The Pontypridd Chronicle and Workman's News

jLLANTWIT FARDRE SCHOOL BOARD. The moptbly meeting of the above Board was held on Tuesday afternooD, ac the Graig Schools, Pontypridd, when ther2 were present:—Mr James Hiohardo (chairman), Mr D. Leyshon (vice-chair- man), Revs. E. Rees and W. Ashby, Messrs J. Roberts, F. Judd, and D. Pryant; with Mr H. S. -Daviop, cleik. Summonses were ordered to be taken out against "the parents of twj refractory school children for con- atttndance. The average attendance at the schools under the Board was reported to represent a total of about 1400 during the past wonttl CHAKGX OF ILL-TBKATHBNT AGAINST TaB LLANTWIT SCHOOLMASTER. A married woman named Mrs Trevelyan, from Llantwitfardre. attended before the Board with reference to an allegation of cruelty against Mr Williams, the schoolmaster. She stated that her -children were continually being abused, and on one occasion she saw Mr Williams beat her boyp, who were orying pitifully. Mr Williams did not deny that he had beaten the children on the day when Mrs Trevelyan saw him, but the sttok which he used was a small thin one, which he produoed. Mra Trevelyan denied this, and contended that the stiok used was.. bigger one. After a lengthy consideration on the matter, -during which a mi>s of desultory evidence was given on both sides, Mr Williams strongly repudi- ated the charge, and remarked in justification that the school under his control had the largest aver- age attendances of any in the district, last month being as high as 92 per cent. If that was so then curely the accusation of ill-treatment fould not be substantiated. Rev. B. ReelJ said his children had been educated -at Llantwit School, and he never heard that Mr Williams abused them. Air Bryant WHS of opinion that children should not be beaten if they oad been kept away by their parent*. Mr Judd said this had been done to his ohidren, on one occasion, .f-,er he had taken them for a holiday. The Chairman suggested than an explanation be ireceived from the parents when children were -absent. In regard to the magisterial inquiry, pending the decision of the Board as to the alleged ill-treatment, he m )ved that the clerk be deputed to inform the magistrates that, after due conside- ration, the Board found there was no ground tor the accusation of aniuo vicleuce. This was ageed to. The Rev E. Rees suggested that, as the charge against Mr Williams had been greatly exaggerated by the heading in a certain local newspaper, a vote of censure be passed upon the same. The Board, however, felt that, as the newspaper in question was powerless to exercise any degree ofoerogatoryinnueuce upon MrWiiliama' character and reputation, the matter be left unnoticed. THE EXTENSION OF TREFOREST SCHOOLS. A letter was read from the Treforest Iron and Steel Company consenting to sell to the Board a piece of land at the back of Treforest Schools, smaller than the one originally stipulated for, for £ 320. The oampany, however, could not grant a right of light. On the motion of Mr Leyshon, seconded by Mr Judd, it was resolved that the oompany's offer be acoepted, provided that the terms named were not more than at the rate of £1,800 per acre. FINANCE. The Chairman made a suggestion that no cheques for large mounts be paid that day, as the amount at the precept would be due in a few days, and it was hardly neoessary to run into debt. Mr Leyshon The public will think that our credit is bad at the bank. (Laughter.) TH. SCHOOL LIBRARIES. Letters were read from the maaters of the several schools under the Board explaining how the bonks 3n the lending libraries in connection therewith were being used. Mr Judd considered the books could be lent to -the children during the winter months without any inconvenience to the teaohers, and with much bene- fit to the children. It was resolved to defer further action in the matter until after the forthcoming annual exami- nation of the schools.

REMARKABLE SUDDEN DEATH AT LLWYNPIA. On Sunday night a sudden death occurred at this place. It appears that Mrs Mary Samuel, aged 39, wife of Mr William Samuel, Amelia-terrace, partook of a hearty supper about nine o'clock, and at the time fett well as usual. However, she was suddenly at- tacked with a pain in the side, and in her agony she tore part of her clothes. She expired in about five minutes after being taken ill. The assistance of Dr. Edwards was procured as soon as possible, but his services were of no avail, as the poor woman had ex- pired before his arrival. The deceased was a native of Aberdare, and was liked for her genial and pleasant manner. She leaves a husband and nine children (one of whom is in America), to mourn her loss.

THE JUBILEE YEAR Is already, and will yet be, celebrated by the eure of Hundreds of thousands of ppor ^nfferers from various Blood, Skin, and Nerve diseases, which are most marvellously affected by the use of the world's renowned remedy, viz:—Hughes' Blood Pills, Is Hd 28 9d, and 49 6d., of all medicine vendors.

