The Cambrian News and Merionethshire Standard

L LANBA DA H N-F A \VR. SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION. On Monday, the 24th January, a large meeting of the ratepayers of the district, was held at the vestry room of the Methodist Chapel, Llanbadarn-fawr, to give the caniidates in the School Board election an opportunity of expressing their views on matters con- nected with the forthcoming election. Mr. RICHARD EDWARD. Pwllhobi, who was voted to the chair, after explaining the purport of the meet- ing said that a Board had been in existence for six years and that some work had been done during that period. He then referred to the repairs done at the Penyfron School, Comminscoch School, and also to the :bf.nt School. He afterwards referred to how the different schools were conducted, and the different officers in connection with the Board. He thought j that if a meeting had been called together some time, previously a contest might have been avoided. Though I the present Board did not very well agree, lie hoped t,1J.t they would elect the best men on the Board to loo si after the education of the rising generation, and j( tkat they would work more harmoniously than their i) predecessors. He thought that the schools could be j carried on with less expenditure. The Rev. -JAMES EDWARDS, Independent Minister explained the circumstances through which the contest arose. It appeared that at the formation of the Board in 1S75, the Nonconformists and the Church party made an agreement to the effect that the Church party were to have four members, and the Noncon- formists three members for th 3 first three years, and that at the end of that term the Church party were to have three members. This term having expired the Church party wanted to east away the agreement, and insisted on having four members to which the Noncon- formists objected. The conclusion arrived at, was that another agreement was drawn between the parties mentioned which stipulated that the Noncon- formists should have four members on the last Board, and the Church party three. A very warm discussion then ensued. For the Nonconformists it was contended that as they were nearly twice as large in number as the Churchmen, the Nonconformists should have four members. The Rev. JOHN PUCH remarked that the agreement signed in 187S was entered into between the nominees and that it did not bind the ratepayers. In answer to this the Rev. JAMES Euw ARDS pointed out that this agreement was of no value whatever, and that he had also said so at the time it was drawn and this opinion had been confirmed by Mr. Hugh Hughes, senior, and Mr. Hugh Hughes, junior. The Rev. JOHN PUGH then said he knew nothing respecting the first agreement, but the existence of this agreement was ultimately admitted in a speech by Mr. Hugh Hughes, junior. For the Church party, it was contended that the agreement signed between the nominees in 1875, was binding, but that was signed so as to save expenses. The Rev. JAMES EDWARDS then pointed out that if the agreement in 187S was of value the agreement of IS75 ought also to be of value which the Church party attempted to nullify. He remarked that morally an attempt to cast away the agreement of 1875 was as great a sin as if it had been actually done. If elected he would endeavour to carry out matters connected with the Board on principles of political economy. He was not going to decrease the salary of anybody unless in accordance with economy. He believed in con- pulsory education provided that the parents were able to keep them fairly clad and fed. He thought it was possible to carry out the provision of compulsory powers to an extreme. It was quite easy to bring children before magistrates, but regard ought to be paid to the children's position. He further stated that the expense of the election would only be 2s. S-Ul. or thereabouts to each ratepayer in the district which would be remunerated by enlightenment. Mr. Hnat HUGHES junior said that he quite agreed with what had been said by the previous speakers, except what was said respecting the agreement in 1875. If elected he was not going in with the intention of decreasing the salaries of the teachers of the different schools in the district unless that was beneficial for education. Although himself a rigid Churchman he was going in as a representative of the whole district. He would do all he could to decrease the rates but with due regard to efficiency of education. The Re% PUGII stated that with regard to the salary of the master of Penyfrori Board School, some people thought he was paid too much. The late Board had made enquiries respecting the salaries paid to masters in different schools and by comparing those with what the present master of Penyfron school got, they had come to the conclusion that he was not paid more than was usual. The speaker then referred to the influence of the working of the Education Act upon the community. When the new Act came into operation there was a great demand for pupil teachers. Parents were anxious to prepare their children so as to be schoolmasters, so that by the time these children came to market the demand for schoolmasters had decreased. The consequence was that a great many who were intended for schoolmasters had to seek employment in other directions. He thought a reaction would soon occur. Mr. Rop.ER-r ROBERTS said respecting the lowering of rates it was in the power of the ratepayers to bring down the rates by sending their children to school so as to give fair play to the master and mistress to work the children from standard to standard. He added that lie would if elected do his best to discharge the duties for the benefit of those whom he represented. On Tuesday, the 25th January, another meeting was held for the same purpose at Comminscoch. Several persons spoke with great warmth. Mr. Robert I Roberts, Llanbadarnfawr land agent presided. THE ELECTION Took place on Wednesday, January 26th, and the following was the result :— Rev. J. Pugh, Vicar, Llanbadarn 261 Mr. Hugh Hughes, junior 255 Mr. J. G. W. Bonsall, Fronfraith 247 Mr. J. G. W. Bonsall, Fronfraith 247 Mr. Robert Roberts, Llanbadarn, land agent 241 I' Mr. David Morgan, Blaeudolau, farmer 240 Mr. Richard Roberts, Llanbadarn, farmer' 211 Rev. James Edwards 206 Mr. William Rees, Dorglwyd, farmer 169 j Mr. John James, Quebec Villa, merchant. 141 The first seven were elected. The first four on the poll are Churchmen and the other five Nonconformists. Through indisposition, Mr. John James was unable to canvass previously, or to go out on the day of the poll. Mr. Rees, Dorglwydd, was what might be called a weak Nonconformist candidate, and appears tÎ4 have been brought forward to divide the Nonconformist vote.

