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

BIRTH. JONES.At Gilestone, near Brecon, November 20, the wife of Mr. David Jones, of a son. MARRIAGES. D.&vms-DAvms.- At the Register Office, Brecon, » November 19, before Mr. W. Evans, registrar, Mr. Thomas Davies, of Upper Pontwilym, St. John s, to Miss Sarah Davies, Pwllgloyw, Llandefauogfach. DAvxzs-.TzNxrNs. -At the Register Office, Brecon, November 17, before Mr. William Evans, registrar, Mr. John Davies, Lion-street, Brecon, to Miss Mar- garet Jenkins, Castle Hotel, Brecon. lffuxTAmim- CunTio.- At Cadoxton.Parish Church' near Neath. November 23, by the Rev. David Pugh, B.A., Mr. Fred Huxtable, of Cefn Court Farm, near Neath (and late of Wallover Barton, North Devon), to Julia Maria, eldest daughter of Mr. Henry Harper Curtis, jeweller, of Neath. JONES- WILLIAItB.-At the Plough Chapel, Brecon, November 16, by the Rev. R. S. Williams, Mr. Thos. Jones, of Lower Cwmcamlais, Devynnock, to Miss Mary Williams, Pontyryskir, Battle. POWELL—MOBGAK.— At the Register Office, Brecon. November 17, before Mr. W. Evans, registrar, Mr. John Powell, of Aber, Llanfigan, to Miss Margaret Morgan, of Penrhiwcalch, Llanthetty. THOXAS—DAVIES.—At Resolven Church, November 20' by the Rev. David Griffiths, M.A., vicar, Mr. Griffith Thomas, of Melincourt, Resolven, to MiBS Jane Davies, of the New Inn, Resolven. WILLIAMS—JONES.—At the Plough Chapel, Brecon, November 26, by the Rev. R. S. Williams, Mr. David Williams, of Llechfaen, Llanhamlach, to Miss Jane Jones, of the same place. DEATH. EVANS.-At his residence, Lion-street, Brecon, Nov. 26, Mr. Thomas Evans, J.P., aged 58 years.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK. MONDAY .Brecon Borough Petty Sessions. Meeting of Shareholders of the Brecon jtfew Gas Company, at Noon.Ie Advt. TOESDAY .Neath Board of Guardians' Meeting. WICDXICBDAY Neath Highway Board. THURSDAY Brecon Board of Health. FBIDAY Talgarth Fair. Neath Petty Sessions. SATURDAY Brecon Board of Guardians' Meeting.

HUNTING APPOINTMENTS. THE BRECONSHIRE HARRIERS WILL MEET Tuesday, 80th November—Aberyskir. Friday, 8rd December—Bronllys. At 11.0 a.nu

PHARMACY.—"We observe amongst the names of gentlemen who passed the recent minor examination of the Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain that of Mr. Rees Thomas Jones, of Hirwain, late of Brecon. FIRST BRECON V oLUNTBBRs.-Orders for the week ending 3rd December, 1869.-Officer on duty, Lieut. Morgan; orderly sergeant, James Morgan; orderly corporal, J. G. Wotton. Squad drill Tuesday and Friday, at seven p.m; section drill commencing on Monday next, the 29th instant, at eight p.m. each evening-lst section, Monday; 2nd, Tuesday; 3rd, Thursday; 4th, Friday. By order, J. JAMES, captain. THE CBICKBT FIELD.-The uneven state of that part of the cricket field nearest the canal cannot have escaped the notice of any cricketer, and its condition rendered fielding very difficult and dan- gerous work, since the ball, striking against one of the protuberances, would go off at a tangent or bound into the face of the fielder. We are glad to observe, therefore, that this inconvenience has been remedied, the turf having been taken up, the ground made level, and then relaid. THB REGISTRAR GENERAL'S RETUBN.-From the last return of the Registrar General we observe that the births, marriages, and deaths in this county in the quarters named of the years 1867, 1868, and 1869, have been as under Births, in the quarters ending June Builth, 18, 16, and 17 Brecknock, 33, 38, 34; Crickhowell, 42, 29, 54; Hay, 27, 22,19. Mar- riages in the quarters ending 30th September of the same years: Builth, 78, 68, 66; Brecknock, 131, 149, 126; Crickhowell, 181, 181, i66. Hay, 90, 76, 82. Deaths for the same quarters in the same years: Builth, 38, 25, 36; Brecknock, 51, 74, 61; Crick- howell, 87, 116,96 Hay, 61, 29, 25. SINGULAR AOOIDENT.-On Friday afternoon last a singular accident happened to Mr. J. C. B. Morris, while playing football in the cricket field. He had kicked at the ball and missed it, when his leg came in contact with the knee of another player, who was running up to have a kick at it, and. the blow broke the leg bone, and threw Mr. Morris down. Not thinking that it was broken, however, Mr. Morris got up, and put his foot to the ground, when it is supposed the pressure broke the small bone also. He was quickly conveyed home, and attended by Dr. Talfourd Jones. After the swelling had gone down, the bones were set, and we are happy to state that Mr. Morris is progressing as favourably as can be expected. DEATH OF MB. THOMAS EVANS.-We regret this week to have to announce the death of Mr. Thomas Evans, of Lion-street, which took place this (Friday) morning, about six o'clock. The deceased has been ill for a long time, but hopes were entertained by many of his friends that he would recover. On Wednesday morning he was well enough to be up, but early m the afternoon he was taken worse, and he died as above stated. Mr. Evans was a magis- trate for the borough of Brecon, although of late he has not sat on the bench. He has likewise held the office of clerk to the magistrates of the County Petty Sessions, held at Brecon, and also for the Devynock district, the duties of which offices he discharged in a most able and efficient manner. For some years also the deceased was vice-chairman to the Board of Guardians, and in that capacity, and as a guardian, his legal knowledge and general acquaintance with the Poor Law regulations ren- dered him a valuable member of the Board, at the meetings of which he was a regular attendant. His loss will be very greatly felt, not merely by the guardians and magistrates, but by all who have come in contact with him, either in business matters.or friendly intercourse. APPREHENSION OF A "WANTED."