The Illustrated Usk Observer and Raglan Herald

Btrttjs. At "Whitecross square, Monmouth, September 8, the wife of Mr. John Morgan, coach-builder, of a daughter. At Coldbrook Park, near Abergavenny, August 30, the wife of-W. W. Manning, Esq., of a son. At Duffryn Mawr, near Abergavenny, August 26, the wife of Johu Maund, Esq., of a son. ifclatrtages. At the Baptist Chapel, Crane Street, Pontypool, September 7, by license, ilr. Wm. Henry Davies, coal merchant, Cardiff, to Miss Jane David, of Cardiff, niece of Dr. Thomas, ofPontypool College. At St. Saviour's Church, Paddington, August 29, by the Rev. H. H. Letchworth, M. A., Alfred Miles Galindo, Esq., of Mon- mouth, to Sarah Annie, second daughter of Mr. Robert Waugh, of the same place. Ueatfjs. At Church street, Monmouth, September 5, Elizabeth, relict of the late Philip Davies, Cheltenham, aged 77 years. At his residence, Bridge street, Usk, September 9, Mr. James Williams, draper and provision merchant, in his 53rd year. At Plannel street, Abergavenny, September 7, after many years affliction, Miss Rebecca Jenkins, aged 60 years. At Frogmore street, Abergavenny, September 9, after a pro- tracted illness, and deeply regretted, Mr. Abraham Hands, formerly manager of the business of Mrs. Williams, spirit mer- chant. At Llangattock House, Abergavenny, September 3, Matthew Towsood. Eso.. a<red Hi.

TO CORRESPONDENTS AND READERS. Additional Pontypool and Blaenavon intelligence will be found in a First Edition of to-days issue, which may be obtained in those localities.

USK. DEATH OF MR. JAMES WILLIAMS.—It is with feelings of the deepest sorrow, arising from the con- sciousness of having lost a .well-tried and valued personal friend, that we this week record in our obituary the demise of Mr. J ames Williams. As a native of the town, and for a number of years carrying on an extensive business, Mr. Williams was well known throughout the county, and, taking this fact in conjunction with the upright and honourable prin- ciples upon which all his business transactions were conducted-to say nothing of the benevolence and large heartedness which characterised his private life,-it will be readily imagined that the regret at his removal, at a comparatively early age, is as heartfelt as it is wide- spread. READINGS.—Mrs, Chadwick, an actress of known repu- tation, gave readings from the works of various authors, at the Town Hall, on Wednesday evening. The character of Lady Macbeth was sustained with admirable taste and feeling, and Tennyson's Charge of the Light Brigade was a piece well adapted for upholding Mrs. C.'s claim to he considered a reader of great talent. The entertain- ment comprised some other choice selections, all of which were received with evident gratification by a most respect- able though not very numereus audience. The weather proved unpropitious, and other circumstances tended to lessen the number attending. JEM MACE.—This redoubtable pugilist, who styles himself the Champion of the World, visited this town, with his circus, on Tuesday last. The performances in the circle were, for the most part, of a common-place description, the chief attraction seeming to be the pu- gilist himself. Considerable doubts existed in the town, as to whether the person assuming the name of Mace was the veritable champion; this arose from its having been stated that he would be in London that evening to receive the stakes he had won a few days previously, in his fight with Goss for £1000. Mace, however, by way of satisfying the sceptics, established his identity beyond a doubt.

ABERSYCHAN. THE NEW CATHOLIC SCHOOL.—This institution w as formally opened on Tuesday, under the patronage 6f the Hon. Mrs. Herbert, of Llanarth. The foundation stone was laid on the ard of February, 1863, by the Rev. Father Elzear Torregiana, who was assisted by the Very Rev. F. Seraphin, of Pontasaph, and others. The building is in the Gothic style of architecture, designed by Mr. Statter, and erected by Messrs. Wall and Hook, of Stroud; the cost, which amounts to £400, being raised by subscrip- tion. Divine service is intended to be held in it on Sun- days, until the erection of a church, which, we understand, is in contemplation. After an early service in the new building, a procession, in the following order, was formed The Newport Catholic Association's brass band-members of the Hibernian Club, attired in the regalia of the Order, and preceded by the banner of St. Patrick-four females, carrying banners, and attired in white, to represent sisters of mercy-the school-children, and an itinerant brass band. The procession marched to St. Alban's church, Pontypool, where high mass was performed by Father Honorius, Father Wilson acting as deacon, and Father Bailey, Newport, as sub-deacon; the master of the cere- monies being Air. Abbott, of Monmouth. Amongst others present, were Father Cavalli, of Newport, and the Rev. Mr. Percy, of Penllwyn. After an excellent sermon by Father Wilson, the procession re-formed, and paraded some of the principal streets, after which, about 2 o'clock, it dispersed, the members of the Hibernian Club re- pairing to the Lamb and Flag, Abersycban, where they sat down to a capital dinner, provided by the host, Mr. J. Jones. About half-past two, about 50 sat down to a sumptuous cold collation at the Town Hall, which was most admirably served up by Mrs. Farrington and Mrs. Churchill, the expense being borne by Father Elzear. Amongst the company present were the Hon. Mrs. Her- bert, and other members of the family. Justice having been done to the good things provided, the procession again re-formed, and proceeded to the new school-room, when verses were very efficiently sung by Miss Boidessa, Miss Morris, and Mr. Vaughan; Mr. O'Brien presided with skill at the harmonium, and an excellent sermon was preached by the Very Rev. Father Proctor, Prior of the Dominican Monks, Woodchester, near Stroud, who took his text from the 7th chapter of St. Matthew, 13th and 14th verses: Enter ye into the straight gate: for wide is the gate and;broad is the way that leadeth to destruction, and many there be that go in thereat. Because straight is the gate, and narrow is the way which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it." Collections were made at the end of each service, and were, we are told, liberally responded to.

