The Cardiff Times

PENTRE. PETTY-SESSIONS.—At the petty- sessions, on Tuesthy- before Mr Gwilym Williams (stipendiary)—W. Lewis, H. Cooke, and W. Jones, Treherbert; W. Jenkins, Blaenrhondda J. Lewis and D. Hopkins, Treorky were fined for drunkenness.—Benjamin Davies, John Jones, Edward Williams, David James, George Archer, Philip Phillips, and William Llewellyn, Blaenrhondda John Evans, Pentre; and Thomas Davies, Treallaw for allow- ing their dogs to be at large, were fined 5s and costs respectively.—Edward Mantle, greengrocer, Pentre, for using his calTiage without having a licence, was fined £ 3-—David Priteh::rd, for assaulting Mary Ann Howells, Dinas, was fined 10s and costs.— Patrick Handley, for begging at Pontypridd and assault- ing several persons, was sentenced to one month's hard labour.—John Davies, Treherbert, for being drunk and disorderly, was fined Irs and costs. BREACH OF COLLIERY RUI.ES.—'William Yeoman, col- Her, was charged by Jacob Ray, manager for D. Davies and Co., Ocean Colliery, with breaking the colliery rules, by taking charge of powder for his service without con- sidting with the manager. He was ordered to pay 10s and costs. LECTURE.—On Friday last» at the Moriah Baptist chapel, Pentre, the Rev B. Thomas, Narberth, delivered a lecture on "Hynodion y Pwlpid Cymreig."

YSTRAD RHONDDA. BENEFIT CONCERT.—A grand concert took place on Monday evening, at the National schools, Bodringailt, for the benefit of Mr idris Thomas, of Porth, a young and promising vocalist, who intends shortly to commence his musical education at the Univerity College of Wales. The programme included some classical compositions by Franz Abt, Sullivan, Bishops and Calcott. The Lenefi-, ciare had the abl", assistance of Mr Gwilym Thomas, the celebrated American baiitone, Mr Stephen Owen, Mr.9 Maggie Owen, Mrs Dodd, and Mr Caird, of Tredegar, who presided at the piano. The audience was very limited, there being sundry counter attractions, such as h-ctures, and eisteddfodau, in the district at the time. The worthy host of the Greenfield Inn exerted himself to the utmost, and mainly through his good offices the pa- tronage accorded was sueh as to clear expenses. Mr Idris Thomas displayed a fine Ù&8 register in "Y Gadlys."and Go.roniant y Cymry, and Mr Gwilym Thomai in Cal- cott's "Lastwan." conld scarcely be excelled. Mr and Mrs Owen, with Mrs Dodd, came in for a fair share of appro- bation, and. in a musical sense, the concert surpassed any- thing that has been heard in the Rhondda valley for some time past. DEATH ow THE REV RLPGS WILLIAMS.—We have to am; ounce the death of the Rev J. Rufus Williams, Bap- tist minister, at the age of 43 years. The deceased had been unwell for the last three years, but it was not until lately that his friends anticipated there v. as any danger, aud about half-past three on Monday morning he died. Mr Williams was well-known as apublisher of many good books, and was considered one of the most popular preachers in the Principality. He acted as minister at Nebo for 15 years up to last January, with much success. He was greatly respected by every denomination through- out W ales. It is expected that the funeral will take place on Thursday, about noon.

BRITON FERRY. PRESENTATION.— On Monday even'ng anumberof friends presented Mr Benjamin Davies with a testimonial on his departure to England. He had been for years a secretary of the Salem Sunday school. Mr C'eredig Williams pre- sided, and the testimonial, a beautiful Albert chain, was presented him by Miss Thomas. VESTRY MEETING.— At a meeting held on Tuesday morning, it was resolved that a poor-rate of 9d in the S, and a school rate of 4d in the €, be made. Mr Edwards called attention to the fact that the Working Men's Club was not rated, and the matter will be considered.

CARMARTHEN. BAPTISM BY J:.¡)rEnsIOx.-38 adults were baptised on Sunday at the Priory-street thapel by the minister, Mr Roberts, in the presence of 1,000 people. VBIT OF JDR ECCLKS, OF IUEI.AND.—This estimable gentleman, who is a titled member of the medical profes- oion, visited this town last Sunday on behalf of the baptist Irish Missionary Society, and preached in the morn- ing at Lammas-street chapel. HeSdso spoke in the after- noon and evening at the two Welsh Baptist chapela in the town to large audiences, and after hia thrilling addresses obtained liberal contributions. Dr Eccloa is on a. taui' throuzb tjvutfi Walss. and id worthy ilf erenv ftmuaarfc.

SWANSEA. DRUNKENNESS.—At the borough police-court on Satur- day—before Mr J. T. Jenkin and Mr M. B. Williams— Michael Leary was charged with being drunk, and waa fined 10s, and costs, or seven days' imprisonment. ATTEMPTING TO REHOUE A PRISONER.—Jane Roberteon was charged with trying to rescue the prisoner in the last case.P.G. Percy stated that whilst he was being taken to the station, the defendant came and caught hold of him. She said she would see him ——— before he should take Collins to the station. She struck him a violent blow on the cheek. She caught hold of the prisoner and tried to prevent witness taking him away. Fined £1, and costs. CRUELTY TO A COCK.—At the county petty-sessions, on Saturday—before Messrs J.T. Jenkin and M. B.Williams —John Williams and William Davies were charged with cruelty to a cock. Henry Evans deposed that on Wed- nesday, the 24th ult., about four o'clock in the afternoon, he was in the Carmarthen-road, near the foundry of Mr Jeremiah, when he heard the screaming of a cock. He saw the two defendants there. Williams was holding the bird, and the other defendant was using his knife on its comb. The knife appeared to be a blunt one. He was from Ù. to eight minutes using the knife. Witness oould see that a good deal of the comb was cut off, and that it was bleeding. Saw Davies go into the house and fetch a poker, which he put over the head of the cock. The bird was kicking and scratching as though in great pain. They then put the bird on the floor. Witness asked them if they knew what they were doing, and Williams said it would make the bird ''tread lighter." Witness told them they were violating the law. They made no reply. Fined £5 and costs, or one month's hard labour. WORKING MEN'S CLUB.—The second annual report of this institution states that the number of yearly members is 16 half-yearly, 6 quarterly, 253; monthly, 147— total, 422. The accounts of bar show that the total sum received fur all refreshments for the half-year, including beer, spirits, cigars, tobacco, bread and cheese, coffee, ginger beer, and other non-intoxicating drinks, amount to ;240 13s 4d, with an average of 422 members, or about 5.ld per week per member. This average could be further reduced through the large number of visitors, friends of members, not accounted for, having been supplied through members. This, with refreshments other than intoxica- ting drinks, would reduce the sum to about 4d per member per week for beer and spirits. The billiard tables, football, and cricket clubs have proved a great attraction to the members, and a series of entertain- ments is being organised. The library continues to be well patronised. In addition to the large number who read in the room, the record of books borrowed by the members to read at home show that 2,540 issues took place during the past six months, which may be sum- marised as follows :—Dickens' works, 847 Dumas', 153; Scott's, 126; Marryat's, 124; various works of fiction, S32; miscellaneous, 847. The numbers compare favour- bly with the former six months, taking into considera- tion the establishment of the Free Library. The books now number about 1,000 volumes, all having been presented. ASSAULT AND REFUSING TO QUIT.—At the borough police-court on Monday—before the Mayor (Mr John I. Evans), the Stipendiary (Mr Fowler), Alderman Powell and Mr J. Rogers—John Sullivan was charged with refusing to quit the Coach and Horses Inn when re- quested to do so by the landlord, and also with assaulting him. Richard Williams, the landlord, stated that on the evening of the 7th of October defendant came into his house the worse for drunk. Witness refused to supply him with drink, and requested him to leave. He did leave, but returned, and taking a glass of beer from the counter threw it in his face. Fined £1, including costs.— Defendant was further charged with being drunk and disorderly on the night in question, and was fined 15s, including costs. STEALING FISH.—James Cole was charged with steal- ing a cod's head and shoulders, from the shop of Mr Thomas Benson, fishmonger, High-street. Prosecutor keeps a fishmonger's shop in the street men- tioned, and on Saturday night, about 20 minutes to eight o'clock, he missed the cod's head and shoulders produced. He had seen it safe 10 minutes before. Witness went out of the shop and overtook the prisoner near the railway station with the fish under his arm. On asking him where he obtained it, he said he had bought it at Mrs Benson's, in High street. P.C. Smith charged the prisoner with stealing the fish from Mr Benson's shop. He said he did not steal it; he bought it at the shop named. Inspector Jones gave the prisoner a good character, and as Mr Benson wished the bench to ileal leniently with him, he was sentenced only to 21 days' imprisonment. YAGRANCY.—David Davies and Hugh Jones were charged with sleeping in a coke oven near the Upper Bank station. Davies was discharged, but Jones, who is an old offender, was sentenced to 21 days' imprisonment, with hard labour. OKSCENE LANGUAGE.—Mary Mortimer was charged with being drunk and using obscene language. P.S. Evnproved the case, and the defendant was sentenced to 6 weeks' hard labour. TRESJ'ASSING ON THE MIDLAND RAILWAY.—Mary Davies was charged with trespassing on the Midland Railway after having been warned by the officials not to do so. It was proved that the defendant and her daughter walked along the line in front of an approaching train, in the Sour-foot way, to the danger of being knocked down by the train, and that the daughter actually stumbled across the rail, and had to be dragged away by her mother. Fined 2s Gd and costs. ANOTHER BRoufEr.-KKErKK IMPRISONED.—Hepzibah Holbrook was charged with keeping a brothel in Reece' coart, t^iieen-street. P.C. Gill stated that on Tuesday- morning, the Otli inst., he went with P.C. Paine to No. 1, Reece's-coi'.rt, Queen-street, and knocked at the door at 20 minutes to two in the morning. They got no answer, although they knocked several times, and heard some one go up and down stairs several times. (Defendant God forgive you for telling lies.) The door was ultimately opened by the defendant, who kept the house. As soon as the door was opened a woman came from the left side, undressed, and went iuco the room on the right-hand side of the stairs. Witness went upstairs into the room. There was an iron bedstead there, but no furniture nor bedclothes on the bed. Maria Watson, a prosti- tute, was standing up in the room. Went into the other roo n, and saw a Belgian sailor A^HVBA.T ¡PHI t.P.l hat, on t" t" q" ,P.. defendant she would be reported for keeping a brothel. "Keeping a brothel, "she said; "all right, we shall not be the first I suppose." Witness had visited the house on the 20th of last month in plain clothes, and then as he went into the passage a man was coming out, but on seeing witness ran back and the door was slammed, and he had to knock at the door several minutes. When it was opened there were two men in the house, two prosti- tutes, and the defendant. Had seen men go in there lately, within the last two or three months. P.C. Paine also proved that prostitutes and men visited the house. The bench considered the case clearly proved, and sentenced the accused to one month's imprisonment, with hard labour.

