The Merthyr Telegraph and General Advertiser for the Iron Districts of South Wales

ORIGINAL CO U li £ S l\) N D E N C ii. ADDRESSED TO THE EDITOR. The Editor is not reBponsible for the opinions of hiA Corrc spondent* THE MERTHYR FLOWER SHOW. SIR,—As the Merthyr Flower Show is drawing nigh, it is fair and just for every exhibitor to stand on his own merits, ana not act as the majority of the Cefn guardians did last year, by sending for goods to Bristol and else- where, and stating that they were grown by themselves. I, as one, would recommend the committee to appoint a just and intelligent person to come and visit the gardens of every intending competitor before the appioaching Show, so that every one may have fair play. BENJAMIN THOMAS, Founder. CRUELTY TO THE MERTHYR POOR. A QUESTION TO THE BOARD OF GUARDIANS. GENTLEMEN,—I have been informed that on Tuesday, June 20th, a lot of the poor of Merthyr were standing at the Workhouse door in the burning sun. and begging for a drop of water, which was absolutely refused. Some went to houses in Thomas-town to beg a drop of water, while others, especially little children, stood by the door parched with thirst, while the officials stated that they had strict orders not to give them any. In the name of the ratepayers of Merthyr, and in the name of humanity, I ask by whose orders was water re- fused. I understand that bread and cheese were given to them, but no water. Is the water so scarce at J. erthyr that people must die of thirst, or is there something in the rules for the water supply to prevent the Workhouse officials to give a drop from their taps to a poor man at the door. I hope you will search into this matter at your next sitting, and find out who refused the water, otherwise the public must take the matter in hand. I fully believe that none of the guardians know this, therefore I take this opportu- nity of informing you.—Your well wisher, RHYS HWESYN JONES. PENTWYN REGATTA. SIR,—As a lover of what I consider proper treatment to those that wish to pay due respect to their superiors, I have addressed you on a subject that came under my notice at Pentwyn on Thursday last. It was announced in the bills, and un Mr. Gunn's tickets, that the chair at the luncheon was to be taken by Mr. W. Crawshay, and as one wishing him that respect which I considered was due to him as the son of R. T. Crawshay, Esq., and being his first appearance at anything like a public entertainmert, I took a ticket for the sole purpose of supporting him with my humble presence; but judge my surprise when I went there, instead of W. Crawshay, Esq. beinè, in the chair, I saw no one there even to represent him, unless we took Mr. Hoskings as his representative- If Mr. W. Crawshay's convenience were promoted, or his sense of propriety less interfered with. by absenting himself from a collation at which only tradesmen could be expected to be present, I have nothing to complain of, but if Air. Hoskings was sent as his representative, as was generally remarked on tne ground, I do complain. Personally, Mr. Hoskings may not only be a good servant, but possess many other most worthy qualities, but considering the position he occupies, I am sure it would have been more agreeable had he not appeared in a representative character indeed, i am quite sure, that had Mr. Crawshay sent a note of explanation, and retained Mr. Hoskings' services on the other side of the hill instead of sending him as a representative, it would have been more pleasing to those who had bought tickets to do honour to Mr. Crawshay's family. Let me repeat-l have no fault to find with nr. Hoskings personally. What was felt to be a mistake was, that he should have been placed in an unfortunate position. Trusting I have said nothing but the plain truth, I am, Sir, yours obediently, ABEL. Merthyr, July 4th, 1866. THE TEMPERANCE HALL. SIR,—A letter appeared in your paper of last week, written by Mr. W. L. Daniel, chemist, or as he styles him- self, Chairman of the Temperance Hall Committee." I wish for several reasons, and one especially, to state emphatically that some parts of the letter are most "ungen- tlemanly and cowardly," because they contain two base falsehoods-the 1st, that Mr. Daniel was not called to see the state of the seats at the Temperance Hall, i have said JIlce in public, and I will still repeat it, that Mr. Daniel's attention was called to the fact. Mr. Daniel refers to a part of a letter written by" Cosmopolitan." I quite agree with him in stating that it is not a very pleasant task to apologize for another's wrong, but in this case it was so, md for this simple reason, that after he found that no apo- logy was forthcoming from me, and that for his approval Lieture its insertion in the paper, he actually refused the Hall for the Working Men's Dramatic Society. Such an let of petty tyranny I could hardly expect even from a pack of teetotallers, led on by their local chieftain. The apology, however, was written, approved of by Mr. D., and sent for insertion in your contemporary of last week but, after all. it must be an unpleasant reflection for Mr. Daniel to know that I had nothing to do with writing it, and therefore, he must regard such an apology as but M«uui iibi wby «koukl oampologfy-Ut reqinrpil 2-t ill when every word of complaint about the Atate of the seats was perfectly true, in proof of which I would refer to ihose who were present ? I will pass on to falsehood No. 2, where Mr. Daniel states that when they found out who had written the letter, the committee, at their first meeting, passed a vote of censure )II me. There is not one word ot truth in this, and I be- lieve when Mr. Daniel made such a statement, he must have known that he was stating a deliberate untruth. 1 repeat it, and without fear of truthful contradiction, that there never was such a vote passed either in my presence or absence. If Mr. Daniel is himself indifferent about making baseless assertions, he ought at least to recollect that that religion which he professes must suffer in its in- terests, unless it is seen to influence those of its professors, 30 that at least they adhere to the truth when referring to their neighbours. I really do not know what my being a member of the Royal 12th has to do with the filthy state of the seats at the Temperance Hall. I go to drill, partly because I like the exercise, but mainly, because the Volunteer movement has my sympathy. II go to the Temperance Hall, not because I like its teetotal managers or its dirty seats, but to enjoy myself when any entertainment is announced. I think I have for the present disposed of Mr. Daniel, but if he wishes any future correction, I shall be happy, with your permission, to administer it.—Youis truly, ö2, Thomas-st., Thomas-town. WILLIAM THOMAS. SIR,—I find in your issue of February 3rd a letter from fj, Dowlais puddler, in which a few remarks I happened to make when on a visit to the works are rather roughly com- mented upon but it is only what men of refined and scien- tific views may expect when they condescend to associate with the mere practical herd. However, [ have been given tie understand that certain Merthyrians (from whom better things might have been expected) are, to say the least, quite sceptical on the score of what I thought proper to ad- vance on the occasion, and it is to this party, with your permission, that I shall address myself. The good people alluded to dispute (it is to be hoped in ignorance), first-the results of my transmuting furnace; secondly- the accuracy of my definition of the puddling pro- cess third my ability to make his Majesty of Dahomey's furnaces a profitable speculation fourth—the truth of my figures in relation to the temperature of the nether place. Now, it does not admit of a moment s debate that the good people in question have but a very limited acquaint- ance with scientific progress, otherwise they must have known that within the last few weeks M. Frantz and Henri Faure, of the France Medicale, have been enabled, with the aid of my transmuting furnace, to convert silver, copper, and mercury into gold, all these being one and the same metal in different dynamic states indeed, the possibility of transmuting metals has been admitted by Sir H. D .vy, Sterne, ±Wanger, Dr. Wolicott, and other eminent writers on the subject. My definition of the puddling process was necessarily brief, my object at the time being rather to convince than confuse the persons I intended to benefit, and 1 wish to as- sure your numerous readers that it is to me a labour of love" to impart substantially to others what I value myself. Indeed, if I thought it consistent with time, place, and occasion, I mitrht have taken an analytical survey of the several products of combustion in each compartment of the furnace, from the bridge wall to the damper. 1 might have alluded to, and if I thought proper, to ^decipher Mozart's as yet unanswered questions. First -t the temperature of 3,000° Fah., which of the twain, iron or carbon will preferably combine with atmospheric oxygen Second—In the course of working a puddling furnaae, i.e., between construction and dilapidation, what peculiar tacts of practice appear to the scientific observer ?" 1 might also have explained the sabulous properties and molecular ar- rangement of the ferruginous particles, together with the beautiful, though intricate, action and reaction of the chlorides, sulphides, phosphides, &c., evolved in the opera- tion, together with a variety of other interesting pheno- mena, congenial to an elevated and purely scientific mind, but totally unintelligible to a mere practical puddler. I am not at liberty, for reasons well known to the manu- facturing community, to enter into the details of the pro- cess about to be adopted at the King of Dahomey's new iron works. It must be sufficient for the present to know that both his Majesty and myself are perfectly confident as to the result. However, by way of courtesy, I will notice, in a general way, and in as simple language and form as the nature of the subject will admit, the leading feature of the undertaking. It is possible that the announcement may give birth to a few ironical remarks, such for instance, as that of associat- ing my labours with those of the academician of Logoda's attempts to extract sunbeams out of cucumbers indeed, it is a circumstance of common occurrence with vulgar minds to wish to appear facetious on subjects they are unable to fathom. However, the fact is that the African furnaces are to be animated by condensed solar heat, the idea of its application being derived from the experiments of Legrange, Smollett, Canova, and Cervantes, who have demonstrated that the quantity of heat emitted by each square of the sun's surface every hour is equal to that generated by the com- bustion of fifteen hundred pounds of coal, and this, in me- chanical energy, represents the work of 7,000 horses. Now, it has been determined by the researches of Laplace, Hazlitt, Carlyle, and Macaulay, that not an atom of this heat returns to the solar font; it is, therefore, very evident that in due process of time it will be all expended. Then, why not make iron as well as hay while the sun shines? Mr. Editor, as the MERTHYR TELEGRAPH has an exten- sive circulation in Western Africa, I will, with your indul- gence, avail myself through its columns, of the opportunity to proclaim to the tropical nationalities, that His Daho- mey an Majesty is one of the most prompt and generous patrons of sterling genius, and that to his character of being a most accomplished phlebotomist, I may with confi- dence add, from personal observation, that he is at the same time, a most distinguished scientific metallurgist also. With reference to the alleged inaccuracy of my figurts in relation to the temperature of the nether latitudes, 1 have merely to state that I invite disci'ion, simply on the con- dition that my opponents be peioi -as thoroughly familiar with some of the JIwst intricate departments of chemical science.—I am, Sir, most respectfully, your obedient ser- vant, C. G. SEYMOUR, F.C.S., &c., &c. Abomey, May4thfl866.

