Monmouthshire Merlin

CHEPSTOW. e VALB OF XEATH RAILWAY Co.-A special meeting of this company was held here last week, Lord Yiliiers, M.P., chairman, ■tne meeting was convened for the purpose of taking into conside- ration bills now before parliament for the construction of branch J-Ues up to the valleys in the immediate neighbourhood of Aber- aare, called the Dare and Amman Valleys. The Chairman having explained the objects for which the meeting was assembled, a reso- lution was carried, adopting the bill for the construction of these branches, as introduced into the House of Lords. The meeting then separated.. CfRior-s CIRCUMSTANCE.—A few days since, as Mr. Brooks, TL'.fV, CottaSc> near the Windcliff, was quietly loading his cart Witt gravel by the road side, he was suddenly startled by the leap fall of a horse from the field above, across his own horse, which so affrighted bv the extraordinary visitation, that he darted off with. railroad rapidity towards Chepstow, where a collision took Piacr, and not only was a shaft broken, but a boy ten years of age was knocked down. The little fellow was slightly bruised, and considerably frightened; but the pace of the horse was scarcely necked, for on he went with the remnants of the cart, dashed past ifle town wall, and along the back lane, only bringing up, puffing "■Ud snorting, and still looking about him amazed, as if he still bore ^extraordinary rider on his back, at the cheerful hostelry, the 'nite Hart. Fortunately, there was no great amount of damage °ne; but the wonder and amazement occasioned will be a theme °r conversation for some time to come. AYe understand that the hare8 ^eapet* *rom the 011 "heing startled by a dog pursuing a si ^>EJITI0XS—Petitions to the Lords and Commons have been ?ned in this town, praying for a discontinuance of the annual phonal grant to the College of Maynooth; and also a females' lnt Queen, praying her Majesty to cause strict inquiry dpl°- rules of Nunneries, so as to prevent females from being a-ned therein against their own free will, &c. METHODISM, —A tea party was held "at the Bank Buildings on eanesday, last week, bv the Reformed Methodists, which was very well attended. THE GREAT TUBE.—The attractive operation of raising the sreat tube for the railway bridge, has induced a considerable num- ber 04? d 1P- persons to visit the banks of the Wye daily, in view of the Dri ^fes^re sce the progress of the tube but as the tio '°1?le tes^Ea lente," is the proper mode in such an opera-j n> the work progresses so slowlv, yet so satisfactorily and sue- esstully, that striking effects do not meet the eyes of the sight- seers. The completion is now secured within a short given time- o0me of our London and provincial contemporaries have made a ew serious mistakes in this important matter; amongst others, assert that the cross girders of the bridge arc of cast" iron, i stead of the very best wrought iron.

EBBW VALF. 2RIER\- HILL.—In accordance with the published notice on the J'th, the sanatory committee of this place held their second meet- ing on the 21st. It is gratifying to state that a cordial feeling was exhibited throughout the proceedings. It was agreed by the prin- ^pauandowners of the township, to construct, at their own cost, sewer for the general use o: the inhabitants. In this com- Procee(ling, the Messrs. Lewis will kindly assist to the mitt extcnt in their power. Instructions were given to the com tho \° (^rec'; the removal of all dust heaps and nuisances from aunr<?u? ai'es; and to consult upon and adopt the best plan for the evu? °*' tovrnship "wi-tli water. These excellent measures j aence a prudent forethought, worthy of imitation in all populous th V°S' *s truly astonishing to witness the rapid growth of AfSflv •' ^ears back, scarcely a dwelling was to be seen. t this time neat and commodious houses are being erected upon ait parts of the hill; and streets are rapidly appearing, where, but « snort while since, there was nothing to be seen but the barren Mountain side. Drapers, grocers, tailors, shoemakers, druggists, glass and china dealers, and publicans—in short, all professions that s,r t- i ,tlle.requisites lor the establishment of a nourishing and re- sectable little town, are to be met with here. That excellent and ecessary accompaniment to all towns—a commodious marketplace, fnr u?6? erected- a^-S0' and is well supported by the neighbourhood; the outehers may challenge a comparison for first-rate joints of at, against any other market on the Hills. Buildings pay well: as we said before, are in a flourishing state. Indeed, the aiessr?. Lewis, the proprietors of the land, have exhibited much bwa sense m their transactions with the inhabitants, and will reap r"e reward of liberal enterprise. The liberality of Thomas Brown. is also highly estimated as being of great "service to the place' it reflects much credit on the extensive firm of which he is a member.

