Welsh Newspapers
Search 15 million Welsh newspaper articles
6 articles on this Page
THE EX-MINISTERIALISTS AND…
THE EX-MINISTERIALISTS AND THE FRAN- CHISE. THERE is nothing which the enemies of political freedom 80 much dread, as the extensiop of the elective franchise, with due provision for its independence. They have no faith in their cause or its merits they cannot trust to its chance of progressing without the aid of external forces C, Z3 they may sometimes flatter the people at large, but at heart they fear and dislike them. Some of the leading organs of the party who lately held office, have been developing their views upon this subject, and they should be carefully studied. Baffled and frustrated, as the anti progress gentlemen have re- cently been, it is a great mistake to look upon them as entirely defeated, as some persons seem hastily to have concluded. When an efficient reform bill shall be pro- posed, we shall find as bitter an enmity to it, as there was in 1830; and though the phalanx arrayed against it will be less numerous in proportion to that of its sup- porters, and, in some sense, less powerful than that which was beaten then, there will be, on the other hand, more skill and caution displayed on that side. Notwith- standing all the platitudes that have been uttered about the former Act being a final settlement, the leaders of the party are too wise to make a dead stand, even against all further parliamentary reform. Were they to do so, signal discomfiture would certainly await them. Their object will, therefore, be to neutralize the efficiency of any bill which may pass. But it is not to the mere fact of obstruction to the progress of parliamentary reform that we are anxious to call attention it is to the boldly- avowed principles upon which their policy is based. The Standard" (which, not very long since enunciated the barbaric sentiment that England would be as great and powerful, and all useful Englishmen would be as rich as they are, though one ruin should engulph all the manufacturing towns and districts of Great Bri- tain") now contents itself, since so enlightened an aspi- ration cannot be realized,with a devout wish for the utter debasement of the towns, which, as they were the NUCLEI of the country's liberties when they were in their infancy, have ever been the objects of deep hatred to the oppressor and his servile minions. Referring to the statement made before the Bridgnorth election com- mittee, that the influence of the Whitmore family was sufficient to return any person for that town, this paper gratuitously and unfoundedly asserting that such influ- ence may be certainly regarded as having been fairly acquired, says We are not ashamed or afraid to say that this is precisely the vendition to which we should wish to see the majority of our readers brought." And let not our readers, in their natural contempt for I those who can thus shamefully avow their desire to de- stroy the liberties of the borough constituencies, pass over the disgraceful declaration, as beneath notice. Utterly contemptible as such individuals may be, they do not thus write without many approving readers; and what is here unblushingly declared, is only what the powerful party whom the above journal represents, have long been I making great efforts to realize. Before the Reform Bill, the boroughs in this much-desired "condition" were nu- merous. The imperfections of that measure left many still in existence; and, where the ''influence" has de- clined, corruption has been resorted to, by way of re- storing the preponderance. But the leaders of the party to which we are referring, are ordinarily more specious in their objections and their arguments respecting the alleged grievance of the unenfranchised, often produce considerable effect. We invite, however, the timid among liberally-disposed poli- ticians to examine the meaning of that class of objec- tions, as given by the recognised party exponent above alluded to; and to consider the dangerous amount of re- striction to which the adoption of such notions would lead. It says,—" To make an ignorant and inexpe- rienced man a politician is almost inevitably to make him a democrat. And when we speak of an ignorant and in- experienced man, we speak not of a man deficient in elementary education, or in such instruction as is obtain- able in Mechanics' Institutes, Lyceums, Reading Rooms, all very good things as far as they go, but insufficient to fit a man for the exercise of political power. The igno- rant, inexperienced man of whom we speak, is he who is unacquainted with the habits, feelings, and modes of thought of his superiors in worldly condition. He sees, and, seeing, must envy their happier lot; and envy leads, too generally, to suspicion and dislike. Invest him with political power, and, without taking the trouble of ex- amining the details of any measuse, or calculating its con- sequences, he will almost certainly adopt that view of it which flatters his order, his personal vanity, and, if a bribe be in the way, his cupidity." This paragraph has too much of what has been called the Jenkins" style about it to give any very clear idea of what is intended. Probably the writer has in his eye some line of demarca- tion, very pleasing, beyond which, all, to his apprehen- sion, politically, are outside barbarians." Taking his words, however, in their literal and grammatical sense, there should be a wholesale disfranchisement of every man who is unacquainted with the habits and feelings, and modes of thought of his superiors in worldly condi- tion." Now, unless the knowledge thus held to be re- quisite, be reduced to such a MINIMUM as to render the argument worthless, it is evident that a vast number of our present limited constituency, of all grades, must be cut off from the franchise while every footman, coach- man, and groom, &c., &c., from their continual contact with their superiors in worldly condition," and conse- quent acquaintance with their "habits, feelings,and modes of thought," would, of course, be at once enfranchised, The parasite, the hanger-on, the tuft-hunter, would be the models of what may be called the secondary class of electors and flunkeyism