The Aberystwyth Times Cardiganshire Chronicle and Merionethshire News

DOLGELLEY. THB WBATHER.—A heavy fall of snow occurred on Saturday night, the roads on Sunday morning being be- tween two and three feet deep in snow in some places. «. THE RIFLE VOLUNTEERS.—A church parade of the 1st M.R.V. took place on Sunday morning, the members of Jhe corps attending divine service in the parish church. Captain Charles Edwards and Lieut. Griffith Williams ^ere present. SEASONABLE BENEVOLENCE.—On Friday twenty tons of Coal were distributed by Mr Charles Edwards, of Dolserau, :t.nJ.ongst the poor of Dolgelley, and the adjoining township Jf Brithdir. Mrs and the Misses Edwards accompanied •he liberality of Mr Charles Edwards with gifts of flannel d serviceable wearing appareL CHRISTMAS TREAT AT THE WORKHOUSE.—By the kind- ness and liberality of the guardians of the DolgeUey Union, substantial Christmas dinner was provided for the in- flates of the workhouse on Christmas Day. The liberality of the guardians was supplemented with a plentiful supply beer given by Mr Edward Jones, of the Ship Hotel; *hd Dr Edward Jones, the surgeon of the house, kindly esented a number of oranges for distribution amongst children. Mr and Mrs Williams, the newly-appointed ^faster and matron, were not behind other friends in their ds of charity, providing tobacco and snuff for the elder kwates. ^MURDEROUS OUTRAGE AT THE GAOL.—On Christmas the county gaol was the scene of a must brutal out- e-the warder, Mr Evan Jones, being attacked in a very | Jftvaga manner by a man named David Anderson, an Irish «amp, who is undergainga term of four months' imprison- ment for a petty larceny committed in the neighbourhood Of Aberdovey. It seems that at a quarter before seven °'clock Mr Jones unlocked the door of the cell which Wsoner occupied for the purpose of inspecting the in- terior. Immediately the door was opened Anderson, ^ttaed with the leg of a wooden stool, rushed out upon Mr ■"ones, dealing him a heavy blow on the side of the head, hich felled him to the ground. A struggle then ensued, In which Mr Jones was severely struck about the head J&d kicked, when, fortunately attracted by his cries, Mr ^Wen Thomas, the governor of the gaol, ran to the spot *hd secured Anderson, who was at once removed to a place safety. Mr Jones was picked up in a semi-conscious Sate, bleeding severely from several wounds in the head. *he services of Dr John Edward J ones, the surgeon of the t*rison, were immediately called into requisition, and, rder his treatment, Mr Jones is progressing satisfactorily. *t appears that a short time ago Mr Jones had occasion to tt-Port Anderson for some breach of discipline, for which Anderson- received a slight punishment, and to this 'act the attack is traceable. Later in the day an enquiry Jras held before Mr Lewis Williams and Mr H. J. Reve- ley, two of the visiting justices. The enquiry resulted in order for Anderson to receive twelve lashes by the cat. BAITD or HOPE.—For several years past the Band of Hope Society in this town has held its annual meeting on Christmas-day, and such was the case also last Saturday. At two p.m. the children assembled at their usual place of Meeting, the old British Schoolrooms, attached to the SalemChapel, and were there formed in a procession, by the large banner formerly belonging to a society which in its day did a great deal of good, Y Gymdeithas lidirwestol," but which has been extinct for a long time, IUld also with several other banners and numerous small flagg au bearing appropriate mottoes. From there they eded through the town, singing their gleeful little tonp, and at last they surrounded the old horse-block in the centre of Eldon-square, and a numerous congregation having collected together, a most eloquent and spirited temperance oration was delivered by Mr William Thomas, Of Bangor, the active agent of the United Alliance move- ment; At six p.m., a public meeting was held at Salem Chapel. Mr Humphrey Jones took the chair, and the Sleeting was opened with prayer by the Rev. Robert Owen/M. A., PennaL Mr Thomas again delivered a long and powerful address, in the first part dwelling chiefly Upon temperance, and in the second explaining the princi- ples and objects of the Alliance movement. The children Bang several of their tunes during the evening, and Mr Rowland Jones recited very effectively, "Pa le mae y Meddwyn ?" and a small choir, conducted by Mr Joseph Thomas, also sang, "Ar Gadair Wellt," "Dowch adref ly Nhad," and Nos Dawch." the solo parts being ren- dered very charmingly by Miss Anne Catherine Pugh, and very warmly applauded. The attendance was exceed- ingly good. Great praise is certainly due to the Rev. D. Evans, M.A., and Messrs David Jones, Edward Griffith, v orria, H. Jones, E. Y. Williams, and others, for the pains they take with the Band of Hope Society, in teaching such a large number of children, above 300, who attend weekly during the winter months. Is it true that, Iriththe exception of Mr E. Y. Williams, allwhoexert them- selves with the Band of Hope, attending the meetings and IlUbscribing the necessary funds to carry them on, are taembere of the Calvinistic Church, and that the ministers and deacons of the other religious bodies in the town, although specially invited several times to be present, have dot attended one meeting during the last two years ? May toe not hope that by calling attention to this singular fact, me change for the better will take place in this respect In future ?—Communicated. JETTY SESSIONS, TUESDAY, Dec. 28.-Before Lewis Williams, Esq., and Charles Edwards, Esq. Unclean SWnwa. -Robert Evans, of Abergynolwyn, was charged with having in his possession an unclean salmon on the 14th inst.—P.C. Griffiths said I am a police-con- Btable at Abercrvnolwvn. On the 14th Dec. I saw defend- ant. He had a. salmon in his possession. He was on the highroad near the village of LlanfihangeL There was Another man with him; both ran away, but I overtook de- fendant.—Defendant admitted that he had the salmon in his possession.—Fined 25, and 16s. costs, or three months' imprisonment. The money was paid. Offences against the Bye-Laws of the Cambrian Jtailway Company.-Edmund Lewis, smith, Bryncrug, was charged with traveling in a railway carriage on the Cambrian Railway without having first paid his fare. Mr Poole, district manager, watched the case on behalf of the com- pany. Mr D. Pugh prosecuted. Thomas George said I Reside at Machynileth, and was in charge of the train from Machynlleth to Penmaenpool on the 18th inst., as guard. Defendant was in a third-class carriage, and at Barmouth Junction, when I collected tickets, he said he came from Towyn, and had no ticket. I said, "You will have to tay then." He answered, I paid once, and I won't pay Again-" and he refused to do so. I got him out of the e, and gave him in charge of the porter. Defend- ant said: I asked for a ticket of the station-master at To and was refused one by that official, as the line Was broken between Penmaenpool and Dolgelley. I said I "anted to go particularly, and he told me to jump into the carriage. H. Bessant said: I am station-master at Towyn. I have no recollection of seeing defendant before, and did lot refuse him a ticket on the 18th to Dolgelley. I have 110 recollection of having refused anyone on that day. I am sure I did not. For the defence, Griffith Griffiths I was with defendant at Towyn station on the 18th I did not go with him into the carriage. I was With defendant when he asked for a ticket to Dolgelley, tod the station-master told him he could not give him one Dolgelley, as the water had broken the line. I said, 10 This young man wants to go to Dolgelley to-night, and he must go." The station-master told him to go into the train. Cross-examined Defendant did not pay anything then. I heard the guard giving his evidence, and I heard him say what defendant told him at Barmouth Junction. I am sure he did not pay anything at Towyn. Defendant was fined B2, and costs; or one month's imprisonment. The money was paid.—The same defendant was also charged with obstructing a railway official at Barmouth Junction on the same day. William Richards said I am a porter at Barmouth Junction on the Cambrian Railway. On the 18th December I recollect defendant coming there by train. The guard called to me, and told me to take defendant in charge. I did so, and as the train was moving, defendant collared me, and said we must get a car and send him to Dolgelley, as he had paid his fare. I then asked him for his ticket, and he said he only booked as far as the Junction. I went to the office, and defend- ant came after me, and he and another man kicked me. I know the other man. The injuries I now suffer from about the head and face are in consequence of what took place on that occasion. Cross-examined I first saw you with the guard. I did nothing to you before you kicked me. Defendant was fined 21, and costs, for this offence, and the money was paid.—William Lloyd Edwards, quarryman, Barmouth, was charged with the same offence. William Richards said The present defendant was assist- ing the other man. He tried to choke me and my collar tie broke; otherwise he would have done so. Defendant came to me and offered to compromise the matter-he offered me 25 if I would do so. I said I would have nothing to do with him. Defendant was fined 21, and costs. The money was paid. Drunkenness.—Thomas Jones, of Brynhyfryd, Arthog, was charged with being drunk at Barmouth J unction on the 18th instant.—Thomas Thomas said I am station- master at Barmouth Junction. Defendant was at the station on the night in question, very drunk and abusive. He did not take part in the assault.—Defendant was fined 10s., and costs.—The money was paid.

