The Aberystwyth Times Cardiganshire Chronicle and Merionethshire News

This week we give OUR ALMANACK, which contains an Engraving of the UNI- VERSITY OF WALES, and a large amount of useful Local Information. NOTICES. This Paper is registered for transmission abroad. Communications for insertion in the TIMES must be au- thenticated bv having the real name and address of the writer, not necessarily for publication, but as a guarantee of the writer's good faith.

THE SCHOOLMISTRESS AT THE WORKHOUSE. A correspondent, whose letter unfortunately we cannot publish this week, writes to object to the pro- posed appointment of a schoolmistress at the work- house. We do not propose to enter into the whole qaestim now, but there is one argument of great force against the appointment. Workhouse children have far too much of the pauper's life" instilled into their very blood, as it were. They grow up sur- rounded by all the lowering associations of a society of paupers, and if they become decent members of society, it is generally in spite of their training and not because of it. This is the case almost independ- ently of the character of the officers, although that, of course, makes a great difference, and sometimes the training, even within the walls. of a workhouse, is so admirable, that the ill effects of living there are almost entirely obliterated. One of the remedies for the in- evitable evils of being bred in a workhouse is to send the children amongst other children as much as pos- sible. The best method of all, we think, is that recently adopted in a Lancashire union, putting the children to board with decent working men, and thus giving them the advantages of an independent train- ing; and next to this, sending them out to school is the best practice that can be pursued. Going to School with others helps to rub off the pitiless want of spirit that so sadly characterizes workhouse children, and to prepare them for earning their bread In after life. We hope the guardians will consider this most important point before they decide to shut the poor creatures up from all intercourse with other children, and to confine them to the unhealthy atmo- sphere of the workhouse. Our correspondent is right when he urges the great importance of letting the children breathe the air freely, and see something of the children's world around them, if they are not to be stunted in their physical, mental, and moral growth.