0 LL ANFIH AN GEL. DREADFUL SUICIDE. Early on Monday morning, January 24th, Mrs Jane Watkins, aged thi.-ty-eight, committed suicide by throwing herself, as is supposed, in front of the luggage train leaving Aberystwyth about six o'clock in the morning. The body was found lying in the four-foot. The left leg had been cut off by the wheel of the engine, and was found on the side of the railway nearest the village. There were iiarks on the line which indicated that the body had been dragged a little distance towards Borth by the luggage train, and then dragged back again by the first train into Aber ystnvytli, both of which pass Llanfihangel station before it is daylight. The body was but partly dressed. Mrs Watkins lived in a house known as Penpornpren on the side of the high road leading to Borth, and between the Llan- fihangel Railway Station and the School-house on the hill above. She was a married woman, and had four children. Between six and seven years ago her husband was taken to the Joint Counties Lunatic Asylum at Carmarthen. Recently the dread of poverty and the fear that she should be unable to bring up her children appears to have preyed upon her mind, and it is thought that on Monday morning whilst in a state of temporary insanity she left her bed, partly dressed herself, went barefooted through the snow to the side of the railway, which runs within two dozen yards of her house, waited until the train approached, and then committed suicide by throwing herself on the rails in front of the engine. On Tuesday, at one o'clock, an inquest was held in the waiting room of Llanfihangel Station, before Evan Rowland, Esq., Goginan, coroner, and a jury composed of the Rev. W. Davies, vicar of the parish (foreman), Messrs William'Herbert, John James, Edward Hughes, William Bishop, Thomas Jones, David Jenkins, Thomas Clerk, John Arscott, John Morgan Jones, John Rowland, and William Joseph. The first witness called was Thomas Thomas, butcher, Llanfihangel, who said :-On Sunday after- noon last. January 23rd, about half-past four, I went into Mrs Watkins's house, which is close to the village. I spoke to her and asked her how she was, but she did not reply, and from her manner I saw that there was something wrong with her mind. I said. "Do you suffer any pain in your head?" She replied, ''No; only I fancy there is some weight on my back which I cannot get rid of." I then advised her to strive oil, to try to rear her children as well as she could, and said no doubt that in the end she would be better off. She made no direct reply, but afterwards said she feared c she would never get on. I have known her many times worse than when I saw her on Sunday. Her husband is an inmate of the Carmarthen Lunatic Asylum. I believe that affected her mind. as she feared she would become very poor, and would be unable to bring up her children. She had four children, all of whom lived with her. Richard (ough. station-master, Llanfihangel Sation, said—On Monday morning last my attention was drawn to something on the line about thirty yards towards Borth. This was after the passing of the mail train into Aberystwyth. I went down and found the body of a woman, whom I did not identify, lying in the four-foot with her head in the direction of Borth. She was lying partly on her left side. I noticed that one leg had been cut off, and was lying on the village side of the line. I then called John Arscott, a platelayer, who lives at Llanfihangel Level Crossing, and asked him to go for P.C. Joseph. Before the first passenger train out of Aberystwyth passed Llanfihangel station the body had been taken out of 0 the four-foot, placed on the side of the railway and a covering placed over it. The woman had on only a night-dress, a petticoat, and a small bodice. It was evident that she had left her bed to come on to the c line. I could see blood further on towards Borth. It is my opinion that she was killed by the first train out of Aberystwyth, dragged a short distance, and then dragged back to where she was found, by the first train into Aberystwyth. Life seemed to be just going out of the body when I first saw it. The body was identified, and I assisted P.C. Joseph in carrying the body into the house. James Biddulph said--I am the driver of the engine Broneirion, and am in the employ of the Cambrian Railways Company. I left Aberystwyth at six a.m. an Monday morning, and passed Llanfihangel station it ü.3G, I did not stop there, and the train was going ibout eight miles an hour, I noticed nothing unusual when passing Llanfihangel station, and did not know 1 that any accident had occurred until I had gone to Machynlleth and had returned to Glandovey Junction, when the driver of the up train imfor:ned me of the occurrence. On arriving at Aberystwyth I examined the engine, and found blood on the ashpan and small pieces of flesh on the iron-work between the engine and tender. The Coroner said—Mr. Foreman and Gentlemen of the Jury.—I will now ask yon to consider the evidence which has been given at this inquest. In the first place we have the evidence of Mr. Thomas Thomas, a butcher, living in the village. He told us how he visited the house where Mrs Watkins lived the day be- fore her melancholy death occurred. That was on Sunday, and he describes how he noticed that there was something wrong with the woman's mind, though he had seen her worse on many former occasions. Then we have the evidence of Mr. Richard Gough, the station-master, who tells us exactly the position of the body when first seen by him. He also described the injuries which he saw on the body, and the clothing it had on. Lastly, we have the evidence of Mr. James Biddulph. the driver of the Broneirion, which started from Aberystwyth about six o'clock in the morning of Monday, and passed Llanfihangel without stopping, about twenty-five minutes to seven. He says that he did not feel anything unusual on the line as he passed Llanfihangel going at the rate of eight miles an hour. Now, Mr. Foreman and Gentlemen of the Jury, I must request you to take that evidence into consideration, and to find a verdict in accordance with the facts. It is your verdict, and not mine. I may say this, how- ever, that I believe it is more or less a case of suicide while suffering from temporary insanity. I do not, mind, say that that is the verdict you must bring in, because the finding of the verdict is a duty that de- volves upon you, and not upon me. I, therefore, re- quest you to consider and decide what your verdict shall be. The Jury, after a brief consultation, found that -Taii, Watkins committed suicide, by throwing herself in front of the railway engine Broneirion, whilst in a state of temporary insanity."

L'LANDYSSIL. .SEASONABLE BENEVOLENCE.—A collection was made here to give coal to the poor of the town on Saturday, and in the evening a meeting was held at the Porth Hotel, to know the amount taken and to consider the best means to distribute the coal. The Rev. W. G. Jenkins, vicar, was voted to the chair, and the Rev. T. James, Messrs. J. Jones, solicitor, E. Evans, E. Jones, Tyssul Castle, H. H. Davies, surgeon, R. Rees, station- master, T. Griffiths, T. Evans, J. D. Thomas, and J. C. B. Jones, Pont welly, were named to form a com- C. B. Jones, Pontwelly, were named to form a com- mittee. The subscription list showed that the com- mittee were in a position to supply about tweuty-four tons of coal, and it was decided that the same should at once be procured, and that five cwt. be brought to the door of each of the needy poor named by the above gentlemen. About ninety families will thus be benefited.

