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

THE INSPECTOR OF BRITISH SCHOOLS AND THE CLERGY. THE correspondence which has appeared in our own columns, and in those of many of our contemporaries, afford ample proof that there is a religious difficulty connected with the Ednca. tion question, although a large class of interested individuals continue to maintain that it has no reality in the practical experience of those who are best conversant with the subject. The present controversy commenced by the Lord Bishop of Llandaff, as a member of a deputation which waited on the Premier on the subject of Mr. Forster's Educational Bill, making statements directly at variance with the facts recorded in Mr. Bowstead's official report on the state of schools in South Wales. The hon. member for Cardigan- shire, Mr. E. M. Richards, taxed his lordship with what appeared to be direct misrepresentation, and quoted the part of Her Majesty's Inspector's report upon which his opinion was based. The Bishop, in reply, throws the blame partly on the Times reporter, and, by inuendo, impugns the veracity of Mr. Bowstead, because of his previous controversy with the Bishop of St. David's on the same subject, a controversy which he could not then have'read, for it only substantiated the statements called in question by a legion of witnesses from every part of South Wales, whose united testimony in favour of Her Majesty's Inspector no reasonable person could doubt for one moment. Moreover, according to his own confession, Dr. Ollivant had not read the Govern- ment reports on education even in his own diocese, and hence must have been unpardonably deficient in the knowledge of a subject immediately con- nected with the welfare of those committed to his spiritual charge. But he reached the sublimest heights of absurdity when, with such scanty information, he assumed to enlighten Mr. Glad- stone on this very subject. To relieve the rev. prelate from such an obviously indefensible position, the Rev. Thomas Walters, Vicar of y Ystradgynlais, comes to the rescue, and by perusing his letters, the most cursory observer will see that Mr. Bowstead shows him to have entered into a correspondence with a perfect disregard for facts, j and to have subsequently conducted it with an apparent contempt for all logical reasoning, sub- stituting in its place visionary hypotheses, dogma, and prevarication ad libitum. The original official statement of Her Majesty's Inspector was, that owing to religious differences, workmen often pay twice for the education of their families; once in the works by a deduction in their wages, in return for which they get nothing they can conscientiously accept, and a second time in providing weekly school pence for instruction which is in accordance with their own views. Nay, in scfme instances they have built schools at their own expense. In the Swansea Valley alone three schools have been built under such circum- stances, viz., the British Schools at Ystalyfera, Ystradgynlais, Abercrave, &c. These remain unimpeachable and sterling facts, as lamentable as they are indisputable, and the only effect of the unsuccessful assaults by these two sagacious divines will be to propagate them with increased force throughout the Principality, and thus lend additional invincible arguments to those who are opposed to dogmatic religious education (so-called) in elementary rate-supported schools. Dr. Ollivant and his country,vicar may however take consola- tion in the fact that their antangonist brought an admittedly brighter luminary to nought on almost a similar question, and their puerile attack, although an absolute failure in its primary object, j will perhaps tend to heal the effects of any previous animosities that may have existed between themselves upon matters not germane to the present issue. Referring to Mr. Walters's state- ment that Church schools are not objected to by the Welsh people, he must have forgotten that a strictly Church school in Wales is not often to be found. They have been compelled by the force of circumstances to abandon and relax half the principles of the National Society, which aided scores of them to erect buildings with the bona fide understanding that the children should learn the Church Catechism and attend the Parish Church on Sunday. Where are such schools to be found ? Only where the squire and parson can defy the existence and consequent competition of an unsectarian school. If a principle is worth j anything it is worth everything. But dare to carry these true colours out, and the inevitable result would be an irretrievable collapse of the whole system. In nearly all the National schools at present the attendance at Church on Sunday is optional, and we are fully persuaded of the truth of the statement made by the Rector of Merthyr recently, that proselytes to the Church in after- life amount to a number almost incredibly small. History and observation will inform us that religious intolerance has always defeated its own ends. It is related that not many years ago, in the Swansea Valley, a Vicar, in his zeal for the j Church, seized the implements of a poor cobbler in lieu of the church-rate. One act like this would justify any amount of objections which J parents may entertain to allow their children to be nurtured in a religion in which such a spirit of un- scrupulous bigotry and persecution was tolerated. Mrore British schools originate from mistrust created by proceedings of this nature than by all the lecturers and agents who are such causes of grief to the Yicar of Ystradgynlais. But besides this the teaching of the Church Catechism to the children of Dissenting parents is per se an act of gross immorality. They axe often taught to repeat a direct falsehood, forming the basis of the creed with which they are "stuffed," and no reasonable person will maintain that the acquies- cence of parent or child can alter the fact. As to British Schools being sectarian, this is merely an unsupported statement, for whether they are carried on by this or that denomination their principles are constant, and no combination of circumstances have hitherto shown any necessity for modifying them. The Scriptures are read daily, but creeds and dogmas of every kind, and all religious coercion are studiously avoided. Whether the people of England prefer this to hampering education with the shackles of sectarian doctrines will not long remain a question of doubt, and we may fairly hope that the decision -of the House of Commons will prevent the possibility of any further acrimonious disputes on this subject.—Communicated.

