The Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian Glamorgan Monmouth and Brecon Gazette

LITERARY VARIETIES. THE REAL "RELIEVING OF FICER.Sir Henry Havelock. A PANIC PRETESTED.—Paying in ready money. To ASCERTAIN THE WEIGIIT OF A HORSE.—Put your toe under his foot. THE UNIVERSAL ALPHABET.—It has only three letters, but they are understood all over the world viz., L. S. D." CHAEMS A fortune of twenty thousand pounds.—Counter- charms Pretty shop girls. To ascertain whether a woman is passionate or not, take a muddy dog into the parlour. Carlyle says—" Make yourself an honest man, and then you may be sure there is one rascal less in the world." Theodore Hook, in describing a badly-dressed dinner, ob- served that everything was sour but the vinegar. As much as you excel others in fortune, so much ought you to excel them in virtue. Let great actions encourage greater; and let honour be your merit, not your design. A sour-minded bachelor is like the small-pox—he will pick holes in the prettiest face. UP-HILL WORK.—Chasing balloons and collecting news- paper accounts. Why is wit like a Chinese lady's foot ?—Because brevity is the" sole" of it. LIBERAL.—I would much prefer to see the Africans good Roman Catholics than idolatrous heathens.—Dr. Livingstone. How docs a pitcher of water differ from a man throwing his wife from a bridge? One is water in the pitcher, the other is pitcher in the water. LITHUANIAN RIDDLES.—Young I stood erect; old, I stooped A Cask.—Cut off my head, cut out my heart, then I shall speak. A Pen.—What goes first in at the church door ? The key. A wag was driving along in his phreton when some body who thought he knew him accosted him with I believe your name's Smith Then you'd believe anything," was the reply. A Finnish woman expressed the greatest astonishment and horror at hearing from Mr. Wolley that it was a very common thing in England for a husband and wife to k iss each other. "If my husband were to attempt such a thing," said she, I would beat him ahout the ears so that he woud feel it for a week. Mamma, can a door speak ?"—"Certainly not, my dear." —"Then why did you tell Allne, one morning, to answer the door?" A pretty woman is a brilliant poem, full of rhyme, senti- ment, and all manner of illustrations. When bound in one's arms she increases to several volumes. NEVER AGAIN.-—A young man who had married when he was about nineteen years of age, complaining of the difficulties to which his marriage subjected him, I will never many so young again, if I live to be as old as Mathusaleh." Little by little, as we travel through life, do our whims in- crease, and become more troublesome—just like a woman's luggage on a journey. My dear," said a wife to her husband, did you ever read of the plague in London r" No, and I don't want to read it, it is enough to have a plague in my house." It may be said generally of husbands, as the woman said of hers, who had abused her, to an old maid who had reproached her for marrying him, To be sure, he is not so good a husband as he might be, but he is a powerful sight better than none." He is, indeed, the wisest and happiest man who, by constant attention of thought, discovers the greatest opportunities of doing good, and with ardent and animated resolution breaks throush every opposition, that he may improve those oppor- tunities. "George you are looking very smiling, what has happened ?' —" The most delightful thing! I caught my Jenny by sur- prise, this morning, in her wrapper, and without hoops and I got the first kiss I've had since whalebone skirts came into fashion." LORD P.'s LAST.—Lord Palmerston said rather a neat thing to Mr. Punch at the Reform Club last Tuesday, about a quarter before three, p.m. Mr. Punch was urging him to give something better than a baronetcy to Sir Henry Have- lock. He ought to have all possible honours," said Mr. Punch, here, the man ha3 won nine battles." That's just it," said Palmerston, at nine, honours don't count." Let's liquor," said Mr. Punch.-Punch. A PROPHECY BY THE LATE LADY LOVELACE.—The late Countess of Lovelace, the daughter of Lord Byron, the Ada, sole daughter of my home and heart," although distinguished by success in deeper studies, was not destitute of those inspira- tions which made the name of Byron illustrious. In some verses which she made on Florence Nightingale, several years before the Russian war was dreamt of, occurs the following remarkable passage In future years, in distant climes, Should war's dread strife its victims claim, Should pestilence, unchecked betimes, Strike more than sword, than cannon maim, He who then reads these truthful rhymes, Will trace her progress to undying fame. How TO BE SAFE. Doctor," said a patient to one of the great hydropathic lights of Malvern, whom ill health had obliged him to consult, Doctor, do you think that a little spirits now and then would hurt me very much ?" Why, no, sir," answered the doctor deliberately '• I do not think that a little, now and then, would hurt very much but, sir, if you don't take any, you won't be hurt at all." LEARNED PEOPLE.—There is nothiug I hold so cheap as the generality of learned men; and I have often thought that youag men ought to be made scholars, lest they should grow to reverence learned blockheads, and think there is any merit in having read more foolish books than other folks which, as there are a thousand nonsensical books for one good one, mast be the case of any man who has read much more than other people.-Tlle Letters of Horacc Walpole. NEW WAY TO CLEAN WINDOWS. -A gentleman in a neigh- bouriJag town gave his man-servant some whiskey the other day to mix with the whitening in cleaning the windows of the house. He was surprised that the man never dipped the cloth in the whiskey, and, accosting the delinquent sharply as to what had become of the spirits the following reply was made. Ye see, yer honour, I drank it, but (suiting the action to the word) I blow my breath on the glass, an' it's a' the same!" In Sweden it is the custom to take off the hat when acknow- ledging a salute. King Oscar once said to a gentleman, who was commiserating him for being obliged to keep his hat off the whole length of the Drottninggatan, in a violent snow- storm—" You are quite right, it was exceeding!}' disagreeable, and I could not help wishing that instead of beiug King of Sweden, I were King of Thibet, where, according to Hue, the polite salutation is simply to stick out your tongue." The following laughable occurrence, which bears the recom- mendation of being no fiction, was related to us some time ago, and as we have never seen it in print, we tell the tale. Ned and Charley were room-mates, but they occupied different beds, ifed's sleeping apparatus was so situated that he could get into it either side—that is to say that there were two fore sides to his bed, and no back side-which Ned found very convenient on certain occasions. One night Ned and Charley had been out, and on returning, which they did near morning, both were considerably elevated. However they walked up to their room with an air that seemed to say, Not so very darned drunk after all," and sought long and patiently for matches and a lamp- After knocking down the pitcher off the washstand, and smashing the looking-glass they finally gave up the search, and •went to bed. YV ent to bed—yes, yes, that's the word but owing to the darkness and the contusion of their senses they made a slight mistake. In short Ned's bed had the honour of receiving the two fli,ends-Charley getting in on one side, and his companion on the other. I say, Ned," cried Charley, touching somebody s calf, e* there's a fellow in my bed." Wonderful coincidence," exclaimed Ned, feeling a strange blow in the region of his ribs, there's somebody in my bed, Is there, though ?" cried Charley, let's kick 'em out." Agreed," said Ned. And accordingly the two friends began to kick. In about a minute and a half Ned w.is sprawling on the floor; Charley was left in possession of the bed. For a moment after the fall all was silent. I say, Ned," cried Charley. What," said Ned, sulkily. I've kicked my fellow out." ''You are luckier than I am, then, said Ned for mine has kicked me into the middle of the next two y.Teek§."—Old Fellow.

