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

BIRTHS. May 3rd, the wife of Mr Moses Goodman, Pawnbroker, Victoria-street, Merthyr, of a. daughter. May 4th, the wife of Mr. Evan Meredith, draper, High- street, Merthyr, of a daughter. May Gth, the wife of Mr. Fergusson, draper, Thomas Town, Merthyr, of a son. MARRIAGE. On Thursday, May 2nd; at Jerusalem Chapel, Rhymney, the Rev. M. Wright to Miss Jane Harris, second daughter of Mr. Harris, house agent. The ceremony was conducted by the Rev. J. Jones, (Mathctes). In the course of the day, the happy pair started on their wedding tour to North Wal DEATHS. Lately, the beloved wife of H. Barnett, Esq., sen., Vic- toria-street, Merthyr, greatly respected by all who knew her.

No. 11, BELL YARD (LATE OF 2, BELL YARD), GRACE CHURCH-SEREET, LONDON.—Mr. Charles Bush (Member of Tattersall's), begs to inform the public and friends that he will execute Commissions, from £ 1 upwards, on all the principal Races throughout the season (by letter only). A Price list, containing further particulars, will be issued daily and sent on receipt of stamped envelope. Post Office Orders payable at King William-street. Cheques crossed London and Westminster Bank. On the day of the race, commissions not exceeding &? executed, if re- ceived before ten o'clock. Prices guaranteed as quoted in the London daily newspapers the following day and a I j Btart given. 1^00 I

PONTYPRIDD INTELLIGENCE. COEDCAE COLLIERY DISPUTE. FOR some four weeks, the Police-court of this town has been the judicial arena in which a case somewhat peculiar in its character, and exciting in its interest has been developed. An adjudication has already been given in one instance, whereby nine men were incar- cerated in Cardiff gaol, for fourteen days, with hard labour. In consequence of an arrest of judgment, through the persistent efforts of a "Daniel, the re- maining defendants are out on bail, until the points on which a case was granted are discussed in the Court of Queen's Bench. The case is in itself entitled to the earnest consideration of the public at large, and upon it various and conflicting opinions prevail. It appears that the Coedcao Colliery, one of the numerous pits m the Rhondda valley, is under the contracting manage- ment of Mr. W. WILLIAMS. The manager here stands as a kind of middle-man between the proprietary and the employes, so that, prac- tically, the latter two have no connection with each other. Previous to the 1st of April, the two engmemen working the machinery—an engine of the first motion, and very swift, being one of the best of its class—were brothers, named DAVID and REES JONES respectively. From the evidence adduced, the contracting manager asserted that REES was frequently drunk, and neglected his duty, which, in the position he held, was obviously, if it were true, attended with great danger to the men having access and egress to the pit. It is fair to REES JONES to state, that of all the witnesses called for the prosecution, the charge of drunkenness and negligence does not appear to have been generally confirmed. While on the other hand, the evidence of HOWELL HARRIS, the I fireman, went to show that REES had kept him suspended in the pit for various periods, from ten minutes to half- ran-hour; and that he (REES) had refused to take the r usual precautionary stops in the morning before any man was allowed to gp in. This witness's evidence was a complete confirmation of the prosecutor's; but one would imagine that a strong feeling existed between the two men long before a magisterial appeal was thought of. Well, REBS JONES was discharged, and a new man, JONES (2), was employed in his stead. Those who have had free and unconstrained intercourse with colliers, will no doubt have observed, that they are men of strong feelings, and remarkably obstinate and tenacious in what affects their interests and pursuits. This cannot be wondered at, when it is considered that theirs is a life of perils, where death seems ever ready to seize upon ihc most trivial negligence, to carry off victims, not singly only, but by scores and hundreds. They are supposed, and justly so, to be more intimate with the matters affecting their own calling than those who simply, as it were, regard their struggles and their duties at a distance. Another thing: in very many eases where a rupture between the employers and the employed is concerned, and a court of law is appealed to, it will very often be found, when the circumstances are sifted, that other matters, of which the court cannot take cognizance, have been imported into the dispute, and aggravate the men to such an extent, that it prevents them from fairly estimating the true merits of the case, as far as its legal aspect 0 concerned. On the appoint- ment of JONES (2), the men declinod to go in, for two reasons; the first, that he was incompetent, and had been proved so—from hearsay—while at the Plymouth Works; that is the reason given by the men. The other reason was, because JONES (2) was not connected with the trades-union of his calling; this the men deny. lo meet the first objection, WILLIAMS offered every facility, so he says, to assist the men in making inquiries in the places where the new man had worked; he also offered ] to allow the engincman to be fairly tested. Testimonials < as to character were road from Mr. ROBERTS, of Tonn, I and Mr. D. Joseph, speaking very highly of the new 1 man. With regard te this evidence, conflicting testi- mony has been adduced. Some of the men deny having heard of the proposals of WILLIAMS at all. W. Llewelyn, overman, through whom they were made, himself says, that he did not speak to a large number of the men res- I pecting them. While Thomas Herbert, on asking per- mission to test the new engineman, says he was refused, ( and ordered to go into the pit, or a way would be found ( to send him there. Now the men consider, from what 1 they have heard, and influenced, peradventure, by cir- cumstances of which the public knew little or nothing, < that as long as D. JOXES (2) works the engine, their < lives are unsafe. One of the witnesses swore that D. < JONES (1), the other engineman, refused to help the JONES (2), and giving credit to this man for repudiating f the reason assigned because he was a non-unionist. This s application for assistance" would scarcely bo made by an efficient man, and this is confirmed, apparently, by the ( statement of another witness, to whom D. JONES (2) I said he would be able to manage the engine—this engine i especially-in a few days. Again, to make matters i more complicated, D. JONES (2) has the misfortune to < have only one eye—a defect upon which Mr. Roberts, t of Manchester, in his defence last Wednesday week, c justly commented. Inaccurate or defective vision might ( hurry several souls into eternity. The determination f evinced by the men to go to prison rathor than carry. out their contract—the legality of which, under such cir- J cumstances, being worthy of consideration—seems to i afford a strong presumption that they really feel what c they speak. Whether such opinions are groundless or s not, looking at the character of the evidence throughout, t remains still a doubtful point. | It may be remarked, that some of the defendants J seem to *be men of more than average intelligence— fathers of families, and men of standing of their class;— t men, in fact, scarcely likely to beggar their children, or suffer the obloquy of a prison, unless for a distinct prin- £ ciple worthy of such conduct. On the other hand, evi- 1 dcncc is adduced to show that the new man is a first- f class man, steady and intelligent, and with eighteen 1: years' experience. Roally, when one looks at the facts S brought out in evidence, it may be pardonable to express a ail opinion, either that a series of egregious blunders j, have been perpetrated, or that some significantly hard swearing has been resorted to. Whether Mr. WILLIAMS J adopted the most conciliatory tone towards his men in tho beginning of this unfortunate affair, is best £ known to himself. If public sympathy is expected, and v that it is important no one will deny, the real facts a should be known, stripped of all falsity, and standing as c naked truths. All that the public as yet know is from d what has transpired at the police-court, where the cause v was a clear one, and the issue depending purely upon o the character of the evidence offered by the defendants, t to prove the incompetency, unmistakably, of the man, against'whom they stand out. That the Bench has en- deavourod to administor the law in a merciful, 'wise, and c conciliatory spirit, Mr. Roberts, of Manchester, to tho a contrary notwithstanding, not an intelligent individual v with any pretensions to fairness, who was present at the i court, will attempt to deny. The strictures of this advo- c cate, in his zeal for the defence of his clients, were v totally at variance with the high honour which has, as t a rule, characterized the legal profession, and com- « pletely wanting in all the elements of common courtesy J and simple justice, which every gentleman is at all S times ready to concede to another; and still more were t his remarks destitute of that recognition of the ma- r jesty of Justice, though it was represented in this c case by an unpaid magistracy. The case of the Coodcae Colliery is one of the most important that has yet c occurred in the valley, or, if the same custom prevails, c in the district, as the judgment of the Queen's Bench will confirm, or destroy, the basis of agreement as a between master and men at present in force. In one c point of view, the dispute will be productive of good, though at a great expense, and probably suffering, to I the many, and the stigma of imprisonment on the few; while on the other hand, if the decision of the petty ( court in Pontypridd be confirmed, the forfeiture of wages will not only bo legalized, but imprisonment must fol- low, as a matter of course. The loss to the proprietary must be very great-in < fact, every one in the district loses, and hence the impor- tance, where large numbers are congregated in a works, especially when associated with deadly risks of employers and employed, of meeting each other in a friendly, con- ciliatory, and reasonable spiiit and in cise the matters in dispute cannot be amicably adjusted, to refer thein to a tribunal of arbitration in which both have confidence, with a mutual resolve to abide by the decision—whatever it may be.

