The Illustrated Usk Observer and Raglan Herald

Btvttjs. At Court Robert Farm, near Raglan, Oct. 19, the wife of Mr. William Evans, of a son. tftarrtage*. At Old Handsworfh church, Birmingham, recently, by the Rev. H.R.Peel, Mr. J S. Meredith, bookseller, Aber. gavenny, to Sophia, youngest daughter of Knapp, of Farringdon, Berks. At the Registrar's Office, Abergavenny, October 14, Mr. Francis Evans, New Home, Llanvetherine, to Miss Elizabeth Evans, daughter of Mr. F. Evans, of the Crow- :field, Llantidio Pertholey. » IBeatfjs. At Raglan, Oct. 17, Mrs. Willetts, widow, aged 83 years. At Llandenny, October 14, the infant sou of Mr. John Andrews. At Beech Hill, near Usk, Oct. 18, in her 95th year, Dorothy, relict of the late Henry Pocock, Esq., J. P. At Llanarth, Oct. 22, the wife of Mr. Alexander, head keeper on the Llanarth Court estate, aged 45 years At the Green Farm, Llantiliio Crossenny, October 13, Ann, the beloved wife of Mr. John Lewis, deeply re- gretted. At the King's Arms inn, Llanvetherine, Oct. 14, Vernon, infant son of Mr. Samuel Pritehard.

TO CORRESPONDENTS AND READERS Abergavenny Cricket averages, and Quarterly Meeting of Philanthropic Institution at Llantiliio. next week. ■

USK FARMERS' CLUB. The working of this little society, our agricul- tural readers will be glad to learn, is progressing satisfactorily; its operations are not on a very ex- tended scale, it is true, but they are useful. The aim is, to create improvement in the culture of the land— a very important subject, and one which is not thought unworthy of the attention of the scientific magnates of the day and indeed, why should it be, when the land available for the production of the staple com- modities of life in this country, is so inadequate to the consumption? It behoves, not only the farmer, but all classes to aid in perfecting those modes of cultivation by which the land may be made as productive as possible, as a means of lessening our dependence on other nations for the supply of such commodities. That bringing the workmen into competition is one step towards effecting this desir- able object, there can be no question. \Ve revert with pleasure to the time wnen ploughing compe- titions first became general, and the marked improve- ment in the work generally throughout the country, which followed. But, to return to the more imme- diate proceedings of the Usk Farmers' Club. The Annual Meeting was held on Friday, 17th inst, and was attended by a goodly number of farmers from various parts of the county. THE PLOUGHING MATCH Took place, under an auspicious sky, on an admirably adapted clover ley and stubble, situated on the Rhadyr farm, near the town, in the occupation of Mr. Wm. B. Gething. At ten o'clock, the signal was given, and forty ploughmen started, in the different classes, tor the allotted task, viz.: "Halt-an-acre of land in the best and most workmanlike manner, within four hours, with a pair of horses without driver, flavs to be used, and the ploughing to be six inches deep." The land had been well prepared by the preceding heavy rain, and, in fact, in every res- pect the arrangements were complete. Amongst the competitors for the Champion Prizes, were the ploughmen of Messrs. Hornsby and Son, Grantlftim, and ot Messrs. J. & F. Howard, Bedford, agricultural implement makers. Both of these men, as may be imagined, brought excel- lent implements to their work, both being of the wheel description, and combining all recent improvements. That the best workmen are not always those who possess the best tools, we are aware, but that the tool has contributed considerably to thesuccessof Messrs. Hornsby's man appears j ou t he face 01 it; his tusk being executed with such exact- ness and regularity as to surpass anything of the kindi ever seen at the meetings of this club, althougL they have been always looked upon as occasions for the exhibition of ploughmanship of the first order. The 40 competitors ploughed as follows: 7 in the champion class; 6 in the farmers'sons' class; 22^ in the servants' class, and 5 in the boys' class. The onerous duties of Judges ot the ploughing,' and also of the neatest farm, thatching, and hedging, were performed in a very satisfactory manner by Mr. W. Pride, ot Llanvihangel Ruggiett, near Cnepstow, and Mr John Jones, Llwynygaer, near Raglan. Amongst the win- ning ploughs were 1 of Hornsby's make, 2 of Howard's, and 2 of Kell's; the remainder being oi country make. THE SHOW OF PRODUCE Took place at the Three Salmons Hotel, in the after- noon. Eight excellent samples of butter were exhibited, and so keen was the competition, that Major Herbert, who kindly assented to act as judge, had the greatest difficulty in selecting the most deserving of the prize; however, after a very careful examination, he gave his decision as shewn in the awards, which was borne out by the opinions of a large number ot persons who had come to examine for their own curiosity. .LHE DINNER Took place at the Three Salmons Hotel, and was served up in such a manner as to win the highest enconiums from those who partook of it. Major M'Donnell presided, and was supported by Jas. Bromfield, Esq., and the Rev. Jas. Cadwallader; whilst Reginald