LOCAL INTELLIGENCE. UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF WALES.—We have reason to know, on good authority, that if an application for a Go- vernment grant were presented, backed by a pretty general expression of opinion from the Welsh people of all parties, the Prime Minister is well disposed to entertain it favour- ably. This will be very gratifying to all friends of Education in Wales, and ought to stimulate all to come forward, by an earnest and united effort, and assist the Committee, without further delay, with their subscriptions, &c., to secure so desirable a boon to their country. WELSH CONGREGATIONAL ASSOCIATION.—The annual association meetings of this body, comprising the churches and congregations of the Welsh Congregational body of Merthyr, including 'Ponydarren and Abercanaid, were held on Saturday evening, Sunday, and .Monday last. The ministers who officiated at the various chapels were the ^evs' T, Johns, Llanelly; J. Thomas, Liverpool; J. li. Thomas, Llandysilio B. Williams, Cae&an J. LI. Jones, Penclawdd J. Mathews, Neath W. E: Jones, Morris- town D. Roberts, Carnarvon; T. Thomas, Llandore; J. Roberts, Conway; W. Jenkins, Pentre-Estyll; wd W. ( Ambrose, Port Madoc. Each of these gentlemen preached five sermons throughout the services, which were listened to by crowded congregations, and both in respect of elo- < "jutiuce, and success in winning the rapt attention of those I rho were present, they could not have been more felicitous. T "he collections at the various place# of worship were n. ce?diDgly good, COMMEMORATION OF THE-BATTLE OF WATERLOO.—Mr. E. Meredith, of Waterloo House, now of New Waterloo House, Victoria-street, says he is determined to com- memorate the great victory by opening his temporary shop in Victoria-street, on Saturday next, and to offer such bargains to the public from his new stock of drapery goods as shall make the day eventful in our future local history. HALFPENNY POSTAGE.—The small but important exten- sion of the promised halfpenny postage which the Postmaster-General announced in the House of Commons on Friday week, will do much, the Daily Neics thinks, to develop the usefulness of the department as the message- bearer of the public. We urged some time sine** the importance of the suggestion, which is one derived from Continental experience. A card of a convenient size for postal collection and delivery will be issued, impressed with a halfpenny stamp. These cards will be just large enough to contain a notice or a message. The message, which may be written or printed", as the sender chooses, will be on one side of the card, and the address of the person to whom it is seni will be on the other side the cards will be posted and delivered in just the same way as letters. It is ensy to see to what numerous uses this new convenience will be put. Even now the post in the great towns is greatly used for messages, though every message involves the use of paper, envelope, and stamp. The postage cards will involve nothing but writing the message on one side, and the address on the other, and if the Post Office is quick and punctual in their collection and delivery, they are sure to come into very extensive use. The only inconvenience about them will be, that the message must necessarily be an open one but of the scores of messages a head of a family has to send, very few need an envelope, and when they do so, a sheet of paper and a penny stamp will be used as at present. We are glad to record the promise of further accommodation as a proof of the desire of the department to consult and serve the convenience of the public. THE LATE MR. CHARLES DICKENS.—It is with the pro- foundest regret we have to announce the death of the greatest of modern novelists. Mr Charles Dickens on Thursday morning was struck with paralysis, remained unconscious all day, and expired on Thursday evening, at a quarter to six o'clock, at his residence, Gadshill, near Rochester, Kent. Mr Charles Dickens was born at Ports- mouth in 1812, and was the son of Mr John Dickens, who held a position in the Navy Pay .Department. The mortal remains of the deceased author were deposited.in Poet's- Corner, Westminster Abbey, at an early hour on Tuesday morning. He lies, without one of his injunctions respect- ing his funeral having been violated, surrounded by poets and men of genius. Shakespeare's marble effigy looked on Tuesday into his open grave; at his feet are Dr Johnson and David Garrick his head is by Addison and Handel, while Oliver Goldsmith, Rowe, Southey, Campbell, Thom- son, Sheridan, Macaulay, and Thackeray, or their memor- ials, encircle him and "Poet's Corner," the most familiar spot in the whole Abbey, has thus received an illustrious addition to its peculiar glory. In the library at Gadshill the original manuscripts of all Mr Dickens's principal works are carefully bound, and nothing used to give him sweater pleasure than for his guest to take them one by one from the shelves, and criticise the almost unintelligible manuscripts—unintelligible from the innumerable correc- tions. We trust this invaluable collection will become the property of the nation. As a warm-hearted, genial host and friend, Mr Dickens was conspicuous. His charming residence on the far-famed Gadshill was always open to visitors, and in Rochester and the neighbourhood, by rich and poor, he was universally beloved. It is not too much to say that he is followed to the grave by the mournful re- grets not only of the people of England, but of every country where the English language is spoken. ♦ WELSH EDUCATION ALLIANCE. At a meeting of the Executive Committee of the Welsh Education Alliance, held at Brecon, on the 9th and 10th June, 1870, W. L. Daniel, Esq., Merthyr, in the chair, the various amendments on the Elementary Education Bill were discussed. The hon. secretary to the sub-committee read a report on the amendments, which were nearly 200 in number. Letters were read from the Rev. L. Edwards, D.D., Bala; Rev. T. Davies. D.D., Haverfordwest; Thomas Gee, Esq., Denbigh; J. Jenkins, Esq., M.A., Temple; P. Mostyn Williams, Esq., Liverpool, and others, apologising for their absence and expressing dissatisfaction with the Government amendments. A memorial to the same effect was also received from 56 ministers and laymen who had met at the college on the 8th inst., and was signed by their chairman, Thomas Williams, Esq., Goitre. Clause 3.—Dr. Lyon Playfair's amendment to clause 3, defining" Elementary Education to mean instruction in reading, writing, and arithmetic, and in drawing, and in such elements of science, and in such physical training as the Education Department may indicate as subjects desira- ble to be taught in an elementary school, by including them in the minutes of the Education Department in force for the time being, was accepted as a definition on which a comprehensive system of national education might be based. Thereupon the following resolution was unani- mously adopted, "That Dr Lyon Playfair's amendment to clause 3 of the Government Education Bill embodies all that should be included in a system of national education, and that no satisfactory system of national education can be established which is not strictly confined within the limits therein prescribed; and that in no scheme of national education should the prescribed course of instruc- tion trench upon the religious views of any section of the community." Clause 4.—It was then resolved that Mr. Dixon's amendment to clause 4, adding the words and in every school district a school board shall be formed for such dis- trict should be adopted. Clause 5.