THE R PONTYPOOL. TjiE perceivc on every hand active demonstra- -l v.101 i D.v *he engineers and contractors of railroads in our « meiJ ~>uvL°od. The loop lice that will connect this district with j, ale, and the line of which it is a loop—the Pontvpool, >if!i .r|'aVei!n^'f an Hereford — are progressing well; and we nave ani mcu o,. great expcriene'S'^n these matters express their opinion that this most important route may possibly be thrown open in eighteen months so rapidly IMIÙhe numerous forces of that eminent contractor, Mr. Rennie, and*rners, cutting out and level- ling the "line of march." We are also, we understand, on the eve of an important event—the opening of the Pontvpool and New- Port railway. The activity perceptible at the station localities and elsewhere, augur strongly that this little wcll-imished line, which reflects so much credit on the company's engineer, Mr. Dù. Jones, and the contractors, Mr. Farmer, Mr. Giles, Mr. Young, &c., will be opened in about three weeks or a mogth. While on this subject, it may be well to suggest that there is a general hope ex- Pressed in this neighbourhood, that as the line can only be opened to within a mile of Newport, or near the Marshes gate, either the company will provide omnibuses to finish the journey, or that a pro- per reduction in the railway charge will be made because if one or L^e other has not done, travellers will perhaps prefer being coach Passengers from town to town, the complete journey, as they are at present. POLICE BUSINESS. [Bofoie E. H. Phillips Esq., and the Rev. David Jones] James Murphy was fined 5s, and I2s. costs, and in default, imprisoned »°r fourteen dav's, for committing a wilful and mal.cious trespass on the property of Sir Benjamin Hall. Cecilia Jones was charged with committing an assault on Charlotte Powell; but it appearing that both were in fault, they were ordered to Pay 3s. 9d. costs each, and the case was dismissed. William Coleman was charged with assaulting Joshua Davis and was ordered to pav 5s 6d. costs Walter Harris was charged with assaulting David Lloyd.—Allowed to be settled out cf court. Ann Roberts was charged witb attempting to pass a bad shilling at shop of Mr. F. Phillips, groccr.-Discharged, Elizabeth Young was charged wi;h assaulting Mary Harvey. Case dismissed, and complainant to pay costs- John Evans was summoned for neglecting to obey an order of affilia- tion, whereby there became due to Harriet Waters the sum of 19s. Gd. Ordered to pay, with t.S. Gel. costs, Alfred Davis pleadcd puilty to the information of Mr. Joseph Morgan, charging him with riding without reins, and was fined Is, and Js. Cd. costs, or fourteen days'imprisonment. CHAnGE CF BIIEEP STEALING. William Davis, who is a batcher, and also the landlord of the Albion beerhouse in Pontypool, was charged with stealing two sheep, the pro- perty of Mr. Benjamin "Will ams, farmer, Mjnydvvslvvyn.—Prosecutor proved having examined two sheep skins, which he was quite sure were those of his stolen sheep. The ear marks had been cut out, and also toe marks on the cheek, since the animals were stolen. —Jane Lewis, a servant with pt it-oner, proved seeing him dressing a sheep in the beer- house on the previous day, and also seeing two sheep and a lamb hang- ing up in the underground kitchen. Prisoner put the sheep's skins in the cart, to go to Pontypool m irkpt.—Mr. Superintendent Roberts said the skins produced, were admitted by prisoner to be those of two sheep Slaughtered by him, which he had bought more than a fortnight before, on the road to Newport, half a mile below Penyreothcer gate but he did not know the man, nor was any one else present. He atso said the sheep had since been running about the railway, and John Williams's land.-PC Roberts saw the carcases of two sheep, one at the marker and the other at the prisoner's house. They were the same that George Hands compared with the skins.—George Hands, butcher, said he was quite sure the skins were those of the two sheep named by Roberts. The ears had been cut off, which was not a usual thing for a butcter to do.-This was the case and the prisoner, after being cautioned in the terms of the act, said as follows I bought these sheep of John Jenkins, the shepherd for the New Company. I never had only the two of him. I Went with Jenkins, and caught the sheep in a field above the Crown. I brought one home, and he brought the other, to my house, at about six o'clock in the evening. T was to give six shillings each for them.—The prisoner was then committed to take his trial at the Usk sessions,on the 25th of May next, but was admitted to bail, himself in £ i00% and two sureties in £jO. each. His sureties were Mr. Richard Probert and Mr. John, farmer, Mamhilad. John Jenkins, the shepherd spoken of by the prisoner in the prece- ding case, was brought up on suspicion of being concerned in the same transaction but there being no conclusive evidence against him, he was discharged, on entering into sureties—himself in iSnh.and another in the like sum-to appear when called upon. Mr. ThoniasWoodhouse, of the. Swan Inn, was his surety. SATURDAY. (Before E. H. Phillips, John Conway, and W. H. Little, (High Sheriff), Esquires.) » THE ACTORS-A SMALL r JRFORM ANCE. Henry Mangley, a showman, was charged with assaulting James Attls, a brother professionaL-Complainant: Yer verships— The day next the Pontypcol fair, this 'ere Caliban comes up and hits me sicli a precious vop hin my hy, that I sees forked lightning in no time. I vent down on my marrows, hin course and hafore I can hascend hagain, vy he ins to precious 'air like a currycomb, and pitches hinto me a rum un. and no mistake. (Laughter-)-Defendant: 0, I pleads guilty, on my 'onour hut I could a tale unfold, whose lightest word would harrow up, etcetera. In short, the spoons the spoons !—0, my prophetic soul, my uncle Ordered to pay is. 6d. costs. Thomas Jobson, for committing an assanlt on Thyrza Roderick, was fined 6d., and 103 6d. costs, or seven days in prison. David Williams was summoned by ElizabethLlewellin.as the father of her illegitimate child.—Proof as to payment of money for the clothes of the child, and of an admission that he was the father, having been pro- duced against defendant, he was ordered to pay 10s. for the midwife, and -21. per week, and 17s. 6d. costs. Charles Gough was ordered to pay 15s. wages to William Peters, and costs.—Mr. Greenway for defendant. Wary Yorath was charged with cruelly beating William Yorath, her stepson, aged SIX years.-The evidence was insufficient to support the charge, and the Bench therefore dismissed the defendant with a kind caution. The constables for Trevetlin were sworn. The following will be use- ful information for the public, as to names, residences, 8rc.: — Saml. Williams, Cross, blacksmith I John Taylor, Sow Hill, shoemaker Edmin James, Trosnant, coal agent John Powell, George-street, haulier Jer. Macarty, Sow Hill, labourer Wm. Prosser, Sow Hill, labourer JEdmin James, Trosnant, coal agent John Powell, George-street, haulier Jer. Macarty, Sow Hill, labourer Wm. Prosser, Sow Hill, labourer John Jenkins, ditto, carpenter John George, Trosnant, cooper Evan Daniel. George *t., mason Wm. Brown, High st., shoemaker 'Jtephen Collins, Sow Hill, tinman Robert Joliffe, ditto, baker Hy. Evans, George »t., shoemaker David Prosser, Albion road, labr. ChrS. Farringdon, Trosnant, labr. William Thomas, George st, mason MONDA^ (Before E. if. Phillips, Esquire.) John G.ifiths, alias Jack Pontypool, was charged with being dcunk and riotous on Sunday last, and resisting Stephen Collins, a constable, in the execution of his duty.—Fined 15s., or fourteen days in prison. John Davis, a tailor, was charged with stealing E2. 7s., the moneys of John Daniel.—Complainant said he came to Pontypool on Sunday last, to look after a box which he was to have received from Birmingham. He loitered about the town until night, when the prisoner undertook the task of finding him lodgings, and after unsuccessfully trying to do so, he took prosecutor to a back premises behind the Bath beerhouse, and induced him to sleep there; promising that he would remain outside as hisjguard. He went lo sleep in full confidence on the integrity of his new friend, l?ut wa3 awoke by the prisoner's hand searching in his pocket. The prisoner then ran away.—There being considerable doubt about the case, the prisoner was discharged, but was cautioned never to be seen at the bar again. BISCA.

