RESIDENT MAGISTRATE'S COURT.

ASHBURTON. Friday, October 10, ISTO. Before Mr. Frank Guinness, R.M. civil CASE. Stevens and others versus McQuilkin. Claim £35 10s., balance due on a contract for clearing flax. Mr. Branson for plaintiffs ; Mr. Crisp for defendant. Mr. Branson said the case was that the plaintiffs had engaged to cut the flax on 70 acres at Longbeach, they were subsequently told that they must burn the flax, and objected to do so unless a number of cattle being depastured were removed, as treading the flax into the ground, which was of a swampy nature. William Stevens, deposed that he had contracted with Henry Whi tty, manager for McQuilkin, to cut 70 acres of flax, and agreed to do it for 13s. per acre. He believed he had only to cut,andnot toclear the land. Had no partners when he en tered into the contract, but took Brooker and others in as mates subsequently. Started work on May 18th, and about 4 or 5 days afterwards Whitty called their attention to the fact that they were not burning the flax. They undertook to bum it provided the cattle were removed. About a third of the section was very swampy. There were about 300 head of cattle on the land. The cattle followed them about so as to get something to eat, and strewed the flax about and trod it into the ground. Asked Whitty fre quently to remove the cattle, but they were still allowed to wander. Had burned some of the flax, the rest was so trodden into the ground that it would not bum. Made application for payment, but had only received £lO on account. Cross-examined by Mr, Crisp—When I took the contract nothing was said about clearing the ground. Noticed the cattle the first day we started. Was told by Mr Whitty that we could rake the flax in heaps instead of burning. Could not rake it, as it was so trodden in. John Curry and two other witnesses corroborated Stevens’ evidence. For the defence, Henry Whitty deposed that as manager for Mr McQuilkin, he contracted with Stevens to have 70 acres of flax land cleared. Did not tell them at the time for what purpose it was to be cleared, but did so afterwards, when wit ness said that they would have to bum the flax, as the land was to be ploughed in about six weeks. The land could not be

ploughed owing to the flax encumbering it. The cutting was not well done, and / will have to be done again. They may have asked witness to remove the cattle, but he didn’t remember. They raked about 15 acres and burnt one acre. Extra men have to be employed to keep the plough clear. John McQuilkin saw the men on the ground. He thought that they then had all the flax cut, the weather was very wet, and he told them he wanted the land cleared, and would let the lake the flax into rows instead of burning itlfond would afterwards bum it himjgfif' 'Vhey only raked a small strip oijfiry land, about 10 acres. Have had to employ other men to do the work. The cutting was badly done. It will cost now as much to clear the land as if it had not been touched. By Mr Branson —Noticed that some of the flax had been trodden in. There were less than 200 cattle on the land. Did not think they could get on to the swampy land.

Arthur Hewson, fanner, knew McQuil kin’s land, Had seen the work done by the plaintiffs. It was very inefficiently done, as only the standing flax had been cut. It could not be raked, as a lot was not cut. It would cost 13s per acre now to clear the land properly. The price for cutting alone is about 8s 6d per acre. Clearing flax means making the land fit for ploughing. By Mr Branson—Have had offers to cut and stack flax at 8s 6d, and knew of three cases where it had been done at that figure in the neighborhood. John Smith, who described himself as a flax-cutter, was called to give rebutting evidence, and said he had received 10s per acre for cutting on easier land. He thought 13s a low price for clearing on McQuilkin’s land. The Magistrate, in giving judgment, said there had been two contracts. The evidence for the defence showed the work had not been completed. It • was suf ficiently proved that defendant had allowed his cattle to tread the flax in, and thus do the plaintiffs an injury. As to the man ner in which the work had been done, if not in so complete a manner as it might have been, the small quantity of flax left uncut would not affect the working of the land to any extent. He would give judg ment for plaintifis with costs, and recom mended that all contracts should be in writing, to save litigation, police CASE. After the adjournment, James Moore was charged with stealing 30 fowls, valued at £4, from the residence of James Perham, Burnett street, and a second charge of stealing 14 fowls from James Hefford, Tancred street. Sergeant Pratt asked for a remand, to enable him Obtain evidence as to the ownership of the poultry, as well as further evidence as to other thefts. The prisoner admitted hav ing committed the thefts he was charged with. He was remanded till Monday next.

RESIDENT MAGISTRATE’S COURT.

