The Aberystwith Observer

NEWS AND OBSERVATIONS: ORIGINAL AND SELECTED. A writer in the "South Wales Weekly News says:- I have been requested to publish the following appeal, which comes appropri- ately at this season:- I should be glad to see seme movement initiated by patriotic Welsh- men to raise a little fund to assuage the dis- tress in his old age of one uF the most talented sons of Wales- ROBYN. DDU ERYRI, now esiding at Ludlow. His case is truly sad, e being now, I believe, about 83 years of age. am given to understand he has nothing to upport him but] what eleemosynary aid he gets from Welsh literary and other friends who are aware of his pitiable circumstances. I read with admiration remarkable specimens of his genius as a Welsh poet in the Welsh column of the Cardiff Times" every now and then, and can very well remember him delivering a powerful address in the Taber- nacle Methodist Chapel at Aberystwyth, about Christmas time of the year 1836 — 51 years ago — in support of the great movement in favour of total abstinence, which, but a few I years previously, had been commenced in I Lancashire. ROBYN DDU at that period was certainly one of He most eloquent and success- ful advocates of that cause which Wales has ever produced. I would fain believe that many benevolent and philanthropic supporters of the temperance movement might be induced to stretch forth a helping hand to one of the orignal champions of a cause which, in those days, entailed a great degree of persecution and obloquy on its advocates. Cymmrodorion! a gynorthwywch chwi ROBYN DDTT ERYRI yn ei henaint a'i dlodi ? — lOAN AP RRYs. The value of the tithe rent-charge last year was J687 8s lOd per £100, and this year it will be £ 84 2s 8id. Next year there will be a still further reduction. In years of prosperity the rent-charge realises more than £100. A second suffragan Bishop of London has been consecrated, Archdeacon EARLE, of Totnes, having been appointed. The stipend will be provided by the appointment of the new dignitary to the living of St. Michael's, Cornhill, which is worth £ 1,500. Compared with the pay of other Bishops this is a small sum, but probably Bishop EARLE will do as much effectual work as any of his better paid colleagues. The new colour is evidently red. It meets one in the ladies' dresses at every turn. It is a staring, glaring colour, and cruel to some complexions. But the heart of womankind is set upon it. The children are all made ruddy, if not chubby, and the newest of costumes are as brilliantly red as though the dyer's hand had lost its cunning in other hues. A perfect" red-fever seems to have set in. The lovers of gentle gradations of colour are in despair. The new red kills everything else in its neigh- bourhood. But the Philistines do not care for that, and they have the advantage of looking very warm and comfortable, and very distinguishable, if not very distinguished, in their somewhat fiery garments. Mr LEWIS1 MORRIS has been again selected as the candidate of the Liberals for the Pem- broke Boroughs. The Royal National Lifeboat Institution has already placed sixty of their new style of boats on the coast, one of them being, as our readers are aware, at this town. The judges appointed to decide upon the merits of designs of mechanically propelled boats have reported that none of the plans submitted to them will suit the requirements of the institution. The traffic returns of the Cambrian Railways for the past year show an increase of £ 1,503. Whether any portion of this increase is due to the additional advertisements which have been placed in various parts of the country or not cannot be decided, but it is very satisfac- tory that increase and not decrease has followed the advertisements. A statement issued by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts estimates the population of the world at 1,470 millions. Of this number 415 millions are Christians, 178 millions are Mohammedans, 8 millions are Jews and 874 millions are heathen. So there is ample scope for missionaries. The Church Mission will commence this (Friday) evening, and will be continued during ten days. It may reasonably be supposed that many Nonconformists will attend, just as Churchpeople go to chapel on special occasions. At Trinity all sittings are free, and doubtless the pews at St. Michael's will be thrown open to all comers. "The Times" completed its centenary on Monday week. It has from the first been the leading newspaper of the world. A correspondent of a Welsh paper calls the woman who was recently fined at the Aber- ayron petty sessions for throwing filth at a person who was discharging an unpleasant dirfy, a hero and a martyr! Surely this is a cheap and unusual means of attaining heroism and martyrdom. On Monday afternoon a meeting of farmers and dealers will be held at the Assembly Rooms to appoint a dozen of their own class to unite with the Markets Committee of the Town Council in preparing a scheme for im- proving the markets and fairs of the town. In addition to the selection of members oppor- tunity will of course be taken to discuss the question generally, so that the joint committee may be in a position to judge what ought to be done. The more the discussion the better. There are numbers of points, each of which will require careful consideration, and no one should hesitate to express an opinion, whether it is likely to prove acceptable or not, for no opinion can be absolutely unprofitable. The object is to unite together all classes and interests. Many suggestions have already been thrown out at various times, some of which