Pontypool Free Press and Herald of the Hills

THE AFFAIRS OF MR MARTIN EDWARDS. On Thursday a meeting was held-before Mr. Registrar Hope-for the public examination or Martin Edwards, late of Pontypooi. Ttle Bank- rupt, who held several official appointments in Pontypool, in connection with the County-court, etc., recently disappeared, and had a receiving order made against him, upon the petition of the London and Provincial Bank, for the balance due by him to the Pontypool Branc —Upon the case being called, Mr. H. Brougham, official receiver, stated that the bank- rupt had not surrendered, and had not filled any accounts. Proofs to the amount of £2,798 v> ere tendered.—Mr. Greenwood appeared for the petitioning creditors, and stated that they h;i< heard nothing about the bankrupt, the act or bankruptcy alleged being the absconding of ti bankrupt'-The public examination WaS adjourned sine die.

THE HAtfBURY ASSEMBLY ROOMS CO. An adjourned meeting of the shareboldt: i r .,1 the above company was held on Friday ev last, at the Club Chambers, for the puip >.s receiving the report of the architect as Lo feasibility of building tne new Assembly R >" within the limit of the capital originauy Ii posed. It will be remembered that at an oarae,. meeting the matter was refer ed back elJ c. directors for -further consideration. In the ab- sence of the chairman (Mr. D. Williams, WHO was unable to attend on account of indisposi- tion), Mr. W. H. Davies presided, and tiiere w,, also present Messrs H. Bythway (solicitor;, E. A. Lansdowne (architect). J. Linton (buiidei), L. E. Webb, J. Thomas, W. Scott, D. S. Duvies, D. Reid, W. Gunn, James Gunn, John Guun, .j. B. Bishop, E. Jones, T. Jones, J. Moseie3.. j. C. Griffiths, E.B. Ford, G. Hale, and T. Williams (clerk). The Chairman, after announcing the object of the meeting, stated that it was decided to omit the whole of the match-boarding of the roof in the large ball, the galleries, and the balconies over the entrance, but to raise the wall-plates 2ft., so that they would be able to put in the galleries at any time in future. Mr. D. Jones I hope that steps will be taken to begin the thing quickly. There is a very «tro::g feeling that no time should be lost. Mr. Bythway It is proposed that we should re-tender, aa these is so much alteration, and Mr. Linton has very honourabiy consented to it. The Chairman In a sense we are bound to Mr Linton, Mr. Bythway: Yes; subject to a contract ,}¡ich has not yet been prepared. A Shareholder thought if there was any ad- vantage to be got from the altered condition of ■things, they should have the benefit of it. Mr. Bythway thought it would be well if they had a proposition approving of the action of tne directors in the course they had taken, and re- advertise for tenders, in accordance with the alteration in the specifications. Mr. D. Jones proposed that they re-advertise for tenders, and said he was glad that the direc- tors had been able to see their way to get over a difficulty which at one time was considered in- surmountable. Mr. J. C. Griffiths seconded the proposition, which was carried In reply to Mr. Reid, The Chairman said the hall, under present conditions, would accommodate 800 people °'1 proposition of Mr. D. Jones, seconded by Air. VV ebb, the chairman was cordially thanked for presiding, and the proceedings terminated.

WORLD'S FAIR NOTES. It is the intention of the Indian Bureau of the U. S. Government to make a complete Indian exhibit, occupying perhaps two acres. Represent- atives of all the leading tribes, especially those of a distinctive type, will be shown, together wit'i their habitations, industries, etc. The Navajos will show their wonderful skill in blanket-weaving; the Zunis, whose customs have been a study for years, will make pottery and live in a "hogan,' as they call their peculia resi- dence the Piutes are to make water bottles of rushes. Then there will be a great collection of relics, weapons and utensils. There will also be in operation a model Indian school under com- Jtetent teachers. The wild bepainted and be- eathered aborigine will be contracted with the civilized orsemi-civiiized Indian of to-day. It is believed that foreigners particularly will be inter- ested in the Indian exhibit. ^A design is being prepared for an iron lift bridge between the agricultural Building and the opposite side of the canal. This bridge is to be so- constructed that it may be raised and permit the passage of boats up the main basin to the Exposi- tion grounds. South Dakota's World's Fair Commission has A canvassing committee of three energetic and eloquent men, who are rapidly raising the 80,000 do's, which the State hopes to expend on its exhibit. The desired 80,000 dols. was fh&t apportioned among different counties according to population. The committee issued a very per- suasive twenty-page pamphlet,an appeal throutjh the press, and then began a crusade of speech- making before crowded public meetings through- out the State. South Dakota will be at Chicago in 1893. An interestinggfeature will be contributed to 'the Department of Women's Work by Mrs. Ernest Harte, who has expressed her intention of asking for space in the Women's Building to Ahow practically what she is doing in County Donegal, Ireland, in educating the poor peasants to weave by the hand loom, and to color the pro- duct of these looms with dyes made by them- selves from materials gathered from the bogs. In addition to having taught the peasants to do this work at their homes Mrs. Harte has built from funds contributed by herself and friends a small mill, and samples of the cloth which is the out- put of the mill, will be exhibited by Mrs. Harte. "While men and boys are employed in this mill it owes its existence to the exertions and intelli- gence of. and is managed by an energetic woman and, therefore, its products can properly come within the Women's Department. The London Lancet closes an editorial, favor- able to the Exposition, in these words: "Indi- rectly, America, as the granary of the world, has much to sfiew affecting food-supply. It is to America that wQ are mainly indebted for the cheapness oi: rood in England, and on this cheap- ness public hoakh in a great measure depends. All ""at oc ii'jorns the storing tinning, preserving, and transporting of meat, fish, and corn from Amer- ica is of great practical importance, and never will there be probably a better opportunity of studying these problems than that which the Chi- cago Exhibition is certain to afford.' The Scandinavian Musical Society of Chicago will chorus of perhaps 1,000 voices for participation in the musical festivals at the Ex- posirio: The publishers of Youth's Companion are per- fecting a plan to provide every school house in the United Spates with an American flag so that at a given hour during the dedicatory exercises the nags can be hoisted simultaneously from one end oc the country to the other. It is believed that by this means ihe interest of young Sople in the Esnosiiion vrili be stimu- li. Mrs. Lou. B.rnesof ticksburg. granddaughter of the late Col. J. W. Xailor, has mher posses- sion the samples of cotton which her grandfather exhibited at the World's Fair in London in 1851, and at the New York Crystal Palace in lq.53, with the mecais awarded him at each. The cotton is still well preserved and Mi's. Barnes intends to send it. together with the medaii.ior exhibition at Chicago in 1803. Word iias been received that iLe Carcovado Railway Lornpa,ny, of Rio de Janeiro, proposes raakiiu:' an exnihit m miniature of its railway. It is the n irpose to large photographs illustra- ting the mountain route through which the rail- wav pa-ses, the bridges, the stations, tbe hotel at the summit, and interesting scenery adjacent. They will have moulded, in papier macne, the mountain of Coreovauo in miniature, with the railway laid down as an actual operation. The total length of the road is two mile. The rise from the station at the upper end of the road to the summit is 2,00,,1 feet. The Patent O.Tice vill exhibit a comprehensive array of models to illustrate the vronderful pro- press of mechanical civilization. One group of models will show the progress of tne printer's art from Gutenori- v's crude invention to the latest rotary perfecting and folding printing press, capable of turning out newspapers at the rate of many thousands per hour. Other groups will show the development of the steam engine, sewing machine, agricultural machinery, applica- tion of electricity, etc.