MERTHYR POLICE COURT. SATURDAY'.— {Before J. O. Foivler, Esq.) Charge of Larceny.— George Roberts was charged with stealing twelve pieces of elm and birch wood, the property of John Owens. No one appeared to prosecute, and the prisoner was discharged. Husband and Wife.—John Thomas, a spectral-looking man was charged with assaulting his wife. Elizabeth Thomas, with intent to do her bodily harm. It seems the wife was not yet able to appear, and the prisoner was, therefore, re- manded. IMPORTANT SEIZURE OF MEAT AT THE MERTHYR MARKET HOUSE. Thomas Morris, a dealer in meat, from Llandovery, Rees Davies, butcher, of Merthyr, and Henry Griffiths, butcher, of Merthyr, were charged with exposing meat for sale in the Merthyr Market House on Saturday last unfit for human food. From Morris six calves were seized, from Davies a loin of veal, and from Griffiths the entire carcase of a sheep. P.S. Rees and P.S. Wake proved that, under the direction of Dr. Dyke, the medical officer of the Board of Health, they seized the above meat, and brought it to the yard of the Police-station.—Dr. Dyke, on being ex- amined, stated that the six calves, when killed, were per- fectly healthy animals, but that the veal was in an advanced state of decomposition owing to the peculiarly oppressive weather of the previous day, and he understood that the carcases had been conveyed from Llandovery with the kid- neys, liver, &c., exposed, all of which were peculiarly sus- stance around the kfdney being far decomposed. Of the sheep seized from Mr. Griffiths's stall, Dr. Dyke stated that it was unfit even for dog's food. Decomposition had so far advanced that it was of a green colour. — In his defence ceptible to atmospheric influence. The loin of veal seized was also unfit for human food, tlie fatty sub- Mr. Griffiths stateå. that he did not intend the meat for s.tle. It was brought to his stall without his knowledge, and immediately that his son saw it in the slaughter-house he said that it must not be sold as it was unfit for food. The sheep appeared to have suffered injury whilst conveyed to Merthyr by train.—There being some legal informality in the way this carcase was seized —Mr. Dyke then directed P.S. Wake, according to the 26th and 27th of Victoria, to seize the meat taken in the Market-house, on the stall belonging to Mr. H. Grif- fiths, and destroy it.—Sergeant Wade proceeded formally to do so, and on his return into court, his Worship said he had no hesitation, whatever, in ordering those several pieces of meat to be destroyed. He had no doubt that what the medical officer had stated to him was perfectly correct, namely- that it was the misfortune of those several parties, and not their fault, that the meat got into the state it now presented. He was sorry—as, of course, everyoneshould be— for the loss of any portion of our supply of animal food at the present time but after the opinion that had been expressed by Mr. Dyke—who was a perfectly competent witness in a matter of this kind—it was the duty of the justice, who heard the case, to take good heed that none of this animal food would find its way into the cottages of the people of the town. He had no doubt that what Mr. Griffiths said was perfectly correct—that he would not allow this meat to have been sold if he bad known it was bad and he (his Worship) also thought we had been very well supplied with meat here, considering the adverse circumstances that had taken place pincè-ihe cattle plague broke out; and the lead- ing butchers of this town indeed, all, as far as he knew them—had most creditably observed the requirements of the Act of Parliament, And had made 110 attempt whatever—so far a3 he knew—to evade the provisions of the Act. They had very sensibly continued their supplies with energy, and diligence and industry, so that the town had not materially suffered. He was very sorry this instance had occurred to- day. but the temperature, no doubt, was so extraordinarily warm, and also the thunderstorm was so great that it in- jured this animal food. He, therefore, believed there were circumstances connected witii this case which could not be avoided. He then ordered the meat to be destroyed. Leave was given that the skins might ue utilized. Larceny of an apron. —Alargaret Thomas was charged with the larceny of a flannel apron, value 5s. 6d., from T. James, on the 25th ult. It seemed the prisoner was lodging with the complainant up to last Saturday night week, when she left. About the following Friday the apron was missing, and search for it was made. It was found in Mr. Good- man's pawnshop, where it had been lodged for 3s. by a woman whose description lead complainant to surmise that it was the prisoner. Thomas was then arrested, and she admitted having pawned the apron, but said she intended to return it before lung.-His Worship changed the charge to unlawful pawning," and he committed the prisoner to Swansea gaol for fourteen days with hard labour. MONDAY. —(Before J. C. Fowler, Esq.) Disgraceful Females. Diana Williams, charged with being a common prostitute, wandering abroad on the high- way, on the 1st inst., and behaving in a drunken and dis- orderly manner, was sent to Swansea gaol for 21 days with hard labour. Drunk and Puotous.—David Powell, a dirty chap, was charged with beiug drunk and riotous in Dynevor-street, on the evening of the 30th ult. P.C. Stevens proved the case, and said the prisoner wanted to fight with him.— Fined 5s. and costs; in default of payment, seven days in gaol. Charge of Assault.—Anne Mahoney, a stalwart Irish- woman, was charged with maliciously wounding Richard and Mary Ann Beamish, his daughter. The man, Richard appeared in court with a bandage over his face, and he said he was blind. The parties live in Pontstorehouse, and on the 25th ult. the prisoner went to the complainant's house in the evening, and said she wanted Mary Beamish, who went out, and prisoner then asked, what is the reason you called me a w Richard then tried to put the prisoner outside of the door, and she said she would not go. Anne and Richard spat at each other, and the prisoner struck the blind man first. He returned the blo v, and prisoner then caught him by the breast and threw him out by the <lo»r. H.. tuld lier not to shove hips, and she said she would not be pleased till she had his life. The daughter, Mary Anne, then interfered and a melee ensued, during which it was alleged the prisoner committed the assault on the two complainants, and wounded them in the face with stones, from the effects of which they now suf- fered, and wore bandages round their heads —Dr. Miles examined the complainants on this day week, and the man had two wounds on his face, principally about the eyes, one of them being a dangerous cut. In the case of the daughter, she had a wound on the left cheek about half an inch long, and penetrating to the cheek-bone. It might have been done by the blow of a sharp stone or brick.— His Worship committed the prisoner for trial at the Quar- ter Sessions, on the charge of cutting and wounding the blind man, but he dismissed the case in connection with Mary Ann Beamish. A Fighting Amazon, —Elizabeth Keefe, a clean looking, but noisy woman, was charged with assaulting P.C. Mel- huish while in the execution of his duty. There was a fight in Dowlais on Saturday evening, and the constable spied the defendant rushing out into the street with a brush in her hands. She and another woman then had some words, and defendant struck a window with the brush and broke it. She was about to smash some other panes of glass, when the constable interfered to stop her, and was rewarded by several blows with the brush on the arms and head. The woman behaved in a most nuisy manner in court, called the policeman a b- and d — 1, and said he was telling "all lies." She declared, with great vehe- mence, that the police-constable Melhuish, with four others, went into her house and tore her out of bed in a terrible manner." The woman here commenced to curse P.C. Melhuish in a disgraceful manner, but she was some- what silenced by the intimation from his Worship that if she did not keep quiet he would send her to the shades of the cell inside. P.S. Howlett then got into the witness box, and said the defendant also assaulted him by striking him with the brush and biting his hands. He never saw a worse conducted woman, for when the police went to ar- rest her she lay down on her back and kicked about her, making some most disgraceful exhibitions. (Here again followed some other curses from the defendant). It took four stalwart policemen to bring the defendant to the lock. up.—His Worship said he did cot remember having seen such a disorderly woman for a long time.—Defendant: G- d- them all.—Mr. Wrenn The woman is consi- derably under the influence of drink now, sir (laughter).