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

THE MARKET HOUSE AND THE PUBLIC. THE classic legends afford abundant materials to point a moral or to adorn a tale. Some people are fond of histori- cal parallels, more especially those who are partial to the theory, that the events of the world form a kind of cycle in their succession, which, when exhausted appear again with a similar ,life, but somewhat altered external forms. Without going minutely into this question, which would be foreign to our present purpose, it will help a stranger to our town," to form a correct appreciation of its public status, as far as a strong, consistent, and hearty co-opera- tive spirit is concerned, by calling to mind the agreeable and entertaining labours of Sisyphus, who for some cause or the other—as to which precisely the old legends are by no means agreed—spent his time in rolling a massive piece of marble up a rather steep hill, and before he could con- gratulate himself upon the result of his achievement, it rolled down again whereupon he was compelled to begin rolled down again whereupon he was compelled to begin de novo, and this to continue ad infinitum. Now it is but fair to state at the outset—and this, we fancy, will be freely admitted—that it is not, as a rule, possible to per- fectly parallelize—to coin a word—any two events, whe- ther fabulous or historical. The history of public opinion or public effort in Pontypridd, has frequently met with the fate which attended the successive exertions of Sisy- phus. If an effort is made to promote some cause of im- portance to the general well-being and happiness of the masses, in the first place it is found the up-hill work, and when the snmmit is in sight, and within easy reach ap- parently, down goes the project, and the indefatigable Sisyphi have to toil again. There cannot be but one opinion among all sensible men in Pontypridd, that the present location of the Pontypridd Institute has become inadequate, unhealthy, insufficient, and undignified. The Institute is a growing body, but at present it is really cramped and confined like a pedal organ of a Chinese lady. The Institute is not as yet sufficiently popularized, and this arises from the want of developing its resourses. We should like to see a large number of the colliers and chain- works' men members of the Institute. To attract such men we require a geological and mechanical museum we require an active expansion of all the facilities of which such an Institute as ours is capable. At present, we are assuming a quiescent and passive attitude. An energetic committee, alive to the wants and necessities of the dis- trict, would initiate drawing classes classes for chemistry, geology, and mechanics but this seems somewhat prema- ture, when the capacities of the present rooms are taken into consideration; yet, much, even under the present arrangement, could be accomplished. In fact, the Insti- tute under the control of a committee composed of intelli- gent, active, and experienced men, -would accomplish a great deal yet for the Institute, and for the town. Of course, in these remarks we do not for a moment wish to throw any doubt whatever upon the qualities of the gentle- men who are taking so active a part as secretaries to the Prize Distribution Scheme, as they have certainly shown the ability to initiate, and the energy to execute, in a most gratifying manner, and if they are not disgusted by obsta- cles thrown in their way by conceited ignorance or insuffer- able pretence, the future of the Institute is yet a bright one. But with regard to its expansion, how can this be accomplished ? Here we wish to secure the suffrages of all the well-wishers of the Institute, the ministers, tradesmen, and professional men of the town. The question of a new, convenient, and commodious room for the members, has now become a necessity, and the time i3 now ripe for its discussion. The intention of building a large room for this purpose under the auspices of a Limited Liability Com- pany, or otherwise, may be in the presence of a building easily adapted for the object in view conveniently shelved. The crockery market occupying as it does a large area of the market, really utilizes less space than this part of the market is capable of affording. Why cannot the energies of the members as soon as the prize drawing has been completed, be devoted to this spot ? The whole space occupied by the vendors of china ware could be taken, we have no doubt, without detriment to existing interests. Supposing the roof raised about 12 or 14 feet, l and windows inserted at intervals, a good floor could be laid down, underneath which a tolerable arcade could be constructed, into which the gas could be brought. This opening up of a market trade, especially on Saturday night, become peculiarly a propos when a general feeling seems to exist in favour of having a market on that night in addi- tion to the weekly market on Wednesday. It is con- sidered that the importance of Pontypridd, it being the centre of a rapidly increasing population, has attained such a point as to render the opening of the market on Saturday nights highly desirable and convenient. Now the question of expense is of course an important one but when the estimate assumed to be required in converting this large building into a commodious room, some 90 feet by 30 feet, together with utilizing the ground floor, is compared with the advantages derivable from such a con- version, the outlay will be found a. most profitable invest- ment, as the pecuniary results must of necessity, when everything is taken into consideration, furnish a per cent- age which in a few years wbuld recoup the promoters, the committee of the Institute to wit, to the whole extent of their invested capital, besides giving the members the benefit of convenient and extensive .remises convertible into a multiplicity of town purposes. We have every reason to believe that no insuperable obstacle would be thrown in the way of accomplishing so desirable and expe- dient a step on the part of the persons more immediately I concerned, a result fraught with so many advantages favorable to the progress of the town, and constituting as it does a step in the right direction. ART UNION or GREAT BRITAIN.—We are happy to state that Mr. Stephens, the courteous station master at Pontypridd, has, as a result of investing a shilling in this Art Union, become the fortunate holder of an artists' proof engraving beautifully framed, and worth ten guineas. The highest prize, value 150 guineas, went to Newport. No FRIENDS.—On Monday last, a man, apparently a soldier, was brought to the Union from the Black Rock public house on the road leading from the Cardiff turnpike road towards Caerphilly. He was quite destitute, with scanty clothing, and found to be deaf and dumb. He has all the marks peculiarly stamped on a man who has led a military life, and has received a wound on his head, which pantomiinically explains was the result of gunshot. He can give no account of himself, nor can aught be obtained from him as to whence he came or where he was going. Up to the present time he has been quite inoffensive we have not heard since whether he has any relatives, or whether he has been claimed. IMPROVEMENTS.—Several buildings in the town are un- dergoing alterations more or less extensive. Mr. Powell, draper, has had a perceptible addition made to his pre- mises, and has erected a very handsome and commodious show-room; Mr. John Jones has converted a small shop between his premises and the extensive pile of Mr. J. Crocket into a neat shop front; Mr. Cousins, of the New Inn Hotel, has taken down the bar, and in its place has substituted a neat, airy, and convenient room, the front of the bar being enclosed by a handsome window-front with slightly mullioned window frames. The whole alteration has been happily conceived and ably executed under the superin tendance of Mr. Barker. PRIZE DISTRIBUTION SCHEME.—The progress of this scheme seems to make rapid strides; already nearly 10,000 tickets have been disposed of, and still the cry is for more. All the parties connected with the scheme are using their utmost endeavours to push the sale of tickets, and up to the present time with complete success. COMMON FAIR. —On Monday the town presented an ani- mated appearance from earliest dawn. On the one hand a large proportion of both townspeople and strangers devo- ted their energies to taking part in the annual saturnalia on the common, where their time was taken up in the in- tellectual occupation of critically examining the bill of fare on the various booths, the contents of which were some- what ostentatiously announced on the platform out- side, where, as usual, more was to be seen than could be witnessed within. After becoming satiated with the various wonders of nature, science and art, and confused no doubt by the horrid din made up of a simultaneous at- tack on barrel organs, trumpets, drums, large and small bells and gongs, the weary pleasure seekers (?) retired to invigoratejand strengthen exhausted nature in the numerous liquor tents freely and gratefully provided by commercial publicans and sinners. As it was just possible that the re-action between active sight-seeing and beer drinking might have become too great for the constitutions of many, the harp and violin and irrepressible square board were at hand, on the last of which a lugubrious offering at the shrine of Terpsichore was attempted. If that goddess had any sense of the beautiful at all, and has not become weakened by age and decrepitude, she must have repudiated the ottering with a sense of the most profound disgust. But vanity is to be found even in a boozing ken. and among a lot of half-tip-«y revellers so that it was not a matter of sur- prise that as fast as one performed his evolutions before an ad- miring audience, and gracefully retired, another should step forward as a candidate for popular favour, this iavour being wrapped up on three of i.s sides by canvas, and supported by malt liquor. The number attending the fair was the largest seen for some years. The darkness soon put an end to the sale ot beer, &c., on the Common, and the gratified public adjourned to the respective minor houses rejoicing in a sign-board, where they kept it up till daylignt did ap- pear." The drunkenness which, in fairness, we must say was not so pronounced as last year, was still very general, Fighting, for real or imaginary evils, occurred at iutervals. and by fitful starts. One man, we are informed, had his ribs broken and numbers of inebriate vi. tims, with an easy indifference to appearances, found a night's rest on the cold, cold ground." So much for the one side. Now as to the other. The greatest difficulties with which parents anxious about the well-being of their children, teachers and pastors about their Sunday schools and flocks, have to con- tend, on the recurring Common fair daj, is to offer some- thing which may be regarded as a stronger counter-attrac- tion to keep the children and youths from the contaminating influences with which fairs of late years abound. Whether they are entirely successlul may be doubted; that the means they adopt are tor the most part effective tor their purpose, may be tairly admitted. The various schools belonging to the different denominations in the town paraded the public streets, siuging various pieces with evi- dent gusto and spirit. Ihe Church schiols, Wesleyan, Baptist, Independent, and Calvinistic Methodist schools, came out in force. Plenty of tea and cake were disposed of, after which the respective places of public woiship were filled with the parents and friends, hearing singing and recitations.

