Pontypool Free Press and Herald of the Hills

THE CHURCH OF ENGLAND AND ROMANISTS. To the Editor of the Fret Press. Sir -It is not without regret that Churchmen, in the midst of their conflict with the heterogeneous in hosts that have assailed them, find themselves attacked by members of the Roman Catholic com- munion who push into the fray to succour men irom some of whom they differ in religious belief and sympathy far more widely than theyditter from ourselves. These Roman champions designate the Church or England by such curious combinations as The State Establishment," the law EstaWishment, and stigmatise the clergy as Act of priests, State-made parsons, and so on. -Ineix contention is that the Church of England, which they call a Protestant Church, came into exis- tence in the 16th oentury at the call of Henry the VIII and his Parliament, and that previously to the ilso-called Reformation" the Church of England was Roman Catholic but that in ceasing to bS Roman Catholic it necessarily ceased to be Catholic, for that there cannot be a catholic church that is not Roman, included, that is, in the Apos- tolic See. This is, perhaps, a fair statement of their ^Such a grave issue should scarcely be proposed in the contumelious terms quoted above; terms that are moreover, so vague as to be open to the charge of misleading, whether designedly or no the ignor- ant. When the Church is called The State Estab- lishment," &c., it can scarcely be meant that there was no connection between the Chureh and the State before the reign of Henry; or that there were no Acts; of Parliament about the Church before the same era, for our annals and statute books are full of the Church. But an ordinary reader on see- ing such compounds as law and State establishments might think that it was the scandalous peculiarity of the sixteenth century to have established the Church by law, and to have begun te legislate for it by the temporal power. The Church was by law established not for the first time in the six- teenth century, but as soon as there were English laws; and the great statutes of the kind, of the sixteenth century, were declaratory, that is, they brought in no new principle, but expounded the previous state. The contention of these controversialists, then, amounts to this,—not that the connection between the Church and State began in the sixteenth century, but that in the sixteenth century the temporal Power over-rode the Church to such an extent as to cause it to cease to be Roman, to cease therefore to be Catholic, and to survive only as an establish- ment," a "department of Government, or, if a church at all, a Protestant Church." The Anglican position, on the other hand, is that the Church of England never was a Roman Catholic Church, but a National Church at one time in communion with Rome, acknowledging the Primacy of the Bishop of Rome and admitting a certain concurrent jurisdiction; that at the Re- formation the Roman authority was rejected by this National Church, which nevertheless continued to be the same church as before, and which has continued to this day. This Church has always been catholic, if it ever became Protestant" also, it did not become Protestant at the Reformation but before. It protested against Roman claims and encroachments, and the English Parliaments passed notable laws in restraint of them, long ere Henry "broke the yoke of Rome." It is not denied by manv English Churchmen1 that some of the measures of tne Reformation were arbitraryviolent, ill- judged, or base in nature, but it is denied that any of them, or all of them together, put an end to one church and begun another or that the men who carried these measures stepped out of one church into another, or out of one church into a system that v.,awno church, but only an establishment. Perhaps I may be allowed to return to the subject in your columns. Yours. &c., R. W. DIXON. Warkworth, Northumberland, May, 1893.

THE CRANE-STREET CONFERENCE. To the Editor of the Free Press. Dear Sir—Mr Eckersley's ability for ignoring facts and passing over principles laid down is simply marvellous. His erratic effusions, therefore, each time they appear, have the effect of making their author appear more and more ridiculous. He is not able to stand by any statement he makes, when it is combatted for two consecutive letters; and this is well shown in his last two letters, the one of May 12th (the" amalgamation letter) and May 26th. In the amalgamation letter he boldly (ignorantly) asserts that our proud position was not gained by the hdp of the parsons (probably he had been reading some Liberation leaflet before he made the statement), but when history throws the misstatement back to his facej he grudgingly admits, because he cannot help i-if ,,es r?y denv that parsons have fought for liberty. But, Sir Archbishop Jjangton id mare than fight tor liberty He laid down the stire foundation on which the liberties of this great empire are resting, and which every Englishman worthy of the name would áYe his life to defend to-day. And not only Stephen Langton, of Canterbury, but many another of the great sons of the Church of England could be men- tioned who, when England's glory and liberty trembled in the balance, threw the weight of their great influence on the side of right—aye, even though it cost them their heart's blood. And we must in charity suppose Peter knew this. Then why aid ne, in order to attempt to throw odium on the parsons 1 act the part of that historical character mActs v. and keep back part of the truth ? In order, however (I suppose), to lend colour to his statements be jubilantly records some extracts from speeches delivered at the Christian >^ociaI Union meeting on Disestablishment, at the Chapter House, St. Paul's, by Preb. Eyton, Canon Furse, and Canon Scott Holland, culled, presumably, from their tone. ■'from the Daily Chronicle. (These speeches have gone the round of the Welsh Press ) Peter, like that paper, has drawn a wrong infer- ence from that meeting. He tells us that a meet- ing oi bishops (perhaps he will give us the number una names of the bishops present) and clergy in the Chapter House said such and such a thing, im- plying that those who spoke at the meeting were uttering the voice of the Church on the question under discussion. Such, however, is not the case. They no more gave forth the opinions of the Church of England as a body on the question than Mr Eckersley does the Baptist connexion when he Hpeaks. But quotations from the speeches will shew this mistake more plainly. The chairman (( •anon Scott Holland), in opening the proceedings, said that -in regard to the question about to be discussed. the Union was divided in every possible way. It wdl, ho"ever, that everyone should have his say, and what he asked was that they should talk* as much as they liked, and then see what ht,, Prebendary Eyton said, in what he had to saj he hadno wish to commit the Union, which he klHiW was divided on the subject, and therefore wax xpeuking for no One but himself." Canon Furse (who, according to Peter, said" he endorsed all that had been said by Prebendary Eyton," though he omitted to add the Canon's closing words of the sentence with reference to Nonconformist irritation"), said that although there were things in Prebendary Eyton s address with which he did not altogether agree, and if on other grounds he bdieved Disestablishment to be ■unden-i rable "he would never resist it on the grounds of robbery and sacrilege," though later on he ad- mitted be "had not quite made up his mind how far it was just to take property, even in the life- time of the donor, given to the Church." This is sufficient proof that Mr. Eckersley's construction of the letter of Mr Eyton is not just. Did he, how- ever. see the letters to the Daily Chronicle correct- ing their interpretation of the voice of the meeting, which is similar to Peter's, from Canon Scott Holland, on behalf of the London branch of the Union, and the president (the Rev C. Gore), the vice-president and the chairman of the executive council on behalf of the Oxford branch of the Union, and also the Bishop of 81;. Asaph's letter in the Times, correcting the chairman's statements. If he has seen these his views will certainly be greatly modified. Of course they will not be cor- rected. Mr Eekersley has now quite changed front. In his amalgamation letter he came doubly charged with references to Ofta. and Ethelwulf on tithes, but he seems to have dropped them like hot lead, for no reference is made thereto in his last letter. Why is this? Has his friend failed him this week, and I being unacquainted with the facts Peter is obliged to be silent 7 or are the Liberation pamphlets, from which source he seems to have drawn, exhausted ? It must be one or other, for surely with the smallest real knowledge he could have held out longer, and not surrender at the first attack. Peter and John were ignorant men, said Mr Eckersley, and it is re- markable how careful he is to confirm this state- ment in each of his letters. Mr Eckersley, in his last, backs out of the defence of his Baptist friends at the Crane-st. Conference by saying They have done no wrong, and there- fore don't require my services." Then, sir, what in the name of all that is good has he been bothering about these many weeks, and why did he appear in print at all if not on their behalf ? For that has been the sole cause of the correspondence. But that Principal Edwards and the other Dissenting minis- ters present at the Conference in allying themselves with atheists against the Church of Goa 1; has done no wron- is open to very grave doubt. As a pro- fessing Christian, let me ask Mr Eckersley for a moment to think of it. There is the man the Liberationists and the Grand Old Would-be Spoliator deiight to do honour-Mr John Morley. Having no God in his heart, he endeavoured to remove the distinctive characteristic in His name over the heathen's idol from his vision, and he always began that awful name with a little "g." In 18891 we find him saying The great object which I and my friends ought- to bear in mind is to endea- vour to make religion take a secondary place in the lives of men, so that gradually it shall be dwarfed in importance. Temporal interests will then quietly assume a position which will gradually obscure religious aspirations, and mankind will turn their backs decidedly and for ever on the Christian system." This is the man who clamours for Disestablishment and Disendowment on behalf of dissent. This is the man, those who preach the Gospel story week in and week out, attending Crane-street conference, resolved to help in the work of robbing God. Comment is needless. With regard to the Wesleyan action, I am speak- ing of Pontypoel. No petition has been sent from here by them. Will Mr Eckersley furnish us with the towns and the numbers of signatures of those sent by Wesleyans of other places. Yours, C.M. [We wish to disclaim all responsibility for the repeated references, in the above correspondent's letters, to Mr. Eckersley by his Christian name, the good or bad taste of which is "C.M.'s" own. We think it only right to mention that this protest (reluctantly made 0& our part) has not been in any way suggested by Mr. Eckersley, but is entirely the outcome of a growing feeling of impatience at a course of treatment to which that gentleman has been frequently subjected by various correspondents. Whatever signature a corre- spondent may use is, presumably, the name by which he desires to be addressed in the controversy, and ordinary courtesy demands that his wish should De followed. The use of a person's Christian name only when he has been using his surname is, to say the least of it, not particularly respectfuL-ED. F.P.]

