The Welshman

CARMARTHENSHIRE FARMERS' CLUB. As we stated last week, the usual quarterly meeting of this Society was held on Wednesday, the 4th inst, at the Ivy Bush Hotel, and we now, according to pro- mise, proceed to give a full report of the discussion. The subject was—" The relative value of various kinds of food for farm stock." Mr. W. E. Gwyn said-I wish to inform you in the beginning, that in bringing this subject forward to-day, I have considered it my duty to bring to my aid as much of the experiences of practical and scientific men as I have been able to lay hold of; and I do so with considerable confidence, as I am sure you will agree with me, the Relative value of different kinds of foods" is a subject that it would be almost, indeed quite presumptuous, for one individual to pretend to give you full and proper information, from his own personal experience, as-let him be ever so enth siastic, persevering, and constant in his attention to business- it would take the best part of a long lifetime to arrive at anything like a satisfactory result. I hope, there- fore, I shall not tire you by quoting numerous experi- ments of some of the best practical men of the day, taken from the Royal and other journals, many of which point out very important results, to which I shall call your attention as I proceed. The theoretical views which have been held respecting the action of food are exceedingly simple, and so far as they agree with the evidence of careful observation, are worthy of our confidence. The food of an animal may be subdivided into four classes: Materials for forming bone; do. do. fat; do. do. flesh do. incapable of use, ) or waste. We have, therefore, three demands upon the food which is given to an animal. The materials which are required for producing bone are the most abundant, and it is seldom necessary to take any trouble as to their supply, because from their general presence in all kinds of vegetable produce the animal has a sufficient provision; the other two classes of feeding materials need especial care, for they are present in food in very variable proportions. It is seldom that any food is entirely without the materials required, both for making flesh and fat; but as a rule, we find one variety or the other very much in excess. It is, however, a matter of much importance to observe the distinct character of the food which is employed, and to remember that the service each kind of food has to perform in the body depends upon that character. Thus, we have two classes of food under our observa- tion The first comprises materials required for the production of fat; and there is this important condition to be borne in mind, that the same materials, which are capable of being transformed into fat, are also available for keeping up the heat of the body; the first duty of these materials being to maintain the natural and requisite heat of the body, and the surplus which remains is free for being stored away as fat. The other class of food which we have to notice is that which we use for the formation of flesh. The materials used for this purpose are totally distinct from the former, and neither can discharge the duties of the other. It is almost, or quite impossible for a fat or heat-producing food to form flesh, and in like manner an animal would perish from cold if fed only upon flesh forming matter, supposing it possible to give them such. According to chemical analysis, the following is the composition of different kinds of food:- Heat or fat producing Flesh forming materials in a 100 lbs. do. in a 100 Ibs. lbs. lbs. Rice 75 64 W beat. 68 144 Indian Corn 65 8t Barley 66 13 04 ts 554 134 Peas.)0 234 Beans 4S Mi Li.se d 31 25 Lineed Cake. 131. 284 The estimates made by analysis are not always confirmed in practice by the farmer making use of the food. On the present occasion I purpose examining the evidence of practical men on the subject, and thus draw atten- tion to some important facts. The result of a very extensive trial of the increase of weight gained from the consumption of swedes, is reported by Mr. Morton, in the "Royal Agricultural Society's Journal," Vol. X, showing that sheep gained 1 lb. of flesh for every 150 lbs. of swedes consumed on the land. Mr. Robert Smith reports an experiment in the same journal, of swedes used on a field with a shed to run under, which shows that 100 lbs. of swedes consumed in this way is equal in effect to 150 lbs. used without shelter. Having assigned to swedes a somewhat definite value, according as they may have been consumed, I will now proceed to other experiments in which various kinds of food have been used with them. The following experiments were carried out by Mr. Robert Smith, as reported in the "Royal Agricultural Society's Journal," Vol. VIII:— Lambs were fed daily upon lIb. of oilcake, ilb of peas, and 201b of swedes, for ten weeks, and each increased 26 jibs. Lambs were fed upon 1 jib. of oilcake and peas, and 181bs. of swedes, daily for ten weeks, and each increased 33 jibs. The whole of this food was consumed in a field, which had a shed to shelter the sheep. As shown in experiment No. 2, swedes thus eaten produced lib. of flesh for every lOOlbs. fed. At this rate the swedes consumed in the two above experiments, weigh- ing 2,6501bs. should produce 271bs. flesh. The total increase of weight was 601bs., so that after deducting for the meat formed, we have 33lbs. remaining, as that resulting from the use of STjlbs. of oilcake and 87 jibs, of peas mixed together, showing that from 4lbs to 5Ibs. of mixed cake and peas will produce lib. of flesh. I will now proceed with reported experiments in the use of linseed cake. Those by a Mr. Bruce, in the High- land Agricultural Society's Transactions," are fair ex- amples :—20 hoggets on swedes, gained 661bs.; 20 hog- gets on swedes, with 8801bs. of cake, 253lbs. and another trial by the same gentleman, 1,275lbs. cake produced an increased weight of 2021bs., or 6jlbs. cake to lib. of flesh. From these, and other experiments, I consider that from 51bs. to 71bs. linseed cake may be equal to an increase of lib. of flesh; but this, it must be remembered, will always depend upon the quality of the article consumed,—if adulterated, or of inferior quality, a like result could not be obtained. A long series of experiments upon the value of clover and other hay is mentioned in the Royal Journal," Vol. VIII. The result of trials by a Mr. Moore, upon the farm of the Earl of Radnor, and others, all apparently carefully carried out, shows that from 121bs. to lolbs. of hay, of good quality, will produce lib. of flesh. The nutritive quality of hay of course varies with the herbage of which it is made, harvesting, &c. Experiments are furnished, in which beans were consumed with swedes, irom which it appears that 1,2751bs. beans, consumed by sheep, produced 1531bs. increase of flesh. This shows that 81-lbs. beans made lib. of flesh., and beans and peas mixed made an increase of I lb. of flesh to every 81bs. consumed. Next come trials in which oats are given with swedes, conducted by Mr. Morton; also in the use of barley by a Mr. Childers, the results of which are that 71bs. of oats made lib. of flesh, and 61bs. of barley did the same. And numerous experiments reported show similar or nearly similar quantities. Several highly interesting experiments, by Mr. Bruce, in the Highland Society's Journal," in which linseeds and beans mixed were used, the results of which were most important, and to which I beg especially to call your attention. It has been shown that 8ilbs. of beans were