County Observer and Monmouthshire Central Advertiser Abergavenny and Raglan Herald Usk and Pontypool Messenger and Chepstow Argus

THE EASTERTIDE. Usk Church was artistically decorated for the Easter Festivalby the following :—Mrs Freeman, -the altar; Mrs Bowen, the screen Miss Davies and Miss Violet Davies, the font; Mr J. Watkins .(Deaconess Eleanor's gardener) base of pulpit; Mr J. George (gardener to Mr Freeman), base of lectern; Mrs Digby Nicholl and gardener (Mr Talbot), choir stalls and reading desk; and the Misses Wickson and French, the windows. There were three celebrations of Holy Com- ÐllInion, viz., at 7 a.m., 8.30 a.m. (choral) and after Matins, and the communicants numbered over 200. At Matins and Evensong there were also large -congregations. The musical portions of the services were heartily rendered, and included the usual 'bright E:.ste'r hymns, Jackson's Te Deum, and the anthem, "0. death, where is thy sting? (Walter Spinney). Mr Martin presided at the organ. The Usk Volunteers (including the newly-formed Raglan detachment), under Captain Stanley AT. 'Williams, attended Usk Church in the morning, :accompanied from and to the Armoury by their hand, under Bandmaster Madley. Private W, Waters was presented with a long service medal after the service, Captain Williams pinning it on iiis breast. Easter Monday was dull and cold, with falls of sain, hail, and IInow at different times and for very •'■short periods during the day. In consequence of 4his, together with the number of attractions else- where, there were very few visitors to the town.

ABERGAVENNY. I Aaentsi-Messrs Davies & Ci. Booksellers. CREDITORS' MEETING.—A meeting of the creditors of Edward Arthur Yeates (trading as E. Yeat,es aud Company), 3, Merthyr-road, Aber- gavenny, and carrying on business as a cabinet maker and upholsterer, at 5, Flannel-street, and 22, Cross-street, in that town. was held on Tuesday at Merthyr. The debtor, had been in partnership with Robert Percival Taylor, of Ross, which partnership was dissolved in January last, Taylor in going out undertaking to pay JE30 on condition that the debtor discharged all the liabilities of the firm, filed the following statement of the partner- ship estate:—Gross liabilities, jE148 14a 4d; liabilities to rank for dividend, f,136 lis 10d net assets available for distribution, E53 2s 8d; deficiency, L83 9s 2d. He also filed a statement showing separate debts of his own amounting to ;£ 181 8s, against which there were no assets. Slackness of trade and having to pay exorbitant interest on borrowed' capital were the causes to which the failure was attributed.

ATHLETIC SPORTS. The 13th annual meeting of the Abergavenny Amateur Athletic Association was beld in Bailey Park on Tuesday in fine weather. Resulis Half-Mile Novice Bicycle (scratch).—Final I, J. Redwood, Six Bells 2, W. Watson, Here- ford; 3, R. Williams, Rhymney. Time, lmin 19secs. 120 Yards Open Handicap.—Final: 1, A. 1 Weare, Usk; 2, G. D. Campbell, R.N.E. College; 3, L. Jenkins, Abergavenny, Time, 12secs. Half-Mile Open Bicycle Handicap.—Final 1, A. W. Coles, Cwmtillery; 2 W. M'Bean, Abertillery; 3, J. Cook, Cwmtillery. Time, lmin. 9 4-5sec. 440 Yards Open Hand ica P. -Final: 1, W. H. Tombs, Cardiff; 2, W. M. Jones, Roath; 3, H. Uzzell, Newport. Time, 53 4-5sec. One Mile Flat Open Handicap -1, R. Davies, Newport H; 2, E..T. Thomas, Newport H; 3. J. D. Marsh, Newport H. Time, 4min 27 S-Ssec. Mile Open Bicycle Handicap.—Final: 1, J. Barrass, Ross C.C.; 2. R. Williams, Rhymney C.C. 3, H. Minton, West End C.C. Two-mile Steeplechase for the Blennerhassett Plate, value EIS 18s, confined to Welsh teams and teams resident in the West of England. To be won three times (not necessarily in succession) before becoming the property of the winning team. j Results1, Newport, 6 points, 2. Roath, 26 points 3, Llanhilleth, 28 points 4, Rogerstone, 45 points. Harriers' Inter-team Race.-Newport, I Roath, 2; Llanhilleth, 3; Rogerstone, 4. Newport: ,T. D. Marsh, 1; A. Turner, 2; R. B. Pugh, 3-6. Roath: R. Evans, 5; H. H, Wade, 7; Elliott, 14—26. Llanhilleth: Thomas, 6 Moses, 9; Watkins, 13-28. Rogerstone: Winn, 10 Hawkins, 17; Osmond, 18-54. Usk and Abergavenny did not finish.

