The Illustrated Usk Observer and Raglan Herald

BtrtijS. At Monmouth, October 21, the wife of W. C. A. Williams, Esq-, of a son. marriages. At the Register Office, Abergavenny, Oct. 19, Mr. Thomas Parry, to Miss Sarah Aubery, both of Garnddyrris. At the same place, October 20, Nfr, James" Rogers, of Llan- tillio Pertholey, to Mrs. Emma Jones, of Garway. At the same place, October 22, Mr. John George Davis to Miss Elizabeth Williams, both of Cwmyoy. At St. Mary's Church, Monmouth, October 28, by the Rev. Walter Hill, Charles John, eldest son of Mr. Rees, decorator, &c., to Eleanor Powles, eldest daughter of Mr. J. Giles, -cabinet maker, &c., all of Monmouth. At St. Mary's Church, Chepstow, Oct. 28, by the Rev. Samuel Francis Morgan, Mr. Rowland Fisher, of Cardiff, to Sarah Louisa, second daughter of the late Mr. Thomas Howell, confec- tioner, Chepstow. At the residence of his son, Snow Hill, Wolverhampton, October 21, Mr. Henry Thompson, until recently of the Raven refreshment rooms, Abergavenny, aged 46 years. At Llantillio Pertholey, October 19, Eliza, wife of Mr. Henry Bath, aged 42 years. At Hardwick Cottage, Chepstow, October 25, Lucy, widow of Samuel Hall Lord, Esquire, of Longbay Castle, Barbadoes, and daughter of Thomas Divey Wightwick, Esq., Byshbury Hall, Staffordshire, aged 77 years.

[;yt !9:hZtrhtr. DISTRICT INTELLIGENCE. Usk. Farmers' Club. The annual gathering in connection with this society, took place on Tuesday last. The ground selected for the ploughing match was a fine level clover ley, in the occu- pation of Mr. "William Cadle, Llancayo farm, situated about a mile and a half from the town. At nine o'clock, lots were drawn for"places,and,;at a quarter to ten, on the signal being given, forty-seven ploughmen commenced their friendly competition for the prizes. This Club,which has been established 20 years, has always been popular with ploughmen, and its meetings,which have for the lengthened period named, been regarded as occa- sions for the display of a greater amount of skill, and for more spirited competition than most other societies of the kind in this district, have always been well at- tended but this year the number of competitors was very much larger than on any of the preceding ones, and most of the ploughing was of a first-rate character. A heavy fog prevailed during the whole time the ploughing was in progress a circumstance which probably somewhat diminished the number of spectators on the ground; but, nevertheless, there was about an average attendance of persons interested ip such mat- ters, who were unanimous in expressing their satisfaction with the character of the work, and it must be satisfactory to the judges (Mr. Thomas Watkins, Llanvair Kilgeddin, and Mr. Thomas Williams, of Bryncaen), to know-when, as we are aware, universal satisfaction is impossible-that their decisions met with the concurrence of by far the majority of the practical men who criticised the operations. The competition for the prize offered by Reginald Herbert, Esq., for the best four.year-old nag, by a thorough-bred horse, was not so good' as might have been expected, considering it was open to the whole county, four naga only being BbeWD. The competition for the prizeoffered by Major M'Donnell for the best 61bs. of butter, was well contested, nine sam- ples being shewn, which did great credit to the farmers', wives, and daughters, of the neighbourhood, either of which samples deserved a prize, and caused the judges (Major Herbert and Mr. Peter Marfell) some difficulty to decide on which to bestow the honor. The butter, cheese, and poultry, were exhibited in a room at the Three Salmons Hotel. The luncheon laid out at Llancayo House, was on an extensive scale, and of first-rate quality Mr. and Mrs. Cadle, and their family, a,a usual, spacing no trouble to give their numerous guests a hearty welcome. THE DINNER Took place, as usual, at the Three Salmons Hotel, in the afternoon, and was well attended, the number present being about sixty. Reginald Herbert, Esq. (of Olytha), President for the year,, presided, and the vice-chair was ably filled by Major Herbert. The company also comprised the fol- lowing gentlemen :—Major Stretton, Alexander Rolls, Esq., Major M'Donnell, Captain Scrope, Master Alphonso Herbert, (of Clytha), James Bromfield, Esq.. Esq., His Honor Judge Falconer, J. D. Falconer, Esq., the Revs. J. Cadwallader, W. Price, W. Shields, and G. Hooper; Dr. Smythe (Abergavenny); Messrs. W. Cadle, Llancayo; Hatton, London; Peter Marfell, Clytha; W. B. Gething, the Rhadyr Warren Evans, Llandowlas Edward Evans, Whitehall; A. Cuthbertson, Cefn Llech; William Graham, jun., Newport W. Williams, jun., Caerlicken; Davies, junior, Langstone; Leonard, Abernant Captain Williams, Newport John Hay- cox, Graigolway George Pritchard, Llanvihangel Williams, Llanbaddock; Alsop Jones, jun., Cayo W. Eisher, Trostrey; Greene, Abergavenny; Morgan, Llan- gattock; George Knight, Kemeys; W. Evans, Llancayo; J. C. Suiton, Bedford; and Messrs. H. Roberts, W. H. Boswortb, Herbert Williams, John Herbert, Herbert Thomas, Joseph Evans, and J. H. Clark, of Usk, &c., &c. The repast having been concluded, and the cloth removed, the President gave successively the toasts, "The Queen," and the" Prince and Princess of Wales," and in intro- ducing the latter, said perhaps the company bad not all heard the interesting intelligence that it was expected about next March the Princess would present her husband with a ciiild-lat them hope it may be a son and heir (applause). The President next gave the Army and JNayy, remarking that the prosperous state of the countfy