Monmouthshire Merlin

SONG OF THE FIRST LORD OF THE ADMIRALTY. YE mariners of England, I'll thank ye, if you please To come and tell me something of The service of the seas I've something heard of horse-marines But nothing do I know; Though a trip in a ship I to India once did go. If enemies oppose me, And say I'm very far From being what I ought to be, I'll say that others are. So come brave tars and teach me A vessel for to know If a heel is the keel, Or abaft means down below. Then courage, all you admirals, And never be dismayed. For I'm a bold adventurer, That never learnt my trade. Our ministers employed me To vote for them, you know; Then be bold, when you're told That by interest things go. Then here's a health to Wellington, Who made of me the choice And to his worthy colleagues bold, Who scorn the public voice. Tell France and tell America They may begin to crow— While I reign o'er the main, Is the time to strike a blow PlLflch. —■——————

ECHOES FROM THE BACKWOODS. The town of St. John was built entirety of wood, and had the luck to be burnt down, more or less, every .eight or ten years; and that part which escaped one conflagration was generally included in the next. The houses being insured above their value, made it a matter of perfect indifference to the inhabitants, whether their property was consumed or not; and their household goods or little alls were removed with- out difficulty, with the exception of the banks. At this time there existed but one house built of stone, the inhabitants of which were known as the Stonehouse P 's, the better to distinguish them from their wooden connexions. One night after mess, a messenger arrived from the mayor, stating that a fire had broken out in the town, A strong arm. ed picquet was instantly despatched scarcely had they left the bawcks, before a second messenger made his appearance reporting [that fears were entertained lest the whole town would be consumed. All hands then turned ont,and went down at the "double quick." It blew a gale of wind. The thermometer stood at 7° below zero, the fire raged, every, thing was frozen up, and no water was to be obtained, ex- cept in theiramediateneighbourhood of the wharfs. The scene of confusion was beyond description. Gentlemen either from over-excitement or inebriation, floundered into tar-barrels, took fire, and rushed about requesting to be extinguished one had, pertly from the above causes, partly from fatigue, sat down in a wheelbarrow on one of the quays; it was with- in the influence of a hose. the debris form which,aided by thirty-nine degrees of frost below the freezing point, soon made him part and parcel of the barrow. A friend found bim,land no one being at hand, he was wheeled off to be cat out. To the ladies it appeared the greatest possible fun, throwing beds, wardrobes, and all their finery out of the windows, and trusting to friends to carry them to the banks or other places of safety. On the part of the authorities of the town, there was neither order, system, nor regularity observed; it was every one for himself, and the soldiers for for them all. In the hope of cutting off the 6re, grappling- hooks with long ropes attached to them. were thrown over bouses, and by the force of a hundred men, pulled bodily down. The officets and men worked like horses. But all to no purpose, The grappling hook plucks rafters from the walls, And heaps on heaps the smoky ruin falls. BloWD by strong winds, the fiery tempest roars. Bears down new walls, and pours along the floors. The fire raged unchecked, as ashes and burning sningles were carried by the wind, and fresh houses and streets ignited. Notwithstanding the flames apd the exertion of the men, so intense was the cold, that many of them were frost bitten. Towards daybreak the fire was at its greatest pitch. Three whale ships, filled with oil aud blubber took fire The effect was sublime, and the liquid sheet of flame was aeen for sixty miles in all directions. The cold, during the winter night I' very severe, and the sentinels are frequently obliged to be relieved every half- hour, and the officers, so long as they possess theprima flora juvenus, may enjoy horizontal refreshments in peace; but when they obtained those manly appendages, yclept wmsters, nod that turning in bed becomes hopeless, and being "brought up with a round turn," discover that they have beoeome frozen to the sheets. Families have been awakened by their house becoming roofless, owing to the intensity of the frost havingextracted the nails by which the shingles were fastened to the rafters, Provisions are brought into St. John frozen hard, and they will keep perfectly well so long as the frost lasts; it is ludicrous enough to see pigs, hares, and large cod-fisn frozen stiff, and carried by a leg or tail over a man's shoulder like a musket. Skating, sleighing, and dancing are the amusements of the opulent; so anxious are the young ladies to make their tiebut, that at one of the balls a fair creature whom the morning's lesson had only advanced to the third figure of quadrille, stood up to dance with a brother officer; on Tc'te' arriving, she deliberately walked off, and returned to her place, exclaiming, •« Now I guess I'll sit down, I don't known any more," leaving her partner to make his peace with her vis a vis. Yachting on the frozen Kenebekasis was but a frigid amusement at the best. The manufacture of an ice-boat is simple enough; over two long skates are placed any construction sufficient to bold the party, and a long pole is lashed across at the right angles, which prevents the boat from capsizing. When the wind is high, she flies over the ice at a most terrific pace; and goes so near the wind, that the least touch of the helm sends her round, when she is JOllantlyoff again on the other tack. A favourite amuse- ment is coasting: On moonlight nights a party repair to the top of some steep frozen descent, and ladies and gentlemen in pairs seat themselves upon little sleighs or coasters, and push them off. A thaw or frost makes the surface of the snow as slippery as glare ice; the pace is then awful, and the roll in the snow proportionate. They are steered in their headlong descent by a slight pressure of the hee, but the Bluenose ladies, being, more aufait at it than we were, sat in front and guided them. N.B.—A stupid partner was not rewarded with an upset. The meeting of the Tandem Club was a very gay affair, twice in the week. Twentysleighs,{painted of the mosteaudy, colours, and decked out with furs of all kinds, trimmed with fringe of different colours, drove off from the barracks or other rendezvous. The last married lady was selected as thaperon.and there were plenty of fair candidates for the drive. The brass band and merry pells added not a little to the cheerfulness of the scene. The horses bred in the pro- vince are compact little animals, and trot at a tremendous pace, particulary upon glare ice; so doeile are they from being brought up in the house as part of the family,and so attached are the Bluenoses to them, that a man hearing I possessed a gray horse (a famous trotter) which he had bred, came along distance to see him. Two years had elapsed since he had sold him he might have been "a whisperer," but no sooner had he entered the slables, and spoken to him, thao the hone reaped up on his hind-legs, and shewed every symptom of recognition and delight. I drove that horse and another, with- out the least preparation, from St. John to Fredericton in ten hours; the ice was in good order; the distance eighty-four miles. Every fresh fell of snow obliterates the beaten sleigh tracks, and io ordc to avoid doubtful ice, or air holes, it is customary to mark out the different croningl oyer the frozen bays or rivers, by fixing young fir trees into the ice at intervals no one can iau. giee, until caught in a North American snow-storm, what a guide and blessing they are. Never shall I forget reluming to St. John, after a hunting expedition, accompanied by an inhabit- ant of that place, and being obliged to cross the Grand Bay, and part of the Keeebeka. frozen sheet, .f water, just above the tide-way; and over which w. bael Ilelcbed 10 perfect safety in the morning. The moon shone clear aid bright, and waited crossed one half the Grand Bay, when, all at onee, we heard strange sounds, like the clang ef hundreds of rifles discharged on all sides, in the surrounding forest: it was soon evident whence the sounds proceeded; from the effects of the noon-day's ten the ice was breaking up. My companion, who, from the mo. ment there was an appearance of danger, behaved in the most unmanly manner, and instead of administering any cheering advice, constantly repeated that he was certain we bad lost the way, and at last became so terrified, that he lost all further power of speech, wrung his hands, and blubbered outright. It was a route but seldom ventured over, and was not, for that reason, "jerked out with fir branches. I was confident that, so far, I had kept the right course, and urged on the horses, who snorted and shewed evident symptoms of terror. Suddenly the •noon became overcast, black clouds began to gather and darken the heaven, a tremendous storm came on, and the too* beat thick and fast in our faces thick and fait In our faces Mingling the ravaged landscape with the skies, we came to a crack in the ice. at least a yard wide, which ex. tended across the whole bay there was no time to be lost in searching for a narrow place, 81 the cracking of ihe ice became tremendous, so there was no alternati,eleft but to run the horses at the chasm; they cleared it in gallant style, and by keeping them in full gallop, io teo minutes we were safe on the main Jand. Neat day the boats were to be seen upon the water the ce having totally disappeared,—Ntw Monthly.

