THE CHURCHES.

■■ll I. ■ ■ 1 ■ SUNDAY AND WEEK NIGHT SER VICES AND MEETINGS. EPISCOPALIAN CHURCH.— Tanored Street, West. Rev. A. W. Hands, Incumbent. Sunday. Morning at 11 a.m., Mr. J. Ward. Afternoon at 2.30, Sunday School. Evening at 6.30,.30, Rev. A. W. Hands. Wednesday. Evening at 7 p.m., Rev. A. W. Hands. Choir Practice at 8. Vestry meets on First Wednesday in September. Thursday. Confirmation Classes at 6 p.m., and Sun day Sclxool Teachers’Meeting at 7.30. Country Services—To-Morrow. Greenstreet at 11 a. m., Rev. A. W. Hands. Westerfield at 3 p.m.. Rev. A. W. Hands. Tinwald at 6.30 p.m., Mr. J. Ward. Longbeach and Waterton, Mr. Grigg. Wilicwby, 3 p.m., Mr. J. Ward. RAKAIA PARISH. Rev. W. H. Elton, Incumbent, Sunday. St. Mark’s Church, Rakaia.—Morning at 11. St. John’s, Barrhill, 3 p.m., Lay Reader. Evening at 7. Kyle, 3 p. ns. St. Barnabas’, Methven, 11. All Saints, Sherwood, 3 p.m. Communion. —First Sunday in the month at St. Mark’s. Second Sunday at St. John’s. Fourth Sunday at St, Barna bas. Fifth Sunday at All Saints. Baptism in St. Mark’s, and Children’s Service at 3 p.m.—Second Sunday in the month. Sunday School. St. Mark’s, St. John’s, and Kyle, at 2.30 every Sunday. Friday. Evensong and Choir Practice at 7.30,- — St. Mark’s. PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH.—Have lock Street, West. Rev. A. M. Beattie, Minister. Sunday Services. Morning at 11, and Evening at 6.30, in the Church.—Rev. Mr. McKee. In Wakanui School at 3 o’clock, afternoon. To-morrow. —Rev. Mr. McKee. In Ashton School and Waterton Library Hall alternately, at 3 o’clock afternoon —fortnightly—Rev. A. M. Beattie. Sunday School in the Church at 2.30 afternoon. —Mr. W. Gavin, Superinten dent. Tuesday, Finance Committee —First Tuesday of every month, in the Church at 7.30. S. S. Teachers’ Association —Second Tues day of every month, in the Church at 7-30. Wednesday. Pastor’s Bible Class in the Church Vestry—Weekly at 7. Week night Service at B—Rev. A. M. Beattie. Thursday, Tinwald School —Weekly at 7.30. Friday. Choir Practice at 7.30 —Mr. Savage, con ductor ; Mr. A. Stott, organist. RAKAIA PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. —Town Hall, Rakaia. Rev. B. J. Westbrooke, Minister. Sunday. Rakaia Town Hall at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. —Rev. B. J. Westbrooke. Barrhill, at 3 o’clock. WESLEYAN METHODIST CHURCH. —Cameron Street, East. Rev. W. Keall, Pastor. Sunday. Morning, at 11, Rev. W. Keall. Evening, at 6.30, Rev. W. Keall. Sunday School—Afternoon, at 2.30. Address at 3.30, by Mr. Potts. COUNTRY SERVICES. Old Men’s Home—Afternoon, at 3, Rev. W. Keall. Tinwald—Evening, at 6.30, Mr. G. W. Leadley. Seafield —Afternoon, at 2.30, Mr. J. E. Buchanan. Sunday School at 1.30. Monday. Cameron Street Church—Prayer meeting at eight o’clock. Tuesday. Class Meeting at 7.30. Thursday. Class Meeting, at 7 ; Preaching Service at eight. Friday. Choir Practice at 7.30. PRIMITIVE METHODIST CHURCH. —Wills Street, East. Rev. A. J. Smith, Pastor, Sunday. Morning School at 10 a. m. Morning Service at 11 a.m., Mr. E. Watkins. Afternoon School at 2.30 p.m. Evening Service at 6.30 p.m., Mr, J. Lloyd. Monday. Ladies’ Class—ln the Church at 7.30 p.m. Tuesday. Divine Service at 7.30 p. m. Wednesday. Quarterly Meeting, at 10 a.m. Social Tea, at 5.30 p.m. Platform Meeting, at 7.30 p.m. Thursday. Class Meeting in Church at 7.30 p.m. Friday. Choir practice at 7.30 p.m. NBWLANDS PRIMITIVE METHODIST CHURCH. Sunday, Morning School, 9.30. Divine Service at 11 a.m. and at 6.30, Rev. A. J. Smith. Thursday. Missionary Meeting, at 7.30 p.m., Rev. A. J. Smith presiding. ASHBURTON PORKS. Sunday Afternoon Service at 2.30, Mr. Dally. ROMAN CATHOLIC CHAPEL.— Burnett Street West. Rev. Father Chervier. Mass at 11 a.m, on the second Sunday of every month. Benediction service in ovAnintr of the same dav at 6.30.