A serious accident occurred on the Western Valleys Railway, in the parish of Kisea, a few days since. A man named Edmund Maggs, who was in charge of empty stone trams attached to one of the company's engines, fell off the edge of his tram, where he sat, on the engine moving on again after stopping to detach a tram at Mr. Thomas Matthews's lime kiln. Had not the engine stopped as suddenly as it moved, it is said that Maggs must have been killed on the spot; but he was nevertheless so much injured, that his life was despaired of We understand that no blame was attributable to any one in connexion with the engine.

LAYING THE FOUNDATION STONE OF THE NEW CHURCH. Yesterday, the interesting ceremonies attendant upon laying the foundation stone of a new church, were performed at Risca, where an ancient edifice, built in the days of the Romans, eight hundred years ago, had been taken down, having been found too small and dilapidated for the spiritual necessities of so populous a neighbourhood. The removal of the ancient church, and the excavations for the new edifice, brought to light, immediately behind the locality of the old chance], the Roman concrete floor, on boulders, of a supposed well, known as St. Mary's Well," it being immediately in the line of a stream of water which, in bygone days, flowed in the direction of the spot where the discovery was made. Some of the oldest inscriptions on the tombstones which were originally within the church, exhi. bited great antiquity; one bearing a date which showed it to be 210 years old. The antiquarian, who selects ecclesiastical ground as the locality of his researches, might here explore and discover striking illustrations of the bye-gone ages. At the entrance to the churchyard were erected two flag- stafls, from one of which floated the Newport flag and arms and from the other the national flag. The immediate locality of the foundation stone was boarded and adjacent, fixed against an ancient yew tree, whose age the oldest inhabi- tant" will not verify, was erected a very convenient gallery, capable of accommodating about two hundred spectators, surmounted by Hags. A large concourse of the parishioners, and many ladies and gentlemen from Newport and other places, having assembled, a procession, formed as follows, walked from the school-room to the spot:— Clerk, bearing the Bible. John Russell Esq., chairman of the building committee, and churchwarden; and Mr. Habershon, architect. The Rev. Dd- Davies, incumbent of Risca; and the Rev. W m. Phillips, curate. Rev. Chancellor Hugh Williams, vicar of Bassalleg: and Rev. Chancellor Angustus Morgan, rural dean, and rector of Machen: Rev. Edward Hawkins, vicar of St. Woolos; and Rev. W. Feetham. curate. Messrs. James and Hardy, contractors. Mr. Album, clerk of works, bearing silver trowel and inscription in glass bottle, on velvet cushion. School Children. Visitors. At about two o'clock, Lady Morgan, accompanied by Sir Charles Morgan, and the Misses Morgan, and Mr. and Mrs. Style, came upon the platform, and were received with marked demonstrations of respect. The company who were now assembled, reunited after the ceremony, with additions, at the school-room luncheon, in connexion with our report of which, the names willappaar. The office usual on the occasion of laying the first stone of a new church was then proceeded with. The Rev. Dd Pavies, incumbent of Risca, read verses from the 84th Psalm, Haggai, and Ezra, and read the prayers. One of tho workmen then spread mortar over the lower stone, and around the aperture provided for the inscription. The clerk of the works stepped forward, and the inscription was taken from the bot.de, and read by the Rev. Augustus Morgan. It was as follows:- The foundation stone of this new church was laid April 21), 1052, by LADY MORGAN, Tredegar Park, Monmouth, The Rev. David Davies, incumbent. COMMITTEE: — John Russell. Esq.. chairman. Rev. David Davies, incumbent Thomas Lewis_. Esq. Rev. Wm. Phillips, curate John Rosser, Esq. E. Robothan, Esq. Thomas Cross, Esq. Messrs. James & Hardy, I W. G. & E. Habershon, architects, builders, Newport. | li'i, Bloomsbury Square, London. John Kusseli, L.sq churchwarden. This inscription being returned to the bottle, was placed in the aperture, and mortar smoothed over it. Mr. Russell then took the trowel from the clerk of the works, and addressing Lady Morgan, read the following inscription on the silver implement, (which was of exquisite workmanship, furnished by Widdowson and Veale, Loudon, at a cost of ±8 15s.): — Presented to Lady Morgan, of Tredegar Park, On her laying the fonndation stone of the New Church, at Risca, Mon April 21), 1852. Her Ladyship then advanced, and with much ease, grace, and dignity, passed the trowel over the mortar, adjusting and smoothing it skilfully. The stone was then lowered; and the mahogany mallet and level being handed to Lady Morgan by Mr. Habershon, the architect, her Ladyship, with appa- rently a practised eye, examined the level oi the block, and struck two or three smart blows wi'.h the mallet on the stone. The female chorister,, present, assisted by others, here sung a hvmn to the Old Hundredth tune, with practised voices and good effect; and the rev. incumbent followed with a lesson after which the Rev. Augustus Morgan read the prayers, concluding with the Lord's Prayer, and the Blessing. Mr. Russell, previously to the company retiring, said if any ladies or gentlemen were present, to whom an invitation to luncheon had not been forwarded, be trusted they would forgive the unintentional omission, and sit down with other guests. The large assembly then proceeded to the school-room, where an excellent collation, with wines, had been provided at the expense of Mr. Russell and Mr. T. Lewis, of Ponty- mister, by Mr. Lloyd, of the King's Head Hotel, Newport. The room was very tastefully decorated with flowers, ever- greens, banners, &c.; the clustering Of which around the chairman s seat, formed a pleasant alcove. This department was artistically carried out by Mr. George Lewis, of Ponty- mister, and Mr. Young, of Machen. Mr. Russell presided; on his right were Lady Morgan, Sir Charles Morgan, &c., and on his left the Misses Morgan, Mr. gaii, Air. Style, &c. The Rev. Incumbent occupied the vice chair at one table, and the Rev. W. Phillips at the other. Among the guests, who numbered nearly two hundred, we observed John Russell, jun., Esq.; Mrs. and