THE NEWPORT AND SOUTH WALES CALEDONIAN SOCIETY. The annual meeting of this society took place at the King's Head, Newport, on Saturday, the 10th inst., John Anderson, Elq., of Manchester, in the chair, and Robert McDowell, Esq., of Bristol, the vice. Among the large company present we observed W. Cousins, of Bristol, C. Griffiths, of Stockport, J. Menzies, of Bristol, J. Stroyan, of Manchester, and Charles HIli, of London, Elqrl. i Messrs. J. Hyndman, of Newport, H. Eggar, of Bristol, A. M' Craken, of Cardiff, J. McAndrew, of Glasgow, John Walker, W. Ferguson, W. Witson, and other gentlemen of Newport. The dinner waa laid out in the best style, and, with the wines, elicited general commendation. After tbe cloth was removed, The Chairaao, desiiiog all to 611 bumpers, rose to propose, the Queen and Royal Family received warmly, and the Army and Navy followed. Mr. Charles Hill, of London, responded to the last, saying Mr. Chairman, vice, and gentlemen, it has for the last two years fallen to my lot to return thanks for this toast, and I am sorry it has so occurred, as there are many abler men present, who, although they have not had the honour of serving her Majesty as I have done, are more capable of expatiating on this fertile subject. (Cries of No.; One thing I have great pleasuie io saying, and that is, if her Majesty should require once more my services to aid in formiog the new Militia, I shall moat willingly be at her command—(immense cheering)—and I hope that there are many of those who now sit around me, will, should their ser- vices be required, be as ready as I am- (Cheering.) It has been said, Mr. Chairman, that I have only served as a volunteer, but I beg to assure those gentlemen who have thua attempted to cast a soeer upon my services, that there was more honour in serving from one's own free will, than as a mcreenary—than as a mere tool. (Cheers.) For my own part I am happy to say, that when I served her Majesty, it was from pure patriotic mo. lives, and my sole ambition was to win a name that might equal those glorious defenders of their liberty—the immortal Bruce or Tell. (Immense cheering.) The Chairman, in a very able and eloquent speech, opened tbe business of the evening, by reading several letters from friends who, though absent, yet wiahed to be remembered and proceeded to say Mr. Vice and gentlemen, the subjeet of the toast I am about to give, is one of such paramount importance on this occasion, that I feel diffidence in bringing it before you. I think that every one at all acquainted with the manner in which Scotchmen travelling in England and Walea conduct their busi- ness, will admit that a society like ours is to them, comparatively speaking, iavataabte but it ia likewise undeniable, that it con- stitutes a great loss of time and considerable trouble te the few philanthropic individuals who stand at the helm of its affairs. (Cheers.) As you are all aware of the principles on which this society is constructed, it would be useless for me to enter into particulars, but I must express the extreqne pleasure it affords me, to meet the present respectable and intelligent assemblage, all of whom appear evidently iotent on carrying into execution, any plans which may be pioposed here or elsewhere, teoding to their mutual advantage. I will not detain you longer, but give at oore, Prosperity to the Newport and South Wales Caledonian Society. The company received the toast with loud applause. Mr. James MeMaster replied in very suitable terns. Mr. John Walker then proposed the health of Charles Hill I Elq., who had dene them the honour of attending. Mr. Hill returned thanks in a neat speech. Mr. Wilson delighted the company with that sweet song, Ye banks and braes of Bonny Doon." Mr. James Walker proposed Prosperity to the town and trade of Newport, which was well received. The Vice-Chairman then rose to propose the Land of Cakes, followed by ihe Land we Live in—out Irish FrieDdl-and the Memory of Burns, which were responded to with loud and hearty applause. Song by Mr. McJenoetts: "Scot., wha ha'e wi' Wallace bled Mr. John Hyndman then gave, in his uaual eloquent and em- phatic manner, whicbeeemed deeply to affect the compauy, ex- patiating beautifully on the word gratitude, The Land we live in, Wales! (Tremendous cheering.) Soog by Mr. Ferguson, in capita) atyte, Jenny Jones." Mr. Alexander Mitchell, in a neat speech, gave Old Iieland, and remarked with much appositeness on the present condition of that country. Tbe toast was kindly received. Mr. William Wilson aang, with much taste, "The Rose of Allaodale." The Chairmao then called on Mr. Ferguson, of Newport, to give Proieaaor Wilson and the Literature ol Scotland. Mr. Fergutoo said Mr. Chairman and gentlemen, I am sure it must be a great aource of pleasure to all those whole best and dearest feelings are centered in that "land of the mountain and the flood," which I can proudly call my own, to know that alter that land having in former agea produced tbe names that win never die, of Wallace, Douglas, Bruce, and a myriad of other glorious names, the age we live in has produced in our beloved country, names equal to any oDlthe scroll of Fame. We have had the Wizard ot the North, the mighty Walter Scott—whose unrivalled mind sent forth visions the moataubtime that eYefloul of man conceived—he whote faithful pen pourtrayed each cba. racter, and placed before the eyes of men scenes which they had dreamed not of. And there was also the Ettrick Shepherd, whose master-mind so long had chained the spirits of men aod Campbell-he whose muse had sung so feelingly of Poland's bleeding wrongs—who, with one lyric ode, had done more for Ireland than all her boasted sons and, perhaps the greatest of tbem all, the poet of their hearths—their Burns. Need I de- scant upon the fame of him whose name was echoed through all the mountain) land," Professor Wilson 1 I dare not trust my words, although my feelings bear me onward but I know that my sentiments are re-echoed by every countryman who hears me at this festive board.—Mr. Ferguson tesumed his aeat amidst tbe heartiest applause. Song by Mr. A. McCraken, Laird o' Coekpen." The Memory of Burns was drunk in solemn silence. Mr. Gwillim proposed Suceess to the Newport and South Wales Caledonia Society, and said: Mr. Chairman and gentle- men, I am rejoiced to see 10 good an assembly here this evening, and yet, when I reflect but a moment, I see no reason why it should be otherwise. The only wonder in my opinion, is how any one at all connected with tliia society, or who had its success at heart, could atay away. For my part, I could not. (Hear.) I have been present at maoyof our annual ia unions, and hope I Iballliv. to attend many more.—Tbe worthy gentleman con- eluded by paying a compliment to the host, for the excellent dinoer and wines provided for the occasion, and drinking success to the society. The Vice Chairman here roae to make a few remarks on a sentence which had dropped from Mr. Mitchell, of Cardiff. He said. Mr. Chairman and geotlemen, I have sat here for some time expecting to bear a reply to an observation made use of by Mr. Mitchell, who said Ireland was tyrannically ruled. For my pa. t, I cannot sit still to hear sucb remarks. This ia not tbe place for political discussion but it would be a reflection upon our honour aa Britons, nay, as Suonl, to suffer a remark of thia kind to pass unheeded. No doubt, Ireland is a distracted and distressed country, but from all I can learn, it is their own fault, completely so. Is it to be expected that a landlord will reside amongst them, when his hfe is every hour io danger ? It is not. Bat I fear I am trespassing. My only object waa to recal onr frieod to himself. Mr. Mitchell apologised for the obaervation he had inadver- tently made. The Vice Cbafrman then proposed the Ladies. The toast was received as it ought to be—with most enthusi- astic applause, nine times nine. The Vice Chairman said I am sorry it has fat ten to the lot of to bad a speaker as myself to propose this glorious toast, but however superior others may be in delivering their sentiments, I am sure they could not more enthusiastically hail the toast than myself. Dear creatures I we can't do without them and so loog as I live, I shall delight in being the champion of the ladies. Give them another volley of cheers, my friend., and may those who win the dear creatures, deserve them. (Cheers.) Mr. C. Hill, in an excellent speech, proposed the health of the President. Song from the Chair, Dark Lochnagar." Mr. J. Menzies proposed the health of tbe vice-chairman. Tbe Vice-Cbairman made some appropriate observations in acknowledging the compliment. Soog by Mr. John Walker, Willie brew'd a peck o' maut." "The MIR LIN, the ablead,ocatelhat never flinched from being the supporter of our cause," a variety ofeationat and local toasts, sentiments and songs, filled up the remainder of the social evening.

TOWN HALL, NEWPORT-MONDAT. Present-To Hawkins, T. Hughes, and E. Dowling, Esqs. There were twenty-aix poor-rate cases on the list for adjudi- cation this morning. A DOMESTIC AFFAIR. Henry Tudor Parfitt, master of the steam-tug Stockton, was brought up in custody from the Station House, on a warrant preferring a charge against him by E. C. Parfitt, his wife, on which she wished him to be bound over to keep the peace towards her. Mr. Hughes said the wife of the prisoner had declined to give evidence against him and the Bench now addressed him in language calculated to impress on his mind the necessity of adopting a different course towards his wife. It was hoped, that as the charge would not be pressed, he would never again place himself In a similar position.—Mr. Paifitt bowed.—Mr. Haw- kins hoped Parfitt would restrain his temper on all future occa- sions, especially against his wife, whom he was bound by every tie to cherish in a kind and lawful manner. The captain wan then ordered to pay 8s. 6d., costs, on paying which, he was dis- charged from custody. John Hannigan was charged with assaulting James Harring- ton. Each party was ready with a long statement, and while they were contending whtch should start first, a third stepped in with a fresh statement; but the magistrates put a stop to the clamour, and desired the belligerentl to walk out into the pas- sage, and settle the affair between themselves. A BRUTAL ASSAULT. Mary Ann Hughes waacharged with assaulting Mary Welsh The poor woman who preferred the charge, was in a truly pitiable plight, her head being bandaged, and her arms being bruised in various places. She stated that the complaint arose out of a quarrel respecting their children, and that she was beaten most cruelly by the defendant, on Friday afternoon last. She called a witness to prove this. A genuine Patlander, rejoicing in the name of Sweeney, said," on last Friday, I heard themostdread. ful screeches that ever split Christian ears," and I jumped up, and sez, Good Heavens, there's somebody kilt, torn to pieces, or mutthered and then I sees the poor crethur here (com- plainant) kiming along, crawling by the well-side. Och I sez 1. what's the matter wi'd ye, ye deplorablerimnant of humanity. (Laughter.) Murther! murther set she, it's kilt I am and then I sees Mrs. Hughes tucking up ber sleeves, screeching out louder than a cat in a scrimmage (a laugh) "I'm soiry I didn't give it a little better to the Irish ——. There's justice to Ireland for ye." Here the defendant cried out to Pat: "Oh, you vile fellow! may vengance come on you that you may never leave the court." Sweeney flurried up a moment, but treated the malediction of the fury with contempt.—A cloud of other -witnesses—pro. and con,, were also examined, and the magis- trates ordered the harpy Hughes to be fined 5s. and costs, or one month simprisonment. •• Very well," said she, then I'll &0 to prison." BEER HOUSB INFORMATION.—TAKINO OBJECTIONS. Henry Alford, beer-house keeper in Cross-street, was charged with infringing the Beer Act, by permitting disorderlies in his house. The defendant took an objection to the information, that it did not set out the names of persons who were laid as "disorderly,' &c. He took another objection, to wit, that the name of the constable who actually visited his house on the occasion referred to, was not entered on the information, but the name of the superintendent, who had never visited his house. He had another objection to take to the information, but appear- ing to distrust the use of objections, he declined taking up the further time of the Court unnecessarily." P.C. Hayward was then called, and proved that on the 7th of last Dec., be found six disorderly persons in the house of the defendant, known by the sign of The Jolly Mariners. The persons he found there were notoriously bad characters. Defendant said one of the persons there was a married woman, and another was a servant This was said depreciating the statement that the company were disorderly characters; but it was anything but complimentary to the exception. He further said, he supposed he didn't keep nice things" enough in his house, ns others did. for the police- men, or he might be excused, as well as many other beer-house keepers he could name. Hayward, he said, was always gliding about The Jolly Mariners like a haunting ghost." Hayward recalled: Alford has been charged before, and convicted in a similar charge. Mr. Kessick, the cleik, read a certificate of the former conviction, from the Clerk of the Peace. This being the second offence, defendant was liable to a penalty of £10. He was now ordered to pay 40i. and 20s. 6d. costs. Defendant said, before paying the amount, I can't feed the policeman so well as some beer-house keepers, or I shouldn't be charged at all" P.C. Bath begged the defendant to name the parties and substantiate his insinuations instead of making vague and false accusations. Whilst thus challenging him, the P C-appeared very anxious to feed upon the libeller." No proof was offered hut if such a charge could be substantiated, it certainly ought to be brought forward.