BOARD OF GUARDIANS. The fortnightly meeting of the Board took place on Wed- nesday, July 11th, when the following gentlemen were presentD. Davis, Esq., Cwm (in the chair), Rev. D. T. Davis, Messrs. Maddicks, D. Davies (Gelliweon), D. Davies (Penrhiwfer), W. Williams, J. Richards, E. Tho- mas, G. Brown, Evan Thomas, and W. Francis. RELIEF LIST. The case of Solomon Morgan, to whom we drew atten- tion some weeks since, and who has been in receipt of (is. per week for himself and wife, came before the Board again to-day. The old man, who is upwards of eighty years of age, is almost incapacitated from working. The relieving officer, in bringing the case before the guardians, suggested a reduction in the amount of relief given, but the Board, with a correct appreciation of the feelings of the ratepay- ers upon the matter, unanimously resolved to continue the present allowance. Another case, which evoked some discussion and some sympathy, was that of an apparently hard-working labour- ing man, whose wife had become chargeable to the Union. The man stated that he was willing to maintain his wife, or to allow her a certain sum per week. She was given to drink, and he thought it v«ry hard that after working all day he should find his wife about the public-ho uses' spend- ing every penny she could get in liquor. He appeared to be ready aud willing to pay towards his wife's support if the Board would take her. This, however, could not be allowed. The poor fellow paid for the maintenance of his wife since June 1st, and seemed determined not to contri- bute a penny towards her support, unless she materially altered her conduct. The Clerk read the minutes of the last meeting, which were confirmed. CESSPOOL—^COMPLAINT. I The report of the committee appointed to take into con- sideration the complaints made by Messrs. Luard and Shirley, on behalf of R. Richards, Esq., with respect to I the cesspool belonging to the Unioil-house, was read.—Mr. j Maddicks, as one of the committee, said that they had exa- i mined the cesspool that morning, and found that, accord- ing to the original arrangement with Mr. Rickards's agents the complaint made by them was untenable. It appears that an agreement had been made between the Board and Mr. Rickards, in virtue of which the surface water flowing into the cesspools would be allowed to pass through Mr. Rickards's property into a brook, on the condition of pay- ing 2s. Gd. per annum for such privilege, and allowing the manure accumulating in the cesspool to be at the disposal of the tenants for agricultural purposes. The complaint I was founded on the representation that no such manure could be obtained, as it was carried away by the surface water flowing into the cesspool. The report of the com- mittee showed that there was plenty of manure in the cess- pool that it was not carried away by the water surplusage and that it was accumulating as fast as could naturally be expected and therefore the complaints of the agents were unfounded. The Clerk was directed to write to Messrs. j Luard and Shirley, and inform them of the result of the committee's examination. COLLECTOR'S SALARY. A communication was read from the Poor Law Board approving of the advarce of salary from £80 to £100 per annum to Mr. Gwynne, the collector of Llanwonno parish. Jt was stated that the necessary order would be sent down, thereby completing the arrangements for making such ad- vance legitimate. CARDIFF INFIRMARY. A circular addressed to the Board by the secretaries of the Glamorgan and Monmouth Infirmary, was read, in which the merits of this institution was brought promi- nently before the Board. Some extensive alterations have beeu made, whereby the number of beds had been increased from 33 to 52. The expenses attending such an extension had necessarily increased, and yet the accommodation was not adequate to the demands made upon it. The secretaries requfsted active assistance, either by increased subscriptions or fresh exertions to secure additional subscribers. The principal ground for such exertions was the fact that al- though --these extensive alterations had been effected, the number of subscribers had remained stationary. The Chairman suggested that as there was a small Board the matter should stand over. The Clerk said that the Pontypridd Union contributed £10 per annum towards the funds of (he Infirmary. It seemed to be considered that the amount subscribed was sufficient, and that there was no particular claim urged upon them to increase the subscription at present paid. On the proposition of Mr. W. Williams, the notice of motion to take into consideration the propriety of sending the children of out.door paupers to the Wesleyan School, was postponed, the proposer being absent.—This was seconded and carried. MASTER'S JOURNAL. 1st week of quarter: Admitted 2, discharged 4, inmates 51; 2nd do.: Admitted 2, discharged 5, inmates 48. This concluded the general business of the Board, which was a remarkably small one, in fact, one of the smallest we have yft seen. The difference between the time at which the public business should have commenced, and the time at which it actually commenced was only ten or eleven minwtes still, as a matter of principle, the commencement of public business at halt-past twelve o'clock should be gene- rally accepted and rigidly adhered to.