— His W orship Take her down to the cell and keep her there for some time.—The noisy defendant was then removed. On being again brought.into court, the defendant was fined 10s. and costs in each case; in default, ten days' imprison- ment in each case. Assault among the Women.—Elizabeth Davies, a comely young wench, summoned a ruddy-faced woman named Margaret Jones for an assault-Mr. Simons appeared for defendant, and the complainant applied to have the case adjourned for a fortnight in order that she might procure a professional man to plead for her.—Mr. Simons did not resist the applicaticn, and the case was, accordingly, ad- journed till this day week.—Some expenses were allowed to the defendant. Serious Assault.-Micbael Glowrey, a dirty, ragged- looking fellow, was brought up on remand, charged with wounding Daniel Samuel with intent to do him grievous bodily harm. It seemed that the prosecutor was too badly wounded to be able to appear, and the only evidence taken was that of P.S. Howlett, who arrested the prisoner. He found in his pocket a knife covered with blood, and as soon as it was taken out of his pocket prisoner said, that is the knife I done it with I used it after he struck me he struck me a blow in the face, and I then used my dagger. He (P.S. Howlett) afterwards saw Samuel, and ascertained that he had received two stab wounds—one in the left breast, and the other in the left buttock. He was still lying in bed from the effects of the wounds. —The prisoner was again remanded till Monday next. Bail was refused. A Loving Mother and her Dutiful Daughter.—Sarah Davies, an aged and respectable looking woman from Dow- lais, summoned her daughter Sarah Davies, a young and sprightly looking damsel, for abuse and bad treatment.— Samuel Evans, of Penydarren, was examined for the pro- secution, and he said he was in the complainant's house on the 19th ultt., at the time of this occurrence, and he saw the defendant offering a blow at complainant. He did not see the blow given, because he put his head under the table in order that he might not see the disgraceful row. He saw the defendant throwing beer at her mother.—The defendant here spoke in a vehement manner, and said her mother used to throw her out of the house at all hours of the night, and that she used to keep "married men and married women in her house all night. —Defendant was fined 2s. and costs; in default of payment, seven days' imprisonment. A Scene in Court.—Maria Llewelyn summoned John Phillips for assaulting her.—The complainant said she was the wife of William Llewelyn, collier. The defendant went to her house about ten o'clock on Friday night. His wife was blackguarding in the house, and he wanted to fetch her out. He began to blackguard her (witness), and he caught hold of her hair and pulled her from the table to the chest of drawers, and said he would jump "on her guts."—A young woman was called to be examined for the defence, but when she got into the witness-box a wit- ness for the complainant did not seem to relish her pre- sence, and she commenced to lavish some of the "gift of her tongue," and a spirited war of words ensued, which ended in the witness for the prosecution striking the other witness a blow on the face.—His Worship said it was the first assault he had ever seen committed in the court, and though one might at first be inclined to smile at it, still it was so gross an offence to the Bench that it should be pun- ished. He dismissed the original case, and granted a summons for assault against the woman who had just so far forgotten herself in court.—Anne Molyneux, the woman who committed the assault in court, was then brought out from the cell, and after shamming a faint, and being duly revived by applications of cold water, she was arraigned for the assault.—She requested to have the case put off till Wednesday, which was granted. WEDNESDAY.—(Before J.C. Fowler, Esq.) Drunk and Riotous. An individual with a purple "hobby" under his left eye was sent to Swansea gaol for seven days for being drunk in Castle street on the 23rd inst., misbehaving himself with a batch of females. The Wife and Husband.—Thomas Brown, a stalwart chap, and Maggie, his talkative little wife, were charged with assaulting P.C. Stevens while in the execution of his duty on the 2nd inst. The policeman had occasion to pay a visit to a little lane up in Pontmorlais, where he saw Mag- gie making a display of her vocal abilities, and calling on anyone to fight her drunken self, or her drunken husband. She was told to keep quiet, hut she indignantly refused, committing such an un-jolly act, and the "bobby then laid'his claws" upon her. He was about to take her dowrt to that pleasant abode of recreants in Market- square, when her better-half," Tommy, popped out into lane, and Swore he'd never see his rnaggie taken to quad." The unkind constable, however, was inexorable, till, at length, Brown lost his patience, and putting his fist into Stevens's fai» he spiritedly uttered the words, I am your match, and you don't let her go I will show you what I can do Even this appeal was useless with the policeman, and it only resulted in both husband and wife being accomo- dated with an airing in the police cells.—Maggie declared she saw the policeman ill-using her husband, and she only interfered to save him. —Tommy's defence was vice versa. — dated with an airing in the police cells.—Maggie declared she saw the policeman ill-using her husband, and she only interfered to save him. —Tommy's defence was vice versa. — The latter was fined 20s. and CJsts, and in default fourteen days' imprisonment; the former 5s. and costs, or, in default, seven days in quod." An Unfortunate Mother.—A. fair-loolang, young, single woman, named Esther Jones, was charged with unlawfully, on the 25th of June, deserting her illegitimate baby, Eliza, who had, thereby, become chargeable to the common fund of the Merthyr Tydfil Union. The unfortunate young woman was well dressed, and she did not seem to be yet totally deprived of shame, or repentance, for she wept loudly when placed in the prisoner's box.—Mr Meredith, the master of the Union, said he knew the woman. She went into the Workhouse on the 23rd ult., bringing her child with her. She left the house on the Monday afterwards, and the fol- lowing day a -.person returned to the house with the child stating that tiie mother had deserted it. The child was then brought lfto the house. If the woman submitted to go back to the- Workhouse where the child was, and stay there till she would be removed elsewhere, the Union authorities would not press the prosecution against her. — The woman consented to do so, and the case was dismissed. An Inhuman Mother.—A crosslooking red-headed woman named Judith Barry, who wore Workhouse uniform, was charged with having assaulted and threatened to kill her illegitimate infant child, Mary Barry, aged 12 months. The prosecution was conducted by Mr. Meredith, master of the workhouse, and he examined Sarah Jones who said: I am an inmate of the Merthyr Workhouse 1 know the prisoner who a so was an inmate she has an illegitimate child aged twelve months; on yesterday (Tuesday) she came into the dining hall, threw the child down on the flonr, and put her foot on it twice she said she would kill the chUd sh« said I won't go to work, I will take a knife and stab the child she then snatched up the child, caught it by the feet, and saidshe would knock her brains out against the wall; I then took the child from her. In bed last night she was swearing she would kill the child The only reason she gave for not liking the child was, because she said she had been punished for twelve months now for this bastard child and she would suffer no more.- His Worship Do you want to ask the witness any question ? Prisoner I beat the child surely, but what I said was, that I wished both she and I were dead.—Evidence corroborative of the above having been given, his Worship told the prisoner she was convicted of an assault on her own child, a female aged 12 months, born a bastard. What circumstances had brought her into such a fearful state of mind towards her own offspring be did not know, nor had she at all explained them to the court. Certain, however, it was, both from the evidence of her acts and language, that she had some most revengeful and deadly feelings towards the unfortunate infant. It very seldom happened that so shocking and so revolting a case was heard in this court. No one could have heard the recital of this conduct of hers without feel- ing a sort of shudder run through him. The narrative of the case-such as taking up the child by the hair, then swinging it by the legs, and threatening to dash its brains out against the wall, then putting her foot upon it with more or less force, and then actually striking the child, using threat after threat, of taking away its life—all those denoted some deadly feeling entertained by prisoner against this child, consequent he (His Worship) supposed on some incidents of her previous history now unknown. It was quite evident that if she was left alone with the child, the life of that little infant would be in great danger. Provi- dentially, no serious injury had yet occured to the child, but the guilt of the mother's conduct was very great. He (His Worship) thought it to be his duty to make an exam- pie of this case, and he sentenced the prisoner for her cruel, unatural, and vindictive conduct towards this child, to six months' imprisonment with hard labour, at Cardiff jail.