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

ftaty feetk HOBD'S THIATBX.—The "season" at the above place of amusement terminated on Monday last, in many respects to the gratification of the inhabitants of the neighbourhood, the exciting attractions of the entertainmenti4 given having in some instances been the means of leading a few of the visitors into serious difficulties:; and we regret to find by the poliee reports that the means of payment have not always been obtained honestly. We attribute no kind of blame to the managers of the theatre, the company bearing a highly respectable name; but pandering to the vitiated tastes of the uneducated must, as it has already done, injure the too easy morals of the majority of the class who patronise lach exhibitions. THB II }lAYOB'S SUHDAY."—The Mayor, T. Andrew, Esq., and the Corporation attended Divine service at St. David's charch on Sunday morning last, when collections were made on behalf of the Church of England schools of the town. The Rev. David Howells, of Cardiff, preached at both morning and evening servioes, and the collections amounted to AID. The Rev. E. Thomas, of Skewen, officiated ae Lantwit in the afternoon. COBCIRT AW MELIICCBYTHAU.— On Saturday last a concert was given at the Bethel Chapel under the patronage of Messrs. P. Charles, D. Davies, J. B. Davies, J. Williams, Griffith Williams, and David Thomas (G. W. R.), the proceeds of which were to be devoted to the liquidation of the chapel debt. The attendanee was very encouraging, and the con- oert in every particular proved a decided success. We append the programme Glee-" Karch of the Men of Harlech" (J. Barnbg) Dulais Choir. Hanoforte Solo Ap Rhys Bong-" ne ifrst sweet day I met thee" [Farmer) Mr. Charles James. Song—"Yderyn pur" (J. Thomas, Pencerdd Gwalia) Miss Selina Jenkins. Daet-HJohn a lane" [Aktto Dda) Eos Cynlais and Miss R. Williams. Bang-" England's golden days" (J. W. Spohr) loan Dulais. ganig-l' The bloom is on the rye (Sir H. R. Bishop) Ap Rhys. glee-" Alr doa o flaen gwyntoedd" (J. Parry, Pencerdd America) Dulais Choir. Pianoforte Solo Ap Rhys Bong—" Sweet Nightingale Miss B. Williams 8oag—"The Bngbshman"(John Blockley) Ap Bhys Glee-" Y GwanvTn 11 (D. Emlyn Evans) Dulais Choir gazg-11 Morsh, the pride of Kildare" [Parry) Mr. Charles James. Bong—"Village fair" [Bobert Guylott) Eos Cynlais €Hee—" Y BOS" [Alaxo Ddu) Dulais Choir Finale—" God Save the Queen." Oar opinion of the tnlented performers has been so lately before oar readers that we have only to add that no laarels were lost on this occasion. The Dulais choir, as usual, excelled themselves, and the sole performers were both warmly and deservedly appreciated by those present. LAW ^XAHIVATIOK.—We are given to understand that Mr. D. B. Turberville, of the office of Howel: Cuthbertson, Esq., the respected coroner for the western division of this county, has just passed a suecessful law examination. Tiffm LATJI N. B. YATTGHAK, ESQ.—The will of the above gentleman was proved in London on the 28th ult., and the personality of property in the United Kingdom was sworn under £ 60,000. We are glad to learn that he has bequeathed the handsome sum of £500 to the funds of the Swansea Infirmary. SPECIAL COKSTABLBS.—Messrs. William May, Samuel Hunkin, George Madge, Samuel Trick, James Allford, George Spackman, Job Fregard, and William Richards were sworn in as special constables on Mon- day last. The singular part of the selection is that they are nearly all butchers! TUB STATUTB FAIB.—The November hiring fair was held on Wednesday last, when the number of male and female servants seeking engagements far ex- ceeded the usual attendance on similar occasions. A few horses were shewn by the Corporation field, but very little dealing took place. The cattle market was poorly stocked with fat cattle and sheep, and sales- men complained generally of she little business done. In the general market no change from last week's quotations took place, but the supply of all seasonable produce appeared to be far in excess of the demand. Poultry and game were more reasonable in figure than usual. OBDEB OF SERVICES AT ST. DAVID'S CHURCH.- Twenty-fourth Sunday after Trinity, November 22, Morning Voluntary, Quintetto (Palestrina); Venite and Gloria (Elvey) Te Deum (Mercer); Jubilate (Purcell); Kyrie, No. 4; Hymns, 105,205; Volun- tary, Allegro (J. West). Evening: Voluntary, Selection (Flotow) Gloria (Bennett); Magnificat (Dr. Fry) Nunc Dimittis (Moiak) Hymns, 82 (St. Cuthbert), 241 (Austria), 193; concluding Volun- tary, Impromptu (Anon). St. DAVID" Cuujacia.-It will please hundreds of our readers to be informed that a very necessary work has been this week commenced within the above building. It is the close examination of the whole edifice with the view of stopping the draughts that so seriously affect the comfort of the worship- pers, and probaWy prevent the attendance of many. An expensive apparatus for heating has been used every winter, but hitherto with a very limited amount of success. We understand that the roof will now be made air-proof by the introduction of slips of timber where any openings or crevices are found. The casements of the windows are carefully secured for the winter months. HOBSBKBBPBUS BEWABEI-Numerous attempts at housebreaking have taken place in this neighbour- hood lately-in some instances we regret to learn with success—an entry having been forced into one establishment, and the place thoroughly ransacked. On Monday a grocer's shop was broken into in Queen-street, and a cheese stolen; other attempts have been made, judging from appearances, at the back entrances of several houses, and it therefore behoves householders to see to their fastenings," in order, if possible, to baffle the burglars, should a visit be paid. SHOCKING ACCIDEHT.