COMMERCIAL.

ASHBURTON RETAIL LIST.

CHRISTCHURCH CORN EXCHANGE The following is the Corn Exchange re port for the week ending, Friday evening, the 27th inst ; Since last week’s report, the grain growing districts in Canterbury have been favored with copious rain. Although the weather has been cold and boisterous, yet the early sown wheat shows marked signs of extreme vigor. The com growing land, as a rule, is in fine condition, and as the weather has taken up, the season so far has been a favorable one. The rainfall, however, has been considerably below the average, yet there has been ample for all farming purposes. The gale of last week has done damage in many localities, but is not very serious. The wheat market during the week has not suffered much change. The rates offered by the local millers prevent merchants baying for ex port, as the Home markets must even tually regulate prices here. The advanced rates can only be looked on as temporary. Wheat. The market continues to be in bare supply, and local millers are still pur chasers for good sound milling quality. Parcels of this description are saleable at from 4s. to 4s. 2d. ; seed samples at 4s. 3d. to 4s. 9d., and chick wheat from 2s. to 2s. 6d. per bushel. Oats. —There is little or no change dur ing the past week ; the demand is hardly so good, but prices remain unaltered. First-class bright milling samples are fetching Is. fid. to Is. Bd. per bushel. Feed quality is not so much sought after, and is not worth over Is. 3d. to la. 4d. ; inferior quality of feed Is. to Is. 2d. Barley.—The market is bare is first class malting samples. For this quality 3s. to 3s. 3d. is obtainable. Second rate 2s. to 2s. fid. Feed quality Is. fid. to Is, Bd. per bushel. Potatoes. —During the past week values are lower. The Sydney market has been again liberally supplied from Warnambool and Tasmania. Holders are now anxious to sell, but exporters in the absence of a present demand, decline to operate. 20s. per ton now only is offered, and buyers are scarce. Grass Seed.—The demand for this article of produce continues fairly good. Well cleaned parcels are being offered at 2s. 9d. to 3s. per bushel. Indifferent to inferior Is. fid. to 2s. fid. per. bushel. Cheese and Butter.—The former is in good supply, at from 4d. to 4|d. The latter is in abundant supply, and with the prospects of new being to hand very soon, as almost unsaleable. Hay.—Hay is worth 50a. to 555. per ton delivered in Christchurch. Messrs, H. Matson and Co. report on the live stock market, &c., for the week ending Thursday, Aug. 26, ISBO, as follows For yesterday’s weekly auction at Addington there was a falling off in the supply of sheep, whilst fat and store cattle showed a correspond ing increase over the previous week’s sale. The entry in sheep was chiefly made up of "butchers’ lines,” but, with one or two excep tions, the quality was below the average of the past six weeks or two months. The exceptions alluded to were really prime, and both in cross breds and merinoes would be difficult to beat. There was a fair attendance of the trade, and from fust to last the market was brisk, every line being cleared as the sale progressed, at prices very nearly recovering last week’s drop. This, however, must be looked upon as the result of the thin market. Heavy weight cross bred wethers brought 16s. 6d. to 18s. 6d. medium weights 14s. to 165., merino wethers g s , t 0 __ and a large line of merino ewes 9s. to 10s. 6d. In beef the full supply hid a somewhat depressing effect upon opening sales, and the earlier lines were taken up sluggishly. This, however, soon gave way, and the bulk of the large entry found buyers at prices bear ing favorable comparison with last