ABERDARE. FATAL ACCIDENT.—On Wednesday last a fatal accident occurred in the Napier's t nn. Skittle Alley, at Mountain Ash. A man named William Hughes, aged 39, was in the alley when he was pushed down some steps by a man named Rees Samuel. He was very severely injured on the back 'of the head, and was subsequently attended by Dr. Brown. He died after a short time, and it is supposed death resulted from the injuries he received. An inqnest will be held on the remains. BIIWA*E OF BOOK. TRAVELLERS.—At the court held at the Temperance Hall this week by his Honour Judge Falconer, several plaints were heard ajrainst persons who had ordored bosks in parts, and had either refused to take them afrerwards, or who, as was alleged, had in some way run from the original agreement. The Judge commented with much severity on the practice ot going round thecountry imposing on poor people by selling them books in parts which would cost them three oc fourpounds, when an equally good book could be puichased in any respectable shop for JUs. orlos. Wearegladthatagentlemanof Judge Falconer's literary judgment and experience has ventured to censure the parties which are ensasred in this kind of book-vending. To say the least ot the practice, it is one which leads work- ing men into ordering expensive beok" which they very often fail to get completed. The man who solicits the order is always a good talker, and he never knows the meaning ot no." He teazes and importunes until, sometimes only to get rid of him, amiable people give them an order to send a number as a sample. He then very nicely solicit the lavour of having the name entered on his list of subscribers, as this miaht induce neighbours or friends to add their names." Again, principally with a view of getting rid ot a bore," this request is acceeded to. The sample book is delivered, jind the deliver is told not to bring any more. He calls again, thouirh, as he tells his customer, that as he ha-! signed a contract he must take the book, or the consequence of refusal in the shape of legal proceedings. If the customer proves plucky, and accepts the legal preceedings, he dis- covers in court that at the top ot the sheet on which he signed his name. apparently as acompliment and a favour to the publisher, printed in nonpareil type to elude notice, there is a contract binding all persons who sign to take the booh to the latter end. Judges, however, thank gtodness, don't look with favour on these tricks, and the book-vend- ors, as well as unwary customers, had better beware." A PUBLIC MEETING in connection with the British and Foreign Bible Society, was held at the Tt'mperance Hall, on Tuesday evening last, Mr. David Davis, Maesyffynon, in the chair The Rev. J. Mills attended as a deputation from the Parent Society, and made a very serviceable speech. Other gentlemen made speeches pertinent to the occasion, and resolutions of the usual kind were also adopted. The report of the Aberdare auxiliary, which was satisfactory, was read. CONGREGATIONAL ASSOCIATION. — On Wednesday evening every tiain brought an influx of well-dressed visit. ors into the town, in time for the association meetinus in connection with Siloa chapel, which took place on the fol- lowing day. On Wednesday evenins, several eminent ministers connected with the Congregational cause, preached at the various chapels of the place. The sermons were of a most meritorious description, and the congregations, not- withstanding the heat of the weather, were as tarsre as any before witnessed in the town. On Thursday, service was held throughout the day in a field at Rhiw'r Mynacli, where a temporary stage had been erected. An immense concourse of nicely-dressed people attended each of the meetings, and the whole of the service and sermons were ot a most impressive kind. At the conference, which was held as usual, a number ot subjects—including a paper by Dr. Rees, of Swansea—highly interesting to the Congregational body, were ably discussed. Throughout the whole of Thursday, the town presented quite a holiday-like appear- ance, and, as usual on such occasions, most of the well-to-ilo townfolk who were interested in the day's proceedings, en- tertained a large number of the visitors"?iglit hospitably. BOARD OF H EALTH ELECTION.—The chairman ot the Local Btardot Health has iust issued notices to the effect that the seats ot Messrs. Thomas Wayne, R. T. Roberts, Gwilym Williams, Ehenezer Lewis, and vDavid Davis, were about becoming vacant, and that in order to fill up the five vacancies thus occasioned, nominations must be sent in to him, at the Old Town Hall, on or before the 8th of August next. In case there should be more than the required num- ber of candidates nominated, the chairman will cause voting papfrs to be delivered to all entitled to vote, on the 23rd ot Aupust, and to be collected on the 27th of the same month. It is seldom that so many good members vacate their seats at once, and as two of the present Ave—Messrs. Gvilym Williams and Ebenezer Lewis, are ineligible to re-election, in consequence of their not residing near enough to the dis. tiict, there will be a broad chauce for the infusion of new blood into the Board, without going to the bother of a con- test. We trust a sufficient number ot good men will be nominated, and should there be more than the required number, and a contest be necessaiy, we hope the candidates will be men worth fighting for. ABERDARE POLICE COURT. TUESDAY.—(Before J. C. Fowler, Esqrs.) Drunk and Riotous.—Daniel Fielding, a worthy who was drunk and riotous on the 7th inst., and smashed up the closet in the police cell, was ordered to pay 5s. fine, 5s. damage, and the usual costs. In default he should go to jail for seven days. Charge of Pockct-pickimj at Cwnviare. —Anne Butler, a very sickly-looking woman, was charged with stealing £1 lls. 6d. from Anne Williams, of Cwmdare. The prosecu- trix said she was in Mr. Davies's shop, in Commercial-place, and she had a purse in her pocket containing £ 1 lis. 6d., composed of a sovereign, half-a-sovereign, and the rest in silver. She bargained for some bacon, and while doing so she felt something pressing against her side, as if a hand was in her pooket. She immediately put her hand into her pocket, and found that her purse and the money were gone. She, prisoner, was the only one near her at the time, and when she looked her in the face she ran out of the shop. Prosecutrix pursued and caught her, but that was after she had been with another person for some time. When caught the prisoner had neither purse or money in her possession.—James Williams, the husband of the pro- secutrix (who, by-the-hye, seemed more like her son) having given evidence corroborative of the above, P.S. Thorney said he arrested the prisoner, and charged her with the robbery. She said, "0, I aID free enough you did not see the purse with me, nor you cannot find it." When being brought to the police station prisoner said to the prosecutrix, You cannot prove it; I am innocent enough for you." The prosecutrix answered, "You gave it to that other woman you were away with." Some other evidence was given, but his Worship did not consider it sufficient to warrant a conviction of the prisoner, whom he accordingly discharged.—Tlio prisoner and a man who seemed to be her husband kicked up a confounded row in court, and swore they would summon the prosecutrix for their loss of krakther." They were both ordered to make themselves scarce as quickly as possible. Lovers at War.—A handsome and very respectable looking young woman named Mary AVard, summoned a fair-haired dogged-looking customer, calling himself Thos. Thomas, for a common assault. It seems the pair were originally lovers," and had a falling out about something or other. The defendant had previously presented his carte (much like an ass's one, we believe) to the young woman, and when he met her the other day he demanded that sweet trophy "from her. She, however, did not carry it about in her bosom, next to her heart (ungrateful inamomta I) and she accordingly told Thomas he should wait for it till Sunday. This Tommy did not seem inclined to do, and he gave his rejected sweetheart a blow on the shoulder which raised a black lump there.—His Worship: Was it a slight blow? -Prosecutrix Yes, sir, therewa. a big lump on my shoulder after it! (laughter). —His Worship: Do you call that a. slight one ?—Prosecutrix: Yer, sir (con- tinued laughter).—P.S. Thorney swore he saw the defend- ant committing the assault, and Tommy was then fined 20s. and costs or in default, he might mourn in solitude over his lost love in quod" for fourteen days. Alleged Highway Robbery. —Michael Bailey, a very strong-looking man, was charged with stealing a pair of boots and a cotton handkerchief, value 15s., from the person of John Rees, collier, of Cwmbach. It seem d that the plaintiff was a little jolly on Sunday night, and when going home through Commercial-street, he felt a little sleepy and lay down on the side of the way to take a nap. He then had his boots on him, and there was cotton hand- kerchief in his pocket.