The Cambrian News and Merionethshire Standard

CORWEN. THE SLATE TRADE.—The general stagnation in trade affects this as well as every other neighbourhood. Several men were dismissed at the Penarth Slate Quarries on Saturday, January 18. SHOOTING A TUFTED DOCK.—Mr. lhomas Ruddy, Llanderfel, Corwen, writing to The Field, says Mr. H. B. Robertson, of Pate, sou of the M.P. for Shrewsbury, when duck shooting by the river Dee, on the 7th Jan., between Corwen and Bala, killed a female tuited duck in good plumage. This is only the second specimen which has come under my observation here within the last ten years. The other, a female bird, was shot on the 4th January 1876. Winter migrants have been unusually scarce this year, although it is the severest season we have had since 1870-1. Beechmast, haws, acorns, holly berries, and other wild fruits have been unusually scant, so that it may account for the absence of small Dirds. •POPULAR ENTERTAINMENTS.—The first of a series of these entertainments was held on Thursday evening, January 16, Eryr Alwen in the chair, Mr. ^hnliobeit, acting as accompanist. A very interesting p o was gone through in the following manner • on the harmonium, Sound an alarm, • i "Death of Nelson," and "See the conquermD hero comes," by Mr. John Roberts. The Carman next gave an address. Song, "Y tfwyalchen,Mas A^Wil- liams. Mr. J. E. Jones next recited the nnirtet John More." Reading, Mr. Humphrey Rees, "Ti wyddost beth ddywed fy ngnalon, liams and party; short speech on Afo T,iJlvn » R. R. Roberts (Ap Alwen); song, Mr. W. M. Jones. Reading, i for the beat' Mr. Lewis Williams; a prize was offered foi the Jest speech, limited to four minuses, oil only one competed, and was declare 7 hundred Mr! R. R. Roberts; recitation, Ihe six Mr. John Jones; song, Bugeuio. r gwenith *wyn, Mr. T.O. Williams I J. Authoress; song, Ihe muiJb PritVhard- son** Williams; address ta The wild rover• Mr. Secretary, VMr. j> K finale, God sa e Q meeting 'will be held on SJSSJ TwE tf/" TriS of Igaoi" will I* per- f°rRTuwvv^™^ Saturday evening, Ta^ lRfch about ninety of the railway employes in this Jan. 18th about nmeiy an excellent 8upper neighbourhood weieent,rU CrQwn j £ otel- Mr. T. H,Jones Mr John Davies and Mr Humphrey Rees, presided at the tables. Thl supper commenced ah nine o'clocK and at ten o clock the tables were cleared, and a very pleasant evening was inent rthe^andloid having obtained from the justices an ■pent, (the la hours). Mr. Buckton was chairman, and Dr° Walker vice-chairman. The following toasts and SON^SWETE^n. The chairman gave the first toast Her Maiesfy and the rest of the Royal I' amily. Mr. ThomasJones next sang "The Nightingale." The chair- man next proposed the The Army and Navy. bong, << fir. line bv Mr. Adam I ennah. Dr. Walker next proposed the "Great Western Railway and the officials and coupled the name of Mr. Buckton the stationmaster Drunk with musical honours. Mr. Nekton suitably responded. Mr. Davies next gave a song, "The Little Sweetheart" The chairman m very kind words proposed the heal oh of Dr. Walker. Drunk with musical honours and enthusiastic cheers Dr Walker having responded, Mr. Lewis Rodgers next sang, Good Bye Biddy Dear.' The health of Mr. Livesey was next proposed by Dr. Walker, after which Mr. William Jones sang "Courting in the rain." Mr. Livesey having responded the Chair- man next proposed "The town and trade of Corwen," Zd coupled the name of Mr. T. H. Jones and wished him as a young beginner in business every success and happi- ness.-Mr. T. H. Jones very suitably responded.-Mr. Oswald, Llandrillo, next gave a song.-Mr. T. H. Jones proposed the health of Mr. T. E. Parry, the inspector.- Mr Parry in responding made an excellent speech in which he referred to the responsibilities of engine drivers firemen, guards, pilot men, porters, &c.-Mr. Hewitt next sang Jerusalem," which created much laughter. The Chairman proposed the next toast, Ihe engine drivers, and firemen," and coupled the name of Mr. Howard, engine driver, being the oldest on the branch.— Mr. Howard having responded, Mr. '1'. it. Jones pro- posed "The host and hostess Mr. and Mrs. Roberts. —(cheers)—and coupled the name of Miss Jones.—Mr. Richard Williams next sang The Englishman."—The Chairman having thanked the subscribers, and Mr. Woburton and Mr. Isaac Jones for their valuable ser- vices in bringing this very enjoyable gathering to a suc- cessful issue, the meeting was brought to a close by singing God save the Queen."

TOWYN. AN EARLY LAMB.—The lambing season has commenced unusually early this year. One of the fine ewes belong- ing to Mr. Jones. Neptune Hall, lambed on January 2, and in spite of the inclemency of the weather is doing w 0 BUILDIWG.—We understand that the contract to build a beautiful villa residence for Mr. J. H. Lownley, Riverslea, has been let to Mr. Henry Jones, contractor, of this town. The site of the villa is on the lower side of the road leading from Towyn to Aberdovey. It commands exten- sive views both of sea and mountain. CHARITY.—Mr. J. Corbett, M.P., of Ynysymaengwyn, considerately distributed a large quantity of coal among the poor of the town last week. The great necessity for. and the difficulty experienced by the poor in getting fuel during this severe weather make the gift doubly welcome. THE RESTORATION OF THE PARISH CHURCH.—A vestry meeting was held on Thursday afternoon, January 16, to take into consideration the advisableness of applying for a faculty for the restoration of the parish church of St. Cadven..There were present the Rev. Titus Lewis, in the chair, Mr. W. Parry, Mr. W. W. J ones, Mr. Green- how, Corbet Hotel, Mr. R. G. Price, Mr. John Roberts, Mr. Evan Jones, Mr. P. H. Hughes, Mr. Richard Jones, Mr. Thomas Edwards, Mr. David Edwards, &c. Some time ago it was proposed to restore the church, and to .ex- tend the walls at the western end. As this necessitated the disturbance of several graves, some of the parish- ioners protested against the procedure of the work, and at a subsequent vestry meeting it was agreed, on the motion of Mr. Thomas Edwards, seconded by Mr. Robert Roberts, to oppose the application for a faculty. Since then the plans have been modified, and, with one exception, the restored church will occupy the same site as it does now. That exception is, that the present vestry at the west end of the church will be removed and placed in the right hand corner of the east of the church. This corner con- tains graves, but they will not be disturbed. Ihe tower, which now stands at the western end, will be pulled down, and erected in the centre of the building, like the one at Llanbadarn-fawr. the church of which parish is said to be built after the pattern of St. Cad van's original church. The present buttresses which now project into the nave to such an extent as to almost hide the chancel, will be entirely removed, and the new ones so erected as to throw the church open to sight from beginning to end. The east window of the new church will be a handsome feature in the restoration In other respects the chief architectural points of the old church will be retained. The side aisles, the clerestory the two transepts, and the main entrance will be about the same as they are now. The elevations which were ahown at the Vestry show that the restored church will be an ornament to the parish. If there can be any.objec- tion, and this is only a matter of taste, the intended tower seems to be too bulky, and its appearance is some- what disproportionate to the rest of the sacred building The plans had been laid before many of the parishioners at a meeting held on the previous day (\\ ednesday), when in consideration of the modifications which had been made by the architect, it was understood that no opposition would be raised. Consequently, the eetlUg on Thurs- day, which was expected to be an important one, was merely formal. M». R. G. Price proposed, and Mr. John Jones Post. office seconded that" The parishioners now assembled in vestry do not oppose the application for a faculty for the restoration of this church in accord ance with the modified plans now produced. The mo- tion, on being put to the meeting, was unanimous y agreed to.—Mr. Greenhow moved that the icar be requested to apply for a faculty to carry out all the works, altera- tions, and repair of the parish church, m accordance with the plans modified by the architect. Mr. Greenhow said he believed no one could take exception to the plans, and said he should be glad if Mr. Thomas Edwards would aecond the motion.—Mr. Edwards replied that he would not oppose the Vicar in what he^ T D°+U he wish to support hiui.—Mr. W. W. Jones then dd the proposal, and it was agreed to without con- tradiction.

BORTH. '.r THE WELSH WESLEYANS.—The Welsh Wesleyans in this village held their annual meeting this week, com- mencing on I uesday evening, Jan. 21, at half-past six, and continuing on Wednesday. On Tuesday evening the Rev. 1. G. Pugh, Carmarthen, preached, taking for his text, Proverbs xxiv., 30, 31 32 33, and 34. The Rev. Evan Evans, Dolgelley, preached from the 119th Psalm and the 113tli verse. On Wednesday morning at ten o'clock the Rev. Evan Evans preached. He selected his text from Hebrews iv., 15. At two o'clock in the after- noon the Rev. T. G. Pugh preached from Acts xi., 23. At six o'clock in the evening the Rev. T. G. Pugh preached. His text was taken from Hebrews ii., 3. The RaT. Evan Evans preached afterwards from Romans v., 8. The services was well attended, especially the last, when the chapel was crowded.