are well worth full consideration. It has been sug- gested over and over again that all the markets should be concentrated at one spot, and that suitable buildings should be erected. From one point of view there is much to recommend this suggestion. This has been done at Car- marthen; where there are buildings for various kinds of produce and goods, and persons once in the market can readily find what they want, whether meat, or fruit, or flannels, or fowls, second-hand books, or agricultural implements, butter, eggs, or 'almost anything else; whilst the smithfield and slaughterhouse adjoin. The serious objections, to this scheme are three in number, and they are equally weighty. In the first place, the site and the buildings would cost a very large sum of money; secondly, the only available site is outside the town, and would therefore be most incon- venient; thirdly, there are already build- ings which are very well adapted for market purposes, It is true that the mar- kets are at some distance from each other, but the time of those who have business to tran- sact is not so very valuable that they will lose much by the minutes which are occupied in walking from one to the other. The Meat Market is fairly well patronised, but there is room for more business. The Corn Market is used for grain, butter, cheese, eggs, wool and flannel, and glass and crockery-ware are also on sale there. Garden produce, fowls and fish are invariably sold from door to door, except for a couple of tables placed in the street at the Town Clock. If something could be done to induce the vendors of these articles to take up their positions in either of the mar- kets, or, better still, in the Market Hall in Terrace-road, it would be a con ;iderable advantage in many respects. Butas yet there are no indications that they will do so, for the very simple reason that housekeepers like to be served at their doors, the same seller-i calling upon them regularly. Therefore it is safe to say that it will be some time before a market is opened specially for these commodities. But inducements should be held out to buyers and sellers alike to attract them into the market. It has been suggested that an effort should be made to establish sheep and wool fairs in the town. Some wool is now sold at the Corn Market, but trade does not seem to be brisk in that department. The drawback to the estab. ishment of sheep fairs is the great distance between the hills where the sheep are fed and the town. If farmers will but bring their sheep ten or twenty miles to the town, and sell them at reasonable prices, buyers will be forthcoming. Much can be done to improve the horse and cattle fairs, but we are not hopeful with regard to the future. Dealers come here, in ample numbers, but they can frequently buy but a limited quantity of stock. So long as farmers are willing to bring their stock to market and take them home again several times rather than sell at what they believe to be a low figure, but which is really the market value, it is not encouraging for dealers to attend. It should be borne in mind that dealers can only get market value for their purchases, and they cannot be expected to give exceptionally high prices. They are prepared to give such prices for stock as will enable them to get some profit upon their transactions. But the real question which the joint com- mittee will have to deal with is that relating to tolls. There is a good deal to be said for mar- ket tolls, and there is a good deal to be said against them. Of late our local comtemporary has been finding fault with the Markets Committee, and assiduously teaching them a little bit of their duty. Unfortunately committees have no feelings, and this particular one seems to be altogether indifferent to criticism. The Chair- man of the Markets Committee now is Mr RICHARD JAMES, and it will be amusing to see how soon our contemporary will cease to bicker when it has discovered this fact. The Rev. E. T. DAVIES, vicar of Aberdovey, has suggested that as the present year is the ter-centenary of the translation of the Bible into Welsh by Bishop MORGAN, the event should be celebrated in some tangible manner. The Nonconformists are already interesting themselves in the matter. Dr MORGAN'S remains lie in St. Asaph's Cathedral, without a superstructure of any kind to mark it. Complaints are made in some quarters be- cause the police and military are called to the protection of those whose duty it is to carry out the tithes distraint sales. Those who raise the objection forget that the first duty of good government is the maintenance of law and order. There can be no question as to the legality of the sales, and therefore of the obli- gation of the authorities to enforce them, if required to do so. But it is another question whether the tithe-owners ought to enforce full payment. Of late the Calvinistic Methodists have adopted the plan, which is novel in towns, although frequently adopted in the country, of holding weekly prayer meetings in work- men's houses, which are visited in turns. In the Skinner-street district the plan has been found to work very well. In our present issue will be found another letter, by the Rev. A. G. EDWARDS, on the Nonconformity of Wales, and also the annual re- turns of some of the Nonconformist denomina- tions, as published by themselves. We regret that Mr F. R. ROBERTS bad a severe:attack of illness in the early part of the week. He is now, however, much better. Cardiganshire is the subject of the last of the Letters from Wales in The Times." We shall reproduce the letter in our next issue.