was in a great measure due to the efficient state of those services. The Vice-president said be supposed he had been com- missioned to propose the next toast because be belonged to an opposite service, being in fact a peace-officer. The toast had reference to the Volunteer force. It had now become a very numerous body throughout the country, and more so in this county than in most other parts, and from the little opportunities be had had of judging, he had been much pleased with the comparative perfection they had arrived at-he would not say they were perfect, because they were far from it; but they shewed great effi- ciency, which had been in a great measure brought about by the zeai and energy of the officers. He saw several volunteers present, amongst them two officers (the Presi- dent and Captain Scrope), and be should couple their names <■ ith the toast (applause). Captain Scrope thought it rather hard that he should be called upon to respond to the toast, when Major M'Donnell had nor, done so for the militia—[Mi.jor M'Donnell: The militia has not been proposed]—and tor his own part he would rather give the Usk corps an hour's drill than make a speech. It was very satisfactory to see the pro- gress made by the volunteers, and it may be interesting for him to state that he had just been informed that the corps which be had the honor to command, in Yorkshire, had produced twenty.ono marksmen, and this, when they considered the corps only mustered eighty men, was, he thought, very creditable. He did not mention it in the way of brag, but merely to shew what proficiency had been attained by volunteers. The speaker having thanked the company for the mention of his name, proposed the Mon. mouthshire Militia" (.coupled with the name of Major M'Donnell). Major iVi'Donnell briefly acknowledged the toast. The President; As president to-day, I have to propose the health of the Lord Lieutenant. The President next briefly proposed the Members for the County and Boroughs," which was received with cheers. Major Stretton said he was extremely happy to propose The Bishop and the Clergy of the Diocese, and the Clergy of oiber Denominations." It gave the company' pleasure, no doubt, as it did him, tosee so many of the clergy present; he had not the pleasure of knowing them; but he had no doubt they were good men, and they (the company) all knew that a good man was a good man What- ever his profession may be (loud cheers). The Rev. J. Cadwallader (in answer to a call) responded to the toast. In the course of some observations, he said he remembered at a former meeting regretting that so few clergymen were present; but he now could congratulate them upon having four amongst the company, and speaking for those gentlemen and himself, he could say that it was most gratifying to them to know that they found a place in the esteem of their neighbours. After some further remarks, in which he dwelt upon the tendency of these meetings to bind the clergy and those for whose spiritual welfare they labor more closely together, the reverend gentleman thanked the company in grateful terms for the manner in which the toast had been received. At the request of the President, Mr. Clark, the hon. sec., then read the awards of prizes, which we append, remarking upon the continued prosperity of the society, as shewn by the increased number of competitors for the ploughing prizes, there having been that day forty-seven ploughmen on the field, a larger number by eight than on any previous occasion. AWARD OF PRIZES For ploughing half-an-acre of land in the best and most workmanlike manner, within four hours, with a pair of horses without driver:- CHAMPION PRIZEs.-Open to All England, to be com- peted for by ploughmen who have gained first prizes in any year in the first and second classes. First prize, zC5 second, £3. Nine competitors, viz.- No 12 A. Powell, ser. to Ramsone & Sims, Ipswich-Highly com. 13 James Waites, servant to Mr. John Logan, Goytre. 14 George Brown, servant to Messrs. Howard, Bedford-FIRST 15 Richard Rees, Wernhere farm. 16 Albert Baker, son of Mr. Baker, Saint Brides—SECOND 17 Thomas Morgan, servant to Mr. Davies, Llangstone 18 Leonard Lewis, servant to Miss Morgan, Mamhilad 19 John Badham, servant to Mr. Bateman, Bertholly 20 Philip Leonard, son of Mr. John Leonard, Tonybetha CLASS I.-To the farmer (being a member) or his son. First prize, £3; second, JB2. Eleven competitors, vie.— 1 Henry Waters, son of M- Waters, Llangibby-Commended. 2 George Baker, son of Mr Baker, Saint Brides-FIRST 3 Alsop Jones, son of Mr Alsop Jones, Cayo, Landenny 4 Tom Crump, son of Mr Wm. Crump, Estavarney—SECOND 5 Wm. Marfell, son of Mr Peter Marfell—Highly commended 6 Edward Griffiths, son of Mr Griffiths, Trostrey 7 John Jones, Llangibby 8 Benjamin Rees, Wernhere, near Usk 9 Wm. Cadle, son of Mr William Cadle, Lancayo farm 10 John Probert, son of Mr John Probert, Langtbby 11 Wm. Price, son of Mr. Edward Price, Kemeys [An objection was raised to Mr. Baker being awarded the first prize, on account of his having previously won a first prize in a similar class at Chepstow. The President said the objection would be enquired into.J CLASS 2.-To the ploughman or servant of a member. First prize, £ 3; second, zC2; third, £ 110s.; fourth, iEl; fifth, 10s. Nineteen competitors, viz.