Herbert, Esq., occupied the vice-chair, supported by Major Herbert and Captain Scrope. Amongst the company, which numbered about 40, were the following Messrs. William Cadle, Llancayo; Peter Marfell, G. Marfell, and W. Marfell, the Cwm farm; W. Pride, Llanvihangel Roggiett; John Jones, Llwynygaer; Warren Evans, Llundowlas; G. Knight, Kemeys Com-j mander; W. B. Fisher, Trostrey; Davies, Langstone Court; W. G. Williams, the Sluvad; A. Cutbbertson, Llangibby; Alfred Gething, Penrhos farm; James Wil- liams, Llanbaddock; W. Davies, Celndrinog; Jas. Phillips, jun., Trestevan Edward Matthews, Raglan Astlebury,! Grantham, Lincolnshire; and J. D. Falconer, Esq., H. Greatwood, Esq., Messrs. John Herbert, Joseph Evans, and J.H. Clark, of Usk, &c., &c. The ample repast having been concluded, and the cloth removed, the Chairman proposed, in fitting terms, the healths of The Queen," and the "Prince of Wales and Royal Family," which were loyally received. The Chairman next gave The Army, Navy, and Volunteers." Their common motto was Defence, not Defiance;" (bear, hear,)—'hat, however, may be altered by contingencies which it was possible might occur and i if their motto became "Defiance," they would doubtless be as good as their word. (Cheers). JVlonmouthshire was eminently a military county. (Cheers.) There was the 4i>rd Infantry; and they could also boast of a famous Welsh regiment—the Fusiliers. (Applause). He well remembered when many volunteered out of the former to serve in the latter, and went forth to aid in fighting their country's battles, and whose bones had been left to bleach on a foreign soil. (Hear, hear). Besides, there were three battalions ot volunteer, exclusive ot artillery; and he thought there were none more efficient, and though perhaps he should not say it—there was not a better corps in any town in the county, than the town of Usk possessed, (Applause). He was sorry to say that they did not at all times fulfill the strict letter of the law and discipline of soldiers—they did not at all times econo- mise their powder. (Cheers.) He alluded to a circum- stance that occurred in the summer; but he should have made no reference to it were he not one of them. (Cheers). The toast was coupled with the name of Ensign Greatwood. Ensign Greatwood understood there was a senior volun- teer officer in the room, and he should therefore feel obliged by his responding. Captain Scrope said he should have much pleasure in doing so. (Hear, hear.) At the commencement the organi- zation of volunteers corps was denominated a movement, but now he considered the volunteers an institution of the country—(Cheers)—'which was likely to continue. He was glad to hear the Usk corps had the name of being one of the best corps in the county. (A voice The best). The President: One of the best, I said. (Laughter). Captain Scrope: Well, he believed Englishmen were proverbially loyal; and he had no doubt the Monmouthshire men would not yield to the Yorkshire men in that respect. (Laughter). He was half a Monmouthshire man himself, and proud he was of it. (Cheers.) The Members for the County and Boroughs," The Lord Lieutenant," and "The Bishop, and Clergy, and Ministers of all denominations," weie proposed. The Rev. Jas. Cadwallader responded to the latter toast, and enlarged upon the benefits to all classes con- cerned, arising from meetings such as had that day been held. Mr. J. H. Clark then read the Award of Prizes, re- marking that the numberof competitors for the ploughing prizes that day, had been three less than last year, when the greatest number that had ever competed during the nineteen years the Society bad existed, assembled. This slight diminution, however, was attributable to the unfavorable weather the preceding night, as four or five had entered who had not attended. AWARD OF PRIZES. Champion Class.-Open to all England. First prize, £ 5, given by His Honor Judge Falconer.. George Brown, pl jughman to Messrs. Hornsby and Son, Grantham, Lin. colnshire. Second prize, ;S3.. Phitip Leonard, Llangibby. The following also competed in this class: Leonard Lewis, servant to E. Lister, Esq., Cefn Iia; Wm. Morgan, ditto; John Badhaja, servant to Mr. T. Rogers, Llantrissent; John Reece, servant to Messrs. J. and F. Howard, Bed. tbrd and Richard Reece, Wernhere. Class I.-For farmers and farmers' sons. 1st prize, t3.. Mr. George Marfell, the Cwm, Clytha. 2nd prize, £ 2.. Mr. Henry Waters, Llangibby. The other competitors were: Messrs. Hercules Jones, Mamhilad; Benjamin Reece, Wernhere Henry Morgan, Wernhere; and Wm. Cadle, jun., Llancayo. Class 2.-Fur ploughmen. 1st prize, £ 3..Thomas Mor- gan, servant to Mr. Davies, Langstone Court. 2nd prize, £ 2.. James Davies, servant to Mr. Crump, Estavarnev. 3rd prize, £1 10s..Wiltiam Williams, servant to Mr. Benj. Reece, Wernhere. 4th prize, £ 1..Lewis Walters, servant to Mr. Warren Evans, Llandowlas. 5th prize, 10s..John Falkwell, servant to Mr. W. Cndle, Llancayo. John Par- sons, servant to John A. Williams, Esq., Llangibby, highly commended. There were 22 competitors in this class. Class 3.—For the son or servant of a farmer under 20 years of age. 1st prize, jBl 10s..Joseph White, servant to Mr. Wm. Cadle, Llancayo. 