The Brecon County Times Neath Gazette and General Advertiser for the Counties of Brecon Carmarthen Radnor Monmouth Glamorgan Cardigan Montgomery Hereford

NEWBRIDGE-ON-WYE. CHRISTMAS CHARITIES.—On Thursday, the 3rd inst., 45 tons of coal were distributed amongst the poor of Llanyre-members of the Vicar's coal club,—under the superintendence of Mr. Thos. Pritchard, assistant- overseer, and Mr. David Evans; and on Tuesday, the 15th, a very large quantity of clothing was distributed, by tickets, to members of the clothing club. In aid of the funds of these clubs, donations have this year been received from J. W. Gibson Watt, Esq., Newport House; W. S. Broadwood, Esq., and Mrs. Broad- wood, Doldowlod House J. W. Vaughan, Esq and Mrs. W. Vaughan, Velinnewydd House; G. F. W. R. Colt, E-q., Trawscoed Rev. R. L. Venables, Clyro; George Steven Venables, Esq., Q.C., London and it is almost superfluous to add that the poor of the parish of Llanyre are exceedingly grateful to their kind benefactors, and especially to their vicar, the Rev. James Evans, for the warm interest he continues to take in the clothing and coal clubs. THE LLANYRE CHURCH Ciioin.-The worthy Vicar of Llanyre, on Friday last, treated the singers belong- ing to the church choir to a tea and supper, at his residence. The party assembled early in the afternoon, and the repasts were served up in a very efficient manner, under the superintendence of Miss Evans, a young lady who never spares any trouble to make her guests comfortable. Every attractive edible of this festive season was supplied, and served up in the most liberal'manner. The cloth having been removed, the health of our respected Vicar was drunk in a very cordial manner, likewise the health of Miss Evans, and others of the gentry who were present. Several pieces of sacred music were afterwards sung by the choir, and a most pleasant evening was spent by all. SUNDAY SCHOOL TREAT.—The worthy Vicar of Llanyre, the Rev. J. J. Evans, in his characteristic kind manner, on New Year's Day, regaled the Sunday School children, at his residence, with tea, plum cake, and buns. After tea, a plentiful supply of fruit, consisting of apples, oranges, figs, &c., was placed on the tables, and the little ones partook of them freely, and were warm in their thanks for the hospitality and kindness shown them. Several portions of Scripture were recited by the children, to the satis- faction of all present. After heartily enjoying a very pleasant evening, the little ones dispersed, giving the Vicar and Miss Evans three cheers for the treat. 41

BEAUFORT. THE WEATHER.—The deep snow and hard frost with which this district has been visited during the past week or two has almost baffled the skill of men and horses. Such a hard frost, the old folks say, has not been known for some years, and it has been with great difficulty that people have been enabled to walk about. On Saturday last, a poor woman, border- ing upon 70 years of a-e, was walking up through the village, when she slipped down and broke her arm. On Tuesday a farm servant named William Williams, from Cwmdu, a middle-age man, was returning home in a cart, and when about a mile upon the mountain the weather was so severe that the driver was afraid to venture further, and upon looking for Williams he found him lying down in the cart, complaining of being ill. They then made their way back to the Beaufort Arms here, and upon arriving there Williams was found to be so affected by the cold that he could not walk into the inn he was therefore car- ried in and placed by the fire, and every available means to restore animation was resorted to by Dr. Butterfield, but all to no purpose, for the unfortunate man died about five a.m. on Wednesday. It was after- wards ascertained that he had the sum of £ 40 Os. 5d. in his pocket. PENNY READINGS.—On Wednesday night, the fifth of the series of these readings was held at the Finers' Arms. The Rev. Rees presided, and Messrs. J. Palmer, C. Lockyer, Lodge (Abergavenny), and H. Butterfield read some instructive and amusing pieces. The musical portion of the programme was under the direction of Mr. Jacob Davies. Miss Price, of Abergavenny, presided at the piano, Messrs. Sage and Roberts performed on the violin, and Mr. Bur. chell on the contra bass. A select choir was also in attendance. The performances throughout were good. The duet on violins, and the "Gloria" from 12th Mass, were rapturously encored.

MERTHYR. BOARD OF HEALTH.—The usual fortnightly meeting was held on the 17th instant. Mr. G. T. Clark in the chair. The Surveyor reported that amongst the special sums for the year there were several that re- quired notice. For instance, X334 Is. 5d. had been expended for cleansing, washing, liming, disinfecting, &c., during the cholera. An excess of X233 had also been incurred for repairs of roads. This had been caused by the breaking up of the roads for the sewerage, and would be borne by the late contractor, Mr. Dixon. Extra payments had also been made for supplying Cefn with water, and ze249 6s. 3d. for planting at Pentwyn and Penbryn. With reference to the last item a discussion ensued, some of the members objecting to its being placed on the general district rate. It was ultimately agreed to place it to the water account capital. The Chairman observed that it was an ex- penditure that should not be objected to, as both places were becoming favourite resorts of the people, and it was their duty to make them as attractive as possible, without exposing themselves to the charge of extrava- gance. A long discussion as to the subject of lodging- houses next took place. It appears that the law relative to lodging-houses enacts that each house shall be regularly certified, and a board placed up against the house, notifying it to be a lodging-hoose, no matter L how respectable the locality or whether more than one lodger is kept. It was argued that this could not be done, say at Courtland-terrace, where a householder might have a lady or gentleman lodger, and where the lodger was more the obliged party than the house- holders. It was generally agreed that the law was inquisitorial and a thorough nuisance, and finally the matter was adjourned for a fortnight. It was remarked that the limits required by law would close two-thirds of the houses at Merthyr. This ended all the business of interest. THE THEATRE. -Mr. Hord and his talented company are still very successful in their winter visit here. Most of the newest and most interesting dramas are very creditably put upon the boards, and very large numbers attend nightly. Throughout the last week the frequenters of this house received an extra treat, when a double performance was given each evening, and some of the most sensational dramas were pro- duced, two additional actors being also engaged from the Theatre Royal, Worcester, the consequence of which was that the house was filled all the week. We must say, however, that the house itself is not the least attractive to persons having any pretensions to res- pectability, its aspect being extremely repulsive and mean, and its attendants cniefly of the lowest and most disorderly class. THE BOARD OF GUARDIANS.