- 21 C. Merriman, ser. to Mr Jas.Williams, Lanbaddock—SECOND 22 John Rees, servant to Mr. Stretton, Brynderwen 23 James Winter, servant to Mr Cadle, Lancayo 24 Wm. Waters, servant to Mr Edw. Evans, Lantrissent 25 WID. Williams, serv. to MrE Williams, Tredunnock-FIFTH 26 Wm. Watkins, servant to Mr W Gething, Rhadyr 27 James Davies, servant to Mr Hallen, Gwernesney 28 David Jones, serv. to Mr Nicholas Jenkins, Catsash 29 W Flook, servant to Mr Warren Evans, Landowlas 30 Charles Lewis, servant to Mr G Knight, Kemeys-THIRD 31 John Faulkwell, servant to Mr Cadle, Lancayo 32 John Jenkins, servant to Mr Cadle 33 George Gooden, servant to Mr. Cadle, Lancayo 34 James Partridge, servant to Mr Davies, Langstone—FOUBTH 35 Edward Lewis, servant to Mr Reece Keene, Pencreeg 36 W Higgins, servant to Mr. Cuthbertson, Langibby-FIRST 37 James, Davies, servant to Mr Lister, Cefn 11a 38 Joseph Watkins, servant to Mr. Lister 39 Thomas Williams, servant to Mr Phillips, Trestevan CLASS 3.—To the son or servant of a member, under twenty years of age. First prize, £ 1 10s.; second, £1. Eight competitors, viz.- 40 James Leonard, son of Mr. J Leonard, Tonybetha—SECOND 41 William Edwards, servant to Mr Haycox, Graigolway. 42 W Mayo, servant to Mr Cadle 43 Chas; Probert, servant to Mrs. Evans, Upper Lanoayo 44 Jas. Cook, servant to Mrs Lewis, Park farm, Langibby 45 I.Lawrence, son of Mr J Lawrence, Kemeys I nferiOr-FIILST 46 George Watkins, serv. to Mr Evans, Landowlas 47 Wm. Jones, servant to Mr James Phillips, Trestevan CLASS 4.—A prize of Three Guineas (given by the Duke of Beaufort), to the tenant farmer who shows the neatest farm, and tile best fences and roadways, arid displays the greatest economy in the management of his homestead, especially in the husbanding and preparation of manure. Three competitors, via.— Mr. Cadle, Lancayo PBIZE Mr Marfell, Cwm farm, Clytha, and Mr. G Prichard, White house, Llanvihangel, highly commended. CLASS 5.—For the best set and thatched ricks, done bv a son or servant of a member of this Club, regard being had to the number of ricks. First prize, 91; second, 10s. Five competiiors. Leonard Lewis, servant to Miss Morgan, Mamhilad—FIRST Samuel Monkley, servant to Mr Price, Kemeys Cora.—SECOND Henry Waters, son of Mr Waters, Langibby—Commended CLASS 6.—For hedging three perches (twenty-one yards) within six hours. Eirst prize, Xl second, 10s. Five competitors. Henry Williams, servant to Mr. Marfell, Cwm farm—FIRST Rees Price, servant to Mr WjWilliams, Llangibby—SECOND CLASS 7— A prize of £5 (tjiven by Reginald Herbert, Esq.,) for the best four-year-old nag, by a thorough-bred horse. Open to the county of Monmouth. Four com- petitors. Dr. Smythe, Abergavenny. CLASS 8.—A prize ut One Guinea, to the farmer's wife or daughter who shall exhibit the best sample of butter, not less than six pounds. Nine competitors. Mrs. John Lewis, Llanbaddock. CLASS 9.—A prize of One Guinea, to the farmer's wife or daughter who shall exhibit the best half cwt. of cheese, of her own making. Three competitors. Mrs. John Lewis, Llanbaddock. CLASS 10.—A prize of 10s., to the farmer's wife or daughter who shall exhibit the best couple of fowls for the table; to be bred and fed by the exhibitor. Six competitors. Mrs. Frost, New House, Landenny. Judge Falconer said he thought it a very good practice for farmers, on these occasions, to express their opinions on the proceedings of the day. He had been some time out of the business, but nevertheless would take the liberty to make one or two remarks. In the first place, it was a question with him whether it was policy of them in their limited society to invite champion ploughmen from a distance to compete for the prizes. It was, no doubt, well for the men of the district to see what these men could do, and it formed a very good standard to which to direct their efforts, but he would ask if there was that marked difference between the work, to render it desirable to enter into competition with the whole kingdom. In a society of large means, like the one in Newport, it may perhaps be wise to throw their prizes open to the kingdom, but he doubted whether it applied to a society of limited means like this one. He should, of course, like to see an Usk man beat an All England man, but that was what they could hardly expect, as the latter worked under great advantages, and is selected from the best ploughmen to be found. He could not say much as to the other prizes, but he had been much pleased with inspecting the butter, cheese, and poultry, and had observed that the samples of the former were very good-four of them particularly so, and he was sorry that there was not a prize to give to each of the four in fact, the whole of the butter was good in its make, its preparation, and in its cutting up. This was not the case though with a great deal of the butter made in this district, the makers not being, in many in- stances, very particular how they turned their butter out. He knew that in Hampshire much attention was given to this, especially as to the stamp it was not of much im. portance, but he had observed that the stamps were not so nice in these parts. The cheese and poultry also did much credit to those who exhibited. He had been struck, when he first came to this part of the country, at seeing the little attention that was paid to rick making and thatching. He had noticed that in the neighbourhood of Barnet, Hertfordshire, the ricks were made running up to a point like the roof of a house, so that the rain would run off, and every pound of hay up to the top was good. They bad, too, in that district, a peculiar way of putting their hay together —they carried it very quickly, so that it remained green to the last. He made these remarks from having noticed in the counties be travelled the great waste that prevailed from bad thatching. The speaker then referred to the in. troduction of machinery for farming. There had been a