PONTYPOOL. SCALDED TO DEATH.—On Tuesday, an inquest was held at the Union Workhouse, before E. D. Batt, Esq., coroner, and a respectable jury, on view of the body of William Harney, aged 3 years and 6 months, who met with bis death under the following circumstances Clara Smith de- posed-I live in the Union, and am 11 years of age; I was in the habit of looking after the deceased; on Wednes- day last I sent Jane Fitzgerald to fetch some water to wash him, he having made himself dirty; the water was brought from the kitchen boiler to the day room; I told her to atrip the deceased and put him into the water; I then left the room; the water was brought in a pail; it was not right for me to direct Jane Fitzgerald to wash the child. Jane Fitzgerald deposed-I am nine years of age; on Wednesday last, I went to the kitchen boiler for some water to wash ibe deceased j I did not draw it myself, but Mrs. Morris, the cook, did; I did not tell her what I wanted it for; I did not then put my hand in the water to feel how hot it was, for I did not think of it; hav- ing taken it to the day room, I took the clothes off the child, and put him into it; he did not cry out, but upon putting my hands into it I was compelled to remove them, it being too hot; I then took the child out; he was quite white. Mr. Prothero deposed—I am master of the Union; the deceased was scalded on Wednesday, and died on Saturday; the child was placed in the water unknown to anyone; Dr. Cousins attended the child soon after the accident, and did so until its death. The Coroner re- marked that there was no doubt that the child had been accidentally scalded, and that it had received proper treat- ment. He (the coroner) had received a letter from Dr. Cousins respecting the matter, in which that gentleman said that the deceased was of a weakly constitution, having been suffering from disease, and that the injuries sustained from the scald had merely hastened a termination, which would soon have taken place. Verdict-" Accidental Death." BOARD OF ROADS.-A meeting of the members of this Board was held at the Town Hall, on Wednesday; present -Messrs. Lewis (chairman), E. B. Edwards, Tucker, Lawrence, Bladon, Walters, Hambleton, John Davies, T. Davies, Pitt, and Fletcher. After some conversation, the following were appointed as a committee to meet a com- mittee of the Board under the Local Government Act, for the purpose of coming to some arrangements in respect to the rates, stock, &c.: Messrs. Hair, Tucker, Walters, Pitt, and Richards. The meeting was appointed for 10 o'clock on Wednesday next. Mr. Bladon proposed that the bridge at Cwmfrwdwr be widened. Mr. Hambleton seconded the motion, and, after some discussion, it was carried. Mr. Bladon proposed, and Mr. Pitt seconded, that the attention of the trustees of the Abercarne trust, and the Pontypool Iron G)., be directed to the dangerous state of the wall above the Albion road turnpike gate. Mr. C. T. Edwards, clerk to the Board, remarked that he had written to the Pontypool Iron Company, who had, in answer to his letter, said they had referred the matter to the Surveyor of the Abercarne trust, from whom they had not since heard. The matter then dropped. Some conversation ensued in respect to the Blaenacwm incline bridge, it being subsequently resolved that unless Messrs. Prothero and Powell, who will be communicated with on the subject, repair it within a month, the open space complained of as being dangerous will be filled up. In answer to the Chairman, the Clerk said he had written to Mr. Croft, in respect to a nuisance upon his property, complained of by Mr. Wood, of Abersychan, bat had re- ceived no reply, Mr. Tucker remarked that the nuisance was very offensive, and dangerous to health, and be would give a medical certificate to that effect, upon which, the Board directed the Surveyor to remove the nuisance ac- cording to law. The Surveyor reported that the new road from the Lion's Den to Cwmavon was now open; that up to the present time 9144 3s. Id. had been ex- pended upon it, and that, when completed, it would, he thought, cost jB200, which, he estimated, would be the outlay necessary. He then reported a nuisance at Garn- diffaitb,-it consisted of a dead horse having been buried near a spring of water, which the inhabitants generally believed to be impregnated with the decomposed matter, and he was ordered to remove it. Mr. Gorrell and Mr. Williams, Abersychan, complained of a nuisance arising from defective drainage near their houses; the latter seek- ing the advice of the Board in the matter of some steps that had been erected by Mr. Henshaw, in front of his premises, and which steps were a great hindrance to his letting his houses, a good road having, by their erection, been blocked up. The Board remarked that it had no power to interfere in the matter of the steps, but would recommend the Surveyor to look to the drainage. The meeting then broke up. FATAL ACCIDENT.—On Tuesday last, a man named William Matthews, a haulier, met with a fatal accident at the Glyn pits. It seems that while driving some trams under-ground he fell and got under them, several passing over his body. By his cries he attracted some one to the scene, and he was immediately removed to his home, where, from the injuries he had sustained, he soon expired. On Thursday an inquest was held at the Pontnewynydd Inn, before E. D. Batt, Esq., when the jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death." ST. JAMES' CnuRcn—On Thursday, thanksgiving ser. vices for the fruitlul harvests were held at the above church and on the same occasion the organ was re-opened, after having been for some time past, under repair and improve- ment. At the morning service at 11, the Rev. Ellis Everett, chaplain to the High Sheriff of the County, preached an excellent sermon, and in the evening a prac- tical discourse was delivered by the Rev. R. N. Kane, Curate of Trevethin. Collections, to be appropriated to the Organ Fund, were made after each service.

