The Aberystwyth Times Cardiganshire Chronicle and Merionethshire News

CARDIGANSHIRE QUARTER SESSIONS. These sessions were oomnteBoed on'Teesd^y at the Town Hall, Aberayron, when thwe were present:-C. X. Griffith, Esq., vice-chairwam (in the chair), Captan "Vaughan, Bryaog, J. M_ Dawies, Esq., Antarean, Jokn Griffith, Esq., Tiefeigar, T. A. Brenehley, Esq., Jokn Vaughan, Esq., Ilamg oedmore, Or Llewellin, Lampekw, T. Davies, Esq., Banik House, Cardigan, (Colonel .Lewies, Xlanlear, J. B. Harford, Esq., Falecndal-e, Gapt. Hawdll, IBlaendvffryn, J. B<writbee, iEsq., Plasgwernant, .Lewis lugh Pugh, Esq., Aberystwyth, .J, E. ftogeps, JEsf. A-bermeurig, Captain Jones Parry, Tyllwyd, R Esq.. Glaspant, T. J. Hughes, EiAq., GasteO-du, Captain Jordan, Pigeonsford, C. E..Longeroft, -■Eaq., "H-sy'aert ;E vans, Esq. Highmaixd, and the':ilev. R-hyc,Jones ]Um,-d. The Court wae upened shortly .after .eleven, but oving o a rule of court the differant notices could not be heard until one o'olock. The Co-art was accordingly adjourned mntiloneeclock. -On-its re-assembling- the -first-notice on Ahe agenda was taken, which was as Jcllows:— .CARDIGAN BHU1GE. Applicaiton he madie for a sum not exceeding krbo, to be applied in conjunction with the ceunty.-ef.Petabnake in altering and widening Cardigan. bridge." The CRAIRMAbf thought It desirable that die presert- ment made by the gsand jury at the last.Q uader Sesskms should be read. After the presentment had been bv tie Clerk.Qf the Peace, Mr T. DAVIES (Cardigan,) proposed that .the work tie ,done at a cost not exceeding the sum stated. Capt. J ONES PABRY seconded the propositi ML Capt. VAUGFAX opposed. There were a good many "bridges ia the .county quite as bad as Cardigan, and "be loped that before the Court granted tiiis mooey ther would consider where it was to ootie from, -:Be :begge(Uti: propose that the sum of .f2tü be net allowed. Mr HCGHES (Castell-du), Mconded-tbe proposition. Mr LEWIS PClI thought it Was a questien whether 'the bridge wetld net have to be re-built, and before widen- ing the bridge he should like to s<*e & report from some competent person ihe subject. Captain VAUGHAN said that he btlitixd Mr Saluoaper, he county surveyor, would bear him cut in the -recom- jnendatioa thait no money be expecded upon this boidg-e. Mr SziXiLPEii said he believed that three years ago he Tecommended that no money be expended upon the briige; by the proposed alterations it was not intended to do any- thing under the bridge, but over the bridge; this week --would not make the bridge ltst one single day longer than jit would at present. Mr T, DAVIES said that accidents were -continually 700ccurring on this bridge. Aft r s)me farther discussion, both raotions were put, --when Mr Davies's was carried by eleven -to and a committee was appointed. IT RESARG N LSCK-UP HOUSE. The second application was" for a. sum, not exceeding £ 15 for slating the walls of Tregaron Lock-up House." Colonel LEWIS said he considered that the slating off the louse waa absolutely necessary as the walla were :at present so da:op that it was impossible for a persoa to live there. He thought it de«irabie that the matter should stand over until the spring of the year, which was /the best time for doing the work. After somt" further remarks, the subject was dropped. THE C3CXTY LUNATIC ASYLUM. Application was made for the sum of 21,080 towards completing the joint lunatic asylum at Carmarthen. Mr HARFORD said the 21,080 was required to complete wo wings of the asylum in accordance with plans ap- proved of by the Court. The committee met and found that the proposed wings would not be sufficient to meet the -wants of the county. There were at present 231 inmates 3n the asylum—nineteen more than the asylum was built to accommodate. The plans of the proposed alterations »"Would be produced for those who wished to inspect them. The CHAIRMAN stated that a report had been sent in ishowing that a very much larger sum of money would ."be required for the enlargement of the building. Mr JORDAN stated that the long and the short of the bnatter was £ 1,755 instead of 21,080 was required when he contemplite, I alterations were made, the asylum would ;accotnmodate 104 more inmates than at present. In answer to Mr Harford, it was stated that there was not a single patient at present in the asylum that could be Aept at a smaller expense out of the asylum. Mr HARFORD moved that the plans now before the 'Court be approved of, and thit the sum of 21,755, instead V)f 21,080, be applied towards the improvement of the -County Lunatic Asylum. From opinions expressed by different persons, he believed that if the alteration was carried out according to the old plans, it would be neces- sary very soon again to enlarge the building, as the in- crease was 47 in three years the alterations, according to /the new plans, would stand for a number of years. The Very Rev. Dr LLEWELLIX seconded the proposition. Colonel LEWIS said he wished to correct a statement he lad laid before the Court at the last quarter sessions with reference to the boroughs of Carmarthen and Haverford- west. Some correspondence had taken place, and it had "been clearly shown to his satisfaction that the remarks le made with reference to the boroughs were incorrect. He had been inadvertently led wrong by some statistics -which had been issued. He thought the proposed altera- -tion was greatly needed, and the only question which mow arose was whether they could agree as to the 91,755, or whether the matter should be adjourned. Mr JORDAN proposed that the question be adjourned -until the next quarter sessions. Mr JOHN GRIFFITHS seconded the proposition. Both motions were then put to the Court, and Mr Jordan's amendment was carried. ALTERATION- OF THE HOUR OF COMMENCING BUSINESS. Captain VAUGHAN stated that the present hour of meeting for the transaction of county business was very inconvenient, and he proposed that in future the hour of meeting be twelve instead of one as heretofore. This was seconded by Mr JOHN VAUGHAN and carried mem, con. MAGISTRATES' CLERKS. The fifth notice on the agenda was To appoint a com- mittee to consider a report upon the advisability of paying -the clerks of special and petty sessions by salary instead of fees. Mr LEWIS PeGH, who brought the matter forward, thought it would be more beneficial both to magis- "trates' clerks and the magistrates themselves. The com- mittee, in fixing upon the salary, would be guided by the fees paid to magistrates' clerks for the last three years. The plan had been adopted in Surrey, and they found it to answer most satisfactorily. If magistrates' clerks were paid by salaries instead of fees the last motion on the Jiotice paper would be unnecessary. If any gentleman -would second his proposition That magistrates' clerks be -paid by salaries instead of fees," he should be most happy to take the sense of the Court on the matter. Mr Pugh's proposition was seconded by the Dean of t. David's. The motion was then put and carried unananimously. THP SALARY OF THE JUNIOR SUPERINTENDENT OF POLICE. The notice on the paper with reference to this question -was as follows: "The salary of the Junior Superintendent of police do remain at 2118 12s. 6d., besides his allowance for horse and that a sum of 210 be paid to the Inspector of Weights and Measures for the Lower Division of the County, as a salary for the execution of such duties." It was unanimously agreed that this question be further adjourned. INSPECTOR OF WEIGHTS AND MEASURES. It was proposed by Colonel LEWIS and seconded by Mr JOHN GRIFFITHS, and unanimously agreed to-" That in consideration of the duty of inspecting weights and mea- sures imposed upon the Junior Superintendent of Police by an order of the last Midsummer quarter sessions the increase of salary granted him by the same order be paid out of the county rate." PETTY SESSIONS AT LLANDYSSIL. Captain HOWELL stated that Mr Fitzwilliams was to- day absent. At the last sessions he had brought forward the question of a proper place for the holding the monthly petty sessions at Llandyssil. He (Captain Howell), in the absence of Mr Fitzwilliams, proposed "That a fit and proper place be procured or hired at the Cilgwyn Arms in the town and parish of Llandyssil, for holding the monthly petty sessions, within the petty sessional division of Llandyssil." There was no other magistrate from the division present and the motion was ultimately withdrawn. CLERKS' FEES IN CASES OF CONVICTIONs FOR VAGRANCY The next notice was to consider whether the magistrates, clerks' fees, in cases of conviction for vagrancy, malicious injury to property, &c., should be paid by the police, and reimbursed out of the county rate.)) The CHAIRMAN said that an application was made at the last quarter sessions for fees due from the police for vagrancy convictions. If the police were liable for the fines incurred by such convictions, then the Court could make an order He referred to the Act of Parliament 2 and 3 Vic., chap. 93, under which the application was made at the last sessions, and from which it appeared that if the expenses were necessarily incurred then the magis- trates' clerks could sue the police for the fees With reference to