[LLWYNPIA LITERARY & DEBATING SOCIETY. I. The last session of the above society was brought to a close on the 14th of Apiil, when the members t and friends held a soiree at the Workmen's Institute. After the good things provided by the amiable hostess, Mrs Rowley, had been partaken of, the following programme was gone through, Dr W. W. David being chairman. Toast, The Queen," proposed by the Chairman song, "The Midshipmite," by Mr Jason Davies; song, Old Time Memories," by Mr R. R. Davies song, When I've nothing else to do," by Mr John Morgan. The Rev. Thomas Rogers (vicar of Llwynpia) next proposed The Llwynpia Literary and Debating Society." In dwelling upon the advan- tages which such societies offer to all classes, and especially to young men, the rev. gentleman spoke of the pleasure with which he had listened to the debates of this society. He further mentioned the high merits which characterised the papers read by leaders of the debates. He urged young men to make use of their noblest talents, and observed that they could find no better means of doing so than by joining such a society as this. (Applause.) Mr Edwin Thomas (ex-vice-president) thanked Mr Rogers for the kind remarks he had made. He (the speaker) was glad that the society was progressing. (Cheers.) He must, however, say that he was not yet satisfied with its success, because all the ability and all the energy of Llwynpia was not centred in c this society. He hoped that the "'men of light and leading" would next year do all in their power to help a society which deserved, he believed, their hearty support. (Applause.) Mr W. Glynfab Williams agreed with Mr Thomas. The members for the most part were young, and, though they had ability, required some older persons to lead and teach them. They had, however, that evening to celebrate the close of a session which, on the whole, had been successful. This year they had entered the political arena, and had confidently settled very weighty matters. (Laughter.) They had given Home Rule to Ireland, and he supposed they were right in doing so. (Laughter and cheers.) They had decided that the Taff Vale Railway should retain their high dividends, by maintaining a distinction of classes in railway travelling. (Laughter.) They were not, however, strong enough to disestablish the Church in Wales. (Cheers.) In conclusion, he thanked the gentleman who had proposed the toast for his sympathy with the society. Song, Scotch Lassie Jean," by Mr John Morgan; song (a parody on the above), by Mr Jason Davies; song (a parody on the above), by Mr Jason Davies; song, "Yet awhile," by Mr Edward Hughes; this elicited a hearty encore, and Mr Hughes then sang The Maid of the Mill." Mr John Thomas then rose to propose the Officers of the Debating Society." His connection with the society, he was sorry to say, had been of short duration. The first intimation he received of its exietence was an invitation to attend the debate upon the execution of Charles I., and he presumed that the writer of the invitation thought that he must be interested in the shedding of blood. (Laughter.) Mr Thomas then spoke at length of the efforts which had been made by the officers of the society to make this a successful session. The toast was drunk wich musical honours. Dr WlW. David (president), Mr John Morgan (vice. president), and Mr Joseph Lewis (secretary) replied in suitable terms. Song, Anchored," by LlewBedw (encored); song, song, "Polly and I were Sweethearts," by Llew Bedw; duet, When we were boys together," by Messrs R. R. Davies and J. Morgan. Mr Richard Lewis proposed, as the next toast, The Llwynpia Workmen's Institute." He spoke of the necessity of baving such building3, and of the enormous amount of good which they had done, and were still capable of doing. Mr W. Williams (Wrexham House) also spoke, with his usual energy, of the benefits derived from such institutes, and coupled with the toast the name of Mr Hood. Mr W. W. Hood replied in suitable terms. Song, Mr R. R. Davies duett, Messrs E. Hughes aud Llew Bedw; toast, Host, hostess, and artistes" to which Mr T. John replied. After the national anthem had been sung the meeting terminated. 3

A Violent Woman at Porth. At Ystrad police-court, on Monday, (before the Stipendwry Magistrate), Rachel Joaes was charged with assault. Mary Riohatda said on the 21st ultimo defendant "beat tier pitifully." The first thing she kicked her in the bowels. Then she pushed her our, of her house. Defendant lived in apartments there. She then struck her several tinien on ber head. She was leaving the apartments on that day. She told defendant to pay before going, but she did not. Shettiedtostopher going until she had paid. Hence the assault. Defendant said the complainant struck hc!r six times before she retaliated. To pay 13,6. As defendant was going out of court Bhesaid she --would do for complainant. By order of the Stipendiary she was brought back in custody. Complainant said on getting outside defendant -.took up a stone and thre.twned to do for ber. P.C. Davies said he was outside the oourt, and heard defendant say when she got the chance she would pay complainant fjc it. She took up a stone, and complainant ran baek into court. She was detained by order of the Stipendiary.

DEATH OF RESPECfED INHABf- TANTS OF THE RHONDDA. After a abort illness, Mr Somood, manager to the <3as and Water Co., Ystrad, died at his residence on Monday.-On Wednesday, Mr David Williams, aged 74 years, breathed his last at his residence, Pentre. For many years Mr Williams was a faithful member of the Methodist persuasion, and possessed a noble character. He was the father of Mr W. Glynfiab Williams, schoolmaster, Clydaoh Valeland Mr J .Williams, manager, Pentre collieries. —On Wednesday afternoon, Mr George Hughes, 21 years of age, son of Mrs Hughep, Maindy-road, Ton, died of consumption at his residence. Mr Hughes was assistant-master at Ton and Tylors- town School under the Ystradyfodwg Local Board. He was a steady and persevering young man. Another brother of the deceased is seriously indis- poted Mr Hughes' father died some years since,. and much sympathy is felt for Mrs Hughes in her lad and trying affiiotion.