LOCAL NEWS. TREVETHIN CHURCH.-We are asked to an- nounce that the Rev. G. Bishop will preach at the morning service at Trevethin Church on Sunday next, June 4th. PROMENADE CONCERT.—The usual weekly promenade concert, given by the battalion band of the 3rd Vol. Batt. S.W. Borderers, was held on Thursday evening in the Italian Gardens. The following programme, excellently played, was listened to with great appreciation by a large number of visitorsPolka marcn, Forward (S. T. Roderick) raise, Mikado (fcullivan) selection, "Dorothy (CellIer); euphoBIum 8010, The Holv City" (Adams), by desire, Band- lasers,"C^tte-CF H.ydn Parrv) • barn dance, "Happy darkies (Godfrey), quick march, Aux Armes (S. 1?. Roderick). PROPERTY SALE.-Mr J. G. Hedges offered for sale at the Crown Hotel on Wednesday afternoon various valuable properties, consisting of eight freehold messuages or tenements in George-street and Railway-parade, a dwelling- house m Georjre-stroet, occupied by Mr J. JSira-- wood, and twelve freehold cottages at Garndiffaith. The attendance of buyers was small, aitd the bidding was not spirited. In every case the lot was withdrawn, the reserve price not being reached. Messrs Bythway and Son were the solicitors for the vendors. Subse- quently Mr Hedges offered for sale the dwelling house and shop in Broad-street, Abersychan, occupied by Mr John Williams, chemist. 1 he bidding commenced at £ 250, was ultimately knocked down for £370 and £'1 for fixtures, to Mr James Fellows, Abersychan. Mr Reginald Hippisley, Bristol, was the solicitor for the vendor. PONTYPOOL RECREATION GROUNDS. Pre- parations for the opening of the above grounds are being rapidly pushed ferward by the proprie- tors, and it is expected that the sports will bs well patronised and unusually successful. A suggestion has been made that the opening should be conducted with an interesting cere- mony, such as a fancy dress procession similar to that held in Pontypool shortly after the Llaneroh Colliery Disaster, when a comic football match, with a procession through the town, was held. Persons desirous of taking part are requested to attend a meeting on Monday evening next, at 7 o'clock, at the Greyhound Vaults, to arrange preliminaries. The proprietors propose to admit to the grounds all persons taking part free of charge. We may mention that the chairman and members of the Pontypool Local Board have been asked to be present at the opening, aad the chairman (Mr W. Sandbrook) has already consented to formally open the grounds. REPETITION OF "DAVID, THE SHEPHERD BOY.On Monday night, the Hanbury Assembly Room was occupied for the benefit of the Great Western Colliery explosion fund, the Tabernacle Choir giving a performance of the cantata, "David, the Shepherd Boy." Those who pro- moted the concert deserve hearty recognition for their strenuous exertions to make the proceeds as large as possible. The audience was a very large one, only falling about a hundred seats short of the number the hall is said to be able to hold. Of the performance we have nothing but hearty praise to give, as it even surpassed the previous performance given recently in aid of Tabernacle Church. The Assembly Rooms Com- pany have done much to obviate the defects freely commented upon by us and others since the opening, and the staging in the present instance, thanks to Mr G. ,,™a ,who has rendered valuable assistance to the choir, was an appreciable improvement upon the last perform- ance. The choir sang throughout with good intonation, sweetness, and precision, for which Mr Fisher, the conductor, is to be congratulated. All the soloists shewed more self-confidence, too, and evoked frequent plaudits of the audience. The Pontypool Orchestral Society, led by Mr England, gave their services readily for so laud- able an object, The characters were represented by Miss Hopkms, Miss Parker, Mr E. Probyn, Mr Moses Harris, Mr D. J. Davies, Mr W. Turner (Tredegar), and Mr Harry Jones. The costumes worn by the chorus and the soloists were certainly one of the main features of the per- formance. They were executed by Mrs Robinson and the Misses Robinson, whose art was admired and praised by all. TABERNACLE SUNDAY SCHOOL.—The anniver- sary of the Tabernacle Sunday School was held on Whit-Sunday, when the pastor, the Rev H. B. Robinson, F.R.G.S., presided, this being the fifth year he has pleached the anniversary sermons. Two able sermons were delivered in the morning and evening, and an address in the afternoon. The chairman for the afternoon service was the Rev R. Cater, of Huntingdon, who in the course of his remarks gave a few words of encouragement to the officers and teachers, urging them to continue in the great work of the Sabbath School. The choir, under the leadership of Mr S. Fisher, rendered hymns, &c., in a creditable manner. Recitations were given by the Asholars, who acquitted themselves exceedingly well. Miss M. A. Hopkins sang "The Lost Chord" in the evening service. Miss Mends presided at the organ during the day. There were large congregations during the day, the chapel being crowded to its utmost capacity, and a large number failing jto gain admission. The anniversary was the most successful that has been held at the Tabernacle for many years. On the Monday a public tea was held at the Old Penygarn Chapel. The teachers and scholars met at the chapel, and, forming into procession, walked to Peny- garn and partook of tea. So numerous were the visitors that many had to come away without tea. After tea the young people enjoyed them- selves in a field kindly lent by Mr D. Reece. The collections and proceeds of the tea meeting J amounted to nearly £20. We may add that the school now numbers nearly 400. APPRECIATION eF LOCAL TALENT.—We are pleased to hear that Miss Kathleen Evans, con- tralto, of this town, had had a very pressing in- vitation to join the Welsh Ladies' Choir at Cardiff, for the purpose of competing at the Chicago World's Fair. The choir will leave for Chicago in August, but we are not sure I whether Miss Evans has aceepted this gracious invitation or not. PRESENTATIONS.—On Saturday last the young men of Pontymoil met together at the Institute, Pontymoil, for the purpose of "presenting Mrs Williams with a silver tea service on her leaving for Talgarth. Mr D. Phillips was voted to the chair, and Mr Smith to the vice-chair.-The Chairman, in opening the proceedings, spoke in a very able manner of the kind feeling that has existed between Mrs Williams and the young men of Pontymoil, and wished to convey to her, in their name, the loss they would feel in her departure, and wished her every success in her new home.-Mr Smith also spoke of the good done by Mrs Williams to the I.O.G.T. of Ponty- moil, and in other directions. — Mr George I Saville said he could only endorse the words spoken by the Chairman and Vice-Chair- man, and wished the recipient ('very success. Mrs Williams, who was visibly affected on re- ceiving the gift, thanked the friends very much for their kind present, which had taken her completely by surprise. She also spoke of the pleasant time she had passed at xontymoil, and which, she said, made her feel her departure the more>_The Chairman said they had one more duty to perform and that was to present Miss Verril (Mra WillIams s assistant) with a Bible, on her leaving for her home. The Bible was cased in morocco leather and gilt edged.