consumed to make lib. of flesh, and 81bs. of mixed peas and beans were required for the same, and 61bs. linseed cake required for the same, and, according to the above trial of Mr. Bruce, 3lbs. linseed and jib. beans, made lib. of flesh fib. linseed and 31-lbs. beans, make lib of flesh; lilb. linseed, 2jlbs. beans, make lib. of flesh j- showing a striking contrast to the result of the use of beans or cake alone, and illustrating a principle of great pecuniary value to all breeders or feeders of stock. It has also already been shown that a mixture of peas and oilcake in equal proportions produced lib. of flesh to every 51bs. of food consumed-another instance of the advantages of a mixture of different kinds of food. It is worthy of notice that it is not simply the fact of foods being mixed that renders them more effective in the production of meat, for we have seen that when beans and peas were mixed, it made no difference in the results from what each kind produced when used alone. But the fact appears to be that when two varieties of food are mixed, the one specially suited for the formation of flesh, and the other more adapted for the development of fat, then they co-operate, and thereby become valuable to the animal system. The foregoing remarks have princi- pally applied to the use of dry foods, for feeding purposes. I now propose drawing your attention to the relative value of green or root crops, and shall again revert to my old friend the Royal Agricultural Journal," whose large and varied experience I cannot do better than quote:—"Two equal lots of lambs were put upon swedes and white turnips in the month of October, by a Mr. Pawlett, for four weeks. Those on white turnips increased each 10-ilbs. those on swedes 411bs. Other lots of lambs were also tried, upon white turnips and swedes, and chaff, in October. Lambs on white turnips and chaff increased 81bs.; those on swedes and chaff 51bs." The higher feeding power of the white turnip is here clearly shown, but it must be remembered that these trials took place in the month of October, when turnips had become fully matured, and the swedes had not arrived at their best condition. The difference between them becomes less evident as the more severe weather comes on, until Christmas, when the swedes are decidedly the superior food. Upon the relative value of mangold wurtzel and swedes, very great diver- sity of opinion appears to exist, and it is a matter of regret that so few satisfactory trials are reported. A Mr. Hillyard reports in the Royal Journal," Vol. IV.: —" Six Hereford bullocks were divided into two equal lots. Three consumed, in addition to other food, If bushels of swedes daily the other lot of three bullocks received an equal quantity of mangolds. When the experiment was ended, the bullocks fed on swedes were 5 stone olbs. heavier than those fed on mangolds. A similar trial is reported by the late Earl Spencer, in which the advantage appears to be slightly in favour of the mangolds, therefore, the inference drawn is, that when mangolds and swedes are both in equally good condition there is no great differ- ence in their feeding value. Swedes are undoubtedly preferable for early winter use, u they ripen the more quickly, and as the spring advances the mangolds gra- dually become best as they become matured, and because of their superior keeping powers. We are rather too apt to overlook the fact, that after the growth of a root is completed, other changes have to take place before it arrives at its best feeding condition. There is a change takes place in our various roots which may be compared to the ripening of fruit, and until this process is com- plete the juices of the plant are more or less acid in their character, and therefore, in the same degree calculated to irritate the stomach, and the common consequence is scour and loss of condition in animals feeding. The same rule holds good with turnips, swedes, and mangolds, ihence, we have seen by experience that white turnips are more productive of flesh in October than swedes, the former being ripe and the latter unripe. It is, therefore, well worthy of our attention to have in succession the varieties of roots required, as upon it in a great measure must depend our success. Among the advantages re- sulting from a knowledge of the relative value of dif- ferent kinds of foods," I may mention that of being able to select food suitable to the requirements of the animal at its several periods of growth. Throughout life a mix- ture of food is very desirable, but it is manifest that during the period of growth^ there will be a greater demand for flesh and muscle-forming matter, whilst in the latter stages, the fat producing food should be in excess. The great object to be persevered in is to keep the animal steadily progressing through each stage of its growth, thereby becoming better adapted for making subsequent progress. The following summary may be taken as an approximate mode of calculating the relative value of the different kinds of food here mentioned :— lbs. lb. Swedes consumed on the field 150 produce I flesh Do. do. with shelter 100 I" Good clover hay 14 1 Beans 8 1 „ Beans and peaa mixed 8 1 „ Oats 7 „ 1 „ Barley 6 „ 1 Linseed Cake. 6 1 Linseed cake and peas mixed 44 1 I will now finish my, I fear, tedious lecture, by a com- parison of the feeding value thus assigned to the above discriptions of food, with their average market prices. We have seen that 150 lbs. of swedes consumed on the land-I will take them so, as if taken off the land the expenses of carting, &c., will have to be incurred-will produce 1 lb. of meat, or mutton, we will say, and if this increase be estimated at 8d per lb., the value of mutton for the the last three or four years, then 150 lbs. of swedes would be worth 8d, which is equal to ten shillings per ton and in pursuing the same mode calculation for the other feeding substances named, the following are the results :—Good clover hay 14 lbs. for 8d is equal to L5 6s 8d per ton; oats, 71bs. for 8d equal to very near 4s per bushel; barley, 6lbs. for 8d equal to 6s per bush. beans, 81bs. for 8d, equal to 5s 4d per bush. cake, 61bs. for 8d, equal to £ ] 2 13s 4d per ton, From the above figures—supposing them to be correct, and they are all fonuded upon practical experience,—it will be seen that a judicious use and mixture of feeding stuffs, is attended with a very fair amount of profit. Mr. Buckley, Penyfai, said-I beg to thank Mr. Gwyn for the valuable information he has afforded on the subject before us, a subject of the first importance to the practical farmer, and particularly in a country of flocks and herds, of dairying, and rearing of cattle, like this. It is not of much interest certainly to the man who is satisfied to feed his stock on straw with an occasional bit of rough hay during the winter, and whose animals are of the most inferior description but to the farmer with good thriving stock and improving land, and who is making a good return, it is of vast importance to know the relative value of the various kinds of food. Such knowledge is at the foundation, not only of the economical feeding and improvement of all kinds of stock, but of the improvement of the land, too, by the production of manure of richer quality and of increased quantity; whereas the manure from straw fed stock is very poor in fertilising elements. But do not think that I am speaking against straw; itt is only against straw alone'as an article of food. Straw possesses most valuable feeding elements, but then they are in too small proportion with its bulk to