fees incurred by malicious injury to property le did not think the police were liable, but the person injured. He thought it desirable that the committee proposed by Mr Lewis Pugh should take the matter into consideration. Col. LEWIS stated that with reference to the application made at the last sessions, the magistrates' clerk who made the application did so more to test the legality of the proceedings than to obtain the fees. 0 Mr LEWIS PUGH stated that the question would come under the notice of the committee appointed by a former I resolution. OFFICE OF HIGH CONSTABLE. The CHAIRMAN stated that the Clerk of the Peace had called his attention to an Act of Parliament which had been recently passed with reference to the abolition of the office of high constable. It was moved by Col. LEWIS, and seconded by Captain -t^BRY, that m the event of a vacancy occurring in the office of High Constable, the same be not filled up. ORDERS OF THE DAY. The CHAIRMAN stated that the only communication he had received was one with reference to the Habitual Criminals Act. He had made mention of it to the grand jury at the last sessions, and would now read the letter he had rcei ved o- r ji <■ t, o Whitehall, 8th Nov., 1869. Sir,—I am directed by Mr Secretary Brace to transmit to vou < copy of the Habitual Criminals Act, passed in the last session of Parliament, and to call attention to those of its provisions Which affect the Dolice and governors of Drisona. The Act has been framed with a view to the protection of the police from the depredations of detected oflenders, and restrain- ing them from relapsing into their old habits of crime. For this purpose greatly increased powers have been entrusted to the police, and Mr Bruce is sure that you will feel the importance Of impressing upon all members of the police force of your jurisdiction the necessity which exists for the utmost vigilance and discretio n in the exercise of those powers. While the first object of the Act is undoubtedly the speedy apprehension and punishment of relapsed criminals, Mr Bruce wishes it to be ever borne in mind that its powers can and should be so exer- f cised as not only not to interfere with but as far as possible to assist the efforts of those who evince a desire to retllm,to an honest life by earning an honest livelihood. The term chief of pofic* applies to any chiel-constable, head-constable, or other chief officer of any county, borough, and place maintaining a separate police force oflits own, and in counties it appliesa.s well to the superintendentsrhaving charge of divisions. The fodcwing points apjear to Mr Brece to demand special attention, vh:, "That the apprehension.witbout warrant of a licetH-aikolder (section.8) who is suspected ef getting a livelihood by dishonest rapaoks:; the apprehension of a person subject to the supervision of tbe.pdlice (section 8) upon a similar suspicion; and the entry without search warrant (section 11) into any premises in search of steicn goods, can only be.raade by a constable orother police officer, .under the written, authority of the chief officer Of police, as defined above; and a freeh authority must be given in each case v.'hh& may arise. For the better supervision of criminals, a register of all persons convicted of crime in Great Britain, will be keptiia London, and Mr Brace has, under the provisions of the 5thoetion of the Act, appointed Col. Henderson, the com- missioner of the police of tbe metropolis, to superintend this register. The returns required under the 6th section"from the gotetmor-of the prisons aud fclee chief officer of police--of your jarisdiisfion, must be addressed to Col. Henderson, 4, ,Whitehall. place, Lcadon, and must be made out on the forms which will be suptuied by the officer. Tlje holder of a licence is no longer reqaired (section 4) to repot t himself personally to the police once a month."—I am, sir, your obt. seryt, E. H. KNATCHBULL-HUGF-SSEN- The CHAIRMAN said, it should be borne in mind, that with reference to a person .convicted a second time, such person was liable to imprisonment for seven yeass. A idersonorre under the. supervision of the nolie-e, wasJiable. n on its baiEg shewn that he was not getting his livelihood by honest means, to be brought before two justices of the peace, and sentenced to one year's imprisonment, with or without hard labour. It was also desirable that the police should knsw that they could not make such arrests ( in- less by a written order from the chief officer of the police. It was important that proper attention should be pàie. to this matter, as if it were properly carried out it would no doubt be the means of putting a stop to persons gaiftiug their livelihood dishonestly, an4 prevent them from carry- ing on depredations with impunity. THE GADLERtS; REPORT. The Gaoler's report was here read. The CHAIRMAN—How is it the gaoler is not here to-day? The WAIMVEK said-He is not -,well, and produced a cer- :tificate from the surgeon, Mr N ad, to the effect that Mr %6 r Evans was suffering from torpor-cf the functions of the forain. The medical officer also suggested a change of air. ,VISITING JUSTICIES' REPORT. ROBl.ERY BY THE GAOLER. The report ef the Visiting Justices was then read, aid was as folle-ws XIENTLEIIEJI,—We have the honour, to inform you that the new diet table, as sanctioned by the Court, and approved of by the Secretary of State, has been adopted for the use of the gaol. The prisoners at first refused to perform their hard labour on the newidiet, but have since behaved well. We regret that we can- not report favourably of the present management of the gaol. The governor has beccme totally unfit for his-eituation in conse- quents of his imbecility, which we believe to have been caused by intemperance; we therefore request that he be dismissed foLtL, wUh. The temporary matron being nn&t for the position she helds, we recouirnefid her to be discharged with a month's ^alwy. Second Warder Morris having resigned, we beg the Court will be pleased to appoint Joseph Morris, "r Aberystwyth, Lite of .the Coast Guard Service, to fill the vacancy at a salary of £29 18s. per annum and a suit of uniform. Appended to this report -we hand you a staiement of the meat supplied to the county gaol, and also what kas been actually consumed by the prisoners and officers, showing a difference of 400 pounds, which, avowing rare per cent for waste in salting, will leave 3i6 pounds cnaccounted for during the ien weekq since the Michaelmas Quarter Sessions, or an average of 1,870 pounds for the entire yetr. Assuming this statement to be correct, and if the Court he unable -to obtain any evidence to the contrary, we feel we should not be doing our duty to the county if we were to recom- mend that any pension should be given to the governor, whose business it ought to have been to have prevented the wholesale robbery which hac been going on, and of which he is unable to furnish us with any explanation. On examining the governor's accounts for oakum supplied and sold, and also stones, we find such great discrepancies therein, that we request that the Court will withhold all .payment of money to the governor until these accounts have been cleared to our satisfaction.—We have the honour to te J. B. JORDAN, JOHN VAUGHAN, J GRIFFITH, JOHN DAVIES, „, S. H J. PARRY, T. H. BRE:NCIILEY. Mr J. GRIFFITHS said that from the report of the Visiting Justices there was a very serious charge against "a the governor. He last week went to see the governor and asked him if he had anything to say to it. Mr Evans, the governor, said it was no good telling any falsehoods about the matter, the 360 pounds of meat had not been brought into the gaol. Mr LONGCROFT said it was a most glaring case of dis- honesty he proposed that the report be received and the gaoler be dismissed. Mr BOULTBEE seconded the proposition. On the suggestion of the Chairman, the Court adjourned to their private room to consider the matter, and on their return, The CHAIRMAN announced that the Court had decided, m consequence of the great irregularities in the manage- ment of the gaol accounts, that the governor, Mr Evans, be dismissed, and that he give up the appointment. The Court also ordered that the matron be discharged with a month's salary, and that George Williams be appointed acting governor at a salary of 21 per week that Joseph Morris be appointed second warder at a salary of E29 18.s. per annum, and also that a governor be advertised for. THE SURGEON'S REPORT. The Surgeon's report was to the effect that the gaol was at present in a healthy state, but during the last quarter some of the inmates had suffered from fever. NEW VISITING JUSTICES. The following gentlemen were appointed as visiting justices Colonel Pryse (the Lord Lieutenant), C. M. Griffiths, Esq., Dr Llewellin, Captain Parry, and Captain Vaughan. REPORT OF THE COUNTY SURVEYOR. The report of Mr J. W. Szlumper, county surveyor, was received and read. TREASURER'S ACCOUNTS. The Treasurer's accounts for the last quarter were ex- amined and passed. ROAD OVER ABERAYRON BRIDGE. Colonel LEWIS cal'ed attention to the state of the road over Aberayron Bridge. A short discussion took place on the subject, and the surveyor was ordered to report on the same to the next quarter sessions. This terminated the county business, and the Court adjourned to Wednesday at ten o'clock. On Wednesday the trial of prisoners took place, but there were no cases of special interest to our readers. 0