TREGARON. PETTY SESSIONS, TrESDAY, January -Before R. J. Davies, Esq., and the Rev. O. Davies, M.A. Cruelty to Animals.—Thomas George, farmers' son, Cyrtau, was summoned by Thomas Fair, Inspector, for having cruelly ilitreated three calves on the 8th November, by beating them violently with a large pole, with striking them with stones, and by kicking them. The case occupied a considerable time, many witnesses being called for the prosecution and the defence.—The Magistrates characterised the case as one of great cruelty, and fined defendant 20s. and ordered him to pay costs. Drunkenness.—During the hearing of these cases one of the defendants was asked if he had anything to say in extenuation of his offence. He replied that he had, and immediately commenced to quote a string of verses in Welsh inculcating temperance to the great amuse- ment of the Coll rt.-Grif-fitli Griffiths, sheep dealer. Cefnresger, was fined 2s. 6d. for having been drunk and riotous on December 12th Benjamin Morgans, farmer, Tanygarn, fined 10s. for having been drunk at the Crown and Anchor Inn, on the 28th December; Richard Hughes, farmer's son, Fronberllan, fined 5s. for having been drunk whilst in charge of a horse near Maesllwyn, on January 4th David Thomas, draper's assistant, Chapel-street. Tregaron, fined 2s. 6d. for having been drunk and riotous and David Thomas, cattle dealer, Tregaron, fined 2s. 6d. for having been drunk on the highway on January 4th. 0 in Arrear. The magistrates ordered William Rees, Bwlchyrhendre, overseer of Yspytty Ystwyth, to pay jE64 Union contribution David Griffiths, Tynycwm, overseer of Nantcwnlle, f- 72; J oliii Davies, Penbwlchbach, overseer of Bcttws Leikie, JE46 Richard Hughes, Tanygarreg, overseer of Blaen- pennal, £ 52 and David Evans, Tanrallt, overseer of Caron Lower, £ 150. Trespass in PurHV.it of G(iiii,T)avi(I Lewis, Pentre, fisherman, Tregaron, and David Davies, farmer's son Caenowydd, were summoned by David Evans, game- keeper, Penddol, for having trespassed in pursuit of game in the day time at GIÚg, Cwmberwyn, on Christ- 1 mas Day. Mr. Griffith Jones, represented by Mr. J. T. Jenkins, Aberystwyth, appeared for defendants. The gamekeeper said he saw defendants on the land accompanied by dogs. They were beating for game. The defence was that the men were trying to recover stray sheep.—The Magistrates believed the evidence of the gamekeeper and fined defendants each and ordered them to pay costs. Alleged Trespax*. — John Evans, jun., labourer, Pentre, Tregaion, for whom Mr. Griffith Jones, re- presented by Mr. J. T. Jenkins, appeared, was charged by David Evans, gamekeeper, with having trespassed on the Mill-land Tregaron, in search of game on the 27th December. The gamekeeper said lie saw defend- ant shoot a pheasant. He was cross-examined as to distance. An alibi was set up to the effect that defendant was at work on a threshing machine at the time.—The Bench dismissed the case.

LLANFIHANGELYOREUDDYK. TEA PARTY.Tlie usual tea party at Llanfihangel- y-Creuddyn, took place at the National school room I on Wednesday afternoon, the 19th of January. Those who kindly supplied tea and cake were the Rev. B. Edwards, vicar of the parish; Mr. John Jones, Aber- magwr; Mr. David Evans, Alltfedw; Mr. John Jones, Abertrinant; Mrs. Stedman. Pendre; Mr. William Rowlands, shop-keeper. Commons. The tables were presided over by Miss Williams, Vicarage; Miss Jones, Abermagwr; Mrs. Rowlands, shop, Commons; Mrs. Jenkins, Felinucheldre; Miss Evans, Abertrinant; Miss Richards, Goginan; Miss Jane Stedman, Pendre; &C. At six in the evening a public meeting was held under the presidency of the Rev. B. Edwards, when "Messiah y Plant" was performed for the second time by the choir, under the leadership of Air. Enoch Jones, Abermagwr. The singing and recitations were well rendered. At the end a very good number of books were distributed as prizes to members of the Sunday School. After the usual vote of thanks were given, the meeting terminated when all seemed pleased with the proceedings of the day. I

LLANILAR SEASONABLE GENEROSITY.—Among the seasonable acts of benevolence of the above parish we arc pleased to quote that of Mr. G. W. Parry, J.P., of Llidiade, who has distributed a liberal quantity of coal to his tenants who reside in his cottages in the vicinity of his mansion, as well as to the deserving poor of the neighbourhood of Llidiade.