—The weekly meeting of this Board was held on Saturday last. Most of the members were in attendance, and G. T. Clark, Esq., occupied the chair. The business of the meeting was commenced in the usual way, but nothing very important was brought forward. The Clerk read some correspondence to the Board concerning the cleansing of the neighbourhood of Cefn-Coed-Cymmer, in the parish of Vaynor and a discussion arose as to whether the ratepayers of Merthyr should share in the additional expenses which would necessarily be in- curred. The matter was thoroughly discussed, but no decision was arrived at, The question also con- cerning the proposed new staircise at the Infirmary was revived, and the Surveyor's letter was again read, but the Board could not come to any further conclusion, and the subject was put off for further investigation. The Board shortly afterwards adjourned. A Soup KITCHEN.-It is with much gratification that we learn this week that a soup kitchen is about to be opened again here this season. Subscriptions have been set on foot, and the lists have been headed by Lord Dynevor and the Rev. J. Griffith, rector, with the liberal sum of £10 each. Several gentlemen of the town are working energetically in its promotion, and we trust that their charitable intentions will be liberally seconded. THE WEATHER.—The unusually long frost which has prevailed with such extreme severity, for the last fortnight, has at last disappeared. On Tuesday, the cold clear sky was overcast with heavy fog-like clouds, and another snow-fall was anticipated. It however, happily, turned out otherwise, though, as the evening closed, there was a light fall of snow, but it was soon followed by some sharp showers of rain, which continued for some time, causing a very rapid and complete thaw. SKATING.—This healthful and ancient pastime has been extensively indulged in during the past week. All the ponds and little lakes were covered over with a massive thickness of ice, over the surface of which men and boys of nearly all ages and sizes were gliding hither and thither with varied rapidity, and in con- fused directions, as the clear moonlight streamed down on the glassy lakes, on each successive night, and we are glad to say that as yet no life has been lost in the coveted recreation in this district. PUBLIC WORKS of all kinds have been greatly re- tarded for the last fortnight. The sewerage works have been completely stopped for a considerable time, on account of the frost and snow; but we trust that as a change has at last taken place in the weather, every- thing will again be put in action, and speedily progress. A LECTURE.—At the Temperance Hall, on Tues- day evening last, a lecture was delivered by the Rev. J. Kilsby Jones, when Mr. C. H. James occupied the chair. The rev. lecturer read his discourse from a written paper. The subject which he had chosen for his lecturo was concerning the life and times of Roger Williams, an eminent Welshman, who was born about the close of the sixteenth century, and who was among the many who took refuge in the New World, about the year 1621. The lecturer gave a very in- teresting, and, we have no doubt, a truthful biographi- cal sketch of the life and character of the great Welshman, and an account of most of the historical events of his time, and endeavoured to show that he was a contemporary and correspondent of the great poet Milton. We regret to add, however, that the attendance on this occasion was extremely small, there being scarcely more than thirty or forty per- sons in the whole room, and a few of those were ladies. In reference to this lecture, the Cambria Daily Leadet- says:—"It had been announced at Merthyr for some time that on Tuesday night the well known and popular lecturer, Kilsby Jones, would deliver a lecture on Roger Williams, the eminent Welshman, but unfortunately the weather was such as to prevent a large number from assembling. We could not, however, think but that had it been a con- cert, Christy's, or such like, something like an audi- ence would have assembled. Roger Williams was a Welshman, the founder of Rhode Island, the friend of our own Milton, and (this should have attracted a great number) one of the first men to advocate free- dom of opinions in religious matters. All this should have induced man to hear Kilsby Jones despite a little sleet and rain, but alas the charm of banjo and bones in these days exceeds interest even in subjects allied to patriotism." POLICE COURT,WEDNESDAY, before J.C.FOWLER,Esq "SMASHING."—Catherine Williams, a prostitute, [ was brought up ia custody charged with endeavouring to pass counterfeit money. John Thomas, the prose- cutor, an old blind man, said he kept a lodging-house, in Penydarran, and on Monday night the prisoner and a man came there, and asked if they could lodge for a night. They represented themselves to be man and wife. It was past twelve o'clock. Prisoner asked the man who came with her to give her the half sovereign which he had in his pocket, that she might pay for their lodging?. His (witness) wife then gave him a coin and told him it was balf-a- sovereign, and he gave 10s. in silver instead. He put up the coin in a piece of paper, and put it into his purse. In the morning following he heard the man say he had lost a dollar somewhere. He then took out the coin and showed it to him. The man silid 11 that's half-a-sovereign." Witness then gave the coin to his wife and told her to go out to a shop-keeper to see if it was a good one. She returned to him and said it was not. Prosecutor's wife corroborated his evidence Prisoner said she met the man mentioned, named Thomas Bengoff, in the Bush Hotel, Dowlais. She saw him take out the coin in question and a shilling, and he paid for a glass of rum and water out of the shilling. He paid there that the coin was half-a- sovereign, but it was an American piece. They agreed to lodge together that night, and he said he would pay for them both. When they went into the prosecutor's house she asked him for the half-sover- eign to pay for the place. He gave her the coin in question, and she gave it to the prosecutor's wife, who changed it and gave her back 7s., retaining the sum of 3s. for their lodgings. Thomas Bengoff was ex- amined, and denied all knowledge of the coin in ques- tion. He was positive it had not been in his posses- sion, and that he had not given it to the prisoner. The prisoner was remanded for a week in order that further inquiries might be made. THE OLD OFFENCE. Catherine Sidlivan was charged with stealing 241bs. of coal, the property of the Dowlais Iron Company. She was discharged with a caution. ASSAULTING A MOTHER.—Matilda Evans sum- moned Ann Treharne, her daughter-in-law, for assaulting her. Ordered to pay a fine of 5s. and the costs. MALICIOUS DAMAGE.- William Jones was summoned by Samuel Jones, of the Carmarthen Arms, Dowlais, for wilfully damaging a large pane of glass, value 5s. The charge was clearly proved, aad defendant was ordered to pay 7s. compensation, and a fine of 20s. and costs, or 21 days' imprisonment in default.

