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

Conferring the Freedom. I Lord Roberts and the party left the sacred edifice for the Town Hall, where the freedom of the borough was conferred. The Field-Marshal was everywhere cheered. A large concourse of spectators assembled in Monk-street and Zion- street to see the party go by. The school children were accommodated with places in the cattle market. A long while before the actual time for con- ferring the freedom of the borough the Town Hall assembly-room was crowded. A very gay aspect was given to the place by the pretty decorations carried out, the walls being covered with flags, festoons hanging from the ceiling, and the platform being set off with palms, ferns and other plants. The Abergavenny Male Voice Party under the conductorsbip of Mr H. Morgan, sang a number of part songs. The Mayor presided and called upon the Town Clerk (Mr J. T. Rutherford) to read the scroll, from which it appeared that, at a meeting of the Town Council of the Borough of Abergavenny in March it was unanimously resolved that, in con- sideration of the eminent military services rendered to the Empire by Field-Marshal the Right Honble. Earl Roberts, V.C., K.G., K.P., G.C.B., &c., the honorary freedom of the Borough be conferred on his lordship. Then, Earl Roberts rising, and taking the testament handed to him, the Town Clerk administered the oath and at the close the new freeman signed the burgess roll amidst hearty cheers. The Mayor then asked Lord Roberts's acceptance of the scroll, which was enclosed in a silver and gilt casket of chaste design, and remarked that the presentation of the freedom was not only the unanimous wish of the Town Council, but also of the burgesses of the town. They felt that such a thing not only conferred an honour upon the town, but was also appreciated by the recipient. Aber- gavenny was a very old borough. Its ancient charter was for a very long time lost, until their good friend, the Marquess of Abergavenny, interested himself to obtain it again. The only other freeman before that occasion was the Marquess himself, and he thought that that showed that they were a little bit particular about whom they admitted. (Laughter.) Lord Roberts, who had a splendid reception, the whole audience rising and cheering, said they had paid him a very great honour in presenting him with the freedom of their ancient borough, and he hoped that they and the whole of the inhabitants of Abergavenny would accept his most sincere thanks. It was an honour he highly appreciated, and the more so because, as the Mayor had just said, it had been most sparingly bestowed- (laughter and cheers). He thought it a privilege to have his name on the roll which contained the name of his host the Marquess of Abergavenny, a nobleman who was so well known and so justly esteemed and beloved in that district. (Cheers.) He could assure them that he was very proud that day, and that he greatly valued the honour. He would ever prize the very beautiful casket which the Mayor had just presented to him. (Loud cheers.) The Mayor then asked the Marquess of Abergavenny to accept a small jewel in memory of that occasion. They bad had the Marquess with them many years now, he said, and they all hoped that he would be spared to them for many years more. He (the Mayor) would not be occupying the proud position he did that day but for the Marquess of Abergavenny. He then pinned the jewel on the breast of the noble lord. In reply, the Marquess of Abergavenny said that he, like Lord Roberts, could say that he was very proud that day. His Worship the Mayor had been good enough to say that he was chiefly instrumental in getting back the charter for the old town. Well, perhaps, he was, and it gave him great pleasure to see the chief magistrate in mayoral robes again and the aldermen aud councillors in uniform. (Cheers.) He thanked the Mayor and Corporation for their great kindness in presenting him with that pretty badge, which, he trusted he should often wear. (Applause.)