PONTYPRIDD. IXAGURATION OF THE NEW BRIDGE. Friday last-will long be remembered by the good people of Newbridge, for on that day they were given what they have for years hoped tor-a bridge to be crossed without fear of break- ing their horses' knees, or endangering their own necks, and available for the traffic of the rapidly increasing town. There I rl now stand side by side, over the Taff, two bridges, both of which may be said to be monuments of "perseverance re- warded." The original bridge, from which the place derives its name, an object arresting the tourist in his progress up the valley, was the work of a self taught mason, who, before his death, became one of the most famous bridge builders of the last half century. Hefailed to make a bridge twice(inl746, when his two arched bridge was swept away by a flood, and in 1751, when he constructed a single arch with too thin a crown), but notwithstanding these drawbacks, he araiu put his shoulders to the wheel, and succeeded in introducing three circular openings in each of the abutments. [There is an echo under the bridge which is said to repeat a sound nine times.] At this time Newbridge was but an insignificant village, and the in- habitants were glad of the bridge, though conveyances had to be pushed up on one side of it, and gradually 'let down" the the other; however, the opening of the Taff Vale Railway caused a great impetus to commerce and trade; Messrs. Crawshay, by their adjoining works at Treforest, and the chain cable works, created a rapid improvement, and a desire for a bridge more commensurate with the wants of the town. The matter was fully discussed, and under the advice of Mr. E. Spickett, applications were made to the magistrates assembled at Quarter Sessions, to allow the bridge to be erected by the county; but, after repeated at- tempts, the hope of the county defraying the expenses was abandoned. For a long time the project was allowed to re- main in quiesence; but at length a number of the respectable residents determined to take the matter in hand. A com- mittee was f rmed (having for its zealous chairman Dr. Davis), composed of Messrs. C. Bassett, It: Davies, Richard Rowlands, Ebenezer Williams, Aaron Cule, John Griffiths, Edward Evans, Roger Jones, J. Jones (Butchers' Arms), Daniel James Hutchins. and Robert Williams. Mr. Spickett jon- sented to act as secretary. To appoint a competent person to carry out their design was the first duty of the com- mittee, and we believe that in selecting Mr. Robert Hughes as architect, the community ratified their choice. Mr. Hughes made a design for the new bridge, which was so highly ap- proved by the Rev. Geo. Thomas, that that gentleman pro- mised to make a donation towards the undertaking- of £500. From the munificence of this gentleman, forward in every good word and work, together with a handsome sum of £100 from Sir Charles Morgan, aided by liberal subscriptions from J. Bruce Pryce, Esq., Messrs. Brown, Lenox and Co., and others, the work was commenced early this year, by Mr. Tlios. Jenkins, builder and contractor, under the superintendence of the district surveyor. At one time we believe the work was in abeyance for want of the necessary funds, and the architect and contractor came forward to carry it out on their own re- sponsibility. On Friday last, after many fruitless attempts, and great exertions on the part of every one connected with the scheme, the undertaking was crowned with success, and the bridge inaugurated by Mr. Thomas passing over it, fol- lowed by the committee, officials, and principal inhabi- tants, in carriages, two bands of music, numerous horsemen, and hundreds on foot. THE OI.D BRIDGE. Before proceeding to describe the interesting proceedings of the day, we will take a retrospective glance at the original bridge, kindly afforded us by one of our subscribers, who has extracted it from the Annual Register for the year, 1744 — "This bridge is called by the natives Point y ddy prvdd It lies on the river Taaf, at Lantrissant, near Llandaff, about ten miles above Cardiff, in Glamorganshire. This bridge is no more than 8 feet broad, but it consists of a single arch no less than 140 feet wide, part of a circle of 175 feet diameter, so as to make the altitude 35 feet. It is therefore 45 feet wider than the celebrated Rialto of Venice, and probably the widest arch in Europe, if not in the world at least I never read of any- thing equal to it, that can be relied upon as matter of fact. The accounts given by some of the Popish missionaries of some bridges in China look more like fables than realities. "The building of this bridge is well worth recording. About 12 or 14 years ago, William Edward, a country mason, a native of the parish of Eglwysilan in that county, agreed with the hundreds of Miskin and Singhenith to build a bridge over the river Taaf in four arches for £ 500 and to give securities to insure it for seven years. This bridge was finished, but a great flood in this rapid river entirely carried it away in less than two years time. He was then obliged to begin again. But he thought with himself that if he could build a bridge in one arch, it would be out of the power of the flood to hurt him a second time; and he was positive in his own mind that it was practicable. When he made this proposal to his securities they looked upon it as a very whimsical scheme; however at last they consented, and he set about it with all the eagerness of a projector. But when lie had almost finished the arch, the centre timber work gave way, and all fell to the bottom. He now began again, erected stronger timber work, fairly completed the arch, the centre was knocked off, and it stood, the wonder and amazement of all beholders and persons of curiosity came to see it from several distant parts of the king- dom. This was in the year 1755, when a copper-plate plan, and prospect of this surprising arch was published, dedicated to Lord Windsor, the lord of these manors. But the misfor- tunes of the poor mason were not yet over. He was no master of the rules of architecture, and did not understand the neces- sity of preserving an equilibrium in a building of that prodi- gious bulk; and therefore he must buy his knowledge by experience, and pay dear for it. "The quantity of matter in the crown of, the arch was but little in proportion to that which was necessary to be laid on the abutments in order to make the ascent easy. The weight of this matter caused such an inequality of pressure on the arch, that in about a year's time it crushed that stupendous pile, and it fell again to the bottom. By this time the mason was greatly in debt, and greatly discoui aged but the lords Talbot and Windsor, (who have estates in that neighbourhood) pitied his case, and being will- ing to encourage such an enterprising genius, most generously promoted a subscription among the gentry in those parts, by which a sum of money was raised that enabled him to com- plete the bridge in one arch for the last time. In order to lessen the quantity of matter in the abutments pressing upon the arch, and thereby to bring it on an equipoise with that on the crown, he has contrived three circular arches in the abutments: these pass through from side to side, like round windows, and gradually decrease in the ascent. This surprising piece of masonry, though built of stone, cost but X700 has stood tight or nine years, and it is supposed that it may stand for ages to come, a monument of the strong natural parts, and bold attempts of an ancient Briton." THE NEW BRIDGE Is a very handsome structure, consisting of three arches, (forty feet span each) on the lower side of the original bridge, in the parishes of Llanwonno and Eglwysilan. The width of the roadway is 20 feet, length of bridge, 172 feet. The stone was procured from a quarry belonging to Mr. Morgan Edwards. The bridge cost altogether £1575. There are two piers in the river each closely sheet-piled with a gauge pile every ten feet, both being properly" shoed The concrete at the foundation of each pier (three feet in depth) has been well prepared with good Aberthaw lime and clean gravel. The masonry from concrete up to plinth consists of very good block, properly dressed, with a rock face; and the masonry from the plinth up to the imposts consist of good block in course work. The arches are turned with a nine foot six inches rise, from the top of the impost to the soffit of arches. On the centre of the bridge is the following inscription This Bridge was erected AD. 1857, by public subscription.