DOLGELLEY. THE WEATHER AND THE Lagt week more than 120 quarts of soup were given away to fifty families. Arrangements are made by the Rev. Evan Lewis to distribute soup twice a week as long as the severe weather lasts, at one halfpenny per quart. Subscriptions in aid of the fund will be gladly received by the Rev. Evan Lewis. Coal and flannel have also been distributed BOARD OF GUARDIANS, SATURDAY, .JANUARY 21ST.—Mr Edward Griffith, chairman, Mr John Jones, Talyllyn. vice-chairman, the Rev. W. Hughes, the Rev. J. E. Davies, Messrs. if. Scott, W. Phillips, E. Breese, William Williams, Daniel Williams, D. Owen, John Griffiths, Enoch Jones, W. R. Davies, clerk, and W. R. Richardson, acting clerk. Statistics.—Out-relief administered during the past fortnight: Barmouth district, per Mr John Jones, £ 94 Os. Od., to 395 paupers; and Talyllyn district, per Mr Morris Jones, -s. Gd., to 253 paupers. Number in the house, forty-nine, last year thirty-seven; vagrants relieved during the past fortnight, forty-five, last year, thirty-one. Balance in the bank, 15s. Id. School Alie.mhi.nrr Officer.—Mr Daniel Williams, who gave notice that lie would move a proposition at this meeting respecting Mr R. P. Morris's salary as school attendance officer, said it was his desire that the subject should be deferred in order that the Board might get to know more fully what amount of work Mr Morris had to perforin. Mr Williams also complained that remarks were made by Guardians out cf the Board respecting statements made at the Board. Interested motives had been attributed to him. He thought that such conduct tended to impede the dis- charge of business at the Board, and to make the position of Guardians in their own parishes exceedingly dis- agreeable.—-Mr Breese proposed that the details of salaries paid to every officer connected with the union should be published with the half-yearly state- ment.—The Rev. J. E. Davies seconded the proposition, and it was agreed t(, -A-lr Breese then proposed that the Attendance Officer's salary should be reduced'to CIS, at which amount it stood previously. The Chairman did not think that proposition could be entertained, because notice of motion had not been given to that effect. -The Rev. AY. Hughes thought that Mr Daniel Williams's notice of motion had opened the whole question.—The Assistant Clerk, on being- appealed to, thought the Board could not with propriety proceed with Mr Breese's proposition at that meeting, as the notice of motion had been confined to Mr Daniel Williams alone.—The Chairman thought the proper course to adopt would be to defer the subject for further information, and the suggestion was adoped. Hdllm of Pauperism.—The Assistant Clerk stated that he had prepared a return of pauperism in the union, as it stood on January 1st, in compliance with tho requirement of the Local Government Board. The number of persons receiving in-door relief was forty- nine; out-door, 87 males, 334 females, and 200 children, making a total of 621. There were twenty-five non-resident paupers, three men and twenty-two women; twenty-three inmates in the asylum, eleven men and twelve women; making a total out-relieved of 669, and a total of indoor and out- door paupers of 720.—The Chairman said the Board could take the return into consideration at the next meeting. Th* Workhouse.—The Visiting Guardians having reported that the men's room was very cold, and that, notwithstanding the presence of a fire, the water on the floor froze after the floor had been washed, it was resolved to request Mr Williams and Mr Brcese to visit the room and recommend to the Board a better plan of warming the room. LlwyngicrV Drainage.—The Clerk stated that thef tender of X71 17s. 6d., sent in by Mr William Owen, ironmonger, Dolgelley, had been accepted for the con- struction of a main sewer at Llwyngwril. He also read a letter which had been sent to Mr R. Gillart, Machyn- lleth, agent of the Countess de Morilla, asking him to construct the main sewer, as the houses to be benefited all belonged to her ladyship. Mr Gillart had replied that the suggestion that the Countess should do the whole of the work was rather surprising, as there were other owners of property in the district through which the main sewer would run. He would, however, for- ward the Clerk's letter.—The Rev. J. E. Davies said that, with the exception of two small leasehold houses. the whole of the houses which would bo benefited by the main sewer belonged to the Countess de Morilla.— The Rev. W. Hughes said he would prefer to postpone the motion of which he had given notice until the Board had heard further from Mr Gillart. He should not, however, be a member of the Board that day fort- night, as he was about to leave the neighbourhood. It was his opinion that it was a bad system to take parishes as the bases on which to levy rates for sanitary requirements of villages. As he understood that the village on the Dolgelley side of the bridge that the village on the Dolgelley side of the bridge only would be benefited by a main drain, he proposed that a separate drainage district be formed, beginning at the bridge, and extending one mile in all other directions.—Mr John Griffiths seconded the propo- sition.—Mr Scott proposed, and the Rev. J. E. Davies seconded, that the rate should be levied on the whole parish.—The Chairman said that if the rate were con- parish.—The Chairman said that if the rate were con- fined to the district proposed it would be two shillings in the pound, and twopence only if spread over the whole parish and the Rev. J. E. Davies said that it seemed to him to be very unfair to make two or three farmers who would be included in the proposed district pay so heavily for what they would get little benefit. —Several other amendments were proposed, and eventually, on the suggestion of Mr Daniel Williams, it was agreed to defer tiie subject until the Board had heard further from Mr R. Gillart on the subject. Travelling Expense*.—-The Chairman said the In- spector of Nuisances had asked the Sanitary Committee for the payment of Y,12 10s. Od. travelling and other expenses paid out of pocket. The expenses had been paid on two previous occasions, and the committee re- commended that, if the Board saw fit, the Inspector's salary should be increased to that extent, so that half of it might be received from the Local Government Board. The Inspector was now paid f50 a year, and he had to pay his travelling and other expenses out of pocket.—Mr. Scott and other Guardians thought the Inspector ought to mention a certain sum as his salary, and expect nothing more.—The Chairman moved that the report should be adopted, and the Rev. J. E. Davies seconded the proposition, seeing that it had been recommended by the committee.—An amendment was proposed to the effect that one half of the travelling expenses, jE6 5s. 0(1., should be paid, but was lost by a majority of one.—The Chairman thought it advisable to increase the salary, so as to include travelling ex- penses, for then the Board would be repaid by the Local Government Board. Arthoj i Drainage.