SAD DEATH OF A PONTYPOOL MAN. Me. E. H. Davies, deputy-coroner, held an inqueftC at the Workhouse, Griffithstown, on TiKSuuy afternoon, as to the death of Alfred Mi'igan, aged 39 years, which occurred near Mouaehty Farm, Llanfihangel-Pontymoil, on Sunday afternoon last. Deceased was a son of Lue iaoe Mr. Daniel Morgan, of the Poultry Cuurc, and was respectably connected. Mr. H-ti-ncy Feather was the foreman of the jury. jiis. W. E. Morgan, of Worcester, a sister-in- oi the deceased, gave evidence as to identity, sut, i :g tnat his last address was at the Star, iUauimiad, but she knew nothing as to the ciix unistances of his death. v iiam Rowlands said he lived at Monachty Farm, and knew the deceased, whom he saw on i:). u.uay morning, at about 8 o'clock, in a shed to a barn. He was lying down on some o v. Witness asked him what he was doing aud told him to go from there. He said ;Ia,d go directly. He did not appear to ,een drinking. Witness saw him in the jjlace on Saturday evening, and again told h. go. He did not appear to be ill. Witness r han previously, and was aware of his lLbtd. Witness next saw him about 10 o'clock ay morning. Deceased then spoke very fitness did not see him again until 4 o'c ock in cue afternoon, when the policeman -i i Oik iweli) was with him. Foiiiswell said he found deeease^in the .,a Sunday afternoon, when he appeared h. y i. Witness got a shutter to carry him to L-v In tor warmth. He was in a very bad st-; nd died before he could be carried to the i;j lie Foi eman Rowlands assisted him to 0a.1;, ,w deceased. 0. Keefe, Griffithstown, said he examined u.. i.- ijy at 2 p.m. on Monday, and found no niu., 01 vioience. He attributed death to e.M .re and natural causes. Witness bad treated ll • -ea at the Workhouse before, but knew Liu of nis habits. JL Foreman said the deceased had been in tij Yoiknouse from May until August. His pu.i i, who were dead, were respectable people, lJu had unfortunately lost all self-iespect. .1.. ruict was returned in accordance with the m; ..1 evidence.

REPRESENTATION OF SOUTH MONMOUTHSHIRE. SELECTION OF A LIBERAL CAN- DIDATE. A meeting of the Liberal Three Hundred of South Monmouthshire was held, at the Liberal- rooms, Newport, on Monday afternoon, in order to select a eandiaate to contest the constituency at the fortbeoming geaesal election. Mr. Moses Waiters, P«aamaenr presided over an attendance of about 70 me III bew,.most of the leadirq, Litmi-ais in the division being present. Dr. John. Moir, of West Hamr and Barwi Profumo, who, had been iaviteti to attend, in aider to-lay their views before the meeting-, wese present, fund both gentlemen received an enthusiastic reception, Dr. Moir, in, the course rti his remarks,, declared himself to be in favour of Disestablishment and Disendowmeat,.of an eight hours.' bill fos mintKSr of Home Rule for Ireland, and of other Liberal measures of reform. In reply to a. quest ion as to whether he would vote for Local Option, he stated that he had been a e abstainer, and an active temperance worker- He would cattainiy vote for the suppiession of the. liquor traffi-o., This statement was- receivid. witiii loud ajjiplausa. Other questions foUowed, which were auswerûd: satisfactorily.. Before returning kom the room. Dr. Moir promised to abide loyalijs by the,iecisica of the meeting. Baron Profumo- followed, and laid hi* views before the meetiag in a. rousincand aiimatud speech. He stated that. he could. not at the outset explain hi;& xiew better, perhaps, than by Eaying, as one of his critics in tiift Press had, said, That he had shallowed the wb.&le of the New- castle Liberal programme*" He was in. favcai- of the Eight Hours' Bill for miaars, of the Dis- establishment and Disendowmeat of the; Church of England, of Home Role for L-leland, and of all the measures embodied in tbc Newcastle pro- gramme. HA would also vote loc Local Option, and would endeavour target Moamouthalnre in- cluded in the operation of tht Sun da j Ciosing Act. A number of questions were. after put to the Baron which, were answered in. a. very satisfactory way. The voting, which immediately followed, was taken by ballot, in accordance with a resolution previously passed by the executive. Four scrutineers were appointed. The Chairman announced the result of the ballot to be Profumo 49 Moir 1(5 Neutral 1 The announcement was received with cheers. The Chairman and Secretary appealed fer a unanimous vote on the second voting. A proposi- tion that Baron Profumo be selected Liberal candidate for South Monmouthshire was then put and enthusiastically adopted. The Baron, in a graceful speech, thanked the Three Hundred for the honour they had done him, and said he was prepared to make a gallant fight in the interestspf Liberalism in iSoutn Mon- mouthshire. A heaity vote of thanks was passed to Dr Moir for attending and for his eloquent address, several gentlemen present expressing a hope that A I si I they might soon see him in tne division doing all he could to assist the Liberal cause. Dr. Moir then proposed a cordial vote of thanks ■ to the Chairman, which was seconded by Baron Profumo, and earned.