PONTYPOOL. On Tuesday evening, the 13th instant, the third annual philarroomc meeting of the Poniypool Church 01 Eng- land Sunday-school teachers, was held in the town school room. The attendance was, as heretofore, both numerous and highly respectable, consisting of most of the leading gentry of the town and neighbourhood. On entering the room we were struck with its magnificent appearance. In every department we could per. ceive that some masterly hand had been at work, combining the utile dulci." Over the pianoforte was suspended a richly em- bellished cry n, formed of evergreens and flowers of the season, on either side of which were the letters V. R., brilliantly illumi- nated with variegated lamps-Ihe whole presenting to the eye of the spectator, an exceedingly interesting spectacle. Around the walls, wreaths of laurel were formed into multifarious devices, relieved by flags, bearing inscriptions and designs suitable to the occasion. The centre was gracefully adorned with festoons em- blcmatical of the cause; while in the area, old England's flag waved over the heads of the assemblage. Several beautiful banners ware suspended from the ceiling, on one of which was depicted the Holy Bible, open in relief, with the words, Train up a child in the way he should go," &c., in gold letters. On the opposite side was another flag, with the coat of arms and crest of the Lord Lieutenant, richly emblazoned, and encircled with tbe following benediction God bleslour kind pairon and patroness)" and many a heart sympathized in the prayer, inas- much as both have ever, with the most munificent liberality, con- tributed towards rescuing the populalioo of Ihis district, rrom the thraldom of vice and ignorance. Refreshments were pro- vided at several long tables, and the company did ample jestice to the varied viands, after which, Edward H. Phillips, Esq., of Trosnant Lodge, was voted to the chair. The worthy chair- man opened the proceedings in hit usual business-like manner. Various resolutions were moved and adopted, expressive of the devotedness of the meeting to the interests of the institution, the welfare of which they were then assembled to promote. The speeches were, on the whole, suited to the occasion, and some were truly eloquent. The programme consisted of choice selec- lionl from the classic works of Handel, Kent, Horsley, Callcot, Jarman, &c., &c., comprising the following pieces: Part 1st, solo and chorus, "Luther* Hymn." Solo," Lord what is man J"—Handel. Duett, When shall we all meet again?"— Horsley. Solo, II Lord, remember David."—Handel. Solo, "The last man."—Calcott. Anthem, "Behold a virgin."— Jarman. Part 2ed. Sulo, "Comfort ye."—Handel. Quartett, Hark, the vesper bell." Solo, "Honour and arms," from the oratorio of Samson. Anthem, When the Son of Man." — Kent. Solo, He shall feed His flock."—From the orato- rio of theMestiah. Finale, "God save the Queen." Of the performance, generally, it would be impossible to speak too highly, it must, however, suflice to say, that where all was excellent, it would be inviduous to particularise. The solos, choruses, Ace., were given and sustained with the care and pa- thos due to such exalted compositions. Indeed, upon taking a dispassionate review of this philarmonic meeting, we cannot but think, that had it been possible the immortal Raikes—founder of Sunday schools-could have risen from the tomb of his fore- fathers, to have beheld the gratifying scene enacted on the 13th inst., in this populous locality, and to witness such a phalanx of philanthropists congregated to promote the sacred object which he had spent almost an entire life in organising, it must have caused his heart "to rejoice and be glad," thai the Supreme Giver of all good had made him instrumental in establishing institutions, by means of which, the inestimable blessing of re- tigioasknowtedge is imparted to generation*,iri bis day unborn. The Poniypool Church Sabbath school numberg upwards of 400 scholars, and about 60 teachers, many of whom have been raised from the ranks of tbe scholars. In conclusion, we cannot but cherish the fond hope, that establishments similar to the one UD. der notice, which has been so signally useful in dispensing such ineatimable blessings to our juvenile population may be multi- plied an hundred-fold.—[A Correspondent. J ■■<•

F ABERGAVENNY. On Wednesday, the 7th inst., the annual meet- ing of tbe Wesleyan Missionary Society was held in Aberga. venny. The chapel was not so full as it has been on former occasions, but a goodly number were present. Mr. Thomas, of Clydach Iron Works, presided over the meeting with his usual ability. The ministers of the circuit, the Rev. Mr. Britton and Mr. Shears, delivered very animated speeches; and the Inde- pendent minister, tbe Rev. H. J. Bunn advocated, in his own style, the great cause of missions. The deputation was the Rev. Mr. Jeffreys, formerly a missionary in the West Indies. He delivered an animated address, in which the difficulties thai attended the labours of a missionary were pointed out, as well at the joy that filled bis heart in seeing his labouis blessed by the God of Missions. A most gratifying account of the success which has attended the labours of the Wesleyan Missionary So. ciety, during the past year, was laid before the meeting by the jattiot minister, the Re". Mr. Shears. The collection amounted to £5 16s. 6d. BLAENAVON.—The meeting at Blaenavon, on the previons evening, was a very excellent one. Mr. Deakin, the respected agent of the Blaenavon Iron Company, presided. The collection amounted to £7 9d. more than it was last year. On Monday, the 5th inst., a tea party was held at Cwm Celyn Iron Works, in the British School-room re- cently erected there-nearly 2000 tickets were sold. The profits from the tea drinking amounted to about £60. After tea a public meeting was held, at which F. Levick, Esq., the mana- ger of the establishment, was chairman. In a clear, business- like speech, he pointed out the advantages of education to the labouring classes, and especially those which were likely to ac- crue from the nnsectaiian character of tbat taught in schools con- dacted on the British system. The Rev. D. Rees, the respected clergyman of the parish, spoke largely on the benefits which he anticipated would arise from the undertaking. Wesleyan and Baptist ministers also advocated the great cause, as well as a gentleman belonging to the Independents. A more united meeting was never held in the mining districts of Monmouthshire. Oh how delightful it il to see brethren dwell together in unity!"—and what more likely way to break down the barrier which a narrow bigotry of spirit too often inculcates, by rearing and establishing schools on sectarian principles, than by all de. nominations engaging, heart and hand, in supporting one great and grand system of education, in which the children of Church- men, Catholic, and Dissenter may iearn to fear God, honour the Queen, and love one another ? GENEROSITY OF A COUNTRY SQUIRE.— William Hunter Little, Esq., well known in the parish of Llan- vair Grainge for his hospitality and charity, has shown another instance of his liberal nature. Mr. Little has long been a benefit to the working class in the neighbourhood of Aberga- venny, by supplying them with land let out in allotments, for which he receives a small remuneration, thereby enabling the labeurer to cultivate a crop of corn or potatoes for the sustenance of his family. Mr. Little has been kind enough to return 5s. to each tenant for each allotment. It is to be hoped that this allotment system, which is so rapidly increasing throughout the United Kingdom, may become more general io our own neigh- bourhood, as it greatly ameliorates the condition of the working class. GOYTRE.—Some of the most influential inha- bitants of this neighbouihood joined to raise a subscription for the purpose of treating the artificers and others who are em- ployed rebuilding the Parish Church of Goytre to a festive en- tertainment, for the encouragement of trade, at the Christmas festival. On New-Yeai's eve they enjoyed themselves (and several other inhabitants of the neighbourhood, who paid their own expenses, joined the party) over an excellent supper, served up in the Miss Williams' accustomed style, at the Goytre Wharf Inn. The healths of the donors were drunk with cheering and acclamation, as a sincere acknowledgement for their kindness on occasion. *—.—