Miss Russell; John Selwyn Payne, Esq.. and Mrs. Payne lhomas Lewis, Esq., and Mrs. Lewis; John Lewis, Esq.; George Lewis, Esq E. Robothan, Esq., and Mrs. Robothan; David Morris, Esq., Miss Lewis, and Mrs. Sutton YV illia.111 I lumps, Esq., R.N., and family, and Mr. Cullum the Misses Harrhy and Miss Morris; — Banks, Esq.; Miss ,Barfoot; the Rev. Augustus Morgan; Miss Homfray; Miss Arnev; Thomas Powell, Esq., and family the Rev. Chancellor W illianis aud family the Rev. Thomas Pope, and family Captain May, and family Mr. Sutton; Mr. D. J. Featherstone, and family Mr. Dunn, and family; Mr. W. W. Morgan, and Mrs. Mor- gan; Mr. James Hawkins, and Mrs. Hawkins; Mr- YV- Partridge, and Miss Partridge; Md^CharJes Phillips, and Miss Phillips; Mr. Evan Cross, and Mrs. Cross; the Rev. Howell Williams the Ruv. Edward Hawkins the Rev- W. Feetham; the Rev. W. D. Isaacs; the Rev. W.Jenkins; the Rev. T. Evans the Rev. Isaac Hughes Captain and Mrs. Mortimer; Mr. and Mrs. Hardy; Mr. James; the Rev. Ed. Williams the llev. W. G. Baxter; Mr. Habershon; Mr John Rosser, and party; Mr. W. E. Jones the Rev. Thomas Jones, (superintendent), and the Revds. F. Payne and Edward Guest, Wesleyan ministers at Newport and Pillgwenlly Mr. 11. M. Toogood Mr. W. Wood Mr. and Mrs. John Evans Mr W. Mathews Mr. and Mrs. Young Mr. Daniel Evans and party; Mr Augustus Webber; Mr. B.Thomas; Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Daniels; Mr. and Mrs. Pritchard and a very large number of ladies and gentlemen, whose names we were unable to obtain. Grace was said by the Rev. Vice-Chairman; aud at the conclusion of the repast. The Chairman gave, with loyal expressions, the healths of elli the Queen, Prince Albert, the Prince of Wales, aud the rest of the Royal Family following these standard toasts by the Health of Lady Morgan in introducing which honoured name to the assembly, Mr. Russell, in good taste, eulogised her Ladyship for the warm interest she had taken, not only in the proceedings of that day, during which she had so well performed her conspicuous part, but also in her Ladyship s kind co-operation with the exertions of the parishioners, to accomplish the great object of a new church. He was proud to see the gentry of the neighbourhood rendering good service to so desirable a work; and lie trusted Lady Morgan and her family would again grace the Vale of Risca with their presence, when the work which they had now in hand should be accomplished. (Loud cheers.) -L • i.t Mr. Toogood suggested to the Chairman that it might not be considered unbecoming on that occasion, to give the toast a round of cheering. The Chairman readily assented; and most animated cheer- ing followed. Sir Charles Morgan acknowledged the compliment on behalf of Lady Morgan, and remarked that her Ladyship was a zealous supporter of the work that day commenced, which, although opposed at first, would nevertheless, he trusted, be carried to a successful issue. Sir Charles concluded by warmly complimenting the chairman for his great and untiring exertions, and proposed that gentleman's health, and the health of the committee. ( Mr. Toogood again led off with a round of cheering, which was enthusiastically responded to. The Chairman returned thanks for himself and committee, and congratulated the assembly on all opposition to the good enterprise in which they had been engaged.-to rebuild their church, having subsided. He hoped they should ere long see the new edifice completed-a work, for the consummation of which, he was happy to say, the dissenters of the parish were cheerfully rendering their valuable assistance. (Much cheering.) The Chairman next proposed The Bishop and Clergy of the Diocese, coupling therewith the name of Chancellor Williams." (Applause.) The Rev. Chancellor Williams acknowledged the toast, regretting that his Lordship, the Bishop of the Diocese, had been prevented from attending, but assuring them that the work in which the parish was so laudably engaged, was one in which his Lordship felt the deepest interest—a feeling also, participated in by himself and the rest of the clergy. (Cheers.) The Chairman apologised for having omitted to state that he had received a letter from the Bishop, regretting his inability to attend. Sir Charles Morgan gave the healths of two gentlemen who had exerted themselves to their utmost, in carrying out the rebuilding of the church—the Rev. Messrs. Davies and Phillips. (Cheering.) it' The Rev. D. Davies returned thanks for himself and col- league in a good-humoured speech, which was loudly ap- plauded. He proposed the health of the worthy Baronet of Tredegar. (Applause.) Sir Charles Morgan returned thanks, and promised his further hearty co-operation in the work. (Cheers.) The Chairman proposed, with a high eulogy, the health of the Rural Dean, the Rev. Augustus Morgan. (Applause.) The Rev. Hector of Machen, with his usual felicity of expres sion, acknowledged the toast, and proposed the health of Mr. Habershon, the architect; whose appropriate reply elicited much cheering. The Chairman next gave the healths of the contractors, which Mr. Hardy acknowledged, for himself and Mr. James. The Chairman gave the Ladies; and Mr. Toogood and Mr. B. Thomas sang, aided by the company, "Here's a health to all good Lasses," in very effective style. Mr. Habershon acknowledged the compliment on behalf of the ladies. Succcss to the Undertaking," "The Press," "The Lady Choristers," &c., etc., followed; and the interesting proceedings concluded at about half-past tive o'clock, when, the train having left, John Russell, jun., Esq., kindly drove the gentlemen of the fourth estate to Newport, in his own carriage. We regret that the late period of the week at which the events recorded above took place, precludes our giving more than this meagre outline. The church is to be in the early decorated style of the 13th cen- tury, and consists of nave, chancel, two aisles, and towcr at south east corner. The length from west to east wall is 30 feet, and ex- treme width :5i) feet. The height of walls to plate inside, is 22 feet, and to ridge 45 feet. The height to top of spire is 96 feet. The church will accommodate 450 persons, of which, half the whole space is free. This affords additional seat room for 340 persons. The architects are Messrs. W. Gr. and E. Habershon, 38, Blooms- bury-square, London; and the builders, Messrs. James and Hardy, of Newport.

