Pontypool Free Press and Herald of the Hills

LATEST NEWS. TELEGRAMS TO THE" FREE PRESS." THE GREAT LIBEL CASE.—LAW- SON v. LABOUCHERE. In the Queen's Bench Division to day (Thurs- day), Mr Russell, Q.C., applied for a rule Nisi for a Certiorari in the case of Lawaon (1. Labouchere, to remove the trialinto the Court of Queen's Bench, on the ground that it is desirable to have a special jury, and that difficult questions of Law are in- volved. Mr Justice Lush thought it a case for a rule, and the Court so ordered.

BREAD RIOTS AT RAVENNA. A Telegram from Rome on Wednesday night states that, in consequence of the distress prevail- ing, bread riots have occured in the district of Ravenna.

SEVERE COLD IN GERMANY. A Telegram from Berlin on Wednesday night states that the cold is intense there. In Upper Silesia on Wednesday morning 45 degrees of frost were registered. A famine prevails in that district.

SHEFFIELD ELECTION. Surgeon Major Millar, of London, has tele- graphed this morning (Thursday), to the Mayor of Sheffield that he will arrive in Sheffield to mor- row, and will go to the Poll. He is a Republican Candidate. Dr Millar applied on Wednesday, at Bow Street, for a summons against the printer and publisher of The Echo for an alleged libel on the 4th Decem- ber, contained in the following passage :— "The Colchester Chronicle publishes a letter from Dr Millar, who has just announced himself as the Republican candidate for Sheffield, in which that gentleman informs Lord Cranbrook that he had commenced an action against him for 30,000/. damages for illegal detention in an Indian lunatic anyliim. There are several ex-patients of lunatic asylums who seem to be doing their best to estab- lish a claim to a second incarceration."

MR PARNELL'S DEPARTURE. Mr Parnell has definitely decided to leave Eng- land for America on the 26th inst.

THE COURT. The Prince and Princess of Wales will leave Marlborough House on Saturday to visit Her Ma- jesty the Queen at Windsor Castle. They will re- turn on Monday.

THE DISTRESS IN IRELAND. The Tuam Board of Guardians have guaranteed the sum of 2d in the on the rates, for payment of the interest on the capital to be raised for con- Btructing a railway to Claremorria, in order to give employment to the destitute.

ROYAL AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. A Meeting of the Royal Agricultural Society held to day (Thursday), when it was stated that there was a deficit on the Kilburn Show of $12,000, although 200,000 persons had attended it. i It was decided in future to limit stands for Imple- taents to 150 feet. The next meeting will be held at Carlisle. „ The Prince of Wales, who is President of the Society, was elected, on Wednesday, as a member of the Council, and graciously accepted the office.

CATTLE SHOW AT THE AGRICUL- TURAL HALL. The Duke and Duchess of Connaught visited the Cattle Show at the Agricultural Hall, Islington, to-day (Thursday). Their Royal Highnesses were Ilttnded by the Baron and Baroness Kensig, and ^ol. Kingscote, and were received at the Hall by C°l. Colville, the President, and Mr Brandreth the Secretary, who conducted them round tie Show. The Duke and Duchess were heartily cheered on leaving.

A ROYAL TREASURE. The Spaniards of Peru have always believed that the j^bjects of the Incaw, at the timo of the conquest of ^ueir country by Pizarro, buried large amounts of gold, *ua that the secret of the place where the gold was juried has been handed down from father to son, "tough successive generations, the object being to •eatore the Incas when the rule shall be renewed, as ue Peruviana long believed it should be—a striking Proof that it was it good rule. This belief was not like oat which so many North Americans have had in the ?Qrial of vast treasure by that roving Captain Kidd, and 7»uch furnished to Poe the subject of the best of his grange stories but the Spanish belief had better foun- Suation than any that had been brought forward in sup- °rt of the American tradition. Out of novels no one as ever found any of Kid's treasure—if treasure that worthy evei had but in Peru it has more than once appeued that great sums have beeu found. About a Uudred years ago an Indian left in possession of a •>°uau' aB eecur'fcy 'or a small debt, a number of oOlden figures, making her promise that she would now them to no one. Wanting money herself soon iterward, she iu turn pawned them to the priest of the Ulage. Some mouths having elapsed, the Indian *»- urned and claimed his images. The woman sought of the priest, but he suspected something, and, uttving compelled her to tell where she got them, the Indian was thrown into prison, where, having been sub- ret to torture, he pointed out the place where for two ib 11 red years a great quantity had lain concealed, hav- ta. been bnried there by some noble Peruvians. The t ue of it was two and a half millions of doIlare-a pretty profit on such capital 8S injustice, falsehood, it th torture. The story goes that the Indian added that, i they dug to a cor tain depth, a jet of water would pring np and flood the valley, where the treasure lay fciM r ro?k and the spot is now covered by a lake u ™ small island in the centre of it. What became of Indian our authority doos not state; but, judging foca the usual manner in which Spaniards treated such it was probably tragical enough.

A SENTIMENTAL young lady says, Oh, the Rennets of my girlhood, the kind I wore at school— really ca.ll them prettv I must have been a fool ?pd yet I used to think myself on hats a iaunty miss, perhaps I wae, as fashion went; but what wa3 that j? this ? Oh, the lovely little pancake, the charming, little mat—it makes my head so level, and so very, ^ery flat Oh, a sister's love is charming, as every- body knows And a handsome cousin's love is nice; that is. I should suppose. And the love of a true lover is the love that cannot pall; but the love of a ljew bonnet is the dearest love of all! At a garrison ball a newly arrived ensign, wishing *°r a partner, was offered an introduction to a young lady of somewhat large proportions. He declined, BaYlDg he would just as soon drag a cart about the room. The lady, who chanced to he the Colonel's daughter, heard the remark, and secretly resolved to have her revenge when an opportunity offered. Later in the evening the youn^ officer discovered the fact of her being the daughter of his "chief," and thought it well to retract his former refusal. On being presented, and soliciting the favour of the next waltz, she cooly bowed and said, I thank you but I am much too heavy a cart for any donkey to dra>v WHAT made you quit the East?" said a man in Nevada to a new-comer.—" I got into trouble by Harrying two wites," was the response.—"Well,' Said the other, I came out here because I got into trouble by marrying only one wife."—"And I," ddeù a bystander, "came out here because I got into trouble simply by promising to marry one." W do you know why you are like a don- key?"—"Like a donkey?" echoed W > open- ing his eyes wide. "No, I don't."—" Do you give up ?"—"I do."—"Because your better-half ^is 8lubborn<-S8 itself.'—' That's not bad. Ha, ha I'll Rive that to my wife when I get home.' Mrs. f W he asked, as he sat down to supper, do J ou know why I am like a donkey ? He waited a foment, expecting his wife to give it up. But she didn't. She looked at him somewhat commisorat- *ngly as she answered,' I suppose bgqause youwere ooru io.'

