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

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK. MONDAY Brecon Borough Petty Sessions. Tract Society's Meeting- at Neath. TUESDAY Neath Board of Guardians. La"t day for service for Builth County Court. School Society's Festival at Neath. Sale of Property by Mr. Stooke, at the Hose and Crown Hotel, Hay, at three o'clock. Wr,D.NESL)AY Brecon Regatta, &c. Brynmawr Petty Sessions. Cattle Show at Trecastle. Sale of Property by Mr. P. Davies, at the Yale of Neath Arms, Neath, at three o'clock. THURSDAY Neath Great Fair. SATURDAY Brecon Board of Guardians. Pontneddfechan Fair.

NOTICES. ENTEBPKXZE" has not given us his name and address, in conformity with the rule- of newspaper correspondence. lirynmawr Board of Health meeting, and some other late arrivals, unavoidably held over. EBRATLTM.—h> the letter hcaded The Canal and River Ck," in last week's impression, for the signature SUUN CINQUE" )-CC, (I SUUN CUIQUE. A newspaper, said to have been forwarded its from Llanelly, had not arrived at the time Ice went to press. We are compelled to postponc the commencement of the "Interesting Piary" (referred to in our two last impressions) until next xcceh.

THE ABYSSINIAN EXPEDITION. A WEEK or two since one of our comic publications had an admirably conceived satireuponthepresent state of our relations with Abyssinia. On one side of the picture was presented to our gaze the fabled British lion rampant surveying the scene before him with a proud self-consciousness of power, the attitude recalling to our mind the exclamation put by the poet into the mouth of Alexander Selkirk I'm monarch of all I survey." On the other side were King Theodore in his barbaric grandeur, seemingly guarding a number of miserable-looking and dejected captives, while in the distance was the British lion sneaking off like a cur with his tail between his legs. Of course this is an exaggeration of the real state of things; but, as the story books say, "It is founded on truth." Some twelve years have elapsed since Theodore, having conquered the chiefs of Abys- sinia, became the emperor of that country. In 1862 Mr. Cameron became our consul, shortly after which time a missionary named Stern excited the displeasure of the emperor by remon- strating with him about some act of cruelty. The result of the matter was that the missionary, Consul Cameron, and a number of other persons were thrown into prison. For four years, there- fore, have these men languished in the dungeons of Abyssinia. Four long years! How wearisomely y 11 they must have dragged their slow length along to the minds of the miserable captives, shut out from the beautiful sunlight, immured in a close dungeon, and compelled to breathe its confined and even pestilential atmosphere, instead of the free air of heaven. Four long years And how often during that time has the cheering sunshine of hope beamed on their wearied spirits, the thought of soon regaining their liberty quickened the pulse, brightened the eye, and given a healthful glow to the pale wan face ? Doubtless this has been so times and again. And then as weeks, and months, and years went by, and they seemed as far off as ever from freedom, succeeded the feeling of despair, hope deferred made the heart sick, and death itself seemed preferable to the living death to which they were subject. During all this time it cannot be said that the captives were unthought of, their fate unheeded. Attempts have been made again and again to procure their release, but these have resembled more the con- duct of a too indulgent parent with a spoilt child than that of nation with nation, monarch with monarch. Two years ago Mr. Rassam, who was connected with the discoveries at Nineveh, was sent on a special mission with the view of obtaining the release of the prisoners. He was well received, and a promise was even given that the request should be complied with; but this, I like the proverbial promise, was made only to be broken. Other efforts have also been made, and her Majesty has herself written to the emperor. He has thus been coaxed, and flattered, and bribed, in order to make him a good boy, and persuade him to release those whom he wrong- fully detains. Theodore, however, is proof against all the coaxing and bribing that can be brought to bear upon him. This conduct has made threats and peremptory demands necessary, and now our arsenals, and dockyards, and seaports are all alive with the preparations being made to send out a force to compel compliance with our demands. The time has gone by for us to enquire whether there was any need to involve ourselves in a matter of this kind-whether it was necessary to have had a representative at the court of a bat-hatoufi monarch such as is Theodore. We Îlave now Lj £ aes the fact that a number of our countrymen are wrongfully detained, and subject to the tender mercies .ot pjio who has at times exhibited a refinement of ci-aejitf scarcely to be surpassed. Is this to continue ? A no we, who claim to be tho first kingdom in the world, to be set at defianee by the barbarous emperor of a barbarous country, and to allow our rightful .claims to be disregarded ? vSurely not. It will be no glory to England to subdue such a monarch but it is necessary that the Emperor Theodore, and such as he, should be taught a lesson in regard to the treatment of English subjects which shall not be forgotten for some time to come. In order to accomplish this active preparations are being made for sending out the requisite force. Comparatively speaking, this force will small one-about 10,000 to 14,000 fighting men. There will be, however, a much larger number of camp followers and so on, besides some 10,000 mules or camels. This force is to be supplied from India; while the pack-saddles, guns, and stores of various kinds will be supplied from England. The arrangement is certainly the best that could be adopted. Notwithstanding that India cannot supply ships for conveying the troops, and that these will have to be sent from England, the cost of transporting them from Bombay will be less than from this country. The soldiers also will be more inured to the kind of climate than would those sent