THE COMPENSATION CLAUSE OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT BILL. r PUBLIC MEETING AT PONTYPKIDD. A public meeting, to protest against the com- pensation clause of the Loond Government Bill, was held at St David's Hall, Pontypridd, on Tuesday evening. There was a large attendance. The chair was occupied by Mr T. Morgan (Fron), who, in the course of an able speech, in Welsh, explained the object of the meetiag, and dwelt upon the importance of taking immediate action to protest, by resolution and petition, against tbe unjust proposal contained in the compensation clause of the County Government Bill. (Applause.) The Rev W. Parry, Calvary, move* the first J resolatioi: That, in the opinion cf this meeting, those portions of the Local Government Bill which provide for a change of the licensing authority without conferring upon the inhabitants the power of preventing the issue or renewal of licences, and which would assign compensation to the holders of annual licences when such licences were not renewed, are open to the gravest objection, and j this meeting most strongly urges the removal of the clauses relating to compensation, and the insertion of others giving power to the inhabitants them. selves to veto the issue or renewal of licences in their respective districts by a direct popular vote." He said -In moving this resolution I do so with the sincere conviotion that I am fulfilling a public duty. The bill introduced by Mr Ritchie, however, excellent it may be in its main features, and how- ever worthy of the praise lavished upon it, has certainly, as it stands printed, one element of danger contained in the licensing clauses. The clauses relating to compensation to publicans upon the cancelling of their licences acknowledge a principle which hitherto has been ignored by the law, and the reverse of which has been asserbed and aoted upon by oar magistrates and judges. Hitherto licences have beea refused or cancelled in England and Wales without compensation to the holders thereof. We deem it our duty to protest against the introduction of this now prin- ciple into our legislation as affectiog the interests of publicans and brewers. As the bill stands, it is provided that compensation-money shall come from the pooktts of the ratepayers. Are we not suffi- ciently taxed already ? Shall we have an additional burdea to the already heavy weight which as citizens we have to carry ? To lay an impost of this kind upon the community is to inflict an injury up nit in a financial sense, and an insult in a moral sense. Why are licences issued at all? Is it for the purpose of creating or redogniaing a vested interest in the sale of intoxicating liquors? Is it for the purpose of giviug the dealers therein a locus xtandi in the community ? Nothing of the sort. It is with the view of restricting an evil; it is to put a curb upon a recognised and admitted curse that militates against the material and moral welfare of the people. It is just like putting a ring in the nose of a mad bull; or just like swivel- ling mice, to restrain them from exercising their destructive propensities. Licences are like em- bankments raised by legislation to prevent, if possible, the overflow of tbat traffic which, though restricted, is still the fertile cause of poverty, degradation, and crime. A licence in connection with this business is like the brand of Cain; a mark of infamy. (Hear, hear.) This principle of com- pensation, which if sanctioned by Parliament will make millionaires of our brewers, and create a new class of pensioners upon the public purse. Shall the rates be squeezed out of the hard-earned wages of the people for the creation of this new aristoorscy-th" lords of liquors, and the barons cf barrels and bottles, the baronets of brandy and beer, the dukes of drunkenness, the marquises of madness, the earls of asylums ? I take some pride in our aristocracy. Tlieir names are associated with the battles and liberties, the legislation and literature of our country. But I objeot to the creation of this new aristocracy, because I find nothiug honourable in its history. Honourable, did I say ? Nay, its history may well be written in tears and blood; and the sooner we dispense with it entirely, and abulish it from existanc-i, the better it will be for us as individuals, as communities, and a.s a nation. (Applause.) The resolution refers to the licensing authorities. Unquestionably, this power must ultimately be vested in the hands of the people. It is they who are most deeply interested. Public houses are supposed to be licensed for their accommodation. It is their comfort that it studied. Well, that being the case, let the people say whether they need them or not. There can be no reason for withholding from them the privilege of pronouncing upon their wants. Why should others speak for them ? They can sp. ak for themselves. With the rapid growth of political intelligence, and ever-increasing fitness for the exercise of political power, we believe that the people may be, and onght to be, entrusted with the priviit'ge of s »ying with authority whether they will or will not have few or many, none, or any public-houses in their respective communities. (Applause.) With these few remarks I beg, Mr Chairman, to move this resolution. (Applause.) Mr W. Thomas seconded the resolution, and spoke strongly and well. Air J. Coombes, in supporting it, cited the decision given the previous day. that magistrates had a right to refuse a l cence. (Applause.) Mr J. Roberts, Treforest, also supported, and the resolution WbS oarried with acclamation. Rev. W. I. Morris then moved the adoption of a petition to be signed at this meeting, protesting against tyrannical L'gis ation such as the compen- sation clause would be. (Applause). He asked who was to compensate the families of the people ruined by drink? (Applause). The drirk traffic, like ivy, flourished on ruins (q pplause )-and there was no necessity for going cut of this district to spek oases in which moral 6nd social ruin had been aojomplisbed by drink, and even less of life was directly attributable to its evil effects, yet there had been no talk of compensation to friends and relatives. (Applause). He regrett-d to learn that Mr Lenox, whom they all respocted for his many excellent, qualities, had given utterance, at a Conservative meeting the previous night, to the opinion that the compensation question was a point long established. It was a pity such a remark should have been made, and no doubt Mr Lqnox was sorry when he found to-day that the opinions of the judges were decidedly against him on that matter. (Applause). It was strange how ready magistrates were to take tbat side of the ques- tion. Mr W. Jones, Gelliwastad Road, seconded the resolution, and quoted the words of Mr Thomas Nash, counsel for the Licensed Victuallers Associ. ation, who sail:- "A still more unfortunate result of the Darwen case was that it promulgated and divulged what had hitherto been more or less a professional secret, viz., that subject to appeal the licensing magistrates can lefnse to renew the licence of any and every bolder of an on-licence. Till then it had always been popularly supposed that the holder of an on-licence, certainly a full licence, had a vested interest, and even the tee- totallers always spoke as if they recognised such an interest. Now, I am sorry to say, I have looked into this question most exhaustively, and compared notes with many of my brethren well versed in these matters, that there cannot be the smallest doubt that in the strict sense no such thing as a vested interest exists, and that, subject to appeal, the magistrates can refuse to renew the license of the largest, most useful, and best conducted hotel in England. 1 dare say that this will stagger many owners, but it is high time that the trade fully realised their position, and did not remain an instant in a sense of false security. More than this, as a matter of policy, the mere men- tion of the term 'vested interests' should be avoided, as it infariates every court from the Queen's Bench downwards." -(Applause). Councillor E. Beavan. Cardiff, in supporting the j resolution, re-echoed the sentiments of Mr Morris as regards compensation, end asked who was to compensate the Church of Christ for the irreparable loss sustained yearly through the drink traffiie P (Applause). If they went in for compensation, it must be gone in for all round. Let them consider who was to compensate the widows ana orphans of drunkards, and the heartbroken mothers of boys who had been led astray by drink ? (Applause.) The resolution was cordially agreed to. On the motion of the Rev. J. Pugh, seconded by Mr J. Coombes, a hearty vote of thanks was ac- corded te the Chairman for his services, and the proceedings terminated.

