Monmouthshire Merlin

THE MERLIN'S NOTES OF THE WEEK. WORCESTER AND HEREFORD RAILWAY. THE great capabilities of Newport for becoming a commercial Port of the first order, have been long spoken of, largely discussed, and, in the end, fully admitted. With a noble river, discharging itself into a magnificent channel, opening at once to the ocean's great pathway—with a country around teeming with mineral wealth, and abound- ing with those treasures of the coal field, without which the great discovery of modern times, steam- power, would be a nullity, or, at best, but a toy for philosophic speculation—with a hardy and numer- ous population, springing from and fostered by ennobling enterprise and labour, with their daily bread" and numerous wants to be supplied-all testify and proclaim a state of things which are ever found to be the true Wealth of Nations," and which, if carried to those limits to which they are capable, must make the favoured spot in which they have their life and being," a high and distin- guished one in the land. Nature has done much for Newport-man but little. Cardiff, without its ad- vantages-and we speak this advisedly-has out- stripped it in the race. Birkenhead has become a great city in the memory of men that have not yet reached the middle stage of life. Docks that invite the commerce of the world, are now to be seen where, twenty years ago, fields gave rich harvests to reward the husbandman's toil. These docks are now crowded, and the cry is for more; for com- merce pauses not-stops not in its course—when once it commences its sure and steady march. There, as in Cardiff, there is every facility—here there is little, or none. It is true we have ONE dock; but we require several, and, above all, we require to be put in direct communication with North, South, East, and West. With South, East, and West, we have, we admit, facile modes of approach but to the NORTH, we are lamentably deficient of access; and we, therefore, were pained and grieved on Monday last, to find our townsmen, as Lord Castlereagh would say, so backward in coming forward," to give their countenance and support to an undertaking so great in its conception-so useful in its objects-which promises much, and would do more, if carried out successfully to its full entirety -we allude to the WQRCESTER. AND HEREFORD RAILWAY. The project was originally undertaken in no wild or speculative spirit-with no desire to benefit this or that clique or interest, to forward this or that line or district; but to open Birmingham and a most rich line of country, to Newport and the Hills." We have often heard the late Mr. Blake- more, with his sound and practical good sense, speak of this, if effected, as likely to prove a crowning triumph to Newport;—in fact, to make her TH.i Port of the NOW queenly Birmingham, and not, as Burke once called her, the toy-shop of Europe," and some of the richest towns of Staffordshire. Mr. Blakemore was no ordinary man and, least of all, was he likely to delude himself and others by giving reins to his imagination. Events are every day showing the soundness of his views in respect of connecting Birmingham with Newport, as is evi- dent by the truths stated on Monday last, which cannot even be attempted to be refuted. Pontypool and Newport may now be said to be ONE, in conse- quence of the railway which connects them; and Mr. Thomas Brown proved this important fact on Monday last—a fact that should be made patent to the world-that FIFTY-TWO miles would be gained (for in locomotion, what is shortened, is of course gained) by the projected line. Thus Birmingham would be brought fifty-two miles nearer to Ponty- pool Mr. Brown's evidence was not complex-it was clear, succinct, and convincing. The distance from Pontypool to Birmingham, via Shrewsbury and Stafford, is one hundred and fifty-one miles; by the contemplated Worcester and Hereford line, it would be EIGHTY-NINE —thus shortening the route by fifty-two miles, and showing a continuous and un- broken line of eighty-nine miles only, without break of gauge, against the present route, via Gloucester, of one hundred and seven miles, with TWO breaks of gauge One word of comment here would be un- necessary, for facts and the "inevitable figures," speak for themselves. But further, Mr. Brown tells us that traders are now sending coke from here to Staffordshire, by this circuitous route, which of course would go by the Worcester and Hereford line, if completed; and thus forty-seven miles would be saved, which, at ld. per mile, would be a saving of three shillings in the transit! Other facts, equally important and startling, were stated by Mr. James Brown, Mr. Rennie, and Mr. Bat- chelor; and when we are told that all that is now wanted, is the sum of £ 145,000, to carrry this under- taking to a successful issue, and that, if such a sum be not forthcoming in a fortnight, all will be im- perilled, and the undertaking perhaps forever aban- doned-we really feel annoyed at the apathy hitherto abroad. 'But the talent and untiring energy of the gentlemen who took s) prominent a part in the proceedings on Monday last, are too well known to permit a doubt to be entertained of ulti- mate success, and we argue much in favour of that from door-to-door application-those urgent requests -those unanswerable statements—that will now be made on every side by men of the highest intelli- gence and most practical talent, in favour of the Worcester and Hereford Railway. They have done well-they have spoken well:— Quo essent ad id expeditiores." How often have the voices of both physicians and publicists been raised against the dangerous prac- tice of intramural interments, and how much has England been shamed at being the very last Euro- pean State that adhered to a custom so long disused on the Continent, and which we fully understood was so detrimental to the public health, and so re- pulsive to the public feeling. But it now appears, if we are to believe Archdeacon Hale, who has con- stituted himself the tutelary guardian of the city grave yards, that we have all erred most woefully on the subject; and that we have banished from us sources of health, instead of gales of putrefaction, and that our Stow mausoleum should have been left to still diffuse its balmy fragrance, notwithstanding the solemn and repeated protests of the Stow- hillians; and, far more, the voices of the fair and gentle dissentients from the more aristocratic quar- ters around !