County Observer and Monmouthshire Central Advertiser Abergavenny and Raglan Herald Usk and Pontypool Messenger and Chepstow Argus

MONMOUTH DISTRICT BOROUGHS ELECTION. PETITION LODGED. A petition was lodged at the Law Courts on Mon- day night against the return of Dr. Rutherfoord Harris, the Conservative member for the Monmouth District Boroughs, who wus returned by a majority of 6SS votes over Mr A. Spicer, the Liberal candi- date. It is stated that the grounds of the petition are the publication of false statements as to the character of Mr. Albert Spicer, payments through -other authorities than the election agent, payments Tiot disclosed in the accounts, and contracts for the conveyance of voters. Two working-men electors of Newport, Mr. Embrey and Mr Christopher Sweeting, are the signatories to the petition, and £ 1,000 has to be deposited on their behalf. In the event of the petition going to trial it will be heard before two judges within the constituency, but probably not before next January. On Thursday the amount necessary to proceed with the petition was deposited in the High Court, The petitioners state that Frederick Ruther- foord Harris and his pgents were guilty of illegal practices in that he and his agents on his behalf before, during, and after the said election respec- tively made payments in respect of the expenses -incurred on account of and in respect of the con- duct and management of the said election, other- wise than by or through his election agent." The petitioners further say that after the said election the said Frederick Rutherfoord Harris was, by his election agent, guilty of illegal prac- tices in that his said election agent failed to com- -ply with the 'requirements as to the return respecting the election expenses of the said Fred- erick Rutherfoord Harris. That the said Frederick Rutherfoord Harris was, by his agents, guilty of illegal practices in that his agents before, during, and after the said election knowingly made, in contravention of the Corrupt and Illegal Practices and Prevention Act of 1883, payments on account of the conveyance of -electors to and from the poll. That the said Frederick Rutherfoord Harris was by himself, his election agent, and agents guilty of illegal practices by making and publishing before and during the election certain false statements of fact in relation to the personal character and conduct of Albert Spicer. That the said Frederick Rutherfoord Harria was, by himself and hi. election agent, guilty of illegal practices, by printing, publishing, or posting bills, placards, and posters having reference to the election, which fail to bear upon the face thereof the name and address of the printer or publisher." It is stated that Sir Edward Clarke, Q.C., has been retained to lead the case for thtJ petitioners, and that the solicitors for Dr Rutherfoord Harris, M.P. (Messrs Hallam, Son, Coward, and Hawkes- iey), have already retained Mr Gill, Q..C., Mr Lewis doward, and Lord Robert ecil. On or before Saturday, December 1st, notification of the potition having been lodged must be served upon Dr Harris and his agent (Mr Henry Longstaff). It is expected that the petition will be heard in Monmouth, the place of nomination and return for the constituency.

THE USK & DISTRICT RIFLE CLUB. The adjourned general meeting of the above Club was held at the Three Salmon's Hotel, Usk. -on Friday evening last, when Dr. P. Rutherfoord Harris, M.P., presided, aud was supported by Mr. -Henry Freeman (chairman of the Committee), Mr. E. B. Haynes (hon. sec.), Mr. A. E. Bowen, Mr. W. S. Gustard, Mr. H. Humphreys, J.P., and the Rev. Herbert Addams-Williams (Llangibby). There were also present (amongst others):—Sergt.- Inst. J. Chilton, Messrs. J. C. Lowe, A. J. Green, ,C. Voyce, L. Myers, W. Harris, W. Martin, W. F. Roberts, J. George, F. Hughes, G. Edmunds, F. J. Edmunds, J. Best, T. Rees, junr., W. Hobbs, W. Marfell, E. Marfell, C. A. Mortimer, C. J. Francis, J. Haggett, A. F. Lucas, George Smith, 1\ T. Clift, W. U. Mundy, and A. Gilbert, THE RULES. I Mr. H. Freeman submitted the rules which had been drawn np. and which provided (inter alia): That the annual general meeting should be held on or before the 31st day of March in each year; That the Committee have full power to acquire a range or ranges, equip the same, arrange practices, matches, etc., and to legis- late upon auy point not otherwise provided for; That one of the Committee shall attend each -of the practices, &c.; That such member shall be responsible for order, &c.; That any member violating the rules shall be called upon to explain to the Committee, who, by a two-thirds majority, may expel any member; and That the Club shall be affiliated with the National Rifle Association. The rules were adopted, as also were the range regulations. DR. RTJTHERFOOED HABRIS'S GENEROSITY. Mr. Freeman said that when the Committee .came to discuss ways and means with regard to the provision of a range, they found they could not start without capital, and they decided by deputa- tion to approach Dr. Rutherfoord Harris M.P on the subject, with the result that the hon. member .generously gave them a cheque for £50. (Ap- plause.) He begged leave to propose a very hearty ;vote of thanks to him for thus enabling them to proceed and giving them a splendid start. (Hear, .hear.) Mr. J. Best seconded, and, needless to say, the ^proposition was carried by acclamation. In response, the President said he should like the 'Club to start free from financial embarrassment or -encumbrance, and he hoped it would become an unqualified success. (Applause.) RIFLES AND RANGES. Mr Freeman then said that the Committee had ■decided to purchase two Martini-Henry rifles (the ammunition for which would cost Is 3d per3100 .rounds) and two Lee-Enfields (to be used with the Morris Tube ammunition, 2s 6d). More would be •obtained if the progress of the Club rendered it necessary. The Committee had acquired a range for the miniature rifle in the Vicarage Garden, with -entrance opposite the Volunteer Armoury in Porthy- --arne-street. It had been decided to erect a shed to deaden the sound of the reports of the guns. A complete decision as to the boys had not yet been arrived at, but it had been resolved to admit all over 10 and under. 16 at the rate of subscription of 2s. per year. The range would be open from 10 a.m., to 10 p m., provided a committee-man were present, a member could practice during the day- time. There would be three practice nights per week, provided that there were not less than four members present to shoot, this provision being made with a view to economy in the matter of the gas »ill. 8 PROGRESS MADE. r The Secretary reported that 73 had joined the Club up to date. The President thought this most satisfactory. It was reported that the range would be ready about the end of December. A vote of thanks to the President, proposed by Mr Charles Voyce, seconded by Mr C. J. Francis, was cordially given, and Dr Harris, having replied, a very successful meeting terminated. I