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SHORT MEASURES. To the Editor of the BRECON COUNTY TIMES. SIR, I was glad to see in your last issue the venti- lation of this subject by your poor correspondent Beer." It could not have happened at a time more opportune, from great distress now existing in our town. This of itself ought to be sufficient to make men honest, however deficient they may be of high moral principles. To cheat this way in trade is doubly bad. The buyer gets less than he bargains for, and pays more than is legitimately due-robbing himself to make others purse-proud and swagger. Our vigi- lant chief of the borough police is said to know a pick- pocket by instinct. Are his senses sometimes blunted by authority ? BITTER BEER. «

PENNY READINGS. To the Editor qf the BRECON COUNTY TIMES. SIR,-Five or six weeks smce I wrote to you on this subject, and have perused your really useful paper carefully ever since, in hope of finding a reply. I ask again, "What is become of our Penny Readings ?" I fear there is some dog in the manger" influence at work. This is not worthy of the early promoters of these popular gatherings and I hope in your paper to see that somebody has resigned, and that some- body else has stepped into the gap. If not, the "Mutual Young Men" must be prevailed upon to give more of their interesting and clever entertainments at a cheaper rate for we cannot afford to lose a winter without having a few hearty HA, HA'S. To the Editor of the BRECON COUNTY TIMES. SIR,-I have attended petty sessions in the county and borough of Brccon, more or less officially, for a quarter of a century, and never during that long period did I observe the presiding Magistrate acting in the way the Mayor did in the case of Williams v. Pritchard, viz., giving his opinion for differing from the majority of the Bench. The duty of the presiding Magistrate is to be the mouth-piece of the majority. If only two are on the Bench, and they differ, the case falls to the ground-there is no conviction. When there are more, the majority have it, and it is announced as unanimous. I wish the Mayor well, and if he will take a little advice from me I would recommend him to wag his tongue a little less" on the bench. It may pay to do so on "the top of Ship-street," but not in the Guild-hall. GOOSEQUILL. «

ABERGAVENNY. FATAL ACCIDENT; IN A QUARRY.—An inquest was held at the Walnut Tree Inn, Llanvetherine, on Tues- day, the 22nd instant, before E. D. Batt, Esq., coroner, touching the death of Benjamin Lewis, aged 47 years. From the evidence it appeared that the deceased, who was a quarriman, was following his employment on the day mentioned. No one was with him at the time of his death, but from the position in which the body was found, and the fact of its being covered with stones and dirt, the jury concluded that death was caused by a fall of the material. They accordingly returned a verdict of Found dead." SEASONABLE BENEVOLENCE.—A committee of the most influential and benevolent gentlemen of the town has been formed, having for its object the relief of the deserving poor who are reduced to poverty by the severity of the weather. PETTY SESSIONS, WEDNESDAY, before the Rev. J. H. FARQUHAR, J. C. HILL, and F. C. H. WILLIAMS, Esquire?. A BROTHEL ROW.—Mary Steed, an unfortunate," was charged with having assaulted Jane Powell, alias "Jenny One-arm," who is a keeper of a brothel in Ireland-street, on the 29th ult.-Complainant stated that about 11 o'clock on the night mentioned defen- dant came home to her house, and, because she com- plained of the lateness of the hour, struck her severely three or four times on the head and sbouiders.-The Bench, after expressing their disapproval of the con- duct of the complainant in keeping such a notorious house as she did, fined the defendant Is. and costs, or, in default, seven days' imprisonment. The commit- ment was, however, suspended for a week, to afford an opportunity for payment. IRELAND-STREET AGAIN !—Ellen Dempeey, another member of the "frail sisterhood," notorious for her frequent visits to the police office, was charged with having assaulted a companion named M. A. Price, on the 16,h instant.- Complainant stated that on the day mentioned she was passing along Ireland-street, when defendant came by, and, calling her a b- cow, pushed her into the middle of the street; and that she had done nothing to defendant to induce her to behave in such a way.—The defendant was bound over to keep the peace for one month, one surety in £ 5 and herself in £ 5.—Upon hearing this, the defendant became so violent, and threatened so determinedly to be revenged on complainant, that she was recalled and the time extended to two months, and the surety not being forthcoming, she was removed in custody. HIGHWAY OFFrNCE.-Edward Jones, farmer, was charged with having left a cart loaded with hay on the highway, at Grosmont, on the 11th inst., no one being in charge of the same.—Defendant stated that the harness broke on the road, and consequently he was compelled to leave the cart there while he took it to be repaired.—The Bench, under the circumstances, dis- missed the case. VIOLATION OF CATTLE PLAGUE ORDERS.—John Morgan was charged, on the information of Superin- tendent Freeman, with altering a license for the removal of two cows. The informant deposed On the 8th of January, Mr. Morgan brought two cows to Abergavenny market with the license now produced I examined the license, and found it had been altered —the word Usk" having been replaced by that of "Abergavenny;" I mentioned this circumstance to Mr. Morgan, and he admitted the offence, saying that he understood a stock license held good for six days, and the weather had been so bad, or he would have taken the beasts to Usk market; he also further said he did not think he was doing wrong, and that he did not wish to evade the orders.—The Chairman informed Mr. Morgan that he had rendered himself liable to a penalty of L20, but as he did not appear to have had any intention to defraud he would be let off on payment of costs only. REFORMATORY CHARGE.— Thomas Williams, who was summoned to show cause why he should not con- tribute towards the maintenance of his son, who is in the Reformatory, was ordered to pay a weekly sum of Is. SELLING BEER ON SUNDAY.- William George, land- lord of the Gardeners' Arms, Llanwenarth Ultra, was charged with having sold beer during prohibited hours on Sunday, the 13th instant. The offence was clearly proved, and the mitigated penalty of 2s. 6d. and costs was imposed. THE OLDCASTLE ROAD AGAIN !-The Rev. C. L.Ea les summoned the Abergavenny Highway Board for not keeping the Oldcastle Road in repair.—Mr. J. H. —ThUhar c*erk) appeared for the Highway Board, he hadCOmplaina.nt;' in stating his case, mentioned that Prev'"ous occasion brought a charge against • mnr, „/°kr Neglecting this road, and then the rpDairs should h had Promised that the necessary repairs should be made. This however, was £ £$ \fcw i. 4u o lly> and not properly broken, were put on the road, but this .i 8 dld not m any way im- prove the road, but rather made it more daneerous. Whilst proceeding along this road, on the evening of the 31st of December, his horse was thrown down by these stones, himself thrown out of the carnage in which he was riding, and his finger broken damage was also done to the carriage. In consequence of this he applied to the Board for damages, and again urged upon them the expediency of repairing the road. In reply to his application he received a letter from the Clerk, in which they refused to accord the compensa- tion, and stated that it lay out oftheir power to expend more upon the Oldcastle Road than they had done and the result of all this was the present charge. Complainant produced in Court a sample of the stones which had been placed on the road, and which were admitted by the Bench to be inadequate to the re- quirements of the road.—For the defence, Mr. J. H. Farquhar stated that the Board had spent 2s. 6d. in the pound on the Oldcastle Road, which was as much as they were empowered to spend by the Highway Act. Indeed, other roads had been neglected in order to repair this one.—The complainant added that the state of the road was so bad that his carriage had been broken on his way to town that day.—After a lengthy discussion as to the powers of the Board, Mr, Farquhar promised that the road should be repaired if sufficient time were allowed for so doing.-Upon this, the Chairman adjourned the case for two months request. ing that at the expiration of that time the complainant would report again.—The complainant announced his intention of suing tor damages in the County Court, and the case ended. STEALING A DOG.-Cliarles Jones was charged by Mr. Thomas Watkins, of Pentwyn Clydach, with stealing a dog, his property.—Complainant stated that he missed the dog about a month ago, and his son-in- law stated that he saw the dog in Tudor-street, Aber- gavenny, at first with no one with it, but the prisoner afterwards came up, claimed the dog, and refused to give it up. Witness told him the consequences, and afterwards gave information to P.C. Guinea, who went with him (witness) to prisoner. He then gave the dog up, accounting for having possession of it, by saying that a man from Llanelly gave it him.—The prisoner, who had been before convicted, was sentenced to seven days' imprisonment, with hard labour.