keep an animal in a thriving state, because its bulk (according to the proportion of nutritive elements it contains) is too great for the stomach of the animal. The woody matter is in too large a proportion, and the consequence is that an animal fed upon it alone becomes pot-bellied from consuming so large a quantity, and poor and stunted from want of sufficient nourishment. Now only substitute for a small proportion of this straw a more concentrated food—say a pound or two of meal and half a dozen swedes per day, and the animal quickly grows and thrives. The extra cost of this per week is only a shilling to sixteen pence (for on the starvation system it must be supported alive), which for the twenty-six winter weeks only amounts to about 26s. to 34s., and the increased value of the animal will probably be more than double that amount, for good well-conditioned stock always command a ready market, and what is perhaps of equal importance, there is the improved quality of the dung. Thus, the economical feeding of stock is largely dependant on the proper adjustment of quality to quantity. But it is also dependant (as we gather from Mr. Gwyn's lecture) on adapting the kind of food to the object in view, whether for store stock of any kind, dairy cattle, or for fattening, or, in other words, what kind of food may be most profitably given to one animal and what to another. As we have heard, in some kinds of food the flesh-forming elements preponderate, and in others the fat-producing. The fat-producing or non-nitrogenous having a large proportion of sugar, starch, gum, or oil, is fcund largely in seeds, such as linseed, rape, locust, beans, &c.. and which, when given to cattle, are quickly converted into fat; and fattening stock should have weak food in large proportion. For dairy stock the nitro- genous or flesh-forming must bear a good proportion, particularly leguminous seeds-such as beans or peas- being rich in casein, although animal life cannot be sustained without the admixture of both the flesh- forming and fat-producing principles. Still, such ad- vantages are doubtless derived from a knowledge of the nature of the food used, economically adjusting its pro- portions and qualities. One man's stock will make greater progress with food at 2s. per week per head than another at 3s., and to starve cattle on straw alone and inadequate food is the worst economy of all. Change of food, too, is known to be of great advantage. That might be noticed in the marked improvement in the produce of the dairy, and otherwise by turning cattle from one pasture to another. I was disappointed last autumn in keeping a lot of young cattle too long on an abundant pasture, without change. Mr. J. L. Philipps, after speaking in high terms of Mr. Gwyn's address, said-Ele hoped it would not be thought captious of him if he said a few words by way of point- ing out what appeared to him defective in the experi- ments quoted by Mr. Gwyn. He (Mr. Philipps) had read in the Agricultural Journals, many detailed accounts of modes of feeding horses, cattle, and sheep, with different kinds of food, and he thought there was something very unsatisfactory to a practical farmer about them. They varied considerably in result, and in general effect, and there seemed, if not a want of care and attention to details and personal superinten- dence, yet a want of some reliable deductions. Take, for example, one experiment mentioned by Mr. Gwyn. It is asserted that lOOlbs. of swedes, with corn, in the feeding of hoggets, under a shed, are equal to 1501bs. with corn in the open field. We are not told whether these sheep were early or late ones, what particular breed they happened to be, whether the swedes were cut, the corn crushed, or given whole, and whether straw, chaff, meadow hay, or clover, or some other dry food, was given along with other food, and in what proportions,—points of considerable importance in their deductions towards a practical conclusion; and they were asked to believe that such experiments served as guides to farmers in the art of feeding with various kinds of food. It was well known that different kinds of animals required different sorts of treatment, and different kinds of food. Oats are not so good for cattle as for sheep, and so on; but Mr. Gwyn was quite right to contend that a variety of food was very essential-given at regular and stated times, and that the animals should be kept clean, quiet, and warm. Cows, whilst giving milk in winter, should be fed with the best of food, given in as liquid a form as possible,—their mash composed of various ingredients well saturated with water. The ox, he thought, should have such food as was best proved to hasten the putting on of fat and flesh, and be of a proper age to do so, for while growing, the feeding properties of various foods are counteracted. Mr. Buckley read a circular just received, addressed to the members of the Royal Agricultural Society, by Mr. Thorley, in which he stated that he had reduced his food to Yll per ton, and that it was a mixture composed of the finest locust beans, Indian corn meal, bean meal, oatmeal, pure English linseed meal, and his condiments. Mr. Buckley said that it might now, since Mr. Thorley had informed them what was in his food, and had reduced it to a moderate price, suit some (who wished to save the trouble of grinding) to use it Some of the ingredients, however, such as Indian corn meal, and barley meal, might be procured under £ 8 per ton, and the dearest article—linseed meal—might come to C17, but the proportion would be small; for there could be no doubt that Mr. Thorley reserved himself a good profit. He (Mr. Buckley), however, had never used any of these patent medicines, although he had been in the habit for many years of feeding the whole of his stock with a very similar mixture, varying it from time to time by the omission of one article and the substitution of another; for he considered that they ought to know just as well as Mr. Thorley-and the other food adver- tisers—what was suitable, and they could buy just as cheap as he could. He could buy Indian corn at about 29s. per quarter of 4801bs., and Barley at about 26s. per quarter of 4001bs., and he considered these now the cheapest food in the market. Mr. Buckley said that he gave his linseed ground. He weaned his calves at three weeks old from half of the sweet milk, and at a month from the whole of it, giving about 21bs. of linseed per day to each in the skim milk. Boiling water being poured upon the linseed meal con- verted it into a jelly, in which state it was mixed with the skim milk. The linseed supplied the fat-producing elements which the milk had been deprived of; and if the 14lbs. of linseed per week, costing about 2s. 4d., spared 61bs. to 81bs. of butter per cow, worth 6s to 9s., it was certainly worth adopting Rico (which had been been named by a gentleman present), he did not think a suitable food for young calves, as it was poor in fat and heat-producing matter. Mr. Norton, after a very few remarks on Mr. Gwyn's able lecture, with which he for the most part agreed, spoke at some length on Thorley's Food. It was resolved, that the principles inculcated by Mr. Gwyn in his opening address, particularly those respecting the properties and efficacy of various and mixed food in the rearing and feeding of cattle and sheep, is highly recommended by the members of this Club. The subject selected for the next meeting is On the breeding and rearing of Colts and management of Horses for draught and agricultural purposes," to be introduced by Mr. H. Norton.