—P.C. Morgan was on duty there, and he saw the plaintiff lying asleep on the road, and he also spied another man (who he said was the prisoner) taking off Rees's boots, and then searching his pockets. The police constable arrested both worthies, and Rees did not know he was near being robbed till he awoke in the police station on Monday morning and found his feet bare, and his pocket empty of its handkerchief. P.C. Morgan swore positively that he saw the prisoner taking off Rees's boots and rifling his pockets, and Bailey was, therefore, committed for trial. No Prosecutor. —Thomas Davies, an individual who was as closely muffled about the neck as if he was in the middle of winter, was charged with stealing a shovel value 2s. 6d., the property of Thomas Daniel. Daniel did not appear, and prisoner was discharged. An Absentee Defendant. —Morgan Edmunds, who did not appear, was charged with rolling a large stone into the canal at Mountain Ash, on the 24th of June.—P.C. 89 said on the above night, about half-past eleven o'clock, he saw the defendant with some others rolling a very large stone into the canal at Mountain Ash. He told him he should summon him for it, and he said he did not care.—Mr. Jas. Forest, the manager of the canal, said there was a great practice of throwing stones into the canal at Mountain Ash for some time past, and it was a source of great annoyance.—Defendant was fined 20s. and costs, or seven days in jaiL A Melee.—Gwenllian Gossage v. Gwenllian Price Wm. Gossage v. Gwenllian Price and John Price v. William Gos age.—All the parties in those cases charged one another with assault and abuse. They live at Aberaman, and John Price keeps the Cloth Hall public house. Mr. Linton appeared for Price. It seemed that on Sunday night last Mrs. Price heard Mrs. Gossage telling another person she (Mrs. Price) was drunk. Mrs. Price was vexed to hear this said of her, especially while her husband was in the house, and she told Mrs. Gossage she had no right to scandalize her in that way. Mrs. Gossage and her husband then com- menced to abuse her (Price), who was up-stairs in her chiliren's bed-room, and they threw a brick in at the window, which was very nearly striking the children in the bed. The Gossages alleged that their opponents also threw stones, but there was not sufficient evidence to prove this, and the charges against the Prices were, therefore, dis- missed.—In the case of John Price against Wm. Gossage, the defendant was fined 40s. and costs, together with expenses of witnesses. In default of payment he should go to jail for 18 days. The money was paid. Drunkards.—Wm. Stockton for being drunk and riotous on the 12th of June, was fined 10s., including costs.— Lewis James, for a similar offence, was fined 7s. 6d includ- ing costs.—Thomas Thomas, for the same offence, was fined 10s., including costs, and Evan Thomas, on a similar charge, was fined 7s. 6d., including costs. Burning an Effigy.— Joseph Thomas was summoned for causing an obstruction of the highway by assembling at Bell-street, Mill-street, to burn an effigy of a man who had skedaddled with another man's wife The indignant youth was duly cautioned against caricaturing runaway men in future. Assault.—Mary Phillips, a young woman with a child in her arms, was summoned for assaulting Mary Jones, a woman who could use her tongue (and probably fists) very sturdily. It seemed that the row originated in defendant beating plaintiff's brother, and when Mary Jones interfered on behalf of her relation, she was rewarded by a blow of a stone on the forehead from the defendant. —Mary Phillips was fined 10s. and costs, or ten days in jail. Family Scandals.—Eleanor Rees, a quiet-looking old woman, summoned her husband, Thomas Rees, who did not appear, for threatening to kill her. This was not the first time this unhappy woman has had to summon her husband for a similar offence, for Thomas Rees was once before cautioned in this court against threatening his wife. A warrant was issued to compel defendant to appear. _—- „

LOCAL INTELLIGENCE. EXECURSIONS.—The Cyfarthfa Excursion train left the Yale of Neath Railway station on Saturday morning last at seven o'clock for Swansea. The men marched to the station headed by their fine bind, and weie accompanied by a very large crowd of people. The scene at the station was very animated, and it was with no little difficulty the train was prepared for starting. In the evening, when the men re- turned, a large crowd of people" received" them at the station, and, when marching home, the band played some fine pieces of music—among them being, See the con- quering heroes come !"—The excursion train for Cheltenham left the same station on Monday morning last, and carried 54 pleasure-seekers. lViK. RBES EVANS, of Thomas Town, wishes it to be understood that he is not the author ot any recent letters in the TELEGRAPH, in reference te the Flower Siiow THE MONSTEK PETE AND GALA at Peuluolgerng came off on Thursday, aud was attended with great success. Upwards of five thousand people assembled in the field duriug the day, and tuoroughly enjoyed the amusements provided tor them. All the arrangements were excellently carried out. ] THE ROYAL COLLEGE OF SURGEONS.—We understand with much pleasure that Mr. Charles William Price, the son of Mr. Thomas Price, of this town, who is at present attending the London University school, has successfully passed the preliminary examination of the Royal College of Surgeons UNIVERSITY OF LONDON.—Four students of the .Normal College, in Swansea, have just matriculated at the Univer- sity of London Mr. D. A. Davies, of Swansea; Mr. Josiah Jones, of Trelech, Carmarthenshire Mr. E. B. Evans and Mr. T. Jones, both of Aberdare, in this county. No other student from any college or school in Wales appears in the list. Nine students from the Normal College have matri- culated during the year. FATAL ACCIDENT.—An accident, fatal in its consequences, occurred at the Plymouth Works, on Wednesday last. A haulier, named Daniel Ingrain, aged û9 years, was engaged in taking coal from the works to Pentrebach houses, when he fell off the cart on which he was riding, and the wheels passed over his body, smashing all his ribs. and his left arm. He was attended by Mr. Balland, surgeon, but death soon resulted from the injuries the poor man received. An inquest will be held on the remains. CATHOLIC TEA PARTY.—The Catholics of this district had a tea-party in the Temperance hall on Monday last, which was very numerously attended. A drum and fife band from Rhymney attended during the day, and played several lively airs. A concert of principally Irish music was held in the evening, and was also largely patronized. There were several beautiful melodies sung in a creditable j manner, especially by the ladies, and they were received by the audience with rapturous encores. We regret, however, to say that some recitations which were given were literally j murthered." On the whole, however, the concert was I successful. The proceeds were handed over to the funds of J St. Mary's Catholic Chapel HIGH STREET CHAPEL.—The Rev. C. White, minister of tllÍs place of worship, announced to his last Sunday his intention of reartinsr to them next, Sunday night It paoer 011 the Position and duty of llaptiyts ax Non- conformists." This paper was read last Wednesday at Bruonferrv, before the annual meeting- of the iilamortran and Carmarthenshire English Bantist Association, and was adopted as the circular letter to be address i this year by th ■ Association o the churches. Mr. White invited all, aiiil especially the vounsr people to attend—an invitation which, we are sure, will be well responded to. A fu 1 report of this address will appear in next week's Ti4i.EGRi.PH. BETHEL CHAPEL.—A lecture was delivered in this chapel last Monday evening: by the Rev. Mr. Davies, minister of the Bethel English Baptist church. The subject of the l"cture was-" Try, try, attain." The lecture, which lasted about two hours, was well arranged throughout, and showed that Mr. Davies had bestowed much labour aud reading upon its production. Several instances were given of ereat men who had risen from obscuiity to celebrity by making their motto Cry, try, again." The lecture was especially suited to young men, who were told that what others had done theycouid, by perseverance, also accomplish. At the conclusion "of :hs lecture Mr. Davies was heartily applauded hy a tolerably large audience. The chair was oc- cupied by John Jones, Esq., of Courtland-terrane. to whom and the lecturer, votes of thanks were given at the close of the meeting. 12TH GLAMORGAN RIFLE CORPS.—The challenge cup was again competed for on the 12th inst., and was won for the second time by Private Barnard, he being 7 points in advance of Sergeant Davies and Private Glascodine, who tried for the second place. If our skilful comrade heads the list of competitors the next mogth, he will be the owner of the handsome cup presented to the Corps by the ladies, on the occasion of laying the foundation stone of the Drill Hall. MERTHYR BURJAL BOARD MEETING.—On Monday last a special meeting of this Board was h*ld, lor the pur- pose of considering' the state of Zion grave-yard, and espe- cially with reference to a recent burial there. It appears from the report of the inspector, that the wile of Mr. Evan Leyshon was buried there on Thursday, 5th inst., no notice having been previously served upon the inspector of grave- yards. That officer, however, learnt, that a funeral was to take place and visited the grouud, finding a grave, consi- derably too spacious, opened at the back 01 the chapel, and that a portion of the foundation walls had fallen in. The erave was afterwards partially clos d. He airain visited the ground on the following day, and found that the grave had been re-opened, the side biicked up and the founda- tion wall repaired. The Rev. Mr. Griffiths, the pastor, and also one of the deacons of the church were present to offer an explanation which was that the minister being from home at the time, the grave-digger had neglected to give the proper notice, and that if the oversight would be overlooked a similar neglect should not occur again. The Board for a considerable time discus- sed the question, and ultimately passed unanimously the following resolution on the subject—"That the attention of th Biiiiai Board having been directed to a recent iuter- ment at Zton burial ground, in which th..re was an irregu- larity, with respect to an Order in Council, and it also appearing that the number ot interments has of hte srreatly increased, this Board would desire the attention of the Secretary of State to such Butial grounds, more especially as of la e a school-room ba.