MERIONETHSHIRE QUARTER SESSIONS. The Hilary Quarter Sessions of the Peace for the county of Merioneth opened at the County Hall, Dolge'ley, on Tuesday. The attendance of magistrates included—Mr Richard Meradyth Richards, chairman, Sir Watkin Williams Wynn, Bart., M.P., Captain R. Mascie Taylor, Mr John Vaughan, Mr J. E. Parry, Air Lewis-Williams, Colonel Bunbury, C.B., Mr John Pughe, Mr Chas. Edwards, Mr Henry Robertson, Mr W. P. Jones, Mr R. J. Lloyd Price, Mr H. T. Hichardaon, Lieut.-Col. Tottenham, Capt. Tottenham, and Mr Wm. Casson. There were also present-Mr Edward Breese, clerk of the peace, Mr H. H. Lloyd Ciough, chief constable, Mr Owen Pearce, county surveyor, Mr Owen Thomas, governor of the county gaol. Mr Wm. Jones, of Glandvrr, Barmouth, and Crosby-square Loudon, qualified as a magistrate for the county, and in accord- ance with the usual custom was congratulated by the Chairman upon being placed in the commission of the peace of his native county. THE VENTILATION OF THE COUNTY GAOL. The CHAIRMAN said that with respect to the better ventilation of the county gaol he had been in communication with Mr Briscoe, the Government Inspector, who advised as proper gen- tlemen to undertake the supervision of the work, Mr Hadvn engineer, Trowbrijge, Wilts, and Mr Wm. Martin, architect, Birminghan. It was resolved, That Mr Wm. Martin be applied to forterms." THE CONVEYANCE OF THE MAILS. The CHAIRMAN said that in accordance with the terms of the memorial agreed upon to be presented by the Court to the Post- master-General, for the conveyance of the mails via Bala and Ruabon, instead of by the present Cambrian route, he had in the first place got the Postmaster of Dolgelley to iurnish him with the time of the arrivals of the mails for three weeks. The delay he found to be very considerable, averaging during that time nearly half an hour, and during that period he'was informed that the arrival of the mails had been more regular than in the previous or succeeding three weeks. He then put himself in communication with the directors of the Great Western Rail- way, to ascertain from them upon what terms they would put on a train from Ruabon for the conveyance of the mails. By the directors he was deputed to wait upon the Postmaster- General, and he then went to London and obtained an interview with Lord Hartington, who lenquired very fully into the sub. ject, and accorded him a most favourable reception. It appeared that the only real obstacle in the way was that a contract had been entered into with the Cambrian Railway for the convey- ance of the mails for a term of two years, and a new contract could not be entered into with the Great Western Railway before the expiration of that time, unless it could be proved that the Cambrian Railway had been guilty of culpable or great neglect. He took it as a very good sign that no answer had yet been received to the memorial, and by keeping the matter constantly in view, their end micht be attained, and the alteration which was very necessary, might be carried Into effect; and the'letters thus be to hand at seven o'clock in the morning, and the mail closed at half-past six in the evening. Under existing arrange- ments a letter posted at Dolgelley for Bala, a distance of eighteen miles, occupied in despatch from 4 30 p.m. to 6 30 the following morning, going first to Welshpool, from Welshpool to Salop, thence to Stafford, to Ruabon, and finally to its destination occupying just eighteen hours, when it could be conveyed direct in less than three quarters of an hour. TOWYN POLICE STATION. Mr JOHN PUGHE, on behalf of the magistrates acting in the Towyn Pet y Sessional Division, reported that this matter had been left in the hands of Mr Spaull, who would do the necessary works as economically as possible. THE KEEPER OF THE COUNTY HALL. Jane Meredith, the custodian of the County Hall, applied for an increase of salary, on the ground that the quarter sessions having been discontinued at Bala, extra work was thrown upon her. On the motion of Mr CHARLES EDWARDS, seconded by Mr LEWIS WILLIAMS, it was resolved that her allowance be INCREAQORI from £ 7 10s. per annum to £ 12 10s. THE IMPLIED VOTE eF CENSURE" UPON THE COUNTY SURVEYOR. With relation to the motion, adjourned from the previous quarter sessions, that the County Surveyor be reprimanded, Mr JOHN PUGHE said that in the absence of Mr Thruston and Mr Wynne, who were better acquainted with the subject than himself, he did not propose to bring forward the motion, and would prefer that it be adjourned until there was a larger attendance of magistrates. The CHAIRMAN thought that the matter should be brought forward at these sessions, or dropped altogether. Mr ROBERTSON was also of opinion that the matter should be decisively dealt with, as an imputation of this nature hanging over the head of a professional man was a most serious matter. He proposed that the motion be not acted upon. This was seconded by Mr LEWIS WiLLiAMs, and carried. THE POLICE STATION AT CORWEN. Captain TAYLOR, in the absence of Colonel Tottenham, re- ported that the committee had the offer of two sites, for which 5s. per yard was asked. On the motion of Mr CHARLES EDWARDS, seconded by Mr VAUHAN, the matter was adjourned until the next quarter sessions. THE CONDUCT OF THE BTTSTNISRS NV TTTF OTOOMVO Sir WATKIN, who arrived just before the general business of the Court had concluded, called attention to the desirability of postponing the general business of the sessions until after the arrival of the twelve o'clock train from Ruabon and Bala, in order to afford the magistrates from that part of the county the opportunity of beiog present. He suggested. that the several committees should be taken first, Instead of, as at present, at the conclusion of the general business. He proposed that in future the accounts of the various committees should be taken first, at eleven o'clock, and the county business at one. This was seconded by Mr CHARLES EDWARDS, and carried. THE APPOINTMENT OF INSPECTORS UNDER THE CONTAGIOUS DISEASES ACT. Attention was called by Mr Vaughan to theinecesatty of having, where practicable, properly qualified personstto act as inspectors under the Contagious Diseases Act, and\ instanced two cases in which much inconvenience had been caused through the in- competency of the local inspectors to determine what was the exact nature of the disease under which an animal was labouring. He suggested that there should be a qualified veterinary surgeon selected, to whom the local inspectors could apply in case of necessity or doubt. Captain TAYLOR suggested Mr White, of Cynwyd, as a proper referee, and tihe Clerk of the Peace was instructed to take the necessary steps. THE TREASUREEVS ACCOUNTS. From the accounts of the county treasurer (Mr W. Williams) it appears that the debt of the county amounted to £ 5,421. The following rates were ordered:—County rate, IJLI police rate, id. THE REPORT OIF THE INSPECTOR OF WEIGHTS AND MEASURES. Gentlemen,-—I beg to lay before your worships my report as inspector of weights and measures for the .quarter now ended. I have been employed inspecting weights and measures for twenty-three days, during the quarter, viz., fifteen days in stamping and adjusting. I have .attended with the standard at Bala, Barmouth, Blaenau, Corwen, DojgelJey, Harlech, Llan- dnllo, Llanbedr, Maentwrog, Penrhyn,Town,.and Trawsfynydd. I have been engaged five days in .attending petty sessions in matters relating to the weights and measures, and the Petroleum Acts, and three days in visiting shops and other places of busi- ness testing weights and scales. Four persons have been sum- moned for being in possession of incorrect weights and scales, three of whom were fined. In obedience to an order of the Justices, I have obtained a petroleum tester, which will enable me^to enforce the provisions of the Petroleum Acts 1862 and -0. HUGHES." "irveTT °F TH,E G0VEEcou^HgaGOHLES" discharged, leaving sixteen in the prison this dav. The highest number at any one Urn^ during the quarter was"'thirty tbe lowest sixteen. The prisoners were kept to hard labour as Sent of Pt°hQ3 n^and the IUleS and regulations for the govern- fhonffh not ?omPlled with. All -the new cells, though not certified, have been in use duriug the quarter, but c°mP,aine<1 that they were extremely cold. It mw nit?