would be synonymous with fit- aess for the possession of the suffrage. Let none say that we have, in the slightest degree, overslrained the ar- gument. that knowledge of those above him in fortune, j which a man may obtain by reading the newspapers, which contain so much information respecting them; the books which describe their habits, and the various publi- cations in which they themselves declare their opinions, and exhibit their feelings—by listening to their speeches and lectures-or by such observation as is not gained by personal contact, is here expressly excluded. The mem- bers of Mechanics Institutes or Lyceums, even though they may, in the first place, have enjoyed that ele- mentary instruction," for want of which some cannot realize the advantages of these institutions; though they have access to such extensive and varied libraries, as few of their superiors have under their roofs; though they may learn in classes, what their unaided reading might fail to convey to their minds, and receive from erudite, wealthy, and even noble individuals, the stimulus and encouragement of oral teaching; though they may daily peruse the proceedings of the legislature, and may cor- rect a hasty or prejudiced judgment by learning the va- rious opinions of the ablest periodical writers of all par- ties; yet, in the judgment of this writer, they are unfit for political power. Are our" moderate men," our con- scientious conservatives, those who have no sinister mo- tives for desiring to increase the untenably large propor- tion of non-electors to the population, prepared to en- dorse such a perilous proposition as this ? The calumny which this wretched slanderer throws upon the bulk of his countrymen-viz., that,being unacquainted with the habits, feeling?, and modes of thought of their superiors in worldly condition," they see, and seeing, must envy their happier lot"—is fortunately too gross to need refuta- tion but it is well for the people to mark the quarter whence they are thus reviled, that they may not be deluded when they are blandly asked, with a practised power of face, to put confidence in this very party, as they will be. Had the feeling thus falsely imputed been at all general, society would, long ago, have been over- turned. As to men judging of measures on superficial and interested grounds, that is a theory existent in all grades of society, among legislators, as well as electors- the enfranchised, as well as the unenfranchised. Finally, if the poorer classes are so unfit for the fran- chise, what becomes of the freeman, always the especial favourites of the II Standard's" party P The particular tactics of the anti-reformers are more fully developed in the chief morning advocate of the ex- government, the Morning Herald." While the intel- ligence and honesty of the country see, in the election disclosures, a strong argument against small, dependent, purchaseable, constituencies, and in favour of protection to the voter; the luminary of Shoe-lane informs its readers that these disclosures have destroyed all chance of a thorough reform bill; and with that impudence so characteristic of the unprincipled, and that hatred to the towns to which we have already alluded, proposes a sweeping disfranchisement among them, and a transfer- ence of seats to the county constituencies. The writer asserts that bribery is universal, except in the small towns and the counties; and hence, to them the voters must chiefly be confined. The first, however, is purposely kept out of sight, that corruption is not resorted to in these cases, simply because intimidation is much cheaper and easier. We deny that to be general in the large towns. The great bulk of the borough constituency is incorrupt; but there are purchaseable individuals every- where, and the absence of a decided majority renders a comparatively small number able to turn an election. In the counties and small boroughs, as we have observed, intimidation does better; but it is idle to say that, even in the former, and still more in the latter, there are not corruptible persons, if a sufficient inducement be offered. The Herald," in its hostility to the urban constituen- cies, dwells upon the £10 electors as having been bribed but says nothing of its favourites, the freemen. But, while there are Elo electors who will sell their votes for a direct sum of money, just as there are county voters who will do it for the profits of a gentleman's custom, or for a nobleman's influence in their favour, every one prac- tically acquainted with our large towns, knows that the freemen are the generally venal class. The country also knows very well how elections are managed in the quiet little towns" of "Reigate, Calne, Morpeth, and Buckingham," the pocket boroughs which are spoken of with such unction, but which the reform act ought not to have spared. Persons really familiar with the subject will, however, not think the Herald's" selection of places of large population," very accurate and will be specially amused at finding in the list the little town of Clithero, which, at the last general election, sent only 409 electors to the poll, there being 221 on one side, and 188 on the other. The Herald" further proposes, in order to gild over the transference of so much power, to restore an ascendancy to its supporters, stronger than that before the Reform Bill-that the county occupying franchise shall be lowered to X20. To this we will readily consent, if they will give us also the ballot; and even without it, we should not hesitate to take the extension PER SE. But that great party whose especial mission it is to guard their country's liberties, know too well what would be the fatal effect af the Herald's scheme, ever to suffer it to be accomplished. Counties there are, which ought to be divided for the purpose of giving them more members; but this must be part of a general plan, in which large towns now unrepresented, must have members also.
LOCAL INTELLIGENCE.
LOCAL INTELLIGENCE. [Continued from our second and third pages.] « SOUTH WALES RAILWAY. Weekending March 27, i853 (No. of Miles 131) £ 2601 13 7 Corresponding week, March 27,)8.32 (Do. 100) £ 1266 14 11
NEWPORT CATTLE MARKET, WEDNESDAY.
