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v-4. Abergavenny Police Court.…
v- 4. Abergavenny Police Court. I Wednesday.—Before Mr. F. Y. J. nauuury (chairman), Colonel Williams, Major San lord, Mr. W. L. Thomas and Mr. Edwin Foster. Sheep Worrying on the Dsn. I James Williams, farmer, ot Liwynuu, was summoned for allowing his dog to worry live sheep belonging to Arthur i-<ewis, platelayer, of Deri-side, on January 26th. Damages to the amount of .t5 were claimed, Iltyd Gardner represented comphillant, and AL-. D. G. Harris, Brynmawr, appeared for the defendant. Mr. Gardner, in opening the case, said the defendant had been warned repeatedly, hut took no notice, and defendant was quite reluctantly compelled to bring those proceedings or lie would have no sheep left. Complainant said that on December 23rd his wife made a communication to him, as a con- sequence of which he went in search of one of the sheep, which he found had been driven into the briars. It was mangled all to pieces, and he ronld see it had been torn by a dog. On Sunday, the 26th, he saw a dog worrying a sheep in the wood, and he went after it, hut lost it. It was the defendant's dqg- About an hour after- wards he found the sheep about 200 yards away from where he lost it, and it was mangled and torn all to pieces. He had had it destroyed out of its miserv. Williams )iad two dogs in Decem- ber, but he heard that he had destroyed one. He only saw one afterwards. On January 8th he found another sheep mangled and torn all to pieces. It ought to have been destroyed then, but he tried to save its life by keeping it in. On January 26th another sheep was killed in the brook, and the dog had been chasing the sheep. On January 30th. he saw Alfred Williams, de- fendant's son, who admitted that the dog had worried the sheep and torn it about, and that he had given it a good hiding for doing so. He said his brother had sent the dogs after the sheep till he could not do anything with them, and he would not take them out again. By Mr. Harris Witness had about 50 sheep on seven acres and a right of run on the moun- tain. He worked on the railway from. 8 a.m. to 5.30 p.m., and his wife looked after the sheep during the day. The sheep had been on de- fend ant's land occasionally, but they could not get there if defendant would keep his fences in good order. Mr. Harris Why didn't you take this case to the County Court ? Mr. Gardner said that complaint issued the summons before consulting him. Mr. Harris He knows there is no counter- claim allowed in this Court. The Clerk He has two remedies, and he has the right to come to this tribunal if he chooses. Mr." Harris (to complainant) Have you seen anv other dog coursing the sheep ?—No. Not your own dog ?-o. What does Mr. Williams use his dog for ?— Well, practicallybr worrying sheep. (Laugllter). He keeps it there for that purpose ?—The main of it is for that purpose. He does not keep it there for self-defence because the sheep annoy him ?-I daresay he does, partly. I have asked him several times about it, but I cannot get anything but a grunt out of him. Complainant said he had done defendant's fences up and he had worked on Sunday to do it, but he had noticed that the fence was pulled out the next day for the sheep to go through, to have the fun of coursing them about. Mr. Harris Have you ever threatened to strike Mr. Williams's son ?—Yes, I did one day, but I did not touch him because he is a cripple. What did you threaten him for ?—For ill- using the sheep. Christopher Lewis, son of the complainant, said that on the 26th of January he saw de- fendant's dog chasing a sheep towards the brook, but could not see it when he got there. Later he found it lying dead, 30 yards lower down. On Sunday, the 30th, he saw defendant's dog after one of the sheep. Alfred Williams, de- fendant's son, did not make any attempt to stop it, but when he saw witness coming he com- menced to hit the dog. Mrs. Lewis said that on December 23rd de- fendant had two dogs, and she heard them chasing in the wood. She went into the wood, and saw the dogs pulling at one of the sheep. She followed them, but they got away. She told her husband when he came home, and he went in search. He found the sheep 60 or 70 yards away from where she saw it. It was dead and torn all about. Soon after that one of de- fendant's dogs disappeared. On January 8th she saw defendant's dog in the wood biting the sheep. She again followed, but could not catch it. By Mr. Harris She kept her dog fastened up, except when they went across Mr. Williams's ground to see if there were any sheep there. Mr. Harris You admit you trespass on his ground. The Magistrates' Clerk For a worthy object. Mr. Harris Do you keep your dog fastened up because you are afraid of it worrying the sheep ?—No, I have not known it worry sheep since we have had it. George McLeod, keeper on the Deri, said that on the 8th of J anuary he saw Mr. Williams's dog chasing the sheep. It was chasing them very wildly, and he saw it turn one head over heels, About 4 o'clock complainant asked him to come and look at a sheep. It had been badly torn about bv a dog, and could hardly stand. It was just. about 50 yards away from where he saw the do, chasing it. He had seen the dog both before j and since chasing the sheep. It went straight for them and bit them. By Mr. Harris He had seen other dogs chasing sheep on the mountain, though if he mentioned names he would have to mention the names of all the farmers on the mountain. Mr. Harris said that the sheep were continually trespassing, day after day. How was Mr. Wil- liams to keep them out unless by driving them out with his dog. The Magistrates' Clerk He could keep his fences in order. Mr. Harris The fence is between the farms. Major Sanford Why can't he rim them up and pound them ? I have found it a splendid remedy. Mr. Harris I have found it a dangerous remedy, because when you pound sheep they are at your own risk, and if anything happens you are liable in damages. Mr. Iltyd Gardner Not if you take proper precautions. Major Sanford And the pound is close by, too. Mr. Harris said that if the case had been brought into the County Court defendant would have ° entered a counter-claim. The sheep were continually eating the pasture for which de- fendant paid rent, and he had put up with this sort of thing for three years, yet Lewis com- plained when his sheep were driven off. Defendant said he had been at Llwyndu 12 years, and did not keep sheep. He had asked complainant to keep his sheep away from there. It would require an extra special fence to keep the sheep out. He had never seen his dog put its nose to complainant's sheep. Roland Hutt, brother-in-law of the de- fendant, said he was spending Christmas with him. On December 26th he saw a black dog chasing the sheep, and Mr. Williams's dog was with them at the time. Mr. Williams's dog was not chasing any sheep at all that day. Mr. Gardner Is it not a fact that you have been on bad terms with your brother-in-law ?