I LLANGIBBY. I Agent-.Nirs Nash. Liang ibbt/ Villiapc. EVENING CONCERT. An excellent concert in every respect was that arranged by Mr A. E. Thomas, in aid of the funds of the Club Room, which was given in that room, before a fairly large audience on Thursday evening. The stage had been very nicely arrauged and decorated by Miss Maud Reed and the organiser. Each item of the programme was artistically rendered and elicited much applause, and Mr Thomas is to be congratulated upon his selection of artistes. After the concert the artistes sat down to an excellent supper which had been kindly provided by Mrs. Hopton Williams, at Mr W. H. Kenuett's. The following was the programme:— Part I.-Overture, "Marionettes," Misses Thomson and Brooke and Messrs A. E. Thomas, Langmaid, and Edwards song, Romany Lass," Mr A. B. Benallack; song, "Promise of Life," Mrs J, E. Edwards; violin duet, Concertante," Miss A. W. Brooke and Mr A. E. Thomas song, Storm Fiend," encore, Star of the Desert," Mr Morgan; 'cello solo, Meditation," Mr Langmaid; song, "Dolly in a Coach," encore, "The Maid of Japan," Mrs Spickett; song, "Father O'Flynn," encore. The Lads in Red," Mr Gray vocal duet, All's Well," Messrs Benallack and Morgan. Part II.—Entr'acte, "Rosamunde," Misses Thomson and Brooke and Messrs Thomas, Langmaid, and Edwards; song, "The King's Own," Mr Morgan; trumpet solo, "Post Horn Galop," Mr Edwards; song, "Beauty's Eyes." Mrs J. E. Edwards violin solo, Romance," Mr A. E. Thomas; vocal duet, "In the dusk of Twilight," Mesdames Spickett and Edwards song, The Swallows," MrsSpickett; song, "Dream of Paradise," Mr Benallack; quartette, Good Night, Beloved," Mesdames Spickett and Edwards and Messrs Benallack and Morgan; God Save the King.

LLANTARNAM. I RABBIT COURsING-There was a large influx of visitors to Llautarnam on Easter Monday to witness the coursing matches for L20 aside between Llewelyn Jones's Ada, Brynmawr, and R. Shortbouse's Dora. Mr Lloyd, Sporting Life, acted as referee. The conditions were first 11 out of 21. Dora won five of the first six contests, but da. won the majority of the others and was declared winner. In three of the tests the rabbits got away after having been caught, and after the referae had signalled his decision. They were subsequently re-captured and mauled by a number of other dogs on the field. A number of minor matches were brought off during the day.

LLANFRECHFA LOWER. I PARISH COUNCIL MEETING.—A meeting of the Llanfrechfa Lower Parieh Council was held at the National Schools, Llanfrechfa, Mr G. W. Williams in the chair. Mr Hollister was appointed overseer for the upper end of the pariah, and Mr J Williams (Crigudd) for the lower.—Mr A. Jenkins proposed, and Mr Thomas Jones seconded, that Mr W. B. Williams be appointed vice-chairman for the ensuing year, and it was carried.—The Chairman brought forward a recommendation from the annual parish meeting asking the Council to provide recreation grounds in the parish. Several members spoke against the recommendation, and Mr John Watkins proposed that the matter be not entertained. This was seconded by Mr W. B. Williams and carried.—The Chairman and Messrs. W. B. Williams and R. M. Harris were appointed a committee to see what work was required in connection with the water supply at Wainabsella It was decided to post notices stating that the footpath from Wainabsella to Llautarnam, was to be diverted so as to do away with the dangerous level crossing near Llantarnam.

MONMOUTH. Agent.—Mr. Cafrey. Bookseller. Monmouth. SOLDIERS AND SAILORS FAMILIES' ASSOCIATION.— The Annual Meeting of the Monmouthshire Branch of this Association will be held under the presidency of Lady Llangattock at the Angel I Hotel, Abergavenny, on Moudey next, at 3 p.m. EASTER VESTRY.—The Easter vestry for the parish of St Mtry was held 00 Tuesday at noon, .nder the presidency of the Vicar (the Rev C. F. Reeks). There was a small attendance. The Vicar, in his usual statement, said the finances were in a satisfactory state and parishiouers contribute! quite as much as could be expected of them. He thanked the churchwardens and other officials for their support during the year. He re-nominated Mr J. W. Home (assistant inspector of schools) his churchwarden, and Mr G. F. Hedger was re-elected people's warden. la a detailed financial statement, Mr Hedger said the offertories during the year amounted to JE371, which compared favourably with previous years. The auditors and a liat of over 20 sidesmen were elected. BOARD OF GOARDIANS.—This Board met on Saturday, when Colonel Davies presided over a moderate attendance. The officials reported that X205 14a Id had been expended in out-relief during the fortnight, against £ 1S2 7s 4d in the corresponding period last year, and that there were 114 iumates of the workhouse, against 107 this time last year.—The chief business discussed by the Board was a report by the Master of the Workhouse to the effect that he was being prevented by the Medical Officer (Dr T. G. Prosser) carrying out the Board's instructions. A month ago the Board entered on a system of stricter treatment of tramps in order to reduce the number, and ordered a re-arrangement of wards so that able bodied tramps could be detained for two days instead of a few hours under the ordinary system, and made to break 13 cwt of stone. They accordingly instructed the Master to utilise the fever ward as a receiving ward, but to this the doctor first entered a protest in his report book, and later refused to allow, and re-instated certain patients who bad been removed to the infirmary. The Board discussed the matter at some length, and ultimately decided to instruct the Master to carry out their orders, aud to write the Medical Officer requesting him to co-operate with the Master in giving effect to the Board's wishes.

