The Brecon County Times Neath Gazette and General Advertiser for the Counties of Brecon Carmarthen Radnor Monmouth Glamorgan Cardigan Montgomery Hereford

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK. MOSDAY .Brecon Borough Petty Sessions. TUESDAT .Sale by Mr. Ford of a Freehold Villa, &c., at the Angel Hotel, Abergavenny, at 3 o'clock. FITDAY Brecon County Court. SATURDAY .Brecon County Petty Sessions. Pontneddfechan Fair.

NOTICES. "As EYE-WITNESS."—{Neath.)—How often shall we have to repeat that we insert nothing unless we are in possession of the name and address of the writer l You have not given us this information, and therefore your communication has not even been read over. ScauTA.TOB.(.kVeath).- The same answer as above must suffice for you, with the addition that your com- munication, having been read through, has found its level in the waste-paper basket. "ONE OF THE COMPLAIXAKTS." (Brecoi?).- Your lette)- contains ex-parte statements of such, a nature that, without being in possession of all the facts, Ice should not be justified in publishing them unless they are verified by your name being attached. Give us permission to substitute your name for the anonymous signature you have given, and the letter shall appear. The reason for this is obvious; and ice would here remark, for the information of yourself and others, that when we accept communications under anonymous signatures the real name is held sacred, and on no consideration, unless very good cause be shewn, is it given up. THE RAILWAY MEETING AT CBICKHOWELL.—Owing to an unjustifiable detention on the railway between Aber- garetiny and Brecoii, a parcel containing the first part of the report of this meeting did not reach us until we iverejust going topress. The conclusion of the report, sent through the post, and despatched nearly a day later, reached some liours earlier, but, of course, it was of no kind of use to its until thrfli-st pai-cel arrived. Tlms ue see that in endeavouring to ensure expedition by, using the railway, we not only trust to a broken reed, but actually stultify the accommodation—sure though slotc-t,vhich the post git-es its. Were this a singular instance we should not perhaps speak so strongly; but continually suffering, as we do, from such irregularities, we cannot rifraill from denouncing them as disgraceful. We trust our readers who are interested in the Crick- howell Railway scheme will, under the circumstances, accept our apology for the non-appearance of the report, and we hope that when they have accomplished their aim they will not lay themselves open to such grounds of complaint as some other Railway Companies do. A very full report of the meeting will appear in our next issue.

THE ABOLITION OF CHURCH RATES. IT is not seldom that we hear religious toleration and equality made the subject of boasting. Like many other professions, however, of the present day, the boast is to some extent a hollow one. We say to some extent, for men are not now bound to give their unfeigned assent and consent to any particular dogma on pain of forfeiture of their goods and chattels; men are not now incarcerated and burnt at the stake because they do not hold dqctrines similar to those in authority. In these particulars we are somewhat more tolerant than our forefathers, and men can worship in what sanctuary they please, and with what forms they please. Notwithstanding, however, that we have so far progressed, even yet it cannot be said that we have sufficiently advanced in our notions for there to be no disadvantages attending particular forms of worship. All denominations are not on the same footing. And while this is the case we must not boast too loudly of our religious equality, since it does not exist to its fullest extent. The com- pulsory exaction of church rates from Churchmen and Nonconformists alike, notwithstanding the conscientious objections of the latter, is one of the remnants of religious intolerance still existing among us. Than this one, few of our social arrangements have tended to produce so much irritation and frequent heart-burnings and we think we may add, that few things have so much tended to bring the Established Church into disrepute as has tfte tenacity with which the- professed—friends of that institution have clung to that system. It cannot be said that no attempts have been made to effect a satisfactory adjustment of the question. Since 1834, when the first bill for the abolition of church-rates was introduced by Lord Althorp, as Chancellor of the Exchequer, during Lord Grey's government, wercely a single session has passed in which ,o -me bill has not been introduced, or some Attempt w je to settle this troublesome subject. Last year no 1,eu than three schemes were brought forward. -One proposed to exempt from payment of church rates ail who were willing to sign a declarator t tlie-y yere Nonconformists. Another would have those who signed a declaration that they wished iQ he relieved from their payment. The third was 'brougsit in 1hy }4" Gladstone, and would have abolished .owp phurch rates, providing a machinery eor making s y.oiuntary rate. All, however, who rf&d not pay 00 unable to take any part in fthe management oi Church, affairs. It was gleni unfortunate that, through the lateness of the Session, the bill, which was carried without a division, was eventually dropped. It had been accepted as a compromise, aDd -its operation would, no doubt, have been beneficial. Though Dissenters are qualified, as ratepayers, to become churchwardens, it is a privilege which they themselves would probably consider more honoured in the breach than in the observance." We may safely assert that Dissenters generally have no more wish to trouble themselves about the management of Church affairs than Church- men have to meddle with the conduct of any Dissenting body. As we have said, however, the bill was dropped, and, consequently, during the past session another attempt at a settlement has been made, though unsuccessfully. Mr. Hardcastle's bill enacted that from and after the passing of this Act, no church rate shall be made or levied in England or Wales." Notwith- standing its sweeping character, the bill passed the House of Commons, and last week came before the Peers, who repeated the course adopted in 1860—the last time a bill of this kind came before them-and threw it out. We cannot say much for the cogency of the arguments used in opposition to the bill. Of course it would do away altogether with the present system and its attendant machinery; and this is really more than Nonconformists ask or care for. What they desire is that they