— Designed by Robert Hughes, District Surveyor; and built by Thomas Jenkins." The coping consists of blocks, about two feet in length and a foot broad, the top of the coping is dressed in a sexmental form. A dry retaining wall has been built from the wing of the bridge on the west side of approach and south of the river, across a garden. The above-mentioned work was paid for by instalmonts as the work progressed, viz., the first instalment of dB450 when abut- ments and piers were up plinth high jBSOO when abutments and piers were ready for fixing the curves, £ 450 when the last key stone was driven; and £ 375 three months afterwards THE INAUGURATION. A general holiday was given to the workmen on Friday last, all shops were closed, and every inhabitant was alive and stir- ring at an early hour to celebrate the day. Flags and banners of various descriptions to be seen along the streets, and besides this exterior decoration, we noticed the worthy Pontypriddians in their interiors, with that ever pleasing embellishment''—a smiling face. A carriage, bearing a large boiler, 8 tons in weight, belonging to Messrs. Fowler had been prepared to go over the bridge, but unfortunately the waggon broke down before the ceremonial. The Pontypridd Juvenile Drum and Fife Band, and the Treforest Brass Band perambulated the town during the day, enlivening the people by the "Grenadier's March," The Girl I left behind me," See the conquering hero comes," and other merry strains. Mr. C. Bassett had expended some trouble in the erection of a beautiful arch of evergreens, from his shop to the New Inn, but some not over scrupulous person had robbed him of his laurels" to enrich their own. Mr. Bassett's arch bore the following motto — HEDDWCH A LLWYDDIANT" (peace and prosperity); over the entrance to the New Inn was placed the Rev. G. Thomas's crest -a lion rampant, with the motto HEB DDUW, HEB DDIM, (without God, without everything), painted by Mr. T.Williams, at the request of Mr. C. Bassett. At the Butchers' Arms, there was also a triumphal arch, of very elegant proportions, with three arches, not bearing any motto, but several figures which had an agreeable effect placed among the evergreens. rrom various parts of the arch, were suspended beautiful glass baskets, and these, though rather incongruous, certainly had an exceedingly ornamental effect. Mr. Jones must have been at considerable trouble in the erection. Dr. Davies had a unique triumphal arch opposite his house, which was admired by all beholders. On the south end of the new bridge was an arch with the words Perseverance Rewarded," and at the north end Union is Strength." About twelve o'clock a procession was formed opposite the New Inn, in order to meet the Rev. G. Thomas, on the Merthyr Road, in the following order :— Police-Superintendent Thomas. BRASS BAND. Mr. Cousins's Omnibus, containing Dr. Davis, and Messrs. Ebenezer Williams, A. Cule, D. Davies, R. Jones, E. Llewellyn, D. J. Hutchins, &c. Carriage, with Mr. C. Bassett, and Messrs. Spickett, Grover (Cardiff), Rowlands, and Hughes. CThe following were in carriages and other conveyances :— g- Mr. Williams, jun. (brewer), and Miss Mary William: — Mr. D. Davis, Cwm, and Mrs. Davies. PH S Mr. Jones, Butchers' Arms, and Mrs. Jones. 3 Mr. Davies, surveyor. ° r~ Rev. J. Griffiths, Glyntaff. "S — T. Davies, Glyntaff. g Mr. & Mrs. Heck, with an immense garland crown. -3 st Mr. Langley, Bridgwater Anns, and Miss Griffiths. -2 ? DRUM AND FIFE BAND. Q Waggon, belonging to F. Crawshay, Esq., with a puncheon of rum. Two drays, with barrels of beer, from the Pontypridd Brewery (these, together with the puncheon, were tapped on the bridge for the men.) Rev. H. J. Thomas, of Pentyrcli (on horseback), Mr. J. B. Woods, of Cardiff, and others, riding. About twenty carriages and horsemen. The procession proceeded in this order, followed by several hundredsof persons,over the old bridge, up theMerthyr road, and met the Rev. G. Thomas and family, in two carriages, about a mile out of town. The cavalcade then returned observing the same order, Messrs. Davies and Bassett, having briefly ad- dreíóseil Mr. Thomas, requesting him to open the bridge. The carriages containing the rev. gentleman and his lady, and the Misses Thomas, then crossed the bridge, amid the cheers of some thousands of spectators, and the procession having also passed, it was dedicated to the public service. At the moment when the procession passed, a photograph of the animated scene was taken (by the instantaneous process) by Taliesin Williams, grandson of Gwyllim Morganwg, the Welsh poet. THE LUNCHEON Was served at one o'clock in the large room of the New Inn, and reflected great credit on the skill and management of Mr. and Mrs. Cousins, comprising all the delicacies of the season. The Rev. Geo. Thomas and lady expressed themselves highly pleased at the excellent manner in which the tables were laid out. Dr. Davis presided at one table, and at the other, the Rev. H. J. Thomas, of Pentyrch. We noticed as being pre- sent, the Rev. George Thomas, Mrs., and the Misses Thomas; the Rev. John Griltiths and daughter, Glyn Taff; the Hev. T. Davies, Glyn Taff; the Rev. H. Oliver, B.A., Pontypridd; the Rev. H. J. Thomas, Pentyrcli, and Mrs. Thomas; the Rev. William Davies, Lauwonno; the Misses Crawshay, Treforest; Miss Bruce; Major llcwett, Ty'r Mab Ellis; J. Booker, Esq.; Dr. Davis and Mrs. Davis; A. Bassett, Esq., C. E., Cardiff"; David James, Esq., and Mrs. Davies, Lhvyncelyn J. Calvert, Esq., Pontypridd; Mrs. Davis Mr. and Mrs. Evans, bank; R. Rowland, Esq.; H. J. Davis, Esq.; C. E. Spicket, Esq. Montague Grover, Esq., Cardiff; Miss Grover and Miss M. A. Grover, Pontypridd; Henry Davis, Esq., surgeon, Cymnier; David Davies, Esq., and Mrs. Davis, Cwm; F. James, Esq., Merthyr Dr. Leigh and Mrs. Leigh Dr. and Mrs. Cook Joseph Lewis, Esq., surgeon Mr. Superintendent Thomas; Mr. G. and Mrs. Penn, Chain Works; Mr. aud Mrs. Smith, Chemical Works; Mr. and Mrs. C. Bassett; Mr., Mrs., and Miss Evans, Treforest; Mr. J. Jones, coal merchant, Mer- thyr; Mr. Holway, Chemical Works; Mr D. Jones, Dan-y. graig; Mr. E, Mrs., and Miss Williams, Pontypridd; Mr. and Miss Goodman; Mr. Rea, Great Western Works, Ponty- pndd; Mr J. B. Woods, Cardiff; Mr. David Thomas, agent, Dinas Colliery; Mr. Richard Davies, Dinas; Mr. J. Hooper, Cardiff; Mr. T. Evans, Lantrisant; Mr. T. Jenkins, Newport; Mr. Aubrey, Treforest; Mr. J. D. Jenkins; Mr. William Williams; Mr. II. M. Jones, Swansea. Grace was said by the Rev. William Davies, of Llanwonno. After the usual loyal toasts, the health of the Bishop and the Clergy of the Diocese was given and drunk upstanding with loud applause. The Rev. H. J. Thomas, in responding to the last toast, said that in proposing the health of the Right Rev. the Lord Bishop of Llandaff, they proposed the health of one of the best men in the diocese, and if the clergy would but follow the excel- lent example set them by their head they would only be filling that position for which they were intended. The Chairman said that the next toast—the Army and Navy, was one which required no extraordinary recommenda- tion on his part, and the deeds so lately performed by both branches of the service were sufficient to ensure its warm re- ception. Our soldiers had gallantly done their duty, and our sailors had as bravely manned their ships. The toast was drunk with every demonstration of enthusiasm. Major Hewett, in responding, said the" army would always be found ready to do their duty. Their old deeds had been outdone by the late events in the East. He had served there himself, and was ready when his Queen and country called him to go again (cheers). The Chairman said that the event of this day would to some extent prove to them the very generous, free good-will shewn towards the place by the gentleman he was about to ask them to pledge in a bumper. Though their forefathers had tra- velled over that bent-up arch to the injury of themselves and their horses, the wants of the present day were far beyond what could make them content; but if it had not been owing to the kindness of the Rev. George Thomas they would not now have possessed the best bridge over the river Taff (cheers). That gentleman had laid down at first—and when the project was likely to be thwarted for want of support—the handsome donation of -ti-J.)0. Mr. Thomas's health was drunk with three times three and one chee. > The Rev. G. Thorn c: ul they were .*■«*i,•«. .». ose of the year 1857 to .