PONTYPBIDD HIGHWAY BOARD, No. 1. Clerk, Mr. F. James; Surveyor, Mr. L. Howard. The usual monthly meeting was held in the Board-room, Pontypridd, on Wednesday, May 8th. The following gen- tlemen were presentMr. J. Rees, chairman; Messrs. W. Morgan, Jenkin, Matthews, T. Thomas, Evan Davies, J. Davies, R. Evans, T. Williams, E. Evans, E. Thomas, and Rev. D. T. Davies. It was resolved that the Rhyd-dew bridge, Ystradyfodwg, be repaired, according to the plan prepared by the surveyor, and that the tender of Mr. Richards, of Tonypandy, for doing the repairs, be accepted. The Surveyor reported on the expediency and necessity of extending the parish road to Blaenlleclia, with an esti- mate as to its course. The population of Blaenllecha is about 1,500, and there is no parish road from anywhere to this place, so that to get to and from it th'j inhabitants must trespass. A road is urgently required to this place. The distance from Cwm-y-Nant, the present terminus of the parish road to Blaenllecha, or Feradale Inn, is 53 chains, but a diversion of the road at Pen Dyrus, cross Cwm-y-Nant, would make the whole length 1,342 yards. The extension, if agreed upon, could not be accomplished this summer. The urgency of a portion being carried out was'declared to meet the exigencies of new dwellings now being constructed. Nothing was done on the subject. The Surveyor drew attention to the propriety of building walls to protect the roads and the public 1st, between the Taff river and Berw-road; 2nd, along the Rhondda and 3rd, at Clynmynach. It was ordered that channeling should be laid down along such parts of Morgan-street as are paved. PONTYPRIDD HIGHWAY BOARD, No. 2. Clerk, Mr. E. C. Spickett; Surveyor, Mr. Williamson. The Business of this Board to-day was only of a routine character, there was nothing of any public interest. PONTYPRIDD PETTY SESSIONS. Wednesday.—(Before w: Perkins, G. Williams, and E. Williams, Esqs.) Riotous Conduct.—Lewis Evans was charged with being drunk, and assaulting the policeman in the execution of his duty. The assault complained of took place at Mountain Ash, on the 28th of March last, in the Colliers' Arms. While turning a man out of the bouse, with whom prisoner had been fighting, the constable received a blow from a stone aimed by prisoner. On taking him into custody, he used language by no means complimentary to the magis- tracy and the civil force by way of favour, he presented the constable with a black eye.Fined 20s., and costs, or one month. Similar Charge.—Edward Clancey, a tatter demalion, without the slightest semblance of a shirt, who, bowever, had used the comb to his hair and beard, was charged with assaulting P.C. Ref's. Thejvenue was Navigation, and the time April 28th. The prisoner was addressing an admiring audience of 150, when the cry was raised, "Behold, the Bobbv cometh," at which the defendant demanded his whereabouts, and, without any provocation, struck the con- stable a blow, which felled him, tore his uniform, kicked him when down, and in fact devoted himself with energy to the promptings of a pugnacious temperament. For the defence, it was urged that defendant was so terribly abused by the constable, as to evoke cries of "shame from the bystanders. The Bench declined accepting the view of the defendant, and condemned him in a fine of £ 2, or two months. As he had been confined on a remand for ten days, the period was reduced by one month.. Travelling without a Ticket.—Jacob Griffiths was charged with travelling on the Taff Vale Railway without a ticket, from Pontypridd to Treforest. Mr. Meyrick prosecuted. On the 16th ult., defendant took a ticket at Merthyr for Pontypridd, and on going out at Treforest, was asked for the excess, 2d., which he refused to pay. saying it was only a penny, which, however, he did not offer. Mr. Francis Hawkins said that he had frequently paid the excess out of his own pocket, which had never been repaid him.—Fined j 10s. and costs. Cocdcae Colliery again.—Four summonses had been issued against as many men, for not going to work. The works are still idle. The summonses, it appeared, had not been personally served the men having for the time skedaddled. The Bench therefore declined adjudicating. Mr. Simons then applied for two summonses against two of the men, who had only on Tuesday been released from gaol. The Bench, in view of recent proceedings, declined to grant them. Mr. Simons then hoped the Bench would so complete their case for the superior court as to enable it to be brought on before Michaelmas. A Mr. Lewis had been brought down from Plymouth Works, to remove any unfavouraole impression as to the competency of D. Jones (2). He was prepared to give him the highest character.