from home. The expedition will be under the command of Sir Robert Napier, whose name is a sufficient guarantee that everything will be done which skill and courage can effect. In considering the probabilities of the success which will attend the affair, it seems that more danger is to be appre- hended from the peculiar nature of the country and its climate than from the force likely to be brought against our army. Theodore was at one time a soldier, and his energy and daring were highly spoken of by our first consul in that country. As in many other cases, however, success has intoxicated him, and he has plunged into a life of excess which invariably robs a man of the energy and clearness of intellect required especially in the conduct of warlike operations. Great disaffection also exists amongst his chiefs, who are indeed in rebellion against him, and it is computed that the force he would be able to bring into the field would be exceed- ingly small. It is, therefore, doubtful whether he will be inclined to stake the clie on a battle. He will probably think that his best chance is in leading his pursuers a good chase, and his object will be, no doubt, to endeavour to entangle them in the vast jungles which abound in the country, leaving fatigue, possible scarcity of food, and the unhealthy climate to do their deadly v-ork of decimating and enfeebling the invading force. Concerning the climate, very disheartening ac- counts have been given by correspondents of the daily journals, and warnings have been given of the various parasites which there abound, and produce all sorts of complaints. It is to be hoped that these statements are, at least, overdrawn. Much, however, will depend upon the thorough efficiency of the medical department, into which it is of the utmost importance that nothing savouring either of false economy or red-tapeism should be imported, but every arrangement made which is likely to conduce to the health and comfort of every individual comprising the force. In addition to the disadvantage which the nature of the climate presents, there is yet another of moment, and that is, that we are entering a country about which we know little or nothing. To combat these difficulties we could scarcely have had better men than those who will have the conduct of the expedition, while they will have had practical experience of the peculiarities of jungle warfare. Recent accounts state that the captives are separated from King Theodore, and, it is supposed, by the rebels. This, however, is but conjecture. What may happen before the expedition can land on his shores cannot be foreseen. The King may be killed, and the captives released; or when he finds a superior force invading his country Theodore may think discretion is the better part of valour, and yield up the captives. Nothing of this kind can be counted on, and it is our duty still to go on with the preparations for the expe- dition. The expense, it is true, will be enormous but his barbaric majesty must be made to reim- burse this country for the expense to which it has been put. Whether he can be made to do so or not, in a matter of this kind the money pert of the question is not the only one to be considered. This matter affects not only the honour of the country—the safety of Englishmen in this and other parts of the globe—but appeals to our common humanity. It was not possible for us longer to sit idly by and witness the sufferings of our fellow-countrymen without bringing something more than moral force to bear upon the author of this outrage on Englishmen, and representatives of her Majesty. Intelligence has been received by the British Embassy at Constantinople, announcing the liberation of the captives, at the intercession of the Armenian Bishop Isaac. As yet this statement has not been confirmed, and it must be received with some degree of caution. If it turn out to be true, it will be received with much joy by the people of this country. There will then be no further need for the expedition, but the prepara- tions will not have been fruitless if they have led to this result. Reparation, however, must still be made by the Emperor Theodore for his cruelty to the captives, and for the expense to which he has already put this country.

LITERARY NOTICE. "THE WAY TO HEALTH AND LONG LIFE;" by J. Evans Smith, ill-R.C.S.,L.SA., &c. The little work before us is a populir treatise on indigestion," and the object of the w ork, as gathered from the preface, I- is to convey information, and give a few plain rules to those who are entirely ignorant of these matters; to enable them to know when and how they may cure themselves, and when they had better call in medical aid." The subject is one of much interest, as there are hundreds or thousand-, of persons suffering from indigestion, who might, with a little attention to a few plain Ailes, enjoy the best of health. Tne plan of this work is as f Hows :-In the first place an explanation is F-.1ven of the te-ms digestion and indiges L'n, follow, d by an outline of the anat my and physiology of the digestive organs. Next com«s a description of the causes of thu malady, and remarks are made on diet. Trie symptoms (,f indigestion are then arranged in thiee classes, followed by the treatment to he observed, and some strictures made on quacks and quackery. Having carefully per used the book we can confidently recommend our readers to do the same. The wr iter i> evidently well acquainted with the subject upon which he treats, and writing as he does with the desire of pointing out the breakers ahead," his advice is worta takiug and acting on. If this be done, it is certain that one of the commonest disorders "that flesh is heir to" may to a great extent be avoided, and that "good digestion" will "wait on appetite, and health on both." The strictures on quacks and quackery are not at all too severe, and the revelations which sometimes are made concerning them would we should think be sufficient to deter every thoughtful persou tromseekitig triiraid. The remarks on the necessity of attending to the skin are must true, and the directions given could be carried out by almost everyone. Altogether we should think the book would be a most useful one.

