The Pontypridd Chronicle and Workman's News

Disappearance of a Treorky Colliery Agent. A WARRANT ISSUED. LETTER- FROM THE MISSING- MAN. Mr William Devooald, a well-known colli. ery contractor, and clerk to the Ynyswen Colliery Company, near Treorky, disappeared last week. It is Stated that in the capacity of cleik and agent he collected moneys for coal supplied by the company, and it was his habit io go at intervals of about three weeks to Mr Jft"es, of Hafod, Dowlais, to render an account of the money collected. On i uesday week be was expected by Mr Jones with a sum of about ICSO. Mrs Devonald, the wife, states that her husband left home by the first train io the morning with the money, but he did not arrive at Merthyr, and, nu tidings having been received of him, inquiries were set oil foot, resulting in the discovery that a person supposed to answer his description booked from Pontypridd on Wednesday by the 3.30 a.m. train for Liverpool. On Thursday a warrant for the apprehen- sion oi Mr Devonald was issued, on the sup position t.hat he had absconded, and subse. quently the relatives of Devonald received a Jetter from Queenstowr, in his own hand- writing, stating that he sailed on Wednesday ■evening, and that he will, as soon as possible after his arrivil in America, refund the wages j<dae to the men. I

ROYALTIES, AND THE LAWS MADE BY THE LORDS OF THE LAND. OUCXIIT T-JUEY NO f TO BE REPEALED ? To the Editor of the Ohronicle, J SIB,—lb is full time to awake and call upon all electors to agitate to removelthis abominable and prevailing injustice There are thousands ofjacre8 o lea known as common lands, or lands that mr particular person owns, and, therefore belong to the people. The history of the past shows that the lards of the land made laws to suit themselves, and thereby enclosed millions of aores of lauds belonging to the people of this country, by what is called the Com- missioners Enclosure Act, and there have been about 500 of those acts passed, thereby the lords who passed them have been able to steal the lands of the people, under the guise of being lords of the manor. Now, what and who is this lord of the manor ? Looking back to the days of their creation, namely, the feudal days of the lordal of the land, the king created what was then known as the head man of the village, and he was the chief lord of that village. To this man the king looked for the following help:—Ha was to provide so many men in times of war, and go to war himself. Te meet this expense he was allowed one-third of the land of the village, and this was allotted or inclosed off to him. This was called the land of the head man, and has since been called the manor, and he the lord of the manor. The other two-thirds of the village lind was really common land, and appor- tioned among the residents of the villago in differ- ent allotments for their use. But the covetous and unscrupulous lords put their heads together to make laws whioh praotically amounted to robbery, and at once commenced enclosing the lands belong- ng to the crown and the people, yet after all the theft by those stop blocks of reform we have thou- sandsof acres of common land still unclaimed, yea in our very midst. I wish to draw your speoial atten- tion to the common lands existing between Castell Coch and Aberdare Junction, and the valuable minerals contained therein, which, under the per. nioions and existing lords of the manor clause, be- comes the property of the lord of the manor, the Mirquis of Bute. Craig Evan LeysboD, near Aberdare Junction, contains at least GOO Rcres, and under this we have 40ft. of first-class workable coal, the most valuable in the Kingdom. Each nere contains about 60,000 tons, or an aggregate of 36,000,000. The Albion Colliery is within a stone's throw of some of it, and could easily work the whole. The coal close by is let at Sd per ton, so that this lord of the manor, by means of unjust laws still existing, becomes the owner of the valu- able sum of nearly £ 1200,000. Ought this to be any longer toleratei ? I fancy I hear all s,y no. Here is money enough to pay off the debt on every school building and educate freely all the children in the parishes of the Unions of Pontypridd and Merthyr. This is only one instance. Talk about free education and universities, we have common lands enough in the county of Glamorgan to endow and support free education and universities. I see that the Pontypridd LoC'Ja.' Board had an interview with Sir W. T. Lewis respecting the Pontypridd Common, and it appears doubtful whether he will advise the Marquis of Bute not to work any more of the people's property, and to pocket the people's money in royalties, for quarrying. Where are our members of Parliament, especially the labour can- didates, that they do nut raise their voices for the disgorgement of this stolen property ? Mr Cham- berlain, some short time ago, promised to enter fully into this question, and caused no small flutter in the dove cotes of the Lords when he threatened to make them disgorge. But unfortunately the Tories have got hold of him, and this most impor- tant question in the interests of the people has been shelved. Mr Chamberlain was full of the allotment question and the three acres and a cow, but they have been forgotten through the patronage of the Lords towards him. Now, Welsh members, you pre watched; are you going to stand quietly by and ltit this lord go on pocketing our property, yes and untaxed too. It is rather sur- prising that a Local Board in this Radical District should allow its common lands to be disfigured -without raising a strong protest, and thac by means of a public meeting. It is time, fellow-electors., to force the hands of our members upon this question. I have no doubt but that the present Government would bring in a bill removing this anomaly if a strong representation was made to them. Await- ing to see what steps the Local Board and our members of Parliament will take in this matter, I am, yours, &c., S.S.