—A serious accident, which is likely to terminate fatally, occurred on Monday at Briton Ferry to the mate of a vessel lying by the landing stage. It appears that one of the men had plaoed a ladder against the stage leading to the vessel, which the mate attempted to ascend while doing so the heel of the ladder slipped, and the mate fell with a frightful crash to the ground, fracturing his skull and otherwise injuring his body. All that medical skill could do was at once carried out, but his injuries almost preclude the possibility of his recovery. CosCIBT AT GLys-NIIATIf. Mr. T. Hopkins, assisted by three other eminent artistes from Swansea, gave a grand concert on Monday evening at the National School-rooms. In consequence of insufficient publication of the entertainment there were only about 150 people present, which is to be regretted, as the performances were quite a treat to those who attended. The singing and pianoforte playing were so much admired and appreciated that almost every piece was honored by an encore." Subjoined is the nrnmmme:— Introduction (pianoforte) Mr. C. Cooke Song-" Rocked in the cradle of the deep" (Weiss) .Mr. M. Gallagan. Song-" Walking in the eve" .Mr. Crapper Song-" Lochnigar" [Byron) Mr. T. Hopkins Song-" Somebody's child" Mr. Crapper Song-" Shake of the hand" .Mr. T. Hopkins Song—" Old sexton" {Russell) Mr. M. Gallagan Song—"Beautiful Nell" Mr. Crapper Selection (Lucrezia Borgia) .Mr. C. Cooke Song—" Will-o-the-wisp (Wei*.?) Mr. T. Hopkins Song—"Man-of-war" [Herr Ivon) Mr. M. Gallagan Song—"Tin pot band" Mr. Crapper Finale—"God save the Queen." Undoubtedly if these gentlemen will give us another evening's entertainment they will be blessed with a well-filled house, and thereby remunerated for their valuable and interesting services.

DIVISIONAL PETTY SESSIONS, Nov. 13, before G. LIBWKLLYN and WK. PBICE STRUVE, Esqrs. NON-PAYMBNX OF WAGBS.—John Daniel Thomas, high- bailiff of the county court for the district of Neath, was summoned by John Melhuish as above. Defendant's plea was never indebted." Complai- nant stated that he agreed to serve defendant for a mouth on trial, to be paid at the rate of 16s. weekly, and at the end of the month, if he remained, to receive wages at the same rate, and also to be provided with stable clothes that he remained in the service of de- Xela4i4wt from 22nd August last to Saturday, the 7th inst., that he had been paid all his wages except the last tfreek, and on the afternoon of Saturday last /he was takep Afld did not go to work that on the evening of that day his master sent him off the premises, and would not pay him his wages for that week. In cross-examination by defendant, complai- nant admitted that he did not tell anyone he was ill that afternoon; that it was in court he had told defendant for the first time. In answer to the Bench complainant said that he had not told Mr. Thomas or any of his family anything about being ill until that morning. Defendant on being sworn stated that on the afternoon mentioned he went off by train, and left word that complainant must meet the 4 p.m. train with the carriage, as visitors were expected; that he did not do so, nor could he be found either at his lodgings or on defendant's premises and in the evening at half-past seven when called upon to account for his conduct he made some paltry excuses, and at last said, doggedly, "hew ouldn't go defendant then ordered him off the premises, and refused to pay him the last week's wages. The summons was dismissed, with costs. EMBEZZLEMENT.- William Jones, late Town Clerk of Aberavon, was charged at the instance of Mr. William Gething, a member of the Town Council of Aberavon, with embezzlement. Mr. Kempthorne appeared to proseeute on behalf of thc- Corporation. The case had been adjourned from the 6th instant in order that defendant might have notice of the summons which had been served at his residence, and now his brother appeared to apply for a further adjournment; but Mr. Kemptborne objected, and the Bench, being satisfied that the summons had come to the knowledge of defendant, issued a warrant for his apprehension. NON-MAINTENANCE OF A WIFE.—Thomas Hopkins was charged by George Jones as above. Defendant did not appear, and the case was adjourned until the next petty sessions. DRUNK AND RIOTOUS .-John Dennis was charged by Superintendent Matthews with the above offence at Cwmavon. Defendant did not appear. P.S. Lougher proved personal service of the ifummors on defendant, and the Bench issued a warrant for his apprehension. John Thomas, of Briton Ferry, was also charged by the same officer with a like offence. P.C. Davies saw defendant last Saturday night in Villiers-street, Briton Ferry, drunk and wanting to fight; he had assaulted two persons passing along, by striking them on the face, and he was locked up by the officer about twelve o'clock. Defendant said, "I didn't know what I was doing." He was fined 20s. and costs, or 14 days' imprison- ment with bard labour. SELLING BEER AT ILLEGAL HOURS ON SDNDAT.— Llewellyn Morgan pleaded not guilty to the above charge. P.C. 11. Castle visited the Star" public- bouse, kept by defendant, at half-past twelve on the morning of the 1st instant, and found eight men and one woman in the house, with bt-er on the table before them. Defendant, in answer to the charge, said: What the police-constable says is true I didn't know it "as so lite.—Fined 20s. and costs, or distress warrant to issue. DRINK AGAIN. Henry Mailer), mate of the schooner British Queen, was charged by Nicholas Roe, master of the same vessel, with threatening his life. Defendant, who was brought up on a warrant, went on board the vessel drunk, on the night of the 12th instant, and behaved in a most riotous manner, fighting with the sailors who came on board with him, and, when remonstrated with by the captain, knocked him down and threatened to kill him he repeated this sort of thing in the morning when sober, and prevented the captain from putting out to sea, he being afraid to sail with defendant, in conse- quence of his violence and threat-Defeiidant, who exhibited the ill-feeling which existed in no small degree, said in defence, that he was drunk and got stubborn when the skipper wanted him to go to bed, but he had no ill-will towards him."—He was ordered to find sureties, himself in .£10 and two suretif-s in g5 each, to keep the peace for three months.—Com- mitted in default. UNLAWFUL FISHING.—John Davies was charged with the above offence; he was brought up on a warrant, issued against him for disobeying a sum- mons twelve months ago.—P.C. R. Castle said on the 8th November, 1867, he was watching the river near Glyn-Neath station, about three in the after- noon, and saw defendant looking into the water and otherwise acting in such a suspicious manner that he went down to where defendant was when he got within a few yards of him he saw him throw away a large gaff-hook, which he produced there was a piece of cord attached to it, and when picked up by the officer it was wet, as if it had recently been in the water.-Fined ze5 and costs, or eight months' imprisonment the gaff to be forfeited.— Money paid. GOING INTO THE LION'S MOUTH.-Ann Hu,qhes, a little girl about 13 years of age, was charged by Superintendent Phillips with stealing a purse con- taining 9s. 7d. Prisoner went to that part of the Borough Gaol occupied by P.C. Williams and family, and, during the temporary absence of Mrs. Williams, took the purse and money from off the table. When apprehended and charged with the offence she denied having any knowledge of it, but afterwards told the wife of P.C. Phelps, who brought her food, that she had hid the money under a stone, where it was after- wards found. Prisoner, who wept bitterly, now pleaded guilty, and was sentenced to 21 days' hard labour.