NEWPORT. Aqents-Messrs Greenland and Co., Newsagents. NEWPORT HOSPITAL BAZAAR.—Mr1] J. Martyn Wood, the financial secretary to the recently held Newport Hospital Bazaar, notifies that amounts are still coming in to the credit of the accounts, the latest amount received being £ 60 15s. 7d. as workmen's contribution. The total receipts exceed X6,000. DEATH IN A BOAT.-George Thomas, a pilot's assistant, was found dead in a boat at Pilots' Pill, near the mouth of the River Ufik, on Tuesday morning. The deceased lived in Raglan-street, Pill. At the inquest, on Wednesday, Dr. Brooke Gratte stated that deceased had been a patient of his for years. He had attended him for heart disease in a very fatal form, and he had warned him some time ago to obtain some lighter employment, but deceased had said he was unable to do so. Death was due to heart disease, and in this the jury concurred. SHOOTING CASE.—As a man named Frank Fowler, alias Sinclair, who had been arrested on a charge of fraud, was being taken to the police station, on Tuesday morniug, he took a revolver out of his pocket and shot himself. Directly the occurrence took place the man fell down. He was removed into a shop and retained there until the police ambulance was brought. He was then removed to the Infirmary, and on Wednesday was still in a very precarious condition. Efforts bad been made to extract the bullet, but without success. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE.—The monthly meeting of the Newport Chamber of Commerce was held at the Town Hall on Wednesday, Mr. E. O. Baddeley, one of the vice-presidents, in the chair. There was a very small attendance. The Chamber decided to support the Blackburn Chamber in pressing for a scheme for the more effectual promotion of secondary and technical education. The trade returns for October showed a net decrease in imports of 9,639 tons and a net increase in exports of 22,643 tons as compared with October of last year.

LLANTARNAM U.D.C. On Monday the members met to consider a com- On Monday the members met to consider a com- munication from the Patent Nut aud Bolt Company, with reference to the Council's petition to tbe Local Government Board, praying for eompulsory powers to construct the proposed Forge Hammer Road, owing to the opposition of the Patent Nut and Bolt I Company. In their letter the Patent Nut and Bolt Company expressed their willingness to meet the Council under certain conditions. These formed the subject of discussion, and eventually the following resolu- tions were passed:—That the chairman seek an interview with the general manager of the Great Western Railway Company at once, in order to place the facts before him, and urge the desirability of a speedy settlement.—That the offer of the Patent Nut and Bolt Company be accepted, subject to a satisfactory arrangement being arrived at with the Great Western Company, and subject to the success of the joint appeal to Quarter Sessions for the closing of the level crossing.