— Prisoner (with vehemence, and throwing her bare arms upwards): May my curse, and the curse of G—d attend you for many, many days. The woman then tore her hair with great violence, and was removed from the court amid a scene of much confusion. She asKed to have her child given to her but was refused. Charge of Stealing Money —Richard Evans, a middle aged man, was charged with stealing 5s 6d from Jolin Rees, a collier, at Troedyrhiw. —The plaintiff said he and the prisoner were sleeping in the one lodgings, and on Tuesday, when he went to work, he left his trousers after him with 5s 6d and a watch in it. When he returned the money was gone, and he suspected the prisoner because there was no one else in the place during the day.—P.C. Rees said he ar- rested the prisoner, who, when he was told the charge against him, denied taking the money. He afterwards said, when going to the station, forgive me this time. Don't lock me up, but let me go back to my work." Prosecutor said "no, if you don't tell me the truth. Prisoner then said well, I did take the money, and I am willing to give you back another 5s 6d along with that one, if you let me go now." At the police station he (witness) found the watch key produced with prisoner. Prosecutor indentified the key an belonging to his watch.—As it seemed, there was a previous conviction out against the prisoner, the proof of which was not in court to-day, the case was adjourned till Saturday next. The Scene in Court on Monday.—Elizabeth Protherdow, the sturdy little woman who committed the assault in court on Monday last, on Elizabeth Jenkins, was now brought forward to answer for her conduct. She took her stand in the usual place for offenders, with her bonnet placed upside-down on her narrow skull, and she wore a very dejected caste of countenance. Two or three times we thought she was about to sham another faint, but, probably, she believed she had done that often enough the previous day, and she wisely kept her stand firmly. The charge having been proved against her, the only excuse she could olfsr was that her jtassion had overcome her the other day, because the witness, Eliza Jenkins, had said she was drunk !—His Worship then said: This case clearly shows what passion, in a person without education, will lead them to. This is an incident which has never happened, so far as I know, in this court before, and it is one very rarely found in the records of any court. Because, I sup. pose, every one must feel when they are in the witness box and about to join in the administration of the law, that there is an influence exercised over them—both with regard to propriety and decency—which makes them restrain any violent feelings they may entertain, and con- duct themselves properly while in such a place. In your case, no doubt you came here as a violent partizan of the person for whom you gave evidence. You were not the principal in the case but simply a witness, but such was the feeling of hostility you entertained, that your passion carried you beyond the bounds of decency, and I saw you, within a few yards of where I now sit, slap the witness in the face with as much strength apparently as you could muster. I don't mean to say the assault was one of very remarkable violence—on the contrary, it was a slap in the face, and nothing more or less. But the indignity thus expressed for the witness who was under the protection of the court, the contempt of the court itself, the contempt for the administration of justice, make that which was, otherwise, a trifling assault, a much more serious offence. There is nothing more important than that the witnesses and those engaged in the administration of the law, should be freely guarded from any alarming or dangerous influences. If that were not the case, there would be an end to the safety of every person in the country. Unless witnesses can be enabled to speak the truth without fear or intimid. ation, we may as well close the courts altogether. I have considered your case carefully, and looking at all the cir- cumstances I don't think I would be justified in passing any less sentence on you than imprisonment for fourteen days. -The weakly defendant looked thunderstruck, and was removed. No Prosecutor.-A stalwart fellow named John Griffiths was charged with being drunk and fighting on the highway in Pontlottyn, on the 20th ult. The constable who was to prosecute did not appear, and the prisoner was discharged. The Police and the People.—Jeremiah Barnett was charged with being drunk and riotous in Dowlais, on the 24th ult.-P.C. Melhuish swore he saw the prisoner drunk and fighting in Dowlais, with two other men, on the above day.—The prisoner denied the charge, and said he was not engaged in the fight at all.—His Worship: Are you sure he was there ?—P.C. Melhuish: Yes, sir. both himself and his brother.—The prisoner called Edward Fitzgerald, who swore positively that the man was not engaged in the fight at all, but that it was his brother and another man who were fighting. This evidence was corroborated by Thomas Ryan, but the constable still swore the man was fighting. His Worship: Is it possible you might be mistaken.— Witness thidk not, sir. The three men rushed into the house, and r followed them. The prisoner was drunk when I arrested him.—Robert Barrett, the other man's brother, was then charged with a similar offence, and be admitted it. He also said positively that bis brother had nothing to do with the fight, and what P.C. Melhuish stated was not a fact.—His Worship fined Robert 5s- and costs, and he adjourned the other case for further evidence. Curious Proceeding by a Policeman. —Thomas Jenkins, landlord of a public-house at the Pant, was charged with selling beer at an illegal hour on Sunday morning, the 24th ult.-P.C. Childs said he went dressed in plain clothes to defendant's house, and called for a pint of beer, which he got. There was another gentleman in the house drink- ing beer at the same time. He handed a shilling, and the landlady gave him the change.—Mrs. Jenkins: Did not I ask you before I sold you the beer, were you a traveller?— Witness: You did not.—Mrs. Jenkins: Indeed, 1 did; and you said you were a traveller from Cefn Did I not, now?—Witness: You did after you gave me the change, but I was there a quarter of an hour before that. I did say I was a traveller from Cefn.—His Worship said he should fine the defendant 5s. and costs. -John Llewellyn, landlord of a beerhouse also at the Pant, was tricked by the consta- ble in the same way on the same morning, but the landlady who appeared, told the same story as Mrs. Jenkins, that the policeman had represented himself as a traveller, and, therefore, she thought herself warranted in giving him the beer.—His Worship here said he would adjourn his decision in this case till Monday, and also, in the case of Mrs. Jen- kins, whom he ordered to get back the money she had paid for the fine. Walter Rosser, landlord of the Riflemen's Arms, was also treated with a visit from this promising member of the force on the same morning, and the decision in his case was also adjourned.—We believe much interest will be felt in his Worship's decision in these cases, for it is certainly a very curious way of proceeding for a policeman to swoop down on the people in this manner—tell the story that he was a traveller, and afterwards turn out in his true character to prosecute the people for a thing which they be- lieved they were justified in doing. However, in the case of the Riflemen's Arms, the constable said he saw twelve men drinking there at the time, and this makes a great difference. Drunkards.—A very dirty nymph Jrom China. was fined 5s. and costs, or seven days in gaol, for being drunk and using obscene language in the streets, on the 19th ult.— Mary Harris, for a like offence, was similarly mnlcted. Charge of Assault.—Timothy Cotter, a strong-looking fellow, was charged witn assaulting Michael Sullivan and Margaret Cotter.—Both offences were fully proved, and for the former prisoner was fined 10s. and costs, and for the latter 403k and costs.