—-A lengthy report was read from Dr. Jones, Towyn, respecting the stoppage of a drain at Arthog, the defective water supply of that place, and the necessity of having the stagnant water near the Railway Station thoroughly drained. The Clerk had written to Mr. George Lewis, manager of the Cam- brian Railway, respecting the matter, but he had characterized the Inspector's report as vague, had asked for specific information, and had suggested a meeting on the spot.—The Rev. W. Hughes proposed, and Mr. Enoch Jones seconded, that the Inspector should seek an interview on the spot, and insist upon the removal of the nuisance. The Jr. HU!f/U'The Chairman, referring to the Rev. \V. Hughes's departure from the district for Anglesey, thought, as a Board, they ought to thank the rev. gentleman for his regular attendance and for the fairness with which he took part in the transaction of the business of the Board. The Guardians would feel the loss of Mr. Hughes's assistance very much. He proposed a vote of thanks to the rev. gentleman.— Mr. Scott, seconding the vote, thought the duty de- volved upon the Board to acknowledge the Rev. W. Hughes's services. He lived a long distance away from the Board, and had attended the meetings at great expense, and, no doubt, frequently with great inconvenience to himself. He (Mr. Scott) hoped the rev. gentleman would long live to enjoy good health.— The Chairman That is our cordial wisli.-Tlie. pro- posal was agreed to unanimously.—The Clerk, on behalf of the officials, said it afforded him great pleasure to meet gentlemen like Mr. Hughes.—The Rev. VV. Hughes said he would not make a speech, because the time was very short. He was exceeding obliged to the Gua xlians. He had been a member of the Board for many years, and had received marks of kindness from every one. He hoped that the Board Mould make stead v progress. Though he would not counsel them to u.,(, harshness to the poor during the inclement weather they were now experiencing, lie thought that in the spring and summer out-door relief could be de- creased a little. PETTY SESSIONS, TUESDAY, JANUARY 25TH. Before Charles Edwards, IV. F. Beale, H. Lloyd Williams, Edward Griffith, Esqrs., and the Rev. E. O. Williams. Illegal Fishing.-— Richard Roberts, Dinas Mawd lwy, was charged by W illiam Thomas, river watcher, with the above named offence. Defendant pleaded guilty, and was fined C2 and costs, this being the first offence. The prosecution applied that half the penalty should be paid to the river watcher. The fine and costs f2 7s. 6d. were paid by Owen Owens, licensed game dealer, Dinas, who was severely reprimanded, and warned by the bench that they would in future look with very great suspicion upon him, he, being a licensed dealer, having-paid a fine for a poacher. Drunk and Ploton*.—David Jones -was charged by P.C. Arthur with having been drunk and riotous at Dinas on the 15th January. Defendant pleaded guilty, and was fined 2s. 6d. and 7s. 6d costs. Illegal Poxxession of Came.-Thomas Evans and Rowland Parry, of Dolgelley, were charged with having game in their possession on the 21st January.— P.C. Cadwaladr Jones said on Friday morning last I was going to Llanfachreth, between eleven and twelve o'clock in the day, and met defendants on the high- way. Noticing that defendant Thomas Evans had the skirt of his coat turned over, I said "You have some game there." He said he had a pheasant, and that he had picked it up on the road side, and was very glad of it. He gave it up to me.—The Clerk What have you against the other defendant ?-I'. C. Jones He was there with the other.—The Clerk Yes. but suppose I was there. I should have been a more suspicious character than the other.—P.C. Jones Perhaps. (Latiglitei-.) --lil reply to the Clerk the Constable said he knew defendants had no gun with them.—Thomas Evans, one of the defendants, stated that he was coming along the road a short distance higher than where he met the policeman. He saw some feathers on the road, and on looking saw a pheasant frozen between the snow and wall. He took it up and had u £ Ver hidden it, but at once showed It to I the officer.—-The case was dismissed.—-The Bench said the officer had done his duty in summoning the defend- ants. Se/iool Board Proxecationx.—Mr John Ellis, clerk of the Llaitgelynin School Board, charged Hugh Jones. of Ty'nycac, Llangelyniu, with neglecting to send his daughter to school. Fined 5s., including costs.— Catherine Gabriel, of Castellbach, Llwyngwril, farmer, was also charged with the same offence, and was fined in the same amount. Damage to Vliee/). -Robert Evans, shoemaker, Dol- gelley. was summoned to pay Richard Evans, of Maes- yrhelma, El 16s., the value of sheep killed by defend- ant's two dogs.—Defendant said he knew nothing of the matter. The dogs had been taken out by another man without his permission. He was in bed at the time.-The Bench: "You had better keep your dogs with you in bed, or part with them."—-The 36s. was paid. Defendant refused to vpay costs; but was warned that if he did not pay at once a distress warrant would immediately be issued. Violent A-xxaultx.—Richard Rowlands, of Llan- fachreth, was charged with having maliciously and feloniously wounded William Vaughan, of the School House, Llanelltyd, on the 1st January, with intent to maim, disfigure, or disable William Vanghan, and to do him some grievous bodily harm.—Mr Griffith Jones, represented by Mr Smith, solicitor, of Aberystwyth, appeared for the prosecution, and Mr W. R. Davies for the defendant.—David Foulkes, William Williams, Evan Jones, David Jones, and William Rees, all of Llanfachreth, were also charged with the same offence. —It wastigreed, after some conversation, that the cane against the six defendants be taken together. -William Vaughan said I am a labourer living at Llanelltyd, and was formerly station-master on the Cambrian Railway. I was assaulted on January 1st, about eleven o'clock at night. I was going home, and met the defendants on the bridge in this town. I said, Good night." Some of them began to curse me. I said nothing, but went on towards Llanelltyd. I saw on the road turning up Penycefn, David Jones, Evan Jones, and Richard Rowlands, who appeared to be waiting for me. I asked, "What are you going to do to me? What are you. waiting me for ? Defendants said that they were going home through Llanelltyd and wished to accom- pany me. I stopped and, being frightened, I turned back. The three came after me. I came as far as Bontfawr Bridge. Richard Rowlands struck me, and I became insensible. When I recovered consciousness I was under the doctor's hands in "Tymawr," or the Castle Tavern. My head and shoulders were much hurt. I have been unable to work siEce. I was under the doctor's hands about a week. I feel the effect on my right shoulder yet. In reply to the Bench prosecutor said William Rees, William Williams, and William Foulkes were the other three present. I cannot say if anyone else struck me. Richard Rowlands was the only one I saw striking me. I was rendered insensible by the first blow I received. I had seen them before at the Brown Horse, but I did not speak with them. We had no quarrel at all before.