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

LORD LLANGATTOCK (ssys a society writer) is still jacbtiog, and has derived much benefit from the ,sea air. liady Llangattock gave her first afternoon party at South Lodge last week, when her beautiful house was crowded with guests.

THANKSGIVING 8USDAI. Local Services. USK. Special thanksgiving services were held in lJsk Parish Church ou Sunday. There was a large congregation at Matins, when the Vicar (Rev. P. L. C. Nash) officiated, and the hymn com- mencing "Now thank we all our God" was sung as a processional. The Special Psalm was the 103rd, and the Special Lessons were 1 Kings viii., 51, and Colossians iii, 1-15, which were read by Mr. Humphreys. The other hymns sung were those beginning Songs of praise the Angels sung," Praise my soul the King of Heaven," and 0 worship the King all glorious above." The Vicar, who preached, took for his text I Chronicles xxii., 18, 19, He said: For more than two years we have closed our service with the hymn voicing the prayer which has been offered from the hearts of thousands, Give peace, 0 Lord, give peace again." Day has followed day, and week has followed week so regularly that we hardly realize it was in October, 1899, that the Boers declared war, and that our troops found themselves unprepared for the sudden descent of the Boer forces upon Natal; and now, after these 30 months of war, the prayer has been answered, and God has given peace in our time-peace again. What shall we render unto the Lord for all his benefits? The time of waiting has seemed longer because we were not prepared for such a stubborn resistance from our foes. When, on the 31st May, 1900-two years ago-Lord Roberts hoisted the British flag at Johannesburg, the day after the flight of President Kruger, we were rearly to think the victory was won, but the Lord has seen fit to leave us two years more to bear the scourge of war, and then on the 31st May again, peace was signed. God has called to their account, by battle or disease, in these years thousands of our fellow-countrymen, and now, when we are called upon to change our prayers into thanksgivings, let us not forget those who have laid down their lives to obtain for us that peace which we rejoice to kne w is now assured. Let us not forget that many of those who went forth so eagerly will not return, and that war has been a scourge which has brought sorrow and desolation into many a home. We know that Usk will not see again two who have been laid to rest in South African graves. We must not forget in our rejoicings the lesson that we are meant to learn in the hour of trial. When God gives peace we must receive it as a gift to us. It comes not from any other hand. He giveth peace in thy borders," sang the Psalmist. The truly thankful heart will not be content with mere noise and shouting and with flags and bells, These are the outward signs of what I trust ia deeply graven in our hearts—thankfulness to God for His great gift. What shall we render unto Him for all He has given ? We have peace in our borders and we must acknowledge that it has come from God. There are many ways in which we may show our thankfulness, but we must begin by acknowledging to Whom we owe it. c, 0 that men would praise the Lord for His goodness and for His wonderful works to the children of men. Let them exalt Him also in the congregation of the people and praise Him in the assembly of the elders." Heartfelt gratitude has found its outlet in heart language, the fervent prayer which poureth into the ear of God the inmost feelings of gratitude and praise. How often we read in the history of Israel of old that when, after a time o'f sore trial. God had delivered them, they followed Him faithfully for a short time, and then we read "they sang His praise." The very next words in the Psalm are, "they soon forgat His works, they waited not for His council." Let not it vii-nilckr fault be charged upon us. Let our thankfulness to God for this, His great national gift of peace, be seen in our lives. Make some definite step in advance in your Christian life as a pledge of your gratitude to God for this His mercy to us. Can you not resolve a more devoted service, a more frequent communion ? Enter into His Courts with thanksgiving and into His Gates with praise." And may we not strive to live at peace with our fellow subjects in the Orange River Colony and the Transvaal, who now take the oath of allegiance to our common Sovereign ? Their conduct in the past towards us has not been good, but 11 let bygones be bygones," according to the ancient custom bury the hatchet and smoke the pipe of peace. Try and find excuses for what is amiss. No doubt they have been grievously misled, fed with most outrageous lies concerning England and her intentions.. The devil is the father of lies and the enemy of peace, and be has been most busy to the last in feeding the minds of those ignorant people with falsehoods. A lie brought death into the world, and lies by the column have brought death into the ranks of friend and foe in South Africa, Try and look upon them as fellow subjects and fellow Christians. Much must be done to re-establish churches aud schools in the new Colonies. The Bishop was, as you will remember, stricken down by illness aud death at the opening of the war. Our missionaries and missionary churches have suffered. There is much to be done for the Church of God in South Africa. It