Welsh Newspapers
Search 15 million Welsh newspaper articles
12 articles on this Page
COUNTY MAGISTRATES' - COURT.I
COUNTY MAGISTRATES' COURT. I MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 1867. Before Simon Yorke, Esq., and Captain Barker. MAKING A FALSE CHARGE FOR LETTERS. Thomas Williams, a letter carrier from Wrexham to Vron, was in custody, charged with the above oftence. —Mr Actonappeared for the prisoner. Mary Batten said I am the wife of James Batten, a lead miner. We live at Coedpoetb. My husband came home on Saturday week from America, where he had been about ten months. During that time I have been living here, and have been in the habit of receiving letters from my husband-one every five weeks or two months. The prisoner was in the habit of delivering letters in our neighbourhood. Our house is about three [ miles and a half from Wrexham. The envelope produced was delivered at our house by the prisoner two months this morning. (The Wrexham post-mark was found to correspond.) He delivered it between nine and ten in the morning. He said, There's eighteen-pence to be paid on this letter." I said nothing, but paid for it. (The clerk took down the address on the letter.) .There was a letter inside from my husband. There were two small coins inside of it. That is the last time he brought me a letter.—Cross-examined: On the following Wed- nesday prisoner called upon me and asked me to take the eight-pence back. He wanted me to say that I had not paid him. He left the eight-pence, but I told him I could not tell a lie. He left it on the table. He did not say anything about it being a mistake, but he said he had not paid it in. I don't remember anything about the word mistake being used. I have not seen the envelope since I left it at the post-office, two months to- day. Richard Joseph Howson said: I am postmaster at Wrexham. The prisoner was employed as a messenger to Vron, six days a week, until he was suspended on the 27t.h of August. There was nothing payable on the envelope produced. It shauld have been delivered free. If any party stated there was a charge of eight-pence on that letter, it was false. I went over to Mrs Batten's house, after which I called upon the prisoner for an expla-iation in the office. I asked him why he charged vght-pence on this letter. I had the envelope. He aid he had made the charge, but had not had the money. Mrs Batten had no money. This was on the evening of the 13th of August. I reported 1"1e circum- stance to the post-office authorities. There was another case-that of Mrs Woodward. I have here a statement in his own handwriting, signed by him on the 14th of August. It was brought to me in its present state. I believe it to be his handwriting. Witness here read the contents as follows :—" To the postmaster. In answer to inquiries concerning the letter addressed to one Batten of Coedpoeth, I wish to say as it contained coin I thought I was doing my duty. I did made the charge. If I had received it I should have paid it at the oiffce, although not charged to me at the office, but I thought it was an oversight, and if I have exceeded my duty I humbly beg pardon, and promise sincerely it shall never happen again. The 8d. was paid to me to-day, and I ten- dered it at the office, and it was refused. I am very sorry it has happened so, but I had no idea I was ex- ceeding my duty. I promise such a case shall never happen again, from your humble servant, THOMAS WIL- LIAMS." Each letter carrier has a bill every morning of every money he is entitled to receive that day, and he must account for that or return the letter charged for. He must make no demand cr charge except what is on his sheet. I have his sheet for the day in question, which I produce. His signature is to it as having received it. The sheet contains no entry of moneys to be received by him. I produce another sheet of the 13th. This is a sheet of the Vron messenger. I cannot tell how the name David Jones Comes on that sheet, except it is forged. This letter was delivered on the morning of the 29th.-Cross-exa mined There was no charge for letters containing coin at the date of the delivery of these letters, but there is now. He wrote the letter received in consequence of my calling upon -him for an explana- tion. The envelopes have since been sent to London. Margaret Woodward said: I am the wife of Robert Woodward. We live at Coedpoeth. I had a daughter in America, who came home last Saturday week. I know the prisoner. He is the letter carrier to our dis- trict. He has brought a number of letters to our house. I have paid him money for more than one. I remember the last he brought was about three months ago. I paid him eight pence for it. He told me there was eight- pence to pay, and I gave it him. When I opened the letter he asked me for the envelope. I never saw it again.—Cross-examined He mostly asked for the en- velopes back. The envelope produced I found ia the house. William Lewin said I am assistant surveyor of the post-ofifce. In consequence of instructions I came down to investigate these charges on the 27th August. I had an interview with the prisoner in the presence of the postmaster. I produced two envelopes to him—one directed to Mary Batten, the other to Robert Woodward. I asked him whether he remembered delivering them. He replied that he did. I asked him if he made a charge on either or both of them. He said he made a charge on Mary Batten's letter, but at first he denied making a charge on Woodward's letter. I told him to be careful what he said to me in reference to Woodward's letter, as I had made it a subj ect of investigation that day. I repeated my question, and he then said he had made a charge of eight-pence on it. I then asked what he did with the money in each case. He said that in Batten's case he tendered it at the office, but it was refused. In the other case he had taken the monev to buy nails for his boots. I then rang the bell for the postmaster. I then asked him to tell me again what he had done with the money from Woodward, and he repeated the state- men. I then suspended him from duty till I corre- sponded with the authorities in London.—Cross-exa- mined He was very much agitated when I spoke to him. He cried and got on his knees, and said he would never do such a thing again. Mr Howson (re-called) rhe prisoner made no tender of the money till after I had been investigating the charge at Coedpoeth. I made the investigation on the morning of the 14th of August. H3 made a tender on the same night when he returned from that locality. He made the tender to the clerk, not to me. Mr Acton submitted that there was no case so far as Woodward's letter went. The envelope was given back to the prisoner and not produced. Mrs Woodward was the re-called, and stated that the envelope produced was one that she gave to Mr Lewin. Prisoner was then committed to take his trial at the next quarter sessions, bail being accepted.
[No title]
PLEASANT EVENINGS AT BAXGOB-ISVCOED. Several friends have decided to hold a series of these popular entertainments, to be held on every alternate Saturday during the winter months, commencing on Saturdiy, the 26th. THE CARNARVONSHIRE RATLW-ly COMPANY.—The half-yearly meeting of this company was held in London on Tuesday. The report stated that the railway was opened for public traffic on the 2nd of September last, and that the receipts are already about L14 per mile per week. The Cambrian Railway had not yet been opened further than Barmouth, but the opening of the remainder of that line was daily expected, and when this took place the traffic receipts would be materially increased, by reason of the unbroken communication that would then be formed between North and South Wales, and also between Carnarvon and the midland counties and London. An act amalgamating the Nan- tile with this undertaking received the royal assent last sessioh, and the directors anticipated that beneficial re- sults were likely to arise from it.—The Chairman (Cap- tain Johns), in moving the adoption of the report, said the receipts on the line had been much greater than they had anticipated in so short a time. They might also look forward to the completion of the Cambrian line for additional traffic. -Resol a ti ons were passed adopt- ing the report and limiting the number of the directors to four.
