Monmouthshire Merlin

THE LATE LORD GEORGE BENTINCK. THE death of such a man as he who has been so suddenly removed from the leadership of the Pro- tectionist party in Parliament, must excite the sym- pathies of all parties and classes, and is not to be passed over without notice, even by those who did not approve of his more prominent political pro- ceedings. The chief peculiarities in the career of the de- ceased were his having entered into public life at an early age, under a great statesman, with a capacity for able and active exertion, and with the advan- tages of high rank, and, though a younger son, of liberal fortune—his having quitted that life, with the exception of remaining an almost silent member ot the House of Commons, and unsuccessful on the few occasions on which he attempted to adtli^ss it, —■having devoted himself for about ywir* to the sports of the turf—and then, after so "King an interval, his having suddenly appeared, as an able debater and damaging opponent to great leaders of the senate, soaring above all those who had been long before the public, to the leadership of the Pro- tectionist opposition. Those who entertained a high opinion of the statesmanship of Lord George, of course proportionably regret that he should have wasted so much of his life upon mere amusements while those who felt his value during his recent course of active effort, and especially those who looked up to him as a future minister, must regard his removal as a great political calamity. Though we cannot agree with his lordship's ad- mirers upon all these points, we think there is much truth in the remark of the Morning Chronicle (which is the more handsome from that journal, being now the organ of the Peel party), that his sudden eleva- tion to parliamentary eminence, after a long aliena- tion from public life, though it elicited some of his talents, was yet unfavourable to the general aspect of his character, yet it called into unchecked play those constitutional tendencies which discipline and experience might have beneficially employed. Still whatever improvement might have been effected in his lordship, had the years spent in the sporting world been devoted to political life—taking him as he actually was, we do not think he would have attained, had he survived, that distinction which some persons predicted for him. Without going into details, and giving him every credit for the ability ot Ins performances in the cir- cumstances in which he found himself placed, it is obvious that he was far more fitted for opposition than for oihce and the question appears to us to be not so much whether he would have exchanged the former for the latter, as whether he could have kept even the leadership of the opposition any longer than while that body might remain in its divided state. At the same time there were admi- rable qualities about Lord George. There was a manly fervor, an energy of character, and a straight- forwardness which men esteem and commanded respect. Nor, extreme as the noble lord was upon (he protection question, did he share in the bigotry of those with whom he usually acted. He ap- proved of the Reform Bill as a general measure, though opposed to some of its details, and he was a supporter of the high principle of religious liberty. Indeed, one of the anti-liberal papers (the Standard, if we mistake not), in its anger at his support of the Jewish Disabilities Bill, remarked that he had yet much of the old Whig leaven" in hint an allu- sion which may be explained by the circumstance that the Bentiuck family was one of the many which formerly ranked amongst the Whig aristocracy, but which during the long reign of the Tories under the third and fourth Georges, went over, one after another, to the stronger party.

PRACTICAL INEFFICACY OF CAP! TAL PUNISHMENTS. THE want of power in death punishments to deter from heinous crimes is abundantly shewn in the cases of the Essex poisoners, and other criminals of the same class; for degraded and ignorant as they migbt be, every one of them knew very well the punishment inflicted for such offences. The same principle, also, is strikingly exempli- fied in the case ot Kelly, who has recently been committed to prison, tor murdering, at Stockport, a young woman whom he wished to marry, but who, on discovering that his character was notjgood, re- fused to admit a continuance of his attentions.— Adams had just been sentenced to death for an ex- actly similar offence in the neighbouring town of Manchester. Everybody in the north-west of England had heard of the crime, and knew its punishment, the day for which was fixed. Yet Kelly, with all this to deter him, committed the murder, and reached ivirkdale gaol the next day, just as the body of his predecessor in the path of crime had been removed trom the gallows. Such a fact requires no comment.