LAMPETER. PENNY READINGS—The monthly penny readings in connection with the Good Mon- day evening, January 20th, with the Rev. lhomas Thomas of Zoar in the cliaM There was a fair attendance and the proceedings passed off very H'icces MARKET.—The market on iriday, J^^yl'THWAS well attended. A brisk trade was done in butter, of which there was a very good supply. rp„„„, MARKETS COMMITTEE.—A meeting was held 0 day evening. Jan. 21, Mr. D. Lloyd, Portreeve in the chair. Several matters of minor importance were disc • settled, but there was no business of any pubhc interest transacted. f RENT AUDITS AND THE MARKETS.—The rent auditsof the Peterwell estate were held on Wednesday and Ihurs- daythe 15th and ICth January, at the Black Lion Hotel. At the conclusion of the dinner given to the tenants each day a deputation from the Markets Committee attended the meetings and with the consent of the chairman, Mr. R. D. Jenkins, delivered excellent speeches on the subject of the Lampeter Markets. Mr. Jenkins and several of the tenants also spoke at some length on the subject, resolutions conducive to the success of the markets were unanimously passed. On Eriday the 17th, the rent audit of the Olwarch estate was held at the Royal Oak Hotel. M r. D. Lloyd, Dolgwm House, presided at the dinner. A similar deputation attended with a like result

PONTRHYDYGROES. PREACHING MEETING.—The Calvinistic Methodists held their annual meeting on Thursday and Friday, the Uth and 10th January. Sermons were delivered by the fol- lowing ministers :—Revs. \V. Evans, M.A., Aberystwyth, T. Levi, Aberystwyth, D. Saunders, Swansea. In spite of the inclemency of the weather the different meetings were well attended. A substantial collection was made towards clearing off the debt remaining on the new chapel. HARD TIMES arid harder weather have not been ex- perienced in this part; for many years. Wages are reduced to nearly one half what they "were two or three years ago, RND it is a very difficult matter for_ working men to gain a day's work at ANY price. The mining companies have some excuse for lowering the price of labour owing to the low state of the markets and the depression in the lead ore trade generally. Many other employers are reducing their men's wages. THE. HIGH PRICE OF PROVISIONS.—A correspondent writes :—During the whole of this hard and stormy winter therp is one cry heard from all directions as regards the high prices of provisions. The price of labour is low but it has been lower before now, and the cries of distress that come from all quarters cannot he attributed to that. A cause must be sought in another direction. Years ago when wages were comparatively low provisions were sold then at a. reasonable price, and the working man could provide his family with the necessaries of life. It is very different now. Provisions are higher in this neighbourhood than they have ever been before. It might be naturally thought that shopkeepers here could sell goods cheaper than at Aberystwytn, because rents are ION and the taxes are not to be compared with what they are in town. The facts show exactly the reverse. The working man is compelled to pay from twenty to thirty per cent. more than he would have to pay for the same goods at Aberystwyth. This seems almost incred- ible, but it is a fact, and the sooner efforts are made to enable the people to get what they require for reasonable prices the better.

DOLGELLEY. THE WEATHER AND TRADE.—Hardly had the ground got soft after the last frost when it was hardened again, and consequently our labourers are again thrown out of work, but they are not forgotten as on Saturday, Jan. 18, another lot of coal—about two hundred weight—was distributed to each suffering family. The ladies are un- ceasingly visiting the poor,'and providing them with all kmdf of necessaries. SUPPER TO THE-CHOIR.—The annual supper to the choir of St. Mary's Church was given by the Rector, the Rev. Canon Lewis, at the Rectory, on Wednesday, Jan. 22. There were about forty of the members present. After supper Uanon Lewis said it gave him great pleasure to have them with him that evening, and he wished them all prosperity during the coming year, and he remarked that the singing had not been so good during the last 3. ear as it used to be, and he hoped they would all strive to regain the lost ground. A very pleasant evening was spent. Numerous songs were sung, and there was the usual penillion singing, Miss Ellis, of the Rectory, kindly accompanying on the piano.

CORRIS. Y FASNACH LECHAU.—Dal i waethygu y mae pethau yma yn bresenol. Y mae y gweithwyr yn phwarel Aber- llefenni wedi dechreu gweithio pedwar diwrnod yn yr wythnos. Ac y mae chwarelau y Ratgoed a'r Cymerau wedi sefyll. A thrwy farweidd-dra y fasnach mewn chwarelau eraill, y mae yma gryn nifer o ddynion ar hyn o bryd allan o waith. GobelthlO y bydd i bethau gyfnewid er gwell yn fuan.

PWLLHELI. COCOA ROOM.—It is rumoured that a company is about to be formed to establish a cocoa room for this place. This intention reached the ears of Mr. O. Evans, of Broomhall, who (with his usual desire to promote every good cause) has determined to withhold the letting of "Broomhall House," Penlan-street. until the committee further consider the matter. It is the intention of Mr. Evans (should a cocoa room be decided upon) to let the company have the first opportunity of becoming the occupiers. NEWS ROOM.—The movement for establishing a news room on the voluntary system," as suggested at a public meeting held at the Town Hall some weeks ago, is still alive. A very commodious room at Mr: John Jones's, Salern-place, has been selected for the purpose. CONCERT.—On Thursday, Janury 16, a concert was given at the Town Hall in aid of the National Lifeboat Institution. Mr. O. LI. Evans, of Broomhall, ably filled the chair. The following was the programme: Piano- forte, March des Troubadour," Miss Williams, Bod- vean; glee, "Battle of the Nile," Pwllheli Glee Party; song, Eryri," Miss C. Jones; quartet, "Eva Benwan," Eryr Eryri and party; song, "Ha," Mr. J. Hughes; song" Y LlongddryIliad," Mr. Alfred Evans; song, "HannerNos," Mr. J. Hughes; quartet, "Adar man y mynydd," Eryr Eryri and Party song, Bradwriaeth y don," Mair Tyddyn; trio, "Come fairies," Eryr Eryri and party; song, "Man the lifeboat," Mr. C. A. Jones; glee, Wanderer's song," Pwllheli Glee Party; quartet, b "Boneddwr mawr o'r Bala," Eryr Eryri and party; song, "My mother scolds me," Miss C. Jones; trio, "Fair Flora decks," Eryr Eryri and party; song, "Will 0' the Wisp," Mr. C. A. Jones; glee, "The Kea is England's glory," Pwllheli Glee Party; song, "The Wolf," Eryr Eryri; song, "Death of Nelson." Mr. Alfred Evans; song, Mr. J. Hughes; duet, "All's well," Eryr Eryri and party song, Y fain a'i baban," Mair Tyddyn quartet, "Myfanwy Arabella," Eryr Eryri and party; glee, The comrade's song of hope." Pwllheli Glee Party finale, God save the Queen." BOARD OF GUARDIANS, WEDNESDAY, JAN. 22.- Present: Mr. Thos. Prichard, chairman, presiding, Mr. John Thos. Jones, (vice-chairman), Mr. Owen Evans, the Rev. 0. LI. Williams, Bodvean, Messrs. Robert Jones, Llannor, Wm. Williams, Denio, John Hughes, Michael Jones, John Jones, Hugh Tudwal Davies, John Wil- liams, Bottwnog, Wm. Roberts, Owen Owen, Pistyll, David Prichard, Evan Williams, Owen Owens, Llanaelhaiarn, Griffith Owen, Robert Jones, Owen Davies, and John Prichard Mr. R. 0. Jones, clerk; Mr. R. B. Jones, assistant clerk. Maintenance by Relatives.—The Collector reported various contributions towards the maintenance of rela- tives. Total amount, £11 7s. 6d. Statistic.—Cheques signed in favour of the following relieving officers :—Richard Jones, Criccieth, £65 Evan Thomas Griffith, Pwllheli, £90; Wm. Roberts, Nevin, £80; Thomas Griffith, Aberdaron, JE35. Balance at the bank, £171108. 3d. Non-payment of Calls.—The Clerk was ordered to sum- mon the parishes of Rhiw, Pistyll, Nevin, and Llan- dudwen for non-payment of calls. Non-maintenance.—Evan Williams, of Casgin, Aber- daron, who had been in the house for about a week, appeared before the Board. About eleven years ago this man left Ins wife and family chargeable to the Union and has still a little daughter in the house. He was warned by the Guardians that unless he at once sought for work and maintained his child he would be summoned before the Magistrates. He was at once dischargrd from the house.—Ordered that the collector do summon the three sons of John Roberts, Port Naut Quarry, for non- maintenance of their father. An Honourable Payment.—Mr. R. O. Jones, the clerk, reported that Mr. Robert Roberts, of Bala (son of the late Rr. Michael Roberts, C.M., of Pwllheli), had voluntarily paldmto his hands the sum of J370, being the amount of expenses (and interest) incurred by this Union in supporting his father at the Denbigh asylum some years ago. The report was taken by the Board with surprise, as the amount could not have been lawfully re- covered from Mr. Roberts. Proposed by Mr. Hughes, Edern, and seconded by the Rev. O. LI. Williams, Bod- vean, that a vote of thanks be returned to Mr. Roberts. The whole Board cordially agreed to the proposal.