—Mr. Vernon Harcourt's amendment to clause 5, line 30, inserting after accommodation," the words and an education in all respects efficient in its character and offered upon conditions fair and equal to all," was adopted. This includes other amendments of Mr. Har- court's to the same effect. Clause 7, which contains some of the most objectionable provisions in the Bill, involving serious arrangements bear- ing on the religious instruction proposed to be given in public schools, was discussed at great length. It was ad- mitted by all who were present that none af the amend- ments, of which notice had as yet been given, could be accepted as satisfactory. It was unanimously decided that the clause, if amended as follows, would meet the views of the Alliance:—"Every public elementary school within the meaning of this Act shall be subject to the following regulations, namely, (1.) The school shall be open at all times to this in'pectjQn of any of Her Majesty's inspectors (2.) The school shall be conducted in accordance with the conditions required to be fufilled by an elementary school, in order to obtain an annual parliamentary grant: (3.) No scholar shall be required to attend or to abstain from at- tending any Sunday school, or any place of religious wor- ship (4 ) In the case of any school existing at the time of the passing of this Act, such school shall, as a condition of receiving a grant from any public moneys, be subject to the same conditions, and be under the same control, as a new rate-aided school, but this condition shall not take effect until the expiry of twelve months from the passing of this Act." In event, however, of this amendment not meeting with success, it was resolved to support Mr. Winterbotham's amendment, provided it should be altered as follows "Omit sub-sections 4 and 5 in reference to religious in- struction and observances. Alter sub-section 6 thus: in any school maintained wholly, or in part, out of local rates, or by Government grants, no religious instruction shall be given, or religious observances practised other than the reading of the Scriptures, but the time for such reading shall be before or after the ordinary school business." It was agreed to support Mr Serjeant Simon's amend- ment to this clause, providing that "no scholar of the Jewish religion shall be required as such condition as aforesaid to attend (school) on the Jewish Sabbath, or on any Jewish holiday," Clause !).—The Sub-committee's amendment to clause 9, lines 23-4, leaving out, within—notice," and inserting by the school board," was adopted. Clause 10.—The omission of clause 10, was agreed upon; Clause 14.—None of the amendments to clause 14 were deemed satisfactory, but Mr Dixon's was regarded as, on the whole, preferable to any other, but the entire omission of the clause providing that a school board may grant the use of the building, for the giving of religious instruction out of school hours, provided that no preference be shown to any sect," was deemed imperative. Clause 15.—Clause 15, which empowers school boards to delegate the lDanaKement of their schools to not less than three persons, was unanimously condemned. The com- mittee could find no reason to justify persons elected by the ratepayers in transferring their chities to persons not so elected. It was therefore agreed to endeavour to secure the omission ef this clause. Clause 17.—Mr Dixon's amendment to clause TL7, insuring free education to all children alike, was unanimously ap- proved of but, in event of its failure, Sir Charles Dilke's modification of it, along with the words proposed to be added by Mr Charles Reed, was regarded as worthy of support. Clause 21.—Clause 21, arranging for the transfer of exist- ing schools to school boards, was considered very unsatisfac- tory and unjust. After some discussion it was resolved that, in accordance with the suggestions of the Sub-committee, it ought to be amended thus:—In line 19, substitute shall" for "may"; In line 22, leave out "wither." Leave out from or for" in line 23, to agreed on," line 26. Clause 22. —Clause 22, empowering school boards to grant pecuniary assistance to existing schools, out of the local rates, was unanimously condemned as (involving the princi- ple of applying rates to religious and denominational pur- poses, and thus re-enacting a new church rate more objec- tionable in its character than any hitherto enacted. It was agreed that the clause should be omitted entirely or amended thus ;—" A school board may, in their discretion, grant pecuniary assistance, of such amount,. and for such purposes as they think fit, to such public elementary schools in their district not provided by them as arc willing to receive it, provided that such assistance is granted 6n condition that the management and control of any school so assisted shall, by written agreement of its managers or trustees, be transferred to such school board, and that such school be thereafter subject to the same regulations and provisions as a public elementary school constituted by a school board under this Act." Clause 24.—Mr Dixon's amendment, omitting clause 24, which refers to payment of fees, was agreed to; Sir Charles Pilke's amendment being regarded as worthy of support ua wept of the defeat of Mr Dixon's. Clause 2.5. -Mr Dixon's and Sir C. Dilke's amendments, omitting clause 25, were also approved of. Clause 66.—Sir Thomas Bazley's amendment to clause1, 66, providing the machinery for enforcing attendance at school, was also adopted. The following resolution was then proposed and unani- mously adopted :—" That while we approve of Mr Forster's amendments to the second schedule, so far as they abolish plurality of votes and adopt the ballot, we most strongly object to the BjlJ jas amended, because it still permits the formation of new ^fenoi^Batipnal schools, allows existing schools to continue in receipt of Government grants, and yet remain denominational i,n teaching and management, and empowers school boards to levy rates ja support of existing and also of new denominational schools; also, because the pill. provides for the election of school boards otherwise than by the direct vote of the rate- payers, authorises these boards to delegate the manage- ment of the schools to peteoas not elected py the rate- payers, empowers them to grant the use of schpolrbupdings for religious teaching and worship: out of school hpurs, and makes no provision for the formation of such boards in every part of the country, nor for the direct compulsory attendance of children in every locality." With a view to carrying out the objects of the Alliance, it was unanimously resolved that the Rev D. Rowland, M.A., Principal of the Normal College, Bangor, and the Rev F. Sonley Johnstone, Merthyr, be requested to go to London in order to watch the progress of the bill through Committee, and to act in concert with the Officers of the National Education League as far as they could consistently do so. They were further instructed to support, any ameodnpeots tending to secure the objects of the Alliance. A. vote of thinks to the tutors of the College for kindly placing the Jibrtfcy Kftgp at the disposal of the Committee, to tb. chfWMQ Me efjMwy iti facilitating the business, and to the secretaries for their management of affairs, brought the long and laborious sitting to a close. ■ ■ AFFIRM-—. ■ ■ MERTHYR LOCAL BOARD OF HEALTH. The usual bi-monthly meeting was held on Wednesday, when there were present Messrs. G. Overton (in the chair), E. Purchase, W. Harris, W. L. Daniel, J. W. James, R. Harrison, W. Gould, T. Williams, A. J. Morris, and T. Jenkins. The minutes of the last meeting were read and confirmed. SURVEYOR'S REPORT. The following report was then