reaping and a mowing machine brought into this neigh- bourhood, which were matters of much importance to farmers, as the supply of labor had greatly decreased from the continued emigration, and it was pleasing to notice that these machines were not received with hostility by the workmen, but rather with approbation, for if they looked at it in the right light, they would know that the machine would be the means of increasing the farmer's capital, and so enable him to employ more labor ultimately. The speaker illustrated this by an instance of a farmer of bis acquaintance, who at first employed but one man and three boys, but be gradually increased his machines until he had a great number, and he then employed fiiteen men on the same farm. The speaker next referred to the reaping machine, as enabling the farmer to overcome the difficulty of housing his wheat in critical seasons, which were very frequent, in consequence of the harvest coming at a time when the tropical rains were near. The only person he knew who gathered his wheat in good order last year was one who had a reaping machine. This season had been a good one, but nevertheless, where labor was scarce and no machines existed, the grain had not been gathered in good order. Only last week he saw barley out in Breconshire, and was told that there was wheat, also out about three miles from Brecon. He anticipated that the machines he had spoken of would gradually become more general in this district, to the advantage of all con- cerned. Mr. Falconer resumed his seat amidst loud applause. Mr ..Sutton (representative of Messrs. Howard) speaking from his experience in attending these kind of meetings all over the country, thought it was very desirable that such men as his employers uad sent should be allowed to compete, and they had been invited by several clubs for many years past to do so. He contended that such men shewed those brought into competition with them how to use their implements, which resulted in a marked im- provement ia the ploughing year by year at these meet- ings. As to the work done by their man that day, he thought those present would agree with him that there was a vast difference between it and any shewn against it. If lie may be allowed to throw out a suggestion, he would suggest that they should establish a champion class for their own men, as well as one for all-comers, and he would further suggest that only one prize be given in the all- comeif class. Judge Falconer explained that he had no wish to exclude competition, but rather to invite it on legitimate grounds. Major Stretton said as there'was nothing like the pre- sent. time, he should be happy to give a guinea towards the All England prize. Major Herbert, in reference to ATr. Falconer's remarks respecting the Newport Club, contended that if any club in' the county could bring men to compete with the champions, it was the Usk, as it was the best and the largest club for ploughing in the district. Mr. Thomas Watkins (one of the judges) in answer to Judge Falconer, said that the ploughing in the champion's and the farmers' sons' classes was exceedingly good, and gave them ;nuc > trouble in arriving at their decisions, but in the servants' class it was not so good. Major s <■( t n asked-M r. Sutton if the quality of work in ploughi did not depend to some extent upon the manner in wlÚch the team was put together. Mr. Sutton replied that he could not undetst;anda good ploughman going into a field with his team badly put together. Major Stretton remarked that,he was induced to ask the question from the fact that his man was a competitor, and he took a pair of horses one of which cost 15s., and the other 940 (laughter), and he was of course unsuccessful. Mr. Sutton appended a few remarks to show that so much did not depend upon the horses as on the skill of the workman in managing them this opinion he substantiated by saying that one of the horses with which the champion had ploughed that day, bad previously been used for drawing railway trucks, the other having been bought in Essex, and the only practice they had had together was in travelling the country attending ploughing matches. li.Cige Falconer, in a happy speech, in which he spoke of the Clytha family in terms of great admiration, pro- posed the health of the President, as a representative of the ancient lords of the soil. Mr. Reginald Herbert, in responding to the toast, said it would be great presumption for him to attempt to give any instructions to practical men, who had'devoted their lives to farming, as to the way to manage their business, but he would tell them that he should always feel great pleasure in doing anything in his power to forward their interests. In the courae of some further remarks, the speaker observed that there was nothing more wanted in this county than draining, and he wbuid suggest that the farmers should adopt as their crest a draining pipe rampant. He also communicated to the company that Judge Falconer had consented to act as president for the next year. Mr. Haycox, in passing a few remarks upon what had fallen from the president, said if the draining pipe would be a good crest for the farmer, he was sure it would be a good one for the landlord (hear, hear). After giving some of bis experience in working a wet soil, the speaker added that if, when tbe tenant complained, the landlord would adopt the crest of the draining pipe, and instead of lowering the rent drain the land, it would be more advantageous to both. The President proposed the Successful Competitors," hoping that those who had been beaten would not be dis- heartened, but