Papurau Newydd Cymru
Chwiliwch 15 miliwn o erthyglau papurau newydd Cymru
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---.-UNDER SUSPICION: A TALE…
UNDER SUSPICION: A TALE OF DOMESTIC LIFE. CHAPTER XIII. tSSuKDAY was always one of Margaret's trial days. At fctlier times, she could escape the bight at least of the \il-*egu!aied, noisy household; and, as is usually the (ase where there is no family rule, self-induigence 1Wld its consequent evils reigned paramount on this tay of ail others. MargtU-et still held to her own mother's teaching, faintly expressed by Ruth's homely proverb, Xevor thp the wiugs oi the Sabbath." But Mrs. Grant put "idle" for "holy" in her reading of the Fourth Commandment, and observed it to the letter. Chureh- b" were her signal for rising; and the remains of btwikfasr, which it was Margaret's business to prepare, \isually stood on the table at her return from morning fcervicts the children undergoing their weekly ablu- tions in the meantime; or, if they escaped out ofduors before their mother seized upon them for the dreaded teeremouy, this duty also fell upon their eldest sister, tt Susie, when she was the little maid oi all work. There were two hours, at least, of hurry and t on- fusion at noon, of teaziug or quarrelling between tlie boys, and sharply administered rebukes of tongue fcrnl h<s.nd from their mother, in the pauses of making lier own elaborate toilet for the afternoon's neighbourly Visiting. Her husband always passed it in long ttirol-s on the outskirts of the city, ending in the Vicinity of some railway depot, where he could medi- cate at leisure oa his own premeditated improvements la machinery. Time had been when he too attend -d tervioe regularly; but his desultory habits, and f.ti.- hea&h, tris shabby dress, and the whole gradual t jWwii.g of moral tone, had broken in upon higher duties; though he had ever kept aloof from the Ull- congenial eoc.ety of the low and vicious around him. binncr was hurried; the boys being allowed to to the table just as they had risen; although tl Ie Why had on a dean dress, and sat up on the floor -o peaceably, employed with a bone from the CLnner table, which did not in the end improve his rJ$irsonaj appearance. Kirs. Grant's anxiety as to the weather, and the fctaie of441 he walking," was followed by the modest "uebt that Margaret would administer the required of soap an,), water to the fajesof the boys, aad W- up heir clean clothes. u Never was such boys !"—and she sat Master Al Violently down in his chair—"chasing all round the Neighbour hood, instead of staying at home to be "wasln-d aiid dres.sed decently. But wheu should I get \imeto dolt, anyway, with every step to take for Myself, and sick people to wait on into the ijxrgaiii' Dear knows! if J could have my time to %uyHf lJ. and work at my trade, I wouldn't be beholden i-) ti,e nonliving for victuals and clothes; but &>>Uiv have everything just, as they like, and I loust, put up w.th it, and be ground down and walked 4 It was ha^d to sit still and bear these stings of the ^or.gaw. un itistas they were but h irJer still forMar- to sec in-r father push away his scarcely tasted tptitter, and leave the house to find quiet, at least, abroad. Mio w;ts glad to do anything that could hasten Mrs. <rT»nt'» departure, and breathed more freely when that •larfy set forth, arrayed in a gay shawl, crowned by the ♦f'^fittour of the new bonnet, and carrying the baby '■wrif-h her, his face looking out from under a white 4--tin hat, with a marvellous plume. Left to her- fcwf, the boys gave little trouble comparatively, • though they declined her invitation to stay and at Sunday-school" after they were dressed-her "Cu})- successful method of reaching them. Ruth's kindly f-ice appeared just as this was ac- txxnplmhed, on her way to afternoon service. 41 Susie not down stairs yet ?" she said, in her cheery Voice. M But she's just as well off where she is for a lmftk or so yet; keep her in bed as long as you can. I don't suppose youll leave her this afternoon again, "toot I thought I'd just step round and see. Bless me ^Ufct look at the child!" Margaret started, as well as her visitor, to see theap- Iftrition at the foot of the stairs. It was very im prudent, tut very natural on Pusie's part. She thought Margaret Hever would get through, and. wrapping a shawl Wound her, slipped out of bed, and down stairs, at the Visk of being carried immediately back again. I I" How natural it does look, clock and all !nnd Susie, sitting on the lower stair, gazed around with Visible satisfaction. I'm so tired of our room You'll please go back to it as fast as you can, you 'Crazy little thing! Don't wait a minute, now." Bat sister Bat sister Not a word till you're in bed again Ruth will tome up; won't you. Ruth ?" And Miss Susie found herself deposited up stairs before she had a chance to make even a feint of resist since. RUi,h sat down in ■the aewing-chair, while Margaret made the little ni- ValkPs toilet, the child being all excitement at tlus partial escape. partial escape. Susie's spirits were beyond her strength, though, %nd slie was soon very gl.id of the easy-chair liuth Ikad arranged in her primitive way, and to lie quietly 4n it—an odd. old f a hi > >n »H1 1 i ttl e tin ore, holding a t^l'-an ',I)O,-Iet,hau"trchief tiglilly iu liar almost transparent It&nds. Ruth