BOROUGH COURT, MONDAY, before W. J. PLAYER, Esq, Ex-Mayor. SELLING BEER AT ILLEGAL HOURS ON SUNDAY.— William Brown, landlord of the Old Black Cock, was charged as above. The case was adjourned in order that defendant may have time to produce the parties found drinking, who were stated to have been travellers. DRUNK.- William Davies pleaded guilty to a charge of drunkenness preferred by Superintendent Phillips, and said in his defence I had two pints at Melincrytban, and when I came to town I went into The Clock and got drunk at once I don't know what happened.—Defendant was cautioned, and dis- charged.

RELIEF LISTS. The relief lists were very heavy, and the number of new applicants for assistance very large. Orders were made in every case according to circumstances. The Board also consented to allow Mr. Samuel Daniel to take John Thomas as an apprentice to the hairdressing; one month's trial to be allowed.

DB. RUSSELL'S LETTER. The Chairman The first thing we have to con- sider in the public business is the letter of Dr. Russell, complaining that a payment of X5 had been made to Dr. Ryding for extra medical fees. I think it desirable that the letter should be again read. (The clerk read Dr. Russell's letter referred to by the Chairman.) I think, Mr. Lewis Griffiths, that you sent for the medical attendant in this case. Have you anything to say in reference to it? Mr. Lewis Griffiths: I saw the accident, and felt that it was a pity for the poor woman to lay by the roadside in the dreadful state she was in. I at once therefore despatched a messenger for the first medical assistance he could possibly obtain, and he met Dr. Ryding. The Chairman It appears on the face of it very strange that Dr. Ryding should attend a case where Dr. Russell was specially sent for. Mr. Lewis Griffiths I sent for Dr. Russell, but, failing him, the messenger was to bring the first medical assistance he could meet with. The poor woman could not be left there without some medical help. The Chairman Was it not rather an irregularity for Dr. Ryding to go. I think it requires some explanation. Mr. Price May I ask when this occurred? Mr. Griffiths In July last. Mr. Price: How is it we only hear of it now ? It has not been before the Board till last Board day, when the letter from Dr. RusseB was read. Mr. P. Davies: It was brought up this day month. The Chairman Dr. Ryding will explain the circumstances of the case perhaps, for at present I must say it looks very irregular. Dr. Ryding On the day of the accident I was met by the man sent from the accident, and he asked me if I was Dr. Russell. I said, "No." He said he had been sent for a doctor for a woman who was lying by the side of the road with both legs broken. Mr. Thomas was with me. The messenger declined to go to Mr, Russell after having seen me, saying he was sent for any doctor be could find. Mr. Thomas thought it better to go to Mr. Russell, he being the parish doctor. I did not agree with him. Mr. Thomas told Mr. Russell the particulars, and he said he would go. Some considerable time after I met the messenger in Queen-street, and he again urged me to go, as nobody had gone. I therefore ordered a conveyance from the Castle, and wrote a note to Mr. Russell, to the effect that I had gone to the case. I merely went over as an act of charity, and did not expect any remuneration at the time. Dr. Russell My horse was in the gig ready to go. Mr. Thelwall rode into the town after Dr. Ryding, or rather behind him, and preparation was at once made to go to the accident. Dr: Ryding I found Dr. Russell had not gone after the lapse of some time, and I wrote him a note, and went myself as an act of charity. I did not expect any payment for what I did. Dr. Russell: The case was taken out of my hands, and I thought as a private patient. The Chairman Were you prepared to go? Dr. Russell: I was. I went at once and made preparations, and my servant was waiting to drive me to the place. Mr. Ryding had to go and hire a conveyance to take him to the spot. Mr. Player Was the woman a pauper at the time of the accident? The Rev. D. Griffiths t She was not a pauper. Mr. Player Was any order given by the two Guardians? The Rev. D. Griffiths Yes, at the time. Mr. Player Then, after the accident, and she ceased to be ahle to earn her living, she became a pauper then why did Dr. Ryding continue to attend the case. The Rev. D. Griffiths Dr. Ryding attended the case so well that the parish were relieved of main- taining the woman much sooner than might be expected. She is actually able now to walk about without the aid of a stick. Mr. Player It strikes me that unremunerative parish cases go to our medical officer, and others do nol. Some time ago a woman on the Mera had her head cut open by a man. The case A as attended to by Dr, Ryding, but on the following morning it was handed over to Dr. Russell, as it was a parish case, and not. ntit.led to extra pay. The second case is that of a man suffering from an abscess in the neck. Dr. Ryding attended it till the man applied for parish relief, and then the attendance was discon- tinued. He came to me, and said he could get no one to operate upon the abscess. He was a work's patient, and no one would come to cut his throat" for him, for that was what the man really wanted. (Laughter.) Dr. Ryding He said he could not get any relief without a parish doctor. Mr. Player I think, however, the rule is that in any case the doctor should be our own medical officer when any case