Monmouthshire Merlin

RECKITT'S PARIS BLUE,—The marked superiority of this Laundry Blue over all others, and the quick appre- ciation of its merits by the Public, has been attended by the usual result, viz. a flood of imitations: the merit of the latter mainly consists in the ingenuity exerted, not simply in imitating the square shape but making the general appearance of the wrappers resemble that of the genuine article. The Manufacturers beg therefore to caution all buyers to see Reckitt's Paris Blue" on each packet. FLORTLINE !—FOR THE TEETH AND BREATH.—A few drops of the liquid "Floriline" sprinkled on a wet tooth brush produces a pleasant lather, which thoroughly cleanses the Teeth from all parasites or impurities, hardens the gums, prevent tartar, stops decay, gives to the Teeth a peculiar pearly whiteness, and a delightful fragrance to the breath. It removes all unpleasant odour arising from decayed teeth, or tobacco smoke. "The Fragrant Floriline" being composed in part of Honey and sweet herbs, is delieious to the taste, and the greatest Toilet discovery of the age. Price 2s. 6d of all Chemists and Perfumery Prepared by Henry C. GALLUP, 493 Oxford-street, London. j 19 A NEVER-FAILING REMEDY for bilious and liver com- plaints, indigestion, wind, spasms, giddiness, dizziness of the eyes, and many other symptoms, which none but a sufferer can describe. DR. Scon's BILIOUS AND LIVER PILIAt are the most certain remedy, prepared without any mercurial ingredient, having proved effectual in many cases of habitual costiveness, nervous depression, loss of appetite, with sensa- tion of fulness at the pit of the stomach pains between the shoulders, and the distressing feelings arising from indigestion and general debility. They can be taken at any time with- out danger from wet or cold, and require no restraint from business or pleasure. They act mildly on the bowels without griping, give tone to the stomach, thus invigorating the con- stitution and strengthening the whole nervous system. Every person, especially heads of households, should have a box of these Pills always by them, as by paying attention to the regular action of the bowels, stomach and liver, many a severe illness is avoided or mitigated. Prepared only by W. LAM- BERT, 1A, Vere 3treet. London, W., in boxes, Is lid., and 2s 9d., and sold by all respectable medicine vendors through- out the United Kingdom. IMPORTANT CA-UTION.-Be sure to ask for Dr. Scott's Bilious and Liver Pills," and do not be persuaded to try any other medicine. The genuine are in a square green package, with the name William Lambert, 8, King Wiliam Street, Charing Cross," engraved on the Govern- ment stamp. Take down the particulars. Should any diffi- culty arise in obtaining these Pills, send 15 or 3=> postage stamps to the establishment, and they will be forwarded free

WHILST ENLARGING THE SIZE of the bottle, the Proprietors of LAMBEKT'S BALSAM, by a new process of manufacture, have succeeded in making the medicine more palatable, clearer, and miscible in water, at the same time retaining all its well known eilica< y. The value of this medi- cine is truly great, it relieves even Asthma, the most incurable of all coughs, thus showing that it possesses qualities peculiarly its own. In all affections of the lung or air pas- gages, tightness of the chest, &c., it is invaluable; it also greatly relieves consumptive and nervous Coughs, often effecting permanent cures. It is pleasant, easily taken, and rapid in its curative effects, a dose taken over night, according to the directions round the bottle, will stop a slight cough or cold and prevent further inconvenience. He sure to ask for and see you get LAMBEKT'S ASTHMATIC BALSAM. It is sold by all Chemists in bottles at is lid and 2s 9d, Prepared only by W. LAMBBBT, lA Viro street, London, W. 16»7

LESS WORK AND MORE WAGES. When men fight against men, the issue of the battle may be allowed to be doubtful. When men contend against the nature of things, there need be no such doubt. If, therefore, we consider the conflict in which a very large number of our workmen are now being led by certain leaders, the important question that pre- sents itself is whether this conflict is waged against other men or against the nature of things. No doubt it is imagined that the war is carried on against men only. Certain ironmasters have blown out a large proportion of their furnaces, it is believed, as a stroke of war against workmen and the workmen reply by decreeing another idle day in the week, so as effectu- ally to lessen the supply of coal with which iron may be manufactured. This curious struggle, in which ironmasters shorten the supply of iron, and miners the supply of coal, is apparently regarded as a struggle of men against men. It is confessedly so regarded by the miners, and probably also by some of the ironmasters. The question is whether the conflict is not really against the nature of things, in so far as its aim is to raise prices or wages. The amount of iron produced is not saleable at any price. We have apparently reached a crisis at which it is impossible to use the quantity produced, even if it could be given away. If this is true, the blowing out of furnaces is a perfectly natural step, and one not to be avoided. Even in that case, however, the blowing out of furnaces will not raise the price of iron. If openings are not made by which more iron will be profitably used, the mere fact that just as much as can be used, and no more, is made, will leave prices very much as they are now. For a short time it might be possible to raise the nom- inal price of iron if it were rendered really scarce. Even then, however, the rise could only last so long as there wore capitalists willing to throw away a portion of their capital. To make iron scarce cannot make it more profitable to use it. The best, therefore, that could be said of the step taken in blowing out the furnaces would be, that the ironmasters could neither help it, nor help themselves in taking it. It is found to be impossible to sell the iron made at any price, and so it is not possible to go on making it. The largest capital existing canDOt long stand the making of useless products, aud hence such making must be suspended, if not by timely resolu- tion, by the ruin of the fortunes of those who go on with a losing business. In this case there is no aim to raise prices-there is only a yielding to the inevitable whieh is met with in the nature of the case. But now, in so far as any of the masters do imagine that they may raise prices permanently by lessening production, the case is different. They are then taking the same view as the men are confessedly taking in decreeing an idle day. In this view of the trade it is not assumed that any portion of the produce created is unsale- able. The assumption is that all now produced is used and hence sold, and so proved to be saleable. It is this assumed state of things which we have to con- sider when dealing with the problem as to how less work can be made to bring higher wages. To see this at its very best we must represent society as divided into two parties-one oomposed we shall say of miners and ironworkers, and the other of those who use coal and iron. To see the truth more easilv we take more easily we take a small community, who at the present moment are using a certain number of tons of coal in the year. For this they are paying a cer- tain price, and, in the use of this amount of coal and iron, they are producing other goods which enable them to pay the money they give for these things They are wasting neither coal nor iron, but using both in sueh a way that they can pay for them at present rats# somewhat easily. The proposal now is to lessen the supply at present handed over to this same com- munity. It is surely clear enough that the first effect of this must be to lessen their power of producing those things which enabled them to pay for the coal and iron they formerly used. But the price of these articles is to be raised at the same time th. t their amount is to be lessened. The price must be so much raised that a larger amount of money shall be paid for the lessened amoant than was paid for the greater. It is absolutely certain that if the aims of workmen, who call for lessened productions to raise wages, is to be carried out, the cost of a comparatively small amount of material must be very considerably more than that of a much greater amount. This supposed community, therefore, must produce a very much larger quantity of goods by the use of a smaller quan- tity of coal and iron. The question is, how is this to be done But now comes the other element in the case. The community who are to be shut up to do this very difficult duty is a working community also, and must act on the same principle. Instead of producing a greater amount of goods, they, too, are to produce a smaller amount, and to sell these at prices so much higher, that they may have less work and yet higher wages. The real question comes now to be, bow this can be in the nature of things ? Bring iu another com- munity to be acted on by the two already supposed, and go -eii from one to another till one be got hold of composed entirely of capitalists, who are to be drawn upon to meet the whole difficulty of the matter. But capitalists, as viewed by those of whom we now argne, are not producers at all. That which is to make up for blown-out furnaces and idle days in the mine can- not come by the hands of those who produce nothing, and who are also consumers. Whence, then, is it to come? Cain has to be produced by labour as much as corn, and corn as much as coal and iron. If labour and production are to be materially reduced, how is it conceivable that coin. or corn, or coal, or anything for the sake of which men labour, can be forthcoming in larger amount? It is beyond all possibility of doubt that the conflict is with the nature of things. In such a conflict there may be any amount of talk, and men who can talk may make money. It is exceedingly pro- fitable to certain orators to cherish a popular delusion but what is of necessity the actual issue of suchaconffict? It is simply that the men who wage war with the na- ture of things become poorer and poorer till some famine crieis is reached, and they find the grave in great numbers. Those who survive are, it may be, then cured of their error, and a new class of leaders is brought to the front. Then industry and frugality come up again, and take their proper places. Society rallies, but only after tremendous lessons of sore ex- perience. All that experience would be escaped if only a very little real thoughtfulness possessed a good majority, or even a strong minority, of men or if moral courage sufficient to stand up for the true and the right in this matter had a place in the hearts of even a considerable few.-Capital and Labour.