may not be compelled to contribute towards the support of a worship to which they are conscientiously opposed. With this conceded to them—being exempted from ) liability to imprisonment for non-payment, they would be content. The mode of raising the necessary funds for maintaining the Church in efficiency would be a matter of indifference to them. The reasons assigned by Lord St. Leonards for objecting to the total abolition of church rates will, we should think, be protested against by all friends of the Church. What security had they, he asked, that the funds necessary for maintaining the fabric of the Church would be provided by voluntary subscription ? The principle of benevolence would last a little while, but not long. This we consider a libel on the supporters of the Church. Surely there is wealth enough amongst the friends of the Establishment; and we believe that when their liberality is put to the test, when Churchmen are really put upon their mettle, that wealth will be poured into the Church's coffers with no niggard hand-the rich will contribute of their abundance, and the poor man of his penury. The Church will suffer not an iota because she has had independence and spirit enough-we would add, and right feeling enough-to refuse to accept from Non- conformists the sum now exacted from them. Far from suffering, indeed, by the act, she would be the gainer, as we believe that the system of late years, instead of being a source of strength to the Establishment, has been the means of weakening her, and caused her to lose caste. If Dissenters, unaided by the State, can build beautiful edifices for their worship, and support thp. service and their minister, surely Churchmen have sufficient love for their mode of worship, and the building in which they worship, to maintain both in a satisfactory manner. We believe so; and we have known instances in which, when the Dissenting element has been powerful, and church rates have been done away with, the friends of the Establishment have come forward with increased liberality, and the Church has not suffered. The argument of the Arch- bishop of Canterbury that by the abolition the right of the poor man to go to church, and have a free sitting, would be destroyed, is also a reflection upon the liberality of the Church. We believe that in all Dissenting places of worship there are free seats set apart for the poor. Are we to infer that Churchmen would be back- ward in this respect ? One of Lord Delamere's leading arguments against abolition was that time-honoured and immemorial custom" was in favour of the system; and Lord St. Leonards was at a loss to perceive the hardship of church rates. We trust we are neither Goths nor Vandals, and that we have every proper respect for antiquity; but we fail to see that that is a very powerful reason in itself for the continuance of the system. As to the hardship—every now and then we hear of seizures of goods for this rate and to cite a case in point, which is not a solitary instance of the effect of the system: At the present time there lies in Taunton gaol a yeoman of the name of Foster, for that he is contumacious and contemns the authority of law and jurisdic- tion ecclesiastical, in not obeying .the lawful commands of the Right Reverend Father in God, Robert John Baron Auckland." Mr. Foster had refused to pay 15s. 7fd. church rates, on conscientious and legal grounds. After divers dark preliminaries," a warrant was issued, and Mr. Foster incarcerated. The taxed and moderated" costs of the prosecution amounted to JE147 odd, in addition to £ 1 15s. for expenses of the I I monition" of the Lord Bishop. Besides all these costs the unhappy recusant has his own. lawyer's little bill' to liquidate; and he is compelled to put up his estate at auction. And even then he has not purged himself from con- tumacy towards the court of the Lord Bishop of Bath and Wells And yet there is no hardship in all this Both the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Bishop of Oxford concurred in expressing the desire of the Church that a compromise should be arrived at, but said none had been proposed that could be accepted. The bill of Mr. Gladstone last year would have been a com- promise that all parties might have accepted. The right honourable gentleman has given notice of his intention to introduce a bill in reference to the subject next session. This will probably contain the leading clauses of the bill alluded to, and we trust it may have the good fortune to find favour with both houses, and so settle this much-vexed question.

THE NEW NATIONAL SCHOOLS. LAYLYG THE FOUNDATION STONE. The foundation stone of the new National Schools was laid on Thursday afternoon last. The site of these schools is near the Priory Church, and was given by the Marquis Camden. They will be in the early English style, after a plan by Mr. F. Kempson, of Hereford. The builder is Mr. Rees Price, of Llanfaes, whose contract amounted to j6973. The ceremony commenced about four o'clock in the afternoon, by which time a large number of persons had assembled there. Amongst those present were the Rev. Garnons and Mrs. Williams, the Rev. Herbert Williams, Rev. J. Jones, Rev. E. N. Dum- bleton, Mrs. Jeffrey de Winton, Mrs. Edward Williams, Mrs. John Evans (Old Bank), Mrs. Arm. strong, Mrs. J. D. Williams, the Misses Bishop, Mrs. Thomas Evans, Mrs. Walter Maybery, Mrs. Parry, Miss L. Thomas, Miss Eakin, James Williams, Esq., F. Watkins, Esq., &c. A space had been enclosed by fencing, a platform made, and seats provided for the ladies. The school children, who had marched up in procession, headed by the fife and drum band, stood outside the enclosure. The Priory church choir, headed by the clergymen, came on the ground singing the hymn All glory, laud, and honour," from Hymns Ancient and Modern," which was joined in by those assembled. The Rev. Herbert Williams then proceeded to offer up the prayers appointed for the occasion, the sentences being intoned by the Rev. J. Jones, and the choir responding. The 12th Psalm was then chanted, after which Mrs. Garnons Williams proceeded to lay the foundation stone, the vicar pronouncing the words, In the faith of Jesus Christ, and in the name of the Father, and of the Son, of the Holy Ghost, we lay this foundation stone." After one or two other prayers had been offered, and the singing of the 133rd Psalm, the following addresses were delivered:— Mr. T. B. Jones said that in the year 1809 the late Archdeacon was the means of bringing the Lancastrian system into the town, and it had been of great benefit, not only to the town but the country at large. If they