* SOUTH RAKAIA. Thubsday, October 9. Before Mr. Frank Guinness, R.M. breach of the licensing ACT. —POLICE V. WILLIAM MORTON. The defendant was charged with un lawfully selling alcoholic liquors. In spector Pender conducted the case on behalf of the prosecution, and Mr C. W. Purnell appeared for the defendant. Mr Purnell made a preliminary objection, and asked for a dismissal, on the ground that one summons had been issued for three separate offences, viz., for selling two half-giH s of brandy, two of rum, and two of whisky, and he contended that three distinct charges should have been jnade. Moreover, the names of the in dividuals to whom the liquor had been puppliod should have been specified. His Worship considered it necessary for a name to be stated, and the names of (jtoprge Wheeler and Edwin Russel were then uwertod a» ptmwi fa whom liquor

Philip Thorean, swqni, deposed that he was a constable stationed at Rakaja, The alleged sale of liquor had taken place at Mitcham, in the Ashburton Licensing District. When witness delivered the summons to defendant he asked him to read it to him. Defendant then said, “ I must admit that I supplied these drinks. It is Mr Passmore who is doing the mis chief. If lam fined more than £5 I will not be able to pay it.” Defendant has no licence to sell alcoholic drinks.

By Mr Purnell : I did not caution the defendant when I delivered the summons. I have received instructions not to caution, but to allow prisoners to say what they liked.

Edwin Russell stated he was a laborer, employed by Mr Passmore. He knew George Wheeler as a ploughman in the same employ. Recollected going to de defendant’s house on a Sunday afternoon, about three weeks ago. Went to see a friend named Lane. I met him at Mor ton’s, house. Morton was present at the time. I had some tea and rum. I had rum three times, perhaps a winoglassful each time. I think Wheeler had some too. Morton shouted twice and Lane once. Witness did not pay for any. There were five present. Defendant first asked us to have a nip. A bottle of rum was placed on the table by defendant, and vve helped ourselves. We had pudding next, with some tea. Lane asked us whether we would have another nip, and we had one of rum. Did not see Lane pay any money, or any money pass. About half an hour aftewards defendant asked us to have one more before we left, but I did not see it paid for. That was all we had, and we then went home. I was sober. We paid Is Cd for our pud ding and tea. I believe Wheeler paid for his also, but don’t know how much. I had had my dinner about an hour and a half before I went to defendant’s. Have not spoken to Morton since I was there. Will swear I did not tell Mr Passmore or Mr Wright that I had paid for the drinks. George Wheeler, sworn, deposed that he was a ploughman, employed by Mr Passmore. Recollected going to Morton’s in company with Russell on a Sunday to see Lane. Russell and myself had a glass of beer each. I shouted. [The witness was here cautioned that he would he com mitted for contempt of Court for the manner in which he was giving his evi dence.] I paid defendant one shilling for the first shout. I paid for about eight drinks. Three other men were present at the time. I spent 9s altogether. Did not see any other person pay for drinks. I became slightly inebriated. I must have paid for the drinks. Ido not know if Russell and Lane were present or not. I was not drunk when I changed a pound. I lent Lane 5s out of the change, and paid 4s to defendant. I had something to eat. I do not think I paid the 4s for that. Was at defendant’s house about two hours and a half. There were six of us altogether. William Morton, sworn : I am a laborer keeping a hoarding-housc at Mitcham. Remembered Sunday, the 21st September. Russell and Wheeler came to my house that afternoon. Have seen them passing with drays on several occasions. They had a meal at my house, and Wheeler owed me at the time about 3s for meals. The remains of the dinner were on the table when Russell and Wheeler came in, and they had some pudding and tea. They did not pay me any money for liquor. I had some beer and rum in the house, and I said, “ Well, this is the first time I have been squared up with since I have been on the line, and I will shout.” I put a bottle of rum before them, and told them to help themselves. 18 men were boarding in my house, and I invited all to drink. Another bottle was pro duced by some one, but I don’t know who. Wheeler had the same as the others.

Cross-examined by Mr Pender : I do not know what was in the second bottle. I swear it was not mine. I bought two gallons of rum and filled it into bottles. I bought the spirits from Mutter at Barr Hill. I paid 21s a gallon for it. I also got two gallons from Montgomery and Co. about two months ago. I have not had 10 gallons of spirits within the past two months, nor have I got 20 gallons from any place during the past month. Wheeler paid me a pound after the first drink, and before he had the pudding. When Wheeler and Russell came in they asked for drink. I brought the bottle out and gave it to Lane, and told them to help themselves. Except Lane, all the other boarders were at the table. Cannot say how long it was after they came in that they had their meals. Russell asked for some pudding. He owed me pre viously for meals ; that was why I charged him Is Gd.