RAGLAN. Aqmt-Mr. W. Parker, Photographer. FARMERS' CLUB MEETING.—A meeting of the Farmers' Club was held at the Beaufort Arms Raglan, on Saturday evening, when there were present: —Messrs. J. Frost (chairman), J. Jeffreys, jun., J. G. T. Morgan, F. Perkins, E. Watkins, T. Leech, and C. J. Saunders (sec.) The accounts for the past year were then examined. Owing to the indefatigable exertions of the committee mainly, it was found that the Society maintains a sound financial position. The account books were audited and signed. Mr. J. G. T. Morgan proposed, and Mr. J. Jeffreys seconded, a vote of thanks to the Chairman and Secretary which was carried unanimously. Mr. Frost, in reply, said it gave him great pleasure in doing what he could to make the Club successful, and Mr. Saunders said he could only echo the Chairman's words. PARISH COUNCIL. -A meeting of the Parish Council was held in the National Schoolroom on November 22nd, at 7.30 p.m. There were present:—The Rev. C. M. Perkins (chairman), Mr. S. W. Jones (vice-chairman), Messrs. D. Pryce, J. Jeffrey, J. Perkins, J. Matthews, G. Davies, and the clerk (Mr. C. J. Saunders). A letter from F. E. Sealey, Esq., National and Provincial Bank, Monmouth, thanking the Council for his appointment as their treasurer at their last meeting, was read. The Chairman proposed, and At r. J. Jeffreys seconded, that a vote of condolence and sympathy be passed to the wife of the late Mr. John \Vatkins, a member of the Council for several years. The Council proceeded to the election of a Councillor to fill the vacant seat, and on the proposition of Mr. S. W. Jones, seconded by Mr. J. Jeffreys, the Rev. Thomas Batstone, Baptist Minister, Raglan, was elected. The allotment finances were then considered, and aftar same discussion Mr. S. W. Jones proposed, and Mr. G. Davies seconded, That a rebate of 20 per cent. be allowed the allotment tenants." This was carried unanimously. Cheques were drawn to cover outstanding account, aud the meeting closed. RE-OPENING OF TREGARE CHUECS.—The Bishop of Llaudaff on Wednesday re-opened the old parish clinrch of Tregare, near Raglan, after restoration. Che ceremony was a most interesting one, and was largely attended by the clergy and residents of the district- The Vicar (the Rev. W. Evans), Rev. W. C. Lindsay, R.D., rector of Llanvair, Rev. W. Evans, rector of Llanthewy, Rev. J. W. Osman, Llanarth, Rev. C. M. Perkins, Raglan, Rer. A. Maclaverty, Llangattock, Rev. W. Davies, Dingestow, and the Rev. W. Feetham. Penrhos, took part in the opening ceremony, and Lord Llangattock, a liberal contributor to the restoration fund, was amongst the congregation. C, 11 r;1 The work was rendered necessary by serious defects in the roof, steeple, and porch, and Mr. George G. Halliday, F R.I.B. A., diocesan surveyor of Llaudaff, prepared a specification and estimate. The Vicar then set earnestly to work to raise the necessary funds, about JS150. The roof was taken off, and the beams and tiles strengthened and relaid. The aucient half-timbered porch has been renovated, but care taken not to alter its con- struction. A new pulpit has also been built, with stone steps and foundation, and carved paneled oak body, in memory of the East-ham family. The Bishop took for his text I Thess. 4th chap., 1st verse, and, in the course of his remarks, described a scheme which he hoped to inaugurate with the commencement of the coming year for the purpose of more adequately meeting the wants of the extensive diocese. He proposed to open a million shilling fund, by which he hoped to raise L50,000, for the furtherance of church extension, and of adding to the number of clergy to supply the spiritual needs of the diocese. He had only mentioned the matter at present to seven persons. One of them had given a thousand shillings, another 500, another 50, and another had collected 40, so that the scheme had already shown signs of substantial growth.