found it was time to leave them. when she bad seen her fairly settled, and paid a visit to Mar- fraret's mirror on Iwr own account-iiot from any Vanity, hut force of habit and exactness; for Ruth to pin her shawl at just such an angle across her plump figure, and always gave a parting bend to her \>laek bonnet before she went into the street. M I suppose Miss Agnes liasn't been in to see you %gain y she said, turning this way anl that in the attempt to see tuo back of her head. 44 It's hardly time yet, though; and I suppose she's pretty busy, 11 too. Well, good-bye, children; I shall run in to "Wish you a merry Christmas, in thw courso of the "week, and to see Susie's new frock on. I supposo till be done Ly then. Don't come down to the door, Mar g» ret! I daresay I can find my way out by this time." They were all alone again—th^ house to themselves, ] In Sabbath stillnt^ss and quietness. W«ll," said Margaret, 41 did Ruth tell you Miss Agnes'? last name ? I meant to have asked her. Per- Iwps it's someone that used to go to Sunday-schoo) ♦^irben I did." No, 1 forgot,. We al w^vs have so many things to ""y when w4- tx gin to talk about her. I do hope she /%rill coine again. She could come and take t-a wit!i fciS, perhaps, if it was all our house. How nice it would Jb* to hear Imr and you talk together! I shouldn't want %0 may a word." It was not Susie's unknown friend But Adelaide '!Lmg, who rose before Margaret while Susie rambled <Mt. But she claimed a truce with her own heart, tor the time. She must be all alone with her (rod; toot even the child for a witne-s to tint, nuat coutiicr. But what did you do while I was gone to churcn, A-at?" Oh, I W" going *,o tell you! I read the Psalms. end tbe Le8»">Tis, and then I found my texts in the Ktible ind taurut it. I tiiink it su li a nice plan TO '••y my text to you every night, and I read so many titd6 bits before I rind iC How ltiuny sick pe >plo ■and blind people Jesus cured didn't he ? I learned verse in Honaus to-day where all tie short ones mte." Margaret looked for the well-known chapter in the fiibte she had taken from her dressing-table, while Susie folded her hands, a3 she had sail her prayers in babyhood, and rejieated: 604 Dearly beloved, avenge nor, yourselves; but father give place urito wrath; for it is writt"n, V ell- ceaace is mine; I will repay, gaitii the Lord.' I teamed that to put me in mind not tu abuse any one. or be spitelul when I go down stairs again. I knew I L fcbouldh't do it, ever, added the child, in a penlCeul tone. But Margaret had gone to The end of the chapter, Wondering if the message had not oouie to her instead Soaie. chap 13 S*»e rwmembered the simp'e direction she had so Often relied on in darkness and doubt: 44 It any lacfc wisdom, let him ask of God." Ilad asked it all that day, and what direction had slie recei ved? To give Vp all that lead to temptation, thoagh dear as her own rigttt hand; toleaver iributiontu One who knew all things, and could make her iiii:ot;ence clear as tbe noonday. Self-conquest, at any sacrifice, was before her; and the first step was to turn away from every association that had nourished her foolish dream, •r that could lead her into the tcmpation of cherishiag unavailing murmurs at her lot. She must give up lier platx) to do this; and it must Iw done at once, It involved all her dcp<>iidence; s'>e had no other Ðu Ü'in!d t(\ se urfj irif.-rher siri.'ar/on. Could And -h- ft-.o igtit o; turning to b<f for every liul. .•o,|<»i-t •>: ■■ ~<i,sore, and her ffatlmr y ilk of her (it uTiuiitii i right lull n l the riglif. e»e <\ -r r-eq:;ir#vi ■>! her. sho not, at It.a,t, :r •• •.••r-if frooi th:n httiikl'thiz suspicion before »he i t; ? Would it ht: cnore tho simple ju"tte :-ucl; a,oj anorh t m:gh' <jena uid ut U--r ior. if she ^uve no e.vp auction und what could siit- give ?--tho very art would be held as proof of her guilt. Mr. Gh- might doubt it now at times, as to-day, it had seemed forgotten-even he would then hold her guilt as certain. And yet she read again, and the words burned themselves upon her memory: "Avenge not yourselves if thine enemy hunger, reed him if he thirst, give him drink. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good." And was n^t concealment the meat and drink her enemy had need of ? Poor g-,r,! The strength to make this utter self- renunciation cn i'd come alone from the hand that re- quired it; and while Susie, wearied by unusual ex- ertion, slept ligtitly in the comfortable chair, Mar- garet knelt and prayed as she had not done for many a day, with wrung, outstretched hands, and bitterness of heart that none but God could know. CHAPTER XIV. WEOXKSDAY, the day before Christmas, had arrived. While others anticipated the gifts of the evening and the holiday to-morrow, Margaret thought only of going from these familiar scenes to return to them no more; of meeting Mr. C-'s suspicious roek, and cold acceptancii of the resignation of her port of going away, perhaps without a word of farewell from the kind Iriend whose approval she courted, to brave her fath( r's disappointment, his wife's wrath, and Sjsie's inno :ent questionings when she told them what she had d. \\e, but could give no reason wbv. What v. as to become of them, or herself, she could not see; but when these misgivings came, she met the tempter, who would still hold her