Pontypool Free Press and Herald of the Hills

DISTRICT NEWS. j > ————— ABERCARN. GRAND EISTEDDFOD.—An eisteddfod in con- nection with the English Baptist Chapel, Aber- ,earn, will be held on Christmas Day, at the Public Hall. I.O.G,T-A.temperance meeting i-neonmectior with the Good Templars' 14odwe was held on Sunday evening, at the Public Hall, which was rammed to excess. Mr. Low man took the hair, and addressed the meeting in a few well- chosen words. He then called upon Miss Price and Master Price to give a recitation and solo, respectively., after which the Rev. M. Harris gave a splendid address on total abstinence. The Chairman announced that the Rev. E. Aubrey "Would address the meeting next Sunday even- ing.

B LAE WAVON. I DDIATINV Sue IE.TY.-The members of this class met oa Saturday night at Broad-street iiaptist Chapel to conclude the adjourned debate On Is a Si,ate Church necessary?" Mr, E. t, Williams read, a paper-on the negative side, and <U*gued that it was not necessary on religious or |)olitical grounds. The debate, which was entered into with spirit and enthusiasm, ended by an overwhelming majority for the negative, The elass will .not meet again until the second Saturday in the new year, when the subject for debate will.be "Is a high state of mental cul- ture detrimental to manual labour ? Affirma- tive, Mr. W..Morgan negative, Mr. T. Millett. DEATIl OF AX OLD INHABITANT.—An old and 0 11 rauch respected inhabitant has passed away from liere in the person of Mrs. H ubball, widow of the late Mr. T. liubbal4 under manager of the Biaenavon Works. The deceased was a valuable and b iloved member .of the FoW Side Baptist Church, of Forge Side (of which Mr. Hufiball was for some years .air officer), and her loss will he keenly felt hx the whole church- Her death occurred on Tuesday, the 15th inst., after a short illness, and the funeral, which was private, took place on Friday, the body bein^ interred with that'- of her husband in the family grave at Llan- Weni-trth, the pastor (3. Tucker) offiewting. Sul)DEN DEATH.—An inquest was held on Monday afternoon at the Police Station, before ftJr. J. Walford, coroner, and a jury, of whom r. Jokii- Harris was foreman, as to the death of kjw. Alice Jane Penlielog, wife of Mr, John Penhelog, "blacksmith, residing at Ton 31awr- street, who .'iied under peculiary painful circum- tan GO'S on Saturday noon, the L'Jth inst.—13 r. J. Cownie, the first witness examined, deposed that he attended deceased professionally. The last occason in that capacity was the 24th November last. when he coiiipleted a series of visits. Tlte complaint he attended her for at that time was In his opinion she was practically insane. He bad not been called in to see her on the day of her death until after her demise, and attributed the cause to coma, following conges- tion of the brain, the result of an epileptic Seizure—a which he was not at ail surprised -ut. He had every reason to believe that the deceased had" been properly treated by the fa.rnily during his last visits.—Elizabeth John, the orandmothor, deposed that the deceased Hved°with her, and had done so since childhood. She was subject to iits from infancy. On Satur- day morning last she bad two fits, from which "he did not recover, and died at noon on the "atae day. No medical roan was called in, as she Considered the fits to be of ihe ordinary character, tld did not apprehend a,,ny fatal results.—The Jury, after a brief consultation, returned a verdiot in accordance with t.'kb medical evidence.

GRIFFITHSTOWK. 1ST M.A.V.—The non-commissioned officers of the Panteg Batteries and a few friends held their second annual supper on Friday evening last at the Hanbury Hotel, Griffithstown. Amongst those present were Captain Bowman (the adjutant), Captain D. E. Williams, Lieut. Pickard, &c., &c. A capital spread was provided by Mr. Shenton, who had spared no pains in de- corating the room, and giving it a most pleasing appearance. After the cloth had been removed, Seret.-Major Griffiths took the chair, and Sergt- Major Davies the vice-chair, when a most enjoy- able evening was vpent. The usual toast list was gone through, and songs were capitally rendered [ by the folio wing-gentlemen; Sergt.-Major Davies, Seisgt. Martin, Golout-Sergt. Babbidge, Sergt.- MeTnr Carter, Corporal Rees, and Mr. Brink- worth. Great credit is due to Corporal French for the admirable manner in which the arrange- ments were made. GOOD TEXIPLARIRM.—Gone, but not for- gotten," are words which hxve cheered the hearts of maey mourners and those who, having been connected with the indetpendent Order of Good Templars, meeting during the past years at Sebastopei, regretting its collapse aod who mo-urn its loss, will be cheered fey hearing that sevaral of the oM members, uniting with some fresh ones, have determined (D.V.) to form a new lodge. To this end, a meeting was held on Mondejy eveniag. True to the custom prevalent at Griftithstowa, the people kft their cosy fire- sides balf-an-Jaour later than the appointed time to commence the meeting. The chairman., not having arrived, Mr. Jacobs was voted to the chair, which office he admirably filled, until the arrival of the Itev- D. M. Davies. A capital (pro- gramme was .gone through, Miss Jacobs opening it with a Dianoferte sole, intheexeclitlOu of which she "displayed her iiiusical,,powers. The other items wereas follows Solo, ft irl Miss -Beece recitation, Mr. D. Ratbbona address, =by Mr. J. Dix, of Newport, D.C.T., in which he shewed the bfMlefitsØtf Temperance and the nofeleness ef its work sole, Worst Girl in School," Miss Lewis4 pianoforte duet, Misses Reece-and Rath bone solo, Mrs. Binns ;.address, by the Rev. D. M. Dalies, in which he denounced the drink traffic, and eloquently advocated the need of being united in sweeping away -the evil from our land solo, Miss Sumner pianoforte solo, Miss Reece. At the close of the meeting, a committee was formed for the new -lodge.