LLANELLY. — CELEBRATION OF THE MAR- RIAGE OF THE PRINCE OF WALES. This auspicious event was celebrated at Llanelly with every demonstration of loyalty. The inhabitants, like all other towns throughout the United Kingdom, manifested a deep interest in the events of the day, and with a hearty good will united to honour the event. The weather was very favourable, though cold, a very piercing east wind blowing during the day, the dawn of which was ushered in by the firing of cannon and ringing of the church bells. The town in every part wore a holiday aspect; the shops were all closed, and many houses in Church-street, Hall-street, Water- street, and the town generally, were hung with flags and decorated in various ways the shipping also displayed their colours The Church steeple, the Town Hall, Athenaeum, and other buildings were also decorated with flags and banners. The tiekets to the poor were distributed at the Town Hall on Monday, value 2s. each, which entitled the recipient to food, clothing, &c., to that amount; 500 were thus treated. A substantial dinner was provided by C. W. Nevill, Esq., for the inmates of the Workhouse, who no doubt enjoyed themselves. At 11 o'clock the various bodies and societies assembled in the Park, and formed a procession. First came the Volunteers, who mustered in great force, under the command of Capt Nevill, headed by the brass band the members of the Local Board of Health and the officials the Harbour Commissioners Tradesmen, four abreast; the Odd Fellows, preceded by the Dafn brass band, and carrying their flags as follows Earl Cawdor Lodge, Britain's Glory Lodge, do. Mechanics, Victoria, Prince of Wales, Lily of the Valley-about 300; Ivorites, preceded by the drum band of the Volunteers; Eli Lodge (Ship), 120; Gomer do. (Union Inn), 100; Seren Letredl (Bull), 200; Carratag (Cwmfelin), 50; Three Crowns, 30; total, 500 Benefit Societies-Square and Compass and Mason's Arms. After perambulating the town the procession re- entered the Park, and dispersed at half-past 12 o'clock. A royal salute was fired in Thomas-street by the Volunteers at 12 o'clock. After the dispersion of this procession, about 100 ladies and gentlemen assembled at the Athenaeum, to partake of a dejeuner which had been prepared by Mr. and Mrs Llewellyn, Ship and Castle Hotel. The room was tastefully decorated with evergreens and artificial flowers, and the tables were also artistically arranged and interspered with plants and flowers, the whole producing a very harmonious effect. The bride cake and its decorations were much admired, and the whole preparations reflected the highest credit on Mrs. Llewellyn's taste. The principal families in the town were present, among whom we noticed-Mr. R. T. Howell and party Mr. C. W. Nevill and party Mr. W. H. Nevill and party Mr. R. Nevill and party; Mr. J. Buckley and party Mr. J. H. Rees Mr. B. Jones and party Capt. Ross Compte de Chap- pedelaine, French Consul Rev. D. Rees; Rev. Mr. Green, curate; Rev. D. M. Evans; Mr. F. L. Brown Rev. Mr. Rowlands, Welsh curate, &c., &c. R. T. Howell, Esq., presided; C. W. Nevill, Esq and B. Jones, Esq vice-chairmen. After the cloths had been removed, the Chairman rose and said,—The first toast which I have the high honour and privilege to propose to you, is one which is invariably received not only with unanimity, but with rapturous applause, by every loyal and patriotic citizen (hear, hear). I am sure that there is not in this assembly one heart which does not beat in sympathy with that of our most gracious Soverign on this happy day, and though there is not room for a gloomy thought or a sorrowful reminiscence, it is impossible to overestimate the extent of the obligation of this great nation to our beloved Queen and her late lamented husband, Prince Albert, for the exemplary education of the Royal Family of England (applause). Who is there here that does not feel that our most gracious Sovereign has fulfilled most eminently the duties of a wife and a mother, and that the nation has been conducted to its present state of civilization and prosperity by the high character and constitutional authority of a wise and conscientious Sovereign (cheers). Whilst on all occasions the health of the Queen is the object of universal solicitude, and her name is a tower of strength in every mansion and cottage, in every town and village (cheers). On this happy day Her Majesty's happiness is but a transcript of the joy and happiness of all her subjects. "The Queen"—(Drank with all honours.) The next toast which I have the honour to propose, is one which I would I could defer for a short time, as it is the toast of the day, and after which all others will be comparatively vapid. On an ordinary occasion it would have been my pleasing duty to give you the toast of His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales, and the rest of the Royal Family, but to-day throughout the whole of 'he British Empire, the heart of every loyal citizen, will rejoice at the union of Britannia's eldest son with the fair and lovely daughter of Denmark-a suitable and appropriate union, and which cannot fail to lead to the highest goal of human bliss. Time will not permit me to refer at any length to the early history of Eng- land, but I would, for a second, notice that King Canute made the conquest of England by the Danes some ten centuries ago. There is some parallelism in the history of to-day. The Royal Danish Princess has made con- quest not only of England and the heir apparent of the throne, but also of invincible Wales, and taken her beloved Prince captive. In no part of the Empire will there be more heartfelt rejoicing than in old Wales. All patriotic Welshmen will be justly proud of their Prince and Princess, and will cordially welcome them should they visit old Cambria, and I would here reiterate a wish which has been expressed that their Royal Highnesses should possess a residence within the Prin- cipality,—the country whence they derive their titles for it has been well said, with all the eloquence of truth, that the Welsh are to this hour a peculiar people, iden- tified with their Saxon neighbours only by a participa- tion in those equal laws and free institutions by which they have been more than repaid for the loss of a turbulent and sanguinary independence and if we turn over the chequered pages of their history, we shall find that the Welsh, as a noble-hearted and generous nation, took the first Prince that bore the title to their hearts and loved him, though crownless, to the end of his days. I feel that I am the exponent of the sentiments of every one present here this day, and of the town altogether, when I state that it is my ardent hope that the day may be distant when the royal bride and bridegroom may be called by Providence to ascend to a higher sphere (cheers)—that the day be far distant when the titles whijh they bear to-day (Prince and PrincesR) may merge in the higher, but not more renowned dignity of King and Queen. But we may well be convinced whensoever this event may occur, the same benignant rule will be extended over us for, doubtless, deeply planted