—One day this week sn old-fashioned silver watch was stolen from a lodging house in Neath by a man who answers to the name of Jack," who had slept in the house in question. A description of the thief was forwarded, amongst other persons, to Superintendent Lee, and that vigilant officer happened on Thursday to see a man on the top of Ship-street, in this town, whom he thought answered the description given. Accord- ingly he accosted him, and asked him where he came from. The man, making use of a rather strong expletive, replied by asking what he (Super nten- dent Lee) wanted to know for. He was told that did not matter, and on being further questioned he made a bolt. He was, however, caught, and on being searched the stolen property was found upon him. Later in the day Jack," who was thus so cleverly caught, was forwarded to Neath to be tried there for the offence. COMMITMENTS TO THE COUNTY GAOL.—By Robert Raikes, Martyn J. Roberts, and John Jayne, Esqrs James Lloyd, collier, to two calendar months' hard labour in default of a penalty of zC5, inflicted for assaulting one Charles Parsons, and to a further period of two months, for assaulting one James Philpots, at Llangynider; James Brown, collier, to two calendar months' hard labour in default of a fine of J65, including costs, inflicted for maliciously damaging a certain window at Llanelly; Mary Morgan, tailoress, to six months' imprisonment in default of entering into sureties to keep the peace, &c., at Brynmawr; John Collins, shoemaker, for trial at the Sessions, charged with fraudulently converting certain leather, &c., to his own use, the property of G. W. Hicks, of Brynmawr. By T. J. Evans, Esq.: William John, collier, to fourteen days' hard labour in default of penalty and costs, inflicted for being drunk and riotous at Yaynor. By Henry Allen, Esq., and Rev. R. Lister Venables Thomas Bowen, labourer, to one calendar month's hard labour, con- victed of neglecting and refusing to maintain his wife and family, at Hay. By William de Winton, Esq. (Mayor), Joseph Joseph, and John Davies, Esqrs.: Joseph Williams, smith, to five calendar months' hard labour, summarily convicted of having stolen a watch and wearing apparel, in the borough of Brecon; Jane Edwards, alias Davies, alias Miles, to seven days' hard labour, for indecent behaviour in the streets of Brecon Surah Baker, alias Terry*, to seven days' hard labour, convicted of being drunk and riotous in the streets of Brecon; Mary Evans, alias Lewis, for trial at the Sessions, charged with having stolen certain articles of wearing apparel from the shop of William Evans, in the borough of Brecon; Mary Teefe, to three calendar months' hard labour, convicted of being a rogue and vagabond, and after a previous conviction, in the borough of Brecon. Pursuant to sentence of a court martial, Private John Taylor, 2nd Battalion 6th Foot, to 102 days' hard labour, for desertion, &c., and afterwards to be discharged with ignominy from Her Majesty's Service. THE PENNY READINGS. On Thursday last the popular readings were re-commenced under the auspices of the Brecon Young Men's Mutual Im- provement Society, in co-operation with the Penny Readings' Committee. The entertainment took place as usual at the Town-hall, and a full house evinced the interest taken in, and the popularity of, these weekly entertainments. The Rev. Herbert Williams, vicar of Brecon, occupied the chair, and opened the proceedings with a few well timed observations. He said he had no doubt but that they were all very glad those readings were again commenced for the season. He claimed the attention as well as the forbearance of the audience. The programme pre- sented was always a varied one, and if they had a little solid food first of all, the light seasoning would come afterwards, and they must take both together. He would not detain them by any lengthy remarks, but at once call upon the performers. The pro- gramme was as follows — Pianoforte solo-"Merch Megan" Miss Williams Reading-Selections from Pope Rev. David Price Song—"Life is a river" Mr. Williams Reading-H Lot 217" Mr. Snook Pianoforte duet—"Topsy Quadrilles' Mr. T. H. Williams and Miss Williams. Reading-Selections from "Valentine Vox" Mr. J. R. Griffiths. Song—" Thy bright smile haunts me still' Mr. Collier Reading—"Ruined Cottage" .Rev. D. Morgan Song Mr. Collier God Save the Queen." There is no need to remark particularly upon each performance. It is sufficient to say that there was the variety which is a necessary feature of these readings, and each of the performers, vocalists, and instrumentalists, commanded the attention of the audience, and were awarded a deservedly fair share of commendation. Owing to the warm reception given to Mr. Collier's song, he was requested, at the end of the programme, to favour the audience with another-a request he kindly acceded to. Before the National Anthem was sung, Mr. J. R. Griffiths proposed, and Mr. Snook seconded, a vote of thanks to the chairman; and the latter, in acknowledging the compliment, announced that owing to the concert next Thursday evening in that room there would be no readings, but they would take place on that evening fortnight.