CARDIFF. CORONERS' INQUEST. On Saturday, the 17th instant, an inquest was held by Lewis Reece, Esq., at the Ship Hotel beer house, on the body of Wm. Jenkins, aged 27, boatman, who met his death by falling on his head on the crossing stone of the Glamorganshire Canal, when in tbe BCt of jumping from Ihe barge on shore. David Jullian, sworo,said I am a seaman on board the Betsy, of Cardigan. Between ten and eleven o'clock this morning I was on board the Betsy, now lying in the Glamorgan Canal. 1 was assisting in hauling the vessel up to the Pendarren Wharf, when I saw the deceased about twenty yards from me in a barge lying opposite the Pendarrren Wharf; the barge was not more than six feet from the shore he was in 'he act of jumping ashore he had one foot on the gunwale of the barge, and the other on the tiller (the handle of the rudder). He then attempted to jump, but the tiller gave way under him he lost his spring, and fell on his left temple on the crossing of the canal, and then into about nine feet of water: he had a most severe blow. I think he must have been stunned, al he made no effort whatever to save himself; he turned 00 his back and went down. I, with others, went instanily to his assistance, and, with a boat-hook, we got him up be had not been in the water above two minutes. Mr. J. Reece, surgeon, was sent for: he came and said, he died from concussion of the brain. Mr. Stockdale slated, that immediately after the accident had occurred, a person named Driscoll came to me, and said a man was drowned, and he wanted a dector. I told him he onght not to have been wasting time in coming to me, but to have gone for a surgeon at once. He then said, be bad been for one, who said he would not come, as he did oot know who was to pay him for his trouble, and, as a surgeon lived nearly opposite the police station, I went end got him, and he csme down, aod said the de- ceased died fiom concussion of the brain. The Coroner said. it really was too bad that Snigeons did not get remuneration for such eases. It was indeed agaiost all reason that they should not be paid. What inducement was there for any professional gentlemen to bring his instruments and labour, perhaps for five or six hour*, over a body taken out of the water, in hopes to succeed in restoring life, when he got nothing but labour for his toils; at the same time tbat he was, perhaps, neg- lecting some of his patients t When gentlemen got treated several times in this way. it is not to be wondered at that they hesitate, when called upon in doubtful cases. Indeed, such is the slate of things at present, that I have no doubt many lives have been sacrificed for want of proper medical advice and treatment. I say the surgeon ought to be paid, from a fund provided by the parish, for such purposes, and the first that is on the spot ought to be well remunerated in fact a premium ought to be held out for their speedy attendance. Such a provision ought to be especially provided in a seaport town, where rases of drowning are more frequent then elsewhere. In my opinion, continued the worthy coroner, the parish doctor, when called on, ought to attend all such cases, without any remuneration further than his parish salary. The jury fully agreed with the remarks of the coroner, and re. turned a verdict of Accidental death," and requested Mr. Stockdole to ascertain, through the mayor, and his legal adviser, whether there was not a fund by law to remunerate surgeons on such cases. Mr. Stockdale said be would attend to t, aad the jury left. CARDIFF TOWN-HALL.—MONDAY, JAN. Ii). Present—R. Reece, F.S.A., (Mayor,) and 'Rev. James Ei-ans. 1\lr. Stockdale said a masler of a veisel now present chalged one of his men with deser'ing the ship. This case was rather a peculiar one, as the vessel was bound to Barcelona, and the vessel had obtained a clean bill of health for a certain number of men, and if he arrived at his destination, minus one of his crew, it might be said there that he died on the passage, and, "would, therefore. cause the vessel to lide quaran- tine for forty days, the expenses of the vessel being £10, per day. Henry Allen was then sworn, and said he was master of the brig Culzean Castle of Ayr; that he shipped the defendant Thomas Piddell, at Cardie, as cook and steward that he came on board and remained there some days, and on Satarday night last, about eight o'clock, he left the ship without his (the cap- tajn's) knowledge, and took all his clothes with him, he (the captain) having some time befoie, given him an advance-note lor £2. 10s. which be got cashed he had sigoed articles to proceed to Barcelona. Piddell said the only cause he bad for leaving was because the crew found fault with his cooking.—Sentenced to twenty days hard labonr. Mr. Wilde, pawnbroker, then stepped forward, and said he unfortunately cashed the note that he gave prisoner, 20s. in money, and 30s. worth of clothes. The Mayor said he could not assist him. Mr. Wilde raid he cashed the note for the sake of the prisoner s wife, prisoner having only been married last week. NUISANCES. Mr. Stockdale said he summoned Mr. Goodden. keeper of the slaughter-house, to answer a complaint of nuisance that existed by throwing a quantity of filih in tront of that building. Mr. S. added, that a meeting of the street commissioners was held on Monday last, when he received strict injunctions to report every case of nuisance that came under his notice, and to pass no one by. Mr. Goodden said he did not put the refuse complained of there, nor caused it to be, but after some examination, he let out thai Mr. Woolcott bought it from the lessee of the slaughter- house, and that he (Goodden) was the servant of the lessee, and received straw in barter for the manure. Mr. Stockdale was sworn, and stated that he believed the dis- gusting filth complained of was placed there on the Friday be- fore.Suoday the 11th instant, and allowed to remain over that day. There is a place walled in for the purpose of depositing such and what he ( Mr. S.) complained of was its being put in front of the building at all. The Mayor said there had been 4 great many complaints the other day a butcher came to him and said he could not get on with his work because there was aphælon, or some other carriage, in the slaughti i-house, which certainly ought notto be there. Mr. Stockdale said he had seen it there. Goodden said he was accountable for what was inside, but not ouiside. Mr. Stockdale said his orders from the street commissioners were to report every lime anything of the kind was deposited outside. Goodden said he knew the parties who placed it there. The Mayor said they would adjourn the case for t'he present and would give the names of the offenders to Mr. Stockdale, and they should be brought up on Thursday. Summonses were then granted against John, son of Mr. Thomas Gibbon, butcher, and a person named Bond, who occa- sionally assists at the slaughter house.. Andrew Moody wascharged with having a heap of manure in the lane behind Bute-street, that being a public thoroughfare. John John, Swan Ion, was charged with having a heap of manure iu the same lane. Arthur Hennessey was charged with having the same obstruc- tion in the same lane. — Matthews was charged with having a heap of ashes in Mil- licent-strret. Gibby was charged with having a heap of ashes in Mary Anne-street. Dennis Sullivan and Willam Pettin were charged with simi- lar offences. They all received a caution, were ordered instantly to have the nuisance removed, and were discharged on paying the costs of the court. The Rev. Windsor Richards here took his seat. CAUTION TO BEBR-HOUSE KEEFERS. Richard Thomas, of the Maltsters' Arms, beer-house, ap- peared to answer the charge of keeping late hours on Wednesday week, and allowing card playing in his house from half-past 1 '2 till five o'clock on Thursday morning. P.C. Perry said he was on his beat on the morning in question, went into Thomas's house about half-past twelve, and found several people drinking and playing cards he told them it was wrong. The landlord put some of them out, and he (Perry) then left; he again returned and found a man that lives with Mrs. Cibby still there. Thomas said that lime had run faster than he thought, but there was no playing after the policeman had been there first, but that Mr. Gibby and her man bad quarrelled, and he gave him shelter for the night. Fined £2. including costs. He was allowed till Saturday to pay. Thomas John and Thomas Walter werg charged with sawing timber and fitting an outer framework of the roof of a house, in Saint Mary-street. Mr. Stockdale sworn, said on the 14 Ii instant, be was going down Saint Mary-street, and saw them doing it. When they were spoken to respecting it they said Mr. Winstone told Ihem to do it.—Fined 10s. each and costs. Mr. Winstone came, on being sent for, and said that fining them was virtually fining him they were in his employ and he could not think of allowing them to pay it; but if rone in the town was fined, why not all that offended there were colours of all hues flying about, enough to hang one if they did not keep clear of' them, and IIlso, this woik was done on some pipes lying in front of an iron foundry, why not fine him who caused them placed there 1 The fine was not paid when the Court rose. Mr. Gregory inspector of the Market*; charged Charles Smith, bazaar.keeper, with crying his goods for sale in the market, on Saturday last, contrary to the by-law, which states that no one shall hawk or carry about, or cry, ur offer by an auction, any ar- ti' les whatsoever, for sale through, along, or in the markets, under a penalty not exceeding 409. nor under 6s. for each offence" The case was proved, and he was fined 5s. and 3s. costs—paid. An Italian then charged Smith, who is also an Italian, with insulting him, when Smith replied, with a very knowing look, Vy I only said 1 I'm looking at ye.' William Clarke was charged with furiously galloping a horse through the streets on Friday last. It was proved that the horse ran away with him, and that he did all in his power to stop it.—Dismissed. Wm. Meyrick. conductor of one of the town omnibuses, but who does not appear to know how to conduct himself, was charged with wantonly causing a child, three years old, to be thrown from a donkey's back, by suddenly jumping on it. The child fell and was stunned, but not seriously injured. The parties did not appeal to piosecute, and Meyrick was discharged with a severe leprirnand; being told by the bench that he ought to be tied to the donkey's tail, and flogged round the town. — David, a shoemaker, and D. Jones, tinman, young men, were charged with playing foot-ball on Sunday last. Discharged with a caution. Wm. Morgan was charged with being one of a number of voung men who had gone round town, about half-past twelve o'clock on Monday ntgbl, and knocked at several doors in Caro- line-street. P.C. Peny. No. 8, said he saw several, and watched them, and told them to desttt, and defendant was one of the dis- turbers. Defendant's mother swore he was in bed by half-past ten, and, to the best of her belief, did not go out again. The Mayor faid the evidence wss very conflicting, and he would, therefore, give the defendant the benefit of a doubt, although, at the same time, he thought it veiy probable the P.C. was correct. Dismissed. C Spencer,R. Spencer, and J. Lambert, seamen,were charged by J. Palrick, master of theVulcan^ of Dundee,with refusing todo their duty on board. The case was proved. The captain offered to give them another trial, if they would promise todo their duty, to which proposition they moat obstinately demurred. The law WBl then read 10 |hem, and'^ they were laken 00 board in custody, and mulcted ID two days' wages, and informed that for every twenty-four hoars they disobeyed the captain, they would be mulcted io two days' wages, and if they left the ship without leave, they would be committed to thirty days' hard labour. Incompliance with the request of the coroners'jury, on Sa- turday last. Mr. Stockdale applied to the Bench to know if there was any fund for remunerating surgeoos, for their attendance io such cases as the one alluded to. The Bench said they could give no information 00 this subject. Anne Webber charged Sarah W all with stealing aundryartictee, her property.—Remanded.