EARY CLOSING. —We are cv1:d to chronicle the fact that it is the intention of the tradesmen of Pontypridd to clese their establisments at four o'clock on Thursdays instead of six as heretofore. We hope the public will support the tradesmen in carrying out so laudable a step. LLWYN PIA.—During the storm which raged with some intensity up the valley, a body of electricity passed through the roof of a house, and escaped by going up the chimney. We are happy to say that no accident occurred in any way affecting human life. STORM.—Electrical disturbances have been rather fre- quent of late. During the storm on Friday last an electric bolt fell on Tyvecca farm, going through the door of one of the out-houses, destroying the lintels. It passed out of the window without doing any further damage. We understand that a strong current of electricity visited the residence of W. Perkins, Esq., Croesgade, and shattered the hearthstone in one of the rooms to fragments, also completely cutting in two a decanter. Several cows have been killed. PRIZE DISTRIBUTION SCHEME.—The prize distribution scheme, the initiation of which is fairly due to Dr. Hunter, has through the energy of that gentleman up to the present time, met with extraordinary success. Al- ready over 7,000 tickets are disposed of during the short time it has been before the public. This will about cover the amount of prizes to be given. It is scarcely necessary to state that the benefit of the Literary Institute is the sole object sought to be attained by this movement. WOMEN'S CLUB.—On Monday last the amazon dinner and demonstration of this club was held, the first at Mr. Morris', the Union Inn, the latter throughout the town. The Rev. E. Roberts preached to the females. The women walked two and two through the town, preceded by the brass band. We have, by the bye, to notice the steady im- provement in the style of the playing of this band with care and determination the town need not ultimately be ashamed of it. 19TH RIFLE VOLUNTEERS.—The usual inspection of this corps was held before Major Gordon, adjutant of the Taff Battalion on Friday last. There were present 25 files. The company, which is under the command of Lieutenant Williams with Ensign Williams, as junior, went through the manoeuvres belonging to company and battalion drill. The 19tli has always been a favourite corps, the official staff of the Taff Battalion on account of the difficulties which have surrounded its development and the steady determination with which it has fought its way through them. It is gratifying to be able to state, therefore, that the expectations from the 19th are fully sustained by the results brought out on the official visit. The men were highly eulogized by Major Gordon, not only on the efficiency of their evolutions, but on the marked improve- ment in their appearance and bearing since the last in- spection. Some meed of praise is therefore due to Ser- geant Southwood, the drill instructor, for the zeal he has displayed and the skill he has shown in bringing the 19th up to its present high state of efficiency. PETTY SESSIONS. WEDNESDAY.— (Before w: Perkins, and W. Prichard, Esqrs., and the Rev. D. w: Williams) Cruelty to a Dog, and Claim for Damages —Two sum- monses were taken against David Aaron, for cruelty to a dog, and for killing it, whereby damages were claimed. There was also a cross summons. Mr. W. Davies appeared for complainant, but withdrew from the case because an adjournment was refused.—The complainant, W. Davies, was a collier, and saw the dog dead on the 14th May. The dog was worth £5. Was kept as a house dog. Would swear that he did not use the dog for the purpose of catch- ing hares. Had not a dog at Llantwit Yardre. Never told John Roberts that the dog belonged to another person. Never was told that the bitch was in the habit of killing sheep. Did not know that -within two months fifty sheep had been killed. Was told to tie her up and did not, but muzzled her.—.Tohn Parker said On 14th May, about seven o'clock in the evening, saw defendant coming from the mountain, Ystrad. He said the bitch and another dog had been at a lamb, and he would kill her if he could get hold of her, the bitch which was roaming about came up to witness; the defendant said he would kill her no'v but wit- ness suggested they should st-ek for the owner. The defen- dant stabbed the bitch five times with a knife on the right side and twice on the left. It had the muzzle on. He told defendant he had better kill the animal at once. It died in ten minutes.—Cross-examination elicited nothing tending to shake this evidence. —David Evans had a conversation with defendant who state his intention of killing the dog. He corroborated previous witness though he was not certain which side had five wounds. —Ann Evans also saw defend ant kill the bitch by stabbing it.—The Bench thought that the charge of cruelty was unsustained, as it was evidently the intention of the defendant to kill the dog as soon as possible.—Mr. Spicket who appeared for defendant then submitted that the charge of cruelty failing the other summons for damages necessarily fell to the ground.—The Bench hah no jurisdiction in the present case as the complainant's remedy was in the County Court.—The cross summons was then taken. D. Davies v. W. Davies.—Mr. Spickett appeared for plaintiff. On the 14th May saw the bitch in question and another dog upon a lamb attempted to catch her, but she went over a wall and lost sight of her knew the defend- ant's bitch—no dog of the kind near the lamb was not dead, but died shortly afterwards was worth from 30s. to £2; it belonged to Boedringallt Company. This Com- pany has a fine lot of sheep of a peculiar breed this lamb was one of that breed.—The Bench was unanimously of opinion that the bitch was not only attacking the lamb, but was actually mouthing it. The defendant was mulc- ted in the value of the lamb 20s. and costs—making £1 17s. 9d. Gas Arrears.— Joseph Veal was summoned for gas ar- rears, the amount being £1 16s., of which 10s. has been paid. Immediate payment ordered. Damage.?.—Edward Duggin and Lewis Rees were both charged with drunkenness and damaging a fence belonging to Robert Pratt. The defendants who seemed to be re- spectable young fellows, were mulcted in costs between them, amounting to 7s. They both promised to see that the damage done to the fence was made good. f Bastardy. —Mary Dillon summoned Lawrence Reilly for refusing to maintain her illegitimate child, of which he was the father. —The defendant admitted the charge, as also a signature to all agreement between the parties. —Ordered to pay 2s. 6d. per week, and lis. 9d., costs. Assault. —Michael Keefe was charged with assaulting William Llewellyn. The complainant was fishing in Tre- forest, and was by the Bush Inn when the defendant rushed at him and struck him in the back with a. shovel. —The case was adjourned for a fortnight. Bastardy.—Cristopher Griffiths was summoned for not maintaining his illegitimate child by Sarah Anr. Williams. The defendant did not appear. Proof of the summons being served was given.—Jane Williams, mother. W. Bryant, and D. Lewis, were called and proved that tlle parties were in the habit of conducting themselves as suitors.—Ordered to pay 10s. for the midwife, 5s. per week first six weeks, and afterwards 2s. 6d. per week. Stealing Coal —Margaret Power and Margaret Murphy, living at Treforest, were charged with stealing 11 cwt. of coal, value Is., the property of R. R. Rowland, Esq., Gelli- weon colliery. W. Williams, Treforest, in the employ of Mr R. R. Rowland, was watching by the canal side 011 Wednesday last when he saw the two women taking coal. Have lost large quantities in this way. Margaret Murphy was in the boat. She had a bucket of coal in her possession. The other woman ran away.—Margaret Murphy denied being in the boat, and said that the witness came down to her house, and said if she would give witness a bit of "snuff" he would overlook the offence. This" snuff" seems to be pretty well understood by the court. Murphy refused to give witness a bit of "snuff," as she did not feel disposed to disgrace herself, her children, and her man. This was, of course, repudiated by witness. The Bench, after dwelling upon the necessity of enforcing the law the law against coal stealers inasmuch as so large a quantity is lost, sentenced Margaret Power to be confined in Cardiff gaol for three days without hard labour, she suckling a child and Margaret Murphy to be confined for the same period with hard labour. Drunk and Riotous.—Henry Lewis and James Harrison were charged with riotous behaviour opposite the Lamb Inn, Tramroad, at half-past twelve on Sunday morning, 17th ult.—Sergeat Matthews found Lewis down, and Harrison holding him by the hair. Separated them, after which they went at it again.—Both pleaded guilty. Charge of Assault.-Ann Howell, of Wain yr Eirw, charged four little girls for assaulting her while she was milking a cow, whereby she lost four quarts of milk, and was injured by the cow as well as by one of the cows jump- ing upon her. Summons dismissed on payment of costs amounting to 2s. 6d. each. Stealing at Mountain Ash.—Charles Bryant and Jane J ones were charged with stealing two half-pint glasses from Thomas J ones, of the Royal Oak Mountain Ash. They wete taken from the bar. The male prisoner, a youth, is a collier the female, quite a young woman, gains her liveli- hood by washing. The glasses in question were missed when the prisoners were in the house.—Letitia Williams gave evidence at considerable length as to the connexion of the robbery. The female prisoner lodged with witness.— P.C 83 G. was sworn: Went to the house of Mr. Rees. Had one of the glasses. Found both. Prisoner was sent for. Said, on being charged with the robbery, that the glasses were given her by Letitia Williams. Did not steal them.—P.C. 26, G., stationed at Mountain Ash, charged male prisoner with stealing two glasses from Royal Oak Inn. He said, "Jane put one in her pocket, and I put one in mine."—In default Bryant pleaded guilty, but said he was drunk the night he took them.—The female prisoner also pleaded guilty. They both wished to have the case summarily dealt with.—The female was sentenced to 21 day s, and the male to three months hard labour. The female, on hearing the sentence, burst out into a passionate flood of weeping, in which the words man, man" were heard.. W. Hopkins v. Margaret John.—This was a case of wil- fully damaging a house belonging to complainant, of which the defendant was a tenant. She had gone from the house taking away the lock and key, and smashing eight panes of glass. Assault.