Davies, came into Queenstown, and one day the defendant came into the plaintiff's shop and asked for the loan of an oilskin coat to enable him to go off to his ship in the roads, the weather being very stormy. A coat was lent him, and in two or three hours he returned the coat with thanks, stating that he was going to Dublin for orders. At this second visit a conversation arose between Mr Curran's manager and the defendant about supplying the crew with goods. Defendant said he might, and that he would pay for the goods when the port of of discharged was reached. Subsequently four of the crew came and had some clothing &c.; and when the captain r. turned, the following order, signed by the four men, was handed to him :—"Please to pay Mr Thomas Curran the amount annexed to my sig- nature, and debit the same to my account." This was the usual custom at Queenstown and the mooey was deducted by the captain from the wages of the men at the port of discharge. His Honour suggested that the case was one which came under the statue of frauds, and Mr Atwood said he had several objections to take when the proper time came. Mr Hughes then proceeded with his evidence. Mr William Smith, an assistant in the plaintiffs shop at Queenstown, was first called, and he said that in May, 1870, defendant came to the shop to borrow an oilskin, to go off to his ship, as it was rough weather. In about two hours* time he returned the coat, and then witness asked him where the ship was from ? He said "from the Brazils." Witness then asked if he might give the crew anything they required in the way of clothing ? Defendant said, "Yes, give them anything in the way of clothing, and I will pay the account when I get to the port of discharge.' He was then going to Cork, and before his return four of the crew called and had goods to the amount of about 231., signing a form as was usual. Mr Atwood asked to see the form. The witness said be could show one similar to it. Mr Atwood: That will not do; I want the original. Mr Hughes: It is in your possession, I should think, as it was given to the captain, and I call upon you to produce it. Mr Atwood: I know nothing about it, I have never seen it. Examination continued When the defendant re- turned to Queenstown, witness introduced him to Mr Curran, and told him that he should have 5 per cent, as is usual at Queenstown, for his trouble in remitting the money when they reached the port of discharge. Cross-examined: He did not ask the men how much money was due to them, because he had pre- viously enquired of the captain how long they had been in the ship, and that enabled him to judge how much goods he should let them have. The men were brought to the shop by one of plaintiff's "runners," and he let them have goods merely because they said they belonged to the Hermia. One of the men had a watch, and all of them had a shilling apiece, to buy matches and soap, which were not sold in plaintiffs shop. The bill was given to the captain about two days after the men had had the goods, and he was then told that he should have 5 per cent. for stopping the money and remitting it to Mr Curran. Re-examined Thiee of the men were foreigners, but one, David Sykes, was a Scotchman. Some six or seven months ago witness met one of the men on board a barque in Queenstown harbour, and in course of conversation witness said he had not had the money from Captain Davies of the Hermia for goods supplied to the four men and the man to whom he was talking, named Park, said the captain Stopped the money from the men, and it ought to be paid. He further intimated his willingness to come from Hamburg, his port of discharge, and give evidence with reference to the case. Mr Norval Macleod, in the employ of Messrs Oakley, Selkirk, and Co., warehousemen, Glasgow, deposed that in June, 1870, he, at the request of Mr Curran, called on the defendant and asked for this money. Defendant never denied owing it, said he would pay it to me; but ultimately he said he would settle with Mr Curran at his own convenience. Mr Atwood said he thought the plaintiff was out of court upun his own evidence. lie objected that the agreement spoken of was within the 4th sec- tion of the statute of frauds. The Judge ruled that the objection was fatal to the case, aud fVUDd for the defendant. Mr Hughe £ gave notice that he should appeal against this decision. A FRIENDLY SOCIETY CASE. David Hughes, mariner v. John Beynon, secretary of the Bortn Friendly Society. Mr J. 11. Ruveubul for the plaiunff, aud Mr Hugh Hughes tur the defendant. The action was brought to recover £13, the amount of subscriptions paid to the Burth Friendly Society, and the defendant pleaded inter alia the statute of limitations, and that the plaintiff did not beloug to the society. .No evidence was given, but a long argument ensued between the learned gentlemen engaged in the case and his Honour. Mr Ravenhili quoted largely from the Friendly Societies' Act kiS & 19 Victoria) c. 63, and section 8U, and went on to say that the society bad not published any accounts since 18t>a. The defence was that the plaintiff was no longer a member of the society which was about being dissolved, and that he couid not recover. His Honour held that the plainiilf was entitled to a share of the money realized when the club was dissolved, and said his first step should be to get himself reinstated as a meuiber, which could be done by takiug out another summons. Mr Ravenhili submitted that his Honour had power to amend the particulars, but he declined to do so. in giving judgment his Honour said the action was brought to recover the amount of subscriptions paid by tne plaintiff to the Borth Friendly Society but it now appeared that he was willing to share equally With the other members. The dissolution of the society had not yet taken place, but was contem- plated and the only possible way by which the plaintiff could iorce on the dissolution of the society and the distribution of its lurids would be by getting himself reinstated a member, aud then obtaining the eousentof ifve-sixths ot theinewbers, or else by taking such other steps as were provided by the mies or the Act of Parliament governing friendly societies. Now Mr Kavenhillhad asked that the pai ticulars might be amended, so as to allow the case to go on, but he (the judge) had decided that he had no power to comply wuh the learned advoca e's request; and he presumed that after he had given that intimation, the plaintiff would not think it worth while to call evidence. Therefore, no evidence being called, he was compelled to give judgment for the defendant. Mr Kuveuhili: VII, but 1 should like to put the plaintiff in the box, your Honour His Honour Then you compel to say that I do not think the plaintiff has the slighest shadow of a shade of a chance to recover upon the plaint, and what is the use of going on ? You have pt evoked me to such a strong expression of opinion. Mr iiaveuhnl: It is no use of going on, your Honour, after that, but you will alluw the plaintiff to tiie a fresh plaint for the purpose of being rein- stated a member of the Society ? His Honour: Oh yes, and 1 shall give no costs in this case. A COUNTY COURT OFFICIAL REPRIMANDSD. Mr Atwood said be had a complaint to make against an official of the court; at least he was hardly an official, but be meant Morgan Evans, one of the sub-bailiffs. This man went to his (Mr Atwood's) client, who was a defendant in a certain action, to serve a notice of trial of the case, and he said what was a great falsehood, viz., that be (the learned ad- vocate) had thrown over the case, and taken the case of the plaiiitiff-that he had played the defendant false, in fact. Evans also said that the defendant could not trust him, and had better employ another solicitor; and he believed Evans even named an attorney. The man who had done this was Morgan Evans who was now in court, and his client was presi-nt to substantiate what he had stated. Mr Abraham Rowlands (Mr Atwood's client) was then questioned by the judge, and said that the i bailiff advised him not to go to Mr Atwood, but to some one else. The Judge (to the sub-bailiff); Did you advise him to go to some one else ? The sub-bailiff: He told me that Mr Atwood had been engaged for him in another case, and that he had been sued for costs by Mr Atwood, and I said he had better go to some one else. Mr Rowlands: Morgan Evans told me that Mr Atwood had undertaken the case of the other side. The sub-bailiff: I did tell him to go to Mr Jones, instead of Mr Atwood. The Judge Then you have done a most improper thing. Your duty is to serve the processes of the court, and not to give advice about solicitors; and I hope, lor your own sake, that you will not forget that in future. I repeat, it is your duty to serve processes, and not to give advice. The sub-bailiff: I am very sorry if I have done wrong. CUTTING DOWN DAMAGES.—JURY CASE. Powell IJ. Richards.