2nd prize, dBl..Charles Waters, servant to Mr. Warren Evans, Llandowlas. 6 competitors. Class 4.-Three Guineas, given by His Grace the Duke of Beaufort, for the neatest larm.. Mr. Wm. Cadle, Llan. cayo. Mr. Warren Evans, Llandowlas, the only other competitor, highly commended. Class 5.—For the best set and thatched ricks. 1st prize, £1 Is.; 2nd prize, 10s.6d. Leonard Lewis, servant to E. Lister, Esq., Celn Ila, was the only candidate in this class, but as the work was highly deserving, he was awarded the first prize. Class 6.—For hedging three perches within 6 hours. 1st prize. £ 1..Levi Beavan, servant to lltyd Nicholl, Esq. 2nd prize, 10s.Divided between Richard Redman, ser- vant to E. Lister, Esq., and Samuel Monkley, servant to Mr. E. Price, Kemeys. Class 7.—One Guinea for the best sample of butter, not less than 6 lbs. Mrs. Lewis, Llanwysk. The other com- petitors were: Mrs. Bigham, Llanerthil; Mrs. Rober s, Llanbaddock; Mrs. Walters, LI ndennv; Mrs. Stephens, Usk Mrs. Jfrost, Llandenny; Miss Williams, Redgate. Class 8.-0ne Guinea tor best half cwt. of cheese. Mr. Kerr, Wolreanewton, was the only candidate. Prize not awarded. Class 9.—10s. for the best couple of fowls for the table. No entry. Class 10.—One Guinea, given by Mr. James Williams, for the best fat. pig, fed by a cottager. William Morgan, Llanbaddock. At the conclusion of the reading of the awards, the Chairman proposed, in complimentary terms, the health of Mr. Clark. The latter briefly replied, regretting, that in consequence of indisposition, he had not been able to look to the affairs of the club as much as he had wished during the past week; but he felt much pleasure in forwarding the inter- ests of the society, and all he had ever done towards that end, had been done cheerfully." The President gave "Success to the Usk Ploughing Match," a duty which, he said, ought to have devolved upon Major Stretton; but he (the Chairman) had just received a note from the Major, explaining that at the last moment he was prevented attending, owing to a casuality which had befallen his butler, by the upsetting of a boat on the river, and which had nearly resulted fatally. Alter giving expression to some eulogistic re. marks in reierence to M. jor Stretton, the President ob- served that it seemed odd to him that the varied interests ot the town were not better represented; it was called a i farmers' dinner; and it had literally, been a farmers' din- ner. Moniuout shire (the speaker continued) possessed | great capacities tor the improvement of agriculture; ancl i notwithstanding they had made considerable progress, they might make still more. He laiioied there was asgood land in this county as in any in the kingdom and there was as good, and perhaps as bad, farming as anywhere in the world. Then the agriculture of the county was greatly assisted by the societies which existed. There was the Tredegar Cattle Show besides other smaller meetings in every town in the county, excepting Pontypool; last, but not least, of which might be mentioned the Usk Ploughing Match. (Hear, hear.) He might congratulate them on the point to which this society had arrived. (Cheers.) He had not been able to go over the ground, h..f- hn. tho ttiaf r! ■> „ h,(HI h..o..o.n avitul He believed also, the financial position of the society was good. The separate fund siiewed a considerable increase but he trusted it was susceptible of being further stretched, and that they would go on obtaining still turther additions. (Cheers.) The Vice-Chairman briefly proposed "The Successful Candidates." (Cheers). Mr. Astlebury, representative of Me'ssrs. Hornsby and Son, replied, and in the course of his remarks, advocated the use of the wheel plough in preference to the swing plough. He was in the habit ot travelling the country, and attending the different ploughing matches, and be must say, he bad never been present at any where the arrangements had been better made, or greater order main- tained throughout the proceedings, than he had observed that day. It was highly creditable to those who had the superintendence of it. (Cheers.) The Vice-Chairman gave The Subscribers,"—which, he said, in one sense, might be called the toast of the evening. For, without subscribers, they would have no society—no dinner—no anything. (Cheers and laughter.) He hoped the Subscribers would come down liberally next year. (Cheers.) Coupled with the toast were the names of the Duke of Beaufort, Judge Falconer, and Mr. Brom- field. (Hear, hear.) Mr. Bromfield responded to the toast, and referring to the object of the meeting, said these were admirable as- sociations, and he could n6t help looking back to the dif- ferent state of things which existed some time ago. These were times in which it behoved the British farmer to look sharp, and keep his eJes open to the main chance. But when he saw the intelligent farmers around him, and knew of what materials the British farmer was composed, he felt a well grounded confidence that he need fear no com- petition, if he only made good use of his faculties and of the sharpness with which nature had endowed him. (Cheers.) He no more peed fear competition than Britons under any circumstances need fear it. The speaker