PENfHEOLTBADB. MOUNT PLEASANT CHAPEL.—On Sunday even- ing last the funeral sermon in memory of the late Mrs. Stephens, wife-of the late Mr. Thomas Stephens, was pleached by the Rev. Thomas -Cocker, who took for his text John xi. 11-16. Deceased was a woman who bore an. exception- ally good character, and was greatly respected by allwho knew her. She was a Jiuttiveof Cwm- bran, and was for many years a fuithful member f Siloam Church. She was also one of the founders of the Baptist Church at Moufrt Plea- in- sant Chapel, Peuheolybadd. She took a deep in- terest and active part in the re-seseting and reno- vation-of the chapel last autumn but on the day the building was -re-opened she was dead, which (cast a at gloom over the church and neighbourhood. She-died on October 31st, and the chapel was re-opened on November 1st and 2nd. She was interred.at Siloam, Cwmbran, om November bth. Agreat number00f relatives and friends attended the funeral, and the following- gentlemen took part in the services :—The Revs. Thomas Cocker (Pontnewydd) and W, Rees (Cwmbran) Messrs. Moses (Machon), Moses I ,(Bassalleg),-ai?d Mnxworthy (Maindee).

UiPPEJt CWXBRAN. TKE APOSTLE P A.UL.This was the subject of a paper read byMr. T. Chivons at the weekly meeting of the "Bethel Congregational Clinch BibleSlass en Thursday eyemmg, December 17th. The ;pag>er, which was carefully prepared, was fell of interest,.acid was listened to with marked attention by the members and friends, To shew what good emanates from meetings of the kind it will suffice only to say that the effi- cient wianner with which the subject was bandied, together witik 4he character of the sub- j'ect, aroused the auditors to fuller profession of self-devotedness and consecration to the true and moble. A vote of thanks to the reader brought this pleasant meeting to a close. The Rev T. IIltyd James (pastor) presided over-the meeting. •

CAERLEON. T E'JT.TS' Ce fN'CERT.—On Monday evening an invitation students' concert was given by Mrs. Alfred Morris (assisted by Mrs. E. G.R,. Rich- ards and friends,) in her new music-room, which was most tastefully decorated for the occasion. The audience consisted of some of the leading families of the neighbourhood, including many friends from Newport and Cardiff. The increas- ing number of students having rendered a con- cert room necessary, a building 60ft by 22ft', has been adapted for this purpose. energy and talent of Mrs. Morris is too well known in the local musical world to need any eulogium, and her constant endeavour to raise the standard of the art should meet with the approval of every lover of music.The chorus of ladies voices, including ihe orchestra, numbered nearly 50. The singing of Miss Andrews and Miss Ramsdale must Be specially mentioned..Mrs. Morris contri- buted two songs, accompanied by Mr. Richards and Mr. Cain respectively, in the most effective manner. Besides accompanying the choruses the band contributed three pieces, which were most successful, as was also t&e singing of Mr Richards. The next concert will be given for the benefit of the Newport Infirmary, when Pergolesi's Stabat Mater for female voices, with orchestral accom- paniments, will be profiuced. We append the evening's jtrogcimme, wfeich was slightly varied owing to the absence through illness of two of the vocalists.—Part lH >110d save the Queen," Costa's arrangement (orchestral accompani- we.t); vocal duet. Gentty Sighs the Breeze," Miss Maddock and Mias Fawckner: song, The Better Land," Jude, Miss ;Bamsdale (violin ob- ligate, Mr. E. G-. JEL Richardts); part song, "Ave laria," (Lorely), Mendelssohn, ladies voices, solo MissGoldsworthy, orchestral acco-paiiiment song, Caxissima,, I Poritet, K. Thomas; song, The King's Minstrel," Pinsuti, Mr. E. G. R. Richards; pianoforte solo, Andante and Rondo Capriceioso, Mendelssohn, Mi&s Mabel A. Col- lingdon; song, Sing, Sweet Bissi," Ganz, Miiss B. Andrews; Minuet, orchestra. Part II—Over- ture lancredi," Rossini, The orchestra; seng, Lilla's a Lady," Cotsford Dick, Miss Maggie Collingdon; part song, Hail to Thee," (Bride of Dunkerron) Smart, ladies voices orchestral accompaniment; song, The Bird's Love Song," Smart, Mrs. A. Morris (clarionet obli^ato, Mr. G. Cain); duet, Meeting," Pinsuti, the Misses Ramsdale; song, "Biolldina," Lolir. Miss L. Phillips; part song, Make the Car of a Golden King Cup," (The Dream) Costa, ladies' voices (orchestral accompaniment); song," Tilt bee and the Song, Weatherly. Miss Goldsworthy; finale, ""March," the orchestra.

PWJLIDF. ENTERTAINMENT.—On Thursday evening, the 10th inst., an entertainment was given at Pwlldu o/i the schoolroom by some ladies and gentlemen foom Biaenavon, the proceeds of which were to be spent in prizes for the children. The first part was a short performance by the Christy Troup in a comic sketch entitled 1 Black Jesters/ This was much appreciated by the audience, and received considerable applause. The corner-men were Messrs. S. Saunders and W. Humphries, and Mr. H. Russell took the part of "Mr. Johnson." This was followed by a dramatic piece entitled The dead shot," which was un- doubtedly the attraction of the evening. The performance, we need hardly say, wa very creditable to all concerned, and was a complete success. The room was quite full, which showed the keen interest taken in the performance, and this was all the more gratifying considering that on th<3 ni £ r}tt in question there was a fierce storm of wind and rain.