-the May-fair of our rising and far- famed town. The Archdeacon is a bold man (and there is nothing in this life like being original), and the venerable purveyor for the metropolitan Gol- gotha must have an original breadth of thought, tor his theories are astounding, and his words, if not hollow, are at least sepulchral! He proves, evidently to his own great satisfaction, and to the satisfaction of those who hold vested rights" to poison the living by the exhalations from the graves of the dead, that church-yards in the middle of leviathan cities, like Londen, reeking with the accumulated decomposition of centuries, are far from being pre- judicial to health—that they injure not—and should be as sacred as the Lares and Penates were to the dwellers in the shades of the Capitol. Life and death, we are told, are but dust; that death is the analysis and dissolution of bodies; that death is as natural to the world as life that we are sur- rounded by death on all sides and that man is the only animal that buries his dead! Supposing bodies are NOT buried," says the rev. gentleman, is there any proof that in their decay they would poison the atmosphere and generate disease ?" To this startling question, another might be put-did Archdeacon Hale HIMSELF every try the experi- ment? If not, we pray him do so, in his own sacred home," and we will bet a sovereign to a scudi that, MAUGRE his statement, which of course we cannot presume to controvert, "repulsive smells are as much the work of God as agreeable perfumes;" that the stench from the Wunburied cone" would set his venerable nose into amusing contortions. He may think a rose-garden no better, than a grave-yard—both being the work of God Be it so but, as truly observed, So is the metal of which a bullet is composed the work of God. yet these little articles, when discharged from a Minie rifle barrel, are known by experience to be highly detrimental to the human body!" Ah! most learned Doctor and Pundit, beware of thyself; but of all, beware of the ARGUMENTUM AD AD- SURDUM

TOWN COUNCIL ELECTION.—The 1st of November pro- mises a very animated contest in the East Ward. The friends of the outgoing members,—who are disinterestedly willing to retain their seats,and serve the public still-are up and doing, while the supporters of a new candidate for municipal honours are acting with energy and tact. We have not heard as yet, of a coming contest in the West Ward, but we understand that the pulsation of some of the influential electors has been felt. Mr. Rennie, one of the gentlemen whose triennial period of corporate service is about to expire, and who is in the field for re-election, will give an account of his stewardship on Monday evening. As the ratepayers are aware, absence from the kingdom, for a short time, prevented his being present at the meet- ing held on the 8th instant. SEVERELY BURNED.—We regret to hear that Mrs. Webb, living on Tunnel terrace, Banes-well, sustained se- rious injuries on Thursday last, in consequence of a portion of her dress having by some means caught fire. RATING OF PILLGWENLLY.-A memorial, signed by a large number of ratepayers and inhabitants living on the east side of the dock, was presented to the Newport magis- trates on Monday, drawing attention to the fact that the amount of the rate levied upon them by the laat borough rate for lighting, cleaning, and police, was JE96 18s. 5d.; and that there is not one public lamp in the district. The consequence is, that property is greatly exposed, and the lives of passengers jeopardised by the continual moving about of locomotive engines. The memorialists respect- fully asked the Bench to take these complaints into con- sideration, and to recommend, until permanent arrange- ments are made, that lamps, lighted by camphine, oil, or by some other means, be placed conspicuously along the new road made by the Dock Company. The magistrates on the Bench, Mr. Woollett and Mr. Evans, said they would invite the attention of the Board of Health to the request of the memorialists. TOWN COUNCIL, FRIDAY.—A meeting was held this morning on the subject of the collection of the current rate, when, after a lengthened conversation in reference to the perilous illness of the collector, Mr. Pitt, in] conse- quence of which the collection of the rate has been sus- pended, a resolution was passed that the sureties of Mr. Pitt proceed to collect the unpaid sums of the rate • and the ratepayers will take notice, that the sureties are in- structed to be urgent in such collections. TIMBER ARRIVALS.-The William B. Dean, from Wal- lace, Nova Scotia, and the Tarquin, from Miramichi, with 30,000 spruce and pine deals, for the Messrs. Williams.