referred to the number ot machines in use in the present day, for dis- placing and yet increasing labour, and proceeded were he a farmer, be would bring up his son well; give him the best education he could; put all the knowledge possible into his head; and he would be bound Jack or Tom would make more money out of the farm than his father bad done. He had been astonished, when in Cheshire and Shropshire a short time since, to find what knowledge the young farmers there possessed of geology, mineralogy, chemistry and the like. Acquaintance with these matters was necessary to farming, and these farmers acknowledged it by giving their sons good educations. He recommended the same course to those present. The earth was a good material, and the more they put into iti the more they would get out of it. The farmers need fear no competi- tion, for on this island it was all their own produce. They did not draw their raw materials from other countries, like the cotton manufacturers, who depended on America for cotton, and when that source of supply was dried up, thousands were involved In starvation. Agriculture was deserving of support, and small associations, like their own, bad an especial claim on the support of the people of the locality-on the tradesmen of the town, whom he was sorry to see so badly represented. In conclusion, he hoped the society wonld go on, as it had done, improving as much as possible, and he would back the British farmer against the world. (Cheers.) Major Herbert gave The Unsuccessful Candidates." He believed this was the only society at whose meetings there was in reality no unsuccessful candidates; for, through the kindness of Mrs. Pocock and Mrs. Relph, all the competitors had something for their pains, and he thought the names of those ladies should be coupled with the toast. Mr. Greatwood said he was sorry to interrupt the speaker; but be was sure Major Herbert would pardon him. Mrs. Pocock was in that condition that he felt they should omit drinking her health and rather give expression to that sympathy which the family would probably in a short time need, the lady he had named not being expected to live from hour to hour. Major Herbert was not aware of that, and would there- fore return to the toast. It was something for the little town of Usk to be proud of, that it possessed the best ploughing match not only in the county, but for many miles round. They had had a proof of that in the fact of the gentleman who had just left the room (Mr. Astlebury) having been sent with a plough so great a distance. While on the subject of ploughing, he might mention a matter which he recollected occurring at the first ploughing match he attended at Usk. At that time he sent a wheel plough; but his ploughman was not a very good one, and did not win the prize. A farmer of considerable experience, and who was looked up to in the district, talking about swing and wheel ploughs, pooh poohed his (the speaker's) wheel plough, which was on the same principle as that which had taken the prize that day, and said it was not suited for Monmouthshire. But that was only six years since; and now a man from a distance, with the same kind of plough, and with strange horses, came and won the prize. That ought to be a hint to farmers, not to despise an im- plement on its first introduction into the county, as was the case with his wheel plough, he being then the only man in the district who had one of the kind. (Ap- plause). Mr. Cadle briefly acknowledged the toast. Mr. Greatwood gave The Health of Major Stretton," who, be said, was a liberal supporter of agriculture, an ardent upholder of the chase, and who did everything in his power to further the prosperity and welfare of the neighbourhood. [Drank with musical honors.] Mr. Bromfield proposed The health of the Chairman." [Great applause.] The President responded to the toast in appropriate terms, and fiave the health of the Vice-Chairman. [Loud cheers.] He could say much in praise of Mr. Reginald Herbert, but he would content himself with observing that he was the representative of a father who was a kind and considerate landlord — the farmer's friend. I [Applause.] He was one of a family, every member of which was beloved and respected by both rich and poor of their acquaintance. [Cheers.] He was sure their Vice-Chairman's name, whether Jones or Herbert, would long be honoured in the land. LDrank with mu. sical honours.] The Vice-Chairman, in responding, said this was the first time he had attended the meeting, but he hoped in future, he should see them every year. [Cheers.] He understood he was to be President next year, and he trusted they would rally round him in large numbers. [Applause]. Major Herbert gave the health of Captain Relph, dwelling upon the valuable services be had rendered the Society during a peiiod of seventeen years. [Ap- plause.] The Press was next given and responded to. The Rev.J. Cadwallader proposed "The health of Major Herbert," which was drank with musical honors. Major Herbert said he thought if anybody outside had heard the jcbeers ha had just listened to, and knew it was a chief constable they were designating a "jolly good fel- low," they would tiling it