RHYMNEY INTELLIGENCE. Cwm-Shon-Mathew Square Spouts.—In our Next. THE TWYNCARNO CHOIRS.—The leading singers of Penuel, Ebenezer, and Zion Chapels have been very successful at the eisteddfod which was held on Monday last at the Tem- perance Hall. Tredegar. In the first prize of £15, in Winds breathe soft," the contest between Dowlais and Rhymney was equal, and hence it was divided. Then Messrs. John Jones and David Lewis were successful in a duet—"Peace and war." Another party of 16 had the £2 prize in "Up, quit th*. bower;" and another party of eight obtained the Bl prize in Tar song." This was not all; Mr. Thomas Jones, who has been an attractive reciter at our last penny readings, distinguished himself at this eisteddfod, and obtained a. prize for a Welsh recitation- The destruction of the Temple," by Eben Fardd. Sion choir (alto) obtained £5 in "Through the day." Thus it is clear that whatever may be the short-comincs of the Rhymney people, in singing they are above mediocrity. THE BRITISH SCHOOLS.—H. M.'s Inspector, J. Bow- stead, Esq., has. during the past week, paid his annual visit to this neighbourhood, and on Wednesday examined Twyncarno School. On Thursday, the Lower British School and the Infant School at Pontlottyn. The partic- ulars we shall give in our next. CHARGE OF WILFUL MURDER. The people of Rhymney have been rather disturbed from their usual equilibrium during the latter part of last week, arising from the circumstance that on Tredegar Road a child had suddenly died during the night of Tuesday week, and that the mother and her three children had only just come to Rhymney, from Ebbw Vale, to her husband, who had come here previously and had employment. The faets of the case are as follows :—On Tuesday, April 30th, Angelina Bell, who is about twenty-four years of age, came over here with three children from Newtown, Ebbw Vale, to her husband, Abraham Bell, and who has been here at work during the past five weeks. The age of the eldest is six years, the second four years, and the infant four months. This infant, it appears, had been for some time in a weak and also in an emaciated condition of body. Angelina Bell, when she came to this house, asked Mrs. Dally whether any stranger had made enquiries about her and her husband. When pressed again as to her intention in making such an inquiry, her reply was that there was a. talk about Newtown that she hid ill-treated her child, and she imagined that the police would be after her. It also appears that her husband was rather surprised to see her come over from Ebbw Vale with her children. On Tues- day night the parties retired to rest —the infant, at the time, appearing rather weak—about half-past ten o'clock. The house in which they lodged is situated near the Ca- tholic Church, Tredegar-road. The windows are towards the back, and the one room .up stairs is separated from the other by a boarded partition. On Wednesday morning, Mrs. Elizabeth Dally, the landlady of the house, heard the child screaming bitterly for a few seconds, between one i and two o'clock. She did not hear the parents get up or say anything about the child. About three o'clock that morning Angelina Bell called Elizabeth Dally, and said the child was dead, A light was then procured, and when the landlady came to the bed-side and placed her hand on the face of the child it was quite cold, and she supposed that the child had been dead about an hour. The mother of the child remained in bed about quarter of an hour, and then took the deceased up and washed it, and also the clothes which were on the child. The father did not stir out ef his resting place till six o'clock. About half-past seven the woman left the house and went to Ebbw Vale, for the purpose of obtaining a medical certificate. When she came to Ebbw Vale she went to Mr. Whitworth, the assistant, and reported that the child had died at Ebbw Vale. She had the certificate, on which is stated that the child was visited by him on April 29th, and then he states the cause of death. Before passing to the sequel of this tragical scen", it is essential to go back and describe I the room and its furniture. The lodgers slept on a corded bedstead, and under the part near the foot of the bed there was placed a corded bed-key, which was about thirteen inches long and two inches in diameter, made out of a I tough piece of ash, and through this another rounded piece passed at right angles. Elizabeth Dally had observed, that as she went into the room. The corded bed-key had been removed and was near the head part, and about fifteen inches from the bed on the floor. These facts having reached the ears of the police, our vigilant Sergeant Richards proceeded to inquire into the matter, and°when having seen the medical certificate did not deem it of such importance as to prevent further investigation. Sergeant Richards at once communicated with Superin- tendent Fowler, who also informed the Coroner, W. H. Brewer, Esq.. on Thursday, of the circumstances of the case. Dr. Redwood was requested to make a post mortem examination on b riday. On Saturday last the inquest was held at the Puddler's A.-ms Inn, before the Coroner and a respectable jury, and from the evidence of the medi- cal gentlemen of Rhymney it appears that there was a difference of opinion as to the probable cmse of death. It was observed that there was a mark on the back of the ear on one side that this mark in size and shape—supposing that a blow had been inflicted with the corded bed-key— answered to it. As a positive opinion was not given, as to whether death was caused by starvation or a blow on the side of the head, and a blow with such an instrument was of itself alone sufficient to cause death, the inquest was adjourned until Tuesday last, when the medical gentlemen were requested to give the results of their more minute investigation as to what they really believed was the cause of death. Whilst the deceased appeared to have wasted away the stomach had been reduced to a very con- tracted state, and the intestines generally in a bad con- dition yet, in the opinion of Mr. Redwood, as well as Mr. Thomas Redwood, the death of the child was to be sought for from another cause. That the blow on the side of the head had caused a concussion of the brain, and that the result of the post mortem examination was that death resulted either from a blow by such an instrument as the corded bed.key, or from a similar weapon. [Since the above was in type, we have received from a correspondent the following evidence given at the in- quest] :— Elizabeth Dally, who being swern, gave her evidence in a very straightforward manner. The mark I saw on the child's head was about the size of a shilling. It resembled a bruise. I was awoke by the crying of the child. I am a very heavy sleeper. Mrs. Bell came to my house. She asked me if there had been any strangers there. 1 said, What kind of strangers?" She said, 'You keep it very quiet, you pretend you don't know that the police are after Abraham." 1 asked her "What for?" She said "That Nell (the woman that she lodged with at Ebbw Vale) should say that she (Mrs. Bell) had murdered the child, and that she (Nell) had informed the Doctor at Ebbw Vale that Mrs. Bell had murdered the child." I said nothing to her, and we went into the house, also the three children with her. By the Coroner Did you not notice anything the matter with the child ?—Witness No, I did not, the child took its food very well. I prepared the food (tea sweetened with sugar) which was all the food given. Mrs. Bell would not give the child any food, saying that it had had the breast, and therefore could not eat. I saw the child take the breast; it took it not like a. sickly child. They went to bed about ten o'clock. By a. Juror: Had she milk to give?