-ss the completion of a v. i> iple and what he hoped ft. •• prove u r-rr R3cfui ur'dsrc. he considered that the I'" v rv-eut ou^hi be done with great modesty and Civilization bc.d .tu'. vauccd with such rapid strides that works of au, 3£\ un- seen by which not a river, but arms of the :'L', "i a bridge. As instances of stiel) migot notice the bridges at the 11 .Su; Vtywoath, r' well as the (tuit Still. ttipy \wuid a;vc with him in awa oer "i of pvuise VH;. erected, inoi-E L Hundred years ago, l;ic or this day (liea If <ve-nnth of th pl.aiices we now possessed had i'» i. 1 Jl »v iltiam Edwards what would he not But he little thought that WQ of this geiic.ttnon should be able, by the aid of scientific appliances to take a picture instantaneously, as had been effected whilst the procession was on the bridge that a message could be transmitted hundreds of miles in a minute; or that the metropolis of the kingdom could be reached from any part in a few hours. The brilliant and splendid arc of heaven which shined this morning reminded him (Mr. Thomas) how insigni- ficant was the work of mortal hands; but those gentle- men comprising the committee who had made the arrange- ments and conducted the steps of erecting this bridge were entitled to the greatest praise and commendation. Before the erection he did not know any place of similar size so pent up as Pontypridd (hear, hear), and he might mention the payinsr of two tolls to get into the Merthyr-road. They had but one road, and hitherto but one bridge—rather ornamental but very impassable. The public had had, however the gratifica- tion of seeing such a curious arch. He would not detain them longer on this subject, but proceed at once to propose the health of the committee who had so kindly and successfully carried out the undertaking. He could not do otherwise than include in the toast the health of those landlords who had been generous enough to grant the use of the land, for without land they could have had no bridge. If any one said the bridge was not good enough let them be reminded that they had the use of it for nothing. He had great pleasure in proposing the health of the committee, and of Dr. Davis as the chairman. The Chairman, in responding, said that the duties devolving on him as chairman of the committee he had endeavoured to discharge to the best of his ability. If he had not had active men of business to accompany him, however, lie should not have been able to accomplish much. 'I The Rev. H. J Thomas said the toast he had to propose was better by half than the toast of Mr. Thomas, in fact, it was Mr. Thomas's better half, Mrs. G. Thomas," and the ladies (applause). Mrs. Thomas made a graceful acknowledgment to the company and retired, with all the other ladies. J. P. Booker, Esq., acknowledged the toast (which was drunk with musical honours by Mr. Cousens), in a brier but telling speech. Mr. Evans, of the bank, said those present would cordially join him in drinking the health of Messrs. Hughes and Jeukins, the architect and contractor of the new bridge. It was to Mr. Hughe,s aided by Mr. Jenkins, they owed the rapid erection of the bridge. Mr. R. Hughes, who said it was impossible for him to ex- press his gratitude for the kind feeling shewn on this as well as on other occasions towards him. He saw the necessity of superseding the old bridge from the first, and having carefully considered the subject, he presented a design for the inspection of Mr. Thomas, who approved of it and appointing a day for further arrangements, said he would contribute £ 5(X). He next consulted the Highway Board of the Pontypridd District, and after being in possession of the plan they passed a resolution in favour of the bridge at the parish meeting, the Board con- curred unanimously in thinking it would be a boon to the neighbourhood. The parish of Lantwit joined, and other parties, though opposing the scheme at first, afterwards came round and helped the movement. He was at the parish of Llantrisant, on Thursday, and they had made a donation of 950, and more would have been given if the roads in the parish were in a better state of repair. The parish of Gelly- gaer, at a vestry meeting, had given £100, and promised, in the event of the committee not raising the amount, £50 more towards the erection of the bridge (applause). Mr. Jenkins not being present, his health was acknowledged by a substitute. T' The Chairman said the town of Newbridge would thrive but little and would be but a poor place, if it were not for the local trades. It would be strange if the coal trade—(hear, lIear)- were overlooked it being of most important service, and he proposed-" Success to the Coal Trade." The toast having been duly honoured, Mr. David James, whose name and that of Mr. Calvort had been coupled therewith, said that if anything marred the day's proceedings, it was that matters were not so pleasant in the neighbourhood as they wished, and as they hoped shortly would be the case. The day which brought them together was one of great importance to this district, and he was sure he was but speaking the truth, when he said that Mr. Calvert was most qualified to speak on this subject. However, he must say that he felt most strongly the advantages the town would derive from the bridge which had been inaugurated that day by the carriages passing over it, for he could date the time back to boyhood when this inconvenient, if not impassable one-arched bridge existed. It had been well observed that the townspeople had been shut up in a sack -cul-de-sae-lie be- lieved it might be entitled in more fashionable language. He was glad to note that more bridges had been and would be built, and the time was not far distant in his opinion, when Newbridge would become one of the most important towns in Glamorganshire (cheers). One of the most important questions the coal masters had to deal with was, the relations between masters and men. He fervently trusted that if the colliers were wrong in their view of the present difficulty they would see their folly, and if the masters were not right, that they would come to a better conclusion (hear, hear). He hoped that this neighbourhood would always keep up in the eyes of the world the celebrity it always had done, by the masters going hand in hand together, and if masters and men would but co-operate it would not only ensure its present eminence but go far beyond it (hear, hear). Mr. Calvert said lie was very sorry to say there was a dif- ference of opinion between the masters and the men at the present time, and he echoed Mr. James's sentiments that whichever party was wrong would see their folly and reform. If it had not been for Mr. Thomas—(cheers;—the bridge never would have been built, and all the benefits to follow would have been lost. He returned his sincere thanks for the honour of the toast. Mr. James said that the names he was going to propose were coupled with his earliest recollections, bince he had ar- rived at the age of maturity and been able to work for himself he had come into contact with them in their various spheres. With the greatest respect for them individually, and with due regard to their importance, he begged to propose Success to to the town and trade of Pontypridd, coupled with the names of Messrs. Ebenezer Williams and Charles Bassett." There were loud calls for Mr. Williams, but as lie declined to speak, Mr. Bassett rose and said it was not for a tradesman to say whether or not the various trades connected with the place were important, but he was sure they were very much obliged to Mr. James for saying so. As a class, he believed they endeavoured to promote the good of their neighbours as well as themselves, and individually he felt great gratitude for the support he had received during the last 17 years he had been amongst them. When lie set his foot in the town, he was a perfect stranger, and Pontypridd was then of much less i mportance than at the present time. He was happy to say that in the year IStl, through the influence of J. Bruce Pryce, Esq., and Major Hewett, he was appointed postmaster for tll, district. At that time there were only 290 letters passin through the box iu fourteen days; and the last aavuu° he made for the Postmaster General showed that 5,300 had been delivered in the same time. Four years ago, Aberdare, Mountain Ash, and Ilk-wain, had been added to this district. There had also been a very great improvement in the class of inhabitants. When he first came here, there were but few to whom an educated man could with familiarity speak. Trade had advanced, and with it, intelligence. The tradesmen were greatly indebted to the coal proprietors and other gentlemen for the capital they introduced by their own works and collieries, and the support which was in some instances exclusively given to town tradesmen. He considered, however, that though they had so far advanced, there was still much remained to be done. The step taken this day was a most important one, but he trusted the spirit of progress would not rest there, and that the public would not be satisfied until a proper building had been obtained wherein to hold meetings of the town and the social gatherings of the neighbourhood. There was, at present, no room in which they could associate together to read the news of the day, nor was there any suitable place for public meetings (bear, hear.) The welfare and prosperity of the town required there should be some such room for holding parish, educational, and other meetings. He had heard that. their highly respected guest of to-day purposed erecting a public building, and he would, as an humble individual, return him his