in their breasts are the axioms that the end and good of a monarch cannot be separated from the good of the monarchy (applause). It is extremely satisfac- tory to know that the union which we this day celebrate is not promoted by policy or diplomacy, but is the result of pure affection, of congeniality of disposition, and accordance of heart, and though from the lofty sphere which the royal and happy pair may be at once called on to occupy, they may be surrounded by the pomp and pleasures of the world, they will have the example set before them by their illustrious mother of domestic and social virtue, and we may be well assured that happi- ness will have her seat and centre in their breasts"- that they will live together in the complete enjoyment of unalloyed bliss. The toast which I have the honour to propose is—" The health, long life, and prosperity of the Prince and Princess of Wales. (Drank with all honours). I The Chairman then said,—I now call upon you to drink as a toast The Lord Bishop and Clergy of the the Diocese, and the Ministers of all Denominations." This is a toast which, I am sure, will be received by all with that unanimity which its importance deserves. I have al ways felt the highest respect and admiration for the literary and theological attainments of the Right Rev. Bishop of this Diocese. The desire which his Lordship has at all times evinced for the promotion of the best interests of our Church, and of the spread of religion and education, has won the love and regard not only of the clergy, but also of the laity of this extensive diocese (cheers). It has been well said that the noble spectacle—it may be for the world-of this free land with its illustrious Monarch and free Parliament should teach observant Europe that a highly educated Church may be trusted to fulfil its spiritual mission; and with respect to religious teaching in general I may observe that the history of men and states shows nothing more conspicuously than this,—that in proportion as a pure and practical religion is acknowledged and pursued are individuals materially prosperous, and nations orderly and free. I give you The Bishop and Clergy." The Rev. Mc. Green, in responding for the Clergy, said, as the chairman had set the example of short speeches, he should adopt the same course and be brief. He had the honour of returning thanks for the Lord Bishop and Clergy. The chairman had so ably put and recounted the merits of his lordship, that there was nothing left for him to acknowledge but the great kind- ness -with which the name of his lordship and the deserved eulogy of the chairman had been received. (Hear, hear.) He believed the union which they had met to celebrate would be a happy one, and it was a great source of satisfaction, not only to them but to the whole nation. He begged to return his sincere thanks on behalf of the Bishop and Clergy. The Rev. D. Roes, in responding on behalf of the Dissenting Ministers, said: I am happy to find such loyalty displayed throughout the length and breadth of the land on the very interesting and important occasion of the marriage of the Prince of Wales, the future Sovereign of the British Empire. It evidently shows after all that there is something healthy about the Con- stitution of the country while thrones are tottering, sceptres are quivering, crowns are shaking, and those that wear them are trembling, our beloved Queen sits enthroned in the hearts of her subjects while differences exist amongst them, all unite to rally around her throne, and I am proud to have been called to acknowledge the compliment that you have paid to a numerous class which has always been eminent for its loyalty; and I rejoice that we have a Prince of Wales, though he has been pushed upon us originally by a stratagem, still we we are proud of him now, and if ever a period will come when Wales is absorbed in England, and its languuge disused, I suppose that no period will come when the eldest son of the reigning Sovereign shall not be called the Prince of Wales. I am also heartily glad that our Prince is by this time married, and married to the object of his choice. This will deliver him from hundreds of temptations which, in his high position, would beset him, of which we, in our respective spheres, can form no idea this will furnish him with home attractions,—a lovely and loving wife can do more to render home;homely and sweet than anything else, and this will tend to cultivate the family virtues, which have so beautifully sprung up already in the royal palace, and perpetuate the happi- ness accruing therefrom, during the reign of the Prince and Princess of Wales when they shall be called upon (far be the period) to ascend the throne. I have drunk their healths most heartily m pure water, and this is appro- priate for a wise man said, "It is not for kings to drink wine, nor for princes strong drink." The Chairman-I will not engage your time by reference to the long roll of deeds of nobleness and of bravery by which the Army and Navy of Great Britain have been distinguished, but I can- not refrain from referring to the importance of the Volunteer movement, which has survived the sneers of its detractors and the misgivings of its well-wishers, and aided by judicious encouragement, and pushed forward by its own innate vitality, it has assumed the importance of a great national move- ment. There is no conceivable motive of ambition, or vainglory, which can ever again lead England into a war of aggression, and as the operation of the Rifle Corps are confined to our own shores, it can be regarded only as a Peace Society, or establishment for the defence of our hearths and homes. I fear that this town and country at large are not fully aware of the sacrifice of time and money which a due attention to the duties of the corps involve on the part of those who take an active part in it. But it is clear that they are well worthy of high honour and esteem. I give you The Army, iNavy, and Volunteers." (Cheers.) Capt. Ross briefly responded for the Navy. Capt. W. H. Nevill, in responding for the Volunteers, said that he regretted his gallant friend, Col. Stepney, was not present to respoud for the army. It was now about three years since the volunteer l corps had been established in the town, and he was happy to say that it had lived down the feeling which then existed against it. (Cheers). It was predicted that the men would be drawn away into drinking and other dis- reputable habits. He did not participate in the views then expressed. That feeling which predicted such dire results from the formation of the Llanelly Corps of Volunteers had altogether been disappointed. (Ap- plause.) This was entirely owing to the orderly bear- ing of the men themselves, and the admirable manner In b which they had on all occasions conducted them- selves. (Great cheering.) The men were smarter, and in every way better for the drill, and he believed it to a great moral lever by which the men were raised in the social scale, and for bringing into action the exer- cise of great moral and social qualities. (Applause.) He also believed that it was a great