RE-OPENING OF ST. WOOLLOS CHURCH- This venerable fabric-a monument at once of the taste and piety of c.ur ancestors-was, on Thursday last, re- opened for divine service, under circumstances particu- larly gratifying to all who took an interest in the good work. It must indeed have been felt as a happy con- summation, by the respected vicar; and many as well as hearty, doubtless, were the congratulations of his friends on the gratifying event; for the feeling is as just as it is general, that to the zeal, Christian earnestness, and unti- ring efforts of the rev. gentleman, the preserving from dilapidation of a sacred edifice, associated with the most solemn feelings and treasured memories of the inhabitants of the place, may, under Providence, be attributed. The best wishes and the practical aid of all classes and creedi of our little community, were spontaneously with one estimable for the devotedness of his heart to the service of God and the welfare of his neighbours. Pectus preeceptis format amicis, Asperitatis et invidiaa corrector et irae"— This town was visited by numerous families from distant places, and we never, upon any previous occasion, wit- nessed so many clerical gentlemen in Newport. The bells of St. Woollos rang joyously, the streets faresented a holiday aspect, and as the hour of service approached, parties appeared wending their way up the leading streets to the ancient Church, which, before eleven o'clock, pre- sented a brilliant and numerous congregation, every available means being adopted by the Churchwardens, Messrs. Clapp and Phillips, to get sitting room for all. And whilst the gentry were attended to in this respect, the humble were not neglected. The Mayor and several members of the Town Council attended in a body, occu- pying two of the best pews in the church, one of which, on the motion of Octavius Morgan, Esq., M.P., had been considerately set apart by the Restoration Committee, for the accommodation, in future, of the Corporation of New- port. We could scarcely give, with anything like accu- racy, a list of the laity present-the congregation em- bracing most of the gentry of this part of the county, with many from distant places, whilst among the clergy we saw the following rev. gentlemen :— Rev. Dean of Llandaff, Archdeacon Crawley, Chancellor Williams, Revds. Augustus Morgan, David Davies, Howel Williams, Hugh Williams, W. Phillips, W. P. Edwards, D. Jones, Wm. Powell, Thomas Pope, J. T. Wrenford, Williams, St. Pauls, W. Gault, Trinity, Evans, Peter- stone, Hughes, E. Jenkins, W.Jenkins, Williams, Whitson, Williams, Crick, Jones, Undy, Jones, Panteague, D. Har- wood, Pontypool, Davies, Trevethin, Davies, Lanvaches, W. Williams, Bedwas, Williams, Caldicot, Smith, Pen- how Steel, Magor, Steel, Caerwent, — Woodward, Evans, Usk, E. Davidson, Mathern, Gabriel, Chepstow, Rees, Blaina, Hughes, Abercarn, Hughes, Machen, W. Rees, Rhymney, W. Clark, Lanvrechva, &c., &c. The Rev. Wm. Feetham read the morning prayers; the Rev. Edward Hawkins, vicar, officiated at the Communion-table. The following is the programme of the sacred music, which was directed by Mr. Groves, the able organist of St. Woollos, and given with. taste and precision. We much admired a fine bass voice amongst the choir. Venite, chant, by Groves. La Te Deum and Jubilate, in G, by J. Clarke, 1693. Psalm 184 tune, "Bedford." I Sanctus and Responses, by Dr. Aldrich. Voluntary before Sermon, "Holy, holy." The Lord Bishop of the diocese preached the sermon, from 1st Cor., xi., 19, There must be also heresies among you, that they which are true may be made mani- fest among you." The Right Rev. Prelate pointed out what, his Lordship argued, was distinctly shown by history and experience, that man was created with a mind possessing great diversity and that such diversity effected important purposes in the economy of God's government, and was the means of giving a powerful impulse to those investigations of which the human mind is capa- ble. If there were such a diversity in the powers of the human mind, and such liberty of thought were an abso- lute condition of our existence, how far should that liberty be allowed when matters of revelation came to be considered? In answering this question, the right rev. prelate entered upon a wide field of controversial disquisition, and in a very impressive manner, argued that the doctrines of the Church of England had such claims upon the world, that if they were duly weighed, would result in their hearty acknowledgment by all. In the evening, the church was even more numerously crowded, by a highly-respectable congregation, among whom we observed the Bishop and many of the neighbouring clergy, members of the leading families of the town and neighbourhood, with a considerable number of professional gentlemen and tradesmen. The introductory portions of the service were conducted by the Rev. Edward Hawkins, vicar and the sermon was preached by the Rev. Thomas Prothero, Chaplain in Ordinary to her Majesty. The rev. gentleman selected as his text, the 27th verse of the 8th chapter of the First Book of Kings:—"But will God indeed dwell on the earth ? Behold the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain Thee how much less this house that I have builded." Such, the rev. gentleman observed, was the language of Solomon, on dedicating the temple he had built, to the Most High. Seeing before him, in the magnificent structure he had been the instrument of rearing, so in any motives to natural pride, it was possible these might banish from his mind all ideas but of himself and the work he had accomplished but a humbling sense of the Majesty of the Almighty seemed to have dispossesed his mind of every thought but that .of God and in this view, the sentiment of the text was one which might be appropriately uttered by them all on the present occasion. In consecrating that superb and costly temple to the King of Kings, how unlike was the conduct of Solomon to that of those who reared highly finished houses for their own comfort, while they looked scrutinisingly to every item of expense incurred in adorning the house of the Lord—who built stately structures for their own brief dwelling upon earth but in the work of God, were found following when they ought to lead, and finding a shelter for their own shortcomings in the backwardness of others Happily, however, in the present instance, the affecting prophetic