« been erected in close proximity thereto, and. therefore, on this, as on other grounds, its con- tinuance as a butial-phi 'e is injurious to the public health, it is also resolved that a copy of tha Inspector's report in reference to this matter be forwarded to Dr. Holland." This was the whole business transacted, and the Board adjourned. A Toss IN THE STREETS. — Some amusement was caused in the High-street on Monday evening last by the toss-up of an unfortunate donkey and a cart-load of 'taters." A very soft-looking man was driving the cart, and as he seemed to feel lazy when opposite tLe Market-square corner he proceeded to get into the cart and have a ride. There were already three large sacks of 'taters on the cart. and as the shafts were not of the best description the lazy driver had scarcely disposed himself in front when they both broke off from the very ends, and 'taters, driver, cart, and donkey were stretched in beautiful confusion on the road. The prostrate driver commenced to rub his leg with great assiduity, and he looked extremely stupid when he spied his 'taters scattered about the road. The ass was the next to rise. and the two broken shafts were then picked off the road and presented toltne driver. Of course, the cart was rendered useless as a conveyance, and the 'taters had to be left on the side of the street till some more suitable cart was procured to carry them to their destination. We heard someone hinting that the entire yoke belonged to Paddy Boyle, the recent hero of the police courts, but we cannot vouch for the accuracy of this piece of information THE MERTHYR TYDFIL WORKING MEN'S AMATEUR DRAMATIC SOCIETY. This promising society gave another performance in the Temperance Hall on Thursday sen'night last. The audience was not so good as on former occasions, but this may be somewhat accounted for by the fact that the evening was very wet. As we wish, however, to see local talent sup- ported as it ought to be, we must hope that on future occa- sions the. performances of those amateur dramatists will be patronized by a greater number of our respectable inhabit- ants. The first piece performed on Thursday evening was Mr. Thomas Taylor's comedy—Still Waters run Deep," the caste, of which was a follows :—Mr. Potter, Mr. Lewis Captain Hawkesley, Mr. W. Hammett; John Mildmay, Mr. W. Thompson Dunbilk, Mr. T. H. Davies; Langford, Mr. Morgan Markham. Mr. Chew Gimlet (a detective), Mr. B. Pugh; Jessop. Mr. Thomas; Servant, Mr. Parker; Mrs. Mildmay, Mrs. W. Hammett; Mrs. Strenhold, Mrs. W. Thompson. The character of Captain Hawkesley" did not suit Mr. Hammett so veil asdid that of "Pizarro" at the previous performance. We fancy he did not quite under- stand that military dash which is requisite to such a char- acter, and in the deceitful part which he played—both in love and money matters—he seemed to dread assuming that air of cunning audacity which, on a, stage, is absolutely expected of such a character. Also, in some of his conver- sations with John Mildmay (Mr. W. Thompson), his atten- tion languished ill the spirit of the acting, and he seemed more to be going through a task than really performing a principal part in a comedy. This failing was especially remarkable in the interview between Captain Hawksley and John Mildmay, in the house of the former, immediately after the latter had discovered the perfidy of the captain towards his wife, and the position in which he stood to Mrs. Strenhold (Mrs. W. Thompson). Mr. Hammett received the tale of the discovery of his treachery and villiany with too much carelessness, and he did not display sufficient emotion, or chagrin, when he was being compelled to re- linquish his shares in a certain project those shares which he had so much difficulty in procuring—and his letters from Mrs. Strenhold—letters on which he set so much value. We make those remarks on Mr, Hammett's acting simply through a friendly feeling to the society. We are sure they will be glad to have their short-comings pointed out to them, in order that on future occasions they may be able to correct these and perform with greater brilliancy. Un- doubtedly, as an amateur, Mr. W. Hammett displays great abilities, and he evinces signs of certain qualities, which, after a few performances, will prove him to be no mean actor. Of course, as a beginner, he must require a little in- struction and polish, and this is the reason we wish to point out to him some points on which he might improve in future. To Mrs. Hammett we would also wish to address a few remarks. In the character of Mrs. Mildmay on Thursday night she acquitted herself with great credit, and we shall be happy to renew her acquaintance on the stage on future occasions. Naturally, however, she was a little to > bashful, and she should have evinced greater horror and surprise than she did, in that scene where Mrs. Strenhold discovers to her that she knows all about her stolen interview with Captain Hawkesley, and that she is determined to prevent it. Mrs. Hammett, as Mrs. Mildmay, retired to her room, when ordered to do so by Mrs. Strenhold, with t')o much ease-much more ease, indeed, than was intended to he evinced by the original Mrs. Mildmay, in Tom Taylor's comedy. On the whole, however. Mrs. Hammett is an excellent amateur, and she need only forget a little more of her bashfulness to insure for herself a good name as a local amateur actress. We will now speak of the acting of Mr. Lewis a«jMr. Potter. Undoubtedly, this character suited him roach better than did that of the Peruvian king at the former performance. There were very few features with which to find fault in his acting, and we believe he did ample justice to the. character he represented Under the able tuition of Mr. W. Thompson, Mr. Lewis will yet prove to be a first-class amateur, as will also, we have no doubt, Mr. and Mrs. Hammett. Of the performances-of Mr. W. Thompson and his wife it is almost impossible for us to speak. Of course, a.s pro- fessionals, their more advanced perfection was especially remarkable when they played with amateurs, but W6 cannot fail to notice, that their spirit is also gradually com- municating itself to their very apt pupils. As the loving husband of Mrs. Mildmay, Mr. Thompson'sactingwasahnost perfect, aind, as the far-sighted, cool, and precise man of business it was next to faultless. The part of Mrs. Stren- hold was sustained by Mrs. W. Thompson with her now well-known ability, and we have no hesitation in saying that those two professionals are of the greatest benefit to the society, by whom, we trust, their services will be long retained. The other characters were also well sustained, but as the above are the principal ones we do not think it necessary to particularize the others. This comedy was followed by comic illustrations of Darkie life down South by Messrs. Mackey and Johnson. Mr. Cartlidge was expected to take part in this perform- ance, but his absence on business prevented him from doing so. The scenes in this cov" episode were received by the audience amid bursts ut iie.;rty laughter, and when the "celebrated Ethiopian vocalises first retired off the stage they were obliged to return an I respond to a hearty encore. If a performance of this nature is again introduced we would advise the society to imp rt more nigger singing into it. There is nothing takes bet ter with an audience after a grim drama or comedy than a g od comic song and accom- paniment—a fact which, we beli ve, the society will find to be true if they adopt our sugg-esti.,a at their next perform- ance. The entire entertainment of the evening was concluded by the farce, "Urgent Private Affairs." of which the follow- ing was the programme:—Dentatus Dotts (Dentist and Loyal Hammersmith Volunteer), Mr. J. O. Avis; Major Polkinghorne (of the same Gallant Corps). Mr. D. Winter Joe Jutnballs (a Confectioner's Shopman), Mr. C. Hem- mings; Mr. Bagshaw (a Solicitor), Mr. E Williams Mrs. Dentatus Dotts (on affectionate Wife), Mrs. W. Hammett Mrs. Polkinghorne (Wife of the Major), Mrs. Wozencroft; Sally Vokins (a Maid of All-work), Mrs. W. rbompson. This is a very comical farce indeed, and it was particularly appreciated hy some ofour members of the 12th Royal Glamor- gan Rifle Volunteers, who happened to be among the audience at the time of its performance. The characters were all well sustained, and numerous indeed were the bursts of laughter which pealed forth on.the discovery of Dentatus Dotts or Joe Jumballs, which immersed in one of the numerous "scrapes" into those two unfortunate characters were constantly falling. During the evening it was announced that another per- formance would be soon given by the society at the same hall. The Band under the leadership of Mr. Nixon at- tended during the evening, and discoursed some excellent pieces of music at the intervals between the different acts.