PENRHYNDEUDRAETH. BOARD OF GUARDIANS, TUESDAY, JAN. 21.— Present: Mr. John Jones (chairman), Messrs. W. E. Morris and David Williams (vice-chairmen), John Ed- wards, John Roberts, Morgan Jones, J. H. Jones, E. M. Roberts, Robert Jones, Richard Roberts, Morris Jones, William Jones, Evan Griffith, H. R. Thomas, Griffith Griffith, John Parry, Hugh Owen, Griffith Jones, and David Rowlands; Mr. Thomas Roberts, clerk. Correspondence.—A letter was read from the Clerk to the Bangor and Beaumaris Union, in reply to a letter relative to Elizabeth Hughes, and offering to admit her to the Bangor Workhouse. The Clerk was instructed to write asking for relief until she was fit to be removed.—A letter was read from Dr. Thomas, in reply to a letter from the Clerk, in which Dr. Thomas stated that he paid 12s. per gallon for cod liver oil. and the Clerk was in- structed to write informing Dr. Thomas that Dr. Roberts was only charging 10s. per gallon, and they considered he ought to charge the same. Maintenance of Relatives.—Instructions were given to the Clerk to write to several persons for contributions in aid of the support of relations now chargeable to the union. Treasurer's Report.—This report showed that during the past fortnight the amount of outdoor relief had been as follows :—Tremadoc £91 9s. 2d., Festiniog £107 8s. 4d., Llanfrothen £20 10s., Llanfihangelytraethau £78 Os. 2d., total £297 7s. 8d., as compared with £306 19s. lis. in the corresponding period last year. RURAL SANITARY AUTHORITY. The fortnightly meeting of this Authority was held at the Workhouse, Penrhyndeudraeth, on Tuesday. Two letters from Mr. Murray Browne, were read as to by- laws, and the clerk was directed to write to Mr. Browne as to their adoption for the whole Union except Festiniog and Ynyscynhaiarn. Penmorfa drain.—Mr. W. Jones reported that Mr. W. Williams objected to the proposed drain going through the land occupied by him, and instructions were given to write to Mr. Davies, the vestry clerk on the subject.