I The Lnucheon. I LORD ROBERTS ON THE IMPORTANCE OF RIFLE SHOOTING. The public luncheon was held in the spacious market hall, where a plenitude of bunting added to the effect of the festive scene. There were between 400 and 500 ladies and gentlemen present. The Marquess of Abergavenny presided, having on his right hand the guest of the day and on his left the Mayoress (Mrs Norris, the sister of the Mayor). Also at the cross-table and present were: Lady Dorothy Nevill, the Hon Mrs Duberly, Lord Tredegar, Sir James Hills-Johnes, Sir Arthur W. Mackworth, Bart., Sir Henry Mather Jackson, Bart., Mr J. Clifford Cory, Colonel Ivor Herbert, C.B., the Hon Mra Herbert of Llanarth, Colonel Mausel, Lieut. Mansel, Ald. W. Vaughan Morgan (Lord Mayor designate of London, who has early Abergavenny associations), Colonel W. Dyne Steel, Mr Reginald Herbert, Major Gilbert Harris, Mr S. C. Bosanquet, Colonel Wallis, Colonel Clifford Phillips, Colonel D. E. Williams, Colonel Wheeley, the visiting Mayors, the Rev Morgan Gilbert, &c. The Mayor occupied the vice-chair. During the luncheon the Male Voice Party sang part songs in a very acceptable manner, and one of the bands played selections. The health of the King having been drunk with musical honours, THE NOBLE CHAIRMAN I proposed the toast of Field-Marshal Earl Roberts, V.C." At the outset he explained why he and not the Mayor occupied the chair on that occasion. The Mayor, he said, had been very kind and considerate to him, and had very good- naturedly said that as he was the first freeman of that old town he should take the chair in order to propose the toast of the second freeman. (Cheers.) It was now his duty to propose that toast, the health of the distinguished Field-Marshal Lord Roberts. (Cheers ) It was not his intention to recount all the great services Lord Roberts had rendered our country. They all knew his great and gallant services to Crown and State; the whole world knew them. (Cheers.) They had been repeated over and over again at large meetings and at small, and he (the noble speaker) would, therefore, only say that, on the part of all there, they were proud to see the distinguished Field-Marshal in that small but very ancient town of theirs—(cheers)—and they gave him a sincere and loyal welcome. He trusted that when Lord Roberts left them he would carry the feeling away that he knew perfectly well he had been welcomed by everyone in the neighbourhood. He asked them to fill their glasses and drink the health of our distinguished Field-Marshal Earl Roberts, V.C., with three times three and one cheer more. The toast was then drunk amidst a scene of striking enthusiasm, the audience cheering and waving their handkerchiefs and singing For he's a jolly good fellow." LORD ROBERTS, I who had another great ovation on rising to respond, said he really could not tell them how much he felt the very great welcome they had given him, nor could he thank the noble Marquess sufficiently for the kind words he had said about him. It was quite true that, small as Abergavenny might be, he bad never had a larger welcome. z, (Cheers). He should most certainly carry away with him a very delightful recollection of his visit to Abergavenny. He was very much touched some mouths ago when he heard from his Worship the Mayor that it had been proposed that he should be given the freedom of Abergavenny, and he had no hesitation in accepting the offer, and he could assure them that he had that day most thoroughly appreciated all that they had done for him. (Cheers.) When he got upon his legs he was very apt to talk on one subject. They may, perhaps, have heard of that subject perhaps have heard enough, and would wish to hear no more about it that day. ("No, no.") That subject was the importance of this country encouraging, as much as it possibly could, RIFLE SHOOTING, I (Cheers.) He did not think there could possibly be two opinions as to the wisdom or desirability of a soldier being an expert in the weapon with which he was armed, and if he was to be efficient it was essential that he should have practice. No man, however clever he might be, could shoot with a rifle unless he had a certain amount of practice, and practice could not be obtained without giving men opportunity. Even the soldiers of the regular army had, many of them, perhaps, not sufficient ranges, and these were often so distant that they could not be taken to them more than once or twice a year to go through their annual course of training. If that was so for the regular Army it was still more difficult for the Militia, the Yeomanry, and the Volunteers to go through their course, and he very much doubted whether they would be ever able to make them- selves thoroughly efficient in rifle shooting unless the whole country took it up as a national pursuit. That was what he wanted toasee done. If it were done, the best part of the efficiency of the Army would have been attained, because, whatever the organization may be, it would be impossible for an army to be efficient if the men who composed it were not skilled in the use of the weapon which they had to use. But if everybody could shoot, the difficulties of the question of organization and training would be very materially lessened, because the men would know the most important part of their work, and OUR ARMY WOULD BE EFFICIENT. (Cheers.) He could not too strongly urge every- body to take up the question of rifle shooting, and to make it a national pursuit just as our ancestors did with the cross bow. History told them what that did for them, and when we did the same with rifle shooting we should be as celebrated in times to come as were our forefathers who fought at Cressy and Poictiers. (Cheers.) OTHER TOASTS. The Mayor of Abergavenny, in proposing the toast of The Visiting Mayors," expressed his pleasure at seeing so many of them present, and said it showed how highly they appreciated the brilliant services of the illustrious Field-Marshal Lord Roberts, for many nf them had come a great distance in order to be present. The Mayor of Monmouth replied, and said they were delighted to have the opportunity of coming to Abergavenny to meet Lord Roberts. He proposed the toast of The Marquess of Abergavenny" in suitable terms. In returning thanks, the noble Chairman said it bad given him very great pleasure to preside there that day and to see the number of Mayors who had come to help in giving a hearty welcome to Lord Roberts. It showed how popular and how very much beloved was the gallant Field-Marshal throughout the country. (Cheers.)