LONDON SAYINGS AND DOINGS.…
LONDON SAYINGS AND DOINGS. I From otn* own correspondent. I Whether there, it sufficient cause for the alarm which is manifested in London in respect to the Fenians is a point cr Hf/Teh I will not dilate, but the Fenians have rcT+airrly succeeded in rousing the alarm of the military authorities and the Volunteer authorities. It has only just transpired that on the 27th ult. the Coldstream Guards doing duty at the Tower received orders to hold themselves in readiness, as an attack on the fortress by Fenians was expected. Ammunition was served out, ten rounds of grape anl canister placed by each guu, Bentries were doubled, and all the men confined to bar- racks. The Volunteer officers here a lso nppear to have expected an attack on the armouries, and especially on one in the neighbourhood of Gray's Inn Lane, where the Irish are thick and threefold. One Middlesex Volun- teer regiment has been ordered by the War Office to remove its arms to the Tower, and another is expecting a similar order. The police authorities, too, are adopting extraordinary precautions in the removal of prisoners. Hitherto prison-vans have only had one policeman as a driver and a sergeant inside, and neither has been armed but now the driver is to be armed with a cutlass and four policemen, alike armed, will accompany the Vehicle while vans that may have to travel a long dis- tance are to be accompanied by an armed escort of j mounted policemen. It is possible that there may be no ground for alarm, but it is possible also that there may be ample ground for it; and it is very remarkable that A Fenian," writing to the Pall Mall, says If England chooses to precipitate matters by hounding on the masses of her ignorant lower classes against our people, then it will he war to the knife let her look to her Volnnteer depots, her magazines," &-c. Whether the writer of this letter be what he describes himself, or ) something very different, he has at all events done some- thing to show that the present alarm is not altogether unfounded. Meanwhile, our streets are placarded with bills i-sued by the police offering a regard of f300 and promise of pardon to any accomplice concerned iu the Fenian outrage in Bloomsbury, but who did not fire the fatal shot. The perpetrator of this wanton act of out- rage has up to the present time baffled pursuit; and this, added to the inexplicable escape of Kelly and Deasv, continues to excite the public, creating a strong feeling against any longer tampering with Fenianism, no matter in what shape it may develope itself. There is a low! demand for a special commission to try the Mai lrliester prisoners, and I hear that the Government have determlm d to comply with the expressed wishes of those who think that (4IB -ppivitWl way of nutting a stop to the hopeless and desperate acts of Fenian disturbers is to deal with accused persons more promptly. It is evident that the Fenian leaders, besides inciting what has been done in England, can have no other object than to inspire unlawful terrorism, which, it is now argn. d. can only be put down by bringing the terrors of the law promptly to bear. AnntllPl" unpleasant matter, too, troubles the Govern- ment at the present time, and calls for the extraordinary proceeding of summoning Parliament together during the autumn. Ko proclamation, however, has yet been issn. ,1 respecting the November session with which we are threatened but as the minimum time for such a proclamation is fourteen days before the meeting of i Farli.mient, we may scon expect the ( call, if, as it stated. Parliament is to meet about the Gth of Novem- her. Government- is probably waiting until the expedi- tion is ready to commence its work, and expecting mean- while, perhaps, that Kiij, Theodore may be frightened into filing up his prisoners when he hears of the pre- par.iti'eis making. This Abyssinian affair is a sad blow to us in the present state of the finances of the country. T!, Smidaif Gazette ventures to affirm that Lord D» rl Is about to retire into private life. It is added, that he f-els that lie has done his duty by his party, and that tl! state of his health counsels him to quit the fi. Id. But it may be well questioned what right this journal has to state this. Has Lord Derby told the Sinning Gazette what he feels? Of course, the noble lord it is "done his duty by his p .rty;" bat we all know this. As to the state of his lordship's health, it is rather doubtful whether this is so bad as to suggest his quitting the tield- The duties of the Prime Minister are not I nearly so arduous as those of some heads of departments, ;.tllv in the parliamentary recess. In default of coi li,-illation of this rumour, which has recently been flit-i"_r about in varions shapes, it is probab'e that it is Lvit a rum- r. On netirl *v every occasion of late when Lord Derby has been laid up with the gout something of tin- same kind has been said but immediately the nol le lord has been on his legs again, the rumour has cli, (I flwav. What a hydra-headed monster is the compound house- holder Decapitate him, and another bead nt n'ts np. The fire of li ader-writers does not kill him the cold w.,it.,r .f obloqny does not drown him. He crawls through the lire like a salamander, and. m ikes his appearance nnL:nt; die" apparently drowned," without any of Dr Marshall Ha li's system being brought to bear, revives. Cut film in pieces with the trenchant sword of sarcasm, and yon discover that he is scotched, nut killed. The r-inponnd housholder is now asserting himslf fiercely in the vestries; and vestrymen, finding that he has more lives than a ca', are now debuting flow he shall bo dealt with :01 it is a noticeable fact that already great dif- ni es of opinion exist as to the meaning of the Act of Parliament in that case made and provided." Alto- gether, the compound householder is proving himself a very troublesome personage. The Police Commissioners have issued orders that all the men in the Metropolitan force (ae; distinguished from tLe Ci'v) are to learn the cutlass drill. The subject has L4. it for some months under consideration, and the idea, I believe, was abandoned in deference to the outcry that the mere mention of it excited. Of course, there are two sioles to the question, but it is is certain that the London roughs are becoming so formidable, and that :iss:iiil-.s on the police are so frequent, that the police as rt present organised is not a match for the scoun- drdi.-m and ruffianism of the lower districts of the metropolis. There are many parts of London where it is n it safe for any respectable person to walk after dusk, and in these localities assaults on the police are much more frequent than would be thought from thenewspaper report^ notwithstanding that in these districts the police alwav.- wall; in pairs after dusk. In these very localities however, the arming of the police with cutlasses would naturally excite opposition, and would perhaps lead to riot: and the mere fact that they are to learn cutlass drill—;1!1V fact connected with police arrangements spreads with great rapidity in such districts-will no doubt prodnce a sensation. Perhaps it mav also produce a wholesome terror, for of course the drill-instruction is only a preliminary step to the arming with cutlasses, in if may be considered advisable. The whole subject will ]>r.d) iiilv come before Parliament next session, the public mind having been so excited by Fenian and other outrages. Etrnts have been made to get up another interna- tional working men's industrial exhibition," to be held in the Agricultural Hall. With all due deference to the fussy zealots who are urging this step, I think we can well do without any more such exhibitions just yet. Such siiTiirs have hitherto bad a strong family likeness. Sir," said Dr Johnson, a man who has seen one preen field has seen all green fields." A similar remhrk mav be made with more truth of these working men's exhibitions. There is really nothing in them, and after you have wandered through one you may ask yourself the <piestion the Scotchman asked after reading Paradise Lost," What does it prove ?" All our local exhibitions of this kind have been as much repetitions of each other as if they were peripatetic shows" tra- v. lliug iu caravans from one fair to another. London, Thursday.