appeal-" Is it time for you to dwell in your ceiled houses, and this Temple of God lie waste?" had produced its legitimate result. There was, however, still a work for every one present, to do. The fund raised, though considerable, had been exhausted, in improvements none of which were unnecessary, and a deficiency still existed. After eloquent and interesting allusions to the past his- tory of the Church, and to the monuments of sincere piety and exalted genius left to us, in noble ecclesiastical edifices, by our forefathers, the rev. preacher remarked, that it was well for England, that while their attention was turned to the miseries and the glories of war, thoughts of religion and charity were still preserved among them, and that there was still a sacred regard to the honour of God, and the preservation of His Temple. If the Spirit of God dwelt in that house of prayer, and if the Son of God sanctified it with His presence, then they might expect to realise, in every service of the sanctuary, the gracious blessing of the Lord, and the fulfilment of the promise that whatever they might agree to ask in the Saviours name, should be done for them. In vain, however, would be the solemn assembly, and the imposing ceremony of outward worship, if the Spirit of God ruled not in their hearts; for, said the rev. gentleman emphatically, If Christ be not sought elsewhere, he will never be found here." After an earnest exhortation to domesti c

BOROUGH OF NEWPORT. I TO THE BURGESSES OF THE WEST WARD. GENTLEMEN,—The term of office for G which you sent us to the Council Board, as your representatives, being nearly expired, and during which, all of us have filled the office of Chief Magistrate, we solicit your suffrages at the approaching election. Our conduct during the last three years, is before you, and the principles and motives which have guided us in the past, will direct us in the future. We desire that the affairs of this important town and port should be so managed, that the true interests of the public may be promoted. Should you again elect us, we shall devote to all public questions affecting the town, our fullest and best attention. SAMUEL HO M FRAY, JAMES BROWN, STEPHEN IGGULDEN. Newport, October 19, 1855. TO THE BURGESSES OF THE EAST WARD OF THE BOROUGH OF NEWPORT. GENTLEMEN,—You have done me the honour of placing me in the Municipal Council, as a Member for the East Ward, for twelve years. Ac- tuated by a due sense of the obligation" involved in so important a trust, and by grateful feelings for your support, I can conscientiously say that I have never given a vote at the Corporation Board, which I have not honestly considered as tending to the interest and pros- perity of Newport. Encouraged by the continued good ■wishes and the proffers of support of many of the Elec- tors, I beg leave to announce myself a Candidate for re- election on the First of November next; and in the event of your again reposing confidence in me by your suf- frages, rest assured that I shall give no cause to regret the renewal of your favourable opinion. I shall support a rigid economy of the Borough Funds, consistently with the carrying out of judicious improve- ments, and uniformly be found amongst those of the Council, who would promote the progress and welfare of the port. With sentiments of gratitude, I am, fellow-townsmen, gratefully and respectfully yours, ° J RICHARD BURTON. BOROUGH OF NEWPORT. TO THE BURGESSES OF THE EAST WARD. GENTLEMEN,—My term of service as your Representative at the Council Board, expires on the 1st of November next, and in again soliciting your suffrages, I have to say, that I regret my absence from the Meeting of the Ratepayers, held at the Town Hall, on the 8th inst. Having paid a visit, with my family, to the Paris Exhibition, I did not return to England until the day after the meeting was held, and I was not apprised of the same until my arrival in Newport, on Friday, the 12th instant. Had I been present, I feel perfectly assured that I should have afforded the Meeting a satisfactory expla- nation of my conduct during the last three years. I am still prepared to do so should an opportunity be given to me. I am sorry to find from the Local Papers, that my motives and conduct have been the subject of misrepre- sentation, and that highly-exaggerated statements were put forth at the meeting referred to, imputing to me conduct altogether unworthy of one who refers with some degree of satisfaction to a residence of some 14 years amongst you. I can assure you, Gentlemen, that I have, at all times, and on all occasions, given my best consideration to all and every subject that has been brought under the con- sideration of the Board, and to the best of my ability stated my views and voted accordingly. Should it be your pleasure again to elect me as one of your Representatives, I can only say that my best efforts will at all times be used for promoting the interests of the Town, with which I feel myself by many ties so strongly identified. I am Gentlemen, your most obedient servant, JAMES RENNIE. Maindee, October loth, 1855. NEWPORT MUNICIPAL ELECTION. TO THE BURGESSES OF THE EAST WARD. ENTLEM I*N,—As the period for which G you did me the honour of electing me a Member of your Council for the East Ward, will expire at the end of this month, I am induced, from the very flattering proffers of support I have received throughout the town, again to offer myself as a Candidate for your suffrages, assuring you that should you think fit to re-elect me, my best and earnest endeavours shall be continued to promote the welfare of Newport and the District, and to watch with a jealous eye any attempt at a lavish and unneces- sary expenditure of your funds. I am, gentlemen, Your very obedient Seivant, CHARLES L YNE, -Newport, October 18th, 1855. NEWPORT MUNICIPAL ELECTION. TO THE BURGESSES OF