CORWEN. TOWN AND MARKET HALL.—Another adjourned meeting was held on Friday afternoon week, at the Owen Glyndwr HoteL The Hon. C. H. Wynn being away from home, the matter was further adjourned for a fortnight. TONIC SOL-FA EXAMINATION.—On Monday, the 27th ult., at an examination for the intermediate certificate, held by Mr Jones (Glan Wnion), Rhydymaen, Dolgelley, the following pupils of Mr Hugh Davies's Tonic Sol-Fa Class satisfactorily passedMiss M. E. Davies, High- street, Miss Ellen Williams, Tyucha'rllyn, Miss E. Evans, Market-place, Mr W. Owen Jones, Mr Peter Hughes, Bridge-street, Mr Griffith Humphreys, jun., Mill-street, and Mr William Edwards, medical student. We under- stand that the above-named are the first pupils of Mr Davies who have reached the second certificate, although several of his old pupils have, since leaving Corwen, ob- tained high positions in this branch. PENNT LECTURE.—The second of these lectures was given on Friday evening week, at the British Schoolrooms, under the presidency of Mr Jones, of London House, by the Rev. W. Williams, Calvinistic Methodist Minister, upon Richard Cobdep." The rev. gentleman delineated the character of this most eminent statesman, referring particularly to his private life and his perseverance in attaining the high position which he gained. Sev eral very melodious songs, which much enlivened the proceedings, were given by Glan'rafon choir, under the conductorship of Mr Evan Evans. Friday evening being very inconvenient for the tradespeople to leave business, on account of its being like "Saturday night" with them, not so many were present as otherwise might have been, but under the circumstances the audience was good. The usual compliment having been accorded to the lecturer and chairman, and the choir, the singing of "God Bless the Prince of Wales" terminated the proceedings. PENNY READINGS.—The fourth of the series came off on Thursday evening week, at the National Schoolrooms, presided over by Captain R. M. Taylor; when the follow- ing programme was gone through in a creditable manner:- Address The Chairman Reading, "The Female Convict" Rev. W. Richardson Welsh song MrG. Davies Glee Mr J. Jones and Party Song Mr T. Jones, Queen's Square Recitation Miss Lloyd Welsh reading Rev. T. Jones Song, The Goose Mr Owen Recitation.Master R. R. Roberts Song Miss Miriam Davies Cornet solo Mr Roberts Recitation Master R. Williams Song, ".John Bull and John Jones "I'Mr Evans, Llandrillo Concertina Mr Mostyn Song, The Happy Gipsy" Miss Thick Song, The Artisans of England Mr W. B. C. Jones In addition to the performance named on the programme, Miss Anna Jones and Miss Meenan kindly volunteered songs during the meeting, and thus added much to the success of the entertainment, as it was announced at the concert on the previous evening that these ladies would take part. The proceeds of the meeting are to be devoted to the erection of Infant Schools at Corwen. The usual compliments having been given to the chairman, &c., the National Anthem Closed the proceedings. CONCERT.—On Wednesday evening, -the 22nd, a concert was given at the National School Rooms, by Miss Anna Jones, of Corwen, and of the London Academy of Music, being her first concert at her native town. She was as- sisted by Miss Meenan (pupil of Madame Lemmens Sherrington), and Mr Benton, of the Liverpool Philhar- monic Concerts, and accompanied on the piano by Mr Rawlings, of Shrewsbury. The concert was under the patronage of the clergy and gentry of the neighbourhood. The selection in the programme consisted of the following pieces :-Fantasia, Airs from Martha," which was well given by Mr Rawlings. Valse, 11 Ballo," which was fiven by Miss Anna Jones, and loudly encored (repeated), ong, Nazareth," by Mr Lenton, was much admired. Song, Sweet and Low," by Miss Meenan; this piece, which was very effectively rendered, took the house quite by storm. Fantasia, "Welsh melodies," by Mr Rawlings, in good style. Duet, I know a Bank," by Miss Anna Jones and Miss Meenan, capitally sung. Song, A Winter's Night," by Mr Lenton, excellently performed. Song, Should He Upbraid," by Miss Anna Jones, most brilliantly given. Song, II Segreto," by Miss Meenan, and very good. Duet, La ci Darem la Mono," by Miss Anna Jones and Mr Lenton, sweetly sung. This ter- minated the first part of the programme. As the first song of the second part, Miss Meenan sang an Irish song, Thaddy O'Flinn," in a true Irish brogue; Miss Meenan herself being a native of the Emerald Isle. Next followed a pianoforte solo, "Home, Sweet Home, by Mr Rawlings, very ably played. Miss Anna Jones next gave, "Oh, What is Love," in first-rate style. Song, The Brave Old Oak," by Mr Lenton; and it was quite a treat to have an old song. Duet, "When Shall we Meet," by Miss Anna Jones and Miss Meenan, very well given. Song, "Home, Sweet Home," by Miss Meenan, very effective. Pianoforte solo, Carnival de Venice," by Mr Rawlings, capital. Song, The Fisher Maiden," by Miss Anna Jones, much appreciated. Song, Uncle Jack," by Mr Lenton; elicited loud cheers, was redemanded and repeated. Song, Robin is Shy," by Miss Anna Jones, admirably sung. Trio "When Winds Whistle Cold," Miss Anna Jones, Miss Meenan and Mr Lenton; capital. The National Anthem brought the concert to a close about half-past ten.—Miss Anna Jones's singing is very fine. She possesses a soprano voice of great compass, and will un- doubtedly soon become noted in the musical world. The concert was for her own benefit and patronised by nearly every one in the town and neighbourhood, the room where it was held being greatly inadequate for the occasion, which is another call for an assembly room in our town. If the room had been sufficiently large a great many more would have availed themselves of the opportunity of hear- ing such singing as was heard at this concert. May we surmise that when our next concert takes place, our con- templated Market Hall and Assembly Room will be in course of election if not completed. The schoolroom was very tastefully decorated for the occasion with flowers and flags. Amongst those present we noticed the Rev. Mr Richardson, M.A. (rector of Corwen), Mr W. Wagstaff of RhtLg and party, the Hon. C. H. Wynn, Mr J. E. Wat- son and party, Captain R. M. Taylor, Ty'nllwyn, and party, Mr J. R. Walker and party, Mr Edward Walker, Dolgelley, Mr W. Vares, Maesgarnedd, and party, Mr H. F. Edwards, The Druid, and party, Mr W. Jones, Penybont, and party, Mr Walter B. C. Jones and party, Mr D. R. Jones, The Cottage, and party, Mr F. G. Jones, Ciltalgarth, and party, Mr T. Anwyl, Bala, and party, Mr T. Jones, Plas, Mr J. Moltby and party, Mr Robert Lloyd, Pentre, Rev. Mr Davies, Llawrbettws, Rev. Mr James (curate of Corwen), Mrs Price, Bryntirion, Mrs Roberts, Bryndedwydd, and party, Miss Sharp, Miss Lewis and the Misses Maysmor, Bronhyfiyd, Mrs and Miaa Dawson, Mrs Evans, High-street, and party, Miss Wynne, Branas-lodge, Miss Humphreys, Tynyberth, Miss Oliver, Cefnrhug, Miss Roberts, Branas, &c., &c. Tickets were also taken by Mrs Lloyd, Rhaggatt, Miss Parry and Miss Lloyd, Maesmor, Mr Kerr, Mr John Jones, Vron, Bala, Dr Richards, Bala, Rev. Mr Wynn, Llandrillo, &c.- Communicated.