MONMOUTH. THE MABKET.—The price of wheat at our market on Saturday last was £ 2 Is. 5fd. per imperial quarter. A. 4 very small amount of corn iu this neighbourhood remains ungathered. At the magistrates' sitting on the 3rd inst., the applica- tion of Edward Jayne, Bridge Inn, for a renewal of his license was granted, the magistrates cautioning him as to the better management of his house in future A NIGHT'S Avvesture.—A rather amusing incident has just reached us, that of a respectable tradesman being locked up at the police station under the following circum- stances. It appears the unfortunate individual of whom we write, (not at present resident in this town) had been here for a short time on a visit to some relatives, when, on Sunday evening last, having sat with some friends indulg- ing in potations deep, until too late an hour to obtain ad- mission into his relative's domicile, he roamed the town in quest of some convenient place to lay his head at length he espied a house undergoing repair, which struck him as being just adapted to his requirements; it was therefore the work of but a few minutes for him to constitute him- self the "man in possession;" but judge his. chagrin, when he had so far prepared himself for taking his rest, as to have "buttoned his shirt outside his coat," at the appearance of two guardians of the night," who, under the impression that they were better able to take care of him than he was of himself, requested his company as far as the police station; our friend demurred, remonstrated, and entered into a long statement of his respectability and his affairs, and earnestly entreated for his liberty but all in vain for, in the peculiar arrangement of costume above named, he was walked off to the station house, where pro- bably somewhat more comfortable accommodation was afforded him. On the next morning he was taken before the landlord of the premises, who declined to proceed against him, and the case was therefore ultimately disposed of by the Mayor, who discharged him with a caution.

CHEPSTOW. MILITARY FUNERAL.-On Sunday last, the rifle corps belonging to this town was called upon, for the first time, to do honor to the remains of a departed comrade -the deceased being a young man, named John Butler, a private in the corps-under these circumstances it was but natural to expect that the event would, as it did, cause much animation in the town, and attract a large number of spectators. The company mustered in Beau- fort-square, about half-past one o'clock, 56 strong, and, accompanied by the band of the 3rd Mon. Corps from Newport, as well as its own band, proceeded to the resi- dence of deceased in Lower Church street, where the procession was formed, headed by a firing party of 12, with reversed arms, followed by other members of the corps, and the bands, that of the 3rd Mon. performing along the march the, Dead March in Saul" in grand style. Next came the hearse, surmounted by the accou- trements belonging to the deceased. About forty mourners followed, and the rear was brought up by another detach- ment of the corps, and last of all Captain Murphy. In this order, the procession passed through the town, and on to Saint Arvans church, on arriving at the gate of which, it was met by the Rev. W. F. Cresswell, who performed the service, and at the conclusion three well- timed volleys were discharged over the grave. Unfor. tunately, rain fell heavily during a great portion of the time, which gave the proceedings a more melancholy turn than they were wont. On the return, both bands I played lively quick-steps, and on reaching the Square, Lirtttt. Evans briefly addressed the corps, saying that he hoped it would be a long time before they would be called upon to perform a similar melancholy office for another member, but when they did, he trusted they would muster as strong, if not stronger than on the present occasion. The Lieutenant also expressed his own and Captain Murphy's acknowledgements to the Newport band, PETTY SESSIONS, SEPT. 3rd, before W. Æ. SETS, E. M. CURRE, and A- B. SAVERY, Esqrs. FALSE WEIGHTs,-Richard Harris, marine store dealer, was charged by William Graham, inspector of weights and measures for the county, with having in his possession a certain weighing machine with an unjust balance; also certain weights made of iron, which were incorrect, and could not be stamped with the county mark. In the first case defendant was fined zC5 with costs, and on the second charge was fined 91 and costs. William Phillips, marine store dealer, was charged with having in his possession two 661b. and two 281b. weights, one of each being heavy and the other light. He was further charged with having a machine requiring two ounces to make it correct. For the first offence he was fined B5 and costs, and for the second £ 1 and costs. AssAUMs.—Ann Jones was charged by Jane Hoskins with assaulting her, on the 29th of August, 1863. Case dismissed, the parties to pay their own costs. William Light was charged with assaulting and beating dismissed, the parties to pay their own costs. William Light was charged with assaulting and beating George Wait. Fined 2s. 6d. and costs. Defendant was further charged with assaulting Louisa Light (his step sister). Fined 2s. 6d. and costs. In default he was com- mitted for fourteen days' hard labour. A CROSS SUMMONS, Light v. Wait, was dismissed. POWELL V. JOKES,—Adjourned for a fortnight.