ABERYSTWYTH. A DISORDERLY TRAMP.-On Monday last, John Slater, a vagrant, who bad been admitted into the Union the previous night, was brought up before Thomas Jones, Esq., and charged with tearing his clothes by the master of the workhouse. Prisoner had ,c a few days ago been discharged from Montgomery gaol, having undergone a term of imprisonment for a similar offence. Prisoner was this time sentenced to 14 days' imprisonment in Cardigan gaol, with hard 1&ENGLI^H CALVINI-TIC METHODIST SCHOOL.-The scholars and teachers of this school were, on Wednes- day evening last, entertained with tea at the Temper- ance Hall. In the evening a public meeting was held in the same place, addresses being delivered by several ministers and others. The choir sang some very good musical selections, and a number of readings and reci- tations were given by the children. CHRISTMAS TREE.—On Wednesday last a bpautiful Christmas Tree was on view at the New Nation-il Schools. The tree was laden with all kinds of presents, through the exertions of Mrs Phillips, the Vicarage, and the teachers of the Sunday School. A large number visited the school during the afternoon, and at four o'clock the presents were distributed to the school- children, accompanied with buns and oranges. The tree, which was a magnificent fir, the gift of Mr Lewis Pugh, of Bridge-street, occupied the centre of the school, and was decorated with much taste and skill. j CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS.—During Christmas week most of the shops were decorated, in a manner which reflected credit on their respective owners. A WRBCK.—On Thursday night, about eight p.m., the smack Castle, of this port, bound from Kingtown to Aberystwyth, struck aground, and became quite un- manageable, the tremendous seas breaking completely over her. The perilous state of the vessel and her crew soon became evident to every one, and orders were given to launch the Evelyn Wood lifeboat, of the National Lifeboat Institution, to their help, as their cries were plainly heard ashore, and were pitiable in the extrerre. The boat, after a hard struggle with the fearful breakers, was fairly got off, and soon made its way to the wreck, and succeeded in rescuing the crew, three in number, and bringing them ashore in safety, amid the cheers of the spectators. The vessel is a complete wreck. Great praise is due to the crew of the lifeboit for their alacrity, and to others for their strenuous exertions in assisting to get the boat launched, which was done with a will and at the risk of great personal injury. The ciew and spectators were delighted with the conduct of the lifeboat. The cost of the Aberystwyth lifeboat and of two others was munificently defiayed by Mrs B. Wood, sister- in-law of the present much-respected Lord Chancellor, who like most members of his family, has always been a warm friend of the National Lifeboat institution, and a librral contributor to its funds. PORTLAND-STREET CHAPEL SUNDAY SCHOOL.—A short time ago it was resolved by the teachers and promoters of this institution to give the school a treat on Christmas Day, and on Friday last the scholars and friends assembled at the Town Hall, which had been kindly lent for the occasion, and tea was provided. There was a plentiful supply of good things of this life, and the tables were presided over by a number of ladies who kindly attended the wants of the guests. During tea the choir sang several sacred pieces with much taste. At half-past six a public meeting was h,ld in the Congregational Chapel, presided over by the minister, the Rev. A. N. R. Griffith, L L.B. No pains had been spared in the decoration of the chapel, which in almost every part was ornamented with ever- greens and mottoes appropriate to this festive season, the most prominent of which was a beautiful arch at the back of the rostrum, bearing the inscription, •' Glory to God in the Highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men," with a star in the centre, con- structed with holly, &c., encircled with the words, "Unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given." Service was commenced with prayer by the Rev. A W. R Griffith, and was followed withaddresses by the Rev. J. Sandeis, Mr M. H. Davies, uperintendent of the School, the Rev. D. Thoma?, Wesleyan minister, and Mr M'licombe. Mr T. Thomas proposed a vote of thanks to the ladies and Mr Morrell, for attending to the decorations, and for presiding at the tables, which was seconded by Mr Rowse. A musical programme was performed in a manner which reflcted great credit upon the choir, and the pieces were ably accom- panied on the harmonium by Miss Kite Reese. During the evening the Rev. A. W. R. Griffith presented Miss K ite Reese with a handsome electro- plated tea and coffee service, in acknowledgment of the valuable assistance she had rendered to the choir. The presentation was briefly acknowledged by Mr T. Thomas (on behalf of Miss Reese), who, in the course of Li., remarks, made grateful reference to the several members of the choir. The Rev. J. Sanders also made a few remarks congrBtulatory to Miss Reese and the choir. The benediction closed this pleasant meeting. THE BRITISH SCHOOL UNITED CONCERT.—This concert came off on the evening of Christmas Day, at the Temperance Hall, for the benefit of the British School. It was ably conducted by Mr Edward E i war 's (Pencerdd Cendigion). The attendance (weather considered) was very satisfactory, and the several pieces mentioned in the following programme were gone through most creditably. On such occa- sions as these, when all do their qest, and this best is done gratuitously, it is difficult to make selections for special praise. Suffice it to say, the performers did t ieir work well, and it was for a good object. Chorus-" Codhd yr Haul" Choir Duett—" Hark the Goddess Diana Misses Davies and J imes Song and Chorus Flora Lyle Miss S. Davies and Party Pianoforte Solo-" La Cascade de Roses Mi.ss Berry Song-" The Liquid Gem" Miss Howells Song and Chorus—' 'Nelly Bawn" Mr Pryse Phillips and Party Son-" Janet's Choice" Miss James G ee-" Come, let us all a Maying go Choir Song and Chorus-" Come, if you dare" Mr D. Phillips and Choir Song-" Kathleen Mavourneen Mrs W. T. Williams Trio-" Bold Kobin Hood Miss Edwards, Messrs Samuel and Davies Pianoforte Solo-" La Priere d'une Viérge" Miss M. Jones Song-" Down the burn, Davy Miss Davies Socg—"Cartref" Mr W. Samuel Cavatina-" Tell me, Skylark" Miss Berry Chorus—" Codiad yr Ehedydd Choir PETTY SESSIONS, WEDNESDAY.—Before Thomas Jones, Esq and Richard Roberts, Esq. Trespass in Pursuit of Game.-Evan Morris, Tre- fechan, was charged by Juhn Parry, Eq, jun., Glan- piith, with trespassing in pursuit of game, on lands at Dm Dinas—Morgan Richards, a miller, living at Morfa, stated that on the 30ch November he saw defend- ant beating for game in a plantation at Dan Dinas, in company with a man named Walter Williams.—At this srage of the proceedings the case was adjourned till nex' meeting. BOARD OF GUARDIANS, MONDAY. -Present: G. W. Parry, Esq. (chairman), Messrs W. Jones (vice), R. Morris, David Roberts, Richard Roberts, Lewis Lewis, D. J. Davies, J. Jones, J. Morgan, Evan Herbert, Lewis Jones, Joseph Jones; Dr. Roberts, Dr James, and Mr Hugh Hughes, clerk. The minutes of the preceding meeting having been read by the Clerk, and duly signed bv the Chairman, notice was given by Mr G. W. Parry that at the next meeting of the Board he should call attention to the question of having a schoolmistress for the Work- house. The number of children in the house, the irregularity of their return when sent to the National Schoo', aud the extra wear and tear of t'leir clothes, with other considerations, seemed to press this matter upon the attertion of the members of the Board. The long list of special application cases were next called over, and their claims carefully considered. The total number of these applications was forty. The following is an account of the expenditure for the week ending 26th December-District No. 1, Aber- ystwyth, £ 41 district No. 2, Genau'rglyn, 257 19s. 6d.; district No. 3, liar, JB39. The numbers reheved during the week were—No. 1, 445 No. 2, 682; No. 3, 417. Number of inmates in the house, 50; vagrants, relieved during the week, 53.

TRE'RDDOL. TEA MEETING.— The Wesleyans of this place held t'leir twenty-third annual tea party oi Ch i,tmas Day, when nearly four hundred Bat duwn to tea. In the evening a concert was given to a crowded audience by the Aberystwyth and Tre'rddol choirs, conducted by Messrs Morgan and Lloyd, Aberystwyth, and Jones and Owens, Tre'rddol, when several solos, trios, quartettes, and anthems, were admirably sung. The Misses Morgan, E. Ll. Jones, C. Owen, Lewis, &c., who took prominent parts in the concert, acquitted themselves creditably. The platform, by the kind aid of Mrs Fryer, Lodge Park, Mrs Thomas, and other ladies, was most tastefully decorated for the occasion. The proceeds of the meeting, which was to go towards the erection of a house for the resident minister, amounted to JE16.