- We have had differences. How did you come to go to this man, with whom you have been on the worst of terms, to spend Christmas ?—Because I was asked to go. How did you come to do it ?-I can't tell you. I went. Old grievances had nothing to do with it. Vou mean you suddenly became friends ?-I am trying to get out why you spent Christmas there. The Magistrates' Clerk You are not forgetting I that it was Christmas, are youj? (Laughter). Mr. Gardner It was a case of peace on earth and goodwill toward men ?—That is it, sir. John Williams, son of the defendant, said complainant threatened to strike him, and witness said someone else could fight besides him. Their dog had never worried complainant's sheep. Alfred. Williams, another son, said he had seen complainant's dog pulling wool out of the' sheep, but their dog had not bitten them. Mr. Gardner Everything the witnesses have said is false ?-Yes, sir. And the keeper, I suppose ?-Yes, sir. Agnes Williams, housekeeper to defendant, said that on the 26th the dog was chained up all day, and until the Sunday and Mrs. Kyte corroborated. Mrs. Rees, Brook Cottage, Llwyndu said she saw a dark-bodied dog with a white neck, pulling a sheep about in the brook. It was not Mr. Williams's dog, but she did not know whose it was In reply to Mr. Gardner, witness said this was between 9 and 10 in the morning. The Bench decided that defendant's dog did inflict damage on the defendant's sheep, and they assessed the damages at £ 5, including costs. Didn't Know the Chief Constable. Archelus Watson, collier, of Llanhilleth and living at Llanvapley, was summoned for I cruelty to a pony by working it in an unfit state on January 5th. He admitted that the horse was a little sore on the shoulder. The Chief Constable (Mr. Victor Bosanquet) said that at 3.40 p.m. on the 5th he met de- fendant driving a pony in a cart at a trot, on the Raglan-road just outside the borough boundary. Ih 1.? I I The pony was extremely lame on tlie ott loreieg. Witness told defendant he could not allow him to go anv further, because the pony was lame. Defendant replied, There is nothing the matter with it but a little bit of skin off." Witness said Show me where the little bit of skin is off." Defendant lifted the collar and showed him a sore on the pony's shoulder. Witness told him he knew the lameness could not arise from that, and he would not let him go any further. Defendant said It is extremely inconvenient to me 1 w?nt to meet the missus." Witness told him he could take it out llilnisstlhlse town, and defendant said he would put up at the Market Tavern. Witness said, You really mean to go there ? and defendant replied I would not tell you a lie." Witness proceeded to the Police Station and then to the Market Tavern in com- n:nv with Sprat Vrosser. but defendant had not put up there. Witness then proceeded towards Penpergwm in company with P.C. Cover, and on to where defendant lived at Llanvapley. He saw the defendant arrive at 5 p.m. with the pony still attached to the cart. The pony, had a long coat on and ought never to have had a sore shoulder at all, unless it was from deliberate carelessness. The pony was quite unfit to work, and was saturated with sweat. Defendant per- sisted in saying there was nothing the matter with the pony. He said he thought a good deal of it and would not do it any harm. Witness -?t first lie became asked him why he told a lie. At first he became very bombastic, and afterwards said he was very sorrv for having done so. The lameness, so far as witness could judge, was in the foot or near the foot, and the pony pointed its foot when standing and put no weight on it. The sore was caused because defendant had not been careful enough to see that the collar fitted. In reply to the Magistrates' Clerk, witness said he must admit he did wrong in not taking the pony out, as the Chief Constable told him to do. Col. Williams You didn't expect to see him again, did you ?—No. II.allghter.) I The Chairman (to the Chief Constable) Did he know v.-ho vou were  I Chief Constable I should say he did. Defendant I didn't know. The Magistrates' Clerk If you had known you would probably have gone to the Market Tavern ?—Defendant Certainly I would. (Laughter). Defendant said there was a slight bit of skin off, but it was not off when he left in the morning. The pony was quite all right. The collar was too large, and it rubbed the sore. The pony was ill -town. if the Magistrates would like to see it. The Chief Constable said if it was it ought not to be. Supt. Davies said there were eight convictions for various offences, against the defendant, but none for cruelty. The Bench imposed a fine of costs, or a month's imprisonment with hard labour. Defendant I cannot pay it. I will have the month's hard labour. The Bench allowed eight days to pay, and de- fendant left the Court. Lost Their Way. Jonathan Davies and George Lucas, colliers, of Llanelly, were summoned for riotous conduct on the 30th of January. P.