The Merthyr Telegraph and General Advertiser for the Iron Districts of South Wales

MERTHYR POLICE COURT. SATURDAY.—(Before J. C. Fowler, Eøqr.) OBSTRUCTING THE HIGHWAY.—John Thomas, Hannah Williams, and Elizabeth Jenkins, were summoned for ob- strncting the highway, on the 6th instant. P.S. Davies deposed that on the above day, the defendants who resided on the River Side were quarrelling on the Iron Bridge. A large crowd of nearly 100 people congregated around them blocking up entirely the bridge, and making it impossible for anyone to pass.—His Worship fined the two female de- fendants Is and .costs each, and Themas was fined 2s 6d and costs.. VAGRANCY.—George Summmgs was charged with this offence, committed at Aberdare, on the 17th instant, P.C. Poundy stated that on the night of the above date he found the prisoner sleeping in an unoccupied building. Not giving a good account of himself, he took him into custody. Pri- soner resisted, but ultimately he succeeded in removing him to the station, not, however, before he had been assaulted. The prisoner was now charged with assaulting the officer whilst in the execution of his duty.—Evidence to substantiate that charge having being given, the Bench sentenced prisoner to 14 days' imprisonment on each charge. CAUTION TO WORKMEN.—An Irishman named Michael Manning was summoned fot that he being a puddler at Cyfarthfa, did unlawfully absent himself from his work, on the 13th instant.—Mr J. Beynon, an agent at Cyfarthfa, stated that the defendant was a puddler, and should have been at his work at six o'clock on the evening of the above date as he did not appear he sent for him, and he was ultimately found in the Patriot beerhouse, the worse for beer. In consequence of the prisoner not coming to work his furnace was idle throughout the night, and they esti- mated the loss occasioned thereby at 10s.—Defendant in the course of a rambling defence, admitted having absented himself on the night in question.—The Bench ordered him to pay 10s the amount of compensation, and costs. SIMILAR CHARGE.-Another puddier, named Thomas Donovan, was summoned for absenting hipiself on the same date.—Mr Beynon deposed to defendant not being at his work on the 6th instant, and that the loss therefrom was 10s. Defendant in defence stated that he was not able to work, that he was very ill on that day, and had been so for several weeks previously.—Mr Beynon was re-called, and admitted that the defendant bad been ill, but he had so far recovered as to have been able to work on the pre- vious day (Sunday the 12th), and be would show the Beneh that en the day in question, the 13th, he was drinking in the same house as the last defendant.—An overlooker named John Morgan, stated that at the direction of the last witness he accompanied P.C. Bell to look for the de. fendant, whom they found in the Patriot. He was not drunk, but had been drinking. Defendant told him that he was ill, and that he was taking medicine. He replied that he was then taking the wrong medicine. The case was here adjourned to Monday, in order that a doctor's certificate of the defendant's illness might be produced; on the latter day the defendant handed into the Bench » certificate stating that he had a very bad cold.—The Bench ordered him to pay the amount of compensation, without costs, viz., 10s. THEFT FROM THE PERSON IN CHINA,—Rebecca Thomas, an unfortunate, was charged with steaJing [je, from John Thomas.—Prosecutor stated that en the above date he met the prisoner in the Patriot beerhouse, and after he had been there a few minutes he accompanied her to a house on the River Side. She waited beer, so he gave the land- lady of the bouse 6d to obtain a quart; this having been drank prisoner asked him how much money he had; he took out of bis pocket a 5s piece, which prisoner snatched from his hand and ran away. He did not see her after- wards until she was arrested he was not quite sober, but knew perfectly well what he was about. Did not go to the house with the prisoner for an immoral purpose. P.S. Davies deposed to arresting prisoner, and charging her with the above offence to which she replied, I never saw the man" (meaning prosecutor). She afterwards said, I only took Is lOd," and addressing prosecutor said, "did you not! give it me 'I" and Thomas replied that he did not. Prisoner was searched, but nothing was found upon her.—Another unfortunate was called to prove an alAi, and she stated that the prosecutor had made a mistake, and thc-t he was with her, and not with the prisoner.—Mr Fowler observed that there was not sufficient evidence to justify his putting the county to the expense of prosecuting the prisoner at the Quarter Sessions, she would therefore be discharged. BEERHOUSE OFFENCE.—Hannah Evans, landlady of the Grawen Arms, Brecon Road, was summoned for infringing her license by selling beer during prohibited hours, on the 12th instant. P.C. Evans (74) stated that he visited the above house on Sunday morning last; he knocked at the door, and after being kept there an unreasonable time he was admitted. Before he got in, however, he heard a rushing noise inside as though people were leaving one of the rooms, but when be got in, be could not find them. He observed recent marks of drinking having been going on in one of the rooms, for the table and floor were wet.—The defendant denied that anyone was in her hOUBe when the police pfficer knocked*—Pisiuissed, t SIMILAR CHARGE.- Thomas Thomas, landlord of the Cyfarthfa Arms. was summoned for a similar offence. P.C. Charley stated that shortly before twelve o'clock on Sun- day last he went to the defendant's house he knocked at the Joor. and after some time was admitted. Befure he wu admitted he also heard a rushing iu*iile as though men were leaving one of the rooms, so he looked in through the key hole, and saw three men going out of the back door. and up the garden. When he was admitted he followed them, and saw a pint in one of the person's hands. He also saw another one throw his pint and beer over the walL — The defendant admitted the offence, observing that the men were coming from work, and had begged of him to let them have a pint each.—Fined 40s and costs. MONDAY.—(Before J. O. Fowler, Esq.) DRUNKARDS.—Richard Cahill was charged with being drunk and riotous near the Taff Vale Station, on Saturday night last. P.C. Evans (165) proved the charge, and defen. dant who admitted being the worse for drink was fined 5s and costs.-—William Reynolds was charged with being drunk and riotous at Cardiff Road, Aberaman, on Saturday night last. P.C. Robins proved the charge, and defendant was fined 10s and costs. WATER RATE SUMMONSES.—-Mr Goodfellow, collector of Water Rates stated that out of the 29 summonses for water rents that had been granted him, there were but two to be heard, the remaining 27 having been settled.