—The plaintiff (for whom Mr A. J. Hughes appeared) is Col. Powell, of Nanteos, and the action wos brought to recover 20/. from the defendant (whose attorney was Mr Atwood) for damage done to a mare, dog-cart, and harness, on the ;31st October last. The first witness was Mr David Williams, farm bailiff to Colonel Powell, Nanteos. He said that there was an arbitration at the defendant's farm on that day. Defendant rented Cwmhwylog farm from plaintiff, and being about to leave, a valuation of crops took place. The valuers did not agree, and with the consent of all parties the dispute was refer- red to Mr Richard Morgan, of Aberystwyth. They met at the Talbot Hotel, and all three left in witness s trap for Cwmhwylog At Penparkau he had some words with the defendant, who struck him, and left the trap. He had been fined for the assault. After the assault witness and Mr Morgan drove on to the farm. Mr Morgan went and had a look at the straw and manure, and witness stood by the house with the horse and trap. While the umpire was looking at the hay witness took bis horse and trap into the road, and proceeded towards Aberystwyth, having pro- mised to pick up Mr Morgan, who was to take a cut across the fields, on the road. He was in the trap, and the horse walking quietly along when he met Edward Richards, the defendant, who laid hold of the horse's head and ordered witness to "come down out of the trap." Witness refused, and after an altercation the defendant began to kick the horse, who plunged violently, and broke the harness, ultimately upsetting the trap, and breaking one of the shafts, as well as breaking the tread of the iron step. Ultimately the mare ran away towards Cwmhwylog. The defendant was about half drunk. When the mare was got home he found she bad a cut above one of her hoofs, and there were two swel- lings on her belly all these injuries he thought the result of kicks. She was in her stable for eight days, and when she was taken out to work she was very timid and frightened. She continued nervous for some days Cross-examined Edward Richards left Aberyst- wyth with witness and the umpire, but was very dis- agreeable, and left the trap at Penparkau. The valuation at Cwmhwylog was made in the defendant's absence Witness asked Mrs Richards to take part in the valuation, but she refused. Witness was there as agent for Colonel Powell, and valuer too, and held the measuring tape while two stacks were measured. He did not interfere in any other way. The valuation amounted to about 2001 and the calculations were not completed for a day or two after the umpire went over the farm. When the defendant came up, he did not complain of the unfairness of making the valuation in his absence, and he did not say it was not fair for witness to take one end of the tape measure. Did not use his whip to the defendant until he began to kick the mare; then he struck him over the arm to make him let go the horse's head. Did not lash him in the face. In addition to being fined by the Aberystwyth magistrates for an assault, he was fined by the Llanilar magistrates for ill-treat- ing the mare, and also for a second assault upon witness. Did not know the mare's age she was "aged," and might be more than 12 years old Could not tell a horse's age after eight years. Never knew anything the matter with her before she was kicked by the defendant. She was out at grass all last summer, but that was not because anything was the matter with her. The harness was not new, but it was in good condition. Evan Rees, who repaired the trap, said his bill for doing so was los. Thomas Hopkins, a lad employed at Mr. Pell's farm, Glanystwyth, said that on the day in question he saw the defendant kick the mare driven by the first witness eight or nine times. Afterwards the defendant met him in the Belle-vue Hotel yard, and said he should have a sovereign if he would "tell them that he did not see anything." Cross-examined: Was examined before the Llan- ilar magistrates, and then said that the mare was kicked eight or nine times. Mr. Atwooj read the evidence given by the lad at Llanilar, and it appeared that he then said the horse was kicked six or seven times. On being asked which was right, he could not say. Mr Hughes remarked that there was not much difference in the two statements. William Evans, saddler, Aberystwyth, said that his charge for repairing the horse's harness was 3/. 15s. 2d. Harness of that description when new was worth about 61. William James, a labourer employed on the Nant- eos estate, corroborated the bailiff as to the injury sustained by the mare, and said that she was away from work eight days. For some days after being put into work again she was very nervous and restive would not stand still unless someone was at her head. Cross-examined: Did not know the mare's age. He remembered her for the last 12 years, and when she first went to Nanteos she was broken in. This concluded the plaintiff s case. Mr Atwood stated that he did not intend to call any witnesses, but should merely address the jury on the reduction of damages. In the course of a somewhat lengthy address, he said that Colonel Powell was a gentlemen respec- ted by all to whom he was known, and he (Mr At- wood) could hardly believe that he knew anything of this action. Mr Hughes said he had been instructed by Capt. Phelp, the agent. Mr Atwood continued, and said he regretted that Col. Powell had allowed his name to be used in such a trivial matter as this. In dealing with the facts of the case, the learned advocate said that when the defendant was leaving Cwmhwylog the arbitrators called in to decide what he should receive as out-' going tenant differed, and Mr Richard Morgan was chosen umpire. Now would it not have been fair- play when a person was called in to decide between cwo parties that both should have been present, or at least represented ? Richards was not at Cwm- hwylog when the umpire went, his wife refused to attend, and during defendant's absence the bailiff and Morgan made a valuation. Mr Hughes: No, no. Mr Atwood- said he would put that right. The farm bailiff had said that he did not interfere except in holding the tape while a rick was being measured. But he (Mr Atwood) maintained that was a very improper proceeding, though he did not mean to say that they actually did anything dishonest. He did not say that the bailiff did anything wrong, but he might, by shortening the measuring tape, have deprived defendant of lot. 15L or 20/. in amount, for a few feet would make a considerable difference. He did not say that the farm bailiff in the interest of Colonel Powell would do such a thing, but he might, and be should not have interfered. The defendant met Williams as had been stated, and being very angry he did catch hold of the mare's head, but he (Mr Atwood) could not believe that he really ill-treated the poor dumb animal until Wil- liams lashed him with the whip, and tried to drive him down. Then he did kick the mare, but surely great provocation could be pleaded in extenuation. The jury would remember that the defendant had been fined already in connection with this affair, and he asked them only to give moderate damages in this case. With regard to the mare no price had been put upon the injury she was said to have sustained, and he would suggest that they should leave her out of the question altogether. The Judge, in summing up, said there could be no doubt that the defendant kicked plaintiff's horse, and caused damage to the mare, her barne-s, and the vehicle to which she was attached, and he had been the subject of four sorts of legal proceedings. He was first fined for assaulting the bailiff at Aberyst- wyth, then he was fined for a second assault on Wil- liams, at Llanilar, and next he was fined for cruelty to the mare, which was proceeding number three, and now he was brought into the County Court to pay for the damage done to plaintiff's horse, harness, and trap. What the jury had to consider was the amount of damage plaintiff had sustained, and it became a mere question of figures. His Honour then went into the question of damages rather minutely, concluding with a warning to the jury that it was them who had to assess the amount, and they need not be guided by what he had said unless they thought fit. The jury then retired, and after a rather lengthly deliberation in private, returned into court with a verdict for the plaintiff, damages 4/. The court rose about half-past 5 o'clock, and his Honour intimated that he should sit at 10 o'clock on the following morning, adding that when he said 10 o'clock he meant it. WEDNESDAY. His Honour took his seat a few minutes after half- past 10 o'clock, notwithstanding his intimation on the previous evening that he should sit punctually at 10 o'clock. AN APPLICATION. Mr Atwood addressed his Honour and said that in the case of Arthur Johnson Hughes v Elizabeth Evans he appeared for the plaintiff, and had an ap- plication to make to the court. His Honour would remember that the action-one of ejectment—was tried some four months ago by Mr Gibbons, deputy judge, who found for the defendant. Then at the November court his Honour granted an application by the plaintiff for a new trial to take place to-day. The plaintiff had prepared accordingly, and brought witnesses a great distance—one from Gloucester, and others from places a good way off-but at the last moment he (Mr Atwood) received a notice from Mr Stapleton Cotton, the defendant's attorney, that the case had been removed to the Court of Queen's Bench under a writ of certiorari. Now be submitted that under the circumstances he was entitled to the costs of the day The Judge You only had this notice yesterday? Mr Atwood Yes, only yesterday, at 2 30 p.m., but