had not had that principle they would not have had the advantages of education. This had been the means of giving many a position they otherwise could not have had. He trusted that the school would be of great advantage to the present generation, and to many generations to come. He must say that Brecon was greatly indebted to a gentleman in that town for his exertions in connection with the Boughrood school, in increasing the funds of that school for the apprentic- ing of children. When he named Mr. Cobb, he was sure the name woyJ4 be received with pleasure, He was also proud to say that their present vicar and the Rev. Garnons Williams were present on the occasion, and that they were endeavouring to follow in the footsteps of that excellent man, their grandfather, the Archdeacon of Brecon. He would conclude by expressing the hope that the schools would be of great benefit to the town. The Rev. Garnons Williams I do not believe that any spot could have been chosen, either for situation or for the associations connected with it, better adapted for the purposes of this school than is the one that has been selected. When the school is built, in storm and in sunshine, bathed in golden sunshine or dark with clouds, in wet or snow, those grand and beau- tiful old Beacons will meet your gaze. Hills like those remind us of young ambition and early hopes. There are few who can gaze on such hills without being reminded of the time when they desired to climb such steep ascents. This is but a token of what is in the soul of man-an earnest, restless longing for something better-for climbing in earth's career upwards and onwards, beyond and above the present. And you, too, children, some of you, may climb up the steep ascent of the hill before you, and reach what now you believe to be its highest summit; nay more-and when you read the history of our Lord Chancellors and Bishops you will understand what I say,—it is possible to attain to the highest position in the land, short of royalty, if only there is talent and perseverance, and high principle. But if these hills speak to us of earthly ambition and earthly hope, of the end of mere earthly ambition, the silent church- yard speaks to us also. There lie in the silent graves many generations of those who have lived to occupy those positions which some of those around me occupy. That churchyard tells us that we all must die, that the end of life and all its hopes and all its fears, with all its prosperity and all its adversity, is death and the grave. But that this is not the end of all, and that there is an eternity, a world beyond the grave, that grand old church stands there as a silent but eloquent witness. Within those sacred walls you will learn how to live so that when you die you may live eternally. Join with me in the most earnest and fer- vent prayer that God may grant that this school, which has now been dedicated to the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, may be a meet handmaid to that church. Teachers, I would speak a solemn word to you. It seems, alas to be the case that education is to become more and more secularised. Beneath the shadow of that grand old Priory Church may it never be so. It is not only to Government Inspectors and the Committee of Council you will have to give an account for the children committed to your charge, but to Him who hath said, Feed my lambs," and who says in effect to every one of you, Take these children, and bring them up for me, and I will give thee thine hire." And you, my friends and neighbours, who have come here to assist in laying the foundation stone of this school, — a word to you. At this great supreme crisis of our country's history, I earnestly beseech you, at this time, when somewhat of the government of this country- whether for good or for ill—is to be delivered into the hands of the class from which many of these children come,—I earnestly beseech you, as you love your country, and long for her future prosperity, temporal and spiritual, to do what in you lies, God helping you, and according to your means and abili- ties, to educate the people in the right and proper way. Mr. James Williams said it gave him a very great deal of pleasure to be present on that occasion, and he thought they ought all to congratulate themselves on what they had witnessed. That was a day of which they had reason to be proud, and those of them who were passing away ought to look on the work with especial pleasure. As an old inhabitant of the place, having lived there all his lifetime, he could not help expressing his feeling that the work was in the right direction. It was a grand and glorious day when some good man renovated the old Priory Church, and it was also a bright time when the happy thought occurred to some one to do the same in St. Mary's, St. David's, and Christ College. The good work spread east, west, north, and south, and if they looked at what had been done in this way during the last twenty years they would see that there was a right feeling in the country in regard to the matter. Though in some places this might not be the case, yet the day was fast approaching when they would see the work of restoration' going on in those districts also. Thus Christianity would be spread through the country, and they all knew that education and religion went hand in hand. He believed there was scarcely a church to which a school was not attached. That day afforded him great pleasure, and he felt proud that he lived in such a country. He would not fur- ther trespass on their time, and would conclude by thanking the clergy and the ladies who had assisted in the work. There were many, perhaps, who had big hearts, but little purses with which to aid them. Might that work be attended with the blessing they all so earnestly sought. The Rev. J. Jones said I have always been, and hope I shall always continue to be, the firm advocate of national-that is, general-education. And I am fully convinced that education-that is, religious and secular training-tends materially to increase man's happiness in this world. It enables him to meet the frowns of the world and the reverses of life with a courageous heart and undaunted spirit. It makes him a better and a more useful member of society; and above all, it prepares him for an everlasting existence in that mysterious future that is before us all. Man, as you know full well, is made for society. Companionship is one of the chief pleasures of our earthly life. The child is but the father of the man, and early in life youth longs for social joys. The first thing he does in a new school is to seek for a friend and companion