By Mr Purnell : My boarders are generally laborers working on the rail way. I was busy when they came in. A man said, “Bill, give us a couple of drinks.” I might have had a couple of nips myself at the same time. James Collins said he was inspector of works on the Alford Forest railway. Had lodged with Morton three weeks up to about a month ago. Had seen defendant give men drinks, but not take payment for them. The Magistrate summed up the evi dence, and dismissed the case. CIVIL CASES. Laurie v. Symons.-—Nonsuited. Lake v. Passmore —Claim £l7 9s. Mr Purnell for plaintiff; Mr Ireland for de defendant. Judgment for £l4 19s, and costs. Dowding v. Doherty—Claim £lB. Ad journed till next Court-day. lunacy. Thomas Neelan, charged with lunacy from drink, was remanded to the Lyttel ton gaol for eight days for medical treatment.

UPPER ASHBURTON ROAD BOARD

The usual monthly meeting of this Board was held on Tuesday. Present— Messrs. Charles Reed (chairman), McLean, Sargeant, and Stitt. The Surveyors’ report was read. It re ferred to various public works in progress. It was intimated that Scott and Ross had finished their contract for forming Black’s road ; that from £BO to £IOO would be required for the works referred to in Messrs. Chisolm Bros. ’ letter, and that to repair the damages done to the Hinds roads by floods, about £IOO would be re quired. The report was received. RIVER PROTECTIVE WORKS.

A letter was road from the chairman of the County Council enclosing a report of the Engineer for the County and overseer for the Board in reference to flood damages along the course of the river. The report stated that the encroachment on the banks of the river was chiefly due to an altera tion in the channel at Mr. Joseph Good’s, and suggested that for the protection of the river banks and adjacent roads, em bankments of gorse and stones should be made at various points, and the silt scooped out where necessary in order to restore the river to its old channel. The report also pointed out that the employ ment by a Board of River Conservators, of a small labor gang to effect repairs at times of floods, would do away with a great deal of damage and subsequent ex pense. It was estimated that the works indicated would cost £450, and the money it was submitted might be raised by the ratepayers interested, subsidised by the Road Board and County Council. After considerable discussion, it was resolved that the overseer should be requested to see Mr. Walker and arrange far a meeting of the ratepayers of the Forks Ward, to be held at the local school-house some day next week. BRIDGE OVER NORTH ASHBURTON. A letter was read from the County Council re bridge over the North Ashbur ton, enclosing engineers’ report in re ference to the bridge in question. It was considered that the site selected for this bridge being about a mile distant from the crossing where it was originally re quested the bridge should bo made, the work was actually a different one from that requested by the ratepayers alto gether. The chairman, however, pointed out that it was too late to take any action, and that the onlv thing they could do was to endeavour to get good approaches to the site now chosen. The letter was re ceived. TENDERS. The tender of Thomas Bulger for keep ing road in repair for twelve months for £IOO was accepted, and it was resolved that Robert Bingham should he employed as day labourer under the overseer, when necessary. The tender of W. C. D. Fraser for supplying metal at Is. per yard for twelve months, was accepted. That of Richard Clark, for keeping roads in re pair at £2 per week, was also accepted. BRIDGES. A letter was read from the County Council enclosing report on the River Protective Works, and explaining the clauses of the Act relating to rating powers in connection with such works. From the same, in reply to the petition of ratepayers re site ot bridge near Digby’s, and explaining that the Council, in selecting the site adopted, were guided by the report of their engineer, and that the contract was signed before they were made aware that the ratepayers were dis satisfied. CORRESPONDENCE. From William Nicholson, intimating that he was prepared to transfer two acres of land purchased by the Board fora gravel pit on payment of the balance due. It was resolved to communicate with the Board’s solicitors, so as to have the neces sary conveyance made. From the County Council, asking the Board to appoint Mr Loach, County Valuator, as valuator for the Board for 1880.

The appointment was made, and ordered to be advertised.

From J ohn Boyle, asking permission to remove 200 yards of shingle from the river for making a road. Resolved to reply that the specifications of contract prohibited the use of river-bed shingle. From Mr Mossman, relative to the Board taking over certain roads in Tin wald, and urging that they should be taken over without being shingled, or that the Board should contribute towards the cost of shingling. Resolved to reply that the Board could only expend money on main thoroughfares. From W. C. D. Fraser, offering to take the reserve now leased by Mr Bennison for one or two years, at the rental of 20s per acre. The offer was accepted. From Messrs Weeks and Dixon, asking a share of the Board’s advertising for the “Ashburton Guardian.” The request was granted. From the reporter of the Ashburton “ Mail,” offering to supply the Board with a copy of that paper free. The Board thanked that gentleman for his very liberal offer.