I Military Tournament. The finals in a military tournament subsequently came off, before a crowd of about 4,000 people, in Bailey Park, the preliminary competitions having been held in the morning. The judges were Major C. Mitford-Burgess (5th Batt. Rifle Brigade), Major J. H. Gilbert Harris (1st Herefordshire R.V.), and Captain McDonald (adjutant, 1st Mon. R.A.V.), while Colonel Sir Arthur W. Mackworth, Bart., acted as referee. Sergeant-Major E. Llewellin (Cardigan R.A.V.) was master of the arena, and Messrs. Z. Wheatley and W. Llewellin efficiently performed the secretarial duties. The other officials were:— Stewards -Sergt.-Instructor A. Fry, Colour-Sergt. J. Phillips, Sergt. D. A. Edwards, Sergt. W. H. Butt, Sergt. J. Walters, Sergt. E. F. Kynch; ring trumpeter, Corpl. J. Symonds fatigue party in charge of Corpl. E. H. Restall. The following were the results:— Heads and Posts.-lst, Squadron-Sergeant- Major T. S. Jones, Montgomeryshire I.Y.; 2nd, Sergeant J. Chatham, Staffordshire I.Y.; 3rd, Sergeant W. Bebbington, Shropshire I.Y. Lemon- cutting.-lst, Sergeant C. E. Edwards, Shropshire I.Y.; 2nd, Squadron-Sergeant-Major Whitehead, Royal Gloucestershire Hussars I.Y.; 3rd, Squadron-Sergeant-Major A. S. Witts, Royal Wilts I. Y. Half-section Riding and Jumping.—1st, Squad- ron-Sergeant- Major T. S. Jones and Regimental- Sergeant-Major D. T. M. Hope-Edwards, Mont- gomeryshire I.Y.; 2nd, Inspector J. H. Bennett, Glamorgan Constabulary (late Royal Dragoons). and Sergeant C. G. Lane, Glamorgan Constabulary (late 17th Lancers); 3rd, Corporal H. Hodgkiss and Trooper A. G. Wilcock, Shropshire I.Y. Tent- pegging.-Ist, Trooper H. E. Ainsworth, Shropshire I.Y.; 2nd, Corporal S. Bebbiugton, Shropshire I.Y.; 3rd, Sergeant C. G. Lane. Glamorgan Constabulary. Lance MehSe.—1st, Sergeant G. H. Astall, Earl of Chester's I.Y.; 2nd, Corporal S. Bebbington, Shropshire I.Y.; 3rd, Sergeant C. E. Edwards, Shropshire I.Y. Victoria Cross Race-Gallop up from reverse end of arena, pick up dummy, gallop around and across arena, over jumps, dummy to be carried in front of saddle: 1st, Corporal H. Hodgkiss, Shropshire I.Y.; 2nd, Trooper H. Ainsworth, Shropshire I.Y.; 3rd, Sergeant C. E. Edwards, Shropshire I.Y. There was also a demonstration of stretcher drill by men from the Brynmawr, Blaina, and Abergavenny Divisions and the Newport Corps of of St John Ambulance Brigade (the latter being this year's winners of the Dewar Challenge Shield for the whole of the Brigade). Lord Roberts distributed the prizes, and had a short conversation with each man. Lord Tredegar proposed a vote of thanks to the noble Earl for his presence and for distributing the prizes. (Cheers.) It was not necessary for him to say more than that they had with them that day a noble lord who was the greatest soldier of the age—one who had saved us India, and who had saved us South Africa, and who had thrice been given votes of thanks by both Houses of Parlia- ment. (Cheers.) The vote was carried by loud cheering. The Field Marshal, in response, said he was very much obliged to them for the cordial vote of thanks. It had been a very great pleasure to him to attend the tournameut. Though he did not want to reiterate his remarks on the necessity for cultivating rifle shooting, he hoped they would be taken to heart. Lord Roberts subsequently drove off to Nevill Coart, in company with the Marquess of Aberga- venny, Lord Tredegar, &c., being escorted by a mounted detachment of the Monmouthshire Volunteers. The day's proceedings wound up with a fete in the ancient Castle, where the Borough Silver Band played for dancing, and there was a magnificent display of fireworks including fire portraits of Lord Roberts, the Marquess of Abergavenny, and the Mayor of Abergavenny.