still I assert that I have a right to costs, because the notice ought to have been served not yesterday, but five clear days since. After quoting the Act of Parliament bearing on the subject, the learned ad- vocate said that a copy of the notice was received by the registrar on Sunday, and at any rate he ought to have received one on the same day. The plaintiff had incurred costs-serious costs he might say-and he had a right to have these costs paid. Mr Cotton said it would be somewhat ungracious and most unfair to grant such an order as the plain- tiff's solicitor applied for! When the defendant had a verdict in her favour, costs were given her, and they were taxed at once, but they had not been paid. When his Honour granted a new trial no order was made as to the defendant's costs, and she was put to a serious amount of inconvenience in consequence. As to the witnesses which Mr Atwood said had been brought from a long distance, they ought to have been produced at the first hearing of the case. The Judge That may or may not be, but the plaintiff is entitled to bring fresh evidence. Mr Cotton Just so, sir, and as there are costs now due to the defendant which have not been paid, set those off against these costs. Plaintiff is no worse off than the defendant is, and she has been deprived of costs which she was ill able to incur. The Judge Why not have given notice in time ? Mr Cotton Notice was given to the registrar in dU6 time, but I rather overlooked Mr Atwood, being busy. and when I went to his office on Monday evening, after my arrival from London, to serve the notice, I found it shut up. I went again yesterday morning, but found no one there, and was obliged to defer the service until later in the day. The Judge Well, you must pay the costs of the witnesses. Mr Cotton submitted that it was a hard case for the defendant. Her own costs remained unpaid upon a case where she was successful. His Honour did not see how he could mix up the two matters. Mr Cotton Reserve these costs, your Honour, as the others have been. Mr Atwood: We are put to expense through laches on the other side through their neglect. Mr Cotton I admit it. I say how it occurred. His Honour repeated that he should allow the costs of the witnesses from a distance. Mr Atwood then applied for his own fee, and said that the plaintiff was fighting a beggar to clear himself and others from a vile stigma which had been put upon them. Mr Cotton: Don't prejudge the case, sir, pray. I have made no revelations whatever. The Judge I give the costs of the witnesses from a distance. Mr Atwood Very well, your Honour, but I hope you will give me my own fee. After some further conversation, the judge said he would. Mr Atwood said he had just obtained a copy of the affidavits upon which the writ of certiorari was obtained, and the one made by Mr Cotton contained what he could not help saying was a libel upon the registrar ot the court After stating that to the best of his judgment and belief the case would not have a fair and unbiassed trial" if it was tried in this court, Mr Cotton went on to say, and I have every reason to believe that a partial jury will be sum- moned to try the case." For his part, be should be very happy to try the case without a jury, and leave it to his Honour. The Judge Now, I presume your motion is at an end. Mr Atwood Yes, your Honour. ANOTHER APPLICATION. Mr J. H. Ravenhili reminded his Honour that at the last court he applied for some money paid into court in the suit of John Evans r. John Jones by the defendant to be banded over to the defendant. He should be glad to have his Honour's answer to the application. His Honour said Mr Ravenhill might have the money. He had consulted the two judges who had heard both the trials, and was willing to accede to the application. Our readers will remember that the plaintiff in this case is a draper in this town, while the defen- dant, a cooper, lives at Trefechan. The action was brought to recover the cost of goods alleged to have been supplied to the defendant's daughters; and after three hearings, two of which were before juries, the verdict remained with the defendant, and the money appfied for was the costs of the first trial, which had been paid into court. The court rose at half-past 3 o'clock.

ABERYSTWYTH IMPROVEMENT COMMIS- SIONERS. An adjourned monthly meeting was held at the Town Hall last Tuesday, and there were present Messrs. Jonathan Pell (in the chair), Philip Wil- liams, J. P. Jones, John Rees, Thomas H. Jones, Charles Hackney, John Jones (Great Dark-gate- street), John Williams, E. W. Jones, Peter Jones, and Richard Morris; also, D. Lloyd, assistant clerk, J. Vaughan (surveyor), and P.S. Evans (inspector of nuisances). The usual fortnightly accounts were passed, and the minutes of the last meeting signed. ADDITIONAL LAMPS. Mr Philip Williams, chairman of the Public Lights Committee, brought up a report from the committee with respect to the lighting of Crynfryn buildings. the committee recommendmg that a lamp should be placed at the corner of the buildings. The Chairman said the committee were requested to see whether the light now at the top of Corpora- tion-street could be removed so as to light Crynfryn buildings, which consisted of new houses, tile pro- perty of Mr. J. G. W. Bonsall. The commissioners' rates upon the property were hardly sufficient to pay the cost of lighting. Besides, it was private pro- perty and without Mr Bonsall gave over the road in front of the houses, the commissioners had no right to place a light there. Mr T. H. Jones said they should ask Mr Bonsall to contribute towards the cost of lighting. The Chairman thought Mr Bonsall should be com- municated with and asked whether he would give up the roadway to the commissioners, and also pay part of the expense of lighting Crynfryn buildings. Mr Hackney said they ought carefully to avoid all bad precedents and it was then agreed that Mr Bonsall should be written to in accordance with Mr Pell's suggestion. Mr Phillip Williams next reported that the public lights committee recommended that a new lamp should be placed in Fountain Court, Trefechan, be- cause the court was zig-zag in shape, and a lamp placed at its entrance would light no further than the first angle. Mr J. P. Jones enquired whether Fountain Court was not private property ? Mr Williams and the chairman answered in the affirmative. Mr Hackney thought that what the commissioners got from the court in the shape of taxes would not pay the cost of lighting, and asserted that most of the inhabitants of the court were fond of darkness rather than light." (Laughter.) In reply to the chairman, Mr John Jones said the people living in the court bad many times applied for a public lamp. Mr Hackney I do not recollect one single appli- cation. The Chairman said that it was recommended by Mr David Roberts. Mr Phillip Williams said that a lamp at the en- trance to the court would, perhaps, be in the way of traffic, and soon get broken but rather than that the inhabitants should be without light the committee would advise the removal of a lamp to the entrance of the court. Mr J. P. Jones thought that if the commissioners placed a new lamp in the court they would have a dozen applications from different parts of the town at the next meeting. P. S. Evans (in answer to a question) said he be- lieved the people of the court would be satisfied if one of the lamps was moved to the entrance of the court The Chairman: In order that they may find the entrance to their own court. «?■ The meeting then agreed that one of the lamps at Trefechan should be moved to the entrance of the court. It was also decided that if the permission of Mrs. Wemyss' agent could be obtained, the lamp leading to Spring Gardens should be raised. The Public Lights Committee laid before the Com- missioners a pattern lamp which they had chosen for twelve new lamps on the Marine Terrace, and Mr Hackney found fault with it because it was so constructed that it would send the light up to the clouds. It was stated that the cost of the new lamps, as per pattern, would be 37s. each, and Mr Hackney objected to the price as being too high. He further Bald that he did not see the necessity for changing the lamps at present on the Terrace. He was of i opinion that strong circular lamps, like those now in use, would resist stormy weather better than square or sexagonal ones. No decision was come to, and the committee will re-consider the matter by the next meeting. A NEW WATER CART AT LAST. Mr J. P. Jones enquired whether any steps had been taken towards obtaining a new water cart before the summer season. Suitable provision had been made for one in the estimates, and the matter had been talked about for two years; it was now time that they did something. The Chairman said two years and a half had elapsed since the mayor of Liverpool kindly for- warded to the mayor of Aberystwyth a plan of a water cart such as used in the former town, the price of which was 27l. That sum was provided for in the last estimate, in order that a water cart might be obtained this year. Mr Ellis had contracted to sup- ply a small cart It was then proposed by Mr J. P. Jones, seconded by Mr R. Jones, and agreed that a barrel water cart, similar to those used in Liverpool, should be at once ordered. This was all the business.