week’s rates. Store cattle are perhaps a little easier, but this no doubt is partly accounted for by the full supply and by the sharp frosts we have been getting for several nights past. Two or three year old mixed cattle brought I 4 10s. to 1-5 5 s - 5 steers to L 6: yearlings to two-year olds, L2 15s. to L 3 15s. and L 4; weaners, 355. to 50s. In the pig trade there is littl doing. The supply is very limited, but this in no way checks the downward tendency in prices, owing to the suspension of curing opera tions. The tofrls yarded for the day com prised 3,915 sheep, 525 head of cattle, and 40 pigs, of which our entry included 1,413 sheep, 230 head of cattle, and 23 pigs. Canterbury Horse Market.—On Friday last we held our special sale of horses, &c., in con nection with the ooening of the new addition and alterations to Tattersall’s. During the day the bazaar was thronged, and great satis faction was expressed on all sides with the arrangements made for the safety and comfort of our clients. There were 100 horses yarded for the day’s sale, most of which changed owners at prices considerably in advance to what we have lately been accustomed. On Saturday we held our usual weekly sale, at which the balance of horses either unsold or which were from other causes unoffered on Friday, were submitted to public competition. Our entries for the day’s sale were 73 horses, &c., including the whole of the well-known railway horses and plant, the property of Mr. Peter McGrath, whose fifteen horses realised as follows, namely, Lso, 1.32, Ll 9 1 os., L24.fiL4l, L 32 10s., L2B ios., LlB, L 27, Ll 9, L3*, Lio, Lis Iss. Lis, Lis. We also sold for Ihe same owner twelve sets of harness, at from 35s- to L$ 15s. per set ; six drays at from L 7 to Ll 7 10s. ; ten wheel barrows 15s. each, &c. We also disposed of. our catalogue at more than usually satisfactory prices, and when we state that out of our total entry for the day only thirteen were turned out unsold, our clients must arrive at the same conclusion as we do, that it was certainly the best sale that has been held in Tattersall’s for the past twelve months. During the week we disposed of that well known and successful getter of first-class draught stock, Major, to F. M. Rickman, Esq., Waimate. Major was bred by E. Aiding, Esq., Wiltshire, and was by the pure bred Suffolk horse Boxer, winner of three successive prizes of the Royal Agricul tural Society of England. Grand sire Rob Roy, Sober, by tire celebrated horse Pride o Suffolk, grand dam Lady Mary, We must congratulate Mr. Rickman upon his purchase, and we trust that Major will prove as successful with him as he has with Mr, Joseph Taylor, his late owner. Mr. Rickman has also pur chased through us a very nice pony stallion, Wee Mick, by Merrylegs out of an imported Arab mare. Wool, sheepskins, hides, fat and tallow re port. —On Thursday, there was an average at tendance of fellmongers, and, no doubt owing to the reports from the English markets still continuing favorable, biddings were very spirited, and values may be quoted at a slight advance upon last week’s rates. [by TELEGRAPH.] Dunedin, Aug. 27. Good sample milling wheat, 4s. 3d. to 4s. 6d. ; fowl’s wheat, 2s. 6d. to 3 s - 5 f eec l oats, is. sd. to is. 6d.; milling is. ?d, to is. Bd.; malt barley, 2s. pd. to 3s. 3d. ; feed, is. gd. to 2s. 6d.; potatoes, L2 Ss. to L2 7s. 6d. ; grass hay, L2 10s.; oaten hay, L 3 ; medium wheat, 3s. gd. to 45.; straw, Lz ; bran, L 3 Ss. ; pollard, L 4 ; flour, LlO ios. to Li 1 ; oatmeal, Lg ios.; pearl barley, LlB ; onions, 7s. 6d. to Bf. ; cheese, Sd, ; bacon, rolled, gd.; hams, gj£d.; sides bacon, Bj£d. per lb. (grain fed); chaff, L2 155.; prime beef, 255. per loolbs. ; mutton, 2^d.