NEWPORT CATTLE MARKET, WEDNESDAY. Beef 54d to 6dper Ib I Bacon pigs 9s 6d to 10s per sco Mutton 7d to 74d per lb Porkers 93 6d to 10s per score Veal 6d to Gid per lb. j Lamb IOd to Is per lb. We noticed eight superior Hereford steers, bred and fed by Mr. Dowle, Claypit, purchased by Mr. Hugh Morgan, butcher, considered by competent judges to be the best ever seen in Newport market. A report has been mentioned in the neighbourhood of the Horse Guards, that the Royal Regiment is to be removed from Newport Barracks to Pembroke Dock! Most likely this is but idle gossip for all who know anything of the district, in reference to its military position, must be well aware that Newport is the proper focal point for troops intended for the protection of South Wales. We should hope that the phan- tasmagoria of French invasion—as much to be apprehended as the spectres of the Hartz mountains, would not lead to such an ill-judged movement. PLASTERERS' STRIKE.-The plasterers of Newport, who struck for an advance of wages, last week, went to work on Monday last, at their own price, viz., 4s. a day. THE LATE EXPLOSION AT THE RISCA. COLLIERY.—In ano- ther part of this paper, important observations made by the government inspector of coal mines, at the inquest, at Risca will be found, and read with interest. As regards the ap- pointment of colliery inspectors—a course adopted in 1851- the advisers of the crown have been nicely discriminating in their selection of officers, at least so far as our district is con- cerned. Mr. Blackwell, (who resigned the appointment, in consequence of the calls of private business upon his time,) and Mr. Mackworth, are gentlemen of clear heads, extensive scien- tific acquirements, and are strongly actuated by the spirit of investigation. We understand that Mr. Mackworth is about to proceed on an official mission to the continent, by the direc- tion of Lord Palmerston, with a view to inquire into the most recent improvements in the safety and economy of working collieries; in order to introduce them in many places where the want of such information leads to serious results. The less comparative loss of life, the mining schools, the education of miners, and provident associations, will, we have no doubt, also engage the zealous attention of Mr. Mackworth. This gentleman's statement at Risca, appears to take up new ground in accounting for the danger of Firedamp Collieries. o Ctacus. The benefits have been taking their rounds for some nights, and we are glad to learn that artistes of great and varied abilities who are wont to set the arena in a roar. have met a very fair share of public support; this is as it should be for Those who live to please, must please to live." The peerless Barry had, indeed, a benefit on Thursday week it proved a bumper" house, and those who had the pleasure of being present still speak of the ambrosial night with coun- tenances wreathed in smiles. This genius, who has had tes- timonials of various kinds presented to him—one at Swansea, declares that in all his movements on the world's stage he has never found kindness so entirely generous, hospitality so disinterested, and friendship more sincere, than that of Dear Cambria." ftir. Lenton, the celebrated India Rubber Clown, had his benefit last night, which proved that the in- habitants of Newpoit appreciated his talent.-Those public favourites, Carlo Alberto, of the Ancient and Loyal Order of Oddfellows, and Mr. Henry Adams, alias Picquet," the 1 celebrated bare-backed rider, take their benefits, conjointly, this (Friday) oveniug, under the patronage of James Brown, Esq of Brynglas, and there appears no doubt of a good result. TOWN HALL.—THURSDAY, MARCH 31. Magistrates present-Stephen Iggulden, Esq., (mayor), and Thomas Hughes, Esq. Robert Baker, for assaulting Leah Levy, was discharged, the complainant not appearing. Evan Williams and Thomas Jenkins were charged on sus- picion of stealing a silver watch. Mr. Champ appeared for the prisoners. P. S. Lloyd said he had made enquiries and found that his suspicions were incorrect.—Discharged. John Pcnton, charged with stealing a watch, was remanded until to morrow. Charles Mc. Kinston, a sailor, was discharged, no prosecutor appearing. P.S. Lloyd said he was apprehended for stealing a coat from another sailor, but the sailor having gone to sea, he could not prove the case against the prisoner. William Richards was charged with stealing a piece of pit- wood, the property of the Ebbw-vale Company. The police applied for a remand, which Mr. Champ, who appeared for the prisoner, opposed. Mr. Brown, the agent of the Company, said he could not swear to the wood. The prisoner was there- fore discharged. Margaret Collins, charged with coal stealing, was remanded until to-morrow. The prisoner asked to be allowed to have her child in the cell with her, but on enquiry, it was found that the child was nine or ten years old. The Mayor said had it been a young infant, he would have granted the favour, but not when a child was grown up. The stewards of the Hibernia Liberal Benefit Society ap- [ peared to answer the charge of Henry Granvill, for neglecting to obey the award of the arbitrators. Mr. Champ appeared for the complainant, and, at his request, the case stood over .1l Thursday next.
INEWPORT ATHENjEUM.