AFFAIRS IN AFGHANISTAN The Times correspondent at Candahar, under date of December 6, sends the folio vin^ There is nothing new to record this week, except that a rumour is current in the city that Ayub Khan, with 12 regiments of infantry and three of cavalry, has marched from Herat with a view to drawing us out of Candabar. Such a movement is not unlikely, but it is to be feared that Ayub's troops will never come within striking distance. Monoy, here as elsewhere the sinews of war, Ayub Khan has none. It is probable, as suggested last week, that he is actin g under compulsion, or is partly, perhaps, buoyed up by vain hopes of Persian assistance. Mir Afzul makes no sign, but the people of Bakwa, the north- east district of Farah, have shown their opinion of him by driving his son, who came to collect revenue and raise horsemen, out of the country. Every- thing, indeed, is ready for our advance, if necessary. The troops are in splendid health and the condition of the transport service is equal to carrying the whole division to any point on the Herat road. One cavalry and two infantry regiments in Pisheen are also fully equipped and ready to take our places herr. Sirdar Shere Ali Khan is laying in supplies j on the road and at CHrislilj. Everything continues to show that the Durani chiefs, apart from the clique of the Barakzai Sirdars and their followers, are well satisfied with the existing regime, and no effort is being spared to keep them so. Their clans form at, least five-sixths of the inhabitants of the country south of the line drawn from Herat to Kelat-i-Ghilzai, through which lies the commercial and military road to India. The Helmund basin in a prosperous and loyal state is the best bulwark India can have. The people of that region have eminently commercial instincts, and nothing will so much attach them to India as the conviction that their interests are involved in the connection. Their immense increase in material prosperity during the last year is producing great effect on them, and the railway will do more in the same direction. The rise in the price of wool continues, and is the cause of great rejoicing. Last year it was sold at a loss to Bombay and Kurrachee this year it is fetching from 30 to 50 per cent. higher rates, and the extra value will all find its way here in the shape of tea, sugar, Birmingham and Manchester goods, the im- port duty on which has been lessened by a half. Silk culture, a branch of industry stifled by the oppressive government of Cabul, is also beginning to re-assert itself, and may, perhaps, have a future before it. The weather is fine, without a sign of rain, which is not now expected till Christmas. The Gundamuck correspondent of the same paper, writes, December 6, as follows:—" Everything con- tinues quiet here. The deportation of the Ameer, who passed through here on the 3rd, has exercised no apparent influence on the tribes. He quite believes that the general impression of the people respecting him is that he is an imbecile. Though closely guarded by sowars with drawn swords on either side, his face was one of dignified repose and betrayed no signs of anger or disgust. General Bright, with divisional headquarters, returned to Jelalabad on the 1st, and is there organising a despatch expedition into the Lughman Valley, with the object of exploring the country and ascertaining whether there is any convenient route through it." The Daily News correspondent telegraphed as follows from Cabul last Saturday:—" Mustafi Wazir and other Sirdars are under arrest, and are to be deported to India. Hashim Khan, grandson of Dost Mahomed, goes to Tuikestan as governor. Wadi remains here. The influence of the local tribes is now much disturbed. The Turkestan roads are blocked. The Bokhara trade is suspended. Gholam Hyder is supposed to have left Balkh. SEIZURE OF TREASURE AT CABUL.—MORE FIGHTING EXPECTED. A Standard telegram from Cabul, on Monday, says:—Yaza Khan's house has been searched, and a large amount of property found in it. There was also found a valuable cup, presented to Shere Ali by the Russians, and many jewels, but not Shah Soojah's rubies. It was at first intended that the property should be appropriated to the prize fund out the General has now decided to preserve it, as no sanction for the distribution of prize-money has yet been obtained. Intelligence has again been received that the rebels are collecting in force. Two brigades will march immediately towards Maidan. The First Brigade, consisting of the Goorkhas, the 3rd Sikhs, and a squadron of the 14th Lancers, goes-to-day; and the 5th Punjaub Cavalry, with mountain guns, to-morrow. Generals Baker and Macpherson are in command. RECEPTION OF OFFICERS BY THE QUEEN. Her Majesty the Queen, having recovered from her recent indisposition, was able on Monday to receive the gallant officers who have distinguished themselves in the recent campaigns, and to invest them with honours allotted to them. The ceremony was a private one, and lasted but a quarter of an hour. The various officers selected for distinction arrived at Windsor from Paddington shortly after two o'clock, and after having been greeted by the Mayor of Windsor, were conveyed in covered car- riages to the Castle. The officers were quickly driven to the Castle amid the cheers of those who had gathered ahout the entrance gates. As they entered the Royal Palace a guard of honour, with band and drums of the 2nd Battalion Grenadier GUlrds, under Colonel Antrobus, and Lieuts. Lord W. Cecil and Sir J. Drummond, was drawn up in the grand quad- rangle. This was the only external sign of any cere- monial in the Castle. At a quarter to three the en- trance of the Queen to the White Drawing Room was signalised by a movement on the part of this guard, who presented aims and played the "National Anthem." Her Majesty was accompanied by their Royal Highnesses the Princes-s Christian, the Duke and Duchess of Connaught, Prince Leopold, and the Piincess Beatrice. General Sir H. Ponsonby and the other gentlemen and ladies of the household were in waiting. By the Lord Chamberlain, attended by Sir A. Woods, the Registrar and Secretary to the Order of the Bath, who carried the insignia of that Order, there were severally introduced to her Majesty Commissary-General Edward Strickland, Lieut.- Sir Samuel James Browne, and Major-General Michael Anthony Shrapnel Biddulph. The Queen, in recognition of the services of General Browne and Biddulph in Afghanistan, and of Coinmi-s iry-General Strickland in Zulnland, invested them with the Order of K.C.B. In the case of Sir. S. Browne, the ceremony of conferring knighthood of course was not necessary, as he had already received that honour, but he was now invested with the insignia of his division in the second class of the Order. The suc- cession of the military recipients of the Sovereign's marks of distinction was momentarily broken in upon by the call of Sir Henry Drummond Wolff, who was created K.C.B. of the Civil Division of the Order. Rear-Admiral Francis William Sullivan folowed. to receive for his notable services in connection with the South African campaign a reward similar to that conferred on the military officers already named. After this no fewer than 24 presentations were made to her Majesty for decorations as Companions of the Bath. With the exception of Captain Shaw, of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade, those who were thus re- ceived into the third class of the order were officers who had distinguished themselves in the recent cam- paigns, and principally in the Zulu war. To one or two of the officers known to her Majesty the Queen addressed a few words as she invested them with their decorations. Luncheon was provided in the Castle for the officers whom her Majesty had honoured, and most of them returned to town by the 4.15 train from Windscr. Lord and Lady Chelmsford, Sir E. and the Hon. Lady Wood, and Sir Samuel Browne were to dine at the Castle in the evening.. Lord Gifford, who brought to her Maj esty from Sir G. Wolseley the assegais taken in Cetewayo's krawl, is expected to be at the Castle this week to receive the mark of dis- tinction reserved for him by the Sovereign.