NEATH.' "'I. THE RATE COLLECTOR'S SALARY.—At a special vestry meeting, held on Monday, it was resolved to recommend the guardians to advance the salary of the rate collector, Mr William Moms, by £ 40, making the salary £ 230. BOARD OF GUARDIAN:-}.—Mr Howel Gwyn presided at the fortnightly meeting of the Neath Board of Guardians, on Tuesday. Public business commenced by the consider- ation of the notice of the motion given by the chairman, in reference to bhe proposed increase of salary to Mr W. Morris, the collector of rates. The particulars of the vestry meetmg were laid before the board, from which it appeared that a vote, recommending an in»-3ase of £60, was earned by a majority of 35 to 6. A memorial, signed by some of the ratepayers of Neath whose rateable value reached JE10,986, was also laid before the board. Very iitlie discussion took place, Mr Be van seconding the chairman's motion. Mr Player supported the same, the board generally speaking in 'mgh terms of Mr Morris's excellent qualities as a collector. The motion was carried unanimously. Some discussion ensued on the amount of salary to be paid to a new master and matrons of the cottage schools, and eventually they were fixed as follows Master, £50; head matron, .£30; widow matrons, J615 per annum. Mr Henry Jones considered that it would be better to finish up the cottage homes, and then advertise them for sale, as they were causing the board to drift into unexpected and enormous expenses. Mr Bevan asked if there waa any calculation referring to the probable cost of the children at_ the cottage homes per head. The Rev. D. Griffiths said the buildings were not yet paid for. He thought the board had been deceived by the inspectors, and led into the expense of erecting the homes when, under the present division of the unions, they were not needed. TIle Chairman said the home would be self-supporting in course of time. Several formal circular letters and official notices were read, but no discussion ensued on them. The board ordered Mr Loke's valuation charges, viz., £2:3, to be paid forthwith. This concluded the business of the meeting.

THE FREEMASONS OF MONMOUTHSHIR* At the annual festival of the Royal Masonic BENE** lent Institution, held on Monday evening, at the masons' Tavern, London, under the presidency of TW Earl of Shrewsbury (Provincial Grand Mapter F<(J Staffordshire), Monmouthshire contributed, to T| >. GRAM total of nearly £ 13,000, ±1210. The Deputy PROVINCE* Grand Master, Captain Samuel George Homfray, the steward for the province, and was present on tj** occasion. He sat on the right of the chairman. TH* largest provincial contribution was from Devonshire which sent up £500.

If there are any Ladies who have not yet used GLENFIELD STARCH, they are respectfully solicited TOFPJ it a trial, and CAREFULLY^ follow out the directions PRI^FW on every package, and if this is done they will say, like Queen's Laundress, it is the finest Starch they ever NSJL When you ask for GLENFIELD STARCH see that you GET'J is inferior kinds are often substituted for the sake of profit. Beware therefore of spurious imitations. ISJ PERFECTION. — Mrs S. A. ALLEN'S Worlds Feslnrer liever fails to restore pre. hair to i!s youthful imparting- to it uew life, grrowth, ar>d lustrous beanty. action 1" speedy and tho.ou^'h, quickly ban shing Its value ili abov» s>ll otheis. A single trial proves it. It i8iJ' aiiye. It ever proves itself th" 11: tural strenjtheuer of ha.ir. Sold by all Chemista and Perfumers. J MRS S. A. ALLEN has for over 40 years vwnv fartw& thue two preparations. They are. the standard urtie!<n for ji hair. They should never be tttsed together, nor oil ner 1'0' with either. J| MRS S. A. ALLEN'S Zylo-Ealzamum, a simple and hair dressing of extraordinary merit fur the young-. n ature loss of the hair, so ccianion, is prevented. PT0&U relief in thousands oi cases h; s Lcen aSorded where hatful been coming out in haiidfnls. It cleanses the ha.ir and removH anddruff. Sold by all CI eioists and PçrfuIIl VALUABLE DISCOVERY FOTI THE HATH.—If your is turning: grey or white, or falling- off, use The Mc'xican Renewer," for it will positively restore in every case White hair" to its original colour, without leaving; the able smell of most Restorers." It makes the hair charnH|5Ji beautiful; as well as promoting tlio growth of tUc hair on spots, where the glands are not docayod. Ask your CheniW*i« THJJ MKXICAN UAia RCNEWKU," prepared by LISJMT C. 493, Oxford street, London, and said Clwiui^ts. and Pc^jX { everywhere at 3s M oor IMtfe, 4A23 | r