.'HOTGGilA i 'H10 STUDIO, S SAT ION- BRY & FANCY GOODS DEPOT, CHELTENHAM HuUSE, PIER bTREET, ABERYSTWYTH. E. R. GYDE { BEGS to intimate to his many Customers that while devotinsr his entira time and energy to the production of HIGH CLASS PHOTOGRAPHY -both Portrait and Landscape—his Stationery and Fancy Goods business is now under efficient manage- ment, and in all departments will be found well stocked with carefully selected goods, from among which ha would cali special attention to The Shilling1 5 qnire packet or Highly-Glazed Note- Paper, the I". 6d. 5 quire packet of extra Superfine quality. The" Homanesque," having an agreeable finis i 1?. per quire. ThE" Papyrus," rough finish, specially suited for broad nibbed Peus, Is. per 5 quire packer. Mourning Note-paper, all width borders. Correspondence, Cards and Envelopee, Is. and 6 i per box. A "a:efnliy selected stock of PRAYER & HYMN BOOK" BIBLES, &c., in Pidued and Limp Rassian Morocco and Caif. ALBUMS, ti e newest designs in the Muk<;t in all varieties of Bindings. Amongst others specially worthy of mention is the "CEM." which is nn- doubtedly one of tfu? ifnes:- ever pa;dishe i. ALBUM SCi.EENS, quite new, both hi Cabinet and Carte de Visite, Hiii;u-painted. Calf embossed and other variety's of leather. All prices. FRAMES—A beautiful assortment in all shades of plush—newest de.-ians in oxytiised metal — The ISotary Frame—The Swing Frame, &c. Glove and riandke; chief Boxes in separate cases, in embused and Russia leather. PURSES. E. R. Gyde has for many years paid special attention to this item of his trade, and for a well assorted stock feels sure he is not to be sur- passed. KG VIS ED PRICK LIST FOB PHOTOGRAPHS MAY BE HAD ON A PP L L"CA L IO N TO VISITORS AND OTHERS C.M.WILLIAMS Wishes to draw the attention of Visitors and others to his Stock of Millinery, Str iw Hat-s and Bonnets, Flowers, b'oathers, Fctucy Wings, Ribbons, Laces, Frilling*, ilk Squares, Hosiery, Gloves, Silk Umareilas, sunshades, &c. Genta' Newest Shapes in Sri miner Hats and Caps Ties, Scarfs, Collars, Caffs, &c. The well-known hoasi for Walsh Flannels Whittles, and Snawis in ah colours, warranted to wear and not to shrink. Every article marked at lowest Cash Price. C. M. WILLIAMS, 10, PIER STREET, ABERYSTWYTH. DIFFICULT LAMBING AND CALVING. DAY, SON, AND HEWITT'S "RED DRENCH" IS of universal fame for its quick and marvellous effects in preventing fever and inflammation in Ewes and Cows, if nosed a day or two before and just after parturition. The cleansing of the Ewe and the C w will be perfect, and their milk will be rendered pure, copious, and wholesome for their offspring. 3s 61 per dozen for Ewes; 1301 per dozen box for Cows. Should paining or heaving threaten violently, dose with the pain tilling "GAS ODTSS" at once, and Stop it. Pi ice 3s 6d per bottle, DAY, SON, AND HEWITT'S "BRO W N EXTRACT," SAID to he worth a guinea a bottle as a pain antidote for anointing the womb in drawing away a Lamb or Calf. It draws all inflamed poisons out upon the surt'aae, hence prevents gangrene, and and is matchless for ail wounds, sorts, swollen ai d broken udders in Cow," and Ewes, aud for sore paps. 30s per dozen i-dozou box, 7s 6d. DAY, SON, AND HEWITT'S "GASEOUS FLUID," DEADENS pain in an almost magie manner in Cows and Ewes where there is uneasiness, exhaustion, and danger after parturition for it imparts great ease, and is always given after the Red Drench to calm the nerves and give strength. 20a per dozen in wooden boxes. CAUTION.—Bj vara of colourable imitations, and please note the name— DAY, SON, AND HEWITT, 22, DORSET STREET, LONDON, W. ACCIDENTS ALL THE YEAR ROUNiî PROVIDE AGAINST THEM BY POLICY OF THE T) AILWAY JpASSENGERS' ASSURANCE COMPANY, 64, CORNHILL, LONDON. r Hon. EVELYN ASHLEY Chairman. Annual Income £ 248,000. Invested Capital and Reserve Filnd £ 275,000. Compensation paid for 126,000 Accidents, £2,500,000. Moderate Premiums—Favourable Conditions.-New Concessions. Prompt and Liberal Settlement of Claims. West-End Office :—8, Grand Hotel Buildings, W.C. Head Office :—64, Cornhill, London, E.C. W. J. VIAN, Secretary. E. P. WYNNE, FAMILY AND DISPENSING CHEMIST, PIER STREET, ABERYSTWYTB.