ABERDOVEY. PIGEON SHOOTING MATCH.—A correspondent writes :— Uudoubtedly the palmy days of all amusements based on cruelty are gone, and all attempts to revive them must clash with the dictates of progress and humanity. Of a kind with the debasing sports' that were much in vogue and countenance among the "upper crust" of society at the commencement of the present century is that known as pigeon shooting, of which Aberdovey had a sample the other day, when the bubble' reputation as crack shots' was obtained by "bringing down" a few poor birds. Such amusements are as far from being conducive to elevate as they are devoid of all claims to be considered manly. CHRISTMAS DAY. -Christmas Day was in every respect a fete day here. The fineness of the weather drew all from their domiciles. It was also a 'field I day with the Loyal Dovey Lodge of the Independent Order of Odd- fellows, who paraded the place, headed by the Bryn-yr- Eglwys brass band, which, with the gay uniforms of its members, presented a pleasing appearance. In the even- ing the Band of Hope Society took an airing,' the mem- bers perambulating the place, warbling some of their most exauisite pieces. A meeting was afterwards held at the Tabernacle Chapel, when the great temperance question was the theme of several addresses, interspersed by recita- tions by the children and music by the choir.-Communi- cated.

The Law Times says that the claim for the extension of tenant-right to England, which lias been agitated in some of the chambers of agriculture, has already sensibly af- fected the land market, disinclining prudent persons to invest in property so threatened. It is also alarming mortgagees not a little.

THE DEATH OF THE WELSH FASTING GIRL. 0, We now give the conclusion of the Inquest:— Rev. William Thomas said — I live at Llandyssil, and am a Unitarian minister. I saw the deceased, Sarah Jacobs, twice — the first time in the latter part of last Marcn, and the second on the 9th instant, when the nurses came to Lletherneuad. I acted as secre- tary to an association of persons who took an interest in the case, and formed themselves into a committee. The object of the committee was to make arrangements to enable the nurses to watch the child, to investigate her alleged fasting-whether she lived without food or not. The committee was formed of persons who believed in the fasting, and notorious unbelievers, and as the case had caused a great sensation in the country, the common ob- ject of the committee was to ascertain the truth. For my part I did not require a watch to be set to satisfy me that the girl did not fast. When I saw the child first, in March, I accompanied a friend from motives of curiosity. The child was in bed, and there was a small crucifix on her chest. A small victorine was around her neck, and a fine thin silk shawl on her shoulders; there were other ornaments which I cannot describe. Her hair was beautifully dressed, her teeth particularly white, her eyes peculiarly sharp and roguish. The aspect of the countenance was cheerful and happy, and her complexion was that of a healthy girl-clear and slightly flushed. Gloves were on her hands, and she lay on her back. The general expression of her face was pleasing, and when asked to read some poetry by her parents, she did so in a clear loud voice. The impression made on the mind of my friend and myself was that she was reciting from memory, and not reading. The father and mother then asked her to recite some poetry of her own composition, in the same tone and manner, and when she finished reciting the last piece, the father said, That's a new piece; she has never recited that piece before to any of us." Was then told by the parents that the girl lived without food, and that nothing passed from her; and had been so for about eighteen months. They also told us that she felt pain when touched, all over the body-arms, hands, and all. When we turned to go away, my friend offered the parents 3s.; they said they did not receive money, but that all offerings and presents should be made to Sarah, and laid on her chest." My friend did as the parents said, but I did not give anything, as I had decided not to to do so, and as soon as he had done this the father changed all at once, breaking into smiles, and saying that we might feel little Sarah's arms, and hands, and face if we chose. My friend did so, but as far as I remember, the gloves were not removed from her hands. I felt her face and arms, but she did not appear to experience any pain; her face and arms felt natural. While we were in the room a dog came in, and the mother called out to one of the girls to send the dog out, but not to touch it, as if it made a noise Sarah would go into a fit. The dog, however, wap touched, did make a noise, and the girl went into a fit, or something like it. The fit, if it was a fit, lasted two minutes or so, and we then left considerably confirmed in our belief of an imposture. The child in March last ap- peared to be plump and healthy, and for her age well de- veloped. My friend put some simple questions to her in Welsh, and she merely answered "Yes" or "No," not appearing willing to talk. I went again on the 9th inst., the day on which the nurses came, when I saw the father and mother. There were a great many persons there, in- cluding doctors. The arrangements for the watching had been made before, on the 30th of November, and the father had agreed to them, an agreement being signed between the father and the committee, in which the father en- gaged to give every facility for the watching being carried out. The agreement was then read by the coroner. The Witness continued-Before we left Lletherneuad, on the 9th instant, Dr Lewis said to the father that the watch would be carried on for a fortnight, and that during the fortnight the investigation would be made in the interests of science but if at the end of the fortnight she was found alive without food, that he (the father) was in duty bound to endeavour by some means to get her to take food. Her father said nothing, and only shook his head. By the Coroner-At the meeting when the agreement was signed it was thought advisable that a number of medical gentlemen should be appointed a medical com- mittee to watch the results of the nursing, to see that no danger ensued. Their names were Dr Lewis, Messrs J. Rowlands and J. Hughes, Carmarthen Corsellis, Davies, and J. Jones, Llandyssil; but the latter refused to act; and after seeing the girl on Thursday, the day before the girl died, a letter was written to me by Mr Hughes, send- ing in his resignation. The reason he gave was that he could not continue to go there, as he was not allowed to examine the girl, and no medical man could tell whether or not there was danger by only feeling the pulse. I have been told that Mr Rowlands also hadr withdrawn from the committee, but I have not had any formal intimation that he had; but he may have notified his withdrawal to Dr Lewis. We held meetings of the committee on the 13th instant and on the evening after the girl's death (Friday, the 17th instant). From the beginning of the watching no communication came to me. I had not received any intimation of a change in deceased. Having heard on the Thursday that a consultation had been desired, I saw Mr Davies, surgeon, who told me there was no danger, and all going on well By Mr Bishop—I received no intimation of danger from the doctors. If there was, our instructions were that the watching was to be withdrawn. By Mr Lloyd-The parents challenged the public from time to time to watch, and the committee accepted the challenge, as it were. The Gohebydd got up the com- mittee. By Mr Bishop—The period of a fortnight was fixed by Dr Ferguson, of Guy's Hospital, but I am not sure we told the father anything more than that we wanted to watch for a fortnight. Evan Jacobs (who was examined in Welsh) then presented himself for examination. He said-I am the father of the deceased girl, Sarah Jacobs, and live at