-C. Oliver said that at 8.30 011 Sunday, the 30th, he was on duty near Govilon village, and heard a lot of shouting. He found the two de- fendants on a footpath in a meadow by the church, shouting and using most filthy language. They said they had lost their road and were shouting to their mate. They were under the influence of drink. Lucas, against whom there were previous convictions, was fined £ 3, including costs and Jonathan Davies was fined £ 2, including costs. Brutal Cruelty Farmer Fined £10. William Holly, farmer, of Major's Barn, Aber- gavenny, was summoned for cruelty to a dog by beating it with a stick, on January 22nd. Defendant said, I killed the dog with a stick." Several boys gave evidence in an excellent manner. Harold Griffiths said he, with other boys, was going up the Old Hereford road on January 22nd, and defendant, who was riding in a cart and had a boy with him, passed them on the road. Defendant shouted at something in the field and the boy got out of the cart and opened the gate. There was a dog chasing some sheep in the field. It was a small fox-terrier. A boy named Jenkins caught the dog and gave it to Mr. Holly. Defendant caught the dog by the tail and began cutting it with a big stick. He cut it about a dozen times and then threw it on the bank. Witness said to him, That is a bit too bad," and Holly replied "It ought to have more. Suppose it had killed some of my sheep" Defendant picked the dog up and put it in the cart and drove off. The dog was alive then. The dog belonged to Mr. J aine, of Queen-street, and was following the owner's little boy up the road. The Chairman Was the dog very much hurt ?-It was very nearly dead. Supt. Davies Was it gasping as if it was almost dead ?- Yes. sir. Was there blood on it ?-There was thick blood coming out of its mouth. Frederick Jenkins, of 19, Queen-street, who was with the last witness, said he called the dog by name, and held it by the collar. Defendant held it by the tail and began cutting it with a big stick. He then threw it on the bank, where it lay gasping for breath. Eaton Bishop, of Park-road, said that when he saw defendant hitting the dog the first time, he had to turn his head away, as he could not bear to see the little thing hit. Mary Lloyd, wife of William Lloyd, of Panty- gelly, said she was coming down the Old Hereford road on the day in question, and saw the de- fendant drive into the field. He took the dog from the boy, and, holding it by its tail, hit it with his walking stick. P.-Sergt. Spendlove said he was with the Inspector of the R.S.P.C.A. on January 25th when defendant was spoken to with regard to the cruelty to the dog. Defendant said Yes, I killed the dog. I hit it four or five times with this stick (holding up a heavy ash stick). I held it bv the tail and hit it on the head four or four times." At first defendant said he called the 1 dog to him, and then said he caught it by the tail as it held a ewe by the udder. Defendant also said that one ewe was dead and another one had slipped her lambs. Later he told witness he would do the same to a dozen dogs if they came up there. He also said he had taken the dog in the cart and had buried it at the farm, and he would send the bill to the owner for the damage to the sheep. Defendant Didn't the inspector ask me how long it took me to kill the dog, and didn't I say that I killed it with the first stroke and I knocked it'three or four times after to make sure it was dead ?—You didn't put it that way at all. Cyril Jaine said the dog was his father's. It followed him to the Athletic Ground, when he sent it home, and he did not see it afterwards. Defendant said thev had 18i ewes in the field. and as he drove up the road he could see a little dog running them for all it was worth. He could see a gentleman in the field trying to stop the dog. Witness drove up through the gate and ran into the field, and could see one ewe down and the others run up into a heap. He caught the dog by the tail and struck it on the back of the head with the stick, and killed it with the first stroke. He hit it three or four times after- wards. He took the dog to Major's Barn and kept it there till the Monday, but no one came to claim it. If there had been a name on the collar he would have put the owner in Court, as there were several ewes gone. Major Sanford What business had you to strike the dog ? Defendant I thought I was entitled to kill it for killing the sheep. Defendant said he went back to the field after- wards, and there was one ewe down and another one had cast her lambs. Three had cast their lambs since. Major Sanford Did you look at the collar before you killed the dog ?--No. Alfred Fone, clerk for D. E Williams, butcher, said he was returning to Abergavenny from the Mardy by way of the Llwynu fields, about a quarter past two, and when he got by the gate leading to Lansdowne road he could see the sheep were being worried by something. He ran down and saw a terrier dog making rings round the sheep, barking and jumping at them. The sheep were in a very distressed state. Major Sanford Did you see the dog bite the sheep ?-No. Did you see sheep down ?—No. In reply to Supt. Davies, witness said he was not in the field where the sheep were. He did not see defendant hit the dog. When he saw Mr. Holly come into the field, he went along. The Chairman said defendant had no right to take the law into his own hands. The Bench 1 i considered him guilty of a most brutal outrage. He had absolutely murdered the dog. They were in two minds about sending him to prison I without the option. They would not do so this time, however, and they hoped it would be a warning. Defendant would be fined io, in- cluding costs. Wanted Another Chance. Gertrude Geor"ge, of no fixed abode, was charged with an offensive in Firs-lane on the "{'i:1' -c. 'I-tr: previous aiternoou, aim Blackwood, was charged with aiding and abetting. P.-C. Calder said there were several children going home from school that wa- The woman said to him, You policemen are trying to stop mv Army allowance." The female defendant pleaded for another chance, so that she might go home to her mother. Supt. Davies said she had been convicted before and had been given a chance to go away. Her husband was away serving his country, and she was drawing Army allowance and acting in this sort of way. Evans was fined (2, or a month, and George was sent to prison for a mouth with hard labour. iv?is se, t to prisoii for a ii-ioii,Il Iiar d lal)our.
Abergavenny Licensed Victuallers.