« n aPParatus does not warm them like the other cells. On the msrning of the 25th ult., a prisoner named 18 under2oing «■ term of three months' larceny, seveiely attacked Evan Jones, the warder, who was very much injured about the head, and has not h.,s dutles since. Another person has f m n i d"tlcs un,il his recovery. M* Williams ?fVtu y' of the Justices, upon being in- formed of the occurrence, came to the prison, and ordered Anderson to receive twelve lashes, but the sentence has not yet been carried out. yet been carried out. (Signed) OWEN THOMAS, Gavernor." _„ „ SURGEGN'S REPORT. Tiie sargeon of the prison, Dr John E. Jones, reported as fol- „"™ £ CknCi6S f ti'1Preyai'sto a large extent in comparison with the number admitted. A few were of a serious and severe nature. One man suffering from (famine) fever had to be detained in the infirmary fourteen days after the expiration of his sentence in consequence of the repeated relapses and theierious character of the malady. Other cases of diseases of the chest, &c., have also required constant and assiduous care. Of the forty cases dne.to causes, three to parasites, six to diseases of the chest, five to the digestive organs, five to ulcers and ab-cesses, three to -the urinary system, and ten to disorders of the nervous system. The ventilation of the new cells remains m the same lmperfect state, as the means of warm- them are inefficient." « T REP0RT ?F THE EF»EF CONSTABLE. j a return of crimes committed during the IE ?d ?eee™ber 25th, 1869, viz., one arson, one burglary, hrArh ot?R ;ia»Qn'?'i f0 °.bia.m!ng money by false pretences, one fonrteon Ten' Lt?*' s»?Ple larceny,making a total of mittp l fni-tin been apprehended, seven com- ™ A K dlscharged. No further outrage has I have pai-Wad nnt «.kerhimant estate since last quarter sessions. I have carried out the iIlitructions then received, and regret to say that I have not been able to discover the offenders. The force requiTeS One MaU to complete its strength. Tram¿s are much on the decrease. (Signed) H. H. LLOYD CLOUGH, Chief Constable." x WEDNESDAY. T! at el?y.ent0'cl0ck on Wednesday for the trial of prisoners. The magistrates present during the day were Mr R. M. Richards, chairman, Mr Lewis Williams, Mr Charles Edwards, Mr Charles Jones, Mr Johu Vaughan, MrJ.E. Parry, Colonel Bunbury, C.B., Mr William Jones, Mr M. T. Pugh. The following Grand Jury was empanelled:- w°n-n B-Pa™es> Corsygedol Arms, Barmouth, foreman, William Brodie, Last Inn, Barmouth, „ Rowland Davies, Caedu, „ EUis Edwards, Hafodycoed, Richard Edwards, Llwynon-isaf, „ William Edwards, Gwyndwn, „ David Edwards, Penybont, „ Evan Evans. Glanartro, „ William Evans, Werngron, John M.Jones, Dolbenmaen, „ John Jones, Talwrnfawr, 1 „ Evan Jones, Tahvrnbach, „ Morgan Jones, Tyddynbach, „ Thomas Jones, Hen'du, 1 „ John Jones, Graigisaf, Griffith Parry, Ynysfawr, •- „ John Roberts, Shopisaf, Ellis Roberts, Gesaii-ewm-btch, „ John Roberts, Cwm'rafon, „ Ellis Jones William*, Mochras, William Williams, Craigyronyd, „ Robert Williams, Caehir, „ Lewis Williams, Caegian. In delivering the charge to the Grand Jury the CHAIRMAN said that he was not aware of having ever observed in any court of justice, upon previous occasions, such a large number of grand jurymen, who, when called, answered to their names, and thus showed their desire to serve their country. Every juror who had been called on the panel had answered to his name; there was not a single absentee, a fact which was specially gratifying to the Bench of magistrates. He regretted that, at the commencement of a new year he could not, as upon former occasions, congratulate them upon the state of the calendar, which, at these sessions, was usually very light. On the contrary, the calendar was rather heavy, containing the names of six prisoners, charged with the commission of seven offences. In the case of Jane Davies, who was charged with a misdemeanour, under various Acts of Parliament which had been passed for the safety of the public traveling by rail, she, as appeared from the depositions, had allowed a number of cattle and a horse to stray upon the line of railway, and, after hearing the witnesses who would be called before them, they would have to judge whether it was a proper case to be brought be- fore the petty jury, or a case in which no true bill should be returned. With a brief allusion to the remaining cases in the calendar, the Chairman dismissed the grand jury to their room. LARCENY AT LLANDDWYWE. Edward Reeves, 22, labourer, was charged with stealing, on October 21st, one pair of boots belonging to Laura Push The prisoner pleaded guilty, and was sentenced to one month's im- prisonment. ROBBERY AT TOWYN. Jane Davies (on bail) was charged with stealing, on November Sllver spoons, tho propertv of Jane Bed- does. Mr Griffith Jones Williams prosecuted, Mr John Jones defended. The Prosecutrix, who lives at Brynmor Cottage, a short distance from Towyn, had occasion to go to Barmouth, leaving a little girl named Gwen Ellis in sole charge of the house. In the course of the day, the prisonor, a young woman e.^fPf^able appearance, called at t £ e house with sSme her rings for sale. She remained in the house a long time, and having assisted the girl to make the bed, she persuaded her to show her over the house. In the parlour she opened the doir of the cupboard, and helped herself to wine, ale, and spirits. Having possessed herself of the keys, she went into another par- lour, and secured further booty in the shape of coffee. Thence she went to the kitchen, and cutting two slices from a flitch of bacon, she concealed them in her basket, ui.der the herrings, and then "looted" a piece of salted mutton from the dairy. She was afterwards seen meddling with some silver spoons in a plate basket, and two of these she pocketed, und then went out. Nothing was said to Mrs Beddoes until some days after this occurrence, because the witness feared to vex her. In the meantime the witness met the prisoner upon several occasions, and requested her to return the spooris.-For the defence it was contended that the principal witness had con- cocted the btory, on purpose to screen herself.—The jury after a lengthened consultation, returned a verdict of guilty, and the prisoner wis sentenced to six months' imprisonment, with hard labour. OBTAINING MONEY UNDER F.ALSE PRETENCES. William Edwards, 40, sailor, pleade guilty to obtaining, under false pretences, the sum of one shilling from Mary Jones, of Bryncrug. The prisoner represented himself as being the mate of a barque which had arrived in Aberdovey, and took lodgings with the prosecutrix, who, on the faith of his story, advanced him the money.-Mr Owen Thomas, the governor of the county gaol, said that the prisoner had been confined in Carnarvon gaol for a similar offence, having been discharged from there on December 6th.-Owing to the absence of a competent witness, the previous conviction could not be proved.—Sentenced to four months' imprisonment, with hard labour. ROBBERY FROM A DWELLING-HOUSE. Edward Jones, 45, labourer, was charged with stealing a quan- tity of cloth belonging to Dorothy and Edward Davies, Gwyndy, near Towyn. Mr Griffith Jones Williams prosecuted. The prose- cutors keep a draper's shop, and, on Oct. 27th, Mr Davies observed that the cloths in the shop had been disturbed, and a quantity taken away through the door of the warehouse, which communi- cated with the shop.-P.C. Lewis, of the Montgomeryshire con- stabulary appiehended the prisoner in an outbuilding nearLlan- fair, and found the stolen goods in his possession. He explained his possession of them by stating that a friend had given them to him to help him over the winter. Subsequently he told P.S. Roberts that he did not consider that he had broken into the house if people were foolish enough to leave their doors open. There was a second charge against the prisoner of stealing a coat and a pair of gloves belonging to Lewis Pugh, but this was not proceeded with. The prisoner, being found guilty on the former charge, was sentenced to three months' imprisonment. CHARGE OF OBTAINING MONEY UNDER FALSE PRETENCES AT LLANYCIL. Edward Roberts, 22, quarryman, was charged with obtaining, under false pretences, on November 29th, one shilling from Anne Roberts. Mr Griffith Jones Williams prosecuted. On the 29th the prisoner called at the Temperance Coffee House Bala which is kept by the prosecutrix. Having had some refresh- ment, he told the servant girl that he had some boxes, a carpet bag, and a S5 note at the Gin Shop, and obtained a shilling from her on the pretence that it was to get the boxes away from the Gin Shop. H iving got the money he went away in the direction of the Gin Shop, and nothing further was heard of him until hi 3 apprehension.-Mr Edward Parry Clubbe, of the Gin Shop, said th £ tPrisoner had no luggage of any description at his house —P.C. Evans apprehended the prisoner on Nov. 30th, and in r-tilv to the charge he said that he had the shilling, aiid had Miss Roberts been at home, he would have had more. The manner when searched had only two halfpence.-The jury acquitted the prisoner. THE RAILWAY CASE. In the case of Catherine Jones (on bail), who was charged with a breach of the Railway Act, by wilfully allowing a number of cows and a horse to trespass on the Cambrian Railways, near Dyffryn, the bill was thrown out by the Grand Jury. Mr Charles Howell, of Welshpool, who appeared for the prosecution, applied for the costs, which were allowed. On the application of Mr John Jones, who was for the defence, the recognizances of the defendant were ordered to be discharged. The Court rose shortly after four o'clock. The following committees were nominated for passing ac- counts:—The Police Committee: Mr Lewis Williams, Mr Parrv Col. Bunbury. Surveyor's Committee: Capt. Taylor, Mr Henrv Robertson, Mr John Pughe.