sincere thanks for furthering so important a step in advance (hear, hear.) It was well-known that Pontyridd was in three distinct parishes, and that nothing could be obtained for the town wibout going to Lanwonno Lantwit Vardre, or Caerphilly, and he thought something might be done by obtaining legal power for the management of local affairs-this and other important measures showed that much remained yet to be done (hear, hear.) The Rev. G. Thomas now rose and remarked that a bridge must not satisfy unless it were complete. The ap- proach to the new bridge on the eastern side was a very imperfect one. They must improve their bridges (hear, hear.) He had been speaking with a member of the Canal Company, and requested that they should improve their bridge, which was very dangerous, and make a new one on the road to New- bridge. What is the use of improving our bridge," was the reply, "if you don't improve your own?" It had now been done—a new bridge was open, and the excuse of course fell to the ground. He again spoke to them, a short time ago, and be was happy to be able to inform them that Mr. Shepherd had received instructions to make an excellent bridge (applause.) He believed the Canal Company had not given them anything yet; but that the chairman subscribed 950 (hear, hear.) The Canal Company had, moreover, given notice for very suitable houses on the sides of the canal. lie could not resist again thanking them all for the manifestation of cordiality shewn on the occasion, and only wished the utterance of his tongue could give vent to the feelings of his heart. Might prosperity, health, and happiness, attend them one and all. The Rev. H. J. Thomas now proposed the health of the owner of much property in the neighbourhood, whose interest was felt far and wide, and whose toast would be received, if possible, with greater enthusiasm than any yet drunk-Sir Charles Morgan (cheers.) The health of the worthy baronet was drunk in a bumper, with musical honours. 11. J. Davis, Esq., said, as Sir Charles Morgan was not present any member of his family, he should beg to acknowledge in a few words the kindness done to him in the toast. Sir Charles, he could assure them, was always anxious and willing to pro- mote every good work, and he was sure the completion of this. bridge would much please him. He congratulated them and the farmers of the neighbourhood on the possession of a passa- ble road for their carts, waggons, and horses to come into the town. He also hoped it was not the last improvement New- bridge would witness soon. Why should the members of the Church of England have to go to Glyntaff? He could only say that whenever the time came for erecting a new church, Sir Charles Morgan would be ready with a subscription for the object (cheers). The l!ev. II. J. Thomas said that the Rev. George Thomas had offered laud, but they were equally obliged to Sir Charles Morgan for his liberality. The Chairman said it was very certain a bridge could not be built without a foundation, for a castle in the air was a very tumble-down thing. They had drunk the health of one gen- tleman already, and he begged to propose the health of another gentleman who had been good enough to furnish land on the other side of the river—Richard Bassett, Esq of Bonvilstone. (Drunk with 3 times 3.) The health of Dr. Davis was again drunk, on the proposi- tion of the Rev. H. J. Thomas; and the Chairman of the Committee 11" 'ied, Mr. Leigh, surgeon, proposed Suc- 0° > oupled with the names of J. P. Hooker, ■ i (The toast was given with appro- I'-i-e WUS1/Û! • ys, "d off in excellent style by Mr. J. P r wiedgingthecompliment, was very sorry t: trade was in such a critical state as it now uy the disagreement between the masters and the men, and other complications. He trusted, however, that the times would soon mend "the harder the storm the sooner it's over" might prove applicable to this case. He thanked them sin- cerely for the honour they had done him in connecting his name with the iron trade and the name of Mr Lenox. 0 Mr. Penn briefly replied in behalf of Mr. Lenox. The next toast proposed was—" Messrs. Cooke, Davies, and Lewis; Spicket, Waddington, and Lee,"—surgeons and solici- tors,-by the Rev. II. J. Thomas, who observed that as quarrels and accidents were on the increase, both professions were likely to be often called upon to exercise their skill (laughter). Mr. J. Lewis, in responding for the medical profession, re- marked that the duties of a medical man were arduous in the extreme, but he had always endeavoured to discharge his own with satisfaction. Great progress had undoubtedly been made in this town, but he was afraid that even now some people would term the inhabitants Goths and Vandals. Mr. C. Bassett said, from his intimate knowledge of the working of the bridge, and its erection, be knew that one gen- tleman —Mr. Spickett-was deserving of a separate toast (hear, hear) He had not only given his time and legal knowledge, but had made no inconsiderable pecuniary expenditure in order to bring about the result this day crowned with success. He had tried again and again to throw the expense of the bridge on the county. The Rev. G. Thomas here observed that the town would no more have had the bridge without Mr. Spickett, and Mr. Hughes, than it would have had the Gas Works without Mr. M. Grover (cheers). The toast Was received with loud applause. Mr. Spickett said he was deeply sensible of the kindness shewn him, and only wished he was more deserving of it. He was sincere in telling them the success of the undertaking was owing more to others than himself, and in the first place he must refer to the munificent donation of Mr. Thomas—to the energy and perseverance manifested by the committee-and also to the spirit and activity with which the able architect and the contractor had carried out their work. The health of M. Grover, Esq,, having been drunk in that gentleman's absence, Mr. Waddington briefly responded, Mr. Lee now proposed the health of the Rev. II. J. Thomas, which was warmly received. The Rev. gentleman in acknowledgment, said he was proud to have his name so welcomed, for there was no place in which he took greater interest than in Newbridge. He had succeeded in obtainingClOO in the parish of Lantwit Vardre towards the erection of the bridge. He had always been on the best of terms with the inhabitants of Newbridge, and had been often indebted to his Dissenting friends there. The want alluded to by Mr. Bassett of a Town-hall, was very opportune, and he hoped it would be obtained ere long. Mr. G. Thomas had done his duty well hitherto, and lie had no doubt he would on a future occasion, when called upon contribute towards such a desideratum. Major Hewett next proposed the health of Mr. Bruce Pryce, whose state of health prevented his being present. He knew that the prosperity of the town lay deeply in his heart (hear.) [The Rev. George Thomas now retired, the company rising with the song Should old acquaintance be forgot."] Mr. Smith, of the chemical works, next proposed the health of Mr. Richard Evans, of the West of England Bank, trusting there was in store for him many years of prosperity and happiness. Major Hewett said he did not know a single person more fit for the post he occupied than Mr. Evans. Mr. Evans (the toast having been drunk) replied. He was exceedingly obliged to them for the honour they had done him, and hoped they gave him the credit of being honest in his endeavour to discharge his duty satisfactorily (hear, hear). Mr. Bassett next proposed the health of Major Hewett, a highly respected magistrate of the county, always to be found doing his duty manfully. (The toast was drunk with immense cheering.) Major Hewett, in replying, said it was thirty-five years since he served his country, in a time of great trials and great victories. He hoped lie had set such an example to the soldiers as stimulated them to courageous conduct. He thought military merit was not rewarded as it ought to be in this country. Thousands of lives were needlessly sacrificed abroad, and British soldiers were being slaughtered in India. They ought to have been there long before the out- break. There were persons who cried out Be merciful." But he asked them—can we be merciful to men who have outraged our women, who have torn our children to pieces ? (no). We wanted justice, not revenge. Purchase placed men in a rank they ought not to hold, whereas every man in the ranks ought to look forward to promotion. The proceedings shortly afterwards terminated. III the evening there were fireworks in a field behind the New Inn, under the management of Messrs. Hutchins and Hughes. The pyrotechnic display was witnessed by some hundreds of the