A Burglary at Caerphilly. At Llandaff Police Court, on Monday-before Dr. Paine, Colonel Woods, and Mr John Jones-Thomas Hart, of no fixed residence, was charged with bur- glariously entering the cottage of Edward Darling, Caerphilly, a gardner, in the employ of Mr Richard Williams, solicitor, Llauishen, and with stealing therefrom a coat, a pair of boots, and a quantity of provisions. Prosecutor stated that on entering his house at mid day on the 11th inst., he discovered that a window had been broken open, and the property mentioned gone. He overtook the prisoner on the road with the articles on him. He thereupon gave him into custody.—Prisoner refused to state anything of himself, and was remanded for a week in order that inquiries might be made respecting him.

THE AMERICAN MARQUIS. THE author of this clever little book has broken new prou;id in hi" vivid sketches of certain phases of Parisian life which will have the charm of novelty to many English readers. His descriptions of the manners and customs of a certain section of the American Colony in Paris are written with much humour and apparent truthfulness. The Dentist Marquis, with his shoddy Château of Monplaisir, his shoddy guests, and shoddy entertainments, deserves to rank as a creation so, too, does Mr. Flossage, the delightful correspondent of a London daily, who concocts his Parisian letters in a cafe, with the aid of a file of Frencn newspapers and a dictionary. There is plenty of incident in the book, and the plot is sufficiently enthralling, including a pretty love interest and a tragic element in the life history of the fine old Polish nobleman, who sinks to the position of a painter's model and first violin In a Montmartre orchestra, but The American Marquis is a long way ahead of the average shilling thriller, in respect to its literary style and clever character studies. It is a book that will attain con- siderable notoriety, and many thousands of. copies, we are 11 informed, have already been sold in London knacParis.*1

COMPLIMENTARY SUPPER AT TONYPANDY. DEPARTURE OF MR EDMUNP WILLIAMS. On Friday evening the friends of Mr E. Williams met in the long room of tbo Pandy Hotel, for the purpose of expressing their sympathy with their esteemed friend upon his leaving the Pandy Hotel. During the last nine or ten years, Mr WiMiams, has made a multitude of friends. On Friday evening, 90 gentlemen partook of the dtlicious, and most admirable supper that ever could be got up by the experienced Host and Hostess. After "the cloth was ramoved, Mr T. P. Jenkins, J.P., the friend of every honest and deserving man, was elected to occupy the chair. He, with his usual coolness, judgment, aud self possesion, filled it admirably, and was heartily applauded. The chairman, in addressing the meeting, said,—I am extremely pleased to see such a large number of respectable people coming here this evening, to pay their farewell respects to Mr add Mrs Williams upon the occasion of their leaving the Pandy Hotel. At farewell dinners it is generally the practice to give expressions of regret at the departare of our friends. But upon the same breach we are compensated by the fact of having to congratulate them upon the bright prospect in view for them. But there are exceptions in every rule, a id this is, I regret to remark, a deplorable exception. I am sure. I am expressing the sentiments of you all when I say, that we are all exceedingly sorry for the unfortunate circumstances, which induce Mr and Mrs Williams to leave this house, but the nnkindest cut of all is that they have lost all their money, but they need not be ashamed of the transaction which brought them to ruin. I do not think I would be out of place to explain matters a little. At the time Mr Williams speculated his money, everything looked bright and prospects, the needle on the disc register- ing the value of stocks and shares of the world pointed upwards. But all at once the needle became excited the nervous system of the money market became agitated paralysis set in, and down went the whole fabric, bringing with it disaster and ruin, not only to our friends, but to many thousands besides whose judgment were at least equal to the judgment of the most shrewd in this assembly. If the needle I have spoken of had only gone up one degree, Mr Williams would have made a handsome fortune. Criticism then would hare been just exactly opposite to what it is now. However, Mr Williams is young, strong and active let us hope that he will be ere long able to recoup himself of the gre it loss in which he has the unqualified sympathy of a very large circle of friends, who will always assist him if necessary. I have lived near the Williams's for a number of years, and I have never found neighbours more agreeable and kind, generous to a fault, and the worat word I ever heard was old Edmund, the Pandy, is not a bad sort after all. (Cheers.) Messrs. T. Evans, Bush Hotel; Milson White, R. J. George, John Thomas, and D. Williams and a. few other tradespeople, spoke on the occasion. The programme for the evening ran thus: Address, Chairman loyal toast. Queen and the Royal Family; song, Mr Ted Griffiths recitation, Mr Jno. Thomas song and dance, Mr John Downy song, Dr Noah Williams recitation, Dafydd Ap Jones song, Mr D. Williams, Ironmonger song, Mr Ted Ebley addrass, Mr Hopkin Knill; toast of the Trade of the District, Mr Milson White res- ponded to by Mr R. J. George song, Mr John Downy; song, Mr Ted Griffiths song, Mr Tom Gough finale, Hen wlad fy nhadau." After a very enjoyable evening, all parted in good time to their respective homes.