must not be said that England falls short in her duty as a Christian nation to her Colonies. Once before, the 1st June—the day on which the news of peace reached us—was signalised by a great victory, when Lord Howe defeated the French off Ushant, but it was as the victory of peace we observed it this year and you may have noticed in the papers the curious coincidence that the 1st June, in 1802, was the day appointed for a general thanksgiving for the return of peace. and the text which I read to you just now was that chosen by the Bishop of Chichester, who preached on that day, 100 years ago, in West- minster Abbey. Does it not fitly suit our case to- day ? It is the Lord our God who has given us this rest of peace on every side. He has given the inhabitants of the laud into our hand, and we have a duty before us. Now set your heart and your soul to seek the Lord your God. Arise, therefore, and build the sazictuaiies "-these missionary sanctuaries which have been ruined— and bring the ark of the covenant of the Lord and the holy vesgels of God into the House that is to be built in the name of the Lord." King Edward, as the head of this nation, is attending the thanksgiving service at the Cathedral of St. Paul in London to-day. We have joined in the Te Deum this morning, and I propose that as a special act of thanksgiving we repeat it after Evensong to-night. The Choir will lead the song of praise, but it will be sung to such a well-known chant that all the congregation may join in this act of thanksgiving. After the collection this morning we will all join in the 150th Psalm, The offertories to-day will be devoted to soldiers' charities, as we must not forget, in our hour of rejoicing, to care for the mourners of the fallen. We owe a debt of gratitude to the men who at great personal sacrifice and with courage and perseverance have. without grumbling or grudging, borne the burden of the war. I will close with the words of the prophet Nahum, Behold upon the mountains the feet of Him that bringeth good tidings, that publislieth peace! 0 Judah keep thy solemn feasts, perform thy vows." The Doxology was suug as a recessional hymn, and the Organist (Mr. W. R. Martin) played the Hallelujah Chorus." The collection amounted to £ 7 19s. 6d. At Evensong the Rev. John Harris (curate) officiated. The Special Psalms were the 121st and 122nd, and the Special Lessons I Kings viii., 55, and Colossians iii. The hymns sung were the processional and recessional hymns used at the morning service, and those com- mencing O Praise ye the Lord," "Praise to the Holiest in the height," and" 0 God our help in ages past." The Curate preached from St. Matt. xxvi., 52, Put up thy sword again into his place." References to peace were also made at the Wesleyan Chapel by the Rev A. Beer, of Newport. Usk Volunteers, commanded by Captain Stanley M. Williams, and accompanied by the Baud. attended service at Monkswood Church on Sunday morniug, where suitable hymns were Rung, and an appropriate sermon was preached by the Rev John liarris. At the Baptist Chapel reference was made to the recent declaration of peace on Sunday afternoon, Mr Jennings making a few appropriate remarks, and inviting the congregation to unite with the choir and school children in sinking the National Anthem. At the close of his sermon in the evening, the Rev FT, B. Robinson said We join with all Christian Churches to-day in expressing a aeose of satisfaction that this terrible war has now, happily, terminated, and our gratitude to Almighty God for conferring upon us and that far off country the blessings of pence. It is rather a humiliating thought to remember that in the earlier stages of this war comparatively few of us thought as we should have done of the miserips and burdens of war. We were too much engrossed in the progress of events, now elated by the news of victory, now depressed by the tidings of defeat. During its later stages, when it dragged wearily and uneventfully along, we were able to think as a nation of the misery, the poverty, the unreinediil evils of war. To-day, while we rejoice, there is a sense of loss and grief in many a heart we may show magnanimity, kindness, and charity to those who were once our enemies, but we cannot give back to them the fathers, sons, and brothers who have fallen in this unhappy struggle. p I We may speak in tones of admiration of the bravery and self-sacrifice of our soldiers, but we cannot restore to many a family its chief support nor hush the children's eries for parents that are no more. Let us see to it as a nation that we do not ignore the lessons of this period of trial through which we have passed, bnt rather seek to cleanse our national life from many evils that so sadly defile it to-day, and strive to earn more justly still the right to be called and esteemed as a 'Christian country.' We devoutly thank God that He has answered the oft- repeated and earnest prayer of His Church that peace and goodwill might triumph." The service terminated with the singinsj of a national hymn, God bless our native land." ABERGAVENNY. I At the invitation of the Mayor, Alderman J. G. Thomas, a municipal thanksgiving service was held at the Parish Church of St. Mary's. A procession was marshalled at the general market, consisting of the Mayor, Mr J. T. Rutherford, town clerk, Mr J. B. Walford, and a number of councillors and officials, followed by the members of the local