A GALLANT DEED. HEROISM OF A PENARTH GENTLE- MAN. A correspondent writing under date Singapore November 21th, --ays:- While the S3. Terra, which leaded at CardiJ was discharging at Singapore, a seamen namdd Lester, while enmbing up a stage rope, slipped, struck the stage, and fell helpless in the wat jr. Mr John Freeman, of St. Ives, who has lived in Penarth for some time, the chief officer of the ship was on the quay and saw the occurrence, and at once sprang in to Lester's assistance. The noise of the winches prevented his cries for help being heard on board for some time and he re- ceived no help from tne many Chinese specta- tors. Owing to the extremely heavy current Mr. Freeman was unable to reacu the quay, and only with diliiculty he heidon to nis unconscious man. Finally, he reched tne anchor, which, fortunately was lowered to the water, and there tlil help arrived, and Lester was hoisted aboard. Mr. Freeman then, with difficult}, reched the quay, and although quite worn out tne Chinese gave him no help to get up. Captam Patteron and his crew at once used the usual restomtlves to the unconscious seaman, fillallywith success. Medical assistance was summoned, and a doctor was soon on th9 spot, and said all had been done tnat was possible, and that Lester only needed time for com- plete recovery. After three days rest he returned to work. Air. Freeman was completely worn out at the time, but soon regained his usual health. Singapore is noted for the strong current at the wharis. and for the number of sharks attracted there by the food thrown from the ships. Mr. Freeman was aware of both, but showed no hesitation in going to the rescue. This is surely a case to be brougnt before the Humane Society.

The official returns of the volunteer year for the home district, which, includes the metropolis, shows an increase ot' 209 ia the enrolled strength, uud 145 in efficients.

"THE WRECK OF THE ARGOSY." To the Editor of the Free Press, Dear Sir,—Kindly allow us through the medium of your popular paper co return our hearty thanks to the public for the support and patronage ac- corded the performances of the above work. It is especially gratifying to us that on two nights at any rate we had good houses," although there have been a few defections from the society last year, and certain individuals have been trying to cast ridicule upon the society and the work selected for representation this year. However, we have no wish to dwell upon this, but are quite con- tent to leave the judgment in the hands of those who patronised us so generously. We wish particularly to thank the many friends who rendered us valuable aid. notably Mr. A. J. Joshua, of New Inn, who kindly painted for us a set of scenes which were unanimously voted to be exceedingly pretty and effective; also Mr. H. Bunting, of the Clarence Hotel, who placed his large club room at our disposal for the purpose of scene painting, and Mr. Evan Jones, Manchester House, who lent some valuable curtains for deco- rating the proscenium. Many others, too, are worthy of our best thanks,which they will receive through the usual channel. In conclusion, we would like to state that it is our intention to start soon after Christmas to prac- tise "Erminie," a comic opera which abounds in pretty music and amusing situations, but as to this we will avail ourselves of your advertising columns in due course. We may say that if possible we purpose keeping the present society together, and with the exception of a few friends to whom we shall send invitations, we shall not require any additional assistance. Thanking you in anticipation, THE COMMITTEE OF THE PONTYPOOL AMATEUR OPERATIC SOCIETY. J. EDMONDE (Alaw Gwent), Conductor. P. J. OSBORNE, Hon. Sec. Pontypool, Dec. 31, lSbl.

A TRADESMAN'S COMPLAINT. To the Editor of the Free Pi-e-ti. Sir,—Please excuse me for trespassing on your valuable paper, but I feel it my duty to write a few lines to show how the Inspector of Weights and Measures has treated me. First of all you remem- ber us having notices posted to bring all scales aud measures to Pontymoil to be examined. Of coursu I took mine to be tested. I was sent home, and the Inspector called on me one Saturday night aft-i and told me they were doing away wich those spring balances, that mine was joz. short, iheruioiv he could not stamp it. I told him it should right as it was a new scale, so I got somt weights for him to try it in my shop. Of course U. spring balance is not supposed to weigh loz., or the makui would have taken the trouble of stamping the io!: as well as the loz. I asked our Inspector wiiui scales he would recommend for use ? He tolu i1; t; the agate bearing or hardened steel and a counter scales. Well, I asked him what maker ho recom- mended, and he said Avery's was very good. OIL that he must not recommend one maker luore th..I1 another. I said I had some weights at home anti would send them down to be tested. I bought thu counter scales and one of Avery's, as he menuoneu Avery's, and sent them down by my son LO the weights and measures office to be tested, tailing hl;i. to ask Mr. Lewis if he could not do it that evonin-, and to ask what time he should call for it m tho morning. The boy came back to my shop and s-L,ci Mr. Lewis told me I was to take it back here i had it from." I couldn't understand thai. 1 ques- tioned him and he said Mr. Lewis didn't take the scales out of the basket." So I walked down and he told me to use the old scales until 1 heard from him." Well" I said, Have you done my weights i'" He told me "No." "Well," I said, "I had better take them, or they would be lost." I left ihem thaj night and sent for them the next morning. Well, not hearing from my old friend when his brother called I asked him where his brother was. stationed, and told him that he promised to let me know about trying my scales, as he had told me to use the old one until I heard from him. He said he would speak to him and let me know again. Of course when the Inspector told me to keep on using my scales I asked him if it was safe. After this new Act came out our scales and measures were to be stamped. I said Suppose the police diopjn ?". He said they had nothing to do with it, as it was en- tirely in our hands," and it would be all right. I went on acting according to his advice. On the 28i.h November he dropped into mv shop, and asked if I had new t,ca,les, and I said I was waiting to hear from him, solve demanded the old one. I packed it in paper at once. In a week's time he called again and wanted to know my private address. I told hun. and asked; him what he was going to do with it. Re said he would summon me. I asked him if he remembered me sending down a new scales for him to test, and he said Yes." I asked him what sort of a. scales it. was. He said it was like that Cmeaning the ome I am using), and I said "No," Then he said it was a huckster's scales. I could see at once ht was in Queer-street. I thought I would tell him that the new scales I sent down was one i bought of Mr., Banning, Pontypool, with agate bearings, which, <•> £ course, I took, back, acting ae- csrding to our Inspectors orders. So he had me o%and ths only plea he bad was that he found a scales on my premises unstamped. I suppose if I hadn't sent the new one book he would have had twai Is this fair play ? I am, yours. b., A. ROSSER.