BIRTHS. On the 5th inst. the wife of the Rev. D. Jones, B.A., Zoar, of a son. On the 8th inst., at Llwydcoed, Aberdare, the wife of Mr. Arthur J. Morris, of a son. On the 10th inst., at Aberdare, the wife of the Rev. J* J. George, Unitarian minister, of a daughter. MARRIAGE. On the 5th inst., at Mozera chapel, Raglan, by the Rev* George Phillips, uncle to the Bride, Mr. J. Griffiths, of Richmond House, Maindee, Newport, to Sarah, only daughter of Mr. David Lewis, Blaenavon, Hon,

here. These extortioners are lodging-house keepers, who are always hanging at the railway station, and who are in- variably recommended by the railway officials, who allow them to stand inside and permit all that can be squeezed out of the unfortunate victims. The railway porters, I would wish you to understand, are indirectly the cause of the mischief. Bring beds with you, plates, knife and fork and cups. and this will dry up another source from which they derive considerahie gains. The England is a fine vessel-in length, about equal to the distance from Harris's the New Inn, to Llewellyn Williams's, in High-street; two powerful engines great cleanliness and comfort. Tell your wives not to forget to bring out a little tea and some cheese for the voyage. Four guineas is the price of the trip to-day the distance is 3,500 miles from Liverpool, and which you must acknow- ledge is cheap travelling. We had an excellent dinner to- day—boiled beef, potatoes, &c., and to me it was quite.a treat, as I am a stranger to the taste of beef, not having been able to afford the purchase since the article has become so expensive but we are going to the land of Goshen, thank God, with his permission, where we are told that honest industry and perseverance secure plenty of God's rich blessings for a poor man, and the whole of his family. Willam Jones and his family are with me on board, and so is John Morris and family. We are all well. My dear fellow-countrymen, 1 hope you will keep your eyes fixed on the Far West, as that is the country for the poor man, where he is considered as an intellectual and moral being, and treated as such.—I am, fellow-country- men, yours truly, HUGH MERRIMAN, Late of Cyfarthfa. THE MERTHYR CAB COMPANY. SIR,—Will you kindly ailow me space in your valuable paper for the following — 1 encased a <'a'» belonging to the Merthyr Cah Co. at hall-past four o'clock on the evening ot Thursday, the 5th inst to carry a party of friends to Vochriw at six o'clock tliat eveniog, but when the time arrived the cab and driver were non est, neither was there another cab belonging to the company (with the requbite "oorn to acconllnodate the party), to be obtained, and the party were consequently preatlv disappointed and inconvenienced. I learned sub- sequently thai. tilC driver had taken another fare shortly after engaging with me—and possibly, one more to his likinir than a drive to the VoJiriw would Of>. Now, Mr. Editor. 1 believe there are very many in Merthyr, together with mvself, who consider ihe introduction of the cab movement into Merthyr as a hooll hut if the cabman are to Iw allowed toshirk their engagements, and thereby cause inconvenience, disappointment, and it may tw, lo-s to the parties engaging them, I, for one, shall Ice I inclined to consider their intro- duction lather an evM to the community. I am not aware that there are any means of obtaining redrew other than giving the matter publicity in your columns, and trust that this will have the effect of calling the attention of the Merthyr Cab Co. to the conduct of their employes. With many thanks for your kindness in inserting the foregoing,—i remain, sir, yours truly, A DISAPPOINTED MAN. Merthyr Tydfil, 6th July, 1866. CRICKET MATCH. SIR,—It is with deep reluctance that I again address myself to your kindness, and hope to claim a small space in your columns, not only to vindicate myself against the mean calumnies of your "Juvenile Correspondent," or his still more classic secretary, but to show to such of your readers as take an interest in the subject, how unqualified was the untruth which stated as an axiom, that Fair Play wishes to under-rate and bring the Ebbw Vale club into disrepute. Sir, to any person who can ordinarily read and understand plain English, it would be a poor compli- ment indeed to ask them if they interpreted my communi- cation of the 30th ult-, in any other sense than that of defending the Ebbw Vale against a sneer which was too palpable to overlook. Sir, in your "Correspondent's notice of the 23rd ult., it was stated that "mcst of the young men of the Beaufort eleven were mere juveniles," who had to contend with "old experienced cricketers"- unequally matched, as it would appear from that-and that the conquerors had an easy" walk over;" and of course that no "merit of the tield could accrue to the Ebbw Vale." Such, Sir, has been the view taken of your correspondent's note by every member of our club to whom I had the honour of speaking, or who bestowed any attention what- ever upon it. Sir, it was the injuria spreta' forma; that dictated it. Your "Juvenile Oorrespondent" has sought in vain to shuffle the uneasy burden of local dissatisfaction upon my shoulder, but truth is bullet proof even against needle guns. Sir, 1 remember hearing a story of a candidate for par- liamentary honours whu, in concluding an address to the "ignoble rabble," was reminded by a friend of his that "he didn't give 'em a stave of Latin," whereupon the would-be member gravely said—"Gentlemen, you all know what the old Latin poet says, and you know it to be a truth, Vocalem bre riant alia subeunte latini," which had the desired effect. So also the "goose quill," the "bor- rowed plume." of your unfledged "Juvenile," alighting upon the venerable but musty books of Latin lore, thought tc hurl a literary extinguisher upon common sense. Nor did the redundancy of the Latin afford your accomplished scholar sufficient scope to well out his indignant wrath in words which would prove how complete was the succeSS of his school-master, but he must needs employ the "parley Francais as an adjunct. I am only surprised that his ad- mirable tutor did not teach him some phrases in High Dutch. Sir, hoping I have not passed the line of demarca- tion alloweu by your space, I have in conclusion to state that it was not Baalam but his alSIJ" who spoke.—Yours respectfully, FAIR PLAY. EBBW VALE. BETHEL CHAPEL ANNINERSARY.—On Sunday the annual services in connection with the Welsh Wesleyans were held, when three excellent sermons were preached by the Rev. William Powell. The chapel was crowded at each service, and good collections were made. SUNDAY SCHOOL ANNIVERSARY.-On Sunday last the English Wesleyans, Victoria, celebrated their school anni- veisary, when sermons were preached as follows :—The Rev. C. Bingant in the morning, Mr. Joseph Palmer in the afternoon, and Mr. John Fudge in the evening. The two latter are local preachers residing at Beaufort. The three discourses were well adapted to the occasion. The scholars recited some very good pieces of poetry and prose and sang a choice selection of hymns very nicely. Mr. A. Russell conducted the singing. The collections were as good as could be expected, and there was a large attend- ance at each service. On the following day the scholars received their annual treat of tea and cake. Previous to their partaking of tea they were marched through the town in procession, and presented a very pleasant appear- ance. After tea a public meeting was held in the chapel, when several gentlemen delivered adJresses on subjects of importance, and the afternoon was spent with much inter- est to all present. BRITISH AND JOREIGN BIBLE SOCIETY.—The annual meeting of the Ebbw Vale auxiliary branch of this society was held on Wednesday evening in Penuel chapel, when the chair was taken by the Rev. J. Jones, Welsh Wesleyan minister. The audience was not as large as might be de- sired, probably on account of the unfavourable state of the weather. The Rev. Owen Jones (of Manchester) attended as deputation to represent the Parent Society. The Rev. T. Edwards commenced the meeting by singing a hymn in Welsh, and the Rev. C. Bingant prayed in English. The chairman, after making some remarksin Welsh, called upon the Kev. C. W. Haime, Wesleyan, to address the meeting. He said he was an old missionary, but not a very old man. He had the pleasure of attending a Bible meeting on the previous evening, and had listened with much interest to the speech of the deputation, although he had spoken in a dead language to him. There were, however, one or two words that he understood one was Bible, and he con- cluded that it was the Bible Society he was advocating. He (the speaker) considered the Bible Society to be next in importance to the preaching of the gospel. He thought every person should have a Bible in his possession, to be able to read and think for himself, independent ot what he heard from the pulpit. He then spoke of the effects pro- duced on society, both morally and religiously, by reading and studying the contents of the Sacred Scriptures and he adverted to the time of emancipation, and to the pleas- ing fact that a copy of the Holy Scriptures had been placed in the hands of every emancipated slave. Mr. Haime's address was clear and full of important truths, and inter- spersed with many pleasant anecdotes. The speaker con- cluded his remarKs amid loud applause. The Rev. T. Edwards, Calvinistic minister, next, spoke at some length in Welsh, and his address was very well received by the meeting. The Hev. Charles Bingant spoke very briefly in English, after which the Rev. Owen Jones (deputation) made a speech of some length, which was entirely unintel- ligible to the English part of the audience, as it was spoken in Welsh. Mr. John Atkins had formerly acted as secre- tary of the society, but some time ago he resigned that office, and consequently he could not give any account of the position of the society. We trust, however, that it is satisfactory. EHYMWBr AND PONTLOTTYN. NSW TREDEGAR.