A FESTAL TREAT.—On Monday last, John Parry, Esq., Glanpaith, treated the workmen engaged about the mansion to a substantial supper, with a plentiful supply of CfDrw da; and we need not add that, after ample justice had been done to the good things, the healths of Mr. and Mrs. Parry Were drank in the most hearty and joyful manner. The partaker* of the bountiful feast avail themselves of this means of publicly thanking their generous employer for his liberal treat. THE DEVIL'S BRIDGE RAILWAT.—We are sorry to learn that the measures taken to carry a railway from Aberystwyth to Devil's Bridge have fallen through. It was intended to run on the Manchester and Milford line for a certain distance, and branch off between Llanilar and Trawscoed but that is at an end. Up to tbe 12th inst. all went well; but when it became necessary to pay a deposit to the accountant of the Court of Chancery, there was a lapse of the proceedings and at the meeting of di- rectors on Wednesday se'nnight only Messrs Bal- combe and Barrow attended, when the resignation of three other directors was received. All the money spent so far is, we believe, lost, and the proceedings will have to be begun over again.

ABERYSTWYTH TOWN COUNCIL. A special meeting of the Corporation was held in the Council Chamber on Thursday, present the Mayor (presiding), Councillors J. Pell, J. B. Bal- combe, B. Hughes, R. Morris, J. Rees, Philip Wil- liams, and Messrs. J. Parry (town clerk), J. J. At- wood (assistant ditto), Hugh Hughes (borough treasurer). The meeting was convened for the purpose of car- rying out the provisions of the Public Libraries and Museums' Act, and considering the condition of the Corporation. The meeting was a rather lively one, and the proceedings lasted nearly four hours. MINUTES. The Town Clerk said the first business was to read the minutes of the last meeting. Mr Balcombe Yes, and of the last two or three meetings, I think. The Town Clerk: Well, those minutes are not here. Mr Balcombe We ought to proceed in order, I think. The minutes were then read, and the business of the day was about being proceeded with, when Mr Balcombe pointed out that the minutes bad not been signed by the mayor. The Town Clerk said there were a good many minutes not signed, and they could all be signed at once. Mr Balcombe: That won't do. I beg to move that the mayor do sign the minutes just read. (Hear, hear.) The Mayor Very well, gentlemen will anybody lend me a pen. (Laughter.) The minutes were then signed. THE LIBRARY AND MUSEUM. The Rev. E. O. Phillips and Mr J. P. Jones, the chairman and hou. secretary of the Literary Institute in Terrace Road, waited upon the Council to lay be- fore them a resolution passed at a recent meeting of the Institute Committee. It was moved by Mr L. O. Davies, and seconded by Mr M. H. Davis, and was to the effect that inasmuch as the Public Libraries' Act had been adopted in Aberystwyth, an interview should be sought with the Town Council for the pur- pose of transferring the present Institute and Library to the committee appointed by the Town Council for carrying out the Act. Mr Balcombe submitted that the meeting was not yet in a position to consider that resolution, as they had only met to cousider the steps necessary for carrying out the Act. The Rev. E Owen Phillips said that the reso- lution of the Institute committee just read was passed in order to meet the remark made at one of the Council meetings that perhaps the committee would not be willing to hand over the library to the Town Council. Mr Pell here roso and said he had a report to pre- sent with regard to the carrying out of the Act. Mr Balcombe Then let us have that first, for we are not yet in a position to consider the resolution of the Institute committee. Mr Pell said tbe Council would remember that at the last meeting a small committee was appointed to confer with a committee of the proprietors of the Market Hall Company as to acquiring the room above the market for the purposes of a museum. The two committees met, and as a result of their conference he had received a letter from Mr G. T. Smith, tbe secretary, stating that he was directed by the directors to state that they were prepared to provide accommodation for the museum and library at a rent of 40l per annuln, the premises to be taken on lease for 14 years, and if the Council wished to terminate their tenancy sooner, they could do so by repaying the cost of fitting up the room for the spe- cial purpose of a museum. The letter also stated that that was the ultimatum of the directors they would not reconsider the matter at all. Mr B. Hughes said that the 40/. included the use of two rooms. Mr Pell did not know. He only went by the letter of the secretary to the company. Mr B. Hughes Yes, there are two rooms one for the library, and the other for the museum. The Town Clerk enquired if any connoisseur had looked at the collection of pictures which bad been given to the town by Mr George Powell ? Mr Atwood said it had been "weeded" over and over again. At first it was three times as numerous as it is now. Mr Pell thought that it was anything but an act of courtesy to Mr Puwell to make observations of this kind, and he would suggest that they avoid any discussion as to the value of the collection. The reporters were present, and he did object to anything going forth from this roum calculated to depreciate the value of the gift. The Town Council had grate- fully accepted it, and he protested against the ques- tion of its value now being raised. I Mr Balcombe Certainly I quite agree with you. The Town Clerk was here understood to remark that perhaps the reporters would not take any notice of what had been said. Mr Pell thought all that was said in this room ought to be reported. The Town Clerk said that whatever might be the money value of the gift, the intention was admirable, but as men of business he thought there was no harm in enquiring the cost. They were told that they ought not to look a gift horso in the teeth," but he quite differed from that old proverb, because they might have a horse that had no teeth at all. Mr Balcombe Mr Mayor, I really must rise to order. The Town Clerk: I think we ought to have some —— Mr Balcombe I must call you to order. The Town Clerk Idon'tfora moment doubt- Mr Balcombe (again interrupting) You are out of order. We don'tet our minutes read, but I be- lieve there is a resolution on the book accepting the gift. The Town Clerk Yes, there is. Mr Balcombe Then why reopen the question ? Mr Pell: Yes, why do so ? The Town Clerk Every court has power to amend its own acts if necessary, and I wish it to be under- stood that my remarks do not mean the slightest discourtesy to Mr Powell. Mr Philip Williams said he had heard from a gentleman who professed to be a judge of these things that the prints were very valuable. Mr Balcombe: Prints ? Mr Philip Williams Well, paintings then, you must excuse me if I made a mistake in a word. Mr Balcombe Ob, ye's, certainly. Mr Pell said this discussion* had gone to a much greater length thanrhe liked to hear. All the things which Mr Powell bad given were not here, some were in Germany, others in London, and if the value of his gift was questioned, he was not bound to com- plete it; he might say ''I will leave you with what you have got His gift was the nucleus of a good collection of fine arts, and Mr Powell had said that if this nucleus was housed in a suitable manner, he would add to it; under such circumstances it was very uncourteous to talk about the value of the pictures. Mr Philip Williams did not quite understand what this meeting was for. The Town Clerk: Only to consider what the committee have done towards providing a room for the collection. Mr Balcombe: Yes, that is it; we have adopted the Act. Mr Pell then mentioned that the committee did not recommend the acceptance of the offer of the Market Company, because they thought it neither fair nor liberal, and quite beyond the price the Cor- poration ought to pay with the funds at their disposal. Mr Balcombe I endorse that as a member of the committee. Mr J. Rees begged to propose that the offer of the Market Hall Company be accepted. Mr Philip Williams: I am no shareholder in the company, neither have I any interest in it, and I have great pleasure in seconding the motion. Mr Pell said he would give some reasons why the committee did not recommend tbe acceptance of the company's offer. They were told by the market committee that it would cost 200/ 300/ or 400Z. to fit up the room or rooms, and according to the secre- tary's letter, if the Council wished to give up the premises before the expiration of 14 years, they would be called upon to pay a sum varying from 200l. to 4UOL as a penalty for giving them up. It was quite possible and feasible to provide a home for the collection on the property of the Corportion, and on a far superior site in every sense of the word, and one which the donor of the gift approved of more than the one over the market hall. Then they must not forget that their funds would only amount to some 68Z. a year, and if they paid 40l. rent, 20/. for lighting, 30l. for a man to lock after the collection, that was 901., and then he understood that the Insti- tute paid 40/. or 50l. a year for book and papers. Mr J. P. Jones: That is a great mistake of yours. The Town Clerk said they need not talk about the library yet. Mr Pell explained that he felt bound to take in I the library question because they had been told that the market committee in making their offer had pro- vided for a library and museum. The committee of which he was a member wished a separate rent tu be placed on each room—one for the museum, and the other for the library—but that had not been done. The Town Clerk: I think you make it out that the expenses if we have the rooms at the market hall, will be something like 140l