Pontypridd Police Court. WEDNESDAY.—Before the Stipendiary, Messrs T. Williams and W. Morgan. SLEEPING OUT AT FERNDALE.—John Rowland was charged with sleeping in the brick ovens at the Maritime brickyard. P.S. Jenkins found him there on Wednesday morning. Several previous convictions for stealing and sleeping out were proved against him. Superintend ant Matthews said defendant had been a clerk, and they told him at Clydach Yale they should be glad to put him in a good position if he would be sober.-Adjourned for a week, and if defen- dant returned to work at Feradale, the matter would drop, but if not he would be sent to prison for 14 days. DRUNK AT FERNDALE.-Wright Owen was charged by P.C. Allen with being drunk on Tuesday night. Defendant wanted to fight him, and was very riotoas. -Fined 20s. SUNDAY CLOSING Act AT PONXYPBIDD.—John Leigh was charged with falsely representing himself as a traveller.—P.C. Ford said on Sunday he visited the Lamb and Flag public house, and in the tap-room found eight men. He knew defendant to be living in the immediate neighbourhood.-Fined 10s. DRUNK AT FERNDALE.—John Dally was charged by P.C. Davies with being drunk on Monday last. His face was covered-with blood.-FlDed 5s. ASSAULT AT .GILFACH GocH.-Miles Roberts was charged with assaulting Wm. Evans — Thomas Thomas said he was in the Gilfach Goch public house, when a dispute took place. They struggled and fell, but he did not see any blows exchanged.- To pay the costs. J ASSAULT AT PONTYPRIDD. — Robert Sidman was charged with assaulting Annie Williams, aged 10 years. Mr Rhys,{for the defence, rose the objection that the child was too youngttobe pal on her oath, but having been questioned by the Bench as to her intelli- gence, she was allowed to be sworn, and said defen- dant struck her twice on Thursday on the ear. She was watching boys and girls swinging—Mr Rhys said defendant had received orders to keep children out of the building, and he struck the child.-The Bench said he should have selected a bigger child if he wanted to make an example. To pay as 6d, the cost of the summons. DRUNK AT NAVIGATION. — William Evans was charged with being drunk. P.C. Jenkins said on Sunday week last he saw defendant turned out of the Janction Hotel. He was drunk, and had come from Mountain Ash.—Fined 10s. DRUNK AT PONTYGWAJTH. — James Carter was charged by P.C. Evans with being drunk, and was fined 10s. ASSAULT AT. YNMHiR.—Ellen Thomas was charged with assault. Mary German said defendant met her on the 24th April, and she pulled her by the hair, and knocked her. Both women were bound over to keep the peace for six months, and to pay the costs between them. GAMBLING AT FEBNDALE.—Zachariah Beach was charged with practising games of chance. P.C, Francis said on Satuiday evening, he saw defendant with a large, crowd around him. "Saw several pence thrown on the table. Defendant had thirteen chances out of eighteen.—Fined 30s, or three weeks' imprisonment, and the articles to be destroyed. ASSAULTING t* CONSTABLE AT FBUNDALK. — Wm. Leakins was charged with being drunk and riotous, and assaulting the P.C' Francis, who was struck in the chest by defendant.-Fined 10s, or seven days' imprisonment. CHARGE OF STEALING MONEY AT PONTTPBIDD.— Elizabeth Price, Pontypridd, was charged with steal- ing 10s from Benjamin Walters, a haulier. Case dis- missed as the evidence was not considered sufficient to convict.