LOCAL AND DISTRICT NEWS. INVENTION.-An inhaler has been patented by Dr Harries and Mr George Davis, FREE LIBRARY.—The number of books taken out during the week ending1 Saturday, January 7th, was 372 corresponding- week of last year, 374. Mr J. M. Saunders, M.A.. son of Dr Saunders, Swansea, and son-in-law of Mr R. J. Davies, Cwrt- mawr, has returned from America. On Friday evening, January 6th, Judge Bishop, of Dolgarreg, gave an excellent dinner at the Royal Oak, Llanwrda, to Messrs J. & D. Evans' workmen, who are making extensive additions to his seat. THE FABNINGHAM BOYS'HOME.—Miss Lumb, who is the authorised collector in this town towards the above institution, has received the sum of = £ 112s 10d in the past quarter. FAIRS FOR JANUARY.—New Inn, 2; Brecon, 3; Llandilo.fawr, 9 Haverfordwest, 10 Narberth, 11 Lampeter, 11; Llamvenog, 14 Llansawel, 16 Letter- stone, 16; Llandovery. 16 Llangadock, 16 Pencader, 16 Pembroke, 30 Cilgerran, 31. PRUDENTIAL ASSURANCE COMPANY.—The amount paid by this company in the Aberystwyth district during the past year was £1,932 17s Id, and the num- ber of new policial issued during the same period was 1,36). Mr E. Morconi, Exeter House, Queen's- road, is the superintendent for this district. DRUNKENNESS.—At the police-station, on Monday, before Messrs D. D. Wemyss and John James, Thos. Culley, Middlesborough, tramp, \vas charged by P.C. Joseph with being drunk on Saturday.—Dismissed, on promising to leave the town. For a splendid selection of Drapery Goods, and Men's and Boys' ready-made Clothes, suitable for the present season, all would do well to go to J. Walter Evans, Tottenham House. Aberystwyth. Heavy dress goods, Flannels, Blankets, Quilts, Sheetings, Calicoes, &c., &c Novelties in Ladies' Jackets and Dolmans, Mens', Youths' and Boys' Overcoats in great variety! Mackintoshes and "Waterproof Garments of all descrip- tions. Suits to order on the shortest notice.—ADV. SEASONABLE BSNEVOLENCE.—The poor n the districtof Gogerddan have this week been kindly remembered by their friend, Lady Pryse, who through Mr Joseph, the bailiff, distributed twenty tons of coal amo:r<- them. During the present un- seasonable weather such a gift must have been greatly appreciated. During Christmas week her ladyship sent a goose to each of the drivers and guards on the Cambrian Railways. YOUNG WOMEN'S MUTUAL IMPROVEMENT SOCIETY.—On Monday evening the first meeting of the coming term was held. Miss Russell, U.C.W., gave a lecture on botany. The meetings are held every Monday evening during' the winter months, at eight o'clock. The syllabus for the present term includes evenings for botany, history (the reign of Queen Anne), the writings of Oliver Wendell Holmes, the great American scholar and poet, the characters in the "Merchant of Venice," the celebra- tion of St David's Day, and a debate on Examina- tions as a true test of ability." All information as to membership, &c., may be obtained from the hon. secretary, Miss Davis, Sycamore House. A GLADSTONIAN TREE.-There was on exhibition at the railway station on Saturday, the trunk and portion of a beech tree cut down by Mr W. E. Gladstone, M.P. It is part of the largest tree (being 16 feet in girth) ever fell by the hon. gentleman and was fallen in front of Hawarden Castle in November, 1886, and was afterwards photographed by London artists, with Mr and Mrs Gladstone, Mr W. H. Gladstone, &c., and a view of the Castle at the back. Mr William Scott, of Portland-street, purchased the portion which arrived here, a portion of which he intends to have cut up and made into useful articles, which will be offered for sale at the English Congre- gational Church bazaar in August next, when the trunk will also be exhibited. THE RHEIDOL BRTDGE COMMITTEE.—A meeting was hold at the Town Hall on Thursday morning. Mr J. G. W. Bonsall presided, and there were also present Colonel Pryse, Mr Vaughan Davies, Mr H. E. Bonsall, Mr Morris Davies, Mr D. D. Wemyss, Mr B. E. Morgan, Mr W. B. Powell, Mr H. S. Richardes, Mr D. C. Roberts, mayor, Mr John James, Mr Peter Jones, and Mr F. R. Roberts, jun., acting clerk of the peace. It was decided to request the contractor to cut the piles in the coffer dam around the piers of the bridge, instead of drawing them up, as specified in the contract. It was also resolved that the surveyor be authorised to offer Mr T. J. Cashmore .£10 for the hire of a room in his house for the purpose of an office for the surveyor and clerk of the works until the bridge is completed, and should Mr Cashmore be unwilling to let the room at that Price, Mr John James and the surveyor be authorised to engage another room suitable for the purpose at a sum not exceeding .£10. ENGLISH WESLEYAN CHAPEL, QUEEN'S-ROAD.