an equivalent to saying he was a very bad chief constable—f 1—lor it was almost impossible for a man in that position to carry out his au- ties, which were often times unpleasant, and, at the same time, be a "jolly good fellow." But what he had always done, and should always try to do, was to act in a straight- forward manner, and carry out his duties fairly and im- partially. [Cheers. J The Chairman gave the "Healths of the Judges." Mr. Jones, Llwynygaer,in replying on behalf of him- self and colleague, said ther had performed their difficult task to the best of their a>ilities, and if they had erred in their decisions, it was frcm want of judgment. [Cheers.] The President gave" Tie Visitors," coupled with the name of Captain Scropq and that gentleman duly acknowledged the toast. Mr. Bromfield proposed the Town and Trade of Usk,' strongly commenting on the non-attendance of the towns- people in larger numbers. Mr. Dowell said there bid been a Grand Jury dinner I last week, and the Portretve's dinner would take place in the following week, which may probably account lor their absence. Mr. Clark said there was one gentleman's health which they never omitted todank at their annual meeting, it was that of Henry Mortonnier Ha/wkins, Esq.; he bad been a suppo) ter and we.l|-wisher gt the club from its com- mencement; and he svas p-rsonallj known to many pre- sent he was a kind hearted gentleman, and the speaker regretted that a severe affiction prevented his now ever appearing among them. Cheers.] The Vice-Chairman remtrked that he was fond of a good horsey and he would neit year give dBo for the best nag colt or filly, by a thorough bred horse, and bred by the exhibitor. [Cheers,] Mr. Bromfield sugjestel the advisability of having a cattle show in connection with the ploughing match, and ho was willing to give two sovereigns towards that object. Mr. Clark explained that the scheme had been tried for two or three years, bit the limited amount of subscriptions admitted but of few n-izes being given, and they were not of sufficient value toinduce a competition, consequently there were never m('e than two or three entries and as the shows at Monnbuth, Abergavenny, and Chepstow, were on so much nore extended scale, it had been deemed desirable to liscontinue the prizes for stock. Several gentlemencorroborated Ciark's views, and the opinion appeard to be, that as Usk had the best ploughing match in he neighbourhood, it would be advi- sable to keep that til, and not attempt the establishment of a stock show, whih could only prove a very meagre aSair but if an altration were made, it would, be better to offer really good p-izes for a few classes, that they might have some good animals shewn. Mr. Clark said asjj-. Herbert had offered a prize for a colt, there was an owning for Mr. Bromfield to give his prize of two guineasfor the best pair of horses used at the ploughing match. Mr. Bromfield ultmately decided to give his two guineas for the best sow art litter of not less than six pigs, and not less than six wijks old. After a few otheitoasts had been given, and responded to, the meeting teininated.

CHEPST)W FARMER'S CLUB. The PloughingMatch connected with this society took place on Tutday last. The fields for the con- test of skill were wo clover leys on Haysgate farm, about two miles istant from Chepstow, belonging to Mr. Charles Candler, and the judges were Mes- srs. Wm. Langle; Lanvair, T P Williams, Beachley, and Henry Butt,Jortskewitt. The start was given at ten o'clock, ad there were 50 competitors, viz- 3 farmers' sons uder 21 years of age; 2 ditto under 18 32 servants f members 8 ditto under 18 and champions, Tø visitors to the field were most hospitably eptertined by Mr. Chandler at his house, At five o'clockhe members and their friends sat down to a very calal dinner at the Black Rock hotel, New Passage, at bich Capt. Savery presided and Mr. T Peachey Williap filled the vice chair. Amongst the company were J. 3 Snead, Esq. and Messrs. J P James, T. Perkins, J. Dobs, and G. Howell, Chepstow; Mr. W. Langley, Lanvair ;[r C Chandler, Hays Gate; Mr Till, Caerwent; Mr H Williams, Mr Duckham, Mr Clark, Mr. John William &c &c, Capt. Savery rose and apologized for the absence of Mr. Curre, the president of the society, who was absent from home on urgent business, or he should say, urgent plea- sure, being at Gloucester races; however be trusted that lie (the speaker) may be found an efficient substitute. As the prizes would have to be awarded he would not delay the business of the evening, but proceed at once to give them the Health of the Queen," which he was sure as loyal subjects they would do honor to. The chairman after giving His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales," gave The Army, Navy, Militia, Vo- lunteers, and Yeomanry Cavalry," and remarked that all the branches of the service were not represented at the table, but the last mentioned were. The toast was responded to by Captain Savery, on behalf of the 36th light infantry, Sergt. Clark, 8th Mon., on behalf of the volunteers and Mr. TimmS) on behalf of the yeomanry cavalry, each of whom made some appro- priate remarks on the branches to which they belonged, and should they be required to face an enemy, they would not flinch from their duty, but would be found ever ready to defend the honor of England. After The Lord Lieutenant," & Bishop and Clergy" had been given, the Hon. Sec. read the AWARD OF PRIZES. For ploughing halr.ali.acre of land in 4 hours with a pair of horses without a driver. I.