MODERN CUSTOMS.—Presentations and testimonials are largely on the increase this modern custom appears to extend to almost every household, for no auspicious event is allowed to pass without its being marked by some pleasing souvenir; Birthdays, Christenings, Marriages the seasons of the year, such as Christmas, New Years &c., invariably receive special commemoration. The at- tention of one of the great London Manufacturers, Mr J. W. BENSON, of 25, Old Bond-street, and of the City Steam Factory, Ludgate-hill, has been directed to this subject. With the view of giving more artistic effect to this custom of society, he has published a most interestiner Illustrated Historical Pamphlet upon Watches and Clocks, also one upon artistic Gold Jewellery, Silver and Electro- plate all are profusely illustrated with choice designs, and are sent post-free for 2d. each, thus bringing within the reach of those who live even thousands of mile s away from London, one of the largest and most artistic collec- tions which can be seen in any part of the world; and, it necessary, designs are prepared to illustrate any special case. r:' I

ABERYSTWYTH. THE ABERYSTWYTH CHORAL SOCIETY.—We have been given to understand that, in consequence of prayer meet- ings being held throughout the week by the several de- nominations, it was found advisable to postpone the practice night, of the above society to Tuesday next, the 11th mstant, at eight o'clock. PETTY SESSIONS.—At these sessions on Wednesday, before the Mayor and Griffith Thomas and Thomas Jones, Esquires, there were two cases to be heard, one, a case of assault alleged to have been committed by George Morice, Esq., upon Mr David Jenkins, junior. Both were adjourned for a week. THE ODD-FELLOWS.—On Thursday last the half-yearly meeting of the Aberystwyth district was held at the Bull and Mouth Inn, when some twenty delegates, represent- ing the lodges in the district, attended to consider the affairs of the Order for the last six months. Several sub- jects of importance were under discussion, and the state of the district was found to be very satisfactory and flourishing. MARKET. There was a very large attendance at to-day's market, when the prices were as follows :—Wheat, 6s. 3d. to 7s.; barley, 4s. to 4s. 6d„; oats, 2s. to 3s. 6d.; butter, Is. Id. to Is. 4d. per lb.; eggs, Id. each beef, 6id. to 8 £ d.; mutton, 6d. to 8d.; wool, 9d. per lb.; turkeys, 5s. each; geese, 4s. 6d. to 5s. each. SYMPATHY WITH THE EVICTED FARMERS OF WALES.— On Sunday last, being the day appointed at the late con- ference to make collections in aid of this movement, all the dissenting chapels in the town and through the county, except one denomination, responded to the appeal on behalf of the evicted electors. The appeal was heartily and sub- stantially responded to by the several congregations, and it is certain that if other portions of the Principality make equal exertions an immense sum of money will be collected. ABERYSTWYTH AND THE NEW BANKRUPTCY ACT.-It appears by the last week's Gazette that the County Court of Merionethshire, holden at Dolgelley, the County Court of Montgomeryshire, holden at Machynlleth, and the County Court of Cardiganshire, holden at Aberayron, will no longer entertain jurisdiction in bankruptcy. From henceforth the County Court of Cardiganshire holden at Aberystwyth, will exercise jurisdiction as well in its own as in the above several.districts, and adjudicate in cases within the same to any amount. Under the former Act the County Court could not entertain cases where the bankrupt's liabilities exceeded £300. EISTEDDFOD AT TALYBONT.-An Eisteddfod was held at this village on the first day of the new year, when the celebrated bard and singer, Mynyddog, of Llanbrynmair, attended as adjudicator and leader of the meetings. Several prizes were awarded to successful candidates for poetry, prose, and music—Mr Kemp, the schoolmaster of the place, under whoie superintendence a capital choir had been trained to serve on the occasion, presided at the har- monium. These meetings, which once attracted great atten- tion in this town, and were formerly the life of our Christ- mas festivities, have gradually dwindled amongst us since the introduction of railways. PRAYER MEETINGS.—In pursuance of a circular issued on behalf of the Evangelical Alliance, the various dissent- ing denominations in this town held prayer meetings every evening during this week, the first in the New Year, as they have done in former years. Meetings were held on Tuesday at the different chapels—in the morning at the Wesleyan Chapel, Queen-street, in the afternoon at Zion Chapel, Penmaesglas, and in the evening at the Tabernacle Cal- vinistic Methodist Chapel. On Thursday evening a general meeting, consisting of members belonging to the different places of worship, was held at Shiloh Chapel, when the ministers and laymen present delivered very impressive and effective addresses, and the united service all through proved most interesting. TEA MEETING. -On the afternoon of New Year's Day a treat was given in the shape of a good cup of tea and de- licious cakes, at the Temperance Hall, to the Sunday school children belonging to the Calvinistic Methodists meeting at Shiloh Chapel and Skinner-street, and Waun- fawr branches-the children numbered, including teachers and superintendents, upwards of 300. The bulky cake which weighed about 200lbs., and was well made, had been prepared by Mr Thomas Samuel, Bridge-street. There were in all six tables, and four ladies connected with the schools had the management of each. All the children seemed to do justice to the rich and substantial viands which covered the several tables, and everybody was much delighted and well satisfied with the proceedings. In the evening a grand exhibition of dissolving views was given at the same place, when a large number of children and adults attended. This entertainment was under the man- agement of the Rev. John Williams and Mr John Ellis, lime merchant, of Aberystwyth. COMMISSIONERS' MEETING.—At a general monthly meet- ing of this body held on Tuesday last-present: John Matthews, Esq., mayor (in the chair), Messrs Charles Hackney, William Williams, J. P. Jones, Richard Dela- hoyde, John Davies, John Hughes, William Julian, and Dr C. Rice Williams—the clerk having read the minutes of the previous meeting, it was ordered that the treasurer pay the following bills which had been certified as correct:- Mr John Vaughan, surveyor, for the use of labourers for scavenging streets, &c., for the past fortnight, £8 7s. 6d.; Elias Pugh, labourer, for work done on the Penparke road, 21 7s. 6d.; John Edwards, wages as town mason, £1 18s. 6d.; John Griffiths, for carting stones, jE3 13s.; Jesse Morgan, turncock, fortnight's wages, 23 Lewis Davies, assistant turncock, fortnight's wages, J61 10s.; William Siviter, for lighting lamps, 21 Edward Lloyd, wages as castle keeper, 18s.; John Hughes, Prince Albert, for re- pairing wheelbarrows and handles, 23 10s. 6d.; Rowland Evans, for candles for the use of the Board, 2s. 8d.