CHARGES AGAINST A PUBLICAN AT PONTYPRIDD. At Pontypridd police court, on Wednesday (before the Stipendiary and other magistrates), John Gibbon was charged with allowiug drunken men to be on his Sremiaegj and also with an infringement of the Sun- ay Closing Act. j?.C. Ford said at 9 p.m. last Sunday he visited the Farmer's Arms. He khoe&ed at a sideidoor, and was admitted by a stranger. Found ten men with beer before them. The landlord was bringing another blue of beer, but on seeing him he took it back. Asked him why he was keeping his house open on Sunday. He said I dont know any of them. They told me they all came from Ynysybwl'" Five of them were living in Pontypridd. At the table were two other men. One said his name was Tom Twice, and he was drunk; the other was helplessly drunk, and had to be carried to the station. Defendant said he had only given them a blue of beer each. Fined £ 3.

MUSICAL MEETINGS AT LLWYNPIA. On Monday the members belonging to Jernsalem Baptist Chapel held their annual musical association. The local choir being augmented by those belonging to Calvaria (Clydach Vale,) Bethlehem (Trealaw), ana Zoar (Dinas). Several anthems and favourite Welsh hymns were rendered with considerable spirit and finish on the occasion. The juvenile choirs did their allotted parts most creditably. Mr Dan Davies, A.C., Dowlais, paid a high tribute of praise to the conduc- tors for the trouble they had taken in the movement. The chair was occupied alternately by the Revs. J. R. Jones, Llwynpia; — Edwards, Porth and J. W. Lewis, Trealaw. The attendance was very large at each meeting, and all expressed satisfaction at the treat afforded them.

PONTYPRIOD AND RHoNDDA VALLEYS TRAMWAY. In the Tramways ProvisionaliOrders (No 1) Bill, which came before the Examiner of Private Bills in the House of Commons on Monday, for proof of com- pliance with the Standing Orders, is included in the Provisional Order (1882), with respect to the opening for public traffic of certain of the tramways thereby authorised, and permitting the release of the deposit fund paid into court on the application for the said order. The Standing Orders were found to have been duly compiled with, and the Bill will be at once set down for second reading in the House.

PONTYPRIDD BOARD OF GUARDIANS. THE COMPOSITION OF THE ASSESSMENT COMMITTEE. A PROTEST FROM THE COLLIERIES. The fortnightly meeting of the Guardians of the Pontypridd Union was held on Wednesday, at the Union Workhouse, when there were present: Mr J. Lewis (in the chair), Rev. D. W. Williams, M.A., Rev. W. Morris, Messrs T. Morgan (Tonteg), J. J. Evans, J. Richards, D. Evans, D. Fenwiok.W. Prichard, M. Cule, A. Cale, W. Morgan, E. Evans, E. H. DAvies, C. J. N. Grey, W. R. Beith. D. Llew. elyn, D. Lewis, (Caerphilly), G. Thomas, and E. Jenkins. The Chairman asked if they had a right to add to the Assessment Committee. The Clerk (Mr E. C. Spickett) said the commit- tee must, according to Act of Parliament, consist of 12 members, one-third of whom must be magis- trates. The Chairman remarked that there was a desire to add some of the representative of the collieries. Mr W. Morgan There is no Guardian to attend the Assessment Committee, I suppose. The Cleik There is no objection, I suppose, to any Guardians attending, but they cannot take part in the proceedings. Mr D. Evans What we felt was that there was not a single individual representing the collieries of the Khondda on the Assessment Committee. The Clerk Who is to blame? The eleotion took place in the usual way. You had an opportunity of proposing others. Mr D. Evans: There was no ohance. The list was out and dried. I asked if you could put my name in and you said it was full np. The Clerk The usual practice is for the chair- man and clerk to oonsult as to the committees, as some members die and other changes take place and the chairman proposes the re-election of old members and ethers to fill the vacancies. The Chairman: It.would be very wrong to ignore the collieries. Of oourse, we have one member in Colonel Grey. The Clerk: I quite agree with you, but you cannot cure it unless you resoind the resolution. Mr Prichard: I pr otest against it. I should very much like to see Mr Evans on that oommit- tee. I believe the colliery owners pay eeven-teuths of the rates of the Union. Mr J. J. Evans said the chairman at the last meeting asked if they had any objection to the names submitted. Mr D. Evans Yes, and said if there was any gentleman who thought be was better suited let him say go. The Clerk And nobody did. Mr D. Evans It would have been invidious. The matter then dropped. Rev. W. Morris asked why were not the proceed- ings of the Assessment Committee reported to this Board. The Clerk said it was not required, as that was an independent authority, and although under pre- sent circumstances he submitted they should not ask him to do that, still, if they insisted upon it, he would do it. On the motion of the ohairman, seoonded by Mr T. Morgan, application was ordered to be made for the eleotion of a new guardian for Llantwit. The Clerk reported the death of Dr. Fred Thomas, Treorky, and, on the motion of the Rev. W. Moiris, seconded by Mr D. Evans, it was de- oided to advertise in the CHRONICLE and two other papers for a medical officer. A memorial asking for the repeal of the South Wales Highway and Turnpike Acts was, on che motion of Mr D. Evans, seconded by Mr E. H. Davies, adopted. There were four applicants for the post of assis- tant nurse and needlewoman at t20 a year, with rations and apartments. On the motion of Mr W. L. Herbert, seconded by Mr D. Evans. Mrs Thomas, Mountain Ash, was appointed. The tender of Mr Ince for workshops, at £ 145, being the lovdibt, wm, on the motion of Mr Beith, seconded by Mr T. Morgan, accepted. o