[No title]
OPENING OF A PORTION or THE CARNARVONSHIRE PAH.WAV.—On Thursday, that section of the Carnarvon- shire Railway between Barmouth Junction and Pwllheli was opened for passenger and goods traffic. A passenger train left Portmadoc at seven a.m., but on its arrival at Barmouth Chancery injunctions were served on the offieials by Mr Griffiths, solicitor, Dolgelly, on behalf of three of his clients, owners of land between Pen- rhyndendraeth and Dyffryn. The traffic between Pensarn and Barmouth is consequently suspended for the present. The claims under the injunctions amount to £ 212 19s. 7d. CONSERVATIVE CONFESSIONS.—At the anniversary dinner of the Beneficial Society, Portsmouth, some of Ham] shire members give utterance to their views on the the new Reform Bill. Sir Jervoise C. Jervoise, Bart., suggested that a companion picture to Punch's Dis- radi in Egypt, should be painted. The subject should be the passage of the Red Sea transformed into the passin" of the Reform Bill, and he would have it painted after the manner that a celebrated gentleman had his picture done. He ordered the painter to do the subject fcf Israelites passing through the Red Sea, and wLen i; was finished he found that it was nothing more than a bightly-coloured red canvass. Where are the Ira(':itt's ?" asked the gentleman. "Oh, tliey \e all parsed over," said the painter. And where are Pharaoh and his host?" They're all drowned." So with the new picture, the Passing of the Reform Bill," it might be asked" Where are the Disraelites 1" Ob, thev've all gone over the other side." And where are the "Whigs?" "They're all dished." Colonel Fane, said he swallowed the Reform pill as he did the powder which his nurse used to bring to his bedside. She used to say it would do him good, and if he did not take it she would fetch his papa. His political father was his country; it had asked for reform, and he re- garded it as the duty of all parties to bring the question to a conclusion. That was the spirit in which he swal- I lowed the Reform pill.
LOCAL NEWS. I
LOCAL NEWS. I A LARGE POTATOE.—Mr Strachan, of No. 4, High- street, has in his window a large seedling potatoe that h d. 0 0 weighs one pound nine ounces. It was grown by Mr Harrison, of Plascoch. 0 THE BOUNDARY COMMISSION.—The boundary com- mission have given notice that they will visit Wrex- ham on Friday next, and hold their sitting in the Music Hall. On Saturday they will sit in the Greddington Arms, Holt. DRAKE'S PANORAMA of the overland route to India is now exhibited at the Music Hall, and will be open this evening and Monday and Tuesday evenings. Yes- terday afternoon the schools of the town were treated to a view, and last night there was a good attendance. DENCIGH AND FLINTSHIRE GEOLOGICAL SURVEY.— The annual meeting of the members will be held at the Wynnstay Arms Hotel, Wrexham, on Wednesday next, when we hope active measures will be adopted, to urge on the Government the necessity of an immediate sur- vey on an enlarged scale of the Mineral Districts of Denbighshire and Flintshire. The advantages of such a survey are incalculable. A SMALL DOG.—A gentleman residing in Wrexham has received from Malta a full grown dog of such diminutive proportion that he can get inside a quart jug, and only weighs a pound eight ounces. He is a white woolly little creature, and the fair sex pronounce him a perfect beauty. He was shipped from Malta as a con- tribution to the church restoration bazaar, but arrived too late to do duty in that capacity. Mns MONUMENT.—A beautiful monument to the memory of the late hlva Pod, of Cefn Park, has just been erected near the altar in Wrexham Church. The sculptor is Mr Wooluer, of London. It will be remem- bered that Mrs Peel died soon after her infant son, from which the artist has derived the incident of the sculp- ture. The lady is seen as if received at the entrance of a heavenly abode by an angel who bears in its arms the lost son stooping down to caress the fainting mother. The design and execution are exquisite. CHRISTY'S MINSTRELS.—On Thursday and Friday (yesterday) nights Professor Whitworth's just celebrated troupe of Christy's Minstrels gave entertainments in the Theatre, which was specially fitted up for the occasion. Oil Thursday night the performance was, we believe, in aid of the Church Restoration Fund, and yesterday it was under the patronage of his worship the Mayor. The attendance both evanings was fair, and the pro- gramma, which was, we are informed, well chosen, gone through in a satisfactory manner. The professor has resolved to remain another day, and to-night (Saturday) he gives a performance for half-price. CURIOUS.—A few days ago, a dog who had had his dav, and was deemed of no further use, was condemn¡;d J by his owner, who resides in a suburban villa on the outskirts of Wrexham, to be shot. The duty of I despatching poor old Towser devolved upon his master's son, a smart youth, who spent some time in putting his firelock in order. Towser was chained up, and the executioner took deliberate aim, but the gun missed fire a second attempt was made with the same result, and a third time did the gun refuse to go off, the poor animal all the time watching the movements with the utmost composure. The executioner then pointed the muzzle in the direction of the clouds, when it went off in a crack. Towser's master then granted him a reprieve sine die. FIRE AT HOPE HALL.—A little after seven o'clock on Sunday morning a messenger reached Wrexham with the announcement that the buildings at Hope hall, a farm house which is situate between Hope village and Hope railway station were on fire. The Prince of Wales Fie Brigade were aroused from their slumbers, and quickly assembled together, and before half-past seven o'clock, the Quinta" engine, driven by four horses set off at a dashing speed for the scene of the disaster. On their arrival they found a building and a portion of a hay stack on fire. They were able to save a portion of the latter, but the building and its contents were nearly all destroyed, consisting of a quantity of oats, wheat, potatoes, geese, ducks, and fowl. The fire commenced in the building,, and there is little doubt it was the work of an incendiary. The fire brigade re- turned to Wrexham a little before one o'clock. The tenant of the farm is Mr Dutton, and the owner Col. Goodwin. The stock was insured in the Liverpool and London Insurance Company, and the loss is said to be about JE150. TilE COT*NCIL AND THE CnuiiCH.—A meeting of the Town Council was held yesterday (Friday) for the pur- pose of considering the invitation of the Church Restoration Committee to join in a procession to church on the occasion of the opening after the restoration. There were present—The Mayor (Peter Walker, Esq.,) Aldermen Bury and Jones. Councillors Rowland, Snape, Williams, Lloyd, and J. Jones, the Town Clerk and the members of the Church Restoration Committee. The Town Clerk supported the church going heartily. AU the other members took the same view, except Alderman Jones, who said—I have a. great dislike of this proposed procession. I hate displays of man millinery, especially in connection with sacred things. I see no connection between a sermon at the parish church, and our attendance in all the pomp of municipal oisplay. We are to be made the centre of a I raree show to give an extraneous importance to a religious service. If the mission of a church is to spiritualise the hearts and minds of men, how is that result accom- plished by our going in state to the parish church ? It is an unusual event even on the opening of a new church, much more so as to the repewing of one.