occurs to which extra fees are attached. Dr. Ryding I attended the case at the request of the Guardians. A Guardian As I understand to do an act of charity. Dr. Ryding Just so, until the two Guardians requested me to continue the attendance. The Board That is quite a different thing. Mr. Price: I do not think we should allow one case to prejudice another, or at any rate by calling up a case not in point with this. The Rev. D. Griffiths: Perhaps the clerk will tell us the law of the question. A Guardian: I propose that this gentleman, Dr. Ryding, be paid the sum of X5. The Board He has been paid. The Chairman The question is not shall he be paid," but, is that payment to regulate future pro- ceedings in the case of medical aid being required. Mr. Price While fully agreeing with all the worthy chairman has said, I think all matters of professional etiquette should be set aside when in a. serious case like this the aid of the first medical man to be got" is sent for, (Hear, hear,) Dr. Ryding: One fact is worth a dozen assertions. Dr. Russell did not go for some time after the messenger came down, and I did. Mr. R. Pardons We are not to enquire, I think, whether the servant has done his duty in refusing to go on to Dr. Russell after Dr. Ryding had been told of the accident, but I fear if we a. e not carefui it will have to go forth to the public that a breach of etiquette, which ought to be explained by one gen- tleman to another, has been the cause of this enquiry. I must utter a disclaimer against this Board being constituted a Board of appeal, for it appears that one person cannot have a word with auother with- out bringing it before this Board. I do not suppose that Dr. Ryding knew who he was going to see. (Hear, hear.) Mr. R. C. Fisher Was the money paid by this Board, or with the concurrence of the second Board? Mr. P. Davies explained, as stated in our last report, why the account was signed by him as chair- man. The Chairman Whatever is done by the officers of this Board it is not right that strangers should interfere. There must be an understanding to that effect, especially in the employment of a medical man. Mr. P. Davies I am glad this subject has been so well ventilated, as it will act as a check in the matter of taking cases out of our own medical officer's hands. Dr. Ryding I regret exceedingly that the letter referred to in this discussion has been written. If Mr. Russell had communicated with me, as he ought to have done, there would have been no occasion for it. I consider it ungentlemanly, unprofessional, and uncalled for on his part. [Dr. Ryding then left the room.] Mr. Gardner referred to the want of professional etiquette in the proceedings, and the Rev. D. Griffiths said in case of any other serious accident he should not send to Neath again for medical assistance if so strong a feeling was shown on a question of such importance. MEDICAL NECESSARIES. Dr. Evans attended from Briton Ferry to ask the Board for power to order necessaries for sick patients without obtaining an order from the relieving- officer. The Clerk was directed to write to Dr. Evans stating how far the Board could authorise him to act in the matter of supplies to the sick. NOTICE OF MOTION. The Rev. D. Griffiths, motion for the re-distribu- tion of the relie vin g -officers' districts, and also the application of Mr. George Jones for an increase of salary, were then brought before the Board. A resolution to appoint a committee to enquire into the subject was proposed, Mr. Price seconding the same. Mr. P. Davies proposed as an amendment that Mr. G. Jones's s ilary should be increased £ 20 per annum. Mr. R. Parsons proposed that no alteration be made in the stipend of the officer. After considerable discussion the amendments were withdrawn, and the original motion to appoint a committee to enquire into the present district arrangements of the officers, and the desirability of re-arranging them, was passed nem. con, the com- mittee to consist of the following gentlemen —The Chairman, Vice-chairman, Mr. Benjamin Evans, Mr. C. Price, Mr. R. Parsons, Mr. W. Jones, Mr. P. Davies, Mr. Gibbins, Mr. Fisher, Mr. Sloan, the Rev. D. Griffiths, and Mr. W. J, Player. RELIGIOUS CREEDS. A letter was read from the Poor Law Board in reference to the master keeping a register of the various creeds" in the house. Mr. Player I don't think the inmates know themselves what creed they are of. Mr. Parsons Do they understand astro- nomy?" (Laughter.) Mr. P. Davies Seven of the inmates go every Sunday to the Roman Catholic Chapel No order or further discussion took place on the letter. THE NUISANCE COMMITTEE. The Clerk read the following letter from the clerk to the Nuisance Committee. "VVater-street, Neath, 16th November, 1868. Gentlemen,—I beg to apply to you for some remuneration for my services as clerk to the Nuisance Removal Committee. It is now 17 months since I was appointed to that office, and up to the present time I have received no compensation, although the duties I have had to perform have occasionally been very heavy. Trusting you will take my application into your favourable consideration, I beg to remain, Gentlemen, your obedient servant, HOWELL CUTIIBBRTSON. To the Guardians of the Neath Union. After some discussion, during which high testi- mony was borne to the active attendance of the clerk, and the amount of labour performed, Mr Gibbins proposed a salary of zel2 per annum, Mr. G. Lewellyn JE15, and Mr. P. Davies X20 per annum. The latter sum was eventually fixed, and the clerk directed to state on the notice cards the days and hours ot meeting in order that the attend- ance of members at the committee might be more numerous than they had hitherto been. MR. HOWELL MORGAN'S ACCOUNTS. The Clerk read the report of the committee appointed to investigate the accounts of the above office as follows NEATH UNION.