who shall share his joys and right his troubles. Very many of the after scenes in life's history derive all their importance and obtain all their character from the friendships then formed. How many a man has had reason to bless Almighty God for all his days that he had in early life a friend to assist him in his trials, and enable him to take a proper position amongst his fellow companions. And, on the contrary, how many a parent's heart has been made sad, and how many a youth blighted the most promising expectations, by the unfortunate advice of bad companions. We are met here this afternoon to witness the laying of the foundation stone of a build- ing long contemplated, and very much wanted and we cherish the hope of seeing, not long hence, a seminary erected on this beautiful spot where the youth of this town may obtain a good and sound education where they may be trained in the right way; where their youthful footsteps may be directed in the right path and where they may learn to seek God, be made good citizens and above all, where they may be prepared, not only for time, but for eternity. In conclusion, permit me to bear public testimony to the flourishing condition of our present national schools. It gives me great plea- sure to say that we have a staff of efficient, persever- ing, and painstaking teachers. As I make a practice of visiting them once or twice a day, I can bear testimony to their efficient state, and I commend them to the attention of all present who are interested in edu- cation. The Rev. Herbert Williams remarked that he had looked forward to that day. That there were no more present on that occasion he was told was partly his fault. If so he apologised most humbly. He congra- tulated himself that the work had gone so far as it had. They had not got to the topmost stone, but had only commenced the work which he believed, when finished, in Brecon or anywhere else, they need not be ashamed of. The contractor had his whole heart in the work. He worshipped with them, and he had a son who was an excellent master. With all these things taken together, he thought the contractor was a man who was laudably interested in his work, and would do his best to bring it to a completion. On an occasion of that kind it was often the case that an attempt was mad- to extract money from the spectators. They had no such intention that day, but he thought it would be well to say how their funds at present stood. They had canvassed the town-a town with small purses, as Mr. Williams had said, but with large hearts too. In most cases they were liberally dealt with, considering the many calls the Brecon people had upon them. They had gone through the upper and the upper middle classes, but they had not yet come to those who were more deeply interested in the schools. He wanted to get at these because he believed that if they contributed towards the school they would set more store by it. Anyone who gaire merely a sixpence would like the thought that he had contributed even if it were but one stone to the building. Therefore he should endeavour to give all an opportunity of contributing something, as a thank-offering towards the building they were about to erect. A noble example had been set them by their patron and benefactor, the late Marquis Camden. The Ion would have been present that day if he could, and the father would have rejoiced to see a work of that kind begun. His large-hearted and liberal spirit that church bore witness to, and he (the speaker) knew full well that he was desirous to go on with the work. His son was not willing, neither was any one of those present willing that it should stand as it was. The late Marquis Camden had promised to attend a meeting in that town to again set in motion the work of restoring the Priory Curch. He (the speaker) had his letter only tw > days before his death, bqt if their large work had been set about they would not, perhaps, have met 'there that day. That WAS a smaller work and easier to grapple with. Although, however, they had begun this smaller work, he would remind them—though there was pot need of it—that they had not forgotten the larger one. That would of necessity follow some day, not many years hence; and when they had erected' that school they would go on with more heart towards the other. He ought not to omit to give praise to whom praise was due, and it was due to the present Marquis Camden, who had not only given them that noble site, but bad given besides what would amount to j640 or 950 They were thankful to him for this, and to those who had followed his mos-t noble example. The speaker then said he could, with Mr. Jones, bear testimony to the efficient state of their parochial schools, and the admirable staff of teachers, who he believed not only cared for the secular education of their scholars, but also for the welfare of their souls, training them to be good citizens and God-fearing men and women. He concluded by saying he prayed that the prayers they had uttered might be beard, and as they had laid that foundation stone in the name of the ever-blessed Trinity, they might meet, not long hence, to com- memorate the putting on of the topmost stone, when they would be ready to receive the inmates. The Vicar then read one or two prayers, a hymn was sung, and the benediction pronounced, find the proceedings concluded.

BRECON POLICE INTELLIGENCE. COUNTY PETTY SESSIONS, SHIRE HALL, SATUR- DAY, before LEWIS HUGHES, GEORGE OVERTON, and JAMES WILLIAMS, Esqrs. STEALING CARPENTERS' Toors.-David Jones, on remand from Tuesday, was charged with stealing a quantity of tools and wearing apparel, the property of Thomas Powell, of Defynock.—The prosecutor said he lived at Defynock, and was a carpenter on the 30th of July last, he left several carpenters' tools at a budding in Cray, where he was working he saw them last about seven o'clock that evening, before he went home when he went there the following morning, he ow missed the tools, and then gave information to the police witness identified the tools produced by the police-officer as those he had lost; there were three saws, three squares, two planes, one hammer, one sawset, one spokeshave, seven chisels, two gouges, three bradawls, two gimlets, and several other small articles.—By the Bench This is the first time I have seen them since I lost them they are worth about Z4 I know them all by my name being on them I know the prisoner, but I have not seen him for several years; I was working tor prisoner's brother at the building where the tools were lost.