— On Wednesday evening, January 4th, an excellent tea was given to over 80 children of the Band of Hope. Funds for the purpose were raised by Mr A. E. Bean, U.C. W. The arrangements were presided over by a committee—Mrs J. T. Ede, Bon Marche, Miss Morcom, Mr A. E. Bean, U.C.W., Mr Evans, chemist, and Mr R. Doughton,Great Darkgate street. The catering was very well done by Mr? Owen, Gwalia Temperance Hotel, Pier-street, and the ladies who most willingly assisted at the tables were Mrs Humphreys, Baker-street, Miss Gertrude Jones, Miss Ethel Jones, Miss Jones, Graig-goch, and Miss Colquhoun. The following gentlemen also volun- tarily gave their services in amusing the children after the tea:—Mr C. W. Hutchinson, U.C.W., Mr F. Snowdon, U.C.W., Mr R. E. James, U.C.W., Mr Charles Jones, and others. Fruit was distributed at the close, and great satisfaction was expressed by all present with the evening's entertainment. RECHABITES.— At a quarterly meeting of the Ystwyth tent of Rechabites, held at Good Templar's room, Corn Market, on Tuesday evening, it was decided to celebrate the anniversary of the tent, and a committee was appointed to make arrangements. Mr. W. P. Williams, who has held the office of sec- retary since the establishment of the tent, five years, tendered his resignation, other duties preventing his giving to the work the attention which he wished. A resolution was passed regretting the resig- nation, and acknowledging the valuable services ren- dered by Mr Williams. Mr Daniel Thomas, draper, was afterwards appointed secretary, and Mr John Davies, the Cocoa House, was elected to succeed him as treasurer. SERVANTS' DANCE.—On Friday evening week, the servants at Gogerddan, with a number of their friends, were entertained at a dance, when there were upwards of sixty persons present. Dancing commenced at eight o'clock-when Miss Florence Pryse, Miss Lewis, and Miss Howell took part—and was continued till twelve o'clock. The party then adjourned to supper, which was served up in excel- lent style. Mr Charles Cooling proposed the health of Sir Pryse, Lady Pryse, and family, which was drank with musical honours. Mr Nichols, Castle Hill, proposed the health of Mrs Spendlove, Miss Stoneley, Miss Francis, and the rest of the house- hold, whieh was also well received. Mr Hawkins, Pier-street, returned thanks on behalf of the guests. Dancing was afterwards kept up until four o'clock on Saturday morning, and the party evidently thoroughly enjoyed themselves. ALLEGED ASSAULT.-At the police-station, on Monday morning, before Mr John James and Mr D. D. Wemyss, Mary Hughes, Pontllanychaiarn, charged William Hughes, her husband, with assaulting and beating her on Saturday, September 7th.—Com- plainant said she remembered Saturday last. She told P.C. David Jones that her husband was abusing her and would not leave her alone. When defendant saw the policeman he wanted to go to gaol. De- fendant also broke some of the crockery that was in the house. Dr Hnghes had told defendant that he was not fit to drink, as he went quite mad when he was druuk.-P.C. David Jones corroborated the evi- dence of the former witness.-Defendant said that he came to town on Saturday to see some person, to get money from him, which he owed them. It happened that he could not see the person, and did not get the money and when he went home his wife began to blackguard him, because he did not get the money.— The same defendant was also charged with being drunk and disorderly on the same day.-P.C. David Jones proved the case.-Defendant admitted this charge.—The bench decided to fine him 5s and costs for the last charge, and he was bound over in the sum of < £ 5 to keep the peace for six months in the former. BAND OF HOPE ENTERTAINMENT.—On Thursday afternoon week the members of the Band of Hope, whose meetings are held at the schoolroom of the English Congregational Church, were entertained with tea, cake, &c., by Miss Davis, Bridge-street, and Mr David Thomas, Northgate House. It is worthy of remark that this institution has had an uninterrupted existence of seven years, at which time it was opened by Dr Grindrod, who was then on a visit to the town, and Miss Davis and Mr Thomas have interested themselves in its successful mainten- ance. After the children had enjoyed a thoroughly good tea on Thursday, a meeting was held, to which the parents and a number of friends were invited. The Rev T. A. Penry presided, and songs, recitations, dialogues, &c., were capitally rendered, under the training of Mr Thomas. The following took part:- Ethel Cole, Llewellyn James, W. Parry, Alice Leek, Mr George Davis, Elsie Metca'fe, Sissie Jones, M. J. Leek, Getta Jones, Ethel Evans, Bessie Cole, Lizzie Garner, Gertrude Parry, Gwilym Thomas, Daisy James, Louisa Garner, Gwennie Cole, Lillie Scott, Elsie Parry, S. Mollison, Frances Evans, Alwyne Gibson, and Gwladys Evans. ODDFELLOWSHIP.