THE MILITIA.—As some erroneous ideas are formed 00 this subject, it may be well to stale, that in the last session of par- liament an act was passed, suspending the provisions of that 01 George HI., for the raising of the militia, until Octoter neat, with the provision, however, that her Majesty may order the adoption of any necessary proceedings, even during such suspen- sion. An order iu council has been issued, for the distribution of the balloting papers, which have already been circulated in several of the metropolitanipaiishes. [mmediatety on parliament assembling, a new act will be applied for, to extend the provi- sions ot the former act. The regiments intended for duty in Sussex, and other counties adjoining the sea coast, will be the first called out. Thefteimof service, according to the regula- tions of the last act, is five years, and att grounds of exemption, must be slated at the court uf appeal for consideration thereon. It is nnt likely that any measures will he adopted lespecttng the frish militia, until those of England and Scotland shall have been completed. It may be understood, likewise, that the staff of the Irish, as well as the English and Scotch bodies, is being completed with all dispatch. EXTRAORDINARY SHEKH.— A most extraordinery sheep was exhibited in our corn market on Saturday, slaughtered by Mr. Jones, cattle salesman, of Blyth. The dead weight uf tbis aui. mal wag 230lbs,, its live weight after the lastslip was 20st. 111b. It was of the pure Leicester breed, five years old, and was fed by Joseph Allison, E>q.. of Bilby. II was remarkable for the smallness of the bone, and was considered by competent judges, the fiuest specimen of mutton that was ever exhibited in Doncas- ter.— Doiicatter Chronicle' DEATH OF MRS. CORl"IWALL BARON WILSON.—This popular writer expired on Monday, at her residence in Woburn-place, leaving a family and a numerous circle of friends io lament her loss. Mu, Wilson was the authoress of several very clever poems. Jn 1837, she gainad Ihe prize offered by the MetiJdisis' Club, for the words of a song, although there weie upwards of two hundred candidates. She also was awarded the prize for a poem on the Princess Victoria (now our mostgiacious Queen), at the Cardiff Bardic Festival in 1834; and she also wrote the words in ihe third volume of Mr. Parry's Welsh Melodies. MATCH AGAINST TIME.— A match, which excited consideiable interest in sporting circles, came off on Friday lust, It arose from a bet between Captain Bull, of the 52nd regiment, a company of which is now stationed at Brecon, and another gentleman, for £25 aside, the former engaging to ride from Brecon, to Swansea and return to Brecon wiihin six hours from the time of siariiug, performing the whole distance of 90 miles with eight horses. The veiy bad toads with which ihe rider bad to contend favoured the odda against him. In accordance with the terms of the wager Captain Bull started fiom Brecon at ten, A.M., and arrived at Swansea with apparent ease at about twenty minutes to one. Having remaintd a short time he pro- ceeded on the return journey to Brecon, which he reached at twenty-five minutes to four, being five hours and thirty-five minnies from the time of starting in the morning, and twenty- J five minutes within the time specified. Although the beta of the parties immediately concerned were not heavy, it is reported that considerable sums changed hands on the occasion. COAL.—In consequence of the advance in wages, and Ihe increasing demand for labour in the mining districts, a general rise in the price of stone coal and culm has taken place in this and the adjoining neigbourhoods. 1 he advance was agreed upon at a meeting of coal owners held a short time since. at a meeting of coal owners held a short time since.

THE PONTYPOOL CHURCH-RATE. To the Editor of the Monmouthshire Merhv. II SIR,— Alter long delay, the sale of the goods last seized for the Church-rate, took place ot#Thursday morning last at the police station, in the town of Pontypool. As, on the former occasion, the churchwardens were obliged to go out of the parish of Trevethin for an auctioneer and a gentleman of Usk kindly appeared on the day of sale to help them out of their difficulties. For sOllie cause unknown, the bills announcing the sale did not contain the name of any auctioneer; and it became a matter of cuiious speculation who the favoured in- dividual might be. Soon after the hour appointed, however, the gentleman made his appearance, and put up for sale the various articles taken from the houses of a dozen unfortunate dissenters. Mr. Isaac Hiley's sofa was sold for £1 lis. Large quamities of flannel, of different kinds and qualities, taken from the shops of Mr. H. Daniel, Independent mini«ter, and Mr. H. Jones, Trosoant, &c., were sold at from 10d. to Is. per yard. Poor S. Ball's shoes were sold at 4s. per pHlr; and Geoige Bird's stock of winter cheese at 6d. per lb. The tables of Mr. David Edwards, Baptist minister; Mr. 1\1. Jones, In- dependent minister, Varteg; Mr. Wm. Conway, &c., went at miserably low prices. John Havard's six chairs and tiller of sugar, and a farmer's good old weather-glass, seemed to meet with greater favour. The buyers, so called, were very few, not exceeding, I should suppose, half a dozen at most. One or two low indi- viduals were recognized, and the others seemed to be unknown in the town, and apparently engaged for the occasion. There remains a good deal for the churchwardens and the police yet to do, as there are, it is said, in the parish many persons be- sides those whose goods have been seized, who will never pay the illegal exaction now enforced. It begins to be feared ihut as the time is fast passing away, and the poor-rate parly are very slow in prosecuting their sacred duties, they will not be able to finish their "tabour of love" before the expiration of their year of office; and it is even surmised that they have not, in this instance, found the service of the venerable estab- lishment so easy, pleasant, and honourable as they had once fondly hoped. If so, their ill success in the work of persecu- tion may serve to save the parishioners from future encioach- ments upon their tights and liberties as citizens and Christians. Yours, respectfully, Jan. 12th, 1846. A LOOKER.ON.

THE OREGON TERRITORY. To the Editor of the Monmouthshire Merlin. SIR,—In my last letter I addressed you on the position of Oregon. As the President's Message has not ooly arrived, but also been read by nearly all in the empiie, 1 beg to make a few comments upon il. No one ran have Rny doubt, wlw will five himself the least trouble 10 think, that it is decidedly a war message. President Polk, with a seeming show of moderation, and a pious anxiety for peace, bas done everything, and said everything, to produce a lupture between the two countries. There can be no doubt he is supported by a powerful party— lhe mobocracy of America-men who hdve everyllllng to gain and nothing to lose by the event. To please this party, and taking the fldllaring unction 10 his soullhal by .0 doing he is insuliog his re-election to the presidency, be has again unhesitatingly de- clared, Our right to the whole of Oregon is clear and unques- tionable." At a counterpoise to this bold assertion, we quote Ihe following !\J. Duflot de Madras, who was attached to the French legation in Mexico, and spent the years 1841, 1842, and ]843, in exploring California, as well as the territory iu dispute, has published the result of his labours. After weigh- ing the pretensions of each country, he says, emphatically, If it is incumbent upon us to declare our opinion un this imporlanl question, we cannot, despite, all our sympathy for the Uiiited Slates, and even our deep aversion to the ambJllOus policy of England, refuse to acknowledge that justice and reason a'e this time on the side of the I a i ter, and she has an absolute and exclusive right to the possession of the teriilory io dispute. Here we have a statesman who declares his sympathy is uith America, his hatred to our policy, but still comes lorward man- fully, and conscientiously declaring" Our right to the territory is clear and unquestionable." Now, when there are such con- tradictory assertions, and the one in our favour by our dedaieii foe, I will ask anv reasonable man is there not just room for arbi. tration? We are expecting, daily, our portsto be opened for tbe free imporlation of corn; but wllhout peace free trade would be but an empty name. For America it would be as bad—her cotton, corn, rice, &c., &c., would be mere drugs in the mar- ket and to say nothing of the expenditure of blood and treasure, made more horiible by our natural tie* with America. The com- mere of both nations would be all but annihilated. This is a question for negociation, without loss of national honour. Let all sensible men join in the demand tor arbitraiion, and there is no doubt it will be answered in one prolonged echo from the shores of America. Y'ours, &c., E. R. H.