THE MASONS' STRIKE IN LONDON. The London masons are likely very soon to be sorry for their present attitude towards their masters The strike has now been on for many weeks, and although every now and then the masons announce that such and such a firm has given way to the men's demands, as a matter of fact none of the influential firms-the large employers of labour-have done so and from what we hear, they are not likely to give in. The masters are now importing foreign workmen, and the latest experiment in this direction appears to be more successful than previons attemps have been. The greatest pressure has been felt at the new law courts, where the masons, perhaps because they were work- ing on national property, have been most exacting. Three times since the building o! the courts commenc- ed have the masons made demands, and three times have Messrs Bull assented to them; but a fourth demand was too much for human endurance, and they have determined to employ foreign labour rather than sub- mit. Accordingly they have engaged a number of German and Italian masons, and a batch of American masons have arrived at London, where they have stipulated to work under the conditions that gave rise to the strike. Six hundred English masons were en- gaged on the new law courts, and the places of all of them will soon be taken by foreign workmen. And not only there, but eleswhere the new emigration is to be utilised. The Yorkshire Post has authority for stating that negotiations have been carried on be- tween England and Germany which have resulted in German builders and contractors having expressed their readiness to undertake work in England with their own men. These they will bring over with the requisite foremen. In pledge of their resolution to carry through any work upon which they may enter, they are prepared to sign contracts for its completion within specified dates under a heavy penalty. They say they shall meet any opposition by simply placing themselves under the protection of the German Consul.

PACKET TEAS JN PERFECTION. — POLAND, ROBERTSON & Co's Pure Teas, giiaranteedby Govern ment Inspection, can be obtained in air-tight packets in quantities ranging from Two Ounces to One Pound, of- most respecteble Grocers, Chemists, Bakers, Confec- tioners, Stationers and others, in all towns and villages throughout the United Kingdom, at prices from 2s per lb. and upwards. The public are respectfully requestel to ask for Poland, Robertson & Co's Pure Teas, which are guaranteed to be unadulterated. An 8 lb. Tin of Pure Tea sent, carriage paid, to any Railway Station in the United Kingdom, on receipt of Post Office Ord-r. For particulars of-agency apply it the London Warehouses, Curtain Road, B.C. SEWING MACHINES ONLY THIRTY SHILLINGS."— TAYLOR'S NEW PATENT TWISTED LOOP SEW- ING MACHINE, with all necessary apparatus viz. Tucking Gaage, Self-Sewer, Hemmer, Braider, Oil Can, and Needles. It will Stitch, Hem, Fell, Braid, Bind, Quilt, Tuck and Gather, and do every kind of Domestic Work. The extraordinary cheapness of this Machine brings it within the reach of all. Wholesale and retail at the Manufacturers. Taylor's Patent Sewing Machine Company, Limited, JDriffieldj Yorkshire and 97, Cheap- eide, London, E.C.

FATAL FIRE IN LONDON. A fire broke out in a tobacconist's shop ir the Mile End road, London, on Tuesday, which re- sulted in the deaths of the owner, Thomas Way, and an invalid son, whom the father was attempt- ing to rescue when he lost his own life. One boy was much injured in jumping from a window. The remainder of the family were saved by the fire escape.

MATRIMONY AND FRAUD. On Monday, William Sharp, a young man, of gentlemanly appearance and respectably con- nected, was indicted, before Mr. Commissioner Kerr for having stolen a letter containing bank notes to the value of £ 50, the property of the Postmaster-General. — The prisoner pleaded guilty, and Mr. Horace Avery, on his behalf, expressed a hope that his lordship would see that this was an exceptional case, in which a punish- ment less than one of penal servitude might satisfy ] the ends of justice. The prisoner was the son of a Nonconformist minister, and had received an excellent education. In a moment of temptation he took the letter, and there was no doubt that he applied a considerable portion of the money to the payment of the expenses of his wedding, which took place about three weeks after the fraud.— The Commissioner said he could see nothing to induce him to take the case out of the usual category of such offences, and sentenced the prisoner to five years' penal servitude. The case was heard at the Old Bailey, under the Winter Assize Act.