DEATH.

Clark. —August 27th, at Longbeach, Frank Joseph, eldest son of Joseph and Hannah Sarah Clark, aged 18 years, after a short illness. 161 g

The Ashburton Guardian, COUNTY AGRICULTURAL & SPORTING RECORDER. SATURDAY, AUGUST 28, 1880.

The session of Parliament is fast drawing to a close—only a few more sands of its hour to run. For many days the members have given signs that they are weary of their toil, and the House has been hurriedly gathering up and tying in a rough bundle the rude ends of its unfinished work. Members will look back upon Wellington from the decks of the steamers that carry them away to their homes with regret, for their work has been unsatisfactory. Seldom in the colony’s history has a session opened so full of promise as did the one just about to close—seldom have we had to chronicle one so barren of results. The opening of the session was pregnant with promises of measures that the colony desired, and the passing of which it looked forward to with in-: terest. Throughout the session these measures have danced before its eyes, and seemed to come very near to the pages of the statute book, but as the tide of the session rose they failed to rise with it, and now they have been swept back on the ebb, and for a year we shall hear no more of them. The Licensing Bill, a measure of great im portance, has been shelved for a year ; and the Representation Bill, about which we heard so much last year, and during the currency of the present session, has been crushed into futurity, almost before we knew what were its provisions, while other Bills of import ance have shared the same fate. Had these measures been deferred out of motives of caution —from an anxiety to give the fullest and most careful and attentive consideration to questions of the highest moment, we would have found no fault with the delay. . But they were not so deferred, for instead of bestowing attention upon important legislation like this, we find the House killing its time with such rubbish as the Wellington Racing Club Bill, and matters equally trifling. True, the work of the several Royal Commissions has been canvassed, and from it the colony has gained much knowledge on matters that materially affected its wel fare ; but beyond affording a reason to Government for in -one case declining to go on with the construction of more railways than they had funds for, and in another for reducing the wages of civil servants ten per cent., nothing has come out of them. The native question has had the lion’s share of Government’s attention, and if the session’s legislation in that direstion will aid in removing the chronic trouble some good will have been done; but even that is, at best, problematical. Before Parliament met at all the colony knew that its own finance was not satisfactory—that its revenue was far to leeward of its expenditure, and that something would have to be done; and during the last recess Government took care to make the colony a sort of sweating-room for both the taxpayers and their representatives. Hence the readiness of the House to pass the financial measures that will, for a time at least, add considerably to the annual expenditure of every soul in the colony. The Government has had a strong and loyal majority—almost a “servile” majority, as Mr. Vincent Pyke was pleased to term it. Yet they do not seem to have been able to carry on the work they had set themselves so ex peditiously as they might have done. It is perhaps an easy matter to obstruct, and easy for a dozen or so free lances, fighting each for his own hand and owning no leader, to throw themselves in front of the car of business and stop progress. Had there been an organised Opposition, with a recognised head, we would have heard a better tale told of the session’s work. But still we cannot but think that something might and ought to have been done to stop the prodigal waste of time of which the House has this session been guilty; and guilty to this waste it must plead, notwithstanding its many and long day and night sittings. We cannot think that a Government with such a following at its back was powerless to control its own supporters at least, and economy of time could well have been exercised had many of these orators been persuaded that their votes were far more valuable than their oratory, and most valuable when their rhetoric was that silence which is golden. Such Opposition as existed—headless as it was—in the House seemed to have no policy beyond that of hindering work, and Government’s friends do not seem to have understood this, or at least were powerless to prevent it. Perhaps it is that the usages of Parliamentary warfare do not provide for fighting individuals as well as for dealing with an Opposition party ; but any way, the individual sharp-shooters who have carried on the warfare have this session inflicted an injury upon the colony. They have not weakened the Government, they have not rendered Government’s posi tion one whit less secure; let us hope, though, that, if the same privateering sort of warfare is followed in the next session, that Government will be pre pared with some plan for allowing the individual members of this amiable and patriotic Opposition to have an oppor tunity to talk themselves out without a reply from every Government follower, and so reach the end of a session that will show a list of finished work of which the House need not be ashamed.

THE HORNSBY HEDGE CUTTER.

A public trial was made yesterday of Hornsby and Son’s new patent hedge cutting and trimming machine. The trial took place on Mr. John Carter’s Grove Farm, Tinwald, and a goed number of farmers, runholders, &c., were present. The machine started work on a thick, matted hedge of gorse—a hedge that had been allowed to grow luxuriantly, and rose to a height of over six feet. The ground was somewhat uneven, and was not perhaps the best suited for the trial, but though the hedge-cutter worked under this disadvantage for showing off its full powers, and the further one of being drawn by horses unused to that kind of work, and driven and worked by men equally new to it, the machine gave every satisfaction. It cut away the thick upper growth evgnjy and steadily, and was perfectly under control, Mr, S outburst,

the agent, worked the machine himself for a short time, and then Mr. Carter’s manager mounted the steering seat. Though the latter gentleman had seen the machine only that day for the first time, and had never tried anything of the kind before, he had no difficulty whatever in working it, and was able to trim both top and sides of the hedge with as great facility and regularity as Mr. Smithurst himself. After the thick upper growth had been cut, the machine was put to do the side trimming, still cutting from the same side of the hedge, and the result was