would come again and try and do better. With reference to the drainage, he thought that the gen- tleman who had just spokon was not a tenant of his (the speaker's) father (no, no). Dr. Smythe responded to the toast, but said he had been told there was no merit in his prize. He had, however, tried everywhere in the district to get good horses, but there were none to be got-they were a lot of rubbish. There had been a suggestion made at Abergavenny, a short time since, by Captain Rolph, to form a joint stock com- pany for purchasing some good horses to travel the country, and he thought it was a scheme well worth the considera- tion of farmers, as he had it upon the authority of an eminent Herefordshire breeder, that there was no more profitable stock to breed than good hprses. After some further remarks upon horse-breeding, the speaker said he intended devoting what he had gained that day to aug- menting the prize he gave at the Abergavenny show, and he hoped to see some of the farmers from this neighbour- hood there compeLingfor it. Dr. Smythe then proposed the Unsuccessful Competitors," amongst whom, he understood, was his friend Mr. George Pritchard. Mr. George Priichard, in responding, said he was not often among the unsuccessful competitors, but unfortu- nately he was now in that position. After a few observa- tions on the subject referred to by the preceding speaker, Mr. Pritchard proposed the Master of the Hounds and the Monmouthshire Hunt" (cheers and musical honours). Major Stretton responded to the toast in a humorous speech, observing that he thought the Monmouthshire Hunt was the best poultry market for the farmers' wives, as about £60 had been paid for poultry bills during the last season. He begged that farmers would not come so heavily upon them, but make some provision for keeping their poultry from the fox, and let such claims be made only by those small farmers who actually could hot put up with the loss, and the club would pay them with the greatest pleasure; but as to the big ones, they ought to come amongst them, instead of charging for the poultry. In alluding to the horse question, the speaker thought a better breed might be secured by entering into a joint stock company for procuring mares instead of houses. Major Stretton next proposed the health of a gentleman who was a very old friend of their society-in fact, there was no one took a greater interest in it than the gentleman he referred to—Mr. Hawkins, of the Gam,—and whether they knew him as a friend, a fox-hunter, or a landlord, he could not but be respected by them. The speaker re- gretted that Major M'Donnell had been obliged to leave so early, as he would have been able to have done more justice to the toast than he (the speaker) could (applause). Judge Falconer then proposed in eulogistic terms the health of the Vice-president, which was received with loud cheers and musical honors. Major Herbert, in responding, threw out some sound practical suggestions with regard to farming operations. He advocated more especially the forming of societies for procuring the most improved implements, and the removal of the superabundance of fences and trees which encum- bered a great proportion of the farms in this district. The President gave the healths or the Judges, at the same time announcing that he would be happy to continue his prize for the nag, under the condition that there must be six competitors. Mr. Watkins acknowledged the toast. He and his col- league had done their best, as he should always be happy to do for this society, as he believed, with Major Herbert, that it was the best ploughing match in the county. Mr. Watkins further expressed his concurrence with Major Herbert as to the desirability of forming joint stock com- panies for procuring some of the more costly agricultural implements. Major Herbert gave the health of a gentleman who, until the last few years, had taken a very active part in the management of the club-bemeant Capt. Relph,- 1 who he regarded as the founder of the club. He was not present that evening-why, he (the speaker) did not know probably he was from home;-but in his absence they could not help recollecting that it was to his energy and business. like habits that the present satisfactory position of the society was due (cheers and musical honours). Major Stretton proposed the health of the president lect (Judge Falconer), than whom there was no one who e took more interest in the society. (" We'll drink his very good health.") Judge Falconer, in responding, said he would wish that some new blood could be obtained, but if they had no on, else to fill the position, he should be very happy to do what he could for the club as president. He was not now a farmer, although he had at one time followed the profes- sion; he was now merely a resident in the neighbourhood, having been attracted here to enjoy the delightful scenery, and that greatest of all blessings the sense of security, which none but those who, like himself, bad resided abroad knew how to appreciate (applause). Song (by Major Stretton) The Good Old 'Squire." The President next proposed the healths of Mr. and Mrs. Cadle, remarking upon the bountiful luncheon which he understood had been placed before the guests at Dan- cayo that day (cheers) Mr. Cadle, in responding, expressed his gratification at the success with which the meeting had been attended, and also the pleasure which it had given himself and family to see their friends. He should also be happy to see them there another year, if his field was thought suitable. Song, by Mr. Cadle. Song (bv Mr. Herbert