LOCAL TAXATION. The sixth annual report of the Local Govern- ment Board for 1876-7, issued on Monday, con- tains a general statement embodying the total fiscal results of the local taxation of England for the year 1874-5. The total income was jE43,612,161, made up as follows:—Local taxes, £ 26,466,231; Treasury subventions, £ 1,511,018; other sources, including loans, £ 15,684,912. The total expenditure was £ 40,706,342. The non-remunerative taxation, for poors rates, police rates, toils, dues, &c., amounted to £ 12,071,931, being a decrease of £508,676 as compared with the previous year. Under the head of remunera- tive local taxation, however, there was a large increase of impost shown on comparing 1874-5 with the aggregate of the previous year. The I total raised in this section by local taxation iu the year under review was £ 14,394,300, against £ 11,714,526, being an increase of 23 per cent. The amount of loans outstanding at the close of the respective yearly accounts was £92,820,100. According to the return of the previous year the loan debt of the various authorities was f 24,194,956, consequently the total debt had in- creased during 1874-75 to the extent of £ 8,625,144. The Treasury subventions in aid of local taxation amounted for the year to £ 1,511,018. The whole of the Parliamentary grant for the year was, how- ever, £ 1,771,841. The Government takes upon itself several charges in relief of local taxes, which charges are not shown in the returns made to the board, but a statement is given show- ing the amounts provided by the estimates as grants from the Imperial exchequer in aid of local charges (England) for the years 1877- 78 and 1876-77, the totals being, in the first- named year JE2,391,498, and in the last-named £ 2,358,133. An examination of the amounts annually disbursed from 1871 to 1875 shows that while the expenditure by the local authorities for remunerative purposes during that term has in- creased greatly, the non-remunerative outlay has remained nearly stationary. On comparing the last with the first year the non-remunerative outlay discloses an increase of £ 219,042 only; but the increase of the remunerative expenditure is shown to be f 10,539,270.

THE PEXGE CONVICTS. Although it has not yet received official intimation respecting the commuted sentences on the Penge con- victs, the Globe of Wednesday evening has some grounds for believing that Alice Rhodes will be granted a free pardon, and that the three Stauntone will be sentenced to penal servitude, probably for life.

SEVENTH MON. RIFLE VOLUNTEERS. Week ending November 3rd, 1877. MONDAY.—The Corps to parade in uniform at 7.15 sharp, for Battalion drill. As this will be the last uniform parade lor the year ending 31st inst., a full muster of all ranks is particularly requested. TUESDAY.—Recruit drill at 7.30 p.m. WEDNESDAY.—Class firing at 3. Recruit drill at 7 30 p.m. THURSDAY.—NiL FRIDAY.—Company drill at 7.30 p.m. Band praetice aa usual

QUEENSLAND EMIGRATION.—A Lloyd's telegram advises the safe arrival at Brisbane of the ship Roz- burqlishire," which left the Clyde on July 5th, with 292 passengers on board. The voyage occupied about 90 days. LAND TENURE.—A combined meeting of the Devonshire and Cornwall Chambers of Agricul- ture was held at Exeter last week, to consider the question of land tenure. In an animated discus- sion the Agricultural Holdings Act was condemned as unsatisfactory, on account of its optional character, and & resolution was passed unani- mously, declaring that the absence of all legal security for tenant farmers' outlay in the improve- ment of land caused a sexions diminution in food supply, and demanding .a compulsory measure. Sir Lawrence Palk presided. The strike of the milesmen on the Killarney and Tralee branches of the Great Southern and Western Railway is now at an end. Ihe men have all returned to their work, relying upon the directors to consider their case favourably. The police who patrolled the line were withdrawn on the lyth instant. The inauguration ceremony in connection with the recently-formed Wolverhampton Conserva- tive Club has been postponed till the 22nd of next month, in order to secure the presence of a Cabinet Minister, who, it has been promised, shall attend. At the autumnal meeting of the Western Uni- tarian Association, held in Bristol on Oct. 18th, the speakers said they could not obtain full religious liberty so long as they remained under the shadow of a dominant ;&nd privileged church. The London Operative Millers' Committee met on Saturday night and dissolved itself, as nearly all the operative millers have accepted rises of two or three shillings a week, instead of the six shillings which had been demanded by the com- mittee. Robert Bird and Wm. Suffolk, cabdnvcrs, were indicted at Middlesex Sessions last week, for having, on Sept. 21st, stolen some property from Mrs. Julia Francis Baird. Counsel for the prose- cution said ikat unfortunately on the day in question Mrs. Baird had taken more strong drink than she ought to have done, and that while under the influence of that drink the prisoners robbed her. After hearing evidence, the jury found the prisoners guilty, and the judge sentenced each to five years' penal servitude. At the Dorset Quarter Sessions Mr. Floyer, M.P., had before him the case of Henry Bright, on bail, charged with embezzlement. The prisoner was secretary to Court Alexandra of the Ancient Order of Foresters at Wareham, and when the auditors examined his books they discovered & deficiency of f51. He went to London, where, after escaping detection for four months, he was apprehended. He was found guilty in one of the cases investigated, The sentence was three months' imprisonment with hard labour. PERFECTION.—Mrs. S. A. ALLEN'S World's Hlair Restorer never fails to restore grey hair to its youthful colour, hn. parting to it new life, growth, and lustrous beauty. Its action is speedy and thorough, quickly banishing ereyness. Its value is above all others. A single trial proves it. It is not a dye. It ever proves itself the natural stren&thener of the hair. Sold by all Chemists and Perfumers. Mrs. A. ALLEN has lor over 40 wa's fflnnU}aC'lIred 'hese tll'O freparaioas. They are the, standard articles Jor the hair. They shovld neveJ be used together, nor Oil nor pomade with either. Mrs. S.. ALLEN'S Zylo-Balsamum, a simple tonic and hair-dressns of extraordinary merit for the young. Prema- ture loss of the hair, so commoJ, is prevented. Prompt relief in thousands of cases has been afforded where hair has been coming out in handfuls. It cleanses the hair and scaIp, and removes f3 and riff. Sold by all Chemists and Perfumers. ADVICE TO Mo-tHEES !—Are you broken in your rest by a sick child suffering with the pain of cutting teettif Go at once to a chemistd an get a bottle of MRS. WINSLOW s SOOTH- ING SYRUP. It will relieve the poor sufferer immediately, It is perfectly harmless and pleasant to taste, it produces natural quiet sleep by relieving the child from pain and the little cherup awakes as bright as a buttou.' It soothes the child it softens the gums, allays all pain, relieves wind, regulates the bowels, and is the best known remedy for dysentery and diarrhoea 'whether arisit.g from teething or other causes. Mrs. Winslow's Soothing Syrup is sold by medicine dealers everywhere at Is. lid. per bottle,-Manu- factured m New York, and at 493, Oxford-street, London. 918 \AXUABLE DISCOVERY FOE THE HAIR!!—If your hair is turning prey or white, or falling eff, use The Mexican Hair Renewer, for it wilt positively restore in every case Grey or hair to its original colonr, without leaving the disagree- able smell of most "Restorers." It makes the hair charm- mgly soft, as well as promoting the growth of the hair on bald spots, where the glands are not decayed Ask your Chemist for -THE MEXICAN HAIK RENKWJSK," prepared by HENRY C. GAL1 UP, 493, Oxford-street, London, and sold by Chemists and Perfumers everywhere at as. 6d. per Bottle. f91a