I NEWPORT. j Aqents-Ressrs Greenland and Co.. Netoiaven's. TOWN COUNCIL ISSUING FRESH STOCK.—The Newport Town Council are about to issue stock to the amount of about £ 600,000. LOHD TREDEGAR.-At a concert, on Wednesday evening, Lord Tredegar presided and formally I opened a new Parish Room, for which his lordship had given the site, in addition to a handsome donation, at Marshfield. The cost of the corru- gated building was defrayed by public subscription and it was opened free from debt. TIMELY DISCOVRRY IN THE SEVRRN TUNNEL.—A serious discovery was made in the Severn Tunn--1 on Tuesday afternoon. The plate-laying gm r employed in the Tunnel found a broken rail- the down line. Traffic was immediately stopped and single-line working was arranged while the defect was being repaired. Serious delay was unavoidable, and it was not till late at night that traffic was being worked again as usual. A DANGEROUS RIDE.—A young Russo-German, Louis Heidelberg, by name, had an exciting cycle ride down Stow Hill, on Tuesday evening, and was summoned at Newport Borough Police Court on Wednesday for travelling at a speed in excess of the regulations.—P.S. Thomas said that defendant was going down Stow Hill, at the rate of 14 miles an hour, on a lady's bicycle and had apparently lost control of the machine; his legs were spread out and his feet were not touching the pedals. On reaching the bottom of the hill he ran into a cab horse in Skiuner-street, knocking the horse down. Fortunately, neither defendant nor the horse was injured badly the bicycle was damaged.-Defeudaut was fined 21s.

THE LATE ALDERMAN H. J. DAVIS. The funeral of the late Alderman H. J. Davis took place at Bassalog on Saturday afternoon and was very largely attended, although at the request of the family the obsequies were as private as circumstances would permit. Flags were flying at half mast at many point* between the residence and the place of inter- ment. Six coaches conveyed the chief mourners and fourteen private carriages followed, including that of Lord Tredegar, and almost all the public bodies with which the deceased gentleman had been connected were represented. The burinl service was conducted by the Archdeacon of Monmouth (the Ven. W. Conybeare Bruce, former vicar of St. Woolos), the Rev B. Lloyd (vicar of St. Woolos), and the Rev D. Bowen (vicar of Bassaleg). Mr Perrin, the organist, played Calcott's funeral marcb, Forgive, Blest Shade," at the commencement of the service and at the close the Dead Afarch in "Saul." The hymns were "Peace, perfect peace," and "Now the labourer's tak is o'er." Upon the outer cffii of panelled English oak (which enclosed a shell) there was a breastplate bearing the inscription Henry John Davis, Died April 5, 1903, Aged 89 years." There were some beautiful floral tributes, one of the most noticeable being a large wreath bearing the borough arms in gold on a white ground, and the words, With the deepest regret of the Mayor and Corpotatiou of Newport for the loss of their most esteemed colleague." At St. Woolos Church, on Sunday, sympathetic reference to the death of Alderman Davis was made by the Vicar, and at Tuesday's meeting of the Newport Town Council, the Mayor said they had lost one of their oldest and dearest friends- one who had served the town and the council for a longer period than any other man. And he had not only served the town and the council for such a period, but with such ability that won him the respect of all. He was a tower of strength on the council, and on every committee upon which he served. He proposed the following resolution "That the council hereby record their deep-felt regret upon the death of the ex-mayor (Alderman Henry J. Davis), who served the town as a member of the council for over 60 years, was three times mayor of the borough—on the last occasion in his eighty- ninth year-and who was always ready, to the last, to place his able services, in any capacity, at the disposal of bis fellow-townsmeu and they offer to his son and daughter their most sincere and respectful sympathy in the loss which they have sustained." The motion was agreed to in silence, all the members uprising.

PONTYPOOL. Agents—Mr. J. FTardin.1. Market Btoks'i'l, \fr Field'iouse The Market, and Messrs. Jones and Edwards. The Mr:rket, and, JJ.eur,. Jonel and Edwards. SHAM FIGHT.—The 4th Volunteer Battalion South Wales Borderers were engaged in mimic warfare on Good Friday near Pontypool. The Pontypool detachment, accompanied by one of the Newport companies, left Poutypool at about ten o'c\ock, and after a long march took up a defensive position on the high ground above Cwmlieky. The other Newport companies, which acted as a hostile force, entrained at Newport for Risca, and afterwards marched along the mountain to endeavour to force an entrance into Poutypool. The scouts of the defensive force sighted the enemy at about two o'clock, and immediately opened fire. The attacking force, however, was heavy in number, and step by step drove back their opponents. After an hour's hard fighting the "cease fire" was sounded, and the men, having formed up, marched to the Race, where refreshments were served. Accompanied by the band, the whole of the force then marched into Pontypool, and later in the day the Newport companies left by special train for Newport. The manoeuvres were interesting and instructive, and were admirably cairied out.