RAGLAN. RAGLAjr ARCRERS1-The extra meeting of the Raglan Archers took place on Monday, the 7th inst. The weather, so bad previously, was most propitious, and the shooting excellent. No prize was given by the club but the Beau. fort, which is only open to those who have never won a prize at Raglan, The liberality of the members has hitherto provided prizes for this extra meeting, and this year they were given by Mr. Manning, of Coldbrook Park, and Mr. Stretton, of Brinderwyn; the former for those ladies who had never won a prize, or only one (in which case they were to lose the outer ring), and the latter for the highest score of the day, subject to club rules. The score is subjoined. 80&60 60 & 50 Yards. Morn. Evg. tg 2 to 2 tn 3) Name. S 82 8 ° Prizes. W m H m nlp3 H Mrs. C. H. Williams.35 145 49 163 1 54 288 Miss Wheeley.21 55 16 52 37 107 Miss Ada Fowke ..33 131 48 218 81 349 Mr. Stretton's Mrs. Mitchell 15 65 19 61 34 126 Miss Wren Hoskyns .19 75 28 126 47 201 Miss G. Rolls 9 33 11 43 20 76 Miss A. Mitchell 9 37 24 92 33 129 Mrs. Holmes .15 63 26 102 41 165 Stranger's Mrs. Stretton 23 77 30 116 53 193 Miss Gardner 8 34 23 69 31 103 Mrs. F. Batt .20 72 28 102 48 174 Miss Brewer .24 98 33 147 1 44 232 MrManning's Miss Grey .20 72 24 118 44 190 Miss Prothero 17 55 9 29 26 84 Miss Fowke.32 146 54 218 3 18 138 Miss Davies 22 86 30 116 52 192 Beaufort Mrs. Bevan.17 61 20 90 37 151 Mr. Brewer.25 89 25 89 Mr. Wheeley 23 103 48 212 2 71 315 Mr. Prothero .19 77 48 224 67 301 Mr. Gardener.14 48 17 69 31 117 Mr. Holmes 6 16 23 99 22 122 Mr. Mitchell 6 22 12 42 18 64 Mr. Wren Hoskyns 5 19 5 19 Dr. Steele 19 89 36 154 2 32 192 Mr. E. Prothero 5 11 20 72 25 83 PETTY SESSIONS, FRIDAY, AUGUST 28.th, before S. R. BOSAITQUET, and J. A. HERBERT Eeqrs. ApPEAL AGAINST TAXES.—WM. Charles, farmer, of Penrhos, appealed against an assessment for a saddled horse. The appellant stated that he only rode the horse for the purpose of taking farming produce to market, and he therefore considered himself exempt from the duty. The Surveyor contended that such was not included in the exemptions mentioned in the Act. The Chairman, after reading the Act, said, if a horse used in a cart for taking farming produce to market was exempt, as mentioned in the Act, he could not see why a person carrying goods to market on horseback should be liable. He did not think the Act could be rendered as suggested by the Surveyor. It was ultimately decided that the case should be referred to the Commissioners. Nearly forty other cases of appeals, principally against the house tax, were disposed off. The greater number of the appellants being let off, but none, except the foregoing, possessed any particular interest.

ABERGAVENNY. WEATHER AT ABERGAVENHY DURING AtrGUST, 1863. —The weather was extremely unsettled during this month, and more especially so at its close, though a few splen- didly fine days were experienced. The temperature on some occasions was high, but not up to the usual average of the season. The highest reading of the thermometer in the shade being 77p,which height was reached on several different days. 39° was tbtJ minimum marked by a self- registering thermometer, giving a monthly range of 38Q ¡ greatest daily range, 32°; maximum in sun, 124°. A number of brilliant shooting stars were noticed in the middle of the month. The 25th was a remarkably stormy day, and a violent hail-storm took place late in the after- noon. Harvest operations were, generally, forward, though a good quantity of grain was still unearned, in consequence of the wtet. Only fourteen days were regis- tered as fine without rain. The barometer was very variable, and at times unusually low. Highest reading, 30.250 in.; lowest, 29.407; monthly range, 843 in.; greatest daily range, 406 in. The wind was rather high at the latter end of August-direction as follows w. on 9 days; S.W. 4; W. 8. W. 1; 8.2; K. 1; H. w. 6; W.N.W. 1; S. E. 4; uncertain "4. GOBANITIENSIS. MARRIAGE FESTIVITIES.—The marriage of R. B. Gabb, Esq., to Miss Rosa Mary Middietoti, on the 3rd inst., as recorded in our columns last week, was the occasion for considerable demonstrations of rejoicing in this town and neighbourhood. The bridal party left thp Knoll, the resi- dence of Captain Hill (with whom the bride has for some years resided), between 11 and 12 o'clock, in seven car- riages, the route to St. Mary's Church being profusely decorated with wreaths of flowers and evergreens thrown across the streets, as well as flags and banners hanging from the windows of a great number of the houses, and the pathway from the churchyard gates to the altar was strewn with bouquets of choice flowers (as the bride advanced) by the son and daughter of Mr. Manning, of Coldbrook park. Numbers of people lined the streets to witness the cortege passing, and the church was densely crowded. The cere- mony was performed by the Revs. F. C. Pigott, and W. Wegg; the following ladies officiating as bridesmaids, viz.: Miss Fowke, Miss Gabb, Miss Sarah Middleton, and Miss Blanche Davies; whilst Wm. Wheeley, Esq., undertook the office of bridegroom's best man, assisted by George Levick, Esq., and J. Potts, Esq. The party also coniprised Captain and Mrs. Hill; W. W. Manning, Esq.; W. F. Batt, Esq., and Mrs. Batt; Baker John Gabb, Esq.; F. Levick, Esq.; George