—Mr Rowland made some objection to going in robes, after j whifli the thing was agreed to. A SKILFUL SURGICAL OPERATION.—Some months acro a well-to-do tradesman, who, in addition to many other good qualities indicating kindness of heart and a general gentleness of disposition, is a great fowl fancier, had the misfortune to see one of his favourite bens come hopping home on one leg. A glance at the injuries received a once convinced the owner that there was nothing left but amputation, if any attempt was to be made at all to save the life of the fowl. The operation was, therefore promptly performed, and the poor creature carefully dressed and anxiously watched from day to day, the morning bulletin issued to all inquiring friends being that she was "doing quite as well as could be expected." She was ultimately pronounced convales- cent, but her powers of locomotion were found to be sadly interfered with by the loss of the member that it had been found essential to cut off and cast away. The proprietor's tender feelings now took an ingenious turn. ) He invented, constructed, and, what is more, attached to the fowl a wooden leg, which the animal soon showed considerable agility in making use of. In due course she showed a desire to "set," when the owner became curious to know whether the new member would prove any obstruction to the process of incubation. He watched daily for some time, and was able to report that all was well. His curiosity became intensified as the appointed time for hatching approached, and, haunted by a lively recollection of the saying that, "wooden legs run in the blood," he half expected to see the little brood start life each with a wooden leg, as so many veritable chips of the old block. In this respect he was I disappointed. Twelve chickens made their appearance perfectly made from top to toe. THE REV. DR MCNEILE.—We are glad to observe that not only shall we have the Lord Bishop of the Diocese to preach at the re-opening of Wrexham Church, but the committee have been fortunate enough to secure the services of the Rev. Hugh McNeile, D.D., I canon of Chester, who is unquestionably one of the most eloquent preachers in the Church. We remember wel' the reverend Doctor preaching his first sermon in Wrexham Church in the year 1835. On that occasion the whole of the shops in the town were closed to enable the young men and employers to avail themselves of the opportunity of hearing so eminent a man, and it was computed that the magnincent old church was more crowded than it was ever known to be in the memory of the oldest inhabitant. The galleries which are now taken down were literally crammed, the seats in the body were all filled to overflowing, and there was scarcely any standing room in the aisles. It was thought I that not less than three thousand persons were present. The sermon was in aid of the Church Missionary Society, and there was a handsome collection. We hope, as there is still a serious deficiency in the funds for the restoration of the church, that liberal collections will be made at the two sermons on Wednesday next. It is not generally known, but we'have it on the authority of the Church Magazine, that 40 years ago Dr McNeile was vicar of a small parish called Albury, in Surrey, which brought him the handsome income of something like a thousand a-year. What do our readers expect that we are going to say next ? Why, that Dr McNeile at the invitation of the congregation of St. Jude's, Liverpool, left the rich living ef Albury and the income of a thou- sand a-year, to go to Liverpool and preach for the smaller sum of four hundred a.year, which in a few years, however, was increased to six hundred. Often has it been asked why a man of his extraordinary Ilearnincy and powerful eloquence has not been made a bishop. Let the Doctor himself answer. When, a few years ago, he was addressing a meeting in Liverpool, some of his own countrymen, while he was raising his voice denouncing Popish aggression, said, Be quiet, McNeile, and we'll make you a bishop." Ah said he raisincy his voice to the highest pitch, had I patted Rome on the back I should have been made a bishop lonrr ago. The good Doctor thus proved himself too much of a fire-eater for the Episcopal Bench. THE UsE OF A THEATRE.—The Court Journal says: —A sum of £ 70 4s. 4id. has been handed over to the Wrexham Church Restoration Fund, from Mr J. L. Toole's entertainment committee, the gross receipts for admission to the entertainments amounting to P,150 Is 8d The Wrexham Theatre, like many other Thespian temples in the country, has been allowed to get ont of repair, and when required for use a large outlay is entailed. Among other items appear, painting scene, J61 10s. decorating theatre, 28 10.1. properties, paint, colouring, 27 6s. 8d.; tarpaulins, and men covering theatre, £ 2 2s. total, JE19 Bs. Now we cannot help thinking that it is bad policy not to keep up the pro- vincial theatres, which, when not used for the purposes of the drama, are better calculated for lectures, penny readings, and Christy Minstrel concerts than half the music halls in the country. We are aware that there are many who will not enter a theatre, and yet will attend the same performance they would see at a theatre if given in a room. This surely is a distinction without a difference. There can be no doubt that there are immoral and sensational dramas, as there are im- moral and sensational books, but no one need select either, whether on the boards or in the drawing-room, and a well-acted play by Shakspeare has an elevating tendency. Had it been otherwise, would our gracious Queen and her lamented Consort have patronised the metropolitan theatres, or have sanctioned performances at Windsor Castle ? Moreover, if the stage is to be denounced, how does it happen that Poet's Corner is filled with monuments of players and play-writers ? Tliinfr3 have been done by actors and in the drama which cannot be justified, but is not this applicable to many other professions ? DEATII OF THE REV. JOIt FILLIPS, BANGOR.- Oar obituary of to-day contains the name of the Rev. John Phillips, principal of Bangor Normal School, and one of the most eminent preachers connected with the Welsh Calvinistic Methodists. He died on the 9th inst., at Brynteg, in Anglesea, a quiet retreat, whci-e he was wont occasionally to retire with his family for rest, and rennovation rendered necessary by the labourious work he was called upon to perform as a minister, and the onerous duties which devolved upon him in the promo- tion of education in North Wales. He was first Calvin- istic Minister (with the exception of those who seceded from the church), who received a college education, hav- ing been sent to Edinburgh, where in connection with Dr. Edwards, now of Betla College, he studied under Dr Chalmers. Shortly after leaving college he settled in Holywell, whence he removed to Bangor, and was the means of the establishment of the splendid Normal Col- lege for the training of schoolmasters for Wales, which has proved a great success. During the last thirty years he paid many visits to Wrexham and the populous places in the locality, where his eloquence always at- tracted overflowing congregations. The illness which proved fatal to him was gastric fever, to which he was much subject. He was attacked three weeks ago. Dangerous symptoms set in from the commencement, occasioning great anxiety to his medical men, Dr Lloyd, Llangefni, and Dr. Humphreys, Bangor. On Sunday last he seemed to be sinking, but on Monday so far rallied as to inspire his friends with some faint hopes of his recovery. On Tuesday he was able to converse freely, and he requested that his children might be brought to his presence, when he took his last farewell of them and his distressed partner. His labours in con-/ nection with education will always be held in grate- ful remem brance. Previous to 1843 there were only six i British Schools in North Wales, now they are met with I in every town, and in many villages, established mainly < by the instrumentality of the deceased. His remains will I interred at Llaneugrad on Mondr.y no: As ADVENTURE AT LLANGOLLEN.