Companies of Volunteers, 4th V.B.S.W.B., under the command of Major W. J. R. Marsh, there being aho present Lieut. Addie and Veterinary-Surgeon Captain D. M. Storrar, R. M.E. the Fire Brigade, under Captain Powell; and several Friendly Societies. They were preceded by the mace bearer and the London and North-Western Silver Band. The Vicar, Rev F. W. G. Whitfield, officiated, the Lessons being read by Mr T. Headland Sefton, and the sermon oreached by the Rev Arthur M. Peckham, of London, secretary of the S.P.C.K., from the text, A time of war and a time of peace." Special collections were taken on behalf of the Society. Mr W. R. Carr, A.R.C.O presided at the organ, and a special anthem was rendered, Mr Lewis Morgan taking the solo. At the close of the service the National Anthem was sung. The Church was crowded. A large number of people lined the route both going to and returning from Church.—At the Y. M.C. A. the Rev Thomas Bowen delivered an addrets on peace, to men only, in the afternoon. CAERLEON". I On Sunday morning a thanksgiving service for peace was held at St. Cadoc's Church, Ctterleon, and a most eloquent sermon was preached by the Vicar, the Rev Oanon Bedwell, B.D., who took for his text, 2nd Chronicles, 20th chap., 30th verse. During the service the large congregation sang the hymns "O God our help in ages past," "Now thank we all our God," Forward be our watchword," and the "National Anthem."—In the evening a service of thanksgiving was held at the Baptist Chapel by the Rev D. Bevan Jones, in the presence of a large congregation. The reverend gentleman delivered an excellent sermon from St. John, 14 c., 27 v., and included in it those verses on peace by J. Hampden Gurney. The congrega- tion sang Hickson's Hymn for our Country," aud at the conclusion the choir rendered "Peace, perfect peace." GRIFFITHSTOWN. f St. Hilda's Church was filled on Sunday evening, when the Vicar of Trevethin, the Rev E. Morgan, in the absence of the Rev J. E. Dunn, through bereavement, preached from Ephesians, 5, 20.- After the Benediction the Te Deum was sung, the service closing with the Hallelujah Chorus. MONMOUTH. I The thanksgiving service at St. Mary's Parish Church was very well attended, many visitors being present. The R.M.R.E. (Militia) also attended, and were accommodated in the south aisle, the band being placed in the side chapel. The Vicar, the Rev C. F. Reeks, conducted the service. Special psalms were sung as well as the hymns Now thank we all our Loid" and "Onward Christian Soldiers." The Vicar preached from the words of Samuel, Fear the Lord and serve Him in truth with all your hearts, for consider how great things the Lord hath done for you." The authorised thanksgiving prayers were said, and at the conclusion of the service, to the accompaniment of the Militia band, the congrega- tion heartily sang the National Anthem. The collection was in aid of the widows and orphans of the men who have fallen in the war.—The morning services at St. Thomas' Church and the Grammar School Chapel were also of a special thanksgiving nature.—At the Catholic Church the National Anthem was sung after the principal mass and the "Te Deum" was sung after the Benediction in the evening.—At the evening services in all the Free Churches special hymns were sung and sermons preached. NEWPORT. I The prescribed forms of service were used at the Anglican Churches, and at the Free Churches of the town, hymns, prayers, and sermons were full of thanksgiving. All the services were largely attended, and the worshippers entered with zest into the spirit of the occasion. The military, both Regulars and Voluuteers, attended different Churches for the morning service. The garrison at the Barracks joined with the 4th Volunteer Battalion South Wales Borderers, and marched to St. Mark's Church, whilst the 2nd Volunteer Battalion South Wales Borderers were present at St. John's, Maiudee, and the Newport Batteries of the Moumouthshire Artillery attended St. Paul's Church. There were large musters of all the sections, and each was headed by its band, and marched to and from headquarters to lively music. The streets were thronged, the crowd being of equal dimensions to that seen in the streets upon holiday occasions. I PONTYPOOL. The ABC and G Companies of the local Volunteer Battalion South Wales Borderers, attended the thanksgiving service in Trevethin Church on Sunday afternoon. The Vicar, the Rev E. Morgan, officiated. Surgeon-Major Essex read the first lesson, while Major H. D. Griffiths read the second. The other officers present were: Majors Griffiths and Murphy, S.M. Essex, Captains Hales and Charles, and Lieutenant illuiligaii.-Tlie National Anthem brought the service to a conclusion. PONTYMOILE. There was a large congregation in St. Matthew's Church, on Sunday morning, when the rector, the Rev A. W. A. Williams based his sermon on Psalms 46. 10, Be still then, and know that I am God."—The National Anthem was rendered prior to the Benediction. —

-I CADBURY'S COCOA can always be relied upon for its purity. Adulterate! Cocoas are risky and should, be avoided. CA.D BUR Y'S COCOA is highly benefioial to young and old, the delicate aud the robust; it contains all the full nourishing properties of the Cocoa bean. It is Cocoa and Cocoa only.-3 FIBE AT Ross.—The shop of Mr Aubrey, clothier, Broad-street, Ross, was destroyed by fire on Saturday night, and damage to the extent of £ 300 or iC400 done.