INFANT BAPTISM IS IT SCP.WTURAL? Tfthe Editor of the Free Press. He that saith. to his brotherr Thou fool is xnttemger of hell fire.Chriiit- Dear Sir,—It is reaHy amusing to see the would- be champions of Paedo-Baptism trotting- out one after the other with such airs and with btsrning zeal to defendinfant sprinkling, and immediately beating an ignoble; retreat without giving a. straightforward reply to a single question. "No more correspondence," savs the Rey J. Ll. Jones, who. has faii-A to defend the unfortunate position of the Rev. S. Jones,, who declared that infant baptism Wail; scriptural. "I cannot fritter my time in writing any more." says the Rev. P. D. Mctcse, who fails to throw one ray of light on the subject. Where is the consistency of this inflated linguist who. is impelled by a. sense of duty to write to she Pre3x to defend infaat sprinkling and who will not hesitate to draw swords with Boanerges ? lie. enters the field like a hero aud quits it the next moment like a coward. W.hy did he write at all I Was. it to show his knowledge of bombastic terms ? Or was it to. let tha world know that there was sach a man living in some obscure nook in the neighbourhood or Pontnewynydd ? Surely it was not to reply to Boanerges* It it was his- letter is wide of the mark. Every line reveals his hombast and spleen, and betrays his ignorance of the ques- tion of Christian ba.ptism,f scripture, and of logic. He first of all caats my questions into his own mould to suit his own convenience, and then pre- tends to reply to me. Hence he replies to his own questions and not to mine. I said the word baptise means to immerse or to dip but not to sprinkle. Can he prove that it does mean to sprinkle 2 Can he prove that it does not mean to immerse or to dip ? I cannot put it plainer. I would like if I could to make it clear to your correspondent's dull comprehension. He quotes Dr. Carson in such a way that would leave an impression upon your readers that the doctor admits that all the lexiographers and commenta- tors maintain that baptize means sprinkle. That would be gross perversion of the doctor's statement as anyone may see by referring to Carson on Baptism," page 55, which 1 am afraid is too long for insertion in the Frets. I said that if baptism be sprinkling it is strange that theNew Testament writers do not use the word 'rantize,'which means to sprinkle, instead of baptize which means to immerse, when they speak of this ordinance. It cannot be because they are ignorant of the word; for it is used in the NewTestament. It is immaterial to me whether it occurs half-a-dozen times or a hundred times, and whether it be used by one writer or by all. Mr. Morse quotes from "Westcot as if that eminent scholar finds in the I greek word rantIze an unquestionable allusion to baptism. If that be not his object what does he want to drag into the discussion the Lord Bishop of Durham I In his exposition of Hebrews x, 22, his lordship says, The two phrases appear to contain allusion to the Christian sacraments. That to the eucharist is veiled, that to baptism is unquestion- able." Therefore his lordship's remark about rantize which he supposes alludes to the eucharist is no reply to my remarks in the Fvexx about the same word. "Where he supposes he finds an un. questionable allusion to baptism is in the word leioumenci and net in erriuuu menoL Let Mr. Morse not overlook the word appear in the above quotation. His lordship is cautious where Mr. Morse is bold and conhdtnt. It is surprising how daring little ru.nls are made by a little learning. They rush where any els fear to tread." Let Mr. Morse'have more regard for honesty and truthful- ness in his quotations in future. He is not satisfied with my quotations of conces- sions made by eminent Pcedo-Baptists,and suggests that I should revise the list. I gave those names because I knew they were held in high esteem in the religious world that they represented most of the sections of the Christiiui church, and thac they would be the best known to general readers. Now fancy a man who is not known to public men who reside within half a mile of his own door, blotting out of the list of eminent men such names as Wesley, Doddridge,Conybeare, Howson, and others. BUL Lest he may be wisetin his own conceit." I be,, to subjoin the concessions of eminent Paedo- Baptists of the present day. It is not to death, it is to the interment of the dead that Paul com. pares baptism." F. Godet. D.D. in Romans, vi, 3-4, Ye were buried with Christ to your old selves beneath the baptismal waters and were raised with him from these same waters to a new and better life." Bishop Lightfoot as quoted by Dr. Maclasen, (1) "Immersion had clearly been practised by John, and was involved in the original meaning of the word. (2)-The symbolic meaning of the act required immersion in o^der that it might be clearly manifested, and Roman vi, 4, and 1st Peter, iii, 21 seem almost of necessity to imply the more com- 11 y y plete mode." The Rev. E. H. Plumtre on Acts ii, 41, From the earliest sub-apostolic writings we learn that immersion was the usual though not the. only valid form of baptism." Barnabas says, 1; We go down into the water full of sin and defilement, and we arc up bearing fruit in the heart." And we cannot doubt, that to this Paul 'refers. Even the form of their admission to the church sets forth a Sirritual burial and resurrection,"—the Rev. ~J.~A. eet on Romans vi, 4. Bravo, Messrs. Barnabas, Beet and Co What could tfc staunchest Baptist that ever put a pen on paper say stronger on bap- ) tism ? We cannot find infant sprinkling in the ¡ apostolic church: we must come to the past apostolic I church before we can discover any traces of it. How then can it be scriptural ? He says Boanerges deems the argument from circumcision sheer nonsense. I have said nothing about circumcision to the best of my recollection. But pray what has that to do with infant baptism ? He says Martensen has said something about it. I ask what saith the scriptures 1 Let Mr. Morse reply if he can. Is Mr. Morse not aware that that branch of the subject under discussion has been wrecked by One who believes in sprinkling, but not in- fants." I would pity the man that would attempt to reconstruct the wreck. He cooly tells us that I demand chapter and verse for the words" Infant sprinkling." Then he proceeds to ridicule my demand. What monstrous stupidity. What I ask for is chapter and verse con- taining arguments which prove that infant sprink- ling iB scriptural,just as we prove that the doctrine ling iB scriptural,just as we prove that the doctrine of the Trinity is scriptural to use his own illustra- tion. Then what about the proof from church history that infant sprinkling is scriptural ? That I pre- sume is abandoned and consigned to limbo for ever. My definition of the signification of infant sprinkling has evidently riled the little man. If I am wrong why does he not correct me ? If I am right why does he not give up this Romish badge ? Messrs. Jones, Morse, & Co., having all pegged out it is time for some one else to appear on the scene. Who will be the next ? Yours, Dec. 15th, 1891. BOANERGES.