LOCAL AND DISTRICT NEWS. AN EISTEDDFOD was held at the Town Hall on Thursday evening. The programme consisted of solo, duet, quartette, and glee singing, recitations, and an impromptu speech. A report will appear in our next. DISEASED MEAT.—On Saturday last, several car- cases of mutton and also a beast's head were seized by the authorities in Pontypool and Pontnewyn- ydd, and a large quantity was condemned by the magistrates as unfit for human food. It is expected that proceedings will be taken against the owners on Saturday. CORPORAL LYONs.-Through the influence of Major Phipps, Corporal Lyons, of Rorke's Drift renown, has joined the Corps of Commissionaires in London. Before leaving Pontypool, a couple of sovereigns were handed to him by Sergeant Bessent, which was the offering of a few friends as a parting gift. THE FROST.—Owing to the severe and continued frost, the ponds in this neighbourhood are covered with ice, and skating and sliding are being in- dulged in with much zest. The Glyn Ponds, espe- cially, is the resort of large numbers who engage in these healthful pastimes. We are glad to state that no accidents have been reported. PONTYPOOL DRAMATIC CLUB.—We notice with pleasure that this association of local amateur theatricals, aided by several well-known profes- sionals, will give three entertainments in the Town Hall on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings in next week. We heartily wish them success and crowded houses, as, according to current report, a treat is evidently in store. VOLUNTEER PRIZE PRESENTATIONS.—The prizes won in the recent competitions by the members of the Pontymoile, or No. 1, Company of the Second Battalion of Rifle Volunteers will be presented at the Town Hall on Friday evening, and is likely to prove an interesting affair. Mrs D. Llewellin will present the prizes. The proceedings will be com- menced promptly at 7 o'clock. INQUEST.—On Wednesday, E. D. Batt, Esq., Coroner, held an inquest at the Town Hall con- cerning the death of an old woman named Mary Morgan, living at Cwmyniscoy, who expired some- what suddenly on the previous Sunday. Deceased was said to be rather eccentric in some things, and declined to have a doctor called in on the ground of expense, although she had been treated by Dr Mason five weeks ago. The jury returned a ver- rlict to the effect that dpneased died from old age and heart disease. ACCIDENTS.—A man named William Wallen, in the employ of Messrs. Stephens & Son, corn mer- chants, &c., had his eye somewhat severely injured while engaged in loading some railway trucks on Tuesday. The wound was dressed by Dr Thomas, and was found not to be of a dangerous nature.— On Saturday, Mrs James, of Cwmbwrwch, slipped as she was leading a pony cart on the road, in the direction of the Great Western Station, and broke one of the small bones of her thigh. Under the care of Dr. Lawrence she is progressing fa- vourably. THE SPECIAL EVANGELISTIC SERVICES (conduct- ed by Mr C. Edwards, of the Evangelization So- ciety, London), have been continued during the week, as follows :—Sunday evening (when a collec- tion was made towards defraying the local ex- penses), Zion Chapel; Monday, Mount Pleasant Chapel; Tuesday, Presbyterian Chapel; Wednes- day, Crane St. Chapel; and Thursday, Primitive Methodist Chapel. The services are regularly attended by large congregations, and it is hoped that, as the result of this special effort, much good may be effected. CLEVER CAPTURE OF A HORSE STIMALEP.At Cwmbran, on Wednesday, P c. Carey apprehended a man named Cornelius Crew on a charge of steal- ing a horse at Mileston Common, Hawkesbury, Gloucestershire. The arrest was effected from ft description of the prisoner which had been circu- lated throughout all the police districts of the neighbourhood, and as the constable saw Crew at Cwmbran, he at once recognised him as answering the description he had seen of the man at the Police Station. On the following day a Gloucester policeman arrived in Pontypool, identified the pri- soner, and conveyed him to the scene of his depre- dation. It is believed he is also wanted elsewhere for a similar offenee. POPULAR ENTERTAINMENT.—The second of these entertainments in connection with the Tabernacle Baptist Chapel was held on Monday evening, when, probably owing to the special services now being held, the attendance was hardly as good as on former occasions. The chair was occupied by Capt. J. F. Williams, who discharged the duties in a most pleasing and satisfactory manner. The proceedings were commenced with the playing of a pianoforte solo, in his usually able style, by Mr T. H. Morgan. Mr E. Gunter's song, Norah, the pride of Kildare," was vociferously encored, to which he responded. The reciting of The burial of Moses," by Mr Hector W. Thomas, of the Col- lege, was given with first-class effect. One of the features of the evening was the singing, by Master P. J. Osborne, of Grandfather's Clock," and he, in response to the enthusiastic encore which greet- ed his first public effort, also sang a humourous parody on The March of the Men of Harlech." The songs by Miss Davies, Miss S. Eckersley, and Mr W. Lloyd, as well as the duet by the Misses Griffiths and Jobbins were received with marked appreciation. The impromptu speech, as usual, created much interest and amusement. The sub- ject chosen was "Love," and twelve competed. The speeches of Messrs G. Churchill and S. Fisher were so nearly equal in merit that they were re- quested to speak on The advantages of Popular Readings," in order that the award might be made. The decision was then given of favour of Mr G. Churchill, to whom the prize (a valuable book) was awarded. The proceedings terminated with the usual votes of thanks to the chairman and per- formers, which were accorded with acclamation. We append the programme :— Pianoforte Solo-Mr T. H. Morgan. Recitation—Tell, to his native mountains—Mr Edgar Probyn. Song-Somebody's waiting—Miss Davies. Song-Norah, the pride of Kildare (encored)—Mr E. Gunter. Reading-The Bashful Man- Mr Gwilym Evans. Recitation-The burial of Moses-r-Mr Hector W. Thomas. Song-Grandfather's Clock (encored)—Master P. J. Osborne. Song-The Soldier's Tear-Miss S. Eckersley. Song—England, home, and glory—Mr W. Lloyd. Reading-The lady and the pie—Mr T. Havard. Duet-The Pilgrims-Miss Griffiths and Miss Jobbins. Impromptu Speech-Prize won by Mr G. Churchill. Finale-God Save the Queen.