Lletherneuad, in the parish of Llanfihangel-yr-arth. My family consists of my wife, seven children, and a servant man. My eldest child is a daughter, nearly eighteen years of age, and the deceased was my third daughter. At the time of her death she was twelve years and seven months old. In her earlier days she was a very active child, but a change took place in February, 1867. She was at school in that month, and one morning complained to her mother, that she was spitting blood. She was poorly for three days, and we thought she had a cold, and afterwards she took to her bed, being worse. She then became very ill, and I fetched Dr Davies, of Llandyssil, to see her. She was crying out and complaining of her side badly when I came back with the doctor, and hegave her some drops which eased the pain. Next day rwent to fetch medicine for her, but it did her no good, and in a week she had a second attack of pain in the side. The doctor then thought she had worms, and treated her accordingly, but after attending her for a month confessed he did not understand her complaint, and that he could do nothing to relieve her;' only the Great Doctor could do so. Dr Hopkins attended the child, and said if he had been called in nine days before he would have had some chance to cure her, but now he had no hope, as she had inflam- mation of the brain." This was in April, 1867, and he gave her two pills, which she could not take because she was too ill, and he never came again. Mr Davies was again called in, and he said there would be a change on the following Sunday, on which day she called out in a faint voice for milk, which was the first food she had taken for a: month, though we used to moisten her mouth with a little table beer, which she did not swallow. After the month she had rice and milk, and flummery" with milk, a teacupful six times a day. After that her appetite declined and she only took four cupsful. This was from May to August, and during this time she vomited the food with blood and froth as soon as it was swallowed. From August to September she did not care to have food offered rln her more than three times a day. During the period from May to September she looked very bad, and afterwards she suffered from fits and threw both arms about, but the left leg was rigid, and she was in bed constantly. From September to October she had apple dumplings twice a day, but afterwards a little apple on a spoon morning and evening. During this time the neighbours used to come in to see her. She was not very thin, but looked very bad in her face. She complained of a pain in her side during the whole time, and from the end of October, 1867, untu her death she took no food of any kind, but we moistened her lips with water several times a day. She was sensible during the whole time of her fasting except when she had fits, from which she suffered every quarter of an hour, sometimes day and night, except when she was asleep; and this state of things continued for several weeks. By the Coroner-In November, 1867, my wife was con- fined, and since that time I always made Sarah's bed until the nurses came. I am quite clear and certain that from the end of October, 1867, to her death, my daughter never had any food. The first time that strangers came to visit her was in the spring of this year, but it was since she ceased to take food that we dressed her with a crucifix and ornaments. I do not know who gave her the cross, nor can I say who first placed money on her breast. I do not remember that ever I took any money. Persons left six- pence or a shilling behind them after visiting the girl uy LviLr jjioya—ine reason X made the child's bed was that the mother could not get anyone to do it as well as I could do it. On these occasions she also cried bitterly. I was never told by the doctors that my daughter's life was in any danger during the period of watching until the morning of her death. Mr Davies sent John Daniel upon the Thursday to say the little girl was worse, and on Friday, about four a.m., I sent for Mr Davies, who came between eight and and nine o'clock. He asked me if I did not feel inclined to give her some brandy and water, and I said I would not like to do so, as I had not offered her anything for two years, because she always got ill when food was offered her. I told him I was perfectly willing he should offer it, but he said he would rather not, as he was afraid she would choke, she had been so long without anything. On the Thursday night Dr Lewis and Mr Davies said there was no danger: that she was better that night than on the previous one. By Mr Bishop—Sarah's brothers and sisters had free access to her room, and I cannot say whether they ever took her anything. Neither Dr Lewis, Messrs Hughes Rowlands, Davies, or Corsellis, ever told me the child was dying of starvation, and the nurses never said so either. Dr Lewis and Mr Hughes asked me on the Thursday evening if I should like to get rid of the nurses, but I said No," because I did not see my daugh- ter getting worse, and there was nothing I could do for her, as she had been so long without food. If I had had any idea my child was dying from want of food, I would not have objected to the doctors giving it to her. [We have omitted from the father's evidence statements as to a suspension of the operations of nature.] By the Jury-We used to keep a light in her room all night till within the last .year, when we put it out when she went to sleep. I found the nurse's scent bottle among the bed clothes, but was not in the habit of finding things hidden there. John Daniel, brother-in-law of Evan Jacobs, was then examined by Mr Lloyd. He said-I recollect the day before my niece died meeting Mr Davies at the station, when he informed me that she was sinking, and told me to see Evan Jacobs and say that if he had anything to do for his child he was to do it at once, adding that he was going to telegraph for Dr Lewis. I asked Dr Davies if he had informed the parents of the state of deceased, and he said it was no use for him to do so until he had consulted with the other doctors. I afterwards went up to Llether- neuad and told Evan what the doctor said. Mv brother- in-law replied, I have nothing to do for her, John bach, if she was to die this minute." I then went to see the child, and said, Sarah, dear, will you take a drop of water or some other mild thing," but she made no answer, shut her eyes, and threw her head back on the pillow. Afterwards Dr Lewis and Messrs Hughes and Rowlands came, and I, the father, and the mother met them. Dr Lewis said he had received a telegram from Mr Davies, and if they were inclined to discontinue the watching they were at liberty to do so then. I am not sure whether Hughes or Lewis said so. The father and mother both answered, "We have nothing in the world to do. She has taken no food for the whole time we have said." Dr Lewis went with me to see the child, and then fetched a Mr Hughes from the kitchen. That gentleman felt her pulse, and then left for Cross Inn, Fach, to catch the train. Dr Lewis remained behind, and said the little girl appeared to be better than on the previous evening. Dr Lewis said the girl's state was the result of excitement, caused by so many doctors being with her for the previous few days. On the Thursday the Rev. Mr Davies came to Dr Lewis and spoke about extending the watching, and coming up in the next week. This was the last witness, and the Coroner then pro- ceeded to read over the depositions, commenting, as he went, on the evidence given. He reminded the jury that the inquiry divided itself into