Abergavenny Licensed Victuallers. PRICE OF SPIRITS RAISED. I The monthly meeting of the Abergavenny District Licensed Victuallers' Association was held at the Bull Inn on Monday night, Mr. H. B. Stocken (president) presiding over a large attendance. The following new members were elected :—Mr. George Young, Cambrian, Blaen- avon Mr. C. Foster, Swan, Blaenavon Mr. J. Rosser, Llanfoist Inn; Mr. J. Boyt, King of Russia, Penpergwm and Mr. Griffiths, Bridge Inn, Llanfoist. Several important matters were discussed, in- cluding the question of the assessment of licensed houses and the question of the rebate of licence duty now being made owing to the curtailment of hours. It was unanimously decided to put up the price of proprietory brand spirits and bulk spirits id. per glass, and the secretary (Mr. W. M. Chadwick) was instructed to obtain a supply of cards to send round to the members, and to be supplied to non-members on application. The question of serving the military was again brought forward, and the Association decided to appeal through the medium of the Press to the whole of the trade in the district, asking them to give all the assistance they possibly could to the military authorities and to strictly adhere to the hours enforced. It was decided to announce on the cards to be issued with regard to the new prices, the hours during which the military could be served (12.30 to 2, and 5 to 10 p.m.). The Secretary reported that he had received a large number of acknowledgments from prisoners of war in Germany and their relatives, as a result of the Association's subscription to the Monmouthshire Prisoners of War Fund. ..to..
[No title]
"r For Prisoners Of War.—The Infants' Depart- ment of the Castle Street Council School have sent a contribution of 5s. towards the Mon- mouthshire Prisoners of War Fund.
TROOPS FOR ABERGAVENNY.
TROOPS FOR ABERGAVENNY. DEPUTATION TO GENERAL SIR HY. MAGKSMNON. PROMISE OF CONSIDERATION TO STRONG LOCAL CLA5 MS. On Saturday last the Mayor (Alderman Z. Wheatley), Capt. W. PI. Atherley Jones, and the Town Clerk (Mr. W. H. Hopwood) interviewed General Sir Henry Mackinnon, K.C.B., G.O.C., Western Command, at Chester, on the subject of the location of troops at Abergavenny. Though no definite promise to send troops to Abergavenny has been secured, it is pleasing to learn that General Mackinnon considers an unanswerable case has been made out for Aber- gavenny and is sympathetic to local claims. It seems certain that when further accommodation for truops is needed, Abergavenny's claims will not be forgotten. The following is a report of the interview, prepared by the Town Clerk The deputation consisted of His Worship the Mayor, Cap. Atherley Jones, and myself. The conference took place at the General's room at Headquarters, and he was attended by his Military Secretary, Major Allen, A.I.R. Capt. Atherley J Oles opened the discussion by pointing out that he had obtained the permission of his Commanding Officer, Major Lucas, O.C., Glam. and Mon., to his attending to support the ap- plication upon the following grounds (I) The Mayor and Corporation had, since the commence- ment of the war, given every facilities to aid recruiting by their personal services, and by allowing the Recruiting Authorities the use of rooms at the Town Hall, free of rent, rates and taxes, and supplied light, and in many cases clerical assistance. (2) In his opinion, 110 better place than Abergavenny could be found for accommodation of troops, whether in billets, in huts, or under canvas, and that the ground available for tactical operations was unequalled. (3) That farmers were making a large number of claims to the Tribunals for exemptions of farm hands from military service, as they could not find labour, and that if troops were quartered at Abergavenny the soldiers could take the places of men called up. I then produced to the General, plans show- ing Abergavenny and district, and explained same fully to him, and I also brought to his notice the capacity of Abergavenny for dealing with the requirements of troops. The Mayor then pointed out to the General that he had already had an interview with him in London upon this matter, and that he had reserved his opinion pending further evidence, especially as to whether Hereford had greater railway facilities than Abergavenny. The Mayor dealt fully with the accommodation of both places, and showed that Abergavenny was more central, especially with troops from South Wales, and that it was within 3I hours from London that there were three railway stations, as against one at Hereford, and a far larger number of engines and rolling stock in reserve here and he handed to the General a complete summary of the arguments, and six copies for the use of his staff, of which the following is a copy (a) The town is most delightfully situated on the banks of the river Usk, noted for its splendid salmon and trout fishing, and is sur- rounded by mountains within easy marching distance, offering unrivalled scope for manoeuvres 011 an extensive scale, (b) The race-course is situate near the town, and is eminently suitable for parade for thousands of troops, (c) Trans- port and railway facilities It is well served by both the L. & N. W. Rly. and G. W. Rly. Com- panies, and has three stations, neither of which is more than half a mile from the most distant camping ground. At each of these stations there are sidings for detraining and entraining horses, and cranes are available for dealing with heavy baggage and stores, (d) Camp fields The camp fields are splendidly situated, and from each of these delightful views of the moun- tains and of the lovely valley of the Usk may be obtained, (e) The ground is very dry, with splendid turf, and water, which is of first-class quality, is laid on to each of the fields. Water 1 can be laid on to any other field in or near the town. In 1908 the East Lancashire Engineers, and the 1st ahd 2nd Welsh Engineers, en- camped in the Castle meadows, which are an ideal site for Engineers' encampments, all the training, comprising the erection of floating, trestle, and suspension bridges, and field tele- graphs, and all kinds of trenching, being carried out in the camp field the river Usk, which runs alongside these meadows, being also available for bathing and the watering of horses. Several units of Engineers or Battalions of Infantry could be quartered in these meadows, which are of considerable ext-ent. (e) The Cheshire In- I fautry Brigade encamped in Bailey Park and the rising ground above, in 1907 and 190S, and also in 1913 and the '3rd Battalion Monmouthshire Regiment in August 1908. In 1909 the North Wales Brigade encamped at Abergavenny, in 1911 the Staffordshire Infantry Brigade and Royal Engineers, and also the 