SIRHOWY. LECTURE.—An instructive and pleasing lecture has been given at the new school room, Sirhowy. by the Rev. Mr, Stephens, on "Formation of Character." The admission was bv ticket; but early in the evening, two of the large rooms of the "fine building, lately erected by the Ebbw Yale Company, in which to provide the children with a sound education, were crowded to excess. In the absence of Thomas Brown, Esq, of Ebbw Vale, the chair was ably tilled by Mr. Daniel Lewis, of Tredegar, who, in his opening re- marks, expressed his regret that the expected chairman was unable to attend, for it would have been a highly gratifying spectacle to the esteemed employer, to witness so large a gathering of intelligent working men, assembled for mental improvement and entertain- ment.—The lecturer, although expectations had risen high, ex- ceeded all, in the skilful handling of his subject, which he placed before his auditory in a manner that could not fail to be clearly comprehended, while it was also p.easungly instructive. At the close. Mr. Stephens was pressingly solicited to publish his lecture. —A vote of thanks to Thomas lirown, Esq., for the use of the school room, and votes of thanks to the lecturer and the chairman, being carried by acclamation, the interesting proceedings weie brought to a close. CARDIFF, TAFF VALE RAILWAY TRAFFIC For the Week ending April 24. 1852. Total £ 2,481 15 10 I SURVEYS UNDEO THE PUBLIC HEALTH ACT.—The bill for the plans of Cardiff for sanatory purposes, lias just been re- ceived from the Boaid of Ordnance, and amounts to £1,0::925. 8d. It is understood that similar plans of Newport, (a town COisi derabl Y larser, and more difficult to survey), wtre executed by Messrs. VVil'iams and Mortis, at a cost of only Y,250 to the rate- payers. Cnuncii AND STATE.—A meeting of the Anti-Churcb and State Association took place at the English Baptist chapel, on the 21st instant, when Mr. Short, of London, and several other gentlemen addressed the meeting, which was not so numerous as on former occasions. CLASSICAL HARMONISTS' SocrETY,-The members of this society, undei the a' le direction of tln.t talented leader, Mr. Highton, gave a public concert at the school-room, in Croek- herbtown, last week. There as a large attendance of ladies and gentlemen of the town end neighbourhood, ail of whom went home highly delighted with the musical treat afforded them and expressed their eulogiums on the proficiency the socie'y had attained. ATHEN.T.UM.—This institution, ue a>e happy to state, exhibits decided symptoms of improvement, r^ing to the indefatigable exertions of AJr. George Smart, that gentleman having taken the responsibility and management of tf,« institute, since the first of last month, from which period ninety new members, chiefly composed of the woiking classes, h«ve been added to the list. I'owv COUNCIL.— At A 'ATE mesiaig of the Board, it ivas resolved, in order to investigate the principle of pipe drainage, that the following members of the corporation proceed at once to London, to make enquiries, &Ci> as well as to have some positive proof ot the efficiency of Mr. Ivamell s plan ol drain- age, Accordirig 1 y, Walter Cotbn, Charles C. Wtlliams, Charles Vachell, and Daniel Lewis, Esquires, left Cardiff on Tumsday, the 22nd instant, for the above purpose. This step will doubt- leis settle the question between the corporation and the rate- payers, in reference to the meetings, S:c., recently held on the above subject. FirtE.-(,'ons Iderable alarm was created in Angel-street, on Tuesday night last) on flames being observed issuing from the Pos:-o(fice window. It appears, on entering the premises, an obstruction in the gas pipe leading from the meter, had caused an escape, which subsequently ignited by a light being in- cautiously placed near If. fortunately, a plentiful supply of water was at hand, and there was no lackof assistance so that the fire was put out without the slightest perceptible damage being done, except the burning of the gas-meter, and some shelves, which were fixed near the escape of gas. CRAWSIIAY BAILEY, ESQ., M.P., v. THE TAFF VALE RAIL- WAY COMPANY,—An inquiry before a special jury to asiess the value of land taken by this company from Mr. Bailey, in the Rhondda Valley, recently took place before the Under-Sheriff, at the Cardiff Arms. Mr. Bailey appeared, supported by his counsel, Sir Alexander Cockburn. (who came down on a special retainer), with Mefsr. Coke and Jones, solicitors. The com- pany were represented by the chairmau of the company, Walter Coffin, Esq., and .f.e resident director, Mr. Bushell, with Mr. J.)oyd,as counsel, and Messrs. Hunt,of Whitehall, as solicitors. It appeared that the company had offered jES40 as the value and compensation for thirteen acres of land to be taken. A number of witnesses were called for the claimant, and Sir A. Cockburn attempted to establish a case amounting to £ 2,570. The jury, after an hour's deliberation, returned a verdict for £832, being £ 8 less than the sum offered by the company. GLAMORGANSHIRE CANAL. Imports and Exports for the week ending April 27th. IMPORTS. April 21st.— John George, Gullrford, Bridgwater, sundries. —John Westley, Biistol, powder.-Adelina, Vestatf, Gtonin- gen, iron—Schiluze, Brunsten, Whitehaven; Galey, Storey, Bullow, Wasp, Davis, Bariow, ore. 22nd.—Egiria, Sully, Whitehaven Elizabeth, Herbert, Barrow; President, Owen, Barrow,"ore.Prosperous, Jones, London, ballast. 2hd.—Miner, Wood, Bridgwater, sundries.—Hope, Davis, Newpo t, beans.—Ann, Ellis, Gloucester, fruit. William, Wood, Bridgwater, bricks.— Hope, Smith,Bristol, timber.— Kitty, Williams, Bullow; Elizabeth, Wood, Nantes; Griffiths, Gazelle, Murphy, Whitehaven, ore. 24th.—Mary, Evans, Barry, limestones.—Robert, Jones, Abertliaw, limestones.-Economy, Birks, Bullow, ore.- Qneen Victoria, Niddcn, Plymouth, Ann and Mary, Davis, Newquay. ballast. 26th -Venus, Gulliford, Bridgwater, biicks.—Lr.rk, Mayo, Union, Mayo, Glouceeter, fruit. Anna Maria, Phillips. Forest Queen, Hill, Bullow, ore.—Freedom, Dunford, Newport, ballast. 27tb. — David, Woodman, Bridgwater, sundries, -Robert, Jones, Barry, limestones. Galley, Storey, Active, Cope, Newnham, Smi'h, Bullow, ore.-Ann and Mary, Davis, New- quay, ballast. N EXPORTS. April, '2l!!t.