—On Tuesday last, a Wrexham gentleman, noted for his hospitality, had a gentleman from Northampton sojourning with him for a day or two. Anxious to show his esteemed friend all that was. to be seen, the host recommended to his guest a visit to Llangollen. The idea was held to be a good one, and our mutual friends" sallied forth, and in due course by rail reached the little town situate in the sweetest of vales" and without troubling themselves about the charms of Jenny Jones," prepared to ascend the hill of Castell Dinas Bran. Upon reaching the foot l of the hill, our Northampton friend stopped and gazed, ¡ and suggested to our Wrexham friend some kind of re- freshment before they commenced the ascent. Our j Wrexham friend, (all awful martinet) said he never turned back in his life if he could by any means avoid it, and by dint of a little persuasion, induced his Nor- thamptonshire friend to go on his way, we won't say re- joicing as good John Banyan has it, but rather sighing at the task he had before him. On our mutual friends went wending the hill till our Northamptonshire friend said he could go no further, and insisted on returning to the Hand Hotel, and as the poet says: Take mine ease at mine inn." Our Wrexham friend, having reached the summit of the hill many a time and oft" consented to return and enjoy the comforts of the cele- brated hostelry. Another hour made a great difference in our Northamptonshire friend's feelings. An after dinner feeling came over him, and just as our Wrexham friend bad settled down for a quiet snooze, he nudged him and said he would Try, try, try again." A pinch, of snuff assisted our Wrexham friend to wake np, and a sip or two of brandy inspired him to start up the hill. We have not space to describe the details of the ascent, which was very amusing. Suffice it to say that Nor- thamptonshire did reach the summit, when the horrors of descending all at once dawned upon his mind. All our information is derived from hearsay; but we are told on credibilty that Northamptonshire came down faster than he went up. A part of the journey he per- formed on his posterior, tired of this mode of locomo- tion, he took to rolling, and reached Llangollen with his personal appearance not quite so perfect as when he left Northamptonshire
0C-OURT.- BOROUGH MAGISTRATES'…
0 C- OURT.- BOROUGH MAGISTRATES' COURT. 1- MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 1867. Before T. C. Jones, Esq., chairman; T. Painter, Esq., i and T. Eyton Jones, Esq. A STREET FIGHT. William Thompson, William Jones, and James Jones were summoned for being drunk and fighting.—P.C. Kennedy said that on Saturday, the 28th of September, at nine o'clock at night, Thompson and William Jones were drunk and fighting. With the assistance of P.C. Boyle he apprehended both, and soon afterwards James Jones attempted to rescue them, and followed them up to the police-station. He afterwards apprehended James i Jones, and took the names of all of them. They were 'I all drunk.—Thompson denied being drunk. He was talking to a young woman-his landlord's daughter-in the street, and William Jones came up and asked them what they were talking about, made use of some obscene language, then struck him in the throat.—Sarah Ed- wards said Thompson had lodged with her father nine months. She was standing talking to him in the street when William Jones came up and abused him and struck him. Thompson was not drunk.—William Jones admitted being drunk and fighting.—James Jones said he was not there when the row took place, but he was by the Town Hall.—The case against Thompson was dismissed, but the other two were fined 10s. 6d. and I costs, or, in default, 14 days' imprisonment. ALLEGED ASSAULT. I William Williams was summoned by Abraham Levi- for an assault. Williams's wife appeared for her husband, and stated that he could not come because he had to go l? to his work.-Lcvi applied for a warrant, which was granted. I
.I WREXHAM BOARD OF GUARDIANS.…
I WREXHAM BOARD OF GUARDIANS. I THURSDAY, OCT. 10TH, 1867. I Present :-CaDtain Panton, R.N., cluirman; the Rev. Jenkin Jones in the vice-chair Mr Beale, Marchwiel; Mr Jones, Erddig Mr Rrmer, E:icluillam Above Mr Wright, Ruabon; Rev. J. Williams, Hope. THE RAILWAY WHISTLE NUISANCE. ) The progress of the busiaess was several timac inter- rapted by an unearthly noise from a railway engine on I the Brymbo railway. Occasionally the guardians -were compelled to sit and just look at each other—hearing each other being quite out of the question.—The Cleik said he had spent some days up at the boardroom with the books trying to get ready for the auditor, and the effect of all that whistling was something wonderful when attempting to add a column of figures. The master said the effect on the sick and dying in the house was sometimes very distressing. (Here a frightful whistle prevented the clerk going any further.)—The Chairman suggested that the clerk should write to the Great Western Railway, complaining that there was a good deal of unnecessary whistling just by the work- house, and that it was a great nuisance. I NUISANCE INSPECTORS. I A letter was read from P.C. Dutton, stating that the time for which he had been appointed inspector of nuisances had expired, and he should be glari to con- tinue to perform the duties if the board should think fit to re-appoint him.—Mr Rymer thought, as the weather was getting colder, that it would be unnecessary to con- tinue the services of these inspectors. He asked how much it took to pay them all.-The Clerk said about three pounds.—The Chairman said as far as he could see, judging from the inspectors' reports and the medi- cal officers' reports, there appeared to be no sickness about. It was a matter of great moment that they should reduce the expenses if they could do so with safety. He was of opinion that there were a good many of the inspectors they could do without at present. He would continue them in populous places. —It was agreed not to re-appoint P.C. Dutton, and to pursue the same course with some of the others when the time for which they were appointed expired. —Mr Beale thought it would be better to have a general inspector for a district.—The Chairman asked what he would have to do. He would be like the Poor Law Board. He would sit down in an arm chair and write letters. He would write reports without making visita- tations. They would have to give him a large salary, then he would want a horse to ride, then he would want a gig and something or another all the while. They must also have the sanction of the Poor Law Board, then they must lose their control over him. As it was they had the matter in their own hands.—Mr Bale said he suggested it because he thought it would be more economical. They could get it done far seventy pounds. —The chairman and guardians differed from Mr Beale.