JOHN HEATH'S EXTRA STRONG STEEL PENS, with oblique, turned up and rounded points, Golden Coated, bronzed and carbonised, suit all hands, al styles, all ages, and all kinds of work. Over 200 pat. terns. Sold by Stationers everywhere, in 6d, Is, and gross boxes. The public are respectfully requested to BEWARE OF WORTHLESS IMITATIONS and to see that they mall/ get John Heath's Pens. Should any difficulty arise, an assorted sample box will be sent per poet on receipt of 7 or 13 stamps. Address; John Heath, 7J, George Street, SinningbMB.

USK FARMERS' CLUB. i The annual meeting of the Usk Farmers' Club was held at Llancaio Farm, in the occupation of Mr. E. David, ou Friday last. This society is almost the oldest in the county, and is at present in a prosperous condition, the subscriptions this year being better than usual, though the list of competitors in the ploughing was not so large as we have seen it. The competitions consisted of ploughing, hedging, thatch- ing, an exhibition of green crops, and of dressed poultry and butter, and also a prize for the best kept farm, which last-named, together with four other prizes for green crops, went to Mr. E. David, of Llan- caio, and who was also highly commended in another class. We are informed that the farmers and their workmen in the neighbourhood of Usk are proverbial for their excellent ploughing, and hedging, and the work done on Friday in these departments, seemed to bear out this statement. The field in which the ploughing took place was a clover ley of upwards of 20 acres, picturesquely situate on the banks of the Usk, and the 21 competing teams upon it presented an animated scene. The land has a sandy and gravel sub-soil, and worked very dry, rendering it extremely difficult to properly flay the furrows. The quality of the work was up to the average, but, as a class, the farmer's sons did the best ploughing. Out of the twenty-one ploughs on the ground, nineteen were of Hornsby's make, including a double. furrow one, which did its work very well, though the driver was apparently a novice in using it. The ploughing commenced at half-past nine in the morning. The quota to each man was half-an acre in four hours minimum depth five inches. There were a large num- ber of farmers and visitors on the ground, witnessing the competitions, and the ploughing of youths, under 18 years of age, as well as that of the farmers' sons, was particularly noticed, some of the little fellows standing not much higher than the plough tail, and with whom the greatest difficulty seemed to be to handle the implement at each end of the furrow. The hedg- ing competitions also took place on the same farm. There were five competitors, and their work was all very good. The root crops on the farm of Mr. David were declared to be—especially the turnips-the finest in the county. The usual exhibition of dressed poultry, butter, and cheese, was held in the billiard. rooom at the Three Salmons Hotel. The exhibits were not very numerous. The Judges were— For ploughing and hedging, Mr. J. Jones, of Eaglan (late of Trostrey) and Mr. T. Crump, of Glascoed. Judges of roots, farms, thatching, &c.—Mr. Prewett, of Llansoy; and Mr. Williams, The Slough. Of butter, cheese, and poultry—Mrs. Clarke and Mrs. Williams, of Usk. Stewards of the Field—Mr. Walter Evans and Mr. Thomas Lewis, The Park. Hon. Secretary—Mr. J. E. Price, The Rhidder. The following is the prize list PLOUGHING. Class 1.—To the farmer's son, or servant of a member of the club, who will plough half an acre of land in the best and most workman-like manner within four hours, and who has won a first prize in any year.—This was called the champion class. There was only one competitor. -A. Crum, servant to Miss Evans, of Llandowlais, who was awarded the prize, he having no doubt done the best work on the field. Class 2.—To the son, or servant of a member of the club who has not taken a first prize in classes 1, 3, and 4.—1st, £3, Mr P. Marfell, of the Cwm; 2nd, £2, C. Jenkins, servant to Mr Evans, of Llancaio. Class 3.—To the farmer, being a member, or his son.- 1st, .£3, N. Crump, Estavarney 2nd, .£2, W. Jones, ser- vant to Mr P. Marfell, Cwm. Class 4.—To the ploughman, or servant of a member.— 1st, .£3, R. Speneer, servant to Mrs Roberts; 2nd, £2, T. Browning, servant to Mr T. Lewis 3rd, XI, M. Williams. servant to Mr T. Watkins; 4th 10s, J. Watkins, servant to J. Pritchard. Class 5.—To the son, or servant of a member under 18 years of age -lst, 1;1 10s, W. Williams, servant to Mr J. Morgan 2nd, tl, H. Redman, servant toMr.W. Blower 3rd, 10s, W. Green, servant to Mr. E. David. HEDGING. Class 6.—For hedging three perches (21 yards) within six hours.—1st, JB1, 10s, John Price, servant to Mr J- Brown 2nd, 10s, S. Price, Bertholey. THATCHING. Class 7.—To the s rvant of a member, for the best set and thatched ricks, regard being had to the number of ricks.—1st, £ 1 10s, T. Derrett, the Mardy 2nd, 103, P. Marfell, The Cwm. FARMS. Class 8.—To the tenant farmer who shows the best farm and best kept fences and roads, and displays the greatest economy in the management of his homestead, especially in the husbanding and preparation of manare.—Prize (by the Duke of Beaufort) £ 3, Mr P. Marfell, of the Cwm. GREEN CROPS. Class 9.—To the tenant farmer wbo grows the best five acres of common turnips with Messrs Odam's manare-- Prize Y,2 2a, Mr E. David, of Llancaio. Class 10—To the farmer, being a member, who shows the best four acres of Swedish turnips grown by artificial manure only.—Prizes (by Mr Roger Morgan, LIaneMen) .£.5, Mr E. David. Llancaio. Class 11.—To the farmer, being a member, who shows the best five acres of Swedes grown by Messrs Adkin's manure.—Prize £ 3 3s. W. Crump. Class 12.—To the member who grows the best four acres of Swedes with Vivian and Son's mauure.-Prize (by Mr C. D. Phillips) £ 3 3s, Mr E. David. Class 13.—To the tenant farmer who grows the best five acres of Swedes with Proctor's manures. Prize (by Mr Proctor) .£5, W. Crump. Class 14.—To the member who shows the best acre of mangolds.—Prize .£2, J. E. Price (secretary). Class 15.-For the best and general green crop, of not less than ten acres, the whole of the crop grown to be shown, regard to be had to the quantity of arable land.— First prize, a-silver cup, value X5 5s, given by Mr J. S. Stone, of Newport, Mr E. David 2nd, t 2 10s, W. Evans. Class 16.—To the cottager, being the servant of a mem- ber. who shows the best cultivated garden, and the cleanest and tidiest cottage.-Prize XI, J. Moxley, servant to Mr J. Phillips. Class 17.—To the cottager showing the best fat pig j61, J. Moxley. PRODUCE. Class 18.—To the member who shows the best half cwt. of cheese, JE1, E. Williams, of the Garn 2nd 10s A. Williams. Class 19 -To the member who shows the best six lbs. of butter £ E. Evans, The Rock; 2nd, 10s, W. Wien- holt, Llanwern. "Class 20.—To the member who shows the best goose, 10s, A. Williams, Slough; 2nd, 5s, Mrs Crump. Class 21.—'Tolhe member who shows the best couple of fowls 10s, E. Evans; 2nd, 5s, A. Williams. Class 22.—To the member who shows the best couple of ducks, 10s, W. Crump 2nd, 5s, J. Frost, Llandenny. THE DINNER. The Society's annual dinner was subsequently held at the Three Salmons Inn. Colonel McDonnell, the 1 president of the year, was to have presided, but he ( was too ill to atend and the Hon. Colonel F. Morgan, M.P., was telegraphed for, and he arrived in time for dinner. He was supported by Col. G. R. Greenhow- Relph, Mr. E. Lister, Mr. Lawrence, Dr. Boulton, Rev. J. Cadwallader, and about: 50 of the neighbouring farmers and tradesmen of the town. After the removal of the cloth, the toasts of the Queen, and the Prince and Princess of Wales were loyally honoured. The President proposed the toast of the Bishop and Clergy, and Ministers of all denominations," coupled with the name of the Rev. J. Cadwallader. The toast having been duly honoured, The Rev. J. Cadwallader in response, referred to the loss sustained by the Society and the county at large by the untimely death of Mr. Warren Evans. He returned thanks for the toast on behalf of the Bishop and Clergy. and expressed his pleasure at reading in the papers of the large congregations which had assembled this season at all the different churches and chapels throughout the country, to render thanks to the Almighty for the plentiful harvest they had just had the pleasure of gathering in. The Chairman