—We are glad to learn that Mr .1. J. Griffiths, Prov. C.S. of the Aberystwyth dis- trict, and senior auditor of the Manchester Unity of the Independent Order of Oddfellows, has almost recovered from his recent severe indisposition, so as to enable him to proceed to Manchester to audit the accounts of the Unity for the year 1887. The Manchester Unity is numerically and financially the richest Friendly Society in the world, numbering on the 1st January, 1887, 617,5S7, with a capital of £ 6i3i7,134 8s 6d. Contributions received during the year amounted to £ 881,659; paid to sick members, including funeral expenses during the same period, £ 6i6,058. The society has paid during the last 13 years no less a sum than £6,774,487 in sickness and funeral benefits, with an increase of more than 120,000 members, and £2,614,819 in funds. CAMBRIAN RAILWAYS.—Approximate return of traffic receipts for the week ending January 8th, 1888. Miles openl82. Passengers,parcels,horses, car- riages, dogs, and mails, < £ 1,L92; merchandise, min- erals and live stock, £ 1,351 total for the week, £2,543. Actual traffic receipts for the corresponding week [last year :—Miles ope.i, 182. Passengers, parcels, horses, carriages, dogs, and mails, £ 1,158; merchandise, minerals and live stock, £ 1,376 total for the week, £2,534. Aggregate from commence- ment of half-year to this date, £ 2,543; aggregate last year, < £ 2,534. Passengers, parcels, horses, car- riages, dogs, and mails, £ 34 increase merchandise, minerals and live stock, £ 25 decrease total increase for the week, £ 9 aggregate increase from com- mencement of half-year to this date..89. ANNUAL TREAT.—On the 6th inst., at Waterloo Temperance Hotel, Miss F. M. Lumb gave her annual treat to the temperance advocates engaged in the sorvice of the Cambrian and Manchester and Milford Railways at Aberystwyth. There were I present Messrs D. Davies, examiner, H. Parry, guard, R. Jones, driver, Kdward Edwards, guard, F. Chamberlain, fireman, John Thomas, porter, J. Rees (Aberayron mail driver), and W. P. Williams. Mr Edward Owen, engine driver, was unavoidably pre- vented from being present. After partaking of the excellent provisions on the table, Miss Lumb, Misses Morris, and the Misses Jones, Moor-street, very kindly favoured the company with duets, songs and readings bearing upon the temperance question. Miss Lumb presented each of hQr quests with a text book, on the distinct promise that they would be made good use of, and that each individual would earnestly pray on behalf of each other daily. Before the close Miss Lumb and Mr Edward Edwards engaged in prayer, and after a vote of thanks to Miss Lumb, the Misses Morris and Jones, for their kindness respectively, the company separated. This was the third treat Miss Lumb has given to the railway employes. The object of Miss Lumb in having these treats is to stimulate those that are already advocates of the abstinence cause to further efforts in extend- ing their principles, and if those present could only command a share of Miss Lumb's earnestness, activity, and presevei-ance the desired object would partly be reached. It is now a recognised fact that effectual work is being done amongst our large railway employes with the temperance and other good movements. Miss Lumb is certainly to be con- gratulated upon her efforts in extending her assist- ance towards the same object amongst the railway men in this district. MISS MAGGIE MORTON'S COMEDY COMPANY.— This talented company, now on tour through Wales, is performing at the Old Assembly Rooms dur- ing the week, and has received that public support which their merits well deserve, the room being crowded on each occasion. This is no provincial scratch company, but has evi- dently been selected with the greatest care, every member of which is an artiste of considerable ability. They opened on Monday evening with the comedy- drama of "Unknown," and made the most favour- able impression on their audience. On Tuesday evening the curtain rose on T. W. Robertson's charming comedy Caste," and a most enjoyable evening was spent by a crowded audience. Mr. W. L. IDobell in the character of Eccles (a pothouse orator) was one of the best personations we have ever seen; while Miss Maggie Morton as Esther Eccles played her part with true womanly feeling and in a refined style which won for her the sym- pathy of the whole house. The vivacious Miss Kitty Loftus as Polly Eccles won for herself golden opinions she sustained her role with an ability which created plenty of amusement, and in her efforts she was very ably seconded by Mr Ernest Wintour as Samuel Gerridge (a plumber courting Polly), and Mr A. E. Bailey as Captain George Hawtree. The remaining characters werp excellently represented by Mr H. E. Housden as the Hon. George D'Alrov (in love with Esther), Miss Nora Day as Marquise de St. Maur (George's mother), and Mr Stanley Cliffe as Dixon (George's servant). On Wednesday School" was performed. On Thursday afternoon a Dantomime was eiven. for the amusement of children, and in the evening Shakespeare's As You Like It." In the afternoon Miss Morton kindly invited the workhouse children to the entertainment, and afterwards gave ieacii an orange. The audiences at all the performances have been jvery large, the room being quite full. Miss Bridgie Wall has made a favourable impression, and the singing of Miss Georgina Barlee and Mr Collins is very good. Miss Morton will prolong her stay over to-night and to-morrow night, and those who wish to enjoy a treat should avail themselves of this opportunity. DOWNIE'S BEQUEST.The annual meeting was held at the Town Hall on Thursday afternoon, when the following gentlemen were present:—The Rev. J. Havard Protheroe, chairman; Major C. Bassett Le,vis, Mr D. C. Roberts, mayor, Mr C. M. Williams, and Mr Evan Evans, clerk.