USK SALMON FISIIERV.—In our advertising columns will be found the noiice of an intended application at our next Quarter Sessions for the shortening of the present fence months for the river Usk. It will be remembered that formerly the fence time did not commence until the 14th of November in each year—an arrangement as absurd in point of principle and common sense, as it was mischievous and ruinous in practice. Some years ago, by the exertions of our old correspondent "Pyscottwr," the fence time was extended, by order ot the ma- gistrates at Quarter Sessions, to the 141h October, thus gaining an extra month s preservation; and this boon, together with other means which have been carried out by many gentlemen, who feel a deep interest in the better preservation of the salmon fisheries, have been of the greatest service. The improvement 01 our river for the last few years is being generally known and appreciated. Far from the present fence time being too extended, it is too limited—that is, judging from the practice of other places for the Scotch fisheries close the beginning of September, and we believe the Irish about the same time. Our adjoining beautiful Wye likewise has, we hear, been closed some time this month. What will Pvscottwr say of this attempt to unao his work ? Will he stili remain silent as the "Halls of Tara will he not rather seize his grey goose quill, or sharp steel pen, and tilt once more at the Philistines of the waters ? NATIVB MUSICAL TALENT.—We have much pleasure in stating that Miss N. Evans, the daughter of Mr. David Evans, an old and respected inhabitant of this town, has been accepted indoor pupil of the Royal Academy of Music, and was con- sidered so greatly advanced in her profession, as to be placed under the tuition of Mrs. Anderson, who had the high honour of being her Majesty's teacher, and is now teacher to the Princess Royal. The judge passed a flattering encomium on Miss Evans's first tutoi (her brother); and added that her present abilities indicated that she would one day take a high stand in the profession. SOMETHING NOVEL.—There is now lying in our Dock a fine ship, carrying Austrian colours, and owing to the disturbed state of her country, has two nine-powders mounted on her broad decks, while she has also in the state room on deck, about twenty muskets, two or three blunderbusses and foreign pieces, and a bright complement of highly-tempered Turkish blades. Her well-exercised crew look a bold and daring band, just the sort of men who could keep the decks of so fine a ship to themselves, under the direction of an intelligent and active commander. Among other fine vessels now in the Dock, is a Dutch East Indiaman, which is attracting great attention. IMPORTANT TO SEAMEN.—A notice has just been issued from the Stamps and Taxes Offices, Somerset House, that the Commissioners will prosecute all persons who give "advance notes," amounting to £2 or upwards, to sailors, if such notes are not stamped. The penalty is £50.; and applies to all persons who shall make, sign, or issue, or cause to be made, signed, or issued, or shall arcept or pay, or cause to be ac- cepted or paid, any such bill of exchange (advance note), or order, not duly stamped." Persons giving information of any evasion of this regulation will receive a portion of the penalty. This is an important measure, which it behoves all connected with the shipping interest, to observe with the utmost precaution, as a neglect of the notice thus given incurs the penalty of £50, as above stated. We find by an announcement in a Devonshire paper that Dr..Mrssy, a gentleman professionally known in this town for some time, is candidate for the appointment o chief medical otIicer of the Exe.t^C Dispensaiy. From what we know of the humanity, zealoOs attention, and skill evi- denced by Dr. Massy whilst residing amongst us, particu- larly his great care for the suifering poor, we believe few gentlemen i.re more peculiarly suited tor the discharge of the duties of a charitable institution than he is, and we shall be happy to learn that the Exeter Dispensary secures his services. EXTUAOHDIVARV OCCURRENCE.—During the night of Friday last, between the hours of eleven and twelve, a very extraor- dinary occurrence took place in this town. A young man named Rueben Brinkworth was, in 1843, at Bermuda, on board the Terror, Commodore Franklin, in the Arctic expe- dition, when, in the midst of a storm of thunder and lightning, he was ^addenly deprived of both hearing and speech and in this deplorable condition returned to Stroud, in England, of which place he was a native. He has since been rdSSpling with Mr. Naish, basket maker, Market-street, in this to<vn, who, with several other persons in Newport, is attached tr; the com- munity of people known as Mormons." Persbns of this denomination have been able to communicate their doctrines to Brickworth, by means of writing, signs, and the finger alphabet. His sad condition, they allege excited their sympa- thy for his spiritual as well as temporal welfare; and their doctrines made very considerable impression upon him— perhaps, more especially, because their creed was, that God did perform miracles in these days as He did in the days of o'd, and a miracle might be wrought in his favour. On Friday night last, at the time we have mentioned, the young man was suddenly seized with a kind of fit, in which he continued some time and on his recovery, he was called upon, by sight, to believe in the Saviour, that the healing power of God might be exercised in his behalf. He was moreover, earnestly en. treated to be baptized but this was very strongly opposed by a person in the room. The deaf and dumb man, however, signified his acquiescence—he was taken to the canal and baptized in the name of our Saviour; and immediately on coming up out of the water, he cried out, Thank the Lord, I can speak and hear a¡;;ain, as well as any of you He now speaks fluently and hears distinctly; which marvellous circum, stance is attributed to the power of Providence by the friends of the young man who called at our omcewith him, and gave us the details. We have heard from another source that this happy change in the youngman's condition is supposed to have been produced by the action upon him of the electric fluid during the thunder storm of Friday night. We shall not take upon ourselves to decide the matter. DANGEROUS.—Last Friday evening, something beyond a joke vasi evidently intended by the large African lion exhibited in Hylton's menagerie in this town. A person was acci- dentally crushed against the den by the srowd hurrying to see the itexlorn)aJices of two leopards in an adjoining den, when the beasttnmstout of one his huge paws-through the bpiening below the cross bar of his grating, and suddenly seized the intruder by the arm, at the same moment giving the bars a terrible blow with his other paw, smashing them aside like straws, and laying hold of the man's back with his formidable claws. The fright of the person thus alarmingly seized was evidenced by screams of terror; he, however, managed to extricate himself. The royal beast became furious, bounded against the bars and about the den, erected his mane, and shdt flames of fire from his eyes. while his terrible [oaf Was enough to appal stout hearts. The dismay of the crowd—the screams of females and children—the rush towards the place of exit— the cries and groans of those who fell and were trampled under foot—the loud curses of the men—the shouts of the keepers —the roaring of the lion—and the bellowing of the other animals — presented a most exciting scene though the keeper, when the crowd had burst through the side of the tent and escaped, assured a few who remained behind, that had the lion got ont as he wished to do, he would be more frightened than the people. Few, however, would be likely to rely much upon anything so seemingly apocryphal, especially after catching a view of the infuriated beast with his claws projecting through the bars of his den, and his tail, mane, and eyes, presenting perhaps as fine a picture of fury as was ever conceived by painter or poet. It is right to add that so much was the lion under the command of the people connected with the menagerie, that one of them shortly afterwards coolly entered the den, growled out, lie down to the king of the forest, as he would to a dog, and quietly went on with his work of repairing the damage done the grating. Nevertheless, the indications of savage ferociety exhibited towards visitors— perhaps because he is so often tempted with a beautiful mouthful in the way of his mistress's head, which he knows he is not allowed to make a meal of—ought to be guarded against by the proprietor of the menagerie, by his providing a strong iron or wooden rail immediately in front of the cage, instead of an easily yielding rope, to prevent persons presum- ing to become familiar with the royal beast. We may add that the child-like docility of the huge elephant, as he stood near the cage of the lion and among the people, was a remark- able contrast to his smaller neighbour. There was something pleasing to notice in the little amusements he had with tiny boys who could scarcely reach up to the tip of his trunk, as they threw him nuts and apples, and allowed his trunk to search their pockets fur something to eat. We understand that the keeper and the "lion queen," who are man and wife, left the concern on its departure from Newport. A pile of hats, bonnets, and shawls remained after the fracas, for the inspection of claimants. MELANCHOLY CIRCUMSTANCE.—There are some occurrences which tend to make men believe in the foreshadowing of coming events, as afforded by dreams and that which we are about to narrate will appear to belong to that class; for here we find a father and a hush tnd in the next county, at Merthyr, dreaming for two or three consecutive nights that some hurt was about to befal his family; and scarcely has he apprised his wife (who recently resided in Newport) of his dreams and apprehension, before an only son is suddenly losf from his mother's side bydfowmng, almost before her eyes< The par- ticulars of the sad event, are as follow :—A man named Long- fellow, working at Merthyr, sent a letter to his wife in this place, saving that he was very much distressed iu mind, as he had had a dream for two or three nights, in which he saw himself sivldenly surrounded by some great trouble, which was occasioned either by injury to her or their only child-a very inteiesting boy of five years old. He therefore bcggetHter to come to Merthyr, that he might be relieved from his fore- bodings; and he particularly cautioned her to avoid all danger on the way. Anxious to free her husband's mind from its distress, and to show him that herself and bis darling boy were well and happy, she on Wednesday morning settled her affairs in Newport, packed II p her goods, and placed them all ready for her departure but before she .vent, she bade her neigh- bours good bye. While at the house of one, taking some refreshment, to which she went accompanied by her little boy, she was talking of her journey, and did not perceive the ab. sence of child for a few minutes. In the interim, he had stolen out, and with his bread and cheese in hand, was talking to a woman, saying he was going away presently, for his motherhad washed and dressed him torthejourney; and then the little merry-hearted fellow ran off, saying he was "going to say good hye to Johnny," who had been his playmate. Nothing more was heard or seen of him alive. This was close by the canal, near the Dock Tavern bridge, over the canal. Then the mother came out to look ior him, and became alarmed at the absence, remembered her husband's dreams, and ran screaming hefe and there, but no one could give her hope or tidings of her lost one. Shortly after, a cap was seen floating on the canal; and then the people cried out be was drowned. This was but too true. A raft of timber was being taken along, and the boatman, in drawing up his pole and hook from the water, after pushing the raft along, drew up the ill-fated child He was quite dead and though some persons thought if the usual means were resorted to, he might have been rescucitated, others shook their heads mournfully, and said, it was doomed—it could not be otherwise! The wretched mother—frantic and heart broken, clasped the ina- nimate corpse of the dear child she had just before beheld vigorous and bounding with joy and health but all her ternb e grief could not restore him. It was, indeed, a pitiful specta- cle and it is but harrowing up our own feelings furt er■ o describe it. The jury —humane men—who sat uPon. e inquest, threw their shillings into one heap, and sent t e ore man to place it in the poor mother's hands while t eir l ug condolence, meant to be conveyed to her, was bro en in so like 6obbing, and tears stood in their as their own dear little children at home. 'e .natne unfortunate boy was John Longfellow, and he ha jus e ere his sixth year. As his body lay upon the table in one of the apartments at the Dock Tavern, where the inquest was held, his fair, curly locks fell back over his head, and his face, clean and still ruddy, had a pleasant expression upon it, as it he had had no struggle in his dying moments. No one heard him scream or call out; and it is supposed he slipped into the canal, unseen and unheard, and never rose agam. PARLIAMENTARY REGTSTKATION.—On Wednesday last, T. C. S. Kynnersley, Esq., held his Court for revising lists of voters, in Newport. No interest appeared to be excited by the business in hand. Mr. H.J.Davis attended in support of some Protectionist objections. On the Liberal side Mr. Woollett examined the notices, but finding them prepared with all the care which past experience dictated, lie did not oiler any evidence in support of the votes. None of the Protec- tionist party were objected to.—On Thursday, the borough lists were revised. There were no objections on either side but half-a-dozen names, omitted by mistake of the overseers, were added by the revising barrister. 1\1R. TEMFLETON. — It will be seen by advertisement, that this eminently popular singer has fixed the period of his pro- fessional visit to Newport; and the coming event is a subject for hearty congratulations amongst the musical circles of the neighbourhood. We have recently seen some opinions of the American press respecting the talents of Mr. Templeton, who, we believe, made the tour of the States, and find that he has won golden honors in the New World as well as in the Old. The followingfis taken from a large coronal of compliments: —"Well, we have heard Templeton; and we hasten to add, like all the rest of the world, the great Templeton.' In true taste, freedom of expression, purity and range ot voice, and smoothness of execution, Mr. Templeton is incomparably the best singer ever heard in this country. He is, in short, tlie perfection of his school, and shows the very utmost of which English words, and the beautiful and time-glorified music of the Three Kingdoms are capable. His performance leaves nothing to desire. It fills both brain and heart. By turns, brilliant, plaintive, majestic, and joyous, an exquisite pathos strikes you in the first note he utters, which never for a moment deserts him, but colours every word with its peculiar charm. We confess, that so far as mere musical criticism is concerned, we are totally unqualified for saying a word. We quite forgot to note at what point the singer abandoned himself to his falsetto, (his is a falsetto!) how high or how low he san?. All we know of his voice is that it is a magnificent organ, reaching in its compass every variety of feeling and emotion, and that every stop is as completely under its owner's control as Ole Bull's finger board." Mr. T. has been giving his charmin-r entertainments at Bristol to crowded houses, as appears from our contemporary, the Gazette, by which be is highly lauded. ODDFELLOWSHIP.—The quarterly committee of the Newport District of Oddfellows was held at the Red Lion Inn, Caerleon, on Wednesday, when the usual business was transacted, and a number of candidates were proposed for the offices of Provincial Grand Master and Deputy Grand Master. CAERLEON FAIR.—This fair was held on the 21st instant. and it was the largest that has been seen at this season for many years. The sample of fat cattle was numerous and particularly fine, but the demand was by no means equal to the supply. In the horse fair, among the usual assortment of nags, some very tine hackneys were shewn, and in all instances met with a ready sale, at fair prices. Beef, 6d. per lb. mutton, 6d. to 64d..Pigs. especially small ones, were from 10 to 15 per cent. below the prices asked a fortnight since, and the sale was very slow even at that. RISCA.—Risca fair was held on Wednesday, the 27th, but. through incorrect information was announced; last week among our list of lairs for the 26th, though neither date was correct, the 28th being the proper day. Owing to some mistake two or three years ago in the almanacks, which stated that the 27th was the proper date, it has generally been held on that day. A strong impression exists that this fair was wrongly inserted this year, to suit the convenience of some pig job bers, as it fell on the day previously to Newport weekly market. It is a great pity that the proper and original date fixed upon (the 28th) is not strictly adhered to, as errors of this kind are calculated to make a fair worse than useless. A great many respecrable farmers on their way to the fair on Wednesday morning, returned with their stock, having heard before arriving that it had been held the day previous. In future, we understand that the authorities at Risca will publish the day on which the fair will be held, either by advertisement in the MERLIN, or in hand bills, which will correct aJlmisap prehension.—A Correspondent. Pic NIC AT GOLDCLIFF.—On Friday last. GoldclifF Hill was enlivened by the innocent and pleasant festivity of a pic nic, on behalf of the church Sabbath schools of the parishes of Nash and Goldcliff, which are under the kind and effective superin- tendence of the Rev. James Yorath and his lady, whose united efforts, ably aided by their coadjutors in these parishes, are producing the most beneficial results among the juvenile popu- lation. The party was well attended by the farmers of the neighbourhood and their families, and visitors from Newport and elsewhere and the schools, together with many of the poor of the parishes, were plentifully regaled. The festivities ot the evening, comprising healthy exercises and juvenile dances to the sweet sounds of the violin and ha.p, together with appro- priate addresses and good counsel, were prolonged until about eight o'clock, when the happy party separated, highly delighted with the entertainment. ° CHOLERA.— Vessels to Bide Quarantine.—An order in Council has been issued by the CommissioDeisof Customs, that instruc- tions should be forthwith transmitted lo the different ports in the United Kingdom, directing that in the event of the arrival of any vessel, on board of which a case of cholera shall have occurred such vessel shall be detained under restraints of quarantine' until the clothing and bedding of the following persons shall have been thoroughly immersed in water, under the directions of I an officer of the Customs viz.—1. Of all persons who shall have died of cholera on board such vessel atjany foreign port, or on shore at such port. 2. Of alllpersons who shall have had an attack of cholera on board such vessel during her homeward voyage and that, should any vessel arrive with cholera actually on board such vessel shall be detained under quarantine at her port of arrival until further orders from the Lords of the Council are received.—We trust that this p'oper precaution for tbe preven- tion of Cholera being introduced into Newport by vessels in which the disease has made its appearance, will be strictly acted upon in this port. And as" prevention is better than cure," we would again attempt to rouse the residents of the most crowded and filUiy quarters of the town to the immediate necessity of setting about the proper cleansing of their foul drains, removal of dirty heaps, cess-pools! &c., and purifying their dwellings by whitewashing; while, above all, the greatest attention should be paid to the cleanliness of the person. Water and soap are cheap enough and so are lime and labour; and with an im- mediate and free use of these, we would hope the scourge of cholera—should it visit Newport—will not find such a welcome as now awails it.