Thomas): "The Englishman." Mr. J. H. Clark proposed the health of Mr. Bromfield, as a gentleman always ready to support the institutions of the town, both by his valuable assistance and with his pocket. Mr. Bromfield, in responding, said he had at the last meeting remarked upon the small number of townsmen present,, He was glad'to see more on this occasion, but he hoped to see still more, and that the tradesmen would give the society their pecuniary support as'well, as 'the farmers were their best customers. He had been informed that the committee would receive any small sums, and he would therefore say, let every tradesman come forward and give something, to shew that the town is anxious to sup- port such a valuable society-so much did not depend upon the amount as the spirit in which it was given. Mr. Bromfield concluded by proposing the "Town and Trade of Usk." Mr. Herbert Williams responded to the toast, expres- sing the interest he felt; as the son, of a farmer, in the society, and/hia readiness to render every assistance that lay in his power to further its interests,which he should be happy to do by increasing the amount of his subscription if it was necessary. Dr. Smythe proposed the health of Master Alphonso Herbert, as an enthusiastic young fox-hunter (musical honours); Master Herbert, in responding, said he was not much of a fox-hunter, as his many falls would attest, and he was almost ashamed to say that when be came to anything very big he was obliged to go round (laughter). The President proposed the health of the Secretary of the Club, Mr. J. H. Clark. Mr. Clark responded, alluding to the success which bad attended the efforts of the club in promoting good ploughing, and to the fact that next year would find the club in the twentieth year of its existenoe. Song (by Mr. Haycox): I'll hang my Harp on a Wil- low Tree." Mr. Clark proposed The Strangers," coupled, with the name of Mr. Hatton. Mr. Hatton responded, saying he had much pleasure in being present, ana hoped to Come amongst them for many years. The year befpre last he had given something to be divided amongst the unsuccessful hedgers, and he was glad of the opportunity of doing the same this year (applause). The Vice-chairman proposed the Committee of the Club," coupled with the name of Mr. Peter Marfell, as a most active member of the committee. Mr. Marfell briefly responded. The Press," the Host and Hostess," and other toasts were given, and a most enjoyable evening was spent, the proceedings throughout being- marked by great unanimity and cordiality of feeling. MONMOUTH. MASONIC INSTALLATION.—On Thursday last, this town was all alive from early dawn, in anticipation of the in. teresting proceedings about to take, place, viz. the masonic demonstration in honor of the installation of John E. W. Rolls, Esq., of the Hendre, to the lofty and responsible degree of Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master for Monmouthshire. Special trains ran from Newport and other places at single feres, which brought in an immense concourse of visitors, including a number of brethren from other lodges in the province, who took occasion to be present and become participators in the important ceremony, as well as others who were anxious to witness the display outside. The members assembled at the Town Hall, where, at "high noon," the worthy G.M. was invested with the honors to which he is so justly and deservedly entitled. At two o'clock, the brethren formed in procession and marched to Saint Mary's Church, preceded by the band of the Volunteer Corps, the members wearing the various emblematic badg-es-presenting a most gorgeous spectacle. So great was the anxiety of the public to snatch the opportunity of once more becoming hearers of the preacher of the day-the Rev. George Roberts (formerly Vicar of this place, that all the available seats were secured some time before the service commenced. The rev. gentleman's sermon was most appropriately adapted for the occasion, and of a highly instructive character. A collection was made for masonic and local charities, and met with a liberal response. The service being over, the processsion was re-formed, and the fraternity returned to their tem- porary lodge room, passing through the principal streets to the admiration of an enormous- concourse of people. At four o'clock, a most sumptuous banquet was spread at the Beaufort Arms hotel, and at which about two hundred members were present. THB REV. H. C. SPURGEON AT MONMOUTH.—This popular preacher having accepted the invitation of the Baptists of this town to preach here in behalf of a fund for providing increased accommodation for the worshippers, he appointed Thursday last as the day for his visit, and the announcement was freely circulated that he would preach in a spacious marquee, in a field on the Dixton road, which had the effect of bringing a large number of the rev. gentleman's admirers to the town, from far and near, in addition to those who had been attracted by the masonio demonstration; but owing to the heavy rain which prevailed for some two hours before the time ap- pointed for the service (half-past one o'clock), the Wesleyan Chapel had to be resorted to. This building, although crowded to its utmost capacity, of course, proved very inadequate to accommodate even a small portion of the persons who applied for admission, and consequently much disappointment was experienced. Tea was provided at half-past three o'clock, in the Market Hall, and was well attended. Divine service was resumed at five,when a great rush for admission again took place. The insufficient accommodation sadly curtailed the amount of the collec- tions but it is still to be hoped that the object of the promoters will not be defeated thereby. LLANVRECHVA. LAMENTABLE SUICIDE.