USK. I Agent-Mrs. E. K. Jones. Statimer I THE SOLAR ECLIFSB.-The Eclipse was watched by a great number of persons in this district on Wednesday, and the changes were well observed as the clouds dispersed. WE understand that the Rev Harry Cockson has had under consideration the offer of a living on the south coast. His parishioners at Llanllowell and Llanbadoc will be glad to know that he has decided to remain at Llanllowell Rectory. LiBRItALISM.-In connection with the Usk Liberal Association, a public meeting was held at the Town Hall, Usk, on Wednesday evening, when an address was given by Mr Beaumont Morice, the Liberal candidate for the Sevenoaks Division of Kent, who is at present spending a short holiday in Usk. Mr S. A. Hiley presided, and there were also present on the platform, Mrs Morice, Mrs Hiley, the Rev H. B. Robinson, and Messrs. F. Jennings and W. Williams. ANGLING.-The river has been in good condition since the beginning of the week, the recent heavy rains causing a considerable rise, the latter end of last week, and anglers have thus been indulging in a little sport. The following are the successes reported: Monday -Mr J. T. Davies, one, lOlba, in the Bindings. Tuesday-Mr Mordaunt, one, glibs, in Batt's Hole; Mr Pyman, one, on the upper water. Thursday—Mr J. Pitt, two. SIbs and 121bs Mrs Lister, two Mr Mordaunt, one. WEDDING.-A pretty wedding took place in Usk Church on Wednesday morning, when Mr David Rees, third son of Mr Thomas Rees. of Prioress Mill, Llanbadoc. was married to Miss Florence Gertrude Powell, second daughter of Mr F. G. Powell, of Little Castle Farm, Usk, the Rev Harry Cockson, Rector of Llanllowell and Vicar of Llanbadoc, officiating. The bride, who was given away by her father, had as bridesmaids Miss Powell (sister) and Miss Rees (sister of the bridegroom). The best man was Mr W. J. Davies, of New Barn. The wedding breakfast was held at Little Castle, and the happy couple subsequently left for Barmouth for the honeymoon. The presents were numerous.

USK VOLUNTEERS AND THE BAND. I Having regard to the importance of keeping the local Company of Volunteers, we would draw attention to the fact that in the Volunteer Orders for the week appears the announcement that, on Thursday evening next, a meeting will be held in the Armoury, to discuss the future of the Band, and it is seriously to be hoped that all townspeople who are interested in the welfare of the corps, will attend, as invited, to see if something cannot be done to place the Band on a firm basis, for it is generally admitted that its influence is for good in strengthening and maintaining the Company, which is now approaching a crisis in its history. It would be a hundred pities to see the corps dis- banded, which seems very probable if there is not an accession of strength before next November. As we have said before, there is plenty of musical ability in the town, and the question of leadership is as good as settled, so that with the co-operation of the inhabitants, the Band-which played exceedingly well at the Flower Show-should become a strong organization, and G Company should once more command recruits and attain I again its erstwhile proud position in the Battalion of which it forms a unit.

I ABERGAVENNY. I Agents;—Messrs Davies A Co. Booksellers. SUICIDE.-The body of Emma Watkins, 75, one of the inmates of the almshouses in connection with Holy Trinity Church, Abergavenny, was discovered on Saturday with her throat cut. An inquest was held later, and a verdict of Suicide while of unsound mind," was returned.