—1 W RAGLAN. I Agent—Mr. W. Parker, Photographer. I VESTRY MEETING.—The annual Easter Vestry licld on Tuesday evening. The Vicar (Rev C. M. Perkins) presided. The Churchwardens' Accounts for the past year were examined and passed. They showed a (leficit of £7 14s 9d and it was agreed unanimously that this should be cleared off by using a bdance in the Churchwardens' hands from the proceeds of a jumble sale held in 1902. The Vicar re-nominated Mr John Jeff reya as Vicar's Warden, and Mr Raglan T. H. Somerset, J.P., was uuauimously re-elected Parish Warden. The following sidesmen were also unanimously re-elected. Messrs. H. Haggett, J. G. T. Morgan, A. E. Lane and J. E. Matthews. Mr H. Haggett was re-elected Lay Elector. A vote of thauks to Mr C. J. Saunders (organist and choirmaster), and the choir was accorded unanimously. The Vicar regretted that Mr 11 Saunders was not accorded more male voice assistance —Mr Saunders, in returning thanks, also expressed the hope that more adults would join the choir. I I RAGLAN RACES. Iu fine, though c Id weather, the ninth annual meeting of the R-tglan Flat aud Hurdle Race* took place, over the Raglan course, on Tuesday afternoon last, before a good attendance. Some excellent racing was witnessed, and everything passed off satisfactorily, the arrangements for the meeting being capital. All the races were open weight for age, and allowances. The committee and officials were as follow:- Messrs. E T Blake, J Frost, H Haggett, J G T Morgan, W Morgan, A Phil potts, J Townsend, A Jones, T R Jones, and R Ferrett. Judge, Mr Reginald Herbert; smarter, Dr Pat^n clerks of the course, Messrs A Phil potts and J Frost; hoa secretaries, Messrs R Ferrett and H Haegett. Details:— Clytba Hurdle Race, for hordes 15h and under? 1st, C4, 2nd £2. Distance, li miles, over S flights of hurdles. Mr W Dallows' Why Not, 9st 71b I Mr T Halford's Little John, list 2 Won by two and a half lengths. Wdlsbrook Flat for Ponies 14.2 and under. 1st L3, 2nd £1 10. Distance. lil miles. Mr T Morgan's Ginger, 9st 1 Mr T Halford's Dittle Min, 8st 71b 2 Little Nancy fell, Ladybrand ran out, and Ginger won easily. The Grange Hurdle Race, 2 miles, 8 flights of hurdles. Mrs G F Hope's The Harp, list 1 Mr R James* Old-n Times, 12ft 2 Won by li lengths, bad third. Beaufort Flat Race, for ponies 13.2 and under. 1st £ 3, 2nd Ll. Distance. 1 mile. Mr T E Poletti's Primrose, 8st 71b .1 Mr W Webb's Uninsured, 7st.. 2 Primrose won as he pleased. Licensed Victuallers' Flat Race, for horses 15.2 and under 1st £ 5, 2nd S2. Distance, 2 miles. Mr -vV Dallows' Why not, 78t I Mrs G F Hope's The Harp, 9st 2 This proved the best race of the day. A. hard struggle in the straight for home ended in Whv Not winning by threequarters of a length. Bad third

THE OTTER HOUNDS, To the Editor of THE OOUNTY OBSEBVBR. DEAR SIR, Many of mv friends and relatives in and near the tributaries of the river are wondering why the Otter Hounds did not keep the engigeajent at Pontpeilth on Tuasday last. Are the fixtures on the card bearing an effigy of our predatory enemy reliable ? Yours enquiringly, SALMON PINK. Usk, ISth April, 1903. [The following notice which has been sent out answers the q :ery:—" Mr Clay's Subscription Otter Hounds.—It has be"n found necessary to alter several of the meets printed on the cards which have been sent out Future meets will be printed in all the local papers."—ED., C.O. ]

Fulham's Vote of Confidence in Mr. Hayes-Fisher. Although Mr Hayes-Fisher, M.P., has tendered his resignation as Financial Secretary to the Treasury, he will not retire from the repre- sentation of Fulham. This announcement was made at a largely attended special meeting of the party at the Conservative Club on Tuesday night by Mr E. G. Easton, vice-president of the Fulham Registration Association, who said that the hon. gentleman had been the recipient of numerous messages of sympathy from members of all parties. They had, he declared amid cheers, the utmost confidence in their member, who had been greatly wronged, and who took a verv high view of the standard which should be maintained in public life. Mr Arthur C. Baldwin (Conservative) and Mr T. W. Potts (Liberal Unionist) moved a resolution of unabated confidence in tie hon. gentleman, expressing the hope that he would long continue to represent Fulham. The resolution was adopted with acclamation, followed by the singing of "For he's a jolly good fellow." 1 ——————————————

I Radicals in a poor Plight. The Hon G. T Kenyon, M.P., addressing his constituents at Wrexham, said there had been a little falling away of the popuhrity of the Government, which he thought was due to the swing of the pendulum and the desire of the people for a chati ge. and to see whether another body of men could not do better. This was quite natural. But when they looked at their opponents they were certaioly in a very poor plight, as they had no head, no middle, and no tail. (Laughter.) He did not think the new Licensing Act had anything to do with the I wholesale reduction of licences, but the action of justices certainly had. (Applause.) If from local circumstances a certain licence was not required, that would have to go, but the owner must certainly be given fair compensation. (Applause.) The Education Act he cousidered a compromise, but they had got it and must carry it out. They ought to be honest over this matter and fight straight, at auy rate. (Applause.)