LOCAL INTELLIGENCE. A NARROW ESCAPE.—On Saturday night last, between, eight and nine o'clock, while the heavy rain- fall prevailed- and drenched everything that was exposed to it, a WQmpji was endeavouring- to screen herself from its extreme inclemency under the pro- jecting corner of the roof of the house si te entry into Church-street from the High-street. While there 1 a horse and cart came out from Church-street, and the driver, t observing the woman, was about to turn the corner very sharply, thus threatening to crush her against the wall. The woman, however, sud- denly observing her perilous position, uttered a timely shriek, and the driver checked the horse on the instant. Several persons, on hearing the screams, rushed to the I spot, and discovered that the woman, though much irightened, had only sustained a slight injury on one of her arms, LAND TAX COMMISSIONERS.—By an Act passed in July, the following additional commissioners were appointed:-For the county of Brecon: Mr. Jenkin Rhys, Yskibborfawr; Mr. David E. Williams, Hir- wam Mn Wm. Davies, Hirwain the Rev. Thomas Walters, Yystradgynlais. TIIS REGATTA.-Our readers will not forget that IVeclncsday next, the 11th inst., is the day fixed upon for this event. Should the weather prove favourable we may expect a large influx of visitors into our town. The programme, which has been issued, leaves nothing to be desired, and the affair will no doubt be a great success. CENTRAL WALES RAILWAY.—The half-yearly meet- ing of the shareholders of this company was held on Saturday, at Shrewsbury. The report of the directors stated that considerable progress had been made during the half-year towards the completion of the station accommodation, and the line generally had been put in condition to meet the requirements of the through traffic, which would be thrown upon it on the opening of the Central Wales Extension line to Llandovery. The extension was opened for traffic to Llanwrtyd in May last, and the works on the re-' mainder of the line are so far advanced that it is confidently expected the line will be opened through- out to Llandovery in January next, in which event the Central Wales and the Knighton Railways will become amalgamated. The Chairman (Sir Charles Rouse Boughton, Bart.) moved the adoption of the report, the resolution being seconded and carried unanimously. THUNDER. STORM.—Throughout the whole of Satur- day last the weather w,s very sultry, and about eight o'clock in the evening the rain fell in torrents for about three-quarters of an hour, flooding the streets, choking the drains, and thereby inundating the lower parts of many houses. With the rain there was a little thunder, and a few flashes of light- ning, but this seemed some distance off. The follow- ing day was beautifully fine, but the sun was very powerful and scorching. Once or twice heavy thunder clouds were seen, but they did not come to anything. On the Monday evening some few flashes of lightning were seen and a few claps of thunder heard. Early on Tuesday morning, however, the rain again came down in torrents, completely washing the streets, and was accompanied by thunder of a very heavy description, peal succeeding peal, and lasting for several seconds. The lightning also was very vivid, and the flashes followed in quick succession. After lasting for about a couple of hours, the storm gradually subsided, but, as on Sunday, the swollen appearance of the river betokened the vast quantity of r"in that must hive fallen even in so short a time. CRICKET MATCH.—BRECON AND HEREFORD.—This was a return-match played on the Brecon ground on Thursday and Friday, August 29th and 30th. The Brecon eleven played in their usual good style, as will be seen by the score attached. Mr. Price was rather unfortunate in the first innings, but made a very good stand in the second for 56 runs. Mr. Hutchinson, Mr. O'Hara, and Mr. North batted well, and the slow bowling of Capt. P. Lloyd, together with the dodgers of Mr. Price, took effect. Mr. Evan Jones, as long stop, did his work admirably, giving the Hereford men only five byes in the two innings. Several good catches were taken by Mr. Braddon, Mr. Wright, and Mr. Evan Jones. The Hereford gentlemen also played in good style Mr. Stanhope, Mr. Wight, Mr. Carless, and Mr. Sharp batting in their usual form. The following is the score :—■ 1st Innings. BKECON". 2nd Innings. E. A. Wright h w b Nice 31 c Kcmpson b Wight 17 Hutchinson b Thomas 13 c Nice b. Nice 20 W.J. Price b Thomas 4 c Wight b Nice 56 John Lloyd c Stanhope b Thomas. 9 c Carless b Wight. 10 Penry Lloyd c Lewis b. Nice 7 Bowled Nice 0 Capt. C. Lloyd lb w b Nice 8 Run out 3 J. O'Hara c Thorpe b Wight 19 bNice 0 Evan Jones c Wight b Nice 4 b Nice 2 John James b Wight o c Wight b Nice 0 Wm. Morris b Nice. 0 Not out 0 Harold North not out 3 b Wight 16 Extras 25 Extras 18 123 142 1st inning's. HEKKFORD. 2nd innings. J. Carless, c E. Jones, b P. Lloyd 4 b J. W. Price. 24 Price, c C. Lloyd, b Lloyd 2 b P. Llovd 5 E. Wight, b Price 4 c C.Lloyd,bP.Lloyd '34 Stanhope, not out 12 c W. Morris 2 Sir H. Croft, c and b P. Lloyd 1 b J. W. Price 7 1-1. Thomas, c O'Hara, b P Lloyd 7 c and b Price. 3 Thorpe, c Price, b P. Lloyd 12 run out 3 H. Lewis, run out 6 run out 0 A. Kcmpson, I b w, b Price 2 b P. Lloyd 0 V. G. Martin, b P. Lloyd 0 c and b J. W. Price 0 G. Barnett, c Wright, b O'Hara 10 not out 0 Extras 5 Extras 9 Go 87

BRECON TOWN COUNCIL. A monthly meeting of the Board of Health was held on Monday morning at the Town hill. His Worship the Mayor, J. Davies, Esq., presided, and there w< re also present Mes.-rs. J. Prot hero, S. Can- sick, H. C. Ilicn, J. Moiris, S. Trew, W. De Winion, and Dr. Lucas. THE WATER, WORKS. Tbe Town. Clerk stated that these works were pro- gressing favourably and rapidly. With regard to the Cilwhybert reservoir, he was assured that it would be ready in three weeks. THE NATIONAL EISTEDDFOD. The Mayor said be had to claim their indulgence for a short time, while he brought before them a matter in which he was sure they would feel as much interested as he did. During the last few days a number of the inhabitants of the town had called his attention to the National Eisteddfod to be held at Carmarthen, and urging the importance of taking steps to induce the council of the Eisteddfod to hold their next meeting at Biecon. For his own part he considered that there was no town that had claims greaer than the one they represented. When spoken to on the subject he considered that those with whom he was associated were the proper persons to be con- sulted, and that in anything that was done they should take the initiative. He thought the town would co- operate with them; and he had also seen the railway authorities on the matter, who had assured him that if successful in getting the Eisteddfod there, they would place themselves in their hands to do what was liberal. He had also been