PONTYPOOL COLLEGE. Tk-e annual breaking-up party in connection "With the above institution took place on Tuesday evening, and was of a very successful character. Thougu not so large as usual, there was a good attendance, and the proceedings were throughout of a most enjoyable character. Dr Edwards presided, and in his opening re- marks referred to the circumstance of the attendance on that occasion being somewhat smaller than usual, due no doubt to the fact of its being Christmas week and to their friends and elsewhere being busily engaged. He was glad to sav that, upon the whole, they had spent a very happy year at the College. They had done me good work, and were looking forward hopefully to tlieyear 189*2. They had received the Divine blessing, and hoped to experience it in its fullnevss during the coming year. Some of their friends were unable to -be present o» ac- count of iiluess or from other reasons, bat they hoped to see them at alother time. (Applause.) The programme was then proceeded with, as follows :—Pianoforte solo, Miss Morgan duet, 4 Reuben and Rachel,' Master Austin au-d Miss Marian Edwards song. -'Ti'ie flower's message,' Mr. W. Saunders, Yny^ybwl song, FHldle and I,' Miss Jmlian Edwards duet, "Larboard watch,1 Messrs. J. Leigh Davies and J. Lloy<i Williams song, The river of years,' Miss WiA- liams, Typoth song, I -Chwifio'rCadarh gwyo,' Mr. H. Thomas recitation, Keeping his word,' Master A..Edwards song, Nothing else to 4o,' Mr. D. -Jones, Belle Vnie reading. Mr. F, A. Rees; F,(-)Y-ig, "Killarney- Mrs. Edwards piano- for. solo, Miss Ne-Hy Edwards.; song, The soldier and the man,' Mr. R. B. Jones song, Avon't -on buy sny pretty flowers ?' Miss Marian Edwards song, 'I fear no fee,' Mr. S. Jenkins recitation, 'The idiot lad,' Miss F. Phillips song," Death of Nelssn,' Mr, J. L. Daviee^ soxjg,; The song that reached my heart,' Miss M. A. .Hopkins song, "'The Yicar of Bray,' Mr. J. JL. Williams reading, 4 Christmas Day in the Workhouse,' Miss Mott; song, 'She must be mine,' Mr. K A. Rees. .AJ 1 the above items were weM rendesod, mort of the contributions being vociferously encored, but owing to the length ef the programme only one or two responses were allowed. At the close, the Rev.-J. M. Davies, MA., said he thought that that was the seventh gathering of the sort he had attended at the College. He had enjoyed himself most tho- roughly, and begged to propose that their warmest thanks -be tendered to the friends who had entertained them so admirably. japplause.) The Rev. £ L B. Robinson, F.R.G.S., who seconded, in the course of -a humorous speech said he had been so carried, a way by the enthusi- asm of the meeting and the power of the singing that he had actually-spoken and sung in Welsh. (Laughter.) They had spent a very happy evening, and their warmest thanks were due to Dr. Edwards for invitiugthem, and to the stu- dents and other friends who had entertained them. (Applause.) After a lew words from the President, the proposition w.ae passed by acclamation and the DoxoJogy having been sung and the Benediction pronounced, the enjoyable proceedings came to an end.

ALLEGED FALSE PRETENCES AT CARDIFF. A P 0 NT YPOOL HOTELKEEPER SWINDLED. At, Cardiff Police Court, on Tuesday (before I on la Mr. T. "v Lewis, stipendiary, Dr.. Paine, and Alderman Jones), Robert Amblera middle-aged man of gentlemanly appearance, was chargecuon rem-'ind with obtaining food and lodgings to the amount £ 5 3E. 9d. from Tli9mas Wyatt, of the -RoyaJ. Clarence Temperance Hotel, Tudor- iroad, between the 8th and 16th of December, by means of false pretences. Mr. Belcher again appeared to prosecute,-and Mr. Frank Williams defended. Mrs. Wyatt said she only supplied the prisoner with food and lodgings because he lepresented that his luggage-was on theway from the Crown, at Pontypool, and that he had taken the house next door. Mr. T. Millward Wyatt, proprietor of the hotel, said he was not at home when prisoner arrived. He first saw him on the night of Fri- day, the 11th, when he said he was Ambler, of 39, Fleet street, the great advertising firm, known all over the world." He also said, in con- versation, that he had sent to Pontypool for hie luggage, andcould not think why it had not been forwarded, as his cheque-book was there in a portfolio, which he had also left behind. His wife shewed liim the prisoner's card, and upon the strength of that card he allowed him to remain. Philip Henry Davies, in the employ of Mr. Solomon Andrews, the owner of the house next door to the hotel, and occupied by Mrs. Taylor (where prisoner represented he was going to jive), said he had never seen the prisoner before., and it was not true that he had taken the house in which 31rs. Taylor now lived- e Henry Tanner, the landlord of the Crown Hotel, Pontypool, said prisoner came to his hotel on the 30th uit., and on Tuesday, the 8th inst., he left. His hotel bill was x4 lOR., which he left without paying. All the luggage he left was the small parcel produced 1 (containing writing paper, &c.), a few dirty collars, and an old walking stick broken in two pieces. Cross-examined: I am not aware that he also left an overcoat. I presented my bill, which he said he would pay on the next day, but I have not seen him since. Mrs. Bessie Taylor said she lived next door to the hotel and w/jnt into possession .a^ week Mon- day. The prisoner had made no arrangement with her in reference to the house. His proper name was Robert Hiltttu. She knew him twenty years ago, when he was a shipping clerk at Liverpool. After tlie Wednesday, he arranged to lodge with her. Jesse Crouch, a detective constable in the city of London police fo .i,oo, deposed that, acting upon instructions received from the Cardiif police, he went to Fleet-stwet, and found there was.no such number as 39. The namhets 34 to 40 were occupied by 3lessis. Hoare, the well- known bankers. The name fif Ambler was not known in Fleet-street. After this evidence, the BeRCh considered that a case had been established, and committed the prisoner for trial, bail being refused.

SEQUEL TO THE BLAKXAVON SLANDER CASE. We understood that some time siace, Messrs. Corner and Corner, solicitors, Hereford, acting for Mr. James Hill, formerly surveyor to the Blaenavon Local Board, wrote to Mr. W. Snook, watchmaker, &c., Broad-street, Blae- navon (a me ber of the Board) intimayng that unless he apologised, and paid all legal charges, an action for libel would be commenced .agamst him for having caused copies or the newspaper reports relating to the audit of the Local Board accounts to be published in leaflet form, to Mr. Hill's prejudice. After correspondence the matter has now been 0,n Payment by Mr. Snook of a sum of and costs, and his tendering an apology.

HUNTING APPOINTMENTS. The Llangibby Hounds will meet on Tuesday Dec. 29th, Llangewew Oris. Friday, Jan. Ist, Little Mill. At half-past ten each day.