I Lord Tredegar's Show. J CAPITAL EXHIBITION AT NEWPORT I TUESDAY. I Gloriously fine November weather favoured the opening of Lord Tredegar's cattle show at Newport on Tuesday. The show is growing year by year, and if many more features are added to it there will come a time in the near future when additional premises will have to be taken to accommodate all the exhibition. The new feature of a cheese com- petition for tenants of Lord Tredegar's estate has been continued this year, and there has been added a series of awards for orchard fruit. Though the trials of hunters at Coedkernew still commanded the lion's share of interest on the opening day of the show, there was a very good attendance in the market place, where judging opened early in the morning in all sections. Entries in cattle compared favourably with those of last year. A slight falling off in Herefords was balanced by an advance in the Shorthorns and thoso without regard to breed. Sheep and pigs WH v,so numerous as in some former years in con^Nt i■ Mice of the restrictions imposed to check scab "ill swine fever. In the poultry section, whie:> i- becoming more and more congested, there were 1-30 more entries for this show than tbe last. The horses were much more numerous than before. As usual, there were some of the peers of their respective realms in the Shorthorn and Hereford sections, and the keenest rivalry was shown for the premier honours where they competed, irrespective of breed, as, for example, in the champions—male and female. In the result the Herefords took both these special guerdons, though they did not capture them without the aid of a referee being called in. The real battle in the male championship for the Corporation Plate lay between Mr. R. Stratton's well-known Shorthorn bull, "Alto" (which won the chief prize in the aged bull class, and which had been champion at this show on some former occasions, and a leading prize-winner at the Royal Show), and Sir J. Pulley's Hereford bull, "Pro- tector." The Hereford is junior to the local bull by nearly two years, but has had a good run of meritorious notice. He was regarded by his admirers as having better hind-quarters than Mr. Stratton's bull, and in the eud he was awarded the championship. In the female championship section for Lord Tredegar's Plate there was a keen tussle between his lordship's yearling heifer, "Lassie III. which captured the chief premium in her class, and the Hereford two-year-old heifer, "Friend II. shown by Mr. D. Evans, of Ffrwd- grech, Brecon. Lord Tredegar's yearling has had a wonderfully successful career. She was bred on the estate from a strain of blood on her dam's side which has been celebrated at the Tredegar home farm for several generations, and on seven times when she has beea shown she has taken seven first prizes and two championships. The Brecon heifer, though net nearly so uniform in her past achieve- ments, has been got up in wouderful style, and is all over a picture of successful show culture. Sheep did not make a great display, and the competition was very limited amongst the pigs, a few useful Berkshires and whites being shown. A very large amount of interest was centred in the poultry department. The judges were as follow Shorthorlis -,Nlr C. W. Tindall, Wainfleet, Lincoln- shire, and Mr H Butler, Badminton Farm, Chip- penham. Herefords—Mr F. Evans, The Westou, Bredwardine, Hereford, and Mr Rees W. Bridge- water, Llangorse, Talgarth. Sheep and pigs—'Mr A. C. Skinner Pound, Bishop's Lydeyard, aud Mr. P. A. Evans, Sherlowe, Wellington, Salop. Hunters, cobs, and thoroughbreds—Mr H. M. Wilson, M.F.H., Upper Hall, Ledbury, and Mr. Donald Fraser, Tickford Hall, Newport Pagnell. Cart horses—Mr H. Butler and Mr Reog W. Bridgwater. Poultry—Mr J. W. Ludlow, Erding- ton, Birmingham, and Mr John Martin, Claines, Worcester. Pigeons—Mr Frank Machin, Moseley, Birmingham. Appended are the local awards :— SHORTHORN BREED. Bull above two years old—1st, Mr R Stratton, The Duffryn, Newport. Yearling heifer-ist, Lord Tredegar. WITHOUT REGARD TO BREED. Fat ox, steer, cow, or heifer—Mr J. H. Hale, Nash, Newport. Pair of two-year-old steers-Ist, Mr T. J. Cox, Liswerry, Newport; 2ud, Mr. W. Lewis, Tregrwg Farm, Llangibby. Pair yearling steers-1st, Lord Tredegar.' PIGS-WHITE BREED. Sow and litter of pigs—The Rev. W. Booth Corfield, M.A., Llangattock Rectory, Abergavenny. CHEESE, Caerphilly cheese, to be competed for by Lord Tredegar's agricultural teiiaiits-Ist, Mrs T. H. Christophers, Rhiwderin; 2nd, Miss Edith Jones, The Walk, Castleton. FRUIT. Six dishes of culinary (four) and dessert (two) apples, grown on Tredegar Elstate-ist, Mr. T. Baker, Croesheolydd, Bassalleg; 2nd, Ur. W. Jones, Penypeel, St. Mellon's. Dish of culinary apples—1st, Mr W.Jones 2nd, Mr T. Baker. Dish of dessert apples—1st, Mr W. Jones; 2ud, Mr T. Baker. POULTRY. Game (black or brown breasted reds), cockerel or cock—^rd, Messrs Goiledge and Smith, Undy. Game (black or brown breasted reds) pullet or hen-2nd, Messrs Golledge and Smith. Game (Old English), cockerel or cock—3rd, Mr W. S Fletcher, Pontnewynydd. Game (Old English), pullet or hen-3rd, Mr W. S. Fletcher. Langshans, pullet or hen—1st, Dr F. Ruther- foord Harris, M.P., Llangibby Castle. Orpingtons (buff), pullet or hen-211d, Miss E. Jackson, Abergavenny. Selling class for fowls of any age, cock and two hens, or cockerel and two pullets—2nd. Mr W. H. Dowler, Pleasant View Poultry Yard, Newport. Geese, any variety, gander and goose—1st and 3rd, Mr L. Forestier- Walker, Park House, Michaelstone-y-Vedw. Turkey, cock or hen-Ist and 2nd, Dr. Ruther- foord Harris, M.P. Bantams, any other variety, cockerel or cock— 2nd, Miss Justice, Castleton. (For exhibitors residing within a radius of six miles of Newport.) Game, any variety, cockerel or cock—1st and 2nd, Mr