From Mr John Carter, forwarding tracing of divisions of roads at Maronan Station.

Resolved That a Committee of Mr McLean and the Overseer see Mr Carter in reference to the Tinwald and Maronan road, and that a ford be made at a portion of the road not to exceed £7..

Resolved —That Mr Sargeant and the Overseer examine a portion of the old Timaru road, with the view to having it repaired. Should the repairs necessary exceed £lO, the work to be tendered for. Resolved —That all tenders be adver tised for two weeks, and that the Overseer name two days in each week to be at the office to give information to intending tenderers.

Resolved—That Mr Robert Miller be offered 5s extra per chain in his contract for forming the road full width. Resolved —That the rents of the Road Board cottages be collected, and a balance sheet be made out by the Clerk.

Resolved—That the Overseer be in structed to invito tenders from Messrs Nide, Nelens, and Bingham, to cut a drain at Nicholas’ Cutting, to carry the water off the Alford Forest Road.

Resolved —That Robert Bingham be employed by the Overseer when required. Tenders wore then opened, and as Robert Wake failed to take up his con tract, No. 37, the next tender of Mr Jas. Gardiner, at £22, was accepted. The following tenders were also accepted : 43, William Fraser ; 44, Thomas Bulger. Accounts were passed for payment, and sia Board adjourned.

MOUNT HUTT ROAD BOARD.

The usual monthly meeting of the Mount li utt Hoad Board was hold at Cor war, on Thursday, Oct. !). Present—Messrs. Chapman (chairman), McMillan, Alington and Pannctt. Ten lers were received and accepted for the following works : Xo. JO. Cairnhrae, from Backtrack houndary—Brown and Dick, Os lid per chain. Xo. 14. Lyndhurst to boundary, about 31 miles of forming—Brown and Dick, (is 9d per chain. Xo. 12. Winehmore to Thomson’s Track, about 1 mile of forming 8. Brown, 7s 4d per chain. Xo. 13. Forming from Urrall to Backtrack, about 4 miles—Patrick Collins, Gs 7d per chain. Xo. 14. Forming Barr Hill from main road to cutting, about 30 chains— K. Babbage, os 9d per chain. Xo. 15. Forming from main road to section 23G31 —11. Babbage, 5s 9d per chain. Xo. 19, Shingling from store to boun dary line—Cooper Bros., IHd per yard. No. 17. Forming and cutting road from Blackford to Cascade, about 10 miles—H. Patton, £342 10s. No. 18. Repairing road from Patton’s to Harkctt’s shop, full width — Cooper Bros., 4s (id per chain. The overseer slated that he had inter viewed the Chief Surveyor respecting the road from Blackford to Cascade Glen, and the road had been reserved and marked off the public map. CO it DESPONDENCE. From Mr. J ohn Grigg, respecting the proposed site for the Road Board ollice at Methven. The Chairman stated that Mr. Grigg had referred him to Mr. Webster who was surveying the township, and it appeared that the first offer of a site of five acres on the West Coast road had boon withdrawn, and another offered instead on the Alford Forest road. Ho (the chairman) had de cided not to accept the offer, as the latter site was not so central as the one first offered. After some discussion, it was resolved that the Chairman write to Mr. Grigg asking him to adhere to his original offer. deputation. Messrs. D. Cameron and McFarlane waited upon the Board as a deputation from the Mount Somers Road Board res pecting the proportion of the cost of the proposed bridge over the North Ashburton river. Mr. Cameron pointed out that the Mount Hutt ratepayers would gain an equal if not a greater advantage from the construction of this bridge than the resi dents in the Mount Somers district would ; and as the County Council had consented to pay half the cost, the Mount Somers Board were willing to pay one-fourth, and he considered that the Mount Hutt Road Board would he justly entitled to contri bute the other fourth share. The estimated cost of the work would be somewhere about £3OOO.

Mr. McFarlane gave the Board some data respecting the river at the site of the proposed bridge, and said that the Mount Hutt ratepayers would undoubtedly lie the greatest gainers by its erection. The ford was now very dangerous, and several accidents had occurred lately. Even when the railway line was completed to Alford Forest, a largo amount of dray traflic would still be carried over the bridge. Mr. Cameron also drew the attention of the Board to the necessity of forming the boundary road between the districts, and to the necessity of acquiring a right of road between Cameron’s and Methven.