Pontypool Board of Gaardia:is" Sleeting. At the annual meeting of the Pontypool Board of Guardians (JL) Thursday morning, tf *jor D. E. Williams was unanimously re-elected chairrnan, with Mr W. P. Jtunes as his deputy. Mr Collins, managed ot Lloyd Bink, Pontypool, having tendered his resignation as treasurer to th» guardians, it was decided to invite nominations for the position. The Local Government Board again wrote con- cerning the ten children of Church of England creed who are being boarded out with Noncon- formist people. The Chairman pointed oat that the Local Government Board bad allowed the guardians to do more than the law permitted, but in some cases such excellent homes had been found for the children that he did not think the Government officials would demand their removal. It was decided to reply to this effect, and to ask the board to make some compromise. The chairman and clerk (Mr Watkins) were appointed representatives at the Poor-law Con- ference.

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EASTER VESTRY MEETING. I This meeting was held in the vestry at the Parish Church, Usk, on Monday morning, when the Rector (Rev P. L. C. Nash) presided, and tfhere were also present:—Rev Digby S. W. ^Nicholl (curate), Messrs H. Humphreys, J.P., P. K. Fair (lay readers), J. H. Clark, James Davies (churchwardens), Deaconess Eleanor, Miss Clark, Messrs A. G. Graham, T. Chambers, G. Mundy, J. V. Winder, W. F Roberts, T. Jones, H. 0. Davies, O. A. Mortimer, J. A. Williams, &c, THE ACCOUNTS. I Mr James Davies presented the Churchwardens' accounts. The Balance sheet was as follows -The B-,xlauce sheet was as foll-ows I Receipts:—Collections, matins, Z31 14s 7f-d I ,evensong, X24 10s fif-d total, £ 56 5s 2d; lenteu boxes, 1902 and 1903, 17s lOd subscriptions, £ 65 9s 6d discount, 2s 9d; Church box, 7s 61d; total, JB123 2s lOd. Expenditure :—Churchyard expeilses, XS Is 9d cleaning, 7s 3d decoration, 3s 6d; firing, X3 10s 6d; gas and tapers (5 quarters) B22 178 4d gutters and ivy, 13s insurance, X,4 0* 6d organist -and blower, £ 22 IUB printing, 3s 6d; repairs, lis; sexton (5 quarters), €11 5s shed ill Church- yard, Y,3 4s tower and belfry. X2 16s 6d; <washiug surplices, X3 Is 8d water rate, 10s; wiue, £1 9s 9d; total, Y,85 58 3d; add 1902 deficit, dE35 118 7d; balance in hand, X2 6s; total, ^123 2s lOd. In addition to the amount stated as the 1902 deficit, Mr Davies stated that Deaconess Eleanor had written off a loan of X20, and tradesmen had allowed 13s 4d on their accounts, the total deficit ;at the last Easter Vestry meeting having been £ 56 4s lid. Since the balance sheet had been drawn up, subscriptions amounting to C2 lis had <been received, so that the sum in hand was £ 1 17s Ud. This was a more satisfactory condition of affair* than had prevailed for at least thirty or iforty years. The Rector atao referred to their improved financial position with satisfaction, and to the assistance given to the Churchwardens in this matter by the Finance Committee. The accounts were accepted, but on the sugges- tion of Mr Humphreys, it was decided that in future the Finance Committee should be asked to appoint auditors to certify that they were .,correct. THE CURATE FUND. Mr T. Chambers proposed, in effect, that the 'Curate Fund should be merged in the general tfund. The Rector thought that this should be done in ,order to relieve the incumbent of a heavy re- sponsibility. Opinions were expressed that to do this would ,mean the diminution of separate subscriptions, and, there being no seconder of the proposition, it fell through. CHURCHWARDENS. The Rector again nominated Mr Clark as his warden, and thanked him for his past services. (Hear, hear.) Mr T. Jones proposed that Mr James Davies be ;<j?e-elected people's warden. Mr A. G. Graham said he had great pleasure in seconding that. In putting the proposition to the meeting the -Rector said he again welcomed Mr Davies on the Church staff, and he was sure his labours in the past had been well worthy of a good word. (Hear, liear.) THE EASTER OFFERING3. Mr Clark said he was very glad to see the '•Church's finances in such a good state, and he ;hoped they would long remain so. The parish- ioners had had a great many calls upon them, and at had been difficult to raise subscriptions for so many things about the same time. He then pre- sented the Easter dues, which amounted to .£10 145 6d, to the Rector, and regretted they -were not so much as usual. He acknowledged the "assIstance rendered by, the Finance Committee, ,whom he thanked, especially Mr Graham, who ,bad acted as Hon. Secretary. The Rector thanked them for their kind offer- ings. He said he did not know that his services were worth much, but it did not matter iow much one received in that way so long as one "endeavoured to do his duty. THE FINANCE COMMITTEE'S WORIC. I Mr Graham, replying to the vote of thanks cgiven to the Finance Committee, said he could assure them that they had all thought the work a labour of love. He considered that it was a dis- grace that the Chtirch-which was established for the worship of Almighty God, to whom we owed -All things—should be in debt for its current expenses, and it was a great source of gratification that the Church was now free from such a stigma. 4Hear, hear.) SIDESMEN. The following were separately appointed tSidesmen :-Messrs T. Jones, J. A. Williams, T. "Chambers, A. G. Graham. Frost W. Roberts, J. paries, L. S Davies, W. Marfell, E. Stone, L. R. ^ucaa (Usk), W. Williams (Gwehelog), and E. (Glascoed).- THE FINANCE COMMITTEE. M2 Ilumphreys proposed that as an organisation ^nan°9 Committee should continue to exist, ana this was agreed to, the following to form the .me tbi. year .-The Rector and Churchwardens (ex-offlcio), Messrs Graham, Chambers, Winter, and Mortimer. Deaconess Eleanor pointed out that the shed in I the Churchyard had been erected by Messrs Chambers, Winter, and E. Stone, the amount charged being for materials only. I TENDS RS you WORK. Mr Williams proposed and Mr Mundy seconded that all work done in the Church should be tendered for. Mr T. Jones moved an amendment thatouly work of over 95 in value should be tendered for. After some discussion, during which it was pointed out that this matter could only be dealt with in the form of a recommendation to the Church- wardens, it was decided to recommend that all work over L2 in value should be tendered for. j SALARIES. j The Sexton (Mr James Symoids) applied for an increase of salary. It was stated that the salary was £ 9, in addition to fees, which were estimated at £ 25 or X30 per annum. The matter was referred to the Finance Committee. The Organ Blower (Mr T. H. Wise), whose salary was El I Os. a ysar. made a similar application, and £1 extra was granted. VOTES OF THANKS. I Mr Roberts proposed a vote of thanks to the I organist (Mr W. R. Martin) and the choir. The I organist, he said, had been very faithful to the Church and most assiduous in his duties, while the choir had also rendered good service. Mr Mundy seconded, and the proposition was carried. The Rector said he wished to join in this vote of thanks. Mr Martin bad been most loyal to him, had faithfully fulfilled his duties, and done his work conscientiously, and he was sorry to part with him as organist. The support he had given to the Clergy and the Church was very great. As to the choir, without them they would have no one to lead in the singing, and the congregation would be dumb. THE NEW ORGANIST. In reply to Mr T, Jones and others, the Rector said the appointment of an organist was in his hands, and there was no necessity to bring the matter before the Vestry. He had invited Mr Theodore Seaton to be their organist, They all knew Mr Seaton's father and the great work he did in the Diocese. Now Mr Seaton would take up his father's work as conductor of the Diocesan Choral Association. He hoped they would all give him their hearty support. The Churchwardens had agreed to give him an extra L5 ( £ 25) per annum, but that was not to be the whole of his salary. Mr R. Rickards, J.P. (The Priory) was going to find the rest. THE CHARITIES, I It is usual for the accounts of the local Charities to be presented at this meeting, hut only those of Mrs McGowan's Charity were so presented. A vote of thanks to the Chairman terminated the meeting.