A. Golledge, Caerleon 3rd, Messrs J. Francis and Son, Newport. Game, any variety, pullet or hen—1st, Messrs J, Francis and Soti 2nd and 3rd, Mr A. Golledge. Leo-horns, any colour, cockerel or cock—1st and 3rd, °Mr T. B. R. Wilson, Newport; 2nd, Mr J. Dennis, Newport. Leghorns, any colour, pullet or heu-Ist, Miss Duckham, Newport; 2nd, Mr T. B. R. Wilson 3rd. Mr J. Dennis. Minorcas, any colour, cockerel or cock-lat, Mr J. Herbert, Newport; 2nd and 3rd, Mr E. J. Culverwell, Newport. Minorcas, any colour, pullet or hen—1st, Mr F. Thorn, Newport: 2nd, Mr J. A. Green, Christ- church; 3rd, Mr J. Herbert. Any other variety, cockerel or cock-let and special, MrsF. S. Williams, Bryu Glas, Newport; 2nd, Mr E. Plaisted, Bishpool; 3rd, Mr J. Denuis. Any other variety, pullet or hen—1st, Mr W. J. Edwards, Maitidee; 2nd, Mr W. H. Dowler; 3rd, Mr J. Parsons, St Brides. Ducks, any variety, drake and duck—1st, Mr J. Davie, Rhiwderin; 2nd, Mrs J. A. Green. PIGEONS. Magpie (black)—3rd, Messrs Weston and Brownscombe, Newport. Working homer—1st, Mr H. Moore, Maindee; 2nd, Mr W. Harris, Newport; 3rd, Mr J. H. Cole, Maindee. Show homer—1st, Mr J. H. Houghton, Main- dee; 3rd, Mr E. C. Hill, Maindee. (For exhibitors residing within a radius of six miles of Newport.) Show homer-Ist, Mr R. Baker, Maindee; 2nd, Mrs L. M. Price, Newport; 3rd, Mr J. H. Houghton, Maindee. Show tioiner-ist, Mr W. Price. Newport; 2nd, Mr W. Baker, Maindee; 3rd, Mr J. H. Houghton. Working homer—1st, Mr M, Walsh, Newport; 2nd, Mr D. W. Pope, Newport; 3rd, Mr H. Smith, Newport. Working homer—1st, Mrs Hockey, Newport; 2nd, Mr R. Pollock, Newport; 3rd, Mr S. Manship, Newport. Magpie (black1!—1st, Mr A. C. Vaughan, Main- dee: 2nd, Mr J. Thomas, Maiudee; 3rd, Mrs Houghton, Maindee. Magpie (any other colour)—1st and 2nd, Messrs Weston and Brownscombe 3rd, Mrs Hougton. TRIAL OF HUNTERS. The trial of hunters at Coedkernew may be put down as one of the most successful gatherings that has ever been held in connection with this show. The weather was glorious and springlike, with the result that one of the largest and most representative companies that the show has ever known assembled. The entries numerically were not quite so large as usual, but Colonel Maclean and Mr. Fraser, of the Grafton, had plenty of class to judge. In the weight-carrying hunters, there were a round dozn entries, and of these the majority turned out. The winner was eventually found in the grey gelding owned by Sir Fred Phillips-a really eood-looking sporting horse, which was admirably ridden by his owner, and negotiated the country in perfect manner. The second was "President," the property of Mr Cubitt. The jumping in the light.- class was quite up to the average, and on this occa- sion the St Bri(1s establishment won well with Merthyr Girl," a really good-looking, clever hunter that gave Mr. Drury a comfortable and satis- factory ride. "King of Meath," who "lepped" the country in good style, took second prize, whilst a brown mare belonging to Mr W. H. Brain secured reserve. Another clever mare was Burnett. the property of Dr Rutherfoord Harris, M.P., who many thought would be in the money. There was a strong quartette to judge from at the finish, how- ever, and there is no doubt but that the judges gave awards that were not only correct, but which also met with the approval of the majority. The awards in the two classes were as follow WEIGHT-CARRYING HUNTER. Mr Fred Phillips, Nantcoch, Newport, gr g. 1 Mr W. Cubitt, Rumney House, Cardiff, b g "President" 2 LIGHT-WEIGHT HUNTER. Mr J. Nixon Gray, St Brides, br m Merthvr Girl .I Mr J. W. Beynon, Castleton, blk br g King of Meath" 2 WEDNESDAY. Wednesday was about as unpropitious as the opening day had been fine and beautiful. The rain. came down in heavy showers at times, and there was a chilly air, which made matters very unpleasant. Naturally, these discomforting oonditions unfavour- ably affected the attendance, though as the early afternoon, was reached there was still a crowd in the Market place so thick as to make free locomotion rather difficult. About noon the unusual sight of Lord Tredegar driving up to the market street entrance of the show all alone in a public hansom was witnessed. The death of thA Hon Arthur Morgan and the very inclement weather probably affected prejudicially the usual custom of a big housa party from Tredegar attending to witness the judging of the horses and the parade of the prize cattle in the big ring. Local prize takers HORSE3. £10 for the best cart stallion (restricted to the Counties of Monmouth, Glamorgan, and Breck- nocl,-)-I, Miss E C. Talbot. Margam Park, Port Talbot; r, Lord Tredegar, Tredegar Park, New- port, Valentine of Hothfield. JS5 f,)r the best two-year-old cart colt-I, Lord Llangattock, Hendre Champiou. £ 5 for the best sucking oart colt or filly (got by Valentine of HothfieM or Red Prince II)-I, Mrs M. J. Harris, St Brides r, Mr T. Tuberville, St Brides; v h c, Messrs S. Stead and Saa, Penhow Castle, Magor, Penhow Sunbeam. JE5 for the best galloway or hack over 14 hands, but not exceeding 15 hands hig-h-I, Mr J. Howells. Green Farm, Cardiff. Lady Lynn; r, Mr V. F. Bosanquet, Abergavenny, BBau. £ 5 for the best yearling colt or filly for hunting purposes, got by either of Lord Tredegar's thorough- bred horses—1. Lord Tredegar, Lightfoot r, Mr A. Baker, Red wick. £5 for the best two-year-old colt or filly for hunting purposes, got by a thoroughbred horse, the gift of Colonel the Hon F. C. Morgan, M.P., Iiuperra Castle, Newport—1, Mr J. N. Gray, St Brides; h c, Mr F. Phillips, Nantcoch, Newport, Old Fashion. SIO for the best thorough-bred stallion, restricted to the Counties of Monmouth, Glamorgan, and Brecknock, at the service of the public during the season 1900, for not more than £3 -1 Lord. Tredegar, Red Ha.t.