I NEWPORT ATHENjEUM. EXHIBITION AND CONVERSAZIONE. The useful and pleasing products of scientific research, and of skill in the arts, are, perhaps, never more agreeably dis- played than in popular exhibitions of the character of that which we are about to notice. At a period not very remote, the pleasures of science, as well in their progressive develop- ment as in their gratifying results, were confined almost en- tirely to individuals who took up science as a profession, or, from a love of scientific knowledge, devoted themselves almost exclusively to its attainment. More recently, however, fre- quent and creditable efforts have been made to popularise such pursuits and in the management of the great exhibition, as well as of many displays of a minor character, an evident de- sire has been manifested to cultivate among the masses of the population a taste for scientific inquiry. Contemplating a similar object, and with a laudable desire to carry out that purpose effectively, the Committee of the Newport Athenaeum resolved upon an Exhibition and Conversazione-" an enter- tainment," as they appropriately described it, of a novel and an attractive character, in which the improving and agreeable features of an exhibition of art, were to be blended with the charms of music, and the pleasures of social intercourse." Adopting these, as their leading purposes, the committee spiritedly set about their work, appointing an efficient sub- committee to carry out the details of the plan. The secre- taries immediately entered into correspondence with parties who would be likely to aid in their undertaking by contribut- ing paintings, models, and other works of art to the exhibi- tion and, by the day appointed, succeeded is getting together such a collection of valuable and interesting articles as really presented a very creditable and gratifying spectacle. The Town Hall has seldom, we think, if ever, presented so attrac- tive an appearance as it did on Tuesday last. Mr. R. G. Thomas, architect, kindly undertook to get the necessary framework, &c., upon which to suspend the pictures, placed around the walls, and the paintings were hung, and the general arrangements with reference to decoration, &c, conducted under the efficient superintendence of Mr. J. F. Mullock. The active Secretaries of the Institution were indefatigable in their efforts to render the entertainment worthy of the Athenseum; and our chief regret, a feeling participated, we believe, by many who witnessed the exhibition, was, that an entertain- ment requiring so much labour, and involving so much anxiety and care in its preparation, was not more generally visited (especially the meeting in the early part of the day) by those for whose gratification it was intended. In the evening, how- ever, there was a better attendance. The space in the capacious Hall was laid out in a manner calculated to give the fullest effect to the exhibition. Tables were fixed close to the walls, on the right and left of the main entrance, and, at convenient distances, in the centre of the room. On them were disposed, with great taste, the curiosities and works of art which had been collected. Opposite the hall- door a platform had been raised, on which was a chair, neatly ornamented, for the President, and seats for the gentlemen who were expected to address the meeting. At short distances from the platform, on each side, were arranged a lithographic press, from the office of Mr. E. Palmer, of this town; a small printing press, from the MERLIN office; a galvanic ap- paratus, belonging to Mr. Spear; and other interesting objects. In another part of the room was an apparatus for cooking with gas, lent by Mr. Willway, of St. Augustine's Parade, Bristol. This and the pieces of machinery just mentioned, were in action during the greater part of the evening-and many ap- peared to be much interested in the various processes, which were fully explained by the persons superintending them. Mr. Spear administered some galvanic twinges to many who were induced to submit to a "shaking," Mr. Willway cooked a piece of pork, roasted potatoes, and baked tarts with his gas apparatus; Mr. Palmer threw off a pleasing specimen of the lithographic art, and distributed the sheets freely among the visitors; and the letter-press printers were busy in striking off and circulating copics of the following encouraging and ap- propriate lines from the pen of the accomplished Mrs. Balfour: A MOTTO TOR THE ANNIVERSARY OF THE NEWPORT ATHEXIEUM, MARCH, 1853. THERE'S one sweet motto I would choose, For every good endeavour: Wisely its cheering precept use, "Hope on," my friends: "Hope ever." This wayward springtime of the year, 'Mid all its changing weather Still whispers in the list'ning ear Hope on," good friends! "Hope ever." Let not the hardships of life's way, Your will from duty sever; Work bravely through the darkest day, Hope on," true friends! Hope ever." Courage! although the hill be steep Your steps shall falter never, If firmly hand in hand you keep Hope on," brave friends! "Hope ever." And as throughout another year, You've freely worked together; Now pause, to breathe these words of cheer, Hope on," my friends "Hope ever." C. L. BALFOUR. The brilliant band of the 1st Royals, kindly permitted by the commanding officer to attend, gave a charm to the evening's proceedings, by the performance of several fine pieces. The objects exhibited embraced paintings, pieces of sculpture, bronzes, castings, &c., &c., and an idea of the general character of the exhibition may be gleaned from the following enumeration of the principal articles, with the names of the contributors Eagle Slayer (bronzed), David slinging the Stone, miniature Statue of Sir Robert Peel, Stag, Cupid Indignant, Wild Horses, Circassian Fish Woman, and other articles, from the Coalbrookdale Iron Company. Swiney Silver Goblet, from the Society of Arts. Articles of Gutta Pcrcha Manufacture.