—Thomas Rowland was charged with an assault upon Jacob Miles. Complainant was going to Porth upon Jacob Miles. Complainant was going to Porth station for some flour two months to-day. Met defendant who asked him where he drank his beer new, as he never came to his house. Complainant said he had tetter use for his money. Defendant then struck him in the face with his fist, in the stomach with a stick, and knocked him against a wall. He also threw stones at him after taking off his coat, and offered to fight him which he declined. —Cross- examined The money he asking for was 6s. fid. Did not owe it. Did not offer to fight him for the money. Did not take up a stone first. Complainant had his child, aged 5 years, with him at the time.—Sarah Richards came up by four o'clock on Wednesday. Saw bath parties scum. ing near the station. Saw defendant strike complainant in the mouth. Miles did not strike Rowlands. — H. N. Davies, surgeon, was passing along the road. Saw two men quarrelling. Did not see any blows pass. The parties were in front of him coming from the station.—Case dis- missed. SPECIAL SESSIONS. THURSDAY. -(Before Rev. D. w: Williams.) James Thomas, a collier, married, and who has a large family, was charged with committing a rape on Jane Moses, 13 years old, living at Fern-dale. The little girl on being sworn said she went from home on Tuesday week to Aber- dare. Left Aberdare to go home on Wednesday. Came home across the mountain alone. Met prisoner on the mountain. It was raining had my umbrella before me. Prisoner came to me, knocked my umbrella down, and threw me down. I screamed for my father. Prisoner said If you do not leave oft screaming I will kill you." Tried to prevent him from carrying out his purpose by telling him that a boy and horse were coming, but prisoner said he knew better. After he had effected his purpose he went away. Was struggling with him for about half.an.hour. Reached home about five minutes past four. Told my mother everything directly 1 got home. Mother sent for a doctor.—Cross-examined by Mr. Plews: Did not know the name of the doctor was Roberts. Went to Aberdare to see for someone to sew. Staid during Tuesday night at my cousins. They are dressmakers. Distance from home from six to seven miles. Met prisoner about quarter of a mile from home. Never saw him before. Swear that pi isoner is the man. Could not resist because prisoner held each band. Mother complained of my being away so long. Told her what prisoner had done. She went next door aud called a neighbour, and subsequently sent for a police constable. When prisoner was brought to mother's house in custody I identified him at once. Esther Moses, mother of prosecu- trix: 11., husband's name is William Moses, a collier. We live in Fern Dale. My daughter left home on Tuesday week for Aberdare. Returneu ten minutes past four on Wednesday. When she returned she had been crying, and was trembling and prespiring. —Cross-examined Could not say a word for a bit. It had been rainine for about half an hour before she came in. Sent for a doctor who examined her. Had never occasion to find fault with her. When brought in presence of prisoner was told to speak the truth. My daugher answered promptly. Had no conver- sation with the policeman who bad prisoner in custody, except that he asked where Jane was. Mr. Dumph asked my daughter if she ever &aw this man before and where. My daughter said she had seen him yesterday. Questions were put to my daughter as to the serious nature of an oath. —J. Roberts I am doctor of medicfnS "at Blaenllecha. Was called to see prosecutrix on Wednesday eveififpg, June 28th, at her father's house. Examined her. Found her underclothing, exhibiting with a further examination, un- mistakeable evidences of the offence having^beet rcommitted. —Cross-examination: Have had no ijcoasfcfi to examine the girl before. Found no marks of violence. Such features might be attributable to other causes, but not probable.— P.S. Edward Hamlin staffed that, acting on information, he went to the house of prisoner near Mountain Ash, about five miles from Blaenllecha Charged him with having com- mitted a rape upon Jane Moses. He said. I have been to Ferndale, but saw no little girl." Asked him if he had the same clothes on as then he said he had all but the trousers. He took the trousers and the man. Went to the mother's house, and asked her to bring the little girl out. The evidence of the girl was fully corroborated. Was led to apprehend the prisoner from description given of him by a man who net him on the mountain.—Thomas Edwards, collier, was going to Blaenllecha on Wednesday week. Met prisoner coming from the opposite direction. Thomas Lewis was with him. Prisoner was by himself. Was at Blaenllecha between 10 and 15 minutes to four. Knew prisoner before. Passed Jane Moses before he met prisoner. From the gate to Moses' house is about a quarter of a mile. —Mr. Plews, in an ingenious defence, endeavoured to show that prisoner could not have been guilty of the offence on the ground of difference in point of time as detailed by wit- nesses, and that there was a greater probability that it was a case of mistaken identity than that the prisoner had com- mitted the offence.—The Bench, after complimenting Mr. Plews for the kind and considerate manner in which he had conducted the cross-examination, considered that the evi- dence perfectly justified the course of committing the prisoner for trial.—Bail refused.—The witnesses were bound over to prosecute.

ABERDARE. PAINFUL ACCIDENT.—On Friday last some trams were proceeding up the incline of the Werfa pit, and when near the canal bridge one of the trams went off the tramway. One man who was sitting behind was thrown down, and some of the trams passed over his legs, mutilating him in a fearful manner. He has since died. Mr. Goldsworthy, the inspector on the Vale of Neath Railway, had a very narrow escape. He was sitting on the buffer, and when the tram went off the road he was thrown right off into the canal, but fortunately escaped with only a good "ducking." REDUCTION OF WAGES. It is always an unpleasant duty to announce a falling off in our local prosperity, and it is with a feeling of profound regret, therefore, that we notice a threatened reduction of wages. On Saturday last notices to the effect that all engagements would "cease and determine on the 28th July instant," were posted on the office doors and other usual places at the various works throughout the South Wales iron districts where the working month ends on the last Saturday in every month. At the works which do not happen to come under this category notices will be issued to-morrow (Saturday) or whenever it will be proper to do so. Looking at the high prices now charged for thel common necessaries of life, and the fact that none of ,tlies§ things are likely to be sold at more reasonable rktes for some time to come, the necessity for this step is utuch to be de- plored. No doubt, there are some classes •#. workmen whose high wages will admit of a reduction ,tb>eing made without entailing anything like dreadful consequences, but we fear there are large bodies of out-doors labourers, and ill-paid handicrafts-men to whom and to whose families this notice will be little better than a signal to reduce the every day fare for the body to a pinching point which we cannot trust ourselves to describe. It is some relief to know that the contemplated reduc- tion will not extend to any of the colliers, and it is also gratifying to understand that the demand for the coal is well sustained, and the efforts made by the Welsh masters to freight every ship sent into Welsh ports are unparalleled. So long as our coal continues to exhibit its present liveli- ness, we shall always have a strong peg on which to hang our commercial hopes, and as there are wide gaps in the ranks of our colliers, which are still waiting to be filled, the surplus labour at the iron works, as well as the dissa- tisfied iron-stone miners, who soon make excellent colliers, may be made available with mutual advantage to the em- ployers and the employed. For months past the iron trade has been in an unsatis- factory condition, and at the present moment perhaps there are fewer orders in hand than have been for the past three or four years. The financial crisis appears to have stepped in to swell the tide of depression, and, as though this were not enough, a sanguinary Continental war puts its red hand into the scale and presses it down against our labour and our commerce. The financial difficulties with which the nation has just been afflicted may now be conflicts sidered to have passed their most trying point, and the war now raging, if we are to judge by the sharp and decisive con- which have happened, cannot last long. The best portion of the Summer remains with us, and the time when work is usually expected to be brisk, and new jobs drain the labour market, is yet before us. It is not too much, therefore, to expect that our troubles may be allayed before the end of the year, and if the silver lining of the cloud which now overhangs our manufacturing districts should fail to ap- pear in 1866, we may at least be spared the pain of encoun- tering worse times than we are now threatened with. As to the extent of the coming reduction, no one can as yet speak with certainty, and that for the most cogent of all reasons—it has not been settled. A writer in a daily contemporary comforts us with the statement that there is a probability of its being 20 per cent," but—though^we certainly do not presume to speak authoritatively on the subject, we have some grounds to believe that it will not exceed 10 per cent. It is pretty certain, however, that at the commencement of next month, the pruniug knife will be used with considerable freedom and vigour. Woe to the men who have been working on fat jobs, and ye men of ex- orbitant wages—mostly wasted in riotous living—tremble A principle of equalization will, if possible, be carried out in apportioning the reduction, and, in some of the higher- paid branches of labour, at the forges and mills, it is not unlikely that the per centage will be somewhat higher than ten. In tendering our sympathy to the classes upon whom this change in the rate of wages must of necessity fall heavily, we venture to add our hopes that they will bear their lot with manly resignation, and endeavour to make up by the adoption and preservation of sober and provident habits for the loss they will he called upon to sustain. We have been sagely told that a shilling saved is a shilling earned," and, bearing this always in mind, our working men may take heart and labour on cheerfully in the hope of a brighter future.