"THE WRECK OF THE ARGOSY." PERFORMANCES AT PONTYPOOL. Last week, the Pontypool Amateur Operatic Society gave three performances of Birch's dra- matic cantata, "The Wreck of the Argosy," in the Town Hall, Pontypool. Originally only two representations were announced, to take place on the evenings of Wednesday and Thursday, but the piece was so successful, both as regards its j-endering by the Company and its appreciation by the public, that the Society yielded to the solicitations of several admiring patrons, and determinedujwn giving a repetition performance on Friday evening. On Wednesday and Thurs- day, large anfidiences Yei-epresen-L, especially en the latter evening, but Friday's attendance was very meagre. The wntata was given in charac- ter, the costumes, all or w-hjch were approbate and tasteful, some el-ogant end costly, were fur- nished -W the well-known costumier, Fox, of Co vent Garden, London. The very effective scenery was specially pai nted by our taianted young (townsman, Mr. A. J. Joshua, ef the engineering department, Panteg Steel Works. The soenic effects we-.e -,t-n trusted to Mr. O. Car- stensefri, of Pontypool, whose ability and taste in the i-ioble (but to the audience somewhat bewil- dering) art of makirg-up W staiikingl3, ex- emplified. The manager was Mr. J. Edxnonde (Ala w Gwentj;, whose skill as a teacher and con- ductor was inclusively shewsi by the capital style in which the choruses aJlld concerted music generally wespe performed, wllsthis talents as a dramaturgist wereecliibited the tiling "situa- tifms" with which the piece abounded. The orchestra '.oompl'iod Mr. R. J. England, first violin Mix E. Lanvrence, saCond ^violin Mr. W. Moseley, ilarione.^ Mr. "r R. Richards, coriwt; Mr. T. Sewell, -double bass viol; Mr. G, J., Mordecai, pianoforte. When we state that Mr. England was the leader, it goes without saying that the instrumental aausic and accompani- ments were splendidly played, and left nothing to be desired. The music The Wireck^oi? the Argosy is prettv-it is ttnef ul ip- the tilioruses as well as the solo partii and it is, moreover, pleasantly varied. The plot is simplicity itself:: Lellie Marston (Miss AnnefM Hiil), the daughter of au iinnkeeper. Philip Jdarstor, (Mr. R. Oakes), is beloved -by Hacry Stanchion (Mc. John Thomas, Eos Brychfiniog), a British sailor, of The-Argosy," who ^ias succeeded in gaining a reciprocity of affeciion irem the fair maiden. Trae love, .iu this cage, many others, does not run smooth, for the 41ld innkeeper insists upen his daughter's favourably receiving the a; ads-ances of- Ralph Harman (Mr. J. Edmopde, Alaw Gweat), a pkate chief, on account of his wealth, which he secretly views in 'the pirate's c,g-.vc. While the pirates are carocsisig in their cave, a-sterm breaks out, and soon the -ciy is raised, "A ship in diiFtress." The doomed ■vesselis The A?go§y," -but Har^jr Stanchion is sa ved, only to fail into the hands c £ the pirates, ;w-ho drag him into the presence ,ø.f their chief, by whom he is at once recognised his rival, and is accordingly consigned to a dur^eon, joaded with chains. -During the nj^ht, however, while the pirates 6letp, Alice Airman ((Miss Fiorrie Allen), the pirate chief is «ister, whose character is totally unlike that of her cruel: brother, invokeg the.po;vors of heaven in favour r -of the hapless prisoner. Immediately -after- wards, .a plan occurs to her by which she caa set the siidor at liberty. Her idea is at ionce put into execution, :and Harry fetanchion escapes, to the great chagrin M his lawless jailor, who attempts taeSectualIy te shoot him as he scales the ciift's. This enfls the i second -act. The third act opens with an assemblage of the villagers, who are gathered together for the purpose of celebrating the marriage of Lellie Marston witir. the Pirate Chief. Poor Lellie, who refuses to believe that her lover is ..Ql'o.wll<:v.l. has at last given way to her father's wishes, and, dre seill her bridal tcostume, makes a la,t requdst for freedom to the would-sbe bridegroom hiaiself, who, in spite of her entreaties, insists upon the marriage being carried, out. Fortunately, ■ however, Harry Stanchion makes a sudden and unexpected appearance, to the great joy of his sweetheart. Harry .quickly finds how matters stand, and recognising Ralph Hsxman, denounces him as .the pirate chief. Will Sharp (Mr. P. J". Osborne) r the coastguardeman, at once steps forward and arrests Barman, who is subsequently supposed to be conveyed to prison. Philip Marston falls in with the new order of things and gives his consent to the union Qf bis daughter with her sailor lover, the villagers join in the general rejoicing, and the nuptials of Harry ^nd Lellie are duly celebrated in an appropriate chorus, "How merrily and gay, the village bells." At the opening ot the third act, a sailor's horn- pipe was very cleverly usuiced by Mr. W. Maggs, of Pontypool, who miy be congraulated on the precision and lightness of his action. This fairly brought down the house, and wac encored each night. fairly brought dow.n the house, and wac encored each night. Of the merits of the performances we cannot speak too highly. The entire representation- singing, acting, costumes, scenery, &c.—sur- prised everybody, and ail the performers—band, soloists, and ctior-AS—deserve much praise. They could not, of t-ourse, be-expected to act with the abandon—the forgetiiuljiesc of self in-.eaacting the assumed character-—snewr; by professionals, k but as amateurv? they took their reispectivo parts remarkably well, ij/ss Amieite Mill xsade a charming Lellie Marston. Her acting wa&grace- fuland ufiafrectsd, while her smginf was artistic and expressive. Her tvolce, always sweet and musical, was never heard to "-tetter,r,dvantige- in fact, she np.ay be sail to have sur- passed b&rself. Miss Flo&rie A"en, whose costume æ. the piraiie s s.ister suited her admirably, achieved all excellent reputation —she acted the part well, and sang ,the music with great taste tnd fet-iing, i-jspeciiJiy in her solo in the cave, which received an encore each night. Mr. <Tohn Thotuas (Eos Brytheiniog) was veiy successful AS Kaixy Stauchioiv These who have heard this popuia/' vocalist will knsw tliat any Biuaie cntriasied to him would be sui g in a tllOroUghJ.y artistic and pleasing joanner. while those have not he-.crd him should take an early .opportunity of doi^g t-q. It suffices ti» say that Mr. John Thffmas enhanced his already .splendid reputation, and has strewn that he can do,as well on the .stage xs in tiie cwicert -mom.. Mr„ J. Edmoade (AlawGwont) made a capital: pirate chief—he .both locked aod sapg the part to perfection^ his ricn-to»ed deep bass voice and dramatic style enabling bim to u<»- f uil justice to the character of Ralph Harmaa at his every apjjeai'ance. Evidently musical draxaa is bis forte. 31 r. P. J, Osborne, who apjaeared as Will Sharp, a coastguard, was got up so well thai his greatest friend could not have .beeit expected to recognise him. His part included a song, I he streamer of England (w which the villagers supplied the-ehorus^ and in this lie was fairly successful, particularly when the peculiar difficulties under which he laboured are considered. His voice, a Ibiit baritone., is tuneful and pleasing. Mr„ R, Oakes, who figured as Philip Marion, innkeeper, the fatker of Lellie Marston, ,vas the comic man of .the piece. His appearance alone was sufficient to excite Msibility, and his styie of acting", espe- cially in the bye-phy. was provocative of much merriment. The style in bringing out several • local "hits" was very telling. These jocular allusions took well with the audience, whu loudly applauded, on Thursday night, a reference to the bad .smell from the gas. Mr. Cakes hasevidently a comic and a witty vein. The choruses ail went splendidly, their tune- fulness and expression were remarkably good, there did not seem to be a dull voice in them. As regards the costumes of the young ladies we perhaps may be permitted to express a special word of approbation. They were all'pretty and tasteful, and the effect of the whole was singu- larly For this, the chief credit is due to the fuir singers themselves, as we hear that each of tuein designed and made her own dress. In the matter of encores the several audiences differed a little, but it mtY be said that the sing- ing of each of the principal performers was en- 1 cored, the same evidence of appreciation being accorded to one of the choruses, Our Beautiful Home," to repeat which-from the second verse of the solo—the villagers had to return after having left the stage. The programme of the music was as follows Aet L Overture, Orchestra. Chorus, Sweet spring all hail, Viil vgers. Recit, List the birds,' Lellie Marston. Air, The lark when rising,' Leilie MarstoD. '•Chorus, Asa.il! Aeail! -■ Villagers. Song and Chorus, The streamer of England,' Will Sharp and Villagers. > Song and Chorus, Our beautiful home, Harry Stanchion and Villagers. Ballad, Lellie. dear remember,' Harry Stanchion. Duet, Farewell, farewell,' isllie Mareton and Harry Stanchion. Chorus, 0 mighty sea, Villagers. Act H. Chorus, Hurrah for a pirate s liie, Pirates. Recit, ••• 'A ship in distress,' Ralph Harman. Recit, w fiercely the storm, Alice Harman. Recit, Hark I h«ar,' Ah«* Harman. Reeit, Bring forth the prisoner, Ralph Harman. Duet, 'Deep i:a a dungeon,' Krate Chief and Harry Stanchion- Sony, Calm is the deep,' Pirate Chief. Aria, *• Miserere Donaine,' • Harry Stanchion. Recit, Merciful powers,' • ■ Alice Harman. Air, Holy Father, hear my prayer,' Alice Harman. Dnet, Sweet-pretty maiden, Alice Harman and Harry Stanchion. Choru-, 'Pursue the miscreant,' Pirates. Act III. Sailor's Hornpipe, Mr. W. Maggs. ItClt, Hark rtis the signal gun. WiU Sharp. Cuoru"" Merrily, merrily,' Villagers. Song, Rippling waves ei sparkling hue,' Lellie Marston. Duet, Hear the last request I make you,' Leilie Marston and Pirate Chief, Duet, 'Away from the rolling sea,' Leilie Mar stem and Harry Stanchion. Ballsid, Home at last,' Harry Stanchion. Final Chorus, 4 How merrily and gay,' Villagers =============