Good Xews for Householders. The Forest of Dean Coilowners have reduced coal two shillings a ton, owing to falling off ia demand.

Inspected by the Queen. Royal Canadians left London this morning for Windsor to be inspected by Queen.

Ir. llrodrick's Election Address. Mr. Brodrick has issued his address of re- election for Guildford, on his appointment to to War Secretaryship. He says that the arduous nature of his task must excuse him personally visiting electors.

Libel Action Withdrawn. In libel action by Mr. Charles Bowden, ex- president of National Union of Teachers, against Messrs. Yoxall and Macnamara the charges were to-day withdrawn and verdict for the. defendants agreed to. Stocks-q uiet, steady.

ABERGA VENNY. I Auents.-Messrs Davies & Co. Booksellers. I VOLUNTEER BALL.—The annual bail in connection with the local Volunteers was held in the Town Hall, on Wednesday, The decorations were charm- ing, and the proceedings most enjoyable. TOWN COUNCIL. The Mayor (Alderman Williams) presided at the usual monthly meeting, on Wednesday.—A resolution was passed against an Alderman taking a contesting part in any way in the election in the Ward over which he is the returning officer.-A committee was appointed to consider the question of the better lighting of the streets by electricity or otherwise.—Councillors L. Davies and J. C. Gwatkin and Mrs Pryer were elected the Council's representatives on the management of the Girls' Intermediate School. GIRLS' INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL.-The annual prize distribution in connection with this school took place on Monday, when Dr. S. H. Steel presided, and was supported by Miss Houliston (head mistress' Mr. A. C. Humphreys Owen, M.P. (chairman of the Central Welsh Board) and several of the Governors. The Head Mistress presented her report of the school and afterwards asked Air. H. Owen to present the prizes and certificates gained during the year. Mr. Owen delivered an address upon the advantages to be obtained by the formation of such schools.- Hearty votes of thanks were accorded Mr. Owen, the Head Mistress and Staff, and the Chairman for their valuable services. The scholars then rendered the Cantata, The Hours," under the leadership of Mr. W. R. Carr, A.R.C.O., and brought the evening to a close by a school song entitled Forty Years On." INQUEST.—At the Police Station on Saturday evening, Mr. J. B. Wftlford and a j lIry inquired into the eircumstances attending the death of Samuel Morgan, 59, labourer, of Blaenavon, who died in the Abergavenny Workhouse on the 20th November.—Mr. Lester Sadler watched the case on behalf of the Blaenavon Coal Company. Limited.—John Morgan, haulier, son of the deceased, having given evidence, Emma Granger, Workhouse nurse, stated that deceased was admitted three weeks ago, and died on Tuesday. He said he had been hurt by a horse, and com- plained of his heel and foot.—Dr. W. D. Steel said that he attended deceased from the day that he was admitted. The cause of his death was paralysis. He understood that a horse had fallen upon him, and injured his back. He had made a post mortem examination and found all the organs of the body healthy. There were old sores on the shoulder blades, and there was a large contusion which ran to his brain and spinal cord.—Azariah Evans, house superintendent of the Blaenavon Coal Company's Colliery, said that deceased was at work on the 18th October from September 6th. On the llth October witness saw him in the stable yard, and deceased said that the horse Bumper had put his foot between his foot and his heel.— James Thomas, haulier, said he was working in the same stall as deceased, who said that "Bumper" had squeezed him up against wall.—The jury returned a verdict of Death from paralysis." I

MONMOUTH. I Agent.-Mr. Caffrey. Bookseller. Monmouth I BOARD OF GUARDIANS.—At Saturday's meeting Colonel Walwyn presided.—The Master's book showed 114 inmates, as against 114: in the corresponding week last year, Vagrants relieved during the past fortnight 154, as against 113 in the corresponding period of last year. Cost of out- door relief during the past fortnight was £184 12s. 10d., as against JS193 2s. 4d.-Mr. Day gave notice that at the next meeting he would move the re-appointment of Dr. Leighton as medical officer for the Skenfrith district.—On the motion of the Rev. L. A. Rees, the salary of the porter was raised from X21) to Y,2,5 per aiitiurn.-A long circular from the Local Government Board, containing instructions for taking, the census in 1901, was read and considered.—The Clerk reported that he had not received the monthly statement from the assistant overseer of the parish of Llandeuny. A SPIRITUAL FIRE ?-During the past ten days a general Church Mission has been held at all the churches in the borough of Monmouth, including St. Mary's Parish Church, with its auxiliary of St. John's, Buckholt, St Thomas', Overmonnow, Dixton, and Wveshatn Churches, and the Grammar School Chapel. The mission has been most energetically pursued, about six separate services being held at St. Mary's and St. Thomas's each day. A prominent feature was the street processions in the evenings from 7 to 7.45. The procession consisted of the churchwardens, the clergy and missioners, the choir, and a number of ladies, and after marching, either singing hymns or chanting litanies, through the main streets, some of the courts and by-streets were visited and short addresses delivered. A large cross headed the procession, and to give sufficient light lanterns were carried by some of the processionists. An amusing incident occurred on Tuesday morning, the last day of the mission. Holy Communion was celebrated at 5 a.m., at St. Thomas', and the church bell was rung for half an hour previous to this hour. The bell happens to closely resemble the town fire bell in tone, and its sounds at the unusual hour of 4.30 roused many of tha towns- people from their slumbers in anticipation of a conflagration. It is said that as many as twenty people congregated in the town square before 5 a.m. eagerly enquiring the whereabouts of the outbreak, and when the truth of the matter became appareut the feelings of the party may be more easily imagined than described.