—Miss Verril acknowledged the gift, and thanked all for their kindness.—The remainder of the even- ing was devoted to recitations, solos, etc., and the singing of the Doxology brought a pleasant evening to a close. JUVENILE RECHABITE OUTING.-on Whit- Tuesday the Hope of Pontypool Juvenile Tent had their annual outing, the place selected being the beautiful grounds of Usk Castle. At 9.30 a.m. the juveniles accompanied by their superin- tendents and a number of friends, about 180 in all, assembled near the Town Hjill, where they awaited the arrival of a number of brakes sup- plied by Mr Burton, Market-street. Owing to the large number availing themselves of the trip the superintendents had their wits taxed to the utmost to find accommodation for all, but after a lengthy process of scheming, squeezing, and packing a start was made. The rendezvous was reached in saftey about 11.30, when the youngsters soon gave unmistakable signs that they were bent upon enjoying themselves to the utmost. About 1 o'clock the tables were laid, and very soon ample justice was done to the plentiful supply of tea, bread, butter, and cake, which were handed round. After all had their fill (if any failed it was their own fault) an adjournment was again made to the recreation programme, some to rounders, others cricket, a large number availing themselves of the invigorating swing, and last but not least (so it seemed) the ever popular football was in much requisition. After various other items had been gone through, viz., foot racing, donkey racing, tug of war, &c, the wants of the ianer man were again attended to, this time a bun, specially made to order, of Herculean dimensions was handed round to each member, and then what may be termed a bun- eating competition took place which did not last very long, which was washed down by a second supply of the beverage that cheers but not inebriates. About 7.45 a start was made for home, Pontypool being safely reached about 9.10 p.m., all to every appearance having thoroughly enjoyed themselves. The provisions for the day, including the buns, which gave general satisfac- tion, were supplied by Mr Wall, grocer. Pent- newynydd. BATTALION DRILL.—The 4th V.B., S.W.R, which comprises the- Pontypool (headquarters), Abergavenny, Monmouth, Usk, Blaenavon, and Newport, paraded in review order for battalion drill, OR the Polo Field, on Saturday, when they practised the attack, and also fired a feu-de-jote in celebration of the Queen's birthday, and gave three cheers for her Majesty, led by Colonel Burton, commanding the battalion. Betweea 400 and 500 of all ranks were present, the local company being second strongest on parade. Opportunity was also taken by Colonel Burton of presenting the medal for long service and good conduct to Sergeant-Instructor Jamieson, tor the Abergavenny Company. In doing so, Colonel Burton expressed tne pleasure it gave him to make the presentation. The Adjutant (Major G. C. Palmes) read to the battalion a record of Sergeant-Instructor Jamieson's ser- vices, as follows:—Enlisted 24th Regiment, July. 1874; embarked for Gibraltar, 16th October, 1874; embarked for Cape of Good Hope, 28th November, 1874; left Cape Town for Griqualand West, South Africa, 15th May, 1875; left Griqualand West for Cape Town, 11th October, 1875; promoted corporal, 27th January. 1876; Kaffir War (Mounted Infantry), 1878; stationed in Pretoria, Transvaal, 1878; promoted sergeant 22nd January, 1879 Zulu War, 1879 present at Isandhlwana on 22nd January, 1879: promoted Quarter-Master Ser- ?eant, 1st Squadron Mounted Infantry, under Captain E. S. Browne, V.C.; joined General E. Wood's column at Kambula, March, 1879, after disaster of Isandhlwana; present at the battle of Kambula, 27th March, 1879; present at the battle of Ulundi; after Ulundi rejoined 24th Regiment; embarked for England 27th August, 1879; promoted colour-sergeant 23rd November, 1880 granted South African war medal and clasp, 1878-79 in possession of four good conduct badges trans- ferred to permanent staff 4th V.B., S.W.B., December, 1887; granted medal for long servioe and good conduct. 1st October, 1892. ST. JAMES'S SUNDAY SCHOOL.—The scholars attending this school were entertained to a tea in the St. James's Class-room on Thursday after- noon week. Over 100 sat down to tea and their wants were well looked after by Mrs Joshua Evans, Mrs Morgan, Mrs Stockholm, Miss McArdell, Miss Hollo way, Miss James, the Rev Joshua Evans, Mr R. W. Williams, and Mr T. A. Jones. After tea, the younger children enjoyed themselves at games in the adjoining field, kindly lent by Mr Bladon. Søsequently the teachers and scholars, together with many of the attendants at St. James s Church, assembled in the Class-room for the presentation of atten- dance prizes to the scholars, and an entertain- ment Mr W R. Williams, superintendent of ST«b!S, opened the proceed.^ with an address, in the course of which!ie saui flat ■the school was oDened in May, 189A witn about 65 StoXdteSer*. Thev now numbered 146, and had a well attended men s Bible class, women's Bible class, tourTestament Masses, and three infant classes. (Applause)1 he first three infant classes. (Applause.) The first anniversary of the school waS i 4r. fi inst, special services being COIld^^ *he church, and it proved a success neveiysense of the word, a success as regarded the attendances, the sermons, the services, and (Applause.) He was glad to say tha^ the sum of £ 10 was raised at the sf,rvlca^n(71hfundTv been banded over to the school tuna by the Kchwwden., and he took that 0pP0««Mty of thanking the St. James's congregation for their generous support. (Applause.) He should also not forget to thank the members of St. James s choir, for their excellent singing at the services. (Hear, hear.) The entertainment was then pro- ceeded with as follows :—Pianoforte solo, Miss Alice Williams; song. "Anita." Mr P. J. Osborne pianoforte solo (encored), Miss Lilian Mason song, Cherry Rpe, Miss J. Davies banjo solo (encored), Miss Williams (accom- panied by Miss Bertha Davies) glee, Who will o'er the downs," St. James's Choir Party song, The Bay of Biscay (encored), MrWestluke dialogue, Othello (1st scene), Cmldren song, "Comin' through the Rye" (encored), Miss M. Davies glee, Sweet and low," Choir piano- forte duet, Alice and Kate Williams; song, "Tom Bowling" (encored), Mr P. J. Osborne; "Tom Bowling" (encored), Mr P. J. Osborne; song, Ora Pro Nobis (encored), Miss J. Davies; glee, "Sleep gentle lady," Choir. The pro- gramme was chiefly arranged by Mr J. Edmunds, organist and choirmaster of St. James's Church, and assistance was kindly given by Miss Lilian Mason and Miss Williams. The first-named lady, in addition to playing a couple of pianoforte solos in splendid style, shared the accompani- ments to the solos with Mr Edmunds. During aninterva 1 in the programme, books were pre- sented to the scholars who had earned them by regular attendance, and addresses were delivered by the Vicar, the Rev T. Vaughan Evans, M.A., and Mr J. Holloway. At the conclusion, votes of thanks were accorded to the Vicar for pre- siding, and to all who had taken part in the entertainment. The pianoforte was kindly lent by Mr John Bevan. j