The Board decided to join with other Boards in forming all roads on their boun dary, and considered that they would be justified in contributing their share of the cost of the bridge over the north branch of the Ashburton.

The pay-sheet was passed for payment, and the Board adjourned.

THE POLITICAL SITUATION.

[liY TELEGRAPH.]

(from our own correspondent.)

Wellington, Oct. 9.

Parties are about equally balanced, and there is no sign of a well supported Government from either side, when it comes to a question of purchasing Mr. Vincent Pyke. You need have no doubt as to which party will bid highest, or which will make the freest use of a live million loan to purchase block votes with promises. Every day shows more clearly that the scramble for borrowed money has de moralised the House so completely that honest Government is impossible until that corrupting element is removed either by the cessation of loans or by the adoption of some different tribunal to decide on the expenditure on public works.

It is greatly to he desired that the Hall Ministry will remain in oflico at least long enough to give the colony and its creditors a reliable statement of the present de plorable position of our finance, as unless they do, there is not the slightest chance of the naked truth being made known, or the necessary painful and unpopular mea sures adopted to make both ends meet. A very ugly state of things, too, I am sure, is to be discovered in the Native Department, as soon as an honest Minister has time to investigate it. October 10. Major Atkinson will make a financial statement on Tuesday next, in which the colony will hear some unwelcome truths as to the position in winch the Grey Go vernment has left the Treasury, and the extent to which it has increased expendi ture, and altogether shirked the duty of providing for it by unpopular taxes. The 'Triennial Parliament Dill prepared by the “ Liberal ” Government "was not to have affected the present Parliament, so that it would piohably have had no practical effect for the next eight years. So much for Groyism. The present Go vernment will alter the Dill so as to give it effect on the present Parliament, thereby showing that they will practice, anti not merely preach, Liberalism. Friday, 8.20 p.m.

The Opposition have commenced their field-day by stonewalling the Triennial Parliaments Dill, Mr Sheehan having pro posed the adjournment of the House, which has been talked over all the after noon and evening. The new Premier and the Treasurer have both spoken in a panner that points to something very

dark that has to onnm out, and in a manner, too, that should load the late Government to insist upon their accusers having ample time and opportunity to prove or withdraw their statements. But instead of that they are descending to every low trick to immediately recover their foifeited seats.

7 ELIiGRA PHIL.

EUROPEAN.

(/Av/Av ’.r 7\7,grams.) London, Oct. 0, Australian Wheat, 575. London, Oct. 7.

At a Cabinet Council held yesterday, it is believed that the question of the re assembling of Parliament was discussed. The “’Times” deprecates the action as being uncalled for. Arrived—Westland, Beatrice, and Sov ereign.

The iron trade is excited and there has been a great advance in tin and copper. Bkkdin, Oct. 8.

The elections to the Prussian Parlia ment have resulted in the return of a majority of the Conservative candidates. Madrid, Oct. 9. Spanish reinforcements have landed at Cuba.

London, October G. The total quantity of wheal; afloat for Groat Britain is 1 ,CG(),000 quarters. Best Australian mutton tallow, 35s pur cwt. The Bacchante has arrived at Gihralter.

The race for the Czarewitch was won by Chippengate, Westbouruo second, and Dresden third. St. Peters in -do, Oct. 0. A secret printing press has been dis covered, and several arrests made. Bom ray, Oct. 7.

According to authentic information the Resident and stall' have left Manda lay.

(Argus S/vn'al. ) London, Oct. G.

The damage caused by the slight colli sion between the Achilles and the Alex andra, ironclads, has been repaired. The Italian press warmly welcomed Mr Gladstone in Italy. The Spanish Premier advises an alli ance with Austria.

The Crown Prince of Germany pro ceeds to Italy on a political mission. The Russian journals are again war like, and speak of war with Germany, Austria, and England as inevitable.

Russia has increased her Navy in the Pacific by one ironclad, while four clippers are available as privateers.

AUSTRALIAN.

( SjVcitll.) Sydney, Oct. 9.

The manager and accountant of the Commercial Bank Lithgow have been arrested on a charge of embezzlement.

A clerk in the Colonial Bank lias also been arrested on a similar charge. Melbourne, Oct. 0.