CARDIFF. TTIE IIKCENT the burglary by two men in Bute-esplanade, on Sunday, the 4th, the police ( „vo been keeping a vigilant look out for the skeleton key depredators, but have as yet not, succeeded in capturing them. On Sunday, during the hours of church Service, Superintendent Hemingway kept a number of hi? men patrolling the streets in the neighbourhoods most likely to be infested by the disagreeable nuisances referred to. TRINITY Coyr»REGATr■ >: AL CHURCH, WOMANBY STREET. —The Kev. Watkin Bronfryn Joseph, the respected minister of this ancient church, the oldest in South Wales, having accepted the pastorate of the English Con- gregational church at Ruabon, North Wales, delivered his final discourse last Sunday evening. When it became known that it was Mr Joseph's intention to leave, the known that it was Mr Joseph's intention to leave, the members of the church resolved to present him with a testimonial. Subscriptions were solicited by Mr D. Ladd I>avies and Mr W. Hugh J ones, and at a church meetingheld after the service on Sunday evening the amount collected i £ 14 10s.) was presented to Mr Joseph, who acknowledged he gift in a suitable address. A LITERARY AND MUSICAL ENTERTAINMENT was given at St John's School, Crockherbtown, on Monday evening. The ch.vli ,n.s taken by the Rev C. J. Thompson. The programme, which was an exceptionally good one, com- menced with two numbers from Mendelssohn's "Lieder," played by Miss Minnie Shackell; a recitation, Carl the Martyr," by Mr Hurnian. Master Reginald Atkins played Beethoven's grand sonata "Patheticu;" Mr IWckett recited Nothing to wear;" Mr Hellerman, Mr Matthews, and Mr Elliot sang the trio 0 memory Mr Elliot "Ci'*iie into the garden, Maud;" Mr Heller- man. rh old ■■•jttsge clock;" Mr Forrest read "Ser- jeant JBuzfuz's address to the jury;" Mrs Matthews sang "Evangeline. The entertainment closed with the ringing uf the Doxology. There was a very large gather- ing, and many at the close joined the St John's Temper- ance Society, under whose auspices the entertainment was fceld. RESCUE FROM THE POLICE.—On two occasions within the last few days the Cardiff police have been baulked of their legitimate prey by a system of violent rowdyism which e:vmot too soon be checked. About a quarter past eleven on Saturday night a police-constable was convey- ing a woman to the lock-up for an offence, when a large crowd collecting round the two, other two officers appeared to assist their colleague. In a short time a number of roughs banded themselves together, and suc- ceeded after a fight with the police in putting the woman ia a cal>, and getting her safely out of the way. One of the constables, named Sparks, was a good deal knocked about in the melee. The policemen drew their batons, but with a discretion which perhaps waa creditable to them, desisted from using them. The ringleaders of the roughs are known to the police, as is-the woman who was rescued. On Sunday afternoon, in Newtown, a similar affair took place, a prisoner being rescued on the way to the llOMce-station from two constables by a number of blackguards. ACTION AWAIXST WINE 'MERCHANTS.—On Tuesday, in tlJe UriKtol County Court (before Mr R. A. Fisher, judge), lite action was tried of Rawlings v. Eraser and Co. In tit i., ease the plaintiff, a cask and barrel maker, of Bristol, 8U3d the defendants, wine merchants, of Cardiff, for the value af seven casks supplied to them in the month of December last. Mr Kilby (from the omce of Mr Beck- inghatn), appeared for the plaintiff; and Mr Clifton re- presented the defendants. The plaintiff's case was that 19 casks were on the 15th !December ordered by an agent of the defendants, and the latter contended that they only ordered 12, and denied their liability to pay for the re- maining seven. Mr Clifton farther contended that it was part of the plaintiff's case to call the agent to prove the giving of tlio order, His Honour supporting this, Mr Kilby called Wm. Bennett Seymour, agent of the defen- d/Mis, who denied buying more than 12. Mr Kilby aaid that he could call the plaintiff's son. Mr Clifton said Mr Kilby could not contradict his own witness. His Honour Sjiid the plaintiff had put himself out of court, as this witness had given a totally different account of the transaction. The plaintiff was then nonsuited, but hi Honour added that it was through no fault of Mr TCiFqr, bnt from Ms being wrongly instructed. 1":(, LIBRARY COMMITTEE.—On Tuesday the monthly OK- ting of the Free Library committee was held in the Grand Jury-room in the Town-hall, the chair being occu- f'e I by Mr Rees J ones. There were present, Revs A. illy and Vincent Saulez, Meows Peter Da vies, W. James, J. P. Sothem, G. W. Armstrong, R. Bird, and n. 0. Harris. On the minutes being read the question of the extension of schools of art in the borough again came w-fare the committee, but the matter fell through on acoonmt of the difficulty in obtaining qualified teachers. Chairman stated that the Free Library committee were prepared to co-operate in the extension of such •chools in the district. The question of a new building for the Free Library came before the meeting, f8¡, t us the sub-committe appointed to consider the matter had Tiofc yet completed its report the subject was deferred. A di.ieuaaioii t>>ok place as to what became of the various ae 'spupers and magazines used by the public in the library, and it transpired the major portion of the former were disposed or as waste paper. It was resolved that ill future the newsjiaper and magazines not filed in the reading-room and reference-room be soldbypublicauctlon. Th- librarian' report, stating the issues of books from the library during the month of January, was read. The report' stated, in reference to the issue of works of fiction, 341 consisted of {works by Dickens, Scott, Thackeray and Lytton, the "librarian remarking that it was satisfactory to note that the reading in this class was not entirely of a a:-ales* nature. There was no other bu>uu'ss before the Commifct* nOArtL GVARUTANS.—The weekly meeting of the guardian* \is held on Saturday, Mr C. W. Duvid in the cL dr. There were also present Mr J. Evans, vice- chairman Messrs W. H. Martin, G. A. Stone, Dr Paine, T. Llewellyn, T. Bassett, T. W. H. PIam. J. T. Barry, W. LewK T. Williams (Whitchurch), J. Smith, C. French, K M. Thomas, T. Williams (St Lvthans), W. Lawrence, W. Cosslett, T. H. Stephens, W. Wride, J. Morgan, P. Jones, T. V. Yorath, and Rev J. W. Brans. The ma-ter of the workhouse reported that 11;ri-ag the week 1-3 paupers had been admitted, and 22 u^ed, leaving 4: in the house, an increase of 52 1 reportea number Jl'OittfiV. &X »t the institution to De lro, a.n increase of 29 on the corresponding week of last year. The vaccination re- turns for the first half-year of liS7ti were laid before the board. In Mr Watkins', Cardiff district, there hail been I,300 births during that period. Of this number 1,20S infants had been successfully vaccinated; 128 had died unvaocinated; 4<S postponed by medical certificate; 12 removed to places known 35 to places unknown, leaving unaccounted for. On the motion of the Chairman it \vm resolved to request Mr Watkins to furnish the clerk with the names of those persons whose children remained unvaccinated, that proceedings might be taken against them. A supplemental list, showing the completed returns for 1S75, was also laid before the guardians. Dur- ing 1815 there had been 2,905 births, of which number 2,4ol infants had been successfully vaccinated, and after deducting those children removed to other places only 2., wore left unaccounted for. Mr Hopkins (Whitchurch district) reported that fur the first half of 1874 there had been 136 births, of which 123 children had been success- fully vaccinated, 10 had died unvaccinated, two had been removed to districts known, leaving none removed to places unknown or unaccounted for. During the year 1875 there had been in this district 238 births, 215 of these Ùibnts had been successfully vaccinated, 20 had died unvaccinated, two had been removed to places known, and the vaccinating officer there informed of such removal, leaving none unaccounted for. Mr Stone These returns of Mr Hopkins} are very satisfactory. Mr Eagleton (St. Nicholas district) reported that during the first part of 1STG there had been 70 births in that district 54 of the infants had been successfully vaccinated, six had died unvaccinated, one postponed by medical certificate, one removed to" district known, one to a district unknown, leaving seven unaccounted for. During 1875 there had been in this district 140 births, 129 of the infants had been successfully vaccinated, 10 Iv.J died unvaccinated, one removed to a place kr.own, leaving none unaccounted for. Advertisements h:-d been inserted in the local papers for a man and wife to superintend the labour of the male and female able- bodied pauper inmates of the workhouse. The replies to tho advertisements had not been satisfactory, as none of th applicants had filled similar positions previously. It liad been also resolved to appoint a cleric, or person to assist the master of the workhouse in keeping his accounts. Mr Plain proposed that both appointments should be de- ferred for a month, to enable the guardians to consider whether the two appointments could not be merged into one. They were rapidly increasing the number of officers at the workhouse, and it would be well if some arrange- ments could be made by which the salary of one could be saved. Mr Stone thought that the task-master could very well spare two or three hours in the evening to assist the ma ster of the workhouse in keeping his accounts. Both appointments were then deferred, and on the sugges- tion of the Chairman, Mr Plain gave notice that at the ie:i.fc meeting he should propose that the resolutions refer- ring to the appointments of task-master and clerk be rescinded, with the view of only one appointment being made. The board then separated. ST VALENTINE'S DAY AT CARDIFF.—Upwards of 10,000 valentines in boxes, letters, and packages, irrespec- tive of ordinary letters, passed through the post-office on St ValentineVeve and the following day. on Wednesdav morning each letter carrier, on leaving the office, was followed by a boy carrying a sack filled with these aiiiasory epistles, which were of all sizes, some of them bei- g so large that they could not be passed through the letter-slip. As the earner delivered his own supply he took ar< instalment from the sack, and in many* of the rounds the first delivery was not completed before 12 o'clock, the uoual time being 9 o'clock. The afternoon delivery was only delayed about an hour. FULE.—On Wednesday a fire broke out in the stores of M:rs Thomas and Co, Merthyr traders, East Wharf. 'FTse .liters of the btoro consisted of sucks of potatoes, with two cacks of petroleum. One of thenc casks hud beta broken and the contents flowed on the floor between the .sacks,which in a short time became saturated with it and had in .some way caught fire. On the alarm being given, Superintendent Hemmhigwuy with a body of the ure brhrtido and engineer Spencer, with ho.se and reel, BOoa am /ed at the spot. A number of borough police were alio sent down to render assistance. The names wive then bursting through the front door, and the floor above kkl ;k,;u Sro. A plentiful supply of water was OeLanad* and in a short time the fire was extinguished. The ,¡,d oi pjtatocjfe were hauled out of the warehouse by oho brigade, and the flames extinguished in the road- way. One disk of petroleum was also got out whole and cos signed to a place of safety. The prompt discovery of the firo prevented what would otherwise have been a serm la conilagration. The amount of damage done is not great. The property is not insured. K-DDE.N' DiiATir. An inquest was held on Wednesday, at C.xc Town-hall, before Mr R B. Rec ce, coroner, on the Iv: iy oi Margaret Hurley, wife of Patrick Hurley, of I K;ig-.ton-court, St Marv-itrcet. The decea ed, who was SI ve^i'j ui age, was on Thursday afternoon confined, I arm was attended by a midwife named Bourke. She seemed to be going on well for some hours, when feeling wsa' the priest was sent for, and at 11 o'clock, at the request of the midwife, the husband went for Dr W Uif.ms, but as he had no note from the relieving ufSoer jf.)r vv ulia'.ns decuued to attend. At half-past 12 o'clock the husband went for Dr Granger; that geatleaian at-te .led imnied'ately, but found the woman dead. From thj evidence of the midwife she appeared to have sent for the. :irgeor. ¡"S soon as any dangerous symptoms appeared, ar :l;'roru the evidence of Dr Granger it aupeared that de.i?! was cinsed by exhaustion, althougli had the mcdieal man been called in earlier, the life of the woman might have- been saved. The jury returned a verdict of '• Death from ;xhau"ti(ú1," but saw no cause to blame the coiidt; et of the midwife. AN IHPUDKST TiliirT.—At theTown-liall, on Saturday r-b..fore the Mayor (All. Elliott) and Aid. Watkins— Jclwi Tlobtrtson, a middle-aged man of broken-down appear- an:\ waa brought up charged with stealing a loaf fvn l_ SOillC eheesn from the simp of Mrs Asher, con- fec iio! or, in St. John-street, on Fridaynigbt. Ann Eliza Jones, :v young woman, neice of Mi-s Charlotte i\shcr, stated til't while «he was sewing behind the counter in her ?wut's shop the prisoner came into the shop and took a seven^oiiny leaf out of the window. He then asked for a p,'UKu of cheese, with which witness served hiin. After receiving the cheese prisoner said You cau n->w send for a pvhiwi.iri, left the shop._ Witness went after him, and said to him that he might have the bread if he were hungry, fcut, he aaust return the ctseaft lie denied all knowledge of the theft. P.C. William Hopkins deposed to apprehending the prisoner on the charge of stealing ¡ the loaf and cheese, when he said he wished to be locked r up. Prisoner was committed to prison for seven days, with hard labour. ASSACLTIYN THE POLICE.—At the borough police-court on Monday—before Mr 11. O. Jones—James Donavon, a 'labourer, was charged with rescuing a prisoner from the custody of Police-constable Fowler, and also with as- saulting the constable. It appeared from the statement of the constable that on Saturday night he was conveying a prisoner to the Bute-street police-station. On the way up Bute-road Donavan came up and endeavoured to take the man from his custody. Four or five other persons joined in the efforts to rescue the man. Donavan seized hold of him, struck him several blows on the side of the head, and also kicked him. During the struggle he was compelled to draw his staff and strike Donavan on the arm. While the struggle was going on the man was res- cued from his custody, put into a cab and driven off. Police-constable Durston came up to his assistance and the prisoner Donavon was apprehended. A crowd of persons had assembled, and he was with r difficulty con- veyed to the police-station. Police-constable Durston saw Donavon kick Constable Fowler several times. He had been before the magistrates eight times, three times for assaulting the police, and the bench now sent him to gaol for six months, with hard labour.! STEALING IKON.—Eli Rich,a steam raiser in the employ of the Tatf Vale Railway Company, was charged with stealing two cwt. of iron, the property of his employer. On Saturday afternoon the prisoner was seen by Police- constable David Webber carrying a sack in the direction of a marine store dealer's. He followed, and when the prisoner put the sack down he asked- him what he had there, and the prisoner replied, Old iron." He searched the sack, and found it to contain a quantity of iron bolts, parts of engines, etc. The pieces of iron had been since identified by Mr Hosgood, an employe of the Tuff Vale Railway Company. The prisoner, in his capacity as a steam raiser, would have access to the pies of iron, which were either kept on the engines or at the depot. Prisoner now pleaded guilty, and was sent to prison for four months, with hard labour. DISORDERLY CONDUCT IN THE ROYAL ARCADE.—Wil- liam Webber, a young man, was fined 20s and costs for causing an obstruction at the Royal Arcade on Sunday evening. Superintendent Hemingway said that on Sunday evening two of the lamps in the Arcade were out, and the conduct of some of the persons there was dis- graceful. The place was crowded between eight and nine o'clock in the evening. ASSAULTING THE POLICE.—John Fitzgerald, a labourer living at Canton, was charged with refusing to leave the Albion Hotel, Canton, and with assaulting Police-con- stable Phillips. Defendant was creating a disturbance at the bar of the hotel, on Saturday evening. He refused to leave, and the constable was called in to remove him. He did so, and when outside he struck the constable several times, and also kicked him on the eye. As he pleaded that he was drunk at the time, and now expressed his great regret at what had taken place, the bench only fined him 10s and costs. STABBING AT CARDIFF.—James O'Neal, a lad, was ap- prehended by Inspector Price, on Monday morning, on the charge of stabbing and wounding a man named Daniel Grey, at 20, Custom-house street, on Sunday. The wounded man was unable to attend, and, sufficient evi- dence having been taken, the prisoner was remanded till Wednesday. STEALING(ROPE.—At thejborough police-court, onWednes day (before Mr R. O. J ones and Mr G. Bird), Thomas Evans, an employe of the Marquis of Bute, appeared on a remand, charged with stealing a portion of a hawser be- longing to the steamship Newbiggin. The hawser was left on a buoy at the East Dock, on the 7th. The next morning a portion was observed to have been cut off during the night, and this portion was on Monday found in a oarge under the prisoner's charge. The piece of hawser in the barge had been in the interim cut up into short lengths. Prisoner denied having stolen it, and was committed for trial at the quarter sessions, bail being taken for his appearance. ASSAULTING THE POLICE.—Thomas Quin. a young man residing in Tyndall-street, WM charged with assaulting Police-coDstable Thomas Webber. It appeared that on Sunday afternoon the defendant, with a number of others, was creating a disturbance in Tyndall-street, and also causing an obstruction on the footway. The constable en- deavoured to separate them, and asked them to move away. The defendant became very abusive, and refused to do so, and the constable took him into custody. Defendant then resisted, struck him very severely several times, and also kicked him. A d"ck-constable named Burgess came to his assistance, and him also defendant assaulted. A crowd gathered round them, and both constables were struck by several persons, and they eventually rescued the defendant from their custody. When on the ground the complainant was assaulted and kicked by a number of bystanders. Mr Davies, landlord of the Crighton Anl)", stated that he saw the latter part of the disturbance. There were nuinl.^rs of persons beating "the police-con- stable, and he went to hi" assistance. Five or six mpn were striking at the complainant, and the defendant struck and kicked him. So desirous were the crowd to rescue the defendant that they tore his clothes off him, and when lie got from the grasp of the constable he ran naked down the street. The bench sent the defendant to prison for three mouths, with hard labour, and expressed a hope that the others who were concerned in the disturb- ance would be taken into custody by the police. They also thanked Mr Davies for the assistance he rendered to the complainant, and the dock-constable also for coining to the assl-tanee of one of the borough force.

PENARTH. LARCKW ON BOARD SHTP.—At a special petty-sewdonr.. un .lomlay-Lefure Messrs J. S. Corbett, J. Sydney Batchelor, and H. H. Richards—Patrick Burns, Alex- ander Wilson, Thomas Staeke, Thomas Watson, George Satouche, ami William MacNeal, sailors belonging to the ship Dorset, now in Penarth Dock, were charged by the captain with stealing a quantity of salt butter from a firkin, on the Hth instant. The evidence against Burns, Wilson, and Satouche, was not sufficient to convict, aud they were therefore discharged. Stacke, Watson, awl MacNeal were each sentc>1lcet! to a month's imprisonment, with hanllahoar. ALLEGED FALSK PRETENCES.—Mary AunThouias. «'• ^"L.'j .w.JI '< v Fiifce {;i cScticca, fni:a >Ji.. Hughes, draper, on the 5th inst. The prisoner was dis- charged.

LLANDAFF. Cows AT LAKGF..—At the petty-sessions held on Mon- day—before Mr T. Booker and Mr C. H. Page—Mr David, of Radyr, was summoned for allowing four cows to stray on the highway. Defendant was discharged with a caution. DurNKENNi-ixs.—John Waldron, Whitchurch, wa-; fined 5s. and costs for being drunk. DESERTION.—.James Thomas, Aberanian, charged wifli deserting his child, who had become chargeable to the Cardiff Union, did not appear, and a warrant for his apprehension was ordered to be issued.—Richard Deacon was charged with deserting his family. The matter was settled out of court. FASHIONABLE WEDDING.—This quiet little city was onTuesdav thrown into a state of unwonted excitement on the occasion of the marriage of Mr John Richard Fitzgerald, son of the Rev — Fitzgerald, of J.'asingstoke, with Miss L. Fitzgerald, eldest daughter of Captain Fitzgerald, residing at Llandatf. Despite the unfavour- able state of the weather, hundreds of person* assembled in the cathedral to witness the ceremony. The Rev — Fitzgerald officiated, assisted by the Rev H. Parsons, Minor Canon of Llandaff. The bride wore a handsome dress of white silk, and the bridesmaids, of whom there were four, were all attired in dresses of a light blue colour, and presented a very pretty appearance. At the conclusion of the service the party repaired to breakfast at Captain Fitzgerald's house, to which numerous friends were invited. The presents to the bride were both numerous and costly. Later in the day the happy couple departed from Llandaff for Dover, en route for Paris, where they will spend their honeymoon.