—Witness: Yes, she milked it into the child's mouth. The mother told me in the morning that the child was dead (not the father). When Mr. Bell came home to my house from work his wife told him she would not be there long, as the police- man would be after her on account of Nell's talk. She (Mrs. Bell) told her husband that he should apt go to gaol, as there was nothing upon him, and that m Doctor from Ebbw Vale and the constable was with her a couple of days before. She was not sure which of the doctors, but it was one from Ebbw Vale. The reason assigned by Mrs. Bell for the appearance of the Doctor and constable together was, that the neighbours said they were treating the child bad, and they wrote down what she said. Mrs. Bell told me that she wished the child would die instead of pining away as it did. On Saturday, the 27th April, she (Mrs. Bell) came to our house by herself to get some money from her husband. She told me she did not think the child would be alive by the time she went back. She returned back to Ebbw Vale the same evening, about six o'clock. She said the Doctor at Ebbw Vale had ordered wine and nourishment for the child; she did not tell me any reason. There were five in bed, the children at the foot of the bed. The mother (Mrs. Bell) called me by knocking the partition. She cried out from the bed that the child was dead. I called for her to come and light a candle; the husband came. Mrs. Bell did not get up from her bed for a quarter of an hour after. I thought if it was my child I should have got up at once. I thought she seemed indifferent about the life of the child. As soon as Mr. Bell lit the candle he went back into his own room. I got up in a minute or two after and went down stairs to light the fire. As I go down stairs I pass their room. They were looking at the child in the bed. They had the candle alight on the bolster. I then saw the child was dead. I felt its face, and it was cold. I should think it had been dead about an hour. Mrs. Bell got up as soon as the fire was alight. She then dressed and brought the dead child down to wash him. Mr Bell did not get up until my husband went to work, about six o'clock. I did not perceive any marks of violence on the child at the time the mother brought it to wash. She told me on the 27th April that she had given the child some medicine, which she had received from the doctor at Ebbw Vale. By a Juror: Did Mr. or Mrs. Bell make any remark about the sudden death of the child?—Witness No, they did not. When I went to bed (about ten o'clock), Mr. Bell was lying on the right hand side of the bed, that is outside, and when I went into the room about three o'clock in the morning lie was lying inside, that is next to the wall, and Mrs. Bell was lying outside. She left my house about half-past seven in the morning of the 1st May, to go to Ebbw Vale, to obtain a certificate for the burial of the child. I did not see the certificate with her; she returned about half-past seven the same night, when her husband informed her that the policeman had been there, and she replied "J suppose Abraham you have given me up to him," he replica that he thought she had gofcfc altogether, you being so long away I have given the description of your clothes to the policeman." I then left them and hear I no more. After the death of the child I saw a mark on the side of the head, it was a bruise. L. Redweod, Esq., Surgeon, sworn, examined by Cor- oner You were examined at the last meeting, and I wish to know if the patches on the intestines may be caused y something given to the child?- Witness: I think not, but rather think most likely to occur to an ill-fed neglected child. -Coroner: Are you now more positive as to the cause of the death of the child than at the last meeting ?—Witness Yes, I am sorry to say. -After a mature and anxious ex- amination I am of opinion that the death was caused b) blows received by the child on the head, which caused a concussion of the brain (although the skull was not frac- tured) and instantaneous death. I think the child would have cried out after reoeiving the blows; there are two marks of blows on the head I believe the blow behind the ear to have caused the death; the lungs were dark and congested, and the right side of the heart gorged with blood, which would decidedly have pointed to a sudden death. I believe the bed key produced would have caused the mark 1 observed on the head. By a Juror Do you think the child fell out of the bed and fell on anything? Witness I feel confident not, as a thing must have been very peculiarly placed to have caused such marks. I think the contusions or injuries to the head were recent. Mary Welsh I am the wife of John Welsh. I live at Ebbw Vale. I know the persons Abraham and Mrs. Bell. Mrs. Bell lodged with me a week. She came to me on the 23rd of April. She had three children with her, one of which was in her arms. I noticed the baby particularly, because it had fits; it was screaming and crying very much. I did not notice anything but that the child was very red about the private parts. The child was not clean, it was wet. I noticed a boil at the back of the head, but nothing like a blow. The child did not want for food during the time it was in my house it took the breast, and bread and water very well. I have heard the wife express a wish that the child was dead. The husband was never inside my door. I have heard her many times say "I wish baby would get well." Mr. Whitworth, surgeon, Ebbw Vale, saw the child on Friday, 26th April. He or- dered medicine for it—powders and mixture. On Monday, 29th April, he ordered wine for the child, and said that if the child had wine and good food, it would be better. He did not give any medicine. Mrs. Bell's children left me on Tuesday moniing, the 30th April. The parish constable (Rogers) came with the doctor to my house on Monday, the 29th April. (The coroner here wished to know why the doctor and the constable came together. The witness was very reluctant, and it was im- possible to get the truth out of her.) I have told her to keep the child clean. When I used to tell her she washed the child. By a Juror: Did you observe a boil on the child's head the first day she c&me ?—I did not, until my attention was called to it by Mrs. Bell. Mrs. Bell was as good to the children as circumstances would permit, having but very little for herself. She and the children lay on the floor by the fire for a week, as I had no bed for them. She did not pay me anything for lodgings. The jury, after mature deliberation, returned a verdict of Wilful Murder against both prisoners, who were at once taken to Usk gaol. HIRWAIN. ENGLISH CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH. The closing services in connection with the formal open- ing of the above place of worship were held on Sunday. April, 28th, when Rev. Prof. Morris, Brecon College, and Rev. D. Jones, B.A., Merthyr, preaehed to large and attentive congregations. The sermons were powerful and effective and it is our hope that the services of last week (an account of which has already appeared in your columns) and those of last Sabbath will be very fruitful in good results. The total expense in connection with the chapel is £1154 sum collected, JE573 balance, JE571. The following is a list of the donations :—D. E. Williams, Esq., Hirwain, E150 W. Williams, Esq., Hirwain, £ 50; Samuel Morley, Esq., London, £ 50 Nebo Independent Church, Hirwain, £ 50 Handel Cossham, Esq., Bristol, jE25 J. Rennington Mills, Esq., London, £ 20; J. Crossley, Esq., Halifax, £10; H. Lee, Esq., Manchester, EIO; Thomas Williams, Esq., Penydarren, XIO; D. Davies, Esq., Maesyffynon, Aberdare, £ 10; Mr. E. Evans, grocer, Hirwain, £10; Mr. D. J. Davies, contractor, Hirwain, 15 Mr. T. L. Davies, Cardiff, £ 5; Mr. J. Williams, London House, Aberdare, f5; Mr. W. Powell, Hirwain. JM Mr. T. Davies, Lletty Rhys, £5; Mr. H. Lewis, draper, Aberdare, £ 5; W. Crawsbay, Esq., Hirwain, £ 5; Miss E. Williams, London House, £ 5; Joseph Wethered, Esq., Bristol, £5; G. Hadfield, Esq., M.P., E5; W. Somerville, Esq., Bittom Hill, Somerset, JE5 sums under £ 5— £ 123. The following paper,- on the history of this church, was read by the minister at the close of the service on Wednes- day morning :— THE ENGLISH CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH AT HIRWAIN. This church is the offspring of the Welsh church meeting in Nebo Independent chapel. It left Nebo not on account of any strife or dispute, but in order to impart the means of grace to those in the neighbourhood, who were to a great extent destitute of religious advantages in their own language. A Some of the members who began this cause had been connected with the mother church for twenty years and upwards, and it must have been very difficult for them to leave the place where they had been brought up in the fear and admonition of the Lord for so long a time. Yet for the sake of the public good they sacrificed their affectionate feelings for the old place, and volunteered