A Conference of Farmers’ Unions inter vied the Government, asking for the re moval of all duties on agricultural imple ments and produce. Sir B. O’Lougliliu agreed to consult Mr Berry, who is still unwell. Some members of the Conference consider that, in the event of a refusal, they should unanimously petition the Legislative Council to reject the tariff.

(Special to the Association.) Melbourne, Oct. 8,

Ten thousand bushels of Victorian wheat have been sold to local millers at Gs Oid. Advices by the mail state that business prospects are much more cheerful. ( Reuter's) Sydney, Oct. 9. The Trades Unions have carried resolu tions condemning the continuance of assisted immigration. Brisbane, Oct. 9. Government have resolved to resume assisted immigration.

INTERPROVINCIAL.

Auckland, Oct. 10.

Mr James McKay is now in Auckland awaiting instructions from Government respecting native affairs. Thomas It. Hedley, a recent arrival from Wellington, has been arrested on a charge of obtaining money under false pre tences from Nehemiah Guthridge, and re manded to Wellington. Henry Watts, the buy of 15, who attempted rape on a child, got four months’ hard labor. Five of the remainder of the crew of the Minister of Marine have determined not to go to sea in her.

Auckland, Oct. 9.

At the Government experimental test target matches, Lieut. Skinner, gained the Ist prize, and Vol. Hazard 2nd. A. M. Pemberton, on a charge of embezzling £l2 12s, the property of Atkinson and Horton, was remanded. Henry Watts, aged 14, has been ar rested for attempted rape on a girl under !0. At the criminal session, Herman Hill Meirs, for wounding, was sentenced to two years.

It is rumoured that Captain Murphy, of the Minister of Marine, intends applying for the surrender of the seamen in gaol and putting them on board. MrM'Donald, R.M., in reference thereto expressed his inability to do anything in the matte]', but referred the captain to the Collector of Customs, who might possibly give effect to the petition that the seamen might not be surrendered, owing to serious conse quences that might he apprehended to follow on the high seas. The Collector siiid he would grant a discharge to any seaman who would swear that his life was in danger at the hands of the captain. A Justice of the Peace has proceeded to see Judge Gillies, and the Government will l>e appealed to to interpose. Meanwhile the ship is making ready for sea. Gisuounh, Oct. 9.

Mr. W. L. Rocs has served writs on Mr. George Lawrence and Mr. Robert Cooper for maliciously publishing that he had drawn a cheque for £SO on a Bank in which he had no account, with intent to deceive, and had obtained money under false pretences. Damages are laid at £IOOO. He has also issued writs on Messrs J, S. M'Farlane, Lawrence, and E. F. Ward, juih, that they did wickedly,

falsely and maliciously ooiispive, without reasonable cause, to prosecute him con cerning the cheque, and that through those proceedings he had been injured in repu tation. Damages are laid at £3OOO. Mr. Rees has also served a writ for libel against the “ Evening Herald ” for publishing an article about a fortnight ago. Damages are laid at £2500.

Napier, Oct. 0.

The libel actions raised by Major Mair and Mr. Searanoke, against the “Hawke’s Bay Herald ” have been amicably settled, through Messrs. Bailer and Lewis, the plaintiff’s solicitors. The “Herald” publishes a full retraction and apology, and pays £SO into Court, and all costs in each case. The “Herald ” also extends the apology to Major Jackson. The “Telegraph” has., in a similar manner stopped the libel action raised against it by Mr. Rees, by apologising and paying £IOO to the Hospital, and costs. Shearing is now progressing rapidly, the weather being favourable after a spell of cold and frost.

Wellinoton, Oct. 0. Mr Cox, the Government geologist, has forwarded to the Colonial Secretary a report on the Wairarapa quartz reefs. It states that there arc several outcrops of quartz, but no gold is visible. A couple of specimens taken from Brandon’s reef, when assayed, yielded 14 dwts. 1 gr., and 12 dwts. 1 grain to the ton respectively. On,arts taken from neighboring reefs gave 4 dwts. to the ton. Timber and water are abundant. The locality is readily accessible, and the quartz is not difficult to work.