THE CHRISTMAS MEAT SHOW AT PONTYPOOL. A glance at the meat shops of the town on Wednesday conveyed the impression that the butchers had made full preparations for provid- ing for their numerous patrons, and that locally, at all events, the principles of the Vegetarian Society do not seem to have gained very many converts. On the whole there was an absence of the outward adornment and decoration which marked the displays of former years, but the varioKS traders seemed to have laid in abundant suppiiesfthejdisplayiof feeef being of course most in evidence, whilst mutton and pork, and poultry, were by no means forgotten. Complaint was made by seme of the tradesmen that they had not been censulted as to the day for holding the market, Wednesday 3&eing "regarded as unsuit- able from the fact that the employees at the different "works had raot as a rule received their p^y. They were firmly conTinced that some- one had -blundered: but we-can only hope that the error will not affect the -takings. Mrs. Jt. Lloyd, Commercial-street, made, as usual, a capital show, having killed for Christmas w; eek a prime heifer and a prime ox., 6 Welsh wethers (from Mr. J. C. H&nbury, J-F., Ponty- pool Park), 6 Ecglish wethers, 12 pigs, and 1 large pig. A E ice display i6 also made of small goods, comprising sbrawn, sausages, &c. Mr. T. Lewis, Commercial-srreet, made a first- rate display, his exhibits embracing a aaumber of ?rime wethers (from Mr. J. C. Hanbury, J.P., 'ontypool Parfc)„ Shropshire Down wethers (from Mr. J. Thosrne, Court Morga bullocks (from Mr. J. Evans, Rhydimain), heifers (from jMr. J. Lewis, Llangwendar), &c. Mr. F. 0. Lawrence, Crane-street, was well;to the fore with. an attractive display of jprime beef, mutton, &c.: and the same remark applies to Mr. j-F. Lewis, High-street. Mrs. M. Lewis, Commercial-street, had aprirae I lot df beef, mutton, and porkers, the showiin- •cluding 2 splendid heifers, and 4 axen. The whole was -very prettily dressed. In addition, ,Mn.;Lewis displayed a large assortment of geeee, fowls, and -turkeys. At Mrs. Lewis's branch shop, in George-steeet, there was a Iapital dis- play c, f prize dairy- fed perk. Eaatmans, limited, Commercial-street, shewed 6 Weish wethers, 3 sucking pigs, and 4 porkers. The &Iock also included 30 American sheep, and a quantity of Ameiacan beef (not frocsen). Mr. J. Davies, pork butcher, Market-street, exhibited a prime lot of .porkers, including 8 fromMr. Pain, Llaiiover J5 ill, and U from Mr. Yarry Hill iFarm, Kington. The y-hole were very attractive. Mr. J. Lifctlehales, Crane-street, displayed a number of excellent porkew,, and a laige suppfy v-of brawn, sausages, Jfic.