ANOTHER SCENE IN MERTHYR CHURCH. -0-4 THE CHURCilWARDEN LOCKED OUT. The dispute between the Rector of Merthyr and the parishioners' warden, in regard to the functions of the latter at I'!t. David's, was istensified on Sunday. On attending the church on Sunday morning, Mr David Evans. the parishioners' war- Jen,ascertained tbat the chnrchhad been parcelled out between the sidesmen f er collecting purposes, and tha.t no bag was provided for him. Mr Evans was, however, prepared with hig own bag:, and at the close ef the morniog service he proceeded to take part in the colleotion, In a few cases wor- shippers who did not contribute to his bag, when he waited upon the n in the oustomary manner, afterwards subscribed to the bag of one of the other collectors. All che collectors deposited their bags on the plate with the rector, with the excep- tion of the parishioners' warden, who emptied the contents of his bag thereon. On repairing after- wards to the vestry, te assist in the counting if the money, Mr Evan3 found the door locked against him.

ASSAULTING A POLICE CONSTABLE AT WILLIAMS FOWN. THE VICTIM FELLED TO THE GROUND. CHARGE AGAINST A VIOLENT RUFFIAN. At Pontypridd Police Court, on Wednesday (before tha Stipendiary aud other magistrates,) John Harris was charged with aasaultiae P C. Thomas. T.,e Constllble said tha.t on Snnday morning, 15th inst., he w..s on duty at Williamstown, and SAW defendant, with five or six others, standing on the road. Tbey were quarrelling, using very bad language, and defendant wanted to fight. He went to them, and on seeing him one slid 11 Here's old Butler coming," and they all ran aw-ty, except defendant. Told him to go away. He at once raised his fist, and struck him a blow in the eye, which felled him to the gronnd. He got np, and when rising defendant ran at h;m and knocked him on tlirf laft hip. They then struggled together. Defendant was kicking, biting, and very violent- A crowd began to collect. One in tbe crowd said Ci Let him get. up." As soon as defendant got on his feet he kicked him severely, P.O. Butler wis there then, and took hold of defendant, and took him towards his home. Called out to Butler not to take the defendant to his house, but to arrest him. They struggled and fell, and defendant kicked him under the right jaw. P.C. Butler said he went to the help of P.C. [ Thomas. Defendant was very violent, and kicking. Saw him strike Thomas. P.O. Lewis said he apprehended defended on a warrant on Monday night. P.O. Thomas went to the back door, and he to the front. The land- lady went to toe back door; then cacae and opened the front door, and went to the back again. He heard a man ooming down stairs, and found it was defendant who was going to bolt" through the front door. Defendant said Thomas first struc him. He called'several witnesses, but Done of th m saw but a small part of the fiacas. Fined 403.

ATTACK BY A BAND OF RUFFIANS AT TREALAW. EXEMPLARY SENTENCE ON ONE OF THE MEN. At Ystrad Police Court, on Monday, (before the St ipendiary and other ougisti ate i), Charles Sussex woa charged with assaulting Lemuel Davies on the 30th ultimo. Lemuel Davieg, Penygraig, snid a man stole a a purse from him by th", Trealaw Inn, and he told the uian h* should no> go until he gave up the purs°!. He sent for the police, and as he was pre- venting hitn going away defendant struck him down. About fifteen men then came upon him and kicked him He ran into the inn for protection. They followed him, and assaulted him again. Police Sergeant Hoyle faid complainant bad witnesses, but they bad come to him and said that they were afraid to appear, as they had been threatened with violence if they did. Defendant was sent to prison for two months | with hard laboar.