MORRISTON. Frj.SENrATioN.—On Monday evening, the workpeople at the Morribton Tinplute Works, together with some friends, met in the club-room of the Cross Inn for the purpose of presenting Mr Laird Williams, late superin- tendent of the tin-house department, with a testimonial on the occasion of his leaving. Mr David Griffiths, accountant, presided. After a few remarks suitable to the occasion, a musical and literary programme was gone through by the following:—Messrs J. G. Davis, T. Griffiths, P. Francis, D. Davies, T. Davies, W. Jenkins, J. Francis, J. Hughes, and R. Dennis. Several eulogistic addresses were also delivered. The testimonial took the form of a large and superior musical box, supplied by Mr X. Ganz, High-street, Swan- sea. The presentation was made by Mr W. H. Davies. Mr Williams tendered his heartfelt thanks to all those who had so kindly contributed towards giving him the testimonial. Three cheers were then given for Mr Wil- liams, with musical honours, and the meeting broke up.

BRECON. A REPENTANT —On Sunday, a man named John Roberts, formerly employed as a farm servant at a farm, near Brecon, entered the Cardiff police-station and gave himself into custody on a charge of stealing the sum of £ 'J in money and a quantity of wearing apparel from his master's house, last Monday night. Superintendent Thomas, of the Brecon police, was telegraphed to by Superintendent Hemingway, in reference to the removal of the man, who was detained in the cells. EXTRAORDINARY CHARGE.—At the Brecon county petty-sessions, Rees Owen and Daiuel Jones were charged with damaging, on the night of January 31st, the window of Wm. Probert's house and John Jones and John Owen were charged with being abettors. Probert also charged John Jones with assaulting him. The parties lived at Pontfajn. The evidence showed that RE'8d Owen and Daniel Jones discharged two loads from double-barrel guns into complainant's bedroom window, and that later on Daniel.T ones returned and attemIJted to discharge two more loads, but only the caps exploded. The assault consisted of Jones rubbing his hand across I Probert's face. The defence was that the shooting was only a lark, as there had been a marriage in the village that day. The bench fined Roes Owen and Daniel Jones £2 10s each and costs; John Jones, £1 10s and costs the charge of assault against John Jones was dismissed and John Owen was acquitted. The damage to tlie» window (10s) is to be paid by the defendants. 0 Thr ASSISTANT OVERSEER AT BATTLE.—At the Brecon petty sessions on Monday, the case of the Battle Over- seas v. Thomas Maund" was settled by the defendant handing to the complainants a cheque for £ 59, where- upon all further proceedings were stayed. TOWN COUNCIL.—The monthly meeting was held on Tuesday, the Mayor (Mr Games) presiding. The quarter's finances were disaussed, and it appeared there were bills on corporate account awaiting payment to the amount of £153, for general district rate account of E119 the balances respectively to meet the same were £71 and £11. It was stated that to meet tho former there was an amount of £200 by Government on police account, and £70 arrears of rate by the Brecon Market Company to meet the latter. The police clothing was inspected and approved of. It appearing tba,t on the occasion of the late fire at the Brecon Railway Station the town water was turned off, the board instructed the "surveyor to see that in the future, a.; far as practicable, the water should not ha turned off at night time. Dr J. O. North reported that in the year 1876 there were 151 deaths and 137 -births. -The deaths were 30, Ufc q( t}gM £ <f(

NEWPORT. 1 BOARD OF G JAUDIANB.—Mr Woodruff presided at the meeting of this board on Saturday, and Mr Gething was in the vice-chair. There were also present the Revs J. Griffiths and B. Williams, and Messrs Brown, Bebell, Scard, E. Thomas, W. Jones, Price, H. R. Evans, j Richards, Langley, Davies, Morgan, Moses, Johns, S. B. Jones, C. Lyne, and W. Jones (Michaelstone). The Clerk read the returns made by the vaccination officers for each district, showing that all the cases were accounted for. The returns were deemed very satisfactory, and the chairman said if like care had been paid 10 or 15 years ago violent outbreaks of small-pox would have been prevented. The county accounts for the past year were laid on the table. Notice had been received that the Government would repay £G16 4s, being at the rate of 4s per head for the maintenance of pauper lunatics belonging to this union. The quarter's contribution from this union for pauper lunatics was £87(;. Mr Brown again referred to the circumstance that the cost of pauper lunatics is Is per head per week more in Monmouthshire than in Glamorganshire, and said all they could do was to protest against this extravagance every time they were called upon to pay. Mr Lyne said he had made an analysis of the accounts for the two counties for last year, and the result was a3 followsProvisions Monmouthshire, 4s 43d Glamorganshire, 4s 9d. Clothing Mon- mouthshire, 11 Jd Glamorganshire, 10i?d. Salaries: Monmouthshue, is 1M; Glamorganshire, Is (id. Necessaries Monmouthshire, Is Oi'd Glamorganshire, lOd. Wines and spirits Monmoutlishire, li-d Glamor- ganshire, 31-d. Bedding and linen Monmouthshire, 4d Glamorganshire, 7d. Gardening and farming: Glamor- ganshire, 11.U1; no corresponding item in Monmouthshire. Miscellaneous Monmouthshire, 6d; Glamorganshire, 3d. Total per head per week Monmouthshire, 10s 4;td Glamorganshire, !!s 4d and a fraction. Received from sales in Monmouthshire, l|d in Glamorganshire, 2d. RE FORNACON AND PHILIPS, BANKRUPTS.—We learn from a circular issued by Mr Charles Edward Parsons, accountant, Newport, that a meeting of the creditors of this bankruptcy was held before the registrar of the New- port court on Monday last, when a committee of five gentlemen were nominated as inspectors, and Messrs C. E. Parsons and R. B. Evans were appointed joint trustees, with Air Joseph Gibbs to act as their solicitor. THEFT OF BEER BY RAILWAY PORTERS.—On Wednes- day—before the Mayor and Mr Cullum—James Kift and James Bickwell, porters at the Dock-street station of the Monmouthshire section of the Great Western Railway, were charged with tapping a beer barrel with a gimlet, ani drinking beer from the cask. On Monday evening JdflR Edwards, a company's policeman, was on the watch, and fsaw Kift bore a hole and drink. Then he whistled, when Bickwell joined him and drank. They were at once apprehended, and confessed their guilt, pleading thirst and hard work as an excuse. They were each sen- tenced to a month's hard labour. ASSAULTING A WIFB.—Horatio Fox, mason, for rssault- ing his wife, was sentenced to two months' hard labour. ROBBERY FROM THE PERSON.—George Morris, private in the 17th Regiment, was charged with stealing 30s and a knife from Edward Macarthy, on the 9th inst. Prisoner and another soldier (not known) had made the prosecutor tipsy, and then took him to a bye place and robbed him. He was sentenced to three months' hard labour.

ABERGAVENNY. THE GOVILON LEVEL CROSSING.—At the monthly meet- ing of the highway board, held on Tuesday, Mr Watkins, of Wemycwm, in the chair, the clerk read a letter from the solicitor of the London and North Western Railway Com- pany, stating that upon condition that the board did not oppose the company's Bill now passing through Parlia- ment, they would put in repair, and dedicate to the public the old tramroad between the schools and the bridge, and either construct a footbridge eight feet wide, or a subway of the same width, for foot passengers, on the site of the present level crossing. The board, upon the proposition of Mr Jacobs, resolved to choose a subway, not less than 6ft 6in high. THE BLAENAVON COMPANY'S NEW POWDER MAGA- ZINE.—At the police-court, yesterday—before Messrs Hill, Humfrey, and Wheeley—Mr H. S. Steel, the com- pany's agent, proved that the requisite notices to the public of his application for a licence to store powder in the new magazine had been given. There was no opposition, and the licence was granted. SCABBY SHEEP.—James Price, of Llwygi farm, Cwmyoy, was fined Is and costs for not reporting his sheep affected with scab. ASSAULT UPON THE COUNTY CORONER BY A DOCTOR.— The charge of DrE. D. Batt, the district coroner, against Dr Smythe, for assault, was adjourned by consent for ji fortnight. TRANSFERS.—The licence of the Railway Inn was transferred from W. Bettridge|(deceased) to his widow and the Coach and Horses Inn from James Williams (de- ceased) to his widow. Mr Alfred James m ule the appli- cations. LARCENY.—Sarah Collins, a ballad singer, was charged with stealing two pocket knives and Is 6d from John Williams, a carpenter, living at Llanvetherine, on Wednesday, the 17th inst. It appeared that the prose- cutor and the prisoner met at the Parrot Inn, where he treated her with beer, and she managed to purloin the knives and the money. Prisoner pleaded guilty, and said the prosecutor offered her 10s if she would go and sleep with him in Ireland-street that night. Sentenced to one month's hard labour.

CHEPSTOW. AGGRAVATED ASSAULT.—On Saturday-hefore Messrs W. Æ. Seys and R. C. Jenkins—William i Morgan, farmer, Trelleck's Grange, and his waggoner, who was also named Morgan, were charged with assaulting Joseph Miles, fanner, Ilton, on the highway in the parish of St Arvans, on Thursday last. The defendants were brought in on Saturday morning under warrants, and were lodged in the police-station until two o'clock, at which time the streets were lined with persons anxious to see and hear the chief actors in the case. After hearing the evidence of the complainant, Constable Fen-Is, and Mr E. P. King, surgeon, the magistrates said it was a most aggravated assault, and fined defendants in the full penalty of £ 5 each and costs 17s each, in default two months' imprison- ment. The money was paid.

FOREST OF DEAN. Tuesday—before Sir James V'arripMl, Isiah Trotter—two young men of Clearwell, named Williams and Yarworth, were brought up on remand, charged with assaulting Colin Hulin, of St Briavels on the 7th instant. Mr Evans, of Chepstow, appeared to prosecute, and Mr Jackson for the defendants. It ap- peared from the evidence of complainant, that on the day named he was at the Wyndham Arms, Clearwell, when he saw the two prisoners and others. A conversation took place on coursing, when Williams challenged to fight him. On leaving the house, and on getting to his trap for the purpose of proceeding home, Williams gave him a seyere blow in the eye, which knooked him down in the road. Williams knocked him down four times in all, and Yarworth kicked him. His shoulder waaputout, and he wi; otherwise' inj ured about his body. In cross-examination complainant admitted offering to fight Wrilliams for 10s on Bearse Common, but not till he was very much provoked. Several witnesses were called. The bench discharged Yarworth, but fined Williams in the penalty of £5 and costs.