CBMISTMAS 3IEAT SHQW AT BLAENA^OK The Christmas show of meat will practically he hele- to-d (Thursday,). On Wednesday, 35 essrs. Nelmes and Son, co-operative -L)utchem, eahibited a splendid show of meat and poultry, tJ¡¡e whoi!e of tte stock beiG,(. nicely decorated with holly and other .evergreens. The outside of the ptemises was prettily ht with gas, shewing ti»% initials, T. N." atd a prominent star, which att-acted a hostof people to witness the display at ihe establishment. Fhe ELienavon Company haie placed an order with Mr Xelmes for 300 lbs. of beef, for, distribution an.ongst the .poor.— Eastman's, Limited, exkibiteda nice sample of meat, invitingly arranged, consisting of four (Enj lish-killed) hind-quarters cf beef, :four fore- quarters «k>. four Southdown wethers weight I Wekh, do auf1 eight prime porkers. Mr. Thomas Lesvis, Bioad Sireet, i'illed two prime heifers, bred by Mr. A James, Pandy, being 1st "prize beasts at Abergavenny Christmas market six-do., br-3d and fed by Mr. Z. Joces, Cadfor Faroe., Govilon 10 yearling sheep, end :three iambs, bred by do. Tour pqrker- bred by -Air. William Edmtnds, I pper Cotcha. The poultry was supplied by Mr. Jones, New House, Abergavenny. Mr. Lewir also supplies tie BlaenaTon Company with SOOlbs of beef for free distribution. Mr. W. J. Jones (Riflemaii s Arms), ilr. Didts (Americar Market), and Mr. G, F. Young, had also choice eshibitien6 of jioidtry End meat. Z'he prices of poultry per pound raaged from .1'Ud. to Is. The principal tradesmen of the town had their windows invit- ingly dressed f<kr the festive season, and altogether £ he to^n only awaits the advesi of purchasers to effect a speedy clearance.

MEMBEBS OF BENEFIT SOCIETIES IN THE WORKHOUSE. A Pseiiamentary paper has juzt been issued which discloses the startling fact that tbere are 11 the w*:«rkhorses of England and Wales 14,808 jaupers who have been members of Benefit Societies. Of that number 10,215 forfeited their -safeguard .against absolute poverty either by non- payment of subscriptions, withdrawal, or dis- missal, and 4,593 were cast adrift by the breaking up of Societies. Purely these facts either point to Due necessity of much more .stringent inspect- jo.ui,&f FrienfUv Sw-ieties, or Ct" a national pro- vision in the same airectic-a. (-)ut of 648 Poor Law Unions from which returns have been obtained, there are only 75 that have not some of these especially unfortunate inmates. In Mon- mouthshire there arc b workliouses which have.& total of 130 immates who have becu members of Benefi t Societies,09 of them having been deprived j of support by the breaking up of Societies into which they had been paying, many of them over thirty years. In the Pontypool workhouse there :a,-e 32 such inmates, 11 of which ceased to be members owing to withdrawal, dismissal, or the noc-payment of subscriptions and 21 owing to the breaking up of Societies in which they had been paying, 8 between one and ten years, 8 over ten years, 3 over 20 years, and 2 over 30 years.