-Ann, White, Gomer, Thomas, Liverpool, iron. -Reaper, Irwin, Whitehaven, limestones. Trevanances. Henwood, St. Agnes, John George, Gulliford, Bridgwater, coal. 22nd.— Augusta, Baddley, Haiboutg, Agnes, Sophia, Jenkms, Truro, iron.-Beatrice, Catherine, Davis, Liverpool; William Collins, Newport, coal. 23rd.-Penrhyn Castle, Thomas, Elizabeth, Baylifl, Liver- pool; Alberdina, Yoltafif, Rotterdam; Foyle Packet, Snell, Ilarbourg, Countess Moiley, Cleppe, Palerma. Prosperous, Jones, Sunchaels, iron.-William, Coffey, Youghal, Coffey, Youghal, coal -Galley, Storey, Bullow, light. 24th.—Equity, Bastio, Harbourg. Cawdor, Jones, Albion, Jones, Liverpool, iron. Active, Bideford, Liverpool, coal.- John, Donnican, William, Woodman, Bristol, coal. » 36th.—Alida, Theodora, Yaske, Amsterdam; Dolphin, Gazzard, Bristol, iron,-Wasp, Davis, Liverpool, tin.- Dolphin, Griffiths, Llanelly, Hannah, Allen, Bristol, coal.- John, Beer, Bristol, I;glit.-Kitty, Williams, Bullow, light. 27th.-Brothers, Gaitshell, Nantes, Griffiths, Liverpool; Palestine, Jones, Harbourg, iron.—Richard, Fegan, Liver- pool; William, Wood, Miner, Wood, Bridgwater; Ruth, Bowen, Stranlord, coal.Stone, Miner, Jones, Hope, Davis, Newport; Galley, Storey, Economy, Bullow, bricks.—Mary, Evans, Barry, light.

C- The late Rev. D. Rhys Stephen. The Rev. D. Rhys Stephen, the eloquent preacher, the instructive lecturer, the bard and patriot-the man of brilliant intellect, of cloudless temper, and of social heart, has passed away from amongst us. The feelings of regret, affection, and sympathy, with which we are actuated for departed excellence, are, in this instance, rendered painful, by a consideration of tho fact, that Mr. Stephen has died in poverty—too often, alas, the cheerless concomitant of genius—and has left his widow and six children to the humane consideration and mercies of his countrymen, in whose sei^ice his best years and energies were spent, zealously and without stint; for all who knew the deceased, are well aware, that his patriotism was as generous ^s it was unaffected, fervent, and constant; and it may truly be said, that in feeding the lamp of knowledge, he exhausted the lamp of life. It would be out of place here to attempt a memoir of one whose fame as a Welsh scholar and instructor must endure for ages, when the eye of the future historian grows bright in contemplating and recording the mental p 0 eminence of those whose talents have cast a halo on their time or we might dwell at some length on his intellec. tual achievements, amongst which are the bold, vigor- ous, adventurous, aye, and greatly successful task of in- structing the masses of the people, by his individual la- bours. We might enlarge on his chivalric and triumph- ant defence of the character of the women of Wales, against the slanderous imputations of government com- missioners we might proudly point to his establish- ment of literary societies which he fostered in their in- fancy, and which now flourish in healthy maturity but our duty at present is not to laud the gifted dead, but to implore co-operative aid in behalf of the bereaved living to entreat the humanity of a generous public, a confi- deuce in whose sympathies towards those who wei'e dearest to him in life, soothed the road of death to Mr. Stephen, in the last hour of his existence in this world. For he was heard, faintly but fervently to utter a confi- dence through God's mercy that his widow and fatherless children would be visited and cared for in their affliction and their helplessness. At a meeting held at the room of the Mechanics' Institute, Town Hall, Newport, on the 27th of April, it was resolved-that Committees of the friends and admirers of the late liev. D. It. Stephen, be formed in Newport and other towns of the district, in order to solicit the humane co-operation of a generous public, ever ready to comfort the afflicted and alleviate distress-in order to raise a fund, which may be prudently applied in succouring the family of one whose abilities have been uniformly devoted to the instruction of his fellow-man, and who has performed so distinguished a part on the theatre of human life. 0 Fondly is it hoped that this beneficent work may pros- per—that the helpless wail of woe may be calmed and comforted-and that the benefactions of the commis- serating,may, in the hour of serious thought, in this life of vicissitude, afford a sunshine to the heart of the willing giver. FUNERAL DIRGE. "And they mourned over him, saying, alas,.my Brother !lst Kings xiii, 30. "ALAS, my Brother:" is our plaintive cry O'er Stephen's honoured bier, Sighing, with one absorbing sympathy, And tear responding tear, "Alas, my Brother. The Christian's and the patriot's t-Bought recalls Ilis rich full eloquence, As all its fervour, all its unction, falls On memory's wakened sense, Alas, my Brother!" The lover of mankind, whose equal eye Ranges the world in love, And he who socks life's true philosophy, The one lament approve, Alas, my Brother The scholar, ever covetous of lore, Ancient, or strange, or new, Who shared, and haply swelled his learned store, Murmurs the sad adieu, Alas, my Brother Saxon, Celt, Briton, form one solemn choir— Warm heart and teeming brain All with one sorrow from his grave retire, And one elegiac strain— 1, Alas my Brother The Swansea Journal pays a just tribute to the worth of the late Mr. Stephen, and gives a short outline of his life, from which we glean that Mr. Stephen was born at Merthyr Tydvil on the 23rd of April, 1807, so that he completed his 4.5th year on the day previous to his demise. He was for several years pastor at Mount Pleasant Baptist chapel, at Swansea at Newport; and at Manchester his last ministrations being at Abercarn, in this county. At Eistcdd- fodau, in occasional lectures, and at public meetings, as well as in constant and most able communications on various topics to the press, he proved himself the indefatigable pioneer to the develop- ment of that intelligence which is rapidly expelling the thick darkness that heretofore hovered over our beloved country. a8It.IiØ