—Plain and coloured, ewer and basin, soapdish, &c., tobacco jar, watch stand, candle- sticks, snuff boxes, drinking cup, card basket, picture frames, air cushions, small bottles, door springs, flange collars for steam joints, &c., from Mr. Henry Branscombe, 6, Bridge Parade, Bristol. Fancy iron castings, some splendid Paris bronzes, model of locomotive, French toy, and other artieks, from James Brown, Esq. Two antique bronze figures, bought at the sale of the late Duke of Sussex's property, and an antique watch, from Edward Dowling, Esq. Specimen of minerals, articles of manufacture, by South American Indians, and other articles, from Mr-H. M. Partridge. Cases of Australian birds, from Mr. Napper. Model of schooner, in case, from Mr. Edmonds. Two vases of feather flowers, from Mr. H. Folk. Curiosities, &c., from South Africa, Madagascar, and Circassia, from the Rev. J. Jack. Large model of Royal Promenade, Victoria Square, Clifton, two models of villas, architectural drawings, &c., from H. Lloyd, Esq., architect, Bristol. Model of National School Room, cases of Australian insects, architectural drawings, &c., 1ft. G. Thomas, Esq., architect, Newport. Two models of steam boats, from Mr. G. Darknell. Specimen of silver spar, and other articles, from Thomas Morris. Esq. Mechanical model, from James Murphy, Esq. Model of steam engine, and a case of stuffed birds, from Mr. E. V. Jenkins. Model of the celebrated yacht "America," and other arti- cles, from Mr. Bcbell. This little craft was a gem of modelling, and was pronounced the most perfect of a large number re- cently submitted to the inspection of the Trinity Board. Chinese parasol, from Mr. Scott. Piece of sculpture, Death of Llewellin," chiselled out of a beautiful material—and other articles, from Mr. Watkins. Bust of Shakspeare, from Mr. H. J. Groves. Clanship and shade, from Mr. T. Turner. Case of stuffed birds, &c., from Captain Hughes. Case of insects, &c., from Mr. Thomas- Jones. Glass ship and shade, and several natural curiosities, from Mr. Hussey. Several cases of stuffed foreign birds, mineral specimens, &c., from John Conway, Esq. A bride cake, finely proportioned and elegantly ornamented, which elicited the warmest admiration of many present, from Mr. James Ewius, jun., Newport. A description of this chaste production of Mr. Ewins' skill was given in the last MERLIN. Gas cooking apparatus and stove, &c., from Mr. John Willway, Bristol. Indian curiosities, from Mr. Price, Pontypool. Photographic pictures, from Mr. Cartwright, Bristol. Galvanic battery and electric telegraph, from Mr. Joseph Spear. Lithographic press, from Mr. Palmer, lithographer. Two skeleton clocks, from Mr. Vaughan. We understand that the valuable collection of castings, &c., belonging to the Coalbrookdale Company, the gas cook- ing apparatus, and other interesting articles exhibited, were obtained by the zealous exertions of Mr. Jack, one of the Secretaries of the Athenaeum, among his friends in Bristol. Among the more valuable and beautiful paintings lent for the occasion, were exquisite examples of the "Virgin and Child," by Carlo Dolci, one of Virgin, Infant Jesus, and St. John," by Marratti, after Raffaell; a pair of small pictures by Berghem a family group by Necker—which was beautiful as a piece of colouring; and many large and merito- rious landscapes, by W. P. Pritchard, displaying various effects of sunlight, moonlight, &c., the property of W. Knowles, Esq., of Newport. A very beautiful, and, without doubt, a genuine example of George Morland, in his best and | most carefully finished manner, attracted much attention; ¡ this was kindly lent for the occasion by Martin Morrison, Esq. A very remarkable work, The Last Judgment," painter un- known, but not improbably Massacchio, was also exhibited. We have not space to enter into details respecting the qualities of this picture, but it is certainly a very striking and valuable work of art. It was contributed by C. O'Reilly, Esq. C. Lyne, Esq., is the fortunate possessor of a Michael Angelo- like picture of an old man reading-ilinude figure, very fine in drawing, muscular development, and colour; a little cleaning and varnish would, however, add greatly to the effect and beauty of the work. W. W. Morgan, Esq., permitted his large picture, by Reubens, to be exhibited. The picture, which might, with great probability, be ascribed to this master, struck us as a very excellent work, being very mellow in colour, bold and vigorous in drawing; subject, a drunken fawn, with laughing peasant, wine butt, grapes, &c. Two very nice pictures of Fruit and Flowers, were hung near the last-mentioned paint- ing, and displayed all the excellence of the Dutch school. They are the property of Mr. T. Latch and Mr. S. Evans. Guilo Romano there was a very pleasing picture by this master, of a Virgin and Child," the property of Mr. Henry Mullock. Two or three small pictures on the mantelpiece, at the east end of the room, were very remarkable for the quantity of subject matter introduced one, of a "Feast of the Gods," if not an original picture by Reubens, was so full of the qualities of that great master, as to make it an invaluable picture and the other referred to, were scripture subjects, vcry Raffaellesque in design and character. Mr. W. Downing Evans's picture, by Post," of a West Indian scene, was clever, and showed that peculiar tone of colour and minute finish characteristic of the works of this painter. In the collection, which amounted to upwards of a hundred, were several modern pictures by various artists: among these we may mention Mr. J. F. Mullock, who contributed several paintings, exhibiting great skill in drawing, colouring, and general effect; and which were very favourably noticed by the visitors. The afternoon and evening were spent in a pleasing inspec- tion of the exhibition; and about eight o'clock, Mr. Jack, one of the secretaries, -announeed that, as addresses were to con- stitute a part of the proceedings, the President would now take the chair, and open that part of the business. Henry John Davis, Esq., being called to the chair, said that, as President of the Institution, he had been requested to take the chair on that occasion. He certainly could wish that the situation were more ably filled; at the same time, as it de- volved upon him, he was not disposed to flinch from his