HAY. THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT BOARD.-The contest which was mentioned in our last as probable, did not take place, as four out of the seven persons nominated for the vacancies withdrew, thus allowing Mr. Trum- per, Mr. W. Webb, and Mr. J. Lilwall, to take office unopposed. Mr. Trumper, Mr. Webb, and Mr. Hadley were the retiring members, so that the board remains as before, with the exception of Mr. Lilwall, who takes the place of Mr. Hadley, who has removed out of the district. THE SUBSCRIPTION FOR THE PooR.-On Friday and Saturday last, the committee distributed tickets for coal, and in many instances, bread also, to 244 poor families, consisting of 810 persons, residing in the town of Hay. About 30 tons of coal, and 360 lbs. of bread were given away, which we have no doubt has proved very acceptable at the present inclement season. HER MAJESTY'S MAILS.—We are glad to see that another attempt is being made to get the mails con- veyed to this town by railway. A memorial to the Postmaster-General is now in course of signature by the inhabitants of Hay and the neighbourhood, pray- ing for the alteration, and we earnestly wish the promoters success. The alteration would be a boon to the whole district. At present, letters from London and other parts are not delivered at Hay until nearly eleven o'clock a.m., and the letter-box is closed at 3.40 p.m., whereas, if the mails were conveyed by rail, letters may be delivered at eight in the morning, and the box kept open until six o'clock p.m. We are not guessing at conclusions; it is a fact, that a person may leave Hay by the 6 25 p.m. train, and arrive at Hereford in time to post letters, the letter-box being kept open in that city until 7.45 p.m. The same may be said of letters to Brfcon, which we drew attention to a fortnight back. A letter posted at Hay occupies sixteen hours and forty minutes in the transit, whereas by rail it may occupy less than one hour. We are not finding fault with officials, who are simply carry- ing out their instructions, but the evil exists, and it requires remedying. WINDOW SMASHING.—John Kelly, a travelling sweep, was detected by Mr. John Kennedy, baker and confectioner, Hay, in wilfully breaking two panes of glass, of the value of 15s., in his shop window, on the night of Friday last. Defendant pleaded that he could not procure lodgings, and that he broke the window for the purpose of being locked up. He was given into the charge of P.C. Williams, who accom- modated him with lodgings for the night, and the next morning took him before T. W. Higgins, Esq., who committed him to the House of Correction for fourteen days with hard labour. PETTY SESSIONS, MONDAY, before the Rev. R. L. VENABLES, and T. W. HIGGINS, Esq. CHARGE OF ASSAULT.-James PugA, Llandilo, farmer, was charged by William Gwilliam. innkeeper, Hay, with an assault, committed on the 20th Decem- ber. The defendant was also charged with an assault upon Ann Gwilliam, wife of the first-named complai- nant. Settled out of court. TRAVELLING BY RAIL WITHOUT A TICKET.— William Williams, labourer, Glasbury, was charged by John Newns, station-master, Glasbury, with unlaw- fully travelling in a certain carriage npon the Brecon and Merthyr Railway, without a ticket, on the 8th of January. Fined 5s. and costs. ALLOWING CATTLE TO STRAY ON THE HIGHWAY.— M. A. De la Hay Lewis, of Keillin, Llanigon, was charged by P.S. Arthur Basham with allowing cattle to stray on the highway, in the parish of Llanigon, on the 4th of January. Ordered to pay 5s. costs.