-It was unanimously agreed that the whole body of trustees be re-appointed a visiting committee.—Mr C. M. Williams suggested that in all cases where any two lady visitors were Nonconformist or Church people, an alteration should be made. Mr Williams said that in such cases the rules were infringed -Major Lewis said that it was customary only to fill up the vacancies.—The chairman said he could not make out how the rules were in- fringed when they appointed the lady visitors.-The Clerk: It was looked over at the last annual meeting. —A few alterations were afterwards made.—Mrs Edwards, The Laurels, and Mrs Mathew Jones, Powis House, Railway Terrace, were appointed lady visitors in the room of Mrs D. Jenkin Davies, Great Darkgate-street, and Miss Roberts, The Terrace, resigned.-The Clerk then read the balance sheet for the year, which showed a balance of .£56 odd on the right side.—Mr C. VI. Williams asked for a subscription towards the Free Library for books. He said that the demand of books had in- creased veryfmnch and he thougnt that they could grant the library something now.-Major Lewis pro- posed that they subscribe £ 25.—Mr C. M. Williams thought they could go a little further, as they had such a balance.—Major Lewis subsequently proposed to add another .£10, which made it < £ 35.—This was agreed to.-It inanimously agreed that each lady visitor received X2 for destribution :-The Chairman said it had came into his mind that they would do well to have an efficient nurse for the poor people. He thought that they could save the lives of many poor if they had a nurse that understood the work. He knew many cases where people could not possibly get proper attendance, even in their own homes. ihis was allowed to stand over to the next meetingf FORESTRY.—At the last meeting of the members of Court Old Castle, at the Talbot Hotel, five new members were admitted. Mr John Morley is a guest of Mr Stuart Rendel. M.P., at Walrond-hill, Torbay. Mr Bamford, for some years foreman at this station on the Cambrian Railways, has been appointed stationmaster at Carno station.

TOWYN. At the monthly petty sessions, on Friday week before Messrs W. K. M. Wynne, M. R. Pugh, Capt Beadnell, John Sylvester, Humphrey Davies, and W. Bonsall, the Acting-Clerk (Mr David Evans, Machynlleth) announced that there were no cases for trial. SERVANTS' BALL.-The servants in the employ of Mr W. R. M. Wynne, Peniarth, held their annual ball on Tuesday, the 3rd January, when a very plea- sant evening was spent. ABERDOVEY. The Royal Humane Society last week presented Mr William Jones, Plas Dyfi, with their honorary testimonial on parchment for saving the life of John Lewis, son of Capt Enoch Lewis, from drowning on the 11th November, 18 <7. This was the third life saved by Mr Jones. The "Shipping Gazette" is now to be seen daily at at the Institute. CaptD. Morgan is the secretary of the institute to whom contributions should be sent. L-LANBRYNMAIR. PCJYGAIN.—In accordance with the annual custom a plygain was held at St John's church on the even- ing of Wednesday, the llth inst. After a short service, conducted by the Rev J. Jenkins, carols commemorating the birth of the Saviour were sung by the church choir, conducted by Mr J. Jonos. Mr E-Iwin Evans and party, Mr Edward Hughes and party, Mr Jervis aud party, and Mr Wiiliams and party also took part. Mr J. Jenkins presided at the harmonium.

"SIT PRO RATIONE VOLUNTAS." Fashions change just like the weather, Now Grecian bend, now Roman fall; The limping guit was once the pother, And reigned awhile in street and hall. Lately too,—but I guess idly What name to give such strange parade— Ladies have gone backwards sadly, As though for saddles they were made. The fair dame I once called Sally Was wont to dress in modesty The long train sat on her nicely And long the train I hope to see, SECURUS.

COUNTY COURT. County Court is being held to-day, before Judge Bishop.

HUNTING APPOINTMENTS. ABERYSTWYTH BEAGLES. Saturday, Jan. 14th Bow Street. At 12. Wednesday, Jan. 18.3rd milestone Devil's Bridge Rd. At 11. Saturday, Jan. 21st Top of Penglais Hill At 12. THE PLAS MACHYNLLETH HARRIERS. Tuesday, Jan. 17th Pwll"las. Friday, Jan. 20th Brynbrain! Each day at 10 o'clock.

To HOTEL AND LODGING-HOUSE KEEPERS. Wine Lists and Business Cards, printed in the best style.

JOHN MORGfAN, STEAM PRINTER, OBSERVER OFFICE "ABERYSTWYTH.

MR. J. G. GIBSON, M.P. Mr J. G. Gibson. M.P., to-day formally intimated to his committee in the Walton. Division of Liverpool his acceptance of &n. Irish Judgeship.