USK. Agent—Urt. E. K. Janet, Stationer CRICKET.—In consequence of the rain the match between Usk and Ponthir was abandonel on Saturday. j ANGLING.-The following salmon have been killed since our hut list:—Saturday, Mr R. W, Rickards, three, 111b, 121b, and 231b; ATr E. P. Bisshopp, one, 2llb. Monday-Mr R. W. Rickards, two, 101b and llilb. Thursday—Mr H. W. Pride, one. FUNRItAL.-The funeral of Mrs Parker, of the Laurels, Usk, took place on Saturday last, and was very largely attended by relatives and friends. The chief mourners were :—Mr M. A. Parker, the Misses Parker [son and daughters of the deceasedl. Mr Richard Parker, Mr Alex. Parker, Mr John Parker, Mr W. Hobbs, and Mr Herbert Lloyd. The Rev P. L. C. Nash [Vicar] officiated, and Mr W. R. Martin [organist], played the "Dead March" in Saul in the Church, and accompanied the singing of the hymns com- mencing "My God, my Father, while I stray" and A few more years shall roll." The wreaths were numerous. The coffin was of polished oak with brass furniture. Mr R. A. Rogers was the undertaker. BAPTIST CHAPEL.—The Sunday School anniver- sary services were held on Jane 8th. The services morning and evening were conducted by the Rev H. B. Robinson (pastor). Reference was made more particularly in the morning to Sunday School work," Mr Robinson choosing for his text Psalm xc., 17. In the evening a floral service was held, the Chapel being very prettily decorated for the occasion. The rev gentleman took for his subjact The fragrance of flowers," basing his remarks on Proverbs xxvii., 9. In the afternoon the choir and Sunday School scholars, under the leadership of Mr James Wheeler, rendered a floral service of sone, entitled "Summer Roses." Solos were given by Miss A. Thomas and Miss F. Jennings, a quartette by the Missses A. Thomas and Cooper and Messrs Edwards and T. Brown, and a children's quartette by the Misses Violet Morgan. A. Smith, M. Cooper, and N. Stockham (alto), and a short portion of the service was recited by Annie Brown, one of the younger scholars. The connec- tive readinga were given by Mr F. Jennings (superintendent), Miss A. Hiley presiding at the organ.—On Wednesday afternoon the annual treat was held in a field kindly lent by Mr J. James, Llancayo, Mr F. Jennings conveying the little ones to and fro.

CORONATION CELEBRATION COMMITTEE. The eighth meeting of the Usk Committee for organising the local festivities at the King's Coronation was held at the Town Hall, Usk. on Tuesday evening, when there were present:- Mr H. A. Addis, J.P. (chairman), Revs. P. L. C. Nash, H. B. Robinson, G. M. Williams, Mrs Bowen, Messrs. E. W. Waters. G. Edmunds, C. J. Francis, W. Workman, J. Billingham, R. Morgan, G. Mundy, J. Haggett, T. J. Smith, T. Rees, jr., H. Ault, A. W. Trotman, A. G. Graham, R. A. Rogers, E. Williams, and A. F. Lucas (hon. sec.) The Chairman, as Treasurer, stated that he had received £ 90 16s Id. Correspondence with Mr Joseph Lawrence, M.P., was read, from which it appeared that the hon. member had decided to present the children with medals, the same as at Monmouth. On the proposition of the Chairman, it was decided to accept the kind offer, and to tender Mr Lawrence the best thanks of the Committee for his handsome contribution. The majority of the members of the Committee nominated ladies to preside at the tea tables, and it was decided to ask each to provide a tea pot, milk jugs, a sugar basin, and three large plates. Various sub-committees were then formed s follows:- The stib-committee appointed to deal with the tenders for provisions, &c., recommended the following orders being given:- Bread. Mr Cozens, 30 loaves; Mr Hobbe, 20 Mr Price, 20; and Mr Jones, 20; cake, loOlbs each, Messrs Hobbs, Herbert, Stibbs, and Cozens. Tea, Mr Hobbs, 81bs: Mr Jones, 31b; Mr Cozens, 'Gibs Mrs Roberts, 3Ibs sugar, Mr Jones, 501bs, and Mr Hobbs Mlbs butter. Mrs Roberts, Mr Hobbs, and Mr Herbert, 201bs each two cases of oranges and 200 coooanuts, Mr Doubleday 40lbs nuts, Mr Rowen; sweets, in 2oz packets, Messrs. Noblett, Liverpool; milk, Mr Morgan, 15 gals., and Mr Hobbs, 10 gals. The report was adopted. The dinner and tea tickets were distributed amongst the collectors for the various distticts, the dinner tickets being allocated to the houses catering.