PROHIBITION & TEMPERANCE NOTES. (FROM A SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT.) London. Dec. 21. IT has become an established custom in recent years for the Post Office to issue a request to t ne public to refrain dur.ng the Christmas and New Year season from giving intoxicating drink to Pie postmen. The customary notice has just been Jsuad, and, it is .to be hopecilivill be widely acted /pon. There are of course special reasons why icb a warning should be given at this tune ot ire year, and to which might appropriately be ,lded the suggestion that creature comforts o. a uarmi' ss kind such as tea or coffee and mince pie i •.u* cake might be substituted. The Post Oiuce oificiais could tell terrible stories of the results f the "mistaken kindness" against whicu the official notice is directed. LOCAL Option.in the workhouse" is the would- be smarting heading of a newspaper pal',igl',t,pn which states how the inmates of the I i' g" ton workhouse to the number of 500 have their opinions canvassed on the question of the provision of beer at Christmas. Tho result stated is that out of the 500 only seventeen held up their hands for ginger beer none at all for tea or coffee; eleven for milk none at ail for two- pence in money in place of beer but 470 voted for the beer. It seems at first sight a curious pro- ceeding to have rested such a matter upon the "option" of the paupers themselves. It is not quite clear what the figures are supposed to prove—but what they suggest is the trutn of tile Temperance contention that nine-tenins of the inmates of the workhouse become such through drink ancl even more plainly the further trutn that no total abstainers are to be found among them. A very interesting meeting was held last Thursda3r at Islington. It was a .sequel to tiie London Sclipol Board election, beirgaconversa- zione to celebrate Mr. Thos. Smith's election to that Board. Beside a musical programme some short congratulatory speeches were made by leading representatives of Temperance work, some of whom bad taken an active part in securing Mr. Smith's return. Mr. Smith rightiy reyai d-, his election by 11931 votes, placing him second on the poll; as an unmistakable evidence of the vitality of the Temperance movement; but having fought the battle from first to last on Temperance lines he regards his election as a trust to be exercised on belial of the einidien of London in favour of Temperance teaching. Mr. Smith's maiden speech on the lioard was in favour of definite Temperance teaching being made part of the code, and he and otners de- feated by more than three to one au effort that was made to shelve the question. AN important meeting of ratepayers of the pariah of Horaiey, one of the large and populous suburban districts of London northwards, has just been held to consider what action should be taken in the district to lessen the number of licensed housesT and to prepare for the Brewster Sessions, which in Middlesex and Surrey oceur in March. Resolutions were carried looking to vigorous action, and a. watch committee was appointed (1) to obtain accurate statistics, &(, (2) to watch for breaches of the law in regard to licences in the district; and (3) to take action for the diminution of the number of public- houses. A fighting fund was started, and a. con- siderable sum subscribed. Many other districts might with advantage take similar action,, and indeed the example is one for temperance people everywhere. Ax instructive occurence took place afew days ago in the licensing court of the Fmsbary Con- don) division. A police raid on a public-house led to the discovery of a gang of burglars, and of the proceeds of over seventy burglaries. The landlord is still under arrest as an accomplice. The brewer-owners of the house sought a trans- fer of the licence,, aa of course no such slight cause as that just stated could be alio won to interfere with their "legitimate business." The compliant justices were on the pointof grant- ing the transfer, actually saying they had no option, till corrected by their clerk. They had option, till corrected by their clerk. They had reckoned without the Rev. Septimus Buss, the energetic vicar of the Parish, and a thorough temperance reformer, and when he insisted on being heard, bench and bar (in the interest of the brewers) tried to stop him, and would have done so, doubtless, but for the clerk who cor- rected their law. Ultimately, thanks to Mr. Buss's persis.tance the transfer was refused, and the house closed—subjuct of course to appeal. Moral Temperance people should always. appear in person, and stick to their guns. The Birmingham Daibj Post reports that oo. the occasion of a recent inquest,, held at the Bromsgrove Police-court, the coroner (Mr. Hib- bert) was. called from the room, and on his return apologised to the jury for the delay, and said the chairman of the petty sessions objected to his holding an inquest there, as in his opinion, it was not the pvoper place. In his (the coroner's) opinion, it was the most proper place, and he should hold that inquest and continue to convene inquests there, unless it was objected to by the County Council or other authority. The police-court was a county building erected for county purposes, of which the holding of in- quests was one, and he did not see why a jury should have to go to a public-house while they had that building. The jury agreed with the coroner, and at the close of the inquest, Mr. Hibbert said he should write to the clerk of the county upon the subject. Is this a magisterial effort, in a new direction, to bolster up the public- house ? THE United Kingdom Alliance is giving re- newed attention to the formation of Oirect Veto Associations in various constituencies all over the country, in pursuance of a resolution passed at their last annual meeting. This resolution resis- ted the fact that the Alliance exists for the pur- pose of bringing about the Prohibition of the liq- uor traffic, an object to be best attained by grain- ing the people themselves the power to forbid, by direct veto, the i-sue or renewal of liquor licences in their localities; reiterated the deter- mination to support no parliamentary candidate who will not promise to vote for a measure con- ferring the veto power upon the people, nor to any Parliamentary candidate who is a brewer, distiller, or liquor-seller; and urged the friends of the Alliance in every Parliamentary division to use such means as may combine in electoral organisation, electors and others pledged to ab- stain from voting for, or assisting, any Parlia- mentary candidate who will not promise to vote for the Direct Popular Veto. A terrible story is told of a Birtish adminis- tration in West Africa by Mr. Buxton in the Fortnightly Review. He describes himself as an unbiassed and indepenciint traveller, an English- man desiring only to promote the interest of humanity and religion. The story as he tells it is one of exploiting the natives for the profit of the British trader, and, the writer says, the very air of Africa reeks with rum and gin, imported from England; every house is redolent of its fumes. Over largo areas drink is almost the sole currency and in many patts the year's wages of the negro factory worker are paid altogether in spirits." The rum is sold at nine pence per gallon the gin at 2/6 per dozen pint bottles, and both liquors are known to the natives as the mis- sionary."