or 15Ol. a year ? Mr Fell: Yes, if you go in for a library and reading-room as well as a museum. But I maintain that the town adopted the Public Libraries and Museums' Act with the intention of providing a home for the munificent gift of Mr George Powell as a nucleus for a fine arts collection. And there is nothing to prevent us from adopting tbe library at some future time, but we must first provide a home for the gift that we have had. At the expiration of two or three years we shall be in a position to take over the Institute and Library from the trustees, and then it will be perfectly right and wise to do so. Some gentlemen are very anxious that the Institute Library should be taken over at once, because in February they will be turned out of their premises, but the way to meet that difficulty is, I imagine, to let them have one of the rooms in this town hall— say the one that was once used as an armoury—free of rent, with an honourable understanding that the Council will, when they have provided for a picture gallery, take it off their hands at the earliest oppor- tunity. It seems to me that with only 68/. a year to spend we cannot do more. The Town Clerk Then you recommend that the books be placed in the room which was formerly used as armoury ? Mr Pell: Certainly and I beg to move an amend- ment to Mr Rees' motion, as follows:—"That it is not expedient in a financial sense, or in the interest of the ratepayers, to accept the offer of the Market Company, which in the end will entail an expense of 150/. a year." Mr Balcombe I beg to second that. Mr W. H. Thomas mentioned that the room in the Town Hall, referred to by Mr Pell, belonged to the County Court, as did all the rooms in that wing. A conversation then arose as to the cost of the Institute, and Mr J. P. Jones stated that the papers and periodicals taken in cost 14l. a year; they were afterwards sold for half price. Mr Balcombe said that with only 681. a year to spend, they must not go to work blindly; and much as he should like to see a library and museum com- bined, he was afraid they must be content with the latter for awhile. Mr B. Hughes, in noticing some of Mr Pell's ob- servations, denied that the Market Company was asked to name a rent for each room. Mr Pell: I beg your pardon, they were, and I can appeal to Capt. Lewis, who is now present; also that they should prepare a sketch plan of the rooms. I wished this, because I intended to suggest that the plan of a new building which I submitted, and the plan of these rooms, should be shown to Mr Powell, for him to decide Mr Balcombe repeated that he did not think they could do anything with the Institute Library. The Town Clerk A library is the most important part. The Mayor: Yes, it is. The Rev. E. O. Phillips: I think the ratepayers adopted the Act with that idea. Mr Balcombe did not think so. He thought the ratepayers adopted the Act because of Mr Powell's munificent gift, which was calculated to promote the formation of a very valuable museum and fine arts gallery. Mr Philip Williams here remarked that they had been told by Mr Pell that Mr Powell was willing to pay a man tor looking after the museum, so that in calculating the cost that item might be deducted. Mr Pell: I never said so. Mr J. P. Jones: He (Mr Powell) told me so. Mr Balcombe It is a mistake. Mr Pell We could not take that into considera- tion unless we bad it in writing. The Mayor said it would not be fair to put Mr Powell to any further expense. The Town Clerk suggested that they should adjourn the question, and discuss it at another meet- ing, for it seemed to him that if they remained until six o'clock to-day they would not setile anything. Mr Balcombe: I will do anything you like. but if we do adjourn we shall only have a larger attendance of the market interest. After some further conversation, it was suggested that there should be a division, when the meeting was equally divided between the motion and amend- ment. The mayor refused to give a casting vote, and the matter fell through. An opinion was ex- pressed that his worship had exercised a very wise discretion. Mr J. P. Jones enquired whether the Council would find room for the Institute Library, which consisted of some 1400 volumes. They had to quit their rooms on the 1st February, and did not know what to do. Some doubts were expressed as to whether the Corporation could find room for the books. The Hev. E. U. Phillips said it just came to this, were they disposed to accept a gift of the Institute Library or not? Of course the committee would not carry on the library any longer now that the Libraries and Museums' Act had been adopted by the town, and if the Council would not accept the books, they would be disposed of in some other way. Mr Balcombe moved that the Council do gratefully accept the offer so kindly made by the Rev. E. O. Phillips on behalf of the Literary Institute. Mr Pell seconded the moiion, which was unani- mously adopted, it being understood that the books would be placed in the room once used for an armoury. THE SCHOOL BOARD SCHOOL. A deputation from the School Board, consisting of the Vicat, the Rev J. Williams, Mr W. H. Thomas, and Mr Peter Jones, waited on the Board with re- ference to the site for a School Board school-house. Mr W. H. Thomas was spokesman, and he said the Board had agreed to accept the site offered to them, but it would be necessary for the Council to memo- rialise the Treasury for permission to sell, and the deputation from the School Board conveyed a request that they would do so without delay. The Town Clerk asked the deputation if they had any objection to lay before the Council the answer of the Board with regard to the two sites ? Mr Thomas said the School Board accepted the site which the Council offered to them, but it was not exactly known how much land would be wanted, and he understood the resolution which the Council passed was that they were to have the land at th. rate of 1,0001 per acre. The Town Clerk suggested that it would be time enough to memorialise the Treasury when the School Board knew exactly how much land they wanted. Mr W. H. Thomas But if that is done, we shall lose a month at least, and time is precious. The Town Clerk What is the maximum ? Mr W. H. Thomas Not more than an acre. Mr Balcombe proposed that it be an instruction to the town clerk to write to the Lords of the Treasury for permission to sell a piece of land not exceeding one acre in extent for the purpose of a School Board school-house. Mr. P. Williams seconded the motion. Carried. FINANCE. The next business was to consider the financial condition of the corporation and in answer to Mr Balcombe, Mr J. J. Atwood entered into a long explanation of the reasons why some definite reply had not been received from the Lords of the Trea- sury with reference to an application by the Corpo- ration of Aberystwyth for permission to borrow 2000/. on the security of the rates. Mr Atwood's remarks were to the effect that when the memorial was sent to the Lords of the Treasury in August last, they applied for information on various matters, which he was unable to supply immediately, owing to the death of Mr Matthews, and for other reasons. He hoped, however, to be in a position to reply to the Lords of the Treasury in a few days. Mr Balcombe intimated that Mr Atwood's reply was satisfactory and after remarking on the large balance due to the treasurer uf the borough, who would advance no more money, he proceeded to refer to a "piece of jobbery" perpetrated some five or six years ago with reference to land on the Marine Terrace, and which had done him a great deal of damage, the original frontage having been encroached upon, the result being that the Queen's Hotel had been set back. He then explained that a wedge-shaped piece of ground belonging to the Cor- poration, an t extending between Mr John Davies's house and No. 62 on the Terrace, had been en- croached upon in building, and a proper line of uni- formity bad not been observed. Now, this land had not been paid for, and its value was sufficient to pay off half the balance due to the treasurer, and some* thing ought to be done. He, therefore, begged to move that an eminent land-surveyor be engaged to value the land illegally taken possession of between Mr Davies's house and No 32, Marine Terrace. Mr Pell seconded the motion. It was a patent fact, he said, that in building these houses and bringing them forward that the line of the Terrace had been spoiled. He believed the builder took two feet more because the Queen's Hotel had a bay window. After some discussion, the motion was carried; and it was further agreed that Messrs. Hill and Sons, Oswestry, be engaged to make the valuation. THE ILLNESS OF THE PRINCE OF WALES. The Town Clerk read the following reply to the address recently sent to the Queen with reference to the illness of the heir apparent: — Whitehall, 3rd January, 1872. Sir,—I have had the honour to lay before the Queen the re- solution passed at a spedal meeting of the Town Council of the borough of Aberystwyth, held on the 20th ultimo, with reference to the illness of His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales; and I have to inform you that Her Majesty was pleased to receive the same very graciously. I am, Sir, your obedient Servant, H. A. BRUCE. The Mayor of Aberystwyth. Mr Balcombe said he was in communication with Sir W. Knollys with reference to the Prince of Wales visiting Aberystwyth (the hygienic advantages of which were well known) for the restoration of his health, and thus carrying out a half promise made in earlier days. If he (Mr Balcombe) were successful, he supposed the Corporatian would spare no efforts to make the visit pleasant to His Royal Highness. The Mayor said he was sure all would do their best towards that end. This was all the business, and the proceedings then terminated.