read:- To the Merthyr Tydfil Local Board of Health. Gentlemen,—With respect to the means of extinguishing fires, I beg to report that the expanse of carrying into effect the recom- mendations contained in my last report to you will be as follows, viz.:— t s. d. The cost of a fire alarm bell, including fixing in the turret of the Merthyr Market House, will be about .12 0 0 The cost of 24 round jackets, lettered" 1\1. F. B. with belts, will be about 48 0 0 Total of tirst cost 60 0 0 The annual cosi (supposing the jackets be renewed in four years will be-for elothing .12 0 0 For the practising of 24 men, half-a-day in each month ,.3(3 0 0 For maintaining, in proper repair and condition, the hose, reel, escape, and apparatus, about 10 0 0 Total of annual cost 58 0 0 The expenses of actually extinguishing fires are usually allowed by the Fire Insurance Companies, who will probably, also, contri- bute towards the current expenses. If you determine to carry out the recommendations, it will be necessary to issue advertisements for volunteers, and appoint a committee to select the most suitable men. In obedience to an order made at your last meeting, I beg to point out the following as suitable sites for public urinals, viz. I.-In High-street, Dowlais, in the recess between the. stone pillars of the abandoned entrance to the Dowlais Iron Works, nearly opposite the lower end of South-street. 2. At the lower end of the new road from Penydarren to Dowlais. U. !n Penydarren road, near the tramroad crossing, opposite the lower end of Mount Tleasant-street. I.-In Pontmorluis, Merthyr, by the wall of the tramroad, at the turn to Brecon-road. 5.—In High-street, Merthyr, near the entrance to the Vale of Neath Railway station. (;In Church-street, Merthyr, between the tramroad and the Wesleyan Chapel. To each urinal a public lamp should be atlixed, a supply of water laid on, and proper drains made. The cost of an iron urinal for four persons, according to the pub. lished design submitted, with lamps, water supply, drainage, and paving, will be about £ 20; if of stone, the cost would be S;2 to £ 3 [less, but iron is preferable. The annual cost of each urinal for gas-light, water cleansing, and painting, will be about £ 10. I would recommend the erection of one at the site numbered 4 in the above list as a model for your approval. With respect to the public weighing machine in Castle-street, Merthyr, I beg to report that its original cost was £ 97 14s. 2d„ that its annual cost is £ 14 Js. 0d., and that for the year ending the 25th of March last the tolls produced .-1:,7 Os. lOd. I would recom- mend you to let the cottage and machine for a year, from the 10th of July next. by tender. I beg to report that 1 have received the following building plans and notices, to which I sec no objection, viz, 1.—From Theophilus Morris, of a kitchen aud bedroom, behind the house No. 39, Mary Ann-street, Dowlais, for himself. :From the Dowlais Iron Company, of an additional room at Dowlais House, for themselves. — From John Williams, Morgan TIoIWll, Merthyr, of Waterloo House, and shop, in High-street, Merthyr, for Mr Evan Meredith. 4 —From Denis Perrin, Heolgerrig, of enlargement of house for himself. I am, gentlemen, your obedient servant, SAMUEL HARPUR, Surveyor. Merthyr Tydfil, June 15, 1870, FIRE FIRKJADE, &C. Mr Purchase said that since the last meeting he had been thinking the question over, and he thought, provided they got the permission of the Rector, the Church bell would do admirably, for it might, in case of need, be rung much faster than it was at present done, and by so doing he thought everyone would soon know when a fire occurred. Mr James remarked that it would not be available for Dowlais. Mr Gould objected to the use of a bell at all, for he maintained that by ringing it, it would only cause a large number of people to congregate at a fire, so as to make it impossible for those who were engaged in putting out the fire to work. He suggested that the policemen should be provided with a rattle, which they could use when there was any need for it. At the late fire at Mr Meredith's the crowd was so large as to greatly interfere with the police, who were most active in putting out the fire. A few years ago lie was so unfortunate as to have a tire in a wareheuse at the back of his house, but as there was a plentiful sup- ply of water at hand, he, together with some neighbours, soon put it out. If in his case a bell had been rung, and a j.arge number of people had congregated, he was certain that they would not have put the fire out half so soon. He objected to a brigade being formed, for he believed the cost of the same might be saved by leaving the police to put the fire out as at present, and to apply to the magis- trate that the special constables which he swore in annually should be ordered to act on such occasions, and thereby keep the crowd back, and give the police room to work. Mr Purchase quite agreed with Mr Gould that the ringing of a bell would induce a lot of people to collect but he contended that the police should be kept at their proper duty in keeping the crowd back, and let an efficient staff of trained men put the fire out. Mr Morris said it occurred to him that if men who were employed under Mr Harpur were properly organised, though he did not mean to say they were not so at present, he thought that they, with the assistance of the police, might be able to do the work. The Surveyor observed that their people were all old men, and infirm, so they would never do. Mr Morris asked how many men he asked for? The Surveyor replied that it. was twelve; together with the same number of police, and they would be paid half-a crown per month for the half-day they lost in practising the use of the escape and hose. An important conversation then ensued, during which two or three members spoke at the same time, after which The Chairman said that the best course to pursue, so as to bring the subject to an end, would be to take each of the recommendations seriatim. He then read the part of the Surveyor's report referring to THE ALARM BELL. Mr Morris thought that, as it was their duty to econo- mize as much as possible, the question of a bell in the turret of the Market House might be left out of the question alto- gether fcr the present. This was agreed to. BRIGADE JACKETS. Mr James thought that six volunteers, besides the police, were quite sufficient; so that they would only want six jackets. f Mr Morris thought the number was very small, and was in favour of having the twelve. The Surveyor said that in his report he had estimated for twenty-four jackets twelve for volunteers, and twelve for the police-officers. Mr Morris objected to clothing the police, for he con- sidered that they paid enough already to maintain them, and he coutended that they were the public servants. Mr James thought that six volunteers, in addition to the police, were sufficient. He was also not in favour of giving the policemen jackets. Mr Harris said he did not believe they could get trades- men to lose a half day to practise the escape and hose for the sum of half-a-crown, Mr James said he understood that they were discussing how many volunteers were needed. He proposed that they should only get six. Mr Morris moved as an amendment that they have twelve. Mr James said he