LOCAL INTELLIGENCE. g- Our notice of the Workmens' Amateur Dramatic En- tertainment will appear next week. We have been informed that the Kev. Mr. Janes of St. Davids, has accepted the invitation to become minister to the Ivor Chapel, Dowlais. PRIZE FRUIT.- On the 4th inst., at the Royal Botanic Society, Kew, Regent's Park, London, the first prize, of £4, for the best collection of pines, and the first prize of £2, for the best Providence pine, were awarded to Mr. J. Hannan, head-gardener to R. T. Crawhay, Esq., Cyfarthfa Castle, Merthyr. BETHEL CHAPEL.—From public announcements we ob. serve that a lecture is to be delivered at this place of wor- ship on Monday next, by the pastor, the Rev. Mr. Davies, the subject being, "Try, try, again." We have no doubt that all who will be present will profit by the lecture, and from the subject announced, we think it will be especially fitted for the consideration of the young, who we hope, will attend in large numbers. NARROW ESCAPE.—On Thursday evening last, between four and five o'clock, a young girl named Howells, about eight or nine yaars old, very narrowly escaped being killed at the clay mills, at Pentrebach Iron Works. She was en- gaged inside, when her dress accidently caught in the rolls, and she was helplessly drawn in between. Her fingers were fearfully bruised by the cogs, and it is feared her arm must be amputated, from below the elbow. She was fortunately drawn out by one of the officials, ere furtherinjuries ensued. REVIEW OF VOLUNTEERS.—On Thursday last the right wing of the Taff Battalion of Volunteers, consisting of the Dowlais, Merthyr, Aberdare. and Mountain Ash Corps, were reviewed by Lieut-Colonel Clafk, who was assisted by Major Gordon, in a field at Bonma'en fjtrm, near Dow- lais. There were present about 250 men, toe number being so small owing, doubtless, to the unfavourable weather. The usual battalion movements, including skirmishing, file and volley firing, &c., were performed; according to the address cf the Colonel at tbe close, with creditable preci- sion—though not so perfect as was flesirafele The Colonel, as representing the Volunteers present; JRsknowledged with gratitude the kindness of Mr. SworJer, of the Dowlais brewery, in sending on the field a plentiful supply of ale for the men. Unfortunately, however, as soon as the drill was over, the rain poured so excessively that the Volun- teers preferred leaving the ground as soon as possible, and, therefore, but little of the ale was drank. We understand that the Aberdare and Mountain Ash Corps had to march over the mountain homewards, owing to some misunder- standing with respect to railway arrangements. BRITISH AND FOREIGN BIBLE SOCIETY.—The annual meeting of the Merthyr Auxiliary of this flourishing society was held in the Temperance Hall, on Wednesday evening last. The chair was taken at seven o'clock by J. Shapton, Esq., High Constable of Merthyr, and there were also on the platform, the Revs. J Mills, deputation from London, Dr. E. Jones, D. Jones, B.A., Zoar chapel, D. Rowland, D. Rees, William Williams, and Messrs. W. L. Daniel, William Morris, and T. W. Goodfellow, &c. The Rev. W. Williams having opened the meeting by reading the prayers in W elsh, the Chairman remarked that his duties on this occasion were very simple. With respect to the Bible society, through its iustrumentality there was now scarcely a known part of the world, into the language of which the Bible was not now translated, and distributed amongst the people. He called on the Rev. D. Rowland to read the re- port. The Rev. Secretary then read the report from which it appeared that the receipts of the Auxiliary society for the year—including the balance in hand at the last meeting— amounted to £96 5s and the total expenditure during the same period was JE95 6s l.}d, leaving a balance now in hand of 183 lO^d. Last year at this time there were, on hand, 78 Bibles, and 252 Testaments, making in all 330. Since that there were received from London 363 Bibes, 778 Testaments, altogether 1141 all combined together, there- fort*, made 1471 books. There were sold out of that num- ber 1211, and there were now remaining on hand 40 Bibles and 120 Testaments. The Rev. Dr. E. Jones then ad- dressed the meeting in Welsh, and concluded an excellent discourse by proposing that tbe report just read be received. printed, and circulated. The Rev. D. Jones, B.A., in a warm speech, seconded the resolution, which passed unani- mously. The Rev. J. Mill, deputation from the Parent society, then addressed the meeting. The resolution he had to propose was to theeftect that the meeting returned thanks to Almighty God, for the prosperty of this society, and the evident increase in the spirit of Christianity which they recognized in the advanced rate at which Bibles and Test- aments were being sold. Going back to the close of the Apostolic he tound that the Bible then existed in about three ciHrrent languages. At the commencement of the Kelormatiou hy Luther, it existed in eighteen different lan- guages, principally European. And. so far as could be judged irom the statements of Ecclesiastical history, about -i million copies of it were thpn issued to he world. From the period ot the Reformation to the commencement of this century it had been translated into thirty-two new languages, and in all probability about four millions of copies had been distributed. Therefore, when this society commenced its operations, the statistics of God's word were, that it then existed in 50 different, languages, and about 5,00,000 oi copies had been distributed throghout. the world. But, since the formation of the British and Foreign Bible society, the Bible had been translated into upwards ot one hundred addi ional languages, and from the depot in London above 50.000,000 of copies had been disseminated throughout the world. Thus in addition to the American and Continental Bible societies which cooperated with that of London, they had added the vast number of apwards of 80,000,000 copies of the Bib'e to the previous distribution throughout the world. iXow, let U4 make the contrast. For the first 1,500 years, one new language was adds in a century, and at the end of 1,500 years 1,000,000of copies h..d been disseminated. During the following three hundred years, a new language had been added every ten years, and at the close of three centuries 4,000,000 ot copies were in distribution. But, durin-r the existence of this society, a new language had been added every six months, and upwards of 80,000,000 of copies haft been disseminated to the world. This statement wis received with enthusiasm by the meeting, and the Rev. Mr. Mills then continued his address in Welsh. The resolution was seconded by Mr. W. L. Daniel, passed unanimously, and was as follows :—"That this meeting desires to express its devout thanks to Almighty God for the many proofs of prosperity and blessings which have been vouchsafed during the past year to the operations of the British and Foreign Bible Society and recognizes in the increased de- sire for the Holy Scriptures, apparent in various parts of the world, and in the enlarged facilities afforded for their diffusion, a loud and earnest call to renewed zeal, prayer, and liberality, in:the sacreJJcause of Bible dissemniation. The following resolutions were also passed —"That the thanks of this meeting be given to the Right Hon. H. A. Bruce. M.P., the patron of the Auxiliary to the Rev. J. Griffith. M.A., the president; to T. J. Evans, Esq.. Bank, treasurer to the vice-presidents, W. R. Smith and C. H. James D. Davies, W. Morris, and Thos. Williams, Esqs.; to "iso Price, the depository and also to the committee; and that they are requested to continue in office, This was moved by the Rev. J. G. Phillips, and seconded by the Rev. Lewis Williams.—"That the thanks of this meeting be given to J. Shapton, Esq., for his kind attention to the business of the evening."—This was moved by Mr. Good- fellow, and seconded by Mr. Morris. GWENT AND MORGANWG TEMPERANCE AND MUSICAL ASSOCIATION. The twelfth annual meeting of the Gwent and Morganwg Temperance and Musical Association, in con- nection with Miss Watts' concert, was held at Zoar Chapel, Merthyr, on Monday last. Two meetings were held .during the day, one at ten o'clock in the morning, and the other at two o'clock in the afternoon. The entire proceedings were presided over by the Rev. J. Roberts (Ieua.n Gwyllt), and at each meeting several addresses on temperance and the objects of the Association, were delivered in the Welsh language by some of the gentlemen who attended, amongst them being—Revs. D. Phillips, T. Levi, Watkin Williams, Samuel Jones, Benjamin Morris, John Thomas, B.A., William Evans, M.A., William James, M.A., R. Gwesyn Jones, David Jones, B.A. Messrs. Evan Roberts, W. L. Daniel, &c., &c. Miss Sarah Jane Rees, of Llangranog, also de- livered an excellent address. At the intervals during the speeches, some very excellent pieces of music were dis- coursed by the choirs in attendance, which comprised the followingDowlais No. 1 and 2, Rhymney, Cor Gwent, Tredegar, Tre'r larll, Merthyr, Bethesda, Pant-tywyll, Cefn-coed-y-cymmer, Pontypridd, Porth, Llantrissant, Pentyrch, Cardiff, and Pontypridd Band of Hope. There were altogether about one thousand vocalists present during the day, and it is sufficient to say that each choir acquitted itself with credit. Thou- sands of people attended the day meetings, and it was almost impossible to procure a. seat in the chapel at the two o'clock gathering, the place was so full. THE EVENING CONCEET. On the evening of the same day Miss Watts gave a con- cert in Zoar Chapel, when she was assisted by Miss Gedrych, of Cardiff, and several of our local choirs. The interest which we all very naturally take in Miss Watts, com- bined with her reputation