I CAERLEON. I AfferU—Xr Berry, Newsagent, Cross-street. SHBBP WORRYING.—A number of lambs belong- ing to Mrs Richardson, of Caerleon, were worried by dogs in a field at Christchurcb, on Sunday. Two lambs were found dead, and eight others had to be killed. A LUCKY EIICAPB-As Sergeant-Instructor Cook and two others were on their way to Usk on Saturday afternoon in a cab with the ammunition for class-firing for the 4th South Wales Borderers, the cabman tried to turn in a narrow space in Caerleon. The cab was overturned, the horse also fell, and the boxes of ammunition were thrown out on to the road. Luckily, the Sergeant- Instructor and his companions had just got out of the cab before the accident happened. LOCAL WEDDING.—At St. Cadoo's Church Caer- leon, on Wednesday, the marriage of Mr Gerald Maclean Lemonius and Miss Gertrude Jenkins, fourth daughter of the late Mr D. W. Jenkins, J.P., of Brodawel, Caerleon, took place in the presence of a large congregation. The churoh was beautifully decorated, and the service, which was choral, was taken by the Rev. Canon Bedwell, B.D., assisted by the Rev. A. Addams-Williams, M.A., rector of Pan- teg. The bride who was accompanied by her brother, was given away by her mother She wore a gown of ivory orient satin, the bodice being draped with Brussels lace. lent by her mother. The train, falling from each shoulder, was trimmed with chiffon bows and orange blossoms. Her lace veil covered a coronet of white heather and orange blos- soms, and she carried a bouquet of lilies of the valley, white carnations, and roses. A string of pearls, with pendant, and a diamond and pearl bracelet were her ornaments. The bridesmaids were Miss Jenkins. Miss Lili m Jenkins, and Miss Gwladys Jenkins (sisters of the bride), and Miss Marjorie Hornby (niece of the bridegroom). They wore charming gowos of white satin muslin over white taffeta and mauve hats. A reception was held at Brodawel, and the newly married couple subsequently left for the Channel Islands.

MONMOUTH. I A0€HL—MrtQafrey9 Bookseller. Monmouth. I R.M.R.E. (MILITIA).—On Saturday morning in last week the Royal Monmouthshire Royal Engineers (Militia) completed sixteen weeks' instruction, and the men were dismissed to their homes. The men left by two special trains. They were marched to the station, under the company officers, and headed by the regimental band. A party of 36 non-commissioned officers and one staff-sergeant, under Lieutenant G. E. T. Jenkins, left Monmouth for a course of six weeks' instruction at the School of Military Engineering, Chatham. GUARDIANS' MEETING.—Mr S. C. Bosanquet presided at Friday's meeting, when the Clerk presented the estimates for the half-year ending Lady Day, 1906, amounting to £7,821, as against £ 7,262 in the corresponding half of 1905. The demand from the Monmouthshire County Council for police, education, etc., from the three counties within which the union is situated was as follows:—Hereford, 6td in the L Gloucester, nd in the £ and Monmouth, IR lid in the C. The difference was considered dio*uraging for Mon- mouthshire ratepayers. It was decided to com- mence the connection of the house drainage with the town system at once.

NEWPORT. I Aqents-Nessrs Greenland and Co.. Newtaoa,s. I HONOURABLE ACTION ACKNOWLEDGED.—Mr A. E. Parfitt, manager of the Newport Corporation Mar- ket, who, a few weeks ago, restored to the vicar and churchwardens of Brent Knoll (Somerset) a silver chalice which he had won as a prize at sports in Cardiff 20 years ago, this morning received (quite unsolicited) a silver cup of exactly the same design from the Goldsmiths' Company, London, sent to the order of the churchwardens of Brent Knoll. THE TRAMP QUBSTION.-The insufficient accom- modation for tramps at the Casual Ward was discussed by a committee of the Guardians on Friday. At a recent police court, Chief Constable Sinclair stated that as many as 50 tramps had been turned away in one week, and that it constituted a "danger to the town." One member advocated reverting to the system once in use of issuing bed tickets for the model lodging-house to tramps unable to gain admission to the Casual Ward, and it was decided to adopt this system until the next meeting, when the whole question will be gone into, and the advisability considered of continuing to give these lodging tickets, or to make extra provision for the tramps at Stow Hill. To carry out this proposal would cost the ratepayers £ 4,000 to £ 5,000 and there is not sufficient yard space at Stow Hill to justify this. The question arises as to whether it would be better to spend the money on Stow Hill or to obtain a site just outside the town where sufficient yard space for stone-breaking could be obtained to give all the tramps accom- modation to do their tasks.