-■ CwMRKiGYnmoN FCSTIVA*T — 4s/the period fixed for tfe national congress of the musietatTr and poet* of Cambria ap- proaches, public interest becomes more inimated, and anti- cipations still more sanguine. From the eeal, taste, and talents which are devoted to preparations fitfjthe great event, and the patriotism and utility of the accom^Pshed president, there is little cause to doubt that the Ctfmreigyddion of J848 will transcend even the best of its predefcesso~rs. At this commemoration of the minstrelsy and customs of a country, formerly one of the merriest and happiest in the world," many of the aristocracy of England will meet the distinguished families of Wales, partake of their hospitality, and experience their warm heartedness, forming perhaps friendships which may last for life—whilst the lovers of bardic literature will enjoy a highly intellectual treat. ABERGAVENNY FAIR.—This important fair took place on Monday last, and presented a good supply of horned cattle. Owing to the briskness of sales at Brecon, Talgarth, Long- town, and other minor fairs, dealers were induced to anticipate a very favourable result ia transactions at Abergavenny, with the Northamptonshire and other buyers but in this they were disappointed, and consequently prices ruled low, many being driven home again, particularly steers, which aretordinarily in great request at this fair. Fat sheep sold well, as did also stores, which were in great request, the market being cleared ot them at one O'CIOCK. Cart horses were a complete drug, a string of fourteen, and several others, remaining with their owners. We observed a few blemished harness horses sold at low figures, to dealers from Bristol and its vicinity. Sucking colts were, as in former years, but little in request. There was not a very large quantity of cheese pitched, and prices ranged from 50s. to 55s., and from 60s. to 65s. EBBW VALE. The fiftieth half-yearly meeting of the Mon mouthshire Association of English Independent ministers and churches, was held at Ebbw Vale, on Tuesday and Wednesday last. Conferences were held, and sermons were preached by the Rev. Messrs. Bunn, Lewis, Havard, and Gillman. The discourse on the given subject, The Church principles of the New Testament." was delivered on Wednesday mornino- by the Rev. M. Davies, of Penwain. The congregations were good. We feel pleasure instating that in accordance with their general liberality, Thos. Brown, Esq., has given jE5, and the Ebbw Vale Company £ 10, to the English Inde- pendent cause in this place. u

HORTICULTURAL AND FLORICULTURAL ASSOCIATION. f. annivers&ry of the Abergavenny and Crickhowell Asso- ciation was held in the Cymreig-,ldioii Hall, on Wednesday week, when there was a most numerous ant brilliant company. Nothing could exceed the display of fruit, vegetables, and flowers. Among the gentlemen who sent specimens were, Jos. Bailey, Esq., ofGlanusk Park; W. Williams, Esq., ofAber- baiden; YV. Conway James, Esq.; and Sir Benjamin Hall.— The Messrs. Saunders, of Abergavenny Nursery Grounds, ex- hibited a fine collection of filty hardy conifwous plants, in- cluding the cedrus deodara, Himalayan cedar,'four feet high, and Messrs. Mauleand Sons, Bristol, nurserymen, had also a very splendid collection. there was an efficient brass band in the orchestra, which pli*yed a variety of music at intervals during the afternoon, The day was beautifully fine, and the sunshine added a golden lustre to the brilliant hues ol the flowers. The following is the. list of the awards, which were adjudged by Mr. Fox, of the firm of Messrs. Maule and Sons, iirwtol: — LIbT OF PRlZbS. POR AMATEURS.—FI 0>VKRS. Dabliahs, 18 blooms, different varieties, 1st prii^r, G. W. Jones. Esq., Crickhowell.— Ditto, )3 ditto, by Mia Bailey, Glanusk Park, 1st prize, G. W. Jones. Esq, Grickjioweh— Ditto, 2nd prize, J. Bailey, Esq, MP—Ditto, 6farrcy^flowers, different varieties, by G. W. Jones, Esq, G. W. Esq. Greenhouse plants, 6 different varieties, Joseph Ba$ey, Esq, MP—Extra prize, W. Williams. Esq, Aberbaiden <>— Single specimen, Joseph Bailey, Esq, MP. Stove Plants—Joseph Bailey, Esq, MP—Single specimen, W. Williams, Esq. Balsams, 4 in pots, Sir Benjamin Hall, Bart. Hollyhocks, 12 blooms, different varieties, William Conway James. Ornamental Basket of Plants, by Mrs Bailey, Glanusjc Park, 1st prize, William Williams, Esq, Aberbaiden—By Lady Hall, Llanover, 2nd prize, Joseph Bailey, Esq, MP—Ditto, 3rd prize, Joseph Bailey, Esq, MP. Collection of cut flowers, in an ornamental basket, 1st prize, Rev. R. W. P. Davies, prise, Wm. I Williams, Esq. Roses, 12 blooms, different varieties, 1st prize, William Williams, Esq—Ditto, ditto, ditto, 2nd prize, Sir B. Hall, Bart. Verbenas, 12 blooms, different varieties, Sir B. Hall, Bart. Orchidaceous Plants, by Mrs Bailey, Glanusk Park, 1st prize, Joseph Bailey, Esq—Ditto, 2nd prize, Joseph Bailey,Esq. Wreath of Flowers, by Lady Hall, Llanover, 1st priee Sir Benjamin Hall, Bart; 2nd prize, Wm. Williams, Esq. extra prize, Sir Benjamin Hall, Bart. FRun.. Forthebest collection of fruit of any kind, in an ornamental basket, Sir Benjamin Hall, Bart. Pines, best specimen, Capel Hanbury Leigh, Esq; extra prize, Joseph Bailey, Esq. Grapes, (black) Joseph Bailey, Esq—Ditto, (white) Sii Benjamin Hall, Bart. v! T~Wm- EtKs,Esq.. „ „ 7 £ j > not *e83 tban 6,1st prize, C. H.Leigh, Esq,—Ditto, ditto 2nd p^, R M.Clarke, Esq.. .Nectarmes, not less than 0, lst prize, C. H. Leigh, Esq.- P?» '2nd Prize> C" H> Leigh' wq'w T l*#i vair n0t less than 8' fir8t Prize' Little, Esq., Llan- ^>«o, ditto, 2nd prize, Wm. Morgan, Hill House. Apples, dessert, not les9 tban 8, W. H. Little, Esq.—Ditto, culinary, ditto, Wm. Morgan, Esq. Filberts, lib., Wm. Williams, ksq. VEGETABLES. Celery, best 4 sticks, Wm. Steel, Esq. Carrots, best 12 F. H. Williams, Esq, Coalbrook. Parsnips, ditto, F. H. Williams, Esq. Onions, ditto, Sir B. Hall, Bart. Basket of vegetables, 6 different varieties, W. Williams, Esq. PRIZES FOR COTTAGERS. Beet-root, 1st prize, Elizabeth Morgan—Ditto, 2nd prize, Thomas Herbert—Ditto, 3rd prize, Anne Lloyd. Potatoes, 1st prize, John Williams—Ditto, 2nd prize, Wm. Edmunds. Onions, 1st prize, George Williams—Ditto, 2nd prize, Wm. Edmunds. Carrots, 1st prize, William Edmunds—Ditto, 2nd prize, Anne Probert. Parsnips, lst prize, John Davies—Ditto, 2nd prize, Anne Lloyd. Cabbage, 1st prize, Elizabeth Price—Ditto, 2nd prize, Wm. Thomas. By Lady Hall, Llanover. Leeks, best 12, lst prize, Ann Lloyd—Ditto, 2nd prize, Thos. Herbert. Apples, best 8, 1st prize. Wm. Edmunds-Ditto, 2nd prize, Margaret Jones. Pears, best 8, lst prize, Wm. Thomas-Ditto, 2nd prize, Wm. Edmunds. By Mrs. Bailev, Glanusk. Basket of vegetables, lst. orize, Samuel Jenkins—Ditto, 2nd prize, \nnProbert .Ditto", 3rd prize, Jane Evans-Extra prize, by society, Ann Watkins. In conclusion, we feel pleasure in stating that we understand a public dinner will be held after the next festival. The pros- pects of the society are most encouraging the committee, and the courteous and indefatisahle hon. secretary, C. Lloyd, Esq., the courteous and indefatisahle hon. secretary, C. Lloyd, Esq., are reaping the fruits of their honourable labours, in good effected amongst cottagers, and the improved taste amongst the public of the neighbourhood for floriculture.