to go forth to work in another part of God's vineyard. The pastor of the mother church, also, the Rev. W. Williams, deserves great credit for the good feeling he manifested on this oc- casion. Who but himself would be to l)art some of his best members—some of the strongest props under the cause—men who had been his right hand sup. porters during his ministry in order to commence a cause in another language? He not only sanctioned the step that was taken, but did his utmost to co-operate with them in the great object they had in view. This church was inaugurated February 21st, 1864, and met to worship God in a club room. Rev. T. Jenkins, Salem, Merthyr (now in America), officiated on the oc. casion. They held their services in this place for some time, and God smiled upon them and blessed their efforts with great success. This room was required, and they left for another place situated near the London Warehouse. Twelve members were now under the burden of the cause, but they carried it forward with tke greatest ease. They spared neither labour nor expense to have an efficient min- istry and every thing else necessary for success not for- getting, at the same time, to acknowledge their old pastor, as when they were stated members in his church. They contributed towards the support of the ministry in the mother church until they engaged a pastor for themselves. We may say of these disciples as of the twelve apostles of old, that they were indeed baptized with the Holy Spirit and with tire. They were so full of zeal and so determined to go on their way conquering and to conquer, that all difficulties fled before them, and disappeared like a cloud before the east wind and the rising sun. The second room engaged was rather smaller, but in other respects very com- fortable. Here the ark had to rest for about twelve months, with the divine glory as visible upon it as in the former habitatioil. Every meeting confirmed the faithful few, more and more, that they had taken a step in the right direction, and that they had commenced a work which commanded God's approval. During the time they were in this place five members were added to their number, so that they were now seventeen. The hearers, also, had in- creased very much. The place was so well attended on Sunday evenings, that very often many were obliged to return for want of room. A third exodus was made, and the friends engaged the British school-room to be their place of worship, where they met together from Sabbath to Sabbath, for about eleven months, with fresh signs of success at every meeting. The congregation on Sunday evenings often being about one hundred and fifty. They saw now that the cause had reached such a stage that they could well undertake to build a chapel and engage a settled minister, to take their charge and oversight in the Lord. They did both at the same time. The design of the chapel was prepared by Rev. T. Thomas, Landore (the great chapel architect of WsJes), and the carrying out of the same was entrusted to Mr. David Joseph Davies, contractor, a member of the church, and one of the few who commenced the cause; and the church and friends would now puplicly return their thanks to them for the worthy, efficient, and creditalhe "manner they have performed their task. They chose as minister Mr. Daniel Jones, student at Brecon college, son of Mr. Daniel Jones, grocer, Troedyrhiw. Mr. Jones when he received the invitation from them had not completed his collegiate course. However, they consented to wait till the close of the term if he would come and Mr. Jones who knew the place well and who had often been here sup- plying, after a little consideration, answered them in the a^He1 was publicly ordained June 28th, 1866, when his "•reatly respccted tutor, the Rev. Prof. Morris, Rev. T. Rees, D D., Swansea, Rev. John Davies, Cardiff, Rev. D. Jones, B. A., Merthyr, &c., officiated on the occasion. The church worshipped still in the British school-room, and Mr. Jones commenced his ministry among them July 4tli. The number of members on the Church, book now was twenty. Three had been added since they left the other room. A stated ministry had a very good effect on this cause. The congregation increased very rapidly so as to give good hopes of having the new chapel nearly full; and the people came together, not merely from curiosity, but they seemed anxious to be taught in the way of salvation, and marfiy were added to the church of God. The chapel was opened for divine service December 16tli, two special sermons being preached on the occasion. A very striking remark was made by Mr. D. E. Williams at 'the close of the Sabbath. He said he felt vory happy to listen to the appropriate sermons delivered on the occasion and especially to the evening one, about inviting sinners to come to the house of God but the wocse of it was that they had no place for them." He seemed to feel on account of this but it was much more encouraging to see the place too small than too large, and it would be much more gra- tifying to see them compelled to enlarge it than to hear a complaint of there being such a few in a. large chapel. The pews, with the exception of two, were taken the first evening they were to let. The chape l is made to seat about three hundred people, and on Swnday evenings it is very often quite full. During the last nine months we have had the pleasure o £ admitting fifteen fresh meuib into church fellowship, set that our number is„n0.w,1: ¥' five. Some have left, as circumstances compelled tnem leave the place, but we have received others again, by re- commendation, to make up for them. We have now loui inquirers in the church, who, should they be received, wm make our number to thirty-nine. A very pleasing iac connected with this church is its natural growth; from the very commencement it has increasea graauauy. There are two persons connected with this church to whom we should iniuke special reference, as having done great service to the cause, Mr. D. E Williams, and Mr. William Williams. We can say that they have done their utmost to promote its welfare in every respect. They are both present in all our meetings, and each in his own circle doing his duty in a most praiseworthy manner. Providence has smiled upon them both, and they lay their good things on the altar of religion—always ready-to give a helping hand, not only to succour the destitute, but to propagate the gospel through the world. The other mem- bers connected with the church, though not so prominent as these, have been very faithful; they have done what they could, and the bible does'nt require more of any one. Among the f..ithful ladies connected with the church 1 should mention one in particular, Mrs. D. E. Williams she has made herself exceedingly useful among us, both in the Sabbath school and in our weekly meetings; always availing herself of an opportunity to speak to the young and to direct them in the way they should go. I should also nay .a word, ere I conclude, in reference to Mr. Walter Topping manager of Hirwain Iron Works he and his wife have been connected with the church for several iaCJiths, J am happy to bear testimony to tbeir faithfulness abd to ta\lr kinuuc&s and bslnbvoleace towards the cause. And what shall I say more ? For the time would fail me to tell, of Mr. E. Watkins, Mr. D. Joseph Davies, Mr. E. Evans, Mr. E. England, &c. It will sufiic, to say that every one has done his best, and that we are ^oing on as harmoniously and as comfortably as possible. Our prayer is May the Lord soon fill this new house with true christrians-Israelites indeed-and people who will bt accepted of him in the last day." TREDEGAR. ELECTION OF CHURCHWARDENS.—The officers for tin year 1867.68 are R. Waters, Esq., Sirhowy House, and Mr. J. Lewis, silversmith, who were duly elected at a vestry meeting held at St George's Church about a wee'k ago. ACCIDENT.— A boy named Solomon Lewis fell off a truck near New Pitts, on Thursday week. He was riding on the wooden buffer and was jerked off, when the enging slackened speed. He fell between the rails, and one let- was broken in six places by the flange of the wheel. The little fellow lay still till all the trucks had passed. If h,) had lacked the presence of mind which he showed hy keeping his head down jie would have been killed to a certainty. Dr. Couthupe was in immediate attendance, and most probably ere this appears in print the lint wili have been removed, as no hope was held out of saving the leg. MR. CAIRD'S BENEFIT CONCERT.