—THE CHURCH OF ENGLAND SERVICE. —The Rev. J. B. Jones preached his farewell sermon last Sunday week, on his leaving for another sphere of Christian work at Blackwood, from Acts, xx. 32. THE SUNDAY SCHOOLS.—On Monday last the Sunday schools connected with twelve Nonconformist places of worship, enjoyed a holiday. The appearance of the morn- ing was anything but cheering; there was a thick mist, but in the course of the forenoon the weather cleared up. At an early hour there were persons to be seen wending their way to the respective iliapels, with a view to make the essential preparations for the treat of tea and cake that was to follow as the accompaniment of the procession. About twelve o'clock the Pontlottyn Sunday schools, Zoar (Baptist), Nazareth (Independents), and the Primitive Methodists started, and in coming towards the Lower British School, were joined by the English Baptists. A little further Moriah (Independents) and Jerusalem (Bap- tists), followed in the line ot procession headed by ministers. When coming to Twyncarno, Goshen (Independents) joined the ranks and when near Twyncarno school-room, the procession reversed the order of march, and passing round towards Penuel chapel, the Penuel (Baptists) and Sion (Independents) joined, and opposite to the upper shop, Ebenezer (Calviuistic Methodists), the Welsh Wesleyans, and the Graig (Independents) swelled the numbers, when it was now complete. In returning, the Revs. K. Roberts, J. Lewis, W. P. Da vies, J. P. Williams, W. Davies, G. Owen, J. C. Thomas, M. Wright, and M'Donald took the lead. Each of the schools had its select hymns and pieces of music, and the melodious strains of the juvenile portions were kept up enthusiastically as the schools passed down- wards to Pontiottyn. When at the Square in this place, the procession thalted, and was formed into five different circular forms, the ministers being in the centre two Hymns were given out by the Revs. J. Lewis and W. P. Davies, which were sung by the whole of the schools unitedly. This being over, the schools of Rhymney re- turned over the same route to their respective chapels for the evening's enjoyment—those of Pontlottyn to their places of worship. The tea being over in most of the chapels, a meeting was held devoted to readings, recita- tions, singing, and other intellectual enjoyments, which are implied in the term eisteddfod, the minister of the place being the chairman. To give the details connected with these evening meetings would be to swell this report with S; repetition of a similar course in each of these chapels. They were, however, interesting and very fully attended. As regards the numbers, considerable care was taken by your correspondent to ascertain, as near as possible, the exact numbers and the more so, as recent returns which were collected and reported in the columns of the TELE- GRAPH were, as to their veracity, called in question by par- vhes who thought that the Nonconformists had over-calcu- lated their power in this place. The number of the twelve -distinct Sunday schools were 2,141. It is but rij. lit to ap- prise the public that two Welsh schools, i.e., Brynhyfryd And Bethlehem (Pontlottyn), and the English Wesleyans, Jiave stood aloof from this movement. This gives an average of nearly 180 for every school in the procession. In looking over the returns which were sent in from these Sunday schools, and comparing them with the numbers of Monday last, it will be found that the besetting sin of over- estimating numbers is not in the category of the Sunday school calculations. It is due to state that the Rev. J. Jones (Mathetes) was unavoidably absent in consequence of the death of » near relation, it is pleasing also to reo cord that the most influential persons of several of the chapels rendered valuable services to their school by taking the lead in walking and attending to the supplies of the children at the tea tables. T RED K Gr A R. EXCURSION.—On Monday last, an excursion train left Sirhowy for Cheltenham of which treat a few availed themselves. AN EXCURSION over the London and N. W. Railway to Shrewsbury, in connection with the Ancient Briton--Sii- howy inn lodge conveved a large number of people from Tredegar and Ebbw Vale. The Ebbw Vale drum and fife band accompanied the excursion. THE TH EATRE. —A highly talented company under the management of Mr. Henry Butler, will open in our Tem- perance Hall on Saturday the 14th instant, when the beau- tiful Drama the Octoroon will be produced. If report speaks truth we shall now have an opportunity of enjoying a really pleasant and instructive hour or two with a com- pany superior to anything we have yet had here. OUR DRAINS.—At Sirhowy end of the town a drain has lately been made on each side of the road which was a want long felt especially in the rainy season. However, the work appears to be one-sided, M, near the Miners'Arms, we perceive it has been pulled up, by whose orders we don t know unless the surveyor has been a trespasser and has seen his error in time. What a different town this might be made)? A Board of Health would work wonders rates and taxes are paid, water and gas works are in operation, railways are constructed, but then let us have like other de- cent towns, a Board of Health. We really believe such an addition would lessen the labours of our medical men. LKCTCRH.—A very interesting lecture was delivered in Camel, Siihowv, by the Rev. R. Edis, on Monday last. The subject being The Millenium." The lecture was delivered in Welsh and was listened to by a full congrega- tion with marked attention. The proceeds were devoted to the chapel lund, and we presu-ue a handsome sum was realized. PRKSF.NTATION—An interesting ceremony took place here on Monday, when the Rev. J. Bioadhurst was pre here on Monday, when the Rev. J. Bioadhurst was pre sented with a cruet-stand, sugar-basin, and a silk pocket handkerchief, as a token of the estee;n of the congregation. Mr. Wheelc and Miss Hartley were appointed to manage the affair. The presentation took place aiter the llcv. gen- tleman preached his farewell sermon to a large congregation. Mr. Wheels delivered an Appropriate address and called on Miss Hartley to deliver the articles. The recipient acknow- ledged in feeling terms the kindness of his Tredegar friends, and said he would ever remember with gratitude the pro- ceedings of the evening. ACCIDENTS. —A voung lad named F.vans was amusing himself at the water-whee! at Sirhowy on Wednesday last, and somehow manasred to fall, and getting in contact with the wdieel, he was dreadfully injured no less than four holes being mafle in the poor little fellow'sstomaeli, and lapswere stutted in to prevent his inside coniimr out. No hopes are entertained of his recovery.- Another little boy named Kelly, met with a very serious accident hy being crushed between two trams in Park row. He had been on the mountain at Cefn Goleu, and returning: home he attempted to jump in a tram while in motion, and falling between, had his knees fearfully smashed. He is in a veiy critical state. TBAUKSMEN'S PIC-MC.—A meeting was convened at the Castle Hotel on Wednesday evening last, to arrange the preliminaries for a dav's outing for the tradesmen ot Trede- gar and neighbourhood. Twenty-three of the principal shopkeepers were present, including Mr. M'c William, Messrs. Hall, Cohen. Evans, Richards, Davits, Lewis, Phillips, H. Morgan, Vaughnn, R. James, F. Legtr, Caird, Brookfield, Horlick, Charles, Noith, &e. Mi. M'c William was unanimously called to the chair. Several propositions were made, seconded, and anu nded as to the resort for the pleasure-seekers. Some advocated a trip over our own line to Blackwood or some place near. However, to vary the scenery, it was ultimately resolved to hold the Pic-nic .It the t'kerrid near Llanfihangel. The 2jth instant was fixed as a day suitable to all parties it being on a Thursday. Parties tiom Beaufort, Ebhw Vale, &c., might make good use of the halt holiday and join in and make it a complete holiday. Mr. Riehaids proposed, and Mr. Evans seconded, that the shops be closed the night before, and opened the day after the pic-nic. Mr. Spencer, Mr. Evans, and Mr. M'c William, were appointed to proceed to Abergavenny to arrange wrh the railway officials, and a meeting of the committee was fixed tor Friday the 13th, to be held at the Castle, when the arrangements will he completed. ENGLISH WESLEYAN CHAPEL.