BBWMAWR. PETTY SESSIONS.—Mondav, before the Revs A. Griffiths and Dr Browne, William Thomas, of Naiuyglo, charged with stealing a rin-box con- taining ham sandwiches from the Brynmawr Railway platform on Tuesday morning last, was committed for trial at Brecon Quarter Sessions.— Three young men, named William George Bull, Geo. Watkins, and Jno. Watlcins, were committed for one month hard labour for an assault on John Phillips, of Beaufort, on the 22nd of May. —For stealing £ 3 from D.ivid Bevan, of the Llangattock Mountain. Elizabeth Evans, prose- cutor's servant girl, was senteuced to one month hard labour.

gabwdiffaith. WOMEN'S SOCIAL CLASS.—A social class has been recently organised here by Miss Milne, who has also commenced reading and writing classes for the benefit of women whose early education has been neglected. On Thursday the monthly meeting was held, which is open to all. Mrs Roden opened with praise and prayer, Miss Anna Carpenter gave an appropriate recitation, and Mrs Ford sang m her usual style. Mr Fred Tucker gave a racy and uintructive address on "Selected Proverbs,' which was highly appre- ciated. The president. Miss Ali Ii proposed a vote of thanks to Mr Tucker, which was seconded by Mrs Wiiiiann, and after a iely words from Mrs John Jones, a profitable and enjoyable meeting was brought to a close.

NEW INN. ANNIVERSARY.—Anniversary service in con- nection with the Congregational Chapel were held on Sunday last. There were good atten- dances at each service. The preacher was the Rev. Thos. Hughes, of c-diff, who delivered an excellent discourse morning, af ttrnoon and evening. The collections were most satisfactory.

NEWPORT. PREVENTION OF CRUELTY TO CHILDREN.— The first annual meeting of the Siewnort Branch of the National Society for the Preven- tion of Cruelty to Children was held at the Town Hall on Wednesday evening, under the presidency of the Mayer (Councillor T. Jones), who spoke of the great good that the society had done in the town and district. On the motion of Mr W. Lyndon Moore, seconded by Mr W. M. Fuller, & vote ot cordial approval ot the aims ot the institution was passed. Miss Bolton, the general assistant secretary, in a lengthy and interesting address on the aims, methods, and results of th' society's work, remarked that although she spoke as a clergyman's daughter, and understood parochial work, the greatest, scumbling block that the society encountered was the attitude of the olergy, who fancied thaL their parochial machinery was so perfect that theykuew their parishes well, and would not admit that cruelty to children existed.

USK. NEW CURATE.-On Sunday evening the Rev. W. E. Parry read himself in a.s curate at the Usk Parish Church. TRINITY FAIR.—The usual stock and pleasure fair was held on Monday. There was a fairly large supply of cattle, and a good attendance, business being fairly done at favourable prices for good cattle. DIPHTHERIA AND MEASLES.—The outbreak of diphteria is assuming more serious proportions, and as a precaution it has been decided to close the schools till the 11th June. A few cases of measles are also reported.

A.N EXPEROWE 84 PEACE. The Emperor Francis Joseph hme jost liwm I audience to the Hungarian and the Austrian f Delegations. Be observed that the very friendly relations of the empire with all Foreign Power* continued to eubeist, and other eircumstanow o favourable to the further maintenance of peace remained unimpaired. The Government, however, considered itself no Ieee bonnd than before, in the interest of the monarchy, to carry out to the end the systematic development of the organisation and preparedness of the army and navy. In their addresses to the Emperor, the presidents of the two Delegations extolled the Emperor as the protector and guardian of European peace. The address of the Hungarian president contained the following noteworthy passage Austria-Hungary must. form a strong State, sought after as an ally and. dreaded as a foe."

BLAENAVON CHAMBER OF TRADE. The ordinary meeting of the Chamber took place on Wednesday evening last, Mr H. M. Davies (chairman) presiding. There ,l, a, a f.ir attendance. The secretary (Mr Parry) r^ad.tho minutes of the last meeting, which vere duty corifmiK-d.