TREDEGAR. THEATRICAL PERFORMANCES.—On Thursday and Monday nights last, the Amateur Dramatic Society gave their second annual performances in the large room of the Temperance Hall. The attendance was very meagre, but the performances, on the whole, were tolerably good, the dramatic powers displayed by some of the amateurs .being of an order which would commend itself at once to an admirer of histrionic ta ent. The society, by the funds raised by the enter- tainment, just clearc d their expenses. INQUESTS.—On Monday last, two inquests were held-one on the body of a child found smothered in bed, in Coach-row, and the other on the body of a boy named VV illiam Williams, who had been drowned in the feeder of the Sirhowy Company. In each case, a verdict of "Accidental death" was returned. J STREET ACCIDENT.- While Mr. Steven Williams was returning from the funeral of the child who is re- corded above to have been smothered, he fell down and broke his leg, the cause of the fall being the slippery state of the foot-way. Mr. Williams is.now, however, progressing favourably. COUNTY COURT, WEDNESDAY, before J. M. HER- BERT, Esq., Judge. The cause list contained-Adjourned cases, 25 not served, 14 new plaints, 372 referred cases, 2; com- mitment summonses, 11 total, 424. The following were the only cases which possessed public interest:— Brown v. Williams.- Claim X5 4s. for groceries.— Defendant said he owed the money, but could not pay much at a time, as his wages were only 15s. per week, and he had four children, none of whom were working. —Plaintiff said defendant was a finer at Sirhowy, and earned X8 per month.—His Honour said he could not believe defendant's statement, and he should therefore give judgment for 4s. a month. E. G. Williams v. G. Watkins.—This was a claim of X8 6s. 8d., a balance of an account. The accounts were gone into, and His Honour gave judgment for defendant. 0 Joshua Underwood v. Windsor JIoi-gan.-This was a disputed claim for goods supplied to defendant by plaintiff, and was adjourned last court day.—Mr. Evans appeared for plaintiff, and Mr. Plews for defen- dant.—John Jones said I represent Messrs. Bradburn, of Birmingham I took an order for a case of instru- ments of Mr. Underwood, in the regular way of busi- ness I did not know Mr. Windsor Morgan until I was introduced to him to-day when the order was given Mr. Morgan was present; he walked into plain- tiff's shop I received instructions to engrave on the case, Windsor Morgan, engineer, Nantyglo Works;" the firm has been paid by plaintiff for those goods nothing was said at the time about any presentation I directed Mr. William Underwood's attention to the private mark, as I did to the price there was an order for an ivory rule to be engraved in the same manner. By Mr. Plews In May I had the order the goods were supplied in August nothing was said as to what the goods were intended for I had no reason what- ever to suppose that they were intended for presenta- tion I have never said so such goods are generally sold in London at from £2 to £ 3 10s. about 22 15s. would be a fair price for the case of goods produced the shopman was in the shop part of the time did not take the order from Mr. Morgan I have had transactions with Mrs. Underwood this was the first with plaintiff.—This witness had been obliged to travel f: «)I8. Birmingham, and His Honour said he was sorry he had no power to allow adequate expenses.—W. Morgan (recalled by Mr. EvaBs) I did not tell Lewis Lewis to go to Joshua Underwood's for a grate to put i, a house I was building; I go occasionally to the Le-, of Mutton, but never said there that Mr. Bailey had i'!en me the instruments. By Mr. Plews Mr. Ferd was the shop at the time the order was given for the goods.—Lewis Lewis, accountant to Mr. Bailey, said I lived in the house belonging to defendant I procured a grate by order of Mr. Windsor Morgan he told me to go to Underwood's for it I did so I was not allowed anything at all from the rent for that grate I had some smaller things. By Mr. Plews I paid L15 a year for the house, and £3 for afield, when I took it on my hands the rent was paid by Mr Bailey; I paid for the field; I lived in the house from February, 1865, to March, 1866 I have not paid for the field nothing was said about the grate when I left; I took to the field when I fenced it in I rented the field to David Davies, and received X2 from him I put in the house some bells, &c., which cost me 35s. there was a grate in, but it did not suit me it was not a new grate; I did not know until late last night that I should be required here to-day I was in the house three or four months before the order was given. By Mr. Evans 1 was not examined the first time I came here; the second hearing I could not attend.—F. Ford deposed I live at Birmingham I was an assistant at Mr. Underwood's, from May to November, 1865 I remember the case of instruments being ordered by Mr. Underwood from the traveller he told me they were for a present to Mr. Morgan; I could sell such a box as the one produced for X2; I distinctly remember plaintiff saying the goods were to present to Mr. Morgan. By Mr. Evans I left Mr. Underwood because he would not pay me my wages I was accused of theft by the plaintiff, and left at once I have had a good character from him since I was discharged from a situation at Peterborough because I stayed out rather late or,e night at a party. By Mr. Plews I received the orders that came.—George Moore deposed I am an ironmonger the retail price of the box of instruments produced would be about Y,2 5s.- -Defendant recalled, and examined by Mr. Plews The house and field I let to Lewis Lewis at zC18 he occupied it 14 months when he left he spoke of the grate, and said he thought to be allowed X3 for what he had done to the house I said we would "rub back to back." By Mr Evans: I did not know the grate was charged to me after that. —Mr. Plews, on behalf of defendant, contended that Mr. Morgan never authorized Lewis Lewis to go to Underwood's for the grate-a fact supported by the offer of defendant to Lewis, when quitting the house, to allow it in the rent of the field. It was therefore clear he never thought he had to pay Underwood for it.—Mr. Evans then addressed His Honour, laying stress on the fact that the several articles being pre- sented, what motive could his client have in making such presents?—His Honour said he would consider the case, and would most probably give judgment the following morning. Harris v. Jones.-This was a claim of 8s.—Defendant said his wife had paid 6s. 6d. on account, in two half- crowns, a shilling, aud a six pence.-Plain tiff said he remembered no other payment than that of 4s. 6d. on a previous occasion.—Defendant said the last account was settled in September, 1865.—His Honour You ought to have taken a receipt.—Maria Jones (sworn) deposed I remember having an account for the 8s., aud I paid plaintiff 6s. 6d. about a year and six months ago. By plaintiff I generally paid what my husband owed at the time of the pay at the works.—Defendant said he was present when his wife paid the 6s. 6d.— Judgment for Is. 6d. Mac William v. Evans. -Plaintiff deposed: I let a horse and fly to defendant for a funeral; the charge for such was 30s.