duty. He could not but congratulate the members of the Athenaeum upon the excellent debut they had been able to make in their first exhibition—and being the first which had been got up, he was quite sure that the audience would agree with him in saying that it was highly creditable to those by whom it had been superintended. (Hear, hear.) Such efforts were enti- tled to the warmest encouragement and he trusted that, in auother year, the committee would be in a position to give an exhibition in a building of their own—(applause)—a building adequate to the necessities of tho Institution—and in which there would be a museum stored with works of Art and works of Nature, that would form a most interesting and im- proving study to the members. (Hear, hear.) It was impos- sible not to observe with pleasure that there were many things exhibited in that room by native artists—(hear, hear)—and among these there was just before him one of a very consum- able, but at the same time, a very elegant kind—the royal bride cake, manufactured by Mr. James Ewins, jun., of this town. (Applause.) He had no doubt from the fino specimen which Mr. Ewins had exhibited, that parties would be in- duced to go to him when they required such articles, although, perhaps, not many would require them so large. (Laughter and applause.) It would be unbecoming, however, in him (the Chairman) to occupy much of their time in descanting upon the articles exhibited, as there were gentlemen around hiia who had been requested to address the meeting. He would, therefore, at once call upon The Rev. Edward Hawkins.—The rev. gentleman, on rising, said he had been requested to address the meeting; and he wished that he had the power, as he had the disposition, to make such observations as would convey to his audience an impression of the great satisfaction which, in common, he was sure, with all present, he had felt in witnessing the exhibition of that day. He was not quite aware of the precise character of the address which might be expected from him upon such an occasion; but he would yen ure to repeat the sentiment which had b2en expressed by the President, as to the value and the gratifying nature of the collection of articles now be- fore them. (Hear, hear.) They must have been struck with the useful character of the exhibition; and in these days of utility, when the value ofthings was judgcdof according to their capability of answering some important objcct, and when so many efforts were put forth that men's minds might be in- structed as they ought to be, it was pleasing to find these sentiments regarded in the arrangement of the present exhi- bition, for he was satisfied that all must have received some benefit and amusement from what had been presented to them that day. (Applause.) He could not but feel that, in the present day, they should do all they could to amuse as well as to instruct those around them. He meant to say that it was a part of the duty of those who took upon themselves to in- struct others, to blend that instruction, if possible, with rational amusement, and thus render it agreeable and inviting. (Applause.) And he would not but say that that object ap- peared to have been carried out upon the present occasion. This haJ been done now in a very creditable manner; and he had no doubt, it could be improved upon on a future occasion. It was also a very pleasing feature of this meeting that it em- braced points upon which they could all agree together. There were differences among them upon many subjects, and pro- bably always would be, in matters of opiiiion-this was scarcely to be avoided, perhaps, if they were honest in their pursuit of truth but here was ground upon which they could all stand—here were subjects upon which they could all agree —here they could unite; and surely this was an object to be specially desii-(-,d--for where they could meet together ulon common ground, it was a friendly and happy thing to do so. (Applause.) And as far as he could be instrumental in pro- moting such a feeling, he should be most anxious to do so. He fearsd that all he had said upon the subject had been very trite; but he wished to make one remark with regard to the Institution, the managers of which had brought them together on that occasion. He was more anxious about that than about the present exhibition. He thought that Institution deserved warm and general support; they should throw themselves, with energy, into the promotion of its objects they were now an Athenajum and a Mechanics' Institute they were once only a Mechanics' Institute; and they must not forget that- they still professed to regard the claims of a class to whom such an Institution was calculated to be of great value. He separated the two branches of the Institution, because he could not help thinking that if lectures and other similar means of improvement were sometimes given more particu- larly for the use of mechanics, it would be a means very likely to carry out one of the leading objects of the society. They should certainly keep that one point before them, in connection with their other objects. He trusted that by this exhibition a greater interest would be awakened on behalf of the Institu- tion. When they saw what had been done for the last three or four years by the Secretaries and Committee of the Institu- tion, he thought it would be very ungrateful if the public did not throw their energies into the matter, and aid them in their good work. (Hear, hear.) With respect to< a new building for the society, he most cordially seconded the words of their President: at the same time, he did not like to go very far in that direction, because it looked like committing himself in some measure, to the raising of the means whereby the building was to be obtained-aud he was sorry that he could not do a great deal in that way. He trusted, however, that by united effort, they would be able to erect a. building proportionate to the objects of the society—for the purpose of rendering permanent the Newport Athenaeum and Mechanics' Institute. (Applause.) The Rev. J< Barfield, being invited by the Chairman, then rose, and addressed