—We beg to remind our readers that this interesting event, as will be seen on reference to our advertising columns, takes place on the 22nd instant (the Derby day.) Those charming duettists, the Misses Foote, of Bath, will render some of the most favourite duets and songs. Mr. Frost will perform some duets with the favourite pianiste, Mrs. Montgomery. There will also be a duet for piano and harmonium, by the last-named lady and Mr. Caird. Then there will be the renowned Llew Llwyfo, who is quite a host in himself, and Mr. B. George, who is acknowledged to be one of our best local tenors, also Mr. J. Huggins, whose quaintness in the comic line always amuses, and Mr. W. E. Williams, a vocalist of repute. ) EISTEDDFOD. -One ot these gatnerxngs was celeDratel on the 6th inst. at the Temperance Hall. The affair was for the benefit of a chapel at Ebbw Vale and, as the large room was crammed from stem to stern, if we may be allowed the phrase, the result was highly satisfactory. We learn that after giving away f30, and paying every ex- pense, X30 were netted for the good cause in hand. The first meeting was held at 2.30, and long before Rev. Mr Edwards, of Victoria, as chairman, took his seat, every seat was occupied. The following competition took place :— Duet—" Love and War," Cooke. Four competed: J. Jones and D. Lewis, Rbynmoy, gained the prize of 8s Duet— Two wandering Stars," B. Richards, prize 8s. Rebecca Lewis and Ellen Thomas were the best of seven. Song— h Sweet Rpirit hear my Prayer," seven out of twelve com- peted and the prize 8s. was awarded to Mrs. Harris, Võchriw. Glee-" Hedd a Gwynfyd," G. Gwent, prize 30s., five choirs sent their names, only two competed, Rhymney and Beaufort, and the prize was awarded to the latter; the Judge, Mr. W. Parry, remarking that they sang with more precision than the others. Song Man of War," Hatton. Fourteen competed: Mr. Parry was unable to decide be- tween John Jones and Thomas Watkins, and was about to divide, when these two sang again with the same result, and thfc prize was split, 4s. each. The Cba raum here an- nounced that a recess would now take place, and all who felt inclined would find innumerable creature-comforts in the room below, provided by Mr. Saxby at Is. each. Tables were laid for over two hundred, but a amblo through the town found greater favour, and Mr. Saxby's bountiful pro- vision was very slenderly patronized. Mr. Jones's luncheon bar came in for the lion's share of evistom, in I Mrs. Jones was hard pushed to supply such a throng. There happened to be a good stock of beef and pastry, but such a large influx of hungry vocalists required some ad iitional attend- ance. However, all the resources of the Freemasons' Arms were brought into requisition, and every one seemed satisfied. The new restaurant, on the opposite side of Castle-street, kept by Mr. Davies. also ha. t enuugh to do. Some few bright flashes of ligbtnhu combined with the sultriness, gave notice of a change. Thunder rolled, and Mr. Pluvius sent out a gracious and refreshing rain. whioh coolled the atmosphere to a wonderful extent, and laid the dust where it ought to stay for the next century. We wended our way to the big hall, and took our seat at 6.30 to report the evening meeting. We would beg leave at this point to acknowledge the kindness and courtesy of the secretary, Mr. G. Williams, who gave us a seat at his table, and furnished us with every information in his power. The proceedings began with comic singing, a prize of 8s. being offered for the b«t singer of any comic song. Six competed. "Paddy's wedding." "Paddy don't care;" "The Female Auctioneer;" "The lively flea Going out a shooting," and Married to a Mermaid," were each done in character; the first two were got up as real Pats. and their drollery excited the vast audience amazingly. "Paddy don't care," by Mr. J. Morgan, of Rhymney, secured the prize. Part Song—"Tar's song," Hatton. A party of eight from Dowlais and a simiiar number from Rhymney competed, the prize 8s. was awarded to Rhymney party. As the room was too full to exist in, some person suggested that the prize of JE15 be competed for as large numbers were waiting for that alone; the Chairman agreed to the wise proposal, and it was found that four choirs were on the listDowlais, Rhymney, Beaufort, and Ebbw Vale. The selection was left to the competitors, and by some curious coincidence the Dowlais and Rhymney had sent in When winds breathe soft," and the other two choirs had fixed on Parry's "Wave before the wind." The prize was divided between the two former choirs. Song—" Under the greenwood," Hatton seven competed: best, Eos Morlais, prize 8s. Quintett- 0 bird of Eve," prize £1, divided between Dowlais and Rhymney. Glee Up, quit thy bower," sixteen voices: four parties competed for the prize of £ 2, best, John Jones, Zion choir and party. Anthem—" Through the day," Richards; two choirs competed, prize- X.5, Penuel, Rhymney, best; although the j udge said it was the worst competition of the day. The Rev. D. Roberts, Victoria, gave his adjudication on the reciting which had been con- duoted in a. room down stairs. Dinystr y Demi yn Jeru- salem," thirty-three competed: best, T. D. Jones, Rhymney, prize 8s. "The charge of the light Brigade," prize 8s.. prize divided. Beth yw Cariad," prize 7s. Od best, Miss Lizzie Harris, age seven; this young competitor read the piece, forty lines in length, from memory, before the large assembly, and was loudly applauded. The meeting lasted till near midnight. ADJOURNED INQUEST .—The coroner and jury assembled at the Greyhound Hotel on the 2nd inst., when the inquiry into the death of Hannah Rees, who was killed by falling down the New Pit, near Tredegar, was resumed.—Mary Ann Rees, sworn, said I live at Bedwelty Pits. On Fri- day last, 26th of April, I was at work at the New Pits. My sister Hannah (deceased; was also working there. She was about fifteen yards away from me. I happened to look round and saw her falling into the pit. I don't know any more. I was so frightened that I fell down. It was about nine o'clock in the morning. Saw Nathaniel Hughes fall down at the same time thtt my sister fell into the pit. Nathaniel Hughes is banksman. Did not hear the signal given to raise the bond. A signal might have been given without my hearing it The girl working at my pit gives the signal when we are ready to let down an empty train. The same system is carried on at the pit where my sister was killed. The engine man ought not to move the bond till he has the signal. William Kerry had been working the engine for nine months. I never signal till I have the signal from the pit bottom. -John Holly said I am a hitcher at the bottom of the pit in question. Was there on the 26th, and heard something coming down. Ran out of the way. When all was quiet I went and found the body of Hannah Rees quite dead. I had not given the signal of being ready when Hannah Rees fell down. The man at the engine had no right to move the bond with- out my signal "all right. I have worked in that pit for about three years as a hitcher. It is about 240 yards deep. The tram fell down, and was caught by a cross timber when about 20 yards down. Have known the bond to rise without a signal, more than once. It has done so since Kerry has had charge of the engine. The new rope has only been at work two or three days. New ropes "give" a little about six feet had been cut off the day before the accident. Do not think that would interfere with the bond rising.—Nathaniel Hughes said I am banksman at the New Pit. Was present when Hannah Rees fe down the pit. We were pushing a tram off the "bond." The bond rose suddenly, and she fell in. the tram following after her. I fell sprawling over it on the other side of the pit. Saw the danger and tried to save my self fell on my side. If I had not been active I should have gone down also. The bond was moved before I gave the signal. If it had not been moved the girl would not have fallen in. I have been there as banksman and hitcher these ten years. —By the Coroner I know nothing of the engine no doubt the steam raised the "bond. The engine would not start without steam. The bond rose five or six feet.