Levick, Esq. J. B. Walford, Esq., and Mrs.Walford Wm. Morgan, Esq., (Llanfoist); Win. Morgan, Esq., jun., and Mrs. Morgan; Mrs. and Miss Middleton E. Batt, Esq., and Mrs. Batt, &c. Upon re- turning to the Knoll, the party was greeted by deafening cheers from the assembled crowd, and by the spirited strains of the rifle band, which was stationed on the lawn in front of the house, and which, at the departure, we should have before stated, played the favorite old English air, Haste to the Wedding." The breakfast was of the most RECHERCHE description, and was laid out in superb style, under the superintendence of Mr. Henry Hodder, late of the Crown inn. After the repast, the guests amused themselves on the lawn with various pastimes; the band contributing not a little to the enjoyment by their excel. lent performances. The happy couple took their departure, amidst the hearty congratulations of their friends, and the townspeople generally, shortly after three o'clock, for Llandudno, North Wales, and in the evening a grand ball took place at the Knoll, which brought the festivities to a close. Captain Hill, with his well-known generosity, also feasted a large number of more humble guests at the Knoll, whose comfort and enjoyment he did his utmost, by per- sonal attention to promote. The weother, which had been for days miserably wet, and even up to seven o'clock in the morning, cleared up as the day advanced, and the sun sbone down in all his brilliancy, as it were, with approba- tory smiles on the proceedings, but in the evening, after his rays had been withdrawn, and as the out-door amuse- ments were coming to a close, the pluvial element again became dominant. FIRE AVERTED.—On Saturday night an alarm was raised that a fire had broken out in Mill-street. The fire brigade and the police were promptly on the alert, but fortunately their services were little required, as the fire, which existed in the chimney of a small tenement, was quickly extinguished, providentially without injury to a quantity of leather and valuable property belonging to Mr. Thomas Evans, which was in close proximity. FALSE ALARM.—Much consternation was caused by the ringing of the fire bell, about 7 o'clock on Sunday morning, many persons being brought from their beds to ascertain the cause; but upon reaching the old church, where the bell is situated, no particulars could be gleaned, there being no one there who knew how or why the bell had been rung. After the bystanders bad been kept in sus- pense for some time, the truth slipped out. The bell- ringer had taken it into his head to leave his couch an hour before his usual time, and adapting his earlier habits to his avocation, commenced ringing the 8 o'clock Sunday chime at 7 o'clock! He seems to have discovered his error before completing his task, and at the same moment, probably, the terrible thought of the effect his blunder would have on the public (the same bell being used as a fire bell) crossed his mind, and looking at the possible con- sequences, to him personally, of having to face the less amiable of the disturbed slumberers, our friend was not many moments in coming to the determination of making himself scarce," leaving those who took the trouble to enquire to find out for themselves where the fire was raging. PETTY SESSIONS, WEDNESDAY, before the Hon. W. P. RODNEY, the Rev. JAMES FARQUHAR, and F. C. H. WILLIAMS, Esq. A DETERMINED DRUNKARD.—William Powell was charged with being drui^ and resisting the police. P.C. Kennedy deposed that last Monday evening, he found the prisoner in Monk street lying down asleep, and upon his waking him up and telling him to go home, he became very riotous and refused to walk, whereupon witness ob- tained the assistance of some other constables and carried him to the station-house. The defendant, in answer to the bench, said he was a native of Llantillio Pertholey, and had recently been working for Mr; Jones, of the Walks; he came into town on Sunday night, having then left his situation, and remained drinking, he did not know where, all day on Monday. Supt. Freeman said prisoner had been convicted once for larceny, and several times for drunkenness. The Chairman said he saw the man lying in the middle of the street, where, had he not been observed by the police, he was in great danger of being run over. The prisoner said this should be positively the last time he would appear here for drunkenness, and on the faith of that promise, the Chairman said the bench would give him one more trial and let him off on paying the costs, 7s.4d„ but if he ever came up again, the heaviest punish- ment the law would allow would be inflicted. 5s. had been found on his person, and he was allowed a week to pay the balance. THE WRONG MAN.—John Pitt, timber-haulier, was charged, on the information of Ferdinand Capel Hanbury Williams, Esq., with obstructing the free passage of the carriage of the said F. C. H. Williams, Esq., on the turn- pike road, ii the parish of Abergavenny, on the 2nd inst., with a timber carriage. Upon defendant appearing in the dock, Mr. Williams said he was not the man, and after some conversation, it appeared that the proper defendant was Richard Pitt, father of the man who was present, and that the father and son, although in the same line of business, were not connected, as each had a separate team of his own. The son was therefore told there was no charge against him; whereupon he wished to know who was to pay him for the expense of attending, and the consequent loss of having his horses idle. The bench declined to make any order, remarking that his father had given a wrong name,which was a very serious offence. Pitt then left the court, declaring ho would have to know who should remunerate him. A DANGEROUS CHARACTER.