7th Cyclist Batt., Welsh Regiment. In 1913 the Cheshire In- fantry Brigade, and also the 4th London Terri- torial Infantry Brigade. In 1914 the South Midland Royal Engineers encamped in the Castle meadows. On mobilisation, the 3rd Mon- mouthshire Territorial Regiment encamped in Bailey Park. The 38th Division (Welsh Army Corps) were billeted in the town (one man one bed) from J anuary to August, about 600 strong. The Engineers left 1,300 strong, having formed two companies of Pioneers. The Welsh Border Territorial Brigade have been encamped in Aber- gavenny, also the Army Service Corps and Royal Army Medical Corps, and only left on October 20th, 1915. (f) Scavenging and removal of refuse, emptying latrines, &c. In addition to the provision of camp fields, the Council under- take the scavenging of the fields, including the emptying and cleaning of latrines, the removal of refuse, and the provision of dry earth, and also supply water to the camp fields, (g) Drill fields and manoeuvring area Several capital fields are available for drill, and the use of practically the whole of the mountains, covering many miles, can be had for manoeuvres. These are all quite close to the town and the camp fields. (h) Recreation Bailey Park, which belongs to the Council, is available for sports of all kinds and recreation. All the churches and chapels have opened reading, writing and recreation rooms, and Y.M.C.A. marquees have been provided, (i) Bathing Capital bathing can be had for the men in the river Usk, and good boating on the beautifully situated Newport and Brecon canal, which winds round the moun- tain side within a mile of the town. Several excellent hotels provide first-class stabling. (j) Commissariat All requisites, including pro- visions of all kinds, have been obtained in the town, at prices which will compare equally with those charged elsewhere. Contractors' names will be forwarded on application, (k) Hospitals Abergavenny possesses both an Accident Hos- pital and Infectious Disease Hospital, where arrangements may be made for the treatment of any case which may occur amongst the troops.. The Council will be pleased to furnish you with maps, showing the camp fields and water supply, and any other information you may require, and arrange for a small deputation to meet any of your representatives who may be sent to make an inspection at any time. In his reply the General stated that, in his opinion, we had made an unanswerable case for Abergavenny, and that as soon as further ac- commodation was required he would take care that troops were sent here, but he pointed out that at present troops were located in huts, and, manifestly, until the weather became warmer hut accommodation was essential, and whilst that accommodation existed they would not billet troops, and of course the weather was not warm enough to put them under canvas. It was true that under the Compulsion Act a large body of troops would be called up, and the tendency of his advisers was to locate them in inland places rather than watering places, as it was found that the men did a great deal better work and he fully appreciated the strength of Capt. Atherley Jones's proposition as to the necessity of troops being quartered in agri cultural areas, in order to supply labour to the farmers, and thereby obviate the necessity of farmers claiming exemption for their farm hands from military service because of shortage of labour. He thanked the deputation for placing the case before them so concisely, and said that everything he could possibly do would be done. Yours faithfully, W11. H. HOPWOOD, Town Clerk's Office, Town Clerk. Town Hall, Feb. 7, 1916." GERMAN GUN FOR ABERGAVENNY. The deputation to General Sir Hy. Mackinnon applied for a gun captured from the Germans to be sent to Abergavenny. General Mackinnon promised to send one, and Captain Gossett, of Chester Castle, said it would arrive at Aber- gavenny about the first week in March.
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I THE TOWN CLOCK.
I THE TOWN CLOCK. Dedicated (without permission) to the Mayor. Dickory, dickory dock What 't, a-, become of the clock His hands go round "Without a sound, Dickory, dickory dock His face in the day is there, Quite bonny and round and fair But never a light Can I see at night To direct me, Mr. Ding dong,-ding dong,—ding dong Give back the clock his song Let him tell the time With his sweetest chime, Ding dong—ding dong—ding dong If'something's gone wrong within, Why lay the blame on Berlin ? Get ready the clock For the filial shock, When the Allies strike and win MASTER HUMPHREY.
- + -Threatened -Strike -at…
+ Threatened Strike at Gas Works. MEN'S NOTICES HANDED IN. We understand that a strike is threatened at the Abergavenny Gas Works and that the whole of the fitters, stokers and labourers have handed in their notices. They have, so it seems, taken this action because the Town Council at their meeting on Monday did not grant them an increase in wages which they had applied for. The Council, however, did not refuse the applica- tion, but only deferred it so that they could con- sider the position of the whole of the employes at the same time and treat them all alike. In view of this fact, the Gas Works' employes have acted very precipitately, and, in consequence, will lose such sympathy of the ratepayers as they may have gained for their claims. Many people will, no doubt, consider the threat of a strike very ill-advised at the present time, for it is not only public convenience which has to be considered, but it must be remembered that the Gas Works' employes are engaged in important work connected with the manufacture of ex- plosives. The Gas Committee are advertising in our columns to-day for gas stokers and labourers, but, as everyone knows, there is a great shortage of all kinds of labour at the present time. The Town Council, as far as one can gather, seem determined not to give way to such untimely threats, and they may have to make an appeal for voluntary help to keep the Gas Works undertaking going, in the event of the employes actually coming out.
Farmers' Pigeon -Shoot.
Farmers' Pigeon Shoot. Mr. Philip Williams, of Red House, IJanarth, writes to say that the pigeon shoot arranged by the Farmers' Union for February 17th has now been made a three days' fixture, and will be held on February lCth, 17th, and iSth. As he cannot arrange for the placing of guns in every wood, he must leave the management of the stands on the different farms to the shooting tenants and farmers. A gentleman has offered a prize of one guinea for the biggest bag. Competitors of one giiinea for the I)igv are asked to post the number of birds to the secretary, Mr. Philip Williams, and an umpire will be sent to verify the number.