LLANBADARN. PETTY SESSIONS, WEDNESDAY.—Before J. G. W. Bonsall, Esq., and John Evans, Esq. KEEPING LOGS WITHOUT HAVING OBTAINED LICENCES. John Morgans, farmer, Gilfachgoch, and Benjamin Evans, Tavernycrug, were charged by Mr Walter Hickox, officer of excise, with keeping dogs without having obtained licences for the same. Both cases were adjourned from the last meeting in order to give ( the defendants time to obtain witnesses, but not ap- pearing when the cases were called on, each defend- ant was lined JE1 5s., the mitigated penalty. ANOTHER CASE. William Reese, miller, in the parish of Llanbadarn- fawr, was charged with having a dog in his possession without having taken out a licence for the same, on the 18 h Sept. Mr Crealock defended. Mr Hughes, excise officer, stated that he visited the defendant's house on the 18th for the purpose of serving a summons upon defendant, for keeping a dog without a licence. Defendant was not in at the time, but witness saw his (defendant's) sister. One dog was in the house by the fire there was also a second dog by the door. Witness asked if the dog by the door belonged to defendant, and she replied it did. Witness saw defendant the same day and charged him with having two dogs in his possession, and no licence had been taken. Defendant asked witness not to say anything about it, and wapted him to grant a licence. Witness said he could not grant a licence, and advised defendant to go and get one at Aberyst- wytb. Cross-examined by Mr Crealock-Defendant's house adjoins the road. The one dog was outside the house. Defendant's sister said both dogs belonged to defend- ant. Witness saw defendant a short time after and ( said there were two dogs at his (defendant's) house. Reese replied that he had a licence for the one, but the other did not belong to him, although it followed him. Advised defendant to take out a licence. Wit- ness saw defendant a second time, and the dog which he disowned was then following him. Mr Crealock for the defence contended that the dog did not belong to defendant; the excise officer had not seen it in the house, and the fact of the dog merely following defendant could not be sufficient proof of ownership. Stephen Blackwell was called, and stated that the dog belonged to a Mrs Morgans, of the Bank, but it was continually straying. He had seen the dog at defendant's house. Mr Hickox submitted that the case had been proved, and corroborated by defendant's own witness. The Bench considered the case proved, and fined defendant the mitigated penalty of El 5s. ASSAULTS. Thomas Jones, Garth, was charged with assaulting Wm. Niagor, on the 21st December.—Defendant said he was returning home from Aberystwyth on the 21st December. He called in Mr Samuel's public-house for a glass of ale, leaving the pony outside. After coming out he missed the pony from by the door. Witness made his way home and met defendant com- ing towards him, riding his (witness's) pony. Witness caught hold of the pony and asked defendant who gave him leave to take the pony. Defendant replied that it did not matter to witness. Some boys who had followed witness told defendant to strike him. De- fendant then struck witness in the face, making his nose bleed. Witness got on the horse, and defendant threw stones after bim.-Several witnesses were called, who proved seeing the scuffle.-The case was considered proved, and defendant was fined £1138. 2d., costs included. William Jones, Llanbadarn, was charged with as- saulting a person named John Jones, of the same place, by hitting him with a stone, on the 23rd inst. Mr Attwood said it was one of the many cases of throwing stones which was a great nuisance to the neighbourhood. Complainant was unfortunately an idiot, and the boys of the village were constaatly an- noying him. On this occasion there were a number of boys annoying complainant, and defendant threw a stone which strnck complainant on the head.-Corn- plainant was examined, and stated that he was hit on the head by a stone, which was thrown from a group of boys.—The Bench said complainant was an unfor- tunate creature, who had no doubt received much an- noyance from the boys. The case had not been brought home to defendant, and it would be dis- misssed this time but they warned the juvenile offenders if they came before the Bench again they would be sent to gaol. GAOL ACCOMMODATION. Mr Attwood, on behalf of the inhabitants, called attention to the desirability of a lock-up for this place. —Mr Bonsall said that application must be made to the Quarter Sessions.

PENRHYN-DEUDRAETH. THE SUNDAY SCHOOL.—On Tuesday week the child- ren of the Sunday School were kindly treated to tea with the usual Christmas adjuncts, in the Assembly Room of this village, by the Misses Williams, Deu- draeth Castle, who are very regalar in their attendance at this school, and take great interest in the religious and secular instruction of the children. CHRISTMAS TREAT AT THE WORKHOUSE.—On Christ- mas Day the paupers of the Festiniog Union in the Workhouse, situated Dear to the village of Penrhyn- deudraeth, were treated to a sumptuous dinner of roast beef and plum pudding by the kindness and liberality of the Guardians. About fifty sat down to the tables, and the honours were goo i humouredly done by the respected master and matron, Mr and Mrs Jones. A quantity of prime civrw da was also supplied to those who choose to accept it, by Mr Vaughan, clerk to the guardians. The children indulged in sundry games during the afternoon, and all was fun and seasonable jollity. In the evening the whole of the inmates were treated to a good tea, and altogether the poor people had a very pleasant time of it, and passed a merry Christmas Day. After tea the children sang a number of carol-, songs, &B., with much gusto and good effect. THE CHURCH. This handsome little church, which was built and endowed at the sole expense of Mrs Oaklev, Plas Tanybwlch, was beautifully decorated by the Misses Williams, Deudraeth Castle, and Miss Fanny Ca;son, to which pleasant task these young ladies had devoted several weeks previously. The chancel, pulpit, reading desk, and font were severally most tastefully and chastely decorated with common and variegated holly, and with designs in ivy and laurel, &J. Over the pulpit and the desk were triangu- lar devices, intertwined, emblema'ical of the Trinity in Unity. Over the communion table was a Welsh verse from the New Testament wrought in evergreen letters—" Unto us a child is born, and unto us a son is given." The church looked remarkably well.