the meeting to the following effect: lIe hoped that the tone of feeling which had been given to the meeting would be kept up—that of a desire to promote the objects of science, art, manufactures, &c.; and it would be well, if, from this meeting, should originate some such move- ment as that which had been suggested with reference to lectures for mechanics and working men; and it would be a so a good thing if those who were not of those classes wou condescend to learn, and attend such *ie ° would be likely to be accomplished, He supposed ne might not compare the present exhibition with the eI 1 11 8 art and manufactures in the great centres of' commerce and civilization it would be thought presumptous, he had no doubt, to compare it with the British Museum or the National Gallery; but he would say that the pictures appeared to him to be better hung than in the National Gallery at was, with more regard to the light which was to fall npon them. (Hear, hear.) He could not look upon the things set out before them I without being taken, as it were, out of this room, and carried to the study where the painter was toiling at his work, or to the room where the sculptor was labo^.ing at an idea, and seeking to give it expression. Exhibitions like the present should take them to such place?V- w. °h the labours and observe the development of ambition m the minds of such individuals; for he supposed that it was ambition that led them on in their efforts,, as mncn as a love of truth; but still, individuals; for he supposed that it was ambition that led them on in their efforts,, as much as a love of truth; but still, they were instrumental in ^rl^rl,nS °.ut the truth, such being, more or less, the natural effect ot their labours. God did not give Truth to those who only sought Truth as the sister of Ease those who sought to cultivate their own minds desulto- rily, would not obtain truth: they might attain something like it, perhaps; but they would not attain that which was attained by the labourer after truth, (Hear, hear.) What they had to do was, to make their own minds, so to speak, and not to wait for some extraneous influence to take them up and carry them forward—not wait to be moulded and fashioned by external circumstances; but be independent inquirers after truth. (Applause.) Those were the sort of men they wanted —men, who, if they should go to some place where there were no educational institutions, no books, no advantages, and even no other audience than that which Demosthenes had, and had to listen only to the responses of the birds, could still find the means of self-improvement and opportunities for cultivating independent thought. (Hear, hear.) They should not depend upon others for the cultivation of their minds, they should train their own intellects, for they owed them- selves such a duty. They should also discipline their minds, and not wait to be made and moulded by institutions. These were very useful in affording the means of information and improvement; but an informed mind without discipline was like a house full of furniture, all heaped and jumble together in disorder, and therefore, in a great measure useless. He would say that an independent mind ought never to be at the mercy of others-it should never be like a ship at sea, with- out a rudder, carried about at the caprice of every wind that might blow; but, availing itself of all means of enlighten- ment within its reach, should also be subjected to wholesome discipline. He was much pleased at being present at this con- versazione and he hoped they would have a better exhibition next year he hoped the present meeting would stir up a wish among their townspeople to cultivate their minds. They were certainly making progress in the right direction: they had already connected themselves with the Society of Arts; and, although at a remote distance, they might still regard them- selves as a planet, revolving in the same system with the great Exhibition. Let them all try to get a stimulus from the pre- sent meeting; for the warmth of influence from mind to mind might become as great as at the Great Exhibition. (Hear, hear.) He might be deemed somewhat presumptuous; but he was given to look not at the gloomy side of things; and the case of the Newport Athenaeum was certainly not the first in wh ch he should begin to despair. (Applause.) An interval of ten minutes having been allowed for refresh- ment, the remainder of the evening was occupied by the party of efficient vocalists, whose services had been secured for the occasion: Miss Clowes Miss Thorpe, of Bristol; Mr. H. J. Groves; and Mr. S. Morgan, (amateur), of Gloucester. We append a programme of the pieces sung GLFr, When the West." Mendelssohn. Miss Thorp, Miss Clowes, Mr. S. Morgan, Mr. Groves. DRAMATIC SCENE. Richard Coeur do Lion. G. A. Oaborne, Mr. Groves. TRIO—" Sleep, gentle Lady." Bishop. Miss Thorp, Miss Clowes, Mr. S. Morgan. In questo simplice modesto asilo Cavatina." Donizetti. .I. Miss Clowes. BUFFO SONG —" Fayre Ilosamonde," A.D., 1164 Written by Albert Smith, composed by John Parry. Mr. S. Morgan. NATIONAL ANTHEM Novello. We have heard that a partial misunderstanding existed as to the order in which the pieces were to be introduced—Mr. Groves, the leader of the party, having been under the im- pression that the addresses were to be delivered alternately with the performance of the selected compositions. To a de- parture from this mode may be ascribed, we believe, a little embarrassment on the part of the singers. In the perform- ance of the glee, "When the West," the harmony was scarccly given—the voices, remarkably good considered singly, not appearing to blend perfectly in some of the parts. Mr. Groves succeeded well in the dramatic scene, excepting as to articulation. The trio, Sleep, gentle lady," was deser- vedly encored, and obligingly repeated. Miss Clowes was well received in the piece from Donizetti; and Mr. Morgan excited much merriment in his rendering of Fayre Rosamonde, and, in obedience to a general call, sang another comic song with considerable effect. The National Anthem, by the glee party, closed the pro- ceedings.