BOROUGH REGISTRATION. Mr. Kinnersley, the revisins: barrister, held his court at Monmouth, on Monday last. The revision for the county was left to the two sections of the Conservative camp to try their strength in, who, in their turn, left the borough to the Reform- ers who intend to preserve it very carefully tor their own uses to all future generations. The Monmouth Liberal Association—"the pet society"— "the arrogant body," which, in some little minds, has, whilst pursuing the even tenor of its way, drawn forth sundrv occa- sional bursts of" wrath, envy, and all uncharitableness, took the field m fanur of the Reform interest, and with the follow- ing result:— Liberal objections, 19; substantiated, 17; failed, 2; Liberal claims, 5; substantiated, j. Conservative claims, 3; substan- tiated, 1 failed, 2. Majority in favour of the Reformers, 21. The two failures of the Liberals aroSv> from insufficient service. Encouraged by its rast success, amused by the feeble anger of its irritable opponents, and animated by a sense of duty to the Reform interest, the Liueral Association will persevere in its endeavours to preserve the Monmouth list of voters free from iliegal names. The only cases disputed in the borough registration were those of Wm. Bowen, to which a technical objection was raised by Mr. Wankiyn, as t.o the form and the delivery of the notice of objection, but which was overruled; of Wm. tuiler, on the ground that he held a successive occupa- tion, but which was overruled as it was not so described on the list; and of William Wankiyn, whose name did not appear on the rate. Mr. Wankiyn urged that he had possessed the necessary quali- fications for the last six years: but it was contended, on the authority of the case Moss v. the Overseers of St. Michael, Lichfield, ] Cox 8: Atk. 52, that the omission of the name was fatal, which was confirmed by the Barrister. In the case of 1'uller much merriment was excited by the precipitate zeal of Mr. Wankiyn, who in the confidence of his defence for the vote, applied for the expenses of attendance, on the ground of a frivolous objection. Mr. T. S. George, how- ever, quickly replied, substantiated his objection, and the vote and the expenses were abandoned together. Mr. Thomas Shayle George appeared for the reformers, and manifested considerable tact in conducting his cases.

PONTYPOOL. COUNTY COURT.— His Honour, J. M. Herbert, Esq., held his court here on Tuesday last. The court was not so crowded as usual, nor were the plaints so numerous and as those that were brought forward were of no public interest, we therefore abstain from giving them in detail. E XRMrLARt MUNIFICENCE.As faithful chroniclers ofpassing events, it is our pleasing duty to record an instance of the most unusual and disinterested philanthropy on the rart of the Misses Morgan, of Pant y Goitree House, whose extensive yet unostentatious charities have won for themselves golden opinions in the locality in which they reside inasmuch as these charitable ladies have, in the most kind and considerate manner, liberally given the site, together with monies for the erection of an Episcopal church, parsonage, and school rooms, in the hamlet of Coed y Paen, in the parish of L gibby, four miles from the parish church. Nor is this all- these Sisters of Charity have considerately intimated their intention to endow the whole ict a requisite sum in perpetuity. Such devoted acts of piety call aloud as an example to others, to J;Q-and do likewise. BbITISH AWD FOSEIGN SCHOOL.—In accordance with our promise, we npw^present our readers with a detailed report relative to the interesting proceedings at the anniversary of the above school, in this town, on the afternoon of Monday week. The efforts made on that occasion were to augment the funds of the institution, and well were they accomplished, inasmuch as nearly 1,000 persons sat down to tea, whtle the most ardent harmony prevailed and numerous influential persons of the neighbourhood vied with each jther in rendering tbe greatest amount of aid. Tea and its concomitants having been well discussed, the*chair was occupied by W. \V. Phillips, Esq., who called on the Rev. H, Daniel to address the meeting. Next came Mr. Keddle, of Newport, who proceeded to read a manuscript or speech, which he had prepared for the occa- sion, dilating in not very measured terms on the principles of the Church of England,—when the chairman very properly called him. to order, and stated that he could not allow such topics to be introduced in a meeting like the present, where he saw assembled Christians of all denominations. We need not state that the rule adopted by the respected chairman was uni- versally applauded. The meeting was subsequently addressed by the Revds. G. Thomas, Reed, Evans, and T. Thqmas. The latter speaker delivered an interesting address on '"the social benefits derived from the custom of tea drinking." The union choir were in attendance, and fully sustained their high reputation as vocalists. The" Hallelujah chorus" was given very eft'ectively at the close, and the meeting dispersed. We state with much pleasure that the net proceeds realised about £30. It would be superfluous for us to dwell upon the merits of an institution so universally acknowledged and ap- preciated for its toleration and efficiency. However, we cannot forbear stating that the very general encomiums awarded to Mr. and Mrs. Smith, callpd forth bursts of grateful acclama- tions as an appreciation of their perseverance aud devotedness to the interests of the institution. CWJI1 BRAN.—A deputation from the workmen of these works waited upon R.J. Blewitt, Esq., M.P., the esteemed and liberal proprietor, on Monday last, with a petition bearing the signatures of between 700 and 800 miners, colliers, forge- men. and furnace-men, soliciting the appointment of Mr. C. A. Brew. as their surgeon—A Correspondent. FESTIVITIES.—The anniversary of the Loyal Philanthropic Lodge took place en Monday last, at the Winning Horse tavern. The institution in question is based upon a principle similar to that of Oddfellowsliip—excepting that each lodtfe is of itself independent, and not subject to controul from an> other quarter. The contribution also is considerably lower than any other society's;—hence the institution has become ex- tensively popular among the provident of the operative classes, We hear, too, that the lodge, in relation to iis lunds, is in a most flourishing condition.-On the evening ot the anniversary a considerable number ot members sat down and partook ot an excellent entertainment, provided under the aaspices of the ohlijrintr hostess, Mrs. Davies, whose abilities as acateress are too well known and appreciated to need any further comment. After the removal of the cloth, tbe usual loyal and other toasts wereannounctd; a number of glees, duets, song", &< were appropriately given; and the party retired to their homes with all pronriety, and doubtless to enjoy many pleasurable recol- lections of the annual festal day.