A RUN WITH MR. D. J. POWELL'S HARRIERS. Tuesday the 23rd of November will be remembered in the neighbourhood of Bronllys as a Red letter day for some time to come. When it became known that D. Jeffreys Powell, Esq., of Bronllys Court, was about to open the season on that day with his Cwm bach the sporting fraternity were on the alert, and every Rosinante was treated to extra feeds of corn and curry. The riders also pipe- clayed their gloves and whips, and increased the demand on Day and Martin. It was a glorious day for an outing,"—the sun shone resplendently, the views were unsurpassable—whether you looked far away to the south and saw the Brecon Beacons, and the undulating foreground, with Llangorse lake lying calmly at the feet of the Allt, or to the east with Mynydd-y-troed, Dinas Castle, and the Black Mountains like an impassable barrierprotecting the old town of Talgarth or to the north where the Wye came winding down by the wooded slopes of Llangoed, passing on tranquilly by Glasbury and Maesllwch, but resplendent in the sun, mirroring back again his lustrous hues. Hush! what's that cry, "Hark to Bashful," "Hark to Collier!" and the merry little pack opened in real earnest, eques- trians, pedestrians, and mudestrians doing all in their power to head the hare and spoil the sport. Poor puss had to double" when she wanted to "break away," causing momentary checks, but Hark re-cover," it was again and again, and the spirit and the speed of the dogs was the admiration of every one. There are ups and downs in the hunting field, just as there are in social life, and although we do not charge the riders with turning their coats they certainly did by some process of legerdemain "change their colour" and their new dye was always mother's earth." This does not apply to the fairer part of creation" whom we were delighted to see in the field in the front, and well in their saddles, enjoying the chagrined countenances of those who committed, involuntary dissolution of partnership by placing a hedge between them- selves and their horses; others again appeared to be craw-fish-like, going backwards on their mettled steeds. We understand some thirty and upwards of the squirearchy of the neighbour- hood partook of the bountiful hospitality of the squire" before starting a sumptuous repast was pre- pared, and a hearty welcome given to alLlovers of the chase. May it be an annual gathering, and may we be there to see I" It must have been refreshing to the old hunting fraternity, who enjoyed in days long past with the Lloyds the Bowens, and the Watkinses, the cheering c, Who, whoop," announ- cing poor puss's death 'in the old and revered lan- guage of their ancestors, '« Cymry fy, cymry fydd." Communicated.

BRECON POLICE INTELLIGENCE. TOWN-HALL, FRIDAY, before WM. DE WINTON, Esq. (Mayor), and J. DAVIES, Esq. SHOP ROBBERy.-Mary Evans was charged with stealing one crossover, a piece of check, some buttons, and other articles, of the value of 5s. lid., the property of Mr. W. Evans, draper, Ship-street, on the 18th November. The prosecutor stated that on the first fair day the prisoner came into his shop to have something done to her bonnet; his wife had seen her before, and she stopped in his house that night from what a little girl who was working with them had said he looked and missed the crossover now produced the crossover and check, as well as the buttons, he knew by the mark, but he could not swear to the feathers, as they were sold in so many shops he also missed two waterproofs, and had not found them he received the crossover and check from his assistant, and his wife gave them to the constable in his presence.-P.C. Davies (No. 2) stated he received information of the robbery, and apprehended the prisoner she said nothing in answer to the charge the feathers and buttons were concealed under > er clothing.—Elizabeth Price, who assisted in prose- cutor's shop on the fair day, said she went to look for prisoner, and found her in High-street, with Mr. Evans' assistant by her side he said he had seen something, and she asked prisoner to come down to the shop, as Mrs. Evans wanted her, and she refused to do so; witness took the crossover and check from her, and handed them to the assistant the lace on prisoner's bonnet she bought and paid for after witness had taken away the things from prisoner she cried, and said she would go down to the shop.- The prisoner, on being charged in the usual way, said that the articles were given her by the prose- cutor's wife's sister, who was deaf and dumb, on the morning of the second fair, as she (prisoner) sup- posed, in retnrn for her services.—The prisoner was then committed for trial at the Quarter Sesfions. DRUNK AND RIOTous.-Sarah Baker, William Terry, and Mary Watts, were charged with the above offence.-P.C. Davies (No. 2) proved the charges, and the two former were each fined 7s., including costs, or seven days' imprisonment. Mary Watts, who was also charged with malicious damage to a window at the Wheat Sheaf, was fined lis. 6d., including costs, or one month's imprisonment. BOROUGH PETTY SESSIONS, MONDAY, before W. DE WINTON, Esq. (Mayor), and J. DAVIES, Esq. WITHDRAWN.—The case Charles Parker v. William Martin, for keeping dogs without a license, was withdrawn by the plaintiff. AN INCORRIGIBLE.-Mary Teefe, who has on several previous occasions figured before the Bench for various offences, insubordination in the work- house, &c., was now charged with soliciting !prosti- tution and using obscene language.-P.C. Davies (No. 2) stated that about seven o'clock on Sunday evening the prisoner was making a disturbance in the Struet; he ordered her away, and she made use of the most disgusting lan- guage; she also went and sat down on the other side of the road, and afterwards followed two soldiers up the Struet he advised her to go home, but she refused, and used very bad language, and he therefore locked her up when in the station-house she became very violenL-The prisoner was sen- tenced by the Magistrates to three months' imprison- ment with hard labour-the utmost the law allowed them to give for this offence. ADJOURNED.—Ann Boucher v Mary Hyde. On the part of the complainant, Mr. Games applied for an adjournment, which was consented to by the Bonch. APPLICATION.—In rr. Joseph Williams, who had been convicted of larceny, Superintendent Lee applied for an order to dispose of the prisoner's money towards the expenses of the prosecution. The application was adjourned in order that in the meantime the power of the justices in reference to the matter might be ascertained. APPLICATION FOR SUMMONS.—Mr. Parkins applied to the magistrates to sign a summons against Mr. Hotchkis, the master of the hunt, for keeping dogs without a license. It was stated that the duty had now been paid, after the huntsman, William Martin, had been summoned. The magistrates thought that being the case, there was no need to proceed further in the matter, as no doubt it was merely an oversight. The excise officer himself did not know who was the proper party to take out a license, and had first summoned the huntsman, and probably Mr. Hotch- kis did, not know it was his duty to do so. Mr. Parkins replied that all the facts had been laid before the Board, who directed the prosecution. He further stated that he had sent a message to Mr. Hotchkis, through the huntsman, saying the Board would no doubt settle the matter, if wished, without going into court. No notice however, was taken of that message. The magistrates thought the pleasanter course would be for Mr. Parkins to write to Mr. Hotchkis on the matter, and advised his doing so. If that gentleman declined to settle the matter they would sign the summonses. Mr. Parkins then undertook to do as suggested.