To the Editor of the. Monmouthshire Merlin Pcntypool, January 17th, 184G. Dear Sir,-I beg leave to call your attention to two omissions in my letter, inserted in to-day's MERLIN. The first is a trifling onl. In third paragraph, lasi hne bUI three, there is a word omitted after "extravagantly." As 1 have not kept copies of my lellers 1 cannol remember Ihe exact wOlfl, but II wp.3 In the sense of" applauded," or extolled." The other 1.1) considerable omission after the word "that,"in the last line but six, ot the the noie at the end. In quoting the lettler from Abersychan It can now no longer be said that H few English litipiists are the only petsons who are opposed to the rate. What person would not believe, from the writers' language, that he hnd brought forward two examples of another sect, having been distrained upon, thus fulfilling what I have above said I expected that you would have received a communication to the following effect, for insertion in the present paper :—The propriety of building another place of worship (for the Church of England) has been agitated lately very much, as there is a large and populoos district, including the whole of Ihe Sowhill Tranch, Albion Terrace neighbourhood, and on the Cwin Glyn Forge, which lies a good distance from aoy place of worship :-At II Philarmonic meeting of the National School, last Tuesday even- ing, E. H. Phillips, Esq., after alluding to the wants of the neighbourhood, staled Ihat, as a commencement, he woold put down the name of himself and Mrs. Phillips, as subscribers to the amount of one hundred guineas and 1 have not the least doubt but that the scheme will nenlually be carried out. Some per- sons think that it would be better to wait until the parish church is completed, eie commencing with another heavy undertaking. I remain, yout's most respectfully, FAIR PLAY. -+-

To the Editor of the Monmouthshire Merlin. Newport, January 20ih, 1846. Sir,—In looking over your paper a few days since, I noticed the enquiiies of a correspondent, who is anxious to know what were the coat of arms, &c., worn by native Welch punces. some centuries since, which enquiries strongly reminded me of what has frequently occuried lo my miod, 89 being strange, that an attempt has not been made by some of our zealous Welshmen, to try 10 gel an heraldic representation of Gwalad y Cymry inserted into the coat of arms of Great Britain. It appears to me to be au over?ight, or want of thought, that such is not done, as according to what I have read some years since, in Evau's Geography Ihey make use ef three lions, in two quaiters, to represent. Eng- land, which Ithink is inserted twice for wantof something else lo fill each quarter, therefore, I think in these days of improve- ment, it will not be thought perhaps an art of disloyally if some greftt roen would petition our beloved Queen 10 consenl 1011 re- presentation being put, of the land that gives her first born son the title, she no doubt prides in. In the next issue of silver and gold coins, why is the leek not entwined with therntc, sham- rock, and thistle, and why is the goat or harp of Wales not in one of the four corners of the Arms of Great Britaio. Uodoubt- edtyititfromthe want of Weishmen endfavonnagtogetsueh inserted, and auuffdly il wt old be If they were 10 arouse and | eii- tion in favour of such a concession. It" to be regretted that Welshmen are more apt to pride tbemselves in deeds 01 vure, and what their ancestors may have been, than in attempting to irn- piove their present condition as a people. Oh that the yallles and hills of Old Gwalia should be made to re-clio with tuch efforts at improving our filce liS were made some weeks since at the meeting for education at the Council House in this town. DAFYD EFAN.

CHURCH-RATES. Speak as you mean, do aa you profess, and perform what you promise.' To the Editor of the Monmouthshire Merlin. SIR,—When I sent you the account of the last seizuers for non-payment of Church-rales in this parish, which account ap. peared in the MERLIN, of the 3rd instant, I did so In Ihe capacity of a correspondent, and not as a contioversialist. In that capa- city I gave a mere statement of facts, and of the feeling which fhe circumstances connected with these factt, had excited in this neighbourhood. In last Saturday's MEHLIN, Fair Play," in a note appended to his letter, makes a very unwarrantable attack upon the manner in which my statements have appeared before the public. These are his own words in speaking of my com- munication :—" It does not containa direct falsehood, but ihe facts are placed in such a manner that any person who knows nothing of the parties, would be led to believe a false- hood." And again, as another specimen of his version ctthe rn<lier,—" I dare not telltt lie, but I will make the readers of the l\1ERI.IN believe one." I will nol allempt to imitale your correspondent's very polite language 1 have It better opinIOn ul the readers of the MERLIN than to think that a plain statement 01 facts would lead them lo believe what he is pleased to term a HE. He is perfectly right in saying I due not lella lie. I hope I never shall dare to do so; and it is, Mr. Editor, because 1 abhor a falsehood, I feel it a duty I owe to myself to throw back with scorn the charge of falsehood which your correspondent has endeavouied to attach to my communication. I am happy 10 say that the parties to whom they relate, and the persons residing in the immediate locality consider my report of the proceeding a very correct and impartial one, and I think they ought to be the besr judges of the matter. The facia which I communicated to you were these — 1st, That more seizures had been made made for non-peyment of Church-rates. 2ndlv, That the Police bad taken from George Bird, about 50 lbs. of cheese, and six puirg of shoes from Samuel Long. 3rdly. That George Bird attended the Primitive Me- thodist Chapel, and was a teacher in the Sabbath School. Now the question is, ale these statements true, orare they not? What then, is the wffence 1 It is this,—that I did not say that George Bird, some three or four years ago was a member of a Baptisl Church. And that 1 did not say that Samuel Long is at present aBaptist. What motive could 1 have had to conceal the princi- ples or the profession of these individuals. If I wished to do so, (as your correspondent insinuates,) 10 show that the Baptist were not the only persons who were opposed to the vote, I could have pointed to the two Independent ministers whose properly has been seized for the same object. The fact III, that my com- munication contained more truth than your correspondent wished to hear, and he isevidentty apprehensive of the impression it is likely to produce on the minds of others. But he holds out ano- ther threat, and is so elated with his theme, that he becomes quite poetical, and says, I could a tllle uDlold," \V ell, let us have il. I have no doubt but like all his other" Tales," it will end in smoke. His insinuations about the conduct of a minister and deacon leading to the disiuptioti of a Baptist society will not do, and is quile laughable to every one acquainted wllh the Baplisl churches in this neighbourhood. Let Fair Play" employ his taleutsin replying to "No Churchman," who has given him a fair challenge, instead of writing such tubbish as that contained in his last letter. I am, Mr. Editor, yours, verv respectfully, A CORRESPONDENT. Abeisyebao, January 19, 1946.

To the Editor (f the Monmouthshirt Merlin. SIR,—I have read the Chnrch-rate controversy in the columns nf the MERLIN, und think that the socner it is ended the better, as it cannot be said 10 harmonise with the principles of our Re- formed fatth neither can there be traced much of the character of the Apostolic Chmch, in connection with such proceedings as are brought before the world, by the mode of collecting Church- rates in the parish of i revethin. It might, indeed, be said— "Behold how those Christians hate one another! What an exhibition of Christian kindness!" Unquestionably, Sir, I am of opinion that Christian teaching was never intended 10 compel or to constrain the will, by any irresistible or inevitable law, in conformity to all externals con- nected with the Established Chutch. I do not consider myself a Dissenter. I have filled the office of Churchwarden, and col- lected a Church-rate through part of a very extensive parish but most grudgingly was it paid by some that professed to be mem- bers of the same Church. I recollect calling at the house of a farmer and ratepayer; and having made known the object of my visit, the first question he asked me was, what I intended to do with the money my reply was, to repair the Church. His next question was—Is the Church likely to fall down,—as it would afford him much pleasure, though it might beai the time of wor- ship, and destroyed the whole congregation. This was an ex- treme case, and I shall never forget the effect it had upon my mind for I am in some respects partial to the Church. 1 admire the soundness of her creed, and venerate those sacred edifices, round which the spreading yew-tree throws its shadej; andshouid wish to see them preserved from the ravages of time but I be- lieve that the full flow of liberal and cheerful contribution to be one of the first results of the Almighty energy of our Christian religion. I am, Sir, your obedient servant, A SOUTH-WALES COLLIER. January 6ih, 1846.

GUNPOWDER IN THE TOWN. To the Editor of the Monmouththire Merlin. SIR,—I take the liberty of drawing your attention to a flag- rant instance 01 ignoranctl and breach of the law wiih lespect to a circumstance which happened at Pillgwenlly a few days ago, and although the danger attendant upon the case is past, a re- currence ot such a practice might be attended with feflrfullo51 of life and property. The matter alluded to is as lollows :—On the wharf called Penmaen, a labouring man, in the employ of I\1r. Roger Lewis coal-merchant, wu observed taking out of a dwelling-house, 00 Ihe above wharfv Five BaneU of Gunpowder, which had been housed there for several days and nights The powder bad been purchased of a Newport merchant, taken down io Pillgw enllv for Mr. Lewis, and housed 00 his wharf, (uollI it was convenient 10 send up to the collieries,) in a room used aa an office. The said office is part ot a large dwelling-house, Inhahitants living on each side of it, Rnd 11180 over it. In this same office a large tire is always kept up. sometimes all night, as well as all day, and on the day when the powder lay there, a constant fire was kept. On minutely but cautiously enquiring into tho affair, it appears Ihat powder has been re- ceived and housed in the same place, OD former occasions, and lhat it has lerl!8tned on Ihe premises as long nine or Itn days, under similar circumstances, as above described, and auy work man, or workman's children in the neighbourhood could have edtered the place, as the door was not locked, it ap- pears, except at nijjht. This is the straight-forward account of the affair, Sir, and 1 will thank you, to make the subject a pub- lic announcemet and warning to parties who so ignorantly rtsk life aud properly. The circumstance was just hinted to no influential magistrate in this neighbourhood, and it is to be hoped that he will confer wilh you and the other magistrates, and tbat Ihe necessity of a minute investigation into the housing and transit of gunpowder. will, at once, be the resuli. If a report which I have just heard be correct, you, sir, and the inhabitants of your part of our town, ruu great risk of life and property, Inasmuch u I am told Ibat in certaIn premises, not far distant, an immeme and therefore illegal quautity of gunpowders is being kept constantly. I am, sir, your obedient servant, AN INHABITANT.