EXTENSION OF THE SOUTH WALES RAILWAY TO LLANELLY. The adjourned meeting of the merchants, mineral proprietors and others interested in the contemplation of the South Wales Raitway to Llanelly, contemporaneously with the portion of the line between Newport and Swansea, took place on Tuesday, in the Town Hall. Mr. \V. Siroud proposed that Dr. Bird take the chair, which having been seconded was unanimously agreed to. The chairman then briefly explained the objects of the present meeting, and concluded by calling on Mr. S. Padley, jun., to read the report which had been prepared by the committee ap- pointed at the meeting of Tuesday the 18th, with a view to making certain inquiries as to the anticipated traffic, &cc., on the line between Swansea and Lianelly. Mr. S. Padley accordingly read the following REPORT. The committee appointed at the meeting held on the 19th inst., report that they met and received from parties inteiested in the works between Swansea and Loughor, a statement of the probable revenue arising from mineral traffic be expected from the works as follows — probable revenue arising from mineral traffic be expected from the works as foijows — rom the Cameron Coal Company £ 5050 0 0 From Schneider and Co's Spitty Copper Works COO 0 0 Coal Works of St. Padley G50 0 0 Works (j00 0 0 Coal Works of St. Padley G50 0 0 Weig Fach Coal Company 500 0 0 £ 7400 0 0 They further report that the above-named parties have sent a Memorial to the Directors of the South W; les Railway Com- pany, drawing their attention to the subject, and requesting that the directors would continue to complete the railway at all events, as far as the bank of the Loughor river. The following is the rough estimate (f the cost of completing the works to Loughor, as furnished by the contractors, viz :— The tunDel, which :s nearly three-fourths com- pleted £ 25.000 The railway 50,000 The committee beg to suggest, that if the public really wish to have the road completed without delay, that a ready way of influencing the directors would be to puichase shares, which are now quoted at D. 5s. per share, and pay up the calls. This would have the effect of improving the market value of the sliaies, and inducing the shareholders to pay up their ca.'ls. Tne committee feel convinced that want of money is the only in- ducement for the directors to suspend for the present tt.e works to the west of Swansea, and concentrate all their money force upon the works between Swansea and New port. The committee would further observe, that although it would probably be inconvenient to many persons to purchase largely in these shares, still, if every individual interested in the progress of the railway would, even in single shares, oecome purchasers, the amount of money subscribed, and the influence distributed, would be of the greatest importance to the welfare and advan- tage of the line, and tend much to facilitate and promote its speedy progress. The committee have been informed that those shares upon which £28. have been paid up, are entitled to a half-yearly pay- ment of interest at the rate of £ 4. per cent. per annum, which has hitherto been regularly paid. Mr. J. M. Buckland having, at the request of the meeting made a few observations confirmatory of the commercial sta- tistics embodied in the report. VI. I Williams moved, and Mr. J. Williams, of the Spitty Works, seconded, a motion to the effect that the leport of the committee be adopted, and a copy ihereot forwarded to the chair. man of the South Wales Railway Company. After a vote ot thanks to the chairman was given, the meeting broke up.

LIGHT WANTED IN THOMAS STREET, To the Editor of the Monmouthshire Merlin. SIR,—We shall feel much obliged if yon will please to call the attention of the Newport Watch Committee to the state in which our street is left—it being without a lamp, though the dark winter nights arecomins; on. When the shops are shut, we are left in total darkness in one of the dirtiest streets in the town, where the pump for the supply of water for the place is situated, and where, consequently, numbers of persons gather together, and in which, heavy rates are paid for lighting. &c. Thcmas-street is one of the chief outlets of the town. towards Pontypool, Abergavenny, and the high road to the Barracks, with a railroad crossing it that will soon be in use a^ain. We have memorialised the Watch Committee once to no purpose, and we therefore trust that this appeal may have its desired effect. We remain, Sir, vour's respectfully, THE RATE-PAYERS JF THOMAS STREET. September 28th, 1848.

EARLY CLOSING. To the Editor of the Monmouthshire Merlin. SIR,-Will you oblige me and many of your readers by in- serting in your next number the following piece of gratifying intelligence, which cannot be too extensively promulgated throughout the country ? viz "The principal tradesmen in North Shields, including drapers, grocers, chemists, stationers, &c., have closed ttieir shops during the last twelve months at seven o'clock in the evening, without any diminution of business from the arrange- ment." South Shields is a large sea-port town, where business similar in character to that of Newpcrt-on-Usk is carried on;—and a more appropriate example for the imitation of the latter place, as it regards early closing of shops, can scarcely be adduced. I am, Sir, vour's obliged, A DRAPER.

OMITTED PARTICULARS. To the Editor of the Monmonthshire Merlin. S IR,-I have just finished reading over the items of the state- ment of accounts published by the Town Council, and I find it agrees with all others that have preceded it in one particular -it makes no mention of receipts for the hire of the town hall, the rent of the Commercial Room, and that of the Athenaeum. These omissions would have appeared strange in times gone by but as the order of the present day is that all shall look after their expenditure, and see what their servants do with their money, I venture to enquire what is done with the money derived from the above sources, which I estimate at from f80. to £100. per annum. Yours most obediently, Newport, September 20, 1848. H. O.

To the Editor of the Monmouthshire Merlin. SIR,-In perusiog your valuable journal of the 16th iosr., my attention was drawn to a letter, headed Abergavenny Cym- 'reigyddion Society," in which Fair Play state* that be has every reafon to believe there wiil be unfair competition for the plize. to be awarded at the forthcoming anniversary of that very useful tociety. I should have been beiler pleaied with Fair Play, if he h-id suggested a plan for the prevention of such trickery, rather than have left it for some of your correspondents but thinking that some one more capable than myself, would have referred to the subject last week, I have deferred noticing it. However I will venture to suggest, that a'l successful competitors should be minutely examined by the judge, president, or awarder of the prize. as to whether they ate the composers of what they produce. The insertion of this letter will greatlv oblice p A COMPETITOR. September 27th, 1848.

The best medicine in all cases of Worm Complaints is Kaye's Worsdell's Pills. Read the following striking proof of their efficacy. Frar.cis Hunt, of Cranbrook, Kent, was afflicted for years with a pain in the side and chest, and general weakness, so that she was unable at times even to walk round her bed with- out sitting down to rest. She heard of Kay's Plils, and pur- chased a box, and befoie she had taken the whole of them, she voided nine worms a quarter of a yard 1 ng.and ber stomach was relieved of much filthy matter, after this she began to meud. and is now enjoying as good health as she can at her advanced age of sixty years. (See Advertisement.) Mr. Edmund Bythesea was barbarously murdered, on the 6th instant by a convict, at Gibralter. He was one of the superin- tendents of the convict establishment, and, in performance of his duty, directed that the grog of one of the felons should be stop- ped, for some breach of the rules he had committed. At four o'clock the same afternoon, the miscreant waUed up to Mr. Bythesea, and deliberately thrust a knife into his abdomen the unfortunate gentlemen expired in a tew minutes. An inquest was held on the body, and a post mortem examination was con- ducted the result of the former was a verdict of wilful mur- der of the latter, that nothing could have saved his life. The deceased was a gentleman of mild temper a friend to every person in sorrow and trouble; and if he ever erred ic the per- formance of his duty, it was from being too indulgent. Mr. Bythesea was the son of the Hev. H. F. Bythesea, rector of Nettleton, near Bath, and nephew to the Rev. G. Bythesea, of Grosvenor place. Bath, and Samuel William Bythesea, Esq., of Freshford. Besides his bereaved and sorrowing parents, he has leftawidow and one child to survive his loss another child's remains repose with those of his ill-fated parent in the bUlJal ground of Gibraltar.