- At a meeting of the committee appointed to investigate the accounts of the overseer of the hamlet of Neath Lower, held at the Union Workhouse, Neath, on Tuesday, the 10th November, 1868, present: William Jones, Esq. (in the chair), W. J. Player, Esq., A. Price, Esq., F. J. Gibbins, Esq., and Philip Davies, Esq., your committee beg to report that they have examined the accounts of Mr. Long, the overseer of the hamlet of Neath Lower, and find that during the half-year ending 29th September last he received from the poor rates of the parish the sum of £99 8s. Od., and that his disbursements during that period amounted to thE sum of fS7 10s. Id., leaving a balance in his hands of £1117s. lid., to be brought into the next half-year's accounts. Your committee are of opinion that Mr. Thresher was justified in making the enquiry, but that the accounts rendered by thE overseer are perfectly satisfactory, and the last rate made does not appear to be excessive. Mr. Thresher states that the remarks made by him relative to the manner in which the vestry meetings have been conducted had no reference to the period during which Mr. Long has held the office of overseer. WILLIAM JONES, Chairman of Committee. Mr. Thresher then said Gentlemen, on behalf of the ratepayers of that parish, I beg to thank you, and to offer their best obligations to those gentle- men who have so carefully investigated the accounts, The Chairman Do you approve of the report ? The Board: Yes but Mr. Thresher wishes it to be understood that his remarks as to the vestry meetings did not in any way refer to the time that Mr. Long has been connected with them. THE CORONER AND THE RECTOR. The Chaplain of the Union (the rector of Neath) asked permission to address the Board previous to the public business being further gone into. He sa d that be rose to ask the opinion of the Board on a subject very closely connected with his duties as rector of the parish, and with the duties of those who assisted him. The occasion of his doing so arose from remarks which appeared in a paper which gave particular attention to the proceedings of this Board, and which was very largely circulated. It appeared that the coroner of this district, who is also the clerk of this Board, had occasion to hold an inquest on the body of a woman which was found in a deplorable state of want and misery-the par- ticulars of which he had no doubt were fresh in the recollection of those whom he addressed. There was neglect, either self-imposed or otherwise. The enquiry very properly addressed itself to the cause that had led to this sad event, and it extended into an examination of the conduct of those upon whom the strongest responsibilities rested. The husband was examined his revelations of domestic life were very painful he painted the character of his wretched wife in very dark colours indeed, and, such was his representation that the coroner and jury seem to have acquitted him of all blame. The relieving officer's part in the affair was briefly looked into, and he was pronounced innocent in the matter and yet the evidence of the woman Parker was not very complimentary to the behaviour and conduct of this officer when application for relief was on a former occasion made on behalf of this woman.— [The reverend gentleman quoted the evidence from our editi on of the 14th inst.]—He had since made enquiries about these applications, and he had heard that one cause why they had not been renewed was, that there was a fear of approaching the officer; probably there was a consciousness that there was much that was wrong in the case, and that made it difficult to be treated properly. This was the view taken by the coroner, and the conduct of the officer was pronounced to be unexceptionable. Then came what he wished to call the attention of the Board to. It was necessary to place the responsibility on the shoulders of some one, and therefore it was fixed on the broad backs of the clergy. They were pounced upon with the greatest severity and eager- ness. The coroner is reported to have said-amid a great deal which bad been withheld by the reporter, having reference to penny readings and other irrelevant matter, We have a number of clergy whose duty it is to see the poor and the sick, and if they find persons in want they should make them known to the proper authorities, and relief would be given." He (the rector) was never offended with any man who reminded him of his duties, and reminders were ofren beneficial, and he had no doubt that he and his fellow laborers were often deficient in their attention to their numerous and varied duties amid a popula, 'ion of ten thousand persons. He did not object to the association of his name and office with-the wants of all, whatever their creed and con- duct. It was not to this that he wished to ask the attention of those whom he addressed but it was to the statement that if they made known cases of want to the authorities, their cases would be attended to. Was such the ease ? Were they expected to do so ? Would their representations be attended to ? Was this a part of their work ? He had no objection to supplementing the work of the proper officers. It would delight him much to be the instrument of relief such as was often requested by his parishioners but his past experience gave him little encourage- ment in the work of "representing." Very slight at- tention, except under extraordinary pressure, was paid to what was asked of the relieving officer. What he wanted to know to-day was, what his duties really were ? It was no small matter to have placed to his credit all the neglect that abounded in the town. The Coroner gets warm on the subject, and imme- diately following his remarks on the clergy is found, with probable reference to them, It is a disgrace to Neath that such a case should have occurred." Con- sidering the habits of this poor woman, such an oc- currence was not singular. The evidence of the medical man denies that she died of starvation, and speaks of the effects of a continued dependence on spirituous support. But why say the neglect belongs to the clergy? It seemed to him that a little game of reciprocity of favors was played at that serious in- quiry. There was evidently a considerable amount of feeling displayed which had nothing whatever to do with the enquiry that did not trouble him (the speaker) much. What he wanted to know was—his duty under the circumstances. The case was not unknown to him (the rector.) It had been relieved by himself and his visitors on many occasions. His attention had at this particular time not been called to it. This distinctly appeared in the evidence not one of the clergy had been spoken to. They would only have been too glad to know of cases where the work of their mission be asked for. He thanked the Board for the permission granted him of addressing them, and begged to be informed of