—James Wolfe, who did not appear, was charged with assaulting Joseph Miles. Complainant stated that on the 1st inst., whilst on the Penypound road with defendant, a dispute arose respecting some planks, when defendant pushed him and dragged him by his collar about 100 yards. James Edmunds, who was breaking stones near the spot, corroborated complai- nant's statement. In answer to the bench, the police said, defendant was the same man who was convicted some time since for throwing a gluss bottle at a child. The Chairman denounced the assault as a very aggravated offence, and committed the defendant to gaol for 6 weeks. A war- rant was issued for his apprehension. THE "OMAR PASHA" ONCE MORE.-Charles Beams was charged on the information of Supt. Freeman, with (being a retailer of beer) allowing certain notoriously bad characters, viz.: Thomas Herbert, Mary Ann Roes, Etiza Powell, and Elizabeth Lewis, to assemble in his house. P.C. Kennedy proved that he visited the Omar Pasha beerhouse, kept by defendant, at 10 o clock on the night of Saturday, the 29th ult.,when he saw the persons named there, the women being; prostitutes, and the man a returned convict. Defendant entered into a lengthened state- ment, as usual, averring that Lewis was a servant in his employ; Powell had recently been married, and both had reformed their mode of life. Herbert, who had stated his intention of reclaiming his character (defendant con- tinued), was occasionally employed by him, and had been so on the day named, and the preceding one. Rees, he further said, was not in the house more than five minutes. Defendant also stated that at the time of his last being before the bench (in November, 1862) for a similar offence, he had come to the determination never to lay himself open to such a charge again, and had, on that account suffered much injury in his business, and also great annoy- ance from the girls. In answer to the bench, Superinten- dent Freeman said the house had been much better since the last conviction. The Chairman said if defendant's statement were true, it would appear that he was "more sinned against than sinning," and this time the bench would assume that it was true, and give him one more trial; but he must bear in mind that if he was brought up again, and a case proved against him, the promise that had been made on the last occasion would surely be kept, namely: that a very severe punishment indeed would be iiaflllcted-such a punishment as would, no doubt, compel him to give up the house; this they should be sorry to oblige bim to do, but it certainly would be the result it a case was proved against him. Defendant was allowed a week to pay the costs. DESERTING SERVICE.—Thomas Hybert was charged with leaving the service of John Farr, farmer, Oldcastle, on the 1st inst., without notice having been given on either side, as the contract required. It appeared defendant was engaged, about ten o'clock one night, in loading corn,when complainant spoke sharply to him on account of his being slow at his work, and, defendant alleged, told him he should not work there any longer. This the master denied having said. On the following day defendant did not go to work, nor had not since been there. It was ultimately arranged that defendant should return and work out his notice, and also pay the costs.

CAERLEON. HARVEST FESTIVAL.—On Wednesday, the 9th, a service was held at the parish church, fer the purpose of offering up thanksgiving for the bountiful harvest. The church was nicely decorated for the occasion with fruits, flowers, corn, and evergreens, in festoons, wreaths, &c. A pro. cession of the clergy and part of the choir was formed at the vicarage, and entered the church singing the Kene- dicite" to the 8th tone. Among the clergy present were the Rev. H. P. Edwards (Caerleon), W. Powell (Llanhen- nock), J. Jones (Llanthewv), J. Jones (Llanvrechva), E. T. Williams (Oaldicot), Lindsey (Llanvaches), Vaughan Hughes (Wyelands), Fielding (Tredunnock), Fox (Trinity), Leonard (Kemeys), &e. The service was a full choral one, the intonations being read by the Rev. W. H. Bliss to Tallis's Intonations." The "Venite" was sung to Purcell in G, The Psalms to Fussell and Imperial, the Te Deum," to the 6th tone, changing in the 19th verse to a minor. The "Benedictus" to C. Gibbons, in G. The Anthem was the eight-part one, by Orlando Gibbons, God is gone up with a merry noise." The Litany was sung to Tallis's Tones." The Introit was from hymns ancient and modern. A Harvest Hymn, Praise 0, Praise our God and King." The Kyrie was also by Gibbons, the Nicene Creed by Marbecke, in unison, and the sermon was preceded by the 100th Psalm, "All People that on Earth do Dwell," some of the verses being sung in unison. The Rev. H. P. Edwards read the lessons of the day, the Rev. E. T. Williams the communion service, and the Rev.