-On Saturday last, a gloom was cast over this neighbourhood by the spreading of the sorrowful news that Mr. Daniel Baker had committed suicide. The particulars, as given at the inquest, are appended. Mr. Baker, who was collector of taxes for the parish, registrar of births and deaths for the district, and superintendent of the estates of Madame De Solignac, was universally respected and esteemed in his several avoca- tions. The inquest was held on Tuesday afternoon, at the Gate inn, before W. H. Brewer, Esq., coroner, and a respectable jury, Mr. Jones, of the Church farm, being foreman. The jury, having viewed the body, returned to the room, and the following evidence was taken Robert Baker stated-I am the son of deceased, and am twelve years of age on Saturday morning last, about halt-past seven o'clock, my aunt called me out of bed to go and look for father, I went into the garden and saw him in the privy, the door was open, and I thought he was standing up I went back into the house, and lit the fire my aunt came and told me to go and look for father again; I went down to the privy and caught hold of father, and I found he was dead I went out and called Thomas Parker, he came near there and then ran away; I then saw that my father was hanging; I went into the privy and cut the cord, he was then quite dead; I have noticed father very strange this long time, he would not talk to us as he used to he used to drink to keep himself up; he was out all day on 1 rift ay collecting taxes; I never heard him threaten to destroy himself in any way. Thomas Edwards—I. am a carpenter living at Llanvrechva; during this last seven on eight months, I have noticed something strange about the deceased; I have known him these nine years; I have worked for him five or six years; Isaw him on Wednesday morning last, when I thought him very strange in his appearance I think that there was something wrong in his mind. One of the jury said that he saw the deceased on the Friday before, and he then seemed quite strange both in his appearance and his language. The jury without hesitation returned a verdict to the effect that deceased destroyed himself while in a state of unsound mind. The deceased has left a widow, and three small children to mourn his lamentable end. PONTYPOOL. PETTY SESSIONS, SATURDAY, before Lieut.-Col. Diiai> and Captain HILL. NEGLECTING- WOEK.—Isaac Elliott, a laborer. Was charged by Mr. Hallen, of the Race farm,with this offence, The complainant deposed: I engaged the defendant to thresh by the sack he was to come when I wanted him ? on a certain day I told him I wanted him, but he did not come last Wednesday I told him again that I wanted him, but he did not come until five o'clock, when he was drunk, and instead of winnowing the wheat, he abused me. By the bench: I engaged him to continue until I dismissed him. There was no other engagement between us than that he was to thresh bv the sack; he did not promise to serve me for any particular time, but as long as I wished him. The bench (to Mr. Hallen) You must show there was a contract. Was he to be paid extra for the winnowing ? Mr. Hallen; No; it was a contract to do it for so much per sack. Defendant: Upon engaging with Mr. Hallen he told me that I was to get some other employment until be fonnd it convenient to winnow, and I said, that won't do for me for I want new boots." The bench (to defendant): Who winnowed the wheat that you threshed ? Defendant: Mr Hallen's men. The bench What's the cost of that, Mr Hallen? Mr. Hallen Two shillings. The bench (to defendant) Are you willing to pay the two shillings? Defendant: Yes, I am quite willing. The bench (to Mr. Hallen): Was he drunk? Mr. Hallen: Yes he was and I have witnesses to prove it. The bench (to defendant): The case of neglecting or leaving your work is dismissed, and- Mr. Hallen will pay you what is coming to you—de- ducting, of course, the two shillings for winnowing the wheat you threshed. The charge of being drunk will now be proceeded with. Are you guilty or not ? Defendant: I had a few pints of beer, but was not to say drunk. Thomas Thisk having proved that the defendant was drunk and abusive to Mr. Hallen, the bench asked him if he had anything to say. He replied in the negative, upon which the bench said: Then you are guilty of being drunk and abusive Defendant: I only went to look after my rights I didn't abuse Mr. H alien. The bench You must pay the expenses (7s.) Defendant (to the bench): Hasn t Mr. Hallen to pay me for the wheat ? The bench: Yes; he will have to pay you 91 7s.2d., less 2s. NON-PAYMENT OF W A.GBs.-Thomas Phillips was charged by James Howells with non-payment of wages amounting to m 18s. 6d. In answer to the bench, as to how he made out that the amount was due to him, the defen- dant was entirely nonplussed, being quite unable to support his claim. He said, howeverthathehadreckoned. up what was owing to him, and had then brought it to the amount he sought to recover. He was a blacksmith, and had worked three months at seven shillings per we«k. The defendant, handing the bench a book of account, re- marked that he only owed complainant 5s.2d., and the reason he had not paid him that was, because he had left him without notice. A conversation ensued, the bench advising the litigants to endeavour to arrive at some amio. able settlement, when complainant promised to accept the 5s.2d: as a settlement of the case, the defendant paying