SEBASTOPOL. THE first of a series of reading and musical en- tertainments was given in the Sebastopol School- room on Thursday, the 4th inst., before a very select audience. The Rector (Rev W. N. G. Eliot) was Chairman, and Miss Paton presided at the pianoforte. Below is the programme :— Pianoforte Solo-Mr H. L. Spence. Part Song-The Old Year has departed-Choir. Song-Polly-Mr R. K. Preston. Reading-The Lover's Sacrifice-Mr J. Walters. Comic Song-Of course, it's no business of mine—Mr A. H. Collins. Song-The British Lion-Mr W. R. Vaughan. Song-The Bells of Aberdovey—Miss Hunt. Song-The Scout—Mr R. K. Preston. Song-Call me your darling again—Mr B. Edwards. Reading-Going for the Census—Mr H. Greener. Comic song—Complaints—Mr A. H. Collins. Chorus—Homeward Bound-Choir. We understand the next entertainment will be given early in the new year. The proceeds of these entertainments will go towards the expenses of the Penyrheol Choir.

PONTRHYDYEUN. LECTURE.—A lecture was delivered in Pontrhy- dyrun Chapel, on Monday last, by the Rev. Isaac Watts, of Abergavenny. A large number of peo- ple came together anxious to know who it wa-wthat England was proud of," the subject of the lec- ture being, England was proud of him." The chair was occupied by the Rev Mr Rees, the newly-appointed pastor of the church. The chair- man, before introducing the lecturer, called upon the choir to sing an anthem, entitled," I was glad." The chairman then called upon Mr Watts to give his lecture. The rev. gentleman, in commencing, said that people had asked him who they were proud of-was it William E. Gladstone or Lord Beaconsfield P He had been obliged to answer No." Others had asked him if they were proud of Isaac Watts; he answered "No," although they had reason to be proud of him for composing so many beautiful hymns. Still he was not the man to whom he was about to refer. It was a young man who fought manfully for his country in the Russian War, namely, Captain Hedley Vicars, who was also a faithful soldier of the Cross, whyse banner he was not ashamed of. The speaker was listened to with great attention throughout, the lecture being a very good and instructive one. Before closing, the chairman called upon the choir to sing an anthem, entitled, Gloria," which was done very well. Miss Williams presided at the organ. After a vote of thanks to the chairman, and a similar vote to the lecturer, the meeting was brought to a close, all seeming to have enjoyed the lecture.

CWMBRAN. ENTERTAINMENT.—On Monday evening, the fifth of the fortnightly entertainments was held at the Wesley Hall. Mr Hodges occupied the chair, and said he would not attempt to make a speech, as there was a good programme to go through, but would call on Mr E. G. Morgan, Pontypool, for a pianoforte solo, which he played in excellent style. Mr 0. A. Thomas then gave a song. The Maid of Athens," by Mr Steward, was sung in such a manner as to elicit an encore, to which he re- sponded by singing My Pretty Jane." A Song, Far away," was then sung by Master Tom Thomas, who seemed quite at home and sang very pleasingly. Miss Pugh sang Under the Daisies." "The Bashful Young Man" was read by Mr W. J. James in capital style, and was much appreciated. A comic song (in character), My Grandmother's Days," was sung by Mr Evans. This song, in which were introduced superstitious sayings of the olden times, caused rounds of applause, to which Mr Evans responded by singing another character song, The Little Brown Jug;" he was accompa- nied by Mr Edmunds, of Pontrhydyrun. A read- ing from Pickwick" was given by Mr Sumption. Mr Shearn's song, All hail to thee, Cambria," was encored. The song, Hearts of Oak," by Mr O. A. Thomas, was very well sung. A duet for violins was very nicely played by Messrs Lewis and Highley. Mr Evans then gave a comic song, "Julius Caesar" (in Nigger character), which elicited roars of laughter and enthusiastic ap. plause, and the singer gave My Grandfather's Colt" The song, Pilgrim of Love," by Mr- Steward, was so sung as to call forth an encore, and he responded by singing Sally in our Alley." After the usual votes of thanks to the Chairman and the entertainers, the meeting was closed by the singing of the National Anthem.

NEWPORT. A NEWPORT SOLICITOR IMPRISONED.—On Tues- day, at the Middlesex Sessions, before Mr Prentice, Q.C., Charles Blake, 33, a solicitor, was indicted for obtaining by false pretences, one valuable se- curity, value €100, the property of Eugene Wasson, with intent to defraud. Mr Masterman prosecuted. ME Gill defended the prisoner.—Mr Gill made a long address on behalf of the prisoner at the close of the case for the prosecution, but the jury almost immediately found him guilty.—Mr Prentice asked Detective-Sergt. Partridge what he knew of the prisoner and of his antecedents.—Sergeant Part- ridge said during the last two months he had been endeavouring to execute a warrant for the appre- hension of the prisoner. He found that he had been living at different hotels, which he had left in a sudden and very mysterious manner. In one case, and that was at the Queen's Hotel, Hampton Court, he had run up a bill of .£46, for which he gave Mr Bennett, the proprietor, a cheque upon a bank where he had no'account, and there were several other instances of the same kind where he had left in a similar manner.—It was stated in court that he had obtained a large amount of money from other persons as mortgagees of some property, £1!800 in one case and £ 800 in another, and in both instances, as in this case, the loans were obtained on the representation that the pro- perty was unencumbered.—Mr Prentice sentenced him to be imprisoned and kept to hard labour for six months.

ABERTILLERY. ACCIDENT.-Henry Evans, younger son of Mr Wm. Evans, Upper Levels, broke his leg on Tues- day in two places in consequence of a stone falling on him whilst working at Clapp & Co.'s Level. LECTURE.—On Monday evening, at the Welsh Calvinistic Methodist Chapel, the Rev Edward Ed- munds, of Swansea, delivered his popular lecture on The Exaltation of the Working Man." The Rev T. Griffiths, Baptist minister, presided. MAGIC LANTERN EXHIBITION.—On Monday even- ing, Mr Dutton, photographer, gave an entertain- ment in the Club Room of the Royal Oak, at which, with the aid of a powerful magic lantern, he ex- hibited some 70 or 80 views of different parts of the world, interspersed with comic effects. The entertainment concluded with a display or artifi. j cial Chineee fireworks, or Chromatropeg.

BRYNMAWB. MR T. BLAKE, M.P.—On Sunday last, the hon. member for Leominster preached three sermons in connection with the re-opening services of Calvary English Baptist Chapel. The congregations were large, and we understand that upwards of .£200 was realised throughout the day.