next proposed The Army, Navy, and Reserve Forces." He believed no county contri- buted more to the British army than Monmouthshire, and they might justly be proud of their Welsh regi- ments. They should not grumble to support the army. Only for their army, navy, and reserve forces, and being situate in this little island, their countrymen might now be suffering from the horrors of war, with invading armies laying everything waste upon their farms. The English navy was the finest in the world, and he considered the reserve forces an essen- tial part of England's greatness. He coupled with the toast the name of Colonel Relph, who had taken im. mense pains and trouble in the interest of the reserve forces. The toast was well received, and Colonel Relph was heartily cheered. Colonel Relph said that the Chairman had not spoken one word which was untrue as to his wishes, but a great deal more than was true as to his success. He believed that should their outside neighbours come over to see them, the 180,000 of our reserve forces could tell them to go back again. (Loud applause.) He considered that the auxiliary and reserve forces were the backbone of England, and if they were not up in their efficiency the day would come when they would have their crops ridden over by a party of ma- rauders, who would help themselves without permission. He regretted very much the necessity of CoL Morgan, through his Parliamentary duties, resigning the com- mand of the First Battalion, and the most excellent battalion in the county. He left it just when it came to perfection and now, owing to the want of a com- manding officer, it was not in the full strength it used to be, though it was quite as good in efficiency. The Chairman then proposed the toast of the Lord Lieutenant of the county-Ria Grace the Duke of Beaufort, and the County Magistrates, coupled with the name of Mr. Lister, (Applause.) Mr. Lister in response said it was very pleasing to him to respond to the toast of a Lord Lieutenant so dearly beloved as the Duke.. A.s to the anagietratet. far as he had had an opportunity of witnessing, they had given their time and had discharged their duties con- scientiously, though they did not always sit on a bed of roses. He wished to take the present opportunity of publicly mentioning that their respected Chairman (Col. Ralph), had lately been the subject of most malignant and false attacks in certain newspapers in the neighbourhood. Those statements had called in question their Chairman's honour and integrity, and no honest man could have heard such statements about himself without feeling a degree of pain, and that a slight had been cast upon his character. He had no hesitation in saying that those malicious and scandalous paragraphs were a disgrace to the publishers, who knew perfectly well that they were utterly and wholly false. (Hear, hear, and applause.) He wished it to be publicly understood that the Bench of which he had the honour to be one, placed most implicit confidence in their Chairman, his honour and integrity. (Applause) And that they all looked up to him for his long ex- perience and the ability he had always shown, and the attention he gave to every case, trying to do justice in an impartial and proper manner; they believed he would rather forfait his right hand than allow any party feelings or private circumstances to influence him to go contrary to what was right in the judgment of, any case submitted to him. (Renewed applause.) He felt that a reflection had not only been cast upon their Chairman, but upon the whole Bench and he would caution those who concocted those paragraphs and published them, that the day would come, if such a practice was continued, when the magistrates would consider it their duty to support their Chairman, in bringing an action for libel. What was the good of the decisions of the Bench if their characters were to be compromised in this way ? He was expressing the sentiments of the whole Bench when he repeated that they had the most perfect confidence in their Chair- man. (Applause.) And they hoped he would long; be spared to occupy his seat on the Bench. (Loud applause.) Colonel Relph said that with the permission of the Chairman he wished to say a few words on what Mr. Lister had said as to the Bench taking any action in a court of law. He hoped they would never do anything of the kind. When his brother imgistrate showed him the scandalous and libellous publication in a little print which came out iu that town-he said that if his public character was not proof without going into a court of law, against the attacks of a petty scribbler in a paltry provincial newspaper, it was not worth anything, and he advised them not to notice it. (Hear, hear.) Colonel Relph then rose and said that the next toast was placed in his hands. Though it was some- what cruel to do so, still he had the greatest pleasure in proposing it. Though their President differed from him in politics, he was pleased to have the opportu- nity of coupling his health with the toast of "The Members for the County and Boroughs." (Applause.) When men conscientiously did their duty, though they did not thirik the same as himself, he could not help admiring them, and this was the case with their representatives of the county and boroughs. (Loud applause.) Still, he hoped the time would come when they would see things in a very different light than they did at present. (Laughter.) Colonel Morgan and his brother had discharged their duties thoroughly, and Mr. Cordes was the best borough member going. (The toast was received with musical honours.) The President, in reply, thanked them on behalf of himself and his colleagues for the hearty manner in which they had received the toast. He was sorry Lord Henry Somerset was unable to be present, but latitude must be allowed to everyone. Their members had been in close attendance at the House of Commons, and had looked after the interests of their constituents in a proper manner but neither of them had seen that shining light which Colonel Relph had referred to. (Laughter and applause.) Probably when that millennium came, they would all be better than they were but he feared it would be a long time before he would return from thateroneous course which Colonel Relph thought he was BOW pursuing. (Laughter.) This was the first time he had had the honour of addressing them, but he hoped it would not be the last. (Applause.) As long as they did him the honour of electing him their representative, it would be his sole object to study their interests— not only of the people of Usk, but of every town, parish, and village in the county of Monmouth. (Ap- plause ) He wished them all to think that he con- sidered it his duty, when any of them were in trouble or difficulties, to help them if he could, no matter what opinions they held, or whether they supported him or not. (Applause.) Referring to the war, he said be had taken part in the Crimean war, and natu- rally his sympathies went with the people he fought with. His wish was that this war was at an end it was certain that up to the present time it had done no good, but a great deal of harm, causing more hatred and animosity in Europe than ever existed before. (Loud applause.) And another thing was, it had contributed to the slaughter of an immense number of innocent people who had had no- thing at all to do with it. If the report was true of the last great battle said to have taken place, some good might result from it, and they might hear that the Russians considered they had done sufficient for their honour, asd were ready to ,bt come to terms of peace or that the Turks thought they had lost a sufficient number of men, and were ready to allow the different countries of Europe to me- diate for them. (Loud applause.) He believed Eng- land was the nation which could propose better terms of peace than any other, because they had nothing to gain, and slight odds to lose. (Loud applause.) The President next proposed -11 Success to the Society," and expressed his opinion that it was far better to support these local societies than to have one large one for the county, as some advocated. He coupled the name of the secretary, Mr. Price, with the toast. (Applause.) Mr. Price briefly acknowledged the toast, and ex- pressed a hope that the subscriptions would be better next year. # Other minor toasts followed, and a pleasant evening was spent.