IMPORTANT LCCAL tAW CASE. T t UPSETTING AN AGREEMEN r FOR RENTING I A SHOP AT PONTYPRIDD. HEARING IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE. In the High Court of Justice, Chancery Division, on Friday, beSfrre Mr Justice Kekewioh, an im- porttot judgmetltwae given in an action for the specific performance of An agreement with regard to a shop situate in Tuff street, Pontypridd.. The action was brought by Mr Walter Williams, saddler, Pontypridd, against Mr John Maurice Jones, landlord and owner of the shops, 86 and 87, Taff-street, Pontypridd. Mr Warmington, Q.C., and Mr J. G. Wood, in- structed by Messrs Grover and Grover, solicitors, Pontypridd, appeared for the plaintiff, and Mr G. B. Rogers, Q.C., and Mr W. Evans, instructed by Mr D. R >«ser, solicitor, Pontypridd, appeared for the defendant. It appeared that in the month of March, 188fi, the defendant was about erecting two shoos, now known as 86 and 87, Taff-street. Plaintiff called upon him, and asked him to give him the first etiance of No. 86. Defendant said he would; that he had plans bud specification prepared, but had not received tenders. Plaintiff asked him for the plans, that he might look over them. That was done. and plaintiff returned the plans the following day. That evening, plaintiff and Mr F. Pearce, his brother-in-law, called upon defendant with a view to arranging terms. De- fendant told them be had not received an estimate from hi3 architect nor tenders, therefore he could decide as to the rental. In the meantime, plain- tiff appeared to have ascer ained from bis brother- in-l.w that according to the plans the buildings would cost more than £ 400 each. £4,00 wis men- tionad as the probable cost of the building No 86, and a suggestion was made froai one aide or tbe other that taking that as the bisis the rent should be £75 per annum and the following agreement W-1.S entered into and signed on M-irch 19th, 1886:—"I, John Ma°i rice Joaes, herehv agwee to lease to Walter Williams a. shop and pre- mises—86, Taff-street, Pontypridd -which are to be biiilt at a cost not to exceed X400, in accol-d- ance with plans and specification prepired by Mr Rowland, Pontypridd, for a term of fourteeu years, at an annual rental of .£75, payable quar- terly, to be taken from da'e of completion of pre- mises. J. MAURICE JONES."—Before signing the agreement, it was stated that the question was raised by Mr Jones whether, if the outlay ex ceeded 1;400, Mr Williams would be prepare I to pay more, and the answer was tbat he would pay an amount in proportion to the increased cost. Mr Jones advertised for tenders. Several werp received, the amount ranging fiOiO £ 1200 t-ö £ 1600 for the two shops; but that of Pnng Brotheis, £ 1200, being the lowest, was accepted. The two Z, shops were completed in February, 1887. '1M!' Rosser, instructed by Mr Jaue", wroto Mr Wnlt<»r Williams, telling him fcbut, inasvnuoh as tb* build- iug had cost over £ 400, Mr Jones refused to let him the promises for £ 75 p«r annum, but offered to let him have them for £ 100 per annum, but the offer was refused. Mr. Williams claimed specific performance of the agreement at £ 75 a year notwithstanding the increased ,outlay, aDd damages for non-fulfiment. Plaintiff was called in support of big case, and said most distinctly that the rent WclS not agreed upon with reference to an outlay not exceeding £ 100. He denied entirely any conversation having taken place as to an increased rent if the ou;;l>iY should exceed £ 400. On the other side, defendant and his wifo and Mr Pe rse, builder, positively stated that the rent of X75 was aareed uoon provided the expandituie didootexcead £ 400; but if the oot'ay exceeded that amount, np to £ 1000 the piaiutifT had agreed to pay the rent in proportion. The Judge, in summiug up, remarked that, in considering this agreement, he must take into consideration the evidence which had been given before him botb by defendant and bis witnesses; that there was certainly a contradiction between the parties as to what took place immediately preceding the signing of the agreement; but the agreement was definite and distinot-that the shop and premises, 86, Taff-street, Pontypridd, were to be built at a cost not to exceed to £400. The defendant and his witnesses had proved to bis satisfaction that the rent of £75 per annum were agreed upon with refereace to au outlay put, exceeding £400, and it having been proved that the house and premises had cost £ 557 10s., the court could not order specific performance uf this agreement, and gave judgment for the defendant with costs.

FOOTBALL PONTYPRIDD HARLEQUINS v. U.VKSOWS.—This match was played oa Saturday afternoon at the Ynysangbarad Field in the presence of a numerous company of spectators. The game was briskly contested, resulting in avictory for the Harlequins by two tries to a try, a second try by the latier being for some reason disallowed. The tries for the Harlequins were obtained by W. Jenkins, and the allowed try for the Unknowns by J. Thomas, the disputed one being by J. Alexander. Some dissat- isfaction was felt at the belief that one of the umpires and the referee had a waged interest in the issue of the game however, we can scarcely think they would lend themselves to such injustice. The following composed the teams Harlequins Back, S. Davies; throe quarters, J. Hewens (cap- tain), R. Richards, G. Lewis, and W. Jenkins; half-backs, J. Gamblin and J. Davies; forwards D. Evans, T. Lloyd, J. Thomas, J. Morris, T. Mor' gan, J. Williams, W. Mitchell, and J. Manny; umpire, G. Griffiths. The Unknowns--Back, P. Nicholas; three quarters, R. Lane, D. Girnblette, D. Me.Laggan. and A. Rowlands; half backs, J. Alexander and Gale; forwards, H. Morgin (captain), J. Thomas, E. Llewellyn, A. Lott, M. Osborne, D. Reynolds, Jenkins, and A. Other; umpire, D. Jenkins; referee, W. Williams.