MONMOUTHSHIRE AND GLAMORGANSHIRE BANK. [FROM A LONDON CORRESPONDENT.] THE all-but announced determination of MASTER FATIKER to make a call of SIXTY POUNDS per share on ALL the contributories of the Monmouthshire and Glamorganslllre Bank, caused a large number of shareholders to assemble at his chambers, in Southampton Buildings, on Tuesday last. Mr. Tilson, the solicitor, was present, and took an active part in the proceedings of the day. We also ob- served Mr. Fothergill, and other heavy shareholders, in the room, and also Sir Thomas Phillips, who appears to unceasingly watch over the-just, fair, and equitable wind- ing-up of this unfortunate concern, and to see consum- mated the work of salvation to shareholders and cre- ditors, which he, aided by the two excellent committees, so gloriously begun. Many of the shareholders were repre- sented by solicitors from Newport, who feelingly ad- dressed the Master on the part of their respective clients. Much objection was made in the early part of the pro- ceedings against the largeness of the call, and the impres- sion seemed to be rife, that the official managers would proceed at once to the exercise of the tremendous powers about to be entrusted to them, and call, under the pe- nalty of the PEINE FORTE ET DURE, for the very sum to be named in the" order," irrespective of the shareholder's circumstances, position, modes of present and future payment This impression was soon found to give way to more assuring hopes, when it was stated that the pre- sent excellent official managers, would be governed by sounder, more wise, more equitable, and more humane views, and from them the honest shareholder had nothing to fear, and would be only called upon to contribute to the extent of his ability and his fortune but that the dishonest shareholder, (if there be indeed any such.) who would wish to elude the responsibility that has fallen on him, shirk his duty, and leave his unfortunate, but still honest, brethren i* the lurch—THAT shareholder, THAT man might indeed FEAR, for on him the weight, the strong arm of the law would fall, and he would be com- pelled openly to disgorge all that he vainly attempted to conceal. No matter what ingenious device'' might have been used—no matter what bargains and sales" might have been made—no matter what conveyances" might have passed-no matter what a village lawyer" did, said, or instructed, all would be the same, for all done would be found valueless, and of no avail! It was broadly stated-it was not, for it could not be denied, (for the winding-up of the Newcastle and North of Eng- land Banks would have furnished a hundred cases in point,) that ANY attempts to dispose or put away property since the fatal Sixth of October, 15 ghteen Hundred and Fifty-one, when the Monmouthshire and Glamorganshire Bank stopped payment, were weak and puerile, and would not stand a moment in presence of the LAW! All this having been discussed and commented upon, then came the important question-how far the agreement en- tered into between the creditors and shareholders would stand-how far schedule A and schedule B would be respected by the higher power, the Master. Mr. Cath- cart appeared on the part of Mr. Rowe, of Llantarnam, who had already paid f,50 on the thirty shares he held, making the contribution on his part to amount to £ 1,500. Mr. Cathcart contended, and most justly contended, that it would be a most monstrous proposition to hold that the solemn obligation made in the hour of peril, when the entire district was menaced with utter, deep, inevi- table ruin-the shareholders with bankruptcy-the cre- ditors with ruinous loss-should be now deemed null andvoid, and worthless as the scrip of the most worth- less company kicked from the vestibule of Capel Court .tself Were those gentlemen, who at much personal 1 inconvenience, raised the fund that saved the ship from. being at once dashed upon the rocks, to be placed in the same category with those shareholders, who have not, up to the present moment, contributed a single farthing,- were they to be called upon for an additional sum of sixty pounds ?—Mr. Tilson Certainly not! No such great injustice was ever intended to be inflicted on the contributors to the £100,000 fund; it is even wifng to indulge or tolerate for a moment such a supposition; full credit will be allowed them for the sums they have already advanced, and although he, Mr. Tilson, would not go the length of asserting, with the gentleman who was addressing the Master when he took the liberty of interrupting him—that all those who had not yet con- tributed, should be EXHAUSTED before those who had subscribed should be touched, still their respective cases would be most leniently considered by the official ma- nagers, and all would, lie trusted, be found to go on well and satisfactorily. It was quite right to make the call about to be made; it might, indeed, be considered large, but in the end would be found to be merciful to all. On it depended the carrying out the most favourable ar- rangement of paying the creditor his FIFTEEN shillings in the pound. If that arrangement had NOT been made, every shareholder then present would have been a doomed and a ruined man A payment was to be made on the 30th of June next, which, if not discharged, would nullify and render naught all that had been done, and force them to commence, DE xovo, the work of ruin to many, if not destruction to all. There could be no doubt of the expediency of the present course—all had hitherto gone wcli The fact was patent, and without parallel— only FOUR WRITS were issued since the stoppage of the Bank. This spoke volumes for the forbearance of the creditors, and now since the VEXATA QUESTIO of priority shares, and trusteeship shares, was settled finally, and for ever-there was no doubt, if this call were made, all would terminate in that fair, just, and safe manner, so much and so ardently to be desired by both shareholder and cretlitor. Some desultory conversation followed, during which Mr. Nicholson, one of the official managers, made some remarks, apparently of a most satisfactory character, to the meeting, the purport of which we could not catch. The MASTER briefly addressed the assembled shareholders, stating that, after the best and most mature consideration, he had come to the determination to make a call, and would, therefore, make the call of SIXTY POUNDS on each and every share, to be demandable and payable on or before the fifteenth day of May next en- suing.