The Editor of the Medical Annual spr aks in the highest terms of CADBUKY S cocrJA as a beverage and a foul oi invalids, on account of its absolute purity, high quality, and. at solu- bility, and counsftla the medical profession to tememhar, in recommending Cocoa, that the namo "Cadburyn on any packet is guarantee of pUfl

FOOTBALL. NOTES BY "ENTHUSIAST.' [Secretaries of football clubs and others who n- formation on sports are requested to send-same by i u day morning in each week.]

ABERCARN v. BLAINA. This game was played at Abercarn on Satuni y last. As was expected, a good match resulted, the turf, in spite of the recent heavy rains, being in excellent condition. The homesters, having lost the toss, the Rev. W. Rees kicked oil, but tne oval was badly returned by Beacham. Smart exchanges then took place, Mainwaring gea. ;:g in a good kick. J. Games exhibited some, good play, but without any tangible result. Desultory play ensued, when a sudden ru:'oi; is made, Rees falling and receiving a kick the eye, which had to be stitched. He was ad y off the field. Abercarn consequently piaj ii a man short. On resumption of piay, Atei n pressed the visitors and exacted a minor. li.u .< 1 way was making splendid headway with tuv to the home 25, but was smartly floored hy Williams. A series of scrums took piae v'. Davies neatly picked up and made a spie'.did run, but finding himself hard pi-eased, pass. < S GO i. Games who made a magnificent t.0 -e visitors goal line. Everyone believed he scored, but it transpired tiie resuit was oi v a minor. Piay now settled in tLv nomest t Beecliam securing the oval bolted and ultima' y passed to Prosser, who miase<, u. A jut-uu ensued, W. Davies making another good s ua, but was brought to grass by Chamberlain. OIP er Russell made a fast run, but was compelled i,O kick tue ball out of tOUCH. It was notice;;b.e Gabb did some good business for liiaina, as u ;0 did xsorfolk. A few suarp returns took piaoe >n which Games figured as a good kicker. 1; [- time score ABERCARN 5 minor. BLAINA uJ. On resumption of play, a few scrums took in Biauia 25. Beecham did ins best to gei in but faued. Hathway getting hold of the leather el made away, but to 110 purpose. A lot more gi ve ailli take work ensued, when Hathway eitvoted a eorkscrew run, bui was coaaiea by JViaiiv.,r- Ulg, who kicked to 25. Pain following up, started a ctribbie wmcu resulted in a ntu.»i. Time w sti le n- caiied, tHe score i«ejug :— ABERCARN Y ininois. i->JLAINA nLl.

ABERSYCHAN ALBIONS v. CROESY* 11 LIOG WANDERERS. Played on Saturday last at A bersychan. yceiliog kicked oil, and Lewis returned. Tne home lorwards, following well up, rushed u >v, ii to the visitors goal line, where several .serum- took place, and Rusden, securing, scored tac first try. Lewi." took the kick, but faileu to con- vert. After the drop-out, one of the oacks, 111 attempting a run, was pushed j;, t; toucn. From the une out the home forwu d rushed down, and forced the visitors to coiKvd a minor. The visitors then started to d but fou,.d the homesters too good for them. ri. cupelled to save twice in sucoes.;i-'<n. When the whistle sounded for half-time, uu- score stood:— ABERSYCHAN 1 try 3 minors. Tn CROESYCEILIOG nil. -t-ay being resumed, the home team agajr pressed, but some tricky play by Water lie !<; relieved for a short time. After some loose play, L>ee managed to score, a good shot by White faii- "ig within a few inches of the bar. From tiie kick-out, the visitors following up well, forced the home back to concede a minor. The hoim forwards now played well together, and a rough game ended in a win for the home team ABERSYCHAN 2 tries 4 minors. CROESCEILIOG 1 minor. Llor the home team, White at full back played a splendid game, far exceeding his opponent. Parfitt, Rusden. Morgan, Gougli, and Dee were also noticeable. For the visitors, Rowlands, Waterfield, and Humber played a good game. ABERCARN V. ABERTILLERY.—Played on the grounds of the former, on Wednesday week, resulting in a win for Abercarn, by one try to nil. PONTYMOIL STARS 2NDS V. CWMBRAN HARLE- QUINS.-On Saturday last, the Pontymoil Stars 2nds journeyed to Cwmbran to meet the Cwm- bran Harlequins, but were defeated by 2 goals to nil. The Stars went down with 13 men, but were given two substitutes, who, however, did not seem to exert themselves for the benefit of the Stars. The'Quins were assisted by H. Smith (Mouse), Sawtell, and a few of the Cwmbran 1st X T. St. Hr^A^a—WAJCDERKwa- v» Bsujat&yjQN,- est teams met on the ground of the former on Saturday last, and although the visitors were much the heavier,, the bom team played well (F. Gething and C. Barrow shewing good form), and eventually won, the final, scores being :—St. Hildas, 1 goalr 3 minors Blaeaavon, I minor. CwMBRAlf HARLEQUINS V. PONTYMOIL WHITE STARS 2ND.-Played at Cwmbran on Saturday last in suitable weather. The 'Quins kicked off, and up to half time the game was very evenly contested, though the home team had hard lines in not scoring several times* and, what appeared to the spectators to be a dropped goal, was not allowed by the referee. At half time the score stood at 2 minors each. After lemoos the 'Qnins haeJ decidedly the best ofthe game, though each point was determinedly contested by the Stars. H. Smith picked up from below the half way flag*, and succeeded, after a. grand tricky run, in eluding his opponents and grounding the ball behind the posts amidst applause. Shortly after Sawtell dribbled over the line and scared. Smith concerted both tries. At the call of time the score read r—'Quins, 2 converted goals and 7 miners Stars, 3 minors; or 10 points to nil. For the home team Smith and Davies, at three- quarters, Jones at half, and Sutton, Sadler and Wadley in the pack, were the pick. For Ponty- moil Davies and Thomas were the choice of the three-quarters, and Wbatmore ait half. Referee, Mr. W. 130wen.