THE EAST WARD. GENTLEMEN,—Having been unanimously G nominated at a large and influential meeting of the electors, held at the Town Hall, on Monday last, as a fit and proper person to represent you at the Council Board, I beg to state that I feel I am only acting in ac- cordance with the spirit manifested at such meeting by offering myself as a candidate for your suffrages. Questions of vital importance, deeply affecting the interests of this district, and involving a large outlay of money, will be shortly brought before the Council Board, for its final determination. Unless a principle of rigid economy be applied to the consideration of those questions, the commercial interests of this borough may become compromised, and the welfare of its trading community seriously prejudiced. Being in every way identified with the welfare and prosperity of the town, I beg to assure you that should you elect me as your representative, I will endeavour to prove myself worthy of your choice, by a careful super- vision in the disposition of your funds, by the exercise of an independent judgment upon all maVters brought p before the Council, and by a zealous devotion of my time to the interests of the town. I have the honour to be, Gentlemen, Your obedient servant, JOHN DAVIES. BOROUGH OF NEWPORT. TO THE RIGHT WORSHIPFUL THE MAYOR OF NEWPORT, SIR,—"We, the undersigned Burgesses and S Ratepayers iu the Eastward, respectfully request that you will convene a Public Meeting of our Wa.rd,on an early day, for the puipoM of giving Mr. RENNIE, a. re- tiring Member of the Council, an opportunity of explain- ing his conduct at the Hoard daring the last three years. We request this, in consequence of Mr. Rennie having expressed, in his address, his desire for an opportunity of domg_so gned by Twenty Rate-payers of theEast "Ward.] In pursuance of the above Requisition, I hereby convene a Meeting of the Burgesses and Rate-payers of the East Ward, to be held at the Town Hall, on Monday evening next, at Seven o'clock. SAMUEL HOMFRAY, MAYOB. Newport, October 17ih, 1855. WORCESTER AND HEREFORD RAILWAY. AT a PUBLIC MEETING of PARTIES interested in the Iron and Coal Trades, and the general traffic of the South Wales District, convened by advertisement, and held at the TOWN HALL, NEWPORT, on Monday, October 15th, 1855, Samuel Homfray, Esq., Mayor of Newport, presiding, the following resolutions were passed :— Proposed by Mr. JAMES BROWN, seconded by Mr. T. B. BATCHELOR— Resolved—1st.—"That the construction of the Worcester and Hereford Railway is of very great importance to the in- terests of South Wales, and this meeting pledges itself to do all in its power to carry out the undertaking." Proposed by Mr. R. P. DAVIES, seconded by Mr. JAS. IRE-NNTE- Resolved 2nd.—" That a subscription for Shares in the Worcester and Hereford Railway Company be immediately opened and that a Committee, consisting of Messrs. James Brown, Thomas Brown. R. P. Davies, T. B. Batchelor, J. Logan, Joseph Latch, John Hughes, and J. N. Knapp, be appointed to canvass the mineral proprietors and others interested in the commercial prosperity of this town, port, and district, to subscribe to the unappropriated capital." Proposed by The Mayor of Hereford, seconded by Mr. J. ALLAN HIGGINS- Resolved —3rd.—"That the best thanks of this meeting be tendered to Thomas Brown, Esq of Ebbw Vale, not only for the indefatigable efforts he has made in support of the Worcester and Hereford Railway, but for his exertions in aid of every undertaking tending to promote the mineral and commercial interests of this district." (Signed) SAMUEL HOMFRAY, Mayor. PROPOSED by Mr. JOSEPH LATCH, and seconded by Mr. FABQUHAK— Resolved—4th.-—" That the best thanks of this meeting be 6iven to eMayor, for his able and courteous conduct in the chair this day." JOSEPH LATCH. TO GROCERS AND BAKERS. To BE DISPOSED OF, a Good Ready- Money Business, situate in Cross-street, iu the Borough of Newport, the Stock and Fixtures to be taken at a Valuation. Coming-in about £ 80. ,r r T „ For further particulars apply to Mr. Jr. J. HALL, Solicitor, Newport, Monmouthshire. MONMOUTHSHIRE. NEWPORT BRITISH SCHOOLS. Boys'School commenced ••• 1814 Girls' School Infants' School ••• onA The number of children now under instruction exceeds ,300. THESE Schools were established with a view to satisfy the moral and social necessity of affording to the children of the Labouring Population of this rapidly-increasing town, Education of a useful and religious character, free from sectarian peculiarities; and for a number of years now, they have been conducted with considerable success. At present, the Boys School, and Girls and Infants' Schools, are carried on in premises far removed from each other, which, for many reasons, is in- convenient the accommodation also afforded is inadequate to the demand. For these considerations, and on account of the dilapidated condition and ineligible site of the Bovs' School-room, in conjunction with the advantages that will arise from having all the branches of the institu- tion brought together under one roof, the committee has determined with the concurrence of the subscribers, to dispose of the present premises, and to apply the proceeds towards the Erection of a Commodious Building, with a handsome exterior, although not of an unnecessarily expensive character. To this end, the committee has agreed to lease for 99 years, a piece of ground near the bottom of fctow-hill, the property of Sir Charles Morgan, Bart who has liberally met the wishes of the committee, by charging a very reduced ground-rent for the same. To carry out this object in its integrity, j61500 will be required, in addition to the proceeds of the sale of the old premises; and the committee now appeals with confi- dence to the known liberality of the friends of education in the town and neighbourhood