perfectly successful. After being driven along the hedge to cut the side nearest to it, and doing that well, the machine was brought back to where it started from, the bar which carries tho knives being adjusted to reach right over the hedge and cut the opposite site. The machine is calculated to cut and trim from four to five miles of hedge per day, and ought to be a useful introduction to this district, and a great labor saver. It will work to most advantage, we should think, on a hedge of ordinary but compact growth, and one of its great recommenda tions is its strength. On several occasions it came with a heavy shock against the stakes that stand at intervals in Mr. Carter’s hedge, and though it could slice through a gorse stem an inch thick, those wire strung stakes were too heavy bites for it. However, nothing gave way,, but instead of a breakage the horses were brought up all standing. In cutting hedges, of course afgateway will be occa sionally encountered, and the horses may not be pulled up in time to prevent the knives from catching the gate-posts. If they do catch tho posts they will stick there, and the horses will have to stop perforce, but nothing will break in the machine. This feature is certainly an advantage, and we would be glad to see it a universal one amongst reapers and binders. The machine shewn yesterday was very popular amongst the practical men who witnessed the trial, and we have no doubt it will come into extensive use in the district. Labor is cheap at present, and gorse-cutting can be done at sixpence a chain, and perhaps less ; but we have no idea that low prices like these are going to rule always, and the gorsc-outter is bound to make its way. It will not, however, be found on every farm as tho reaper and binder now is ; but it offers, we think, an inducement for an enterpris ing contractor to invest in and travel round the district. We understand the machine costa between L6O and L7O, and is of the substantial character of all Eng lish made machines. As to a description of the hedge-cutter, we find one ready made in the firm’s circular, and we cannot improve, upon it :

“The machine is mounted on tw’o road wheels of large diameter, to secure light draught. Both wheels are employed in driving the working parts, the motion being communi cated by an arrangement of gearing to one of a pair of knives, similar to the knives of mowers and reapers, but larger, and of greater strength. These knives are carried by a sliding bar pro jected from the side of the machine. This bar with the cutting apparatus is so arranged, as to be capable of ready adjustment to suit different circumstances, the entire machine when set for work, being under complete con trol of the man in charge, who rides upon a seat conveniently placed for making all neces sary adjustments. The cutting apparatus can be raised to any required height to suit high or low hedges, or the level of the ground on which the machine may be travelling. It can also be set ct any required angle, to cut more or less off the hedge, and to reduce its height or alter its shape as may be desired. Both sides of the hedge may be cut from the same side, so that the machine maybe kept on that side which is most convenient. The side cf the hedge nearest to the machine is usually cut first, and then the bar lifted over the hedge and the angle of inclination reversed, so as to cut the other si -le. The top may afterwards be trimmed if required (though this is not usually necessary), by setting the cutting bar straight out jfrom the machine, at the height the hedge is required to be left. The cutting bar being constructed on the same principle as the Paragon mower, swinging round the crank spindle, will work equally well on either side or at the top, and at any angle of inclination. Tire hedge when cut is /\ shaped, of any re quired width at bottom, and of any height, and it is believed this shape is the most generally preferred. The machine is worked by two horses, and requires only a youth to drive and one man to manage and control the cuttirg, and the work accomplished is about five miles of hedge, cut on both sides and at the top, per day. Where trees, railings, or other ob struction are found in hedges, the cutting ap paratus can be instantly withdrawn and put into w’ork again, when tire obstruction is passed. The machine is substantially constructed, so that hedges of two or three years’ growth may be cut without fear of breakage, but where they are regularly cut, they will be gone over once or twice each year,”