-—Elizabeth Edmunds was summoned for 43 lOd water rate made December 1870.-DeÍlnd,tUt did not appear. Service of summons was proved, after which Mr Goodfellow was called and produced the water rent book, in which the defendant was indebted to the Board of Health 10 the above amount. —Mr Milligan, collector, proved making a demand for the amount on January 21st last; he was not paid.—Ordered to pay with costs. ANOTHER.—Charlotte Morgan was summoned for 3s 3d water rent.—This defendant did not appear.—The debt and demand having been proved, the Bench made an order fot. 3s 3d and costs. WEDNESDAY.—(Before J. C. Fowled find •&. J. Evan*, Esqrs.) DRUNKARDS.—OweU Probert was charged with being drunk and riotous at Commercial-street, Aberdare, on the 21st inst. P.C. Clark proved the charge, and defendant was fined 5s and costs.—George Thomas was charged with being drunk and indecent at Commercial-street, Aberdare, on the 21st inst. P.C. Powndy proved the charge, and defendant was fined 5s and costs.—Two Irishmen named Collins and Harrington were charged with a similar offence committed at Bethesda-street. P.C. Cook proved the charge, and prisoners were sentenced to seven days' im- prisonment|each.—Francis Ward, an inmate of the Work. house, was charged with returning to the Union in a drunken state. The charge was proved by the Master, Mr T. B. Meredith, and the prisoner was sentenced to 14 days' imprisonment.—William Treharne wasTcharged with being drunk and jriotous at Pontmorlais on Monday night last. P.C. Williams proved the charge, and defendant was fined 5s and costs.—Joseph Llewellyn was charged with being drunk and riotous at High-street, Merthyr, on the 21st inst. P.C. Edwards proved the charge, and defen- dant, who stated that he resided at Gellygaer, and had lost his way in the town, was discharged with a caution.— Henry Jones was charged with being drunk and riotous at High-street on that morning. P.C. Parry proved the charge, and defendant was fined 10s and costs. REFUSING TO MAINTAIN HIS WIFE.—Joseph Davies, a man of respectable appearance, residing at Abercanaid, appeared in answer to a summons charging him with not maintaining his wife, Eliza Davies, and leaving her charge- able to the Union.—Mr T. B. Meredith, the master of the Workhouse, stated that the defendant's wife had been in the Union House since Saturday the 25th Nov. last, when she was brought in afflicted with fever. The cost of her maintenance during that time had been to the Guardians £ 3 3s. 0d.—The wife was then called, and detailed several acts of violence, which she alleged the defendant had been been guilty of, and which had been the cause of her leaving his house in the first instance. After she had been a week absent she returned, but defendant would not admit her. —The defendant, in stating his defence, charged his wife with having committed adultery, and proceeded to call hia daughter to corroborate that statement. His worship declined to hear the girl giving any evidence against her mother at that hearing of the case, but in order that the defendant might have an opportunity of calling other wit. nesses, he would adjourn the case until Saturday.— Adjourned accordingly. ALLEGED ASSAULT.—A young mannamed David Jenkins was summoned for assaulting Manah Freedman, wife of a pawnbroker, at Dowlais.—Mr Plews appeared for defen- dant.—Complainant's statement was that, a few days ago, defendant came to her shop offering to pledge a black coat. He wanted 3s upon it. She refused to give it him, and he then asked 2s, and upon being refused that sum also he asked Is she still declined giving anything on the coat, and desired him to take it out of the shop; upon that defendant jumped on the counter and struck her two blows in the face; she then ran into the house, where defendant followed her; after she received the two blows from the defendant she went for a policeman.—The witness, who spoke English very imperfectly and indistinctly, waa cross- examined at some length by Mr Plews, who endeavoured to show the Bench that when his client tendered his coat in pledge, the complainant took it out of his hand and threw into or near his window so that when she refused posi. tively to receive it in pledge, all he (defendant) did was to jump on the counter so that he might reach it, and not with the intention of striking her; and he further men- tioned that no blows passed.— A lad, who was in the shop, and who went for a policeman, as well as a woman named Mary Williams, corroborated the testimony of prosecutrix. —The former, amidst much laughter, stated that when he saw a policeman, and informed him of his errand, that individual told him to go back and see if the man was gone, and if he was not to come back to him again, and he would then go and see him— For the defence a person named David Thomas was called, and gave a totally different version of the affair, producing roars of laughter by endeavouring to imitate the complainant, who he stated bawled out murder immediately the defendant jumped on the counter to reach his coat.—Mr Plews observed that he had another witness to call, who, however, was not present that day.—Adjourned'to Monday next for the production of the witness. INDECENT PROSTITUTE. Sarah Thomas, one of these unfortunate persons, was charged with the above offence committed that morning at Bethesda-street.—P.C. Edwarls proved the charge.—A former conviction was also proved against the prisoner, and the Bench ultimately sentenced her to 14 days' imprisonment. — SUSPECTED CASE OF MANSLAUGHTER, DISGRACEFUL SCENE ON A SUNDAY NIGHT. A case of supposed manslaughter, with many circum- stances of a very painful natnre, occurred at Aberaant Station on Sunday night last. It would appear that about eight o'clock on the evening of that day a number of young men, residing both at Merthyr andDowtaia, were returning from Aberdare by the last train from Abernant. Some little differences seem to have arisen between two of the parties just below the station, and after what one of the witnesses before the police investigation called "pleading," an unseemly fight took place near the station. This seemed to be the commencement of the affair, which resulted in the death of a collier named Samuel Thomas, reaiding at 34, Walter-street, Dowlais, who, we should state, was not one of the parties fighting. As the train was about leaving Abernant the poor fellow was found groaning npon the ground, bleeding profusely from severe wounds on the heady Upon the arrival of the train at Merthyr the un- fortunate man was removed to the New Inn, where he was speedily attended by Dr Webster, who, after dressing the wounds, ordered his removal to his home at Dowlais. There he was promptly attended to by Dr Jones i but not- withstanding the services of that gentleman the poor felloir never rallied, but died during the night; On Monday morning, and throughout the day, a