-George Goodman, pawnbroker, said he lived at Merthyr, and was the son of George Goodman, pawnbroker on the 31st of July last, the prisoner brought the tools, before described, to his father's shop, and wanted to pawn them for 10s they asked him whose tools they were, and he said his name was on them, Thomas Powell, and he showed them the mark upon the tools he gave the prisoner 6s. 9J. upon the tools, and he then went away on Saturday night last, the police-constable came for the tdols, and said they were stolen, and he (witness) gave them up to him.—P.S. James Jenes. stationed at Cefn-coed-cyninier, said In co'psequence of information I had received I went to the shop of Mr. Goodman, at Merthyr; I there found the tools. and took possession of them: I afterwards apprehended the prisoner at Merthyr police-station, where he had been detained for me; I told him the charge, and the prisoner told me he thought they were his brother's tools.—Prisoner said he was very aorry for it, but he thought the tools were his brother's he had been ill for a long time, and had been obliged to sell all his own tools, and he thought hia brother would forgive him if he took them, as he had left some tools there of his own he knew he could not claim them, as his father, who had died, had left all the tools to his brother, and he and his brother were not on good terms. —Their Worships said the charge had been clearly proved, and the prisoner could in no way be excused. He was committed to prisoner for four calendar months, with hard labour. SERIOUS ASSAULT ON AN OLD WOMAN. Mary Price, an old woman 74 years of age, waj summoned by Mary Davies for Assaulting her, on Sunday, the 28th ult. Mr. Games appeared on behalf of the complainant, and Mr. D. Thomas, jun., for the defendant. Mr. Games having stated the facts of the case, called the following evidence Complainant said I live at Tynllwyn, near Merthyr Cynog, and defendant lives near there my father is a farmer, and I live near his farm defendant came to my house on the morning of last Sunday week, about ten o'clock she came into my house and said that my father's cattle were trespassing on her land; my father lives in the farm adjoining defendant's I have nothing to do with my father's cattle, and I told her to go to my father to complain defendant then asked me if my children should go to loek after the cattle I said they should not, because her set vant had thrown stones at them defendant then struck me with a stick I told her to go out, and she would not, and I took up a small stick, and struck her on the side of the head, and she afterwards went out. Cross-examined by Mr. Thomas I don't know why defendant came to me about the cows she did not tell me that my cow was among my father's cows; I will swear that defendant hit me with a stick, and I struck her back; I have not got a cow. By Mr. Games I have no cow of my own I have the use of a cow in the summer time, and she grazes with my father's. Margaret Davies, a little girl, said Last Sunday week the defendant came to my mother's house, and she struck my mother with a stick defendant came to my mother, and said that my grandfather's cattle were going on her land; defendant and my mother then quarrelled, and my mother struck her back with a stick. Cross-examined by Mr. Games Defendant struck the first blow. Mr. Thomas asked the Bench not to decide upon the first case until thfY beard the cross-summons. Mr. Games objected to it, and quoted an authority in support of his objection. He said that it was not right to grant a cross-summons before the original case was disposed of but since such had been done they should decide upon the original case before thpy heard the cross-summons. Mr. Thomas said he had never yet heard the original case decided upon before the cross- summons was heard. The Bench said there could be no definite rule laid down upon the point. Mr. Thomas said that as his client had been confined to her bed for some time, and could not go in time to obtain the summons first, the Bench might make some divergence from the general rule. The Bench thought that every case should be heard on its merits but Mr. Thomas could apply for an adjournment. Mr. Thomas then rt plied upon the case, and said he had no evidence to bring for ward p-xcept what wasto be deduced from the statements of the defendant in this case, who, he contended, had been the injured party and upon whom a most outrageous assault had been committed^ by the complainant. He would, however, call one witness whose evidence would tend to show that the complainant's statements were false to a great extent. Samuel Davies was then called, and said I live with my parents at Manallty, and on Sunday week last I saw the defendant and complainant by the Tynllwyn house they were outside of the house. Mr. Thomas said he merely called this witness to show that the assault did not take place in the house, as had been stated by the complainant. In cross-examination by Mr. Games, the witness said I was two or three fields from them I sat down to look at them I don't know what they were doing, but they were catching hold of each other it was between 8 and 9-o'clock in the morning; I am quite sure about the time, as I had only just seen the clock in the house. Mr. James Williams, M.R.C.S., said he was sent for to see the defendant on Monday, the 28th ult. his assistant went up on that day on the 2nd day after that he went up himself, and pulled off the dressings and found a very deep cut on the right side of the head; it must have been a very heavy blow to have caused it; there was also a severe cut on the right arm a good deal of blood was on defendant's clothes and she complained of deafness on the right side she was attended to up to the last week she was quite unable to go about anywhere. Their Worships dismissed the summons against the defendant in this case, and suggested that the same decision might be applied to the other side, though they were perfectly willing to hear the evidence. Mr. Thomas said he felt the injuries received by his client were too great to be allowed to pass so lighily. The cross-summons was accordingly proceeded with, Mary Davies being summoned for assaulting Mary Price, the defendant in the above case. The complain- ant stated I am 74 years of age; on Sunday week list the defendant's cow and her father's cows were in my hay field, and I went to defendant's house and stood before her door, and told her that her co~w *was in the hay; defendant said she bad no cow; I reminded her that she bad told me that she had been milking her cow, and then turned to go away, when she struck me with a very thick stick; I don't know how many times she struck me, but I thought she had killed me, and I bled very much; I got up and went home as fast as I could, but I called at some house to sit down because I was so weak.