Review of the Corn Trade. Though the natural effect of the uncertainty respecting the Corn Laws must have beea 10 create great uneasiness among all classes of agriculturists, it is a singular fact that supplies from the growers have for some weeks put been on a very moderate scale. We can scarcely suppose that this has been caused through confidence in the present amount of protection being maintained, as each day has strengthened the belief that Sir R. Peel and his colleagues contemplate a material relaxation in the duties on grain the most reasonable conclusion, therefore, HI. that farmers are aware that the yield of the last crop HI really deficient, and that ihey are consequently unwilling tosaenfice their property, ai its present depreciated value. Should this really be the case (and we see no reason to question the accuracy of the opinion expressed at the time of harvest, viz., that the pro. duceo) wheat of the United Kingdom was tn 1845 materially short of that of average seasons), there is certaioly noihing to warrant the recent great decline. We consider, therefore, Tha; farmers are acting prudently in not pressing wheat to market; for, even if the whole of what is now in bond should be Itbe- rated, it would not have any permanent effect on quoiations, in case our supposition that the home produce is short, be correct. VVe are compelled 10 put the matter In 111IS indclinite manner, in the absence of statistics on so important a subject as the produce of the country; though, from careful investigation of the reports from all quarters received previous to the commencement of har- vest, as well ai1 carefully compiled eSlimales from practical agri- culturis1!1 after the crop had been secured, we have no doubt on our own minds that the deficiency, though not so great as repre- sented lIy thosc who raised tbe famine cry, is actually of suffi. cient importance to render il veiy questiotlllble whether Ihe value 01 wheal cau be kept low during the ensuing summer, let the measures of the government be what they møy. lo considering the future range of priccs, the fact that millers and merchants have for many weeks past lefrained from adding to their stock, must not be lost sight of. The purchases recently made have been to supply immediate wants, all parties having manifested a determination to be in a position to take advantage of whaiever effect the expected alteration in the Corn Laws might have upon the trade. It is, therefore, not unreasonable to sup- pose tbat, when once the cause of uncertainty 8hall have been removed, the demand which has for so protflicted a period been lanquid, will immedietely revive Hnd, inslead of a further fall, we should not be surprised to witness a steady and gradual im- provement. This cannot, however, be expected till it has become definitely known by what laws the importation of corn is lor the future to be regulated and, so long as the mailer is under dis- cussion in Parliament, no great revival in bus ness will, we fear, take place. At all the piincipal provincial markets held during the week, the utmost difficulty has been expeiienced in effecting sales of wheat; and though, as before observed, Ihe allpplieil brought for- ward have not been by any means large, the tendency of prices has been decidedly dllwnwar<ls. The repoits from Liverpool, on Tuesday, state that, at an abatement of about 21. per 70lbs. on the rates 01 that day se'n- night, some small purchases were made for immediate use, but that millers were unwilling to take more than pressing necessit es obliged them to buy. Later in the week, the depression rather Increased lhan diminished. The accounts from the leading towns in Yorkshire au, equally dull. The Hull advices of Tuesday inform us that, with a disposition on the part of selleis to facilitate busine-s by sub- mitting to a decline of quite 2s. per qr., little progress was made in the disposal of wheat whilst at Leeds, on the same day, aud at Wakefield, on Friday, the reduction was at least 2s. per qr. The depression has been nearly as great at the leading markets in the west and north-west; nor have affairs worn a more pio mising appearance in the agricultural districts, the cessation of orders from the chief consuming towns having obliged farmers, if anxious to sell, to submit to reduced prices. By our Scotch advices, we learn that the continued dull re- ports from the South had had their usual influence on the trade, and wheat w 's quoted Is. to 2s. per qr. lo*er on Wednesday at Ediubuigh and Glasgow. Prices of most other sorts of grain, ns well as those of flour and meal, had also receded moie or !ess, all parties having acted on the reserve. The Irish markets have likewise fell the influence of the flat accounts from this side of the Channet still quotations of boih wheat and oats aie too high to admit of consignments to London, with a fair thance of profit. The arrivals of wheal coastwise in'o London have been small, only 5,117 qrg. having been reported up 10 this (Saturday) even- ing. The quantity exhibited at Mark Lane, by laod cariiage samples, has been trining but the millers having adhered firmly to their determination not to IDcre,lSe their slocks in the present unsettled slate 01 affairs, the scanty oatuie of the supply has failed to impart a firmer tone to business. On Wednesday, only a few samples, left over from the previous market day, were offered for sale; to place these, some difficulty was experienced, but factors refused to submit to any further reduction. On Friday, there was some slight addttion to the quantity of wheat on the Estex stands, and ihe inquiry being quite as languid as earlier in the wetk, the turn was rathet in Uvourof buyers. The transactions in free foreign wheat have been on a strictly retail scale; no variation has, however, taken place in the value of the article since Monday holders having, on the whole, dis. played more firmness than might, under all <:Ïrrumst8Dcell, have been expected. On Wednesday, bonded wheat was totally ne- glected, nnr were the:" tual operations of importance on Friday; but there was certainly more inquiry for the article ai the close than in she commencement (If the week, principally, we believe, for shipment to Belgium. Had sellers been disposed to give way a trifle in price, bUsloe81 tu some extent might probdbly have been done. The demand for flour has, throughout the week, been exces- sively siow hitherto, however, the top quotations for town. manufactured has remained at 56s. per sack. Ship flour has not supported its previous value, some pressed sales having been made on Friday, at about Is. per sack below former terms. The arrivals of barley, though not particularly large, have proved amply sufficient 10 satisfy the immediate wants of the maltsters and distillers, and 00 one has shown any inclination to lake more than necessary for present purposes we are unable, therefore, lorepoit the slightest improvement either in the demand for or the value of this grain. Malt has also been difficult of sale; hut the real scarcity of superior qualities has caused the finer sorts to command relatively high rates. The market has been moderately supplied with oats, of home growth; fiom our own coast, only 4,060 qrs.; from Scotland, 170 qrs and from Ireland, none havecome to hand. Thesmall- nesH of this arrival has, however, iu some measure been com. pensated by Ihe receipt of 11 7'27 qrs. from abroad. The princi- pal dealers have shown far more anxiety to reduce than to in- crease their stocks the "aietof the week have consequently bten on a It.,t.ricled scale. Factors huve, on other band, displayed considerable firmness; and the business done has been at terms, quile equal to those current 011 Monday last. Many of the car. goes of foreign Gals have been offered, duty paid, from on board sliip and as these were mostly purchased at high rales on the other side, the result must be far from favourable. Beans have met wilh a moderate share 01 atteniion, and hand- some parcels of old have brought quite as much money as last week. The duty rose to 3s, fid. per qr. on Thursday, and is likely to continue to tend upward; The mildness of the season has greatly interfered with the sale of boiling pfas and though the quantity brought to market has not been large, DO difficulty has been experienced in buying at last Monday's decline. Grey and hog peas have also hung hea- vily on hand. The duty advanced a step on the minimum point (at which it has stood for some weeks) on Thursday.— Majfc LUlie Expres¡¡.

PROFESSIONAL INCONTINENCE.—The CourtofCommonPteat, on Fiiday, granted a rule nisi for a new trial in this case, not, however, on the merits," on a technical point.

UNITED STATES. J IMPORTANT NEWS. } The royal mail steamer Arcadia has arrived here with tM; usual mails from Canada and the United States. She left BostoA on the 1st January, and Halifax on the 3rd. The news by tbijj arrival is highly important. Bills have been introduced in both Houses of Congress, emanating from the corrmittees od territories, and having for their object to extend the jurisdiction of the United States, not merely over the persons of Amoricad citizens in Oregon, but over the whole of the disputed territ The proposer of the bill in the Lower House was Mr. DougUsu the chairman of the Committee on Territories; and upon it introduction, Mr. Pakenham is understood to have declared that, if adopted it would be a violation of the treaty now subsisting: between England and the United States. Mr. Hannegan, of Indiana had introduced resolutions into tW Senate, claiming the whole of the Oregon territory, and declaritt that no power exists or shall exist in the United States Govern ment to transfer any portion of it to any foreign power. Tb* '1 discussion of these resolutions came on in the Senate on the 3()tUj and Mr. Calhoun met them by proposing a series of resolulio as amendments, and which are the very reverse of those of t Indiana senator. Mr. Calhoun's resolutions declare that r President has the power, with the advice of the Senate, to ma^H treaties, and that the settlement of boundary lines is embracflH in this power—that in offering, in a spirit of peace and harmonjH the 49th parallel as the dividing line between the United StatiH and Great Britain, the President exercised powers rightfulJ belonging to him, and acted for the best interests of the countrjfj Mr. Allen, of Ohio, said Let us give notice to Great Brita'iWl| and pass the bill extending the jurisdiction of the United Stat over Oregon.-The resolutions were laid on the table, to bf, called up when the report is made upon the subject ot giving tb<^ notice. The Washington Union (official organ), in reference to these resolutions, says, that any further proposition on the subject must come from England, for the United States cannot, without disgrace, re open the negociations by making another offer. It is ihus impossible to blind ourselves to the fact that at least on«.< great party in America, instead of evincing a disposition to mo* dify or soften the recommendations contained in Mr. Polk's address, is straining every nerve to make the Legislature of that. country assume a position towards England more hostile and uncompromising than that taken by the President himself, fio j the other hand, it is gratifying to find that the Whigs, and^s- pecially the representatives of the New England states, sho<fe<l a determination to oppose to the utmost,the reckless proceeding' of those who would plunge two kindled nations into war. OBfi of the senators from Massachusetts bad brought forward a serie* of resolutions, distinguished by the elevation of their moral tooe, and condemnatory of the folly and wickedness of seeking to j bring on hostilities without even an attempt to settle the disputed i question by arbitration. Mr. Calhoun, too, was said to be inde- J fatigable in his exeitions to defeat the measures of the War-^ party. 1