NOTICES. cc UmoN.The present Lord Tredegar, in 1818. Persons who wish to have copies of our paper posted on Friday evening can have their orders attended to by forwarding them to the office before mid-day, accom- panied by the price of the paper and postage. Our friends and correspondents will much oblige us, as well as avert the chance of disappointment to themselves, by forwarding their advertisements and news copy, AS EARLY IN THE WEEK AS POSSIBLE. Interesting re- ports are often curtailed, or omitted altogether, in eon- sequence of inattention to this rule. Communications, to insure insertion, should reach the Office NOT LATER THAN THURSDAY. Penalties are continually being inflicted upon us, m the shape of Postal Surcharges, owing to correspondents neglecting to weigh their letters or to observe the sub- joined rule:—"Newspaper reports come under the Book-post regulations—viz., with the ENDS LEFT OPEN, up to 4oz, in weight for a Id. but the packet must contain nothing of the nature of a letter or private communication. Correspondents are in all cases required to give their names and addresses (not necessartlyfor publication), as a guarantee of good faith. No notice can be taken of communications sent to us anonymously.

BRECON BOARD OF GUARDIANS. The usual meeting of this Board was held on Saturday morning at the Town-hall, the Rev. Garnons Williams occupying the chair pro tem. There were also present Mr. R. Raikes Mr. James Williams; Mr. James Powell; Rev. J. Evans, Cantreff; Rev. L. Price, Llywell Mr. J. Prothero, St. Mary Rev. Rees Price Mr. David Downes, Llanthetty Rev. H. Howell, Llanfihangel fechan; Mr. Rees Williams, Llanvigan Mr. P. Edwards, St. John Mr. T. S. Cornish, Llanspyddid; Mr. F. Watkins, Christ College Mr. T. Smith, St. David; Mr. John Evans, Castle Inn; Mr. W. Williams, Llanthew; Mr. David Price, Cray Mr. W. Davies, Llan- frynach Mr. William Williams, Merthyr Cynog; Mr. David Price, Talyllyn Mr. W. Powell, St. John; Mr. T. Morgan, Devynock Mr. Evans, Bailybedw Mr. David Evans, Battle; Mr. J. Powell, Aberyskir Mr. W. Ricketts, Cathedine Mr. C. Ricketts, Llandefal!e; Mr. Thomas Powell, Llanvillo; Mr. David Jeffreys, Bailie; Mr. W. Perrott, Llangorse Mr. Thomas Williams, Llan. saintfread; Mr. J. Davies, Llandefaelog; Mr. W. Morgan, Llandefalle Mr. Thomas Williams, Modrydd Mr. John Jones, Llandefaelog tregraig Mr. R. Davies, Penpont; Mr. Watkins, Glyntawe; Mr. James Probert, St. David. ELECTION OF CHAIRMAN. In accordance with the decision come to at the last meeting, notice had been sent to every guardian of the intention to elect a chairman in the room of the late Mr. William Perrott. Mr. David Downes now rose and said that, as they were aware, they had to elect a chairman in the room of their late lamented friend, Mr. Perrott. He could not but express in few brief words his appre- ciation of the services of their late chairman in that room. (Hear, hear.) He was a man that held the balance between the pauper and the guardian. He was reticent in speech, knowing that the time of that Board and of individual guardians was valuable to them. Without further preface he had great pleasure in proposing the Rev. Garnons Williams as chairman of that Board. (Applause.) That gentle- man had latterly taken a great interest in the union, and he was bure there was no gentleman more quali- fied to undertake the duties than Mr. Williams. (Hear, hear.) He was known as the late esteemed vicar of that town, the worthy son of the Dean of Llandaff, than whom noone was better known. In his presence he would say no more, but that he had great pleasure in proposing him as ehairman of that Board, as he was assured he would give them every satisfaction. (Applause.) The Rev. J. Evans had much pleasure in seconding Mr. Downes' proposal. It was difficult to praise a man in his presence, but they must all have observed the interest he took in the business of that Board, and the great courtesy with which he treated all who had anything to do with him. His unfailing regu- larity was a strong recommendation in his favour; he possessed great fluency of speech, as well as another valuable quality, abundance of leisure time to consult and consider all things which may tend to the promotion of the interests of that union. He had therefore much pleasure in seconding the motion. (Applause.) No one proposing any, other person, the Rev. Garnons Williams was declared duly elected, and resumed the seat he had vacated amidst much applause. The Rev. Garnons Williams said he heartily thanked Mr. Downes and Mr. Evans, as well as his brother guardians, for the great honour they had done him in electing him as chairman of that Board —for he did feel it a great honour. As it was their unanimous wish, he would gladly accept the office, which he certainly should not have sought himself or coveted for himself. He greatly felt the con- fidence they had reposed in him, and the more so because he was, comparatively speaking, but a young member of that Board, and because, although he had always been on the most triendly terms with all the members, he had on occasions differed from some of them, and he had then freely advocated the cause which he believed in. He did not know but what he should have shrunk from the responsible duties now devolving upon him were he not conscious he should have—as the late lamented chairman of that Board bad-the fullest and the warmest support of his brother guardians and all the officers of the Board. (Hear, hear.) In Mr. Thomas Ev»ns, the vice-chairman of the Board, he had a coadjutor in whom he could thoroughly put trust, not only on account of his business habits and great judgment, but also on account of his thorough integrity of pur- pose. They all deeply deplored the enforced absence through illness of their vice-chairman from the Board, and they would be thankful to see him amongst them again. (Hear, hear.) He was glad there was to be a second vice-chairman, and he felt sure that the one whom prescience told him would be elected would be one with whom it would be a pleasure to work, and one on whom he could depend. He was quite sure also that on all doubtful matters he should be happy to consult him. He was further glad of that opportunity of testifying the respect and regard in which he held Mr. Thomas, the clerk of that