UNVEILING OF A WAR > MEMORIAL. FREEDOM CONFERRED. Interesting Speeches. [BY OUR SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT.] Wednesday was a red-letter day for Aberga- venny, on the occasion of the visit of Field- Marshal Earl Roberts, V.C., for the dual purpose of unveiling a memorial tablet in St. Mary's Church (in commemoration of the services of the Volunteers of Abergavenny and district who took part in the South African war and in memory of those who lost their lives in the campaign) and of receiving the freedom of the Borough. The ancient Borough rose to the occasion, and arranged a heavy programme for the day, which was carried through without a hitch. The townspeople recognised their responsibili- ties in the matter, and profusely decorated their premises with flags and banners and fes- toons, Chinese lanterns, fairy lamps, &c., which charmingly enlivened a naturally pretty town. fortunately, the weather, over-night threaten- ing, was propitious on Wednesday morning, .and the inhabitants were early astir adding to the decorations, while their numbers were being reinforced for the day by people from all parts of the county arriving by train, special arrange- ments with the G. W. R. and L. & N. W. Railway Companies having been made for the purpose. Lord Roberts arrived at the Brecon Road Station (L. & N. W.) on Tuesday evening, where he was met on the platform by the Mayor (Aid. W. Williams), and some of the members of the Corporation. There was a very large as- semblage of the townspeople to welcome Lord Roberts, and the approach to the station was decorated with palms, flags, and bunting of all descriptions and colours. Lord Roberts arrived a little after five o'clock and was received by the Marquess of Abergavenny, who introduced him to the Mayor. Alderman Williams then introduced Lord Roberts to the members of the Corporation, with whom he shook hands. Lord Roberts afterwards drove with the Marquess of Abergavenny to Nevill Court. The Town Council met at 10.15 a.m. on Wed- nesday, at the Town Hall, and then, headed by the Borough Silver Band, proceeded to the approach to the station of the London and North-Western Railway, on the Brecon-road, whither a large crowd had also wended their way to meet the gallant Field-Marshal on his way from Nevill Court to the Parish Church for the first ceremony of the day. On the arrival of Lord Roberts the following visiting Mayors were introduced to his lordship, who shook hands with each:-The Mayor of Monmouth (Alderman G. R. Edwards), Mayor of Pembroke (Councillor Phillips), Mayor of Haverfordwest (Alderman W. J. Jones), Mayor of Cardiff (Alderman J. Hughes), Mayor of Cowbridge (Councillor Jenkins), Mayor of Leo- minster (Councillor Davies), Mayor of Ludlow (Alderman H. Lloyd), Mayor of Worcester (Alderman Leicester), Mayor of Taunton (Coun- cillor J. Lewis), Mayor of Brecon (Councillor Rich), Mayor of Bridgnorth (Alderman E. Morrall), Mayor of Wenlock (Alderman John Davies), and Mr Isaac George, High Constable ■of Aberdare and Mis kin Higher. The procession was marshalled by Councillor Z. Wheatley, and included the band of the Panteg Battery 1st Mon. R.G.A.V., Aberga- venny Borough Band, Abergavenny Fire Bri- gade, the local branch of the St. John Acibu- lance Society, mounted competitors at the tour- nament, military officers, mounted escort of the 1st Mon. R.G.A.V., commanded by Captain A. X R. Butler, representatives of Friendly Societies, Mr Clifford J. Cory (High Sheriff of Mon- mouthshire), &c. The members of the Abergavenny Corpora- tion present, in addition to the Mayor, were Aldermen W. H. Gwatkin, J. G. Thomas, E. Foster, Councillors J. Straker, B. J. Francis, .J. Evans, P. H. Price, W. D. Woodward, T. Delafield, S. Deverall, J. C. Gwatkin, Z. Wheat- ley, J. G. Bishop, and the Town Clerk (Mr J. T. Rutherford). The procession passed along Frogmore-street, Hi^h-street, Cross-street, and Monk-street, to St. Mary's Parish Church, outside which a guard of honour, furnished by H and I Companies of the 4th V.B. South Wales Borderers, under the command of Lieutenant R. L. Baker, had taken up their position. INTERESTING INCIDENTS. Lord Roberts drove in an open carriage, ac- companied by Lord Tredegar (in his Lord Lieutenant's uniform) and the Marquess of Abergavenny. On alighting, Lord Roberts inspected the guard of honour, and spoke to several of the men. Drawn up on the other side of the square was the Artillery Baud, and by them, proudly wearing that distinguished badge of valour, the Victoria Cross, was Sergt.-Major Parker, now ;attached to the Risca Battery of the 1st Mon. R.G. Artillery (Volunteers). Lord Roberts speedily espied the coveted trophy, and going up to Parker, who saluted, spoke to him. Parker said that be was at Sauna's Post, and it was there that he gained the V.C., Lord Roberts, the same day, promoting him on the field. His lordship quickly recalled the incident, and told Parker he was glad to meet him again. Another interesting incident was the kissing of the hand of the veteran Field-Marshal by a woman, who eluded the vigilance of the police and rushed out of the crowd to pay her homage.