MACHYNLLETH. CHRISTMAS DAY.—The annual Plygain ser,i,,e we held in the parish church at six o'clock on Christmas morning, the sacred edifice being crowded to overflowing. The service was conducted by the rector, who preached an appropriate sermon, and several hymns were sung by the choir. The church has been neatly decorated for Christmas by Miss Jones. of the Infant School, Miss Griffiths, Miss Mary Ann Hughes, the Misses Jones, Vrongoch, and many of the ladies connected with the church. FATAL ACCIDENT.-On Monday an inquest was held by Dr D. R. Paghe, at Cwmltwyiucha, upon the body of Humphrey Jones, aged four years, the son of John Jones, the occupier of the farm. Mr Richard Pryce was foreman of the jury. The evidence went to show that the deceased was playing in front of the fire, and fell into a large caldron of water which was boiling on the fireplace, a large open one. The child was put to bed and medical assistance sent for, but on Friday morning, three days after the accident occurred, the deceased sank under the injuries which he had sustained. The jury returned a verdict of accidental death." BURGLARY AND ATTEMPTED ARSON.—On Wednes- day, at Mr Howell's Office, before the Rev. J. W. Kirkham and the Rev. W. G. Davies, Mary Jane Gray, a young woman of respectable appearance, was charged with having broken into Rhiwlas, the resi- dence of Mr William Henry Davies, and stolen a quantity of silver and plated articles, and also with attempted arson. It appeared that on the night in question the house was entered by means of a cellar window, and the articles stolen from the pantry and other places. There were also marks of burning in various parts of the house, as if attempts had been made to set it on fire. Between six and seven o'clock on the morning of Dec. 15, the prisoner, who was formerly a servant at the house, and left about two months ago, went to Cemmes-road Station (about seven miles from Rhiwlas). She was very wet and cold she left by the 9 17 train, booking to Welshpool, and she carried a small carpet bag. On the evening of that day she called at a pawnbroker's, at Oswestry, and produced a cream jug and a lantern on the for- mer the pawnbroker, being suspicious of her, refused to lend anything but he lent 2s. on the latter, which was subsequently identified as one of the articles stolen from Rhiwlas. The prisoner was further iden- tified by two glass buttons which had been broken off her dress when she entered the house, and which were found at Rhiwlas. She said she never tried to set fire to the house, and she never intended to rob Mr Davies. She wrote to Mr Davies about some letters, and to say she was coming to Machynlleth and wished to see the baby. She added that she could not say all she should like to say. She was committed to the assizes.

ABERDOVEY. ODDFELLOWSHIP.—The members of the Aberdovey Lodge held their anniversary on Christmas Day. They met at the Royal Raver>, and thence, headed by the Corris brass band, proceeded to S:. Peter's church. After leaving the sacred edifice, they paraded the town, and repaired to their head-quarters, where a capital dinner was provided by Miss Evans, of the Royal Raven. PILOTAGE RETURNS.—An abstract has just been published, by order of the House of Commons, of re- turns relating to pilots and pilotage in the United Kingdom for the year ending the 31st of December, 1867. It appears from this paper that the following were the returns relating to pilots and pilotage for that year at the port of Aberdovey :-The names of the pilots and the rates of pilotage remain unaltered since the publication of former returns. The amount re- ceived for the pilotage of vessels in 1867 was as fol- lows :—Xawards, from sea to harbour, on forty-five British coasters, one British oversea, and one foreign vessel, 1:29 Os. 6d. Outwards, from harbour to sea, on eighty-nine British coasters and one foreign vessel, 947 7s. Total for the year, inwards and outwards, on 137 vessels, 276 7s. 6d. A TREAT.—A correspondent writes-" In view of the paucity at Aberdovey this winter of recreation of an improving character to enable the inhabitants to support the long away of the sable goddess,' some of our good folks have secured for two nights, the 4th and 5th of January, the services of Mr F. Smith, of London, to deliver two of his popular lectures, which are illustrated by most magnificent dissolving views. The elevating tendencies of these discourses and views have induced the trustees of the Tabernacle Chapel to allow their building to be used for the pur- pose, being more spacioas and otherwise more conve- nient than any other place. We ha,ve no doubt that all the people of Aber,lovey-not excepting even the everlasting yarn spinners of our corners—will for once avail themselves of this opportunity to enjoy a real treat."