requested personally to see some of the representatives of the council who met that evening, or on the morrow, and if it were the wish of those present he should be willing to do so, although he had no intention of going there. Mr. De Winton asked who were the committee to whom application should be made. The Mayor replied that it was the council of the Eisteddfod who were now meeting at Carmarthen. The Town Clerk remarked that it was called the Grand National Eisteddfod, and was held alternately in North and South Wales. All the celebrities in that part of the country were on the council. Mr. De Winton asked if there would be auy building suitable for holding it in. 0 The Mayor said there would be no building suitable fur holding it in any town in the Principality. A place would have to be provided. He did not think they need hesitate to guarantee such a sum of money as would be expected from a town like that, and he should be perfectly willing to exert himself in the matter. Mr. Prothero moved that the Mayor be deputed to wait on the council and urge on it the claims "f Brecon for holding the next Eisteddfod in 1869. He had no doubt the town would come out with their subscriptions. They were a Welsh town, and of course were not backward in this retpect. Mr. Cansick, in seconding the motion, said he felt arateful to the Mayor for bringing thesubject forward, and they must not lose sight of the advantages which the town would derive if they were successful in their application. Even if they w, re not, it would show the disposition on the part of the inhabitants. They would have to guarantee a certain amount of subscriptions, aud he had no doubt the appeal would be responded to. The motion was carried, and it was suggested that Mr. Prothero should accompany the Mayor. THE CAMDEN LIOAD, The Mayor staed tnat Mr. Cobb had called on him, and poin'ed out a sec: ion in the Brecon an i Merthyr Railway Act, by which they were empowered, when t,he road now called Camden-road should be completed to the satisfaction of two Justices of the Peace, to hand it over to the Board. He told Mr. Cobb if they were compelled by Act of Parliament to take the road, that was an eiii.] of it. Apart from that, however, it a road were fur the public advantage he thought it better for it to be under the local authority. If the road were passed by their surveyor it Vvould be no douht taken by the Board. It was therefore for the council to determine as to whether they would take to the road. A communication from Mr. Cobb with reference to the matter, and also the resolution of the Company requesting the Board to take to the roa.d on it being placed in repair, or such a sum as might be agreed upon for putting it in repair being lodged with the surveyor, were then read. Mr. Prothero thought the road would be very useful, and that it would be their duty to take to it. The attention of the Railway C'mpany should however be called to the tUfLiug- up from the Abergavenny road, the angle there being very acute, and in its present state dang. rous. Mr. Morris objected to their being called on by the railway to take the road, and thought this was of a piece with the rest of their conduct towards the Board. It was not a small thing they were called upon to do. It was not merely the taking to the road, but there was the sewerage and drainage connected with it. The Mayor thought that these would be matters which they would impose on the company. He did not thiiik Mr. Kirk would advise them to take the road vvitbout that being eone. Mr. Morris If you run a sewer within 60 feet you can compel them to drain into it. The Mayor We are speaking of the draining of the road now. Mr. Morris repeated that they must go within 60 feet of the property there before they could compel them to drain into their sewer. He though they should aci cautiously, and not take steps for adopting the road without well considering the matter. They were even now very heavily burdened with taxes. Mr. Kirk was asked as to the condition of the road, and said he was riot prepared to repoit on it. A convt rsation of a very desultory character ensued as to the course to b;' adopted in reference to the road, the wording of the resolution of the Railway Company also causing some d'scussion. It was eventually decided that the matter should be adjourned to the meting of the Board on Tuesday fortnight, the surveyor being instructed to make a survey of the road, and report on its condition. THE RATE COLLECTOR. In reply to Mr. Morris, The Town Clerk stated that the collection of the rate was in a very us satisfactory state. There was nearly a year's rate due. Mr. Trew said their collector had had a good deal of trouble in the early part of the year. They were now, however, in September, and the r,ite ought to have been collected bv that time. Since their cooimittee meeting in July they found that upwards of ZCIIO had been paid in and £38 had that day been paid in. That was out of a sum of £ 1000. They could not. carry on the affairs of the town without they hid money, and it ought by this time to have been col- lected. There was about E900 still due, and he would give noiice that if, by their next meeting, about half that sum were not collected, he should move that their collector be discharged from his office. Mr. Cansick wished Mr. Trew to make a little amendment in his resolution. At present it was a little strong, and he thought it would be well to make this condition—that he make every effort to get in half the balance, and that he report at their next meeting the parties on whom he had called, and who refused to pay the rate. It was possible he might call on people and yet not be able to see th,, m or get the money. If Mr. Trew would make this alteration in his resolution, he would second it. Mr Trew said the collector's books could not be depended upon at all. He had given them the names of many who were stated to be in trrears they had gone to those persons, and they said they had paid. Unless they adopted strong measures, they would never know what they were aoout. The committe had acted very leniently with the collector-more hniently than he hoped they would with anyone else. They were in this state that very few of the tradesmen would trust the Board. It it were nJt that some of the officers of the Board stood better than the Bo ird he did not know ho w they would get on, The Mayor pointed out that Mr. Cansick would have a perfect right to move a resolution modifying Mr. Trew's, if ne thought fit, at their next meeting. After some little discussion Mr. Trew's mo.ion was carried. THE WATER WORKS. The Town Clerk read a letter from Mr. Thomas Thomas, of the Castle Farm, staling that be was abour to sow wheat in his field which was adjacent to the water works, and calling on the Board to erect a proper fence so as to prevent tre-passing. The request was ditected to be attended to.