— Lindsey preached an eloquent sermon, taking as his text the 65th Psalm, 9th and following verses. The choir consisted of the Caerleon, Malpas, Maindee, Llan. vrechva, Llandegveth, and Llanthewy church choirs, num- bering about eighty singers, and the Rev. W. H. Bliss (w.ho is organising master of the Llandaff Diocesan Church Choral Association, of which Association the choirs present form part), when he addressed them at the conclusion of the service, said they went through the musical portions of the service in a very careful manner, taking great care of the time and the changes of sides. Thomas Cooke, Esq., conducted. The occasion was taken advantage of to assist a society that stands much in need of assistance, viz.—-the Diocesan Church Extension Society, and we believe that the collection was such as will shew that the congregation, which was very numerous, appreciate the beneficial opera- tions of the society. The several choirs took lunch together at the Blue School, the expense being defrayed out of the collection. PETTY SESSIONS, TUESDAY, before the Rev. WIL- LIAM POWELL, and JOHN JAMES, Esq. ASSAULTING THE POLICE.—Evan Jenkins, jun., was charged with assaulting P.S. Povall, and Evan Jenkins, sen., was charged with assaulting P.C. Bevan, on the 29th of August. P.S. Povall said he was sent for to quell a row near the White Hart and the George inns; he found Evan Jenkins, jun., there, very riotous; he ordered him home, and some women took him about 100 yards off)when he returned, and said that no policeman should order him off or take him away (coupling some foul language with this assertion); he seized witness and threw him on the stones, thereby cutting his face. They scuffled on the ground, and the prisoner kicked the officer about the legs and body, hurting him very severely. With assistance, however, he took him to the station-house. P.C. Bevan said I went to the assistance of P.S. Povall on the occa- sion in question, and whilst engaged with him, the elder prisoner came up and kicked me. Both prisoners were convicted-the younger one being fined £ 3, and the elder, who acknowledged committing the offence with which he was charged, zei, including costs. The money was paid. AN AGGRAVATED AssAULT.—James U Bryan, James Powlson, Henry Barry, Michael O Bryan, and Jerry Madden, were charged with assaulting Edmund Francis, and Jerry Madden was also charged with beating Edwin Harris at the same time. The prisoners pleaded not guilty. Francis, being sworn, said—I was going heme tc Pontheer from Caerleon, on Tuesday, the 29th August, on passing the turnpike gate, I saw James Bryan and Powlson sitting on it; I said Good-night to them; one of them said, That's the —— that challenged all Caer- leon." Bryan then struck me down, we fought, and I struck him; Powlson then assisted Bryan and they knocked me down several times; Powlson had a large stone in his hand I saw the two Bryans, Powlson, and Madden there, but I can't swear to seeing Barry. The last blow I received was with a stone, by Powlson; I could not again rise. Cross-examined by prisoners-I did not challenge any of you in the town; I did not see any of you before on that evening; I did not see Madden strike me. The prosecutor's face presented unmistakeable signs of having received very severe punishment. Edwin Harris deposed-I was going home with Francis, on. the evening in question, and saw Jas. Bryan and Powlson on the gate; the former sprang at Francis, and hit him down with his fist. I saw all the prisoners there they were all around Francis when he was on the ground. Madden also struck me twice, and when I asked him what he struck me for, he said, "'Pon my soul I did'nt know it was you, or also I would not have done it." Francis was rather drunk; I was sober. George Williams said-I heard a row on Saturday night about 12 o'clock; upon going out to ascertain the cause, I saw several men running away; Francis was lying on the ground, and he appeared to have been dreadfully beaten; I got some water and washed him; he shortly afterwards recovered. Michael O'Bryan and Barry were dismissed, and Jas. Bryan and Powlson were fined £ 2 10s., or 1 month's imprisonment, and Madden, 9-1, or 14 days. The fines weie paid. INDECENT ASSAULT.—Edwin Davies, of Cwmbran, was charged by Sarah Ann Cornfield with having assaulted her. Complainant said that prisoner ran after her as she was driving some cows, caught hold of her, and put his hand, three or four times, under her clothes. Prisoner did not appear, but P.C. Burrow proved the service of the summons, and also stated that defendant admitted hav- ing put his hand up to the girl's knee. Fined zC5, or two months imprisonment. BEER-HOUSE OFFENCE.—Thos. James, of Llanvrechva, was charged with offending against his license. A pre- vious conviction having been proved, he was fined d61, and 8s. expenses.

BLAENAVON. ENGLISH BAPTIST CRAPEL.-The anniversary of the above named chapel was held on Sunday last, when three excellent sermons were delivered by the Rev. D. M. Evans, of Llanelly (Car.). Notwithstanding the inclemency of the weather there was a good attendance, and the collec- tions made at the close of the services exceeded those of last year. The afternoon service was held at the new Welsh Horeb Baptist Chapel, kindly lent for the occasion.