his duty under similar occasions of want, so far as regarded the relief publicly given. (Applause.) Mr. R. Parsons I think the remarks of the Coroner must apply in some degree to the proper quarter, or we should not have been favoured with the presence of the Rector. I visited that wretched hovel myself, and nothing in the shape of furniture was to be seen in that miserable room. She had received no visitors but the bailiff, who in virtue of his office stripped the room of every article of comfort it contained. No other visitor came n^ar, because report said she drank, until that model relieving officer" came, who relieved her of all her troubles, and left her poor five children in the short and pestilential straw which formed the only bed on which they lay, playing with the corpse of their fallen mother. I quite agree with the Rector that she was a deeply fallen woman, and that it was difficult to deal with such a case, even had it been known to him; but I do not myself think much would be gained by a Christian minister in visiting such an abandoned case. Still there must be blame souae,% her, and I felt that I could lay part of that blame at my own door. You will remember that I stood alone in protesting against the scene enacted here last Board day, when a man came here, and took away with h.im the thanks of this Board,-(a "man" did I say! Mr. Price appeared to be the only one skilled in metaphysics, far he asked him who and what he was),—and what for?-for taking from a poor, miserable, hungry, half-starved, pinched tailor the miserable pittance allowed by this Board for taking from an unfortunate girl of 14 years of age part of her parish payment; for influencing the Board in the grants made to a poor lunatic, who, misunderstanding the wrong that had been done him, came back and thanked the Board for stopping his allowance. I stood, as I usually do, in a minority of one in these proceedings and yet the chairman who presided on that day said, after he had done all this, You go away with the thanks of this Board!" The Chairman: I do not know what you are alluding to, Mr. Parsons. Mr. Parsons I do, sir! You were not present. Mr. Player What has this to do with the case in Water-strest? Mr. Parsons It has this to do with it it has taught us our duty as relieving officers, and more than tbat- Mr. Player She made no application. Mr. Player: That is not the question. If that man went away with the thanks of this Board, for depriving the poor wretches of their miserable means of living, then the relieving officers can count upon not receiving any censures from this Board for a like proceeding. (Hear, hear.) The Chaplain: I quite sympathise with Mr. Parsons in his remarks up to a certain point, but in the case where the clergy have the handling of public money, it behoves them to be very cautious in distributing relief, so as not to sanction open immorality. I know for certain that where money has frequently J- been given it has at once found its way to the gin- shops, and where relief has been given in other ways money has been obtained from the pawnshops. Why, gentlemen, blankets given to the poor, with my own private mark on them, it is said are now to be found in numbers at Mr. Lazarus Samuel's stores! When want presents itself we cannot wait to examine too closely into antecedents. That is to be done before you at your meeting, after careful ? enquiry made at the spot by the proper officer. If this were more frequently done, the poor would be much benefited, and the pockets of the ratepayers would not suffer. More time should be given to the relief of the poor; less hasty and unbecoming treat- ment should be accorded them. If you insisted on this your Board-day enquiries would assume quite a new character. You would have facts before you and not suppositions—the true merits of each case, and not the reckless handling of the reputation of the applicants, as a general answer to all enquiries. (Applause.) Mr. Player Having visited the scene which has provolied this discussion, in consequence of the report that the woman had been starved to death, I can only say that Mr. Parsons has not told you all, for the corpse lay upon the straw, and there was no window in the room—the glass was all out. Still, I think that the officer is not to blame in this case. I do not attempt to palliate the officer's con- duct, for I have brought it under the notice of the Board several times but what I wish to say is, that if the Rector will bring forward any case of neglect the matter will be fully enquired into by this Board, and the officer either reprimanded or dis- charged. Mr. Price It seems to me that the duty of a clergyman in a case of this kind would be to call the attention of the relieving officer to it, and if he did not attend to it to report him to the Board. The Chairman I think the clergy quite under- stand that. The Rector I do not animadvert on this matter with the view of teaching the duty of visitors or relieving-officers, but to remove the responsibility of any death being placed at my door without sufficient reason for it. The Chairman Your question as to what you are to do in cases of this kind is answered, I think. It is evidently your duty to report such cases to the officer, and should you find that he neglects to attend to them, you have only to report his conduct to us. The Rector I am much obliged for the courtesy of the Board in listening to my remarks, and I am perfectly satisfied with the course of duty you have thought proper to mark out. ALTERATIONS OF THE HOUSE. The Clerk opened and read the tenders of the various contractors for the proposed alterations. They were from Messrs. Sims, T. Rees, J. C. Rees, D. Lewellyn and Davies, A. Bucknell, Cribb, and T. J. Davies. The last-named contractor tendered for sewers only. The decision was ordered to be referred to a committee, formed of the gentlemen whose names appear under the re-distribution motion. VACCINATION. The following letter was read from Glyncorrwg in reference to the vaccination of the district Dear Sir,—The vaccination of this place has been greatly neglected. Last Wednesday three weeks Mr. Jenkins pro- mised to be here. I informed the women of his intention. I hope you will see to the matter.—Yours truly, J. A. MORRIS. The Clerk was directed to write to the medical officer on the subject referred to by Mr. Morris.