FRANCE. FROM THE PARIS CORRESPONDENT OF THE "MERLIN." PARIS, SEPTEMBER 20, THE first idea entertained on the arrival of your journal here last week, was, that you had ceased to take that interest in the welfare of your Parisian friends that you had so long shown and, as there are numerous readers of the MERLIN, there was some disappointment exhibited this, however, was of short du- ration, for they found so much interesting matter in its co] umns, that they soon reconciled themselves to the exchange of news from the principality, for a summary view of what they them- selves have already been familiar with. They were more par- ticularly pleased with the long description of the Chepstow Horticultural Exhibition, more especially, as we have had one in Paris during the last week, which exhibited unquestionable skill and taste. On Sunday, the day here more consecrated to fetes than to religion, there was a matchless show of autumnal fruits. at the Jardin d'lliver. Even the language used in your vivid des- cription of what occurred at Chepstow, could not sufficiently describe the exquisite specimens of flower and fruit submitted to public competition. The grapes were such as would tempt a Bacchanalian to entwine in a garland for some lovely nymph of the forest; some of the purple bunches were covered with the most exquisite down that was ever seen thev were rich and luscious to the taste; for, unlike our EnglishHorticulturists, they do not here exhibit forbidden fruit; the ladies arc pre- sented with a small quantity—the gentlemen purchase more. The peaches were beautiful to the eye, but hard and austere for the most part, although some were in fine erting condition. Such luscious melons, such tempting pears, were spread in profusion around, that you might have fancied yourself in the garden of Eden, when a festival was prepared for our innocent parents, instead of a noisy, talkative, fastidious, and changing mob of Parisians. It would be much more gratifying to me to have to write about fetes, exhibitions, and fashions to tell you that we were in the midst of gaiety and enjoyment, and to describe some beautiful court dress, worn by some enchanting beauty, at a. royal birthday ior, as you may well imagine, we are gorged, satiated, and overcome with rumours, with prophetic denun- ciations, and with events. Not a day passes, but something is reported of an intended demonstration: and, as the good people are beginning to be weaned of inaction, you must ex- pect, before long, something more stirring than we have lately had. The elections terminated as I foretold in my last. We have a banker—Achille Fould; a violent socialist-Rasp ail and a man of the people and the army—Louis Napoleon. Raspail was a physician of some standing; but having written some books, which led him into a lawsuit with his publisher, he be- came needy. This led him to quackery for a subsistence he wrote a work, describing camphor as a remedy lor all the ills man is subject to. He first began to abuse his brother doctors for not agreeing with him, and then ended with abusing the whole of the world-more especially, those who had anything in it. Becoming soured by repeated disappointments, he took to violent language, and soon rendered himself conspicuous in the clubs. He was one of the leaders of the memorable daring attack on the National Assembly, for which he wa6 confined in the castle of Vincennes, where he now is, waiting the decision of the Chambers for his release as a representative of the people. Great efforts are now making to get up a petition. to demand, either his immediate trial, or his being set at liberty. One of the reasons that he obtained so large a majority, was the idea that his election would embarass the government and this it certainly will do. But the most untoward event is the election of Louis Napoleon TLis has thrown the adminis- tration into a state of perplexity and alarm. It is known that great preparations are making for his triumphal reception, and that. for the last few days, there have been numerous meetings of his partizans. It was understood that a demonstration, bv torch light, had been decided on, and that the whole line of the Boulevards was to be lined with neople. ^his has been nipped in tee bud and it is asserted that every attempt to make any grand display on the occasion is to be resisted uy the armed force. But the question naturally arises, Can the army be ce- pended upon ? Will the very men, who gave their votes to the nephew ot the Great Emperor, take any marked steps against hnu ? V ill they not, on the contrary, at his bidding, march into the National Assembly? act as Cromwell did with the English House of Commons, or Napoleon, with the Council of hve hundred. It would be the wisest step to let the affair take its course, and Louis Napoleon, if no opposition be madeio his entrance in the Assembly, will be as forgotten and as harm- less as Lamartine is now, or as General Cavaignac himself will be in a short time for nobody lasts above three months in popularity here; every one is used up in a short time and the hero of to-day sinks, in a few months, into perfect insigni- ficance. The passports, which were at first denied in London to this candidate for populr.r favour, have now been granted to him, and we are in hourly expectation of his arrival Some parties are much alarmed, and entertain great dread that his entrance will be attended with disturbance and with bloodshed Every precaution has, however, been taken. On Sunday last, General Lamoriciere reviewed the troops that are encamped at La Chapelle St. Denis, and he an- nounced to them, that they were to garrison Paris during the winter so that it would appear that the siege is not to be raised, but that we are to continue under martial law. How- ever necessary this may be for the preservation of the public peace, the idea is anything but gratifying for although it is true that we have not suffered the slightest inconvenience during its existence, the prejudice in favour of public liberty is too strong to allow us to be reconciled to it. Great disappointment is expressed by a majority of the hourgoisie, that Marshal Bugeaud was not elected: and, it is said, that one of the representatives of La Gironde, is about to resign, to make way for him, as his presence in the adminis- tration may be found of use. Ledru Rollin has made, at a banquet, a speech, in favour of the rouge republique, under the name of conciliation, and with a view, either of securing popularity, or revenging hiuiseit upon the flat denial which was given by the English newspapers on the occasion of his speech with regard to Belgium, has openlv avowed his hostility to the close alliance with England. He wishes an armed intervention in Italy, and would, doubt- less, be very glad to involve the whole of the world in war, provided that he again had the direction of public affairs but this, I think, is not probable. His return to power would be the signal for departure of the Jew English families that have the courage to remain here; for the fear of a reign of Terrorism is great, in spite of the knowledge that half a century has completely changed the manners and ideas of the people of France. Still, however, the dread that the name of Ledru Rollia insipires, is such that few would face his rule again. There is nothing, however, in the exterior appearance of the man, nor in his manners to justify the alarm that is felt; but with the exception of Blanqui, whose name is almost used to frighten children, there is no man who hu contrived to pÙI.œ himself in so odious a light in the eyes of the people who hold property. They seem to think that he is their natural enemy. The discussions in the Chambers, upon the new constitution, seem to be endless. They are attended with constant squab- bles and whilst they have equality and fraternity in their mouths, they have ambition and hatred in their thoughts. The division into parties is hourly increasing, Not into two glo- rious sections, such as we have, of Whig and Tory, struggling on the one hand for liberty—on the other for despotic power. They have here innumerable subdivisions, who never agree upon any point, but that of hating all parties, but that to which they more immediately belong. The new arbishop of Paris has received the recognition of the Pope. If he imitates in pious zeal his excellent prede- cessor, who died in the attempts to reconcile the factions, he will gain and deserve the respect and love of all mankind. In many departments there are attempts to get up a demon- stration in favour of Henry V.; but, as yet. the energy and determination of the administration have baffled the real of the legitimists, who are evidently speculating on the misery of the approaching winter in Paris, and remaining quiet here, whilst they are keeping up the fire in the provinces. They are, at any rate, premature; for although there exist but few rigid re- publicans, it will be yet sometime before they are ripe for a monarchy. Amongst the singular events that have just occurred, is a speech, made by Pierre Leroux, who has been remarkable for his democratic speeches, and whose ideas are of the most ultra kind he has risen to propose as one of the leading articles of the constitution, that, as there appears to be a trinitr.rian prin- ciple existing in all great religious, and in all great philoso- phies and that, as it enters into the faith of a vast number of the inhabitants of the globe; that, as this principle, although it has been visible in all coastitutions that have nad any dura- bility—that the constitution of the republic, should be based upon a trinity. The clamour that has attended this proposal, which has taken the Assembly by surprize, has prevented the proposer from expatiating upon his singular law. In the form in which it was brought forward, it is perfectly unintelligible in its meaning but it exhibits the wildness and the eccentricities of men who stand forward with theories and ideas, which they have neither themselves sufficiently studied, nor obtained the opinion of others, who would be enabled to advise them upon what steps they should build their expectation of success. M. ■ Moutalembert, who is considered the head of the Catholic party H in the Assembly, has made some admirable speeches, which, ■ for the soundness of their doctrine, and the inspired purity ■ which they breathe, have gained him the highest tribute of ap- ■ probation" He has been the champion of religion throughout H the debates; and although many distinguished ecclesiastics H have come forward in support of his views, none have yet sur- H passed him, either in zeal or eloquence. H

BREON RACES.—In our account of these races, Rebecca H was erroneously set down as winner of the L'sk stakes. H whereas the race was (o Baronet, who won the two last beats, beating, ungaliantly. Rebecca and Gwenney. It was a tirst rate contest, there having been four heats of slashing work.

DlliTHS, MARRIAGES, AND DEATH3. I BIRTHS. ■ On the 13th instant, at Caerleon, the wife of Mr. Seth Mor- gan, railway contractor, of twin (laughters. On the loth instant, the wife of M.r. John Evans, Risca, of a daughter. At Bavonne; in Spain, the Duchess of Montpensier, of a daughter. MARRIED. ■ On the 20th instant, at St."arary's (Jhurcn, AKOISIVPH" by the Rev. Henry Peak M.A., Mr. Richard Shaw, glass and M china dealer, to'Elizabeth, widow of the late Mr. Richara Wit- comb, of the Nag's Head Inn, in the above town. On the 21st instant, at St. Mary's Church, Abergavenny, by the Rev. Henry Peak, M.A., Mr. Robert Thomas, letter-carrier, to Susan, second daughter of Mr. Samuel Baynam, oi Llanv^iir. On the "21st instant, at Bristol, by tbe Rev. John Glanyille. Mr. Thomas Jenkins, of Abergavenny, to Carolina Matilda, eldest daughter of Mr. Thomas Parsons, Norfolk-street, Bristol. On the 19th instant, at St. Peter's Church, Pimlico, London, R. A. Cartwright, Esq., son of the late W. R. Cartwright, Esq" M.P. for Northamptonshire, to Mary, eldest daughter o lie the Right Hon. Sir Thomas and Lady Freemantle, ot swan- bourne, Buckinghamshire. Lately, in London, Mr. William Cowling, gard A s Ann Phillips, both of Monmouth. On Sunday last, aged oS.^J^Mary Tamplin, of Stow-hill, On the 22nd instant, at Risc^,t° ^yd^ughter'ofV^Wm^ GUerand'gSd^lC'oTthe ikte William Phillips, Esq ■ ili;\Ca ^ouse" ft„ protracted and painful illness, On the 8th instant, aft ? tit0<je and christian resigna- borne with the most EXEMPURY F of ow H tion, Elizabeth, wife of Mr. in the parish of G°°dtnJ't £ fswa^Hotel, Ross, aged 42, Mr. H On the 19th Tegretted by his family and friends. W^lUam Harris £ £ eui7f J Newcastle-upcn-Ty ne, ■ \k -n ™-Unntts son of the Bishop of Exeter, and nephew of Major rhillpotts son oi^ p Gloucesler_ j0nE thl 17th instant! in bis 103th year, at Gaclys-ucha. Aber- da?enMr Thomas Harrison, father of the Rev. Joseph Bar- H Independent Minister of Salem Chapel, Aberdare. on'the 26th instant, at Tredegar-square, London, Mary Ann, ™2n0f wSiam Ferris, Esq., aged 26. H On the "24-th instant, at Builth, Mr. John Lloyd, second son of the late Mr. Thomas, officer of Excise, Painscastle, Rad- 11 23rd instant, at Broadstairs, Lt.-Gen. Sir Charles Maxwell, C B., EL.C.H. 26th instant, at his residence, Highfield House, near Malton, in Yorkshire, Mr. William Scott, the celebrated jockev. 8th instant, at Frankfort, Serene Highness the Landgrave | of Hesse Homburg. ,£ N