PONTYPOOL RURAL DISTRICT COUNCIL. The monthly meeting of the above Council was held at the Sesiolls House, Usk, on Friday evening last. when there were preseiit:-Mr S. T. Griffin, J.P. (nhairman), Mr W. Marfell (vice-chairman), Rev W. W. Jones, Messrs. 1. Heath, R. W. Spencer, W. Charles, J. T. Turner, J. Williams, R. Williams, J. James, W. Newman, T. Watkins (clerk), and R. Derrett (surveyor and inspector). A balance in hand of X207 7s 8d was reported. The Clerk also reported the receipt of ES 5s from the County Treasurer towards the cost of maintenance of the road from Little Mill to Llanover. THE REPORTS. The Surveyor's report stated that twelve loads of ashes had been put upon the Church path, Llanddewy Vach, but half-a-dozen more loads were required. He had met the Chairman and Mr J. Williams at the biidge over the Soar brook at the bottom of the Darren, and it was decided to put a good bridge there as the span was so great. A little gorretting was also required there. He had marked out the land for the improvement of the Ponttiewydd-road. A little fencing woo wanted at an arch way over the stream dividing the parishes of Gwehelog and Trostrey; also some at an archway over the stream near Llandenny Walk-, but that was a joint fence with the Monmouth R.D.C., and he had written to the Surveyor of that Council to meet him there. It was resolved to order the extra loads of ashes required and to extend the bridge at Gwehelog- Trostrey at a small cost and obviate further expense for fencing. As Inspector, Mr Derrett reported that an out- break of measles had occurred at Gwehelog, and the Medical Officer had recommended the closing of the School there for 14 days. A fatal case of scarlatina-the origin of which he could not traca—had occurred at the old Royal Oak, Goytre. Several people had complained to him of a nuisauae near Usk Bridge, and be had since received a letter from Messrs. Davies, of the Woodbine, stating that the matter had been remedied. A nuisance, caused by the accumulation of slops, existed at the Black Rows, Pontnewydd. At Llangibby Schools the force pump was out of order, and in consequence the flushing apparatus at the offices was useless. With regard to the fatal case of scarlatina, Mr Charles complaiued of a pool on a waste piece of land there, and said it should be either cleaned out or filled in. No action was taken in the matter, however. As to the Usk Bridge complaint the Surveyor was asked to again report. In the Pontnewydd and Llangibby matters steps were ordered to be taken to bring about all improvement. PONTHIR AND THE WAIN WATER SUPPLY. The Clerk reported on a visit he had made to the district with the Engineer, Mr D. J. Lougher, and the suggestion that the positions of the wells should be altered was agreed to on their recommendation. It was decided to obtain Mr Lougher's terms for superintending the carrying out of the scheme, and to then ask him to prepare specifications, the special committee in charge of the matter to continue to deal with it. A JOINT BRIDGE. The Llanfrechfa Upper U.D.C. wrote agreeing to contribute their quota—one fchird--of the (cost of the repair of the bridge at Pont- newydd. I QVESTION OF ROYALTY. The Clerk read a letter from Mr Nicholl as to the royalty due iu respect of stone taken from Ty Captain Quarry. Captain Quarry. It was stated that the tenant received L2 per annum. The Clerk was asked to look into the matter and report as to the terms under which this amount was paid. PONTNEWYDD ROAD IMPROVEMENT. Mr Turner said people were complaining that this matter was not being proceeded with as expeditiously as it should be. The Chairman also remarked that it seemed a long time about, and it should be hurried on or the fine weather would have come and gone before tbev let the contract. The Clerk siid thAt as there was to be purchase of land it wouM b" n cessary to apply to the Local Government H .:He! f..r permission to ptircliage, and he had not yet, :t the quantity required. In reply to furVur questions, he said no Local Government Board inquiry would be necessary unless they wished to borrow the money for lhe work. He thought it might be carried out without borrowing.71 Mr Turner said he thought some one would buy the land for the improvement, and that the parish would not be called upon for the I amount It was decided to push on the improvement as fast as possible. AN IMPORTANT CHANGE. I In accordance with notice Mr Isaac Heath (Glascoed) moved that the resolution fixing the meetings of the Council at Usk be rescinded. He said he did this not with a view to taking the fixture from Usk altogether, but for six months— the Summer months -of the year only, since it was very awkward for those living on his side of the district to come to U^k for the evening meetings then. They had to leave early to catch their train, and there might be important business left affect- ing them. Mr Charlei;, in seconding, said