— By Mr. Davies, a juryman We generally push the tram off the chair, it is easier than pulling. By the Coroner The new rope had been on four clear days before the acci- dent. The engineman was present when the rope was cut. The rope would not raise the bond of itself, certainly.— Mr Brough here observed that he had never seen better signals than those in use at these pits.—Witness continued: The engine man does sometimes move without signal when he can see we are ready. He can see the carriage and knocker.—Mr Brough: It is very wrong. The rules are here, and he has gone quite contrary to them. The engine man'ought not to move the rope without the proper signal. -Mr. Brough sworn I am Government Inspector of Mines for the South Western District. Examined the New Pits this morning. The winding engine is good of its kind, but would be better if the cylinder was four or five inches more in diameter. The signals are good so are the carriages and the indicator, which is very important, is also a good one. With regard to the carriage rising five or six feet higher than it ought to go, that might have arisen from a mistake as to signal, or the partial removal of a very heavy weight, such as a tram loaded with coal, that would allow the steam then in the piston to give it motion and the drums being very large, the five or six feet extra height may easily be accounted for, but only then by the engine- man having a careless hold of the handle.—Mr. Brough here remarked thattie did not consider it proper work tor females, and from his own laborious researches be did not blame any one at the bottom or top of the pit. If a larger engine had been in use the deplorable accident might not have happened, neither ought any person be allowed to work an engine unless he had passed an examination.—The Coroner did not seem to blame any person. He thought that there was no doubt but that the sudden removal of a heavy weight off the carriage caused the steam in the piston to move the ca.rriage. -A juror Would the steam, if kept in the piston, move the carriage without the handle being touched?—Mr. Brough: Yes, if a heavy weight wer* suddenly taken off the carriage. I intended to have sug- gested an idea that would prevent this.—Coroner Is there not a peg to fasten the lever handle ?—Mr. Brough Yes, but it is such an instantaneous affair, as quick as thought- if not put in at the moment, the expansion of the steam in the piston would raise the carriage. Mr. Brough added that no person ought to be allowed to go on the carriage and if it had been good management as regards that, the accident would not have happened.—The jury consulted for a short time, and gave a verdict of accidentally killed." SHOCKING AND FATAL ACCIDENT.—An accident occurred on the Sirhowy Railway, which resulted in tke death of a porter on the line, named George Tasker. The facts we have gleaned are these. On Sunday, as the 2 20 train from Newport to Sirhowy was moving from the watering place at Nine Mile point, the guard's van, by some means, left the metals. Mr. Sampson, who was guard for the day, applied the brake, and brought the train to a stand, when it was found that the engine was olso off the rails. The locomo- tive superintendant was at Ebby Vale, and hearing that an accident had happened at Nine Mile point lie made all haste to Tredegar, and procuring an engine and van pro- ceeded down the line taking with him the deceased George Tasker. On arriving at Tredegar junction no news could be obtained by telegraph from Nino Mile point as the clerk was away. Mr. Fisher, therefore, proceeded down the line, as he very naturally inferred assistance might be required. He had scarcely started when the whistle announced the approach of the delayed train. He backed into the station, and Taf-ker stepped off on to the platform eijd, and slip- ping fell uadelr the van, which passed oVer him, doubling his legs over the body, and the engine rail guard caught him in the stomach, and literally pressed his clothes into his inside. He was with great difficulty raised up, when it was found he was dreadfully mutilated, the clothes Having to be drawn out of his chest and stomach. He was conveyed to the Inn close by, and Dr Jfimes was quickly on the spot, and at once saw that all hope of saving life was gone. Deceased died in about 15 minutes after he was taken into the Inn An inquest was to take place on Wed- nesday. There was little or no damage done to the passen- ger train, none of the piissengers being aware that anything w;8 amiss, till the lengthened stoppage caused an inquiry, and after four or five hour's delay the train sped on its usual course. EBBW VALE. SPECIAL SERVICES.—On last Lord's Day the Methodists of Victoria, held their annual services on behalf of the chapel funds. The Rev. Dr. Harries Jones, and the Rev. Mr. Bowen, tutors of Trevecca College, preached eloquent ser- mons on the occasion. The services were well attended, and the collections amounted to £9. ENGLISH WESLEYANS, VICTORIA.—On Sunday the anni- versary services were held, when three very powerful and impressive sermons were preached by the Rev. G. Rogers, of London, and liberal collections were made in aid of the trust funds. On the following day (Monday) the annual tea meeting was held, when a goodly number partook of the exhilerating cup, and all appeared very much to enjoy them- selves. After the tea a public meeting was convened, and able addresses were delivered by the Rev. G. Rogers and other local brethren. The meeting, altogether, was one of great interest. The usual votes of thanks to the chairman, speakers, and the ladies, whose services had been highly appreciated, brought the meeting to a close. QUARTERLY MEETING.—On Sunday last the English Baptists, Briery Hill, held what is termed their quarterly meeting in aid of the chapel funds. The Rev. J. C. Wil- liams, pastor of the church, preached a very eloquent ser- mon in the morning, and the Rev. Mr. Rees (Nebo) preached in the afternoon and evening. The sermons were eharacterized by that profundity of wisdom and originality always manifested by the rev. gentleman, and calculated to impress the mind with vast and important truths. The audience was large and the collections liberal. WANTON MISCHIEF. On Friday night, at about eleven o'clock, some evil disposed person let the water out of one of the boilers at the forge at Victoria, with the intent of maliciously doing damage to the works, or of injuring some per:>ou30onnected with the works. Fortunately, it waR perceived in time to prevent an accident, which would, wry probably, have resulted in a great sacrifice of human life had the I.o'.ler exploded. A Darby, Esq., principal manager, has offered a regard of lOl. to any person that will give such information as will lead to the apprehension and conviction of the offender; and it is to be hoped that the offender will be brought to justice. TEACHERS' TEA MEETING.—On Friday evening last the teachers of the English Wesleyan Sunday School held their annual tea meeting in St James's chapel. The tea. plum cake, &c., were provided by Miss M. Pugh. It was of excellent quality, and was greatly ^eujoyed by those present. After tea a meeting was held, to inquire into the financial state of the schools, and for the election of officers for the ensuing year. The Rev. J. W. Garlick presided, and the number of teachers present was twenty. Mr. Dyer, secretary of the school, read the report, which shows that the school is in a flourishing condition, as there is an increase in scholars and teachers. The number of scholars on the books is nearly 200, the average attendance is about 170 scholars, 24 teachers, 2 superintendents, and a secre- tary, making a total of 197. Mr. James Francis was re-elected superintendent for the ensuing year, and Mr. Dyer was re-elected secretary. The financial state appears to be in a good condition, although there was a little falling off in the collections at the last anniversary. 'During the previous year the money expended for books, and other expenses of the school, was £5 9s. lid the money in the fund is £8 15s. 7d., thus it is evident that the school is well provided for until the next annual meeting. The school is the largest English one in the neighbourhood, and has stood for many years high in the estimation of the public, and with its present staff of energetic and efficient teachers may become an institution for doing much good in the spreading of vital godliness in the locality.