peace establish- ment, and that it had helped forward the cause of peace throughout the world. He had great pleasure in acknowledging the toast of the volunteers. The band played Rule Britania Capt. Nevill then proposed the health of the lord- lieutenant, Earl Cawdor, and after paying a well merited compliment to the noble Earl, as his superior, alluded to the interest his lordship took in the prosperity of the county, and Llanelly in particular, as was shown by the gift of the noble Earl to the Mechanics' Institution, of a valuable collection of geological and mineralogical specimens for the Museum, for which he hoped a separate room would soon be provided (Applause.) He had great pleasure in giving the health of the nonble lord- lieutenant, Earl Cawdor. (Cheers.) Mr. C. W. Nevill proposed our foreign relations. (Applause ) It might appear at first sight that the cele- bration of the day was a festival of relations to welcome a young foreign lady, but that was not so, it was really to express the love and gratitude of the nation to the Queen. (Applause ) This was a voice of encourage- ment to them if they imitated the virtues of the Queen and late Prince Consort, and one of warning to them if they failed to do so. For foreign nations he felt it would have a certain and great significance. He might advert to the prosperity of the nation which foreign countries often attributed to our possession of coal, iron, and other minerals, together with the geographical and commercial facilities naturally afforded by the country. Though this was true to some extent, yet, he believed it was due in a much larger degree to our constitutional monarchy, and the government of the country, which gave us greater freedom and liberty and consequently greater happiness than any other country in the world. And he believed that the example of our good govern- ment was producing its effects on other nations. It might be traced in Sweden and Denmark the difference between them and us was but small, they were a kin- dred people. In Russia it was very different, and he clearly saw that Russia must meet the wishes of the people in order to be happy and prosperous. Italy was making progress, and following in our steps by giving constitutional freedom to the Italians. Franco had made wonderful progress under its Emperor in the same direction, and he believed that the Emperor desired to promote the good and advancement of his own people as far as his means permitted. (Applause.) This day might be held to be, and he hoped it would be the inaugeration of a still brighter future, and that it would help forward the cause of freedom, and constitutional liberty, and result in its extension throughout the world. He had great pleasure in mov- ing our foreign relations." (Great cheering). Compte de Chappedelaine, French Consul, In a very appropriate speech, acknowledged the toast. Mr. B. Jones proposed "The Trade of Llanelly" Amid all the sentiments which had been expressed there was nothing more interesting to them than the pro- sperity of the trade of Llanelly and he would beg to give them one hint in order to promote their trade, they must have extended dock accommodation. (Hear, hear.) Its trade depended upon its port, and like many other towns in England and Wales where they had extended their dock accommodation, it would improve and increase its trade. Mr. Jones then spoke at some length on the historical associations of the Danes with this country, and alluded to our own Alfred who first gave Christianity to the Danes. Denmark was more of a Protestant country than England, for out of two and-a half millions of people two millions were Pro- testants. The court of our Queen was the purest court in the world. (Applause.) It had been said that the Danes conquered England that was not the case, but it might be said now that a Dane had conquered them all. (Cheers.) Mr. Buckley said-It falls to me, I find, to respond to the toast given by Mr. Jones—"The Trade of Llanelly"—but as I only received this paper on my way here, I have but little to add to what has been already said, and it is well for you, I think, that I have not much to say, for at this advanced stage of the meeting, brevity will be the most acceptable quality of my speech. We need not fear, however, as to the trade of Llanelly if we do our duty, having, as alluded to by Mr. Nevill, the black diamonds beneath our feet; but we must provide increased shipping accommodation, otherwise we cannot do the trade. I would now revert for a minute to the great toast of tho day, and en- deavour to add a word to do honour to the happy pair, to their royal mother our Most Gracious Queen, and to the memory of that great, good, wise, and talented man, the late Prince Consort. If the character of the heir apparent to the British Throne is of importance to the nation we are deeply indebted to his father for the assiduous and unremitting attention he, paid to his education and training. Suppose for a moment that after his marriage with our Queen he had turned out just the opposite character to that he sustained, what im, ght have been the consequence—think of the pro- fligate Court of Charles II. and the not much better one of George IV., remembered by some of us. Let us hope and pray that the celebration of these nuptials may be the dawn of a brighter day to her Majesty; that these unions of her children with the Royal Families of Europe may be the means of cementing peace and good will throughout Europe and the world; that the mourning, and sorrow, and gloom that has enveloped her Majesty and her family for the last year may be dissipated on this glad day, and that she may be able to adopt the words of the poet-words put by Shakspeare into Royal lips (but not so worthy as those by whom we would have them uttered)—" And all the clouds that loured about our house are in the deep bosom of the ocean buried." (Applause.) The Chairman proposed The Harbour Commis- sioners, and paid a well-merited tribute of praise to Mr. Rees, Kilmaenllwyd, the chairman, who responded for the Harbour Commissioners. Mr. C. W. Nevill proposed the health of the chairman, to whom the success of the day was very much owing his labours to render the arrangements complete were incessant, and the least they could do was to thank him. (Great cheers. Drank with honours.) The Chairman responded, and was loudly cheered. Mr. J. H. Rees proposed "The Ladies of England." (Applause.) The company then adjourned to the Park, where the Sunday Schools were rapidly concentrating. The company separated soon after 3 o'clock, and joined their respective Sunday Schools that now betran to assemble in the following order :-Llanelly Church school; Dafn tin works St. Paul's and Felin Foel; Wesleyan, (English) Ditto, (Welsh); Ditto, Dock Capel Newydd and Furnace, Methodists; Capel Zion, Baptists; Capel Als, Independents; Park-street, ditto, (English) Trinity, Sea Side, Methodists Siloah, Inde- pendents; Bethel, Baptists. All these schools numbered about 5,000. After perambulating the town they re- paired to the park, where God bless the Prince of Wales," and the national anthem, were