CAERPHILLY. COLLIERY ACCIDENT.—Jas. Jones, a collier em- ployed at the Posset Pit, was killed on Thursday week by a stone of great weight falling on him whilst at his work. The jury at the inquest re- turned a verdict of Accidental death." FORTUNATE ESCAPE.—The wife of Levi Phillips was burnt by falling upon the fire whilst in a fit, but help being fortunately at hand, her injuries were not so severe as they would otherwise have been. We are glad to state that she is now pro- gressing favourably. ENTERTAINMENT.—On Wednesday evening last, the second of a series of entertainments was given in aid of the funds of the Caerphilly Club and Reading Room, and was well attended, The per- formers were chiefly Cardiff friends, and included Miss Righton (Mrs Trice), whose playing on the pianoforte was received with much applause. ST. MARTIN'S CHURCH.—The Right Rev. the Lord Bishop of the Diocese has appointed Wednes- day, the 17th day of December, 1879, for the con- secration of the above church. The consecration service, with morning prayer (choral), will com- mence at 11 a.m.; sermon by the Lord Bishop Three p.m., sermon by the Rev. Charles Parsons rector of Penarth. Seven p.m., sermon (Welsh), by the Venerable the Archdeacon of Llandaff. Col- lections will be made after eieh service in aid of the building fund. Amount expended, £ 4,826 I 14s 9jd; total received and promised. £4,050 138 4d; sum still required, £7iO Is ó-d. There will be a luncheon at the National Schoolroom. Tickets, 2s 6d each, which can be obtained of the Rector. A special train will leave Cardiff at 10.35 a.m., and will call at Llavishes at 10.42 a.m.

CYMMER. MIRACULOUS ESCAPE.—On Saturday, Thomas Lewis and a man named Nicholas Rimron were employed at the bottom of the shaft at Cymmer Colliery, and were in the act of pushing a tram loaded with pitwood across the cage, when the en. gine driver had a signal for the cage to ascend. Rimron was taken up, and Lewis suspended to it. The machinery was not stopped until the cage had ascended about 150 yards; and Rimron was hold- ing Lewis by the hair of his head. Fortunately, the cage was again lowered without Lewis receiv- ing much injury.

SUSPECTED ATTEMPT TO MURDER A CHILD. On Tuesday, a servant girl living at Bridgwater was apprehended on suspicion of having attempted to murder her master's child, seven years of age. The little girl, who is the daughter of Mr Bower- man, timber mnrchant, was on a recent day missed from home, and a search was made for her. The same day, a man who was passing the docks thought he heard a faint scream from the outer basin, which was then empty for cleansing. A ladder being lowered, the missing child was found in the mud, 15 feet below the top of the wall. She was, after some difficulty, restored to conscious- ness, and taken home. The servant girl, named Kidner, who had lately exhibited much ill-feeling towards the child, disappeared after hearing of the rescue. The child's statement is that this girl took her to the dock and pushed her in.

MAIDSTONE CORN MARKET.—THURSDAY. All good samples of wheat have a fair sale at quite as much money, while there is a better sale for commoner descriptions at proportionate rates. Rather slow trade for barley, most maltsters being full, and disinclined to buy just before Christmas' Other articles as before. No market in Christmas week.

BRISTOL CORN MARKET.—THURSDAY. We had a strong wheat market to-day, and heavy sales were effected at an advance of 2s per quarter. Maize was scarce, and fully showed an upward tendency. Grinding stuff was very slow.

LONDON HAY MARKET—THURSDAY. Large supply, and trade at a. standstill on ac- count of fog. Prices u'aciuing^u. Prime clover, 100s to 130s; inferior, 70s to 90s. Prime meadow hay, 85s to 100s; inferior, 30s to 758. Straw, to 40s per load.

THE AFGHAN WAR. The Central News has to-day (Thursday) re- ceived, from the India Office, the following tele- ?'am from the Viceroy of India, dated Dec. iUth. esterday Macpherson occupied Sarkh Kotal just in time to prevent a junction of Kohistania with a hostile gathering from the Ghuznee direction.The Kohistania occupied a position near Kotal, from they were dislodged by our troops, and they then fled, leaving behind them six standards. Our loss was a few slightly wounded.

THE CHILI-PERUVIAN WAR. The Chilian Government gives a denial to the re- port which was current of the defeat of the Chilian troops near Loa. A body of 130 Chilian cavalry have defeated the Bolivians at Aqua Santa, with a loss of 60 killed and many prisoners. They further cap tured 2,000 mules. The loss on the Chilian side was eight men killed. At Pisagua the Chilian troops have been reinforced by 5,000 men, and are reported to be marching on Noria, where there is a force of 8,000 allied Peruvians and Bolivian. According to intelligence published by the Lima papers, the Ger man Government has declared its intentions of taking of the German steamer Luxor by force should it not be surrendered. In consequence of the expected arrivals of the Chilians the forts and fortifications round Callas are being strengthened by entrench- ments.

Tribal gatherings on the Ghuzni road and in the Logar Valley have stopped the supplies. Two strong brigades under Macpherson and Baker are moving out to attack. Jenkins and the Guide& occupy But- kak, and will reinforce Sherpur if necessary. On the farm, cats are a necessary as "atocic. Ono rarely considers that a woll-kept cat may be more ) ront able than a cow. If one rat per day is destroyed the porvicea of the cat may be estimated as at least equal tc X20 a year. Let us try to calculate the enormous damage done by three hundred and sixty-five rats iu one year, to say nothing of the ravages of the numerous progeny of the vermin. One rat per day is a moderate amount of business for an active cat. Recently the writer counted five rats captured in a stable by one cat in one day, and possibly others were not seen. This cat was highly valued by its owners, and, being well fed, hunted for amusement, and did not eat the prey. This is the principal point in the management of a cat. It should be well and regularly fed, for rata are unwhole- some food. They are infested with larvee of tapeworms, and cats are frequently tormented with the mature parasites in consequence of diseased rats. When kept free from hunger, a cat will watch more patiently, and will only occasionally devour a rat or a mouse. The most healthful food for a cat is a mixed animal and veg- etab!e diet. Milk and bread, a few potatoes with mtat gravy, or a little fat and a sprinkling of salt, with an oc- casional scrap of meat, are excellent food, and will keep the animal in good health. At least four or five cats should be kept on a farm

PONTYPOOL PETTY SESSIONS. SATURDAY. Before Col. BYRDE (in the chair), C. J. PARKES, Esq., and E. J. PHILLIPS, Esq. DRUNKENNESS. Patrick Nagle, who did not appear, was sum- moned for being drunk on the highway at Aber- sychan.—P.c. Davies proved the charge, and the Bench imposed a fine of 10s, or seven days. Hannah Green, another absentee, was sum- moned for being drunk on the highway at Llan- vrechva.—P.c. Gardner proved the case, and said the defendant was helplessly drunk.—A fine of 10s was inflicted. EXTENUATING CIRCUMSTANCES. Hosser Morgan, landlord of the Fountain Inn, was summoned for permitting drunkenness on his licensed premises.—P.c. Blaydon deposed that on the 25th of last month he visited the defendant's house, and found a woman lying drunk on the floor in front of the fire. The woman was locked up, and convicted for being drunk.—Defendant admitted the fact, but stated that he was from home at the time, and his wife was not in good health and in bed.—The Bench took a lenient view of the case, and only ordered the defendant to pay the costs, 6s. SISTERS AT VARIANCE. Elizabeth Williams, of Pontypool, was sum- moned for assaulting Annie Cleaves.—Complain- ant stated that on the previous Monday defendant met her in George Street and spoke to her about her husband, saying that she (witness) was in the habit of harbouring her (defendant's) husband. It appeared that the parties are sisters, and a quarrel took place between them arising out of jealousy. When they met in George Street de- fendant struck complainant in the face. Both of the women made gross allegations against each other, and the Bench expressed their displeasure at the proceedings and stopped the case.—De- fendant was ordered to pay the costs, 6s, and warned as to her future conduct.—After the de- cision the two women threatened each other and the magistraies ordered them to be bound over to keep the peace for six months.—The Chairman said this additional expense of 2s 6d each was brought upon themselves by their own unseemly conduct in court. It was most dis- graceful.