-Defendant said I was in the em- ployment of Davis and Sloper, and sold leather to Mr. Thomas Mallew, now deceased being acquainted with Mallew, and knowing the family, I went, by instructions from the administrators and gave the order for the hearse and carriage at the Tredegar Arms I could not swear that in giving the order I mentioned the administrator's name.—His Honour (to defendant) You are liable, as you gave the order but you can recover the amount from the administrators. My judgment is that the claim be paid in a month, with the expenses. Williams v. Jeffries and Jones.—Mr. Plews for plaintiff, and Mr. Rice Harris for defendants.—Plain- tiff (sworn) deposed I am proprietor of the Gas Works, at Brynmawr; before the meters were fixed, defendants had gas from the main; they had five lights, besides those used in the brewery I did not charge for the brewery gas the meter was put in in February I usually charge 6s. per quarter per light; defendants' meter had five lights my man did some fitting for me there; the house was worth X20 a-year; I let it with the brewery for X60 I had some furni- ture in a room, which Mr. Jones said he did not use, and which it was agreed should remain there to suit my convenience I allowed 14s. for that accommoda- tion.—By Mr. Harris I let the premises at Y,60 a- year from the 1st November, 1864 I did not give up the house for some time I was allowed to remain un- til I could get another house Mr. Jones had a dresser from me 1 did not include that in the gas account. Mr. Harris here produced a bill, in which the dresser, a shelf, and the gas were included, and witness ad- mitted that the bill was in his handwriting, and that it appeared to be correct. He continued I had no conversation subsequently with Mr. Jones about the gas; I don't remember ever being told by Mr. Jones that he did not want the gas in the house there was a dispute about the meter he said he would not take to it; the was not cut off at that time the water was removed when I found Mr. Jones would not pay for it; the house and brewery are rated at zC25 10s. per annum.—By Mr. Plews When Mr. Jones took the house, it was agreed that I was not to go out at once; no agreement was made about it.-John Jones said I am gasman for Mr. Williams, and put in the meter and composition for Mr. Jones I don't think the charge was too much for fitting up the meter; gas was consumed by Mr. Jones I took away the meter I heard something about the meter being put in for twelve months I did not hear whether anything was to be paid for the hire of it.—by Mr. Harris The connection pipe was cut before the meter was re- moved 6s. a-day is the usual wages for gas fitting at Cardiff, 6s. 8d. a-day is paid when the meter was taken away, I entered it in the books I make a monthly return.—R. B. Jones (examined by Mr. Harris) deposed I am junior partner with Mr. Jeffries, brewer, Brynmawr I entered the house on the 1st December gas was laid on, and Mr. Williams said I ceuld have the gas for nothing, as it was ad- joining the Gas Works I had a bill in February for gas, and I went to see Mr. Williams; I told him if he would put in a meter I would pay 6s. 8d. per thousand for the gas, but I was not to pay for any fittings or use of the meter I agreed to use it for twelve months, at the end of which time we were to come to terms I have refused to pay I claim 10s. a-month for the room Mr. Williams used.—By Mr. Plews The house has nine rooms, and a pantry the room used was not finished he was to keep his furni- turea few days in the room nothing was said about "till he got a house."—Judgment for f 2 7s. 6d., to be paid in a week. BLACKWOOD PETTY SESSIONS, FRIDAY, before JOSEPH DAVIES, Esq., the Rev. E. LEIGH, and WM. LL. WILLIAMS, Esq. STEALING COAL.-The Tredegar Iron Company v. E'izabeth .Bees.—This case was referred to the Magistrates, at Tredegar, who will hear it on Friday next. THE VIOLENT ASSAULT CASE AT EBBW VALE.— Joseph Parfit v. Sophia Williams.—Complainant de- posed that while having some words with his landlady, the defendant, she threw a knife at him, which hit him in the forehead.—Defendant stated that complainant had said he had paid her 5s. 9d. for lodgings, whereas he had only paid her 3s 9d she "reasoned" with him, and he then knocked her children and herself.—One of the children of the defendant was presented to the Court, with a view to shew a bruise upon its eye,-a bruise alleged to have been inflicted by complainant, who, however, said that the injury had been caused by his giving the child a push. The case was dismissed, the Bench ordering the costs to be divided between the disputants. AMICABLE SETTLEMENTS.—Ruth Miles v. John Bevan, and John Bevan v. Seth Miles.-The parties in this case, who reside in the neighbourhood of Bed- was, applied for leave to settle their disputes out of Court, and the application was granted, as was a simi- lar one in the ca-e of an old woman named Mary Saun- ders, who bad removed from the neighbourhood of Blackwood to Mountain Ash, and who had been sum- moned by Mr. William Rees for fraudulently removing her goods, owing him at the time X6 2s. for rent. A WARNING TO COLLIERs.-Geoi-ge Blaclcmore, a young man, pleaded guilty to leaving open, contrary to orders, a door used to secure the proper ventilation of the Abercarne Coal Company's Colliery. The door, it appears, should have been kept closed. The Mineral Agent of the Company gave defendant a good character, adding that, as it was his first offence, he did not wish to punish him very severely. Defendant said he left it open for his "butty" to come through after him. After a severe reprimanding from the Chairman, defendant was fined 5s. and costs. OPENING A SAFETY LAMP. Charles Morgan, a boy, was charged with having removed the top from his safety lamp. He pleaded guilty, and the Magistrates informed him that they must send him to prison, but the Mineral Agent, however, interceded, and the boy, after receiving a proper admonition, was ordered to pay 5s. and costs. ASSAULT ON A CHILD.—A child named William Thomas was brought by his mother to prove that a man named Robert Morgan had assaulted him. Mr. Rice Harris appeared for defendant. The case having been proved by complainant, Mr. Harris endeavoured to prove that Morgan had been called names by the boy, and had thus been provoked to the assault. This, however, he failed to do, and the defendant was fined 5s. and costs. ANOTHER ASSAULT CASE.—John Jenkins v. Edward Jones-The parties reside near the Tredegar Junc- tion. Defendant did not appear. Complainant stated that on Christmas Day Jones struck him for nothing at all." Service of summons was proved, and defen- dant was fined 2s. 6d. and costs, or fourteen days im- prisonment. AN ASSAULT CASE SFTTLED.-WilliaM Jones v. John Jones.-This case was settled out of court. STEALING COAL AT EBBW V ALE.-John Ferriter and James Hughes pleaded guilty to stealing coal belonging to the Company. Mr. Leigh said the Com- pany did not want to imprison the defendants, and they therefore would be fined Is. each and costs. ANOTHER COAL STEALING CASF,Willitint Williams, a lad, was fined 6d. and costs for an oftence similar to the above. COAL STEALING AT BEAUFORT.