PORTMADOC. PORTMADOC DEBATING SOCIETY.—The ordinary fort- nightly meeting of this society was held on Monday evening. Jan. 20th. Mr. Thomas Jones the president in the chair. A discussion was commenced on the question Are Russia's aims in the East prejudicial to the interests of England?" The debate was opened by Mr. J. S. Hughes in the affirmative, Mr. J. H. Lewis of the Portmadoc Grammar School, leading in the negative. Mr. Wheeler, Mr. Hughes, Dr. Morris, and Mr. R. G. Humphreys, also took part in the debate, which on the proposition of Mr. J. Vaughan was adjourned to the next meeting.. CONCERT.—A concert was held on Friday evening, Jan. 17th, at the Town Hall, Portma9oc, for the benefit of Mr Thornaan, of Maentwrog, to enable him to pursue his studies at the Royal Academy of Music.. The artistes engaged were Madame E. C. Arnott, Miss Kate Davies, Mr. E. D. Williams, Mr. J. Thorman, Mr. T. Hughes, harpist, and Mr. R. R. Owen, accom- panist. There was but a poor attendance, and this, as is usually the case, had a very depressing effect on the singing. Mr. Thorman showed that he possesses a powerful bass voice. The solos on the harp by Mr. Hughes were very effectively given. The meagre attendance at the concert was the more ta be regretted as Mr. lhorrnan gave a concert here about twelve months ago, at which also the attendance was very limited. Mr. inorman and party gave a concert at Penrhyndeudraeth tne following evening to a much larger audience. COMMERCIAL REVIEW FOR 1878. e u"iyerBal depression of trade throughout the coun- # i <S7S k reached this town, and the closing months of lo7o hae witnessed a slackness in the business of Port- madoc without a parellel in the historv of the town. The The principal industries of this place arc-the exportation of slates, shipbuilding, importation of timber, &c., and the building of dwelling-houses and workshops for the accommodation of a quickly-growing population. It will be flrdvisfthlej perlv*ipsj to treat of theso striatum i— EXPORTATION OF SI/ATES This is by far the leading trade of the town, Portmadoc being the main outlet for the immense production of slates at the Festiniog quarries. This year trade has grown year by year until it has attained a considerable magnitude, and a large number of vessels are now em- ployed in the shipment of the slates to British and Con- tinenal ports. There are at the Port no fewer than ten wharves, with a total frontage to the harbour of about a mile, and and in prosperous times all the available space has been occupied by vessels loading and unloading, while others have been lyiug abreast waiting their turn, and only detained by want of accommodation for loading or discharging. This past year, however, has witnessed a great falling off in this business—a falling off which the following figures will, perhaps, best show :— Shipments of slates for past three years. Quarter ending 1876 1877 1878. Tons. Tons. Tons. March 29,097 25,204 26,788 June 31,597 29,230 25,864 September. 30,308 31,025 22,484 December 23,590 21,103 10,702 Total 114,592 109,622 85,838 in round numbers this shows a decrease in 1877 of 5,000 tons as compared with 1876, and a further decrease of 24,000 tons in 1878; or a total decrease in the ship- ments of 1878 as compared with 1876 of nearly 29,000 tons. When it is borne in mind that during the past three years the population of the district has considerably increased, and that various businesses have sprung up dependent directly or indirectly on. the..slate trade, it can better be understood how many of the people of the dis- trict are affected by this slackness of trade. Not a few of the wealthier residents have invested a great portion of their savings in vessels engaged in the slate-shipping trade and to many of these the loss of freight is the loss of the greater portion of their ineome. The effect in the falling off of this trade is less work for the labourers, less freight for the owners of the vessels and less receipts to the owner of the harbour. The amount of slates sent from the port I per rail shows a slight increase, namely In 1876-27,277 1877—32,028 1 and in 1878-33,992 SHIPBUILDING. Slates being a peculiarly heavy class of goods, a special kind of vessel has to be employed for their conveyance, as in a rough sea they would be likely to knock a weakly- built vessel to pieces. For some time, therefore, there have been built at Portmadoc and Borthygest vessels purposely constructed for the carriage of slates, and during the spring and summer of 1876, 1877, and 1878, eight vessels have been annually launched from the different ship-building yards. The vessels, which have an average tonnage of about 300 tons, occupy about twelve or fifteen months in building, and keep a number of men constantly employed. Sucii, hwwever, has bean the effect of the depression in trade that thet c; is now not one in the course of building, and since the iaunching of the last vessel in July, 1878, the shipbuilding yards have been virtually closed. Some of the workmen at once obtained employment as shipcarpenters on large vessels connected with London, Liverpool, Cardiff, &c., and others have been working as labourers; but many of them have had to undergo considerable privation. There are now one or two vessels in the course of repair, and this is giving a little employ; but very few of the men get anything like regular work, and others are almost or entirely un- employed. IMPORTS. The principal imports are coal, limestone, and timber, the trade in which during the past three years shows that whereas in 1877 there was a decline in the imports corresponding to the decline in the exports in 1878 there was a considerable increase in the imports and a great decrease in the exports—which is very much like burning the candle at both ends.—The stock of timber is accumula- ting, and business is slack, owing principall yhowever to the non-demand for shipbuilding purposes. THE BUILDING TRADE. For a long time past there has been rather a dearth of house accommodation in his district, which the builders have endeavoured, during the last few years to meet. They have so far succeeded that there is now here and there to be sesn in house windows the hitherto unknown sign, This house to be let."—There are now in course of building in Portmadoc and Tremadoc, some twenty-five or thirty cottages and dwelling houses, and the building trade would have been now slack, but for one or two larger undertakings.—A new Independent Chapel has been built during the past year, but there is still some eight months' work for the joiners, &c.—There are also in course of erection a Masonic Hall, a new station by the Festiniog Railway Company, and a foundry by Messrs. J. H. William, and Sons.—In addition to these, contracts have been let by the School Board for the erection of schools at Borthygest and Morfa Bychan. MISCELLANEOUS. The reports from the foundries are that trade is far from brisk; and the same may be said of every other business. A few sett stone quarries have of late been opened in the neighbourhood; but the difficulty of procuring setts makers prevents the quarries being carried on, so as to yield a fair profit. Shopkeepers are complaining of the want of money; but all classes, with two or three in- significant exceptions, have so far kept clear of financial difficulties. IMPROVEMENTS. A word or two should be said about the improvements to Portmadoc during the past year. The most noticeable is the handsome new building of the National Provincial Bank of England. In place of the inadequate accommo- dation at their old site in Bank Place, they have now large commodious premises in High-street—premises much more befitting such a prosperous bank as the National Provincial. The North and South Wales Bank, too, have improved their fine building by the erection of a portico in a style suitable to the rest of the building. Another great improvement has been effected by the Local Board in conjunction with the Recorder, Mr. Breese. They have caused the footpath in High-street to be properly kerbed and levelled. It had been in a most dangerous condition forla. long time, but is now in good order. It is a pity the Beard have not more money to spend in street improvements; but evidence is given every now and then of a desire on the part of the Board to do what they can with what comes to their hand, and as long as the inhabitants object to high rates they must be content with second rate conveniences. A Local Board rate of 2s., or occasionally 3s. in the pound per a mum, cannot be expected to pave, flag, light, and drain the district to perfection, and the Board must at times have a difficulty in determining on which leg to put the boot. Mr. Breese has also had the space round the drink- ing fountain at the entrance to the town levelled and covered with gravel and surrounded with good kerk and sett stones. With regard to the prospects for the immediate future it is neither easy nor safe to express an opinion, but there is a general feeling prevalent in the port that a consider- able revival of trade will take jplace immediately upon the opening of the Baltic ports in the coming spring. ST. JOHN'S CHURCH.—ENTERTAINMENT TO THE CHOIR. On Friday evening, the 17th January, the organists and choirs of this church had a supper kindly given them by the Rev. J. Morgan Jones. There are different organists and different choirs for the Welsh and English services, and it was partly with the view of bringing them together in a friendly way, and also of showing his appreciation of the services gratuitously rendered that the supper was given. The supper was provided at the Sportsman Hotel, Portmadoc, in a manner which fully sustained the repu- tation of Mrs. Wild. The Rev. Mr. Jones occupied the chair, and Mr. J. E. Jones the vice-chair. After the ustialloyal toasts, The CHAIRMAN proposed "The army, navy, and volun- teers," which was suitably responded to by Captain SP00NER,wh0 spoke in high terms of the services rendered by our army and navy, and of the zeal which animated our volunteers. Mr. J. S. HUGHES then proposed the healths of the organists, Mr. R. Grindley, Mr. E. Mathews, and Mr. J. Thomas, and in doing so referred to the willingness, kind- liness, and regularity with which they each undertook their duties at the morning, afternoon, and evening ser- vices respectively. Mr. Grindley was well known to those present. He was engaged in training the raw recruits to fight well the battle of life, and in conjunction with Mr. J. Thomas, had rendered all help in his power to forming and maintaining the Welsh choir. To Mr. Thomas, whose genial face and kind hearty manner tended to keep everyone with whom he came in contact in good spirits, and to Mr. Grindley, the good at- tendance at, and present efficient state of, the Welsh choir was altogether due. Mr. Mathews was not so well known as the others, and though he had now resided for some time in the district, he was comparatively a stranger. Yet ever since he undertook the duties of organist he has spared no pains, but, accompanied by his wife, had Sunday after Sunday come from his comfortable home in all weathers, a long journey over one of the bleakest of roads, to perform his self-imposed task. Not only so, but he had sacrificed his time to have a practice every week, and had worked hard and perseveringly to make the English choir thoroughly efficient and competent to sing the beautiful music of the Church in-Ja worthy manner. In proposing their healths, he trusted they would all be spared long to continue their valuable services for the Church. The CHAIRMAN, in endorsing Mr. Hughes's observa- tions as to the organists, spoke in Welsh, and likened the choirs to volunteers and the organists to officers. He trusted that the same spirit of willing obedience which characterised the volunteers would be found amongst the choirs, and hoped that they would all work well together, not for his bake, but for the sake of the dear old Church of England. The healths of Mr. Grindley, Mr. Mathews, and Mr. Thomas, were then drunk, and three cheers given for each. Mr. GRINDLEY, Mr. MATHEWS, and Mr. THOMAS re- plied, each expressing his heartfelt thanks for the kind feeling shown towards them. In the course of his speech Mr. Mathews adverted to the position held by a choir organist, and said he did not think they had full justice done to them. The members of a choir often thought the organist hot and peppery, and always wanting his own way, whereas oftentimes it was the choir who were deter- mined on having their own way. They might depend upon it that no organist would alter his choir from mere caprice. Surely he was the best judge of the positions which the members of the choir should occupy, and he hoped they would all take note of the Chairman's obser- vations on that point, and emulate the volunteers in strict discipline and obedience to the wishes of whoever might be their leader. He also strongly urged punctual and regular attendance at the practices, without which it was utterly impossible for any choir to sing as it should. The health of the assistant organist, Mr. John Parry, was next drunk with acclamation. Mr. D. HOMFKAY thanked the Chairman on behalf of all present for the handsome entertainment given that evening, and said it showed the great interest taken by Mr. Jones in all matters connected with the Church, and that evening's meeting reminded them of the position Mr. Jones held as the head of a spiritual family, of which they were the members. He proposed the health of Mr. Jones. The toast was received with loud cheering. Mr. JONES thanked all for the hearty way in which his health had been honoured, and expressed the pleasure he had in meeting the choirs that evening. He again ex- pressed a hope that they would all work hard together, and do all in their power for the welfare of their mother Church. Numerous songs and glees enlivened the evening's proceedings, and a very enjoyable meeting was closed by the singing of the National Anthem. THE PORTMADOC HISTRIONIC CLUB. SPEECH BY MR. HOLLAND, M.P. At the second performance by this club, on Thursday evening, the 16th January, there was an improvement noticeable even on the good acting of the previous evening. The same pieces were performed, the only difference being in the order of the plays. Mr. Benson addressed the audience in terms similar to those reported last week, and read the prologue, after which Mr. Casson spoke in Welsh, for the benefit of those who might not have understood the previous speaker's address, and informed them of the intention of the Club to devote all the gains of the two performances, after payment of necessary expenses, to- wards the relief of the distressed, instead of to the Volunteers, as at first intended, an announcement which was received with much applause. Number 1 round the corner" was then given with equal vigour and tone as on the previous evening, and after the fall of the curtain, Mr. J. H. Jones repeated his song of "The wicked Welshman," which was vociferously applauded and encored. Mr. Bernard followed with his clever "Flute imitation." Mr. S.|HOLLAND, M. P., who was among the audience, then at the request of the Committee, rose to say a few words. After expressing his pleasure at being again amongst so many of his old friends in that neighbourhood, he congratulated the audience on the fortnutioa of a club so competent as this had shown itself to be, and highly eulogised those who took part in the'performances. He made a humorous allusion to the advantages experienced by the public in an appeal for charitable and other objects through being asked to witness such an admirable per- formance as that, as compared with the means usually adopted of importuning them for money at bazaars. To Paris and back for £5" was then given with great success, the capital acting of Mr. J. H. Jones as Snoz- zle," Mr. Spooner as '• Sprig-gins," Mr. Edwards as "Lieut. Spike," and Mr. Griffith as "Fanny," calling forth continual outbursts of applause. Indeed had the play been written' for the first-named gentleman he could not have been more thoroughly at home in it; many of the audience who are no strangers to the London stage heartily joining in commendation of the admirable way in which he played his part of Snozzle. The band of the 4th Carnarvonshire Rifle Volunteers, under the conductorship of Mr. F. H. Strowger, played several selections of music in their best style. The principal actors were cailed before the curtain, as also was Mr. F. H. Strowger, the bandmaster and stage manager, and also Mr. Collier, who has been so successful in his painting of the scenery. < After payment of current necessary expenses there is a balance in hand of £1.5, which is beinghanded over to the ministers of various denominations for distribution among the poor.