BRECON BOARD OF GUARDIANS. The usual meeting of this Board was held on Satur- day morning, at the Town Hall, W. Perrott, Esq., presiding. There were also present J. Prothero, Esq., Lewis Hughes, Esq., Messrs. Thomas Evans, F. Watkins, A Powell (St. John's), David Morgan (Merthyr Cynog), D. Price (Llangastv Talyllyn), Philip Morgan (Llanfihangel Nantbran), Thomas Smith (St. David), and Thomas Griffiths (Glyn). VAGRANTS. The number of vagrants during the last fortnight had been 107. Mr. Prothero a-ked whether the master could tell him now how much the vagrants cost the hou-e. Mr. Williams said it was lid. per head. Mr. Evans remarked that almost every one of these tramps came from Budth They seemed to have been taking the benefit of the Builth wells. (Lautrhter.) The Master stated that there was LOIV plenty of work for them to do. THE CHAPLAIN'S JOURNAL Shewed that Divine service hid been performed on August 19th and 28th, by'the Rev. W. Parry, Christ College. J' THE VISITORS' BOOK Stated that they had found everything in good order. From the unfortunate state of one inmate, however, the ward was rendered very unpleasant. It was stated that there were no means of avoiding this, and the matter was not pursued. WATER SUPPLY. Mr. Prothero called attention to the supply of water, and said he thought their condition in this respect was a disgrace to the Board. He hoped steps would be taken to bring the water into the house. The Chairman asked what the expense would be. Mr. Prothero said private individuals were getting it brought in to their houses without going into the expense. Mr. Powell said they did not know at all when they should have the water. There were no signs of it at present. At any rate they ought to know what expense it would be. Mr. Hughes did not think they should go headlono- into the question. They had a contract for the Infir- mary, and why should they not know what expense this would be. The Clerk I think all public bodies ought to be provided with a good supply of water. a Mr. Hughes We do not object to that, but we ought to know what will be the expense. Mr. Prothero adopted a suggestion made, and gave notice that he would introduce the subject at the next meeting, it being directed that in the meantime enqui- ries should be male as to the cost of having in the water. THE MASTER'S JOURNAL. The Master called attention to the case of an old woman named Rosa Evans, who lived at the King William, who wished to be admitted to the house. It appeared that she had a pension of 5s. per week, and it was decided sbe should be admitted to the house, if 4s. of the amount were paid weekly to the Board, An application was made for half a dozen women's hose aid a like number of girl's hose, which were granted. The Medical Officer had visited the house on the 18th and 27th inst. There had been 5 admissions, and 2 discharged, leaving 76 in the house, an increase of 8 on the corres- ponding period of last year. Cost of maintenance, ■2s 9id. COMMUNICATIONS. The Clerk read a letter from Messrs. Barnard, Thomas, and Co., of Bristol, asking for payment of £ 29 5s. 9d. on behalf of Frederick Hodges, who had made an assignment tor the benefit of his creditors. It was decided not to grant the application till that amount became due at the end of the quarter. The Clerk likewise read a letter from the Poor Law Board, referring to the report of Mr. Jones, the district auditor, in which he said that one surety of Mr. N. Smith, relieving officer, was dead, and calling upon the Board to take steps for requiring Mr. Smith to provide a new surety and execute a new bond and for obtaining security from Messrs. Powell and Morgan, assistant overseers of Llanddetty and L'anvilo. The requisite order was th(n made, and also in the case of Mr. T. Davies, who it was stated by the auditor had only one surety. A letter was likewise received from the Poor Law Board, enclosing a general order giving power to Boards to appoint certain subordinate officers without obtaining the sane ion of the Poor Law Board. A letter was also received from the Swansea Union in reference to a man named William Williams, who had been removed to Brecon, but who had returned and become chargeable to the Swansea Union, and asking to be authorised to pay him 3s. per week, to be repaid quarterly, and also the expenses of his funeral if he died while there. The Board declined to relieve the man out of the Union, and the clerk was directed to write a reply to that effect. THE INFIRMARY. Mr. Prothero reported that he had inspected the Infirmary, and the contractors were getting on very well with the building. It had been suggested that cupboards should be supp'ied to each room, and Mr. Williams had prepared a drawing of the kind proposed. Mr. Williams produced the plan, and stated that the cost would be £1 53. 8d. each cupboard. After some conversation as to whether it was necessary for the cupboards to have locks, it wa-* decided, on the motion of Mr. Hughes, seconded by Mr. Evans, to adopt the suggestion. This concluded the business. The next meeting is to be held at the Union,