it would certainly be better for his side of the district to have the change. Mr Spencer said in his opinion the members of the Council from the other side of the district were acting very selfishly in proposing the alteraliou. They did not consider the fact that if the Rural District Council meetings were held at Usk the Board of Guardians' meetings were heid at Pontypool, and from the Usk side some of them had to travel eight or ten miles to get to the latter. They were therefore placed at as gteat-if not greater—inconvenience with regard to their Poor Law duties as were the other fide with regard to highway and sanitary matters. He therefore did not consider it at all fair that the Council meetings should be held in Pontypool. and thought they should meet their public obligations in a better spirit. Mr Marfell urged that the meetings in the Summer should be held in Usk if they had a change at all, since there was a better chance of getting a quorum here in the evenings than there would be any where in the afternoons at such a season. Mr Heath suggested that the meetings of the Council should follow the meetings of the Board of Guardians. It was stated, however, that this would not work, inasmuch as the Guardians' duties occupied much time, and in much smaller Unions where that arrangement had been tried it bad failed. Guardians from the Usk side would have to leave home early in the morning, if such an arrangement were made. and would not return home until late in the evening. On being put to the vote, Messrs. Heath, Williams (2), Turner, and Charles voted for the motion and the Rev W. W. Jones, Messrs. Marfell, Spencer, and James voted against whilst the Chairman and Mr Newman remained neutral. The motion was therefore carried by five votes to four. Mr Marfell then moved that the Summer meetings be held at Usk on the first Friday in the month at 6.45 p.m., and the Winter meetings at Pontypool oil the first Saturday iu the month at 2 p.m. He said he was willing to meet the Pontypool side members half way, and his proposition was made on behalf of the business of the Council, and to ensure a quorum being present. Mr Spencer I will second that, now that the matter has gone so far as this. Mr Charles proposed as an amendment the reverse order of things, with the exception that all the meetings should be held in the afternoon, and Mr Turner seconded. Mr Heath thought the Usk side had acted generously in the matter, and he should support Mr Marfell's proposition. Mr Marfell replied to Mr Charles on the question of the members' convenience pointing out that his arguments applied as much to the one side as the other. In the result the proposition was carried by five votes to four, the voting being the same as before with the exception of Mr Heath. THE CORONATION, I The Chairman suggested that the next meeting should be held on Friday, June 27th, with a view to the members accepting an invitation from him to dine at the Three Salmon's Hotel, Usk, that evening as a Coronation Celebration. The suggestion was adopted and the invitation accepted.

ifH^RCH ERi^ Si pGQijpRETURMS i REG terie:p ^Jjpl facsimile of One-Ounce Packet. Archer's Golden Returns The Perfection of Pipe Tobacco. COOL, SWEET, AND FRAGRANT.

I Depletion of the Usk. I CONFERENCE AT NEWPORT. A conference of the local authorities having jurisdiction over the River Usk was held on Tuesday at the Monmouthshire County Council Offices, Newport, when Lord Glanusk presided. An agitation has for the past few months been in progress to pI event the depletion of the Usk, so well known as a saimon and general fishery river, of its water, to the detriment of fishing aud its general appearance. Much of the water has for years past been diverted iuto the Aber- gavenny and Brecon Canal, owned by the Great Western Railway Company, and of late allega- tions of undue waste and other things have been made against that Company. When the views of the engineer to the rail- way Company were expressed, the members deliberated and decided upon the adjournment of the conference, so that the large staff of surveyors now employed in examining the course of the river, its tributaries and diversions, might make a report. The next meeting will probably be held at an early date, and the general feeling of the meeting was that the Great Western Railway Company would effect a great improvement. One of the plans suggested is that less water should be diverted in the upper reaches of the river, and that more should be taken in the lower reaches, in the vicinity of the industrial enterprises supplied from the river. Those present were Lord Glanusk, Captain F. Travers, aud Mr H. Hotchkiss (representing th Breconshire County Council), Mr A. D. Berrington, and Mr S. H. Cowper Colea (Usk Board of Conservators), Lord Tredegar. and Alderman E. Grove (Monmouthshire County Council), and Mr J. Inglis and Mr Sauuders (Great Western Railway Company).