great deal of excitement was occasioned by the rumour of the arrest of several young men moving in respectable positions on suspicion of being concerned in the death of the de- ceased. These rumours were not without foundation, for we learned that a young man—hitherto bearing an irre- proachable character, and of known harmless habits-wa. arrested. Through the indefatigable efforts of our Super. intendent and police, evidence was soon forthcoming that justified their detaining the person referred to. In the evening of the same day another young man residing at Victoria-street was arrested. During the following Tues- day afternoon two others were also arrested, but bail being accepted on their behalf they were aet at liberty, to appear before the magistrates on the following morning. The position of t-hesp young men naturally created a painful sensation in the tpwn, whiph did not abate until Wednesday afternoon, when the facts of the affair as given before the magistrates were known to the public. On Wednesday morning the four young men, Lewis Rees, Thomas Williams. Alfred Taylor, and Thomas Thomas surrendered to their recognizances, and were charged before J. C. Fowler aad T. J. Evans, Esora., with the manslaughter of Samuel Thomas. We append a full report of the proceedings. Mr D. R. Lewis (Linton and Lewis), appeared to prose- cute, and Mr Jones f Smith, Lewia, and Jones), defended Lewis Rees, and Mr Plews appeared on behalf of the Ie. paaining three defendants. The Court was crowded with a number of tradesmen and others anxious to hear what transpired. In the precincts of the Court there was.also a large crowd throughout the ^The°first^witness called was Dr Webster, Thflnaas Town, who said • X was called on Sunday night last to the New Inn to attend an injured young man. I found him insen- sible. with a large wound, bleeding, over the left eyebrow. It was about eight o clock. He was afterwards removed to Dowlais in the ambulance, and died about half-past two in tlm morning. The next time I saw him was on Monday, when I made a post mortem examinntion. I found the wnnnd on the left eyebrow communicated with the brain. U a fractured wound, and penetrated through the bony roof of the eye. The external surf ape of the bram was covered with blood. On the left side <rf the haul I found a large clot of blood. The cause of death was infu- of the blood on the brain, caused by fractnre, which mio-ht have been produced by a hard substance, but not by A f»U uP°n » of a certain shape would not have made the frwture. The wound was between the eve and the eyebrow. The eye was not injured.at alL The distance from the external wound to the brain was about anrXroshs-examined by Mr Plews: I know Abernant Station. There are spiked railings ali round it. I do not remember the railing, s°1 c*nnot say whether they might oanae such afracture. A pointed rail might do so. There w"a slight bruise on the nose, but no other marks. The mark en the right eye looked as though he had been struck by a ^Son's fist. When I ^whim on Sunday night][ ordered him to be taken up immediately to his bpuse at Dowlais m +he ambulance, i did not see him alive aiterwards. Cross-examined by Mr Jones From the position of the wnnnd I do not think it could have been caused by a bio*. Dr T. Jones waa then called and said: I am a surgeon, residing at Dowlais. I assisted Dr. Webster m the post mortem examination. I was called to the deceased about v > half-past tea o'clock on Sunday night. I found him suf- fering from laoeration of the brain on the left side of the head. I remained with him until about a quarter past two on Monday morning, and he died in about quarter of an hour afterwards. He appeared to be suffering from lacera- tion and concussion of the brain. I concur with Dr. Webster's opinion as to the cause of death, &c. By Mr Plews The deceased never rallied, but was un- conscious the whole of the time. The wound on the eye was a lacerated one, with unevun edges. A railing with a sharp point might prodnce such a wound. A young man named John Davies, residing at 2, Bryn Zion Court, Dowlais, said I remember going to Aberdare on Sunday last. I went in the morning, and returned by the last train at night. Samuel Thomas, the deceased, rode over in the same carriage as I did. The train returns from Abernant a little after eight o'clock. There were two other young men with me, named Ivor Argust and Samuel Harries. We three were together, and by going up to Abernant Station we passed the deceased on the road. Between Abemant Works and the chapel near the station two young men passed us. We three were walking up arm-in-arm, laughing and larking together. I do not know who those two young men were. They did not speak to us in passing, but after they bad gone a few yards they came back and got between us and asked us what did we mean ? We had no answer to give them, and I asked what did they BMan? S. Thomas was a little way behind as then. After pleading for a while, Ivor Arguat struck one of the young men twice. They then left us, and when we came up by the gate of the station I saw a fight. One of the fighters waa Samuel; Harris, the person who was with me. They fought two or three rounds that was out. side the station. Samuel Thomas and another person just came up at the moment and the train came in, so I and deceased went in through the gate, when I beard a voice say, Here's one of the fellows," and I received a blow at the time. I was struck across the shoulder with either an umbrella or a stick. Did not see Samuel Thomas after I saw him ooming by the gate the same time as I came in, but I saw a person on the ground, but I could not see who it waa. When 1 WM struck my hat fell off, so by looking for it en the ground I saw the man. Cross-examined by Mr Plews There was a large crowd looking at the fight; the train came in whilst the tight was going on there was a regular scramble to get through the small gate when the train arrived. The person who was on the ground was one of those who rushed in through the state. A young man named Richard Evans was next called, and said I am an assistant grocer with Mr W. Harris; I met the last train at Abernant Station on Sunday night last. I do not know Samuel Thomas did not see him, to my reoellection I saw the last witness and two others on the way up; they were going up before me; I saw a fight outside the gate at Aberaant; the fight was between Thomas Thomas, one of the prisoners, and one of the men who was with the last witness. I saw the'prisoner Williams also in the crowd he was looking on and had an umbrella in his hand. When they commenced fighting 1 saw him waving it ever their heads to clear the way for the fight. When the train came in the prisoner Thomas Thomas put on his eoat, and I went for my ticket, and en- deavoured te get into one of the carriages near the engine, but did not