RHYMNEY. SUDDEN DEATH.—-At midnight, on Friday, Mr W. House, boot and shoe maker, died suddenly in his bed. Deceased was about 40 years of age. SUNDAY SCHOOL ANNIVERSARY'.—On Sunday the anniversary of Moriah Congregational Sunday school was held. The Rev D. S. Evans, the minister, presided. Recitations and suitable addresses were gone through by Thomas L. Davies, Henry Williams, J. Cornelius, E. Evans, E. Thomas, and others. One feature was the catechising of about 150 children on the history of the life of the prophet Elijah, conducted by Mr R. Thomas, The musical pieces were conducted by Mr D. Jones. THE FUNERAL OF MIt KAVOCHICH.—On Sunday the funeral of Mr Kavochich, who died suddenly on Thursday morning, took place. About 3,000 persons were present, among them being the clergy and ministers and the gentry. The Revs T. Hacket and G. Fraye officiated at the house, and the Rev W, Evans (vicar) and curates at the church. INQUEST.—On Tuesday Dr Morgan, deputy-coroner, held an inquest at the Puddlers' Arms respecting the death of Samuel Pearce, who waa killed at the Bute Puddling, on Saturday week, by falling against the fly- wheel. It appeared that he acknowledged on his death- bed that he had violated the instructions given to him and other workmen of the same department not to cross the protecting fence for any purpose whilst the machinery was working. The jury returned a verdict of Accidental death," coupled with a recommendation that the company would in future prosecute any person found infringing the rales.

TYNEWYDD. A NARROW ESCAPE.—About mid-day on Sunday, as three children were crossing the hand bridge, which joins the Llangeinor and Llandyfodwg parishes, a gust of wind came ana threw them into the river. Happily there was no flood, or they would have been carried away and drowned. As it was they contrived to escape. It is a disgrace to the landed and coal proprietors in the district that a better bridge is not provided for the safety of foot passengers.

LLANDILO. PRESENTATION.—On Monday evening, at the Davis Memorial Hall, Mr Stephens, who is about to leave for the Metropolis, was presented with a valuable inkstand by the members of the Tabernacle Young Men's Prayer Meeting. Mr J. Lewis and Mr J. Penry having spoken, Mr D. Morgan, British School, read an address, and Master Charlie Morgan Davis, Towy Yilla, handed the gift to Mr Stephens. Addresses were delivered by Messrs D. Morgan, W. Thomas (Bridge-street), W, Grimths.and Morgan Davis.

MAESTEG. CWMDU BOARD OP HEALTH.—An ordinary meeting of this board was held on Fiiday week, when there were present :—Messrs J. Barrow (ill the chair), D. Grey,H. Chivers, M. David, T. Thomas, T. L. Roberts, J. J. Thomas, J. Williams, and Dr Davies. In answer to en- quiries, the Local Government Board wrote to say that the ballot could not be adopted in the board elections. Mr Morgan Jones, agent to Major Treharne, had com- plained of the erection of the boundary wall on the market site, as the course of the river was thus changed, and damage was done to property. The board decided to continue the building of the wall. A letter had been received from the Local Government Board asking for observations on a letter that had been sent by the Neath Sanitary Authority objecting to the proposed amalgama- tion of the hamlet of Llangynwyd Higher with Cwmdu. A committee, consisting of Messrs Barrow, Grey, and T, Thomas, was appointed to obtain the views of the inhabi- tants of the upper hamlet as to the proposed union, and to obtain information on the matter. Mr W. S. Ryland, London, offered the sum of money required for the water- works at from 3?j to 5 per cent per annum. The board instructed the clerk to open negotiations with Mr Ryland. A largely signed petition had been sent to the chairman, by the inhabitants of Llwydarth district, com- plaining of the condition of Bethania-street and Llwy- darth-road. Messrs W. & C. Y. Davies stated that they had drained the streets on Waen Roily according to plans approved of by the board, and could not do anything further. The hoard directed the clerk to state that they were to sewer the property.

DOWLAIS. SUDDEN I^BATH.—On Monday afternoon, an old woman, named Mary Wilding, 60 years of age, died suddenly at 44, Hill-street, Dowlais.

BRIDGEND. PETTY-SESSIONS.—On Saturday (before the Rev C. R. Knight and Mr P. Price), Richard Harding was charged by David Fees, fanner, residing at Park, Newcastle, with damaging his coat, and with a common assault. Defendant was ordered to pay £1 damages, Bl for the assault, and 12s 6d costs. DOGS AT LAJSGE.—Richard Havard, butcher, Porth- cawl, was charged by P.O. Prothero with having his dog at large. He was fined 108 6d, with costs. STEALING A DUOK.—A sailor belonging to the schooner Jessie Bennett, now lying at Portncawl, was charged with stealing a duck, the property of Margaret Ann > ikca. Newtau. 1h WJIoaaent ta j;raQ! far 10 Aura..

GELLIGAER, SCHOOL BOAT;D ELECTION.—livery effort L.t., been made to reduce the number of cand dates so as to avoid a content. AH enthusiastic meeting was held at Foehrhiw Schoolroom on Monday night, when a vote of confidence iu the old members was passed. The meeting pledged itself to make every effort to re-elect them.

PONTYPOOL. THE BRUTAL ASSAULT rpoy A MOTHER.—At the Pont- ypool police-court, on Saturday, Henry Holder was charged on remand (before Messrs Byrde and Parkes) with assaulting his mother, Emma Holder, Queen Ade- laide beerhouse, Snatclnvood, Abersyclian. A medical certificate was put in stating that Mrs Holder would not be able to appear for a. fortnight. The case was adjourned, and prisoner was admitted to bail. STEALING BREAD.—James Wallon was charged on remand with stealing four loaves of bread, the property of Jatnes Grant, of lilaenavon. Keziah Giant said that the defendant crone into her shop and asked for a halfpenny orange. When she turned round to get the orange he ran out. She went after him, and outside the door met Mr Perry, who said prisoner had stolen some cheese from his shop. Perry followed him, and prisoner dropped a loaf of bread. When brought to the shop he had three other loaves in his possession. Prisoner admitted stealing one loaf. Sentenced to one month's hard labour. DRUNKENNESS.—William Jones was cnarged before the Rev. J. C. Llewellyn, on Monday, with being drunk and riotous on Saturday at Blaenavon. Fined 10s. ASSAULTING A BAiMFF. William Jones was charged with assaulting J olm Stone, a bailiff, in the execution of his duty on Saturday night at Pontypool. Stone said he had been sent to relieve another bailiff by the name of Cable who had been in possession. Defendant was not at home at the time, but when he came inte the house rather drunk he ordered him out. On Stone refusing to go out he bumped his head against the wall. The man did not hurt him in the least, and he freely forgave him on Saturday night, and went to drink with him afterwards. Dis- charged.

PONTARDULAIS. LIBERATION SOCIETY'S MEETING. — On Saturday, the Rev J. Jones, of Felinfoel, secretary for the Liberation Society for this district, addressed a good meeting at the Tabernacle Baptist Chapel. Mr Jones, of Poatardulais, presided. The rev. lecturer then made a telling speech, saying that he did not attack the church as a spiritual community, but as a political institution. He desired liberty for every man to practise ;his own opinions, with- out the interference of dictation of the State, or without inducements or rewards being offered by the State to the professors of any religion. He argued that disestablish- ment was for the benefit of the State, "the Church, and the nation. The Revs. E. Price, J. Rowlands, and J. James also spoke. PLOUGHING MATCH.—The annual ploughing match for the lower part of Llanedy parish was held on Thursday week on part of Talyclyn farm, occupied by Mr D. Thomas. The number of competitors was rather smaller than usual. The first prize was open, to all comers; eight competed. The winner of the first prize was John Lewis, Tynytione; the second prize, D. White, Clyncaerau; third prize, Thomas Thomas, Talyclynissa. H. Davies, Pontardulaas, won the fourth prize. The judges were Messrs Thomas Owens (Caecoryn, Llanedy), J. Williams (Penllwyngwn, Llangennech), and W. Evans (Pontyberem). The last- named was not present at the competition. In the second class Mark Barron, Talyclynissa, won the first prize, and W. Reynolds, Forest Hill, the second. The hon. secre- tary and treasurer were Messrs H. J ones, Pontardulais, and H. D. Hinds. In the evening a large company sat down to a good dinner at the Salutation Inn. The establish- ment of a cattle show at Pontardulais in November was mooted, and a subscription was opened for the purpose of getting up prizes. LLANDILO-TALYBONT ScHOOL POARD.—At the monthly meeting of this board, all the members were present. The clerk mentioned that while in London he had seen one of the under-secretaries of the Education Department, who stated that to finally determine whether the Department would insist upon enclosing the playground, plans must be produced. On learning that the school was situated in a mining district, and that a great deal of traffic took place past the spot, he gave it as his belief the Department would require it to be enclosed. A discussion then en- sued as to the title of Messrs Glasbrook and Richards to the plot of ground. It seemed that in case of the board leasing the ground, Messrs Glasbrook and Richards offered an indemnification against any action which might be brought against them in respect of the waste piece of ground thrown in with the cottage and garden. Mr W. T. Bevan moved that the board accept the offer of Messrs Glas- brook & Richards, and purchase the said plot for £ 125, provided Messrs Glasbrook and Richards grant an indem- niheation against any action of the commoners, and that the consent of the Education Department be obtained. This was seconded by Mr J. Williams, andearri; I unani- mously. The vice-chairman's notice of motion, at the minute of October 10th, to lease a piece of ground from Mr J. Williams.be rescinded, came next under discussion. The Vice-Chairman was of opinion that an attempt to pur- chase at least ought to be made, or the Department would be likely to object, seeing that it did not look with favour upon leases in cases of this kind. He gave some figures showing that purchase would be more advantageous to the parish. Mr Williams remarked upon the length of time that had elapsed since the resolution was passed, and said that nothing had been done in the meantime to rescind the resolution. He protested against the board examining other sites until that had been done. The Chairman and Yiee-chainuan 'said the question before them was not the selection of sites, but the relative advantages of purchasing and leading. Ultimately, the motion to rescind the resolution of the 10th October was proposed by the Vice-Chairman, sec- onded by Mr T. Harries, and earned unanimously. Re- turning to the question of the sites, the architect's opinion, as given at his meeting with the members at Coalbrook and Peiirheol, was that the sites in order of merit were tho-c of Mr Williams, Mrs Morris, and Mr Cameron. Mr J. Williams said that he would neither sell nor lease, except under compulsion, the particular site on his land. The clerk said that Mrs Morris would not sell because she could not. Mr J. Williams moved that the clerk be instructed to negotiate with lh Cameron as to the pur- chase of a site between Colebrook and Penrheol. Mr W. T. Bevan seconded the resolution, which was carried _1;

X XX. LLVNDISPILIO U.D. SCHOOL BOARD.—The Education Department sent instructions to Mr John Thomas, of Narberth, the returning officer for this district, to elect two persons from the contributory district of Llangolman, to sit on the Llandissilio School Board, with a view of determining the details of contribution from that parish towards the erection and future maintenance of Dolevelvet School. The necessary notices were duly published by the returning officer, and the nominations were to be lodged at his office before four o'clock on the afternoon of the 9th instant. The ratepayers neglected to send in the nomination papers, and the proceedings are therefore at an end. The school has been erected by this board,, and is now under their management. As the ratepayers of the contributory parish do not appeal- to desire a voice in the expenditure of their own money, the Education Department will now use their own discretion in the matter.

LLANELLY. SCHOOL BOARD.—The monthly meeting of this board was held on Tuesday. There were present Messrs James Buckley (in the chair), Wm. Rosser, R. Maclaren, Dr Morgan, H. J. Howell, and J. JonpH. A letter was read from Mr Robert Waite, head master at the Park street school, saying he had accepted another appointment at the Severn street school, Birmingham, vacant on account of the death of a particular friend of his. He asked to be allowed to leave in a month's time, as the managers of that school wished him to go at once if possible. In answer to the question about the notice required, the clerk said three months was the proper notice, but there was no written agreement, and the master was paid monthly. The clerk had received three applications for the post. It was resolved to accept his resignation. The clerk was instructed to make a temporary arrangement, if necessary, and Mr Waite will be allowed to leave as soon as the board can arrange the matter. It was resolved to advertise for a master. There was only one application for the post of assistant-mistress of Beggin school, viz., from Miss Catherine Ace, West End. She enclosed several testimonials. It was resolved that Miss Ace be appointed. There were two applications for the post of assistant-mistress of Prospect-place school, namely, Miss Dunkin, New Dock, and Miss Thomas, Thomas-street, both pupil teachers at Prospect-place school. It was resolved that Miss Dunkin be appointed. Upon the certificate of Messrs Wilcox, Wilson, and Wilcox, a cheque for jE140 88 was drawn for the contractors. The seal of the board was affixed to several agreements with pupil teachers. The meeting was adjourned until Saturday week, when the appointment of a master to the Park-street school will be decided.