CORN EXCHANGE, MARK-LANE, Mow., JAN. 19. j With small supplies of wheat last week, and to this day'M maiket, we have Hie trade extremely depressed; and there is much disinclination to increase slocks an the part of the millers, that sellnrs are obliged to submit to a decline of Is. to 2s. per qr. on die currency of this day week,to effect sales. Flour meets a dull sale, and is Is. per sack cheaper; barley is difficult to sell. and prices about maintained. Beans and white and grey peas Is. to 2s. per qr. lower. We are shortly supplied with oats, and many of the foreign arrivals are being landed in bond Irish oats are generally held for some advance, but the trade is not active, and prices jest maintained. m CURRENCY PER IMPERIAL MEASURE. J vv hEAT.l^ssex oc iveiH, new red 6Z 58 White 5S 63 — Old, red 56 62 Ditto 60 64 — | RvE.old 34 38 New 38 40 BARLEY, grinditig,2831 matting 34 — Chevalier. Irish 27 28 Bere 27 MALT, Suffolk and Norfolk 58 63 Brown .56 60 Kingstone and Ware.. 60 — Chevalier ..65 — OATS, Yorksh 6C Lincolnsh, feed 22 — Potato .26 —- Voughall & Cork, black. 22 23 Cork, white.23 24 Dublin. 23 24 Westport ..24 —. Waterlbid, white 21 23 Black .23 24 Newry 25 27 Galway 21 22 Scotch, feed 24 — Potato .27 30 Clonmel 24 25 Limenck 27 30 Londonderry 25 26 Sligo. 26 27 BEANS,Tick, new.. 34 38 Old, small.52 PEAS, Grey 36 — Maple .36 — White vv Boilers .50 — PLOI'R, Town-made.55 60 Suffolk42 per sack ot 2801b* Stockton & Norfolk 48 Irish ..60 52 FOREIGN GRAIN AND FLOUR IN BOND. WHEAT. Dantiic 52 56fin8- 60 Hamburg 50 52 Rostock 62 54 BAULKY. 23 26 OATS, Brew u 2S Feed 19 32 DEANS 44 FLOUR, American, per barrel.. 30 32 Baltic —

LONDON, MONDAY, JAN. 19. The arrivals last week from Ireland were 1,985 firkins butter, and 1,891 bales bacon, and from foreign ports 3,330 casks butter. We experienced a good demand for Irish butter duiing the past week, and business, to some extent, transacted, at full prices the reduced stock, and small quantity on passage from Ireland, cau-e holders to very firm. We have to notice a further improvement in the bacon market. The arrivals being still insufficient to the demand, au advance of Is. to 2s per cwt. was obtained on landed parcels, on board some sales were effected at 50s. to 51s. for choice sizeables, for imllleùiale shipments. Lard is also improved in demand, and advanced lates obtained Stocks and deliveries for the week ending Jan. 17th tll'TTklt. I BACON. Stock. Delivery. Stock. Delivery, 1844 52,30 8,790 7,160 2,460 1 H4;> a),770 6,310 14,140 2|«i0 1816 31,690 9,970 2:130 4,010 BUTTER, BACON, CHEESE, AND HAMS. j IRISH BUTTER (new)s s. CHEESE, pel cwt. s. S« per cwt. — — Double Gloucester 62 68 j Carlow, new, on brd 98 — Single ditto 48 52 Sligo 92 — Chekhite 56 76 Cork, 1st 98 — HAMS. ENOLISH BUHER. Irish 56 64 Dorset,pertiikin 54 — Westmoreland 66 FOREIGN. York 66 70- Prim, Friesland, ot. 104 108 BACON, new 48 52 Ditto, Kiel 112 — Middles — — ,I

SMITHF1ELD CATTLE MARKET, MOWDAY, JAN. 19. J The supply of beasts, to-day, being comparatively small, and 1 the attendance of buyers large, the beef trade ruled steady, at, | in some instances, a trifling advance in the quotations. The | primest Scots readily producing 4s. 4d. per Bibs., at which a good clearance was effected by the salesmen. With sheep we were scantily supplied for the time of year j while the mutton trade was firm, but at nothing quotable beyond, our last quotations. There were in the market about 300 shorn Leicesters, and nearly 100 lambs from various quarters. The number of calves was small while the the veal trade ruledsteady, at late rates. Prime small pigs moved off freely, at extreme figures other* wise, the pork trade was inactive. Per Bibs., to sink the ofira 1. s. d. 8. d. I J d. Coarse and Inferior Prime coarse woo). U l Beasts 2 R 2 10 led Sheep 4 j 4 10 Second quality do.3 2 3 6 P, ime South Downs j Prime large Oxen.3 8 4 0 ditto 5 0 5 2 Prime Scots, &c..4 0 4 2 Large coarseCalves4 4 5 ^1 Coarse and Inferior Prime small ditto..5 2 5 4 Sheep .3 6 4 0 Large Hogs 3 10 4 6 Second quality do.4 2 4 6 Neat sniall^Porkers.4 8 5,2tj Suckling Calves, 18s. todOs.; and quarter-old Store Pigs, 1 *>». I to 21s. each. Beasts, 2,721 j Sheep, 21,220; Calves, '1 Pigs, 275. t j

LATEST CURRENT PRICES OF METALS. j ? I LONDON, JAN. lb, Jij/lb. £. S. "j luoN-Bara Wales ton 9 0 0 London 10 0 Nail rods 10 10 Hoops(Staf.) 11 10 Sheet „ 12 10 Bars 11 0 0 4 Welsh cold blast foundry blast 5 10 0| Scotch pig b Clyde 4 0 0 Rails 12 0 0' Russian c CCND. 15 10 0, PSI 160 0 GouriefF 14 10 Archangel IS 12 6 Swedish d, for arriv 0 0 0 on the spot 11 10 0 Steel,fagt 16 10 0 kegs e. 15 5 4) COPPER—Tile/ 92 0 0 Tough cake 93 0 0 1 btstsetected. 96 0 0 j Ordinary sheets lb. 0 010} j bottoms 0 0114 1;' TIN—Com. blocksg ,cuit. 5 3 0 F bars 5 4 0 I Refined 5 7 0 I Straits h 4 8 0 V Banca. 4100 TIN PLATES—Ch., IC. i box 1 14 0 I IX 2 0 0 1 Coke, IC I 9 0'1 IX 1 )5 0 LEAD-Sheet k 20 0 0 Pig, letined 21 0 0 common 19 0 0 Spanish, in bd 1 18 0 0 American 17 15 0 SHELTER—(Cake)< 20 5 0 Zi\r—(Sheet)w export 30 0 0 QUICKSILVER 11 lb. 0 4 6 IUFINED MKTAI ton 0 0 0 « Discount per cent. b JNet cash. c Discount 24 per cent, d Ditto, e In kegs £ and §-inch. f Discount 3 percent, g Ditto '2J per cent, h Net cash, in bond, i Dis- count 3 per cent, k Ditto 2! per cent, I Net cash bond m Discount q per cent. n discount 1J per cent. For hoine use it is L32. per ton. REMARK •• hON.- W dsh and Staffordshire continue in steady demand. and makers are fitm in price. Scotch pigs are dull, at our quo* tations. COPPP.R remains firm, at last week's prices. TIN,-English tin is not much iu request, but stocks being very light, the prices are well maintained. Foreign tin has ,I' given way '2s. per cwt., and some business has been done, at present rates. TIN i'i.ATEe and LEAD are steady, at quotations, but the business is limited. SPELTER.—About 600 tons have been sold this week at £ '20« and £20. 5s., chiefly for the India market. The stock is about (.000 tons.

PRESENT PRICE OF TIN PLATES. NEWPORT. JAN. 17. I s- d. £ s d No. IC. per box 1 11 0 Wasters.0 2 0 No. fX. per box 1 17 0 0 3 0 No.lXX. pet box 2 3 0 „ 0 3 U No. fX. per box 1 17 0 11 0 3 0 No.IXX. per box. 2 3 0 „ 0 3 U

BRISTOL HAY MARKET, JAN. 20. I Hav pei ton. 2 10 () to 4 0 v i Straw per Dozen o j o to 0 1 | ————— ——————————————— Newport, Saturday, January 24, 1846. c Printed and Published for the Propiietor, ED W A RP UOWHNU,ofStot Hill, in the Parish or St. Woolos, in the MERLIN Geneitl Printing Office, situate in Corn-street, io f the Borough of Newport,by WILLIAM CHRISTOPHERS, I ot No. I, Ciiailes.street,in thesaid Borough. g London Ageotr; :-Messrs. Newton and Co., Warwick-square* f Mr. R. Barker, 33, Fleet-street; Mr. G. Reynell, 43, Chao" > eery-lane, Mr. S. Deacon, Coffee-house, No. 3, Walbrook, < Brarthe Mansion House, where this paper is refularl filedt i