INQUEST. I Mr Lyndon Moore held an inquest on Monday afternoon touching the death of Frank Salisbury (8), son of John Salisbury, labourer, Castle-street, who was killed through being run over by a cab in Commercial-road on Friday afternoon in last week. Frank Budd, tram-car driver, stated that he saw the boy hanging on to a trolley near Temple- street on Friday afternoon. The trolley was going at a walking pace. The boy let go, and ran towards Temple-street, when a horse and cab coming up Commercial-road knocked him down, the wheel passing over his chest. The driver was quite sober, and the cab was going about six miles an hour. Witness got off the car when it stopped, and picked the boy up. He seemed to be dead. James Collins, driver of the cab, stated that he did his best to prevent the accident. He did not see the boy until after the occurrence. P.U. Davidson gave evidence as to carrying the boy to the Hospital in his cape. When near the Hospital the boy drew a long breath and expired. Dr Green, locum tenens for the bouse surgeon at the County Hospital, stated that there were no external marks of injury. The Coroner adjourned the inquest to allow of a post mortem examination being held. At the resumption of the inquest Dr Green stated that he had made a post mortem examina. tion, and this showed that-, there had been a runture of the heart, resulting from the accident. The jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence, and expressed sympathy with the parents.

+ — On Serving FiaK. j When preparing Fish, remember that a dainty sauce is an added relish. Do not make your sauce with ordinary wheat flour. The delicate neutral flavour of Brown em, Poison's 'PATENT' Corn Flour I makes it far and away the most desirable t < thickening. J

Quakers' Yard Mystery. The body of Mrs Mary Davies, postmistress of Quakers' Yard, who disappeared on Wednesday in last week, has been found in the Old Mill Pond, near the Carpenters' Arms, half-a-mile from deceased's residence.

I PENPERGWM. I LOCAL WEDDING. A large assembly of relatives and friends met at the Parish Church of Llangattock-j uxta-Usk on Wednesday, to witness the marriage of Mr William L. Hancorn Richards, of Glyn Neath and Miss M. L. M. (Louie) Haines, daughter of Mr and Mrs William Haines, of The Bryn, in that parish. Dr Corner, D.D., the recently appointed Rector, who is also Chaplain to the Marquess of Abergavenny, officiated. The bride, who was given. away by her father, wore a robe of cream voil& prettily trimmed with lace, and a picture hat to match. The bridemaids were Miss Haines and Miss Lorna Haines, sisters of the bride, and Mr Marsden acted as best man. After the ceremony more than 30 friends partook- of the wedding breakfast at the residence of the bride's parents, where the health and happiness of the newly-wedded pair and of Mr and Mrs Haines was heartily toasted, and the party afterwards visited places of interest in the neighbourhood. Old and young residents in the village were entertained with tea aud cake by the kind thoughtfulness of Mr and Mrs Haines.

-0 PONTNEWYNYDD. CHORAL FESTIVAL.—A choral festival was held in S. Luke's Church, Pontnewynydd, on Thursday evening, in connection with the Monmouthsbire Division of the Llandaff Diocesan Church Choral Association, in which the Pontnewynydd, Blaenavon. Griffithstown, and Usk choirs took part, the number of voices being 203, The Rev. W. Moore (vicar) intoned the service, and the Rev A. A. Matthews, one of the hon. sees, of the Association, was the preacher, taking for his text 2 Chronicles, v., 11.14. The Service Book of the Association was used, and the singing was of a high order, the two, anthems (" Magnify His Name," G. C. Martin, and Holy is the Lord our God," Vogler) and the Te Deum (C. Williams, Mus. Bac.), being especial- features. Mr Theodore Seaton was the conductor, and Mr H. J. England presided at the organ. There was a large congregation.