— - - ■ y 1 .i — 1 ANNUAL…
— ■ y .i — 1 ANNUAL RIFLE CONTEST, I On Tuesday last the annual rifle contest in connection with No. 1 Company of the Denbighshire Rifle Volunteers took place at their range at Sontley. The weather was most unfavourable for rifle practice-the rain coming down in torrents the greater part of the day, and the wind blowing in strong fitful gusts across the line of firing. JNotwithstanding these drawbacks a great num- ber of volunteers competed for the various prizes. The firing commenced at eleven o'clock, but, as might have bean expected from the state of the weather, the shoot- ing was much below the average. Col. R. Blackwood Price and Capt. Yorke were on the ground as spectators during part of the day. The following prizes were shot for:— A Prize, value f,5, given by Lieut-Col. Sir W. W. Wynn, Bart., M.P., to be divided as follows: 1st prize, JB3; 2nd, El 5s.; 3rd, las.; best aggregate score at class firinty, jEt. Open to all efficient members. Ranges: 200, 5uO, and 600 yards; five rounds at each range. Sergeant John Jones 33 La e al Hu e. 25 Corporal li. Manion 21 Sergeant John Jones, winner of the first prize, also took the fourth prize, for the best aggregate score at class firing. The Mayor's (Peter Walker, Esq.) Prize, value JB3; Second Prize, given by Joseph Clark, Esq., 21. Open to all members of the corps. Range: 200 yards; seven rounds. Private Thomas Davies 23 Corporal M. Manion 20 The Non-Commissioned Officers' Prize, value jE2 10s. 1st prize, El 2nd, 12s. 6d.; 3rd, 10s.; 4th, 7s. For Recruits only. Ranges 100 and 200 yards; five rounds at each range. Private William Shefton 33 Lewis Jones 30 91 Thomas Woodville 27 „ George Bevan 27 In shooting off the tie between Privates Woodville and Bevan, the former made an outer and the latter missed the target. I After the shooting for the first prize had been decided the volunteers were invited to a splendid luncheon, provided by Capt. Yorke, in a tent which was erected on the ground, Capt. Yorke presiding. After luncheon the health of the worthy captain was proposed by I Sergeant John Jones, and drunk with enthusiasm; Capt. Yorke responding in suitable terms. We notice in looking over the list of prizes that the commissioned officers of No. 1 company have this year distinguished themselves by offering no prizes for com- petition, however the members of the corps ought to be proud of their liberal staff of non-commissioned officers.
I WREXHAM PENNY ENTERTAINMENTS.
I WREXHAM PENNY ENTERTAINMENTS. The third season of these readings commenced on Tuesday last, when a very excellent entertainment was given under the presidency of the Mayor (Peter Walker, Esq.) The proceedings commenced by Mr T. Bury, solicitor, reading the following prologue, of which he is the author:— PROLOGUE. Once more we watch the winter months return, The bright flowers fade, and yellow grows the fern. While lengthened nights proclaim a waning year, And bid us all provide for winter's cheer. Our Readings thus arc with the season due, And so we come our meetings to renew, Review our store-, and like good hosts prepare, To lay before our guests the bill of fare. Two years have swiftly passed since first we came, All tyros at the ta-k, our only aim To please our patrons—asking no return, Except the meed which we might fairly earn; But the warm welcome which our efforts won, Shewe l you believed that we our best had done, So buoyed by hope of approbation still, We all shall" strive our duty to fulfil. Yet here upon the threshold we should stand, To think of one much mi-scd from out our band, For him (who needs not naming) all must mourn, In early summer to his long rest borne. Here at our Readings, many a friend he made, Who'll join this tribute to his memory paid. Others have Ipft-s0mc leaders in our ranks— And so our muster roll shews numerous blanks; Still do we trust although our staff is small, That soon recruits will answer to the call, To tell some pleasant tale, or else to read Of ancient days, and dwell on nobie deed; Mingling our programme oft with merry lay, To elieat our cares, and drive them far away. As to arrangement we have tried a scheme (To be pivsevved if it should prudent seem), Suggested by the measure of Reform, Just lately passed midst argument so warm Our phus are alterel, and 'twill be observed That the front benches are not now reserved, But, ba-cd on notion much like Dizzy's, Giro equal seats to pennies and to iizz't;s- Still, "Wi c.-iham lads, who chcoiing loud and long, Arc wont to show your liking for a song, However much applause the piece deseives, Forbear your whistles—shocks to ladies' nerves Since those shrill notes are quite against the rules Unless we have such whistling songs as Toole's. And now a third year give us cause to say, As we our several parts before you play, That kind receptions are in store for all Who cater for you at the Music Hall. sure you will, "0 see our session start, With freight of favour from each kinily heart. Mr Bury read the prologue in a clear distinct manner, and the comments of the audience on the composition of the piece were of a very favourable character. Its literary merits certainly exceed those of prologues which have sometimes been read in this town emanating from r.vi more pretentious quarters. The prologue was foi;o*v::l by an overture—pianoforte and violin—by Messrs. Harriss and Stephen son. Of Mr Stephenson's efforts on the violin we need not speak, as his fame has reached evcry household. Mr Harriss is a new comer, having just been appointed organist of S. Mark's j Church, as successor to the lale Mr Dennis, to whom touching allusion is made in the prologue. A few notes on the piano led the audience to anticipate a treat, and 'they were not disappointed. The precision, taste, and style displayed by Mr Harris, proclaim him to be a first class pianist, and his services will doubtless be a greet additional attracLion to the penny entertain- ments. The reading ci the evening was a Selec- tion from Wiillu'p. Tell," by M" J. MUligan, of Liver- pool, brother to Mr MiHigan, who acts as joint seei-e: tary with Mr Albert Bury. We have had to speak before of Mr Miiiigan's merits as a reader and reciter, but we are disposed to think that his artistic interpretation of the touching piece he gave this evening outshone his former readings on the Wrexham penny entertainments plot- form. The effect upon the