Board. (Hear, hear.) He believed that Mr. Thomas was one whom they could trust. He had mastered the business of the Board, and he ever gave them sound and sensible counsel. He (the chairman) had also often had occasion to remark that the relieving officers were humane men, and were zealous in the discharge of their duties. With such auxiliaries it would be his own fault if he failed in the conduct of the business of the Board. He now accepted the office they had so kindly offered to him as a sacred trust. He would not promise always to agree with the majority, but if he knew himself, one thing he would promise-he would ever give to them the best counsel he could, according to his conscience and judgment, for the combined interests of the poor, the guardians, and the ratepayers. (Applause.) He again thanked them for the honour they had done him. ELECTION OF A SECOND VICE-CHAIRMAN. Mr. T. S. Cornish said he had very great pleasure in proposing Mr. David Downes as the second vice- chairman. (Applause.) It was not at all necessary for him to dilate upon Mr. Downes' good qualities. He, however, attended very regularly, as much, if not more so, than any other guardian, and he was quite certain that as second vice-chairman he would give entire satisfaction to the Board. (Hear, hear.) Mr. F. Watkins seconded the motion. No amendment being proposed, the resolution was carried unanimously. Mr. David Downes assured them that the flattering compliment was quite unexpected, He did not know that he had any claim at all upon the Board, except that he was one of the oldest guardians in the room, having attended the Board successively for the last twenty-five years. (Hear, hear.) If that gave him any claim on their consideration, that was the only one. He was quite sure, under the guidance of the most excellent chairman they bad elected that day they would get on well. He begged again to thank them for the compliment paid him. GRATUITY TO MR. JAMES WILLIAMS, Mr. T. S. Cornish said he thought he could not I better introduce the subject he wished to, than by reading a letter he held in his hand. It was written to a gentleman in that town, whom they all respected as a medical officer, and in every other sense. The speaker then read the following letter :— Medical Department of the Privy Council Office, 17th November, 1869. Sir,—You are probably aware that the Lords of Her Majesty's Council have been entrusted by Parliament with a sum of money to be applied by them with a view to promote improvement in public vaccination in this country. My Lords, for the purpose of carrying out the wishes of Parlia- ment on this subject, have resolved that they will with this sum make grants to those public vaccinators whose work shall appear, from the reports which they may receive of the number and quality of the vaccinations performed in the several vaccination districts of England, to be sufficiently meritorious ;-such grants to be in addition to the payments received by the public vaccinators from guardians or overseers. I have now the honor to inform you, that my Lords have had under their consideration the report of their inspector on the state of public vaccination in your district, and that they are pleased to award you the sum of £ 12 12s. You will receive a post-office order for this amount in the course of a few days. The order will be advised in the name of J. Simon. I am to request that, when you have received the order, you will have the goodness to sign, detach, and forward to me the subjoined receipt. I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant, J. V. ROTTON. J. Williams, Esq., J.P., Castle-street, Brecon. Mr. Cornish added that it gave him great pleasure to read that letter, as he believed Mr. Williams as a medical officer stood second to none in the town or the principality. (Applause.) The Chairman said he was sure they were all much gratified that such a testimonial had been received by one of their medical officers. Mr. James Williams observed that he was much obliged to Mr. Cornish for his kind remarks. He was happy to say that was the second time he had received a similar reward. (Hear, hear.) Three years ago he received ten guineas for successful vaccination, and he was happy to say he supposed they considered he had done his work better, as this time he had twelve guineas. (Laughter.) THE VACCINATION CONTRACTS. The Clerk remarked that while upon the subject of vaccination he might as well state that there had been some difficulty in regard to the contracts, because the Privy Council would not allow the town to be divided into two districts as formerly. The medical officers saw some little difficulty about the matter. The Board would be glad to find that the medical gentlemen had drawn lots to decide who should hold the position. It had fallen upon Mr. Williams, and it would be well for the Board to give their sanction to Mr. Williams holding the position, and to Mr. North giving up his district to Mr Williams. The Chairman said that was a matter in which they could not help themselves. The Government inspector was down there some time ago, and he said the town must be under one of the medical officers. He was quite sure, therefore, that the Board would be very glad to fall in with the arrange- ment come to by Mr. Williams and Mr. North con- cerning the matter. (Hear, hear.) THE MASTER'S JOURNAL. The Master reported there had only been nine vagrants in the fortnight. There had been one death in the house, three admissions, and one dis- charged, leaving 99 in the house an iacrease of six on the corresponding week of last year. The medi- cal officer had attended on four occasions. PAUPER'S FUNERAL EXPENSES. Mr. Cornish brought forward the case of a man who had died at Llanspyddid, but who had for some time past received relief from the Builth union. The relatives applied to the latter union for the expenses of interment, but were refused, and then they applied to the relieving officer for Brecon, but were also refused. Mr. Cornish asked if the Board could not allow the relatives the amount which they would have paid if the deceased bad been buried by the parish. Some conversation took place on the matter, and as it appeared that the relatives were ignorant that they ought to have applied to the Board in the first instance, the