HuUSE OF COMMONS.—WEDNESDAY. COL'NTY ELECTIONS LXPENSES BILL, Mr. Christopher moved fiat this bill be read a second time. The Speaker then put the question. Mr. Atisley No, nr. The Speaker: Does the hon. and learned member divide ? Mr. Anstey Yes. The House then divided, when there appeared— For the second reading 16 Agamstit 18 M#oiity —2 There not being iorty members in tne division, it had no effect, and the business was suspended until that number en- tered the house. Mr. Christopher said he bad no objection to postpone tbe second reading until there was a larger a tendan^s ot members. The second reading was then postponed. The Abolition of University Tests Bill was thrown out on the second reading, bv a majority of 15. The House adjourned on a debate on the Colonial Bishops Bill.

THE REASON WHY. There once was a time when the labourer wrought With a heart full of sorrow and care When bread was a dainty too dear to be bought, And our shelves, like our pockets, were bare. But things have grown better, there's joy in the street, And coin in the purse brings the light to the eye And the loaf has grown big, and melve pudding to eat, And we all know the reason ssehy. We can sit by the fire when our labour is done, With our children as happy as morn, And grateful and happy get up with the sun That ripens the bountiful corn. We can pay for the book, we can pay for the school The gown and the shawl for our wives we can buy And the man, we should think, is a bit of a fool Who knows not the reason why. No longer, heart-brokeu or scowling with hate, To the doors of the workhouse we throng We feel no ill-will to the rich and the great, Nor harbour a thought to do wrong. We read ol revolts, and of rows, and what not, But England, and God save the Ciueen," is our cry, We are well as we are; we have heel in the pot; And we all know the reason why. And so, Master Dizzy, and Derby the busy, Beware There is danger ahead Yiu may try nhat. you will the State coffers to fill, But you sha'nt tax the labourer's bread. The loaf,the big loaf! and if fight you we must, To end the dispute you're so ready to try. We'll"stand by the law, and convince you, we trust, That we well know the reason why. Dn. CHARLES MACKAY,

— BIRTHS,MARRIAGES,* DEATHS. BIRTH. On the 29tb instant, the wife of Mr. Hugh Morgan, butcher, 11 Commercial-street, Newport, of a son. MARRIAGES. On the 27th instant, by the Rev. J. B. Gabriel, at Chepstow church, Mr, William Davis, spirit merchant, to Misa M. Waters, both of Cbepstow. 25th, at Saint Mary's church, by the Rev. Leigh Morgan, vicar, Mr. William Powell to Sarah Coleman, Cardiff. 28th, at St. Mary's church, Cardiff, by the Rev. David Noel, Mr. William Lewis to Harriet George. 27th, at St. Stephens, Caerwent, by the Rev. Macdonald Steel, M. A., Vicar, Mr. Alfred Lansdowne.of Bristol, to Anne, eldest daughter of the late William Dew, Esq., Pencraig, Herefordshire. 19th at Llanelly Church, Breconshire, by the Rev. J. W. Morgan, Incumbent of Beaufort, Mr. Morgan Walbeoff to Miss Ann Watkins, both of Llanelly. 22nd at the same church, by the Rev. W. Williams, curate of Blaenafon, Mr. John Harris, saddler, of Eubw Vale, to Miss Elizabeth Williams, of LIa™^H§ On the 24th, at Newport, Anna Gcorgiana, wife of Mr. Henrv John Davis, solicitor, aged 38 years. Lately, at Pillgwenlly, after a long and painful illness, Martha, wife of Mr. John Davies, of the New George, Courtybella Terrace. On Tuesday, April 27th, at Whitson Vicarage, her father s residence, in her nineteenth year, r birth to a daughter. Elizabeth Ann, the beloved wife of tho Rev Henry Wm. Steel, R.N., assistant curate of Matherna after three day.' U1MSS. deeply regretted by all who knew her, Miss Elizabeth Evans, eldest daughter of Mr. John Evans, farmer, late of Llangwm, 3^0n'the'26th instant, in the 67th year of her age, Mrs. Rees, widow of the late Mr. Enoch Rees, for many years agent at the Tredegar Works. She. was a faithful and consistent member of the Welsh Baptist Cliurcli, for 52 years. 27'h of consnmption, aged 21 years, 1 heaphilus rhomas, son of Mr. James Stephens, and nephew of Mr. Theopbilas Stephens, of Chepstow, from whom he had long received a parents care aud affection. He was a young man of great promise, and was justly beloved by a large circle of relations an i friends, who deeply deplore his lose.

iatiou for the renewal of their leases from the Earl of Abergavenny, and on the progress and prospects of the o-rti S»,^e report was unanimously received, adopted, and raered to be printed and circulated among the proprietors.' Messrs. Masterman, Radford, and West, who went out of onice by rotation, were severally re-elected; the thanks of e Meeting were voted to the inspectors also Mr. Johnson, 10 Manager, and Mr. Booth, the secretary, when the usual compliments were passed to the chairman and directors, and the meeting separated.