I NEWPORT POST TIME. I I n „ < Delivery; Bo Ditto. Ditto n ,J Mails. Due. j Begins;> ao Coml.-sK Pill. p»Patchd | { j a.m. < a.m. > p.m. c p.ni, < p.m. > p.m. London .5 6 53 < 8 3D I 4 43 s 4 10 3 35 I 5 37 < I p.m. > s a.m. 5 a»m« I Tredegar. 10 50 j 1 0 2 0 I II 15 1 H 0 3 0 V. > P-m- ( < a.m I J Bristol 1'2 I? > 1 n 41 11 15 s 11 OS 12 43 Swansea. 12 43 j 1 0 S 11 15 11 15 j 1I 0 12 17 > < p.m. > p.m. i P-m. > a ra. prynmawr. 4 10 > 6 0 I 10 0 8 45 5 8 30 S 8 0 Abrgavenny.' 4 40 S 6 0 '> 10 0 8 45 8 30 7 30 Pembroke. 5 37 I 6 0 < 10 0 j 8 45 j 8 30 j G ,53 MONF.Y-ORDEH OHICE-Open from 9 a.m., till 6 p.m., ex- tept from 4'37 till 5 37 p.m. Letters to be Registered, must be brought to the Office at east half-an-hour before the box is closed for the despatch of uch letteis. The charge is sixpence, which must be paid at time of registration. Places from which letters are sent and received by each Mail:— London.—England, Scotland, Ireland, North Wales, Brecon- shire, Merthyr, Rhymney, Abergavenny, and Cardiganshire. Tredegar—Risca, Abercarn, Newbridge, Blackwood, Brynmawr, Nantyglo, Coalbrookvale, Blaina,Victoria,Tydee.Pontymistre. Bristol—Ireland, North Wales, Northern Counties, Shropshire, Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Warwickshire. Nortbampton- j shire, Rutlandshire, Oxfordshire, Gloucestershiie, Somerset, shire, Wiltshire, Berkshire,Dorsetshire,Devonshire, Cornwall, and Monmouth. Swansea-Cardiff, Cowbridge. Bridgend, Taibach, and Neath. y&rynmaivr—Risca,Abercarn,Newbridge, Blackwood, Ebbwvale, Tydee, and I'ontymister. Abergavenny—Caerleon, Usk, Pontypool, Monmouth, Hereford, and Ross. Pembroke—Glamorganshire, Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire, Cardiganshire, and Ireland.

r TO CORRESPONDENTS. Theophilus" must see that it would be quite irregular to publish his reply to the Rev. J. Griffith, even with the attractive title assumed. "Terax" is marked for our next publication. Two or three poetical contributions are placed on our accepted file. Z must favour us with his name, butwe cannot then promise insertion to his letter, unless ^ve have his permission to alter some very objectionable passages. The letter of Mr. John Jones, of Panteague reached us just on putting to press.

> THE ESSEX POISONINGS. THE revelations, even yet incomplete, of the extent to which the diabolical practice of secret poisoning I has been carried in Essex, are such as to fill the mind with inexpressible horror and dread rival- ling:, as they do, the darkest conceptions of the ro- tnancist, and ranking a portion of our population t with the Thugs of the East Indies, and Obeahs of I the West. Nor can we limit our view to the num- her of persons, large as it is, implicated in the fear- ful acts, and to the deliberate depravity with which they have added one murder to another, and coun- seled their acquaintances to follow their fiendish example. A most alarming feature in the case is the stolid indifference with which the inhabitants have regarded crimes which, strange as it may ap- pear, have been perfectly notorious, not only for months, but years. The various witnesses declare that they regarded the deceased as the victims of poison, and, indeed, the known prevalence of the practice had led to the introduction of a new phrase, white powdering," (arsenic being the substance used,)while in the case of May, parents not infected with the fatal propensity, were in the habit of keep- ing their children out of the way; a precaution, too, which was quite necessary, since, in one case, fell" nuf poison into the mouth of a child she met on j' the road, evidently taking, like the infamous Brin- villiers, and other characters, described in history, an infernal pleasure in the very act of murder. During four years has this awful state of things existed, and been on the increase yet the villagers seem to have had no more idea of informing the authorities of this systematic destruction of human life, than the farmer, whose crops are destroyed by game would think of exposing to punishment those who diminish the nuisance. We have no desire to encourage a morbid taste for reading about such forms of crime as that to which we are alluding; but it is absolutely neces- sary that public attention should be fixed upon this distressing theme, with a view to the adoption of every possible remedy. It might have been sup- posed that the period in which such wickedness could arise had passed away at all events, in this | countiy but it must be borne in mind that this, I though the worst, is not the first instance. Besides j "1086 isolated cases, where violent passions have led the disruption, by violence, of the marriage tie | -between parties who were not united by attachment, there have been previous cases, especially those at Stockport, where, as in most of those in Essex, the object has been the obtaining of the small sums payable on interments by the burial clubs of which the parties have been members. Here is a plague- spot then in the community, for the removal of which no means must be left unemployed and then comes the question, "what means will be effectual ?" Primarily there must be an increase of moral and religious instruction. What may be the slate | of those particular parishes, we have nothing before us to shew but the low tone of morality which )¡)J avails shews plainly enough that there is a great dl feet somewhere. That defect ought to be re- moved, and, since there are other districts where there are ignorance and degradation enough for similar results to be produced, should the tempta- tion arise, moral and leligious instruction ought, as a preventive, to be readily extended. Again, though the sources of crime can only be reached by such means as those to which we have just alluded, besides punishment, consequent on detection and the various obstacles which society sets up to the perpetration of crimes, there are others, hy which its commission may be checked and diminished. Now, it is obvious that facilities for murder by poison are greatly increased by the ease with which deleterious articles can be obtained. We have be- fore called attention to this circumstance, and so have journals ill other parts of the kingdom but the legislature and the government, though fre- quently busying themselves about matters with which they have nothing to do, and sometimes pro- ducing mischief instead of good, have not found tiniv to attend to this great practical evil, and it w <d seem that nothing but a large sacrifice of life will induce them to do so. The rude and ignorant criminals in Essex might not have known how to poison, but for arsenic bring so cheap, and so easily procurable. Being used for some agricultural purposes, it becomes known to those who might scarcely hear of any other poison and as a pound weight may be had for a shilling or less, any evil- disposed person may decimate a whole parish at the cost of a few pence, and with a considerable I chance of escaping detection, since it is also used for the destruction of mice, and other vermin. Now it is for the interest of the whole community that the price of so dangerous an article should be raised, and for that purpose a heavy duty should be imposed, on which a drawback might be granted where large quantities are used in any particular process. Its sale ought to be restricted to persons, aay druggists licensed for the purpose. Every pur- chaser, too, ought to be compelled to make an entry in a book kept for such a record, and unless known to the vendor, to be accompanied by some one so known. These books again should be in- spected weekly by the registrar of deaths for the district, and by any surgeons who chose to do so. Such regulations,—and there are many which do not just now occur to us—though they might not prevent poisoning, would certainly render it much f more difficult, as well as more liable to detection. But there is another valuable precaution, to which we have referred on a former occasion. An inven- tion was brought under the notice of the govern- ment, but to which they culpably neglected to pay any attention—for chemically colouring poisonous substances so that they might, under most circum- stances, be detected in food. This colouring would Hot be visible to the eye, but would appear on the I poison being put into water, tea, gruel, &c. Ano- I ther matter, connected with this subject, and to which also, we have before referred, is the import- ance of coroners' inquests, which some short- sighted persons have been decrying. It appears that in the district where the poisonings have oc- curred, inquests have been discouraged by the county authorities, on account of their expense; and it has also transpired that in some other parts of the country where the same most erroneous course has been pursued, crime has greatly in- creased. We do not deny that unnecessary in- quests are sometimes held but, where there is the slightest suspicion, an inquiry ought to take place; and, generally speaking, insteaff of any attempts to curtail the powers and duties of coro- J ners, it would be well if they were more fully car- ried out, as, for instance, they are by the coroner for the city of London, Mr. Payne, with respect to fires, as well as deaths.