PONTYPOOL. Agents-Mr Fieldhouse, and Mr G. H Churchill, The Market, and Messrs. Edwards and (,0. WEST MON. SCHOOL.—As the result of the West Monmouthshire School Scholarship Examinatiom in July, Jones' scholarships have been awarded to- the following boys L. G. W. Tizard, St. Woolos Boys' School, Newport; D. A. Robinson, British. School, Blaenavon R. T. Cooke, Council School, Griffithstown; C. N. Beeston, Eveswell School, Newport. THE HANBURY COMPETITION.—The final shoot for the Hanbury Competition amongst the members of the B (Hanbury) Company, 4th Volunteer Battalion South Wales Borderers, Pontypool, was fired off on the Cwmlickie range. The aggregate of the four shoots is as follows Sergeant W. Trueman, 173; Private J. Burke, 168; Lance-corporal E. Reed, 167 Lance-corporal Jones, 164; Colour-sergeant W. Moses, 158; Private A. Probert, 156; Sergeant W. Tew, 154; Lance-corporal D. Pritchard, 137. PANTEG COUNCIL.—At Friday's meeting plans were passed for the erection of 12 houses at Sebastopol for Mr Isaac Butler, J.P C.C.-The Chairman said he understood that Mr Butler was experimenting to see if it were possible to bnild. workmen's houses at about £ 150 each, so that they could be let to working men at a rental of about 4s per week.—Mr J. Shiel, New Inn, called the Council's attention to the fact that the Post Office authorities had encroached on a path between Pontypool-road and New Inn to the extent of about IS inches, in the laying of some telegraph poles.—It was decided to call the Post Officd authorities' attention to the matter.—The wages of the foreman (Mr WaldoflE) was increased from 24s to 27s per week.

Cricket. USK V. GOYTRE. Owing to the match with Mr Gabe's London XI. being cancelled, Goytre were entertained at Usk on Saturday last, in very unsettled weather. The home skipper won the toss and sent in the usual pair, Jenkins and Wallace. Thirty runs had been scored when they were obliged to retire to the pavilion through rain. Another start was made, but only 26 runs were added before they again had to seek shelter. After a consultation it was decided to abandon the match. Scores — USK. J. Jenkins, not out. 34 A. G. Wallace, not otit 18 Extras. 4 Total. 56

USK V. BLAENAVON (THURSDAY). The above match was played at Usk, on Thursday, in grand weather, but, in consequence of the recent rain, the wicket was rather soft. The game resulted in a very easy win for the homesters. A late start was made, the visitors commencing to bat at about a quarter to four. They made a very poor show against the attack of F. Hill and A. G. Wallace, and were all dismissed for 27 runs, Hill capturing 4 wickets for 12 runs and Wallace 6 wickets for 10 runs. Six was the top score of the Blaenavon side. The homesters passed the visitors total with the loss of two wickets. Dew, Mayes, and Hill subsequently batted well, the former contributing a capital 53, and the innings terminated for 137. Russell bowled especially well for Blaenavon, and accounted for eight of the wick5ts. Scores BLAENAVON. B. Lewis, b A. G. Wallace. 1 Dr Howe, c L. F. Stedman, b Wallace 5 H. Head, lbw, b Wallace. 3 Branch, c G. Edmunds, b Wallace 4 F. J. Russell, c J. Jenkins, b Wallace 0 C. Averiss, b F. Hill 6 B, Witchell, b Hill.. I D. Thomas, c H. T. B. Dew, b F. Hill 2 F. Lewis, b A. G. Wallace 0 H. Williams, b F. Hill 0 H. W. Jones, not out. 0 Extras. 5 Total 27 USK. G. Edmunds, e D. Thomas, b F. J. Russell A.J.Thomas, b Russell 3 H. T. B. Dew. c Dr Howe, b Russell.. 53 J. Bowen, c B. Witchell, b Russell. 1 F. J. Edmunds, b H. Heard. 11 L. F. Stedman, c Witchell, bRussell,, 6 A. C. Hiley, b Russell i F. Hill, b Witchell 19 T. Mayes, b Rusecll 21 J. Jenkins, lbw, b Russell. 0 A. G. Wallace, not Out 2 Extras. 2 Total. 137

L- Killed by Lightning. At Leigh, near Tonbridge, Kent, during a severe thunderstorm, two men in search of work in the hopfields sought shelter under an oak tree. This wns struck by lightning, and one of the men was killed. The other was rendered insensible, but, recovered.