POLICE COURT. MONDAY.—Before the Rev J. C. LLEWELLIN and J. RICHARDS, Esq. VAGRANCY. John Murphy was charged by P.c. Styran with begging in Pontypool on Saturday, and was sent to prison for seven days. AN IMPUDENT TRAMP. Thomas Watson was charged with being drunk and begging on Saturday night, and also with as- saulting the police.—Prisoner went into the shop of Mr Stephens, chemist, and demanded alms. He was refused relief, as he was drunk, and he then became very insulting. Mr Stephens gave him into the custody of P.c. Herbert, but prisoner re- sisted his apprehension and struck the officer. He was sent to prison for 14 days hard labour. DRUNK. James Dudley, tin-plate roller, was charged by P.c. Adams with being drunk and riotous in Pontypool on Saturday night, and was fined -5s.

WEDNESDAY. Before the Rev. J. C. LLEWELLIN and C. J. PARKES, ESQ. MORE VAGRANCY. Samuel Priest was charged with begging in Abersychan, P.c. Tratt proving the case.—Pri- soner said he had been working for a farmer some months in Herefordshire, but his employer broke and never paid him any money. He was in consequence destitute.—Seven days hard la- bour. ROBBERY AT ABERSYCHAN.—A MOTHER'S SAC- RIFICE. Hannah Aubrey, a young married woman with a four weeks' old infant in her arms, was charged with stealing £3 10s õd, the money of Frederick Buckley, landlord of the Union Inn, Abersychan. —Prisoner pleaded guilty to stealing £1 19s.— Prosecutor deposed that prisoner had formerly been a servant at his house when it was kept by his mother-in-law, and was still in the habit of going there. He placed a sum of money, consist- ing of various coins, including one Australian sovereign, in a casket in his bedroom. This was before he went to Hereford. On his return he counted the money and found a deficiency of JE3 10s Bid, and the Australian sovereign was gone. The servant and the prisoner he ascertained were the only parties who had been upstairs.—Sergt. Lewis stated that he accompained the last witness to prisoner's house, and accused her of the theft. She at first denied it, and produced 8s 4d in three- penny, fourpenny, and sixpenny pieces and cop- pers, which she said was all she had. She was going up stairs, and witness followed her, and in the bedroom he found an Australian sovereign and 18s in silver. Prisoner then admitted that she had taken the money, and, pointing to a key, said, There's the key I opened the box with." Witness tried the key, which belonged to pri- soner, and found that it easily opened the box which contained the money.—She received a good character, and prosecutor asked the Bench to take a merciful view of the case.—The Bench said it was a sad thing to see a respectable woman in such a position. It appeared that her husband was in regular employment, and she was not in want of anything. The sentence was that she be imprisoned for one month.—On hearing the sen- tence prisoner cried out piteously, Oh, mother, mother."—The mother was also overcome, and asked the Bench to allow her to go to gaol instead of her daughter.—She was of course told that such a thing was impossible, and the prisoner was then removed.

THE SUPPOSED MURDER AT LLANWERN. THE INQUEST. The resumption of the inquest on the body of Eliza Waters, which was found in Llanwern Brook on Sunday, the 30th ult., took place on Monday morning, at the Milton Hotel, Christchurch, be- fore Mr W. H. Brewer, coroner. Henry Waters, the husband of the deceased, who is in custody on suspicion, was defended by Mr T. H. Parker; Mr Justice represented the police; Major Herbert, chief constable of the county, and Mr M'lntosh, depu,, chief constable, being also present. John Williams, landlord of the Milton Hotel, deposed to finding the body on the Christchurch side of Llanwern, Brook, on Sunday morning, the 30th November. He called Josiah Thomas, but neither knew at the time whose body it was. He gave information to the police. The dress of de- ceased was frozen and covered with sand. The body was in a sitting posture, with the feet in about eight inches of water. A shawl, hat, and frail were found on the Llanwern side, about 25 yards from the body, and near them some bushes appeared torn and troèldsn down. He thought there had been a struggle. Saw marks of a man's nailed boots leading from where the body lay. Witness described the jacket of deceased as being all open except at the top. The bosom was bare, and the stays could be seen. The hands were clenched in the lap. A small flat spirit bottle fell from one of the garments. There was no hat nor a ring on the finger. He did not see any marks of a woman's foot. Josiah Thomas, labourer, living near the brook, corroborated the evidence of the previous witness as to the state of the body and the appearance of a struggle having taken place. He went to Waters's house to look for him, and found him in his shirt sleeves putting his boots on. George Stockham was with him. Wit- ness asked Waters where his wife was; he said he did not know; she had gone last night to witness's house to look for the little girl, and he (Waters) had gone to bed. Waters asked, "Isn't she there P Told him she was drowned in the brook. Waters said, « You don't mean it," and Stockham said Don t tell lies." Witness asked them to come and see, and they came to the place. When Waters saw his wife across the brook he was all of a tremble; went round, he took hold of her hands, turned her, and moved the hair from her face. He then went home, wringing his hands, and saying "Dear me," or something of that sort. Witness had known Waters and his wife for years; he had seen Waters drunk; he knew nothing wrong of the wife. He had not seen Waters drunk for the last six months. Witness found Waters' child at his house when he came home from work on Satur- day night. The child used to come there when her mother was away. His wife told him on Sunday morning that some one had rattled the door of their house about half-an-hour after they went to bed, and she thought the footstep was that of Mrs Waters. It was after 12 o'clock when they went to bed. About a fortnight before that his wife told him of Mrs Waters having had a fit. He believed that Waters wore a light pair of trousers, with a hole near one knee, when he saw him on Sunday morning. Mr E. Cooke, surgeon, of Newport, said he had made a post-mortem examination of deceased's body on the 2nd of December There were bruises on the right wrist, the inside of the right arm, and near the left armpit. There were scratches on the left wrist, and on the right breaet; the whol. of the right cheek had been grazed, apparently by sand. Found bruises near both ears. At the back of the head were three bruises, and a fracture of the internal bone corresponding with the centre one. The vessels of the membranes were highly congested with blood, but the brain itself was empty. The lungs did not contain air or water. The stomach was healthy, without sand or water. The liver was large, but healthy. The fracture of the skull might be caused by a blunt instrument. Did not think it could have been caused by a fall, as it was not on the most prominent part of the occipital bone. The blow would have a stunning effect. Attributed death to suffocation. The goose skin showed that the woman was alive when she went under water. Thought she must have been insensible, and did not breathe in the water. Did not think she could have drawn herself up on the bank, or the lungs would have been more inflated. Thought if she had a fit, the symptoms would been different. If she had fallen into the water in a fit, it would account for the suffocation, but not for the bruises, which could not have been caused by falling backwards into the water. John Hughes, labourer, said Eliza Waters washed for him, and he followed Waters to the house on Sunday morning from the brook, after seeing the body. Waters went upstairs, and wit- ness called to him for his clean shirt. Saw that Waters was shaking with cold. Witness offered to make a fire for him, and did so. Never heard that Waters and his wife quarrelled. Saw Waters with a big shaggy overcoat on his arms. (This was produced in court, and the bottom was quite wet.) A pair of trousers was also produced, and found to be quite wet, with the bottoms covered with sand. In reply to the Coroner, witness said he could not swear that these trousers belonged to Waters, but they were like what he usually wore on week- days. They were not the pair he wore on Sunday, which had a slight stripe, and a hole on one knee. Witness also said there were plates, knives, and forks on the table, as if persons had taken supper. There was no one in the house with Waters when he went there. The Coroner then adjourned the inquiry till Monday next, and the jury were accordingly bound over to appear. Deceased was interred in Llanwern Churchyard on Friday. The funeral was a quiet one, and but few of the public were present.