CHARADES, CONUNDRUMS, ck In tent, not in house, In pussy and in mousey In rose, not in pink, In knife and in ink, In key, not in door, In yes, yet, and yore, Whole a bird that I've heard, Feels sad when folks are glad, At Christmas time, When the bells chime; -Turker. Read me forward, Read me backward, I am the same; My whole is a familiar And favourite proper name. —Hannab» We travel much, yet prisoners are, And close confined to boot, We with the swiftest horse keep pace, Yet always go on foot. —A pair of spam, In maple, not in beach, In learn, also in teach, In morning, not in night, In mildew, not in blight, In meadow, not in clover, A name used the wide world over. — My first is in a river's course; My second we often do; My whOle is very beautiful, And very costly too. -Damask.. My first is in lance, but not in sword; My second is in lady, but not in lord; My third is in bird, but not in heard; My fourth is in spoken and in sound; My fifth is m Rover, but not in bound; My whole you'll find A blessing to mankind. -Laboa. My first is sometimes made of wood My second we like to see; And, better still, to eat it up; My whole grows on a tree. -CheatDut,. First in sow, not in reap Second in piie, not in heap; Third in take, not in bring; Fourth in twine, also in string; Fifth in thread, not in spool; Whole an article uted in school. — A southerly wind and a cloudy sky Proclaim a bunting morning," Before the keen hounds my first shall flyt Their bay shall give him warning. My second a girl as soft as a dove, With a voice attuned to cooing, Once gave a knight she pretended to love, When proudly he came a wooing; She tbrew it down to the lions, you know, And a.tter it bravely the knight did go. And that made an end of his suing. My whole is something quite fair to see, But it holds a poison in dower; Put my first and my second together, I think You'll call me a beautiful flower. —-Foxglove In rye my first y, have, but not in wheat, In sour my iie- ■ • soon you'll find, In bitter, too, r; aird, but not in sweet, And, strange doe my fourth, but not in hind. In river is my lifth, and not in lake, In hornet is my sixth, and not in honey-bee, In whose bite, not in whose sting, my seventh you must take. The urn contains my eighth, and not its tea. In fire my ninth discover, not in coal, The hunter holds my tenth, but not his game, My eleventh in his alpenstock unroll, My whole's a poet of undying fame, Now guess away, and let me have his name. -Robert Burns. What is that which flies high, Sies low, has BQ; feet, and yet wears shoes ?—Duss. When are two kings like three mil <j ?—When thejr make a league. Why is an industrious tailor never at home ?-Be- cause he is always cutting out. Why are good resolutions like a squalling baby affc church?—because they should always be carriedi out. When might the moon be said to have over-indulged somewhat?-When she is on her last quarter, and is about full. Why is a bald-headed man like a hound ?—Becauso he makes a little hare go a great way. Why is chloroform like Mendelssohn or Rossini Because it is one of the greatest composers of modem times. Why is a talkative young man like a young pig?-— Because if he lives, he is likely to become a greatt bore. If I were in the sun and you were out of it, w. would the sua become ?—Sin. When are eyes not eyes ?—When the wind mat. them water. What is that which never uses its teeth for eating purposes ?—A comb. Why is a physician's prescription a good article U feed pigs on ?—Because it is composed of grains. When is a bar of iron like a bad note ?—When it Is forged. Why is Lombard-street like the Grand Canal r- Because it has banks on both sides of it. Why is Ireland like a bottle of wise ?—Because there is a Cork in it. When is a night-light like a tombstone f—Whea it is set up for a late husband. Why should a donkey be a bad debtor ? Because he is more likely to pay in kicks than half-pence. With what book would you sift cinders ? a riddlft* book. Why isn't a fishmonger a nice acquaintance ?—Be- cause he is sure to be a sell-fish man. What part of a bed transposed will name a fish p- Bolster (lobster). By what means can bliss be made painful?— Drop> one letter and add three, and bliss becomes blister. In what forest do palms most abound ?-The forest of hands. What kind of paper tells you who you are ?—Tissue ('tis you). When is the worst weather f tr rats and mice ?—> When it rains cats and dogs. Why is the letter H like a our, for deafness ?-Beoo cause it makes ear hear. What is that which every man can divide, but which no man can see where it has been divided ?— Watefc-

..£- .w E i RTHS. .W^.NS lit-,t}, at '1 anycao, Ysbyhty pV--yij i. no wife of Mr John Evans, of a daughter DEATHS. JOXES.-January 7th at 100. Sla,ter street Shore- ditch, London, Mr John .Ion* c-t.wk;eperv formerly of Cross Inn, near Cro i.-swood, a^el 51 years. ° MEEHAN.—January 9th, aged <10yoa>», at Moor-lane the wife of Mr Joseph Meeh ui, glass riveLer. ROBERTS.—At > lbert-street. Aberavron, the wife of Mr Lewis Roberts, aged 61 years. RICHARDS.—January 8c'n, at ■>•«;)<.n-h, Y*<>vtt-yr Ystwyth, Mr David Richards, Ux couector'and assistant overseer, aged t5yfM,r.-). WILLIAMS.—January Rth, at LI uibadaru "a./r afte* a long illness, Mr William Williams joiner a,"e<) 28 years.