FLOWRR SERVICE AT ST. LUKE'S CHURCH, PONTNEWYNYDD. On Sunday afternoon last. at 3 p.m., a children's flower service was held at the above church. The service, arranged by Messrs J. Ellerton, S. Baring-Gould, J. F. Bridge, Sir .John Stainer, and Berthold Tours, was beauti- fully rendered by the members and children of the Sunday School, and reflects great credit upon Mr H. J. England, who took great pains in training them to sing it. The llev W. D. I. Mackintosh delivered the address to the children, pointing out a few practical lessons taught by 0' flowers. He based his remarks upon the Song of Solomon, 2nd chapter, parts of the 11th and 12th verses. Mr Edwin Davies, the superintendent, read the lesson. Mr Arthur Jones, The Hollies, presided at the organ. The church was crowded, and everyone seemed highly pleased with the brightness of the service. About two hundred bunches of flowers were presented at the com- munion rails by the children of the Sunday School and their friends. A collection was made' towards the Sunday School fund, and the amount received was very gratifying. At 6.30 p.m. another special service was held. The flowers had been re-arranged within the com- munion rails, and presented a lovely sight. The Rev W. D. 1. Mackintosh preached a sermon on the following subject, viz.:—"The care of the sick, a Christian duty," his text being St. Matthew, viii, 17. The service was impressively sung by the choir. On Monday morning the flowers were sent to the Panteg Union Hospital and the Newport and County Infirmary, from which places the following replies have been received 11 Griffithstown, Newport, Mon.. 30th May. 18H3. Rev. and Dear Sir,—I thank you very much for the box of flowers sent us. They are most accept- able. We have placed them in glasses all through our Infirmary Wards, and they give quite a cheerful appearance, and the poor invalids are delighted with them. Again thanking you, I am, yours faithfully. HARTLEY FEATHER. Newport and County Infirmary. Dear Sir.—Very many thanks to you and your cong-regation for the flowers you so kindly sent us. They have brightened our wards, and our patients are very fond of flowers; they take a great interest in the arranging of them. I am. dear sir. yours faithfully. A. FLORE*.CK FLOOD, Matron.

DISTRICT NEWS. ABERCARN. SCHOLASTIC.—Mr H. D. Titiey, Abercarn School, last week received a first-ciass certificate in model drawing, and is to be congratulated upon his success LIBERAL ASSOCIATION.—On Tuesday night a meeting was held, Mr. Biscombe in the chair It was announced that Mr Clifford CorJ the Liberal candidate would commonce campaign on Monday the 12th June by a public meeting at the Hall. DRAWING EXAMI NAT i o,Abercarn School has been marked good in the recent exami tion. This is an event for congratulation. Tie Headmaster, Mr James Hugues, and his stiff of assistants Imve worked very hard during the past year in this particular branch. GOSPEL TENT.-Arrarigoinents have just teen made for erecting a tent upon the ground occu- pied by the Old Lime Kiiiis in which to preach the gospel during the summer. A meeting of the County Committee of the Forward Move- ment took place on Monday, Mr W. Gri- fiths, J.P., Bryucynon, Biackwood, presiding. It was resolved that inasmuch as ground had been granted by Mr P. James, J.P., Abercarn House, to at once commence the services, and Mr D. Evans of Liverpool, a young man who had bad a varied experience in Mission Work in that city, was engaged as a Missionary. He has excellent references from persons interested in mission work in Liverpoo., and among others Pedrog" the renowned Bard. Mr Evans commences on Saturday evening next by addressing an open air meeting upon the Market Square, and from what is known of his previous history he will evidently be the man to reach the masses. SOCIETY FOR THE PREVENTION OF CRUELTY TO CIIILI)REN.-On Tuesday evenit.g a public meeting was held at the Public Hall, under the presidency of Aid. George Jones. Miss Bolton delivered an address showing forth the objects of the Society for the Prevectio'u c rl'ruelcy to the Rising Generation. Mr T. Gill Williams, Newport, ^Secretary of the Newport and Mon- mouthshire district, was present arid addressed the meeting. Inspector Coates also, accompanied by Councillor Howe, Messrs B. Matthews, W. Thomas, Evan Phillips, Harris (Cottage), Rowlands, and W.Griffitiis, spoke. A committee of ladies was formed for this district to be con- stituted as follows with power to add to its num- ber Mesdames G. Jones, Aubrey, W. Elias, D. W. James, J. R. Jacob, Southwood Jones, E. A. Taylor, Howe, Harris (Cottage), Pitts, John Green, W. Griffiths, Rooke, Dart, Jordan, (Newbridge) Hughes (chemist) W. Thomas (Liverpool House) Nurse, Strong, W. Jones (Hillside House) Drs W. H. Davies, F. J. Davies and Clark Messrs J. M. Jones, E. G. Morgan (Crumlin), W. Walters (Crumlin), Sweet, Ret. Jones, Evan Phillips, Geo- Price,the Misses Jones (Victoria House),'Stradling, and Edwards (Rhyswg). BLAEN A YON. UPPER WESLEY CILAPEL.- The anniversary was held on Sunday, when three very earnest and practical sermons were preached by the Rev W. R. Canyon, of Malvern, who some years ago travelled in the Pontypool circuit. The attendance was good in the afternoon and evening. The collections realised nearly 28 in aid of the chapel funds. TEMPERANCE MEETING.—On Sunday evening a Temperance meeting was held in Broad-street Baptist Chapel. There was a fair attendance. The rendering of the following programme was much appreciated: Address by the Chairman, the Rev Davies, of Rhymney solo, Mr Brink- worth recitation, Miss A. Cox; address, Mr LL Griffiths, secretary of the Monmouthshire Band of Hope Union solo, Mrs Havard solo, Miss J. Williams. SHOOTING COMPETITION.—The first competi- tion for the silver cup annually given to the local Volunteer company by Councillor R. W. Kennard took place on the Range, Blaenavon. Conditions-Seven .rounds at 20U yards and sevea at 500 yards, cup winners of previous years being handicapped. The following are some of the highest scores :—Private W. White, H; Sergeant J. James, 50; Private C. À. Penny more, 49; Private P. P. Dowdea. 48 Sergeant-Instructor D. O. Reardon, 49 Colour-Sergeant R. Arnold, 47 and Private A. Pitt, 47. CHARITABLE ENTERTAINMENT.On Monday evening, an entertainment was given at the National Infant Schoolroom in aid of Richard Williams, commonly known as "Dicky, the blind boy." The room was crowded. The fol- lowing was the programme-Address by the vicar, the Rev J. L. Clougher ■ pianofofte solo. Miss A. Richards: soug, iy:U .mother,5 Ms J. Griffiths song, 'EBofadft.' Miss A. Coombes song,4 True till dentin' M* S. Josephs song,' Songs we love,' Mrs W Havard; song, British lion,' Air E. Rees; song, 'Isle of beauty,' Miss S. Jones; song, 'Blue Alsatian Mountains,1 Mr W. White; duet, Larboard watch,' Messrs Brinkworth and Griffiths song, "Tis hard to give the hand,' Mrs Havard song. 'Anchored,' Mr S. Josephs; song, jeannette, Miss S. Jones solo, God has no part,' Mr S. Brinkworth song, Angus Macdonald,' Miss E. Clark; song, 'The midshiprrute,' Mr E. Rees; song, Angels watch thee,' Miss A. Coombes; concertina solo, Dicky, the blind boy aaleT God save the Queen," Miss Alice Prosser. OBITUARY.—It is with extreme regret that we have this week to announce the death of Mrs Lydia Davies, the beloved wife of Mr. David Davies, principal of the firm of Davies & Co., The Stores, Broad-street. on Monday morning, at the age of 31 years. The deceased ll'dy was the sixth and youngest daughter of the late Mr and Mrs Morgan, Cwm Farm, litaunveaarth, and in her girlhood days attended the Govilon British Schools, and was a constant attendant of Llanwenarth Baptist Chapel. Ultimately she filled an engagement at the Abergavenny Shop, under the management of lr. William Jordan Davies, and in that capacity gained the esteem and approbation of the public generally by her unassuming manner and her amiability of tem- perament. After her marriage with Mr Davies she resided at The Stores, and threw into her husband's business the whole of her energies. Unfortunately, ill-health intervened, and for a protracted period she became the prey of that dread disease, consumption In spite or the best medical treatment and change of scene and air, the malady could not be arrested, and after many months of intense suffering Su°" cumbed. Much symp^t^y i« r'elt with cue be- reaved husband and the little son of the mar- riage in their sore trial, and also with her sorrow- ing brothers and sisters.