MINING IN CARDIGANSHIRE. The attention now being given to the development of the mines of Wales, is likely to make the Principality as celebrated for its returns of lead and silver-lead, as Cornwall has been from time imme- morial for its returns of tin. More than 200 years ago, Sir John Peters expressed his opinion, that the nation was losing more than one million sterling annually, in consequence of neglecting only the Cardiganshire mines. Time is now proving the correctness of this statement, for, in due proportion to the capital employed are the returns of ore in- creasing. Beginning with the western part of the county, we find that Bronfloyd is now paying 4,0001. a year, which sum is likely to be increased to 6,0001 by 1872. It bas paid 1081. per 1001. share in divi- dends. Last half-year's balance-sheet showed that the total cost was 1,792/. 18. lid., or less than 46 per cent. of the returns, which amount 103.9.)61 6s 3d. The lode or veiu is in some parts sixty feet wide. Darren bas produced upwards of one million sterling in lead and silver, and has made immense profits, but the mine is not now extensively worked. Goginan has made nearly 100,01101. profits, and is now yielding good returns. South Darren on every share (3/. 6s. 6d. paid) has divided 1/. Is. 6d., the last dividend of Is. 6d. a share having been declared in November last. Cwm Erfin has paid on every share 11. 10s. called up 311. 13s., the last dividend of 5s. per share, having been paid in January last. Bwleb Consols was at one time abandoned, but is now giving profits. Sir Hugh Middleton's famous mine, old Cwmsymlog is situated in this locality. This mine now worked under the name of East Darren, gave him 20,0001. a year from its rich lodes of silver-lead ore. It is now making profits of 6,000/. annually, and on every share of 321, no less than 2101. 10s. bas been paid, tbe last of ll. a share in Sept., 1871. Surrounding these famous mines are scattered many very promising setts, such as Powell United, Llywernog, Clara Consols, Allt-y-crib, Taliesin (some of these are old dividend mines) but the great want in this district as elsewhere, is capital to develop the immense mineral wealth. Towards the north east of the county are situated the Plynlimmon, the South Plynlimmon, Bwadrain, Caegynon, &c., all with more or less favourable prospects. The Cwmystwyth has divided 3941. 10s. on every 601. share, but no dividend has been paid since July, 1869. To the west are the Lisburne mines, which, on every 181. 15s. shares have paid 3431. IOs. To the north is Frongoch, having a lode 120 fed wide, which has given more than 20,0001. in profits. South of the river Ysiwyth lie the mines of Logylas, Gloyfach, and Glogfawr, which are all rich and profitable, and near them is the Grogwin- ion, formerly very remunerative. The working of the Plynlimmon mine which has been opened within a few hundred yards of the summit of the mountain, proved the correctness of the theory that metals would be found in the high ground. In the clay slate formation of Cardiganshire immense lodes crop up snme fathoms in height above the surface, indicating tbe lines of the metallic lodes euch as at Esgair-y-.M wyn, where many hun- dreds 01 thousands of pounds worth of lead were dug out from only a little below the outcrop. The Bronfloyd vein shows itself distinctly for a distance of six or seven miles, beginning weslward at Bron- ftnyd, where it forms a good course of ore 60 feet wide, crosses the valley, and appears along the surface of Bronmeirie Hill side again, crosses over the hill of Coed Griffith, with ore coming up to the surface, but not wrought; it then goes down blllfa mile to Willow Ban, where it forms great walls of gossan, like an old castle: proceeds to the top of Llettynhen Hill, where, from a partial trial, it yielded a large quantity of lead; thence it goes on, another mile, to I.law'r-cwm-bach, where it produces a goodly quantity of ore; but all the intermediate ground, which will eventually form immensely rich and grand mines, is entirely untried. The vein then goes to Bwlch Styllan, forming masses of gossan as large as houses; and it is stated that some discoveries of lead ore have been made there; thence it traverses a large expanse of peat ground, until it reaches Camidwr Mawr, the foot of the main Plynlimmon range, nnd ascends in whole ground the body of that immense mountain. A recent excellent little book, entitled "Mines and Mining," by Messrs. Bartlett and Chapman, speaking of this lode, remarks that "It is impossible to form the slightest idea of tbe amount nf wealth contained in this untried lode; its great widih of 60 feet, the strength of its < rystallisa- tion showing ihelf at the surface for muny miles, and its profitable results at Bronfloyd, characterise it as one of the grandest developments of untried mineral ground lying exposed and unworked in tbat or auy otber raining country."