At the Supreme Court, yesterday, the Grand Jury threw out the hill against Flexman, Ward, and others for an alleged riot at Gisborne, and brought down a presentment that the action of the justices at Gisborne in sending such paltry cases to Wellington was most reprehensible. II is Honor promised to forward the pre sentment to the Colonial Secretary, and remarked that if he found that he had power, ho would disallow the expenses of the prosecution. This morning, W. Mathoson, for lar ceny from Barrett’s Hotel, was sentenced r.o six months’ penal servitude. Abraham Walmsley, for burglary, pleaded guilty, and was remanded for sentence. John Joseph Walsh, for larceny, was acquitted ; three other charges will be preferred against him. The new Ministers took their places in the Government offices this morning. The Union Company’s new steamer Rotomahana made a trip round the har bour this afternoon with about 700 guests on board, including Lady Robinson and the members of the Legislature. The trip was very pleasant, and the steamer averaged fourteen knots. At a special meeting of the Licensed Victuallers’ Association to-day, a sub-com mittee was appointed to take the whole question of the trade’s position and the licensing system into consideration ; and it was resolved that delegates from all other Associations should be asked to at tend a conference here, beginning on Oct. 23, to frame resolutions and wait on the Government as a deputation with their suggestions. Much earnestness was shown by the meeting, and a hope was strongly expressed that the grievances of the trade would ho redressed and its general status raised.

Hokitika, Oct. 9.

The Claud Hamilton took away nearly 7000ozs. of gold, the px’oduce of this dis trict.

Dunedin, Oct. 9.

At the criminal sessions to-day, James Smith, convicted of the manslaughter of his wife, was sentenced to two years’ hard labour.

LATEST.

LATEST FROM EUROPE.

( Reuters Telegrams.) London, Oct. 8. The subscriptions for uhe Tasmanian Loan amount to £600,000, at 102 to 103;/. Sir Stafford Northcote, in a speech at Dublin, stated that the Cabul massacres necessitated an adherence to the present policy that England alone should dominate in the Ameer’s foreign relations. Sir Stafford denied that there was any diffi culty with the finance, and deprecated the agitation in Ireland. The Board of Trade returns for Sep tember show a decided improvement. Vienna, Oct. 8. The Hungarian Legislature has been opened by the Emperor, who, in his speech, stated that foreign relations with the Austria-Hungarian Empire were friendly. Bombay, Oct. 8.

A reconnoitring force under General Ee orts was attacked by large masses of the hostile Afghan tribes, who endeavored to surround "them. The British attack ing column cleaved the heights with a loss to their own side of 85, while the enemy suffered heavily

London, Oct. 9.

Afghanstan intelligence states that after defeating the Afghans between Jellalabad and Cabnl, General Roberts continued his march upon Cabul, which hejexpects will fall without serious resist ance. '1 he General is sanguine of securing British ascendency. The Ameer watched the battle and con gratulated General Heberts on his brilliant victory, which, it is considered, will crush the rebellion. It was feared that the rebels had entrenched themselves in the citadel of Cabul, where it was likely that great difficulty would be experienced in dislodging them. It is believed that the defeat sustained at the hands of General Roberts will have the effect of removing any necessity for a struggle with the rebels at the capital. The Times ” says that the outcome of Sir Michael Hicks Beach’s contention with Mr. Berry is a drawn battle, likely to be renewed unless the Victorian people interfere. Fears are entertained that Mr. Berry’s .precipitate mode of dealing with the questions demanding self-control and calmness is dangerous to the colony. The paper recommends moderation, and trusts the colony will be preserved from the ill-advised violence of an angry petty press.

AUSTRALIAN.

MmvuouiiNn, Oct. 10.

A daughter of Governor Bowen has been married to a son of William Wil liams, a member of the Victorian Legisla tive Council.

A strong agitation exists in favor of a reprieve for fawrsnce, the murderer, A

crowded meeting at the Town Hall ap 3 pointed a deputation to wait on the Go venior. A lengthy discussion is taking place in the Assembly on the subject. The press is favorable to a reprieve. The Legislative Council are sitting in Committee on Sir C. Sladen’s Reform

Bill. SYDNEY, Oct. 10. The Trades Union Congress have passed resolutions against Chinese immi gration. A rri ved - ma. Sailed—City of Sydney.

INTERPROVINCIAL.

Per our Special Wire.

Wellinoton, Oct. 10.

At tire Supreme Court Abraham Walmsley, for housebreaking, was sen tenced to (> months’ imprisonment. Cor nelius Fisher, for sheep stealing, was acquitted. The charge of riot and forcible entry by natives on land at Gisborne has been postponed until Monday, owing to the absence of counsel for the defence.

The City of New York, with the out ward Loudon mails of the 11th Septem ber, left San Francisco on 21th September. The Zoalandia, with the homeward New Zealand mails of Kith September, arrived at Kan Francisco on the Bth inst.—-one dav in advance of the contract date.