Abergavenny Free Church Council.…
Abergavenny Free Church Council. I The annual meeting of the Abergavenny and I District Free Church Council was held on Friday I last, at the Congregational Hall, Castle-street, Mr. F. J. Mansfield presiding. The statement I of the hon. treasurer (Mr. E. Foster, J.P.) was I read by the secretary, Mr. W. Jacobs, and this showed that there was a workable balance. The secretary expressed his desire to resign his office and give place to a younger man, but he was persuaded to continue, with the appointment of Mr. H. Morgan as assistant secretary. Mr. F. J. Mansfield was elected president, Rev. J. P. Millward vice-president, and Mr. E. Foster hon. treasurer. On the suggestion of the Rev. Gwilym Davies it was decided to hold a tea and public meeting on Thursday, March 9th, and to appoint three speakers to speak respectively on the Free Churches before the war, during the war, and after the war.
I -.LLANOVER.,,I I
I LLANOVER. I I CONCERT.—A SuccesStul ana enjoyame concert I was held in the Parish Hall last week. The event was promoted by Miss Jenkins, of Beili-Glas, who was cordially supported by members of the church choir and others. The Vicar, the Rev. Evan Davies, presided over a good attendance. An excellent musical programme was gone through, all the items being highly appreciated. Mrs. Fred Rosser played pianoforte solos and also accompanied the singers. Songs were pleasingly rendered by Mr. Price, Tredegar Miss Davies, Penpwllenny Mr. Morris, Tredegar Mr. Fred J. Rickard, Tredegar Miss Jenkins, Mr. Ed- mondson, Tredegar Miss Thomas, Neuadd. Duets were given by Messrs. Rickard and Morris, Messrs. Rickard and Price, Mr. C. Merrick and Miss Davies, Misses Jenkins and Davies. Mrs. Rosser and Miss Jenkins, Beili-Glas, played a pianoforte duet, and Mr. Taylor, of Tredegar, gave a pianoforte solo. After the concert, light refreshments were partaken of and a short dance and a few games followed. The proceeeds were in aid of reducing the debt on the Parish Hall, which has proved to be a great acquisition in the social life of the parish.
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Pocket Diaries for 1916, from Md. each.—M. Morgan & Co., Chronicle Office, Abergavenny. Volunteer Training Corps.—Parades will take place as last week.—F. P. J. HANBURY, Sub- Commandant. Abergavenny Y.M.C.A.—The committee of the above are anxious that the inhabitants of Aber- gavenny and district should be informed that the voung persons who go about soliciting donations for the Y.M.C.A. are not doing so on behalf of the local institution in Frogmore-street, but the General Council for South Wales, managed by Mr. Higman, Cardiff, and his assistant collector, Mr. W. G. Griffiths. Organ Recital.-On Thursday evening Mr. J. R. Rosser gave an enjoyable organ recital at Holy Trinity Church. There was a good con- gregation, and the recital was the most successful ever held at Holy Trinity. Mr. Rosser played with his customary ability Toccata and Fugue in D Minor" (Bach), "Allegro Pomposo" (D. Vincent), Evensong" (Johnson), Fin- landia" ( (Siberius), and "Hymn tune with variations, Andantino in G flat." Mr. C. Merrick gave excellent renderings of Dream of Para- dise and Vesper Hymn," and Mr. Geo. Watts sang in good style the recit and air Rend your hearts." The collection, which was on behalf of the choir book fund, amounted to ii 12s.
Successful Jumble Sale at…
Successful Jumble Sale at Crickhowelf. I ;,1. 1 Laay ^lanus;< openeci a J "111 LIlt: -><±ie- at Crickhowell on Thursday, in aid of the British Farmers' Red Cross Socicty and the Crickhoweli War Hospital Supply Depot. The sale was arranged bv the Crickhoweli Farmers' Union. There was a large attendance, and the exhibits for sale included poultry, live stock, vegetables, and an assortment of articles, given by residents. A number of subscriptions were received. The celebrated Bosbury donkey, the property of Mr. Lane, wnich has collected nearly -4or the Red Cross Society, was present, with four nurses in charge, and collected a large sum of money. Ladv Glanusk was supported by Major-General and Mrs. R. H. Curteis, Lady Salt, Hon. Mrs. Herbert Bailey, Air. and Airs. E. Pirie Gordon, Airs. Hill, Hon. Aliss Dulcie Bailey, Rev. H. P. and Airs. Somerset, and Rev. R. AI. and Airs. Cole-Hamilton. Her Ladyship, who was cordially greeted, said that evervone realised that a sale of that kind was held because the country was at war, and the best of the nation was gallantly fighting on land and sea and in the air to prevent our domination bv the Germans She said advisedly the best of the nation, because the men who were now being driven could not be comoared with those who were already fighting. Tney were not in the same street. She strongly commended the Red Cross movement, and said she would have been pleased to get help for I en yore Hospital, a countv institution, and from which t i o ii an( I hich place she had brought a party or wounded soldiers to the sale. The celebrated Bosbury donkey, the most patriotic animal in the world, was there that day to collect money, and she hoped there would be a ready and worthy response. Lady Glanusk then opened th- sale by inviting bids for the donkey, a rare nugget," and in quick time the donkey realised c,,55 10s. for the promoters. A heartv vote of thanks was accorded Lady Glanusk, on the motion of Air.. M. Chadwick, auctioneer, who gave his services gratuitously, seconded bv Air. James Howell, a member of the Crickhowell Farmers' Union. Among the sale exhibits was a bullet picked up on the field of Waterloo, and which Mr. Chadwick stated had been given by the late King of the Belgians to his coachman, a Welshman now resident in Crickhowell. During the day a house-to-house collection was made by soldiers and nurses, and in the evening there was a public tea and enter- tainment in the Clarence Hall. The arrange- ments were carried out by Air. W. AI. Chadwick, Air. J. Phillips (Lloyds Bank). Air. J. H. Fur- medge (agent to Lord Glanusk), and Air. W. Powell secretar-v), and at the entertainment Air. Chadwick was cordially thanked for his services as auctioneer, Jr. Furmedge referring in appreciative terms to his work.