— Cross-examined: I am now a labourer for about two years. [ was station-master at Arthog previously. I don't like to say why I left the company's service. I was discharged for neglecting my work. I don't know it was owing to drunkenness. I was working last at Caecoch, Llanelltyd. I came to Dolgelley about four o'clock on New Year's day. I went to the Brown Horse. That was the first public house I went into. I saw some people I knew. I had one glas of beer. I did not then go into another public-house. Some time after I went to the Blue Lion, and had on a glass of beer there. I then went to the concert, and from there went to Brown Horse. I was at the Talbot also before the concert, and had one glass there. It was between ten and eleven when I left the concert, and went to the Brown Horse. I had then only one glass. I went out from there myself. The first person I saw was P.C. Cadwalader Jones. It was then about a quarter to eleven. I then went back to Brown Horse to see if any one was going Llanelltyd way. No one accompanied me to the bridge. I did not see any one of the defendants between the Brown Horse and the bridge. I left all the defendants at the Brown Horse, and not one of them, as far as I know, left at the same time. I am not quite certain of the time. I think it was a quarter past eleven when I saw Evan Jones, David Jones, and Richard Rowlands on the bridge. Two of them were walking together. I overtook them in going up the bridge, and said Good night." I went as far as the turning up to Penycefn, and saw the men waiting. I ran from them towards the turn as fast as I could. I stopped near the turn- I pike house. I did not call at the house I went for the police. They did not touch me before that. They said to mo they were going home by Llanelltyd way, and wanted me to go with them. I don't remember speaking with Evan Pugh and David Jones. I don't remember saying to them, I left my umbrella at the Talbot—no, at the Brown Horse." Richard ROM lands had his top coat on, but I am not sure. When lie struck me, the six were near. I cannot tell ho v.' near. William Williams was then close by. I don't rernem- her seeing William James on the bridge.-Re-ex.:tmined Some of them—I cannot exactly say who—cursed me on the bridge, and meeting them afterwards, I was frighteued.Ry the Beuch I had no pistol or any bottle with nic.-P.C. Cadwaladr Jones said—About half-past ten I saw a crowd near the Brown Horse. and went there. There was a lot of men standing about. I saw William Vaughan there, and asked him some questions. I saw the six defendants coming from the Brown Horse and going down the street towards the station. I saw three of tliem--Wiii. Foulkes, Win. Williams, and Rd. Rowlands—by the gate leading to Llanfachreth, they afterwards went towards Llall- ellcyd. I did not then see the other three. I returned to the town. In about five minutes William James came for me, and I saw William Vaughan on the side of the road—I thought he was dead. He was much bruised. Some seven or eight young men from the town took him up and carried him to the Castle. Not one of the defendants were there then. I sent for the doctor. I left him that night in an insensible state.— William James said I am a blacksmith living at Dolgelley. I was in the Turnpike House, and on open- ing the door coming out I saw three men standing on the bridge, and there were three others lower down. I saw a man being struck do.vn, lie was William Vaughan. I do not know who the others were, it was too dark. I went up to them but failed to identify them. I was ten or fifteen yards from them, when the man was struck. I went for Cadwaladr Jones. When T went to the Toll House, I had seen the defendants, as P.C. Jones turned his lantern on them, and they went towards Llanelltyd. William Rees and William Foulkes came up when my brother- in-law brought a light. They were lower down on the bridge than the place where Vaughan was struck. These men came up before Cadwaladr Jones came. They helped to pick William Vaughan up. The two who attacked William Vaughan ran away when I tried to identify them, and gave no help.Robert Richards said: I am keeper of the Toll-gate. On the 1st of January, about half-past eleven, as my brother- in-law was going out, he said, "Hollc-a what is here ?" I went as far as the iron bridge, when he cried to my wife to bring a light. I did not identify the men who ran away, but one of them returned. I told him that he had struck the blow, or that he knew who did—that person was William Rees. I did not help to carry Vaughan. I "was holding the candle that time. John Jones said—I am assistant with my Dr. Edward Jones.. On the first of January I was called to the Castle, and found William Vaughau there. I found there were two wounds on his face, and his shoulder was hurt. He was unconscious when Inw him first. The skin M as broken, there was a deal of blood, and I dressed him. He is not yet able to wor1, his shoulder being bad.—Cross-examined The fit was a fainting iit, and it might have been caused either by I a fall, fright, or hlow.After a considerable consulta- tion, the Magistrates decided to dismiss the case as against all the defendants except Richard Rowlands, who was bound over to appear at an adjourned sessions, to be held the follb\ ing day at the County Hall, at twelve at noon. Drunk and Jiiotoit*. —John Vaughan, of Dinas Mawddwy, Mas charged by P.C. Arthur with being drunk on the streets at Dinas on the 2.1th of December last. -.Defendiiit was fined 2s. 6d. and 9s. 6d. costs. Alleged, Lareeny. —Catherine Williams, wife of John Williams, labourer, Dolgelley, was charged with steal- ing various articles of clothing, the property of Thomas Thomas, gardener, of the value of 15s.-P.C. Cad- waladr Jones said I executed a search warrant on the 18th of this month at the house of John Williams, labourer, Well-street, in this town. I found, there one striped .skirt, one flannel petticoat, one flannel waist- coat, and two pairs of half boots. I now produce them..John Williams was then at work at Ty'ny- ceunant I was so told by his wife, the prisoner. I cautioned her. She said, pointing to the skirt, "This was given to me by a person now dead." She made ne remark respecting the other things.—Thomas Thomas said I live at No. 2, Queen's-row, in thia town, and am a gardener in the employ of the Rev. Canon Lewis. All the articles produced Jjelono: to me. I did not give them nor lend them. The accused was employed in my house for ten days in December last. She left on the 17th of December. I missed them on the 24th December. I did not then give information to the police, as I was in too much trouble—my wife being buried on the 18th of December, but I did after- afterwards.—.Prisoner had no questions to ask witness, and was bound over to appear on the following day at twelve noon, bail in £ 20 being taken for her appear- ance.