PICKING AN OLD BONE AT P £ MGrRAI(i ASSAULTING A TRADESMAN. At the Rbondda Police Court, Ystrad, on Mon- day, Evan Rees was charged with assaulting Joseph Phillips. Complainant said on the 7th instant he went to the Batchers' Arms, and saw defendant there. Asked him if he remembered coming to his shop four years ago. He denied it" and struck him on the face, and kicked him in the ribs. Ordered to pay 43/- or a month's imprisonment

STEALING BOOTS AT PONTYPRIDD. AN IMPUDENT SHOPLIFTER. CHASING A THIEF IN TAFF-STREET. At Ystrad Police Court, on Monday, (before the Stipendiary, Messrs J. Davies, D. W. Davies, and T. P. Jenkias), Eqan Davies, of Ynyscaedudwg. wis charged with stealing a pair of boots, valna 5/11, from the shop of Messrs Cash & Co., Ponty- pridd. Robert Griffiths, assistant at the shop in Taff- street, said the pair of army blacher boots proauced by Police sergeant Jenkins were hanging in the doorway outside the shop on Saturday last. About 2.30 be had occasion to go to the shop window, and saw defendant standing near the boots. He looked u? and down the street, and then took the boo's off the nail, and put them under his coat, and walked away. He went out and gave chase, catching the man some distance cif. Took the boots from under his coat, and handed them to Sergeant Jenkins, to whom defendant was given in cuatody. Fined 2)/-