would not press his objection to the number so as to divide the Board, but would fall in with Mr Morris's proposition. Mr Harris seconded Mr Morris's motion. Mr Gould moved that they do not appoint a staff of men to act as a fire brigade, but that they should apply, as he had already suggested, to have the special constables that are sworn in every year to act on such occasions, in the place of the police, whose duty it would be to manage the escape and reel. Mr Morris did not believe the magistrates had any power to swear in a special constable to assist in the putting out of fires. Mr Harrison agreed with Mr Could that the way he had suggested was much the best course for them to pursue, and especially as they had not so much money at command to spend. The Clerk in reply to Mr Morris said he was of opinion that the magistrate's duties were defined, and that he could not swear them to act in cases of fire, but simply to keep the peace. Mr Gould observed that they would be keeping the peace at a fire. Mr Daniel begged to move a second amendment (laugh- ter), and that was to postpone the question until the next meeting, in order that the Clerk might have time to write to the different Insurance Companies who did business in the town, stating the recommendations of the Surveyor, and asking them how much they would contribute towards the desired object. He certainly agreed with all that had been said as to the desirability <5f having a fire brigade, but before they came to any conclusion on the matter he should like to know what the Insurances Companies would give. The Clerk remarked that he was the agent,in town for the Atlas Company, and be was certain they would readily give a contribution towards a fire brigade. At the fire some time ago they sent him 4:3 to distribute amongst the police. Mr Jenkins seconded Mr Daniel's amendment. The Chairman observed that the Surveyor had just handed him a statement, which he read, and from which it appeared jjtliat the Insurance Companies contributed X56 annually towards the Cardiff fire brigade. It was then agreed unanimously to adjourn the question until tk%next meeting, the Clerk in the meantime to write to different insurance companies asking them how much they would contribute towards a proper fire brigade. URINALS. Mr Purchase thought that those recommended by the Surveyor were too expensive; but he was in favour of erecting one at Pontmorlais as suggesteq. He made a motion to that effect. Mr James seconded the proposition. Mr Harris, though knowing very well that there was great need of public urinals, thought that at present the matter should be held over. They had a few days ago suspended their stone-breakers in order to keep down the expenses, and he thought it was very inconsistent on their part to go to such an expense under the circumstances he therefore begged to IPpve that the matter be allowed to stand over for the present. Mr James thought it could be done much cheaper than was stated in the Surveyor's report. The price seemed to p him enormous. The Surveyor thought it could be done for half the amount. Mr James also thought so; and did not think it was right of the Surveyor, in the present position of the Board, to select such costly erections, for it made the Board shrink when they heard the price. The Surveyor said the Baard would be ashamed to see the cheaper one. Mr Jenkins seconded the amendment of Mr Harris, and the proposition being withdrawn the subject was dropped/ THE WEIGHING MACHINE, Mr Harris proposed, azjd MriHarrison seconded that the recommendation of the Surveyor respecting the above machine should be adopted. Agreed to unanimously. BUILDING PLAXS. The building plans referred to in the Surveyor's report were approved of. TENDERS FOR PAINTING. In reply to the advertisement for tenders for painting tiie external wood-work at Peutwyu and Penbryn, the following were received: — Mr Tm. Levric, FonttnerUis, £ 9; Mf D. Watkins, Glebeland-street, CIO Mr Wm. Williams, 37. Glebeland-street, £1115. Od. Mr J. P. Poole, Brecon- road, Xg 10s. Od. Mr Harris proposed, and Mr Purchase seconded, that the tender of Mr Wm. Lewis be accepted. Agreed to. A NUISANCE AT ALMA ROw. A letter was read from a Mr Herbert Williams, of Alma Row, complaining that the contents of night houses belonging to Mr Jenkins, Brick Works, were at present emptying into an open drain which passed right opposite the door of his house, and was therefore prejudicial to the health of his family. He hoped the Board would take steps to abate the same. .The Chairman remarked that whilst the injunction was pending they could not make the owner to remove the nuisance by connecting it with the sewers. He thought that this should go forth to the public. The Clerk was ordered to reply to the above effect. THE IRRIGATION WORKS. The Clerk stated that he had, immediately upon re- ceiving the Provisional Order in Council, from the Home- office, authorising the Board to put in force the powers of the Lands Clauses Consolidation Act, 1845, for the purpose of carrying out their sewage scheme, written to the various agents and landowners, whose land it was proposed to take, asking them if they were prepared to lease their portion of the land for 21 years their rights to sink on the same not being interfered with in the slightest degree and, if so, to please name terms. He had received replies from all of them, which he then read, and which the Board were glad to find were on the whole very satisfactory. This concluded the public business. DOWLAIS. THE EDUCATION BILL. — A public meeting was convened at Hermon Chapel, on Tuesday everiing, the 14th instant, to consider the amendments of Her Majesty's Government to the Elementary Education Bill. By appointment of a previous committee, the chair was taken at half-past seven, by the Rev J. Ll. James, Ivor chapel, who addressed the meeting on the above subject. A resolution, disapproving of some features in the Bill, and its amendments, as un- satisfactory to Nonconformists, was moved by the Rev Mr Lloyd, of Hermon which, after being seconded by the Rev Mr Jones, Libanus, was carried unanimously. The second resolution, expressive of determined resistance to the Bill as it stands, was moved by the Rev Mr Williams, of Siloh and seconded by the Rev Mr Jones, Bryn Zion. The third resolution, petitioning Parliament to reconsider the amended Bill, was proposed by the Rev Mr Evans, Bethania, and seconded by the.Rev Mr Thomas, Gwernllwyn, late of Abercanaid. All the gentlemen who moved and seconded the resolutions, addressed the meeting on the Education Bill, the requirements of Nonconformists, and the inevit- able results if this Bill should become a law of the land. They were also very felicitous in expressing themselves on their respective resolutions, and were all well received by the meeting. After a vote of thanks to the chair- man for presiding, the meeting separated. It would be well if several such meetings were held to enlighten the public. especially the working classes, on a subject of such vital importance to Nonconformists of all denominations. — MERTHYR POLICE COURT. SATURDAY.—Before H. C. Greenwood, Esq. WILFUL DAMAGE.—A young man named Thomas Davies was brought up for wilfully damaging a pane of glass, the property of Mr. S. Price, Dowlais, on the 19th inst. -P.C. Garleck said the prisoner was given in his custody on Thursday evening last, by the prosecutor, for having broken a pane of glass in his shop window.