snoeeed. I did not see Samuel Thomas in the erowd inside the station the person the prisoner Thomas was fighting with was struck down by him with his fist. A rash took place through the gate when the train came in. After I got my ticket, and when the train was coming in, I saw the deceased lying down near the gas-lamp there were two yenng men with nim; the lamp is from 5 to 10 yards foom the gate I do net know how deceased got there. By Mr Plews The men that passed us struck Thomas first, and that caused the fight; the man that Thomas fought with outside is not the man that's dead. Richard Smith, an assistant with Mr Thomas Thomas, ironmonger, said I was at Abemant Station on Sunday night last. I saw a row outside the railings, and I also saw one inside, and I believe it was in connection with the one that had taken place outside. I do not know the de- ceased I saw him when he was being taken into the train I cannot swear as to who the parties were that fought; I saw a person on the ground, and there were about twenty persons roant him I cannot swear te any person who was in the crowd I did not notice either of the four prisoners I saw an umbrella waving above the heads of the crowd; I saw a person whom I took for Lewis Rees running afterl another man, who I believe struck him the man was not on the ground at the time, and Rees was going towards the upper end of the platform after him. By Mr Fowler I have no doubt but that the man on the ground was the person I assisted to put in the train, and that was the deoeaaed. A lad named Windsor Davies, a leather dresser, living at Merthyr, said I remember meeting the last train at Aber- nant Station on Sunday night last; there was a friend with me. I saw a fight outside the railings I do not know who the parties fighting were; I saw a person on the platform, that is inside the gate, striking the prisoner T. Thomas I did not go through the gate with the rush, but when I came back after getting my ticket I saw another fight on the platform i I cannot say whether the persons who were fighting outside were the ones who were fighting inside. I saw, after I came back from the ticket office, Thomas Thomas fighting with a tall man then I saw another per. son striking Thomas Thomas. Upon that Thomas left the person whom he was fighting with and followed the other. Then a general rush took place to get into the train. My friend stayed behind to look for Thomas's hat. At this time the platform was deserted, and upon the ground was a man laying down. The prisoner Taylor came up at the moment and kicked the man, and struck him with the um- brella I did not see anything else, for I got into the train. Taylor struck him in the face somewhere, but I cannot say where. Cross-examined by Mr Plews: I went over to Aberdare by the morning train. My friend's name is Ed. Stuckey. When I came up to the station the fight was going on. I spent the day in a friend's house we were in the George Inn, and had a glass each had some more beer in another public house that I do not know the name of. 1 will swear that I was only in two public houses; I was in the George twice, and had a glass of ale each time I had only one glass in the unknown public house. I know Thomas Thomas. I saw the fight, and witnessed it for several moments; I do not think it was the prisoner Thomas Thomas who was nghting I will not swear it was or was not Thomas Thomas that was fighting; I am not sore that the fight was going on when the train came in. There was a rush to the train, and a few minutes after- wards there were about a dozen persons present. I cried out shame when I saw Taylor kick the man. 1 only knew Taylor and my friend of all the persons on the plat- form. The deeeased was lying down between the open waiting-room and the railway carriage. I am not sure whether Taylor had a top coat on I do not believe he had I will swear he had an umbrella I saw him in Aberdare between two and three o'clock; my friend Stuckey was with me at the time. Edwin Stuckey, boot-cutter, residing at Wellington.street, said: 1 remember meeting the train at Abernant on Sunday evening last. I saw the prisoner Thomas Thomas and a tall man fighting outside the rails Thomas had his coat off, but the other had not; the fight lasted for seven or eight minutes I stood there until the fight was over some one said, "the train's coming," and the fight stopped. Thomas then went in through the gate on to the platform, and watf about going for his ticket when a man came in from behind and struck him. Thomas turned round to strike him back, and whilst he was in the act of doing so the man with whom he had been fighting outside came up and struck him in the eye. Thomas struck the man that came after him until he wu on the ground, and then a general fight took place. I slw a person lying down on his right side when the rush took place to get into the train I cannot say he was the person that struck Thomas. People then went into the train, and I stayed behind looking for Thomas's hat; I then saw Taylor coming from the railings and stoop down and strike thejmaq on the ground. It was very dark, so I am not certain whether he struck him with his fist: I did not see anything in Taylor's hand, but I saw an umbrella by the man's side. By Mr Plews: I spent the day in Aberdare only visited two public houses; did not see Taylor carry the deceased into one of the oarriages. The next witness called was Ann Evans, residing at Pwllyhwyaid, who said I was returning by the last train from Abernant on Sunday last. I did qot see a row at the station. About seven persons came into the carriage that I waf in. The prisoner Iphomas Thomas was one of them, and he sat before me; I noticed that his left eye was red- dened. The person that sat next but one to me said tl^at he had struek tha 4**d man in the eye; he said so in English. Upon being requested by the Bench to give the exact wards, the witness, although previously giving her evidence in Welsh, said; "D him, I gave hiog ft potMintheeycwithmyumbreUa," Mr Plows submitted that what was now being stated was not evidence; It was what some person said in the train, not what either of the prisoners had said. The Beneh eoncurred, and the evidence WAS agreed to be struek Ws. Morgan, plasterer, Dowlais, said: I was returning by the last train from Abernant on Sunday night last. I was in the train before the fight took plaoe, and therefore did net see it. There was a great rush to get into the carriages. I know some of the persons that came in. Pnsenent Thomas Thomas and Taylor came into the same oempartment as I did. The last witness sat next to me. I heard Taylor saying to Thomas that he was very foolish to meddle in the row. I did not hear anything further. I heard one person say that he had given him (deceased) a poke with a stick, and another that he had jpven him a poke with an umbrella. That persqn was not either of the two prisoners Taylor and Thomas, Cross-examined by Mr Flews J I joined the train at Aberaant. Sarah Jenkins was the next witness called, and said I am a married woman, and the wife of John Jenkins. 