in this daily bondage, with an old saying she had often heard from her mother's lips: 44 Man's extremity is God's op- portunity." It was so dark by four in the afternoon that the gas was lighted, and still the crowd poured in and out without diminution. Eight, nine o'clock, and yet the tired feet were not rdmed, and the lights shone out from Ch- and C 8 over the Wet, slippery pavement. chap 14 Ihere was a time-honoured custom at Ch and C 's. At the close of the day's sales, each person in their employ was summoned to the office and re- ceived a special gift, ostensibly in return for the week's unusual exertions. Nine o'clock was the signal for this cheerful business to commence, and one after another was called, and reappeared with smiling or disappointed faces as the case might be. Margaret dreaded, yet longed for the summons the signal for her final departure, and stood watching the inner door, with nervous starts and suddenly failing pulse whenever she imagined the time had come. She echoed the merry wishes and glad good nights of th,ise who were going, and thought "it is for the last time." The lights were dying out around her; the great cloth hangings began to stretch gloomily from floor to ceiling; still her name had not b--en called, and while she wondered and waited, and sa", even the cash boys go in before her, it suddenly came into her mind that the omission was intentional -a part of the disapprobation in which she was held, and which waited only definite proof for her dis- missal. Her breath came quick and hard at the thought, and she started up, yielding to the impulse of the moment, to follow and detain the real aggressor, who bad just passed by with a light mocking laugh, and accuse her face to face. But a voice seemed ringing in her ears Is Avenge not yourselves." and she turned, nerved by very hopelessness of the moment, to seal her own dismissal. Miss C- now occupied the office-chair, before which Margaret had been summoned to her brother's i judgment, checking the list of names; there were but few remaining who had not received their Christ- mas gift. Margaret's was not there. She knew it when she appeared before them, and saw the start by which her entrance was greeted. Margaret gave him no time for reply. 441 did not come for any fgift. I should have waited to be sent for. I came to say that I leave my situation to- night,, to be disposed of as you think best. That is all." And she was gone before Mr. Caleb and his sister had recovered from their astonif hment, or Mr. Ch- who would have detained her, could do so. He followed her to the door, indeed, tb- next moment. with hasty step, but the porters werj in the shop, busy with their nightly arrangement*, and she had passed on swiftly to the dressing-foam, where were voices and laughter. r Margaret did not wait for any more farewells; sfae fetched her bonnet and shawl, and went, out into the night. Then all feeling was absorbed in the tttter loneliness of her position—shrinking with a woman's fear from the noisy groups of revellers, unsheltered from the drenching, driving storm. There were hasty steps behind her, and she quick- ened her own pace. It was later than she had ever been abroad before, and the streets were full oi lawless men, bent on a night of riot and excess. 44 Margaret!" Still she hurried on, thinking her own imagination mocked her. 44 Margaret! One moment! Will yo I not let me take care of you? It is no night for you to be out alone!" She faltered then, with a sudden trembling that made her heart stand stiil. It was not the cold, or the drenching shower, but that she should be re- membered, cared for by him. She knew t,he earnest voice—whose arm had thrown a heavy p.aid around her—as well as when she turned to &nd LewtJ Ch- 44 You are drenched and shivering with cold," he said; 44 you must not expose yourself in this way. Trust me. Margaret, as if I were your—brother. Will you not?' Trust him ? Yes; she had always trusted him and now she stood in beggarly need of some otli-r human strength and comfort. A strange content, stole over tier, and calmed her, as she stood leaning on his arm—he bending down to shelter her, until the cab that he had signalled from the stand had ap- proached. and then she was lifted in, and he sprang to the seat beside her. She did not make a motion of dissent, or even wonder how he knew it, when she heard him tell the driver the name of the court in which she lived, but leaned back, not even caring to have the blessed silence broken. a So, Margaret, you have given us up to-night," he said, as they rolled away from the glare of the noisy thoroughfare. I will not ask you why I know you never act without good reason. But what if I will not let you go? What if I hold you here by me always?"—and the hand that sought her own grasped it firmly. She did not reproach him with wronging another by such words she trusted him, by all she knew of his life, that he meant what he was saying, honourably and truly, though she could not comprehend it, and sat silent as before. Will you go now, when I tell you that I love you as if you were already my own wife? Will you be my wife, Margaret ?" His wife how the words rang in upon the Stupor that seemed to have fallen upon her. His wife I" she had never said that, even to herself, before she had only thought, but never as now, how she could have ioved him! "Margaret! You will at least tell me whether I have offended you?''