MOUNTAIN ASH LOCAL BOARD. THE RATING OF ROYAL1IES AND GROUND RENTS. The Mountain Ash Local Board met on Monday Mr M. Morgan presiding. Before the Board pro- ceeded to the ordinary business Mr J. Williams, the surveyor, made a statement respecting the charge which had been preferred againsb him at Cardiff. After bearing Mr Williams, the Chairman stated that the allegation had not in the least diminished their confidence in him. Mr Little concurred, ail did also other members of the Board. Pursuant to notice, Mr J. W. Jones brought forward his motion for petitioning the Government in favour of inserting a clause in the Local Govern- ment Bill by which royalties acd ground rents should be rated to the local rates. In the course of his speech Mr Jones stated that 1,034,615 tons of coal had been raised in the Mountain Ash dis- trict in the year 1857. Deep Duffryn Colliery was only partially worked during that year. Had that pit been in full operation he averaged the output in the Mountain Ash Local Board district at 1,151,059 tons. He averaged the amount paid in royalties at 8d. per ton, which on the above tonnage would amount to £38,368 12s. 8d. The number of houses in the district was 3,031, and he averaged the ground rent at £1 per house. The sum p iid in royalties and ground rents thus amounted to £41,397 12s. 8d. He averaged that the sum of 48.6d. in the £ was paid per year in the Mountain Ash district in rates, viz., 2s. towards the local board, 2s. in poor rate, and 6d. towards the sup- port of the school board. If the sum of £41,399 12s. 8d. received from royalties and ground rents were rated aooording to this scale, the sum of JE9,314 83. would be realised. The present rateable value of the district was £48,461 7s. 6 J., which would produce per annum, at 4s. 6d. in the X, £ 10,903. If the present rateable value were added to the proposed rateable value, they would get the sum of £ 89,861 Oci. 2d., which would produce, at the same rate per X, f 20,217 183. per annum, or, if ground rents and royalties had to bear their share of the local burdens, the rates would be reduced to about one-half. In other words, the rates would be as follows:—Local board rate, 6d. in the £ poor-rate, 61.; and school board rate, 2jd.—The Chairman argued that the motion was ill-advised-that the Local Government Bill, which was very voluminous already, should not be clogged with suoh a clause as was proposed.—Mr Little moved an amendment, which was seconded by Colonel Gray; and, after a reply from Mr Jones, the Board divided, vith the following result :-For the amendment: The chairman, Colonel Gray, and Messrs W. Little, J. M. Greenbow, D. Llewelyn, I J. Davies, and H. Eynon. For Mr Jones's motion Messrs W. L. Herbert, J. Long. D. Davies, and J. W. Jones. The motion was therefore lost. Mr Robert John was re-appointed inspector of nuisances, at a salary of .£40 per annum, and fore- man workman, at a salary of £10 per annum. He was only re-appointed inspector of dairies pro tem., the members being of opinion that an inspector of nuisanoe was not a suitable person for.an inspector of dairies.