inhabitants. A GRAND CONCERT Was given in the assembly-room at the New Inn, the principal singers being Mr. T. Gryffydd Jones, A. C. Trafalgaw (director), Mrs. Tilley, of Cardiff (pianiste), Mr. Thomas Davies, Ponty- pridd, aided by an efficient choir. The following is a pro- gramme of the performances:— PART I. Glee—"Chough and Crow" Bishop Glee—" How merrily we live" M. Este Song—" My beautiful Rhine" Miss Ellis Song-" AIy beautiful Rhine" Miss Ellis Bass Song—"The heart bow'd down" (from the opera of the Bohemian Girl), Mr. J. Evans Balfe Glee-" Winds gently whisper" Whittaker Duett—" Two Forest Nymphs," Mrs. Tilley and Miss Ellis Glee—"Awake, Æoliau Lyre" Danby PART II. Song-" The Standard Bearer," Mr. Jones Lindpaintor Bass Song—"The Wolf" (from the opera of the Castle of Andalusia), Mr. John Evans Song—" Tell me, my heart," Mrs. Tilley Bishop Glee—"From Oberon in Fairy Land" it. G. S. Stevens Duett-" Elfin Call," Mrs. Tilley and Miss Ellis Glover Catch—"Ah! how Sophia!" (A house on Fire). Glee-" Life's a Bumper" Wainwright Finale—" God save the Queen" Bull There was a very full attendance, and many of the pieces were encored. Mrs. Tilley possesses considerable skill as a piano-forte player, and Miss Ellis is a very pleasing singer; The Two Forest Nymphs," Awake, Æolian Lyre," and Life's a Bumber," were given with great success. The proceedings of the day terminated with the concert, and we cannot allow the opportunity to pass without remarking the excellent behaviour of the townspeople throughout. Great credit is due to the police, who, under Superintendent Thomas, preserved order, and they did this without any great difficulty to the committee every one must have been deeply indebted for the creditable manner in which thearrangements hadbeen made, and we believe that every arrangement previously designed was carried out to the letter. The day was, moreover, very fine, with the exception of an occasional shower, and nothing occurred to mar the rejoicings which naturally celebrated the inauguvativu yf that Ivag felt want—a payable bridge, CARDIFF POLICE.-FRIDAY. I (Before S. D. Jenkins, ex-mayor W. Done BusheU, and T. E. Heath, Esqrs.) RICHARD JENKINS'S CASE.—Riclid. Jenkins, who had been remanded from Thursday, was again charged for that he, on the nineteenth day of June last, at the borough of Cardiff, did feloniously offer and utter a certain forged deed, with intent thereby then to defraud, he the said Richard Jenkins, at the time he so offered and uttered the said forged deed, then well knowing the same to be forged." The first witness called was Mr. J. H. Ensor, who deposed as follows:—I am a solicitor at Cardiff. On Monday, the 15th June last, or on the following day, Richard Jenkins called at my office, and handed me the bond which I now produce. It ap- peared to have been duly executed by Richard Jenkins, William Morgan Davies, and Thomas Shelper, but it was not attested by a witness. He told me he had sent it to the office of the English and Foreign Assurance Society, but they had returned it to him. to be executed in the presence of a witness, and he asked me if I would allow my clerk to accompany him to the docks, and see all the parties pass a dry pen over their signature. I assented, calling my clerk. I gave the bond into his hand, and directed him to accompany Mr. Jenkins for that purpose. They left the office together. On the following morning Jenkins returned to my office and asked for an en- velope to put the bond in. I accordingly placed the bond in a wrapper or envelope, and sealed or wrapped it. He then asked me to address it for hiin to a Mr. Anderson, the secretary of the society. I did so, and it was afterwards taken to post, but I cannot say whether by him or my clerk. On the following Friday Jenkins again called with the bond, and said the office was dissatisfied with Shelper's signature. He explained to me that he had not received the money in consequence, and that the delay was prejudicial to him, asking me to write to Mr. Anderson, and tell him that the bond was duly executed by Shelper. Having spoken to my clerk on the subject, I wrote to Mr. Anderson, stating that Jenkins had brought the bond to me—that it was duly executed by Shelper. I placed the bond in an envelope, and addressed it to Mr. Anderson. I acted for Mr. Jenkins in this matter. Cross-examined by Mr. Simons. It may be that Jenkins at the first interview requested me to see the parties to get their signatures, and that I suggested my clerk should go. My belief is that lie asked for my clerk to go. On the liltli he pointed out a stroke of a "t" above the S" in Shelper's sig- nature. I swear I did not make the erasure. On the first occasion he did not offer the bond to me in order that I should set it all right. I will not say that he did not say he did not ask me to attest it, which would of course imply that I should see it re-executed. My recollection of what did occur at this first interview is exceedingly imperfect. I wrote part of the attestation before my clerk left the office with the bond. I in- structed him to accompany Jenkins to the docks-that he was to see Mr. Jenkins, Mr. Davies, and Mr Shelper re-execute the deed by passing a dry pen over their signatures, and when he had done that, to put his name at the foot of the attesta- tion. I knew Shelper before personally. I did not know Davies. Mr. W. M. Davies, ship broker, next deposed I know the prisoner. I know the deed produced. I believe I ifrst saw it in June last. I had promised Jenkins to sign a bond as a surety for him. I never did sign one. A bond was brought to me to sign by Jenkins. I refused, because the name of Shelper" was there. I had promised to execute the bond on condition that two other persons, and not Shelper, should act as sureties. The signature to the bond produced is not mine -is not the least like it. The prisoner has been in my office as clerk, and has had opportunities of becoming acquainted with my handwriting. Cross-examined: The signature to the bond produced is not an imitation of my handwriting—it is not at all like my sig- nature. When Jenkins first proposed to me to become surety to the office, Shelper's name was not mentioned the names mentioned as sureties were Mr. Cory and Mr. George Thomas. To my knowledge I never heard the name of Shelper. I don't recollect seeing any one else's name on the paper of reference to the office, except my own. I made another objection, that the money was made payable in a different, manner. I never said I would be responsible if the bond came down all right. I never heard anything about Mr. Ensor's clerk and Jenkins until the row came out. I never said, pay the money by in- stalments, and "put my name to the bond, old boy." Charles Perry now gave evidence, deposing In June last I was clerk to Mr. Ensor. I knew Jenkins, the prisoner, and I recollect being sent by Mr. Ensor with Jenkins. I was told by Mr. Ensor to see Mr. Morgan Davies and Mr. Shelper put a dry pen over their names. I went with Jenkins to Mr. Shelpcr's house. Then I saw Mr. Shelper sign some paper. I can't, say that it is the bond produced. Mr. Jenkins had the paper from the time we left Mr. Ensor's. After leaving Shelper's we went out, and in the street we met a man, and Jenkins said, You are the very man I want to see." Jenkins took a paper out of his pocket, placed it on a little book, and the other gentleman passed his pencil over the paper. Jenkins and I then went to the Windsor Hotel, where I signed my name. Cross-examined I signed my name as witness to the signatures of Davies and Shelper, because I thought it was their signatures I had to witness. I went to the Commercial Reading Rooms after the signature, not before. I went there to get pen and ink to sign my name, but there was none. I then went to the Windsor Hotel with them. I saw the man in the street pass his pen over some signature. He was not at all like Mr. Daviea. I am quite sure Mr. Davies was not the man. I saw Shelper pass his name over the signature. The depositions having been signed, the prisoner was then committed for trial. Hannah Phillips was charged with stealing money from the person of John Cossack. Discharged. Walter Drowan was charged with stealing a quantity of coal from a boat on the canal, the property of Mr. Powell. Committed for 14 days with hard labour. Henry Davies was charged with beating his wife, Eliza Davies, in Bute-street. Ordered to pay 5s, for being drunk. JOIUI iJuim wao cIH\¡\'6'oa w&fcli otoaliupj it jtl.10 anvl two g'laoscs of beer from Thomas Wild, the Bath Arms beer-house, St. Mary-street. Committed for 14 days. John Lewis was charged with using unjust weights in the sale of fish, and the offence being proved, he was fined 20s.