BALA. ACCIDENT.-On Saturday afternoon last (mar- ket day) a farmer, Mr Richard Williams, Pantclyd, was riding by the butcher stall of Mr D. Evans, in High-street, when his horse shied at some skins which bad been thrown on a truck, and as he was passing the White Lion Royal Hotel he was met by a person carrying an umbrella, which added to the horse's fright. The animal rushed against the bay window of the hotel and completely smashed two panes of plate glass. The farmer being a good rider kept his seat, and with some help the horse was stopped from further mischief. The farmer and horse escaped free from any hurt, and the glass was insured. GRAMMAR SCHOOL. The distribution of prizes to the boys of this school took place in the Schoolroom, on the 22nd inst. Dr Richards occupied the chair, and the room was crowded with the gentry of the neighbourhood and the parents and friends of the scholars. The annexed programme was gone through by the pupils, who were encouraged by the frequent applause of the audience Anthem-" I will arise." Recittition-" Casa Bianca." Scoon. Christmas Carol-" Once in Royal David's City." Recitation—" Horatius." Roberts, sec. Glee—" Sweetly the Sabbath Bell." Recitation-" Song of the Shirt." Jones, 4tus. Carol-" The Hoar's Head." Recitation—"The Old Arm Chair." Evans. Solo and Chorus-" G Id Bless the Prince of WViles." Recitation-" Beth Gelert." Edwards, mi. Glee-" Men of Harlech." Recitation-" The Naughty Little Spider." Jones, min. Glee-" Oh! the Roust Beef of Old England. Recitation—" The Young Mouse." Owen, sec. Solo and Chorus-" The Old Folks are Gone." Recitation-" Battle of Blenheim." Owen, max. Glee-" Ye Mariners of England." In the middle of the performance the prizes were distributed by the worthy chairman to the successful pupils of the Upper School, and at the conclusion to those of the Lower School. UPPER SCHOOL. 1st Class. Jones, 4tus. 1st in Class for the Half-year Macaulayrs Lays of Ancient Rome." Scoon. 2nd do. Routledge's Boy's Annual for 1869." Roberts, see. 1st in Examination Miliaer's Gallery of Nature." Davies, ma. 2nd do « integrity." 2nd Class. Jones, 4tus. 1st in Class for the Half-year »mnr,k worth's Poetical Works" Jones, 4tus. 1st in Examination Heroes of England Edwards, ma. 2nd do The Gorilla Hunters!" LOWER SCHOOL. 1st Cbss. Richards, sec. 1st in Class for the Half-year II.NTinistering Children." Roberts, 5tus. 2nd do. "Faggots for the Fireside." Thomas, ma. 1st in Examination The Swiss Family Roblnson." 2nd Class. Owen, sec. 1st for the Half-year and Examination "Fa- vourite Fairy Tales." Owen, 3tius. > 9 do Prince Arthur, or the Four Trials." Owen, max. J "Juvenile Tales for Juvenile Readers." The master, Mr W. T. Phillips, made a few remarks concerning the quarterly reports" which are sent to the parents, the manner in which the examination had been conducted, and the hanrlsom2 prizes which had been presented by some kind ladies and gentlemen of the neighbourhood. The CHAIRMAN passed a warm eulogium upon the master, and the satisfactory manner in which the school is now carried on and stated his belief that the school was well deserving the support of all classes and sects. The Rev. T. MORGAN, R.D., in his own name and in the behalf of the trustees, stated that it afforded him great pleasure to see the school under the care of such a painstaking master, who devoted his whole time and energy to advance his pupils. Mr PHILLIPS returned thanks for the kind expres- sions of approval of the two previous speakers. Cheers having been given by the audience for the master and pnpils, who had afforded them such a pleasant evening, and by the pupils for the ladies and for the holidays, the proceedings were brought to a conclusion by singing the National Anthem.

TOWYN. SEASONABLE CHARITY.—Mrs Kirkby, mother of D. E. Kirkby, Esq., distributed a quantity of meat, coals, tea, and sugar, to the most deserving poor, on the Wednesday before Christmas Day. On Thursday Major Coney, according to his annual custom, gave a quantity of coals, and Mr Sellis, dentist, also provided for the creature comforts of some of the poorer in- habitant, giving them meat, tea, &c. PENIARTH RENT AUDIT.-On Tuesday the half yearly rent audit took place at the mansion at Peniarth. The usual dinner to the tenantry was given in the servants' hall,, which was most tastefully decorated in Christmas fashion. Mr Evan Rowland, the highly repected agent, presided. The usual loyal and patriotic toasts were given and enthusiastically received, after which the health of the landlord, W. W. E. Wynne, Esq., was drunk in a bumper. Then followed the health of W. R. M. Wynne, Esq., which met with vociferous cheering, and the health of 0. S. Wynne, Esq., which was also greeted with great applause. Afterwards the following toasts were drunk —The Agent, Mr John Jones, Glanmachlas, Mr William Scott, drainage superintendent and engineer. -Mr Scott, in responding, spoke of the capabilities of the marshes for producing grain, root crops, &o. In Lincolnshire he (Mr Scott) had drained a tract of some thousands of acres which had been under water, and the produce from that land last year, in some parts, was sixteen sacks of oats to the acre. (Ap- plause.) He was confident that some portions of the marsh in the valley of Dysynni was capable of producing the like results with proper management. He wished to urge on the tenants to put their shoulder to the wheel, as they could not expect the landlords to do all. (Cheers.)-A very pleasant even- ing was spent. The Christmas ale was first-rate, and the dinner was excellent.

PORTMADOC. THE WEATHER.—A terrific gale from the north- west swept over this part of the coast on Sunday last. It blew with great violence, and we are afraid it has caused much damage to the shipping along the coast. On Monday there was a very heavy snow storm, about noon, which covered the whole of the hills and valleys of this picturesque district. The flakes were as large as half-crowns. CHRISTMAS DAY IN THE PORT.—A duller or a more miserable Christmas Day was never passed in the port, we are inclined to think. The weather was hazy and cheerless, and damped all out-door enjoyment. The only enlivening circumstance was the arrival of the Pwllheli brass band in the afternoon. The band, in despite of the weather, marched through the streets of the town, and played a variety of popular airs in a very pleasant style. The usual services were held in the churches and chapels, and in the evening carols and anthems were sung in the church by the choir. SHIP STRANDED, ON PORTMADOC BAR.-On Tuesday morning last a brig, 322 tons register, C-iptain F. Armstrong (from Maryport), bound to Portmadoc from Quebec with a cargo of timber, and consigned to Mr John Henry Williams,. Portmadoc, stranded on the Portmadoc bar, at the mouth of the Glaslyn river. The vessel experienced a very rough voyage across the Atlantic and up the Channel, and the captain found it prudent to anchor in St. Tudwell's Roads. She there shipped a pilot on board, and on Monday night she sailed across the bay. Arriving in the morning off the bar, the pilot somewhat imprudently made an attempt to cross it: the water, however, was too low, and the vessel grounded on the sandbank. The tug steamer tried to haul her off, but the hawser broke, and nothing was effected. Fortunately the wind had somewhat moderated, although there was a very heavy swell on the bar. It was expected that she would be got off during high water on Tuesday evening. The pilot was much blamed by the insurance officers for running the great risk he did, especially during the present rough and changeable weather.