sung. At the request of several parties present, Mr. Meachin con- ducted. The Church schools, the Wesleyan, and Capel Newydd then left the park. The church schools took tea in the Market-place, and the other schools in their respective schoolrooms and chapels. Capel Als, Zion, and the Sea Side schools were con- gregated on the cricket ground, and also sung the na- tional anthem in Welsh, under the leadership of the Rev D. Rees, and Mr. Williams, master of the Llanelly Copper Works school. Time and space renders it impossible to give further details of the decorations and proceedings at the different tea drinkings of the school, but we believe all were well supplied, and, as far as the extensive preparations re- quired admitted, went off with satisfaction to all. In the evening the public buildings and several of the principal tradesmen's houses were illuminated. The Athenroum, Town Hal!, Thomas's Arms, Mr. Watkins, Mr. Thomas, printer, Ship and Castle, Mr. Thomas, painter, Mr. Jones, druggist, South Wales Pottery, and Mr. D. Morris, draper, &c. An immense bonfire was lighted on the Bigin with very fine effect. The fireworks ordered for the occasion did not arrive in time, and created much disappointment. Everything passed off very quietly, even the rural sports in the park, to which we can only thus give a passing notice,

LLANELLY BOARD OF HEALTH. J The monthly general meeting of the Board was held at the Town-hall on Saturday last, when the following members were present:—Mr R. T. Howell, chairman, Mr W. H. Nevill, Mr D. Evans, Mr W. Thomas, Mr D. Morris, Mr R. B. Jones, Mr W. Rosser, Mr J. George, and Mr Ben. Jones. The Chairman read the minutes of the previous meet- ing, which were confirmed. The vouchers for payments ordered at the last meet- ing were examined and found correct, except Messrs. B. Howell and Son, and Railway and Dock Company, the cheques for which have not been issued also Mr. Rees Goring Thomas's, wanting at the last meeting. The balance in the Treasurer's hands appeared to be-To the credit of the Estate Committee, C291 3s. Id., and to the credit of the general account, L209 4s. 8d. The following minutes were then read by the Chair- man :—" At a meeting of the Estate Committee, held on the 28th February, present-R. T. Howell, (chairman), Ben. Jones, R. Harries, and D. Morris. It was resolved 1that the Surveyor be requested to obtain plans and estimates of the proposed drinking fountain, and to submit the same to the committee meeting on the fol- lowing Wednesday. The letter of the Hon. James K. Howard, Chief Commissioner of Woods, was read, re- ferring to the Crown allotments, near the river Dafen and it was resolved that the Clerk be directed to reply that the Board will take a lease of the said land at the rent named, provided that the office of Woods will con- sent to an immediate sale, or an extended term of lease. The letter of Messrs. J. S. Tregonning & Co., of the 23rd January, was read, applying for a lease of land ad- joining their works, and the report of the Surveyor thereon and it was resolved that it be recommended to the Board to rent the said land at tIO per annum, for a poriod coterminous with their present lease, and subject to precautionary provisions, the draft lease to be pre- pared by Mr. Brown.-At a meeting of the Committee held on the 4th inst., present-R. T. Howell, (chairman), D. Morris, J. George, and Ben. Jones. The Surveyor laid before the meeting a drawing of a water fountain, and it was resolved that he be authorised to order the same as a public improvement of the town." Mr." R. B. Jones said he should like to state his opinion with reference to a portion of the minutes just read-the portion referring to the Crown allotments. It was his opinion that the Board had better not, at the present moment, enter into such agreement, as it might seriously interfere with the extension of the corporate rights of the town in the future. He proposed that that portion of the minutes be not confirmed. The Chairman thought Mr. Jones had given sufficient reason for reconsidering the subject. Still, he thought the Government had given them the law on the question. Mr. R. B. Jones thought it a very improvident taking they were taking from Earl Cawdor that which the Enclosure Commissioners awarded to him. The minutes were then confirmed, with the exception of the portion objected to by Mr. Jones, which was referred back to the Estate Committee. Mr. R. B. Jones suggested that that part of the minutes referring to Messrs. Tregoning's lease should be communicated to Mr. Octavius Williams, their agent, as soon as possible. The following minutes were read by Air. Nevill:- At a meeting of the Highway Committee, held on the 7th instant, present—Mr. R. T. Howell (chairman), W. Thomas, D. Evans, J. George, and B. Jones. The collector's statement for the fortnight ending 13th Feb. showed that he had collected—Of water rate, £19 14s. 2d. highway rate, £79 3s. 6d. pig market tolls, £ 1 6s. 8d. manure sold, XI 16s. total, CI02 Os. 4d. For the fortnight ending 27th Feb., the statement showed that he had collected Water rate, £ 13 6s. 2d. highway rate, £46 19s. 5d.; pig market, 15s. lOd. manure sold, C5 3s. repairs of water pipes, &c., C3 15s. Id.; total, C69 19s. Gd. The Collector applied for payment of poor-rate on Dafn Works, £23 6s. 8d, and the Clerk was requested to report on the liability of the claim. Bills amounting to jMl 13s. 2d. were ordered to be paid. The Surveyor reported that the cargo of flags ordered from Ireland, per Capt. Davies, had been delivered, and were the best he had yet seen at Llanelly A sum of X50 on account of them may be paid Capt. Davies Messrs. Jonah Davies and Co., contractors, may receive £ 20 on account of contract No. 1, and £ 20 on account of contract No. 2; Llanelly Gas Company, £60, and other bills, amounting to X13 3s. Id, may be paid. The river Lleidy, near the Old Castle, is dangerous to the road, and, moreover, is a receptacle for ashes and other rubbish which is carried down to the harbour. If a wall were erected such would be stopped, and the road secured. Mr. R. B. Jones called attention to the fact that little or no progress had been made with the letting of the estate lands. He could not believe that land of the value of some portions of their estate might not be let at a proper rate in this borough, but it was quite possible for such a prohibitory price to be put upon it, that a large quantity would remain on their hands. Mr. Ben. Jones inquired how much of the land remained unlet. Mr R. B. Jones said they had not let three-fourths of it. He had often called attention to the desirability of keeping the estate accounts separate, as directed by the bye laws; and he thought the bye-laws should be enforced, and that the clerk should be directed to keep a separate account of the receipts of the estates. Mr. George then read the following minutes :—" At a meeting of the Sanitary Committee, held on the 7th inst., present—Messrs. R. T. Howell (in the chair), D. Evans, J. George, W. Thomas, and Ben. Jones Mr. John Thomas's notice and plan of a building near the Roman Catholic