On Christmas Day, the Pontymoil 2nds wil meet The Tranch on the No Grounds, the kick-off being timed at 10.30 ajm. The follow- ing will represent the 2nds Back, C. Wells three-quarter backs. Owen Thomas, E. Watkinsj Tom Davies, C. Hailett half-backs, Fred Wat- more, 6. Stone forwards, Richard Davies, W. Phillips, R. Watkios, Henry Ford, E. Yasey, W. Sanders, Henry Evans, Henry Scott. On Christmas Day, the Pontymoil Stars play Talywain at Talywain, kick-off at 10.30 a.m. Pontymoil team :-Back, Henry Ball three- quarter backs, G. Davies, W. Davies, A. Yasey, J. Hill half backs, William Jones, William Wells forwards, W. Gunter, J. Groves, Richd. Jones, D.Davies, D. Evans, W. Ball, W.Jenkins, To-in James.—The sa-me team will meet Trede- gar on the Polo Grounds on Boxing Day. The time of kick-off has not yet been arranged. FOR FOOTBALL JF.RSEYS and KNICJKEKS go to D. W. SIMPSON'S, Crane street, Pontypool. Large stock best value.

A THEATRICAL WAIF AT YSTRAD. At the Ystrad police court, on Monday, a little boy named William Paston, 15 years of age, fairly well dressed and a native of Manchester, Was brought up in custody by P.C. Bryant, who remarked that he had been ordered to do so by Alderman W. Morgan, who was on the bench at the time. Alderman Morgan explained that on Saturday evening last a workman named Bryan, residing in Dumfries-street, Treherbert, had called upon him asking what he had better do ^yjh the little boy. who, it was stated, had been behind in the locality about a fortnight ago n t Plai'k Diamonds, a theatrical company that had travelled recently throughout South Wales, performing The While Slave. The little magistrates that he had taken part the drama White Slave, and had travelled throughout various parts of the country with the company, but at Treherbert he was dismissed by the manager because "they wanted to cut down the expenses." His parents, he said, lived atManchester, but he had not got a penny to pay the railway fare. He had had lodgings and food (gratis) with Bryan during the past fortnight. The Bench conferred for a few minutes as to whether it would be advisable to furnish the boy with money to pay his railway fare, but eventu- ally they decided to order him to be removed to the Pontypridd Workhouse, and directed the authorities there to communicate with the Man- chester police. The boy declined to give his parents' address.

Li Hung Chanf, Governor-General of Petchili, has been very ill for the past few days, and hit condition is such as to give rise to anxiety. Miss Lucy Booth, General Booth's youngest daughter, is again in ill-health. She is taking complete rest in the south of France. Lady Selina Bond, a sister of Lord Eldon, hat died at Weymouth. Her ladyship was bom in 1843, and married Mr. Nathaniel Bond in 1861. Mr. Fletcher Rogers, head of the well-known firm of Rogers and Calder, cotton-brokers, has just died. The firm has a high reputation ÏJ1 the trade.

FASHIONS FOR JANUARY. Fashions are beautiful and sensible for the new year, and there is now no excuse forfany one not being becomingly and elegantly dressed, for trie new shirts and prettily trimmed bodices are all we oouid desire, so let us hope that the pre- sent fashions will remain with us for a longtime to c,)tric. Our lady readers will find in January issue of Weldon's Ladies Journal (3) a choice seiectiori of designs, with complete and practical instructions for cutting out and making up at home, the paper pattern of a particularly stylish bouice tor evening wear is given away, also a coloured plate of novelties in fancy dress, even- ing and ball toilefcfcea, instructions are given for making the improved umbrella skirt for evening wear, special designs in fancy dresses, and a mass oi* household matters. ivxe.v>rs. vveiaon noury tnat-w oonwstjwiMse- the new postal regulations commencing January 1st, they have reduced the yearly subscription to this publication to five shillings post free to any part of the world.There is now no reason why Weldon's should not find its way to the remotest parts of the earth with such favourable postal facilities The January number of Weldon's Needlework (2) enters on the seventh year of publication,the subject of this issue being crinkled tissue paper work. Instructions are given for making lamp and candle shades, flower-pot covers, flowers screens, &c., in crinkled and crepe tissue paper! There are now seventy-three numbers out of Weldon's Needlework.The series continues to be as unique as it it useful.