I GROSS CROELTi TO ANIMALS. A paper read before the Yatrad Reform Society, by Mr. D. Yorath (Eos Hafod). For some considerable time I have felt that potent measures should be adopted to mitigate the !zo%,e, treatment which animals constantly endnre. It ha,* come under my notice that this worthy subject has arrested attention in many large towns, and, for ijjSiance, I may mention that Swansea has been veiy prominent in this respect. Not long since a prize WfI.,S offered at the place Daniei for the best essay on "KindRess to Animals," but I bave not bad the pleasure of seeing the best production. To my knowledge no effort has been made to organise a movement in favor. r of showing sympathy with creatures that are essential for our use in this valley Ever since I konw anything, the rule is that domestic animals are generally left in the charge of persons that are totally out of sympathy With them. However, before proceeding to the point upon which j I wish to call your attention, I shall with your j permission confine myself to natural history, audi will treat more especially on animuls that are of the I greatest service in the Great Rhondda. You are well aware that the number of coal mines is numerous in our midst; therefore the services of the horse are in Kreat demand. Doubtless many of you know the history of this valuabia animal, but a few remarks here may add to what you already know. I find that Solomon introduced the horse first from Egypt, and it was used chiefly for war at that time. Since then the same creature is equally valued in the battle field, and is truly valuable in many other respects. He has thus been appropriately described I in the book of Job, He paweth in the valley, and rejoiceth in his strength: he goeth on to meet the armed men. He mocketh at fear, and ia not affright- ed, neither tameth he back from the sword. The I quiver rattleth against him, the glittering spear and { the shield. He saith am.mg the trumpets'Ha, ha; and he smelleth the battle afar off, the thnnder of I the captains and the shouting." I should eav that this animal is remarkable alike for strength and ease, and is notable for ease of motion. Beyond doubt he has been made an assistant to man. The strnctnre I of the horse is also noteworthy and remarkable, and j h-td time permitted it would be interesting to ei)ter into a brief explan vion. Any one interested in the s ibject could have all information in perusing the book entitled Wild sports of the World," by James Greanwood. Mr. Bell says: The early bistoiy of the horse is involved in obscurity. It is indeed only in sacred history that we have any probable trace of its original subjugation, or even a hint as to what nation the world is indebted to for so valuable a boon." In contrast to the horse I shall next name the iss. I find that this animal was highly thought of in early history it was in fact the ancient symbol of Jewish royalty The Jews valned the ass as a beast of burden for work in the field, mill, etc. It is said that David and the Judges of Israel rode on an ass. Zvihariab, one of the prophets, predicted that our Saviour would enter Jerusalem, poor and riding on an ass. Many other instances could be gi ven bo" t'hici animal was esteemed many centuries past. L'uring the reign of Queen Elizabeth it was a costly animal, and because of its raiity the ass was con- sidered tn much in worth as the well bred horse. Brethel says For the space of fifty years it worked daily at the wbt>e1, and even then died in perfect health and strength by accidentally falling over the ramparts of the castle." Besides being a useful animal the ass, with which we are all acquainted1; is of bumble and qniet disposition. The next of the quadruped class comerf in the list is one of the ox tribe. I shall mention the cow. a. creature well known to all of ns, as being very useful to man. One writer says Of all the blessings that Almighty God bestowed upon man, this is one of the greatest." The Egyptians were under the impression that a bull and a TOW represented the sun and moon, which were their principal gods It is on record that since men have improved and become more civilized the cow has improved also. The flesh and milk of the cow are so plentiful that we have reason to conjecture we are too ant to forget they are blessings. Jain made to understand that the hide gives us leather. The carpenter gets his glue from her hoofs and ears. The mason finds that he makes mortar much stronger by mixing her hair with it. Handles for knives aud many other sundries are made from the bones. The rest of her carcase is otherwise made ase of and I am certain that every part of her is of use. Another animal is quite familiar to us, namely, the sheep. All parts of this animal is of use like that of the cow. To read of this creature affords elight. Many articles are made of the wool of sheep, such as com- fortable jackets and soft dresses, &c, &c. After a brief explanation on thenatare ahd value of these animals I shall now place before you our duty towards these and other annimals that exist in our midst. We all know that a society has been established with the solll purpose of checking the terrible cruelty which is being inflicted on animals so unmercifully even before our eyes. The society is supported by our law, and person-s are punished for violating it. I am mot prepared to say how are the rules framed by the Society of Cruelty to Anni- mals. but I am sure it has been founded on very good principles. For ill-treatment to animals several bave received punishment and to my knowledge no one had the audacity to sympathise with persons of such cruel disposition. In our valley I am not aware that any one has undergone an imprisonmeut for such a cowardly offence, but some instances are recorded of fines being imposed. Like myself I presume you have seen creatures of the class des- cribed treated barbarously by persons possessing of course no spark of feeling. Personally I have wit- nessed excessive punishment inflicted upon animals The Tuesday following Christmas Day of last year I unfortutately saw several person^ engaged in suootiug pigeons, at a place not a 100 miles from Trebanog. The pigeons were let out of a bag, flew away, and no sooner the loud report of a gun was heard, some of the birds werp instantly killed, and thus without pain. However, several others found themselves wounded, yes, some bad their legs torn off, and others their wings severed. No notice was taken of this-the cruel sport was continued. The agony which the harmless doves endured bad no effect upon the harmless persons who partook in such foolish and cruel pastimes. One thing in particular attracted my attention, and that was to notice an elderly person trying to move them from a place which the wounded ones had secured as a place of refuge. He had a long rod, and notwith- standing his strenuous efforts the birds would not leave their place of safety. This humane" person would like the escaped ones to suffer further shot wouuds. I understand that something of the kind was carried on at Treorky on Christmas Day. To think of such dreadful practice is enouQh to make 1 onr blood boil in our veins, of this horrible practice I say that strong measures ought to be established to check the same if possible. I have seen cows, &c. imported to this valley punished most severely by drovers. In the first place I consider to tie the horn of a beast by means of a rope to one of its fore legs, and lead it from Penygraig to some other p irt of the valley is a crue) and unjust act. I can further bear testimoney that from the stime place sheep have been very harshly treated, through being unable to walk fast enough to satisfy the driver, Many times I have seen animals seeking water to quench their thirst. Bat, alas no sooner they did this than they reeled under a heavy stroke which stunned them Such is the brutish treatment these useful creatures endure at the bauds of persons who claim to them- selves the credit of being endowed with common sense Further in my opiniou, animals axe not fed properly They are conveyed over our railways from a long distance, and I am afraid nothing in the way of necessaries of life is offered them for some days. This should be a matter for deep consideration, as to allow creatures to suffer want is a sin. I am afraid j most of our drivers and butchers do sot recognise '1 this fact. My object in bringing this matter before yoar notice is to enforce prevention of cruelty to animals. In the first place I may say that this valley is fully entitled to a resident 'inspector to prevent domestic animals from being illtreated. I understand the number of inhabitants is ever 100 000. This in stself will prove that among such number cruel persons exist. Our Society is christened with the name of Ystrad Reform Society," and I am fully aware it has already done much good. Should we resolve in petitioning for an inspector to watch the interest of harmless and useful creatures such as those named I think the society would meet with approbation in agitating for improvement in this respect. I am exceedingly anxious that we should as members work diligently in favour of reducing undue violence upon animals, thus prevent barbar- ous savages from being transported to a fury which is brutish."