PANTEG LOCAL BOARD. The usual monthly meeting of this Board was held at the Pontymoile Schoolroom on Tuesday evening-A. A. Williams, Esq., presiding; the j other members present were Messrs H. J. Park- hurst, W. Parker, J. Jenkins, J. Watkin, and J. Rosser. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and confirmed. THE RECENT HORSE ACCIDENT. A discussion arose with regard to the death of 1 a horse belonging to Mr J. E. Williams, of Typoth, who alleged that it took place owing to the defec- tive condition of a roadway within the district of the Board. From a statemeut made by the sur veyor, it appeared that there were witnesses pre- pared to swear that there was contributory negli- gence on the part of Mr Williams in sending a horse out on such a dangerous morning.—Mr Wil- liams forwarded a letter, stating that he would ac- cept one-half the value of the horse or submit the case for arbitration. Mr Parkhurst said it was an unfortunate thing for Mr Williams that he had lost his horse, but at the same time the Board were in doubt as to their legal responsibility. It was decided to seek legal advice. THE WATER SUPPLY FOR SEBASTOPOL. The Clerk stated that he had written to Major Hair, in accordance with the wishes of the Board at the last meeting, asking him if the Directors of the Pontypool Gas and Water Company were in a position to undertake the supply of water for the use of the inhabitants residing at Sebastopol (within their district),and also if they could supply water for flushing main sewers, and at what cost. He had received a reply, stating that the matter would be laid before the Board of Directors at their next meeting in January, when the Local Board should have a reply. SEBASTOPOL SCAVENGING. The Surveyor, after some discussion, was in- structed to take observations with respect to what was done with the slops at Sebastopol, and report at the next Board. SURVEYOR'S REPORT. The Surveyor read his monthly report, as fol- lows :— Gentlemen,—I beg to report that a portion of the kerbstone near Trosnant Machine House to Trosnant Mill Road has been laid, and the whole length ordered by the Board will be completed as soon as the weather will allow the work to be done. I beg also to report ti-t in CCnIseqn,c.we of tKo froxrr Ll 1C well ziccsi" the furnace manager's house has not been done as or- dered, but will have my early attention as soon as a thaw comes. I beg to report that there has been spread upon the turnpike roads, during the past month, 200 tons of broken limestones. I have collected since last month's statement 240 of the general district rate, and paid that sum to the credit of the Board as per bank book. I would ask the Board to allow a reasonable quantity of common salt to use for throwing over the roads in slippery weather to prevent accident, when no ashes can be obtained for that purpose. Yours, &c., J. GOODENOUGH. The Clerk read the following copy of a letter which had been sent from the Local Government Board to the Usk and Ebbw Board of Conserva- tors, respecting the application made by them to the Board to direct the Local Board to take proceedings with regard to the pollution of the Avon Llwyd Local Government Board, Whitehall, 25th Nov,, 1879. Sir,—I am directed by the Local Government Board to advert to the correspondence which has taken place on this subject, and to state that they have now re- ceived a report from their Inspector, Dr Angus Smith, with reference to the application of the Usk and Ebbw Board of Conservators to direct the Panteg Local Board to take proceedings against the Pontypool Iron and Tin Company and Messrs Conway Brothers, under sec. 6 of the Rivers' Pollution Prevention Act, 1876. The Board learn from Dr Smith that the Companies in question are now adopting means, having for their object the prevention of the pollution of the Avon Llwyd, and under these circumstances the Board con- sider it desirable to defer taking any further action in the matter at present. I am, &c. J. F. ROTTON, Asst. Sec. PLANS. Plans for the erection of eight houses at Sebas- topol, by Mr J. Davies, were examined and passed by the Board subject to the regulations and bye- laws in force. This was the whole of the business.

STATE OF TRADE. Great developments in the South Wales coal trade may be expected shortly, for so much energy is being thrown into the business at Cardiff that before long that port will be able to ship as many as 400,000 tons per month. At a mass meeting of North Staffordshire miners, held at Hanley ou Monday evening, a re- solution was carried to the effect that as the de- pression in the coal and iron trades, which has prevailed for several years, has given way, and a brisker and more remunerative trade set in, an advance in miners' wages of not less than 10 per cent. should now be conceded by the masters. A notice for such an advance was given at most of the collieries in North Staffordshire on Saturday, and at those places where notiees have not yet been given application for the advance will be made forthwith. English ironworkers disposed to go to the United States on the invitation of the American ironmasters, should be careful to make a good agreement. There are plenty of men waiting for work, but unfortunately they are not of the kind the American employers require. The latter have held out all sorts of inducements within the last five years, and many English workers went over; the steady men with an eye to their own benefit in quite another line. They worked away, took care of their money, and went South or West, leaving the drunken and idle to supply the de- mands of the ironmasters. With self-denial and hard work for a few years an English ironworker can soon put himself in a position to settle out West, but he must see that his agreement provides him with wages for at least two or three years before he ventures to start. The Americans are, of course, anxious to get as many hands as pos- sible, in order to keep down the price of labour. On Monday a meeting of delegates from various collieries of Monmouthshire and South Wales was held at the Bute Arms, Aberdare, for the purpose of considering the re-formation of the sliding scale, under a new basis, for the district. Mr Wm. Humphreys, of the Rhondda, was appointed the chairman, and Mr Walter Barry, Blaenavon, vice-chairman. Mr T. Halliday was also present. The attendance of delegates, and consequently of the number of men represented, was not so great as might have been expected upon such an impor- tant occasion, as it appeared that the number re- presented was only 10,000 out of the 50,000 miners comprised in the district of Monmouth- shire and South Wales—a very small percentage. The roll was first called, and from those delegates who were present it appeared that a very large majority were unanimously in favour of the resa. Iution previously corae to of re-forming the slid- ing scale. THe meeting resulted in representa- tives being appointed to sit upon the joint com- mittee of masters and men for the selection of persons to form a new sliding scale committee. C5

FATAL ACCIDENT IN THE RHONDDA. At eight o'clock on Tuesday night, whilst Wm. Davies, 26 years of age, who was a resident at Greenfield Row, Cwmpard, was working at the Park Pit, a fall" took place from the top, and crushed him fearfully. He died almost directly. The poor fellow had only been recently married.