BRECON POLICE INTELLIGENCE. BOROUGH PETTY SESSIONS, MONDAY, before J. DAVIES, E-q. (Mayor), and J. PROTHERO, Esq. (Ex-Mayor). A YOUNG TRAMP.-Lewis Phillips, a s'urdy youth, was charged under the Vagrancy Act with destroying his clothes. Mr. D. W. J. Tteomas, solicitor, appeared on behalf of the Guardians. It appeared the prisoner had beenadmiu ed into the workhouse about five o clock on Saturday evening last, and.during the night he was kept with three or four othur tramps. On the Sunday morning the master visited them, and found that the prisoner had torn up his clothes all. but his trousers. The master questioned him respecting his conduct, and the prisoner said that if they did not give him break- 8 ast pretty quickly he would smash the windows for them.— The Bench sharply repllln mded prisoner for his conduct, and committed him to prison, with hard labour, for fourteen d <ys. CAUD PLAYING ON S u,"DAY, -Howell Williams, Thos. Lewis, and John Price, three boys, were charged with trespassing and committing wilful damage to the amount of 3d., in a yard, tne property of James Law- rence. P.C Poyntz said that on Sunday, the 18th August, about half-past twelve o'clock, ho saw the three lads in the yard belonging to Mr. Lawrence, in Mill-street, and each of them had cards in his hand They saw him over a wall coming toward j them, and they ran away. -Mr. Lawrence had informed him that they were there; they must have got into the yard over the wall, as the gCite was locked.—Mr. Lawrence proved the d unage, and said it was very trifling, and he did not wish tie lads to be punished very severely. —Their Worships threatened the lads wish punishment if they WI re again brought before them. and said they did not know whether they wou'd do right in not punishing them that time. The mothers of the boys were ordered to mind that the defendants attended some Sunday school for the future, and the lads were discharged. RENEWAL OF LICENSES.—A number of licenses were again granted to-day, and of those to which exception was taken, the following were renewed: — The Siiif) Inn," by William Hewitt; Bull Inn," by John ONenj "Fox and Hounds," by Thomas Davies. Each of these had been convicted f"r selling beer during pro- hibited hours on Sunday, and were reported by Super- intendent Lee to be badly conducted. The Bench, however, after commenting on the evil of s'dling beer on the Sunday, which they denounced in very strong terms, and impressing upon the applicants the necessity of conducting their business with greattr propriety, granted a renewal of the licenses, at the same time stating that if the applicants were again convicted, they would on no condition grant a further renewal of the licenses. 11 THE CRICKETERS' ARMS.—In reference to this house the Mayor said it was different from any of the other houses which had been under their notice. Never since he had had anything to do in public life had he grieved so much as lie had in consequence of the fright- ful tragedy which had occurred in that house so recently. He should ever feel deeply, and regret that the town authorities and the magistrates had been censured by the Judge for ever having allowed a house of that description to exist in the town at all. After consideiing that a man lost his life at the house in the middle of the night-and if the occurrence had not proved latal, he had every re ,son to think that affray would have passed off unheard of, or at least unpunished he felt bound to refuse the renewal of the license. Its position, toe, Was such that it was impossible that they could grant a renewal of the license, and do their duty towards the public. The Ex-Mayor thought that, situated as the Cr.cketers' Arms was, it was of no public use whatever.—The renewal of the license was accordingly refused. ADJOUllNED. III consequence of the absence of Peter Powles and Ann Pritchard, the respective keepers of the Blue Boar and the Square and Compass, the granting of their licenses was adjourned to Thurs- day week. c' "7-. -1:dl'Wa. ,"=J"<¡'

DEFYNOCET HIGHWAY BOARD.-On Thursday morning a meeting of the ex-officio members of this Board was held for the purpose of selecting tenders foe the erection of a bridge at Llandilo Vane. There were present W. Rees, Esq., Capt. Jones, Lewis Hughes, Esq., D. Jeffreys Powell, Esq.. and the Rev. W. Winstone. There were four tenders presented, yiz, Evan Evans, Y,72 Evan Davies, f-45 Lewis Parry, L-75 and Thomas Davies, £50. That of Evan Davies a: £ 45 was accepted. ASSESSED I AXES.- V. Rees, Esq,, Capt. E. Jones, Lewis Hughes, Esq and Thomas Evans, K,q., of Brecon, Commissioners of Assessed Taxes, sat on "Thursday af, erIioon and heard a number of appeals. The prowedings had no public interest. CONCERT.—Tne Ystradgynlais Glee party gave a musical entertainment in ttie long room of the Bull's Head Inn, on Wednesday, the 28 h instant. The whole of the pieces were well rendered, several being encored. The conductor was Mr. J. Watkins (Eos Glan Cynlais). The following was the programme:- PART I. DefTryr Wawr., Chorus. Foresters Sound." Chorus. Y ,\Venywen." Can. Fy ngeneth Wen" .Mr. J. R. Rogers. Chorus.. Awake iEolian Lyre." Duet Hcber" Messrs. Watkins and Rogers. Chorus Yr Haf." PART II. Chorus Now by Days." Can and Chorus O, Rhowch i mi Fwth"Mr. Rogers (Eos Glan Tawe) and company. Can G-wialcii fedw fy mam"Mr. Win. Watkins (Gwilym Cynlais). Chorus 1ST ant y Myny dd. Duet. The Minute Gun at Sea"Miss S. "Williams (Eos Glan Twrch) and Mr. Rogers. Choru Twroli) and Mr. Rogers Hunting Song." Comic Trio Messrs. Rogers and company. Solo and Chorus.Miss Williams and company. Finale God bless the Prince of Wales.