CORWEN. CHRISTMAS FESTIVITIES.—The inmates of the Poor- house were not forgotten at Christmas. They were liberally regaled with the good things of this life. CHRISTMAS DECORATION.S.-The ladies have this year most tastefully decorated the parish church, a good old custom, fraught with happy memories and associations. We believe thanks are mostly due to Mrs and Miss Brophy, Tyissa, and Miss Richards, GlAnalwAD. FOOT BALL.-The Hon. C. H. Wynn has kindly encouraged manly sports and innocent recreation (which are so much needed in North Wales), by pre- senting the town players with a magnificent football of the very best London make, and its admirable qualities were fully shown in a friendly match played on Saturday week, in a field near the new footbridge, kindly lent by Mr Hugh Jones, postmaster. Amongst those who were present, and took part in the play, were Messrs G. Richards, Harry Moltby, Longstaffe, C. K. Jones, John Jones, Arc. PENNY READINGS.—The second of these popular readings came off at the National Schoolrooms, on Tuesday evening, the nd, under the presidency of the Hon. C. H. Wynn, of Rhug. The hon. gentleman delivered a very instructive speech, observing his pleasure at bsing able to preside over these readings. On the patform we observed the following gentle- men The Hon. T. J. Wynn, the Rev. W. Richard- son, Mr Taylor, Dr Jones, Mr Watson, &c. All the readings and SOD-IS were executed in good style, and the audience seemed much pleased. COURSING. -S,ttti rday, the 26th inst., being a general holiday, Mr Williams, of Giverclas, got up a day's coursing, and a large meeting took place, comprising nearly all Coriven." Amongst those present we noticed Mr, Mrs, and Miss Roberts, Bryndedwvdd Mr Edward Walker, and Miss Walker, Mr White, Rhydyglaves Mr White, Stamp Mr Jarrett Messrs Warne and Stredwick, Rhug; Messrs James Moltby, Harry Moltby, Grant, Longstaffe, Coetmore, K. Jones, Jno. Jones, Corwen; Messrs Richards, R. Evans, Glanalwen Mr Baker, &c. The hares were numerous, and the dogs in good trim, which caused first-rate sport. The morning was very fine, and high were the spirits of the sportsmen as they commpnced at Mel- inrug Bridge, and so passed on to Druid, and across to Gwerclas, where Mr Williams showed much hos- pitality. The weather in a few hours changed, and the afternoon's sport was carried on amidst incessant rain, which however did not damp the ardour of many of the sportsmen. The day's proceedings concluded by meeting in the Blue Lion, Druid, where appropriate toasts and sentiments were given by several of the gentlemen present. Arrangements are being made to have further coursing meetings near Corwen.

DINASMAWDDWY. RECEPTION OF IR ESMUND BUCKLEY.-Great rejoi- cings took place at Dinasmawddwy on Tuesday evening, to welcome home Sir Edmund Buckley after the dis- tinguished honour which her Majesty has been pleased to confer upon him. The engine on the Mawddwy branch was elaborately decked out with flags and ever- greens, and demonstrations of rej licing were made in the village. A torchlight procession escorted Sir Edmund through the village, and a congratulatory address was presented by the mayor on behalf of the tenantry and fiiends, and was appropriately acknow- ledged by Sir Edmund on behalf of Lady Buckley and bimse f. In the evening a public dinner was held at the Red Lion Inn, to which nearly 100 sat down the Rev. John Brown occupied the chair, the vice chair- man being Mr Robins, and in the course of the post- prandial proceedings, toasts appropriate to the occasion were duly honoured. We hope to give a fuller report of the proceedings in our next impression.

LLANGOLLEN, THE TWF.NTY SIXTH.-The tradesmen, bakers, &c., closed their establishmeats on Saturday, exceptions being exceedingly rare, and almost entirely contined to those who sold perishable goods, to newsvendors, &o. CHRISTMAS DAY.-There was no Plygain this year at the Parish Church. The church was, however, decked with the usual Christmas decorations for the services held during the day.—The Welsh Baptists celebrated Christmas by a tea-party, which was at- tended by an unusually large number. After tea the annual meeting in connection with the Sunday-school was held, when prizes were awarded, interesting pieces recited, and addresses given. The Rev. J. Prichard, D.D., the pastor of the English church, presided.—At Rehoboth chapel the Presbyterians had a kind of local eisteddfod meetings being held at 2 p.m. and at 6 p.m. The bill of fare" at these meetings was verv good, the audience being well pleased. PETTY SESSIONS, TUESDAY.—Before Colonel Tottenham and C. R. W. Tottenham, Esq. nyrrR PRnerpTTTrnva .a, "U'V'J. Three or four persons had been summoned for keep- ing dogs without licence, but only one was heard, in which Thomas Jones, of Rhosynysny, was fined the mitigated penalty of 25s., with the recommendation to the Commissioners that the fine be still further mitigated. Colonel Tottenham asked what became of the other cases ? Mr Charles Richards, clerk to the Bench, said they bad been compromised, and he thought it was not right it should be so. They were criminal cases and should come on for hearing, if only that by being made public others should be deterred from committing the same offence. The Supervisor remarked that it had been usual to compromise excise cases from time immemorial; ever since he had been in the service it had been done. Colonel Tottenham said that would not make Mr Richards's remark at all less proper, and he would like to know, as a matter of curiosity, why the cases had been compromised. The Supervisor stated that in one of the cases it was extreme poverty-a wife and large family to be supported. Colonel Tottenham thought this the sort of case that ought to be heard a man who had difficulty in keeping 11 himself, probably bad no occasion to keep a dog, and one object of the Act was to get lid of a good many dogs which were a nuisance. The matter then dropped. THE POLLING DISTRICTS. The magistrates refused to recommend any alter- ation in the Polling Districts, Colonel Tottenham re- marking that railway facilities in the district were so great, that an increase was not necessary, whereas by the present arrangement the police were concentrated if disturbances did take place, Suspected Theft.-P.C. Shone brought up for remand a man named Isaac Hughes whom he met on the ptevious evening at Cefn Mawr, and on whom he found a meat tin, which turned out to belong to a collier in one of the works. The man stated that he picked the tin up on the road. P.C. Lindsay stated that he believed the accused to be a native of Brony- garth, who had been once or twice in gaol. Remand- ed to the Ruabon Sessions of Friday.