GLAMORGANSHIRE AND CARMAR- THENSHIRE ENGLISH CONGRE- GATIONAL UNION. MEETINGS IN THE RHONDDA. At the quarterly meeting of the English Congrega- tional Union of Glamorganshire and Carmarthenehire, held on Thursday at Ton, Rhonddi Valley, under the presidency of the Rev. M. C. Morris, the Rev J. Jen- kins, B.A., Caidiff, read an able and interesting paper on "The New Theology," and a discussion ensued, in which part was taken by the Revs. W. Watkiss, Cardiff; J. G. James, B.A., Mertbyr J. Morris, Star Straet, Cardiff; Jason C. Jenkins, Penarth; E. Aubrey (Baptist), Pentre; and the secretary (the Rev. D. L. Evans, Pontypridd). A vote of thanks was accorded to the rev. gentleman for his paper. It was resolved that the Rev. R. James Plater, Penarth, be received into the union. THE LOCAL OO'S^KLKMENT BILL. The following resolution was passed, on the motion of the Rev. J. Morris, Cardiff, seconded by Mr A. Daniel, Troedyrhiw:— "That this conference of ministers and laymen solemnly protest against the compensation clauses of the Local Government Bill, which take all discretion- ary powers out of,. the hands of the licensing authori- ties, and will in all cases act as an obstruction to the removal of unnecessary public-houses." EDUCATION. On the motion of the Rev. J. A. Jenkins, B.A., seconded by the Rev. D. Lawrence Evaas, a resolution was passed— "That, in view of the proposed extension of the system of State-aided denominational elementary schools, this conference of ministers and laymen most solemnly protests against the injustice and inequalities of that system, and especially against the project of giving power to school boards to make the schools under their control sectarian. It further believes that the time has come for the establishment of a really national elementary day schools system, under which no grants should be made from the public funds to schools in which scholars or teachers suffer disadvan- tage in consequence of religious belief or which are not under public control." In connection with the celebration of the bicen- tenary of the English Revolution, the recommen- dations of the committee were adopted, and it was resolved that the next annual meeting be held at Cardiff, and that two gentlemen of eminence "and distinction in the denomination be asked to speak on the subjeot.

ACTION AGAINST THE GREAT WESTERN COLLIERY COMPANY. In the Court of Queen's Bench, on Friday, a local appeal case was heard. Mr John Calvert brought an action against the Great Western Colliery Co., to recover damages for breach of covenants of a lease granted by plaintiff to defendants. The defendants applied to the Court of Queen's Benoh, on the 28th February last, for a trial of issues before the entire action was heard, on the ground that plaintiff was a liquidating debtor and had no locus standi, and for all proceedings in the action to be stayed. The defendants also applied to set aside an order of the court authorising plaintiff to inspect the mines, workings, &c. Mr Justice A. L. Smith refused the two applications, with coitis. On Friday last the defendants appealed to the Divisional Conrt to set aside the ruling of Mr Justice A. L. (Smith. Afier hearing counsel for both parties, the court uphold the former decisions aud dismissed the two appeals, with costs. Mr C. James (instructed by Messrs H. Britton & Co.) appeared for the company, and Mr W. Evans (instructed by Mr D. Rosser) appeared for Mr John Calvert.

A barber shaving a customer's head drew blood and put one of his lingers on it. Again he made a cut and put down another finger, and so on till he had no more fingeis free. cut and put down another finger, and so on till he had no more fingeis free. "Ah," said he, as he paused in his work, "a barber's is a difficult trade; we ought to have a thousand fingers. It was formerly the custom to present a bowl of ale to malefactors on their way to execution. The county of York, which strongly adheres to its ancient usages, was the last place where this cus- tom continued. A saddler at Bawtry lost his life in consequence of declining the refreshment; as, had he stopped as usual, his reprieve, which was actually on the road, would have arrived in time enough to have saved him. Hence arose the saying that the road, would have arrived in time enough to have saved him. Hence arose the saying that the saddler of Bawtry was hanged for leavi:;« his lie. 1-