—Cross-examined by the Bench: I had gone a few yards away from the house—By Mr. Games: I had not been in the defendant's house at all before; I did not go into the house that day; I was going to chapel, and seeing the cattle in the field I called upon the defendant to tell her to keep them out of the field; defendant did not tell me that my servant had beaten her children the Sunday before; I did not go to defendant's father because he was no better than the defendant; I employ a man to repair the fences when it is required; I did not hold the defendant in the house; I did not touch her; defendant struck me down, and I only tried to get up to get away; I hardly know whether I caught hold of the defendant or not, for I was so weak and trembling; I called at the house of David Jones, and another house; I merely told de- fendant to mind the cattle; and I was not in passion. -By the Bonch: Defendant's house was the nearest to go to, as it was close by the field. Samuel Davies was again called, and the statements which he had made in the former case were read over, as were also those of Mr. James Williams. The magistrates considered that a very serious as- sault had been committed on the complainant, and fined the defendant 20s. and the costs, £112". 6d., or in default of payment, one month's imprisonment, with hard labour. BOROUGH PETTY SESSIONS, MONDAY, before J. DAVIES, Esq. (Mayor), and J. PROTHERO, Esq. (Ex-Mayor.) AFFILIATION. -JeMiMa Bevan appeared to affiliate her illegitimate child on John Price. Defendant did not appear. P.C. Poyntz proved personal service of the summon*. It appeared that the defendant had admitted the paternity, and had contributed Is. 6d. per week to the applicant since the birth of the child but this was considered not sufficient, and the applicant wished the Bench to make an order for a larger sum. A written agreement had, however, been drawn up between the parties, and signed by the applicant, for the payment of Is. 6d. pel week and the Bench considered they had no power to increase the contri- bution, but made an order that the defendant was to continue to pay Is. 6d. per week towards the support of the child. ASSAULT CASE.— William Stephens was charged with an assault on Hannah Maria Gunter. Mr. Dixon, of Neath, appeared for complainant, and Mr. Games for the eefence,-The complainant said I am the wife of Thomas Gunter, and live in the Watt on on Tuesday I went for water, as usual, to the pump at the back of the Cock and Horse, and defendant was coming from his yard, when I was pumping the water, and he said I was not to come there for water I said he could not stop me, and he said he could the following morning I went again for water, and defendant came up to me and asked if he bad not told me not to come there for water; after a few more Words he pushed me away from the pump, and squeezed my arm very violently, and injured it very much; I thought the pump belonged to the Boat Company. Cross-examined by Mr. Games I underbtood that the Boat Company had sold off their property, but I did not know that they had sold the pump also.—The Bench said they did not want to know anything about the right to the pump, but they would consider the assault only.—A good deal of discussion ensued as to the complainant's right to go to the pump for water, but their Worships cons'dered that the defendant had unlawfully com- mitted ityl assault upon the complainant, and therefore imposed a fine of 6d. only and the costs, or one wetik'g imprisonment in default of pay meat. ■

BRECON POST OFFICE REGULATIONS. DESPATCH OF LETTERS, ETC. Lines of Road, and Placet Box Extra Letters of Destination. closes. stamp, rtgiskred, London, all parts except Aber- garenny, Crickhowell, and { 630 G.40p.m. Llandovery, and the name- i r diate neighbourhood. 7 Tiacastle^landoTery,Carmarthen 8.0 a.m. 8.5 a.m. 7.30 a.m Crickhoirell, Abergarennv, New-1 port, Gloucester, West of Eng-/3.30 p.m. 3.45 p.m. J.O p.m. land, Ac. ) London, 7-forth of England, Ire- < 4 25 m> 4.35 p.m. 3.45 p.m. land, Builth, Rhayader ) Letter*, fcc., can be registered half-an-hour later than the time specified on payment of a double fee. On SUNDAY, the box closes (without extra stamp) for London, and all other parts at 3.30 p.m.

DELIVERY OF LETTERS, ETC. Lines of Road, and Chief Places By Letter To from which if mils are Received. Carriers. Callers. London, Gloucester,Westof England, &C.8.30 a.m. 1.30 a.m. North of England, Ireland,Rhayader,Builth 12 noon. 12 noon. Trecaitlt, Llandovery, Carmarthen, &c. 5.30p.m. 5.30 p.m. London, Gloucester, and the. West of 5.30 p.m. 5.30 p.m. Office closes at 8 o'clock p.m%; Money Order Office, 6 p.m.

BRECON CRICKET CLUB.-This club plays at Neath to-day (Friday) a two days' match against the Cadox- ton Club. The score will be given in our next publi- cation. Amongst the forthcoming engagements are the following :—At Brecon on Monday and Tuesday next, against the Hon. F. Morgan's eleven; at Brecon on Thursday and Friday, the 29th and 30th instant, against the Hereford Club. ENGLISH WESLEY AX CHAPEL.—The anniversary services of the Sunday school of the above chapel were held on Sunday last, when the Rev. W. D. Walters, of Builth, preached in the morning, afternoon, and evening. The attendance at each service was as usual, and the discourses were of a very appropriate charac- ter. Liberal collections were made at the close of each service. THE REGATTA.—It will be observed, by advertise. ment, that this gathering, which proved so eminently successful last year, as far as affording amusement to an immense number of people was concerned, is not going to be allowed to die out," as some people have thought, but that, on the contrary, it is likely, from the new blood which will be infused into the com- mittee, the affair will pass off with even greater eclat than was attained last year. The primary arrange- ments are, we understand, in a forward state, so that we may expect in a few days to have a programme before us and, judging from the good men and true" who will be engaged in the work, we can have no fcegitatjoft ia saying it wjJl, be a soo4 one. LOCAL POSTAL ALTERATIONS.—We hail with con- siderable satisfaction the alterations in the postal service which came into operation on Thursday last, and particulars of which will be found in another column, under the head Brecon Post-office Regula- tions." It will be seen that the great point gained is a day mail to and from London and other parts, the box closing at 6.30 in the morning, and the delivery taking place at 5.30 in the evening. We are not yet aware what the alterations are in the neighbouring towns, but when they come to our knowledge we shall have great pleasure in announcing them. THE WEATHER AND THE CRops.