NEWTOWN. POLICE BUSINESS, MONDAY.-Before J. P. Drew, Esq., and R. E. Jones, Esq. THE CHARGE OF ASSAULTING A TRADES VIA N. William Napoleon Nolan was brought up on remand, charged with unlawfully wounding Mr John Walter Davies, ironmonger, Newtown, on the previous Monday. Dr Jones said that Mr Davies was unable to attend, owing to the injury which had been inflicted upon him by the prisoner. He was at this time suffer- ing severe neuralgic pain, and in the early part of the week was unable to-swallow or converse, an t still felt pain when conversing or swallowing. He was unabie to open his mouith more than a quarter of an inch, and was fed entirely on liquids. His left jaw was acutely tender, and there was yet a discharge from the punctured wound into the mouth. He was not in a state to leave his bed. Witness's first fears were that there might be erisyspelas extending internally down the face to the windpipe but there was less to appre- hend in that respect, still he did not consider him safe from an attask of lock jaw, and he did not therefore pronouuee him to be out of danger. With such appre- hensions in view it was most essential that he should be kept quiet and free from excitement. He could not pronounce him free from a possible attack of lock-jaw until the wound was completely healed. The prisoner, who offered no remarks, was further remanded for eight days. He is said to be a wealthy man, and to have come here to see about purchasing some property.

THE RIGHT HON. MR BRUCE'S REJECTION. Sir,-Tile choosing of Mr Brace to the Home Department under the present circumstances—without a seat in Parlia- ment-proves beyond doubt that he is a great favourite with Mr Gladstone. At the same time I am quite tired of the blame which is cast upon us as Welsh Nonconformists, for rejecting him at the last oloction rejecting him, SIYs one party, to make place for an ex-Dissenting minister—rejecting him, says the other, to secure a seat in Parliament for a local nobody.' But the truth of the matter is this. It was not the Non- conformists nor the workmen, rejected hira and if some are to be blamed for his rejection, none but he and his friends are t e parties. Now before the last Reform Bill passed, .Merthyr and Aberdare returned but one member, that being Mr Bruce, who, when he first became a candidate for the Merthyr boroughs, wa-i a Conservative. Being so, he was returned entirely by the proprietors oi the iron works, together with a few of the higti class; for out of the seventy thousand population, no more than, fourteen hundred had votes. But after the Reform Bill, ^.om fourt<*m hundred to fifteen thousand, twelve thousand ot whom 'fere At°presS'Ssay the workmen, "Mr Bruce has teen re. presenting thls bgwugk, ixt parliament for upwards of si^.cen years, as a nominee of the proprietors of the iron works Tint cuf are perfectiy wiUing for him to be returned again' wnnM another member was granted by the law, we think it 0r Uf' bT«the greatest portion of society to ssn*•»w However, in the mean time, another „ vited by tho aristocrats, and after consulting wit^hU hmVn* proprietors, he complied with the invitation brother Mr Richard was looked upon by boSk candidates and tlm.V friends us an intruder, not being wealthy, or o,? noble hlo^ although it was obvious at that time that he was thP m, i the people. So great was the prejudice against^ hi ™ th^ Howeve^S rejected him for the sake of 'ado'ntimr +i,„aU.Se 6 PenPle because that the aristocrats wanted to& ^Ut seats-the old and the new, which burden 2% 17° and the twelve thousand Nonconformist- +J? un?)earil'l'e' self-interest, protested lilainH h. for masters their determination of returning Mr Ki'J)^ ,3,ami been promiscd lit their own prlwious thev thinkin- steadfast to their promise and i V* ,PeoPle st°od children to dr,w back f™™ t. Dot bft led like ""le contest. Mr IiTchard fed ?}' W°'n '• Thuq enfla the being 6,000 majority over Mr R P Wlth 12'000 votes. Fothergill. J y °Vcr Mr Bruce> and 4,000 over Mr thing—«h^n'we con^deTthat^r' 1W eansider every- man with the people—when we consiiW^f9^^61' a populiir the ballot, together with his feeling J was il"aiust and when wo al-o consider that Mr BV.I -N \e- two seats > pays upwards of £ 1,000 daily to hiu !,S 0''Poneut, that he had 5,500 votes speaks verr ?iC"' the lact and the voters. y cre<iitably for him J. REES.

THE BRITISH SCHOOL AT AB-ERYSTWYTFT SIR,-Education is now one of the leadin .j™, th9 d.y. At no vrty zv:tzr;ii an establisljed fact in the history of the prineiptlity, to The by no nieayis creditable condition of the British things in this direction has only to be °J and at once practical stens will K J i"VC°DS- opening year (1869) to brin<* »h f Wlth Ul6 The present building, and theloraP? ?han"e- with sundry other matters connected with it, demand the earliest attention of every true friJ ,del?and generation. It appears the present nuler jf children in attendance is somewhere about 150 only What will he overwhelming number of Dissenters in thL Etm, when 5 turn children from the age of 3 to 14 c^o^stirute^'fouJth of the entire population. Here it follows that Aberyst £ 1 to Nonconformists in this town °f Conformists department can our energy be more blessp,! ti °° whatever set of persons get possession of the 'vouns m our schools, will infallibly become the dominant body.n tbe countrj m the d>JS upon us." Yours faithfully, A LOVER OF THE RACE.