of Newport, for donaiions towards the completion of the design. The following contributions have been already pro- mised Y, s. d. Sir Charles Morgan, Bart. 20 0 0 Mr. Thomas Brown, Ebbw Yale 100 0 0 Mr. James Brown 50 0 0 Mr. T.B. Batchelor — 50 0 0 Mr. Wm. Evans — 50 0 0 Mr. George Gething 50 0 0 Messrs. Rennie, Logan, and Co. 50 0 0 The West of England Bank. 50 0 0 Mr. Crawshay Bailey, M.P. 40 0 0 Mr. William Graham, jun. 30 0 0 Mr. Samuel Homfray 25 0 0 Mr. J. N. Knapp 25 0 0 Mr. S. M. Phillips 25 0 0 Mr. John Davies 25 0 0 Mr. George B. Gething 25 0 0 Mr. W. C. Webb 25 0 0 Messrs. William Willmett and Son 25 0 0 Mr. Powell, The Gaer 25 0 0 Mr. Octavius Morgan, M.P. 20 0 0 Sir Thomas Phillips, Knight 20 0 0 Mr. William G. Habershon, London 20 0 0 Mr. T. M. Llewellin 10 0 0 Mr. Thomas Turner 10 0 0 Messrs. J. J. Cordes and Co. 10 0 0 Mr. George Goodwin 10 0 0 Mr. Lewis Edwards ••• 10 0 0 Mr. Thomas Hughe3 10 0 0 Mr.CbarIesHall 10 0 0 Mr. William Jenkins 10 0 0 Mr. John Lewis, Tydee 10 0 0 Mr. Richard Burton 10 0 0 Mr. Stephen Campbell 500 Mr. T. F Lewis 500 Mr. Thomas Latch. 5 0 0 Mr. Henry Sheppard 500 Mr. Charles Lyne 500 Mr. H. J. Davis 5 0 0 Mr. James Birch 5 0 0 Mr. Thomas Gratrex 500 Mr. R. C. Slade 5 0 0 Mr. William Burton 5 0 0 Mr. Henry Farr. 500 Mr. Wm. M. Jack. 5 0 0 Mr. Henry Burton. 5 0 0 Mr. P. Woodruffe, Machen. 500 Mr. Thomas Jones. •5 0 0 Mr. G. W. Jones 500 Mr. Henry Phillips 500 Mr. Joseph Firbank 5 0 0 Mr. Edward James Phillips 500 Mr. Samuel Batchelor 500 Mr. Charles Lewis 500 Mr.H.Oakley 5 0 0 Mr. John Philpotts 5 0 0 Mr. Martin Morrison 5 0 0 Mr. Joseph Corsbie 5 0 0 R975 00 A committee -of gentlemen has undertaken to solicit additional contributions, and in the course of a week or so will wait upon the inhabitants of the town generally for that purpose. Contributions will also be thankfully received by the Treasurer, Mr. S. M. PHILLIPS and by the Secretary, Mr. GEORGB BATCHELOB. By order of the Committee, GEO. BATCHELOR, Hon. Sec. USK FARMERS' CLUB. THE ANNUAL MEETING is fixed to be held on LLLANCAYO FARM, near Usk, on FRIDAY, October 26th, 1855, when tho following Prizes will be offered for competition, viz. For ploughing half an-acre of land within four hours, in the best and most workmanlike manner, with a pair of horses, without a driver CLASS FIBSTTO the Farmer (being a member) or his Son -First prize, E3 second prize, 22. SECOND CLASS.—TO the Ploughman or servant of a member—First prize, £2; second, £1 10s.; third, 10s. THIRD CLASS.—TO the Son or Servant of a Member, under the age of 18 years-First prize, £ 2 second prize, £1. Each unsuccessful competitor will be paid 2s. 6d. by Mrs. Pocock and Mrs. Greenhow Relph. Teams to be in the field at Nine o'clock, when lots will be drawn and the signal for starting will be given at half-past. FOURTH CLASS —Two guineas, offered by Col. Clifford second prize, one guinea, by the club.-To the two farm servants or labourers of good character, in the employ of members of this club, who shall have lived with the same family, or have been employed on the same farm, the greatest number of years consecutively (not less than five years) :— FIFTH CLASS.—First prize, £ 2; second, £ 1—To the two in-door Women Servants, on the same conditions as last class. Servants will not be allowed to compete unless their em- ployers have belonged to the club for the last three years. The candidates for the above prizes to state their names and the names of their employers, to Mr. Clark, or to the Secretary, on or before the 19th of October. SIXTH CLASS.—Two guineas, offered by Mrs. Trelawny— To the tenant farmer for the best 1 cwt. of Mild Cheese. SEVENTH CLASS.—First prize, three guineas, offered by his Grace the Duke of Beaufort; Second prize, two guineas, offered by Mr. Wm. Graham, jun.—lo the tenant farmer who shows the neatest farm, and the best kept fences and roadways, and displays the greatest economy in the management of his homes P ally in tho husbanding and preparation of manure. Entrance fee, 28 6(1. EIGHTH CL-kss.-First prize, five guineas, offered by G. ■P Ci Rolnh Esct. second prize, two guineas, oflered by Messrs W Cadle and G. Pritchard—To the tenant farmer who can show one fourth of his arable land under the best Green Crops. Not less than five acres of Swedes can compete with that exception, the quantity required may consist of all or any of the following crops, viz.—Turnips, Mangold Wurzel, Carrots, Parsnips, and Cabbages. Notice of competition to be given to the Secretary, or to Mr. Clark, on or before the 16th day of October, and 5s. paid at the time of entry towards defraying the expenses of the Judges. NINTH CLASS.—First prize, 12 2s., offered by T. Gratrex, Esq.; second, £ 1 Is., offered by R. J. Cathcart, Esq. third, 10s. 6d., offered by Mr. J. Saunders—To the labourer of a member of this club, who shall show the best cropped and neatest Garden, and the neatest and tidiest Cottage. TENTH CLASS—TOWN OF USK PRIZES. L2 2s., offered by Mr. B. Scriven, for the best Bull, Cow, and offspring. JEl Is., offered by Mr. J. H. Clark, for the best pen of Five Ewes. £ 1 la., offered by Mr. J. Thomas, for the best Ram. 10s. 6d., offered by Mr. W. Bull, for the best two-year- old Nag Colt. £1 Is., offered by Mr. J. Williams, for the best Fat Pig, the property of a Cottager. 1:>, 10s. 6d., offered by Mr. Horace Shepard, for the second best Fat Pig, as above. ELEVENTH CLASS.-Half-a-Guinea, offered by Mr. R. Graham, for the best two-year old Cart Colt or Filly, bred by a tenant farmer, and being in the possession of the exhibitor (who must also be a tenant farmer) for at least six months previous to the day of showing. TWELFTH CLASS.- El Is. by Messrs. Richards, Giles, and Gaskill, for the best Cart Colt, under one-year old, bred by a member, and the property of the same. THIRTEENTH CLASS.