—and he waited until she said: Oh no, no I have no right to think that you would make me such a precious Christmas gift as the right to love and cherish you. But if you knew how hard it has been to see you braving fatigue and exposure day after day! How many ways I have planned of approaching you less rashly how I dreaded to speak lest I should have deceived myself in thinking that you would learn to love me You cannot now—you do not evn know me as I am, though you have seen me daily for three years.* But you do not know what you ask for. You do not know 441 ? I do, Margaret, better than you think. I knew you first in your gentle, dignified womanhood, with such a face as always calmed me—even in pictures when I have found it; and then I watched you to see if I were deceived in thinking it was the impress of the inner life, of its purity, energy, and loving-heartodness that I saw. Forgive me that I began the study coldly, when it ended in loving what I found." Do you /iive me?" she said, dreamily—as if she stayed her feet on the brink of a stream she dared not essay to cross. 44 Yes, love you could any one know how you have borne your lot in life, and not love you, my patient Margaret! How you have held to 4 all things beautiful, and pure, and of good report,' in the midst of ungenial intluences-what a daughter you have been -what a mother to your little sister You must let me share the task-work now; will you not ? Will you try to love me, and give me time to prove that this is no sudden, passing fancy?" 44 But you do not know"—and an unworthy flush rose to h<r frice, as she remembered the obscure street thy were so rapidly approaching. We are not like r.h<-e you have always known; we are very poor awl Jj:üilJ. aul vou must not let uitv blind you to the reality, or make you blush in your own home when you think of mine." He looked out at her bidding. She was right; he had not realised that she had Uved surrounded by such scenes from her childhood-the low drinking-shops— the noisy brawlers upon the side-walks—the poor squalid houses-the shouting, and singing, and quar- relling that came from within—the miserable air of poverty and decay on everything; yet it only made him long more earnestly to carry her away from all such wretched associations, and make her future life so bright and happy that she would come to forget that she had ever known them. My poor Ma.rgaret And he turned away to clasp her more closely still. chap 14 She could not deny herself the transient shelter, for all that she repeated over to herself, again and again, 44 It must not be." How swiftly the still moments flew by! The carriage turned into the narrow court, halted, and the farewell had come. 441 must see your father in the morning. Yes, Margaret, I shall! and walk with you to church. It must be as I say, now. God bless you And he was gone before Mrs. Grant, startled by the unusual sound of wheels, had reached the door and unbolted it. La, it's only you, is It F I thought I heard a cab or something. I suppose I must sit up till midnight for everybody. No signs of your father yet." It was as angracious and fretful greeting; but the echo of that "God bless you" charmed away the discord, and in ho r own room she could try to make the last hour real. Susie's pale, sleeping face reminded her of the unfinished task-not task but pleasure, for sleep was impossible- and as her needle flew, happy thoughts, strange questionings, and bright an- ticipations that would not be driven hack, floated and mingled in her mind, marked by the smiles and blushes and grave earnest looks, that passed over the face bent downward to her work. Margaret stood up and shook out the new dress, Susie's one Christmas present. It was quite done, even the little piece of lace tacked around the neck, ana the sister's eyes already saw her little one arrayed in it but. as she stood brushing off the bits of clip- pings and thread, she heard voices and her own name Cilsd from below. She did not distinguish her father's but, ever watchful for him, and suddenly remembering his unwonted absence, flew down the stairs, impelled by a nameless terror of accident or mischance. Mrs. Grant's eyes, heavy with sleep, were distended with some startling intelligence she ieemed as yet scarcely to understand, and her husband tottered towards Margaret with outstretched arms. 0 Margaret! it's mine at last; the patent!"—and he burst into tears, sobbing like a child. Margaret southed him as she would have comforted Susie, while he clung to her as helplessly; smoothing his silvery hair, whitened so rapidly of late, but asking nothing. 44 Poor father! dear fati-ter 441 don't care for anything now it has come, but you, Margaret. I've been so cruel and hard-hearted to you and Susie; but you shall have it all back again. 0 Margaret I" It was no time to tell him of her own strange re- payment, and long before she could win him to try and Bleep; but when he did so, heavily, for he was ex- hausted in mind and body, she stole back to Susie's bedside, and knelt, until the midnight chimes rang out their Christmas greeting, with a heart too full even for audible thanksgiving. chap 14 (To be continued.)
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POHTIPRIDDD LOCAL BOARD.