-........-TOBACCO FUND.
TOBACCO FUND. Already acknowledged • -i-5^ I 4 This week -• •• •• •• 2140 260 15 4 25S. Angel Hotel. Jos. -11r. J. Prichard. p. 5s. Air. 1). Jones; Airs. Lawrence Baker; Mrs. Chas. Baker. 2s. Mr. D. Alorgan. Is. Air. G. Keates. 6d. B.J. Airs. Savegar.
-.,...-CRICKHOWELL .-1.
CRICKHOWELL 1. BREWSTER SESSIONS.—supt. 11. nana re- ported to the Crickhoweli Alagistrates on Friday that there were in the division 46 houses licensed for the sale of intoxicating liquors, viz., 37 ale- houses and 9 beer-houses, to a population of 5,431, being an average of 116 to each licensed house, exclusive of grocers' licenses. Since last Licensing Sessions the King's Arms, LJan- gynidr, had been closed, which made one less in the number of licensed houses. Proceedings had been instituted against four licensed houses, resulting in two convictions. Four persons were proceeded against for simple drunkenness and were convicted eight malss were proceeded against for drunkenness with aggravations and eight convicted these were all from outside the district, being a decrease of four cases. During the year the licenses of the following houses had been transferred Bell Inn, Llangrwvney Plough Inn. Llangattock Cross Keys, Tre- tower Bridgend Inn, Gilwern Commercial Inn, Gilwern Bridgend Inn, Crickhoweli Corn Exchange, Gilwern Queen's Head Inn, Crick- howell Farmers' Arms, Llangrwvney and Morning Star, Bwlch. All the licenses were renewed. APPOINTMENT.—Pte. E. W. Howells, son of Mr. W. Howells, Victoria House, Crickbowell, who is serving with the 1st Brecknock Battalion, of which Lord Glanusk is Colonel, at Mhow, India, has received an appointment in the Government Ordinance Factory at Jabalpur. He was one of three selected out of the Battalion to positions in this large gun factory. Pte. Howells received his education at the County School, Brecon, and his training for an engineer at the Ebbw Vale Iron and Steel Works. Jabal- pur is a fine Indian city with a large European population. FREE CHURCH COUNCJI.—A conference of the Crickhowell and Distriit Free Church Council was held at Bethabara Baptist Vestry on Wednesday, when there was a fair attendance of delegates. The president, the Rev. E. Row- land, presided. Subsequently, tea was provided. In the evening a well attended service was held, when the Rev. Gomet Harris, Llangynidr, preached. OBITUARY.—Air. J. P. Gwynne Hclford, of Buckland, one of the largest and best-known landownrs in the county, died at Criekhowcll, where he bad been staying for some time, on Sunday. Th; deceased gentleman, who was 83, had been ailing for along time. Mr. Gwynne Holford sat in the House of Commons as M.P. for the Borough of Brecon very many years ago, and had been a magistrate for considerably over 60 years. He had taken a great interest in the public life of the county until latterly, when his healtn failed him. Air. Gwynne Holford was a Conservative in politics, and had rendered great service to his parcy. He was a great friend to charities, and will be much Illissd. For a long period he took a keen interest in sport, and en- couraged cricket in the county. He was a genial personality and a general favourite with all who knew him. The funeral took place at Llansantffraed. on Thursday, near to Buckland, where he livsd so long and was loved so well.
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▼ Accident-On Thursday, a man named Wm. Hoskins, aged about 60 years, who lodges in Tudor-street, met with an accident which might easily have had fatal results. He was engaged in lopping trees in Penypound, when he fell to the ground, a distance of quite 40ft. Had his head struck the ground he must have been killed outright, but he fell on his legs, and his chief injury was a broken thigh. Dr. Lloyd was immediately summoned, and after he had rendered first-aid the man was conveyed to the Cottage Hospital on the ambulance by P.C.'s Trigg and Hamber.