PONTYPOOL. Agents-,Vr. J. Harding, Market Bookstall, ,ond Messrs Jones and Edwards PROPOSED COTTAGE HOSPITAL.—A meeting to discuss the matter is shortly to be held, when Mr J. C. Hanbury, Pontypool Park, will preside. BOARD OF GUARDIANS.—Mr W L Pratt presided at Thursday's meeting of this Board. 011 the suggestion of the Rev D M Davies, it was resolved to give extra relief of Is per adult, and 6d per child, to the paupers during Christmas week.—Mr T Wintle drew attention to the price of coal, &c., and suggested that somethiug extra should be done in view of this.— Mr J Williams agreed, and it was resolved that the extra relief be given for two weeks, instead of for one. A long discussion took place as to the education of the Workhouse children, there not beine sufficient accommodation at the Pontymoil schools. It was decided Hot to write to the Education Department. FOUND DROWNED.—An inquiry was held on Monday at Griffithstown by Mr M. Roberts-Jones, coroner for South Monmouthshire, on an unknown man, apparently a tramp, who was found drowned in the canal at Pontymoile, on Saturday. — John Hill, annealer, Picton Street, Griffithstown, spoke to discovering the body in the Newport and Brecon Canal on Saturday morning at Llanvihangel Pont ymoile.-Carolin e Isaacs, lodging-house keeper, Trosnant, said that on Wednesday evening deceased stayed at her house.—Dr O'Keefe, Griffithstown, said the cause of death was drowning. There were no marks on the body. which wis well preserved.— A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was re'urned. PItESENTATION.-On Saturday a presentation— consisting of a miner's dial, with Hoffman shifting head, with latest improvements for taking angles (value £22 10s.), and a dumpy level (value £13 10s) —was made at the Crown Hotel, Pontypool, to Mr R. S. Jordan, late manager at the Tirpentwys Colliery, Pontnewynydd, upon his relinquishing that position, to enter into partnership with h's father in an engineering business at Newport. The presentation bore the inscription Presented to Mr R. S. Jordan, M.E., ns a mark of esteem, by the officials and workmen of the Tirpentwys Collieries, on his relinquishing the management. 24th November, 190 Pontypool." Mr B. Nicholas, J.P. (managing director of the collieries), presided, and was supported by Messrs. H. S. Jordan, Edward Jones, Godfrey James, Thomas Williams, W. Wigley, and W. S. Fletcher. There was also a large attendance of the officials and workmen of the collieries. Mr Edward Jones, in making the pre- sentation, spoke very highly of Mr Jordon's capa- bilities, and the honourable and fair manner in which he had always treated the workmen.

U.D.C. MEETING. This authority met on Wednesday, Mr. D. Reid presiding. There were also present:- ATessrs. W H Hughes, J Moseley. L E Webb, E B Ford, J Walker, P Eckersley, W H Haskins, F Probyn, G H Newth, W H Pitten, and the officers. It was resolved that the Pontypool Christmas market be held on the 22nd December, and that prizes amounting to Y,10 be given for the best exhibits Mr Webb said that the FinanceCommittee had just had an interview with Mr Pearson, of the Gas and Water Company, with reference to the charge of 4s 2d per 1000 c.f. for gas The Council was working under an agreement to pay 3s 9d until 30th November. Mr Pearson made a claim for L15 6s. in respect of gas lamps discontinued. The Committee recommended that this be not paid. They had asked Mr Pearson to put before his directors the question of the price to be paid in the future, it being pointed out that in the last agreement 3s 9d was paid by the Council while private consumers were charged 4s 3d.-The Committee's report was adopted, and it was decided to ask for a reduction in the price of gas as formerly. There were three tenders for the scavenging of the district, and Mr (J Taylor's (Pontnewynydd), at £ 240, was accepted, subject to a three months' notice to terminate. Dr Mason reported 10 deaths and 15 births, making rates rexpectively of 11'8 and 28-2. Three deaths were due to whooping cough, two to measles, one to erysipelas, and the remainder to general causes. He had received notification of two cases of diphtheria, one of scarlatina, and one from membraneous croup. The amount of sickness in the district had considerably lessened during the past three weeks. The Chairman referred to the clause in the above will by which a sum of money was left for the purpose of constructing a path to Trevethin Church. The Abersychan Council had taken some action in the matter, but it was a question which affected the Pontypool Council as well. The matter was referred to a committee after con- siderable discussion.

PONTNEWYDD. Agent:-Ilfr. Z. Lloyd. MILITARY FUNERAL.—The funeral of Gunner E. James, No. 3, Pauteg Battery, of the 1st Mon- nioathshire Volunteer Artillery took place on Sunday afternoon, at Holy Trinity Church, Pont- newydd. The coffin was conveyed from the home of the deceased at Griffithstown on a gun carriage The Battery turned out at full strength under the command of Major D. E. Williams, and was accompanied by the regimental band. The service was conducted by the Rev. Richard Jones, vicar of Pontuewydd, after which the firing party dis- charged the usual volleys over the grave of i,heir dead comrade. The deceased, who was unmarried, was taken iU whilst undergoing the three months trainiug at Aldershot and died in the hospital there on the 20th inst:, after six months' sickness. BAZAAR AT CWMBRAN.—On Monday afternoon a bazutr was held in the new drill-hall, Cwmbran, in aid of Newport's New Hospital. The management was undertaken by the Rev. J. A. Williams (curate of Llantarnam), who found a number of willing helpers in the two villages. There were four well- stocked stalls, and on these were temptingly arrayed a goodly assortment of useful and fancy articles. The Ladies in charge were :-Miss Rafarel, Miss Colquhoun, Miss Currie. Miss Award, MissPember- ton, Mrs Mullock, MissVaughan, Mrs Harding and Miss Murphy. Two stalls were provided for refreshments, and at these presided Mrs Hallen and Mrs Tucklield, assisted by Mrs A. J. Morgan and Miss Lucy Hallen. There were a large number of raffles, and the tickets for these found readv sale. The proceedings opened at 3 o'clock, and after a quiet hour or so, business became brisk. LLANTARNAST SCHOOL BOARD.-The usual monthly meeting of this Board was held on Tuesday evening, at the St. Dial's School, Cwmbran. Mr Michael Laughton presided, aud there were also present Messrs. J. Mumford, W. G. Phillips, and T. Baker- Jones (clerk).-The financial statement showed a balance in hand of £ 50 10s 2d. Estimating that the overseers would pay in a second instalment of the last precept drawn, and that all accounts were paid, this balance would next month be reduced to £ 25 6s lid.—Mr Mumford called attention to the filthy state of the schools. It had been decided to charge the Church party 10s 6d for the loan of the school, but he now moved that that charge be with- drawn as they had had to spend nearly that amount in getting the school cleaned before they could use it.—Mr Phillips seconded, and it was carried.— The Clerk stated that Mr James Davies, of Newport, had sent in an account of JE150 for extending the St. Dial's school. It was decided to forward a cheque for that amount.—The appoint- ment of Miss Evans and Miss Raymond as assistant mistresses was confirmed--It was decided to give a fortnight's holiday to the scholars at Christmas.— Mr Mumford moved that a penny saving bank be established in connection with the school, that the clerk make application to the controller of savings banks for permission to establish the same, and that, in the event of permission being granted, the bank be opened on the 1st of January.