—The anniversary of the above place of worship was celebrated on Sunday last, when three services were held, the proceeds of which were to liquidate the chapel debt. In the morning, the Rev. George Hagen, resident minister, conducted divine service, and delivered an excellent and elaborate discourse, replete with thoughtful hints and practical truths. In the after- noon and evening that popular and talented preacher, the Rev. Thomas Aubrey, of Chester, officiated, and delivered two eloquent and impressive sermons, which were full of spiritual power and purpose, thoroughly evangelical, and most vigorously practical, showing a great master mind well stored with biblical knowledge, and high theological learning. On the following evening (Monday) the latter gentleman gave one of his celebrated lectures (in Welsh) in the Siloh Baptist chapel, the subject being, The Force of Habit," which, for depth of thought and dignified elo- quence, distinguishes him as one of the first orators of the age. The proceeds of the Sunday services and lecture amounted to the liberal sum of £50. FORESTERS' FETE AT ABERGAVENNY.—This stirring event came uff on Monday last and was attended with complete success. The morning in Tredegar was thick and hazy, but as the train descended the incline from Brynmawr to Abergavenny our genial friend the sun shone out in all this glory. The sight was indeed welcome and gladdened the hearts of the excurtionists. They arrived in Aberga- venny in three trains and we think we may safely say that over one thousand attended the Fete. Mr. P.C.R. Bell was the general manager and he is entitled to the thanks of all for his unremitting attention and good directorship. We cannot say so much for the gatekeeper at the field where the fete was held. That functionary seemed great and pompous, and fully impressed with the idea that he was "somebody." He declined to pass the "Telegraph" or any other reporter without a fee of Gd. However, Mr. Bell heard of our dillemma, and at once ordered the gen- tlemen of the press to be admitted free." The sun was bright (we said this before), the fair sex were light and as lively and lovely as larks. The young sparks were all attentive. The kissing rings were numerous. Cricketting was going on in an adjacent field. A tall gent with a bat in hand was about to dispatch the ball to some tremendous distance, but was baulked by some youngsters strolling in and about the play ground. He became indignant and ordered the said youngsters off the field. A youth then doSed his coat and squared out to fight the big un." We were called to the. tent life to quench our parched nature with" stout." In the tent we felt nice and cool and enjoyed our Havannah, and to the strains of Foxall s band, we felt giddy, watching the forms turning and twisting to Mabel." The band did great service during the day, and the music was warmly eulogized oy the people gener- ally. Mr. O. Rees and party kept the dancers in full play bv their lively strains. The Tredegar fife and drum baud went at it with a will. We would advise them to procure instruments in the same key. it is absurd to hear the h Girl I left behind me or any other air played in two keys simultaneously in B flat and F. The return trains started at 7.30., 7.45.. and eight o'clock, but we were prevailed upon to go by the Shrewsbury excursion train at 9.50. We found every seat occupied and were placed with some half a. dozen in the guard's van where we underwent another indignity from an individual who seldom enjoys a trip on the line, as he had an idea that the train was his own and that we had no right using it. Mr. Bell was once more the referee and assisted by the guard our "shaver (for he was a barber), was instructed to sit quiet. We were propelled by two engines to Brynmawr. The tram consisted of 15 carriages containing about 600 people.^ We reached Nant- ybwch at 11.30, thoroughly pleased with the trip. DOWLAIS. FATAL ACCIDENT.-An accident of a fatal nature occurred in this locality on Monday last, at four o'clock in the even- ing. A miner, named John Williams, aged 3o years, was working in Cwmcanol mine pit, when a large stone fell upon him, and inflicted injuries from which he died in a short time. An inquest was held on the remains by the coroner on Wednesday last, and a verdict of accidental death returned. A DANGEROUS LOCALITY.—There is a certain spot in Cae-hams which is latterly, we believe becoming a danger- ous locality. A lot of abandoned fellows collect at night at the corner of a lane there, and if any man chances to pass whom they do not know, they generally give him a beating if he fails to conform to certain propositions which they first make to him. Recently an old man got a very severe beating there, and we are sorry to say, those who illtreated him escaped justice. During the last week two other men got a serious mangling in the same spot. They were brothers, and their names are Thomas. They were passing by the spot about eleven o'clock at night, when a lot of those bad fellows sprung out upon them, knocked them down, and beat them severely. The men defended themselves as well 4s they possibly could, but their assail- ants were too numerous, and they would probably have been very gravely injured, had not P.C. Melhuish fortu- nately appeared upon the scene and stopped the assault. He arrested two of the offenders named Curran and Burns, and they were brought before his Worship, Mr. iowler, at the Merthyr Police Court, where each of them was sent to jail for two months with hard labour. "Te trust this punishment will have the effect of putting a stop to those lawless proceedings at Caeharris, and we are happy to see that the police are closely watching the place, POLICE NEWS.—Several Dowlais cases of much interest will be found in our Merthyr police report of this week. THE ANNIVERSARY MEETING of the Libanus Chapel Band of Hope was held on Monday last, and was attended with great success. The children and others of the chapel congregation marched in procession through the principal streets of Dowlais, and presented a very handsome appear- ance,, The sight was one of much novelty to the residents of the streets through which the procession marched. lea was prepared at the chapel by Mr. Thomas Evans, grocer, of Maryanne Street, and was on the table from two o'clock p.m., till six o'clock p.m. The attendance was very large, and all enjoyed themselves with uninterrupted gusto. Immediately after tea a social meeting was held, at which several of the children recited pieces of prose and poetry with really creditable success, and greatly to the enjoyment and satisfaction of those who were present as listeners. The meeting was presided over by the Rev. W. James, M.A., who complimented the children on the promising talents they had evinced in their clever recitations of the several pieces asigned to them. A FATAL FALL.—On Wednesday evening last, Thomas Ellis, aged six years, son of Walter Ellis, mason, of Dow- lais, was playing on the wooden bridge over the passage at the back of the Plough Inn, with some other children, when he fell from a height of 14 feet. He sustained very serious injuries, and was attended by Dr. Cresswell. Death, however, snatched him away in a short time, and an inquest will be held on the remains. THE PRINCE OF WALES THEATRE opens on this (Saturday) evening. The company who has taken it announce them- selves "talented," and they promise several sensation dramas and comedies. The prices are moderate, and, on the whole, we have no doubt the company will get on well. PAY MONDAY.—In consequence of last monday being pay-Monday, the streets of Dowlais presented an unusually dissipated appearance. The inebriates were very numerous, indeed, and many residents said they had not seen so many drunken people amongst them for a long time before. Several fights also occurred, but the results were, happily, not unusually serious. A DANGEROUS PRACTICE.—In a street near Mount Pleasant we remarked some grown up boys engaged a.t a rather dangerous practice on Wednesday evening last. They were kicking a foot-ball a.bout with as much animation as if they were in a large green field, and they, apparently. cared very little whether they obstructed the passers-by or not. IV e heard many people complain of tlHl dangerous circumstance, and we confess it was not a pleasant matter to have to pass through this crowd of foot-ball-kickers, for they knocked one another about with the greatest careless- ness. We trust this practice will be stopped if it again occurs.