POHTIPRIDDD LOCAL BOARD. The fortnightly meeting of the above Board was held on Thursday afternoon last. at the Board's Offices, Pontypridd, when there were present Messrs. James Roberts, M. Cale. G. J. Pen a, J. James, W. W. Phillips, H. Hopkins, and D. Layshon, with Mr H. LI. Grover, clerk Mr Sprague, deputy clerk and Mr Edward Rees, surveyor. Mr Roberts was voted to the chair. THE TRAMWAY BYELAWS. The Clerk read a letter fro-n the Board of Trade in regard to the byelawsof the Rhondda Tramway,of which a model code was sent down. Mr Hopkins said it would be desirable in his opinion that the Board should be able to regulate the maximum spe^d of the Tramways. The Clerk said this was settled by the byelawa, not less than four nor exceeding eight miles an hour being stated. Mr Hopkins That is too much. It ought to be regulated also where the gradient is steep or the road narrow. Mr Phillips That is a very important point. '¡'he Clerk suggested that they might insert a pro- vision that the maximum speed should not be more than six miles. Mr Hopkins thought that would be quite enough. The Chairman suggested that the matter be re- ferred to a committee. Mr Phillips agreed. Mr Penn suggested that the clerk should in the meantime compare the tramway company's byelaws and the model byelaws, in order to find oat where improvements were necessary, if any. This was agreed to. THE RECREATION GROUND. The Clerk read a letter from Sir William Thomas L3wis assenting to the proposed deputation waiting upon him with reference to the matter of the pro- posed discontinuance of quarrying operations at Pontypridd Common, and asking to be remiuded of the same at the end of next week, so that the date of meeting might be fixed. This also. was agreed to. THE OLD BERW FOOTBBIDOB. The Clerk said he had received rather an unsatis- factory letter from Mr Crawshay with regard to the Berw bridge. It was to the effect that he was will- ing to let the Board have the land belonging to him and an approach to the bridge at a fair rental, but not at a nominal rent. and intimating that in con- sidering the amount to be paid the Board ought to bear in mind the alternative cost of land for an ap- proach thereto, and the erection of a pier. Mr Hopkins considered that the offer was pro. hibitive, but still, notwithstanding the illiberal offer, he proposed that a certain sum, say jgl. a year, be offered. The Clerk remarked that Mr Crawshay distinctly stated in the letter that he would not accept a nominal rental. Mr Hopfrins: Will you please read the letter again ? The letter having been again read. The Chairman suggeeted that the matter be left in abeyance until the public moved in the matter, and when Mr Crawshay came to let his land for building he would find that the matter was of considerable importance to his property. The Chairman's suggestion was adopted. Hit GOODMAN'S ABBITBATION CASE. The Clerk said he had not received a reply from Mr W. R. Davies, solicitor to Mr Goodman, with reference to the costs in this case. In the course of a conversation which ensued, it was suggested that the amount of the award be paid at once, the Chairman remarking that if that would save the incurring of any additional costs ho thought they might as well do so. The Clerk said they might as well do that if they were not going to appeal. The Chairman asked what the clerk thought. The Clerk said he thought the arbitrator ought to have given an alternative, and that the awtrd itself was excessive. Mr Hopkins said the matter had been previously considered. He now proposed that the amount of the award be paid. This was duly seconded and carried. MISCELLANEOUS. In regard to the proposed widening of the Rhondda road, teveral letters were read from Mr W. R. Davies, solicitor, on behalf of clients. The Chairman said if they had to deal with solici- tors the matter would.become very costly — t i ThelClerk read a letter fromMrs Davies offering the- lease of three, cottages of hers for her lifetime for £ 10pir annum. (Laughter.) A letter was read from Mr Fisher, of the TafF Vale Railway Company, stating that the matter of' the Foundry Road had not abeen lost sight, of. A letter from Mr M. Morgan, secretary of the Waterworks Company, stated that he had that day received the Board's communication with reference; to the rescources of the company for the coming summer, and that it would be laid before the direc- tors at their next meeting. The Clerk read a letter from Mr Nelson, legal ad- viser to the Heath Estate, with reference to the pro- posed accommodation works over the Barry line at. Hafod, and asking if the Board would have any objection to the erection of a bridge. The Chairman said it would be advisable that any bridge built by the Messrs Thomas should be a skew bridge, so as not to interfere with the traffic where.. the road was so narrow. However, he supposed the>y bad better wait until plans came before them. A letter was read from the promoters of thEIr Association of Local Boards asking the Board to support the petition authorising the local boards to. charge expenses of attending conferences of the. association. The letter pointed out that this would, not bind the Board to join the association. Afcer a brief conversation it was decided to defer the matter until the circular setting forth theobjecca, of the association itself had been received. THE BOARD AND MB W. T. REBS. With regard to the alleged obstruction of the pave-, ment in High Street by Mr W. V. Rees, ironmonger, who claimed the right as original owner of the, pavement, to put rolls of lead in front of his pre- mises, the clerk said he would advise the Board to. issue a summons against Mr Rees, under the 23th section of the Towns Clauses Act, so as to trytha question. Mr Hopkins I beg to move that a summons be taken out. It is a disgraceful way in which the pavement is obstructed. Mr James seconded, and it was carried. THE PROPOSED TOLL GATE AT CILFYNYDD. Mr Hopkins brought forward the question of the., advisability of petitioning against the erection of a, tollgate at Cilfynydd, and proposed a resolution to that effect. The Chairman fully concurred with the necessity of protesting against erecting a. turnpike gate in that position, especially in view of the passing of the new County Government Bill, which would probably veafc the right in another authority before long. Mr J. James seconded the resolution. Mr Penu said an iniluential meeting of the Chamber of Trade had discussed the matter, and decided ta petition against it, selecting eight members as a depa- tation to present the petition. It was decided tha.t the seal of the Board ba attached to a petition for the same purpose, and, oa the motion ot the Chairman, seconded by Mr James, it was decided tha.t Messrs. Penn and Hopkins ba asked to join the deputation, and preseut the petition on behalf of the Board. The Surveyor, in his report, drew attention to the neglect of the tramway company to improve the, gradients of their line, although he admittel, as las as metalling was concerned, considerable improva" ment had been effected.