Beaufort! CAUTION TO PARENTS —Last week the life of a young child was sacrificed through the apparent neglect of some of its guardians. It appeared that the father and mother left the house in charge of four or five children. During their absence one of them got playing with the fire, when its garments got enflamed and burnt the child so badly that it died in a few hoars. SERIOUS ACCIDENT.—A few days ago Mrs. Williams, widow of the late Mr. Williams, furnace manager, of Nantyglo, who is upwards of 80 years of age, fell down while walking across the house and broke her leg. The old woman still lies in a painful and, we fear, hopeless posi- tion. Much sympathy is expressed by the inhabitants, but little assistance can be rendered to a person at such an advanced state of life. ANOTHER BEREAVEMENT.—During the past fortnight the half-closed shops, and long rows of b'ir.de 1 windows, have been a true indicator to all pedestrians that Death has broken up many a family circle in the village this week again. There is a continuation of the same melancholy scenes, and human sympathy, caused by the unexpected death of Mrs. Roberts, wife of Mr. Daniel Roberts, con- tractor, one of the oldest residents in Beaufort, which took place on Sunday morning last. Deceased was the oldest member of the Primitive Methodist church here. She was a Kind neighbour, an affectionate mother, a dutiful wife, and a dnvoted follower of her Lord and master. She has left a family of eight chiUren, among whom are three sons, seek- ing their fortunes in the gold regions of Caribee, and formerly the crack shots among the 2nd Breconsbire Rifle Volunteers. DIVIDING THE HONOURS.—On Monday last upwards of one hundred people (local musicians) repaired to the Trede- gar Eisteddfod to compete for the two prizes for choir singing Most of them, inspired by the honours lavished upon them at the late Beaufort Eisteddfod, felt, no doubt, confident of similar success but in this they were doomed to disappointment, the juveniles came back with honours, having taken the leading prize; but the "Core V awr" was swamped by the Dowlais and Rhymney united chars, who carried off the £15 prize. Some dissatisfaction appeared to be rampant, as is always the case under similar circumstances, in consequence of all the choirs not being compelled to perform the same composition, which seems reasonable that they should. The Beaufort choir sang Donn," by Parry, and the successful choir When winds Ireathe soft," a glee. PUBLIC EXAMINATION AND TREAT TO THE CHILDREN IN THE BRITISH SCHOOL.—On Thursday last the children ia the above school here, numbering about 156, were liberally treated to an abundant snpply of tea and cake, the result of a public canvass for pence by themselves, which was cheerfully met by the inhabitants. After tea they repaired to a meadow, and enjoyed a few recreative games, and then marched in procession to the new Carmel chapel, where a public examination took place before a large audience. Mr. Williams, Government Inspector, conducted the examina- tion, which consisted in reading, spelling, scripture, arith- metic, geography, mental arithmetic, &c. In all the above branches the children acquitted themselves remarkably well, which proved to the audience, parents, &c., that the school, under the able tuition of Mr. Jenkins, was in a prosperous and efficient state. At intervals the children sang several moral and religious songs, which added con- siderably to the interest of the meeting. Several recitations were also given in a praiseworthy manner. The Revs. R. Hughes and A. Scott acted as presidents, and made some yery encouraging remarks on the success of the institution, and the probability of erecting a new school room for the girls, an accommodation very much required. Y otes of thanks being tendered to the officials, waiters. &c. Mr. Hughes observed that he should be glad to vote the use of the chapel at any time for the support of so good a cause. The Rev. A. Soott, in returning the compliment, said it was by far the best penny readings he had attended this season. It was a great blessing to the neighbourhood to have such a noble army of the rising generation in such an advanced state of education, and a consolation to parents.

ABERDARE POLICE COURT. TUESDA Y. (BefMc J. C. Fon-lcr, Esq.) DESERTING FROM THE MILITIA. Robert Reynolds was charged with deserting from tha Royal Pembrokeshire regiment of Militia. Inspector Matthews deposed to arresting the prisoner. He did not deny the chartre of desertion. He said he was unable to attend one drill, being at sea and the second time he neglected attending to drill, be had no money to carry him to the place of drill. Had he known he waa wanted so much, he would have attended. The prisoner was remanded for a week. ONLY A WHISTLE. David Monjan and Joseph Gilchrist, were summoned by William Davies, with damaging some underwood, at Moun- tain Ash. Complainant said he saw the boys in a wood, who were cutting some birch rods. There were several boys there. Saw the place from whence the boy Morgan cut a young The defendant Morgan said he went into the wood to cut sappling. The damage done in this instance was Id. Had warned boys not to go there. a stick to make a whistle of. The defendant Gilchurst said he picked up the stick com* plainant saw in his hand. The Bench ordered the boys to pay Id. each for the da- mage, and costs of the case. hllen. Harhow was charged with a breach of the beer law P.C. Pointz sa.id he went into defendant's house on Sun- day night. After the proper hour for clearing I saw some men drinking thei"e; one was very drunk. Defenrlant asked him to say nothing about it, as it was the first time. Defendant said one of the men was a lodger, and the other man came in to have a cru t of bread and cheese with him. This was the first l:;ue the constaole had caught any person in the house. Had no witness present. Had had the house for six months. This was the first charge against her. Fined 10s. and costs. ASSAULT. John Lloyd was summoned for assaulting Jeremiah Brian. Complainant said on Saturday week he was selling meat in Aberdare. Went to the Globe and asked for a bed. They said he could not have a bed, and then weut to the Crown. Lloyd was there, and began to quarrel with him took off his coat, when defendant threw him down, and he received a kick on his head and then another on the mouth. Jane Thomas deposed that she lived at the Rose and Crown. Between ten and eleven o'clock complainant, who was in the house, began kicking up a row. He was turned out and came in again, when he said he was a better man than any one else in the house, and took off his coat to fight. Did not see defendant kick complainant. Augusta James said complainant was in the Rose and Crown on the night in question. He made a row, and was turned out. He came back again, when they had a row. There was a noise in the passage did not see any one kick complainant. Sergeant Thomas said, when he summoned the witness Augusta James, she said she would not say anything about it, and turned to her servant, and told her to say nothing. Jane Thomas was recalled, and again denied having seen any kicks pass. The Bench commented on the affair; it was evident com- plainant had endeavoured to create a breach of the peace, aud the landlord was quite justified in turning him out of the house. In the scuffle he might possibly have received injury. They must therefore dismiss the case. The complainant said he had some more witnesses, and applied for an adjournment till this day week. Granted. ASSAULTING A L'OLICEMAN. WHIMIII Luke was charged with assaulting P.C. John Evans, whilst in the execution of his duty. This was an adjourned case from the previous week. Fined 10s., and costs, or 14 days' itiiprisoiJiiBent, with ard labour, in default.