— costs, 8s. [The Court was now, at 2.45 p.m., suddenly adjourned, as Mr. Stockdale was called off to proceed at once to Aberdare to suppress a rising outbreak there.] SATURDAY. (Before W. Done Bushell, Esq.) David Thomas aud Edward Thomas were charged with being in Bute-street with intent to commit felony. They were committed for 14 days, with hard labour, as rogues and vagabonds. Fanny Hopkins was fined 10s. for being a drunken prosti- tute, or in default to be committed for 7 days. William Thompson was charged with stealing from the person of Alfred Danby. Discharged. Thomas Stanley was charged with stealing a quantity of flour from Mr. H. Belcher's premises, aud also a sack from the premises of Messrs. Bowden. Remanded to Monday. MONDAY. (Before the Mayor and Dr. Edwards.) Morgan Hudson, having been charged with breaking int Mr. Hopkins's shop, Angel-street, was dismissed on the state- ment of Supt. Stockdale that there was not sufficient evidence in the case. Henry Wild was fined 5s. for being 'drunk and disorderly on Sunday morning. Mary Griffiths was committed for one month for causing an obstruction in Bute-street. CHARGE OF ROPE STEALING.—Philip Gwantz was charged with stealing a quantity of rope. P.C. Miles deposed: I was on duty in Bute-street on Saturday last, when I saw the prisoner near the iron bridge, observing that he had a canvass bag on his shoulder with something in it. I stopped him at the bottom of the steps and asked him what he had there. He said it was some old rope which the captain of his vessel had given him permission to sell. I asked him where the captain and vessel were. He said the vessel was in the old canal, but the captain had gone to Newport. I produce the rope, which weighs about t cwt. Thomas Fisher said lie was the master of the ship Friendship, but the rope produced was not his. Dismissed. SURE, BUT COULD NOT SWEAR.-Andy Griffin was charged with having a quantity of potatoes in his possession, supposed to be stolen. The boots of the prisoner corresponded with the marks in the field from which the potatoes were stolen, in Canton, belonging to James Dasy, who said he had lost about t cwt. The potatoes produced were shewn to the com- plainant, who was asked if they were his. He replied, with that charming simplicity and naivete peculiar to the natives of the Isle of Erin, 1 am sure they are all mine, but I can't swear to it." Committed for one month. (The ex-mayor here took his seat.) A BROTH OF A BOY.—Patrick Kennedy was charged with having potatoes in his possession, stolen from the above James Dasy, and with knocking down the policeman when asked to give them up. P.C. Webb deposed that on Saturday night he charged the prisoner, in Womanby-street, with stealing some potatoes, telling him that certain marks on his boots corresponded with impressions left in the soil of Dasy's garden. The prisoner then and there knocked him down. (Kennedy And no hard job either.) He received several bruises on his person from the effects of the fall. (Prisoner It's very well I didn't meet him outside the town.) The Mayor Do yon consent to be tried now or at the Quarter Sessions. (Kennedy: I'll go to the Quarter Sessions at any rate.) The prisoner pleaded not guilty to stealing the potatoes, but admitted having a hand on the policeman," and then said he would be tried now. He was committed for three months. A DOCK THIKF.—Charles Thomson was charged with rob- bing vessels at the Decks. P.C. Price deposed that he was on duty at the Bute Docks on Sunday last, when lie saw the pri- soner coming along with a quantity of seamen's clothing in his possession. He was with two others, and they all ran away on seeing him. In the possession of the prisoner were found one pair of boots, a jacket, sleeve waistcoat, and a pair of trousers. John Evans deposed that a pair of bo,)ts of his were stolen from the Michael," of Memel, of which he was tide-waiter. Com- mitted for three months. WAREHOUSE ROBBERY.—Thomas Stanley was charged with stealing a quantity of flour in a sack. Mr. Bird appeared for the prisoner. P.C. Webb deposed that on Saturday morning he met the prisoner with a bag containing flour, which lie said he had obtained from Mr. Bowden, flour and porter merchant. The policeman found a quantity of flour and an oil tin, con- taining 7 or 8 gallons. Mr. Ilenry Belcher, wharfinger,- said the prisoner had been in his employ. It appoars that on the above morning, the prisoner procured the keys of the warehouse from the warehouseman. Mr. Bowden had a quantity of flour lying at Mr. Belcher's; one sack on being examined was found to have been emptied of some flour. The Mayor said the doubt being in favour of the prisoner, he would be discharged. Dis- missed accordingly; the flour remaining in the possession of Stanley. TUESDAY. (Before Dr. Edwards and J. H. Insole, Esq.) SICK IN THE HEAD."—Frederick Waldenrier, a Dutch pensioner, adorned by imperial and moustache, with a wooden leg, was charged with being found drunk in the streets and causing a mob of persons to assemble. He admitted the offence, but said he had been sick in the head," and his coat had been taken away by the police. He was dismissed, and his coat returned. HIGHWAY ROBBERY.James Maes, Ellen Collins, and Thomas Kelly, were charged with robbing Richard Davis, butcher, of Aberdare. The prosecutor said he had been to Llandaff Fair, and after going through Cardiff he went on Penarth-road, where he was met by the woman, who got him to walk with her. Whilst under the railway arch C^lius took hold of his waistcoat and abstracted from his pocket two £ 5 notes, one of the Bank of England, the other of the Brecon Bank, £ 33 10s. in gold, and 10s. in silver. Maes then knocked him down, and the other man kicked him whilst on the ground. Mr. Wilcocks appeared for the prisoner Macs and elicited in cross-examination that the prosecutor had called at several public houses for drink before going to Penarth-road. The case was remanded. BUYING BRANDY AT THE DOOR.—Colman Glynne was charged with hawking spirits. Margaret Bennett, a married woman residing in Newtown, deposed that the prisoner came to her house on Monday, and offered to sell her some brandy from two bladders. She tasted a little which he gave her, and she thought it was very good brandy. He asked her Is. 8d. a pint for it, but consented to sell her some at Is. 6d. After he had gone, she found that what he had sold was not brandy, but coffee and tea mixed. Another witness gave similar evidence, and Mr. J. Taylor, supervis )r of excise, having deposed that one of the bladders produced contained brandy, and the other some liquid without spirits, the prisoner was committed for three months. WEDNESDAY. (Before the Mayor, ex-Mayor, and Dr. Edwards ) CHARGE OF OBSTRUCTING HARBOUR TRAFFIC.—Mr. Mitchell, ship-builder, was charged with allowing mud to be deposited by his mud boots, and thereby causing an ob- struction, in the Cardiff harbour. Mr. Luard appeared for the defendant. Mr, Thomas Roes, harbour master, deposed as follows I am appointed by the town council. My attention has been recently called to a deposit of mud below the Long Dyke, and a quarter of a mile to the eastward of the drainage outlet. Fromthc quantity of mud I saw I should judge there were about eight lighters deposited there. I should say it was so placed that no vessel would be likely to get aground on the deposit. The ori- ginal deposit was half a mile off.—Mr. Luard submitted that no evidence had been adduced likely to affect his client, as no obstruction" was proved, and the case was dismissed. STEALING CLOTHES.—Thomas Royle and Thomas Palmer were charged with stealing a quantity of clothes, the property of John Owen. The prosecutor said he was a native of Angle- sea, and had only just arrived in Cardiff. He was in a public- house a day or two ago, with a bundle of clothes, and the pri- soners were also there. Isaac Phillips, a jeweller and clothes dealer, deposed that the two men had sold him the clothes produced—viz., a pair of trousers, coat, jacket, and scarf. Royle pleaded guilty to the charge, but said as an excuse that he was drunk. Palmer said he had been with the other priso- ner, but he was not guilty. Committed for two months. ASSAULTING THE POLICE.