ABERDOVEY. To GROCERS, DRAPERS, Ac. -Printing for grocers, drapers, and other tradesmen can be done at the Cambrian Newx Printing Works, Aberystwyth, as well and as cheaply as in any town in the United Kingdom.

LLANELLTYD. CHRISTMAS TREE.—A beautifully decorated Christ- mas tree loaded with ornamental and useful presents, and brilliantly illuminated with wax candles of various colours, was fixed at Hengwrt on Thursday the 13th of January, for the Llanelltyd Church Sunday school by Mrs. Lloyd, who for upwards of twenty years past has been a most faithful, -devoted, and energetic Sunday school teacher. Previous to its illumination, aU partook of tea and cake prepared for them. There M-ere present together with Mrs. Lloyd, the Rev. M. Lloyd, vicar of the parish, and Mrs. Lloyd the Vicarage, also Mrs. Price C'lomendy, and Mr. F. It. Godsal, all of whom took much interest in the amusement of the children, and much interest in the amusement of the children, and in the distribution of the prizes. -A Correspondent writes :—Once more the poor of Llanelltyd, and neighbourhood, are relieved and cheered by the kindness of Mrs. Lloyd of Hengwrt. Christmas day, almost every family in the village, had the same good lady to thank for the beautiful dinner of beef and plum pudding provided for them. And a few days later, the Choir were treated to a splendid supper up at Hengwrt, and on the 13th of January, the children and adults of the Sunday School, were invited up to Hengwrt tofa tea and "bara brith," after which all were shewn into a room, where a most magnificent Christmas Tree was got up, covered with both useful and ernamental presents, beautifully arranged by Mrs. Lloyd herself. The leY, Morris Lloyd, Mrs. M. Lloyd, Mrs. Price, and Mr. Godsal, kimllYJ assisted Mrs. Lloyd in distributing the presents. Before leaving, each person was presented with a bun, and heartv cheers were given for Mrs. Lloyd's great kindness at all times. On the 25th of January, the same persons. with many others added to their number, (irrespective of crqgd), had each four cwt. of coal, which every one will anmit, is a most suitable present to make a home look comfortable, especially during the present most severe weather, and twice every week soup is given to a grea. number of the poor, and often do we see these poor creatures going home with a light and thankful heart, for not only M-ere they supplied with soinethinp- good to cat, but also with bundles of M'arra elothin^ to put on. *3

Town, SiiooTLNo. — .die skilled sportsmen are having a rare harvest during this hard M-eather. One <enticiuaii bagged nine woodcocks, eighteen snipes, a 'couple of ducks, and a number of coots, partridges, hares. &c. 7 in four days last week, and that on ground that is not strictly preserved, nor does it abound in good cover. tins snows tnat the VV elsh coast is no destMcable snort- ing gcound. MUSICAL ASSOCIATION. -The Musical Association of the Calvinistic Methodists of Towyn, Aberdovey. Bwlch, Llanegrvn, Llwyngwril, Aberganolwyn, and Abertrinant held their annual festival at Towyn Oil Monday, January 24th. The members of each choir ana a large number of other strangers were entertained by the Towyn friends to tea and dainties at 2 p m At f Calvinistic irethodist Chapel, with the Rev. U. Williams, Corns, in the chair, and Mr. O. Daniel conducting, the following programme was ^one through with spirit and ability :—Address the Chairman; sacred piece. "Lledrod," United Choirs- sacreii piece, Oraffen berg." United Choirs; address,' » Br"T—t tr?,rganolv/yn congregational tune, Dolfoi, United Choirs; congregational tune, "Llan- ilar, United Choirs address, Rev. G. Evans Cvn- congregational tune, Aberafon," United Choirs- congregational ume, Llaiigam," United Choirs: ad- dres3: Rev. J. H. Symmous, Towyn anthem, Iesti fy Miiryiiwr, United Choirs presentation of a hand- some testimonial to Master W. Boustead, in recognition of services rendered on the harmonium harmonium °° °' r' Boustead; congregational jiluu'' pn? '.United Choirs; congregational tune, Boxienna, tinted Choirs address, Rev R Owen, i ennai address, Mr. Hugh L'r.-h, Llancryn • congregational tune Revel," United Choirs conlvc- gatrona tune Calfaria, United Choirs; address, Mr iiiomas Tones Caethle congregational tune! fcvvin^, Lnited Cnoira anthem, Moesvvch i'r Ar- olw J;dd,_ L Jilted Choirs. The chapel was filled to oversowing, and the singing did credit to choirs and conductors and was evidently enjoyed by the congre- gation. These meetings ha\e been the means of Im- proving. congregational singing iu these parts am? much praise is due to Mr. O. Daniel, Mr. D. Hiudies, and other leaders for their enterprising efforts on their behalf. FAIRS —A large meeting of farmers and others was held at the W hitenall, Towyn. to consider the question of the desirability of establishing a series of fairs and at convenient times of the year. Mr. E. Newell having oeon unanimously voted to the chair, lVfr. J. M. James was appointed as secietary, and Mr. Rowlands Talv- oont, as treasurer. The Chairman briefly stated the purpose for which they had met, and urged upon the meeting the necessity of united action. Those present took part irecly in the discussion which followed and were unanimous as to the desirability of establishing fairs. JAII promised their best support, but none were prepared to undertake not to sell at home if that could be done to their satisfaction before the fair days. Mr. Roberts, Perfeddnant, pointed out the necessity of fixing upon (lays to hold the fairs that did not clash with lairs at other places. Dr. J. F. Jones said that conlll only be done by a committee, and moved that a committee be appointed for that purpose. The motion was seconded by Mr. Will. Williams Jones, and on posed by a considerable number M'hen put to the meeting it was earned by a majority of one. Mr. Lewis Evans objected to tradespeople voting, and urged the meeting to fix the .airs there and then. After some warn-, talk" tnose present proceeded to fix the dates of the fairs, and succeeded in fixing upon one date in one hour and a halt, and it was ultimately resolved to delegate the matter to the following committee :—Mr. I). E. Kirkhy, chairman, Mr. John Roberts, Perfeddnant, Mr. R'. Jones, Cartel], Mr. R. Rowlands, Talybont. Mr. H. Pugh, Eseuan, Mr. R. Rowlands, Hen-shop. Mr. R. R. Evans, IVKviorthor, Mr. Hugh Evans, Penowern Mr. R. Vaughan, Dysyrnant, Mr. G. Davies. Tall- fanau, Mr. D. Parry, Henhlas, Mr. O. Owen, Hendre Mr. J. Jones, Tynewydd, Mr. 1). Hughes. I)yselb» and Mr. J. M. Jan ies. secretary. Mr. L.G. Price stroiSv recommended the meeting to fix the fairs the same days as the Bank is open at Towyn, and to advertise the fairs well in such places as Northampton and Leicester, stating tnat it could be fairly done for some twenty pounds. Mr. Davies took his hat round, and the sum of ten shillings and twopence was collected.