THE YSTWYTH BRIDGE. The old timber bridge across the Ystwyth at Tan- ycastell has for some time pa8 been in a most dan- gerous state of dilapidation, so much so that several people narrowly escaped with their lives. In conse- qnence of this it has been lately removed, and a hand- some new iron structure substituted, through the ex- ertion of W. E. Richardes, Esq.. R.A., Bryneithyn. It consists of two lattice girders, each 62 feet span. (supplied by Messrs. Hankin & Co., Liverpool.) well strutted and connected by iron tie-rods. The floor- ing is of timber, finished with a layer of concrete, nine inches thick, which forms a very substantial roadway. The general contractors were Messrs. Evans & Jenkins, of Aberystwyth, who carried out the work most satisfactorily, under the superintend- ence of Mr Richardes, from designs presented by Mr G. H. Thomas, Liverpool, who is a native of the 10- cality- Tuesday last was quite a gala day in the neighbourhood, when young and old, rich and poor, assembled to witness the opening ceremony and lay- ing of the memorial stone, which was performed in the most graceful manner by Mrs. Davies, Tany- bwlch aud Miss Lizzie Davies, of the same place, named it tbe Ystwyth Bridge." The crowd as- sembled then released the horses from the carriage, and insisted upon drawing Mrs Davies, Mrs. Leir, Mrs. Hugh Richardes, Miss Davies, and W. E Rich- ardes, Esq., over the bridge as far as Rhydyfelin and back. Then Mr Richardes spoke, in the most eulogistic terms, of the liberal and handsome manner in which his application for subscription had been responded to by Col. Powell, Vaughan Davies. Esq., Lord Lisburne, Capt. Phelp, L P. Pugh, Esq., Mrs. Davies, Mrs. Leir, Mrs. Wemyss, &c., &c., also of the tenant farmers in the locality, and of the mem- bers of the Ty'nlon Sunday school. Hearty cheers were given for all by the assembled multitude, who drank their respective healths in the most joyful manner. Amongst those present were—Hugh Rich- ardes, Esq. Captain and Mrs. Hopton, with family the Masters Leir Messrs. Jones, Lewis, Ashley, Jacob, Morgan, Thomas, &c &c. Pence were given by the ladies to all the children present, who were delighted with the whole proceedings Too much praise cannot be accorded to Capt. Richardes for his continual exertion to benefit the public. The mon i- ment on Pen Dinas serves as a valuable landmark to" seamen. The water tank at Pistyllgwyn. where man and beast can quench their thirst. And now the bridge, which is a benefit to the town of Aberyst- wyth as well as to those in the immediate locality, it being a favourite walk with our townsmen and visi- tors.— Communicated.

ABERYSTWYTH MARKET.—The prices on Monday were as follow:—Wheat, 7s. 9d. to 8s. 6d. per bushel; barley, 4s. to 4s. 6d. oats, 2s. 6d. to 3s. 3d.; eggs, 10 for a Is.; butter (salt), Is. Id. per lb.; butter (fresh), Is. 5d. per ditto fowls, 3s. 6d. to 4s. Dd. per couple ducks, 3s. to 3s. 6d. per ditto geese, 4s. Od. to 5s. each turkeys, 5s. to 6s. each potatoes, 3s. Od. to 3s 9d. per measure. THE NINE HOURS MOVEMENT IN ABERYSTWYTH. —The agitation for the adoption of what is best known as the nine hours system" has at length extended to our town, under circumstances which are highly creditable to all concerned. It seems that Messrs. Durie and Davies, engineers, volun- tarily offered to adopt the nine hours system, pro- vided the other masters in the trade would do like- wise. Mr T. Williams, foreman at the foundry, accordingly convened a meeting for the purpose of determining the steps to be taken to bring the matter under the notice of the other employers in the same branch of trade in the town. After some friendly discussion, Mr John Owens proposed that a deputa- tion should wait upon Mrs. Mary Ellis and Son, iron founders, for the purpose of asking them to follow the example set by Messrs. Durie and Davies. Mr David Williams seconded the proposition, and it was carried unanimously. The following resolution was then proposed by Mr W. Milward. seconded by Mr John Lloyd, and adopted,—" That this meeting desires to convey to Messrs. Durie and Davies their grateful thanks for having voluntarily expressed their willingness to adopt the nine hours system and the workmen present pledge themselves that they will, by steadiness and attention to their work, do their best to merit the kindness shown them." Since the meeting a deputation consisting of Messrs Thomas Williams, William Milward, Richard Morris, and J. Williams, had an interview with Mrs. Mary Ellis and Son, and this firm agreed to reduce the hours of labour. The alteration will take place in March, and it is to be hoped that the example set by the firms named will be followed by the masters in other trades.

Holloway's Ointment and Pills.—Shortness of Breath, Coughs, and Colds.—Thousands of testimonials can he proÙUCfd to prove the power possessed by these corrective reme- dies in cases of asthma, incipient, consumption, and all disorders of the chest and lungs. The Ointment well rubbed upon the chest and back, penetrating the skin, is absorbed and carried directly to the lungs, where, in immediate contact with the whole mass of circulating blood, it neutralises or expels those impurities, which are the foundation of consumption, asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, arid similar complaints. On the appear- ance of the first consumptive symptoms the back and chest of the paticut should be fomented with warm brine, dried with a coarse cloth, and Holloway's Ointment then well rubbed in. Its absorption will subdue advancing symptoms, and baffle this formidable toe.

COURT OF CHANCERY, LIJTCOLN'S-INN, JAN. 11 (Before the LORD CHANCELLOR.) SINNETT V. HERBERT. This was an appeal from Vice-Chancellor Bacon, raisiup tW question whether a bequest, contained in the will of Miss MoriC of her residuary personal estate, in aid of erecting or of endowllJ an additional church at Aberystwyth, was void under the statu11 9 George II., cap. 36, as an inducement to bring f-esh land iØ mortmain, there being neither at the date of the ill nor at tlv death of the testatrix any church answering the description of additional church at Aberystwyth, or in contemplation eitbo then or now. When the case was heard before him in June lobl Vice-Chancellor Bacon held that inasmuch as there was "J church when the testatrix made her will, and no church at t time of her death, and no suggestion that there was any additi church now needed, and about to he built at Aberystwyth, t gift of tho residue for that charitable purpose failed altogether and, as there was an absence in the will of any intention to gli in general charity, the et/pies doctrine could not apply. Frfl'| this decision the Attorney General, as representing the intel*1? of the Crown, in supporting the intended charitable gift, h* appealed. Th Solicitor General and Mr Hemmings appeared for I* Attorney General in support of the appeal; Mr Kay, Q.C., Bristowe, Q.C., Mr Speed, and Mr Fellows appeared for the rfI pondents in support of the decree, Mr Amphlett, Q.C., and It Reginald Hughes, for the trustees of the will, took no part 0 the argument. The Lord Chancellor said he was unable to concur in t* conclusion come to by the Vice-Chancellor, that the testate1 intended to limit her gift to a church built during her lifetio or in contemplation when she died, so that there should be soiat thing in existence which might be at once endowed with the rt, sidue she had given. The gift was in his opinion applicable to1 future church, and was not limited to a church already in exit fence or in contemplation at the death of the testatrix. J thought there should be some further enquiry as to the prob bility or possibility of building an additional church, and he wt- also anxious to hear of cypru more fully discussed. The case was agairi argued on Thursday upon this point K the Solicitor General, Mr Kay, Q.C., and Mr Bristowe, Q C. The Lord Chancellor held that a gift to endow a future charf1 was a good charitable gift, and also that having regard to the. tute4 8 George III., c 108, by which testators were enabled to gij by will money for building a church to the extent of £ 500, to the alternative power given to the executors of applying tf whole fund in endowing or building, f.WO of the mixed persa" alty might be set apart and employed towards building an acid'' tional church at Aberystwyth, while the whole of the pure per sonalty might be employed towards the endowment of such ad& tional church, subject to the result of an enquiry whether tJII funds conid be laid out for this purpose at Aberystwyth. In ttJI event of this enquiry being answered in the negative, the CO would have to he again brought on to determine upon the u] mate destination of the bequest.