Nelson, Oct. 10,

Capt. Ilctfer, who for the past two or three years has been superintendent of the lunatic asylum, fell down dead this morning, it is supposed from heart disease. Capt. Heffer was commander of the ship Maori.

Christchurch, Oct. 9.

A telegram was published in Christ church this morning, stating that Judge Johnston will try Waters on Monday. This is incorrect, as he will be occupied with a Christchurch case on that day. Arrived—Oreti, from Wellington. Timaku, Oct. 10.

The Harbor Board resolved to-day, to call for tenders for .additional 350 ft. of the breakwater in solid work. The tender of Findlay and Co., of Dunedin, for 1000 tons cement has been accepted at £4 15s. 4d. per ton.

Dunedin, Oct. 10. Arrived Maori, s.s., from West Coast.

About 130 single men, passengers by the Forfarshire, were landed yesterday afternoon, and proceeded to Dunedin. They appear to be a very respectable class of men, and are principally mechanics, only a few of them being agricultralists and shepherds.

The Governor has consented to become patron of the Otago Agricultural Associa tion

MUNICIPAL ASSOCIATION.

Taking action on the resolutions passed at last meeting of the Borough Council, his Worship the Mayor has forwarded the nndorgiven letter to the Mayors of the various boroughs in Canterbury, enclosing copies of the resolutions of the Borough Council regarding the proposed Municipal Association ;

Sir,—-I have the honor, by request of this Council, to forward you copies of resolutions passed at the last ordinary meeting, held on Monday, the Cth inst., and trust that they will receive your favorable consideration. As questions with reference to endowments, subsidies, and fees which come to the boroughs are continually arising, united action in all these matters will tend to strengthen the claims of the various municipalities with the Government ; also in connection with the negotiation of loans, framing bye laws, drainage, and water supply. Several other matters of great importance will be discussed by the delegates. It is sug gested that this assocation should at pre sent be confined to the Canterbury provincial district, but at some future time may be extended so as to include the whole of the Middle Island.—l have, ttc.,

(Signed) Thos. Buixock, Mayor.

Scandalous Conduct at a Fire.

A little girl named Mary Ann Ryan, aged eleven, daughter of a fruit-picker at St. Raid’s Cray, Kent, appears to have lost her life, and that in a most shocking manner, through the heartless conduct, cowardice, or callousness of those among whom she was unfortunately cast. From the evidence taken at the inquest it ap peared that the fruit-pickers employed at the Home Farm, St. Paul’s Cray, slept in a number of huts of wood and straw thatched. The mother of deceased occu pied one of the huts with deceased and two other of her chddren, and after being asleep about two hours was awoke by an old woman calling out that the place was in flames. The terrified mother succeeded in bringing out two of her children safely, but the flames had then obtained such a hold of the huts that she could not enter and rescue deceased. She says she asked a man named William Cleverley, who occupied the adjoining hut, to save her child, but he was on his knees packing his clothes, and took no notice of her appeal. Cleverley denied that he heard the mother appeal to him, and did not know the child was there until after the fire. Mr. 11. Allen, farmer, of Pelham Court, Far ningham, said he was at his father’s house, at Ruxley, and, hearing of the fire, ran to the spot, and had he been there a moment or two earlier he could have saved the child’s life. When he got there a number of men were looking at the fire, and paid no attention to the mother’s cries for help. He raked about the burning embers with his hand, his brother pouring water on the embers, and grasped the body, but the child was then dead. He brought the body out of the hut. It was stated that the whole of the huts, 70 feet long, where destroyed in 12 minutes. The mother said a man in the huts, after smoking, put his pipe in his boot, and she afterwards found the pip j where the fire broke out. Mr. Venson, the employer of the hands, said there were orders that the field hands should have no candles in the huts, but it was impossible to enforce regulations amongst that class of people. The body of the child was dreadfully burned. The jury returned a verdict that deceased died from shock to the system through burning, and that the five wps accidental.

SATURDAY

THE MANWATU

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Advice from America.— ln ploughing it is never a good plan to turn up a mass of crude earth of several inches in depth never before exposed to the sunlight and air. It will, unless a heavy manuring is given as a top dressing, result in loss. In deepening the soil it is better to plough up an additional inch each year. lowa has 100 creameries or butter factories in operation this season. A bold bad man at Meriden, Connec ticut, kissed four young ladies in the same house, and was afterwards killed by a brick thrown from the window by one of the girls, while he was passing by on the pavement. This is why we always walk in the middle of the street. A wrong done us may bo forgiven, but how we may forgive those whppi >ve have injwed i# * grave problem-