W BETTWS NEWYDD. Igent-Mrs. Williams, Post Office. EASTER ENTERTAINMENTS. The people of the three parishes of Bettws Newydd, Trostrey, and Kemeys Commander have been enjoying an unusually gay and festive Easter- tide. On Monday, a dance took place in the Schoolroom, Bettws, which had been tastefully decorated by Mrs S'leppard and Mrs Morgan. About 30 persons enjoyed themselves to the strains of the violin and piano from 8 p.m. to I a.m. Messrs W. Parker and G. Brown acted as masters of the ceremonies, and Mrs Sheppard and Mrs Lane dispensed light refreshments between the dances. On Tuesday, the Rector and Mrs Sheppard enter- tained the ladies of the three parishes at a social gathering and tea. About forty sat down to tea, and were waited upon by Mrs Sheppard, Mrs Lane, Mrs Morgan, Mrs Olifent, and the Misses Evans. Later in the evening Mr H. Dunning, of Usk, exhibited over 120 magio lantern pictures, illustra- tive of his tours in North Holland, and also of local scenes and celebrities. The exhibition was much appreciated and enjoyed. On Wednesday evening, Mr W. Nixon and a party from Usk gave a very successful concert before a large and appreciative audieno. The ladies and the comic singers came in for enthusiastic en- cores, and the other items were well received. The following was the programme :— Part I.-Violin solo, 11 March," Mrs Sheppard; song, "True till death," Mr H. C. Davies; song, "Butterflies," Mrs Wagstaff; song, "Twelve months ago to-night," Mr J. Roberts cornet solo, Crossing the Bar," Mr E. B. Haynes; glee, "0, hush thee, my baby," Mr L, S. Davies' party; comic song, Motor car," Rev H. Sheppard song, I want to see the dear old home again," Misa Maud Day; duet, "Excelsior," Messrs J. Roberts and H. C. Davies; comic aong, When father laid the carpet on the stairs," encore, "Conversazione," Mr Frank Morgan. Part 2.- Violin solo, Andante allegro," Mrs Sheppard; glee, "Farewell," Mr Davies' party; song, Sing us one of the old songs," Mr Haynes song, That's what I do," encore, My own good man," Miss Day song and chorus, Come where my love lies dreaming," Mr Roberts and party; son?, "Song of Spring," encote," Cherry ripe," Mrs Wagstaff; song, "Jack's the boy," encored, Mr H. C. Davies: song, Yuss," encored, Gay Tom Cat," Rev H. Sheppard; comic song, My gal is a high-born lady," encore, Little Octoroon," I Mr Frank Morgan; God Save the King. At the conclusion the Rector called for three cheeks for the concert party, which were heartily given. gIven.