—Michael Murphy was charged with being drunk and assaulting P.C. 14, by kicking him in the stomach. The offence was fully proved, and the prisoner committed for a month. As he left the court he made a fearful imprecation on the Mayor. [Mr. Stockdale said that less pro- tection was granted the borough police than the county force, as a case of assault against the latter merited three months' imprisonment, or, at the discretion of the magistrates, a tine of £ 20.] HIGHWAY ROBBERY. James Maes, Ellen Collins, and Thos. Kelly, were charged, on remand, with robbing and assaulting Richard Davies and John Mankey, who had been apprehended since yesterday, was also charged with being concerned in the same case. The prosecutor's case was supported by Mr. Stephens, and the prisoner Maes was defended by Mr. Wilcocks. Davies stated that on Monday last lie came from Aberdare to attend the fair at Llandaff, and after returning at night, he went into the Pcnarth road, and whilst unde: the bridge, the woman robbed him of the money. Ellen Collins took from him about £1-0, and handed it to Maes. The other two men were also there, and he was kicked in the back by Kelly. Mankey refused to offer him any assistance. In cross-examination pro- secutor stated that he was sure lie had not stated yesterday there were two and not three men present during the robbery. He admitted that lie had a glass of ale and three pennyworth of rum at Llandaff, and two or three glasses.at different public- houses. He was "not drunk, but stupified." Daniel Truelove, navigator, Cardiff, deposed that between eleven and twelve o'clock on Monday night, he heard cries on the Penarth road. As lie got under the railway bridge, he met Maes, who was walking. He asked him what was the matter, two or three times, when lie at last replied, a woman has been robbing a man down there." Witness asked prisoner to go with him and see what was the matter. Maes said he would not, and witness told him he must, whereupon prisoner ran away and he followed him into Charlotte-street, where he saw him enter Mortimer's house.—Cross-examined Went into Charlotte-street the first time for a basin of pea soup.-P.C. Price deposed to apprehending the prisoner.— P.C. Webb de- posed to finding a quantity of woman's clothing, supposed to belong to the female prisoner, on the Penarth Road.—Charles Bhank, carpenter on board a Bremen ship, deposed that ho was in a dancing-room, at the American Eagle, in Bute-street, with Maes, from 7 to 11 o'clock on Monday night last.-Karl Rosenahm also deposed that he was with Maes during tho above hours, and two other witnesses gave similar evidence one of them deposing that Kelly was also there from 8 to 11. After being duly cautioned, the prisoners declined making any statement and they were all committed to the assizes. :? THREATENING A POLICE CONSTABLE.—Hichard Rees was charged with threatening the life of P.C. Bennett. The oflicer said he was on duty in Bute-street on the previous Friday it was about 12 o'clock p.m. defendant horribly threatened him. Defendant repeated the threat many times. Mr. Wilcocks, who appeared for the defence, called a person named Anthony, who said he was in the company of the defendant on Friday night- P.C. Bennett was there, and there was a row." The policeman struck a man named Morgan on the face: defendant then said to Bennett, You ought to be ashamed of yourself," but did not use any threatening lan- guage. The case was dismissed, Mr. Wilcocks saying that a summons ought to be issued by the magistrates agaiuet Bennett for perjury. BEER-HOUSE CASH. William Humphreys, beerhouse- keeper, was charged with selling beer at illegal hours. P.C. Pearce deposed to entering the house on Friday last, when he found several men and women drinking. There was a iug of beer on the table, but in a different room. This case was also dismissed. Jane Mellon was charged with wilfully breaking a house door on the Splott Land. Ordered to pay 5s. and costs. John Long was charged with stealing some copper sheathing from Messrs. Batchelors' yard. He was seen coming out of the yard by the watchman, who asked him what he had. Pri- soner dropped a piece of copper from under his coat. He was then searched, and a number of nails were found on his person. Committed for one month. THURSDAY. (Before J. H. Insole, Esq.) Thomas Watkins, labourer, was charged with attempting to break open a warehouse in Bute-street. The case was re- manded to Friday (this day). Thomas Rowlands was charged with assaulting William Townsend. Remanded to Friday. The above were the only cases. — ♦ REPORT FROM MONMOUTHSHIRE AND SOUTH WALES. We cannot report this week any alteration for the better in the Iron Trade of the district. Makers are still out of or- ders, and the general depression is not the least diminished. It is thought by some that the commencement of the new year will bring about an improvement, as consumers in all parts must necessarily be in want of fresh supplies about that time. We consider it probable that these anticipations will be realised; especially as tranquility appears to be partially re- stored to commercial affairs, and as no fresh failuies of any great moment have taken place. It is stated that representa- tives of various large iron firms have waited upon the authori- ties of the Bank of England for the purpose of obtaining ad- vances of money, and upon their application in this quarter b( i-ig successful, a representation was made to the Government, tba'; unless the money could be procured a very large number of bands would be thrown out of employ. This, and other ar- guments brought forward, bad the desired effect and it is un- derstood that the necessary advances have been obtained. The bailers" at Abersychan Ironworks struck on Saturday owing to tho manager, Mr. Roden, having taken off one of the* "helpers." The Varteg colliers also struck, but they have gone to work again. At Blaina, this week, notices of a further reduction in wages have been posted up; two coal pits have also been stopped here. There is too much reason to fear that, before the ter- mination of this month, wages in South Wales, in connection with the iron trade, will be reduced 20 per cent. At Aber- dare the reduction already reaches 15 per cent.; and we re- gret to say that the colliers have now resisted the measure. On Saturday and Monday last great numbers of men turned out, and the district is in a disturbed and unsettled state. It is believed that 5000 or more men will thus lose employment. In Merthyr things are very little better. The great works are said to be almost wholly out of orders, with two or three ex- ceptions. As we stated last week, wages have been reduced 20 per cent., and it is rumoured that in the course of the present month a further decrease of 2s. in £1 will take place. This, with half time work, necessarily places the district in a very gloomy state. Such is the unvarying tenor of the information from all parts ot South Wales. It is confidently hoped that a very short time will place trade in a better position, and there are some grounds for the anticipation. It is certain that things cannot now remain stationary; and unless prospects brighten serious losses will ensue Several very good veins of hematite ore have been struck upon on the Trecastle estate, Lanliarry, and a vein of coal, 11 feet thick, has also been discovered in the Ely Valley. It is intended to erect several furnaces in and near Lanelay for the purpose of smelting the ore produced in these neighbourhoods, and also in the Llantrisant district. A temporary stop however, has been put to these purposes by the condition of trade. Several ftital pit accidents have again occurred—two at Aberdare, one at Machan, and two at Merthyr. They were all of the character we so frequently have to report, and arose solely from the carelessness of the men themselves. In- vestigations were hold as regards the cause of death, but no. complaint was made against the colliery authorities in any case.—Mining Journal. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12, 1857. Published by the Sole Proprietor, HENRY WEBBER, at his residence, Crockherbtown, in the Parish of Saint John the Baptist, in the Town of Cardiff and County of Glamorgan, and Printed by him at his General Printing Office in Duke-street, in the said Parish of Saint John, in the Town and County aforesaid. Advertisements and Orders received by the following Agents: LONDON Robert Faulder White, 33, Fleet-st. Messrs* Newton & Co., 5, Warwick-square; Mr. G. Reynell,. 42, Chancery-lane Mr. S. Deacon, 154, LeadenhalU street; Mr. Hammond, 27, Lombard-street; Mr. C. Barker, 12, Birchin-lane W. Dawson and Son, 74, Cannon-street, City; Mr. S. Eyre, 3-2, Bouverie- street, Fleet-street; Messrs. J. P. and C. Jones 2, Crescent Villa, Cannonbury Park, North Islington- LOCAL AGENTS:— ABERDARE Mr. Tlios. Evnns BRIDGEND Mr. W. Leyahon, Stamp Office COWBRIDGE MR. Lister, Chemist MERTHYR Mrs. M. W. White, Stationer NEWBRIDGE Mr. C. Bassett, Chemist, &c» NEWTORT, Messrs. Johns, Booksellers, 55, Commercial-st» This paper is regularly filed in London at Lloyd's Coffee-house, City. Peel's Coffee-house, Fleet-street. -The Chapter Coffee-house, St. Paul'i.