two branches, and they had to decide on the cause, as well as what produced the cause. Referring to evidence of the Sister Nurse, he said it was to his mind a proof that the child had had food or drink; then, again, the evidence of the nurses was uncontra- dicted, and they all agreed that the child was not given any food in their presence, nor offered any. Whether the child lent herself to the deception or not he could not say, or whether she hoped to live the fortnight, but it was cer- tain that she had been fed up to the time the nurses com- menced watching; that was evidenced by the state of the body, for fat undoubtedly came from food, and they might rely that a person could not display fat of that kind un- less he or she had eaten food. Persons not taking food become pale, worn, and emaciated; in fact, just the symp- toms which this little girl showed towards the eighth or ninth day. Mr Thomas then laid it down that the parents were required by law, not only to provide food for the child, but to use every means to induce ner to take it. If they neglected to do so, they were guilty of murder or man- slaughter. If they neglected to give the child food, with a view to cause death, they were guilty of murder but, otherwise, of manslaughter. He cited cases in support of this theory, and said they must conclude that the child had died from want of food; then they must find who was criminally responsible. After half-an-hour's conference the jury found that the deceased had died from the want of proper food and nourishment, and on this they were unanimous. On the second point, twelve out of fifteen found that the father had neglected his parental duty, and was guilty of man- slaughter. He was accordingly committed for trial. Evan Jacob, of Lletherneuad Farm, in the parish of Llanfihangel-yr-Arth, against whom the jury appointed to inquire into the death of his daughter Sarah, known as the Welsh Fasting Girl, returned a verdict of man- slaughter, surrendered himself on Monday to the coroner, and applied for baiL The application was granted, and Jacob was bound over, himself in 2100, and two sureties in 250 each, to come up at the next assizes for the county of Carmarthen. The Western Mail believes the accused will not be brought before the magistrates at all, the com- mittal by the coroner being thought sufficient. It is rumoured (says the PaU Mall GazeUe) that the Treasury authorities contemplate taking the Welsh Fast- ing Girl's case into their hands, and instructing counsel to conduct the prosecution.

PENNANT AND ITS ANTIQUITIES. This small hamlet is situated in one of the most pictur- esque and fertile little vallies in Montgomeryshire. Most of the parish is watered by the Tannatt and its crystalline tributaries. The village is surrounded by lofty mountains the chief is Moeldimol, from the summit of which there are extensive views. There are several cataracts in the neighbourhood, and no doubt when the Llangynog rail- way is completed Pennant will be a great attraction to tourists. The church, which is in a dilapidated condition, is dedicated to Monieilla, who flourished in the sixth century, and who was a daughter of Cyfwlch Addwvn, an Irish king. Her father had resolved to marry her to a nobleman of his court, but the princess, on the other hand, had determined to live in celibacy. She quitted her father's mansion and came across the wild mountains of Wales and took refuge in Pennant. Here she lived for fifteen years without ever seeing the face of man, until by chance, the legend says, Brochwel Ysgythrog, then Prince of Powys, iu the year 604, being one day hare hunting, eame to the neighbourhood. In a large thicket the Prince was greatly surprised by seeing a beautiful maid in deep devotion, with the hare he had been pursuing under her cope. The ,hare boldly faced the dogs, who retired to a distance howling in fear, and it was in vain that the huntsman blew his horn, for it even fastened to his lips. Brochwel, after listening to her tale, gave her lands and desired her to build an abbey in the place, and a sanctuary for all malefactors who escaped there for refuge. There are several entrenchments in the locality, no doubt erected in ancient times to interrupt the inroad of invaders. Monicilla died an abbess at a good old age, and was buried in a small oratory called Cell of the Grave," which adjoined the church. Her monument was afterwards removed by some rude hand to the church- yard, where it is at present in a dilapidated condition. The saint's bed is under a steep rock, not far from the village, and her legend is roughly carved in wood within the precincts of the church, at which place is kept a large bone, which, according to local tradition, is considered to be one of Monicilla's ribs. All the hares in the parish were called Monicilla's lambs, and no person in the neigh- bourhood would have killed one until the dawning of the last century, and it was firmly believed then that if any one cried when a hare was pursued, God and Monicilla be with thee," it would escape. In the churchyard, which is decorated with ancient yew trees, there is another monument to Iorwerth Drwyn Dwn, or Edward the Broken Nose, eldest son of Owen Gwynedd, Prince of North Wales, who was disqualified from reigning on account of this blemish. Edward was obliged, through the cruelty of David, his brother, to quit Dolwyddelen Castle, and take refuge at Pennant. He was pursued across the mountains, and killed, according to tradition, at a place called Bwlch Croes Iorwerth," not far from the church. The following ministers, according to Brown Willis, were rectors, the living being a sinecure worth £11168. 10d., in the king's books Collated. Date. Richard ab Howell.David ab Owen John ab Howell Warton 1506 J. Wynn 1537 Richard Price, L.L.B.T. Davies 1565 Hugh Davies Hughes 1577 ThomasBanks. 1583 William Morgan, D.D 1588 Peter Sharp, D.D Queen 1597 H. Burches, A. M Morgan 1601 Evan Morgan, B. D.Parry 1615 George Morley, D.D Owen 1644 Evan Ellis 1653 Robert Hitchcock, B.D Griffith 1660 W. Asliton Barrow 1675 JamesDubois. 1678 Thomas Richards, A.M. Hare 1725 — Murray Drummond 1760 W. Sturges, D.D Shipley 1779 VICARS DITTO. (24— 66.) J. Yaughan Warton 1537 Richard Lloyd Goldwell 1556 William Johns 1557 Robert Lloyd.Hughes 1575 J.Richards. Robert ab Evan 1590 Henry Morgan Parry 1622 Robert Richard.Hanmer 1628 Evan Ellis .Owen 1653 Cadwaladr Roberts Griffith 1664 Robert Nightingale 1665 Richard Morris Glenham (deprived) 1668 David Pavies Lloyd 1687 J. Jones Wynn 1719 Robert Lewis Lisle 1744 Edward Samuel 1747 Thos. Williams .Drummond 1749 Thos. Jones 1757 Thos. Jones. Shipley 1784 Ezekiel Hanmer 1788 'I 11>. Several ancient coins were round unaer a neap ot stones at Cwmllech, which were hidden, according to local tradition, by some of the "Gwylliaid Cochion," who fled to this neighbourhood for refuge in the time of Baron Owen. A Roman road was traced through Pennant, leading from Llangynog in the direction of Aberystwyth. The most noted houses in the neighbourhood are Llech- weddygarth, the seat of the Thomases, There are several mural monuments erected to this ancient family inside the church. Henry Thomas, Esq., was sheriff of the county in 1742. The estate came through marriage to the Griffithses of Caerun, the present owners. Gartngel- ynenfawr belonged to the Thomases. One Thomas Thomas, Esq., grandfather to the present owner, was sheriff for Montgomeryshire, in 1768. This mansion was a favourite place of Twm Siamber Wen," whose vagaries I have given in the Advertiser some time since. Another residence is Plasdft, or