TOPICS OF THE WEEK. IT is announced by The Jewish Chronicle." "with authority," that Lieut-Colonel Aloert Goldsmid will take supreme command of the arrangements for the colonisation of Jews on the lands in Argentina at quired by Baron de Hirsch. Colonel Goldsmid's views are in favour of Jewish colonisation in Pales line, but he hopes that in the Argentine it will be shown uo the world—after the inevitable troubles in the first settlements have been overcome—that Jewish agricultural colonies, on a larger scale than are hitherto attempted, are quite practicable. A great step would thereby be gained for a similar scheme for Palestine. THE Emperor of China is a very str.ir.ge monarch. lie is of his own notion starting upon a task which most schoo%oys have wished to be Emperors to escape from. He is beginning the study of English and arithmetic. It is, of course, quite possible that the Rule of Three will ccme much easier to the Lord of the Vermilion Pencil than to small boys on the benches of aa English school, since the Chinese language, and most other things that the Chinaman has to leara. are so horribly difficult that mere Western learning must be very qui kly acquire!. But it is not easy to understand what the Emperor hopes to gain by learning English arithmetic. Perhaps he regards the experiment as an amusement, and learns a p:¡ge cr two of decimals iy way of freshening himself up after a long day at the early Chinese proverbs. I _AT a season when every one is being flooded with charitable appeals and circulars, lau lable and the reverse, it is curious to note that even in com- paratively recent times the law took a very much harsher view of begging than it does at present. On the 15th of July, 1719, the Rev. W. Heudlej preached a charity sermon at Chislehurst for the children of St. Anne's, Aldersgate. For this he and the trustees of the charity were trje-l at Rochester Assizes, convicted, and sentenced to pay 6s. 8d. each. The view taken by the judges was, that though under the rubric a parson might preach for the poor of his own parish, r.ny other collection of money without the leave of the Government was illegal as begging. Poor Mr. Hendley had obtained the leave of the Bishop of the diocese and of the rector of the parish to i preach the sermon bnt he had to pay his tis. 8d. all the same. THE purchase by Messrs. Ascherberg of the Dg- lish rights in Cavalleria Rusticana will spee ",ily prove beneficial to the opera-loving public. The directors of the Carl Rosa Company have officially intimated that they have made arrangements for the immediate production of the work in English. Whether the version printed in the few books issued on the occasion of the recent performance before the Queen at Windsor Castle will be used is not stated. Masgni's work is now in active rehearsal by the company, it being intended that it shall be produced in our tongue early in January at the Royal Court Theatre, Liverpool, where the Carl Rosa organisation, according to custom, has a nine weeks' season for the com- mencement of its annual operations. That a highly successful career in English awaits this striking and fascinating composition seems to admit of no question. THE spirited action taken by English trades unionists on behalf of the German printers is especially interesting from the point of view of international union. While the Governments of Europe seem to be unable, by means of reduction of armaments, to give practical effect to those pacific sentiments they all profess to entertain, the working classes are laying tLe foundations broad and deep of a real union, whmh will endure when the diplomatic manoeuvres of t,.e present time are all forgotten. Without in the least degree depreciating the excellent work being done by peace societies, it seems to us that the Labour movement has more of promise m it for the solution of international problems ihau any other agency. The sympathy and co-operation of the French Typographical Association with the German printers is a noble evidence Ls to how national differences sink Lefcre a combined Labour movemeat. i THE long murder case at Naples whi ,-h has been, reported so frequently h :s enme to winfc appears to be the last or its many trials. A Corre- spondent telegraphs that ore of the brothers Notarbartolo has been acquiticd and the other found guilty of manslaughter, and sentenced to four years' imprisonment. The cir. umstances bore some general resemblance to those of Keat's poetic story of Isabella, or the Pot of Basil." The two brothers had a sister, and their sister had a suitor of whom they did not approve. He wae very devoted he used to pass hours under her window; and one night he was shot in her house, though not before her eyes. An uproar was heard on the premises and the girl's mother, who shared the family aversion to the youth, rushed to meet her daughter with the announcement that he had committed suicide. At first there seemed too much reason to Jbelieve that the brothers had simply murdered him The verdict of the Court has now established the fact that he w:is shot by one of them in a quarrel, of which, perhaps, the full details and the exact nature will never be known. Ix religious circles in New York City the ques- z, tion of making church service more attractive to the general public is receiving attention, and some radical innovations have been suggested. Dr. Chas. A. Thompson, of the Madison-avenue Presbyterian Church, who is taking a leading part in the present agitation, has determined, it is re- ported, to enlarge his choir, introduce a fine orchestra of twenty-five musicians, and advertise freely in all the newspapers, whiie the best sit tings in his church will be placed on sale in the large hotels. A portion of the church, however, will be allotted free to persons who agree to he present at both morning and evening service, this" privilege to be Ioriencd if they fail to produce evi ience that sickness or absence from the cir.y left their seats empty. Dr. Thompson argues that- there is no more harm in selling single sittings for one service than in selling a whole pew for the entire. year. By letting ihe people know, through the medium of the Press, just what they may expect to hear in the way of sermon and music, at what cost. and making it possible for them to pny for and secure a seat, thus avoiding the feeling" that they are trespassing, the advocate of the plan claims that many who now remain a way from church will attend divine service. ANOTHER link with the past is cut hv the death of the Dowager Lady de Ros. She was one of the few survivors of those who took part in the last scene of the Napoleonic drama which opened at the Bridge of Lodi, and on which the curtain fell at Waterloo. As one of the daughters of the Duchess of Richmond she was at the historic ball given by her mother in Brussels on the eve of the battle, where the beauty and chivalry of Belgium "chased the fleeting hours with fiying feet." and "a thousand hearts beat haprily" in the breasts of "fair women and brave me' ti-1 a pantiv.j courier rode in with the news that the French were on them. She saw the revelers break un in a panic, and witnessed the officers jnuuniii; in hot, haste, and she must have beard their ,Lir partners, as Byron has it, whir-nering with white lips-- l'be füe They come I They come! When there was a controversy the other day ae to the place where the ball was given. Lady de IOB ?«s taken to Belgium to identify the h- use. and, if we remember rightly, locate.! ir in a building, now turned into a warehouse. Her ladyship was a. daughter of the fourth Duke of Iltchnr. n-i. and married the twentieth Baron lie R> s. who <"ied in 1S^'4. She was within four years <>[ au: i gher full century of life, having been oorr. in 17 1M.

Fighting is reported from "Busman. A small British column has had two f- counters with strong gangsof dacoits. who were r tie 1. The influenza has stricken hundreds in treal and the vicinity. It is s-, prevalent that several of the convent schools will have to close.

HARMSTON & CO., PIANO, ORGAN, HARMONIUM, AND GENERAL MUSICAL INSTRUMENT DEALERS. PIANOFORTES from 12 Guineas Cash, or 2s. 6d per week on Hire Purchase System. SPECIALITY.-HARMSTON & Co.'s 20 GUINEA "VILLA" PIANOFORTE, in Chastely Designed Case of Best Rosewood er Walnut, Nritb Gilt Incised Panel, Sconces, &c.; Complete Iron Frame, Fiill Trichord, Best Check Repetition Action, Celeste Pedal, &c.; Pure Tone and Fine Touch—PRICE, TWENTY GUINEAS. EXCELS PIANOS COMMONLY .SOLD AT 30 GUINEAS in everything except "Showy" Exterior. AMERICAN ORGANS from 5 Guineas Cash, or 5s. per month on Hire Purchase System. SPECIALITY.—HARMSTON & Co.'s 1Q GUINEA PARLOUR ORGAN (Maker's Price, 16 Guineas), in Finely Carved Walnut Cabinet with Lamp I Stands, Sliding Fall, Music Recess, &c.; contains 7 Stops (including Octave Couplers, and Yox Humana), with Grand Organ and Crescendo Ivnee Levers— PRICE, TEN GUINEAS. With Fine R, elled Plate Mirror, 10s. Extra. -I pr LARGEST STOCKS. LOWEST PRICES. BEST UUALITY. ——— e- JUST PUBLISHED.—HARMSTON •& Co.'s NEW ILLUSTRATED. CATALOGUE (32 pages) of Pianos, Organs, Harmooiums, and General Musical Instruments, with particulars of their Equitable Hire Purchase System, forwarded Gratis and Post Free to any address on application. -,k HARMSTON & CO., MUSIC STORES, 16, CRANE STREET, PONTYPOOL; AND 7, CARDIFF STREET, ABERDARE. 1- A"' ¡::t 'J.-

DO you know that the onjy ALES Sold at PEACH'S, Greyhound Vaults. Pontypool. are those brewed by Messrs. Bass & Co., Ltd., Burton on TrfCt ? The name is sufficient guarantee of the Quality. Sent out in all sized casks, from one sh'iihng per gallon, in jugs from 5d. por quart. ta

Princess Louise has opeaed the Ramilly Work- ing Men's Club of the Gordon League (34, ritzioy- square), of which she is president.