ABERAVON. A letter was read from the Poor Law Board sanc- tioning the payment of X5 per annum, with a gratuity of £10 for past services, to Mr. James Johns, police-constable and assistant relieving- officer for the vagrant class in the eastern district of the Neath Union.

THE MUNICIPAL ELEC UION. The extraordinary vacancy caused in the Town Council by the election of Mr. John Henry Rowland to the aldermanship made vacant through the resignation of Mr. D. H. Morgan, was duly filled up on Thursday. The announcement of the election issued officially contained three names Mr. George May, Mr. Edmund Boone, and Mr. J. Richardson. The last-named gentleman did not, however, come to the poll. Mr. George May, since his second determination to become a candidate for a seat in the Council, has held three meetings, viz., at the "Farmer's Arms," the "Royal Exchange," and Star," in Tynicaeu, where, on each occasion, he has stated his views and intentions to his supporters. Very few squibs appeared on the walls, and but little feeling exhibited itself up to the day of the poll. Mr. May's poster referred to Another new gas rate," and requested the burgesses to Vote for May to lighten their darkness." A sarcastic poster was also issued, which advised every one to Vote for Boone, and shut up the public houses." The progress of the election may be gathered from the published state of the poll, which at 12 o'clock stood as follows Boone 153 May 105 The third nominee Mr. Joshua Richardson, had been, it appears, nominated by Mr. Moore as a little bit of finesse on the opposite side; no polling conse- quently took place on his account. Mr. May's com- mittee rooms were at the King's Head, opposite the hall. At one o'clock the poll stood Boone 181 May 120 Shortly after this hour the number of people be^an to increase in the streets leading to the hall, and a little excitement, varied by a tew noisy" scrimo mages," occasionally took place, especially when particularly obnoxious individuals made their appear- ance. At three o'clock the announcement of the state of the poll was- Boone May 195 From this time commenced a series ot the most unearthly proceediugs imaginable a mob of prosti- tutes, in a semi-drunken state, with rags, ribbons, coloured petticoats, old hats, bonnets, paper, and sticks, vieing with the vilest of the blackguard rascality of Neath, in yells, fights, struggles, and language, for the supremacy. It were well to hide the story of the last hour of the election, for a record of it would be disbelieved. At four o'clock the poll closed, and at half-past four admission was given to the Tows-hall, where the squeaking voices of the drunken sex" again drowned for a time the hoarse bawling of the very free and independent burgesses" assembled to hear the declaration. Amidst a tumult perfectly indes- cribable, The Mayor said Gentlemen,—After a very well- fought battle and fairly-contested fight, Mr. Boone has been elected. (Uproar.) He has been elected a councillor by a majority of 80 votes. (Tremendous uproar.) I may tell you that on no previous election have so many votes been recorded. Mr. Boone polled 301, and Mr. May 221, and I therefore declare Mr. Boone to be duly elected. An uproar, mingled with cheers and cries of "Boone for ever," "May for ever," now set in for some time, after which, Mr. Boone rose to address the assembly. He said Mr. Mayor, Aldermen, Councillors and Bar. gesses of this ancient borougb of N, eath, --I h^ve for the first time come forward to offer you my services. (Cheers.) I have lived among you npw for 52 years, and though I cannot say I am a native of the town, because I was very young when brought here, yet I am one of the oldest tradesmen out of the four. (Cheers.) It was this circumstance which led me to offer my services, and the very hearty manner in which I was met, after issuing my address, assured me that 1 should have your hearty good wishes even if I did not get in. (Cheers.) Shortly after it was mentioned by George May, or some of his party, I do not know who, for I speak of all with a good feeling, that it was wrong fof me to come out, and that a requisition was in signature for me to withdraw. (Uproar.) I thought if I did so I should be a turncoat. (Tremendous uproar.) Well, then there came out a "squib," or whatever you call it, saying I would put down the public-houses. (Cheers.) Well, there are more public-houses in Neath than there ought to be, but it was not for me to put them down. (Cheers.) But there is one thing which I hope to aid in putting down. I have resolved in my mind to do it. It maybe dirty work at first, but if we put our shoulder to it we shall succeed. It is the houses of ill-fame which abound here. (Frightful uproar, which continued some time.) It is shocking to see the infamy in broad daylight in this place. I know not what we are coming to, and I hope we shall soon be able to clear our little town of the disgraceful scourge. I return my sincere thanks to the 301 who voted for me. I owe no ill-will to the 221 who voted against me. I have learned to love my enemies and do good to them that hate me." I thank the 318 who did not record their votes I believe they are most of them in my favor if they had voted. (Cheers and uproar, amidst which Mr. Cadogan, of the Vale of Neath Brewery office, said, in a stentorian voice, "Who's got Briggs' hat. Muller!" Continued yells and laughter.) Let us have no ill-feeling, we are all one and should be one. (The rest of the speech was lost in the uproar.) Mr. May at length stood up to address the meet- ing, but was obliged to resume his seat for some time without getting a hearing. At length he said Fellow Burgesses of Neath,—I thank you most heartily for the very kind manner in which you have supported me (cheers), especially when I consider that Mr. Boone has lived among you for fifry.t,vo years, and I am almost a scrariger, hav- ing been here but seven years (cheers and uproar) I hope, however, you will grant me what every Welshman is granted, and that is, "three trials." (Tremendous cheers.) I'll have another