ABERGAVENNY RACES,
ABERGAVENNY RACES, THURSDAY, the 31st of MARCH, 1853. The races of this town, which have, for years past, been the theme and admiration of the surrounding counties, have again come round in thier turn, to cheer up the spirits of the inhabi- tants, and to the delight of the sporting circle, after a long and an inclement season, which up to the present time con- tinues with frosty nights, but fine and sunshine days, with cold and cutting winds. During the last three weeks, the weather has been most favourable, as respects bringing the race course to an excellent condition, in consequence of which most brilliant sport was anticipated, as the number of horsei exceed thirty. Yesterday was one of the finest days we have experienced for months early in the morning the sun rose in all its splendour, with a continual melody from the lark and thrush, which poured forth their notes in such abundance, that the beautiful valley in which the race course is situated, rang with their music during the whole of the day. But what a change in 2-1 hours. Towards the evening of yesterday, the wind shifted its quarter from the N.E. to the S.W.; the elements soon became overcast, and a partial gloom was visible in the countenances of interested parties, whose anticipations c were a change in weather. Night having past, and the dawn of day making its appearance, we had to witness a dull and gloomy morning, with drizzling rain; no sun tipped the mountains with its golden rays; no note from the thrush or the lark; the tops of the mountain and hills were hidden with the mist; and all was silent, with the exception of the busy publicans, who were engaged from an early hour, providing for the reception of strangers and visitors. To say anything as respects business we cannot, except that the town has been very dull the whole of the week-even up to last night-the appearance of which was of an ordinary character, very little business doing. Towards middle day, the town became more lively, and as the hour for the sport approached, hundreds of persons were seen wending their way towards the race course, which, in fine weather, presents to the stranger a truly beau- tiful view. On arriving at the race course, the grand stand is the first object of attraction, most pleasantly situated on a rising ground, from the upper part of which is a splendid view of the surrounding country, nearly in the front of which stands the Blorenge mountain; towards the west, the vale of Crickhowel; to the north the Rolvins and Sugar Loaf mountains and to the north-west, the Great Skirrid, or Holy Mountain,- the beautiful River Usk, running within a few yards, and may bo traced to view for miles towards the town of Usk. hour of one o'clock having arrived, the company were but fe^ in number, although the weather still proved fine, with rathef a cutting wind. Among the company present were — Captain Stretton and ladies, Capt. Saunders and family, the Misses Williams and company (Coldbrook Park), Capt. Jones, Henry Dyke, Esq-t and party, Davies, Esq, Garth, Manning, Esq, — Gough Esq., Hodding, Esq., S. Kidway, Esq., Mrs. Wheeley an, ladies, Thos. Hughes, Esq., — Williamson, Esq., and part** C. H. Leigh, Esq., (Pontypool Park), with family and part/r in a carriage and four, Dr. F. Bath, J. A. Herbert, Esq., (LllØ" arth), and the whole of his family. The Monmouthshire Stakes of 5 sovs each, and JE40 added bf the fund, for horses that have never won a plate or stake. value £ 5!>. Heats, one mile and a half. 3 yrs old, 7t .JIb", 4 yrs old, list 81bs 5 yrs old, 9st; 6 and aged, 9st Horses bred iu the county of Monmouth allowed 51b3' Entire horses to carry 3lbs extra. ) Mr. Hartley's br h Gamecock, aged 3 1 1 Mr. Oliver's br g Nonsuch, 4 yrs, h b 1 2 2 Mr. D. Samuel's b f Lady Dedlock, 4 yrs. 2 0 dr Capt. Delme's b f The Arrow, 3 yrs 0 3 dr Mr. Smith's ch m Ferret, 4 yrs 0 0 3 Mr. H. Mill's b g Phantom, h b, 6 yrs 0 0 4 START.—It was nearly two o'clock befoie the hor^ for the Monmouthshire Stakes made their appearance at Vy appointed place for starting, which was on the opposite si<fe" the course to the Grand Stand. Mustang falling lame, did.o^ show; therefore, the above six started. On the word bei^f • given, Nonsuch showed first play, by taking the lead, folio#'0* closely by Lady Dedlock and Gamecock, the other three lyi^t far in the rear; Nonsuch, Lady Dedlock, and Gamec0^ keeping close during the first round, but on coming to the tance post, the Gamecock pulled up, and left the running Nonsuch and Lady Dedlock, which was well contested, & former winning by about half a length. SECOND HEAT.—Nothing daunted, the whole of the ho made their appearance at the starting post, and went off slashing pace. For about two or three hundred yards, L**x Dedlock and Phantom were in the rear, but soon overtop their opponents, and the whole then lay together till coming to straight running, when a desperate struggle Wj place, all being well up, and Gamecock wianijag by nearly THIRI> HEAT.—Game-cock, Nonsuch, Phantom, and Fei"1^ were posted this heat, the other two being drawn. The « former took the lead, while the two latter kept close to heels. When rounding the winning post the first time,~ £ whole were in a cluster, and continued so till about quarters of a mile from home, when the fight liy bet** £ Game-cock and Nonsuch, which was beautifully. cont««^ Gaaie-cock winaing by about a length. < The Llandilo Selling Stakes, a sweepstakes of 5sovs forfeit, with £ 2o added, for horses of all deoom»natt*M 3 yrs old to carry 9st 41bs; 4 yrs. U>st 131bs; 8yrs» 6 and aged. list 71bs Mares allowed albs, and Keldings Heats, one mile and a distance. Forfeits to go to sa horse. Mr. Capel's b m Heliotrope 4 yrs (£60) ..11 L Mr. Parr's ch f Pride, S yrs (£80) 2 0 Il Mr. Davis's br g Little John, aged, ( £ 20) 0 0 < Mr. Land's br g Thoodine 4 yrs ( £ 60) ,,02 Mr. H. Dvke's The Don, 3 yrs, ( £ 60) 3 0 Y u FIUST HEAT. —In this heat the five started. Little took the lead, but was soon put out of place by Heliotrope, splendid race between placed, horses, the latter winning j neck. i
Advertising
NOTICES TO CORRESPONDENTS. The lines on the late Colliery explosion, indicate a due sense of the calamity, but an immature ability for versification. We shall be happy to hear from W. P." (Blaenavon), when he wooes the muse, with better success. Iago ab Gwyllim."—The meritorious subject of your poem has been recently lauded in verse, in the MERLIN and his modesty might object to another eulogium, so soon. "A Barrister," on the Emancipation of the Jews, shall appear in the next number of the MEKLIJT. Mr. Deakin's favour shall be given to our readers. The letter of Thomas Harris, is received.