-The prose- cutor said he was a butcher at Dowlais, on Thursday last he gave the prisoner in charge of the previous witness for having thrown a glass bottle at his shop window, thereby breaking one of the panes, value 2s. the prisoner was an entire stranger to him.—In defence the prisoner stated that he had broken the window accidentally, and he was very sorry that he had done so.—Mr Greenwood fined him 2s 6d, 2s compensation, and costs, amounting altogether to 12s 3d, or in default ten days' imprisonment. DRUNK AND RIOTOUS.—James Thomas, an inhabitant of RiverSide; and better known in the "city" as "Tom Thunderskull was brought up charged with being drunk and riotous on Wednesday evening last.-P.S. Thomas said that on the above day, he saw the prisoner at the River Side, he was drunk, and beating a man upon the ground he took him into custody, and he had been locked up ever since.—His Wordsliip in consideration of his being locked up so long, fined him f>s including costs, or seven days' imprisonment. • SIMILAR CHARGE.-Timoth Keefe appeared in answer ta a summons for being drunk and riotous at Court-street, on the 5th inst.-P.C. Cook. found him near the Fountain Beerhouse, very drunk and fighting with another man it was on a Sunday afternoon, about half-past three.- Fined 7s 6d including costs. ANOTHER. -David Keefe was also summoned for like conduct, at the same place and time. This was the person with whom the last witness was fighting. The defendant did not appear, and after service of summons bad been proved, a warrant for his apprehension was issued. A BEAUTY.—A young woman named Ann Lewis was charged with being a common prostitute, and behaving in an indecent manner in a public highway.—Inspector Howlett fully proved the charge, and prisoner was sent to gaol for 7 days. MONDAY-(.Bejore H. C. Greenwood and E. J. Davies, Esqrs.) ASSAULT UPON THE POLICE.—Jeremiah Harrington was charged with assaulting P.C. Olding in the execution of his duty. The officer stated that on Saturday night last he was talking with another officer in Picton-street, when the prisoner came up and said, I am a better man than either of you b-- bobbies," and immediately afterwards struck him in the chest, and kicked him several times he also turned round suddenly and struck the other officer. On the way to the station he got very violent, and refused to walk. — He was further charged with assaulting P.C. Emanuel, who said that he "as talking with the last wit- ness about nine o'clock on Saturday night last, when the prisoner came up to them, and after making use of bad language, struck and kicked Olding as described; he (witness), was also struck, and whilst conveying him to the station received several kicks on the legs, the effect of which he felt then.—The prisoner, in defence, said he did not know what he had done as he had had a drop of the creature."—The Bench fined him 20s. and costs for each offence, or in default of payment two months' imprison- ment. "PITCH AND TOSS."—A lad named David Forey was charged with playing the above game on %,public thorough- fare.—P.C. Charley said that about ten minutes past eight last night he saw the defendant playing at "pitch and toss on the tram-road side at Penydarren it was about ten minutes past eight, and there were three or four other lads with him he saw the defendant throw the money up in the air when they saw him they all ran away, but in about a quarter of an hour afterwards he met the defendant and brought him to the station, when he charged him with playing; he denied doing so, but 'he (witness) was positive that he saw him.—Defendant denied being seen playing on the tramroad he said he had been in Zoar Chapel throughout the day, and had not come out until eight o'clock, and had then gone up the street when he was suddenly arrested by the officer, but for what he did not know.—P.C. Charley, re-called, stated, that he had not the slightest doubt that the boy be saw playing was the defendant; for, besides him, Dr. Miles had seen him playing as well; and after he had arrested defendant Dr Miles recognised him immedi- ately.—In reply to Superintendent Thomas, witness stated that a person called his attention to the boys playing he looked for some time through a window at them when brought to the station last night the defendant did not say anything about being in Chapel.-A lad named John Jones was called for the defence, and stated that he saw the defen- dant in Zoar Chapel last night; they came out about eight o'clock he and the defendant then went up the street, but when near the Penydarren End the officer took him in cus- tody he was with the defendant the whole of the time after coming out of chapel, and he was cer-tain that he was not playing on the tram-road.-Another witness named Richard Richards deposed to seeing him coming out of Zoar Chapel at eight o'clock, but where he went to after- wards he did not know.—The Bench said that they would dismiss the case this time, and they hoped that it would be a warning to him and others n'ot to play at the game again. -[A more stupid and unsatisfactory decision never was given. "In this caSle-paItry as it is as a legal offencef-tbere was deliberate perjury on one side or the other. Either the policeman swore what was false, or the witnesses for the de- fence stated on oath that which they must have known to be untrue. Would it not have been better, under the cir- cumstances, to have remanded the case, so as to have ob- tained corroborative evidence, and thus test the testimony on both sides, than to have dismissed it, and thus leave the public to judge on which side the perjury was committed. What right, in fact, bad the Bench to assume, in the face of such conflicting testimony, that the case was proved ? The least thing they could have done, before prac.tically branding the witnesses for the defence with perjury, w^s to require the evidence of Dr Miles, as he had been referred to by the poljce-officer. ED. M. T.] TRESPASSING.—Seven lads named Josiah Jones, Thomas Rowlands, George Griffiths, Benjamin Howells, Henry Lloyd, George Evans, and John Jones were summoned for trespassing on certain land on the Gethin Farm in the occu- pation of the prosecutor Mr John Ward.—Mr Simons ap- peared for the defendants.—Mr Ward stated that he was in occupation of the Gethin Farm in this parish on the 2nd inst, he saw all the defendants playing on bis ground, which was quite open, and had never to his knowledge been fenced. He had been in possession for the last 25 years. The late Mr. Hill tried to get possession of the land some years ago, but they then settled the matter, and he was told to stop in possession a lot of trees were also planted on the land in question some years ago, hut Mr. Richards got them laised up again, and they were thrown in the river he (witness) had orders to put all animals that were found upon the land in the pound.—By Mr. Simons: Mr. Crawshay has the coal under the land, but he has not got the surface the Plymouth Iron Company have not stopped Mr. Crawshay from tipoing on the land; re- membered seeing Mr. Crawshay and Mr. Fothergill there in 1866 will swear that 1 did not hear them come to any agreement; do not know the old course of the river the land in question has grass growing upon it .