THE EISTEDDFOD Was held (through the kindness and liberality of James Dickson, Esq.,) in a spacious outbuilding contiguous to the siation yard at Peny bont, on Wednesday, August 28th, instant. The timber was kindly lent for the occasion by Messrs. Dickson and Prothero. The Eisteddfod had been the topic of conversation for some time in the neighbourhood, and manifold were the surmises made concerning it by the public in general, nevertheless the large number of competitors' names (nearly three hundred), and the very large attendance, reudered the meeting a perfect success, which far exceeded the most sanguine hopes of the committee. The arrangement of the seats, the building of the plat- form, &c., was made according to the plan and able direction of Mr. Rees Davies, surveyor, Stnny Bridge, who also acted together with his colleague (in office), Mr. E. T. J. Elias, as treasurer. John Prothero, Esq. Ex-Mayor of Brecon, presided, and Mr. D. T. Williams (Tydfylyn), of Merthyr, was the adjudicator of the music, poetry, essays, dialogues, recitations, &c. The first meeting cotamene ed at half-past nine o'clock. On the platform we observed, during the day—David Jeffreys Powtll, Esq., Bronllys Court; T. Jones, Esq. and T. Williams, Esq M D., Senny Bridge; J. W. P. Williams, Esq., Danygraig; Mrs. James Dickson and Master R. Dickson, Penybont; D. Morris, Esq. Miss Prothero and Mrs. Rees, Brecon Rev. W. Rowlands, Gwynfe; Mr. T. P. E ias, Senny Bridge; Mr. and Mrs. Rees Jeffreys, and Mr. R. M. Jones, Trecastle- Mr. T. Jeffreys, (Sclydach); Mr. and Mrs. William Jeffreys (Bailie Senny); Mr. D. Jeffreys (Noyadd) Mr. M. Thomas, Aberseimy; Mrs. Evans, Ynisybont; Mr. O. Price and Miss Price, NLtityrharn; Superin- tendent Price, Brecon; Miss Davies, Bailie; the Misses Stephens, Bull Inn, Devynnock; the Misses Jones, Penbryn; Miss Morgan, Gilfach;Miss Stephens, Pant- g'as; Mr. H. Price, Llwynstjffilin; Mr. and Mrs. H. Price, Maestlwydrt; Mr. J. Davies, Abersevin; Mr. and Mrs. Davies, Forgf, Brecon; Miss Evans, B, idgeiid, Brecon, and Miss Josep i (Graigcoch), &c. Most of the ladies presented the successful competitors with the badges which contained the prizes. The worthy Chairman, in hia opening address, re- marked that they had made him a prince that day, and he hoped they would all prove faithful and obedient subjects, and all endeavour to keep good order, with- out which their Eisteddfod would be of little benefit or amu-ement. As there were some English friends present he would make a few remarks in their language during the day, and he hoped they would sympathize with their Welsh friends, and allow them to give vent to their feelings. (Loud cheers.)_ Mr. Robert Rees (Eos Morlais) then sang "Hen Wlad fy Nhadau" in good style, the audience joining most heartily in the cborus. The worthy Chairman again addressed the meeting, and said this was the national demonstration by which they showed their love for their country and language. What could elevate a man more than this. look at the Romans, tne Picts, and the Scots. Where were they now? If it was not for the love of their country it would be the same with them (the Welsh). There was Caradoc, and a host of others—princes, poets, heroes, &c., w ho figured in the history of their country some centuries ago. Some people would call it their pride to speak thus; but was it not n'atural? was it not innate? Os anghofiaf fy iaith a'm gwlad anghofied fy nehulaw ganu." There was more preach- ing, printing, and reading in the Welsh language now than ever. He would advise every Welshman to learn as many languages as he could, but not forget his mother tongue. Let them keep that up in its purity. As a religious and moral nation be believed the Welsh to be A 1 with any country on the face of the earth. (Loud cheers.) Messrs. William Davies, Creigfryn; John Thomas, Senny Bridge; and other bards, now addressed the chair in poetic language. The Judge then gave his adjudication on the Elegy Ir of the Rev. Timothy Davies, late Vicar of Devynock. There were four competitors, and the prize was awarded to Mr. David Jones (Dfwi Morfa),Penycac, Glyntowy. Then came the competition for the best singinf of the s.)10 and quartetr, The Oak." Seven parties competed, and the prize was awarded to Mr. Rees Davies (Sennv Bridge) and party. Next came the recital of '• The Tower of Babel." Five persons competed, and Mr. Thomas Powell (Cwmuewynydd) took the prize. Then came the competition for the best singing of the bass solo, "Yr hwnaferc yg, &c." Twenty-eight names had beed sent in to the secreta-y, Mr. Rees Morgan, but only about ten fang, and the prize was divided between Messrs. D. Jenkins and D. Evans, of Trecastle. Mr. Williams (Tydfylyn) then gave his adjudication on the C'ssay upon "The Influence of Habit." Four competed, and the best was Mr. Daniel Lewis (Blaen- cray). A piizo ofzl was then offered for the most perfect singing of the congregational tunc, "Mount Street." Four choirs competed, viz., Glandwr, Trecastle, the Tabernacle (Dcfynock), and the Trinity (Defynock). The second took the prize. Talsarn choir appeared on the stage, but they were objected to, because the singers w.'re not from the same congregation. Then came the adjudication on the "Elegy of the late David Jones, ot Cray." Only one compc-ted,- Mr. William Powell (Waugoch, Cray). According to the programme, Mr. Rees Davies sing an original song, "Thirty years ago," which was deservedly encored, and he then sang another of his own songs, "Thomas Shon Philip," and was again high'y applauded. Then followed the adjudi ation on the poem on "The Clock." There were seven competitors, but neither proved worthy of the prize. Next came thf singing of the duet, The Echo Stone." Four parties competed, and the prize was divided between Messrs. T. Price and T. Jones (Detynock) and Messrs. David Evans and David Jenkins (Trecastle). The next was a recitation, "Stand on thy own footing." Six competed, and the prize was divided between David Davies and Ann Jenkins (Treeastle). A prize of 5s. was next offered for the best singing of the air Jabez." The singers to be above 45 years of age. Only two appeared, viz., Mr. David Thomas (Nantymadog, Dfefynock) and Mr. Thomas Powell (Tynyberllan, Llanfihangel Nantbran). The singing of both was so good that the prize was divided between th< m. The Judge then read his adjudication on "The History of Samuel," written by lads under 18 years of age. He had