WEM PETTY SESSIONS, THURSDAY, JAN. 16.—Before Capt. Dickin (chairman) W. S. Lawley, Esq., and Sir W. Honymau. Drunk, .1:C. — Emanuel Davies, hawker, pleaded guilty to being drunk in Wem on Oct. 5, an 1 also to another charge of en- camping on the high-road between Wem and Pool Head.—Fined 6d. in each case, and costs, -18s. 6d. Wilful Damage.—Alfred Boylin was fined Is., and costs, and to pay 8s. (kl. for damage to the window of the house where he lodged. GUY FAWKES. Great interest was excited and the court crowded in consequence of 16 summonses having been served on the following men, for creating a disturbance on the 5th of Nov. :-Richard Maddocks, John Jervis, George Ruscoe, Francis Beckett, Philip Boyden, John Morris, Jonathan Lewis, John Davies, John Hedly, Wm. Pugh, Amos Richards, Thomas Stokes, Henry Egerton, Richard Starkey, John Jones, and Moses Edge. They were summoned for "unla wfully assisting to makea fire, calleo a bonfire within 50 feet of the centre of certain puhlic carriage ways called High-street .and Chapel-street, to the personal danger and interruption of persons travelling thereon." Thirteen appeared to answer the charge. Mr. Craig appeared for the whole of the defendants, and asked for the information, and for all witnesses to leave the court. It was decided to take them in batches of four eacà, and after the case had been heard against the first four, the others should be called for identifica- tion. P.C. Hayes, stationed at Prees, was on duty in Wem on the 5th of Nov., from seven p.m. until after midnight. At various times during the night, the four defendants, in company with several others, were rolling burning tar barrels about the street. Mr. Craig objected to anything being said about tar bar-9 rels as they were not mentioned in the indictment. His clients were charged with making bonfires, and tar barrels were not bonfires.. By Mr. Lawley—Witness considered burning tar barrels stand- ing in the street as bonfires. The ChairRian—We take this as good evidence. Witness—And throwing tire balls about. Mr. Craig objected to fire balls as not in the charge. The Chairmam— Never miud the fire balls, confine yourself to the tar barrels. Witness—High-street was completely blocked, footpath and all, and very dangerous to auy persons travelling along the street. There were several barrels burnt in High-street and Chapel-street, the last opposite the Police Station. Cross-examined by Mr. Craig—Could not say the precise time, had something else to do than look at his watch in such a crowd. Did see a horse frightened. A trap was coming down High-street. Heard a lady screech, and he ran to the horse. The wheel was on the footpath. There were five officers, but could have had no chance with such a crowd. They prevented the barrels from being kicked down Chapel-street, but they brought one up fiomjthe bottom and burned it opposite the Police Station. Sergeant Owen was on duty from 6 p.m. until past midnight. Saw the defendants several times between the hours of eight and twelve assisting to roll the burning tar barrels. Sometimes they remained standing for a quarter of an hour and then kicked on again. It was very dangerous and sometimes impossible for anyone to pass. There were 500 or 600 in the crowd. Mr. R. N. Barlow—On Nov. 5th saw a number of men and boys throwing fire balls and kicking burning tar barrels about the street. Did not think any horse could pass. It lasted for several hours. The police stood very quiet, and the mob floured them. Could not identify any of the defendants. Messrs. Bailey, chemist, Bellis, White Horse, and H. Kynas- ton, junior, corroborated this witness, but did not profess to identify any of the defendants. The other defendants were then called, and were all identified by either Sergeant Owen, P.C. Haynes, or P.C. Mellinsh. P.C. Clark (to chairman)—W^s on duty on November 5; was knocked down by a man running against him; his knee was badly hurt, and he had been off until Monday, Jan. 13. All the witnesses were cross-examined at length by Mr. Craig. This closed the case for the prosecution. Mr. Craig commenced his address by quoting the old nursery rhyme, Remember, remember, &c." He would first ask the Bench if they thought the evidence of identity was satisfactory. There was no independent evidence besides two policemen. [The Chairman: Three office1'8.1 About the bonfires there was no evidence to show who lighted the barrels, or that there was any personal danger or obstruction. He therefore contended there was no case. These poor lads were not the ringleaders. Sir Wna. Honyman—They are not lads they are men. Mr. Craig—Here is one lad here. If these barrels and other combustibles had not been supplied this would not have hap- pened, and I consider those who supplied them worse than the lads. If the authorities had just issued a notice against it, it would have been prevented. The Chairman: Mr. Craig, I will state for your information that we did issue notices last year, and it was worse than before. Several persons were summoned and defended by Mr. Small- wood, and on his promise that it sllOuld not be repeated, we allowed the summonses to be withdrawn. Mr. Craig—I think Is. tine will be sufficient. I hold in my hand a document signed by a number of inhabitants saying they consider that no harm had. beeu dune. The Chairnlan-Read the whole of it and the names. 1'11'. Craig handed it to the Chairman. Sir William—How can they say no harm was done when an officer has been disabled ever since? Mr. Lawley-It is only signed by eleven in the whole town. After a short consultation, The Chairman said—I am very sorry that our duty compels us to fine you, and we hope it will be a warning, and that it will never be repeated. You are fined 10s. each, and the expenses to be equally shared among you, and in default to be im- prisoned for fourteen days, with hard labour.

ELLESMERE FIRE.—The inhabitants of this town were aroused on Monday morning Jan. 20, at the early hour of 5 o'clock by cries of Fire." The fire bell also sounded the abrm. On enquiry it was dis- covered that the premises of Mr. C. Davies, of Willow-street, were on fire. The tire engines, Untler the superintendence of Messrs. Davies and Son, were promptly in attendance, and plenty of willing hands ready to work. Tho morning was in- tensely cold. Water was had frOln Miss Paddock's adjoining, and through the energy of all present a fire, which at one time threatened toO be very alarming, was soon got under by the energy of the firemen and others present. Mr. Davies keeps a toy shop, and the tire was just getting an entrance into a lot of combustible stuff, which it would have been almost impossible to have suppressed had it once taken hold. Mr. Davies is agent to the Shropshire Provident Society, and we understand he re- covered all the papers in connection with it. The premises and stock are insured in the Shropshire and North Wales, as are also the adjoining premises of Mr. Butler, to which damage was done through water, &c. The agents are Messrs. Blackburnalld Allen. BOARD OF GUARDIANS, TUESDAY, JAN. 21.—Present: Mr. T. J. Rider, in the chair, the Rev. G. H. Egerton, Messrs. James Thomas, Thomas Thomas, John Lee, John Richards, John Kelsall, V. Vooke, and Thomas Jones. Mr. J. P. Stant, clerk. Statistical.-The Master reported the number in the house to be 87, against 89 last year. The Humber of v:tgmnt8 relieved during the fortnight had been 21, against 51 last year. The amounts expended in out-door relief had been-Ellesmere, first week, £ 0 hIs. ltd.; second week, £ 6 4s. 9+d. Hanmer, first week, £ 5 15s. second week, £ 5 8s. The Board approved of the payment by the School Attendance Committee of £10 a year to each of the relieving officers for their services as school at- tendance and enquiry officers. There was no other business of public interest.

LLANWNOG. SEASONABLE CHAKITV.—Through the kindness of Miss Mytton, Mr. D. Davies, M.P., and Mrs. Corbett, of Vaynor Park, a quantity of flannel has been distributed among the aged and needy. Miss Mytton and Mr. Davies invited the young both at' Llanwnog and Caersws to a sumptuous tea, which was followed by the usual games. Miss Mytton's annual donation of coal was sup- plemented this year by handsome donations from Lord Sudeley, Mr. Pryce Davies, and Mr. J. O. Crewe-Read.

LLANGURIG. WORKMAN'S DINNER.—On Thursday, January 20, the workmen employed at the restoration of the parish church, and other invited friends, sat down to a sumptu- ous dinner, provided by the host of the Black Lion Inn, at the expense of Mr. J. Youde W. Lloyd. The guests numbered upwards of forty. The Rev. J. W. Griffith, vicar, presided, and the vice-chair was occupied by the Rev. W. Roberts, curate. Among the gentlemen present were Messrs. J. R. Pryce, Pant-drain, D. Owen, J. Watkin, D. Rees, T. J. Griffiths, J. Davies, and others. After dinner several appropriate speeches were given and songs sung, and a very pleasant evening was spent. This was only one out of several similar gatherings enjoyed by the people of Llangurig through the liberality of Cheva- lier Lloyd. The restoration of the old church is being carried out entirely at his expense.

CEFN AND RHOSYMEDRE. THE PREVAILING DISTRESS.—Consequent upon the ex- treme depression of trade poverty seems to be much on the increase. The more fortunate inhabitants of the dis- trict fully sympathize with their poorer neighbours. Mr. H. Dennis, New Hall, last week gave each of his quarry- men 3 cwt. of coals and 2s. 6d. worth of flour. Work has been suspended in the quarries for seven weeks. On Monday hundreds of poor people were served with a large loaf of bread and 2 lbs. of bacon at Trevor House, the residence of Mr. George Edwards. The recipients were those persons reeommended by the ministers of the diffe- rent places of worship. The continued frost is much affecting the bride and tile business which is now the principal stay of this neighbourhood. The district is ex- tremely dull as entertainments, &c., have to be suspended in consequence of the general depression. THE NATIONAL SCHOOLS.—The new schoolroom is now in full use, and a large number of children are receiving instruction under the care of Mr. Grimshaw and Mrs. Roberts. Last week a harmonium, suitable to the require- ments of the school, was presented by Miss Edwards, the Vicarage. The room has been fitted up with gaseliers, and makes an admirable concert and lecture room. The Vicar and Committee still require funds to erect a boun- dary wall to the playground. TEMPERANCE MEETING.—On Wednesday evening, Jan. 15, a temperance meeting, which was well attended, was held in the Primitive Methodist Chapel, in connection with the Band of Hope. The chair was occupied by Mr. Samuel Lloyd. The following was the programme :— Chairman's address clarionet duet, Messrs. Daniels and Jones; speech, Mr. Robert Lloyd; piccolo solo, Free Church party (Messrs. John Davies, Edward Parry, W. Powell, and E. Tudor); recitation, Miss Lucy Grindley; song, Miss Jones; reading, Mr. Edwin Edwards; song, Mr. J. B. Cooke; glee, Messrs. J. Cunningham, Edwin Edwards, and W. A. Jones recitation, Mr. Lawson (Shrewsbury); song, Mr. J. B. Cooke; recitation, Miss Sophia Jones; song, Mr. George Crew.