UNITED CHURCH CHOIRS CONCERT.-On TUESDAY evening last the choirs of St. Michael's and S Mary's Churches gave a concert at the Temperance Hall. The audience was not a large one, but amon|! those present we noticed the Mayor, the Vicar, the County Court Judge, as well as a goodly nuff ber of the respectable inhabitants of the town. JI is understood that the tickets sold were far in exceS* of the number present, and therefore the concert MBY be pronounced a financial success. Miss E. Ster ling opened the procoedings with a solo, "Th* Dream," and then came a song, "The Owl," by J. Williams. Miss E Jones followed with Gwyliau and then Mr. Evans, (Organist of S1- Michael's Church,) who officiated as accompanySI. gave a rare treat by playing Handel's 11 tlartnonioIJ5 Blacksmith" on the pianoforte. Miss Nicholl's soug Thy voice is near," was well received and The Arab to his Steed," sung by Mr. Simcox, was aP' plauded. "Jessie's Dream" was capitally sung W Miss Jones, and obtained an encore. Then Mf Evans added to his laurels by a first-rate execution of Thalberg's pianoforte solo, Serenade, Don PaS' quale." A chorus, "Comrades in Arms," brougbl the first part of the programme to an end. After a" interval the second part was commenced with sart's glee, "To Rome's Immortal Leader." A PiV, nofortc eolo, "Andante, and Rondo, Capricciso. (by Mendelssohn,) toll owed and Mr. Evans executed this difficult piece in a manner which left nothing tV be desired. He is evidently a first-rate musician We are however afraid that this faultlessly rendered piece of music was of too high an order to suit Lb taste of the majority present very few appeared f, appreciate its excellence. Braliam's "Death of Nelson" was next sung by Mr. J. Davies, who Dc doubt did his best, but the piece was manifestly 001 suitable for his voice. If he wishes to do justice to himself as a vocajist, he must make a more judl' cious choice the next time he appears in public, Miss Hughes sang "The Wishing Cap" so well aI to receive an unanimous encore, when she repeated this charming little ditty and was loudly applauded, Her voice though not a powerful one, is very sweeti and with a little more attention to pronunciation she will shine as an amateur singer. Bishop's glee. Sleep while the soft evening breeze is blowing' followed and then Mr Evans gave Thalberg's evef fresh Home, sweet Home, which was applauded as its merits deserved. Mr James sang two Welsb songs, the names of which we do not know, which pleased the audience mightily, the cheering being vociferous. Mr James ie vidently popular as a voew list. Miss Emily Stott, who kindly filled up vacancy at very short notice, then sang Her bright smile haunts me still" in a highly satisfactory manneri and received a well deserved encore. "TheNation' al Anthem" concluded the programme, the audience standing up, and singing the chorus in a most loyal manner. Altogether we may say that the concer' was thoroughly successful. A TREAT has been given by Mr. and Mrs. ThomSf Davies, Pier-street, to the Presbyterian or CalvinistiC Methodist Sunday School.-On Friday evening, this 12th inst., the children of the above named school were entertained at the Temperance ii.ii WiLli hand' sotnely decorated large "New-year's Tree." Tbf tree itself was presented by Captain Phelp, of Nanfr* eos, through the medium of Mr Gornall. It was illtr minated with candles and loaded with articles botb pleasing and instructive. The presents numbered above 500, all of which were presented by Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Davies, Pier-street, who were ably as'1 sisted in working and preparing for it by the MisseS Charles, Yates, and Davies. The Rev. Dr CharleSf who presided, and the Rev. Griffith Davies, each dc livered addresses alike encouraging to parents* teachers, and scholars. During the evening Mis' Charles gave some instrumental music on the pianO) and sang. Recitations were given by Mr David Ro- berts, Mr. Bickerstaff, Master Fred. A. Davies, Ma" ter Jenkins, and others and the scholars sang pie' ces simultaneously. Cheers were heartily given fot the ladies for the trouble they had taken in prepar' ing the articles for the tree and the thanks of ths meeting were warmly accorded to Dr. Charles fot presiding. It is hardly necessary to add that the children enjoyed themselves thoroughly, their bright" smiles shewing how pleased they were to receive pre' sents from the grand tree.

.J THE PROPOSED MUSEUM. TO THE EDITOR OF THE ABERYSTWYTH OBSERVES' Sir,—Permit me as a ratepayer of this town to pro' test against the proposal to rent a portion of the old market for the purpose of a museum. Mr Powell has. with great public spirit, presented the town with a magnificent collection of works of art, such as will excite the envy of all other towns in the Principe lity. We have accepted his liberal offer, and also adopted the Public Libraries' Act," with a view to give the utmost importance to the gift. So faT sO good, and our neighbours are doubtless thinking that Aberystwyth, being in possession of so valuable collection, will leave no steps untried in order to make the most of it. But, sir. what will be their surprise when they find that, having come into pos' session of this valuable property, we are positively going to bury it. The circumstances are certain]) very favourable for the purpose. We happen to possess in the town a building of mournful and rick' ety exterior and dingy interior, which appears to be undecided whether it shall fall out or topple in, and which, with a reckless disregard for human life, SODI" Jwfeguided persons have opened as a market. Bury our museum Why, this sepulchral edifice is tb« very place Place our works of art here, and wbal with the combined energies of dust, dirt, rats, mice, and cats, it will soon be no more, and that must bt exactly what we desire-unless there is some other reasonfor our action. Suppose, sir, that instead of caring for our musetiot we endeavour to place it in the proposed positioll- simply with a view to bolster up a pecuniarily rotief1 undertaking-suppose that nearly all of the in enl bers of our town council are also shareholders in thC market company, and suppose that a meeting of the council (by means of our shareholders' majority) df cided to rent a portion of the market, the rent thus paid being tbe only possible chance of a dividend to th" unlucky shareholders —suppose, sir, that all thi* should happen, what a nice little family pie and so many of us with a finger in it! Now, sir, I beg to state that the council mertin of the 23rd ult., as then constituted, was legally di" qualified from coming to any decisions involving the renting a portion of a building belonging to a cooe' pany of which most of the members of t e coune'' are shareholders. I beg further to state that in tl"f are shareholders. I beg further to state that in tt opinion of a large number of ratepayers the old mal" ket is a most unsuitable building wherein to store s'1 valuable an art collectiwn. That the risk of fire and other injury in such a positiou is very great and that any rent which would be a fair return fur tle outlay incurring by the market company, would be far beyond the interest upon the sum for which tile council can erect a suitable building of their own. Such being the case, I, in conjunction with several rateptyers, shall take legal steps to prevent the cotW pletion of the proposed arrangement, and shall J't- fuse to pay any rate levied for such a purpose. RATEPAYER.

NEW ERA IN DENTISTRY.— H. M. Jones and San, Surgeo" Dentists, 19, Northampton Place, Swansea, have recently adopted a peculiar and unique method of effecting dental operations, 1,.1 a process which, while being perfectly safe and harmless, securei1* entire immunity from pain. Teeth are now extracted without the usual agonizing shock which has ere now set at nought the courage of the bravest. Xone need now fear the ordeal. H. M. Jones and Son's artificial teeth defy detection. TittY imitate nature exactly, as well in appearance as in utility Attendances at Aberystwyth regularly announced in the "Aber* ystwyth Observer."

eivtfj. On the 16th inst., Mrs Webster, Pier-street, of a son, On the 12th inst., at Aberayron, Mr. D. B. Evans, Ironmonger, the eldest son of Mr. Benjamin Evans, Postmaster, aged 28 years, much loved and deeply regretted by all who knew him. On the 15th inst., after a lingering illness, aged 5fJ years, Jane, the beloved wife of Capt. Daniel Morgans, of the schooner Jane Morgans, of this port. MONUMENTS for Churches, Churchyards, AI d Cemeteries, executed in Stone, Marble, and Gi-aii i may be inspected in the Show Rooms, at U. Marble Works, Swan-hill Shrewsbury. j