blaina. LICENSED VICTUALLERS' A^SODAI'ioN.—-The annual dinner of the Naiitygi0 and Blama Licensed Victuallers. Association was held at the Globe Hotel, Mr David Davies, of Nantyglo, Licensed Victuallers. Association was held at the Globe Hotel, Mr David Davies, of Nantyglo, presiding. Mr John Blight, of Ebbw Vale, was the vice-chairman. Mr J. Williams of New- port, urged the importance of petitions to Parlia- ment against the proposed legislation affecting the trade, and of becoming members of the association, so that their ttcciou Ullpli be united.

CROSS KEYS. TAKING THE GOSPEL TO THE POOR.-On Sunday evening an out-door service was held at Full Moon, which was well attended, a large number of women being present, many of them fâiJingf to attend the means oi grace at the various p!aces of worship. The following ministers and friends took part in the serviced Evangelists Evaus (Crosskeys) and Thomas (Porth), Messrs New, David Davies (Abercarn) and Ligbtfoot. Mr Lightfoor. played several sacred, pieces upon his violin with effect.

VARTEG. PRIMITIVE METHODIST. On Sunday May 26th, the anniversary of the Sunday School was held, when appropriate sermons were delivered by Mr H. Collier, of Blaenavon, to large congre- gations. Recitations were also given by the children, and the choir, under the leadership of Mr William Porrell, assisted by Mr William Webster as accompanist, sang suitable hymns with telling effect, and throughout the whole of the proceedings, the anniversary proved a most successful one. On Monday the school walked in procession, and enlivened the locality by singing various hymns, and marches. In the evening an entertainment was given. The following was the programme :—Chorus by the choir; recitation, Master W. Rees song, Mr John Hobbs recitation', Master James Challenger; song, MissE. Challenger; recitation, Miss S. Biggs; the Choir; recitation., Miss A. Biggs; solo, Mrs Hawkins; song, Mr Thomas Jones song, Mr B. Challenger, the Cboir song, Miss Rachel Jones; song, Mr Thoieaa Jones. Practical addresses were also delivered by Messrs John Griffiths, John Orchard, Thowas Hobbs, and Joseph Werrett, after which the usual thanks to the chairman, Mr Collier, and the singing of the doxology, brougkt a success- ful anniversary to a close. The collections far exceeded the expectations of all.

WHAT IS CONDENSED MILK T A decision of much importance to grocers and others vendors of condensed milk was given a few days since at the Sessions House, Westminster, by [ Mr. Littler, Q.C., CB., the chairman of the Middlesr Quarter Sessions. The evidence showed Inspector Tyler, one of the officers of the Middlesex County Court, in January last, bought a tin of condensed milk from Alfred Platt, grocer, of Ealing, for which he paid 3!d. Upon analysis it turned out that 80 percent, of the fat bad been abstracted, and a close examination of the tin revealed the fact that it was called Condensed skimmed milk." A fter the cream had been taken out by a separator, 35 per cent, of cane sugar was added. The contention of Mr. Bodkin was that no notice of the abstraction was given to Tyler until the purchase was com- pleted. Mr. Grain contended that the label was sufficient disclosure. The Court upheld the convic- tion, but as there was no intention to defraud, the penalty was altered to a fine of 20s. a&d costs, in- clud ing the costs -of the appeal.

BAFFLING FOR BIBLES. Last week there was celebrated the 200th anni- versary of the custom of raffliaag for Bibles in the parish church, which is still regularly observed once a year at St. Ives, Huntingdonshire. It originated in a bequest of the Rev. Dr. Wilde, who held the living of Aynho, in Northamptonshire, and was ejected for Nonconformity in 1662. He made his will in 1675, leaving the sam of EW to be invested in such property as would bring in an annual rental sufficient to purchase six Bibles for the poor chil- dren of his native town, and, moreover, to pay 10s. for a sermon and Is. for the Amen-sayer, and then whatever was left over was to be regarded as a fairing for the clergyman and his coadjutors on this portentous occasion. These six Bibles were to be raffled for by twelve children selected for their good behaviour, six of whom were boys, and six girls, and it was specially ordained that the dice should be cast on the communion table." At the present time, however, a small table placed in a corner of the church is used for the purpose of de- ciding the throws.

Mr. Chaplin, M.P., is undergooing a course of waters at Woodhall Spa, near Biauknev. Falmouth is to be the future home of Madame Patey, who, with her husband, is now there. Gav, the Horwich murderer, respited on the ground of insanity, has been removed to Broadmoor Lunatic Asylum. Alderman Tillett is laid up at Hull, Buffering from nervous prostration, the result of the strain of con- ducting the recent dispute. Scarlet fever to an alai ming extent has broken out at Aldershot, both among the regulars and the militia, brigade under canvas. The National Industrial Home for Crippled Boys Kensington, has received a donation of 2100 from the Worshipful Company of Grocers The dead body of a woman has been found in a field at Stone, near Ashford. The poor woman had slipped while crossing a stile, and was strangled through her shawl catching in some projec- tion. The Rev. Thomas Sissons, of Beckenham, Becre- fcary of the Loudon Congregational Board of Ministers, has been elected chairman of the Con- vocation of Hackney College, Hampstead, of which the Rev. Dr. Cave is principal. The Princess May has been pleased to accept the gift of a Yost typewriter, and has desired the Comptroller of the Household at White Lodge, Richmond, to thank the managing director ef the Yoat Typewriter Company for the "present.