JOHN DUNN AND THE MISSIONARIES. CETEWAYO'S SON. By Donald Curries steamer, Dunrobin Castle, which arrived on Wednesday evening, we learn that Oham and another chief have quarrelled about some of the King's cattle, and that the settle- ment" is thus seriously disturbed. Oham has ex- pressed a wish that Mr Reuschaft, a German missionary who formerly lived in Oham's district, should return, and the missionary is preparing to do so. Although John Dunn has denied the charge I of refusing to allow missionaries to enter his terri- tory, saying that he did not wish to keep them away, but must have them under his control, no missionaries are taking any steps to visit him, thinking discretion the better part of valour, and that their reception at the kraal of 3 ohannes Rex would not be cordial. CAPE TOWN, Nov. 18.—Sir Garnet Wolseley's attack on Secocoeni's stronghold is expected to commence on the 20th inst., unless he submits. The Boers appear to be quietly awaiting a mass meeting on the 10th proximo. It is definitely as- certained that Cetywayo has a-aon, now under the care of his uncle, who is anxious to prevent his coming into contact with Europeans. News of the attack on Moirosi's stronghold is expected daily. A mortar and scaling ladders have been sent thither.

BLAENAVON. ADDRESS BY MR HALLID,&Y.-A lar,,ely-attencled public meeting was held at the White Horse As- sembly Room on Wednesday evening, when an address on Liberal National Reform was de- livered by Mr Thos. Halliday. The speaker was frequently applauded and cheered during his speech of an hour and a-half. Mr Halliday said that he and others interested in the same cause were determined to agitate the country until an extension of the franchise took place. He believed we should not have better times until ft different Government was in power. Mr C. White, manager of the Gas Works, pre- sided. The Rev E. Jones, Baptist minister, and several tradesmen of the town were also on the platform, and promised to do all in their power towards effecting a Reform. It is intended to es- tablish a Working Men's Liberal Committee in Blaenavon.

ABERSYCHAN. FORTHCOMING CONCEIELT.-Our readers are re- minded of the first-class concert which is to be given in the Abersychan Schoolroom on Thursday evening next. A rare treat may be expected. POPULAR ENTERTAINMENT.—The first of a series of entertainments was given in the English Baptist Schoolroom on Thursday week. There was a numerous and respectable audience, and judging from the marked attention paid, a most enjoyable evening was spent. Dr Mulligan presided, and in his remarks expressed his pleasure at being able to be present; he was glad to see so many persons there, and hoped all would have been benefited by the time they reached the end of the pro- gramme. The choir then sang a part song. Miss Morgan, of Pontypool, sang two songs in a very pleasing manner, and was warmly applauded. Miss Thomas, also of Pontypool, who possesses a fine voice, sang The Dying Child" with much expression and feeling, and justly merited the ap- plause she received. Miss Polly Bowen, of Blaen- avon, who is a very popular singer, added much to the evening's enjoyment. She sang very nicely Say not Woman's Heart is bought," and a duet with Mr Gwilym Williams, and was rewarded with loud encores. We trust to hear them again shortly. Messrs Parry and Griffiths favoured the audience with some selections from the Songs of Wales" in capital style. Mr D. Lewis, Mr T. Jones, and Miss R. Jones gave good readings, which were well received. Mrs Morgan and Miss Bryant sang a duet very nicely. Miss Amy Lloyd acquitted her- self well as accompanist. At the conclusion, the Chairman suitably remarked upon the singing and reading of the friends who had come forward to assist. A vote of thanks to the performers and the Chairman brought this interesting meeting to a close.

USK. SERIOUS ACCIDENT.-On Saturday morning, Mrs Derrett, of Usk,while going to the railway station, slipped on the ice and broke her right leg in two places. She was conveyed home and attended by Dr. Shepard, and is now going on as favourably as can be expected.

BRUTAL OUTRAGE ON A FARMER. A farmer has been brutally maimed at Rushton, near Leek. As he was returning home late at night, he was attacked by three men. Two of them held him down, while the third got the victim's knife from his pocket, and proceeded to hack and maim him in a most brutal manner, finally leaving him in an exhausted state. He is in a very dangerous condition, owing to the wounds and to intense cold. That malice was the sole cause of the outrage, which was of a most fiendish and disgusting character, was evident from the fact that though the man had a very large sum in gold, it was not taken.

SHOCKING SCENE AT A FUNERAL. A shocking spectacle was witnessed at an inter- ment at Kirkcaldy a few days ago. Nearly all the mourners had got so intoxicated as to be unable to conduct themselves properly, so that one of them, when lowering the coffin into the grave, staggered forward and fell headlong into the tomb, and became jambed between the descending corpse and the side of the grave. He was only extricated with the greatest* difficulty.

LATEST MARKETS. [BY TELEGRAPH.} BRISTOL CATTLE MARKET.—THURSDAY. Christmas market held to-day, but was rather deficient in first-class Christmas beef, best sam- ples of which fetched 80s to 82s. Mutton short, and not in great demand; best wethers, 9d. Store cattle trade very quiet. 1200 pigs; bacon, 9s 9d. porkers, 10s to 10s 6d.

LONDON CATTLE MARKET.—THURSDAY. There were 920 beasts, including 90 foreign; market inactive, but firm; 4 s to 5s lOd. 2610 sheep, 510 foreign; 4s to 6s 6d. 130 calves, 5s to 6s per 8 lbs.

CLYDACH. RAPID MANUFACTURE OF TINPLATE.—The for- mal opening of Glanyrafon Tinplate Works took place on Tuesday. Mr Jenkins, the managing partner, personally superintended a very interest- ing experiment, that of making a finished Tin- plate from rough iron in the marvellously short space of 4t hours. At 11.30, a piece of rough iron was put into the furnace, and by 4.0 in the after- noon it had been manipulated into a shining tin- plate, with a mirror like surface. Mr Jenkins has patented a new process of annealing, which is much more rapid than ordinary methods, and by means of which a considerable saving ef fuel is effected, as less heat is required.