tllAC''SpIiN-FUL" CAgB__M fc "Pain'' v. George Challenger and Maria Williams, Blaenafon. Mr. Green- way appeared for the complainant, who deposed-I reside at Blaenafon three weeks ago to-night something hap- pened between me and Challenger; it was at Mr. Vin- cent's; I went out into the yard, and as I was coming from the closet he caught hold of me, pushed me inside, there kept me for some tima, and took liberties with me; he kissed me, and put his arm around my neck; I even- tually got away from him, and went into the house, on the following morning I sent to his wife, whom I saw; I told her what had happened, and she begged me not to take such steps as these against her husband, who also expressed his sorrow at what had occurred the facts of the case have been very generally talked about by the public, and that is the reason why I have had recourse to these proceedings, my obiect being to vindicate my character. The bench- Is that all ? Mr. Green way-Yes; but we don t seek at the defendant's hands anything heavy. If the matter had not been publicly spoken of, my client, no doubt, would have taken no notice of it; but she has been obliged to do so to regain her character. The bench (to Challenger)- Under the circumstances, you pay the expenses and apolo- gise. Challinger-I am willing; but as to taking liberties with her, I did not. Mr. Greenway-Is it not a liberty to kiss her ? Challenger—I didn't know she was in the closet, if I had I should not have gone there. The bench —What is the other person charged with ? Mr. Green- way—It arises out of this case; if anything, the female defendant is the worst, for she pulled the complainant s hair out of her head. The female defendant-No abuse whatever passed between us. Mr. Greenway-If the female defendant says she is sorry for what has ocAirred, I shall advise my client to be satisfied with that. This having been complied with, the case was dismissed, the defendants paying 6s. each. ASSAULT.—John Richards and Ann Richards, B aenalon, were charged with assaulting John Davies. Complainant, who, at intervals, almost cried, deposed-On Saturday night I was in the Lion, when Ann Richards came in; having answered a question she put to me, she struck me four or five times, upon which her husband came in, threatening me if I touched his wife; he subsequently kicked me, and struck me in the stomach. A very bad feeling seemed to exist between the parties, in consequence, as complainant alleged, of the female defendant interfering between him and his wife, from whom he was now separa- ted After several conflicting statements had been made the'bench told defendants that they had, there was no doubt, committed a very unprovoked assault upon the complainant, for which they would be fined 15s. each, in- ClUC^MI.GB OJ? STEALING A WATCH.—Chas. Richards of Pontypool, was charged with stealing a watch from the person of David Evans. It turned out that the motive of the accused in taking the watch was, that it should not be lost, the prosecutor being drunk at the time. DRUNKENNESS.—David Evans, the prosecutor in the above case, was then charged with being drunk, and was fined 5s. Sarah Oakley, charged with being drunk and disorderly in Pontypool, was fined 5s.-For the same offence, James Noonhan was also fined 5s, Richard Field, similarly charged, was likewise fined 6s. ASSAULTS —Sarah Roberts v.Wm. George, Cwmynyscoy. Allowed to settle Susan Williams v. Hannah Jones, v. Thomas Price. Defendant was fined 203. and costs.—— James Davies, Llangibby, v. Wm. Harris Newchurch. There seems to have been a dispute between the parties on fair day. Defendant was fined 5s. and costs. CHARGE OF ATTEMPTING TO COMMIT SdCIDE.— Mary Watkins, of Blaenafon, aged about 19, was charged with attempting to commit suicide by taking poison. It appears that there had been a dispute between her and her parents, and she subsequently swallowed a quantity of sugar of lead, from the effects of which she soon became violently ill. Dr. Steel was immediately sent for, and to his prompt and skillful attendance, the recovery of the defendant is fairly to be ascribed. The defendant was discharged with a reprimand, being bound over in two sureties to properly conduct herself for the future. PUBLIC-HOUSE OMENCB.-John Charles, of the New Inn, Newport-road, charged with keeping his house open during prohibited hours, was fined 7s. LLANVIHANGEL TORYMYNYDD. RETURN OF THE STRAYED.—In the month of February last, a cat belonging to Mr. Thomas Lewis, left its home in consequence of its having been beaten by a hen. A short time since the pugnacious hen was killed, and what was the surprise of the family, a few days after, at finding the missing cat returned, and making herself quite at home again, though looking much the worse for her eight month s absence. CHEPSTOW. PETTY SESSIONS, OCTOBER 29, before W. -33. SETS, E. M. CuRBE, and C. E. LEWIS, Esqrs. STEALING A RABBIT.—Wm. Thomas was charged with: stealing a rabbit, and a wire trap, the property of the Rev. E. F. Lewis, value 10d., on the 9th of October. Sen- tenced to 14 days hard labor. POACHING.—Join Lawrence, Magor, charged with taking game without a license, was fined 40s. and costs. Thomas James, charged with trespassing on the lands of the Rev. E. F. Lewis, in search of conies, iunea 20:3. A NUISANCE.—Wm. Gale was summoned, under the Nuisances Removal Act, for having a nuisance on his premises, at Llanvair Discoed. Ordered to pay costs, and abate the nuisance within 14 day?. Printed and Published by the Proprietor, WILLIAM HENRY CLARK, at his Offices, Bridge Street, Usk, in the County oi Monmouth, October 31, 1863.