SALE OF SHORT-HORN CATTLE ON HER I MAJESTY'S FARM AT WINDSOR. A sale of short-horn cattle took place on Tuesday at her Majesty's show farm, Windsor Castle. The sale comprised 40 short-horn cows and heifers, which realised 1304 guineas, and four short-horn bulls, averaging 30 guineas each. This stock comprised a dozen specimens of the Knightly blood, part of them being of the favourite Cold Cream tribe, and five lots of the graceful family descended from Mr. Axbuthnot's celebrated breed, with which Fawlev was so closelv allied. The whole sale, which included Jersey heifers, Clydes- dale colts and fillies, realised 2,100 guineas.

MR. FORSTER AT HUDDERSFIELD. The Right Hon. W. E. Forster presided on Tues- day at the annual soiree of the Huddersfield Mechanics' Institute. He remarked that we were gradually getting rid of the difficulties which lay in the way of technical education, arising from a want of elementary education. The difficulty of accommodation had been solved, and the attendance difficulty was being gradually dealt with. They must now meet the third difficulty, the quality of the teach- ing. We had come to the point when we ought to give assisted primary education to the children of all parents who were willing to send their offspring to school. He thought the ele- mentary stage should extend to the age of thirteen or fourteen, and that they ought to give all the education it was possible to give in that time; and there was no reason why children should not, on leaving school, be fit to attend mechanics' in- stitutes, and acquire the technical knowledge necessary for their success in life.

LORD FALMOUTH AND THE BREEDING OF RACEHORSES. On Monday Lord Falmouth's usual luck made it little probable that snow would interfere to prevent the victory of Jannette in the Criterion Stakes-a victory which carries his aggregate winnings for the year well over the limit of £ 35,000. At the same time we repeat that, with- out concomitant luck, there is no such thing as a royal road to success in breeding racehorses, and this has again and again been proved by others who understood the theory and practice of managing stud farms fully as well as the noble owner of the paddocks at Mereworth. There are many brood mares, for instance, which have the good fortune to throw one extraordinarv foal in a long lifetime, and yet are incapable of ever again producing an animal which is able to win a saddle. Thus Virginia, by Rowton, gave birth, in 1851, to perhaps the best filly that ever ran in this country; but, with the excep- tion of Mr. Padwick's Virago, the whole of Virginia's other foals were absolutely valueless as racehorses. Again, when Sweetmeat bad proved himself to be the best three-year-old in England, Colonel Anson bought his darn, Lollypop, for a large sum; but from that hour until her death she yielded nothing fit to be trained. Even Lord Falmouth's own experience is enough to establish that luck is king, seeing that Silverhair threw seven foals before' 1872, when she was the mother of Garterley Bell, and ol the seven there was none which could claim even to be as good as the Criterion winner in 1873. But in 1874 Silverhair made herself famous by giving birth to Silvio, and the dam of the winner of the Derby and the St. Leger in 1877 will never henceforth throw a foal which, if born with sound limbs, is Dot worth one thousand pounds upon the first day when it sees the light. Meanwhile, Lord Falmouth's unprecedented good fortune in 1877 will set men versed in such matters thinking upon others who have trod the thorny path of the turf before him, and found it strewn with roses. Thus Silvio has this year won twelve thousand five hundred pounds, and it is doubtful whether so large a sum was ever before landed by so moderate an animal; but he is j left far in the lurch by Gladiateur, who won close upon twenty-six thousand pounds ar a three-year old; and by Lord Lyon, who won over twenty thousand pounds at a like age. In the year when Blue Gown won the Derby, Formosa carried away the One Thousand, half the Two Thousand, the Oaks, and the St. Leger, winning altogether an aggregate of nearly nineteen thousand pounds. Such sums would make the old Duke of Grafton and men of his date stare with astonishment, nor would they awaken much less surprise in the mind cf the fifth Earl of Jersey. The Derby won by Lord Lyon was the richest on record, having been worth seven thousand three hundred and fifty pounds, while the Derby won in 1836 by Bay Middleton was worth little more than half that amount. Lord Falmouth is fortunate in being the owner of a good stable of horses in a year when there are singularly few first-class thoroughbreds in training; and there is no one now upon the turf, with, perhaps, the single ex- ception of Lord Hartington, whose success will be hailed with more sincere pleasure by sporting huglishmenof all degrees than that of a nobleman who, emulating the example of Sir Gilbert Heath- «>te, runs solely for public money, and never bets i eInUing.—London Telegraph. Mr. Massey, who has for many years acted as chairman at the Anglesey Quarter Sessions, has announced his resignation, being about to reside abroad. On the motion of Lord Vivian, a vote of thanke WM passed to Mr. Massey for his services. BRISTOL CATHEDRAL. On Tuesday morning the new nave of Bristol Cathe- dral, built from designs of Mr. G. E. Street, was opened by the Lord Bishop of the diocese, in the presence of a large congregation. Canon Wade and others, however, who have taken a leading part in the restoration, held aloof from the ceremonial, owing to the majority of the Chapter declining to put on record a resolution not to interfere with the "Adoration of the Magi" and other statuary, though there is under- stood to be no intention of interfering with those adornments. The Bishop preached from Ephesiansiv., 21, and spoke of the English cathedral as so national in ad its features, so distinctive, so full of ancient memo- ries, so stately in its proportions, so grand in its vast space, so elevating in its noble worship, so soothing in its boly calm, and as having a great hold on the nation, both for itself and the Church of which it is the emblem and epitome. But thoughts of the future mingled with those of the present. Would such institutions stand the sharp test of the times in which we live Would these holy and beautiful houses remain in the future what they had been in the past ? He believed there was every disposition to give cathedrals time to initiate and carry out changes and reforms which were imperatively necessary and if they edeavoured to realise the great purposes for which they were founded Othey might confidently look forward to a bright and noble future. The revolutionary changes in cathedrals talked of some years ago were no longer heard of. He summed up in one sentence the threefold purpose of a cathedral. It must be an ensample to the diocese of constant aud reverential worship it must promote theological learning; and lastly and chiefly, it must be the mother church of the diocese, the hearth and home of the clergy and of the corporate church-life of the diocese. Thank God, these things were not wholly aspirations and idealisms. Everywhere the cathedra It were awakening to a sense of their responsibilities. All seemed to tell of renewed life, of vigour and de- velopment, and of a great future for the cathedral system. The Bishop of Bath and Wells was the after- noon preacher, and the Dean of Westminster preached on Wednesday morning.