—A discussion took place on a letter received from Mr Bal- combe, of which the following is a copy Queen's Hotel, Aberystwyth, Jan. 3. Gentlemen,—I beg to draw your immediate attention to the state of the road between this and the town boundary approach- ing to Brynymor; it is almost ankle deep in mud, with heaps scraped to the sides, and left unremoved for upwards of three weeks. I wrote to the town surveyor about ten days since in reference to this subject, but he informed me on Monday last that be had no power to put a man on to do the necessary work without instructions.—Yours, faithfully, J. B. BALCOMBE. After several of the commissioners bad expressed their opinions on the matter, it was resolved that the town sur- veyor be directed to place the new road leading from the Queen's Hotel towards the present reservoir in good and thorough repair.—It was also resolved that the clerk be requested to ascertain the present price of cast iron water pipes, as the Board will require soon a great quantity of the same for the purpose of carrying on the scheme for providing the town with a better supply of water. —In pursuance of an advertisement inviting parties to send in tenders for paint- ing and glazing the public lamps, repairing waterpipes, and supplying provender for the commissioners' horse for the ensuing year, five persons willing to contract had com- plied with the notice, and their tenders were submitted to the Finance Committee in order to ascertain which of them should be accepted.—The meeting was then ad- journed for a week. CONCERT BY THE CHORAL SOCIETY.—The first concert of this society was given on the evening of the 1st inst, at the old Assembly Rooms, Laura-place. There was a very good attendance, and on the whole the performance was quite a success. The society, which has not long been formed, is in a very flourishing state, both as regards mem- bers and musical talent, and the muster of members on this occasion was very good, the number in the orchestra being thirty-two. The parts were evenly balanced, and the rendering of the different glees reflected the highest credit upon the conductor, Mr Inglis Bervon. The pro- ceedings commenced with the favourite glee, Here in Cool Grot," which was sung in excellent style. This was followed by a duet "Two Wandering Stars," by Mrs Tre- vethan and Miss Hughes, whose performances were de- servedly applauded; the trio "Come, Fairies, trip it o'er the Grass," was very well performed by Messrs NV. Samuel, D. Hughes, and D. Davies. The Welsh song, "C irtref," by Mr Samuel called forth an encore, as did also the fa- vourite Irish song, Barney O'Hea," by Mrs Bervon. The Scotch air, Weelmay the Keel row," by the choir, ter- minated the first part of the programme. The singing of "Awake, zEolian Lyre," was really beautiful and deserv- ing of an encore. The remainder of the programme con- sisted of songs, glees, and duets, which were most credita- bly performed. The concert closed with the National An- them. The following is a copy of the programme as per- formed:— Glee—" Here in Cool Grot," The Choir Duet-" Two wandering Stars Mrs Trevethan and Miss Hughes Madrigal—" Soon as 1 careless Stray'd The Choir Trio—r' Come, Fairies, trip it o'er the Grass Messrs YV. Samuel D. Hughes, and D. Davies. Glee-" Hail, all Hail" The Choir Song-" Cartref Mr Samuel Song-" Barney O Hea Mrs Inglis Bervon Glee—" Weel may the Keel row The Choir Glee—"Awake, vEolian Lyre" The Choir Song—" Happy be thy Dreams" Miss Hughes Duet—" Home to our Mountains Mrs Trevethan and Air D. Hughes. Glee-" See the Chariot at Hand The Choir Duet-" The Elfin Call" Mrs Bervon and Miss M. Morgan Song—" Welcome ever, Welcome Friends Mr Inglis Bervon Chorus-" The Huntsman's Chorus The Choir innate— God save the Queen."

THE GRAMMAR SCHOOL. This school was examined on the 15th and 16th ult; on the former day chiefly by paper, on the latter vivi voce, by the Rev. T. R. Morice, M.A., Fellow of Jesus College, Oxford and on the following day prizes to the amount of about 210, in books, were distributed by his Worship the Mayor. The Classical Prize, a handsomely bound volume, given by the Right Hon. the Earl of Lisburne, with his Lord- ship's Coat of Arms, was presented to Richards of Gwar- felin. The prize for Mathematics and Natural Philosophy, an elegant volume, given by Sir Thomas D. Lloyd, Bart., M.P. for the Cardiganshire Boroughs, to R. Jones, of Tanycastell. A prize, Beeton's Gazetteer, for general progress, or greatest aggregate of marks obtained during the last half- year, given by the Rev. E. Owen Phillips, M.A., the vicar, to Owen Jones, a country lad, ten years of age. At his Worship's request, this boy was put through his paces by the examiner and master, in which examination an Oxford gentleman, a quondam pupil of Mr Jones, was in- vited to join. The intelligent and accurate answers given by the boy to questions in Latin Grammar, Fractions, and Duodecimals, &c., gave much satisfaction. The English Composition and History prize, given by Lewis P. Pugh, Esq., of Abermade, was awarded to T. Old, of Aberystwyth. On this book was written by the donor-" Hoc prsemium Thomse Old, quod literis colendis diligentissime incubuerit, et in moribus optime se gesserit, dono dedit L. P. Puffh." Prizes for home-lessons were given to the top boy in each form, viz., R. Samuel, Julian, and R. D. Jones; also a Logic prize to Richards, of Gwarfelin. The Mayor accompanied the presentation of each prize with encouraging and appropriate remarks. In present- ing The Midnight Sky," a work on Popular Astronomy, to T. Old, his Worship remarked-Old you are, though young in years; there is an adage, Early to bed and early to rise, makes one healthy, wealthy, amd wise;" but in order to appreciate this book you must not go to bed too early, but stay up till midnight. A discussion on the comparative advantages of Classics and Mathematics, in which the Mayor, Mr Morice, and Mr Jones joined, was warmly applauded. All agreed, however, that some knowledge of Classics and Mathe- matics was required, not only for producing intelligent and useful clergymen and other ministers of the Gospel, but also in the matter of £ s. d. Elementary education denuded of Classical and Mathematical training would never help the Welsh boy, with any chance of success, in competition with Scotch and English candidates for the higher Government offices, now open to all her Majesty's subjects. A knowledge of Classics and Mathematics was a sine qua non for entering not only the higher posts in the Civil Service, but also the legal and medical pro- fessions. Before terminating, thanks, accompanied with three cheers, were given by the boys and all present to the generous donors of the prizes, three cheers more for the examiner, and three more for the Mayor. The school then broke up for the Christmas recess.