-Thomas Jones was discharged on payment of costs for stealing coal at the Beaufort Works, RUNNING AWAY AND LEAVING A FAMILY CHARGE- ABLE TO THE UNION.—Mr. Havard, on behalf of the Guardians of the Bedwellty Union, v. James Hughes. Defendant appears to have run away from Bedwellty to Mountain Ash, in August last, leaving his wife and her two children without any means of support other than that of the parish. Defendant promised the Bench to support his wife and children in future, but as this did not seem to be the first promise of the kind made by him, he was sentenced to three months' im- prisonment. AN ALLEGED ASSAULT AT A.BERTILLERY.-Elizabeth Jones v. Ann Atkins.-The case was settled out of Court. MALICIOUS DAMAGE.—Edward Jones v. Julia Sterry, of Abertillery. The offence consisted of defendant carrying a portion of a fence belonging to complainant away. Defendant denied the charge, but her denial constituted a "lame tale," and she was fined 2s. 6d. and costs. ANOTHER CASE OF MALICIOUS DAMAGE AT ABER- TILLERY.- William Jones was charged with breaking a door, the property of Mr. Philip A. Williams, on the 16th January.—The charge was proved, and defendant was fined Is and costs. CHARGE OF STEALING PIT-WOOD.-William Stewart v. John Francis.-The defendant seemed to bear a good character, and as the prosecutor did not wish to press the charge, the magistrates allowed the case to be settled out of Court. DRUNKENNESS, ETC.— William Smith, charged with being drunk and refusing to quit the Sun Inn, Blaina, on the 12th January, was fined Is. and the Francis Johnson and wife, charged with refusing to quit the General Picton, were sentenced to 14 days' imprisonment in default of paying a fine of Is. and the costs. STEALING COBBLERS' ToOLS.-Patrick Fitzpatrick, a shoemaker, of Blaina, was charged with stealing a seat-wheel" and a "jigger."—Joseph Stock deposed: I am a shoemaker, and reside at Blaina in September last I missed a seat-wheel, which I did not see again until Friday last, when I saw it with Police-constable Crabtree the prisoner was working with me at the time I lost the seat-wheel, and had the use of my tools for doing his work the constable also showed me a jigger that is my property I never either gave or sold the seat-wheel to the prisoner, nor did I the jigger. Cross-examined by prisoner I did not know you had pawned the things you did not do so at my request; we may have had some beer together, but you had no right to pawn my jigger or seat-wb eel. -John Owens deposed I purchased the seat-wheel produced from prisoner and gave him a shilling for it. —Thos. Davies depos&dPfco having purchased the jigger of the prisoner. -In answer to the Bench, prisoner did not deny having had possession of the stolen property, but re- marked that he had been on the spree with the prose- cutor, who desired him to raise money upon them in order to enable them to continue the spree.—Police- constable Crabtree said that he apprehended the pri- soner at Brynmawr, when he said, Stock knew I had them," and added that he intended to bring them back again.—It seemed that the prisoner had been remanded for 10 days, during which time he had been in Usk; and in consideration of having undergoic that incarceration he was sentenced to only one days' imprisonment. AFFILIATION CASE.—Ruth Lewis, aged about 40, v. Edward Morgan, aged about 18, of New Tredegar.— Mr. Plews appeared for defendant and at the outset of the case took an objection to its being heard, on the ground that it had been fully heard on its merits and decided against the complainant. The previous sum- mons was returnable on the 2nd of November, and after the case bad been partly gone into on that day, the applicant had asked for and obtained an ad- journment for the production of further evidence, and on the 30th November the case was again heard, and after an examination of five witnesses for complainant and three for defendant, the case was dismissed. Mr Plews therefore argued that this was a decision on the merits and, in accordance with the decision of the Court of Queen's Bench, in the case of Reg v. Harring- ton, the Bench ought not to rehear the case.—After some further observations, Mr. Plews called upon the Bench to refuse to hear the present application.—The Bench, after consulting with their clerk, remarked that as the case had been heard before, and decided on the merits, they could not go into the present sum- mons, which was consequently dismissed. NANTYGLO WORKMEN AND THEIR PERQUISITES.— John Vaughan and William Davies, workmen at the Nantyglo Works, were charged with stealing a quan- tity of waste rope-yarn.—Mr. Plews appeared to de- fend the accused.—Richard Richards deposed I am a constable at the works of Mr. Bailey, at Nantyglo I was watehing about the works on Saturday last, when I saw the two prisoners-John Vaughan and William Davies-in the engine-house, at the Upper Forge I saw them putting some rope-yarn in a sack; I afterwards saw them carry it away they went in the direction of Brynmawr I went to them and asked what they had in the sack they told me they had some old packing belonging to the engine—that it was of no use I took them before Mr. Henry Bailey, and we opened the sack in the presence of that gentleman, who said that the flat packing I now produce had no business to be taken out of the engine so soon he told me to have them apprehended he also said, This is the way you are doing it for your- selves."—Thomas Richards said: I am master engineer at Nantyglo on my round ]ast Saturday, the prisoner John Vaughan (who keeps a public-house at Bryn- mawr) said, "I think we should change this packing on Sunday I told him it did not require it; he re- peated the same words to me afterwards, and I told him to wait. Cross-examined: They told me they had blown the waste out of the engine on Saturday I do remember being at the Quarry Arms with Vaughan; the prisoners had sold waste similar to this; we had some beer I dare say I had the- share of a quart; I met them in the street; I have not seen such packing as this turned I have seen ragmen pick it up about the works, after it had been blown out of the engine by ragmen, I mean men with donkeys, who pick up anything they can get hold of we report the change of packings to Windsor Morgan.—Mr. Davies said that the Bench were of opinion that there was no felonious intention and that it had been the custom for engineers to have such packing as that in dispute as a perquisite. The case would therefore be dismissed. JUVENILE THIEVES.—John Williams, 13 years of age, and William Williams, 15 years of age, were charged with stealing four cloth capes from Mr. Joshua Richards, and one shawl, from the Cambrian Inn, the property of one of the servants there. Both boys pleaded guilty, and, for the first offence, were sentenced to three weeks' imprisonment, and seven days for the second offence. 4