THE DETECTIVES' CASE. The trial of the four detectives and a solicitor, charged with conspiring to defeat the ends of justice, in relation to the case of the Comtesse de Goncourt, who was swindled out of £10,000, was commenced on Wednesday morning in the Old Court, before the Lord Chief Justice. The indictment consists of 220 counts; there are 110 witnesses for the prosecution, and a large number for the defence. It is expected that the trial will occupy at least three weeks.

VOLUNTEER APPOINTMENTS FIRST MON. ARTILLERY VOLUNTEERS. Week ending November 3rd, 1877. MONDAY, FRIDAY.—Drill at 7.30.

T R A F F I C SETU ENS. GREAT WESTERN. Week ending October 20, 1877 £ 132,557 0 0 Corresponding week, 1876 £ 134,229 0 0 BRECON AND MERTHYR. Week ending October 20, 1877 £ 1,151 10 I Corresponding week, 1876 £ 1,048 15 4 TAFF VALE. Week ending October 20, 1S77 £ 6,794 0 0 Corresponding week, 1876. £8,670 0 0 PEXARTB HARBOUR, DOCK, & RAILWAY. Week ending October 20, 1S77 £ 1,381 0 0 Corresponding week. 1876 £ 1,988 0 a RHYMNEY. Week ending October 20, 1877 £ 2,094 19 1 Corresponding week, 1876 £ 2,032 15 11

The Queen has been graciously pleased to ap- point the Earl of Mount-Edgcumbe to- be her Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant and Custos Rotolorum of the county of Cornwall, in the room of Lord Vivian, who has resigned. Matthew Flood, a pointsman m the employment of the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway Com- pany, charged at Liverpool, with having been drunk whilst on duty, was fined JE10 and costs, or two months' imprisonment. A builder in Taunton, having some ground to let, has stuck up a board with the following This good and desirable land to be let on a lease one hundred and twenty yards long A TifcTJENs MBMOKIAL.—It is proposed to raise funds by subscription for a bust of Tietjens, to be ?laced in the vestibule of her Majesty's Theatre, 'o this end a committee will probably soon be formed and contributions invited. GALE'S WALK.- Most satisfactory progress is being made by Gale at the Agricultural Hall in bis attempt to walk 4,000 quarter-miles in 4,000 consecutive periods of 10 minutes each. Of course, to so wonderful a pedestrian the difficulties of the task have hardly com. menced yet The magnitude of the undertaking can only be realised when it is remembered that to be sue. cessful Gale must take what sleep he can get in periods of, at the most, five or six minutes each. Whether such work as this can be gone through for four suc- cessive weeks without detriment to health seems doubtful. So far, very few spectators have assembled at the Hall, but should Gale be able to keep np, the attendance will increase as the match progresses. The proper track is not ready for him yet, and he is still walking round the gallery of the hall. To give him greater comfort, however, matting has been put down over the boards. CUBES OF ASTHMA AUD COUGH BY DR, LOCOCK'S PCLMOKTC W A.FERs.-From Mr. Rossitor. Chemist, Tiverton Many testimonials in favour of the Pulmonic Wafers for Asthma and Coughs. come under my notice." In Asthma. Consumptiou* Bronchitis, Cousrhs, Colds, Shortness of Breath, Phlepn, Pains in the Cliest, all Disorders of the breath and lunm. Rheumatism—they give instant relief and taste pleasantlj. To singers and public speakers they are invaluable for clear- ing and strengthening the voice. Price is lid., 2s 9d, 4s 6d and lis per box. Sold by all Medicine Vendors. » THROAT AFFECTIONS AND HOARSENESS.—All suf- fering from irritation of the throat and hoarseness will be agreeably surprised at the almost immediate relief afforded by the use of "Brown's Bronchial Troches,*| These famous lozenges" are now sold Dy most respectable chemists in this country, at 15.1td. per box. People roubled with a "hacking cough," a "slight cold," of bronchial affections cannot try them too soon, as similar troubles, if allowed to progress, result in serious Pulmo nary and Asthmatic affections. See that the wordc "Brown's Bronchial Troches" are on the Government Stamp around each box.—Manufactured by JORK I, BROWN & SONS, Boston, United States. Depot 493 Oxford-street London. 493] IF THERB ARE ANY LADIES who have not yet used the GLENFIELD STARCH, they are respectfully solicited to give it a trial, and carefully follow out the directiona printed on every package, and if his is done, they will 9iay, like the Queen's Laundress, it i6 the finest Starch they ever used. When you ark for GLENFIELD STARCH, see that you get it, as inferior fcinds are often substituted for the sake of extra profit. Beware therefore of spurious mitation 14 HOLLOWAY'S OINTMENT AND PILLS.-Though it is impossible, in this elimate of changing temperature, to prevent ill-health altogether, yet its form and frequency may be much mitigated by the early adoption of remedial measures. When hoarseness, cough, thick breathing, and the attending slight fever indicate irritation of the throat or chest, Holloway's Ointment should be robbed upon these parts without delay, and his Pills taken in appro- priate doses, to promote its curative action. No catairhl or sore throats can resist these remedies. Printed direc- tions envelope every package of Holloway's medicamentl. which are suited to all ages and conditions, and to every ordinary disease to which humanity is liable,