I CAERLEON. I A.Qent—Mis& M. A. Scans ifewtajent Ot-oss-streel. I RATEPAYERS' ASSOCIATION.—Mr A. L. Pope presided over a meeting of the Caerleon Ratepayers' Association on Saturday night, when the recent action at law brought by the Council was considered, the Council's officials being warmly criticised. ANNUAL TEA.—The Wesleyaus of Caerleon held their annual tea at the Drill Hall, on Easter Monday, when a large number sat down together, and a musical entertainment was afterwards given. Mr C. Paine presided, and the whole of the arrangements were carried out by Mr Shepherd. KICKED BY A HORSE.—At Catsash, near Caerleon, on Monday evening a fatmer named Lewis was thrown out of a wagon iu which he was riding owing to the horse bolting. He ran after the horse, and while attempting to hold it the animal kicked him so severely that he sustained a compound fracture of one leg, and the small bone in the other was broken. He was attended by Dr Wilson. CYCLING ACCIDENTS.-On Monday evening a Cardiff cyclist named Elias, residing at Carlisle- street, East Moors, Cardiff, while cycling through Caerleon from Cardiff, met with a nasty accident going round a dangerous corner near Caerleon River Bridge. He collided with the kerbstone and was thrown, sustaining a severe cut upon the head. His bicycle was completely smashed. He was attended by Dr De Gruchy, and afterwards assisted to the railway station by his friends and taken back to Cardiff by train. Shortly afterwards a lady cyclist, passing the same spot, also met with a nasty spill. Her bicycle was wrecked, but the lady, fortunately, was unhurt. PRESENTATION TO DR. DE GRUCHY.—At the club room of the Caerleon Castle Lodge of the A.O.F., on Saturday evening, Dr de Gruchy, the medical officer, was the recipient of a handsome illuminated address from the members on the occasion of his marriage. The Rev Canon Bedwell. who presided, was supported by a large number of representatives of other lodges, viz., Bros. F. W. Morris, D.C.R., F. J. Williams, D.S.C.R., O. Wiltshire, D.S., F. W. Cannon, C.R., W. Baulch, J. Green, etc. The Chairman thanked the members for the opportunity of being present to pay honoar to Dr de Gruchy. Bro. H. Le Vesconte read the address, which testified to the doctor's valuable services, both as medical officer and trustee of the club. Dr de Gruchy suitably returned thanks. Congratulatory speeches were also made by Bros. Morris, Wiltshire, Palmer, Baulch, and Williams. A vote of thanks to the Chairman closed the proceedings.

qr CHEPSTOW. Agent.—Miss Clark FOOTBALL ACCIDENTS.—.ifter the football match between Chepstow St. Mary's and Gloucester Seconds at Chepstow on Saturday, two of the homesters found it necessary to seek medical aid, when it was ascertained that E. Coles had a broken collar-boue, and C. Packer a bioken finger. CYCLE ACCIDENT.—On Tuesday a lad named George Pritchard, of Tutshill, was admitted to the Chepstow Workhouse in an unconscious condition. It seemed that the lad was found at abiut 10 o'clock in the morning by Mr Stead, of Penhow Castle, who was driving by, on the road near Penhow. The assumption is that Pritchard was take with a fit (he being subject to them") and fell off his bicycle. He appears to have suffered chiefly from the shock. VESTRY MEETING.—The Easter vestry meeting was beid on Tuesday, when the vicar, the Rev E. J. Hensley, presided. The vicar nominated Mr S. Callaghan again as his warden, and Mr Arthur Price was re-elected people's wardeu. The Vicar alluded to the subject of the further restora- tion of the church, and said he thought the time was ripe for action, suggesting the calling of a meeting for consideration of the step to be taken. It was understood that a meeting would shortly be called. FANCY DRESS BBZAAR.—A fancy dress cotton bazaar was held at the Church Boys' House, Chepstow, on Wednesday afternoon in aid of the Church Boys' House funds. Mr J. E. G. Lawrence, having stated the objects of the function, Miss Clay, of Piercefield Park, formerly opened the bazzar and was presented with a haudsme bouquet by Miss Molly Aicard. "The Ameer's Band" under the conductor"hip of Mr W. A. Weeks gave selections vocal and instrumental at intervals, and Mr Hyatt officiated at the piatij, Amongst the amusements were conjuring exhibitions by Mr Weeks, and musical pillow fights by lads. SCHOOL BOARD.-The monthly meeting was held on Tuesday evening, when the Rev E. J. Hensley (chairman) presided.—The Master of the Biys School reported that the attendance during the month had been very satisfactory; the mistress that, the attendance had improved and the infant schoolmistress reported that it bad been fair. The attendance officer pointed out that many children were employed under 14 years of age, which was illegal.-Tlie treasurer's accounts showed a balance in hand, after the signing of cheques of £ 113 10s 2d.—A communication was received from the clerk to the County Council, stating that although they had applied for an extension of the appointed day to the 1st of April, 1904. they had not yet been given beyond September 29rh next, and asking the board to provide by precept, so that there should be n) overdraft at the taking over of the school board powers.—Mr Duts >n called attention to the charges for water at the girls' school, and it was agreed to make representations to the water company for a reduction.