Technical Instruction in Monmouthshire. VISIT OF THE CHIEF INSPECTOR OF AGRICULTURE. Mr C. E. Brooke-Hunt, the chief instructor of agricultural education under the Board of Agriculture, visited Monmouthshire on Thursday and made a tour of inspection of a number of teaching centres carried on under the direction and guidance of Mr W. J. Grant, who has charge of the agricultural education of the county carried on by the county council. The Inspector was able on Thursday to see what was being done in the matter of cider- making, to witness the operations of the hedging class at Caerwent, to see a typical Caerphilly cheese dairy at S:ough Farm, Caerweut, and to inspect sheep-shearing classes at Tredegar Park, which have been carried on under the direction of the Bassaleg Farmers' Association. SHOEING COMPETITION AT USK. Going to Usk the Inspector was present at the competition amongst lads in shoeing (uuder the auspices of the Usk Farmers' Club.) Mr Storrar, F.R.C.V.S., who has been impart- ing the higher technique of shoeing, was present and judged the work. Four prizes were awarded, in this order :— 1st, John Probert, Crumlin 2nd, Henry Hoskins, Abertillery 3rd, A. W. Jones, St Arvans 4th, Fred Whitehorn, Tredegar h.c., H. Messenger, Panteg. Mr Brooke-Hunt congratulated the youths on their good work in shoeing, and incidentally mentioned that, perhaps, the masters and the public needed as much instruction as workmen in technical matters, and particularly was it to be hoped that when the workmen turned out first-class work a good price would be paid for it. THE POULTRY CLASSES AT LLANGIBBY. On Thursday evening the Inspector visited Llangibby Castle, where Mr R. H. Bromley, the poultry expert and lecturer, was holding the last of a series of six lectures. Previously the meet- ings had been held in the Club Room of the village, but, as practical demonstrations were to be the feature at this one, the proceedings took place at the poultry runs of tbe Castle, by the kind permission of Dr F. Rutherfoord Harris, J.P. Here close upon 100 assembled and were accommodated with seats upon the green sward. They followed closely the lecturer's observations, and watched with keen interest the illustrative demonstrations which were deftly given by Mr S. Cook, Dr Harris's head poultrymau. In the first place Mr Bromley exhibited a model market egg basket, with card-board sec- tions, and he pointed out that a basket, although. involving a greater initial expense, was in the end cheaper than a wooden box, since it was more durable. Samples of various prepared poultry foods-cut bones, ground oats, &c.-pre- viously recommended were then shown, and the demonstrations followed. Mr Cook instantan- eously killed a bird by dislocating its neck,. which was described as the most humane method, and preferable to the local one of cutting into the brain through the roof of the mouth. The bleeding was said to be as effectual as by the other method, and plucking could be at once commenced (as was shown). One drawback to it was that the bird could not be dressed for mar- ket with its head on, as was the local way- Birds were then drawn and trussed in the "poulterers'" method for roasting and boiling, string only being used. Subsequently a demon- stration in cramming from a treadle machine was given, the lecturer explaining the way in which the bird should be held and pointing out the necessity of keeping the tongue down with the finger so that the feeding tube might be in- serted and the food sent into the crop. Cram- ming, he said, was only applicable where there was a large number of birds. A fattening coop —costiug 7s—was shewn, with trough in front. The birds, he said, were shut up for a fortnight before it was intended to kill them, and they were given soft food, to finish the fattening process. Milk and ground oats produced the best results—white fat and flesh. The food should be placed in the trough at regular hours and should not be left before the birds after they had satisfied themselves. At the conclusion of the lecture, the Rev H. A. Williams proposed a vote of thanks to Mr Bromley for his interesting and useful course of lectures, and this was carried with acclamation.

11 I I E Is a wonderful water proofer for B O OT S and HARNESS- Softens and preserves the leather. Pleasant odour. Allows polish- ing. Highest Awards 22 Exhibitions. Tins 2d., 6d., Is 2s. 6d. OJ all Boot makers, Saddlers Ironmongers, ¡£,c. Manufactory— Dulwich, London, S.Et

NJr. Chamberlain on South Africa. Speaking at the Corona Club, whose -membership is confined to officials of the -Colonial Service in various parts of the Empire, on Wednesday, Mr Chamberlain said that the country now had a peace which he thought he might say was honourable to both parties. They had been very generous to their late opponents in rega d to everything that concerned personal and private matters, but they had given up nothing of substance, and had done nothing to prejudice the ultimate solution of the "South African question, to which they were all looking as a justification for the war. It was indeed a good augury for the future .that the Boers had shown a ready and loyal spirit to accept the altered conditions. If those feelings continued, as he thought they would they might rely upon it that we were 0 at the beginning of an era of prosperity in ,South Africa which that country had previously never known.

THE MOST NUTRITIOUS. Lamar E P P S S o GRATEFUL—COMFORTING. 0 A BREAKFAST AND SUPPER.