PORTMADOC! ritnE1^AriK:~7Thwe Janes, Roberts, from Dublin- Glyn, irichards, ditto Laura Mary, Evans, ditto; Glaslyn, Williams, Londondrry Hannah and Jane Jones, Belfast; Dorothy and MS T a*™' Geo. H^nry, Griffiths, Douglas- ^7' dlfto; ditto; Laura Williams, wllliaU/w^e^d^ Davies Jones, ditto; John a*d Ann, Jones NWr7 Bo7Jr0eang' Str0Dg' QUebeC: BetS^' WilUaSi; SAILED :-Rebecca (s.s ), Williams,"Liverpool

ABERDOVEY. ARRIVALS :-—Black Boy, Campbell, Greenock gunpowder; Napoleon, Jones, Carnarvon, limestone Albert, Jenkins, Swansea, coal; Jane ft.™ Williams, Belfast, limestone Hope, Rees, Newport] coal. No sailings during the last fortnight, owing to the weather.

Births, Marriages, and Deaths. Births. 21st, at Plas-ucha, Ruabon, the wife of Mr Samuel Roberts, of a son. 24th, the wife of Mr John Jehu, Dolgoch Mill, Llanfair-Caereinion, of a daughter. 25th, the wife of Mr Edward Hughes, of the New Mills, Llansilin, of a son. 26th, the wife of the Rev. T. Thomas, curate Portmadoc Church, of a son. e 0f Marriages. 22od, at St. Martins Church, by the Rev C n beth^'Well of Lodge, to Eliza- Sussex °D aghter of Sam"el Wells, Rye, 25tb, at Llanfechain Church, by the Rev. W. Ma- dock Williams, rector of the parish, Mr Edwrd Davies, of Llanfyllin, to Frances Stewart, the third daughter of the late Mr John Iveson, of Llanfecboln 25th, at Pen gam' Chapel, Bow-street, bv the iw' — Morgans, Mr Morgan Jones, Pont^ocb TU^ Jane Reese, of Bow-street. *OI«goch, to Miss the 'Back'lLn!' M«h,nli«h, to Ufa. Re.„, 27th, at the Parish Church, Ruabon, by the Rev. Trevor Owen, Mr Thos. Wall, to Miss Mary Roberts, both of Ruabon. 29th, at the Wesleyan Chapel, Llanrhaiadr, by the Rev. W. Jones,. Rev. R. T. Owen, Wesleyan Minister, Chester, to Mias Elizabeth Jones, Henfachen Llan rhaiadr. 29th, at the Independent Chapel, by the Rev T Morris, Mr J-aiiaes Davies, Plasynglvn tn MJao a Edwards, Caemawr, Llanrhaiadr 1SS Ann !«Sg £ !^«>aast Edwards, Caemawr, LlanrhLiadr?-Ntcardsr. °f oi of IT <• Deaths. -sxst, at Longford Villa, Staines, Middlesex, Elijah Genna, Eq third son of the late Mr Thomas Genna of Rhetsskin Hall, Guilsfield, Montgomeryshire. 22nd, aged I year and 5 months, Martha Jane, daughter of Mr Cornelius Owen, draper and grocer, Ladywell-sfreet, Newtown. ° 23rd, aged 41, Sarah, wife of Mr John Evans, Pen- trc. Cefynycoed, Liandvssil. 23;rd, aged 32, at 37, Marine-terrace, Aberystwyth, the Rev. Morris Jones, B.A., curate of Menai Bridge Parish Church. 24th, aged 31, Mary Ann, the wife of Mr Jonathan Phillips, Penycae, Ruabon. 24th, aged 42, Mr Griffith Owen, wool merchant, Penmorfa, formerly of Tremadoc. 26th, Major-General William George dnld riartv, nyl Hall; Justice of the Pfeace for the"county of Mont- gomery. J «» <* M' silfn h' aged 91' HQ8hes> of Penygr»igisa, Llan-

FATAL ACCIDENT AT SHREWSBURY RAILWAY STATION. An accident happened at Shrewsbury railway station on Monday light, whereby a passenger named Smith met with a fearful death. Mr Smith was going to Leaton by the Great Western .line, and baviac taken tickets for himselt and his mother and 3ister, who accompaBied him, he waited about on the plat- f°rm "ill the tram came In. Meanwhile the London Jd°the S "i ? Was desPatched, and as it nf tliou 6 P'at^0rm an extra guard in the edtre M*cn°'ice(i Mr standiug very near hi, W t'l- Sdmh turned 011 his heel to retire, but disannL j the gUar<1 SaW him fal1 back ™d hp»v?i T mi, the wheels of the carriages. Eight lly frighted carriages passed over his body, and d WaS P'c^e<^ nP he was found to be in a readfully mutilated state, and he died on his way to the Infirmary. It fortunately happened that his Mother and sister were in the waiting room and were not eyewitnesses of the accident, which created a deep sensation throughout the cro wded" statIon. Printed at the Caxton Steam Printing Works, Oswald-road Oswestry, by ASKEW ROBERTS, EDWARD. WOODALL, and RICHAKDI HENEY VEMABLES, and Published at 12 Bridffe- atreet. AJtHirystwyth, by PHJI.U> WILLIAMSL Thursday Eveni^ December 31at 1868.