HANMER MARRIAGE REJOICINGS.—On Wednesday evening, Jan. 15tb, a presentation was made at the Assembly Room of the Hanmer Hotel, upon the occasion of the marriage of Mr. Thomas Kitching. After a very excellent and sub- stantial tea, at which about sixty persons were present, the room, which had been very artistically'decorated for the occasion was cleared for dancing, to the strains of a portion of the Whitchurch Volunteer Band. The bride and bridegroom, with their friends, having entered the room, they were received in the most cordial manner, and were conducted to a place provided for them at the end of the room, where, on a table, stood a beautiful and elegantly- finished timepiece, for presentation to the bridegroom. It was supplied by Mr. Barrett, of Whitchurch, and was much admired by the company. Mr. Meredith, who acted as hon. secretary, stepped forward, and uncovering the timepiece, read the following address :— Mr. Thomas Kitching. Sir,—We, your friends and neighbours, hasten on this auspi- cious occasion to wish your bride and yourself a long and happy life. It must be a pleasure to the lady who has linked her lot with yours, to know that you have got the best wishes for y^l*r future welfare from all those who have known you from cliua- hood. We again hope and trust that this day may prove to be the commencement of a long, happy, and prosperous Ufe. we wish you to accept from us this timepiece as a small to Ken 01 our esteem and regard, which in 110 way can be measured by its intrinsic value; may it prove a useful article in your and always tend tojremmd you and.your lady of your old friends and well-wishers. ■ Mr. Kitching briefly returned thanks ^L$aSJ^iook present, which his wife ADd himself would always looic upon with sincere pleasure. Dancing was again resumed and kept up with vigour until midnight, and at intervals several songs were sung by Messrs. 1. and W. Allen, Meredith, Cartwright, and others. The proceedings ter- minated with the singing of the National Anthem.

MIDDLE PRESENTATION.—The Rev. E. Montford Jones having lately been appointed to the rectory of Llanmerewig, Montgomeryshire, the prtrishoners of Middle, the curacy of which parish he has held for nearly six years, determined that he should not leave them without bearing away with him a substantial token of their regard and esteem. Accordingly a committee was appointed, under the presidency of Mr. D. F. Atcherley, for the purpose of carrying into effect their wishes. Some of the committee volunteered their services to collect the necessary subscriptions, and in a short time a considerable sum was provided, which was laid out in the purchase of a very handsome tea service of antique silver. One of the pieces bore the following inscrip- tion:—"Presented, January 8th, 1879, to the Rev. E. Montford Jones, on his resignation of the curacy of Middle, to which he was ordained March 9, 1873." The presentation was made by Mr. D. F. Atcherley, who spoke in eulogistic terms of Mr. Jones's good qualities, and expressed the general regret of the parishioners at parting with him. The Rev. G. H. Egertun also spoke in a feeling manner of the regret which he and the parishioners felt at parting withjMr. Jones whom he had always found to be a most energetic co-worker' for nearly six years, and who took the greatest interest in the spiritual welfare of all classes in the parish.—Mr. W. H. Bickerton then, on behalf of the adult members of the Middle Church Choir, presented Mr. Jones with a handsomely-bound copy of Hymns Ancient and Modem, with tunes, in which the following inscription was written :—" Presented to the Rev. E. Montford Jones, on his resigning the curacy of Middle, by the adult members of the Middle Church Choir, as a slight token of esteem and of their appreciation of his endeavours to improve the efficiency of the choir." Attached were the signatures of the members of the choir. Mr. Jones, in responding, thanked the parishioners heartily for their handsome present, and also the choir, ana said he should never forget the happy days he had spent among them, and the uniform kindness which aU had shown towards him. The tea service and book would b" to him plea- sant mementoes of the past, and if any of the Middle people happened to come to Llanmerewig he should be happy to extend to them his hospitality.

CARDIGANSHIRE ASSIZES. The Commission for these Assizes was opened in the Shirehall, Cardigan, on Monday, Jan. 20, before Mr. J. B. Maule, Q.C., the Commissioner appointed in the place of Mr. Justice Hawkins, who is detained in London by press of criminal business. The honourable gentleman arrived in Cardigan between three and four p.m., and was met at the Judge's lodgings by the Right Hon- ithe Earl of Lisburne, high sheriff for the county, who wore the uniform of a Lord-Lieutenant. After the Commis- sion had been opened the Commissioner, attended by the usual retinue of police constables and other officials, at- tended divine service in St. Mary's Church, where the assize sermon was preached by the Rev. John Jones, Head Master of the Ystrad-Meurig Grammar School, the High Sheriff's chaplain. TUESDAY. The Court re-assembled on Tuesday morning, at 10.30. THK GRAND JUlty. The following grand jurymen answered to their names —Messrs. J. B. J. Jordan, Pigeonsford .(foreman), T. E. Lloyd, M.P., Coedrnore, Herbtrt Vaughan, Brynog, Thos. Davies, Cardigan, J. N. Howell, Noyadd, Tretawr, T. H. Brenchley, Glaneirw, W. G. Davies, Cardigan, Morris Davies, Ffosrhydgaled, C. H. Ll. Fitz-Williams, Adpar, Thomas Lloyd, Adpar Cottar, and M. J. V, Davies, Tanybwlcb. Only eleven gentlemen having answered to their names out of thirteen,- the lowest num- ber required, the following two gentlemen were called into the box, and sworn :-Alessrs. James Graham Keil, Plasygwernant, and Thomas Williams, Penrallt, Aber- porth. After the Queen's proc'amation against v CO and immorality had been read, the Hon. Commissioi.er briefly addressed the grand jury to the following effec,- Gentlemen of the grand jury—There are but two cases to come before you presently, which constitute all the business of the Assizes. There is a case Of felony alleged to have been committed by William Gooch against a girl under thirteen years of age. You will see by the evidence the character of the charge, and that without my saying more will suggest to you the manner in which you will deal with it. The second case on the calendar is that in which Morgan Hughes and Abraham Jones, are both charged with rob- bing a hen roost; they were, it appears, seen op. the morning of the 8th January on the premises of the prose- cutor where fowls were kept. The fowls were lacked up, which is sufficient to show they could not get out of their own free will. Hearing a noise in the place where the fowls were kept, the prosecutor and his brother got up and saw the prisoners with dogs coming out of the fowls' house. On their coming down they found three fowls dead in the yard, but the prisoners got away. They were followed and caught, but—and this is the difficulty-they were not taken into custody; they had, it is asserted, coats on with bulging pockets; and seven fowls were missed besides those killed.. The inference for the prosecution is that the contents of the prisoners pockets were those fowls. The property has not been round, and it is for you to say whether the evidence to be brought before you is sufficient to justify you in returning a true bill or not. You must also bear in mind that if twenty-three gentlemen ou the panel hai com posed the jury, the majority to return a bill would be twelve, therefore as lyou are but thirteen the number must still remain at twelve. The Grand Jury returned true bills in both cases brcu^Lt before them. STEALING FOWLS AT LLANB VDARNFAWR. Morgan Hughes and Abraham Jones surrendered to their bail and pleaded not guilty to stealing fowls, the property of David Hughes, at J-Ianbadarnfawr, on the 8th of January. Mr. Abel Thomas, instructed by Mr. A. Hughes, Aberystwyth, appeared for the prosecution, and Mr. Henry Allen, instructed by Mr. Griffith Jones, Aber- ystwyth, for the defence. The evidence for the prosecu- tion having been taken, it was not denied that the prisoners were on the premises where the fowls were. but it was contended by the learned Counsel for the defence that the prisoners had asserted they were going down the river close by for some purpose or other, which was im- material to the charge of stealing, when their dogs disturbed the fowls and killed three of them, the prisoners following in order to get them off. Al- though the prisoners did deny when apprehended being on the premises at all., they possibly did so in their anxiety to cloak another otfence; he did not say it was so, but possibly it might be so. Evidence as to character having been called, his Lordship summed up. He animadverted on the lie told by the prisoners either one way or the other, and stated that an innocent person would not have told an untruth, but would have stated at once when charged with the theft of fowls that they were on the river side shooting wild duck or otherwise.— The Jury, after a consultation of about half-an-hour, returned a verdict of not guilty, and the prisoners were immediately discharged from custody. CRIMINAL ASSAULT AT LLANLLWCHAIARN. William Gooch, a repulsive-looking tramp, pleaded guilty to a common assault upon one Sarah Owens, of Dolnant, in the parish of Llanlhvchaiarn, in the county of Cardigan, aged twelve years and seven months. He also pleaded guilty to a previous conviction for arson in W?. Sentenced to five years' penal servitude. This concluded the business of the Assize.