-The weather during the past week must have delighted the hearts of farmers who have grain crops, and must have largely tended to bring them into a fit state for the reaper. In some places harvesting has already com- menced, and the accounts generally are of a very favourable character. In our own immediate neigh- bourhood it cannot be said that harvesting operations have become general, but they have commenced. Mr. Bright, we hear, has cut his first field of oats, on the Crug farm, which is in excellent condition. Farmers should not forget that experience has proved that corn cut a week or a fortnight before fully ripe yields better, and fetches a higher price than that left till it is quite ripe. WELSH MEMBERS IN THE DIVISION LIsTs.-On the motion disagreeing with the Lords' amendments to give representation to minorities, the following voted in the minority:—Mr. H. A. Bruce, Mr. D. Pugh, and Mr. H. H. Vivian; in the majority—Mr. C. Bailey, Mr. H. Gwyn, Mr. D. Jones, Mr. O. Morgan, Major Morgan, Mr. G. Morris, and Mr. J. H. Scour- field. On the voting paper question, in the majority were-Mr. Bruce, Mr. Dillwyn, Mr. W. Morris, and Mr. Vivian; in the minority were-Mr. C. Bailey, Mr. H. Gwyn, Mr. D. Jones, Mr. O. Morgan, Major Morgan, Mr. D. Pugh, and Mr. Scourfield. In the list of pairs, we have against the Government-Sir H. Owen, Col. Crichton Stuart, and Sir T. Lloyd; for, Col. P. Somerset and Mr. Bowen. THE MILL GREEN ON SUNDAY.—At the Borough Petty Sessions, on Monday last, Mr. James Williams appealed to their Worships, the Mayor and ex-Mayor, to take into consideration the disgraceful practices which were indulged in on the Mill Green, and along Newton-pool every Sunday. He alluded, he said, to the rows and card-playing which were carried on there on the Sabbath day, the gangs of men also who congregated there indulging in the most filthy language. It was a disgrace to the neighbourhood; and he hoped their Worships would do all in their power to put a stop to such proceedings, and that they would induce the police to interfere in the matter. In so doing they would be assisted by all in the neigh- bourhood. The Bench expressed themselves very much obliged to Mr. Williams for his information, and said they felt it was most disgraceful conduct on Sundays, and they would direct the attention of the police to it. They did not know how far the law gave them power in reference to the evil, but they were sure that if any of the persons were brought before them, they would deal with them as severely as they could, and so as to make an example of them to others. Mr. Superintendent Lee said he had no power to interfere with the parties as long as they did not come upon the highway; and they could only be brought up for trespassing, if the owners of the land prosecuted. EXCURSIONS.—The manager of the Neath and Brecon railway is certainly doing his best to develop the traffic of his line. Excursions of late have been of very frequent occurrence, between Brecon on the one side, and Neath and Swansea on the other, and the inhabitants of those towns have not neglected the opportunity thus afforded them of visiting each other's towns and inspecting the beauties of the neighbour- hood. On Saturday last, an excursion from Neath brought about 500 persons to our town. They were favoured with pretty fine weather, and made the best of the time allowed them. The return journey was commenced at 5.40 p.m., and the travellers arrived safely and in due time at their destination satisfied with their day's enjoyment.—On Monday the Odd- fellows had an excursion from this town to Swansea. The town was early astir, the band which played through the town awakening many perhaps from their slumbers. The morning was of the brightest, and as many as 850 persons left the town and the other stations on the line. The train started to the minute, and was accompanied as far as Neath by Mr. Morley, the traffic manager. It arrived safely at Swansea shortly before eleven o'clock, and after a very enjoy- able day the excursionists returned a few minutes after ten, being greeted, as at their departure, with loud cheers from the hundreds of persons who assem- bled at the station.

GAY WEDDING. On Wednesday morning last was celebrated at St. Mary's church the marriage of Miss Marianne Hughes Joseph, only daughter of Joseph Joseph, Esq., F. S.A., of Glamorgan-street, with James Buckley, Esq., of Bryn-y-caerau, Carmarthenshire. The ceremony took place about half-past ten o'clock, the church being pretty well filled with spectators. The bride was simply but elegantly attired, her dress being of white corded silk, with peplum, and trimmed with white lace, tulle veil, and wreath of orange blossoms. Her other ornaments consisted of two handsome and valuable bracelets, one composed of brilliants, with an emerald in the centre, and the other of pearls and turquoise, of a chaste and elegant design; a necklet of orange blosoms, with brooch and ear-drops to match. The bridesmaids were three in number, viz., Miss Morgan (cousin of the bride), Miss Buckley and Miss Mary Ann Buckley (sisters of the bridegroom). They each wore white alpaca dresses, trimmed with green, tulle bonnets, with veils of the same material falling over the back of the head. The groomsmen were J. Wedge Buckley, Esq., of Elmsgrove (brother of the bridegroom), James Morgan, Esq., of Neath, and M. Morgan, Esq., of Cardiff (cousins of the bride). The interesting ceremony was performed by the Rev. P. H. Morgan, M.A., rector of Llanhamlach, assisted by the Rev. Herbert Williams, M.A., the vicar, the bride being given away by her father. The wedding breakfast took place at the residence of Mr. Joseph, in Glamorgan-street, and amongst the company were Mr. and Mrs. Joseph, Mr. and Mrs. Buckley, of Penyfai; David Hughes, Esq. (uncle of the bride), Dr. Buckley, Llanelly; Mr. J. Morgan (Bank), Rev. P. H. and Mrs. Morgan (Llanhamlach), Rev. Herbert Williams, Miss Williams (Old Bank), besides the bridesmaids and groomsmen. We understand the wedding presents were both numerous and costly. The healths of the happy couple were drunk with every enthusiasm, and responded to in a humourous speech by the bridegroom. Other toasts followed and other good wishes expressed, and later in the day the happy pair left to spend their honeymoon on the Con- tinent. Throughout the day the bells continued to ring out merry peals.