FOOTBALL.
FOOTBALL. PKNTGUAIG v. PBNARTH.-Played at Penygraig- oa Saturday, resulting in a wia for the home team, by four tries to three tries. The tries for Pony- graig were obtained by \t. W. Rees (2), R. J. Cooke, and D. Jones. Thoae for Penarth wer&. obtained by R. Garrett, J. Spear, and T. Hutohina. PONTYPKIDD v. NEWPOKr.—One of the principal matches of the season at Pontypridd took plaoe on Saturday afternoon on the Trullwa field, between the leading teams of Pontypridd aud Newport. There was a larg? number of spectators, and the ground was is capital condition. The game was splendidly contested on both sides, aud resulted in a victory for the visitors by three tries to nil. Tha following was t'be 1o. al team —Back, J. Wilmtna- three quarter back, W. Williams (capUin), Hen. Tiley, G. Gould, and J. Miles; half-backs D. Gimutettoand NV. Ttiornas; forvarda, Auk Ijtew- ellin, Ivor Edwards, H. Lewis, E. Gould. Nicholas, T. Hauy, Morgan, and A. N. Oboer. Umpire, Air E. LleweUin; referee, Mr W. E. 0. Williams (Cardiff). I
AMERICAN HUMOUR. -....-
AMERICAN HUMOUR. DEMAGOGUES should ponder this saying of Lincoln's: You can fool some of the people all the time, and you can fool all of the people some of the time, but you cannot fool all the people all the time." STRANGER Is Mr. Blinks in ?" Hotel Clerk*. 44 Yes, he's in his room." 41 Tell him Mr. Schwilfer- witzenouterheim 44 Front, tell 126 a gentleman from Cincinnatti wishes to see him." 44 SKK here, waiter, how is it that I find a trousers button in this salad ?" 44 Dat am part ob de dressin' sah." A SouTHKitN savings bank, established by negrces, collapsed because the depositors withdrew all the funds to attend a circus. LADY of the house: Will you have the steak now, or wait till you've chopped the wood ?" Coloured tramp (who'd called at the same place twelve months before) 41 Is de steak de same kind as you geb away las' year ?" Lady: Yes," Tramp: Well, den I'll chop de wood fust so as to git me ap- petite onuff to tackle it! Whar's de ax ?" TEXAS train robbers know how to dispurse the passengers. A NKw YORK man advertises to restore oil-paint- ings but the man who is to restore umbrellas has not yet gone into business. FOHT STANTON, N. M., ——, '87. My dear Jack,- I had a very narrow escape of it last week. Got captured by Man-afraid-he-wouldn't-get-there, and was tiad to a tree preparatory to some interesting tomahawk practice. I asked permission to have one last smoke, and on its being granted I lighted one of those cigars vou sent me. I have seen no Indians since, and wish you would send me some more for general garrison defence. All well.—Yours sincerely, Tml ASHLEY, U. S. A.—To John Shearman, Esq., New York." IT wns during a freshet in Ohio. "Aren't you afraid your house will be swept away ?" was asked of a man who lived on the banks of the raging river. "No, there's too big a mortgage on the house," replied the owner cheerfully. SALESMAN "Yes, sir; I'll warrant that one of those lamps will save you at least fifty per cent. in oil in the course of a. year." Longheaded farmer: "Give me two on 'em. Mought as well save a hundred per cent. while I'm 'bout it." IF you have the right kind of girl, the walk up the tobbogan slide is just as exciting as the ride down. And sometimes more so. It's a glorious sport both Rays. THIS is the way the world looks to a small New Orlc-uis boy 14 Mamma, what kin is Cousin Matie to ?" 4* She is your first cousin." 44 Is she ? Who's My last cousin ?" JKKMS: 1, 1 see, Robin, that the New York Herald says we're tae hae anither storm next Monday." Robin: 44 Man, it's terrible. Since tliae Yankees hiv gotten the weather intae their keepin' we've a storm every ither day." THOSE who live among books, and have withal the gift of language are apt to be bookish in their expres- sions. One of this class, Miss Eliza Bobbins, ot Boston, was visiting her friend, the poet Bryant. She happened to be alone in his library, when a cabinet- maker brought home a chair lie had altered. On Mr. Bryant's return, he said, Miss Bobbins, what d'd the man say about my cLair ? -That the equilibrium is now admirably adjusted," she replied, not lifting her eyes from the book she was read ng. 44 What a fine fellow!" laid Mr. Bryant, laughing. "I never heard him talk like that. Now. Miss Bobbins, what did he say ?'* 44 Well, he said 4 It joggled just right, she replied. 