LECTURE AT trRIFFITHSTOWN. On Monday evening last, the Rev n. B. Robinson, F.R.G.S., of Pontypooi, dtJiveivd a lecture, entitlEd No. 1 and its relation IOKU.2," at VIKI Drill Hall, Griiuthstown, which kindly lent for the occaK-on by Oapuda p K. Williams. In the u>. avoidable at setic^ •> £ Mi I. Butler, J P., who wa:š suddenly called a* ay, p t. D. E. Williams presided, a rut a very good auaaber of persons were prestn;, despite the incfetne-icv of the weather. The lecture was gtv< in aid of Mr D. Moore, a steel works employes wiv has been for some time iii."apacita,ied by il--ht aith from following Lis employ meat. Captain Williams, in opening the proceedings, apologised for absence of Mr Butler, and I said that it gave biso pleasure in being present, especially with regard to the object for which the lecture was given. He had known Mr Moore for some time, and had always iounci him an upright Ulan, an he sympathised with him iu his trouble. He felt sure that by their attend- ance that evening, and from what he had been given to understand, that the tickets lud been well disposed of, aud that Mr Hoove had a fitumber ot pympathi-sers in the neighbourhood. He hoped Mr Moore wouid again be restoicd to good health. The Rev H. B. Kobinson then delivered bis lecture, the syiiabus or which was as follows Seif-knowledge, self-respect, self-control, eif- help. other man'* hobbies, other men1** opinions, other men s faults, other men's burdens. The lecturer dealt with eiush asading of the bu, in a tuoat lucid manner, xiis illustrations being most plentiful and graphic, and, although he was far from belIig m very good health, the audience were of but one opinion, that he had surpassed their The lecture, wiiicii iasted í nearly an hour and a lialf, was listened tc, with marked not being slow in entlntsia8ticitliy appreciating the excellent way in which character* wore pourtrayed, and when the lecturer resumed his seat he was loudly applauded. j Cailtain Williams said he was deeply indebted to Mr Robinson for his very able lecture. What they had listened to would, be thought, have a lasting effect upon their minds, and he felt certain that it would do a great amount of good. He wished to be allowed to propose a hearty wi vote of thanks to Mr Robinson for the able mariner in which he had delivered his leature. Mr T. Barron seconded the proposition, which was c i t ried unanimously. Mr Robinson thanked' them for the hearty vote accorded to him, and for the very kind way iu w liich they had listened to his lecture. He was pleased to be able to come and deliver his lecture, and was also pleased to find that the object of the lecture was to lighten other folks' burdens. He should have very much liked to have seen Mr Butler present but in his unavoid- able absence Capt. Williams had very Kindly presided instead, and he proposed a hearty vote of thanks to Capt. Wil iams for doing so. The Rev D. M. Davies, B.A., ably s- conded the proposition, which was carried unanimously. Capt. Williams, in replying, thanked them for their hearty vote of thanks, and said it was a privilege and a pleasure to be present that evening. It was the first time for him to have the pleasure of hearing Mr Robinson, but he hoped it would not be the last. It may be mentioned that the committee oom- prised the following gentlemen — Messrs E. Phillips, J. Walters, T. Barron, S. Winsor, J. Edmunds, J. Evans, A. R. Beynon, and T. Jones, who, we understand, hope that, after paying the expenses, they will be able to hand over to Mr Moore a small sum to meet part of the expenses incurred through his recent illness.

PONTYPOOL BOARD op GUARDIANS. j The usual meeting of the above Board was held at the Board-room at the Union on Thurs- day. There were present Mr E. J. Phillips (chairman),'Messrs J. Jenkins, W. P. Jam> s, W. L. Pratt, E. B. Ford, D. Jones, J. fcs. Gaskell and the Rev F. Foster. { The minutes of the last meeting were read and confirmed. THE AG EB POOR. Mr Ford asked the master if there was any objection te allowing the Aged people, wito were too ill or too old to work, to walk about the Sounds instead oi beit^ boxed up is the yards, e thought they might provide a few rustic seats under the trees foe* them to sit-»n. The Master said there was no objection what- ever. Mr Jones said he wocld undertake to provide the woodior the seatsifree of charge. It was then settled that the hourit should be- females W to 12, males:2 to 4. GENEROUS DONORS. The Master said the late chapwn bad sent a quantity of books a»d toys for the use of the ct-; ldren :and --the wmrdens oi St. ttake's Church, Pontne^nydd, had sent some flowers for the benefit of the House. It was decided that the Master should convey the thanks of the Guardians to the donors for their generosity. OUT-DEOR RELIEF. The KMZdoor relief for the past fortnight was as follows :-Trevethin, £ 91 19s 9d; Panteg, f62 3s 3d:: Usk, 122 Is lOd. For corresponding period of last year :-Trevethin, i 15s Panteg. £ 57 12s €d Usk, £ 21 12s Id. MASTERS REPORT. The Master's report was as follows :—Number of inmates in the Workhouse at the last meeting of the Board, 184 admissions, 33 born, 0 dis- charges, M dead, 0 remaining, 293—men, 82; women, ? ebildren, 462-203. umber of indoor poor for the corresponding period of last year:— 184 increase, 19. Number of vagrants relieved in the casual wards during the last fortnight:— Men, 74 women, 5; children, 7—>66. Number of children in the Cottage Homes:—Boys, 25; girls, 21-46.

RAINFALL. Date. In. Thursday. May 25.. 0-00 Friday 26. 0-00 Saturday, „ 27. O'OO Sunday, „ 28 0-00 Monday, „ 29 0.14 "Tuesday, „ 30 0*00 Wednesday, „ 31 O'OO

NEW RIFLE FUR THE AMERICAN ARMY. The American Board of Ordinance, which has been for some time investigating the newest designs of small arms, has decided in favour of the Krag Jorgeneen rifle for use in the United States Army. ———-— ————————————

SCARLET FEVER AT SHEFJIELD BARRACKS For the last three or four weeka:there bus been an outbreak of scarlet fever at the Sheffield barracks. Efforts to check its advance having failed, the Cheshire Regiment have taken to tents in a field some distance from the barracks. The artillerv- men stationed there have escaped the disease up "to the present time, hut for safety's sake they too are to go under canvas.

MR. JOHN MACKAY. Mr. John llackay, the well-known millionaire, who was recently shot at and severely wounded at San Francisco by a man who fancied he had a grievance against him, has arrived in New York. lie has now completely recovered. Mr. Mackay will remain there until the 3rd prox., on which date Mrs. Mackay sails for Paris.

DETAILS OF EMIN PACHA'S DEATH. A letter has been received in Brussels from Raschid Ben Mohammed, the famous Arab Governor of the Stanley Falls station on the Congo, which appazontly leaves little doubt that Emin Pacha is dead. Raschid says that an Arab chief named Said Ben Abed, when travelling with his men towards Uuvora and Wadelai, met Emin Pacha in charge of an armed expedition. Emin Pacha provoked hostilities, and a fight ensued, which lasted three days. In the end Emin was defeated and fled, but was pursued by Said Bin Abed's forces, overtaken, and killed, together with all his people.

THE INTERNATIONAL FIRE CONGRESS. In addition to New Zealand and India, no fewer than six foreign countries will be represented at the forthcoming International Fire Congress to be held in London in June. The French Brigades will be well represented, one team being sent from Par is and one from Havre. They will be accompanied by a band of buglers. On their arrival in London they will be received by a detachment of the Fire Brigades Union headed by their band, and will be escorted in procession through the principal streets to Islington. Thel Belgian contingent will be the strongest of all the Continental teams in point of numbers.