THE HOME USEPL"L AND SCGGKST 1VE. SOOTHING MIXTCTIIB FOR A COUGH.—TWO OUNCES f !>f figs, two ounces of raisins, two ounces of pearl tarJey, lialf an ounce of licorice root boil in a pint tnid a half of water until reduced to a pint, strain, add two ounces of new honey, and drink a. willo- > glussful night and tuorniug, or when the cough is -r?" bJ,<nr,'Q ,—

-< PoDf jpridd M'ci CsurL WEDNESDAY.—Before tbe Stipendiary, Messrs C. J Jones, J. Davies, D. W. Davies, and P. Jenkins DRUNK AT EIRW.—David Davies was charged bv Inspector Jones with being drllnk.-Fined 10s. OBSTEUCIION AT PoRTH-Tomas Morgan WAS charged by Inspector Jones with obstructing tbe highway with his break on the 8th inst. He had been warnea the previous Sunday.—Fined 5s- I YI~N.IR ^:)HX BARLEYCORN" AT PONTYKUOH.—ALF<>L VY llliams was charged with being drunk.—1' C, Eh<u- mem said on tbe previous Thursday evening be saw Fined 10?. Ver" dlDnk' aad wanting to fif-ht— hwfr"KrT Cv5nr.Kf--Edmund Coiling..s charge,! • PT-' i c?Wen W^h be,n- drunk 011 Saturday nkbt in Hif:h Street.—Fined 5s. BONA FIIIFS AT DiNAs.-William Webber, William Llewellyn, James Rolls, and Thomas Evans were all charged by Police Sergeant Hoyle with pretending to be traveliere. The officer visited theGwaunadda Inn on the Stn instant, and found defendants drinking beer, ihe place they ca:r>*> from was 3(; chains under the throe miles. Defendants made it 100 yards lees than the police.—Fined Is each. A "LOVING COUPLT:" AT YNYSYBWL.—John Evans was charged with deserting his wife.—Eliza Evans said she (lid not charge defendant with desertion, but with such treatment as rendered it impossible for them to live together. What she wanted was that he should be compelled to pay towards the snpport of their child, 14 months old.—Mr Rhys, for defendant, said the husband was willing to take the child, or to pay 2s 6d a week.—The wife agreed to take the 2s 6d a week. DRUNK AT TREORKY.—Daniel Edwards was CHARGED with being drunk.—P.C. Ttiomas said on the 8th inst. be saw defendant on the highway at Peiiyjuraig very- drunk.—Fined 10.3. A Fiorrnxa MAN AT FJSHNDALE.—John Millifonfr was charged by P.C. Allen with drunkenness. De- fendant was turned oat of the Commercial Hotel. He- heard him challenging anyone to fight.' Told bim to- go home. He would not, so he locked bim tip.—- Discharged ASSAULT AT PENYGRAIG.—George Williams wag charged with assaulting Geo. Martin.—Complainant said on the 2nd instant he was in his own bouse. A knock came at the joor. which he answered. Defen- dant was there, and asked for his (complainant's-) | brotber-in law. Told him he was not there. He said I he bad been challenging him. Afterwards he came I and burst tue door open. and struck him three times- | ia tbe face. Defendant's wife said her husband, who | had been a teetotaller for 12 months, was drunk when j he committad the assault, and said he Remembered nothing about it. He said be was very sorry if be J did bit Martin. — Bound over to keep the peace for six months, and to pay the costs, 13s 6d. six months, and to pay the costs, 13s 6d. j ALLKGEr DAMAGE AT CYMJIKR.—John Williams aud John Issac Jones, two little boys, were charged by j P.O. Thomas with doing damage to a brick wali t the value of Is. On the afternoon of the 9th inst. he, saw three boys by the coke ovens. They ran aw iy. He asked a man why they did so, and the man eiict been doing damage to a wall.-Case dismissed. "MAGGIE THE SWEEP IN TROUBLE."—Margaret Roberts (alias "Maggie the sweep ") wn3 charged- with drunkenness. P.C. Lewis said on the 7th inst. he saw defendant at Pontypridd very drunk, and scores of men following her.-Fined 5a.