44 LACK A," exclaimed the enamoured youth, hastily bringing the corner of his frescoed silk handkerchief to view above the edge of his breast pocket and speaking in the low, impassioned accent of a ten- dollar a-week tragedian out of a job, pleading with a stony-hearted conductor for a lift of a few miles on his weary way across the country; "Laura, the time has at length come when I may freely tell you of the deathless devotion with which you have inspired me, and can feel free to ask you to heed the voice of your own heart if it bids you to listen kindly to my plea. For three long years and some odd months, Laura, I have carried this burden in my heart with- out daring to hint to you in words of the passion which you must have seen by my actions was con- suming me. Not until my prospects in life were sufficiently flattering to warrant me in presuming upon the kindness with which you have ever treated me, so far as to ask a higher and more sacred place in your esteem than that of a mere friend, could 1 honourably disclose my sentiments. I have now concluded business arrangements, Laura, by which my future is so far assured that the grim shadow of want shall never fall athwart the threshold of the home which I now implore you to share with me. While I shall not possess wealth, I shall have a suf- ficiency for the wants of a. modest household. While it may not be in my power to array you in diamonds and sealskin sacks-" 44 George," said the fair girl, as a shadow of anxious hesitancy flitted across her eloquent face and a look of deep and searching en- quiry glowed in the eyes which she bent upon thQ agitated young man, what is your salary ?" 44 Fifteen dollars a week, Laura, for the next six months, with the certain prospect of an increase at the end of- 44 George," and the voice of the brave, noble girl, as it vibrated through the sensitive fibres of the young man's whole being, seemed to come from the inmost recesses of a far-reaching, echoless cavern, 44 George, you make ire very tired P'
TT---............,......-YSTRAUYFOD…
T T YSTRAUYFOD WG SCHOOL BOARD. FINANCIAL STATEMENT. The District Auditor's Act, 1879, (42 Vict. c. 6.) Statement of Receipts and Expenditure by the Ystradyfodwg School Board for the Half-Year Ended the 29th day of Septamber, 1887. RECEIPTS. TOTALS. JB s. d. To Balance on 25th March, 1887 (if in band) 296 19 4 „ Grants from the Committee of Council on Education (in- cluding Grants from the Science and Art Department). 6503 7 1 „ Payments made to the Treasurer by Rating Authorities at 4id. per Pound 4000 0 0 „ School Fees. 1760 13 9 Books and other Articles sold to Children 16 19 1 Loans 2662 0 0 „ Income atisingjfrom other sources: — £ B. d. Llanwonno School Boardjg. 50 18 4 Overpayments repaid 13 2 3 Rente, &c. 20 16 0 Inatruotion of Pupil Teachers 3 0 0 87 16 7 JB15,327 15 10 15 10 Outstanding Liabilities of the Board at the end of the Half- Year. £ s. d. Loans from Public Works Loan Commissioners outstanding 39007 0 0 EXPENDITURE. AMOUNTS. ToTAi.&. (1.) EXPBNSE8 or ADMINISTRATION:- £ s. D^ we B. d. By Ralaries of Offioers of the Board 319 16 0 II Legal & other Expensea of Administration 107 14 1 —————— 427 10 I- (2.) EXPENSES OF MAINTENANCE OF PUBLIC ELEMBNTARY SCHOOLS :— By Series of Teachers 4252 0 8 „ Books, Apparatus, and Stationery 316 6 3 „ Fael, Light, and Cleaning,and Replacement of Furniture, and Repairs to Buildings and Furniture 681 14 11 „ Rents, Rates, Taxes, and Insurance 108 18 3 Other Expenses of Maintenance. 7 5 10 5366 5 U. (3.) CONTRIBUTIONS TOWARDS, OB EXPENSES OF, 1NSU87RI4.II SCHOOLS (IF ANY) (4.) CAPITAL CHARGES By Purchase of Land and Erection, En- largement, or Alteration of School Buildings 1277 0 0 —————— 1277 0 ft (5.) LOANS — By Repayment of Principal of Loans 883 11 8 Interest of Loans 770 2 7 —————— 1653 14 a (6.) EXPENSES NOT INCLUDED UNDER TEE FORE- GOING HEADS .— -TOTAL EXPENDITURE, viz. (1), (2), (3), (4), (5), & (6) 8724 10 & By Balance on 29th September, 1887, (if in hand), viz.— £ P. d In bands of Treasurer 6887 13 4 Lose orders of the Board not paid by Treasurer. 0 18 1 —————— 6886 15 3 In favour of Petty Cash Keeper 10 15 7 „ Maimers of Schools 272 14 1 .————— 283 9 8 ————— 6603 5 7 £ 15327 15 10 MEMORANDUM. £ a. d. Total Expenditure as above* 8724 10 ac. Ðed uct- £ a. d. (L) Parliamentary Grants 6503 7 1 (2.) Contributions (if any) to other Sohocl Boards (3) Capital Charges met by Loans 1277 0 0 ————— 7780 7 | Nett Expenditure to be Certified for the purposes of the above Act £ 944 3 & I certify that this account has been examined and passed by the School Board as provided by Section 17 of the Act 36 &37 Tïot. Cap. 86. D Wll) ROSSER, Clerk to the School Board, 2nd day of January, 1888. WM. MORGAN, Chairman, 2nd day of January, 1888. I hereby certify that I have compared the entries in the above Statement with the vouchers and other documents relating thereto, and that tha regulations with respect to such Statement have been duly complied with. I hereby farther certify that I have ascertained by Audit the correctness of snch Statement and that the total amount Expended as above by the School Board dnrinjf the half year ended the 29b day of September 1887, and allowed by me at the Audit is Eight Thousand Seven Hundred and twenty Four Pounds, Ten Shillings and Three Pence, and that the Expenditure for the Purposes of the Act 42 Vict. cap. 6, and allowed by me, is Nice Hundred: and Foity Four Pounds, Three Shillings and Two Pence. As witness my hand this 1st day of March, 1888, ALFRED W. ROBERTS, DISTRICT AUDITOR*,