-To the son of a member not exceeding 21 yrSiof age. First prize, 92 2s,—Son of Mr. INiullins, Duncastle Second pv'ifce, £ 1 Is.—Son of Mrb. Townsend, New passage 2.—To the son of a member not exceeding 18 yrs. of age. First, 92 2s,—Henry Peachey son of Mr. J P Williams. Second, jBl Is.—J Langley, son of Mr Matthew Langley 3—To the ploughman in employment of a member. First, 20, 2s.—W Smith, servant to Mr W Dowle, Chapel Second,gl 10s.—Wm Jones „ Rev E T Williams Third, £ 1—Zach. Arnold „ Mr Valentine Parsons Fourth, 15s-Wm. Green „ Mr. Woodall Fifth, 10s.—Edwin Walters „ Mr Davies, Langstone 4.—To the servant of a member under 18 years of age First, 91 lOs-Jas. Hughes serv. to Mr W Dowle, Chapei Second £ 1—Edwin Jeremy „ Mrs Dowle, Claypits Third 10s—George Morgan „ Mr Cadle, Howick Fourth 5s-Robert Hewlett „ Mr Parker, Caerwent 6—The Champion prize, open to all England. First 92 2s-Peter Lewis, serv. to Mrs Dowle, Claypits Second tl lOs-Isaae Smith, „ Mr T Dowle, Ilton Third A;I-John Rees, „ Messrs Howard, Bedford At the conclusion of the list Mr. T P Williams informed the members that half-a-guinea was at the disposal of the committee to be divided among the unsuccessful compe- titors. The ploughing of the boys was very good, and as there were four unsuccessful ones, he suggested they should be given 2s. 6d. each. Mr. D Baker had also given two guineas for the like purpose, which he considered should be divided as follows; Phipps, Mr. Hilliar's man Thomas Morgan, Mr Davies's man; and ThomasAnthony, Mr. Wm. Dowle's man, 7s. 6d. each. Wm. Lane, Mr Mattliews's man, and Capt. Savery's man 5s. each. Wm. Frain, Mr Parker's man; James Morris, Mr Woodall's man; and Mr J P James's man, 3s. each. The "Health of Mr Chandler," The Successful Com- petitors," The Chairman," Vice-chairman," Hon. Secretary," and a number of other toasts were afterwards given and responded to and tbe meeting terminated SOQU after eight o'eiook, It will be seen by advertisement, that the Annual Meeting of the Monmouthshire District Committees of the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge, and the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts, is intended to be held in the Town Hall, Ponty- pool, on Thursday next.

USK. DEATH OF MRS. POCOCK OF BEECH HILL.-lt is our melancholy duty this week to record the demise of this inestimable lady, which took place at five minutes to eleven p.m., on Saturday last. For upwards of forty years this lady has lived in the immediate vicinity of Usk, and before and since the decease of her much lamented husband Henry Pocock, Esq., J.P., who died in 1841, she has resided at Beech Hill. During this long period, she may be said to have lived in the hearts of the people of Usk to have rejoiced when they rejoiced, and to have wept when they wept for there seemed to be such a •avm.nnt.W existing between her and the inhabitants of Usk no matter to what class or creed they belonged that it bordered upon affection. To those of her own class she was a most agreeable and cheerful companion to the tradesmen of the town she was a kind and considerate friend to the poor she was a sympathizing and generous benefactor and to her servants she was a liberal and most indul- gent mistress. Although the deceased had arrived at the advanced age of ninety-four years, still her faculties were unsubdued by time, and she con- tinued up to a few hours of her death to take that lively interest she had always done- in the well- being of those around her, and to maintain that cheerfulness and amiability which characterised her disposition but at length her appetite began to fail, and although her vital parts seemed unim- paired, nature became exhausted, and she gradually I approached her dissolution. Truly may it be said that her's is a loss that will be felt, for never were the claims of charity, nor, indeed, demands of any kind upon her benevolence, allowed to pass I unsatisfied, CREMONA MUSICAL UNION.—On Wednesday and ] Thursday last, the above company, consisting of eight sisters and brothers—the famity of an army surgeon,— gave two entertainments at the Town Hall. On both occasions, the attendance was very spare, which may, no doubt, be attributed to a domestic affliction in one of the principal families in the neighbourhood. The entertain- ments were of a very pleasing character, and well deserved better support, which doubtless they would have obtained had it not been for the circumstance alluded to. ELECTION OF PORTREEVE.—On Tuesday last, D. E. Partridge, Esq., was re-elected Portreeve of the Borough for the ensuing year. The usual formalities wire observed on the occasion, and in the evening the Portreeve and his II friends dined together at the Three Salmons Hotel. Tho company was not numerous, but nevertheless a very pleas int evening was passed. The dinner itself was the I theme of much commendation.