MALT TAX ANNOYANCES. THE strong feeling entertained by the agricultural community against the malt lax, is well known; but the amount of revenue produced from it is so great, that every Chancellor of the Exchequer will defend it to the uttermost. Unless the owners of real property will consent to its transference to their shoulders, in the shape of a property tax, or unless the farming body will take a much greater interest in public affairs than they have done, and insist upon a great reduction in the national expenditure, there is but little pro- bability of this tax being touched. But, apart from the amount of the burden, there are the vexa- tion and annoyance to all those engaged in the malt trade—(and the maltsters are understood to be 11,000 in number)—-which the present law occa- sions and viewed in this light it must be regarded as most absurd and oppressive, The time will come when our successors will wonder at the apa- thy of a people which, with a representative go- vernment made no constitutional remonstrance against such an arbitrary interference with the pro- cesses of trade, causing great loss and extreme in- convenience and it will then be universally seen, as it may be now by those who chose to open their eves, that nothing but the reckless determination to get money, no matter by what means, for an extra- vagant expenditure, could have led to the adoption of such a system. It appears, indeed, that these stupid annoyances have been carried much further than was necessary, even for the safety of the revenue and a com- mittee of maltsters at Warminster, of whom Mr. John Warren is the chairman, have been actively exerting themselves, and, with such co-operation as they can command, have succeeded in obtaining one important modification of the law. By an act of the last session (1 L and 12, Vic., cap. 121, sec. 28), no part of the penalties levied arc now to be paid to the excise thus removing the temptation which previously existed to strain the law against maltsters. This is good as far as it goes, but fur- ther reforms are needed and since the whole sys- tem cannot at present be repealed, every possible improvement should be insisted upon. The Warminster committtee are now seeking the following objects. 1. The return of the grain to the cistern when a couch is thrown out with a view to prosecution to be re-couched from thence." To this it is un- derstood there is no revenue objection and the committee say it is a mistake to suppose that it is not perfectly practicable. 2. "The most favourable guage for the trader before the throw out. and after the grain is replaced in the couch frame." It is known that there is much uncertainty in guaging, and that different re- sults are often arrived at, on different trials; it is, therefore, obviously unjust to take the most unfa- vourable, and, considering the manner in which the law presses, it is not unreasonable to ask for the most favourable guage. 3. "A shortening of the couch hours." This is deemed proper, in order that the laws of the em- pire may not be opposed to the laws of nature. The movement appears to deserve the support, not only of all maltsters, but of the agricultural community in general, whose interests are so closely connected with the subject.

T ATTVPTT —A fine schooner was launched from the buildng yard of Messrs. Young and Cook, on Thursday morning. NEWPOHT AND MONMOUTH RAILWAy-We regret to state, that the works of the Newport and Monmouth branch of the South Wales Railway were stopped on Friday last atCaerleon, and all the navigators discharged. We trust however, that this may not continue long. Report says that nothing of consequence will be done there before 18

CRICKHOWELL, SERIOUS ACCIDENT.—On Saturday last, a dreadful accident occurred to a bailiif named \r. Herbert, in the einplov of the Crickhowell County Court, at the Beaufort Arms, Gilwern. The unfortunate man was in the house with an execution and it is supposed he was looking over the house, when he mistook the cellar door for another, falling down a flight of steps, and in attempting to raise himself also had the misfortune to fall down the other flight, and so shockingly cut his head that his brain piotruded. There is little hope entertained of his recovery.

MONMOUTH. The quarterly meeting of the visitors of the Monmouth Free Grammar School, was held on Tuesday last, when eleven pupils were admitted on the foundation. On the following, day, the conduct of the school was postponed until Monday next, inconsequence of the illness of one of the masters, anil the dangerous indisposition of the Rev. J. D. Watherstone's father, which called that gentleman unexpectedly to London. MONMOUTH KACES—Should the weather prove favourable, which is confidently hoped, the sporting community of the district may calculate on delightful meetings at Chippenham fields on Tuesday and Wednesday next. Some of the leading patrons of the turf have been acting handsomely in getting up matters, and all is likely to go on in proper form; whilst the ordinaries and ball will of course be as well attended as usual in Monmouth. -0-

GARDENING OPERATIONS FuR THE WEEK. CoLLected from practical auihorities for the" Merlin." PITS AND FRAMES.—Continue to pot off cuttings, from the first bunch of bedding plants. It is better to »?et scarlet pelar- goniums established and hardened before the winter. —Pot Neapolitan violets, and let them be plunged into a frame. Mi^nionette should be placed in an exposed and warm place in the greenhouse.—The making of mushroom beds should he progressive!v attended to. FLOWER GARDEN AND SHRUBBERIES.—Should the ver- benas or other moss flowers shew signs of exhaustion, manure water will he found a useful stimulant: by doing all we can to nurture the verbena,we manage to repress the mildew —Remove all faded blossoms, and seeds lrom flowers, as it will assist the future blossoms, by promoting the vital energy of the plant being exhausted in the seeding. Prepare what ground you can for the reception of bulbs.—Use the present opportunity of effecting a complete clearance of weeds, and all accumulations from walks and borders.—Holland mow grass.—Trim hedgings, and prepare evergreens from removal. KITCHEN GARDEN.—Throw some light kind of covering at night over kidney beans, to protect them from any slight frosts now prevalent.—Strpns suckers of the ulobe artichoke should now be potted, and thrust into cold frames or pits for the winter, and planted out in the spring for an early crop.—They will precede the old plants by at least a tortnight.— Prick out an adequate supply of young cabbage and lettuce plants the latter should be protected from heavy rains.—Discard at once all decaved onions, and bruised apples, &c. the possession of which entails ultimate loss and trouble. Should tbe ground where potatoes remain be not infected with slugs, it will be better to allow them to remain, as they will improve in flavour, and if entirely divested of their stems, the disease is not likely to rroTess. We have discovered one encouraging circumstance connected with this disease, which is, that those potatoes which have escaped the contagion are invariably excellent in flavour, from which we may augur favourably, that as the plant has regained power sufficient to perfect one or more tubers, it may ffenerallv acouire increased strength, and under more rational treatment and average favourable seasons, ultimately recover. Coft^e hardens should be kept free lrom weeds at this season, a °therebv many slugs are discovered and destroyed.-Take up at once all decaved crops, and throw the ground up in trenches • f■ t it for planting.—Hoe up cabbages and timo 4 L^hprrv plantations for next year, leaving rlrr«»j t should be moved, otherwise it is not ?roU"l Sin for some time yet to come. To DESTIWY'S'LUGS -Tbe most effectual remedy against oi rr kroy SLUGS. gifted ashes with a little soot slugs and snails is to *"d is sown and as occasion and lime well mixed, both nces this mixture will form a may require as the crop a i„Vesof the plants, until they slender coat over the stems and ^s p^ t<> are strong, and when freshly api hea after whic £ slugs it may touch, by burning tne" » vitality ceases: the best time to sprinkle is when the dew is on in the morning early, or after a shower ot ram.

Arrival of Louis Napoleon in Paris, and appear- ance at the National Assembly. The National Assembly met on Tuesday at the usual hour, and considerable cxcitoment was produced by the announce- ment that Louis Napoleon was near at hand, and about to take his seat. A slight movement was perceived in the neighbour- hood of one of the side doors of the hall of the Assembly, an Prince Louis Napoleon entered and took his place on the left, between M. ieilard, formerly his tutor, and M. Havin. For a while the business was suspended. M. Vivien proposed that Louis Napoleon's election be held valid, and that the citizen be admitted forthwith. This proposal elicited cries of "Yes! yes The President: Is there any opposition ? (Cries of No Then I proclaim that the citizen Louis Napoleon Bonaparte is admitted as a member of the Assembly. Prince Louis Napoleon then rose in his seat, and said Now I demand permission to spfttl-. Voices shouted out lrom all sides "To the tribune !—to the tribune!" Prince Louis Napoleon then ascended the tribune, and in a firm voice said Citizen representatives-It is not permitted me to guard silence, after the calumnies of which I have been the object. I require to express here, frankly, and on the first day when I am permitted to sit amongst yuu, the true sentiments which animate me-which have always animated me. After thirty-three years of proscription and exile, I at last recover my country, and all my rights of a citizen J he Rej)ublic has given me this happiness let the Republic receive my oath of grati- tude and may my generous countrymen who have brought me into this assembly, be certain that I shall endeavour to justify their votes, in labouring with you for the maintenance of tran- quillity—that first necessity of the country, and for the deve- lopemcnt of the democratic institutions which the people have the right to demand. Long have I been prevented trom de- voting to France only the 11 editations of exile and of captivity —at present, the career in which you are all advancing, is open to me. Receive me, my dear colleagues, into your ranks with the same sentiment of alfectionate confidence that I bring with lae here. My conduct, always inspired by duty, always ani- mated bv respect for the law. my conduct will prove, in respect to the persons who have endeavoured to blacken my character, in order again to proscribe me, that no one here more than my- self is resolved to devote himself to the defence and freedom of the Republic. This address was received with some slight applause, but nothing worthy of remark. The hon. representative withdrew to his place, and the incident concluded. p There was no demonstration whatever in the streets as Prince Louis Napoleon went to the Assembly.