— £ 2 2s., offered by Mr. Powell, Uplands, for the 6 best two-year-old Steers, breed by the exhibitor, who must be a member. FOURTEENTH CLASS.—Prizes offered by C. Bailey, Esq., M.P., open to all Cottagers. £1 Is. for the best Skip of Honey, weighing 18 pounds. 10s. 6d. for ditto 12 pounds. 5s. for each ditto 4 pounds. FIFTEENTH CLAss.-First prize, £1 Is., offered by W. A. Williams, Esq.; second ditto, 10s. 6d., offered by G. R. G. Relph, Esq., for the best Set and Thatched Ricks, done by a servant of a member of the club re- gard being had to the number of ricks. Notice of competition in classes 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, and 15, to be given to the Secretary, or to Mr. Clark, on or before the 19th of October. Persons will not be allowed to compete in class 6, or any of the following classes, excepting 12, unless they or their employers were members of the club before this date. SWEEPSTAKES. £ s. d. The best five Yearling Ewes 050 The best five Yearling Wethers 050 The best two 2-year old Steers 0 o 0 The best Yearling Steers 0 5 0 Best three Cows £ The be3t two Yearling Heifers 0 5 U The best stock Bull » The best Boar 0 5O A card for the entries of the above Sweepstakes, anci any others, lies at Mr. Clark's, and will be kept open until | the 19th, A CM-d for the entries of the above Sweepstakes, and any others, lies at Mr. Clark's, and will be kept open until | the 19th, j The Committee reserve to themselves the power of with- holding any prize, where the judges consider there is not sufficient merit. Subscriptions to bo paid to Mr, CLARK, or Mr. P. MARFELL, on or before the 19th. The Members with their friends will dine together after the ploughing match, at the Tnree Salmons. Dinner at Three o'clock. Dinner and Dessert, 3s. 6d. G. R. G. RELPH, Hon. Sec. Uek, October 8th, 1855. MONMOUTHSHIRE. PENTWYN TAVERN & PREMISES, ABERSYCHAN. TO BE SOLD BY AUCTION, by Mr. JOHN PHILPOT, on THUBSDAY, October the 25th, 1855, at Six o'clock in the Evening, at the Pentwyn Tavern, Abersychan, (unless disposed of in the meantime by private contract, of which due notice will be given,) subject to certain conditions, to be then and there pro- duced, all that old-established PUBLIC HOUSE, situate at Abcrsychan, called Pentwyn Tavern," consisting of a substantially-built and well-arranged Inn or Tavern, with excellent cellar, brewhouse, and clubroom, now in the occupation of Mr. Francis Drown, as tenant thereof; com- manding a fair share of the trade of an extensive and popu- lous neighbourhood. Three good Clubs, averaging 200 members each, are also held in the house. The Property is Copyhold. For a view of the premises, apply to the Tenant and, for further particulars, to Mr. GEORGE DAVIS, Aber- sychan, or the Auctioneer, Pontypool. PENCREEG VACH, LLANHENNOCK, MON- MOUTHSHIRE. Within Two Miles of Caerleon, and Six from Usk. Forty Head of Pure Bred Hereford Cattle, First-class Draught Horses and Colts, Four Ricks of prime Hay, Implements of Husbandry, &c., &e., tho property of Mr. Thomas Williams, and the late Mr. William WiHia TO BE SOLD BY AUCTION, by Messrs. CORNELIUS EVANS and SON, on the premises, at Pencreeg Vach, on THURSDAY, the 8th day of NOVEM- BER, 1855. Further particulars will be given in future advertise- ments and handbills. Auctioneers' Offices, 61, High-street, Newport; and Brook House, Llantarnam. October 18th, 1855. PENYLASGARN FARM, In the Parish of Mamhilad, Monmouthshire, MR. SCRIVEN having received instruc- tions from Mr. William Jeremiah, who is relin- quishing Agricultural pursuits, will SELL BY AUC- TION, on THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1st, 1855, the whole of his Live Stock, Corn, Hay, Implements, Dairy Uten. sils, and a portion of the Household Furniture. For particulars, see future advertisements and hand. bills. LANGSTONE COURT, About Four Miles f rom Newport, Monmouthshire. Important Sale of 148 Sheep, 86 Cattle, 13 Horses and Colts, 5 Bacon Pigs, about 100 Tons of Prime Hay, and one Mow of Barley, about 90 sacks, TO BE SOLD BY AUCTION, by Mr. BENJAMIN SCRIYEN, on MJNDAY, NOVEM- BER 5th, 1855, the property of Mr. Richard Keen, who is leaving the Farm. Particulars will appear next week. FREEHOLD ESTATE, MAINDEE, NEAR NEWPORT. TO BE SOLD, a detached VILLA RESI- DENCE, situate on the above Delightful Estate, containing large cellarage, dining, drawing, and sitting. rooms, china-pantry, kitchen, fitted with patent cooking apparatus, back-kitchen, with hard and soft-water pumps, five bed-rooms, linen closets, and bath-room. A large walled garden, laid out and stocked with choice fruit trees. This would form an excellent investment for a respect- able family, the situation being healthy, commanding a beautiful and extensive view of the Bristol Channel and Newport, from which town it is distant only one mile of excellent road. To treat for purchase, apply to Mr. R. G. THOMAS, Architect and Engineer, Commercial-street, Newport, Monmouthshire. 0 Newport, Mon., September 7th, 1855. FOR SALE, a Second-hand BROUGHAM, very light, with all the new improvements, and has been but little used—the property of a gentleman having no further occasion for it. Also, a Fashionable Pillentum PHÆTON, very low, and adapted for an Invalid; has Head and German Shutter, Driving-seat, &c. Apply to R. & E. VESEY, Long Acre, and 19, Melsom- treet, Bath. ON SALE, AT THE DRY DOCK, NEWPORT, FINE Fresh NORWAY SPARS and POLES, just imported. Patent Roofing and Boiler Felts. Small and Large Chains. Iron Blocks far Contractors, Builders, &c. Zinc and Galvanized Iron Sheets. Galvanized Iron Nails. Stockholm and American Tar. Pitch and Resin. Apply to WILLMETT & SONS. DESIRABLE OPPORTUNITY. A LARGE, respectable, and most convenient PREMISES, situate in the centre of Caerleon, and at present occupied as a Dwelling-House atid-Ladies Semi- nary, is now to be Let, on advantageous terms the