as a singer tended to command a good bouse and we feel sure that the hearty reception accorded to that lady, and the enthusiastic encores with which she was unmercifully greeted, must have been very gratifying to her. Except in point of size, Zoar Chapel is not a good concert room, but until we can find a better, we must be thankful for it. At the same time, it is im- possible for our industrious choirs to shine to advantage until the laws of acoustics are recognised by those who find a place for them to display their power in song. The pieces which were to be performed were advertised in & very neatly got up programme, but, unfortunately, through some unwarrantable interference with the arrange- ments, this pretty piece of paper proved of as little value as a cheque on the Bank of Love. If anyone patronised any of the little urchins who were zealously pushing the sale of these programmes, he must have felt that h* had, for once in his life, mis.spent a. penny. We are afraid that the morality of engagements is not so distinctly re- cognised amongst us as it ought to be. Anyone thinking of attending a concert, naturally consults the programme to see whether his investment will be a good one or not, and the programme may be said to determine his purchase. Those who get up these concerts must therefore remember that a departure from a programme, except where neces- sity urgently compels, is a species of immorality for which nothing can atone. In one instance, it is but right to say, the audience was responsible for a departure from the programme. Loud cries for a Welsh air in the second part, were responded to by Miss Watts, and her performance *f it being lustily encored, it was followed by another. Now, we have nothing to say against Welsh airs, but any one who would prefer the two Welsh airs then sung to the magnificent solo, I know that my Re- deemer liveth," must be only in the cradle of musical edit- cation. Yet these two airs prevented us from hearing Handel's renowned solo, a misfortune the more to be re- gretted because it would have afforded an admirable test of the vocal powers and execution of our fair singer. It was, of course, the chairman's duty to protect Miss Watts from mob-law. Those who know anything about singing must be aware that to sing well, to sing artistically, is attended with much fatigue; and we think that Miss Watts acted wisely in refusing to give the last piece in the programme. But we would advise her to respond less frequently to encores, and would also recommend all chairmen at con- certs to protect the singers more efficiently than was done on this occasion from unreasonable demands. The choirs and congregation opened the two parts with a congrega- tional tune, the first of which (Rheidiol), not having much intrinsic value to recommend u, laboured under the addi. tional disadvantage of being sung in a slow, drawling style, and of being supported by a treble so weak as to be frequently lost amid the general noise. The second tune (Moriah) was sung with much more spirit and with bettei effect. The first choral performance, "Comrades in arms," was sung with excellent taste and in a very spirited man- ner. The only singers who may be said to have disgraced the concert were, we understand, the Bethesda choir, which sang "Behold the Lamb of God." This beautiful chorus was completely marred by them. The singers were entirely out of tune with one another, and the alto was positively intolerable. We would indeed call the attention of the leaders ot our musical associations generally to the alto part as one which is not very well represented in any of their choirs. Their altos are chiefly boys who, having sten- torian pipes, arc allowed to bawl and scream ad libitum. Boys do indeed make excellent alto singers: but unless they are wisely restrained and held in check, they disfigure any performance. This was the case with Mr. Rees's party, in which the alto was coarse and the trebles very weak. To set three female voices to sing with twelve male voices is far from judicious and, in tins case, the conse- quence was that "The March of the VIen of Harlesh," which was rendered with admirable spirit and wonderful effect, seemed at times to have no treble part at alL The trebles were best represented by the Pant-tywyll choir which sang The Comrade's song of Hope," a performance which was deservedly encored. The bass was not so well represent- ed in this instance as it might have been but the richness of the treble voices produced an eifect which we hope will not be forgotten by J tbe leaders of the other choirs. So far, however, as tasteful choral singing is concerned, Mr. Samuel and his party were fairly entitled to the palm. The rendering of the chorus to the song, Before the battle. Mother," sung by one of their members in pretty good style, was very praiseworthy. The i>arts were well balanced and the intonation very effective. Miss Gedrych played in her usual good style. Her first piece was rather tame but for this we are inclined to blame those who had thought- lessly placed a library of musical works on the top of the piano. This arrangement would be very convenient if the artiste had to perform upon a mangle but to allow a lady to play on a piano loaded with heavy books is to place her under very serious disadvantages. Miss Gedrych, however redeemed herself in the encnautiug reverie (Rosellens), which she played in the second part, i id deserved an encore which an appreciating audience uoiti quickly have given; nor can we omit noticing the excellent style in which this pianiste played the accompaniments. To her delicate and subdued, but distinct, tcu h, the suc- cess of the solo-singing was greatly indebted. Miss Watts, the charm of the evening, deserved the enthusiastic reception with which she met. Her voice is clear, and it will, we have no doubt, increase in volume as she goes on. Her first piece, Angels ever bright and fair," was almost perfect in execution. This fair singer has managed to master, to a wonderful ex- tent, the tremolo which receives so much favour among the Italians. We are glad, at the same time, to observe that she did not commit herself too lavishly to this style which, however agreeable in some kinds of music, grows monoton- ous and unpleasant when too freely indulged in. The tremolo had a good effect in the first solo, and we may say the same of the shake which was, in this instance, judiciously placed and admirably executed. The pleasant and lively air" La Placida" was w«ll performed, and we may say the same of Al dolce canto," both which certainly merited the encore which was given. It would have been wiser, how- ever, to refuse them. The two Welsh airs were sung in excellent taste, but in a style much inferior to the other solos which Miss Watts performed. But as they were simple in character and executed without any classic var- nish, they would probably please some of the audience more than the other pieces. The Hallelujah" chorus, with which the concert terminated, was performed without a flaw, the large assembly entering with spirit into this grand* soul-stirring song of praise. On the whole the concert passed off very agreeably; and we are sure that our favourite,. Miss Watts, has led her admirers fondly to hope that dia- tinction as a singer will crown her praiseworthy and suc- cessful efforts.

DEATH. June 20th, of consumption, at Che^hupt, Herta, Thnnans Walters Kirkhouse Esq., aged 39. friends will be ptaoed ta^accept this intimation.

Owen • SfVri5 ur?!ce selections Overture on piano, Mr. Llwvf,). n„, "1 he Desert." Song, "Evangeline, L!ew Llew Gwna bobpeth fel Cymro bur," Countess Ti' P'Tan,)' Miss Burn; duet, "'The Gipsey song bv k'o t* Llwyfo aud daughter. Then followed a included tJ.S zJ'ZZIe Burn, and scena, Will o' the wisp," Songs V R Part. The second part then followed :— I am a ru« i ')ac"1 gwyn," "I am aroamer ballad, by the sam?Vi pherd .lnaid," and "Man the Life-boat," The attend' ° 'a nted singers as performed the first part. Voted tfu„.an,Ce Waf very good, and the proceeds were de- EXCURSIO PAY'NS off the debt of the above chapel. evtry facil> inhabitants of these districts have different nl season, by means of excursions, to visit "Vale of N ^if'n ^laa ^)een usual, for some years, for the the public M Company to send their placards to inform the far wjl* Saturd»y evening, cheap trips are offered to how an^ returns ou the Monday. The inconveni- thyr.' Ti ever' attending these is the distance from Mer- but the 118 8<fa?°n.the new line have issued their notices Deeted w"11. whICh is on the most gigantic scale is that con- the latt the Ivorites, from Rhymney to Hereford, at adopt th^ end of the present month. As they intend to andPd' this course in preference to their usual yearly parade the Sclhnner, We trust that the puulic wilt liberally patronize FERENT'(VUN^AY SCHOOLS.- Meetings have been held on dif- an unjt Cjasions during the past week, with a view to have school ^operation with respect to the coming Sunday for V]on&i(^an^ evening treats, which are now fixed have th nex.t" We are given to understand that some arc, F(,wn a little cold water on the movement, but the tia.iUIlJent !1-dduced by those does not appear very substan- om.'e !t is a common practice in our large towns that the vr ay schools have such a yearly display, why not feat" !Jnc"nf°rmists of this place unitedly join in such a „ \Va'once a, year, since it is so generally admitted to be a nevt'n hope to have the pleasure to report in the 1 IELEGRAPH that there are no Adullamites in the camp, h hfPROVEltENTS.-lt is some years back since new houses ve been erected here but now a piece of ground near the awn is let out for buildiug, and some very good houses and • "l's a*"e already contracted for. This will be a very great improvement to this part of Rhymney.