1 live at Mary-street, Dowlais. I was returning by the last train from Aberaant en Sunday night last. I was stand- ing op the platform inside the gate, and alongside of me were two or three persons another one came up and said, "Jack I/ewis has been beat outside there's a fight theye." They thei^ ran by me. J saw Samuel Thomas coming in without a hat en his head. Prisoner Lewis Rees then came on and said, You are one," and struck him with his fist until he fell down. The crowd then came around, and I could not see anything. The train also came fin at the moment. I will swear that Rees struck the deceased. Cross-examined by Mr Jones The train came in as Rees struck him down. When I was in the act of getting into the train Bees came up and endeavoured to get in before me, and whilat doing so struck me in the breast. I was stsiyting between the corner of the station and the railway. I do pot know how Rees was dressedr Rees struck me with hi? elbow. The tfain was coming in when he struck the man down. P.S. Davies said: I arrested the prisoner Thomas Williaqu pn Monday afternoon. I brought him to the station, and I was present when the Superintendent charged him with being concerned with pthers In causing the death of Samuel Thomas on Sunday night last. He replied, I am quite innocent; I was in the railway carriage all the time the row was going on, talking to a yonhg lady Uiat sat ppposite me." 1 afterwards wept to his house andgqt the "umbrella (pfodqped) and shpwea it, and he said, "That's the umbrella I had with me on Sun- day evening last." 1 arrested prisoner Thomas about half- paet three yesterday, and brought him to the station, and he was charged with the same offence, and be said zn re- ply, I saw the row, but I did not see any blows struck." 1 arrested Taylor about three o'clock, and also chained him with the same offence. 1 also went up to his house (Taylor's) and got the umbrella (produced), which he admitted being his property. He replied, in answer to the charge, "j know nothing about the affair." On Monday n^ght about half-past eight Taylor came to thp sation and said, "lam told yon are Ipoking for me." I said I thought the Superin- tendent wanted to see him, and he said, I know nothing about the affair; I was looking for a ticket at the Aber. rant statioq, when I !was told that Thomas Thomas was fighting; I went on and took hold of him and put him in the carriage; he got the poke before I got up, I saw the n""1 lying down there. Cross-examined by Mr Plews: When Thomas came to the station I did not hear him admit to the Superintendent +' ;.r. _1 that he had been fighting he may, however, have done so. The Bench remarked that tbere was no evidence what- ever against Thomas Williams that would justify them in detaining him further, so he would therefore be discharged. The witness Windsor Davies was here recalled, and in reply to Mr Jones, said: I rode to Merthyr from Aber- nant in the same carriage as witness Sarah Jenkins. J beard her conversing with another person in Welsh. I cannot speak Welsh, but I understand perfectly well what she said. I heard her say that Lewis Rees, the prisoner, had hit her nearly on the rails, and consequently she would do for him on the morrow. Supt. Thomas, in answer to the Bench, stated that the case for the prosecution had not been completed. Pe h;t'l no further witnesses to call that day, but he had anothe r one, and therefore wished for a retnand. Mr Fowler Before a commitment can take place on this charge you must have some sufficient evidence to en- nect the prisoners, or any of them, with the cause of death. Mr Plews I was just going to say the same thing. Mr Fowler At present the evidence to connect any of the prisoners with the cause of death is very slight. In fact it is so slight that we do not think it necessary to detain them in custody. But at the same time we think it is quite proper when a person has cerce to his death by violence that the cause of death should be investigated to the utmost, in the interest of every person concerned. However, we think it right to comply with the Superinten- dent's application, that there should be a remand, and we will accept bail in each case. The three prisoners were then remanded for a week, bail in t50 each being accepted. The deceased, Samuel Thomas, was, we learn, a young man about 23 years of age, and was, until lately, a stead- fast member of one of the Baptist churches in Dowlais. He had, however, addicted himself lately to drinking, and was about a fortnight since excommunicated from the church. His funeral took place on Wednesday afternoon, his re- mains being interred at Pant Cemetery. The funeral was a very large one, most of the Dowlais colliers being In attendance. ABERDARE INTELLIGENCE. VESTRY MEETING.—An open air vestry meeting was held yesterday at one o'clock, R. H. Rhys, Esq., occupied the chair. The meeting was convened for the purpose of pro- posing gentlemen as overseers for the ensuing year. For the Aberdare district—Messrs Jenkin Rbys, Wil- liam Davies, Gadlys, and J. Evans, grocer, Mill- street, were proposed. For the Llwydcoed district, Messrs. J. Roberts, Howell E. Davies, and H. Davies. For Fforchaman district, Messrs. Rees Williams, T. Pugh, and D. Davies, grocer. The meeting then proceeded to nominate persons for the coming election of Guardians. The following eleven were ultimately agreed upon:— Messrs. J. Williams, J. IW. Jones, VLeyson Rees, J. Smith, A. Jones, H. Kirkhouse, M. Edwards, R. Williams, T. Pugh, Daniel David, and the Rev. Dr. Price. ELECTION OF SCHOOL BOARD.—The following is a list of candidates for the nine seats at the future School Board. The poll w,.Il take place on the 30th instant: —Rev Thomas Price, Baptist al-iri»ter. JJsse Cottage, Aberdare Mr David Davies, grocer, 9, Cardiff-street, Aberdare; James Lewis, Esq., J.P., Tydraw; Mr John Johns, bootmaker, 6, Cardiff. street, Aberdare David Evail- Williams, Esq., J.P., Hirwain David Davis, Esq., Maesytfynon Rev John David Jenkins, vicarage, Aberdare Mr William Thomas, colliery agent, Cwmaman, Aberdare Mr John Williams, grocer and draper, 47, Harriet-street; R. IL Rhys, Esq., J.P., Plasnewydd; Rev William Edwards, Independent Minister Meirion Cottage, Trecynon Rev Morgan Phillips, Baptist Minister, 19, Davies-street. Aberaman £ *r David Evans, colliery manager, Bute Villa Mr John N.v*Tones, collier, 5, Duffryn Old Road, Mountain Ash Rev John Dawson, Catholic Priest, Monk-street Mr Thomas Pugh, wool dealer, Ac-, 1, Bute-terrace; Mr George Wilkinson, colliery manager, Mountain Ash Mr William Powell, colliery proprietor, Hirwain Alfred Devonald, Esq., sur- geon, Fforcbaman-road David Price Davies, Esq., Ynys- llwyd House Rev Rees Jenkin Jones, M.A., Unitarian Minister, Mount Pleasant Garden; Mr David Rosser, solicitor, 17, Canon-street; Rev John Evans. minister, Clifton Cottage; Mr Llewellyn Llewellyn, mining engineer, Aberaman-terrace Mr David Rees Davies, draper, 5, Car- diff-street Rees Williams, Esq., Cefnpennar Mr James James, Gadlys Iron Works; Mr David William Joshua, printer, 17, Dumfries-street; Mrs Mary Smith Lloyd, 14, Canon-street; Mr David Morgan, land agent, Duffryn, Mountain Ash David Thomas, mechanic, Llettyshenkin. —During the week several meetings have been held in sup- port of the different candidates. On Monday the Methodists held |a|committee'meeting, when they came to a deter- mination to plump for their candidate. On Wednesday night last a noisy meeting was held at the Temperance Hall, presided over by D. Davies, Esq., Maesyffynon. The meeting ultimately agreed to support several of the candi- dates. ABERDARE POLICE COURT. TUESDAT.