I FACTS AND FANCIES, A miser loses both ways. Long tonguo, short hand. Passion is blind, not love her wondrous migbb informs with threefold power man's inward sight. Lookee here, mister, I ain't complainin', hub this ere moosic stool you sold to my wife, we've twisted it roun' till we twisted off 'un's head, all' not a ha'porth o' toon can we geb out ub 'un." A convict says he was sent to prison for being dishonest, and yet he is compelled every day to cub oub pieces of pasteboard, which are pub between the soles of the cheap shoes made there, and passed oif oil the innocent public as leather. uETTING THE CAT OUT OF THE BAG. According to a Cologne newspaper, there is in that city a booth in which is exhibited a bearded ludy." At the entrance is stationed a girl to take the money. Recently a visitor, having feasted his eyes on the strange phenomenon, thinking, on his departure, to have a joke with the little money- Inker, said to her, fondling her under the chin the while, Well, little one, I suppose the bearded woman is your mamma, eli ? "No, sir," replied the child—" she is my papa THE MEDIUM WAS RIGHT. Mr. Greville was persuaded, when he was over GO years of age, to attend a spiritualistic seance. Foster, the presiding medium, was in great form, and the revelations were astounding. Grevillo eab silent, and his aged, wizened face was emotionless as a mask. Suddenly the medium grew excited, and said to the old gentleman A female form is bending over you. Oh, the extraordinary likeness 1", Greville eighed. She lifts her hands to bless you. Greville sighed again. It is your mother I" A h, poor thing," said Greville; I am glad 1" She smiles She says all is well with her Greville sighed again and said, I'm delighted "She says she will see you soon. You are old, and you must meet her before long." Then Greville quietly observed. That's very true I'm going to take tea with her this evsu» ing." Tableau! r TWO KEYS A married man stood at the door of his home With a face that was full of care, And the silvery moon from behind the clouds Shone bright on his figure there. An 1 he tried with a look of deep despair To insert his key in the door, But never an inch would the latch Key move, And the Benedict deeply swore He cursed and he raved and he blew down the key. Or the place where it ought to be, Then he sank on the step with a demon shoub, And he laughed with a loud he he Murmured he to himself as he tried to rise, It's strange as strange can be, Then the door was flung wide, and the missus'* stood there, In her hand were a lamp and a key. Said she to her spouse, as he picked himself up, And stared with a drunken leer, Before you go out of an evening be sure You don't take the key of the beer. THE STINGIEST MAN OUT Hans von Spigen is notorious in the upper portion of the State of New York for the excellent quality of his oiderr and he is furthermore notorious for being the meanest, stingiest Dutchman that ever visited those parts. He never was known to give a living soul one drop of his delicious bever- age. > -v^ Now, at the time of the following occurrence, John B- visited the town, and, hearing of the excellent quality of Hans's cider, rode over to his farm one morning, when the following conversation took place "Good morning, Hans." Goot morning, Zhon." Hans, you have a good orchard." Oh yes, goot orchart." Fine press, that of yours." Yes, vine bress, vine orchart." Hans, I hear that your cider is the best in tho country." <*ii • .> Zhon "-to his son go down and draws a muck of citer." r-v- John broughb up the desired mug, and Hans drained it to the bottom, then turned round to the astonished B- and said If you don't be- lieves dat's good citer just smell the mug." Poor B- mounted his horse and rode away, fully convinced that Hans von Spigen was the meanest Dutchman on record. DOING A DUN. I have a small bill against you said the per. tinacious-looking collector, as he entered the store of one who had acquired the character of a hard customer. "Yes, sir, a very fine day, indeed!" was tha reply. "I am not speaking of the weather, bub your bill replied Peter, in a loud key. It would be better if we had a little rain Confound the rain csntinued the collector, and, raising his voice: "Have you any money to pay on the bill ? -1: Beg your pardon—I'm hard of hearing I havo made it a rule nob to loan my funds to strangers, and I really don't recognise you ? I'm the collector for the Philadeljjfua Dailv Extinguisher, sir, and I have a bill againsb you 1 persisted the collector, at the top of his voice, pro- ducing the bill, and thrusting it into the face of jis debtor. "I've determined to indorse for no one! You mty put that note back in your pocket-book. I really can't indorse it Confound your indorsement—will you pay it? It You'll pay it, no doubt, sir; but there's alwayat a risk about these matters, you know-so I muatt decline it?" The money must be mine to-day Oh, yes—ninety days but I would not indorse you for a week-so clear out of my store It's seldom that I'm pressed upon for an indorsement, even by my friends On the part of a stranger, sir, your conduct is inexplicable Do not force me to put you out-leave the premises And the bill was returned to the Extinguisher office, So confounded deaf that he couldn't understand "35"" SHE CAUSED A PANIC ON THE SPOT. o. Lovo you echoed a young man, why I'd walk through the fires of Hades to sib by your sida ten minutes." That's awfully nice. I wish pa loved ma thatt. way. She asked him at dinner the other day for a 300 dols. camel's hair shawl, and he made her cry." "How?" "Why, he said that with wheat touching a dollar, and he half a million bushels short on a delivery ab 87 cents, she'd better be thinking of calico at six cents a yard. Why, what ails you, Augustus ? "I—j—that is, I've got to meet a man at sharp three. Half a million bushels short, eh Goosb day, Miss Fairbanks." And he went off kicking himself for not being In, love with an ice dealer's daughter. CLERICAL SHARP PRACTICE. A facetious parson of a country parish was em- ployed, some years ago to unite a rustic couple in the holy bonds of matrimony. As soon as the knot was tied, says the bridegroom, Well, parson,, what's the damage ? "Nothing, I hope," replies his reverence, "I there is any damage done, it is no fault of mine, you alone are responsible for the consequences of the proceedings." But I mean, parson, what's to pay ? Oh, that depends upon circumstances. When I marry a couple, if the bridegroom is rather indif ferent towards his bride, lie hands over the usual fee, four and sixpence. If lie is pretty fond of her he will pay a pound or two. If he is very deeply in Jnvo with her he will not think of giving less than 1' co or four pounds." What effect this gentle hint had on the heart of t?-3 Liidegroom we w ill leave to the imagination.

Corporal My lads, don't walk so limp ahv?«r .11, upright, even when .»ii' duty can y your 1" us iii-li, its if each of you had a coupio of shii. ia yuur pocket.