TWAPNELL AND (JANE, HOUSE FURNISHERS, 161 AND 162, COMMERCIAL STREET, AEWPOKT. HIGH-CLASS FURNITURE DEPARTMENT. SPECIALITIES— The VERSAILLES" DRAWING ROOM SUITE, 9 pieces, spring stuffed, in Genoa Velvet, on Inlaid Rosewood Frames. £ 30 0s. Od. The "COLCHESTER" DINING BOOM SUITE, 9 pieces, in Morocco, beautifully carved Walnut FREE. SHOWROOMS 200 YARDS LONG. MIDDLE-CLASS FURNITURE DEPARTMENT. SPECIALITIES— The "VILLA" DINING ROOM SUITE, in best Leather Cloth, solid Oak Frames, spring stuffed, Castors on small Chairs, 9 pieoes, guaranteed. Ill 11s. Od. The "VILLA" 5-ft. SIDEBOARD, in Oak, Walnut, or Mahogany, 3 bevelled silvered plates, 3 drawers, and 3 cupboards. Splendid value, f,6 17s. 6d. ESTABLISHED 70 YEARS. FREE DELIVERY. COTTAGE .FURNITUR DEPARTMENT. The "CHALLENGE" BEDSTEAD, f ill size, 1-iuch P OV-S, 12s. lirt. only The "CHALLENGE" BEDROOM SUITE, Wardroh h bey< e p'ate glas,- door. Dressing Chesr Washstand, with Pedestal and Towel Rail, ;aid Two Chairs. or S-uin IVatnut. £11) 10s. Od. The "CHALLENGE" SUITE, 9 piece; spring sturrol. • 17s. 01. CATALOGUES FREE. SHOY n^'s L.nJvi.VST IN WALES v.a.I.A V..L, .L .a. FOR RELIABLE FURNITURE, TRAPNELL AND GANE, NEWPORT.

LOCAL NEWS. A CHRISTMAS ENTERTAINMENT will be held in Tabernacle Chapel on Christmas night, as usual. Admission, 3d. and 2d. ANNOUNCEMENT.—The Sunday School quar- terly meeting for solos, recitations, &c., by scholars and teachers, will take place m tne Tabernacle Chapel on Sunday afternoon next, at 2.30. MEMORIAL SERVICE.—A service in memory of the late Mr. R. Greenway,.J,P., will be held at 6 o'clock on Sunday evening next, at the Wes- leyan Chapel, High-street, and will be conducted by the Rev. Richard Roberts, of London, who will also preach the sermon. i OUTDOOR BELIEF.—The outdoor remf for the fortnight preceding the last meeting of the Board of Guardians was as follows Trevethin district; £91 19s. 2d; Panteg, E62 12s. 4d. USk,£2119s'9d. The amounts for the correspomdiEg period of last year were :—Trevethin district, £ 90 14s. 2d. Panteg, 162 5s. 6d.; -Usk, lid. PRIZE DISTRIBUTIONS.—The annual distribu- tion of prizes to the members of the "A" Com- pany, 3rd V.B., S.W.B., took place at the Clarence Hotel, and to the members of the » Company, 4th V.B., S.WB., at the Town Hall, n Wednesday evening. Reports will appear next week, "SEASONABLE BENEVO-LT^GE.—We understand that Mr. J. C. Ranbnry. -wfth his usualcons,idera- ition and thoughtfulness for the poor at this son ef the vear, has sent the Rev. C. Cook £ 10 to be distributed amongst the moffl deserv- ing poca- in the parishes of Llanvihauged-Ponty- moil, *nd Mamhilad. CHSKTMXS MARKF,,r. The Christmas market on Wednesday was well attended, and there was a remarkably good-show of geese, turkeys, fowls, and ducks. Geese and turkeys sold freely at Is. a:lb., fowls 8s. to 9s. a couple, and ducks were in rather poor demand at higla prices, viz., 10.. tells. Sd. per couple. MlNKTERlAU — We learn that Mt W 'Williams, a stadent at Pontypool Conege has received a call to tbe pastorate -of the Baptist Ohurch at Wednesbury, near Birmingham. He lias accepted the invitation, and will commence his labours on the first Sunday in February. Mr. WIlliams, who is a diligent student and an able pceacher, loaves oollege with the good wishes of the tutors and his fellow students. MR. T. IP. PRICE, MP, THE FRIENDLY SOCIETY.—We understand that the secretary of the Bee on the Briar Lodge of the Ancient "Benefit Friendly Society was requested by the blembers to write to Mr. T. P.Price, M.P., asking ilim to become an honorary member. A reply Vas received form the bon. gentleman lasft week, ^nclosiiig a cheque for fl towards the funds of Society and consenting to become aea honorary Member. FORTHCOIHTNG.—We would call our readers attention to the eisteddfod to be held on Boxing Day -at Abersychan, to the Christmas tree at New Inn Chtqael on Christmas Day, and to the Primrose dance in connection with the Pan teg Habitation of the Primrose League, to be held at the Town Hall, Pentypml, on Tuesday next, the 29th ult. Full particulars appear in our advertisment coluniiis. "CHRISnus AT SCHOOL."—This was the title of a cantata.givenat the Upper TrosnantChapel on Thursday evening week by the choir. There "Was a large audience, the chapel being filled to ^■cesa. The whole performance passed off very creditably, and the audience was highly pleased. Doebi were .excellently nendered by trhe Misses Powell, George (sopranos) and James (alto), andthe chortf, -undiw the leadership of Mr. B. George, was .effective to a degree. A word of praise is due to Miss Edith Protheroe for the able manner in which she played the pianoforte accompaniments. By desire, the cantata will be Repeated on Christmas night, when no. doubt. there will a largt> attendance.

ABE&SYCHAT*. CORIRTCTIOI,In our report last week of the service of song in connection with the English Baptist Band of Hope, we mentioned the name of Mr. W. Ill. James instead of Mr. W. James.