ABERDARE. SPECLVJL REVIVAL SERVICES.—For several^ weeks the churches of Bethania and Nazareth (Calvinistic Metho- dist) have been holding united prayer meetings under the direction of the well-known revivalist, the Rev J. R. Hughes, Anglesea, aided by the Rev John Griffiths, Car- narvon. The services were held alternately at the two chapels. At three p.m. each dav a prayer-meeting was held, "and at seven p.m. one of these ministers preaehed, and the other addressed the audience before prayer and praise. Additions were made to the churches, not only of the Methodist Connexion, but also of the Church of Eng- land, the Independents, and the Baptists. The town has been divided into small districts, distributed be- tween about 80 workers. The Revs Hughes and Grif- fiths will spend another fortnight between Mill-street, Hirwain, aud Glyn Neath. <> GADLY'S BAPTIST CHURCH.—The monthly meeting of the Baptish churches in the Valley of Aberdare was held in the above chapel on Monday; at 3 o'clock p.m. The Rev B. Evans, pastor, was voted to the chair. An able paper was read by Mi-Richards, Ynslwyd, on "Church Discipline," which was the subject of discussion during tlie meeting. At the close a conference was held, to con- sider the interest of the denomination in the valley. At half-past six two sermons were preached by the Revs D. Jones, Llwydcoed, and E. Evans, Hirwa.in,the former on the given subject, "Attentive hearing of the Gospel." A resolution was passed expressing regret at the departure of the Rev J. W. Wrilliams, of Nazareth, Mountain Ash, for Derisy, and wishing him God speed. The reso- lution was signed by Thomas Price, M.A., Ph. D. William Harris, Mill-street; William Williams, Moun- tain Ash; D. Dadpd, Abercwmboye; T. Humphreys, Carmarthen; B. Evans, Gadlys; E. Evans, Hirwain; W. Samuel, Cwiubach T. Davies, Aberaman J. Evans, Cwmdare Daniel Jones, Llwydcoed; John Mills, Aber- nant; J. Evans, Pontprenllwyd.

MYNYDDTSLWYN. BEDWELLTY AND MYNYDDLSLWVN AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY.—On Friday evening, a meeting of the members of this society was held at Pontlanfraith. Mr Waters presided, and Mr Wodin occupied the vice-chair. It was agreed that Messrs Waters, Wodin, and J. Williams select judges for the ploughing, and Messrs Davies and Howell for the hedging.

MOUNTAIN ASH. SPECIAL BOARD MEETING.—A special meeting was held on Monday to consider a letter from Sir J. Nixon re- specting the terms on which he was, on behalf of the company, ready to accept the sewage, as stated in a letter of the board dated Nov. 23rd, 1876. The sewage scheme prepared by Mr Alex. Bassett, C.E., Cardiff, Mr Nixon on the whole was ready to adopt but suggested the ne- cessity of obtaining an additional 14 acres of ground for irrigation purposes. Several of the members considered the proposals were rather too exacting, and would lead the board to a considerable outlay without securing due advantages at the minimum of cost. The clerk waa ordered to write to Mr Nixon for time to consider the matter. It waa resolved to ascertain what the Aberdare Local Board intended to do.

TREALAW. ACCIDENT.—On Tuesday morning hi.st,_ a mason named Joshua Harris, aged 36, met with his death at the Trealaw foundry. Deceased was engaged in removing the centres of an arch, and whilst removing one of the j inner centres the roof fell with a tremendous crash, kill- ing the poor fellow iir tautnueousl^. and five chal&eu*

PONTYPRIDD. ON PREMISES FOR AN UNLAWFUL PURPOSE.—At the petty-sessions,, on ^Wednesday—before Mr G. Williams, stipendiary—John| Welsh was charged with being on the premises of Dr Price for an unlawful purposo. He was found crouching down in the yard by a man named Wm. Jones, and as he refused to give an account of himself was. handed over to the police. He must have climbed a wall 3 feet high to reach the spot where he was found. Hcsa,id he had been drinking at Cardiff, and did not re- member anything about the circumstance. He was sent to gaol for seven days. SELLING BEER DURING PROHIBITED HOCKS.—Edward John was summoned for selling beer during prohibited hours. P.C. John proved the case. Defendant was fined £1, and costs. A ÐOPBLE CHARGE.—Morgan Thomas, farm labourer, was charged with obtaining goods by false pretences: from William Evans, grocer, Penygarn. Thomas Bev;in, an assistant to the above, said in November, 1876, priBoner came to his master's shop, on the 2nd November last,and said, "I want somethings for Mr Davies, of Henley. There is a shooting party there, and they want some things. I want a 9d loaf, 21bs of cheese, and .ilb. of tobacco." On that representation witness supplied prisoner with the goods. In the absence of Mr Davies prisoner was remanded for a week. — Morgan Thomas, the same prisoner, was then cha.rged with stealing two sets of harness, the property of Mr Evan Williams, Garth Fawr. The articles Were taken from the stable, and sold to Thomas Davies, IJecli farm, for Gs. They were worth 18s. P.S. James apprehended the prisoner, who pleaded guilty, and was committed for trial at the sessions. THE TRKFOREST SCANDAL.—Mary Llewellyn, J. Llew- ellyn, and Ann Thomas, who were remanded last week on a charge of annoying Mrs Margaret Thomas, Railway Inn, Treforeat, by exhibiting effigies of the complainant and her husband, on the 18th ult., were again brought up. Mr H. W. Morgan prosecuted, and Mr 1). Rosser defended. Much iuterest was felt in the proceedings, but, as on the first hear- ing, the court was cleared of all women and children. The fresh witnesses examined were Mary Parfit, Marv Clarke, Hannah Davies, P.C. James, P.C. Hopkins, Dorothy Phillips, Mary Waters, Johanna Russell, and Ivlary Jones, all from Treforest. His Worship said he could not see that there was sufficient evidence to convict Mrs'^Llewellyn, or Jane Llewellyn they would therefore be dismissed. With regard to Ann Thomas her conduct had been most disgraceful, and he felt it his duty to mark his disapproval of it by binding her over to keep the peace.

BUILTR CHARGE OF WOUNDING.—At the petty-sessions on Mon- day-hefore Mr E. D. Thomas and Mr J. Vaughan— day-hefore Mr E. D. Thomas and Mr J. Vaughan— Martha Whilding, of the Bank-square, Builth, whose case. was adjourned from Monday last, appeared on bail charged with having assaulted William Jones, alias Butler, by striking him on the head with a large jug on Saturday night, the 3rd inst. The evidence of complain- ant taken on Monday last having been read, Mr J. F. Herring, surgeon, Builth, stated that about half-past 11 on Saturday night, the 3rd inst.. he was fetched to see the complainant. He found him sitting on the floor of a. cottage in Bath-lane, being supported .by a man, and bleeding very much from wound m the head. On examining the wound, which was on the right side of the head, about three inches from the ear, he found it to be a jagged wound, cut two ways, about half an inch each way. He again saw him on the Monday and Tuesday, since which time Dr Bennett had attended him, complainant having applied for relief as a pauper, and Mr Bennett being the medical officer for that district. W. Price, of the Square, Builth, shoemaker, stated that ahout half-past 11 on Saturday night, the 3rd inst., he was at his bedroom window. Hearing a voice, he Jooked out, and saw William Jones, the complainant, and C harles Stanton (who lives with defendant) fighting. They were about 10 yards from the lamp, which was lighted, and the lamp is about 10 yards from witness's bedroom window. He saw the two men fall down, Stanton under- most, Jones was in the act of getting up, and when partly on his knees the defendant came out with a large jug, and struck him on the head. He called out, "Oh, God; and then staggered acrosa the square and fell. Defendant; who had nothing to say, was committed for six weeks' hard labour. ExTKNMON Of TIME.—Mr Thomas Morgan, of the White Horse Inn, Builth, applied for and was granted one hour's extension of time on the night of the 23rd inst, in consequence of a ploughing match dinner taking place there.

BRYNMAWR. MALICIOUS DAMAGE.—On Monday—before Mr G. W. Walters—Mary Level, for breaking the windows of the Pelican Inn, wa3 ordered to pay 10s !)d damages, with a fine of fid and costs. In default she was committed to gaol for 14 days"without hard labour. NATIONAL SCHOOLS.—On Monday evening a tea meet- ing was held in the National schools. After tea was re- moved a musical entertainment and addresses were given. The Wear, the Rev D Lewis, presided, and the following ladies and gentlemen took part, viz. :—Ad- dresses by Rey H. Howells, vicar ofBlaina; Rev T. Hughes, curate Messrs G. W. Walters, J.P., and Mr H. Connop singing by Miss Tuckett, Mr and Mrs Skrimshire, T. Hughes, Ap Shenkin, and Master A. Webb. 'ö LLANELLY SCHOOL BOARD.—The monthly meeting of this board was held on Wednesday, at the board school, when there were present Messrs. Geo. L. Hilev (chair- man), Jno. Judd, and J. Thomas, with the Rev W. P. Williams, clerk. The Education Department reported that they were prepared to receive plans for the new schools at Gilwern, but recommended separate apart- ments for 60 infants. The plans of Messrs Alexander and Iieninau were ordered to be sent. A precept for t300 was ordered to issue. The Clerk produced a letter, containing very strong language, and written to him by the master of the Darenfeien schools, in reference to an account not being passed at the last meeting. The chair- man and Mr Riley were asked to communicate with the master, asking for an explanation or apology. It was remarked that the date fixed for election of members for the new board was the 10th March. LLANGYNIDEK SCHOOL BOAP.D.—The monthly meeting of this board was held on Wednesday at Nantybwch. Present, Messrs D. Morris, (chairman), J. Bobbins and T. Gibby, with Mr Leonard D. Browne (clerk). The clerk reported that a cheque had been received for JE25 -?" 1i.l., .1. -I. ,1. ,¥' 'I.. 1- Board. He was directed to obtain the balloting apparatus from the clerk to the guardians, and keep possession of the same. In referwice to the m-opbaed juivit ttclnxal at Bean- fort, the clerk was directed to inform the Education De- partment that in consequence of the Beaufort works being stopped, the population had decreased, and the maximum attendance would be hardly 130 children. The clerk reported that he. had paid Mr James £ 51 4s Od, being the amount due for commission. Mr James also claimed commission on plans for tracing a new road. The board repudiated any liability on that head. The clerk next reported that thit audit of the books was fixed for the 15th ia»t..