RAGLAN. THE FAIR.—The autumnal fair took place on Thursday the 16th inst. The supply of all kinds of stock was much less than on former occasions, which may be accounted for by Hereford fair falling on the same day. Very few cattle changed hands. Some business in horses and pigs was effected at low prices. Sheep appeared to be in request, and the few that were offered were quickly caught up. Fat ones realised from 7d. to nod. per lb. Although the weather was fine, there were but few pleasure seekers in attendance, entertainments of the description usually offered on such occasions not appearing to be so attractive to the people of the neighbourhood as in past years. As usual, the ''roughs" finishei up the day with street brawls, and a few pugilistic exhibitions. REVIVALISM.—The distinguished revivalist preacher, O. Rodway, Esq., has been holding a series of services during the past week. in the Baptist Chapel, and has succeeded in producing, to use a popular phrase, quite a "sensation" amongst the people of the village and neighbourhood. The first service was held on the afternoon of Sunday, the 12th inst., and, on account of the very unpropitious state of the Weather, was rather thinly attended, but at the subsequent meetings the chapel was crowded to excess, apparently by very anxious and attentive listeners, each congregation numbering about four hundred persons. Mr. Rodway discoursed copiously upon The Power of Prayer. His manner as a preacher is highly popular, partaking very much of the theatrical, and although he cannot be consi. dered to rank as a first class speaker, he is evidently a man well adapted for the mission he has so disinterestedly undertaken, and which he appears to prosecute with unre- mitting xeal and devotion, His style of address is pathetic, graphic, very fervent, and full of stirring enthusiasm his language is simple and unassuming, but very effective. Every sentence he utters seems to impress his hearers with the deep sincerity of his purpose, viz.—that of reli. j gious propagandism, to which he devotes all his energies, and likewise, we are credibly informed, large sums of money, ROADSIDE THEFT.—Thomas O'Connor, William Baker' Mary Baker, and Eliza Cook, tramps, were charged before S. R. Bosanquet, Esq,, on the 18th inst., with stealing, on the previous day, a cotton dress of the value o" 3s. 6d., the property of Mrs. Griffiths, of Llanishen. It appeared that in about ten minutes after the accused parties were seen to pass by the house of the prosecutor, the dress was missed from a garden hedge, where it had. recently been put to dry after washing. The prisoners were (liseliarged for want of evidence. DRUNK AND RIOTous.-Francis Bailey, alias Perrin, labourer, was charged by the police, before S. Bosanquet, Esq., with being drunk and riotous, at Raglan, on the night of the 19th ult. I ined 5s.

ABERGAVENNY. MEETING OF tHE FISHING ASSOCIATION.—On Wed- nesday last, a general meeting of the United Usk Fishing. Association was held at the Angel Hotel in this town., There were present, Lord Llanover (in the chair) Capt, Crawshay, Capt. Lyne, Capt. William9, Major Herbert William W. Manning, Esq., James Bromfield, Esq. J. Walford, Esq., and Mr. W. H. Bosworth. The report of the committee was read, from which it appeared that there was a balance of dB88 due from the Association. After the subject had been discussed, it was recommended that the fence months be extended from the 1st Feb. to the 14th March, and Lord Llanover proposed that steps be taken for obtaining uniformity in the fence months throughout the kingdom. The matter was deferred. A discussion then arose as to the desirability of establishing a special guarantee fund for prosecuting persons found illegally taking fish. The proposition was adopted, and several gentlemen present expressed their willingness to contribute. It was announced that the Wye Fishing Association had agreed to unite with this Association in preserving the estuary of the Severn, and it was resolved that the co-operation of the Worcester Severn Association in the matter be solicited. After some minor matters bad been discussed, the meeting separated. THE NEW CATTLE MARKET.— We perceive that ope- rations have been commenced, and are being vigorously prosecuted for the construction of this much-desired em- porium. When completed, there can be no question that it will be a great boon to the town, as well as to the far- mers and dealers attending its markets. THE NEW RAILWAY.—On Wednesday last, several directors of the London and North Western Company, the lessees of this line, met the directors of the original Mertbyr, Tredegar, and Abergavenny Company, at the offices of the Secretary, W. F. Batt, Esq., and after trans- acting some preliminary business, proceeded up the line, accompanied by the staff of officials, for the purpose, it is said, of fixing upon sites for the future stations, and arranging other matters connected with the progress of the works. The passenger traffic of the new line still continues most satisfactory, and augurs well for increased benefits to be derived by the town when a greater extent of the line is opened. We are informed that two trains on last market day brought upwards of 500 persons into the town. TUESDAY'S MARKET was well supplied with stock of all kinds, as well as minor marketable commodities, but the attendance of buyers being limited, the demand was somewhat slack. The prices were as follow:-Fat beasts, 5tn. to 6d., and sheep 6td. to 7d. per lb. [sink the 2 2 offalj. Pigs a little in advance of former quotations. Fresh butter 15d., salt, ditto, Is., and geese 7d. per lb. Ducks 4s. 6d, to 5s. 3d., and fowls 2s. 3d. to 3s. per couple. Potatoes 8s. 6d. to 10s., apples 8s. to 10s., and pears 7s. to 8s. per sack. Beef and mutton' 7d. to 7|d per lb veal 7d., and pork 8d. per lb. Flour 8s. 4d per bushei 4 lb. loaf 6d. Quotations Wheat 57s. 6d.; and barley 34s. 8d. per imperial quarter. NINTH MONMOUTHSHIRE RIFLE CORPS.