HOW TO STEAL A FEATHER-BED. Stopping for a glass of cider at a village iiouse in North Devon, I heard a story in connection v.'ith the above recondite sui/ect which amused nl". A rustic who had spent ail his money iu getting1 p\r at, the rival establishment, came up .to tho ,'i.ndlord of The Crooked IJ.iiet «nd asked him to itn some liijuor— nbout the iieiglil-ot it I •;sillt to a publican and so he of The Crooked Biites. i-enied to think. But the lipsy one was not to bvi • nt off in a hurry, be cUlltina'<I his importunities, old for a pint of c.der he said lie would impart a. iiost valuable secret. Tile landlord seemed ratiier I) prick up his etr, tt this, and at length consented o bestow a liaif-piut, on Of some- hing to his advantage, and the liquor was banded iver and drained by the applicant. Now, sir," said he with a confidential air, and irt •i stentorian whisper, "Iwxt tilllcl you da steal veather-bed, mind y tl goo downstairs wi' uti back- wards." Great was the host's indignation at this second tfTront, but greater was my curosity to know th. meaning of the phrase employed, aud enquiring If a farmer in the inn, I obtained the following ex- planation There was, it soomod, at a village some distance ff a surgeon who pridi.d himself upon his acuteness slid continually boasted t oil lie ha,1 never been <un;e. Now it happened one day, that a scamp who lived y Ills wits was lurking ahout the house on the loole- JIlt for plunder, allll having noticed the surgeon'* wife set off for market, »aw presently the surgeon himself go out, as lie supposed, to visit his patients. Him, likewise, he watched off the premises, Illul then finding the coast clenr, stole in through the front door and walked upstairs to lay bands on whatever seemed most eligih c. The booty sclcciel was the best feather-bed, this lie took on hit- bade and began descending the stairs, with the precaution of coming c/r>nm h tckward'■<. He had got about half- way do s n when in came the surgeon again. Hallo, my man, where are you going with that bed ? Goan upstairs wi un, sur." There's a gen'lrn'n down to The llose and Crown, sur, as says «• es ;>L| trend o' yours just come from Inger, and comun t1. stop wi' you, sur—and comun up hisself presently wi's luggage-and he've seut I up, sur wi' thes: yor tied." "I shall not admit it-I shall not admit It. t don't know any su :li person, and I'm not going tfW he imposed upon. Likely thing, indeed—d'you, suppose any stranger can come and quarter himself on me with a ta'e like that? Nt), no, you go 1m"\c and take the bed along too, aud give my compli- ments to the gentleman and say he's made S')!)}.. mistake, and I don't know 11.111." Well, sur, 'tis Warlll day, sur, and make S-.I, boIll, sur, I hope you'll allow me somat to drink. "Very well, I don't mind giving you a glass, tflu ho rill of the business. There—now you go baclfc ind fay as I ,ve told you." Off walked the rascal with his burden. By-at>'l- by returned Mrs. Surgeon, and went upstairs to tatafc ,if her bonnet. Down she came again. Now, my dear, always making some alteration; without consulting me, and what ¡¿ave you doa.. with that new feather-bed?" "Oh, murder I said the wretched man, 44 IL see it all." t'rnv, what do you see, my dear? But enough. Of course the surgeon's reputation? for sharpness was gone, and that was the approve^ way to steal a feather-bed in this neighbourhood.

NO DANGER. Dr. Thomas, when Bishop of Salisbury, used tfr; telllhe following story: "While I was chaplain to the British i actory at Hamburg, agenttemat) ba» longing to the factory died at a vil age about left- miles distant. Application was male to the pas* tor of the parish for leave to have him buried in hi., churchyard, but on being told he was a Calvmi&t^ he refused. "'No,' said lie, 'there are none but Lutherans in my churchyard, and there shall be <)t-<cr.' "This being told me," says Dr. Thoma, I resolved to go and argue the matter with him but found him iullexi.de. At length I told him h., made me think of a circumstance which once 'oap^ pened to myseif when I was curate in Thomas-Streefc, I was burying a corpse, when a woman came tiA pulled mo by the sleeve in the midst of the servka^ saving: "'Sir, sir, 1 want to speak to voiul ""•Pry thee,' says I, 'women, wait till I have done^ No, sir, I must speak to you i "I "'Why, then, what is the matter?' 'Sir.' sav* ?he, « viol are burying a man who died of the *:naH». |,o. iiex- my poor husband, who never bad ik*. ihe story ha tbe desired effect, anil tbe pa top permitted the bones ot the Calviuist to be interred in his churchyard."

¡ A damsel applied f"r a place behind a counter. I Wiiat clerical experience have you ? asked thJ:, man of dry goods. Very little," she said, with ablush, "for I onY", joined the Church last week," "Mother s -nt me," said a little girl to a hour, "to ask you to come and take tea with her- this evening," i»i." «,be say at what time, y>y dear." «• No "OI'UOK sha only said she would as If y<nj and then the thing wcntld be off her nnud. Thai ill she said,