ORDERS and ADVERTISEMENTS for the MERLIN are Received by the undermentioned AG-h-N 1 & in ALGAB, F., 11, ciements-rane. BARKER, C., t SONS, 8, Birchin-lane BURBIDGE, J., & Co., 35a, Moonrate-street BAILEY, A. H. & Co., Royal Exchange. CEOSSLET, C. R., 17, Moorpate-street, Bank. CLAKKE, W. J., jun., 84, Gracechurch-street DEACON, S. Leadenhall-street. EYBB & Co., 11 Bouverie-street, Fleet-street GREEN, H., 117, Chancery-lane. KNIGHT, A. R., & Co, 3, Abvhurch-lane, L^.uBard-itreet, HOOPER & CULL, George-street, Mansion House. I KINGSBURY & Cw., 12, Clements-lane. METCHIM & Co., 82, Clements-lane. MITCHELL & Co., 12, Red Lion-court, Fleet-street MAT, C. H., 78, Gracechurch-street. RETNELL A SON, 44, Chancery-lane. ROBERTS, C. C., 19, Change-alley, Coruhill^ ItiTBEXT BROS., 6, Serle-street. Lineolasinm Srsi ET, G., 30, Coruhill VICE EBB, W, J., 5, Nicholas-lane.v IT R. F-S3, Fleet-Lane Cit.

ATTEMPTED TILL SOBBSRY.—John Doyle, a sailor, was charged with attempting to rob a till at the Union Hotel, Dock-street. The barmaid was absent from the bar a minute, and, on returning, she saw the pri- soner with his hand in the till. He dropped money, which he had in hand, back into the till Prisoner was not drunk, and on him was found £ 2 7s. 6d.-He pleaded guilty.-One month hard labour. ANOTHER STEALING CASE.-Won. Owen and Henry Trump, on bail, were charged with stealing a far tree from the Cemetery, the property of the Corporation. Thomas Titler was charged as an accessory before the fact r i\ Woollett, Town Clerk, prosecuted.—It I appeared that the defendants were employed at the Cemetery. On Thursday the person in charge of the Cemetery missed the tree in question, and, on search- ing for it, he found it concealed. Thursday night he watched, but without success. On Friday night In- spector Curtis and Detective Sergeant Jones watched. About six o'clock they saw the defendants coming from the direction of the Cemetery, when Owen was carrying the tree.- The charge against Trump and Titler was not pressed. -Owen was iined 5s. and costs. LODGING-HOUSE CASES. — Last week Adam Selby, of the Hamburg Bar, was summoned for overcrowding his common lodging-house in Bishopsgate's parade, when the question arose as to who was the real occu- pier. Selby held the register, but let the house to Edwin James for 4Ss a week, and James and his son managed it. James had previously applied to the Town Council for a transfer of the register, which had been refused. The case was adjourned. In the mean- time summonses were issued against both Selby and James for keeping a common lodging-house without a register. The Bench were of opinion that James had broken the Jaw, and fined him X5 including costs, or one month, with a continuing fine of 40s and costs for every day the house is carried on from the date of the conviction. The case against Selby was withdrawn. CASE OF CRUELTY. — Joseph Harris was charged with cruelly ill-treating a horse by working it in au unfit state. — The attention of Inspector Sands, RS.P.C. A was drawn to the condition of the horse by P.C. Crabb, the animal being driven at the time in a milk cart. He found the animal suffering from three large woands.—Fined 20s including costs, or 14 days. COAL STEALING. — A little girl named Emma. Powell, on bail, was sentenced to one day's imprison- ment for stealing coal, the property of the South Wales Colliery Company, from a truck, on Friday. WEDNESDAY. [Magistrates R. G. CULLUM, Esq., in the chair and H. P. BOLT, Esq., ex-Mayor.] DRUNKENNESS.—Charles Bird was fined 5s for being drunk and incapable in Griffin-street. — Richard Clancy, for being drunk and disorderly in Portland- street, ou Tuesday night, was fined 5s. Thomas Hennessey was fined in the same amount for being drank and disorderly in Portland-street. STREET OBSTRUCTION. — James Keyse was sum- moned for obstructing Mary-street. The obstruction was occasioned by building materiaL-Defendant said that the obstruction would be speedily removed, and on this understanding the summons was dismissed. CABMENS' BADGES.—Henry N. Wilks and Edwin Wheeler, cab drivers, were summoned for neglecting to wear their badges. They stated that their badges were concealed by their overcoats, which they had buttoned up owing to the bad weather.—Dismissed with a caution. TRIVIAL ASSAULTS.—Mary Ray was summoned for assaulting Annie Jones in the street. Ray used abusive language, and put her fist against Jones' mouth.—She was bound over.-Margaret Randall was summoned for assaulting Ann Parker. Settled upon payment of costs. BURNING A YOUTH WITH HOT COALS.—Edward Pit. man, labourer, was summoned for assaulting Thos. Inker, a youth about 18 years of age. Inker, who could scarcely walk, stated that on Saturday night having worked late he lay down to sleep near a brick kiln at PilL While he was asleep the defendant opened his trousers and put in a quantity of fire, and then rolled him about.—Dr. Cooke said Inker was most seriously burned, and the case was adjourned till Friday for further enquiries to be made. YOUTHFUL THIEVES.—John Henry Lynch, Samuel Rees, and Joseph Bright, lads, were charged with stealing a box of cigarettes -from the shop of Mr. S. Bryan, Commercial-street. Bright was also charged with stealing a cap belonging to Philip Selwood.- Bright was sentenced to a month's imprisonment; Lynch was committed for 21 days and Rees, whose first appearance this was, was ordered to be detained for one day and whipped.