try if you will. When I came forward to stand for this post, it was not out of any disrespect to Mr. Boone. I esteem his integrity and worth. (Cheers.) I shall, I hope, have the pleasure of coming before you again, and I hope the 221 will support me then. I have no animosity to the 330. (Cheers). Mr. Boone has given me a fairnght. There has been nothing unfair or illegal, and I feel much his kind manner towards me to-day. My wish is to do what is right and proper, in spite of the manner in which my feelings have been misrepresented. (Cheers.) He has beaten me fairly (uproar), and I respect him for it; but mird, gentlemen, I shall come again next year, and every year till I succeed. (Cheers and uproar.) And now, while thanking you, I ishall conclude in the language of Mr. Disraeli "The time will come when you shall hear me in your Council Chamber." Terrific uproar followed, during which the Mayor and Councillors left the room. On reaching the street Mr. May was chaired by his supporters to the Angel Inn, and a similar honor was accorded to Mr. Boone, who was carried to his house in Gold-street. The excitement in the town was now (six o'clock) considerably increased by the news arriving that Mr. Howel Gwyn had "got in" for Brecon. The bells of the parish church were rung, fireworks let off, and the Melyn band paraded the streets, playing at every house known as supporters of Mr. Gwyn See the conquering hero comes." Towards mid- night very few traces of the excitement remained excepting the staggering drunkard resting against the wall on his way home, and the patient and for- bearing officers of the constabulary good-naturedly passing over the delinquencies of the living wreck" of the day's proceedings.

DICKSON V. THE SWANSEA VALE AND NEATH AND BRECON JUNCTION RAIL- WAY COMPANY. An important question as to the transfer of Lloyd's bonds was argued in the Court of Common Pleas on Monday week. The action was brought by parties who were holders of some of these securities, which have gained, it is well known, great notoriety. In form the bonds acknowledged that they were bound to John Dickson, railway contractor, and his assigns, in the general sum for the payment of which they bound themselves, the condition being the payment by the company to him of a certain sum (stated) in which they were indebted to him for work, &c., done by him for the company. The railway contractor, Dickson, having got some of the bonds transferred them to certain parties for good consideration, and they now brought this action thereon against the company, whereupon the company set up as an equitable agreement between Dickson and them that he should pay the bonds when due, and in the mean- time pay the interest. To which the real plaintiffs, in the name of Dickson, replied that he assigned the bonds to them without any notice ot this agreement between him and the company, and that they had given good consideration for the bonds, and sued in his name to recover the amount as the real beneficial owners. The company demurred to this, and thus denied their liability to pay the amount of the bonds. Mr. Bruce and, Mr. Jelf were for the plaintiff; Mr. Gray and Mr. Gadsden were for the company. The transaction in substance wa this (a very well known and common kind of transaction)—that the company, being iadebted to their contractor, gave him these bonds in ord r that he might go into the market and get advances thereon, he giving them an indemnity against any liability thereupon the effect being as between the contractor and the company, and he used the bonds to raise money, but that it was understood between him and the company that they were not to pay the bonds (which were payable in three years) and that he was to pay the interest and take them up when due. Mr. Gray, Q.C., argued for the company that they incurred no liability to the holders of the bonds. The Lord Chief Justice observed that it appeared very much like fraud to issue these bonds, which upon the face of them appeared payable by the company, and which were issued for the very purpose of raising money thereupon, and then, when the parties had advanced money thereon, they were told that the company were not liable by some secret agreement between the company and their contractor, to whom the bonds were originally issued. If this was not a fraud, what could be so? Mr. Justice Lush likewise remarked that it seemed clear that it could be no defence in law, and it seemed, as an equitable defence not sustainable, as the bonds were taken by the present holders without notice of the secret agreement, and for valuable consideration. After some discussion, The Lord Chief Justice gave judgment ia accord- ance with the views thus expressed. The legal liability of the company on the bonds was clear, and the so-called "equitable" defence was completely answered by showing an assignment to the real plaintiffs, the present holders, for value, and on that consideration it could be no defence to the claim of the bona fide holders for value that there had been a secret agreement between the company and the original holder that they were not to be called upon to pay. The practical result would be that the original holder, the contractor, would be enabled to deceive and defraud the parties from whom he obtained advances of money on the bonds, and who were to be told after advancing their money that they bad no right of recovery and no remedy against the company- °

BRECON AND MERTHYR RAILWAY.-54 miles open, Traffic for week ending Nov. 15, 1868:— Passengers, parcels, &c .I I., 9133 2 10 woods and live stock £ 869 15 6 Total. B1002 18 4 £18 11s. 5d, per mile per week. Corresponding week last year, 48 miles open Passengers, parcels, &-c £ 90 4 5 Goods and live stock I. £ 883 13 3 Total £ 973 17 8 20 5s. 9d. per mile per week, Increase 7 929 0 8 r. Printed and published far the Proprietors by WILLIAJI HENRY CLARIC, at the ff Brecon Chynty Times" Office, Church-strcet, in thfi cjiapelry of St, Mary, ano borough of Brecon.—SATUBDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 1868