-P.C. Martin said he knew the peice of land referred to have seen all the defendants there playing at a game called" rounders some of them were lying down on the grass there are about 20 square yards of the grass all laid bare where they are in the habit of playing when he spoke to the defend- ants for playing there, some of them said they were not doing so, but merely looking on, whilst the defendant, Lloyd said he had only just come into the field when he (witness) came there.—Mr Wfird re called, and examined by Mr Simons, said The Plymouth workmen's children play on the land they have not had permission to do so they have only done so for the last two or three years will swear that the children have not been playing there since he bad been in possession.—Mr. Simons then addressed the Bench, remarking that he intended disputing the title of the piece of land in question and which, he said, had been the subject of iriuch litigation fpv spine yea,rs past; and after entering into the particulars of the case, which will be gleaned from the evidence, he called Mr. Lewis, late mineral agent to the Plymouth Company.—M.r. Lewis, the magistrate's clerk, remarked that he ought to show what right the defendants had on the land—Mr Simons said they had permission from the Plymouth Iron Com- pany .—Mr WiHia.m Lewis then said that he was an agent under the late Mr Hill for about 55 to 60 years-; lie con- tinued to act as such for some time after his death, and afterwards retired he knew where tho piece of land in question was, and had accompanied Mr Robert Crawshay and Mr. Hill there that was about two yeais previous to the death of the latter gentleman, and that occurred in 1864. They went there t^ see the ground, as Mr. Crawshay was tipping vipon it; Mr. Sill told hi in that he had no right io go further than the centre of the ^iyer; Mr Craw- shay also stopped tippifig at the place then. He (witness) had order? to see that there was no tipping furtherfthau tho centre of the rirer 5 thi? ha did, and. it not dona BD V until a few years ago remembered planting some willow trees on the ground in the year 1861; was sure it was the year, for he remembered Mr. Hill was too bad to come 1to see it; they planted them on the land in question, which was between the old and present bed of the river; Mr. Hill always exercised rights over this piece of land, and he was much more careful of it after the Gethin Pits had been opened remember Mr. Daniel Lewis holding the ground of the Duffryn Farm from Mr. Rowland Thomas, of the Aber, the owner.—Mr Howell DP. vies said he was surveyor to the Plymouth Company, and had been so for the last five years was present on the land in question in July, 1866, with Mr. Fothergill and his mineral agent, also Mr. Crawshay and his surveyor and mineral agent. Mr. Craw- shay was tipping on it at the time he took a survey of the land in April, 1866; Mr. Crawshay agreed at the interview not to tip on the land in question, and also not to touch the minerals underneath they then tipped on their own land at the north end the Abercanaid Farm is on the west of the river the piece of land in question is also on the west side; the Abercanaid Farm is the property of the Plymouth Iron Company.—Mr Smith, mineral agent, said he lived at Aberdare, and came over to Merthyr two or three times a week he had given permission for the child- ren of Plymouth workmen to play upon the piece of land in question, for that was the only way they could show their right to it; was aware that an amicable arrangement had been come to between Messrs. Crawshay and Fothergill, respecting this piece of land the right of working the coal would of course be held by those that had the'surface.—Mr. Simons banded in several plans showing the course of the oict river, and the present one, which had been altered years ago, so as to prevent the river flooding Abercanaid and Troedyrhiw; by so altering the course of the river this piece of land, which was between the old and new courses had been saved; it was quite evident that the prosecutor had no right whatever on it; and he was certain that the land owners would agree very well about it.—The Bench agreed with Mr. Simons that they had no jurisdiction, and they therefore dismissed the case. DRUNK AND RIOTOUS.—Daniel Davies was summoned for being drunk and riotous at Pontlottyn on the 1st inst. -P.C. Davies fully proved the charge, and defendant was fined 7s. 6d. and costs. SIMILAR CHARGE.-J ohanna Cleary was summoned for a similar offence on the 29th ult.-P.C. Job Davies said that about ten o'clock on the above date he saw the defendant very drunk and riotous at Pontlottyn also saw her running out of a public-house at another woman, and catching hold of her bonnet, tearing it to pieces, for which offence she was fined at the last court.—Defendant denied being drunk, as was stated by the omcer.—The Bench, in consideration that she was fined heavily before, dismissed the present case. BOARD OF HEALTH ARREARS.—Mr Richard Irving, fruiterer, Pontmorlais, again appeared in answer to a summons for 10s 6d water rates.—Mr Ollard appeared for the Board of Health, and stated in the opening of the case that he hoped the Bench would not dismiss the case upon the mere statement of the defendant's servant girl, who it was stated had paid the rates for if they did so, they would have all the defaulters coming there and swear they had paid the rates.-The servant girl of the defendant was then called and positively swore that she had paid all the rates to the collector but the receipts she supposed had been mislaid.—On being cross-examined by Mr Ollard, she persisted in saying that she had paid every claim Mr W. T. Jones, the late collector had made upon her master, and in fact he had never called twice for the money, but as to the dates, or when he called last, she had no recollec- tion.-During the hearing of the case, Mr Simons who was in the court, suggested that they should bring the late collector forward to say whether the amount had been paid. —Mr Irving agreed, for he was certain that Mr Jones would endorse his statement; but it appeared that Mr Jones was not in town, having left some time ago for London.—Mr Irving wished to know why they did not produce the old books and counterfoils, by which it would be seen plainly that he had paid.—The Bench were also of the opinion that it was very desirable that the counterfoils should be produced.—Mr Ollard then applied for an ad- journment for a week in order that a search might be made for them.After some further conversation the Bench agreed to adjourn the case for another week, and they re- marked that should not conclusive evidence be then forth- coming they would dismiss the case.—Mr Simons observed that he could not speak in terms sufficiently strong in con- demnation of the course the Board of Health had pursued for they were summoning the poor ratepayers, whilst the real offender they let off. ASSAULT.—Mary Williams v. Sarah Davies.—This was a common assault case, in which from the prosecutrix's state- ment the defendant had struck her with a water jack this defendant strongly denied.—Witnesses were called for both sides.