DISTRICT HIGHWAY BOARD. The usual meeting of this Board was held on Satur- day morning, at the Town-hall. W. Perrott, Esq., presided, and there were also present Messrs. David Downes, Llandetty (vice chairman), David Morgan and Watkin Davies, Merthyr Cynog John Williams, Garthbrengy John Davis, Llandefaelog fach Thos Williams, Scethrog Thomas Williams, Modrydd John Morris, Cantreff Thomas Ferrar, Llanddew R. D. Williams, Llanhamlach and Wm. Davies, Llanfrynach. The surveyor presented his account of the expendi- ture for the various parishes, amounting toX143 2s. 9d., which was passed. THE COUNTY BRIDGE ROADWAYS. Mr. D. W. J. Thomas, the clerk, stated that he had forward-d the estimate of the surveyor for the roads over the county bridges, and had stated that all or none must be taken. He had received the following reply Brecon, 6th August, 1867. DEAR Sin,-Your letter of the 25th June last, and the esti- mate of the surveyor which accompanied it, were submitted to the committee of justices appointed by the Court of Quarter Sessions, at their meeting held yesterday, and they are of opinion that your surveyor's estimate is too high, the average annual cost of the repair of the roads having been 97 10s. lOd. for the last three years. The committee, therefore, think that £9 a-year per mile would be a fair and sufficient remuneration for repairing the roadways of the county bridges within your district, and they will feel obliged if you will submit this communication to your Board and let me know the result. Yours truly, EDWARD "WILLIAMS, Clerk of the Peace. D. W. J. Thomas, Esq. Mr. Davies, the surveyor, in explanation of his report, stated that be bad taken the average of the district all through. There were some roads which did not cost XI per mile, but others cost about 20. He could not ask the Board to accept anything less than he bad stated in his estimate. For the information of some members present, the surveyor's estimate was produced, in which he had calculated the cost per lineal yard. He reckoned for a little over three miles of roads, with 31 bridges, the total estimated cost being X59 18s. 9d. The offer of the committee of the visiting justices was about half that sum. The Clerk remarked that the committee had taken the average cost for the whole district, and seemed to forget that the traffic of, perhaps, half-a-dozen roads converged to one bridge. The Board decided to decline the offer of the com- mittee. THE ROADWAY AT LOWER DUFFBYN HONDDU. The Surveyor said there was the subject of the road- way at DuPryn Honddu Lower to be considered. The Chairman I thought the matter had been decided at the last Board. The Surveyor I have had a letter since the last Board. The Chairman The case is in your bands, and not with us. The Surveyor then produced the following report, which was read ri, Forge Villa, 10th August, 1867. Jo the Chairman ciucl Members of the Brecon District Highway Board. GENTLEMEN, I beg to report to you that I have received a notice from James Williams, Esq., of Brecon, that he has been in great danger of his life in consequence of the road leading from Ffrwdgrech bridge to Cilwhybert bridge, in the parish of St. David, being very narrow, and requiring widening. -r»iT received another notice from 3Vlr. Benjamin Price, of Khydywernen, to repair tlie road leading from. Rliydywernen across the ford to Cilwhybert mill, in the parishes of Hanspyddid and Modrydd. I have also received a notice from Mr. Watkin Davies, the representative of the parishioners of Lower Duffryn-Honddu, requesting me to prepare an estimate for putting the road cross- ing from Tw-yn-y-waun road to meet the Upper Chapel road, at a point Tramyrweh gate, in the above division. I have, in accordance with such notice, prepared an estimate, which I beg to submit for your consideration. It is prepared on the basis of the annexed section:- For forming, stoning, constructing culverts ana iencmg £ 159 8 4 Also, for general repairs, salaries, and inci- dentalexpenaes. 10 11 8 £ 170 n o I am, gentlemen, -4' v V v Your obedient servant, THOMAS DAVIES, District Surveyor. Mr. Trew attended the Board, and asked that the matter of the road might be allowed to stand over for a fortnight. A parish mpeting was intended to be called for Thursday next, and he was in hopes that the parishioners would take the road marked out by the Surveyor. Mr. Cornish and himself went to view the road, and so far as his opinion went Mr. Davies, the Surveyor, could not have made a better selection. Supposing the parish decided to have the new road, he wished to know whether they were bound to fence it. At present, the land wai not enclosed, but open, and the parish objected to the fencing. The Clerk proceeded to make some explanations, and said that the magistrates, instead of ordering the repair of the old road, ordered a new one to be made. Mr. Trew interrupted, and said he thought the magistrates did not order the new road. The Clerk replied he was explaining. The simple point in dispute was that the parish denied the legality of the order. ° The order of the magistrates who viewed the road was then read. It directed that the old road should be widrned, and that the parish treat and make an agreement for tfoe necessary land with Mary Ann Pritchard. The Clerk further said that the parishion. ers denied that there had been any road there, and said that the order was not legal. Th- y had, there- fore, ordered the Surveyor to repair the other road instead. They preferred repairing a road which would cost X140 to making one which would cost £ 60. Mr. Cornish observed that the road the parish wished repaired was a perfect. bog. Mr. Williams Have we power to order anew road? The Clerk You can by taking proceedings at Quarter Sessions. Mr. Trew stated he was the largest ratepayer in the parish. He hoped the parish would decide on the road chosen by their Surveyor, which would be much the best. The matter was then adjourned for a month. In reference to the road leading from Ffrwdfrech bridge to Cilwhybert, the Surveyor was directed to prepare a plan of it, and an estimate of the expense attending the alteration. He was also directed to pro- ceed wish the repair of the road near the ford at Cil- whybert mill. This concluded the business.