I GROSMONT. EASTER VESTRY.—The annual vestry meeting was held on Tuesday, Mr R. Hudson Evans presiding. — The Rector (Rev C. Wesley) wrote nominating Mr John Price as his churchwarden. No parish warden was elected, no one, as for several years past, being found willing to accept tho office.-The accounts for the past two years were passed, subject to au explanation as to the balance of score a/c." —The Charities' financial statements were also considered. PARISH COUNCIL MEETING.—Mr W. Price (chairman) presided over the following—Messrs. John Bryan (vice-chairman), W. C. Freeman, T. Farr, J. Llewellyn, E. Ruck, and F. Richards.— The Chairman in accordance with notice of motion moved that the Great Western Railway Company, be approached with a view of obtaining a better and nearer approach to Poutrilas Station for the use of pedestrians from thid district. He thought that they should approach Kentchurch, G-irway, and Skenfrith Parish Councils and ask them to give the movement their support.—The Vice- Chairman seconded the resolution which was carried unanimously. The Council expressed their appreciation of the way in which Mr T. G. Jennings, Pontrilas, had carried out the decoration of the interior of the Town Hall. Mrs Baldwin, the cleaner of the Town Hall, having sent in her resignation the Clerk was directed to advertise for a successor. After considerable discussion it was decided to reduce the fees for the Town Hall for the late Ambulauce classes. The next meeting was fixed for Saturday, 18th inst.

PONTHIR. BICYCLE ACCIDENT.—Mr Prothero, of Malpas, while cycling through Ponthir, on Tuesday afternoon, met with an accident near the Old Lamb, and sustained some nasty cuts about the face.

CONSTITUTIONAL CLUB. The annual meeting of the Pontypool Constitutional Club was held on Wednesday night, Major Williams presiding. Mr J. C. Hanbury was re-elected president, and the vice-presidents were re-flected en bloc. Mr laac Butler aud Major Williams were respectively re-elected chairman aud Yiee-chairnws, aud Mr Babbidge, treasurer. The annual report of the 'committee stated that the club was maintaining its popularity, and showed total receipts from all sources, including a balance brought forward of L643 Ü 2d, as against L588 7s 3d last year—an increase of £ 50 18s lid. This left a credit balance of £70 19s. The revenue for billiards showed a slight falling off, and there was a falling off in the use of the circulating library. The number of members on the books was 216. In proposing the adoption of the report, Major Williams referred to the club as being in a very sound financial condition. The report was adopted. References were made to the re-decorating and renovating of the iuterior of the club, and Mr Moseley suggested that the club directors be asked to undertake the expenses connected there- with. The Secretary thought that if at the proper time they approached the club directors, their application would be met. Mr Hallewell, Conservative Ageut, proposed a vote of thanks to the officers, the chairman, and vice-chairman. After referring to the good work done by all he pointed out the great usefulness of the club to the Conservative party, at the same time hinting that he would prefer to have a separate and distinct organising committee in connection with the club, distinguished from that of the Association. The Rndicals would have to fight again in that constituency as although defeated in the last election the Conservatives had sufficient pluck to keep on trying. Major Williams said he did not regard the loss of the various bye-elections with the least concern, as when a Government had been in power a number of years it was almost certain they were not going to win bye-elections. Woolwich, which was perhaps regarded as one of the greatest knock- down blows, was essentially a working man's constituency and influences were at work there calculated to upset anything. At the time of the bye-election 2,000 men were under notics to leave I work, and this was put down to the Govern- ment.

himself to the post of organist since he (Mr Nicholl) had been here. It had been a pleasure t< him to be at the practices with Mr Martin and the choir. He might add that all the members of the choir had most loyally subscribed to the presenta- tion. Mr Martin, in reply, said he was very much taken by surprise by the presentation, as that was the first he had heard of it, and he had never expected such a present. He thanked them one, and all, and said it would remind him of bis pleasant associations with the Church and Choir.