—Defendant caused much laughter in court by excla- mations such as she has killed my arms and the kettle" and Oh dear, oh dear where will she stand in the day of judgment. -The Bench after patiently hearing the whole of the evidence dismissed the case. WEDNESDAY.—(Before R.o C. Greenwood, and T. J. Evans, Esquires.) COAL STEALING.—A girl named Ann Thomas was' brought up charged with stealing 95 lbs. of coal, the property of Messrs the Rhymney Iron Co.—Mr Evan Havard said he was employed as an overlooker at the coal stands of the Rhymney Iron Co. on Friday last he saw the prisoner getting over a stile with some coal; the path led through a field in the direction of Pontlottyn there were two or three other little girls with her; she had three lumps which she was carrying over the stile, when he saw her there was a stock of coal about ten yards from the, style; the coal was the property of the Rhymney Iron Co, • he removed the three lumps, which he took from the prisoner, into the weighing house, and afterwards gave them up to the police officer.—By Mr Lewis, magistrates' clerk Did not see her take it from the stock he was certain it was taken from the stock, because it was the same precisely as was kept there.-P.S. Meek said he arrested prisoner about nine o'clock last nio-ht from information he had received from last witness, and charged her with stealing 95 Ibs. of coal, the property of the Rhymney Iron Co. she replied, Well it is my first time I did take one lump, but half of it was slag; it was the very first time I was there for coal." He received some coal from the previous witness, which, he said, was the coal stolen; it weighed 95 lbs., and was worth about 3d he (witness) had made the case known to the manager of the works, who had instructed him to prosecute. —Prisonev who was crying the whole of the time, on being asked if she had anything to say, replied that she had only taken one of the lumps, and the other three girls who W'Jre with her had taken the others.The Bench fined her 10a including costs. DRUNK AND RIOTOUS. -Richard Thomas; was charged with being drunk and riotous on Brecon-road on Mondav dlnTwls ffn'T?'0' C,hal'ley proved -the eharSe, and defen- ctant was nnad 5s. and costs. mZ?U-rmtii~-S?aC Davies was again brought up on re- mand charged wi;h unlawfully wounding Elizabeth Evans The case was reported in our last week's police news' when it will be remembered that the proseciitri.rcould nob be found. To-day she appeared, and said that on the 7th inst. she went into the .Patriot Inn anVI aaw +u there he ™s e.ting.bread and ehi ^h?ied ETte a share of it, when he said, I win cu'fc v f/" at the same time he drew the back of a knife that tz heM in his bands across her throat; she immediately raia cut and weiit to the police-station the prisoner ran after her but did not catch her this occurred just before oneo'clock- later in the afternoon they had a glass of beer they were joking together, when he struck her she did not attend that day week, because Mary, the person who lives with piuSOwu' made away, and gave her a half-crown, which they spent at Cefn she was certain that the prisoner did not cut her purposely.-Mr. Rees Miles, surgeon, said he saw the prosecutrix on Wednesday, the 1st of June, and found that she had a superficial wound on the neck, but it stated°That atW ~The,iEcnch said that as. the prosecutrix 7 7? ,e, woull(i was not done intentionally, but tb.ft U" V]°y Y0U dlsmiss the case, and they hoped that this would act as a warning to prisoner to be mora careful in future when he was handling a knife. MERTHYR BOARD OF GUARDIANS, The usuai weeldy meeting was held on S?.tnrday when there were presentMessrs. G. T. Clark irh„; T ? Lewis, R. d. Khys, D. E. Willi.™, W L ESMTW' liams, J. W. James, M. Edwards, D. Bevan H T ^.y>s> w- T. Lewis, L. Rhys, T. Jenkins, W. Gould' C.' F HaiTies. Kevs* J- and G.' The minutes of the last meeting were read and confirmed. APLE-BODIED PAUPERS. Mr J. T. Longe, one of the Poor Law Inspectors, atten- ded upoB the Board, applying that they would ^dopt prohibitory order, in respect to the relief of able-bodied! paupers, and which had been issued by the Poor Law Board some short time ago. Merthyr, and one or two smalt Unions, he said were the only places throughout Wales, that had not adopted it. He was quite aware that such an> order was not at all necessary in this Union for no relief, was given to able-bodied men, but he asked them to caa- +K -p T apii, the simPle reason that it would aive the Poor Law Board more power in other parts of the country. By consenting to the prohibitory order, it would not in the least alter the present system of giving relief; the only difference would be, supposing that some time or other a large number of men were out of employment and applied for relief, the Board would then have to notify the fact to the Poor Law Board and get its consent to relieve those persons. He thought the Board should consent to its being applied for, aud he hoped that all the members pre- sent were of the same opinion. The Chairman remarked that it was now for the Board jo. say if they consented to the application for the prohibi- tory order. Ho was strongly in favour of it, for they had always acted rigidly in the matter of not relieving able- ooaiea men. • history' 0?deUhyS always thousht tbey were under the pro- The Clerk Weare under the regulation order. ,.r j ?ys was also in favour of the prohibitory ordeB Beihe* applied to this Union, and the sooner it was applied ;hef thought the better, for it would strengthen the haatfa of the Guardians. The Clerk observed that if they at present relieved able bodied men they were obliged to find them work to db Mr. James thought they should not consent to its being applied for for the more power they (the Board) had the better. He was of opinion that the Poor Law Board hadi too much power already, and that was the reason he 01), jected to its being applied for. 1 Mr. Gould was opposed to fettering the Board. IT. e thought they should be at liberty to act as they bliour e fii. He then instanced a case of a man with several r' 'i dreu, and who earned but small wages the children not allowed to work and in fact the country were compelling the poor man to send his children to. 8 ahout a man in such circumstances applied to thena > UO01* If they should be exercising very arbitrary powej' ie thought not relieve such a person, if they did Mr. Rhys said, that 1>hey had no powea- lieve able-bodied men unless they put their present to re- The Chairman observed that there, w-s? a to work- the Board, no motion before Mr. I>onge then replied, a^d sa* offered against consenting to the or/ that the argument its favour. The great obiect of t> was' he thought, in to prevent the giving of relief t ie Board was the agricultural districts the V 0 able-bodied PauPers. In wages, which had to bp -oourers were paid very low The original idea had beei* > JPPlemented by parish relief, so that the natural ,u0 prevent this supplementing, labourers. jlt would be higher wages to the ther°(]iacussed.n PVoposed' and the subJect was not fur- rrii MASTER'S KEPGET. ? e 'weekly report of the master was read and ?m appeared that there had been 25 admitted ingTa'tht} ^scharfJ> f ? 3 di«d the week remain'- ing id tnQ nouae, being a decrease of 7 upon the cor- ETSfsJSii°lthe pKV,ous year- Iud the Ðoa.rct tho. the liBt,