—It is de- cided that the above corps will be inspected by Major Roney, Assistant Inspector of Volunteers, one day during the next week. THE RIFLE BAND.—-We are truly gratified at being able to report that the differences which existed between the captain of the corps and the members of the band, have at length been amicably settled, and it is devoutly to be wished that a more harmonious feeling may for the fu- ture exist; for without cordiality, and the exercise of much forbearance it is impossible that any body of men com- bining together for a given purpose can ever carry out their arrangements with any degree of satisfaction. FLOODS IN THE RIVER.-During the latter part of last and the commencement of the present week, the River Usk became so much swollen that it overflowed its banks in this neighbourhood on several occasions. Owing to the timely indications given, no Serious damfl<?« ha™ :■ "ceptiiTg such as arises from the land being inundated, which at this season of the year is inconsiderable., PETTY SESSIONS, WEDNESDAY, before the Hon. W. P. RODNEY, and W. W. MANNING, Esq. A FEEBLE CHARGE,-ThoIDAS Baskerville and David Davies, two lads", were charged with stealing a quantity of walnuts, the property of Evan Jones, at Llanwenarth Citra, on Sunday, the 5th October. Prosecutor's wife de- posed to seeing the defendants, one in the tree shaking the walnuts, and the other picking them up and when she told them to desist, they" gave her impudence," and said they would not. Mr. Lawrence Baker appeared for defendants, and elicited from Mrs. Jones that the tree in question, Was situated in a hedge, separating prosecutor's land from that of Mr. lohn Edwards, of the White Spout, to whom the hedge belonged, and in whose service one of the defendants \VOIS. It further appeared that the lad who was picking up the walnuts, was on Mr. Edwards's side of the fence. At this stage, the Chairman stopped the proceedings, and remarking that Mr. Edwards had as muob or more right to the tree than prosecutor, dismissed the case. A QUESTION OF RIGHT.—George Hughes, farmer, Penpergwm, was charged at the instance ot the Aberga- venny Angling Association, with unlawfully attempting to take salmon in the river Usk. -.NLIr. Sayce appeared for Mr. Hughes, and submitted that the Court had no jurisdiction in the matter, inasmuch as a question of right was involved. Mr. Hughes rented the land on which he was charged with fishing, and contended that he had a perfect right to fish from it, notwithstanding the owner had granted the association permission to preserve the fishery. The bench not having power to entertain the case, it was dismissed. ASSAULT.-Thomas Coney wae: jarged on the informa- tion of John. Reed, with having assaulted him, at the Garndyrris Works, on the lltl1 instant. Complainant said he was at his work, filling ashes, on the day in ques- tion, when the defendant told him to discontinue, as he [defendant] could not stand it, and because he would not do so, defendant threw several lumps of coal at hiJll, put a red hot paddle close to his face, and struck hilll on the side with a red bot "paddle," at the same time using sundry threats as to loosing his guts out." Johs Meredith corroborated complainant's statement. Defen- dant said he had been annoyed by complainant throwing the ashes out of the pit, so that the dust and sulphut" wafted towards him, which was contrary to regulations, and upon his requesting him to desist, he commenced abusing him, and challenged him to fight, and that all he [defendant] did with the "paddle" was, to keep corn" plainant on'. John Williams an agent under the Blaenafon Company, at the Garndyrris Works, bore out the defen- dant's side of the question, and said complainant first struck deiendant with an iron rod. The bench, however, considered the defendant had been guilty of the offence, although he had been a uch provoked, and ordered him to pay the costs. OLD PERROTT AGAIN !—George Perks appeared to a summons, charging him with having possession of a bed, stead, the property of Thomas Perrott, of Llantiliio Per" tholey, an old man whose visits to this Court have beet somewhat frequent, in matters of dispute between himself and his wife. The complainant did not appear to wish to proceed against defendant, as he thought it probable tha6 his wife had given or lent him the bedstead, and the ca5¡) therefore fell to the ground.

CAERLEON, PETTY SESSIONS, T UESDA-Y.- [Before the Rev. W. POWELL and JOHN JAMES, Esq.] CHARGE OF STEALING COAL.—James Waite charged on remand from the previous petty sessions witj1 stealing 125 lbs. of coal, the property of Joseph Watkey Llantarnam. It appeared that while prisoner was en- gaged in hauling coal for the prosecutor, Police-constabl^ Burrows observed him throwing some lumps off the cat' into his own garden, and apprehended him. Watke)'^ said he and Waifces had been in the habit of lending coat to one another, and he had never found the latter dis- honest. Case dismissed. UII.IJ II Iff ■ HIPHIM Wll BUII Printed and publishedby the Proprietor William Hen* Clark, at his Offices, Bridge Street, U: k,in the County Of Monmouth, October 25, 1862.—SECOND EDITION,