'upon A, time a gentleman who was going to have his head cut off wanted to speak, on the ground that being the principal performer in the matter he ought to he itUowed to say a few words. (Laughter.) He agreed with their worthy Member of Parliament that County Council should have a little more power to deal with matters that came before them, Corporations might also be given a little more power. When the County Counoils were formed ithere were a gieut many croakers who said that -they would increase the rate", but he had yet to ■learn why they should act differently to other local •government bodies, such as Town Councils and 'Corporations, who, so far as he knew, had not cobbed anyone or taken away anyone's property. "■Their work bad justified their creation, and he .thought they might be trusted to use any powers "given them with discretion and judgment. He had ,great faith in the Mayor and Corporation of Newport taking c:rtJ of other people's property as -well as of their own, ind he thanked them for their kind hospitality extended over 80 long a period. (Applause.) I Alderman Bear, senior alderman (in the absence .,of the Mayor, who is in London looking after the interests of the Corporation Bill), responded in a ,witty manner, and claimed a continuance of the close ? friendship and amity which had so long existed between town and county. Councillor J. R. Jacob in giving The other representative bodies of the County referred to the importance of the labours of the little army employed gratuitously in looking after the public weal. Major Williams, responding in the absence of the Mayor of Abergavenny, said his one regret was that the County Council new buildings were not being opened in the large and important town of Abergavenny instead of in Newport. The members might then work amid beautiful scenery and enjoy invigorating air. (Laughter.) Mr Nehemiah Phillips, Mr B. H. Deakin (town clerk of Monmouth), and Mr J. A. Shepard (Tredegar) also responded. Alderman Vaughan (Newport), gave The Monmouthshire County Council." He remarked -that at the first meeting of the Council at Usk the hope was expressed that all political differences would be sunk, so that there should be that unity of action which would promote the general interests and well being of the County. He was proud to think that that advice had been acted upon. (Applause.) Referring to the new Council ■Chamber the speaker said it was calculated to make the Newport Corporation jealous, so much superior was it to their Council Chamber. He pointed out that the interests of the County and of Newport were to a great extent identical, and he asked for that co-operation which should -Increase the prosperity of both. Alderman E. Grove (chairman) responded, and Ksaid the Council acted simply on the motto of doing their best for the County irrespective of politics or creeds, and proceeded to deal with the good work which had been done in the County. He expressed deep regret at the absence of the tSurveyor. "The Building Committee, County Surveyor, and Contractor," was submitted by Councillor W. P. James, who said the new buildings were worthy of the Council, and also of the County Borough in which they were situate. n In response, Sir Henry Mather-Jackson, Bart, referred with regret to the absence of the Surveyor. Only the Building Committee, he said, who had %ad to do with the details of the building could appreciate to the full what an immense amount of time and thought Mr Tanner had given to the work. What they had seen that day, however, proved to them how carefully and properly the work had been carried out. (Hear, hear.) As a Council, he thought they had been extremely modest. They had been in existence several years, ,alld having done what they could to improve the police stations, police courts, &c., in the various districts of the County, they had at last turned to themselves and seen to it that they were properly housed. He recognised as much as anyone the kind hospitality of the County Borough of Newport, but with the prospect of their own multifarious duties being still more added to, and having in view the fact that enlargements were necessary to their former offices, they had built themselves a habitation in which to properly discharge the duties of their office. (Applause.) Councillor T. Parry gave The Chairman," than whom, he paid there was no more popular nobleman in the land. (Cheers.) With all due deference to his lordship he would venture to say that there was no man more beloved amongst (them, and they would all devoutly hope and pray that Providence might spare him for many years to come to carry on that good and beneficent work in which he was always engaged. (Cheers.) Lord Tredegar, in returning thanks, said a distinguished philosopher had sa' that the proper test of life was first to be virtuous, and, secondly, to be praised. He would not lay any claim to the first, but he was afraid that that day he had had more than his share of praise. A historical student was once asked to describe the two principal speeches ot history—one of ancient end one of modern history. He chose as his -example of ancient history, "Let there be light," and of modern history, "Up, Guards and .at 'em." That was the sort of speech that he should like to finish up the evening with. "Up, Guards, and at 'em" was never spoken. (Laughter.) The Duke of Wellington never said it at Waterloo; but, of course, that did not signify. (Laughter.) The historical student said be did, and they must abide by that. (Renewed daughter.) Again referring to the kindness of the Mayor, Ex-Mayors, and Corporation of the Borough of Newport, his lordship remarked that "the County Council would be happy to lend them their new Council Chamber any time in the future "when they decided to re-build their own. (Hear, hear, and cheers.) The interesting proceedings then terminated.