VESTRY MEETING. A vestry meeting was held on Friday week, in the vestry of St. Michael's Church, when there present-Capt. J. Davies, harbour master, senior churchwarden, in the chair; Messrs R. Doughton and T. Howells, overseers, W. R. Jones, Charles Hackney, T. Collins, J. Jones, Commerce House, J. Jones, Great Darkgate-street, J. B. Balcombe. Mr Hugh Hughes, clerk, and R. Samuels, collector. The CLERK read the notice convening the meeting, stating that it was for the purpose of hearing the com- plaints of persons assessed to the poor-rate, who stated that they were overrated; and also for the purpose of taking into consideration and determining what should be done with regard to the notice given by Mr J. B. Balcombe to the overseers, of his intention to appeal at the next General Quarter Sessions of the peace for the said county of Cardigan, against the present poor's rate assessed upon him in respect of the premises called the Queen's Hotel; and also for the purpose of taking into consider- ation and determining whether it would be advisable to appoint a competent person to assist the churchwardens a?i 0' the poor in valuing the whole of the rat- able hereditaments in the said town and liberties under the provisions of the 25 and 26 Vic., cap. 103. As no person appeared for the purpose of complaining of being over-rated the part of the business relating to Mr Balcombe was proceeded with. Mr BALCOMBE said he would explain the nature of his appeal to the Quarter Sessions and his reasons for appeal- ing. From calculations made it would appear that the ratable value of property in the town of Aberystwyth was oka!i i. • i Queen s Hotel and stables were assessed at £ 504, which was exactly one thirty-fourth part of the whole rates of the town. Twelve months ago he appealed to the vestry, and at that time the sum of 250 was deducted from his rates, which left them at £504. A vestry meeting had been held the previous week, when most of the gentlemen present were of opinion that he (Mr Balcombe) was con- siderably over-rated, which was also the opinion of the town at large. After some further remarks, Mr Balcombe proposed that the ratable value of the Queen's Hotel and its appurtenances should be reduced from 2500 to 2400, and he said on condition the proposal was agreed to by the meeting he would withdraw his notice of appeal to the Quarter Sessions. The CLERK advised Mr Balcombe to withdraw the notice of appeal. BALCO^MBE said he had been advised by a gentleman who had just returned from London not to withdraw the notice. lenothy discussion then took place, during which Mr J. X ES, Great Darkgate-street, said he was of opinion that VT!llti:Z £ beeJI Passecl at the last meeting to the a resolution had been passed at the last meeting to the effect that Afr Balcornbe's rate should be lowered provided he withdrew the notice of appeal. The CLERK denied that any such resolution was passed. Mr HACKNEY was of the same opinion as Mr Jones, and he also thought that if Mr Balcombe proceeded with the appeal he would succeed in quashing the rate. Another sharp discussion here took place as to whether the resolution mentioned by Mr Jones had been carried at the last meeting, and also as to a resolution calling the present meeting to approve of what had been done at the previous meeting. On the suggestion of Mr Balcombe that the gentlemen present should go and see the premises, it was proposed, seconded, and carried that the meeting adjourn to the (ueen's Hotel, for the purpose of viewing the premises and estnnatmg whether they are not over-rated. The meeting accordingly adjourned to the Queen's Hotel, and after inspecting the premises the members of the yestry af embled m a private room, and unanimously resolved that £ 100 should be deducted from the rate." previously to the adjournment the appointment of an assistant, or assistants, to the overseers was discussed. Several persons were mentioned, but as there was no unanimity as to their appointment it was agreed that the matter should be left in the hands of the overseers and churchwardens. This was the whole of the business transacted.

OSWESTRY. CAMBRIAN WORKS SOIREE.-The annual soiree, concert, and ball, in aid of the Library and Reading-room at the Oswestry Works of the Cambrian Railways Company took place in the Victoria Rooms on New Year's Eve. It was managed by a committee, of whom Mr John C. Campbell was the secretary, and was entirely successful. The Library and Newsroom at the Cambrian Works is an institution which has been established between two and three years; like many a Mechanics' Institute before it, it commenced in a humble and unpretentious way it has made steady progress; and it will doubtless form a neucleus from which, in years to come, manifold advan- tages will be derived by the numerous employes of the company in their extensive works. At first the daily and other papers were supplied in the mess-room; then addi- tions of periodicial literature were made, and now a small library, to which additions from any source will be wel- comed, has been founded. On the occasion of a soiree at the end of 1868, Earl Vane, chairman of the company, the directors, and officials, subscribed nearly £20 towards this object. Some 120 volumes are now in the library, and about one-half the money contributed has been expended. In the newsroom four daily papers are supplied—two London and two provincial-four weeklies, the Illustrated London News and Punch. Three monthly magazines are gratuitously supplied—Chambers's Journal, by Mr G. Lewis, the secretary of the company the Leisure Hour, by Mr G. Oweii, C.E.; and Good Words, by Mr Alex. Walker, the locomotive superintendent. Draught boards are also provided in the room. The Cambrian Works Glee Club has also been formed Mr C. Mann has kindly undertaken the duty of instructor; and as the club con- tains some good voices, particularly among its youngest members, and is under able guidance, we may anticipate that it will some day or other take a prominent place in our local public vocalization, in which there is very ample room for improvement. On Friday evening the lower room at the Victoria Rooms was quite filled with a joyous party, who partook of tea and seasonable accompaniments. The tea and its adjuncts were supplied by Mr Withers^ confectioner. The room was decorated with festoons of evergreens by the people employed at the Cambrian Works, and at the end nearest the entrance the word Welcome was displayed, in pink letters enclosed in a framework of evergreens. Messrs Morris and Chaplin saved the committee considerable trouble and expense by gratuitously supplying the tables, &c., for the soiree. The ladies who presided at the several tables were Mrs Ward (of the Donnett), Mrs Savin, Miss Mann, Mrs Aston, Miss Campbell, Mrs Ellison, Mrs Howarth, Mrs Hughes (Welshpool), Mrs Williams, and Mrs Jones. After tea an adjournment took place to the upper room, where a concert was given. Mr Walker presided, and he was sup- ported on the platform by Mr J. Thomas, ex-Mayor of Oswestry, Mr T. Savin (whose appearance was loudly cheered), Messrs Morris and Chaplin, and Messrs Thomas and Whitfield. Mr Walker commenced the proceedings of the evening by wishing all present a Happy New Year, and explained that he presided [in the absence of Edward Shaw, Esq., the Mayor of Oswestry, who had sent a donation to the library fund. The programme commenced with the overture to Zampa, performed on the pianoforte by Mr Rawlings, of Shrewsbury, and the first part was as under:—"The Canadian Boat Song," by the Glee Party; recitation, "Claude Melnotte's visionary home," from Lord Lytton's play of The Lady of Lyons, by Mr Isaac Powell • comic song, Vance's "That's the style for me, boys," Mr J. C. Campbell, who, on a re-demand, gave" Up a tree;" reading, The queer little man who laughs with his nose" (from Beeton's Annual), Mr C. Mann piano- forte solo, "Carnivale de Venise," Mr Rawlings; and Trmm's part song, "The song of the miners," by the Glee Party. A'ter a brief interval, the second part was given, as follows Song and chorus, Toll the bell," by the three youngest members of the Glee Party; song, Rocked in the cradle of the deep," Mr Elijah Evans; recitation, Bruce and the spider" (Eliza Cook), Mr Isaac Powell, who followed with Cato's soliloquy on the immortality of the soul;" Liston's comic song, "Blind man's buff," Mr J. C. Campbell, who had to come foward again with "Belgravia;" violin and pianoforte duet, Mr C. Eyeley and Mr Rawlings; song, "Dear mother, I've come home to die," Mr John Denny part song, "The last rose of summer," the Glee Party comic song, "Peter Simple," Mr J. C. Campbell, who upon an encore, gave Par excellence;" Old English ballad, "The bailiff's daughter of Islington," Mr C. Mann; and Henry Russell's "Slave ship, Mr D. Campbell. Mr Walker, at the termination of the concert, the entire pro- gramme of which was creditably given and enthusiastically received, tendered thanks to the ladies who had presided at the tea to Mr Rawlings, for his excellent performances and able accompaniments; to Mr Charles Eyeley, for his violin solo; and to the Cambrian Works Glee Club. This vote was seconded by Mr Morris, and accorded with acclamation. On the proposition of Mr Walker, seconded by Mr Whitfield, thanks were voted to the Committee of Management for their arrangements. The Ex-Mayor, in complimentary terms, proposed a vote of thanks to Mr Walker for his geniality and able presidency over the evening's entertainment; and this having been neatly seconded by Mr Chaplin, it was accorded amid enthusi- astic applause. Mr Walker appropriately acknowledged the compliment, and God Save the Queen," sung by the Glee Party, brought the concert to a conclusion. Aboutsixty couples remained to the ball, for which the services of Mr Whittingham's quadrille band, from Welshpool, had been secured, and dancing was continued until between four and five o'clock on the morning of New Year's Day.