present occupant removing to another part of the county. A Lady, conducting a seminary, desirous of securing a residence in every way calculated for a Public Educational Establishment, (making up fifteen beds for boarders), would find this a most desirable opportunity. The Stable attached to the premises, is let to a good tenant. Apply by letter, post-paid, to Mr. CORNELIUS EVANS, House and Estate Agent, Newport. CORN WAREHOUSE TO BE LET. To LET, \adjoinin^ the CUSTOM- HOUSE, Newport, a well-built Btrong WARE- HOUSE. There is a large and good Cellar, and small Apply to Mr. W. R. MATTHEWS, Newport, Mon. MALTHOUSE, &c., AT CAERLEON. TO 13 E LET, either together or separately, a convenient MALTHOUSE and GROCERS' and liAKEItS' SHOP, situate in the town of Caerloon, near Newport, Monmouthshire. Particulars may be known, on application to Mr. T. M. LLEWELLIN, Solicitor, Newport, Monmouthshire. THEATRE ROYAL, NEWPORT. (Licensed by Act of Parliament.) LESSEE AND MANAGER—MB. J. P. CHADWICK. Last Night of the Season.—Tremendous Attractions THE ANNUAL BENEFIT OF MR. J. r. CHADWICK, (Lessee and Manager.) THE Manager begs leave to thank the Play- 0 going Public of Newport and its vicinity for their support, so liberally extended towards him during this his third theatrical campaign, and to assure them that no effort shall be wanting on his part, to merit a continuance of their kindness. Having secured a first-class Theatre in the important manufacturing town of Preston, Lancashire, where he purposes commencing his winter season on Monday, the 15th of November, the Manager will, on his return to Newport, be enabled to carry out his anxious desire to establish the Drama on a more extended scale than he has yet been enabled to accomplish, and hopes that a building, replete with every comfort for an audience and convenience for dramatic display, ornamental to the town, and worthy of receiving such distinguished audiences as Newport and its neighbourhood afford, will be erected. In announcing his Farewell Benefit, and the Last Night of the Season, Mr. CHADWICK solicits the patronage and support of his Friends and the public, and ventures to express a hope that by their suffrages on this occasion, his unwearied efforts to cater for their amusement will be acknowledged. THE LADIES' CLUB which was received with so much satisfaction on Mrs. Chadwick's Benefit, will, by desire, be repeated. Mr. J. P. CHADWICK'S wonderful Performance on the Globe. On MONDAY, Oct. 22nd, 1855, the Performances will commence with an historical Drama, in 2 Acts, founded on that portion of Sir Walter Scott's novel called the Abbot, which relates to the confinement and escape Of Queen Mary from Lochleven Castle, entitled, MARY, QUEEN OF SCOTS! Or, the Escape from Locbleven Castle. Dance of All Nations Miss Towers. Comic Song, Mr. G. James. Mr. J. P. CHADWICK will appear, for the first time these three years, in his Astounding and Terrific PERFORMANCE on the GLOBE To be followed by a grand Military Drama, called the WHITE SERGEANT! The NATIONAL ANTHEM, by the whole of the Company, with additional verses on the Alliance of France and England sung by Mrs. G. Herbert. To conclude with the much-admired Comedy of the LADIES' CLUB! igfg" Secure your Tickets for this Last Grand Night. Prices of Admission—Orchestra Stalls, 2s. 6d.; Half- price, Is. 6d. Centre Balcony, 2s.; Half-price, Is.; Side Balconies, Is. Half-price, 6d. Gallery, 6d.—Schools ad- mitted at Half the usual Prices.—Children in arms not admitted. A CCORDING to the Parliamentary Return ,L-3L for 1854, printed by order of the House of Commons, of 17th Feb., 1855, the Newspaper of largest circulation in the South Wales District, is THE MONMOUTHSHIRE MERLIN. The advance of its issue in the last year, over that of 1853, was 12,425, giving an average circulation of more than Two Thousand One Hundred per week :— 1854. Wkly. Average. Monmouthshire Merlin 110,245 2124 Cambrian 79,000 1519 Star of Gwent 76,100 1463 Merthyr Guardian 61,500 1163 Swansea Herald 58,250 1120 Monmouthshire Beacon 36,500 702 Silurian 35,375 661 THE" MERLIN" is now published twice a week, on Wednesday and Saturday mornings:—papers for sub- scribers at a distance are posted on Tuesday and Friday evenings, so as to ell sure their regular delivery on the morning of each succeeding day. Wednesday's paper, eonsisting of 4 pages, is issued at. Twopence; and Saturday's, consisting of 8 pages, at Threepence, unstamped. Both papers are delivered to subscribers on the following terms: Unstamped 5 s. 6d. per quarter. Stamped 7 s. 6d. Subscribers taking the stamped edition, will secure tho privilege of unlimited postal transmission for fifteen days after the date of each publication. The paper must be folded with the stamp outside. The unstamped sheet may be transmitted by post, provided a penny postage stamp be affixed each time it is posted. Each paper contains Advertisements, the local news of the dis- trict, with the general, domestic, and foreign intelligence brought up to the latest period, by ELECTRIC TELEGRAPH. As the circulation of the MERLIN will be thus largely extended, corresponding advantages will ensue to advertisers: and a reduccd scale of charges has been adopted. The J-IERLIN has been registered at the General- Post Office, for transmission beyond the United Kingdom. The postal charge (which may be ascertained at the Post-office) must be pre-paid. TO COSBESPONDENTS. The date of laying the foundation stone of St. Paul's Church, in this town, is in the entrance and the first meeting at the Town Hall, on the subject of the resto- ration of St. Woollos Church, was on the 13th Septem- ber, 1854. L.L."—The error does not warrant insulting language. From the very large space occupied by the Sessions report and other matters of local interest, we are compelled to exclude a portion of our general news.