iVSr. Pape and the Rev. Gwilym…
iVSr. Pape and the Rev. Gwilym Davies. I To the Editor of the Abergavenny Chronicle I SIR,— though the Kev. <TWiiym uavies, \1.i., has been dumb in reference to my criticism of his conduct in publicly instituting a comparison between his neighbours and the most vindictive enemies we ever had, I thought, candidly, that he had recognised that his zeal had overrun his discretion. His continual silence caused me to regard the matter as now closed, but his startling statement in the South Wales Daily News of Friday last (Feb. 4th) is so reflective on the town, as well as on the farmers, that he should be forced to substantiate all his statements or be made to apologise for uttering them. In this paper he wrote a letter, taking ad- vantage of a difference of opinion over the small holdings question, to introduce his old remarks about the Abergavenny farmers. He practically stated that on any road out of Abergavenny on a Tuesday evening farmers would be found helplessly and hopelessly drunk." He also went on to sav that the farmers must learn how to deal with facts, and though he did not com- pare them this time to Germans, he instituted a comparison between them and an ostrich. This professor of Christianity should be taught how to deal with facts himself before he is qualified to advise others to face facts. Facts and facts only count to-day, and I place a few facts before the readers of the Abergavenny Chronicle so that they can judge for them- selves. The first fact is that the Rev. Gwilym Davies instituted the discussion in the Abergavenny Chronicle," and made statements that reflected seriously on the town and district. When criti- cised, he retired from the controversy and shirked the issue when challenged on certain points in connection with his references to Germans. It is a fact that he has written to a paper in another county, simply to advertise the weak- nesses and the misdeeds of the residents of the district of Abergavenny. Readers of the South Wales paper will, after reading his letter, come to the conclusion that the Gate of Wales is an undesirable resort to visit. That is another fact that everybody should consider. Then there is another fact that appears to be a sad reflection on the veracity of the Rev. Gwilym Davies, M.A. In his letter to the Cardiff paper last week the rev. gentleman stated that his remarks on Abergavenny farmers raised a storm of protest in a gathering of farmers at the Tre- degar Arms, Newport. The speakers denounced him in unmeasured terms. The chairman, -Air. S. T. Griffin, was especially eloquent, and told his audience that he had been thousands" of times to Abergavenny and could not remember ever having seen a drunken man." This is the Rev. Gwilvm Davies's own words in his letter. I possess a report of that meeting in a paper dated December loth. This report says the chairman (Mr. Griffin) was surprised to read these remarks, because he had always looked upon the Abergavenny farmers as being abstemious." He had been dozens of times at Abergavenny, and only on one occasion had he seen a drunken man. Well, Rev. Gwilym Davies, can you explain the suggestive discrepancy between your letter and the newspaper report of the meeting and Mr. Griffin's words ? There is a big margin be- tween thousands and dozens, and evidently some- body is a real prevaricator of the truth,—there is no getting away from that fact, independently of the one drunken man Mr. Griffin referred to. I have no knowledge of the facts of that meeting except what I have learnt from the report in the paper, and the Rev. gentleman's own letter in his latest attempt to vilify the town he resides in, as well as the unfortunate farmers of Gwent. In this latest effusion of the rev. gentleman, he says that it is now the duty of Mr. Griffin to get himself and his farmers to learn how to deal with facts, otherwise they are doomed to become a laughing-stock and their credit as responsible men seeking to influence responsible public opinion will be gone." By this the Rev. Gwilym Davies, M.A., is fast becoming a laughing-stock himself, and his reputation is in danger unless he can satisfactorily explain the difference between thousands and dozens. It is his place now to explain where he got the thousands of times from, or did he purposely exaggerate "dozens" of times into thousands of times to advertise himself ? I admit it is a fact that the Rev. Gwilym Davies, M.A., is strong in criticism. He is a most versatile critic. On one public occasion in Abergavenny, a couple of months ago, he criticised the House of Commons, politics, Lloyd George. Winston Churchill, Hillaire Belloc, Col. Maude, the French Government, the Churches of our land," trade unionism, the co-operative movement, and even poor old Jonah and the whale. No one can deny that he can criticise, still, criticism is one of the easiest things on earth. (I can do a little myself). Yet it is strange that he can't reply to criticism The only replies I have noticed him give was to threaten one of his critics with the vengeance of the Lord Chancellor, and generally behave like a spoilt child who was sent to bed without any supper. This last attack on the Abergavenny farmers is proof that the rev. gentleman possesses in some degree a vindictive spirit that is a most unchristianlike attribute to be attached to a preacher of the gospel. Neighbourly love is not likely to flourish wherever the rev. gentleman wanders, for he seems to delight in stirring up dissensions at a critical time, when it is the duty of all preachers of the gospel to do their best to bind their people together in brotherly love and patriotism for their country. The ratepayers of Abergavenny also have enough to contend with, without having their neighbourhood advertised throughout South Wales as an undesirable resort, by a fanatical zealot whose mind is so obtuse through im- bibing stunted, egotistical ideas that he does not realise or allow for the soreness and sadness in the homes of Britain to-day caused by the loss of the flower of our manhood. His part should be to love and pray." Yours faithfully, I Abergavenny. HARRY E. PAPE.
-.......-Crickhowell War Hospital…
Crickhowell War Hospital Supply Depot. A RECORD OF GOOD WORK. We are pleased to observe that the above Depot, which opened on the 27th July last, has been able to supply the British Red Cross and St. John Ambulance with 207 garments, 834 surgical necessaries, 420 knitted articles, 32 feather pillows, 305 lavender bags, and 799 sundry articles, for distribution, up to the end of 1915. This is a highly satisfactory and en- couraging result, and it is hoped that during the continuance of the war the Depot will not only maintain its high state of efficiency, but increase its usefulness. It is gratifying to note that the funds have so far been well maintained. But with the urgent need of the country, it is hoped that these will 'be considerably augmented during the coming year.
THE MONMOUTHSHIRE HOUNDS
THE MONMOUTHSHIRE HOUNDS WILL MEET Monday, Feb. 14—Wern-y-cwm at 11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 17-Llansoy Cross Roads; 11.
ABERGAVENNY STOCK MARKET.…
ABERGAVENNY STOCK MARKET. -:1 There was an exceptiona.iy uoo'.i aii-rouna supply at the Abergavenny Stock Market on Tuesdav, and an excellent clearance of both sheep and pigs resulted. Wethers made up to 65s. 6d., and ewes up 4-o mutton making in several instances up to is. per ib. One of the largest entries of pigs seen this year also met an extraordinary trade, prices averaging well up to lis. 6d. per score. Porkers made up to £5 each, i 7s. 6d. per ?core. and fat sows up to .:13. There was a very large entry of beef, and best quality averaged between IoJd. and 11 d. per 1t. record prices being realised. A fat bull from Mr. Gwillim, Pool Hall, made the high price of £ ,48 5s.. the purchaser being Mr. Thompson, of Newport. Fat cows made up to £ 32, maiden heifers up to £ 27, and bullocks up to i32, a capital clearance resulting. in¡
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Pocket Diaries for 1916, from 6Jd. each.-V-. Morgan & Co., Chronicle Office, Abergavenny.