From the Cambrian:
About , Mr. Evan Rees,
carrier from Shrewsbury to Aberystwith, was proceeding with his waggon laden
with timber from Aberystwith to Llanidloes, when upon arriving at Pantmawr
turnpike gate, the toll-collector demanded the customary toll; in reply, Mr.
Rees offered the half, which was refused by the gate-keeper. The stubborn
Cambrian waggoner then ordered the servant, who accompanied him, to hook the
team of steeds to the gate-posts. The much-frightened toll-collector, sooner
than have his gates and posts dragged to pieces, immediately opened the gates
for her ladyship Rebecca to go peaceably through. But the matter did not end
here, as, shortly after, Mr. Rees was visited at the Black Horse Inn, in
Aberystwith (which said house he is landlord of), by a bailiff, informing him
that the magistrates of the hundred of Llanidloes were desirous of having an
interview with him on a certain day in the tillage of Llandinam, near
Llanidloes. Mr. Rees being a man of stomach, properly attended upon their
worships at the time desired, who after examining into the business, gently
informed him that they would deal very leniently this time, but if he made his
appearance before them again upon such occasion, that the utmost penalty of
the law should be inflicted; at present they would only impose upon him the
sum of five pounds and costs, which was immediately paid. Mr. Rees then bowed
and left the court.