NEWPORT TOWN COUNCIL. On Tuesday theqnartcrlymeeting of the Newport Corpo- ration was held in the Assembly-room of the Town-hall. Mr George Fbthergjll (Mayor) presided, and there were present Aldermen Town send, Llewellm, Daviea, -Han-fey, and Homfrav, Councillors H. P. Bolt, Benjamin Evans, G. VV. Jones, Thomas Beynon, James"Murphy, R. Russell Evans, Wyndham Jones, H. A. Huzzey, George Hmkius, .Tames Thompson, Joseph Giljfw, Alfred R. Bear, J. R. Jacob, Robt. Graham, L. A. Homfray, Oliver Goss, Enoch Griffiths, Alfred Blake, A-c. The minutes of the last meeting were read, but owing to the acoustic defects of the room it was impossible to hear what was read. This gave rise to some badinage between the members and the Town Clerk. The reporters found it necessary to shift their seats and to locate them- selves nearer the centre of the corporate body, and the Mayor was at length compelled to appeal to all tin-members to aid him in maintaining order for the despatch of business. In connection with the report of the watch committee, Mr G. W. Jones- inquired of Supt. Sinclair whether he had received a letter from Mr B. Evans, landlord of the Rod- ney Arms, together with the complaint laid before the last meeting. Supt. Sinclair read the letter which he had received to the board, and the course he had pursued in the matter was deemed perfectly satisfactory. In connection with the report of the finance committee, Mr Jacob and several other members criticised many items, particularly the amount expended in road-making and hauling. The amounts were greatly in excess of those charged during the previous year. This led to a general discussion of the system of road-making. Some members complained of the quality of the stone, others of the mode in which they were broken by the patent crusher. Several members contended for the superiority of the hand breaking process, whilst others believed that nothing but granite properly broken and^ rolled in by means of a steam roller would secure good streets. At present they had far too much mud in winter, and too much dust m summer. The explanation of the surveyor, however, gave matters in a different aspect. The season, he said, had been an unusual one. More stones had been required in consequence of the extended area of the borough, besides which the comparisons had been made unfairly.. Mr ENOCH GRIFFITH asked how it was that the sum of jei32 was set down as the cost of building of the boundary wall of the Great Western Railway in Pentonville, when he considered it ought, lllnallwJustice, to have been built by the compajiy.who got afl the benefit of it. Tlie Surveyor replied that the cost of that wall was part of an arrangement with the Great Western Com- pany, and the charge was a legitimate one. A recommendation had been made by tne nuance com- mittee to raise the surveyor's salary irom £ 2o0 to £400 per annum. The question led to a long discussion, and no less than four distinct amendments were moved, seconded, put to the vote, and negatived. Alderman Llewellin, as chairman of the finance committee, explained, the justice of the recommendation, and pointed out the valuable ser- vices rendered to the town for the I.>ailt 17 years by Mr Kirby. The recommendation, on being put to the vote, was can-led by 15 ti. 10. The salaries of the police inspectors, sergeants, and constables were raised, in accordance with a resolution which had been submitted at the previous meeting of the watch committee. The effect of the advance will be a total increase in the pay of the force of about £50 per annum. t <. Several sectional reports were presented, but contained no matter of public interest. Dr B. Davies, the medical officer or health, presented his quarterly report, which was as follows :— I be;? to report that 307 births were registered m the last quar- ter of 1870, which ig in tlie proportion of .w pel 1,000 of tlie esti- mated population; 159 deaths oceurreu m tl:c same period, affording- a death-rule of 13 per 1,000, which, for an urban popula- tion of our maguitude, must be regarded as a fuvouraule return, and also an indication that the town has not been severely visited bv any epidemic 49 of the deaths occurred in children under fIvc yeara, amounting to 31 per cent of the w hotemuuber, while no had reached the age of five and upwards, ihe chief causes; of death were pneumonia, bronchitis, and pleurisy, 10; phthisis, 19; scarlet fever, 7 measles, 2; diphtheria, 1; typhoid fever, 2 diarrhoea and Dysentery, 3: ervsipelas, 1; puerperal fever, 2; heart disease, 8 and la from injuries of various kinds. A seaman also died of small-pox at the port hospital, on the 31st December. Summary for 1S76.—1,245 children were born in the last 12 months -es-J by 25 than in the previous year while (k-6 deaths occurred, compared with 741 in 1875, showing the considerable decrease of OS. The mean birth-rate was :15, and .the death-rate 21 per 1,000, Tne infectious diseases attended with mortality wero ;— small-pox," which carried off 2 measles, 3; scarlet fever, 22; diphtheria, 2; whoopkr' couch, 3; typhoid fever, 4; continued fever of doubtful sorts 3; diarrhieaand dysentery, 31 erysipelas, 3; puerperal fever 2'' amounting- in all to 7o cases. The other chief causes were-pnJIl10Dar.y consumption, which was fatal in 80 instances inflammatory affections of the lungs, 116 diseases of the heart, 29; rheumatic fever, 6 while 31 succumbed to various injuries. Tlie mortality, classified according to age, was as fol- lows :—Under one year there were 152 deaths; one and under five, S7 five and under fifteen, 32 twenty-five and under sixty, 198; sixty and upwards, 133. The rain-fall during the year amounted to 52 42 inches in depth. Rain fell on 187 days, more than half tho time. The wettest months were February and March, at the commencement, and September and December at the close, of the year. The heaviest fall in 24 hours was 011 the 19th August, when 2'05 inches fell. 1'ort Hospital Return for 1876-Sevcu eases were admitted from the shipping into your hos- pital ;—four of small-pox, one of which died and three of typhoid fever, with one death. In all these instances, immediately on receipt of information from the customs authorities, the vessels were boarded, the siak people removed in the ambulance, and isolated in the hospital. Their berths on board were cleansed and fumigated, and thoir clothing carcfully disinfected before they wore discharged. Mr George W. Jones was unanimously elected, an j aldarman, in the room of Mr James Brown, a bankrupt. A grant of £500 was made to the Free IdWaiT for the eu.uing year. F4&ERE was. au UWMVUY

ASSAULTING A WIFE AT MERTHYR. • At the Merthyr police-court on Monday morning —before Mr Bishop—-J osepli Scammel, labourer, was sent to prison for one month with hard labour for assaulting; hia wife. 5

FXPLOSION AT A COLLIERY NEAR MERTHYR. On Monday morning Edward Thomas and John Thomas, father and son, were working in a stall at the Coedcai Colliery, Plymouth, with naked lights, when an explosion of gas occurred. The father was severely burnt, and it is doubtful whether he will recover the son is burnt but slightly. They were conveyed to their homes at Morgantown, Merthyr.

MERTHYR BOARD OF GUARDIANS. THE EDUCATION QUESTION: ANIMATED # DISCUSSION. The weekly meeting of the Merthyr Board of Guardians was held at theworkhouse, on Saturday morning Bresent —Messrs G. T. Clark (chairman), R. H. Rhys, T. Wil- liams, D. E. Williams, T. Edwards, H. Thomas, David Evans, J. Jenkins, n.Griffiths, W.Smyth, J. W. James, Rees Lewis, W. Charles, J. Williams, David Davies, D. P. Davies, Llewellyn Llewellyn, Rees Evans, Jenkin Mathews, L. D. Rees, T. Jenkins, T. Llovd, B. Kirk- house, and the Revs W. Davies and Aaron Da vies. The Clerk (Mr Frank James) stated that the clerk of the school board had forwarded the following resolution passed by that board on Friday :—" That whereas, by the 10th section of the Elementary Education Act. 1876r the power of school boards to pay the school fees of indigent children in any public elementary school is repealed, that power having been transferred to the guardians of the poor, it is resolved that, in order to remove the necessity for parents to apply to the guardians for relief for the payment of school fees, this board undertakes to examine all applications for such relief, and to report to the guardians those cases in which the fees may properly be paid out of the rates." The reading of the resolution was received with much laughter. Mr R H. RHlS It is the greatest piece of impertinence on the part of the school board that I ever heard of. ( Hear, hear," and loud laughter.) I hope the uh;iinna.H will excuse me, as he is a member of the school board, but really it is a most impertinent resolution. If the school board had satisfied themselves bv inquiring of the guardians it would not have mattered, but I say that the last in the resolution is most impertinent. The guardians did almost liberal act in appointing committees in the parish without bringing the applicants before the board, and I think the school board ought to have accepted the proposition thankfully. But here they say they will undertake to examine the cases in which the school fees are to be paid by the board and theu they will send a list of the persons to us, and we (the guardians) shall in fact be their servants. (Hear, hear, and laughter.) Mr THOMAS WILLIAMS In the remittance of the fees they (the school board) don't intend to submit to you, with the exception of the remittance of fees for children attend- ing denominational schools, and these the guardians will have to attend to. Mr Rprrs We won't pay them at all. It's a piece of gross impertinence. I understand the matter better than you can tell me. (Laughter.) Mr T. WILLIAMS There is a good deal of mystery about the resolution. All that it means is that the school board is goingto remit the fees in their schools according to the Act of Parliament. This has been done in Leeds, Sheffield, and lots of other towns. Dr. JAMES: I am very glad that Mr. Rhys has spoken. It seems to me very odd that the school board, which have for years had the power to remit fees, and have never done so, directly the power is taken from them are anxious to regain it. (Hear, hear.) The school board have persistently objected to accept the power of remitting fees, but the last Act takes this power from them and delegates it to the board of guardians. Directly this Act was passed, though, the school board said, "Oh, we'll remit tees," and therefore I think this is something most abominable—(loud applause)—when the school board has for years refused to carry out the Act of Parliament. (Hear, hear.) The CHAIRMAN In this matter there was no intention on the part of the school board to be guilty of any impertinence towards this board. On the contrary, the board think the guardians have treated them very kindly. Of course the resolution must be taken according to its grammatical meaning, and no explanation can be given upon a document properly framed and passed by the board. I say this much, for I want to pour oil on the troubled waters, and prevent a quarrel between the two boards, which would be exceedingly inconvenient to the ratepayers. It must say that I do not agree with 'the course taken by the school board. The board of guardians applied D«nison's Aet and Denison's Amended Act, and this shows that the board had very much at heart the education of the lowest classes. I think this ought to be remembered, and that much more confidence should be placed in the guardians. I regret exceedingly the course taken by the school board. However excellent the school board may be, the majority of tlie members are not men of business, and the ratepayers return a large num- ber of Dissenting ministers, and at the last election two Catholic priests. The ratepayers do not elect them for financial purposes, but for other purposes. (Hear, hear.) All the finance business is now thrown upon the guardians, and the educational part of the business upon the school board, and I think it very kind of the guardians to take this view. I again say that I regret exceedingly the re- solution, and I don't think anything else has caused me so much pain since I have been in Merthyr. (Hear, he;tr.) The resolution passed by the school board is likely to prevent the working of a very beneficial Act, and to entail an amount "of expen-ie. (Hear, hear.) Mr WALTER SMYTII I do think it was a great mistake the members of the school board did not support my amendment on Friday, as I think greater justice would have been done had it been passed. (Hear, hear.) Mr THOMAS WiLLlAMa I seconded the resolution in order that a discussion might take place. I think the school board should examine into the circumstances of parents who apply for payment for-the education of their children, and if the board think fit to remit fees they should do so. If the guardians wished to examine those u'ho sent their children to denominational schools the school board could supply them with a list. We do not wish to bring a bone of contention into the parish in .8-1' L. III -1")0.:)"£..1 mots follow Mr James's remarks. The school board will deal with the non-denominational, and the guardians with the denominational cases. For my own part, I'd rather not have to deal with the children attending denomina- tional schools. The Rev AARON DAVIES The 17th clause* is the only clause which the school board can work upon. They can examine parents sending children to their own schools, but I cannot understand how they can examine all cases. Mr RHTS I think Mr Williams's explanation has made the matter worse. (Laughter.) I am sorry that we have men so narrow-minded and illiberal The CHAIRMAN: Order, order. (Laughter.) Mr RHYB: I like, sir, to call a spade a spade and a shovel a shovel (Renewed laughter.) The CHAIRMAN Then I call you to order. Mr RHY8 = I am sorry to see that we have a body of men m Merthyr so mean and illiberal as to make a "dis- tinction between denominational and non-denomina- tional. WILLIAMS The Act of Parliament does so. Mr RHTS I have a great respect for Nonconformists and ministers of all denominations, but I do not think they are competent or proper persons to examine and sift mto these cases, to decide whether the fees are [to be re- mitted or not. Seldom but few of them pay rates, and if they do the rates are small, and therefore they have no interest in looking upon the matter in a ratepayer's point of view. They have their religious points and views, and I don't blame them, for it is in human nature to sympa- thise with thoae who congregate with you and have faith in you. I am very sorry that the Merthyr School Board has adopted this course, and in any way this resolution was sent as a snub to the board of guardians. CHAIRMAN We thought it was necessary at any rate to send the resolution to the guardians. It was our duty to let the guardians know what the school board had done. Mr RHY5: Then I beg your pardon. Mr THOMAS EDWARDS. There is something manifestly unfair about this. For instance, at Dowlais, where there are no board schools, parents applying to the school board to remit fees would be told 'You must send your children either to Penydarren or Merthyr, or any other board school, or you must go before the guardians." I cannot see anything more manifestly unfair than this. (Hear, hear.) Mr RHYS moved, and Dr JAMES seconded, "That the school board be informed that the guardians must examine every case for themselves. This was carried unani- mously. There was no further business.