To the Editor of the BRECON COUNTY TIMES. SIR,-I was pleased at being in the Towq-hall last evening, witnessing the performances there, and I must say they reflect great credit on all concerned. The judge was inimitable; the counsel on both sides particularly good. Winkle outdid the original, and Samuel, my boy," was very creditable. Several of the jury mistook their vocation, and were low. The song by Miss Davies and her partner was justly encored. I hope to hear this again. The recitations were mediocre, and would improve by practice. The Mayor in his vote of thanks was not very happy in my opinion. I have been in Brecon for a few years, and never knew Dr. Lucas take any interest in public matters excepting elections. Who ever saw him in the chair at our "penny readings ?" The seconder said very little, and properly so, as he said he had nothinlc to add to what the Mayor said. "A CHIEL'S AMANG YE TAKIN' NOTES, AND FAITH WILL PRENT 'EM." I

To the Editor of the BRECON COUNTY TIMES. SIR,-Having seen in your journal of last week the report of the "Pare Assault Case," with the dis- graceful detention of one of the party, also your excel- lent remarks on that affair, I beg to be allowed the insertion of a few words respecting the officiousness of the person who figured so conspicuously in the case. Devynock and neighbourhood during the last three years has been continually pested by the police. It appears that they are allowed to do what they like with the greatest impunity, irrespective of the law, and the Magistrates frequently censure them from the bench without any effect. Only a few months ago, the Chairman of the petty sessions, after hearing a police assault case from Trecastle, stated in the open court that "The police, instead of having the confidence of the people, were actually the scourge of the neighbourhood by their officiousness." Surely this, with other well-known remarks frequently made, ought to be sufficient to open the eyes of gentlemen who are in authority over them. On whom does the management of that district rest ? On the officers themselves, or on the so called Sergt. Gabriel ? It is only a little more than two years since this man (Gabriel) apprehended a railway navvy for not paying a small bill, took him to the station, and detained him there until the bill was paid. I see that he stated, when giving evidence in Mr Newman's case, that he could not liberate a person with- out taking him before a Magistrate. How did he liberate the navvy ? This case, with several other charges against Ser-t. Gabriel, was laid before the Chief Constable, who investigated some of the charges without expressing any opinion—in fact refused to do so, and the above case he would not entertain, although several persons were brought to prove the truth of the report. If things of this description are allowed to go on un- noticed, what security will quiet, inoffensive people have who do not happen to please the great man in authority ? Instances have occurred at the Devy- nock petty sessions when of twelve police cases heard nine were dismissed, with strict orders from the Magis- trates to the police "not to bring such groundless cases against persons in future." Should this sort of conduct continue much longer without any check from those who have the power, I would at once suggest that Government suspend the Habeas Corpus Act for the hundred of Devynock, so that Sergt. Gabriel may apprehend and detain during his pleasure the numerous people he has an ill feeling against. He clearly made a commencement in the case of Tomkins.—Yours respectfully, 23rd Jan., 1867. NID ESTRON.

THE SOUTH WALES MERCANTILE COMPANY (LIMITED). OTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the FIRST GENERAL MEETING of the Proprietors is convened for MONDAY, the 4 h day of February, at the Company's Offices, High-street, Brecon, at 2 p.m., to receive the Director's Report and a Statement of Accounts to declare a Dividend to elect Directors for the ensuing year, and to tran- sact other business. J. A. JEBB, Managing Director. I High-street; Brecon, January, 1867. [223

of the Bull Inn, the Rev. Garnons Williams, R.D., of Abercamlais, ably presiding over the meeting. There were present among the company the Masters Wil- liams (Abercamlais), the Rev. Mr. and Mrs. Parry (Vicarage), the R«v. Mr. and Mrs. Winstone (Llwyn- cyntefin), the Rev W. Evans (Ynisybont), the Misses Williams (Trephilip), Miss Harris (Cwmwysg), the Mioses S ephens (Bull), Mr. T. Jones and the Misses Jones (PmbryD), Mr. and Misses Jeffreys (Bailie, S< nny,) Miss Joseph (Graigcoch), Miss Edwards (Penvey), Miss Davies (The Forge, Brecon), Messrs. Morgan James, William Davies, and T. B. Lewis (Defynoi k), Morgan Thomas (Abersenny), Rees Parry and Maund (Brecon), &c. The reverend Chairman, in an introductory speech, referred to his previous visit to that room, it being upon the occasion of the Agricultural Society's dinner, at which many of the nobility of this and the adjoining counties assembled together. The present assembly, however, surpassed that, since upon looking round him he saw many of the fair sex, with their charming countenances i adiant with,smiles. He then adverted to the utility of such gatherings as these, and went on to express the pleasure he felt in having to introduce so good a pro- gramme, the execution of which by those whose names were associated with it, he hoped would yield an ap- preciative company good amusement. Subjoined is the programme — Pianoforte solo Miss Davies (Bailie I Reading-A gleam of Sunshine J Williams, Esq. (Tanygraig) Song-John Jones at Home (original) Mr. Rees Davies Duet-The Gipsy Countess.Misses Trew and L. Davies (Forge, Brecon) (Accompanied by Miss Evans, Bridge End, Brecon). Reading—Adam Jones ("Welsh) Mr. W.Havard (Bedlwyn) Song—Merrily over the Snow Miss Evans (the "Wharf, Brecon) (Accompanied by Miss Evans, Bridge End, Brecon). Solo keoncertina)-The Slaiden's Pi-ayer Mr. Handley (Brecon) ReadingThe Dignity of Labour Mr. Roberts Song-Fading away Miss Powell (Accompanied by Miss Davies, Bailie). Dialogue-The Publican's Wife and the Drunkard's Wife (Welsh) Misses Emma Evans and Gwen. Jones. Song- The landing of the Pilgrim fathers .Mr T. Jones (Accompanied by Miss Evans, Bailie). Readiiig-Taking a wrong turning Miss Richards Glee-The Slee_p of theflowers Mr. Price and party Song—-Her bright smile haunts me still Miss Janet Morgan (Accompanied by Miss Jane Williams, Trephilip). Reading-The Mountebank (Welsh). Jir. R. Davies (the author) Song-Beautijitl Isle of the Sea Mr. R. Thomas (Accompanied by Miss Davies, Bailie). Glee-Belle Isle march Mr. David Thomas and party Readinoo-The Barrel of Pork Jfr. John Morgan Solo (concertina)—The Bells Mr. Handley Reading (by request)-The Primrose ,¥iss M. Parry ReadinTrying to serve Two Masters Rev. D. Parry j nere were several euuores, mciuamg tne neiie Isle March," which was led by Mr D. Thomas, the old leader of the singing at the parish church. The great feature of the evenings' entertainment seemed to be Mr. Handley's solos on the concertina, for they were evidently much enjoyed by the audience. The Rev. D. Parry proposed, and the Rev. W. Winstone seconded, a vote of thanks to the reverend Chairman for presiding. The reverend gentleman returned thanks, and, in doing so, expressed the gratificatien he had received in officiating as chairman. He had (he continued) been much surprised to find so much. talent in such a small place, and he hoped the meetings would be the means of developing inherent talents. The National Anthem was then sung, and the pro- ceedings, which were most successful throughout, were brought to a close. 0