SHIPPING. Week ending Jan. 22, 1879. -E- -R, Y S- -T, W-- -,Y-T,-H,- Ai-rived.-H. E. Taylor (ss), Richards, Liverpool. Sailed.-Rheidol Vale, Thomas, Chester; Wellington, Griffiths, Darien. PORTMADOC. Arrived.-Two Brothers, Pritchard, Pwllheli; Sove- reign, King, Stettin; Walter Ulrich, Hughes, Belfast; Confidence, Williams, Dublin; Rebecca (ss), Williams, Liverpool; Lark, Jones, Abersoch. Sailed.-Dorotby Mary, Lloyd, Sunderland Maurice- 'ton, Cope, Abersoch ;• Rebecca (ss), Williams, Liverpool; Clara Felicia, Hughes, Margate.

ABERYSTWYTH MARKET.—Wheat sold at «9. 6d. to 7s. 6d. V — lbs.; barley, 4s. Od. to 4s. 6d.; oats, 3s. Od. to 3s. !>d.; eg/s, 14 f jr a shillins; salt butter, 100. to Hid.$lb.; fresh butter, Is. Id. to Is. 3d. 10 tb.; fowls, 3s. Od. to 4s. od. 40 couple; ducks, 4s. Od. to 2s. Od.; geese, 4s. Od. to 5s. 6d. turkeys, 5s. Od. to 7s. 6d. each; potatoes, Os. Od. to 3s. Od. THE BISHOP OP MELANESIA AT OSWESTRY PARISH CHURCH.—On Sunday evening, January 19, the Bishop of Melanesia (Dr. Selwyn) preacherl a sermon in the Parish Church to a very large congregation. The Bishop took his text from St. Matthew, 10th chap. and 8th verse, "Freely ye have received, freely give." In the course of his sermon he said that they in England were so accustomed to their means of grace that they were apt to grow care- less about them. He himself had for the last six years been brought face to face with those who had no idea of God. His work lay on the western fringe of the Pacific, amongst the inhabitants of a long chain of islands running up to within about a thousand miles of the Eastern shore of Australasia. They were a rude, but fine race of men, active in their habits, not degraded specimens of humanity, but able and willing to learn, and able and willing to work. When his (the Bishop's) father was sent out to New Zea- land in 1841, he was bidden by the then Archbishop of Canterbury to regard New Zealand not only as itself a field of mission work, but as a fountain from which the Water of Life might flow out to the then unvisited islands of the Pacific. Thongh his single diocese was as big as Eng- land and Wales put together, and was surrounded by stormy seas, he yet endeavoured to lay the foundation of a work which might endure amongst those distant islands. He went about in his little vessel amongst the different islands, and went ashore unarmed among men who were armed to the teeth, and who had hardly ever seen a white man before, and he so won th1 bv his presence, by his gentleness, and his devotion, that they were willing to entrust their children to him to be brought up and edu- cated in New Zealand. So the work gradually went on until the year 1855, when Bishop Pattison, who was not then consecrated, joined him, and afterwards carried on the work on the lines which had been laid down. He saw how varied these islands-some hundred in number—were in their natural character and situation and in language. Almost every village had a different dialect, many of them a different language from the rest. Their roads were but mountain paths, trodden one by one in Indian file, by those who passed along them, and the Bishop came to the conclusion that it was hopeless to expect Englishmen to evangelize these people, and that the only way of doing it was BJ forming a central school for the training of young natives from the different islands, and then to sendthem forth amongst their own countrymen, at the same time having a white man stationed, wherever it was possible, to guide, direct, and strengthen them. These were the lines upon which the work was being carried on. Broadly speaking, the condition of the people of these islands was one of abject fear. They trusted nobody, they feared everybody. They had no idea of God, but they had a belief in a spirit world peopled mainly by the souls of their ancestors, to whom they offered sacrifices and prayers. Their religion was to them not a source of peace, but of fear; for each man feared not only his neighbour but his neighbour's god. Their superstitious beliefs in witchcraft and sorcery was the fruitful sauce of bloodshed and crimes of revenge. After giving some instances of this from his own personal observation, the Bishop described the character and work of the mission. He said he had now seven clergy- men, six of them deacons and one priest, working in different stations, and a great many teachers of different grades employed in the schools. Wherever the native clergy and teachers were supported by a white clergyman, the mission worked admirably, and they had great success, and in the other islands, when he had visited them quite unexpectedly, he had found the native teachers sticking to their posts, the church bells ringing, the congregations assembled for worship, the class of catechumens ready to meet afterwards, and everything going on in the same orderly way as in the school at Norfolk Island, -'TILL, however, white men were wanted, and to obtain more white men was one great object of his present visit to this country. The Bishop concluded an impressive and inter- esting sermon by speaking of the greatness of the responsi- bility involved in the far-reaching influence and power of England, in the ramifications of her trade and commerce, and in the vnstness of her possessions AND resources, and bv appealing to his hearers to do all that lay in theIr power to spread forth amongst men the knowledge of ths Gospel of Christ. A collection was made at the close of the service in behalf of the Melanesian Msssion.

CORRESPONDENCE. GRIEVANCES. SIR,-On behalf of my sex I return you my best thanks for the public spirit you have shown in the Cam- brian News of January 17th, in exposing the condition of the third-class carriages on the Cambrian Railway. They are especially unpleasant in winter—the open thirds I mean. I, from experience, can testify to the truth of all your remarks. Smoking carriages are provided, but one is, as a rule, more likely to escape the nuisance by travel- ling in them, instead of in those provided for the non- smokers and general puolic. The Cambrian officials do not trouble themselves to enforce any rules made for the comfort of the passengers in respect to smoking,, and it is not a pleasant thing for ladies and few have the courage to ask smokers to desist. It is not an uncommon thing to travel in a third-class carriage so jiiled with smoke that it is difficult to see distinctly trom one end to the other. I believe you have called attention to it before, but the following grievance and inconvenience still continues, that there is NO resident magistrate in Aberdovey. A boy was put in the lock-up here last Saturday, and on Monday war taken in a public conveyance to Talgarth, before Mr. fiiruston. Why should ratepayers have Lo pay expenses which might be avoided?—Yours, &c., A LADY. Aberdovey, Jan. 21, 1879.

HUNTING APPOINTMENTS.. [WEATHER PERMITTING.] J"V">.I.r" The TANAT SIDE HARRIERS will meet on Friday, January 24 Kinnerley Tuesday, January 28 Moreton Bridge Friday, February 7 IJanymyneth At 11. The MARQUESS OF LONDONDERRY'S HARRIERS will meet on Friday, January 24 Glanfechan Monday, January 27 Cefncwyddgrug At 10.- The NORTH MONTGOMERY HARRIERS will meet on Saturday, January 25 Llanfechain Wednesday, January 29 Llawrycwm Saturday, February 1 Trefnanney At 11. The SEVERN VALLEY HARRIERS will meet on Friday, January 24 Elephant Hotel, Newtown Tuesday, January 2S fool Quay Friday, January 31 Llandyssil At 11. Mr. VAUGHAN PRYSE'S HARRIERS will meet on Saturday, January 26 Blaenbarre At 10-30. The CARNARVON HARRIERS will meet on Friday, January 24 Glangwna Gate Monday, January 27 Pont Newydd Thursday, January 30 Pont Rug At 11-30. The RADNORSHIRE HARRIERSSwiU meet on. Saturday, January 25 The Kennels At 10-15. The FLINTSHIRE HARRIERS will meet on Saturday, January 25 Nannereh Tuesday, January 28 Tower, Mold Friday, January 31 The Kennete At 11. SIR W. W. WYNN'S HOUNDS will meet on Saturday, January 25 Whitchurch Monday, January 27 Baschurch Wednesday, January 29 Greddington Thursday, January 30 Kennels Saturday, February 1 Iscoyd At 10-30. The UNITED PACK will meet o. Friday, January 24 Charch Stretton At 10-30. The FLINT AND DENBIGH HOUNDS will meet on Friday, January 24 Coed Cock At 10.30 The SHREWSBURY HOUNDS will meet on Fridav, January 24 Atcham Briege At 11. The NORTH SHROPSHIRE HOUNDS will meet on Monday, January 27 Acton ReynalS At 10-45. Thursday, January 30 Twemlows At 11-30. The WHEATLAND HOUNDS will meet en Friday, January 24 Willey Part At 10-45. The ALBRIGHTON HOUNDS will meet on Saturday, January 25 The Kennels At 10-45.