Chapel was approved of; also Mr. Thomas's (tanner) notice and plan of a house in Church- street. Mr. Ben. Jones inquired if the street in which the house referred to in the minutes was to be erected had no name. It seemed odd to describe the house simply as being near the Roman Catholic Chapel and not in some particular street. Mr. Rosser said he did not know the name of the street, nor whether it had received one. Mr. li. B. Jones thought it scarcely necessary to call the attention of the builder to the matter. Suppose they agreed to call it Catholic-street. (Laughter.) Mr. D. Morris suggested that they should wait until a corner house was erected, for as soon as that was done the street would doubtless receive its name. (Laughter.) The Chairman said he had before him an estimate for a general district rate, but he thought it should be referred to the Highway Committee to report to the meeting of the Board on Saturday next. Mr. R. B. Jones thought the committees were given too much work, but he would not object to the estimate being referred. The Chairman said the committee could give the matter more deliberate attention than could be bestowed upon it at a general meeting. It was then referred to the committee. Mr. R. B. Jones said he wished to make an observa- tion or two as to the dedication of streets. He thought the Board should fix a limited period for such dedication, as otherwise the street might remain in an incomplete state as long as it suited the owner or builder to keep them so. His attention had been drawn to this matter from the state of the street crossing from the Swansea- road to the Potteries, and also the street at Greenfield, near the Catholic Chapel. They were not such as could be used by the public. The street from Mr. Rosser's house to Greenfield was in a wretched condition, for after a shower of rain they were impassable in con- sequence of the pools of water. He thought the atten- tion of the Highway Committee should be called to the subject. Mr. Rosser said, one of the streets alluded to was dedicated to the public, but the others were private as yet. Mr. Jones said the streets he alluded to belonged to the Board, and he would move That it be referred to the Highway Committee to enquire and report whether there are any streets or land laid out under any plans submitted to the Board which are incomplete or not constructed and completed, and dedicated in accordance with the Public Health Act, the Local Government Act, the Highways Acts, and the Bye-Laws of the Board, and that the committee be requested to report on the liability of the Board to the repairs of such roads." Mr. Rosser thought the Board could make the streets their own when they choose. Mr. R. B. Jones said, as soon as the street was dedica- ted to the public the owner could be compelled to comply with the bye-laws of the Board. In reply to Mr. Nevill, Mr. Jones said that before the street was dedicated the owner was not subject to the bye-laws; at any rate not while the street was build- ing. Mr. Rosser thought the streets generally became the property of the public when the owners were tired of keeping them in repair. Mr. Ben Jones was of opinion that when the owner or builder of a house or street submitted plans to this Board, he became plenable to the bye-laws. He thought they should also be bound to complete the building within a reasonable time. Mr. R. B. Jones supposed the Board were ignorant that there was such a thing as a South Wales Highway Act The Board, however, seemed to take no notice of Acts of Parliament; they appeared to have a limited appreciation of statute law. (Laughter.) He move that the subject should be referred to the committee, because he liked the information to come in a regular form, and the Board could then take action according to the re- port. The motion was carried unanimously. Mr. R B. Jones said, some two or three months ago he called the attention of the Board to the circumstance that Mr. John Humphreys had been prevented from building near Worn foundry, and also to the state of the roads through Mr. Lewis, of Strady's property. The matter was then discussed and it was arranged that it should be looked into so far as he knew, however, no- thing had yet been done. He thought the matter should be cleared up, for the Board had not acted courteously towards Mr. Lewis in neglecting it. It was resolved that the attention of the Surveyor should be called to the matter. On the motion of Mr. Ben. Jones, it was resolved that the members of the Board should be requested to join in the procession on the day of the marriage of the Prince of Wales. Cheques to the amount of £51 13s. 2d. having been signed, the Board separated.

LOCAL MARKETS. CARMARTHEN CORN MARKETS, FOR THE WEEK END- ING MARCH 12.-The weather for the past week has by no means been favourable to agricultural operations. Wo have had frost, sleet, and likewise a considerable amount of rain. The transactions in grain are upon a very limited scale. Prices steady, say for- Wheat 5s. 6d. to 6s. 6d. per 641bs. Barley 3s. 9d. to 4s. 3d. per t 41bs. Oats 2s. 2d. to 2s. 6d. per 401bs. Total quantities brought to market on the 21st inst — Wheat, 264 qrs. 6 bush. Barley, 0 qrs 0 bush. Oats, 108 qrs. 5 bush. Average per qr. Wheat, £ 2 6s llid; Barley, XO Os Od Oats, 18s 2 jd. IIUTTER.-The supply quite adequate to the demand, prices rather on the declined, say lOd to lO jdper lb. CHEESE.—In better demand at former prices, say 18s to 20s per cwt. SWANSEA, Saturday.—Wheat, at per sack, 20s Barley 12s Od; Oats, 17s. Salt butter, Os lid per lb. Fresh ditto, Is 4d. Potatoes, 81b. for 6d. HAVERFORDWEST, Saturday.—Wheat, 6s Od to Os Od per bush. Barley, 3s 8d to Os Od per bush.; Oats, 2s 3d to 2s 4d per bush.; Salt Butter, lOd to lOjd; Fresh ditto, Is Id to Is 2d; Cheese, 3d to 4d. The supply of each article moderate. Wheat brought to market, 93 bushels, of which 80 were sold; Barley brought to market, 754 bushels, 528 of which were sold. FISHGUARD, Thursday.—The weather has been toler- ably fine this week. The trade very much depressed, except Barley, which is firm. Wheat 5s to 5s 6d, Barley 3s 6(1 to 4s, Oats 2s Id to 2J 2d per bush, of 381bs. CARDIGAN, Saturday.—Trade was carried on firmly. Small deliveries of Barley, which also advanced in price. Other grain remained firm. Wheat 6s 3d to 6s 9d, Barley 4s 3d to 4s 9d, Oats 2s 4d to 2s 9d, with more also for some choice sample for seed per bushel.

HUNTING APPOINTMENTS. The Gogerddan Foxhounds will meet on Monday, March 16th, at Mabws; on Friday, March 20th, at Llyfnant Bridge,—each day at 10 o'clock. The Tivy-sidc Fox-hounds will meet on Monday, March 16th, at the Star on Thursday, March 19th, at Llangeler,—each day at half-past 10 o'clock. Mr. Powell's Hounds will meet on Tuesday, March 17th, at Gloine; and on Friday, March 20, at Maen- clochog-each day at a quarter past 10 o'clock. Mr. Pryse's Harriers will meet on Thursday, March 19th, at Rhyd Cwmerrai—at 10 o'clock. The Vale of Ayron Hounds (Captain Vaughan's) will meet on Tuesday, March 17th, at Llanayron and on Friday, March 20th, at LUghmead-each day at 10 o'clock.