UNSANITARY CONDITION OF THE TOWN. The Chairman said he had spoken to the sur- veyor of the Board respecting this m:t«-r, and he had promised to do something to remedy the existing state of things. The scaveng.ug on the Forge Side was having the special attention of the Board. INFECTIOUS HOSPITAL The Chairman reported that ihe Board had this matter in hand, and they haJ accepted the terms of the Blaenavon Company for a site at the top of the road leading to the Varteg, at a small rent of i5 per annum. PUBLIC SLAUGHTER-IIUUBE. The Chairman said a small committee had been formed, consisting of himself and a few others to thoroughly go into this question, and they were proceeding with the r investigations. WATER SUPPLY. The Chairman: A scheme was on foot to supply Forge S'de with water, aud no time was being lost in getting the matter brought toa suc- cessful issue. The Garnyrerew water had been sampled by the medical officer and the Board was awaiting his report. Mr B. Parry said Mr. Davies and himself were in possession of information, which they could not well divulge at that stage of the proceedings. FINANCE. The Secretary (Mr Parry) reported that he had received £ 5 11 od for the present year's subscriptions, but a lot was still uncollected. The Chairman So we are in a solvent condi- tion, I presume. The Secretary Ob. yes. and I will do my best to get the remainder of the mbsenptions in. RKSIDENT MAGISTRATES. Mr Parry said he certaimy thought that the- member for the division should ascertain what had been done with the petition presented to the Duke of Beaufort. Ho would suggest, if they approved of it, asking Mr Price, when he came to Blaenavon on Monday next. what they had better do in the matter, and whether he would approach tbe Liom Uhancelior on their b^h&lf Mr E. Davies proposed and Mr Keeling seconded that Mr Parry see Mr Price as sug- gested. This was duly carried. IMPROVED RAILWAY ACCOMMODATION. The Secretary read a letter from the Great Western Railway Company, stating that certain improvements bad been authorised to be made at the station, which they trusted would be satis- factory. Better carriages had also been put on for ruuning between Blaenavon and Newport. The Secretary said The points have all been practically dealt with, but they have not gone quite so far as we could have wished. The Rev W. Rees said lie thought the letter was very courteous to the Chamber, and the Company had met their views, at ali events, to a considerable extent. The general opinion was that the xtailway Company had met the request of the Chamber very fairly, and the secretaxy was requested to write to the Company, thanking them for their courtesy, and expressing the hope that they would do something further at the station at & future date. Some discussion took place with regard to fast trains being run between Blaenavon and New- port, and it was decided to mention this matter also in writing to the Railway Company. NOTICE OF MOTION. Tite Chairman gave notice that at the next meeting he would bring the matter up of having a telephone call room at the Post Office. PROPOSED STATION AT THE GARN. The Secretary reported that nothing further bad been heard from the London and North, Western Railway Company respecting their petition. He was therefore requested to write again and press for a definite reply. SERVICE OF TRAINS. Some discussion ensued respecting train ac- commodation, and Mr Ebenezer gave notice of motion that he would bring the matter up at the next meeting. REMUNERATION TO THE SECRETARY. In accordance with bis notice of motion^an< £ after a little discussioD had ensued Mr Rees Jones proposed that a sum of five guineas be voted by the Chamber as an honorarium to Mr Parry for his very valuable services as secretary. This was seconded by Mr E. Davies and car- ried unanimously. A small committee was then appointed to carry the matter through, and to ascertain in what way the five guineas had better be ex- pended. COUNTY COURT FOR BLAENAV05?. The Chairman said the Lord Chancellor had acknowledged the joint petition from the Chamber and the Local Board. This concluded the business

The Duke of Connajigbt, as sreneral Commanding the Southern District, has ordered the temporary closing of the rifle ran ge near Dorchester ar which an accident to a sergeant i,ecentiv occurred. The targets have been examined, au d the mantlets found faulty and the range is to be thoroughly ever. pauled before firing is resumed. The consecration of the Bishop-designate of Norwich is now fixed for St. Peter's Da-. June 29thi at St. Paul 6 Cathedral. It, is probable that the consecration of Mr. J. S. Hill, Bishop-designate of the Niger, and the two assistant native cier«rvmeu to assist him, as well as of Mr. A. Baynes, B>shop- desiguate of Natal, will take place at the same time. The will of the late Earl of Derby just proved shows that the net value personal estnw* wag The will of the late Earl of Derby just proved shows that the net value of the personal estnw* wae sworn at £ 1,802,204. By the wiil the enm of £ ."00 000 was settled upon trusts to toilow the set;'oment of I the family estates, but by a codicil of 1892 this FUM was increased to £ 700,000. Special provision it made for Lady Derby and Lord Sackville Cecil, also the younger sons and Danghiersof Lord Stanley fcf Preston and others.

-=:=- GREAT SALE OF PIANOS AND ORGANS, NEW AND SECOND-HAND.—BARGAINS. i 1 T -919, A MFBTP AIV rVRH-AlVr 13 stops, by the needham orgas co YVrT1 » PP "PI" A "XTO JOHN BROADWOOD^ & SONS (Second-band). BERTRAM ISAACSON Al'lJill 1 U1VUA11, Octave Couplers, Ivuee Swells. 1 Cost Guinea, The Ceap M^oa, £ 16 COTTAGE PIANO, "ROADWOOD-WHITE. t~ /• 1 TT A TVTWmiVTTTTTM- SUITABLE FOR WORKING MAN'S HOME. >< • RM Worth Double. 30,: H'GH STREET' HUNDREDS OF PIANOS, HUNDREDS OF ORGANS, AT COST PRICE. M.V> 16s. AMERICAN ORGAN, G1LBERTuL'Guite,LEE' Usua"y S6Mat NEWPORT, MO.V. I £ you wantiBAKGAlNS, write for our FULL ILLUSTkATEI) CATALOGUE OF BARGAINS, aad J'

the Confession of Faith to prove the assertion made. that the Calvinistic Methodists are bound to teach the Articles of the Church of England." The Rev Canon and "Sacerdos" have had enough oppor- tunities by this time to have produced any proofs, if they have any, but, as they have both failed, 3 our readers may safely conclude that they cannot find any proof, and that the statement was ^correct The Rev Canon evidently intend^ to make his audience and your readers believe that the Oaivin istic Methodists are bound to teach the whole of the Articles of the Church of England, whereas the quotations from the Deed only imply that certain of those Articles may be taught '• according to the meaning now ascribed to them by Calvinistics and Paedo-Baptists." This may be equally true of any other orthodox body of Christians. But the broad, unqualified, statement as made by the Canon cannot be maintained. c I will not follow "Sacerdos" to the position or a judge, which he arrogantly assumes when he makes his false accusations against me, for in my humble opinion his4 flaunting of his generosity, and his spare sovereign in the manner he did was inde- cent and insulting, both to your readers and the unfortunate sufferers from the Pontypridd disaster. "Sacerdos" had no need to go out of his way to refer to those sufferers in the manner he did, any more than he had to interfere in the controversy be- tween me and the Rev Canon West. Your corres- pondent has not only shewn that he is ignorant of the question in dispute, but has also shewn that he needs to learn good manners, and until he acquires these qualities it is useless to discuss further with him. Yours, &c., E. JONES.