Palasau Duon, near which place there is a British fortification, and the remains of a ditch, running from there, passing Castellmoeh, up to. Tomen Cenlloer. The first Evan of this ancient family was Evan ab Hywel, then his son Lewis Evans, and his sons Morgan, Evan, Edward, and Einion Evans, thence to thirteen generations—to Einion ab Seisyllt, who married Nest, the daughter of Madoc ab Cadwgan of Nanau, lord of Merioneth. Amongst men of note who were inhabitants of the parish we mention the foRowing:-Cadwaladr Roberts, Cwm- llech, who was an intimate friend of Hugh Morris, Ponty- meibion, and was author of several good Lyrics, some of which were published in Blodeugerdd Cymru." David Evans, Plasdu, author of a small Welsh pamphlet, which was published at Shrewsbury in 1715. Rev. Thomas Jones, vicar, author of several translations in prose to the Welsh language. Henry Davies, Trefechan, a celebrated amateur bone-setter; and the Rev. Thomas Rowland, author of the Welsh Grammar, through whose indefatigable exertions the present vicarage and schoolhouse at Peny- bontfawr were erected in the lower part of the parish, greatly improving the place. Llanrhaiadr. HBNRY ROWLANDS.

Tipyn o Bob Peth. The Mayor of Chester gave three civic banquets last week. Mr Reginald Corbet, the master of the Cheshire Hounds, is unwell. The innkeepers of Newtown, with two or three exceptions, have agreed to close their houses on Sunday. Mr W. H. Darby, Mr W. Low, and Mr E. Davies, are to be placed on the commission of the peace for the borough of Wrexham. # i The inquest on the recent accident at the aterloo Pits terminated on the 22nd ult. in a verdict of Accidental Death." A plan was suggested for the prevention of the recurrence of such accidents, and approved by the jury. A prebendal stall in Bangor Cathedral (worth £318 per annum) is vacant by the death of the Rev. H. W. Majendie, vicar of Speen, in Berkshire, and formerly rector of Derwen and vicar of Llanrhaiadr. The Welsh Reform Association is offering a reward of B5 for information which will lead to the detection and conviction of some person or persons guilty of obtaining money from the public on pretence of collecting for the relief of the evicted tenants in Wales. The schooner Jessie, of Liverpool, laden with limestone, from Llandulas, stranded off Rhyl on Wednesday week (says Mr R. Hughes). The crew were saved by the Rhyl tubular lifeboat, the Morgan, belonging to the National Lifeboat Institution. The Dowager Duchess of Cleveland recently met with a sad accident. Her grace was calling at Mrs Angerstein's, at Weeling, with Lady Susan Milbank, when she fell on the stone floor of the ball and broke the right knee cap. The duchess was attended by a surgeon as soon as possible, and is now progressing very favourably. If Guardians can be said to represent the community, then the general feeling is decidedly in favour of Sunday closing of public houses, for in every instance, as far as we have seen, where the subject has been brought before them, the Boards have agreed to petition in favour of the movement: For once we are afraid the cause of right is destined to fail. Our contemporary, the North Wales Chronicle, after urging the conservatives to spend their money in a vain contest in Merionethshire, says—" Right must pre- vail, and conservatism in Wales is both right and justice." We are glad our contemporary only ventures to say that conservatism in Wales is right and justice. Navvies engaged on the Wrexham and Mold Railway have discovered the remains of four human bodies, in a field close to Llanfynydd Church. They were buried about two feet deep, with their heads towards the west, and the teeth are sound and regular. Some suppose that the site of an old battle field has been discovered some that the remains are those of a famiiy named Richards, who, according to tradition, were murdered in the neigh- bourhood. The remains have been interred in Llanfynydd Churchyard. The recent floods have resulted in reviving the question of the possibility of saving Shrewsbury from these de- structive visitations. Some years ago two plans were drawn up for constructing tunnels across the neck of the isthmus on which Shrewsbury stands, to carry away the surplus water. The estimates of the plans prepared were 21-2,000 and 226,000, the latter probably being nearer the mark. It is very questionable, however, whether such an arrangement would really prevent the inundation of the town. „ The following obituary notice of a child of five is to be found in one of our North Wales contemporaries of last week:—" He was a very beautiful child, and possessed strong mental powers. When at the age of two years he could name the whole alphabet quite correctly; he could also read English before he attained the age of five years. He was a great favourite of the inhabitants of the village, and much grief is felt for his loss, not only by his parents, but by all who knew him." At Mold last week a respectably dressed man named Thomas Davies of Halkin was charged with shooting at William Williams and Edward Jones, gamekeepers. According to the evidence, Jones found prisoner poaching on Mr L. F. Lloyd's lands, and fetched Williams. Toge- ther they went after the prisoner, who told them to stand back. Williams said, what for," upon which the pris- oner fired at him, but did not hurt him. Jones then ran after him, upon which he said, Come along, I wanted an opportunity to shoot you long ago." Jones ran behind a tree, and prisoner fired. The story was very strongly denied for the defence, who contended that there was a mistake in identification. Prisoner was remanded, on bail. It is reported that the expenses incurred in recovering the remains of the late Mr Thomas Powell, who, with his wife and others, were murdered in Abyssinia last spring, amount to more than 215,000. Chiefs had to be largely propitiated by costly presents, and Egyptian soldiers had to be employed in carrying out this mournful duty. One chief, or sheik, on being asked what form his present should assume, replied that he wished for the full uniform of a British general. His fancy has been complied with, and the cocked hat, plumes, sword, &c., are now on their way to Abyssinia. Mr Henry Powell, who, with Mr Jenkins, went out to recover the remains, has since his return suffered severely from ill health. Joseph Lovatt, collector at the Willaston toll-gate, be- tween Nantwich and Crewe, was brought before the Rev. T. Brooke, of Wistaston, last week, charged with shooting James Lockett, shoemaker, Beam-street, Nantwich. The prosecutor and another man were passing the prisoner's house on Sunday week, about midnight, and in the hearing of Lovatt made use of some offensive remarks, when the prisoner, in a fit of rage, followed them with a loaded Em. About a hundred yards from the gate he overtook ockett and his companion, and deliberately discharged the gun at Lockett. A number of the shots with which the weapon was loaded lodged in the prosecutor's side, and his overcoat, which fortunacely was a thick one, was completely riddled with the charge. The prisoner was remanded, the condition of Lockett being such as to render him unable to be present at the examination. Lovatt, who has a very hasty temper, has frequently threatened to shoot persons who have annoyed him as Lockett and his companion did. One of our Cambrian contemporaries is to be compli- mented on the originality with which it reports the show of meat at a famous Welsh watering-place. This is how the writer begins- The leading butchers of the town have determined to deck their