Board was inclined to accede to the application. Mr. J. Prothero moved that the sum of 249. b& allowed the relatives towards the expenses, and Mr. P. Edwards seconded the motion. Mr. Thomas Williams proposed, and Mr. W. Perrott seconded, that 21s. only be allowed. On a division, the original resolution was carried. BILLS. Mr. Walton sent in a bill for £2 for inspecting and reporting upon the state of the infirmary, and it was passed. Mr. North's bill for vaccination was also passed. VACCINATION OFFICERS. Lists were produced of parents who had neglected to have their children vaccinated, and a conversa- tion ensued relative to the appointment of a public prosecutor to see that infants were registered and vaccinated, and to take proceedings in default. It was suggested that the relieving officers would be the most suitable parties. Their appointment, how- ever, and the amount of their compensation was deferred till the next meeting. ORDERS OF REMOVAL. An order of removal of Thomas Price, wife and four children, was received from th" Crickhowell union. After a discussion it was resolved that the relieving officer should go to Crickhowell and make enquiries into the case. A similar order was received from Cardiff in the case of William Llewellyn, and in this case it was decided that the clerk write for the depositions. APPRENTICES. Two applications were received for boys as apprentices, and they were granted, subject to their going a month on trial. This concluded the public business, and the relief was then proceeded with. COURSING- MATCH AND HOUSE- WARMING- DINNER. On Wednesday last-a coursing maich took place, by permission of Colonel Pearce, K.H., on his lands at Merthyr Cynojt. A large number of persons from Brecon and the district mer at the Cradoc Inn about eight 1 > ck in the morning, and proceeded to Merthyr CJnog. The day was favourable for the Sport, but. it was supposed that, owing to the white frost, the hai-oi had gone into cover. The fcon- sequence was that after beating about the greater part of the day only a very few hares were started aud killed. I The usual dinner, which was also a housewarrcrng took place at the Cradoc Inn. It was announced to take place at four o'clock, but in con- sequence of the non-arrival of the Merthyr Cynog sportsmen dinner was not placed on the table till after half-past five o'clock, when about 150 persons sat down to a very bountiful and excellent repast, which was most creditable to Mr. J. Jenkins, and which was served in the large room connected with the inn. Mr. W. Games presided, and there were also present Messrs. Larkin (draper), J. Price (Bank), Henry Jones (Bank), T. Trew (butcher), T. Powell (Bank), D. L. Morgan, John Morgan (Bank, Brecon), T. Price (Court Farm), W. Evans (Brecon), David Williams, Jenkins (^Battle), Andrew Smith (Brecon), W. Thomas (grocer, Brecon), M Smith (Aberyskir), Williams (Pentwyn), Davies (Altarnog)., Rees Parry (Danycrug), J. Morgan (draper, Brecon), Cadogan Edwards (Pontaryscir), White (Black Lion, Brecon), Cadogan Edwards (Wenygove), Thos. Smith (Newton), J. D. Williams (registrar, Brecon), Jones (Tregare), Roger Price (Gwenffrewd), R. Jones (saddler, Brecon), Williams (Bolgoed), Prichard (Aberbran), Pugh (Cradoc), Powell (Lloygaer), Richards (maltster, Brecon), Smith (Cwm- gwdu), Thomas Maund (Brecon), D. Williams (malt- ster, Brecon), Powell (Ynisybont), Price (Vennyfach), Edward Maund (Brecon), Rees Parry (Penlan), Henry Davies, W. J. Williams, Probert (Garngaled), p. Powles (Blue Boar), Evan Williams (Penlan), Price (Queen's Head), J. James, Evans (Brecon), Powell (Battlevawr), Davies (Abersevin), Davies (New Grey- hound, Brecon), &c. On the removal of the cloth the usual loyal toasts were duly honoured. The Chairman then gave the Bishop and Clergy of the diocese, regretting that there were none of the latter present. Mr. J. Price's name was connected with the toast, and he resDonded amidst much laughter. The Chairman next gave the Army, Navy, Militia, and Volunteers." (Applause.) He said that when men did their duty as did those belonging those forces, they were worthy of recognition. When the time again came they would no doubt uphold the honour of the country. In the militia and volunteers they had a number of young men who were prepared to defend that country fram foreign invasion whenever the necessity arose. (Applause.) Mr. Henry Jones, whose name was connected with the army, said he did not know why he should be called upon to reply for that force, as he was not in any way connected with it. He, however, belonged to the volunteers, and he trusted that should they ever be wanted they would not be found behindhand. (Ap- plause.) Mr. Henry Davies acknowledged the toast on the part of the navy, and said they were still alive, and would live for some years yet to do good to the town of Brecon. (Hear", hear.) Lieutenant Morgan said he returned them his sincere thanks for the cordial manner in which they had received the toast of the volunteers. He could only repeat what had been said on so many like occasions, that if called upon to show their military prowess on the battle field they would do themselvess credit. He could hardly be said to be doing his duty, however. He came there with the fullest intention of returning in time for parade, but had not, owing to the gentle men from Merthyr Cynog not returning in time. (Laughter.) The- Chairman next gave the health of the Lord Lieu- tenant of the county, especially referring to Lord Tredegar's character as a good landlord, and his honourable dealings with all who came in contact with him. (Much applause.) The Chairman then proposed the health of the county member, the Hon. Godfrey Morgan, who was a thorough sportsman. (Cheers.) Mr. D. L. Morgan suitably acknowledged the toast, and referred to the promise made by the hon. member at the last Agricultural Show dinner, and remarked that he was always ready to do anything he could to assist the farmer or promote sport. (Hear, hear.) The Chairman proposed the health of the borough member, remarking he was a young man, and they had not tried him long. If, however, he turned out to be what from his ancestry they had a right to expect, he would prove to be a worthy and efficient member of Parliament for the borough of Brecon. If he proved what