-( Before J. C. Fowler, R. H. Rkys, and D. E. Williams, Esqrs.) DRUNK AND RIOTOUS.—John Davies was charged with being drunk and riotous at Commercial-street, Mountain Ash, on the 18th instant. P.C. Smith proved the charge, and defendant was fined 5s and costs.-Lewis Lewis was charged with a similar offence, committed at Commercial- street, Aberdare, on the 19th instant. P.C. Jenkins (18) proved the charge, and defendant was fined 10s and costs. —William J ames was charged with being drunk and inde- cent at Merthyr Road, Llwydcoed, on the 14th instant. P.C. Cross proved the charge, and defendant was fined 10s and costs.—Samuel Phillips was charged with being drunk and riotous at Commercial-street, on the 19th instant. P.C. Oliver proved the charge, and defendant was fined 10s and costs.—William Morgan was charged with being drunk and indecent at Cardiff Road, Aberaman, on the 20th instant. P.C. Evans (97) proved the charge, and defendant was fined 20s and costs.—Dennis Daley was charged with being drunk and riotous at Navigation Road, Mountain Ash, on the 20th instant. P.C. Williams proved the charge, and defendant was fined 10s and costs.—James Beynon was I charged with being drunk at Cardiff-street that morning. P.C. Melhuish proved the charge, and defendant was fined 5s and costs.—William Harris was summoned for being drunk aud indecent at Cardiff-street, on the 14th instant, j P.C. Toundy proved the charge, and defendant was fined | 20s and costs. —Thomas Bradford was summoned for being drunk and riotous at Jeffrey's-street, Mountain Ash, on the 11th instant. P.C. Jenkins proved the charge, and defendant was fined 10s and costs.—Thomas Evans and John Francis, were summoned for being drunk and riotous at Seymour-street, on the 7th instant. P.C. Melhuish proved the charge, and defendants were fined 5s and 10s and costs respectively. ASSAULTING THE POLICE.—William Button was charged with assaulting P.C. Lyons in the execution of his duty. The Bench, after hearing the evidenoe, dismissed the de- fendant with a caution. BEGINNING YOUNG.-Four lads named Joseph Rees, Robert Allen, David Harris, and Jeremiah Callaghan, were charged with stealing a number of oranges, &c., the property of a widow named Mary Austin. The prosecutrix resided in Mountain Ash, and from her evidence it appeared that on Monnay night last three of the prisoners came into her shop to purchase some lozenges. Whilst her back was turned they stole several oranges, prunes, &c. There being no against Harris he was discharged, and the other lads were fined 5s and costs. A Y onw POLICEMAN'S MODE OF GETTING UP A CASE. —Mr Wm. Stephens, landlord of the Talbot, Pembroke-street, was summoned for selling beer during prohibited hours, on Sunday, the 12th inst. Mr Simons appeared for defendant. From the evidence of P.O. Oliver it appeared that he sent a little girl with a tin-jack and money for a pint of beer to the defendant's house, and was supplied by him with it. He then drew the defendant's attention to the circumstance, but he denied having given the beer.—The Bench condemned the mode adopted by the police officer for obtaining a case if he had not sent the girl the de- fendant would not have transgressed the law. The sum- mons would be dismissed.—Mr Simons stated that he was able to show the Bench that the policeman had met the girl in the street whilst on the way to a Sunday School, and with promises of money rgot her to go to the public houses for beer, at the same time stating that her father was ill, and that it was far bim, that she wanted it. Mr Superintendent Thomas stated that the officer had received no instructions to do what he had just stated.—Dismissed. PONTYPRIDD INTELLIGENCE. LLANTWIT V ARDRE SCHOOL BOARD MEETING. — The I first meeting of the members of the Llantwit Vardre School II Board was held last week. There were present-the Rev H. J. Thomas, Messrs Richards, Robotham, Davies, and David. The business was of a formal character. On the motion of Mr Robotham, seconded by Mr W. Davies, the I Rev H. J. Thomas was appointed chairman pro tem. Mr Richards moved, and Rev H. Thomas seconded, that the chairman to be appointed be not a member of the Board. Mr Pvobotham moved, and Rev H. J. Thomas seconded, the appointment of Mr G. Williams (Miskin), as the chair- man of the Board. Mr David moved, and Mr Richards seconded, that the Rev H. J. Thomas be the vice-chairman. -There was only one candidate for the clerkship. Mr Richards moved, and Mr Robotham seconded, that Mr Davies be appointed clerk to the Board. This appointment, however, is subject to the Poor-law Board seeing no objec- tion to the candidate holding this office together with that at collector of rates, to which he is supposed to devote the whole of his time. The Board fixed the salary at £ 15 per annum. Mr. C. Bassett was appointed treasurer. The future meetings of the Board will be hejd on the third Thursday in each month at 4 p.m. The Board will meek in Treforest. Mr Richards was requested to secure a room in Treforest suitable for holding the meetings of the Board. ANNUAL DISTRIBUTION OF PRIZES TO THE 19th GLAUOR- SHIRE VOLUNTEER RIFLES.