I A SHOCKING STOITR. At the Westminster Police Court, Lucy Bear* I dall, aged thirty, dressed in threadbare clothing and presenting a half-starved appearance, has been brought before Mr. Sheil for attempting to com- mit suicide from Westminster Bridge.-The a, cused climbed over the parapet, and was saved by a young man who caught hold of her dress and held her till assistance arrived.—In answer to the charge she said that her husband, who was a hatter earning good wages, kept her and her children without sufficient food. For days to- gether they only had bread, and sometimes were without that. The man treated her with the uta most cruelty, and so she thought she would put an end to her misery. When she left the place where they lived in Tyers Street, Lambeth, at midnio-ht his parting words to her were that he hoped she would be brought home a corpse.—Mr Sh^il ker that d» .h.nld h.,e appL for LtoLTo the relieving officer.-The woman, in a sorrowful tone, said she had been advised by another magis- trate that she could get nothing till she was de- serted. Her husband had been imprisoned for a month at Birmingham for assaulting her, and been bound over at Clerkenwell Police Court to keep the peace. She helped him in his trade by trimming and stitching the linings in hats, but she could not get the money she earned herself. He spent his earnings-over £ 2 a week-on him- self, and would come home in the morning the worse for drink in hansom cabs.—A young woman from the back of the court volunteered to give evidence, stating that she did so because she knew that the prisoner was an industrious and cruelly wronged woman. Witness was the daughter of the landlady of the house in Kennington Road where the parties lived for three months—in fact, till a week ago. She knew of her own know- ledge that a month since the woman was kept without food or firing for two days. She was mercilessly treated, for her husband scratched her arms, twisted them, and pulled her hair out. And her little children, aged nine and seieu-one with a paralysed arm-did not know where she was.- Mr. Sheil sent a constable to look after these children, and on a sworn information said he would grant a warrant against the woman's hus- band.-In the course of the afternoon the man, Thomas Beardall, was brought before his worship, and the prosecutrix then, on her oath, deposed to his treatment. She said that the other night he came home drunk, and she asked him for some money for food. He put Is. down, and told her that he wanted the rest for beer and cigars. He afterwards twisted her arm and pulled her hair, being assisted by people in the house who were his companions.—Prisoner said it was untrue. His wife tried to get at his pockets, and though all that she was entitled to for her trimming work was 8d., yet he offered her Is. He wished to oall witnesses from the house.—Mr. Shiel: You will be remanded in custody.—The woman was discharged and went to the workhouse with her two children: I

The pupils of Eton College number 1,007, the highest number that has ever been reached. January 21st is fixed as the date ot Mr. 6a- four's Londonderry speech. 4 r At the Old Bailey, Henry Dove, publacan, been indicted for maliciously wounding with, in. tent to murder Harry Kane, a little boy, who had been temporarily left in eharge of a blub in Clerkenwell, by beating him about the head with » metal instrument, and afterward drying to strangle him. The prisoner pleaded in alibi, and m found not guilty,

WALKERS WHOLEMEAL BREAD IMPORTANT TESTIMONIAL < 4, SPANISH PLACE, MANCHESTER SQUARE, LONDON, W., October 2nd, 1891. THIS IS TO CERTIFY that I have Received a Loaf of Wholemeal Bread from MR. J. WALKER, CRANE STREET, PONTYPOOL.1 I find it of Good Quality, Made from PURE WHOLEMEAL ONLY, FREE FROM CHEMICALS, and up to my STANDARD OF EXCELLENCE. If the English people only knew the Immense Value of Wholemeal Bread as a Preserver of Health, they would make it a regular article of diet, and never eat any other. It is the Best Cure for Constipation, with its atten- [ dant evils of Piles, Varicose Veins, Indigestion, &c. Everything that is required to Make a Perfect Food ifr found in the entire Wheaten Grain. Wholemeal Bread is a Necessity for Young and Old, for Male and Female. Ne home is complete unless it con- tains a Wholemeal Loaf, such as you Supply. T R. ALLINSON, L.R.C.P. (Author of a "System of Hygienic Medicine," d-c.) The Baker with this Testimonial promises to keep his Bread up to iti Original Standard, or else forfeit to the funds of the Hygienic Hospital ;t: r ? IMPORTANT NOTICE TO MINERAL Water Manufactureri; AND OTHERS. G. C. HAL L, MINERAL WATER MANUFACTURER, PONTYPOOL, TDEGS to Announce that he has Purchased the Whole of the Mineral Water Manufacturing Plant recently erected by Mrs. M. J ONES, UsK, together with the Whole oi her Mineral Water Bottles and Cases, and Ale and Porter Bottles and Cases* and that all such Cases and Bottles outstanding ARE HIS PROPERTY, and should BE RETURNED to him at once. Any Person found using or detaining same after this notice will be pro- ceeded against, without apology or L f-urther warning. G.C.H. begs to thank the Usk and outlying District Customers for their support since he has acquired the new Business, and hopes by Supplying Articles of the BEST QUALITY only, at MODERATE CHARGES to secure their future Patronage and Recommendation. ALL ORDERS SHOULD BE ADDRESSED G. C. HALL, N • MINERAL WATER MANUFACTURER, POKTYPOOL.

HOLLOW AY'S OINTMENT and PILLS.—Glandu- lar swellings in the throat, neuralgia, tic doloreux, rheumatism, gout, lumbago, and other diseases affecting the glands, muscles, and nerves of sen- sation are permanently eradicted by this healing anti-febrile and soothing preparation. It is aho a perfect remedy for all skin diseases, and every kind of superficial inflammation, which soon lose their angry and painful character under this invaluable Ointment. The Pills have never been administered either by hospital or private practitioi,er in dyspepsia or liver complaints without producing tiae desired result.

T 1 14 I NON-ALCOHOLIC LEMON SQUASH CORDIAL (FROM FRESH LEMONS). QUININE ORANGE COKDIAL (A Splendid Tonic). Ginger Brandy, Cherry Brandy, Lime Juice, and other Cordials. LEMON AND FRUIT SYRUPS In Giass Stoppered reputed Quarts. HINGlt ALE (DRY OR SWEET). Prepared by HUNTER & CLARKE, MINI.RAL WATER MANUFACTURERS, 10, Orange Grove, BATH. Sol: h Chemists, Grocers, & Wine Merchants. -r- GEO. WILTON, G STREET, PONTYPOOL, AGENT FOR K E N N A W A Y'S WINES AND-SPIRITS AND MARSTON'S iiCRTON ALE. J 11.1i, uRDERS PRO JfPTLY ATTENDED TO. .=

DARING ROBBERY IN LONDON. A most daring robbery was perpetrated, just before six o'clock on Thursday evening upon the premises of Mr. Thomas Cook, 565 Commpr- cial-road, Stepney, jeweller. Half-a-dozen men had been loitering for some time, and one of the gang suddenly hurled.a parcel rolled in news- paper at the centre window. Immediately two others snatched at two trays 0f diamond rinas, worth respectively L400 and £ 250, escaping with taeir booty. Mr Coolc s son -attempted to grapple with the men, but unsuccessfully,and a passer-by pursued the window-breaker. No arrests have been made.