audience was thrilling, who testified their appreciation by giving him many hearty rounds of applause. Mr J. Ll. Heywood, who has done good ssrvicc at the penny readings, followed, and gave in excellent style the song Maggie by my side." Then came a duett by Mrs W. M. Williams and Mrs D onaldson. The latter is a stranger, a friend of Mrs Williams's we believe, and one who would always be welcome on that platform. She has a beautiful contralto voice, and Mrs Williams, if possible, appeared in better feather than ever. Mr T. B. Acton was called upon next, and gave a readiug from Macaulay, The battle of the League, and Cortonva. Accustomed to speak 1 in public, and having an intelligent appreciation of the r pi; ?es to he selected for snch occasions, com- bined with a good voice, Mr Acton always commands attention, the only regret being that he does not put in an apnearsnce oftener. Mr Hugh Roberts next sang S -voet fS-vrH come away," which was well received. Mr Joules .iriuscroug then put in an appearance—his first-- and was received by a hearty round of applause before he opened his mou:h. The song set down to him was Tom Bowling." but he gave Widow Machree" in- stead, and despitfJ the admonition about whistling in the prologue, a portion of the audience induJged in a hearty encore. A Frenchman in a lis" was the next piece read, and Mr Walter Jones wis the reader. The French- in. Li obtains written directions how to thread his way through the thronged streets of London, which he follows until he comes to Stick no bills" on the comer of Ludgate Hill, which he mistakes for the name of the street, and afterwards is quite at sea. Mr Jones acted the Frenchman admirably. Mr Albert Bury appeared next on the scene, and met with a hearty welcome He sang, Pretty Jemima don't say nay," in a very pretty style. Mrs Donaldson followed with a swet song called "Joyous Life," which met with well- merited applause. The popular favourite, Mr W. M. Wil- liams turned up next, not with a song, but a reading from the Man of the World," and kept the audience in a merry mood for a quarter of an hour. Mrs Wil- liams followed, and enchanted the company with OaHer tlerrm." Mr J. Miliigan then electrified them by sho.\io_r how II >ratius kept the bridge," and a duett—violin and pianoforte — by Mr C. A. Stephenson arid Mr ^Tirriss brought the entertainment to a close. A vote of thanks to the Mayor for his courtesy in pre- siding was moved by Mr Alderman Jones and seconded by Mr D.iion, and carried with acclamation. Before separating the National Anthen was given, Mrs W. M. Williams leading.
[No title]
The whole Snowdonian range from Peumaenmawr to the Rivals was on Friday covered with snow, very deep in some parts. The Queen has been pleased to grant to William Corbet Jones Parry of Plas-yn-Yale, Denbigh, barrister- at-law, and his issue, the name and arms of Yale. NOUTH CHESBIKE CHAJIBER OF AGRICULTURE.—At a meeting of this chamber, held on Thursday at Maccles- field, a letter was read from Lord de Tabley, to the effect 11 that, after full consideration, he felt convinued that more time and attention would be required for the proper discharge of the duties of the office of president than he had at his command." The letter went on to say 41 that when first applied to for his support, he did not hesitate at once to become a subscriber and vice- president, wishing thereby to show his approval of the objects of the chamber, and his favourable opinion of the general advantages of such societies." —The meeting then elected Mr G. Cornwall Legh, M.P., to be the president of the chamber for the ensuing year. FRIENDLY SOCIETIES IN NORTH WALES AXD SHROP- SHIRE.—According to the statistics appended to the recently-issued report of the Registrar of Friendly Societies, there are in Denbighshire 140 such societies, 58 of which have sent in their returns, and these have 5,153 members, with funds amounting to £ 24,123. They comprise 31 friendly societies not otherwise de- signated, four Courts of Foresters, ten lodges of the Manchester Unity, one of the Grand United Order, one of New United Odd Fellows, one of Druids, one of Loyal Orangemen, one tent of Rechabites, and eight societies of women. The Ruabon lodge of the Man- chester Unity is numerically the strongest of these societies, having 409 members, but it is surpassed by J several in respect of capital. Of 106 society in Flint- 1 shire, to which forms were sent, 38 made returns, and these have 3,101 members, and funds to the amount of 216,391. There are 21 friendly societies having no other distinctive denomination, ten Courts of Foresters, two lodges of Manchester Unity, two of Druids, and three societies of women. In this county, as in other parts, many societies have not returned the number of their members, but the strongest of those which have done so is the Church and King United Brethren at Bistree, which has 311 members, and a fund of £ 2,650. Fifteen societies in Merionethshire made returns, out of 46, having 2,181 members, and 93,968. There are nine societies not otherwise distinguished one lodge of the Manchester Unity, two tents of Rechabites, and three societies of women. The strongest is the Benevolent Society at Festiniog, which numbers 397 members. From Montgomeryshire 26 returns were received, 59 sent out, which enumerated societies having 4,144 mem- bers, and 229,079. There are 16 societies not other- wise distinguished, four Courts of Foresters, two lodges of the Manchester Unity, two of the Grand United Order, and one society of women. The Second Friendly Society at Welshpool contains 573 members. In Shropshire 120 societies have made the required re- turns, having 12,501 members enrolled, and founds to the amount o of £ 108,394. These are not all the societies in existence, however, as the number of returns sent out to be filled up was 341. There are 47 friendly societies not otherwise designed. 24 Courts of Foresters, 34 lodges of the Manchester Unity of Odd- Fellows, one of the Grand United Order, one of the Wo!verhar>fori Unity, six of Bridgnorth Reformed Odd- Feilow. b'ree G i.leoers, on" of an unspecified order," and three sociaioi of women. The number of ranges from as few as 11 to 1,789, the most nnaierous i>o far as returned) being the Tradesmen's Friendlv Society at Whitchurcb, whose fund amounts to £ 14,100.
I FATAL AND -MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT.