-On Thursday evening, at the anniversary supper of the members of the 19th Glamor- ganshire Rifles, held at the Butchers' Arma Inn, the distri. bution cf the officers' prizes was made by Captain Williams. The {tribes were divided into two classes, the first for shoot- ing, and the second for efficiency these Jwo classes again being made up of efficients and recruits, The first prize was a silver coffee-pot, presented by Lieutenant Mallett. The successful scores are given herewith. For highest scores: Private William Jones, silver coffee-pot; Private William Thomas, jEl 10s; Private John Clothier fl Sergeant Carey, 15s; Private W. B. Jenkins, 10s; Quartermaster- Sergeant Evans, 7s 6d Private Rees W illiams, 5s; Corporal E. Williams, 5s Sergeant Thomas (band), 5s Private W. Thomas, 2s 6q.. Recrmts highest scores: Private T. Palmer, 15s; Private W. Jeukina, 10s Private Charles Davies, 5s. For best attendance at drilL Efficients Ser. geant Carey (lfcb9), i.1 and badge; Private Cope (187Q), il and hadge. Recrmts William Thomas (1869), William Jenkins (1870), 10s. IMPORTANT MEETING OF MINERS' DELEGATES AT PONTYPRIDD. On Monday morning a meeting of miners' delegates of a very important character was held in the Colliers' Arms, Pontypridd. Mr John Jones (Gwalch), Ferndale, was appointed chairman, and Mr Henry Thomas (Abercwmboy) vice-ehairman. j The following delegates, representing in pits (61) and lodges (7) an aggregate number of over 12,000 colliers were presentDavid Thomas, Cwmpennar Lower Pit (450); John Rees, Cwmpennar Upper (450); George Woodford and David Morgan, Middle Dyffryn (550); J ohn Daniel, Ijetty Shenkin (250); Griffith Griffiths, Cwmbach Lower (150); Evan Evans, Hirwain (100); Rees Price, Werfa (200); Thomas Morgan and E. Matthews, Bwllfa (500); Evan Williams, Powell's Cwmdare (100); John Beavan, Gadlys Old Pit (120) Henry Williams, Blaengwawr No. 1 (fO); D. Rees, Blaengwawr No. 2 (150) David Morgan, Abergwar (240); Samuel Davies, Aberaman (404); Job Phillips, Cwm Neol (300); William Evans, Fforchaman (350), John Jones, Abercwmboy (400). Rhondda Valley Francis Ratcliffe and William Price, Tynewydd (180); WiK. iiam Morgan Sate (550); William Thomas, Abergorchi > r: rr _.II. JT ..1 (550); Thomas Evans, Abergorchi Level (150); David Davies, Ton (500); James Williams, Boedrhingallt (110) t i John Weaver, Bwllfa Level (100); Thomas Lloyd ana Richard Richards, Llwynpia (410) David Havard, Cwjn I Clydacb (100) H. Thomas, Gelli (40); William Williama, Blaen Clydach (GO); George Bird, Troedyrhiw (120); David Davies, Ynyshir (70); John Evans, Cymmer Pit (200) r David Evans, Simon's Level (50); W. Thomas. Tynewyaa Level (70); David Abel, Windham Pit (200); J. Jenkins, Eorchwen (80); Thomas Evans, Aber (90); J. Jenkins and W. Edwards. Tynant (250); Solomon Matthews, Geneu'r Glyn, Tregibbon, and Penyrheol (220); Lewis Foster, Troedyrhiw Fwch (81) W. Abraham, Tirphil (60): W. Jones, Brithdir (150); Jonah Miles. Beddoe (20); J. Jones and Edward Terrer, Ferndale (540); George Thomas, Rhoa, Llantwit, and Wernddu (250); D. Morgan, Bryngwyr (40) Henry Rowland, Rowland's pit and level (80) J. Jones, Rhoswen (80); Gwladvs, (90); Pentre Poeth (23). Mon- mouthshire: David Charles. White Rose (60) John Powell. South Wales Colliery (310) Thomas Price, Tillery Level (100); P. Jones, Penrhiw-park (60) T. Matthews, t Cwm Nant-y-Groes (72) T. Price, Six Bells (80); J. Parry, Aberbug (200) S. Adams, Risca (500). Lodges of Amalgamated Association of Miners: No 1 Bute Lodge, Evan Williams, (175); Nc 2, ditto, W. Jones, (200); No 3. ditto, S. Adams. (120); Cwmbach. W. Jones, (135); Cwmbach, John Shelby (44); Cwm Rhondda, John Jonai (42) Aberaman, H. Thomas (300). The object of this meeting included the bearing of th« report of the deputation sent by the colliers to London to watch over the progress of the Mines Regulation Bill, in connection with deputations from other parts of the country. THE EXPLOSION AT PENTRE. The Chairman referred to a letter, received at Ferndale by P.C. Tamplin last Friday from the Coroner, Mr G. Overton, in reference to the inquest over the unfortunate men killed by the late explosion at the Pentre Pit. In this communication he (the Chairman) was referred to, and his presence desired at the inquest. He had had a conversation with the Coroner that morning, and he (the Coroner) had suggested that there should be a certain num. ber of colliers present to watch the proceedings. The col. liery owners bad plenty of assistance in looking after their own interests, but those of the colliers were neglected. H. (the Coroner) would be glad if such a question, in the lute- rest of the colliers could be formally put from them as te whether Her Majesty's Inspector, Mr Wales, had ever been down the Pentre Pit before the explosion. The Coroner believed not; but Le had no power to put this questioa ia all its irepressiveness. If, however, he was authorised by the delegate meeting to put such a question, he would da so. The inquest would probably not be over by Thursday, and he (the Chairman) hoped a unanimous resolution woulcl be drawn up in accordance with the suggestion of the Coroner, (Hear, hear.) The Coroner said he had written to Mr Halliday and Mr Richard, and he hoped either of then would be down at the inquest. (Cheers.) J. Jones (Mountain Ash) moved, and David Abel (Og- more Valley) seconded—"That this meeting of delegate* formally request the Coroner to put on their behalf the question to Mr Wains, Were you ever down in the Peiitra Pit before the explosion ?' "—Carried unanimously. T. Jones moved and W. Jones seconded—" That a Com- mittee of five be appointed to collect information with re- ference to the state of the Pentre Pit before the explosion, for the purpose of the inquest now being held, and that they report the result of their inquiry before the meeting terminates."—Carried unanimously. Ii THE MINES REGULATION BILL. John Jones (Mountain Ash), one of the deputation (the only one present), was then called upon to give an account of the proceedings so far as the duties of the deputation were concerned. He said, after his appointment as one of the deputation he started with his confreres for London on the 11th inst., where they arrived much fatigued. They were warmly re- ceived by Mr Halliday. Mr Halliday, with others, had been r.T. London some little time before, and had drawn np certain auArfJ.r}ents to the Bill. They all met at Astto-'g Hotel, where the ainenti,;?f,Dts were submitted to &em. They were as follows1. That thbT* be six hours' Vacation weekly to lads between 13 and 16 years. ?. Tnat females working on banks be permitted to continue working, but no more to be taken on. 3. That wages be paid weekly. 4. That all the miners' material be weighed, and weighed only. 5. That all prop-wood be cut and laid near the miners. 6. Thar mines be inspected every three months. 7. That there be sub-inspectors. 8. That an engine-man be always at the engine when men are below. 9. That there be a register of all the men's names every day as they go to work. 10. That a complete survey of the mine be made every twenty-four hours, and sent to the inspector every month. 11. That a barometer and thermometer be placed at every mine. 12. That the phrase under ordi. nary circumstances be expunged from the general rules. 13. That all offences under the Act be tried by stipendiary magistrates if possible. 