they believed he would they would be proud of him. From the little experience they had had of him he felt sure that the confidence they had reposed in Lord Hyde would not be misplaced. (Applause.) Mr. D. L. Morgan begged to propose the health of their worthy chairman. (Applause.) He had filled the post of chairman that day with great credit to him- self. But what gave them special claims upon him at a meeting of that character was the fact that he was a thorough sportsman-a greater lover of sport did not exist in the borough of Brecon. (Hear, hear.) He had always a lot of hounds, and they were mostly a good lot. He hoped their chairman would long live to keep hounds and enjoy the sport he so much loved. (Much applause.) The Chairman said he should be very ungrateful if he did not acknowledge the kind manner in which the toast had been proposed, and the hearty reception accorded to it, particularly as he hoped and believed that it was not merely the expression of their lips, but the utterance of true and hearty feelings. (Hear, hear.) Mr. Morgan had proposed his health as a sportsman, and he admitted that he had from his very boyhood cherished a love for the sports of the field, and he still retained it, although he was getting on to be an old man. When a man had gone through a career of about 50 years, he was supposed to know tolerably well what suited him. He had enjoyed the sports of the field for pretty well 40 years, and he never had occasion for one day in his life to regret having done so. He thought they were the most healthful pastimes possible, necessitating exercise, and giving an opportunity, on such occasions as the present, for meeting with old friends and acquaintances, who were of the same way of thinking, as they enjoyed the same sport that you did yourself. In the sporting field also they never heard of such a thing as a quarrel or disagreement. Mr. Games then made a passing reference to the days of 35 years ago, when the gallant Colonel Watkins was amongst them, and the sport then enjoyed, observing that no man need ever be ashamed of or regret being a sportsman. He concluded by again thanking the company for the manner in which his health had been received, and sat down amidst much applause. The Chairman then said it was all very well to be sportsmen, but they could not have sport unless they had the ground to go to. They were very thankful to Colonel Pearce for the permission accorded them of going on his lands to course. That gentleman was most kind towards the inhabitants of Brecon and of Merthyr Cynog, and no farmer ever asked for a day's coursing but what he could get it. (Applause.) On the present occasion it was only to suggest that there was a housewarming dinner at Cradoc, and that a great number of the friends in Brecon and the neighbour- hood of Merthyr Cynog would be glad of a day's coursing, and the Colonel, with his usual kindness, consented to it, and sent his keeper to find the hares. (Applause.) He was quite sure, therefore, that they would most heartily drink to the health of Colonel Pearce. (Loud applause.) The Chairman next proposed the health of Mr. J. D. Williams, of Brecon, who had been voted to the vice- chair. Mr. Williams briefly but suitably acknowledged the toast. In the course of the proceedings several other healths were proposed and responded to, the intervals being enlivened by several excellent songs, a thoroughly harmonious evening being spent, SINGULAR ANCIENT CUSTOMS. In the annual report of the Swansea Literary and Scientific Society for the year 1853, under the head of "Antiquities of the Neighbourhood," Mr. M. Moggridge, F.G.S., gives the following interesting information in regard to the Customs of Dyfy. nuch FAIR T BOLA.-The Belly fair was held at Dyfy. nuch on the second Thursday in October, old style. Purchases were then made for the feast, which com- mer.ced on the following Sunday. In the front of the Bull Inn there was a shed for the sale (only on that occasion) of meat, poultry, and other good things for the feast, and also for the laying in of the winter stock of meat. This custom had prevailed time out of mind, and ceased 18 years ago, except- j ing only as regards the general purchase of geese [ against that particular Sunday. The feast lasted a wpek. On the second day (Monday), the custom of carrying Cunog took place. A man, sometimes a stranger, as in the case of Will Pip, from Brecon, for the consideration of a suit of clo'hes or money, enacted the part of Cunog but the last victim was a drunken farmer. Cuuog was dressed in a suit of clothes, carried once through the village of Dyfynuch, and then thrown inro the river, amidst the jeers and laughter of the people. The day was called "Dydd Llun Gwyl Cunog," i.e., the Monday of St. Cunog. The last time this ceremony was performed was 30 years ago last October. On the next day (Tuesday), all the tithe of cheese (which was in lay hands), was brought to the church- yard and laid on the tombstones, where it was sold; but seldo m commanded a good price, as some of the farmers, out of spite, left out the salt, or sent inferior cheeses. There is no account of the origin of this custom, but it has not obtained during the last 40 years. The feast was kept up until the year 1842, danc- ing and eating being the chief amusements (indeed they had been essential ingredients from its com- mencement), but declined yearly, and finally died away without being replaced by any other custom. For the questionable honours paid to Cunog no reason is assigned by the parishioners, save a rever- ential wish to keep alive the memory of the saint. This might accord well enough with all except the closing scene, and I would hazard a conjecture, that in ancient times the above ceremonies formed a portion of a religious play in honour of St. Cunog, but had a very different termination, for which the comic last act, the river scene, may have been sub- stituted at the time of the Reformation, when ridicule was thrown upon anything savouring of Popery. Another singular pageant was enacted here on the 1st of May, the carrying of the King of Summer and the King of Winter. Two boys were selected for the purpose, and dressed in birchen boughs, which were tied on tightly with string, so that all but their faces were completely covered. The toss