I FATAL AND MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT. On Saturday night an accident of a melancholy nature accurred in connection with one of the stage carts, of which there are now a great number running between Wrexham and the populous localities on the mineral Yr e Y- 1,, Wrexham. It appears that at about ten o'clock on Saturday night a man named Robert Roberts, a collier, residing at Brymbo, was riding home in one of these carts, and when near South Sea, fell out, and shortly afterwards died in consequence of the inj uries he received. Deceased, we regret to say, had a wife and eight children, the eldest of whom is only about fourteen years of age. An inquest was held on the body at the Mount Inn, Brymbo, on Tuesday last, before B. H. Thelwall, Esq., and the following jury:-Ilr Arthur Phillips, foreman Messrs. Alexander M'Hatche m, John Kent, Thomas Lawley, John Launcelott, James EdtvarJs, William Pattinson, John Griffiths, Joseph Jones, George Lewis, Edwd. Lewis, John Jones, Owen Price, Henry Hughes, Willtm Bradshaw, John Greatorex. Mr J. G. Buckton attended to watch the case on behalf of the relatives of the deceased. After the jury were sworn in, the Coroner said You are summoned here to-day on behalf of the Crown to inquire into the cause of the death of Robert Roberts, a man, it appears, 38 years of age. On Saturday last he was travelling in one of those conveyances—those licensed carts which travel between Wrexham and Brymbo. The conveyance lie travelled in belonged to one Isaac Edwards, but was driven by a person named Edward Smith. There was another vehicle belonging to Robert Williams. Both left Wrexham at the same time, and both were full. From what I hear, Williams's vehicle—although both started at the same time- actually reached Brymbo, delivered the passengers, and got as fav ns South Sea on the road back again, before meeting Edwards's vehicle. This shows the sort of animus there is between the drivers of these vehicles. Williams's vehicle had got about half way back to Wrexham before meeting with the other and that was the position they were in when the accident took place. The manner in which the carts are driven is the talk of the neighbourhood. I have been told by people in Wrexham that they are afraid of travelling along the roads on which these carts travel, owing to the reckless manner in which many of these licensed vehicles are driven. How far such has been the case in this instance ,cn tile case in this iiisl?aiiee will be for you to say when you hrive heard the evidence. I am sorry to say the inquest will have to be adjourned in consequence of the officer not being able to pFoduce several important witnesses wh^ were in the vehicle at the time of the accident. I have no doubt this inquiry will lead to some other inquiry but, however that may be, it is very important that we should have every proof of the cause of death, and the whole circumstances thoroughly sifted. There is in these running-down cases generally a good deal of fighting, I think, there- fore it is very necessary we should have the whole evi- dencc. I propose that you should vie ,v the body and then adjourn. The jury then proceeded to view the body, and on their return, the Coroner said You have Lad a long I walk to view the body of this unfortunate man. You all live in the neighbourhood here, and I am sure have an inclination to put down the scandalous way in which these vehicles run between here aud Wrexham. It's not for me to judge the case before we henr the evidence, but I am sure the way they run is not in accordance with the licenses granted th"in. The officer tells me he cannot go fully into the case to-day. It will he desirable, therefore, to adjourn till the whole of the facts can be laid before you at once. Thi?; man has lost his life while travelling in a public conveyance, and it is very impor- tant to the public thattherj should be a thorough investi- gation of the matter. I shall make no farther remarks, but adjourn the inquest to Tuesday next.
THE EXPEDITION TO ABYSSINIA.
THE EXPEDITION TO ABYSSINIA. The special correspondent of the Daily Telegraph, writing from Alexandria, gives a summary of valuable information respecting Abyssinia received from a priest who lived in that country for many years. He savs "The coast is unheal'by from the e,,I-re!ne heat. Massowah especially, where the troops are expected to disembark, is fearfully hot. Even those who are accus- tomed to the dreadful heat of A leu have a horror of Massowah and the coast line. Everything should be be done to hurry the troops forward as soon as they are landed. Let them push forward at any and at all risks. J About 50 miles from the sea the second chain com- mences, and extends to within ten or fifteen miles of the foot of the higher ranges. The land is healthy and not nearly so hot as the coast. It is pleasant marcliin<» ground, with here and there some good pieces of pas- turage land, and in every way favourable. It is here that the troops should be organised. Any debiv on the coast for that purpose may be fatal to tU, further pro- gress of the expedition. As far as possible and feasible the transports with the stores should precede the tn-sps in the voyage from Bombay to Massowah. Tin-re is nothing to f2ar from the Abyssinians until we get into the first range of hills two regiments in the open would dispose of the whole available force of the country. Some of the chiefs excel greatly in s tratagems an-l sur- prises, and if they oppose us at all we must expect and be on our guard against all sorts of tricks and d?vlc?s. The ??iIrd division of the country comprises m?y the ten or fifteen miles of connt "5- at the foot of the mountains. The land is most tempting to the (ye- verdaut, well watered, not very hot, and in appearance everything that could be desired. But this delightful appearance is not only a fair I)iit -if trusted—a fatal deceit; for fever and malaria, and cholera and ague, have taken up their abode in these grateful shades, and made it their chosen and permanent home. On no account must the troops be allowed to stop here. When they reach the foot of the hills their motto must be f 'Excelsior.' My own Indian experience confirms this fact that the unhealthy and f 'ver-breeding precincts lie at the foot of the mountains, and endorses my infor- mant's warning against the mistake of allowing the troops to remain at this place for any length of time. The mountains are themselves healthy, the cli- mate cool and salubrious, and the defiles narrow, but easy and accessible. It is here, however, according to my informant, that we must expect and be properly prepared for our first serious difficulty, for, antici- pating little or no resistance from the Abyssinians, we are, according to the friar, likely to be greatly- mistaken. Theodore, if we are to believe all those who have most recently visited the country, has heard the the tidings of the expedition with delight, and will strain every nerve to give it a suitable reception. He is proud, almost jubilant, at the idea of buiag en *age l in war with a Power like Great Britain, a-d feels tliat file eyes of the world are upon him. Besides, he thinks, and shrewdly enough, that a safe and easy retreat is always open to him. If he is beaten, he will compromise by offerin,, -to surrender the prison. rs, on condition that the British troops are withdrawn frrm the country and if he is successful, he will have his revenge. The story may be absurd enough on the face of it: even in this age of cano.:J< it sounds preposterous and incredit- able but it is only right you should ktiotv tlmfc on the continent and in the East i. is everywhere current and I everywhere believed that Theodore formally demanded the band of our Sovereign iu man-i ?re, and that his treatment of the ca p tives is --ieio'y intended to revenge treatment of the captives ? ?i")'v intended 11 r; v.?nTe the contemptuous reception his proposal received. It was entirely ignored by her Maj-sty. Theodore is him- self an excellent horseman, and his cavalry is well drilled and armed. They use the spear with great dexterity, and are always practising 'feats of noble horsemanship. It is not, however, in the plains, or where cavalry could be opposed to us with greatest effect, that we may expect any serious resistance, but in the defiles of the mountains, where all the euormous advantage of posi- tion will be with the Abyssinians and againsAis. They will lie in wait for us in the rocks and clefts above the narrow passes where our troops must move in single file, and where it would require the ability of a chamois goat to reach them. From the secure shelter of their position above us they will rain a shower of rocks and bullets on our devoted heads so thickly, so incessantly, and with such deadly effect, that an army of heroes would be destroyed in the attempt to force the pass under such a withering fire."