BIRTHS. MARRIAGES. & DEATHS. "i" No announcements of marriages are inserted vrHhout sufficient authentication, for want of which, announcements sent to us are sometimes omitted. A charge of Is. is made for the words "No Cards." &c., in marriages, and any addition to the simpU record of deaths. BIRTHS. VAUGHAN-Jan. 19th, at Trederwen Hall, Llandrinio, the wife of Lewis Edward Vaughan, of a son. WILLIAMS—Jan. 23rd, at Sailor's Home, Aberystwyth, the wife of David Williams, of a daughter. MARRIAGES. CAMPBELL—BYNNER—Jan. 1st, at Booth-street Congregational Church, Manchester, by the Rev. D. M. Bynner, assisted by the Rev. J. J. Bynner (brothers of the bride), and the Rev. D. John, William, eldest son ef Mr. Thomas Campbell, New Cumloch, to Maria Jannetta, eldest daughter of Mr. Thomas Bynner, Manchester, late of Llanfyllin. DAWSON—WILLIAMS—Nov. 26th, at Heidelberg, Transvaal, South Africa, by the Rev. N. J. van Warmels, F. Bignell, youngest son .Tf William Dawson, Esq., F.R.C.S., of Jersey, to Mary Frances, second daughter of the late J. H. Williams, Esq., M.D., of Royal-avenue, London, S.W. DEATHS. ALLANSON"—Jan. 10th, at Croydon, Surrey, Sarah Dorothea Allanson, daughter of the late Richd. Allanson, Esq of Holdgate, near York, and sister to Mrs. Hopkinson, Criccieth, Carnarvonshire. BowEN-Jan. 18th, aged 77, at his residence, 5, John Campbell- road, Stoke Newington, London, David Bowen, late of Llaner- fyl, Montgomeryshire. BREEZE—Jan. 19th, aged 77, at Tuhwnti'rbwlch, Portmadec, Margaret, widow of the Rev. J. Breeze. BONNOR-MAURICE-Jaii. 14th, aged 35, at Brighton, Henry Bonnor-Maurice, of Bodynfoel, Montgomeryshire, late captain H.M.'s 15th Regt. DAvIES-Jan. 9th, aged 24, at Baker-street, Aberystwyth, Jas. Lloyd Davies, painter. DAVIES—Jan. 19th, Agnes Undecima Davies, daughter of T. M. Davies, Esq., J.P., barrister-at-law, Antaron. EDMOND-Jan. 16th, Mr. James Edmond, manager of the Gas Works, Newtown. EDWARDS—J an. 17th, aged 65, Mary, wife of Mr. Edwd. Edwards, Gelli, Mochdre. EVANS-Jan. 17th, aged 59, at Market-street, Aberystwyth, Eliaa Evans. FORD-Jan. 13th, aged 72, at Holt-street, Wrexham, William Ford. GRIFFITH—Jan. 19th, aged 69, David Griffith, slate quarries, Maesysguboria, Beddgelert. IIICHENS-Jan. 17th, at Nash-cottage, Cheltenham, Harriet Catherine, widow of William Hichens, of Saint Ives, Corn- wall, solicitor, and youngest daughter of William Jones, Esq., of Crosby-square, London, and Glandwr, Merionethshire. J OH-NSON-Jan. 3rd, aged 25, at Ruabon, Chas. David Johnson, eldest son of the late Chas. James Johnson, formerly of Rock. side House, Llangollen. JoNEs-Jaii. 19th, aged 6 weeks, Mary Jones, daughter of Robfe- Jones, farmer, Ystymcegid, near Portmadoc. JONES—Jan. 20iii, aged 18, Laura Jones, youngest daughter of Mr. Lewis Jones, Llwyniarth, near Dolgelley. JONES—Jan. 18th, aged 32, Deborah Jones, Chapel House, Gan- llwyd, near Dolgelley. JONEs-Jan. 9th, aged 46, at Prospect-street, Aberystwyth, Wm. Jones. JONES—Jan. 11th, aged 62, at her residence, f6, Holt-street, Wrexham, Mrs. Ann Jones, relict !of Mr. Edward Jones, butcher, 30, Market Hall, Wrexham, formerly of Liverpool. JONES-Jan. 13th, aged 36, Thomas, youngest son of Mr. Jones, Ty'nIIidiart, Llandegla. JON F-s-Jin. 14th, aged 78, at Tynywem, Maerdy, Corwen, Jane Jones, late of Hafod, Corwen. LEWIS—Jan. 13th, aged 9 months, at Harbour-terrace, Aberyst- wyth, Mary Frances Rhoda Lewis, miller. MADDOCKS—Jan. 6th, aged 88, at Llansaintffraid, Elizabeth, widow of Thomas Maddocks, late of Ty-Curig, Montgomery- shire. MORGAN—Jan. 21st, aged 62, at Capel Sion, Llanbadarn Lower, Jane, wife of John Morgan, labourer. ROBERTS—Jan. 15th, aged 13 months, at 46, Rial-street, Med- lock-street, Hulme, Manchester, Frances Eleanor, infant daughter of Mr. W. E. Roberts, joiner. ROGERS—Jan. 12th, aged 67, at his residence, Grove House, St. Asaph, Mr. Wm. Rogers. TOMLINS—Jan. 14th, aged 14, at the residence of his uncle, tt, Erddig-road, Wrexham, Frank Roberts Tomlins. WILLIAMS—Jan. 12th, aged 79, at Dee Mill-place, Llangollen, the residence of her son-in-law, Mr. Azariah Roberts Mrs. Sarah Williams, late of Corwen. WILLIAMS—Jan. 13th, aged 81, at Rhyl, Lydia Sophia, relict of the Rev. Peter Williams, Llansannan, Denbighshire. WILLIAMS Jan. 8th, aged 26, Stephen, youngest son of Richard and Sarah Williams, of The Sarn, near Kerry, Montgomery* shire. WILLIAMs-Jan. 4th, aged 40, at Greenfields, Rhayader, Radnor- shire, Mr. Edwd. Williams, late H.M.'s 69th Regiment. WILLIAMS—Jan. 15th, aged 5, Henry Williams, son of David Williams, farmer, Dolwgan, Dolbenmaen. WILLIAMS—Jan. 15th, aged 3 days, at Queen-street, Aberyst- wyth, Eleanor, daughter of Joseph Williams, hawker.

LATEST INTELLIGENCE. J'V"V'>r-r. By Press Association Telegram. BIRMINGHAM CORN MARKET, THURSDAY. There was only a moderate supply of English wheat &t this day's market, in which prices were unaltered. American firmer, but quotably unchanged. Barley a quiet trade. Maize 3d. per quarter dearer.

BRISTOL CORN MARKET, THURSDAY. Both English and foreign wheat a quiet trade, with values the turn in buyers' favour. Barley, maize, and oats in retail demand, at last week's prices.

BRISTOL CATTLE MARKET, THURSDAY. There was a full supply of beef, and a slow trade at 72s. per cwt. for best, and 65s. to 68s. for inferior. A moderate show of sheep, and cleared at Sid. to 9 £ d. per lb. There were 700 store cattle, and a dull trade. About 900 pigs, and all sold at 9s. to 9s. 3d. for bacon pigs and 9s. 6d. per score for porkers.

THE CONVICT PEACE. Peace has passed a very good night, and is rapidly re- covering the effects of his injuries. It is expected that his trial will take place in time for Leeds Assizes, on Thursday. The adjourned proceedings are expected to be very sensational, as a remarkable defence will be set up.

THE BIRMINGHAM ASSAULT CASE. Before Vice-Chancellor Malins, on Thursday, the motion for an injunction to restrain the application of the borough funds to the defence of the Mayor of Birmingham and others, charged with assault, was ordered to stand over, the Counsel for the Mayor and Corporation giving under- takings that no borough moneys should in the meantime be applied for the defence.

CABINET COUNCIL. Another Cabinet Council was held on Thursday, at which all the Ministers were present.

THE TRIAL OF THE GLASGOW BANK DIRECTORS. The examination of Mr. Leresche, the, secretary, is being proceeded with.

THE MABQUSSS OF LONDONDERRY. -The Marquess and Marchioness of Londonderry are entertaining a dis- tinguished party at Wyoyard Park, Durham, viz :-Laura Countess of Antrim, Earl of Puffenn, Viscount and! Viscountess Castlereagh, Hon. W. and 'Lady Adelaide Dawnay, Hon. F. Stonor, Sir George and Lady Julia Wombell, the very lie v. the Dean of Ba.agor, Colonel Ewart, 2nd.Life Guards, Ac., &c. A party at Wyayard Park, enjoyed excellent sport during three days' shooting in the Marquess of Londonderry's covers, when upward* «f 3,000 head of game were killed. j