Blair Collection > Rhys Lewis, minister of Bethel

96 EBYS LEWIS.
hours later I saw Thomas Bartley returning home between two
neighbours, and although they were all pretty quiet over it, I
fancied there was some disagreement between them as to which
side of the road it was best they should walk on. Shortly after-
wards, I heard James Pulford go by our house singing: —
•' On Conway's banks, once on a time."
Were all this put into print, some people would doubtless
wonder and disbelieve ; but others, I know, would bear
testimony to the accuracy of the description, and say that its
fault is its brevity, and that it does not convey the whole truth.
I have refrained from noting all the unseemly things which
took place iu connection with Seth's funeral. Of a mercy, what
a reform there has taken place by this time. And there is yet
room for more. If the beer has been banished, tea and coffee,
beef and ham, have taken its place. When strangers from a
distance attend a funeral, it may be proper, no doubt, to make
provision for them. But what reason can be given for all the
junketing that is now seen on such occasions among the neigh-
bours. Some poor families will prepare a costly feast, and that
simply for the sake of people who live close by. The main-
tenance of such a foohsh custom is a cruel hardship towards the
poor, and unseemly in the last degree, I should fancy.
Seth buried, there remained to me but one bosom friend only
— Will Bryan ; and the conviction constantly forced itself upon
me that our acquaintance was not to continue long. Will had
an open, kindly heart, and a lively, daring si^irit; but, day by
day, the consciousness strengthened in me that he was not a
good boy. He spoke contemptuously of the strict rules of Com-
munion ; and it was but rarely be called people by their right
names. He had a nickname for nearly everyone he knew.
John Lloyd, as I have observed, he called "old Scraper;"
Hugh Bellis, the deacon who wept during sermon, " old
Waterworks;" Thomas Bowen, popular with the childi'en,
"old Trump;" Abel Hughes, who wore knee-breeches, and
had thin legs, "old Onion." He had an "old " to every name.
He never mentioned his parents save as " the gaffer yonder,"
and the "old pea-hen yonder." I have observed that truly did
my mother say there was some serious defect in that lad's