War Telegrams. ZD Renter's correspondent at Cape Town says There is a growing estrangement between the Dutch and British in Cape Colony, and an anti-British propaganda is creating general uu- rest. The Dutch and pro-Boer press is con- ducting an organised campaign of misrepre- sentation against the policy of Great Britain, dwelliug daily on the alleged barbarities of British generals and troops. These misrepre- sentations are inflamiug the Ducth sentiment, which at no time has been so hostile to Great Britain as at present.—Press Association War Special'. EDENBURG, Saturday. The centre of interest in Orange River Colony has been removed from the north to the country between the railway and Baautoland, south of a line drawn from Bloemfonteiu through Thaba Nchu to Ladybrand. Mr. Steyn accompanies De Wet. A strong fortified line has been established by the Boers between Ladybrand and Thaba Nchu, and is being continued westward. As a counter-move, two battalions of the Guards, Grenadiers, and 1st Coldstreams, are holding every drift on the Orange River from Aliwal North to Orange River Station. There is a crying need for more mounted men. In the absence of these De Wet's capture is hopeless. -Reuter's Special Service. Lord Roberts reports that the Dewetsdorp garrison, consisting of two guns 68th Field Battery, and detachments of the Gloucestershire Regiment, Highland Light Infantry, and Irish Rifles, about 400 in all, surrendered to the Boers ou November 23. Onr losses were fifteen killed and forty-two wounded. The enemy are said to have numbered 2,500. A column, 1,400 strong, despatched from Edenburg to relieve Dewets- dorp, failed to reach the town in time to effect relief. General Charles Knox joined this force on the 26th, and entered Dewetsdorp, which he found deserted, 75 sick and wounded being left in the town. On the 27th General Knox fought a successful action with Steyu and De Wet near Vaalbank, but no details have been received. The Welsh Yeomen have again been iu action, and added fresh laurels to their list.

A Terrible Typhoon. VICTORIA, BRITISH COLUMBIA, Thursday. Mail advices state that a disastrous typhoon visited Tourtan, Cochin China, early in Nov- ember, destroying several villages. Fifteen 11 hundred natives are reported to have been killed.

A Frightful Accident. Z!5 SAN FRANCISCO, Thursday. A number of persons who were watching a. 11 football match from the roof of a glass works to-day, went through the roof into a furnace. Many were terribly injured.

Return to the Rand. CAPETOWN, Friday. Sir Alfred Milner has written to CJitlanders that it would be folly to repeat the blunder of fixing a definite date for the return to Raud.

Colivicts Bolt. Two convicts eluded the vigilance of the I warders at Borstal prison, Chatham, early this morning, and bolted to woods. A cordon is formed rouud woods, and recapture seems cer- tain.

61 Lord Roberts Recovered JOHANNESBURG, Monday. Lord Roberts has quite recovered from his accident. Miss Roberts is progressing most satisfac- m torily.

Bowyer, and Wickson being absent. Malpas were ever worse off, their prominent absentees being Bussell, G. Smith, and C. Wetter, while as Work- 'man was unable to get away a reserve in Blakemore had to be included. Malpas pressed from the outset, exchanges being for a long time confined to the visitor's half. Play was very fast, but there was too much wildness about the passing of the homesters to allow them to score, although some good work was witnessed at time. Early the home "team narrowly missed scoring, Skinner getting the Detter of several opponents and neatly passing to Holland, who fell almost on the line. Only once or twice during the first half did the leather get just into the Malpas ground. After the change of ends Malpas continued to press strongly, and they gave a better display than -in the preceding half. Simmonds who had been conspicuous .throughout, saved finely from Brewis. Breanon got over, but no try was allowed, -the ball being over the touch line when he secured it. Directly afterwards, Wetter got through cleverly and scored, Cruise failing to convert. Two or three minutes later, Davies added another try, but again there was no goal. Towards the latter part of the same, Usk kept the play in mid-field, Ibut at the finish MaJpa, were still attacking. Final score. iNi A LP AS 2 tries. USK Nil.