stalls with the choicest specimens of bovene quarters and an abundant supply of fat sheep, and model carcases of the far- famed Welsh mutton, which is in urgent and perpetual demand in the principal markets of the kingdom. One of the butchers, in his travels for the requirements of the Christmas shambles," purchased a few "Scotch sheep of the genuine Grampian Hill breed, as famous in story as the mountain on which my father fed his flock, a frugal swain 'and this attractive bill of fare winds up with two little Welsh sheep that to the Epicurean philoso- pher appear more lovely on the butcher's stall than on their native pastures." Concerning another stall we read- This fine beast weighed 289 lbs. per quarter; and judging from its admirable condition, the Christmas cuts from the round and choice pieces could be placed before the (Ecumenical Council of his holiness, the Pope of Rome, who are at present assembled ia that seven-hilled city of eternal fame. But when we have at Aberystwyth such dainty dishes, we do not envy the Pope and all their eminences, the cardinals and the patriarchs, arch-bishops and bishops, with all their Italian dishes prepared by cooks of wondrous fame and unpronounce- able name. Nothing to Britons assembled round the Christmas board like the roast beef of old England." The same butcher also exhibited a fine heifer, which was alike creditable to its owner and to the judgment of the able knight of the clever, who is the appointed purveyor. Several well-conditioned de- funct pigs, with opened mouths and eyes, appear to stare at the passers by, begging of them like the little pigs of the facetions traveller, to come and eat me." We also read of "a good supply of "ovene eaters," animals which must be peculiar to the neighbourhood; and, in the way of confectionery, of "cake of various niwa, which must prove a wondrous requisition to the younger members of the families who have been fortunate enough to acquire them." Mr Cornwallis West made a long and interesting speech at his rent audit dinner at Ruthin last week. Referring to the game laws, he said he thought it would be for his own and the general interest that they should be swept away—a remark which was received with loud cheers— but in their place there ought to be a very strict trespass Act. At the same time Mr West expressed his conviction that, in Wales at any rate, the farmers grumbled about game much more than they had any cause to do, for the ground game was kept down (!), and pheasants were useful m destroying insects. Some of our readers will smile at the idea of rabbits' being kept down in Wales. On the ssubject'of political evictions, while Mr West believed the system had Deen practised in Cardiganshire, where "the people were perfectly justified in using every constitu- tional effort in their power to prevent the evil," he defended the landlords of Wales generally, declaring that it was a libel to accuse them of coercion. Land tenure was another topic of Mr West's speech. He ridiculed the idea that Welsh tenants were as insecure as Irish, and < said that the reason why leases were not more commonly granted was the want of sufficient capital by the tenant to ensure proper cultivation for a lengthened term. If any tenant with 210 or 215 an acre capital asked for a lease of seven, or twelve, or twenty-one years, he did not think any landlord in his proper senses would refuse it. Turn- ing to Ireland Mr West regarded perpetuity of tenure as confiscation, though "they might have security of tenure" if they liked, by the institution of certain tribunals to judge between landlord and tenant. Mr West is in favour of some compulsory system of education, but it should be of the mildest nature possible, and he does not think the Prussian police system would work well here. He ex- presses no opinion as to the secular or denominational system. Mr West is in favour of allotting a good plot of land to every labourer's cottage, but finds it difficult to persuade the cottagers to take the land.

TIDE TABLE FOR ABERYSTWYTH, ABERDOVEY, AND BARMOUTH. Jan. Aberystwyth. Aberdovey. Barmouth. a.m. p.m. a.m. p.m. a.m. p.m. Sat. 1 6 32 7 0 7 1 7 29 6 41 7 9 Sun. 2 7 24 7 47 7 53 8 16 7 33 7 56 Mon. 3 8 10 8 33 8 39 9 2 8 19 8 42 Tues. 4 8 55 9 14 9 24 9 43 9 4 9 23 Wed. 5 9 33 9 52 10 2 10 21 9 42 10 1 Thur. 6 1011 1031 10 40 11 0 1020 10 40 Fri. 7 10 50 11 9 11 19 11 38 10 59 1118

THE POLITICAL EVIUllUiNa. In an article on Welsh Political Evictions the Daily News says— "The neighbouring county of Cardigan suffered more, perhaps, than Caermarthenshire. No fewer than twenty- three cases are named by the Commissioner of the Cambria Daily Leader, and they are but a part. Some of these are cases of great hardship. One poor man and his wife were confirmed invalids who had lived in a little place many years and made it look like a garden. The man had no vote, but his brother-in-law had and was active in behalf of the liberal candidate. The landlord punished the brother-in-law through his invalid relatives, by turning them out of their little holding, and on being appealed to by neighbours said, He is brother-in-law of and not one of the family shall remain on my property.' Another man, a lady's tenant, was prudent enough to remain neutral. He -had lived on his farm twenty years, had spent £ 200 upon it, and did not want to lose his alL But the lady said that he who was not with her was against her, and turned him out. In another case the tenant's family had held the farm for 200 years, but he voted for Mr Richards and was evicted. Another was so good a farmer that in the previous year his landlord had pressed him to add more land to a holding he had farmed for many years. He took it, and when the election came was so hard pressed for a Tory vote that he remained neutral; but in his case too neutrality was fatal, and he got his notice of eviction. Another evicted tenant is eighty-two years old, and was born on the farm of which he had in due succession become the tenant. He had another qualfica- tion for his vote, and, deeming that an excuse for independence, voted conscientiously. But he had been told that his vote was expected to go with his landlord, and that he would be turned out if it did not, and the threat was enforced, and at eighty-two years old he is turned out to begin the world again. These are only samples of evictions which have set the Principality by the ears. Of course, there is some difficulty in proving that they arose out of the elections, and now that public attention is being called to the subject, the landlords are finding other reasons to explain their conduct. But the public must draw their own conclusions from the facts. These great batches of evictions followed a contested election, and they were evictions of liberals by tory landlords. For the first time there was a great uprising of the Welsh fanners to vote according to their lioeral convictions. The move- ment was successful, and the evictions followed it. The question for the liberal party now is, whether this great landlord coup shall strike terror into the Welsh farmers, and be the death-blow of their independence, or shall bring the strong to the succour of the weak, and make the blow recoil on those who dealt it. It is not enough to give the tenants the Ballot, and thus emancipate them for ever; those who have already suffered should be compensated, as the Aberystwyth Conference has proposed to do. The landlords have thrown down a challenge to all the liberalism in the country, and the Liberal party must pick up the gage of battle, and make them rue it."