LLANELLY COUNTY COURT. This court was held on Tuesday, before Mr T. R. Oliver Powell, deputy judge. H. J. HOWELL V. J. RICHARDS AYD CO. This was a claim for £16 17s 4d, for slates and building materials supplied to the defendants. Mr Howell de- fended, and MrHome prosecuted. Mr Roberts, a clerk, was called, and said that in response to certain orders, the goods were delivered to the hauliers sent by the company. A note was read that the order was for certain houses to be ready by March, and the houses had since been sold by Mrs Richards, wife of one of the deceased partners. Mr Howell contended that as the firm were colliery proprie- tors and brickmakers, the goods could not have oeen used there; that, moreover, they were used by Mr Richards for houses built by him and which were sold by Mrs Richards. Bundles of orders were produced, and Mr Palmer, in Messrs Howell's employ, stated that he had called repeatedly about the account, and was informed by the clerk that the partners were not present, and he must call rgain. Afterwards he saw the clerk, who asked him to call down in a few days to be paid. One of the defend- ants was called, and said'he could not swear to the hand- writing of their clerk, but that all orders should be signed by him. He never authorised the goods to be supplied. His honour gave judgment for plaintiff, with costs. A RAILWAY CASE. Mr R. Rhys Jones applied, stating that in a case which was disposed of before the registrar, and judgment given for the amount due to the Great Western Railway Com- pany, he had had placed in his hands a receipt for the money claimed. As the railway people had left the court a new trial was ordered. JONES V. EVAX3. This was an action for AJ8 4s Id, for goods supplied to defendant, who pleaded that she obtained them for her mother, who kept a small grocer's shop. Evidence was given to the contrary, and an order was made for pay- ment.

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IRON AND COAL TRADES. MONMOUTHSHIRE AND SOUTH WALES COALOWNE11S' ASSOCIATION. on Wednesday, the members of this association held J meetingatthe Itoyal Hotel. Cardiff, when there wcrepresenl Mr D. Davis (chairman), MrMenelaus, W. S. CartwrigMj W. T. Lewis, A. Hood, McMurtrie, — Jordan, all. others. As usual, the meeting was a private one. THE JOINT SLIDING SCALE COMMITTEE The Joint Sliding Scale Committee held a meetiuj 011 Wednesday at the Iloyal Hot01,Carcliff. There were psr sent Messrs D. Davis, Maesyffynon (chairman); W. T Lewis, Aberdare W. Menelaus, Dowlais; and W. S Cartwright, the representatives of the masters; &rd Mr D. Morgan, J. Prosper, Samuel Davies, and Willi** Abraham. The two members absent were Mr T. 0. Smith, and Mr T. Halliday. The joint secretaries, ML A. Dalziel and Mr J. W. Andrews, were also present The meeting commenced at 11 o'clock, and lasted abotll two hours. Mr Williams, the treasurer of the men's cott mittee, attended the meeting-, in order to pay over TW remainder of the men's share of the expenses incurred bJ the joint committee engaging a shorthand writer, and ALF an accountant to audit the masters' books previous totM last award. MR Williams paid over the money, and the meØ now paid their share of the expenses. The committor afterwards proceeded to consider a cast" brought befotf them by the men employed at the Llwynypia steam coM colliery. The masters "at that colliery, it appears, ha14 given notice to reduce the prices for "dead" work, ani the inen opposed the proposed reduction. During tb4 investigation it transpired that the employers did not specify the way in which the charges for such work WEFF to be reduced, or the extent of the reduction. The C(1II sideration of the matter occupied a considerable TIMFT and the committee eventually decided that the clispntt was one which was not within their jurisdiction to decide and they therefore referred it back to the employed and men. The meeting was shortly afterwards adjourned. MAESTEG. Notices were issued on Saturday at the iron works asj all the princijial collieries in connection with the Llyntf Compnuy that after that day month all contracts wouw cease. The Oakwood CMlieries are now at a stnnd. owinl to a dispute as to the rate of wages. FOREST OF DEAN. The colliers in the Forest of Dean have accepted a rø duction of 10 per cent in their wages. The Coal-owner^ Association of South Yorkshire and North Lancasbk* propose to effect a reduction of 1H per cent in the WAG* of their men. CLEVELAND. MIDDLKSBOROCK, Tuesday.—To-day there was øI change for the better, and the demand was again qui" lifeless. Merchants were not offering so much low-price* iron as they have been doing during the past three weelot and it was thought that they had not much more to sett This has encouraged producers to hold out. NominjdlJ prices were the same as last week, but actually they wed lower. The realised prices were very irregular, merchant* in many cases taking what they could get. Quotation* to-day were 48s. for No. 1, 45s for No. 3, and and 438. 64 for grey forge; but the few orders which were placed welt done at low rates. Forge, for instance, went aa low ■< 42s. The demand for all kinds of finished iron was rtf ported to be declining, and prices were actually lower.

THE PENARTH DOCK DIVIDEND. We have received the following :—Penarth Dock and Railway, Secretary's Office, Cardiff, 10th Feb* 1877. To the Editor of thr, CARDIFF TIHES. DEAR SIB,—I am desired to say that at A meetfflf of the board of this company, held to-day, the Director have determined to recommend a dividend for the hatft year to December last at the rate of JM 7a 6d per centpef annum.—Yours truly, BOOTH BACOS.

PEMBROKE SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION For the vacancies occasioned by the retirement of nine members of the abotve board 16 candidates have beØI nominated, viz :—Messrs F. L. Clark, Edwin THORN** William Trewent, and Samuel William Willing, of PeS* broke; William George Copplestone, Charles Willi Cozens, George Theobald Davies, John Hughes Griffith* William Griffiths, William J ones; William Henry Lewf John. Peregrine, Henry Richard Road, Thomas Townleji and James Truscott, of Pembroke Dock George MASO* of Pennar. The poll will be taken on Wednesday next.

OUTRAGE ON AN OLD MAN AT REYNOLD STONE. At the Cower petty sessions, on Tuesday, before TB* sitting magistrates, William Moore was charged with lawfnily wounding an old man named Thomas Kneatfe Mrs Richards was tlie tirst witness called, and she thai on Friday night last she was called in to the HOTRF* of the prisoner, at Landimore, by the prisoner's wife. going towards the house she saw the old man sitting DO|F? in the doorway, and the prisoner leaning oyer him his hands under his arms. He lifted him up and took HI^ iuo the house. Previous to her going out of the HOO^I she heard the old man sing out, "Don't kick me, FRV LIOI* I** «*> afterwards the old man was brought into her house. was then bleeding from the face. He asked to be allows to lean on the table, and he vomited, and then bØ' came -unconscious, and had so remained ever SIX** The wife of the prisoner and the prisoner then into the house, and the wife of the MCf" remarked about the old man's eyes being discoloured. old man said never mind, never mind." Some DISPNJJ then took place between the -wife and the prisoner a» £ making a mess with the water with which she wsus £ ing the blood off the old man's face, when the pratO" told her that if she did not mind lie would black her CJT like the old man's. The prisoner then went into house amd a policeman and doctor were sent for, t) former taking the prisoner into custody. The doctor evidence showed that he found several bruises on the v man's face, and that he was then in an nncoBsciotis sta.!2 and had remained so ever since. He was evidently JIP fering from congestion of the brain. Prisoner was manded till Saturday to the petty-sessions at Swansea.

THE TENBY CHURCH OF ENGLAND WORKING MEN AND THE HATCHAM CASJJ A branch of the Church of England Working Society having been formed at Tenby,a meeting was recently, when the following resolution was TMANIMAOWJ passed-"That this meeting records its gratitude to TL>* 10 J^. U,R Tooth, vicar of St James's, Hatcham, for noble stand he has made in resisting the and lawless attempts of the State to regulate the worst" of the Church of England. AND are desire to express "5 heartfelt sympathy for him under his present trials, to assure him of every possible support in upholding T&J spiritual rights of the Church of England." We mention the society numbers 26 members. In CC8& quence of the above resolution the Rev John Lewis, gregational minister, has issued the following" To Church of England Working Men's Society at TENBJ^J My Neighbours,—I was not aware, until to-day, TWJ there was such a society as yours in our town. 1 learn that there is, and that. already you NUMBER^ members. It appears that one of your first acts has to pass a resolution of sympathy with the Rev Mr incarcerated as he is now M Horsemonger-lane gaol, persisting in disobeying the laws of old England, encourage him in his disobedience. I admit your IW5 to form yourselves into a Church of England SOCIETY*! its object be to promote the BEST interests of that old Church. This is a point which no sane man CO« £ dispute. But I challenge your right to form yourse^Jv into a society to encourage any law-breaker to tinue in his evil course. Moreover, I every man who would use his power, INFLUENCE and social position to abet your deed. would the Lord Lieutenant of Pembrokeshire, justice of the peace, and our Tenby magistrates say, society of tlie Nonconformist working-men of were formed to encourage the lawless and law-breaki™ that may be found in our peaceful county and TOWNSJJJ persist in their deeds of disobedience ? I charge you **2 doing this very thing, although the men with whom JIJ foolishly profess to sympathise feign to aspire to enrolled in the list of martyrs for religion Are aware that these men—Mr Tooth and his FOLLOWERS- paid ministers of a Church that is in subjection to **7 State ? As such, like a loyal officer in the army or | like a faithful officer in the customs or excise, who obey the regulations of the service to which he BELONG* and do all that he can to enforce obedience upon OTHEJFL Mr Tooth should act. He is in the Church to do duty as laid down by tha State, and not act according to his own whims and INCLINATI^ If you tell me that the case of Mr Tooth is not toj* dealt with on civil grounds, because the law affecting is a law which affects religion, MV answer is that *{|J State is the supreme power iu the Church, aud that WJJ State as such must be obeyed. This, again, is as fair anything- can be fair, and as plain AS that two and make four. VV ell, then, is there 110 remedy, no native? Certainly not; unless you agitate for a CHS^C in the law. And as religions men you ought to a constitutional way. # However, there is a shorter ctit the goal of peace and liberty, if Mr Tooth and his 2000 "JJ really sincere—if their talk about liberty is not a sham—this is most practicable, most easy. If Mr T<X^J and his 2,000 followers are resolved not to obey the L*\I of the land, they CAN say one and all, Arise, LET depart, for this is not our rest.' They ean leave "jl Church, they can throw up their livings, they can trVi their convictions, they can quit themselves like Until they DO this we must stand in doubt of them; j common SENSE of the nation will condemn them, AN am sorry to say, I mutt add my own Amen' to ,} verdict. No jury could return a more honest one..4 word to the wise is enough.'—Your neighVmr, J<^ LEWIS.—The Manse, Feb. 8, 1877."