14. That blasting with powder be done away with in firing mines. With all these amend. ments they expressed their concurrence, with the excep- tion of the 2nd. They were in favour of the amendment, and sympathised with it, but as their powers were not ex. tensive enough to sanction an amendment which so seriously affected so many future mothers of Welsh children, they could not formally accede to it. With regard to the question of weight, it was decided that it should be the imperial cwt., of 1121bs., and the ton of 20 cwt. Mr Fothergill has the charge of the amendment embodying this condition. Clause 37. in reference to the powers of sub-inspectors, they believed were so extensive as to prao- ticaliy removeall the responsibility from the coal proprietors. It was suggested to Mr Fothergiil that the objectionable word "super vision" should be expunged. It was further suggested to Mr. Fothergill that it should not be insisted upon that the sub-inspectors should furnish the coal pro- prietors with their report on the colliery, but to confine the communication of such reports to the chief inspector. Mr Fothergill thought it advisable that the owners should be made acquainted with the reports of the sub-inspector. He said, How are we to know the state of the pit, as we are often kept in the dark by the agents ?" Such reports would be desirable. He (the speaker) thought it better to make sure of what they could get. He did not believe the Government would grant such a concession. The speaker passed a high eulogium on the practical business keeness of Mr M'Donald, whose services he considered invaluable. The members of Parliament who sympathised with them required continuous jogging, or they would, in the pressure of legislative business, quite forget the interests they had promised to supervise. Mr Jones concluded by expressing his desire to answer any question any delegate felt disposed to put to him. There being no interrogation, it was moved, seconded, and resolved, that the deputation had acquitted itself to the satisfaction of the delegate meeting. The Chakman explained that the deputation did not object to the reports being sent to the coalowners, but they thought it would be better to make sure of catching the trout before attempting to tackle a whale. It would be better to make sure of what they demanded, rather than risk all by asking too much. CONTRIBUEION TOWARDS EXPENSES. A discussion arose as te the steps to be taken to meet the expenses incurred by the deputation to London and other matters. A strong feeling was entertained that as the object of the appointment of the deputation concerned the interests of the colliers as a body, each ought to contribute a share, which would be scarcely felt. It was stated tha, many men would rather pay for a pint of beer than con. tribute threepence towards carrying measures that would affect their own lives. Ultimately it was resolved that ftd collier outside the. union be requested to subscribe three- pence to meet the expenses necessarily incurred. CHANGE OF PLACE fOR MEETING. As Mountain Ash was considered to possess many more railway facilities for enabling the Monmouthshire dele- gates to come earlier and leave later, it was resolved that for the future the delegate meeting. should be held in that town. THE REDUCTION OF WAGES. A long discussion arose as to the steps to be taken in view of the expiration of the current notice for reduction of wages. It was stated that only one colliery, a8 far as could be ascertained—via., the Bwllfa-wa8 under notice in the Rhondda VaUey. Mr J. Jones (Mountain Ash) suggested that no decided Step should be taken at the meeting, but that any definite line of policy should be settled at mass meetings by the col- liers themselves. He suggested Llanwonno, as being more central. T. Price (Tillery) thought that a rise could be caused by a universal cessation of work tor a week. This would, by creating a demand prevent any reduction. It was, he be lieved, gardening time, and he suggested that every eollier in England and Wales should, at the expiration of the notice, give himself a week's holiday. (This was received with loud cheers and laughter, the novelty of the theory not a little astonishing the old stagers.) Before this suggestion, framed as a proposition, was pnt, a long and earnest discussion ensued, the result of whioh was a proposition to the effect That two delegates from each pit confer with the masters of the pit to ascertain the reason of the reduction, and that the results of the confer. ence, together with the decisions of the men, be communi- cated at a delegate meeting to be held at the Allen's Am. Mountain Ash, on Friday morning next, at ten o'elock." This was carried nem. can. A rider was carried that each colliery in South Wales send a. delegate to such meeting, whether such colliery had received notice orlnot. As there were four members on the deputation to London (the expenses of two of whom were paid by Mr Fothergill), great dissatisfaction was expressed that only one member was present. It was explained that Thomas Thomas had gone to the Pentre inquest, that Lewis Morgan was unwell, and that Henry Mitchord was attending an Executive Committee in Manchester. The whole proceedings were characterised by unanimity and earnestness. Most of the delegates handed tu the amounts due from their respective pits, j TREDEGAR INTELLIGENCE. MISSIONARY SERMONS.—On Sunday last, as previously announced, the pulpit at St. George's Church was occu- pied by the Rev David Parker Morgan, formerly of St. Mary's, Cardiff, and now Vicar of Aberavon. The day waa unusually fine, which, added to the fame of the preacher induced a large congregation to assemble at each service. The text in the morning was Eph. III. 8, and in the evening 2 Cor. IV. 7. The text at the Welsh service WM Ps. III. 5. The reverend preacher spoke for upwards of three quarters of an hour at each discourse, aud his homely yet eloquent and well-timed remarks proved a treat in the way of oratory not often to be met with. Liberal collec- tions were made after each service. In concluding the sermon in Welsh, Mr Morgan moved the hearts of all present by a most touching allusion to the health of the which he stated was so precarious that in all probability he would never again occupy the pulpit at Tredegar. He implored all to prepare for the great day, to pray for their beloved vicar, and ask God to strengthen Mrs Leigh under so trying an ordeal. The preacher him- self was visibly affected, and sympathetic emotions were awakened in every breast. ACCIDENT UNDERGROUND.—On Saturday a fall took place in Briggs pit, by which a valuable horse (King Wil- liam) was killed, and Thomas Williams (Tpm Pembroke) narrowly escaped with his life. He was jammed between, some timber, and was only saved by a brother workman, who so far raised the top timber that Williams was en- abled to crawl out, and he had scarcely cleared the way when down came hundreds of tons, crushing the poor horse and burying it completely. Several hours elapsed before the carcase of the animal was brought up.