of a coin then decided which should be the Summer King, on whose head was immediately placed a large crown, formed of the gayest ribbons that could be borrowed for the occasion, while the Winter King was crowned with a profusion of holly. The kings having donned their regal attire, generally in Noyath wood, half a mile from the village, the procession was formed in the order following ;—First marched two men with drawn swords to clear the way, then four men bearing the King of Summer on two poles, one passed under the knees, the other under the upper part of the back, so that his Majesty was in a semi-recumbent position. Next came the King of Winter, carried in like manner, and then the general assemblage of men and boys. Leaving the wood, they proceed to the respectable houses in the village and its environs, at each of which they received money or beer, and finally entered the churchyard, where the strings which tied the birch were cut off, the ribbons of the CEstival crown were returned to their owners, and the summer King received a sum of money, his wintry brother having somewhat less. The commencement of this custom is veiled in the oblivion of antiquity; its termination was only ten years ago, when it merged into an Ivorite Club (commenced four years previously), which still walks on tha same day, and prospers, to the great benefit of its members. Since writing the above, I learn that on the eve of the first of May it was customary for the boys to cut willow wands, peeling off a por- tion of the bark in a spiral form, so as to resemble a white ribbon wound round the rod, with the green bark showing in the intervals. Thpse they carried through the village, crying out, "Yoho! Yo ho! Yo ho having previously fixed on the top of either the tin effigy of a cock or a cross. n In ancient times it was the practice at Devynock, after a funeral, to give the best pair of shoes and the best pair of stockings which had belonged to the deceased to the parish clerk. But on the death of a farmer's wife (schose tombstone I have seen in the churchyard), in 1843, the clerk, Jenkin Morgan, returning from receiving his dues at Tredystan, where she had died, as soon as he was out of sight of the house, opened the parcel to examine the con- tents, when lie found that the husband had selected shoes that were worn out, and stockings that were full of holes. Going back in no very placid humour, he remonstrated with the disconsolate widower, whose reply of You have as much as you will get- walk from my house," seems to have put an end to the custom, and the clerk no longer "waits for dead men's shoes." Iltid Chapel is situated on Mynydd Iltid, which is in a hamlet of the same name, being one of the five into which the parish of Dyfynuch is divided. I may be allowed to mention, although it is hardly within the limits of this paper, that the people point to a spot within a small and much destroyed rectangular enclosure, not far from the chapel, as being the grave of Iltid, who, they say, was martyred and buried there. A very long time, many generations ago, the congregation thought it pitty to see the curate walking to church, from Blaen Brinich, where be lived, in wooden shoes. They therefore subscribed together to buy him a pair of long boots, This was continued, year by year, until it became a custom, and still exists as an annual payment of A2 by the Churchwardens to the curate, as shown by their books. Bidding-weddings here, as in many other parishes, are yet extant. It is unnecessary to describe them, as they are probably known to you all, but I may state that the legal obligation to return gifts received on the occasions, was recognised by the Court of Great Sessions at Cardiff. The horse-wedding has occurred here within the last twelve months it was well attended-there was the accustomed racing and chasing,"—the attempts to steal away the bride-the mirth and jollity, as in bye-gone days; but one feature was wanting-one that appealed to the ear as well as to the eye where is old Edward, of Gwern-y-Pebydd, who, mounted upon his white horse, and pouring forth the wild music of the bagpipe,* has headed many a wedding party in their half frantic gallop over hill and vale ? Alas the old man has been gathered to his fathers some hundred years--the "last of his race was he even the instrument upon which he played is gone. Mentioned in the 7th century, and in K. Howells laws; likewise, according to Giraldus Cambrensis (1187). It appeaxs that neither the Irish, nor their descendants, the Scots, had any pipes at that period.—MSS. and Poetical Relics of the Welsh Bards, p. 116.

DEFYNNOCK. ACCIDENT.—One day last week a horse belonging to Mr. William Jones, timber merchant, ran off with a load of chaff. Mr. Jones, who happened to be by at the time, attempted to stop the horse, and in doing sf, felt under the wheel, which broke his leg. Dr. Williams, of Senny Bridge, was soon in atten- dance, and did all he could for the sufferer, who is we are glad to hear, progressing satisfactorily. LECTURE.—On Thursday, the 18th instant the Rev. John Thomas, Liverpool, delivered a lecture at the Tabernacle, on Parliament and Members of Parliament." The Rev. R. S. Williams, of Brecon, presided. The meeting was well attended, and the lecturer kept his audience very attentive for two hours. The proceeds went towards paying off the debt of the chapel. Votes of thanks to the lecturer and the chairman brought the meeting to a close.

YSTALYFERA. MARRIAGE FESTIVITIES.-On Tuesday last this village was thrown into a state of considerable ex- citement in consequence of the marriage of Mr. G. E. Williams, roll turner, and Miss Lloyd, school- mistress. In several parts of the village the roads were spanned by tasteful triumphal arches, and banners with mottoes inscribed thereon appro- priate for the occasion. The ceremony was performed in Trinity Church by the Rev. T. Walters, B.D., before a select assembly. After the ceremony the bride and bridegroom, after receiving the con- gratulations of their friends, drove off amidst the acclamations and well wishes, of a large crowd of spectators. The wedding breakfast was laid at the Castle Hotel, Neath, and provided by Mr. Hancock, the proprietor. The happy couple afterwards left for London, where they intend spending the honey- moon.