received four. The first prize was awarded to William Davies (Trecastle) and the second to Powell (Waugoch, Crav). The next prize was offered to the four who would smg best at sight. Six parties competed, and the prize was divided between Messrs. Rees Davies and T. Powell and their respective parties. Next citne the adjudication on the Elegy of Mr. John Havard. Four competed, and Mr. T. Morgan (Glanllynfell) proved the best. Then came the prize for the best song, on "The Neath and Brecon Railway," in English or Welsh. Two competed, and the prize was awarded to Mr. R. Thomas (Defynock). And now came the most exciting part of the Eisteddfod,—the singing of the gleeMai," which concluded the morning meeting. Four choirs com- peted, viz., Llanddensant, Trecastle, Dovvnock, and Blaina (Glyntowy). Each of the parties'sang quite correctly as to the music, but differed in taste, style, and expression, and the prizes were awarded accord- higly. Tne first priz•) was divided between Trecastle choir ("hich was ahly led by Mr. Robert Rees) and the Blaina choir. The Llanddensant took the second prize. The Evening Meeting commenced about half-past two o'clock. Mr. Rees (Eos Morbtis) began the proceedings with the song, "Beat the iron when'tis hot" with admirable effect. The Chairman then addressed the crowded audience on the subject of Eisteddfodau, and remarked that his English friends could not well understand them. It was an old custom of the country, and the Welsh people reverenced old eu-toms. They were for the purpose of keeping up the spirit of emulation in Welsh poetry, music, oratory, &c. Look at the Irish and Scotch nations. They had lost their pulpit and their press, while they (the Welsh) prided themselves on having retained theirs. There were more periodicals, newspapers, &c., printed in the Welsh language now than ever there were before. Some peopie said the Welsh language would die away, but that was not his opinion. The English press had been dealing very hardly with their Eisteadfodau, speaking of them in terms of disdain and contempt but this arose from their ignorance of the Welsh nation. (Great applause.) Mr. Williams read his adjudication on the best com- position of a short metre congregational tune. Thirty- two tunes had been received, and the prize was .awarded to Mr. B. W. Jonr-s, CourtGilbert, Glyntarrell. The next was the competition on the solo and quartette from Christy's Minstrels." Miss E. Jenkins, of Trecastle, and party, sang Come where my Love lies dreaming" so well that the other parties competing did not make an appearance. ° For the best three verses on "The Farmer" Mr. John Thomas (Senny Bridge), took the prize, there being three competitors. In the competition of the dialogue styled Dafydd Plas y breci" three parties competed, and Messrs. David Havard (Brychcoed), and Roger Havard (Bedlwynx, got the prize. Next came the adjudication en the Historical Novel" (Welsh). Two competed, and the prize was awarded to Mr. Rees Davies (Senny Bridge). Two juvenile choirs from Trecastle and Devynock, and respectively led by Messrs. Robert Rees and Rees Morgan, competed in the singing of 11 Ehodydd bach Mwyn." Both sang remarkably well, but the prize was awarded to the former. Then came the adjudication on the Elegy of the late Rev. David Evans, Cwmwysg. Seven competed, and the prize was given, we believe, to Mr. David Evans. About fifteen names were entered for the competi- tion of the tenor solo "Telynan m^vyn Cymry." Only ten appeared. Mr. David Evans (Trecastle) succeeded in obtaining the prize. Five competed for the best composition of a senti- mental song, and the prize was awarded to Mr. Thomas Morgan's Tanyrogof. For the bestreadiitgof Welshmalluseript-,ixiiames were entered. Only three competed, and the prize was taken by Mr. Thomas Powell, Cwmnewynydd Tydfylyn then read his adjudication on the poem on "Joseph, the son of Jacob." Of the five authors Mr. David Evans, of Trecastle, proved the best. For the singing of The Well by my Cottage" Miss Jenkins, of I recastle, and party, received the prize. For the essay on "The Elements of Domestic Hap- piness" there were several competitors, but the judge deemed them unworthy of the prize. Miss Ellen Jenkins (Trecastle) sang "The Blackbird" most charmingly, and received the prize. The other competitors made no appearance. And now came the most amusing competition, being the extempore speech on any given subject, which was the old Welsh adage—" The cat is wishful to get the fish, but will not wet her foot to obtain it," Thirteen names had been received, but only two tried for the prize. Two brothers tried their power of oratory; both comprehended the moral Implied, andtheeldtr brother, viz., Mr. William Powell, Waungoch, got the prize. For the recitation of the "Cottage Home" two children from Trecastle had the prize between them. For the elegy on te late Mrs. Margaret Rees, of Devynock,, Mr. David Evans received be prize. Thirteen names had been received for the next com- petition, viz., that of writing any air that would be sung. Toe Adjudicator sang a piece rat/icr slowly, but not slow enough for the writers, who all proved unworthy of the prize. ^'lewP°ptdar Anthem "God bless the Prince of Wales" was now sang by the audience, and terminated the entertainment, which passed off exceedingly well. All the competitions in singing, composition ?&o., were iu the Welsh language, with but two exceptiuns. The promoters ofthc Eisteddfod may justly be congratulated on the happy resul s of their su ccessful labours. The competition was limited to a circuit of ten miles dis- tance, which will be greatly extended in their next Eisteddfod.

PETTY SESSIONS, THUBSDAT, before W. REES, CAPT. E. JONES, LEWIS HUGHES, and D. JEFFHEYS POWELL, Esqrs. SUMMONSES AGAINST THE NEATH AND BRECON RAILWAY. The Neath and Brecon Railway Company was summoned for constructing their line of railway so as to cross on the level of a certain carriage road, near Tycoch, in the hamlet of Cray, and unlawfully erecting gates on each side of the said railway across such roid, without employing proper person's on tbo spot to open and shut the said gates as often as required, Mr. Caulfcild appeared for the company, and denied that the road was a public road. He did not want'to be troublesome, but, the magistrates being oil the Highway Board, they were adjudicating in their own case. Mr. Evans, the clerk, said there was nothing to pre- vent it,