THE GOVERNMENT AND THE VOLUNTEERS. On 23rd ult., Mr Cardwell had a conference with volun- teer officers of the artillery aud engineer branch of the service, and propounded to them the views of Govern-" ment as to future allowances and requirements. It seems that the maintenance of light field artillery will not be en- couraged and as the present grant is thought to be enough for garrison artillery and engineers, there will propably be very little alteration with respect to these branches of the force, but it is thought that some substan- tial support will be given to the Shoeburyness meetings of the National Artillery Association, affording as they do such excellent opportunities of giving practical instruction in gunnery. Stated as briefly as possible, the following are the alterations which the Secretary of State for War proposes to make in the volunteer regulations so far as they affect rifle volunteers. It is understood that Mr Cardwell wishes the proposals to be considered and dis- cussed by those who are interested, and he will confer with the officers against at the end of next month :—First, it is proposed to reorganise the fbrce so as to bring it into closer connection with the regular army; to put it under the command of the district generals, but not to interfere with the f.,metions of the lords-lieutenant. Secondly, the grant is only to be expended on necessaries," and the old system of payment by the adjutants, and the vouching every item of expenditure, will be reverted to. Under the head of neccessaries will be classed—1. Expenses of headquarters. 2. Care and repair of arms. 3. Shooting ranges. 4. Traveling to and from ranges and parades. 5. Allowance to buglers. 6 Expense of uniforms and accoutrements. The War officials have calculated (supposing all companies to be eighty men strong) that class No. 1 costs 221 per company in administrative battalions, £23 in country consolidated battalions, and 225 in metropolitan battalions. Class No. 3 costs 213 for administrative battalions, 917 for consolidated, and 221 for metropolitan battalions. Class No. 6, j63 19s. 3d.— that is, for uniform and accoutrements complete. Provided the capitation grant is raised to 30s. per efficient, it is thought that aU these "necessary" expenses will be covered. Thirdly, efficients in future will have to attend nine drills, fire sixty rounds, (ten of them volley"), or shoot out of the third class; and attend the official inspec- tion or, failing that, to attend two extra drills. Fourth- ly, company drills must be with at least twelve files. and battalion parade four companies of sixteen files. Fifthly, no charge will be made for the conveyance of Government stores, nor for fair wear and tear of Government property, nor for regimental books and shooting targets. Sixthly, administrative battalions are, so far as discipline goes, to be put on the same footing as consolidated ones. Seventh- ly, commissioned officers will have to pass an examination or attach themselves for a month to a line regiment or to the county militia, and schools of instruction open to volunteer officers will probably be established. Lastly, non-commissioned officers will have good service badges, and an increased allowance may, under certain conditions, be earned by them for their corps. -Pan Matt Gazette.

EDUCATIONAL CONFERENCE IN WALES. It has been resolved to hold a conference, representative of the whole of Wales, to consider—Primarily, the state of education in the Principality, with a special view to its peculiar requirements and conjointly with this, to con- sider the present position and prospects of the movement for the establishment of the "University College of Wales." At a preliminary meeting of a considerable num- ber of the friends of education, held at Cardiff, on Fri- day, the 17th instant, the following resolutions were unani- mously passed:— 1. That the conference shall be held at Aberystwyth, on Tuesday and Wednesday, the 25th and 26th January, 1870. The first day will be devoted to the question of education in general The second day will be more espe- cially occupied with the question of the national college at Aberystwyth. 2. That the conference shall be composed of delegates— 1. From Corporations. Two from each that may choose to send any. 2. From churches or congregations. One from each. 3. Mayors and ministers of religion of all de- nominations shall be admitted ex officio. 4. Any other in- dividual taking interest in the objects of the conference to be admitted on application a week before the meeting of the conference to the Rev. D. Charles, B.A., AbeiyBtwyth. 3. That on Tuesday there shall be two sittings. The first to begin at 11 a.m. and to close at 3 p.m., and to be devoted to the reading of papers on various aspects of the question. The aecond sitting to commence at 8 p.m., and to be occupied in the free discussion of the different topics under consideration. 4. That the following shall be the subjects upon which papers shall be read, and the order of reading :-L The ground on which Nonconformists can accept a general system of national education. 2. The system of national education that will fairly meet the requirements of the Principality. 3. How best may a national system of edu- cation be made to embrace the young of all classes in the community. 4. May compulsory power be granted to the state, and may children be compelled under any circum- stances to attend denominational schools ? 5. A national system of education being adopted, how best to pro- vide adequately for the religious education of the young. 6. How to deal with existing state-aided schools, equitably to the state, and to the managers of such schools. 7. The principles and objects of the National Educational League: by a gentleman appointed by the executive of the League. On Wednesday, the following matters, among others, will be submitted for consideration:—1. A statement of the present position of the movement will be made. 2. The re-appointment of a representative general committee, and of an enlarged executive committee. 3. The steps necessary to be taken to complete the fund. 4. The pro. posed application to Government for a grant. 5. The constitution of the proposed college. 6. The expediency of adopting measures with a view to the opening of the college for the admission of students in October, 1870.

The very extensive distillery now being erected at Bel- fast, with all recent improvements for the manufacture of Irish whisky, by Messrs DUITVILLK & Co., who have gained a world-wide celebrity for their fine old Irish whisky, is to be called The Royal Irish Distillery." LIFEBOAT SmvicBs.-During the year just past, 74 lives have been rescued by the lifeboats of the Lifeboat Institution, in addition to 28 vessels saved from destruc- tion. During the same period the Lifeboat Institution granted rewards for saving 360 lives by fishing and other boats, making a grand total of 1,105 lives saved mainly through its instrumentality. Many of these services have been rendered on the Welsh coast. These noble services of the lifeboats have varied much in character: many have been during the dark hours of night, others have been by day; some have been at short distances from the shore, others on the outlying banks far from the land. In some cases greater danger has been incurred than in others. In some, men have been washed overboard from the boats, but recovered again. Indeed, the work of sav- ing shipwrecked persons, even in the best appointed life- boats, must ever De one of danger, and no little courage and hardihood are required on the part of those who en- gage in it. By giving their invaluable aid they perform their full share of the duty of alleviating and reducing the amount of the misery and evil produced by the storms on our ooasts, It remains for those who cannot share the risks and exposure which these brave men incur, to per- form their part in this humane work, by enabling the institution, which has undertaken to organize and super- intend it-to provide the lifeboats' crews with every means of safety and efficiency, and to remunerate them suffi- ciently-this serving as some encouragement to them in return for the risks and labour and exposure which they undergo. The National Lifeboat Institution accordingly appeals to all humane and generous persons in the United Kingdom to contribute from their abundance towards so good a cause. We may add, that contributions in aid of the great and important work of the National Lifeboat Institution are received by all the bankers throughout the United Kingdom, and by the secretary at the institution, 14, John-street, Adelphi, London.