EDUCATIONAL CONFERENCE IN WALES conferees' before mentioned, schToltn^iSfS'e ta&dttS one each; the second sitting on JV17vnr?a.-w -m-jn f fs7u» to the Education League^-Twentv6 «rculai; relating lowed to the representative of anv state its views of the Conference Society to The Conference is to consider'the state of education in the Principality, with a special view to its neCUliS requirements, in connection with the establishment of a National System of Education for the United Kingdom and will be held at Aberystwyth on Tuesday and Wednes- day, the 25th and 26th January, 1870. The following resolutions will be submitted to the Conference:- any •must be n^'iriipirlidh^ confident thatthe Church. Intrusted to the paL«, .nlElKii bei"8 U" birthright of every ir scheme of Education which shall enforce attendance at denominational schools, or levy rates for sectarian or even religious instruction. TEA? £ 2 NatLalhsi8tHrnCnfn^tl0Il-Wit^ the establishment of » ational bystem of Education for the United Kingdom, 1arraii?uments be made with the managers of state-aided existing schools for their union with the Na- Sntin fmf T ^at1Provisiou be made for the speed/ cessation of state aid where such union shall be declined. 4lhat a? Education Association be constituted for Wales, to consist of such persons as concur in the principles embraced in the resolutions of <>;= P the follow!ntr 01 "US Conference, and that LHPP tTl^^ /l ™6n beaPpomted an executive coifl- mittee to bnng the views of this Conference fairly before the country, and to watch the introduction and progress of any educational measure which may be brought before Parliament; and that the same gentlemen be appointed f) deputation to represent the views embodied in the fore- going resolutions before Mr Forster and the Hod0 Committee ]^ the names of the Executive On Wednesday as before stated, the subject of confer- ence will be the University College of Wales.

THE MERIONETHSHIRE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. A general meeting of the subscrihers of the Hotel T),>W1W ri\J, "eia tne Golden Lio» • Tuesday afternoon. The chair wa* occupied by Mr Charles Edwards, Dolserau and ihe at- tendance included Sir Watkin Williams Wynn Mr R J- » the Hon. Chas. Wvnn i\/r*» tt -l t v»rt Ellis Nanney (Gwyn&yn), Mr JohnJ°K MrW. Casson (Plaspenrhyn), Mr W ParesAl^ anniM)' (Tlis&iwTg £ counts as read by the secretary be audited, and if found -Mr E JP £ f^r £ t^™UWJ™0n^Uh«a»ta«ribe,*■ Penybont be requested to act as auditor The HoO- SSSJro ^dnMrCThPotedTthe °ffi,CVf P^ident for thT year l«/U, and Mr I hos. Jones, of Brynmelvn the office tC ?',a?d,thlplMe of exhibition'was fixea for Corwen, uhe date to be named by the Corwen loc^ committee m accordance with a resolution S Dec- be'done'wi4 Zgst1rUTnt0°^place as what should De clone with the subscribers whose subscriptions were i*» arrear and !t was resolved, on the motion of Mr^itoft seconded by Mr John Vaughan, "That a list of arrears of subscriptions be handed to the newlv-annni-ntod col', lectors, and that they be requested to collect ^.s much the arrears as they can. and as muc -*h those cases in which they think secretary witl» to„°w^rthX.e2i subscribers should be published. of the defaulting subscribers should be published. 3'f Chas. Edwards having vacated the chair, his place taken by the Hon. Chas. Wynn, the president of tb8 society for 1870, who thanked the subscribers for tb« honour they had paid him, and assured them that would do all that he could to make the show of 1870 great a success as its twolpredecegoors, -Mr R J LI PrI; moved, and Mr Alton seconded, "That a meeting of t 1J general committee of management be held at thf GohH Lion Hotel, Dolgelley, on the 2nd of February, at l'^ p.m., for the purpose of examining and revising the rule* and prize lists of the society for 1870, and to appoint tb0 secretary and treasurer for the year, and that the secretatf issue circulars to that effect." Mr Pares having kindl? offered to return all prizes gained bv him at the la^ tetefpfed Th^'y• 'V™ hitkind at*. cnmSnT'♦« fl ?neetln° terminated with the usu^J. r> r r, p the chairman, which was moved by ?ind se<?onded by Sir Watkin. From th« balance-sheet of the society for the year ended Dec. 31st' a b? ance m hand of £ 292 5s. The amounts sub- scribed in the several districts were—DoWlW {>88 183- SH:7?T.ENT £ 66 Sired™ £ J ^7,11 Tbe &ate money and sale catalogues at the Dolgelley show realized £ 74 14s H<V Mr A^nPn0Cefdn0f thG,8f1f °f hurdles> &c-> £ 20 15s. C°rsygeddol, returned £ 15 in premium* year of £ 2oTi <^1 f,bala"cf brought forward from 1^ year ot £ 204 15s. Id., the total proceeds of the year, lJl elusive of extra prizes of £ 25 from Mr and Mrs R. J. ljI' Price, and other prizes from Mr and Mrs Chas. Edward3' and bir Watkin and Lady Wynn, amount to £ 631 3s. 3d-

Relapsing fever has made its appearance amongst tl1% poor of Manchester, and the Guardians have been warned by one of their medical officers of the possible spread ofthe epidemic. Some of the Clare Islanders, having picked up a cask oil at sea, met in a house at Cape Clear to divide the spolll Ihe fluid became ignited, and set the house on fire burni*1? three persons to death. The building was destroyed, £ 18 occupants at the time of the accident, three oiw escaped uninjured. o-t1r The Daily News explains the recent extraordinary length of the lists of bankrupts." The desire to figure in the Gazette during 1869 has been due to the dread that banbO rupts whose names appeared there in 1870 would rigorously dealt with, and made to feel that dishonef. trading was an offence for which ample reparation woul<* be demanded and enforced The very extensive distillery now being erected at 3e\ fast with all recent improvements for the manufacture Irish whisky, by Messrs DUNVILLE & Co., who h»vif gained a world-wide celebrity for their fine old whisky, is to be called The Royal Irish Distillery 1 10 LUXURIANT AND BEAUTIFUL HAIR.-Mrs S. A. Allen Worlds Hair Restorer or Dressing" never fails quickly restore Gray or Faded Hair to its youthful col?}^ and beauty, and with the first application a beautjf)1. gloss and delightful fragrance is given to the Hair, ll stops Hair from falling off. It prevents baldness. promotes luxuriant growth. It causes the Hair to grt>w tniclc and strong. It removes all dandruff It contain neither oil nor dye. In large bottles—Price Six Shilli^t. sold by all Chemists and Perfumers. For Chil<lreB' Hair, Mrs Allen's Zylobalsamum" far exceeds pomade or hair oil, and is a delightful Hair Dressing 5 J, is a distinct and separate preparation from the Restorer and its use not required without it. Depot 266, Holborn, London. Sold by Mr W. H. Turner, CheJO^ Church-street, Oswestry. ADVICE TO MOVERS.—Are you broken of your rest hf a sick child, suffering with the pain of cutting teeth; g° ? once to a chemist and get a bottle of Mrs Window's Soo< £ mg Syrup. It will relieve the poor sufferer immediately it is perfectly harmless; it produces natural quiet sleep» relieving the child from pain, and the little cherub awaK« as bright as a button." It has been long in use America, and is hiirhlv rpmmmpnrlpd Ivir modical It is very pleasant to take; it soothes the child; it the gums, allays all pain, relieves wind, regulates bowels, and is the best known remedy for dysentery a diarrhoea, whether arising from teething or other caus • Be sure and ask for Mrs Winslow's Soothing Syrup, t e mother should be without it.—Sold by all Dealers at Is, ljd. per bottle, London Depot, 205, -P- Holborn.