CHARGE OF WOUNDING AGAINST…
CHARGE OF WOUNDING AGAINST A WOMAN AT CLYDACH YALE. At Tetrad Police court, on Monday, (before the Stipendiary and Mr T. P. Jenkins), Emily Pool was charged with wounding. William Williams, collier, said he saw defendant at the Cross Keys, Pandy, on Saturday night. He left the Cross Keys when she did, iiad went to Tre- alaw, and had some beer. There were fours men including himself, who went to defeudaut's house, and had beer there. Defendant told him to go, but he waited for the others. Defendant threw a glass at him. He was sitting at the time. There were three women in the house. The plass cut his face, and it bled freely. He went to Mr Edwards (Dr Dnvies' assistant.) Fonr stitches were pat in. He bad never seen defendant before. There were boxing gloves there and they commenced box- ing. Mr David Edwards, assistant to Dr. Washington Davies, said complainant was brought to him at 2 o'clock on Sunday morning. Face was covered with coagulated blood. He wnashed hi" face, and founi three incised wounds, the largest 11 inch in length, and about J in. deep, over the cheek. The other two wounds were comparatively small and superficial. He put three stitches in the largest wound. The man felt faint, and would have fainted from loss of blood if he (witness) had not been present. After a little he recovered, and was able to return home. The wouads might have been caused by the glass. Police Sergt. Hoyle said that on Satuaday night bis attention was drawn to a crowd following seme women. He went up, and ii-quired the cause. Defendants said ray sifter has lately come from Bristol." He sent the crowd back. The wamen bad been drinking. Abont 12 he went to defendant's house as there was a noise, and defendant said the men there vi ere all lipht; they weie cn)y Iriends of her brother-in-law; told her if she wanted to have them sent out she had better do so at ence. "0, No they were all right." At 2 o'clock complainant came to him, covered with blood. Went with him to de- fendant's house. Complainant pointed out defend- ant as the woman who had known the glass. There were defendant, her sister, and three men hesidE s the complainant in the house. Defendant said I told you to go out five times, and you would not go. I did not strike you it was you fell over a chair." Defendant's sister said complainant followed them home. Her sister told him five times to go, and he would not. He polled her sister about, and Btrnck her, and then her sister threw a glass at him. De- fendant's husband left her the previous Tuesday. Fined £ 1 and costs.
RATEPAYERS' MEETING AT CAERPHILLY.
RATEPAYERS' MEETING AT CAERPHILLY. On Thursday evening a meeting of the ratepayers of Caerphilly was held in the old school-room, for the purpose of nominating a suitable candidate to re- present them on the Board of Guardians for the parish of Eglwysilan. Mr Joseph Evans was unan- imously elected chairman, and there was a good attendance of ratepayers present.-The Chairman having explained the object of the meeting, said they desired a candidate who would carry out in the board room what he promised on the hustiags, and he proposed Mr David Lewis, solicitor, as a suitable candidate to represent tbem.-ThiB was immediately seconded, but before being pot to the meeting the Chairman wanted to know if there was anyone present who was desirous of proposing an amend- ment. No response being received, the resolution was put to the meeting and carried unanimously.- Mr Lewis, who was present, hereupon thanked the meeting for the hearty manner in which his name had been greeted, and promised to fathfully look alter their interests. He also touched upon the excessive salaries of officials, the interests of the poor, and other subjects, which, judging from the manner with which they were greeted, were fully in accordance with the views of those present.—With u hearty vote of thanks to the chairman for presiding the rnectingidisperiied.