NEWTOWX. BAPTIST YOUG MEN'S MCTITAI, IMPROVEMENT -The third monthly entertainment of THIS Society was held in the Baptist Chapel, on Fridav night the 21st January. There was a large number present, and several of the (litrerent denominations were among the audience. The preliminary proceed- ings being over the Chairman (Mr. W. Cooke) said there were d.liferent opinions as to gatherings of that kind. Some people denounced them, and others thought there was no good in them: but they must remember that these meetings were entertainments got up by the young men in connection with that chaoel. who had formed themselves into a society for mutual improvement. The programme M as then gone through. The performers were .Misses A. Griffiths, Delia Hiudies', Jennie Davies, Messrs. J. Buinford, Albert Roberts^ (the Champion Welsh Harpist), William H. Edwards E. Evans, George Davies, and the Cambrian Minstrel Company. Miss Lewis presided at the piano. The meeting concluded with the Doxology. RELIEF OF TIIE POOR.—A meeting was held "t the Infirmary on Saturday, January 22nd, to consider what. means could be adopted for the relief of the poor of the town, who were in great suffering. Mr. Rich-M-d Lloyd, J.P., presided. Mr. James Hail advocated th- appointment of a Relief Committee, as it v.-ould be the best means of carrying out their object. This proposi. tion was supported by three gentlemen pres nt Mr Pryce Jones then explained what had been done by the Rectoi and the churchwardens, and also what sums of money had been received by them, and how expended. Dr. Palmer then proposed that the amalgamation of the various funds Mas more likely to meet the require- ments of the poor." Mr. Henry Morgan seconded Dr. Palmers resolution, anu explained some of the remarks made ny Mr. Pryce Jones with respect to the funds dis- tributed by private parties being badly managed. Mr. James Hall's proposition was then agreed to, and a committee was formed of all present, with power to add to their number. Mr. George Morgan proposed that a deputation cf this committee wait upon the various committees who had collected relief for the poor, and ask them to co-operate with the general com- mittee, by hanaing over the money and lending their assistance Mr. John Hall proposed tuat something be done at once to relieve; the poor. The resolutions were agreed to, The sum of £ 50 4s. Od. was collected in the room. The managing committee sat immediately after the general meeting, and made arrau!r(..ljenj-_s iu several urgent matters. ° NE\VTO\YN AND LLANIDLOES UNION. Wep- N "rrK^i'VYu HTI £ -—Present Messrs. James. Hall, chairman, W P. Adams, Richard B-nnett, Edward Jones, J. B. Owen, Thomas Francisi Ethvanl Bowen. David Lloyd, John Smoiit, R Grif- fiths, Edward Morgan. and Richard Williams, clerk. Rating of the Pom I W,L:1t Wareitmw.— This matter was discussed in committee of the whole Board Ir. W. C. Glen's opinion was prodneetl hy the Clerk, in which he stated that all the proceedings up to trial had been carried on in a regular manner, that all the legal and technical objections raised by the respondent s counsel were groundless and invalid, and strongly ad- vising the Guardians to apply for a mandamus.0 After some discussion, the Board resolved upon adopting Mr. Glen's recommendation. °

II LLANIDLOES. SEVERN GROVE ACADEMY.—The following is the result of the Christinas examination, containing a list of the names of the first and second scholars in each department:—Highest aggregate- 1st, Richard IJ. Griffiths; 2nd, John Matthews. Latin: 1st, William 1). Kinsey; 2nd, R. H, Jerman. Fiench: 1st, C. Lb Kitto; 2nd, AV D. Kinsey. Mathematics: 1st, T. M- Davits; 2nd, H. Nancarrow. Drawing: 1st. R. JI. Jerman; 2nd, C. LI. Kitto. Music: 1st, Edward Pryce; 2nd, liss Hesse. English grammar: lst. T. M. Davies; 2nd, I). Jones. Composition: 1st, Miss Morgan; 2nd, Miss Jones. Geography: 1st, David Jones; 2nd, Miss M. E. Jones. "History: 1st, Miss Jones; 2ud, M. A. Morgan. Scripture: 1st, R. Nanearrow; 2nd, Miss Jones. Reading: 1st, F. A. Hesse; 2nd, M. A. Morgan. Writing: 1st, D. Jones; 2nd, R. H. Jerman. Deportment: 1st. Harry Kitto: 2nd, Miss Kinsey. Punctuality: 1st, M. E. Kinsey: 2nd, R. Nanearrow. Iu the lower forms, whose progress is most marked, are J. Davies, C. Webb. A- Marshall, W. Rees, Miss M. Jones, and Miss May- moore. Mr Miekle, M.A,, M.B., in his report, notices considerable improvement in the work of the Christ- mas examination as compared Mith that of lar-t mi<l" summer, considering the average age of the scholai- and the variety of the subjects in which they M-et"e tested, the result is most gratifying.