CORRESPONDENCE. RAGLAN TEA MEETING. To the Editor of the USK OBSERVER. SIR,—Fair criticism is the legitimate right of any one, and is both profitable and interesting, and what every reasonable individual will readily submit to and encourage. The public must ever derive the most beneficial results therefrom. But that ill-tempered and most pitiful dia- tribe which appeared in your issue of the 5th inst., signed W. P."—intended as a contradiction of my report of the Zion Chapel tea meeting, is the very reverse of this. Tho most casual of your readers could not but observe that it was only a mere ebullition of spleen, ignorance, and arro. gance, induced by wounded pride, and dictated in a spirit insensible to the claims of truth or of common courtesy, but which, as is well known, is not at all inconsistent with the general bearing of the writer, towards those who will not obediently,follow in his wake or obey his dictum. As a matter of personal consideration I could well afford to pass such a scribble unnoticed, but on public grounds I am compelled to offer a reply. 1st. W.P. the very sagacious "W.P. with true logical discernment, (?) discovers that the report contains nothing but a tissue of falsehoods," and says that "a more unfaithful report was never written i.e., the respecta- bility of the meeting-tho commendations on the decora. tions of the chapel — the performance of the choir — the merits of the Rev. B. Johnson's address-and the acknow- ledgement of the abilities of the Reverends G. Thomas and Mr. Campbell, M.A., which were deservedly mentioned in the report, as well as the ether reference complained or, are all, according to W.P. but a tissue of false. hoods." So much for the tact of our critic, and the credi. bility of his assertions. He evidently^ writes without knowing what he writes about. O! poor'"W.P." I fear that by such digressions you must, according to the nature of things, "grow beautifully less by degrees," until the forces of your attraction will become so diminished that even your very satelites will eventually be found revolving around brighter orbs and of greater magnitude. 2* Although the report is a tissue of falsehoods," W.P." does not attempt to say but that the meeting experienced a great disappointment in not having a speech from Mr. Campbell, who was prevented from speaking by so much of the time having been taken up by the preceding speakers, but contents himself by asserting that Mr.Lewis (the chairman elect of himself) did not speak for more than five minutes, and that he only made a passing allusion to the subject God is Love," and that Mr. Rosser's speech was learned and well digested," and then regrets that Mr. Rosser is so contemptibly spoken of." I fear that the soi-disant champion of "Evangelical Truth" must have been napping at the time, or he would not have the audacity to venture such assertions, as it is well known to all present who were wide awake that Mr. Lewis cer- tainly entertained himself for at least fifteen minutes. That the speeches of both gentlemen was well learned-by HEART, I will readily admit; I, indeed, felt, in common with others, at the time, that they had been useful to the speakers on many former occasions, and such as is often described as stereotyped; but that either of the speeches evidenced scholastic acquirements, or abilities equal either to the occasion or the subject on which they affected to treat, I deny; although it is quite possible that the yearn- ings of our dyspeptic critic were amply satisfied. Mr. Rosser may be "learned;" if so, be is well capable of holding and maintaining his status, and, therefore, above the commiseration of our bellicose critic "W.P." I willingly concede that both the gentlemen referred to were capable of better entertaining their audience than they did. I only assert that they lacked the energy, or, otherwise, considered that their hearers did not deserve greater effort. 3. A gain W.P." fails to discover any falsehood implied in my strictures upon the remarks offered by the Rev. G. Thomas, but offers an apology by saying that the rev. gentleman only gave some good advice, &c., and that the occasion was not one for u a logical disquisition. It did not, however, happen to be so, and "metaphysical reasoning," certainly not W.P.; and I would add-not for personalities either. All I wish to say of Mr. Thomas, whom I know to be a gentleaaan highly and deservedly respected, is that he did, on the occasion, make an ill-timed and injudicious reference, without any attempt to improve it, resulting in a lot of ignorant and ill-natured gossip, and that better things might have been expected from e gentleman of his talent and position. 4. According to W.P. the meeting was a successful one." Oh, yes! prodigiously so! A little meeting, in a little chapel, in a populous neighbourhood, where two- thirds of the people are Dissenters; speeches (with one exception) dry, dusty, canting, stereotyped, ^effete, and meaningless, but palatable perhaps to W.ir., and tnoSQ who call themselves "simple believers." 5. W.P." stands much in need of that pity he would fain bestow upon Mr. Rosser. Pity he should, as a Champion of Evangelical Truth," write his own con- demnation by fulminating low, scurrilous, and abusive epithets, strung together in rage, cemented by spleen, and without regard to truth, thrown broadcast before the public what I pity, I say, for his neighbours to say that Mr. — said that. 6. Adhering to every word contained in the report complained of, repudiating anything but feelings of respect to any of the gentlemen who took part at the meeting, assuring your readers that I felt at the time of writing it, as now, that the strictures therein were just and called for, that I hoped by such to prompt greater energy and better effort on future and similar occasions, and assuring you, Mr. Editor, that the foul pen of W.P." shall not again tempt me to intrude upon your space, I am, Sir, yours respectfully, ,J JAMES HALL, The Author of the Report.

LOST ,-N ear the church at Wolvesnewton, on the L 1st of September last, a liver and white POINTER DOG. He answers to the name of "Rake." Whoever will bring the same to the Observer office, shall be handsomely rewarded, and anyone detaining him after this notice, will be prosecuted. Printed and Published by the Proprietor, WILLIAM HENRV CLAEK, at his Offices, Bridge Street, Usk, in the COttUfcy Vt ¡ Monmouth, September 12, 1003,—SECOHB EDIHON,