A Clean Sheet. —There were no police cases heard at the usual sitting of the Court yesterday. The Hospital. —The rules of tho Ash burton Hospital appear in another column. The Prorogation of Parliament.— It is expected that tho prorogation of Par liament will take place on Tuesday next. The County’s Waterworks Bill.— The Ashburton County Waterworks Bill was read a third time in the Legislative Council on Wednesday. Accident. —A man named Raply, while engaged working at a threshing machine at Wakanui, on Thursday last, had his hand severely cut. The English Mails.— The Australia, with the San Francisco mail, arrived at Auckland on Thursday. The Suez mail has also arrived at King George’s Sound. The High School. —The time for re ceiving tenders for the Ashburton High School building has been extended till Wednesday, September 8. Trotting Match. — We hear that a trotting match of three miles, for L2O a-side, is likely to come off on Monday between a horse belonging to a gentleman in town, whose name we have not learned, and one backed by Mr. Physick, Local Enterprise. —The enterprising firm of Orr and Co., have, we understand, taken over the stock in the assigned es tate of Edmiston, Gundry, and Co., valued at L 2,000, about which announce ments will at an early date appear in our columns. “Farming Implements.” —We would remind our farming readers of a very im portant paper to be read by Mr. F. B. Passmore on “Farming Implements” in the upper room of the Town Hall to-night. The admission is not restricted to members of the A. and P. Association only, but all the farmers in the district will bo made heartily welcome. Tradesmen’s Quadrille Assembly. —The closing ball of the Tradesmen’s Quadrille Assembly last Wednesday night was a brilliant success, and very creditable to the promoters. Between forty and fifty couples were present, to whose enjoy ment the excellent arrangements of the management contributed in a high degree. Dancing was kept up to a late hour with no lack of spirit, and the music was ex cellent.

Anniversary Services and Lecture. —To-morrow, the Rev. D. McKee, of Christchurch, will conduct the services in the Presbyterian Church and at Wakanui, the day being the anniversary of the Rev. Mr. Beattie’s induction. On Monday evening, in the Town Hall, Mr. McKee will deliver a lecture on “ Cranmer and his times.” The rev. gentleman is highly spoken of as a speaker, and has been very favorably noticed by the press both in the colony and at Home, when he has appeared as a lecturer. He is a prominent clergymen of the Presbyterian Church, and a very popular preacher, and doubless will command large audiences in Ashburton,

The Beer Tax. —lt will be seen\ frpiri the Parliamentary report published'■‘else where that the Beer Tax has been fixed at 3d.

The Wires.— Telegraphic communica tion has been restored with the North, An accumulation of telegraphic informa tion appears elsewhere. Property Sale. —On Saturday last Messrs. Matson and Co. sold some pro perties at their laud and estate salerooms, Christchurch. We quote the following of local interest from their report; —The Alford Forest Hotel, with outbuildings and all improvements, with furniture in cluded, together with 2£ acres of land, was sold for L 225 ; also, a large store in the Alford Forest township, together with 1 acre of land, which was bought for L2O. The township sections of Alford Forest, containing |-acre in each, were next offered, sixty of which were sold, averag ing LI 2s. each. Total sale, L3ll Bs. Civil Cases. —At the R.M. Court yes terday, tho case of Saunders v. Harris was adjourned until Friday, 3rd Septem ber. Cookson V. Stewart, judgment sum mons for L 4 15s. Mr. O’Reilly for plaintiff. Mr. Ireland, for defendant, agreed to an order, for payment of the amount in a week. Order made accord ingly. In the case of Meharry v. Wilson, claim L 8 18s. fid., Mr. Branson appeared for plaintiff, and Mr. Ireland for defen-; dant; judgment was given for the plaintiff with costs L 3 2s Mr. Branson appeared for the plaintiff, and Mr. O’Reilly for defendant in Hasset v. Burns, claim LlO, which the plaintiff sought to recover, being the cost of a colt which he said he had bought from Burns, but which plain tiff averred had never been delivered. Judgment was given for plaintiff for L 6 and costs L 3.

The Bachelors’ Ball. —A grand ball was given in the Wellington Arcade on Monday night by members of the Legisla ture and the bachelors of Wellington, and passed off with great success. His Ex cellency the Governor, Lady and Miss Robinson and suite were present during the evening.

The Widow of Matthew Henderson. —A public appeal is being made in Christ church for a subscription for Mrs Hender son, widow' of the notorious Matthew Henderson. Wo understand Mrs Hender son is left totally unprovided for. The Rev. E. A. Lingard is, taking a leading part in the matter.

The Injured Chinaman. —The South Canterbury Tim,cn of Thursday says : The unfortunate Celestial, Ah Song, who so unexpectedly evinced signs of life after he had been mourned as dead by his friends, did not long survive his return to consciousness. He died on Thursday after noon, and his body was removed to tho Sportsman’s Arms Hotel to await the inquest.

Supposed Wreck of a Schooner. — Constable Miles, from Kaikoura, has re ported at Christchurch that during the gale on Friday last, the schooner Southern Queen, when loading limestone at Amur! Bluff dragged her anchor and struck on a rock, then rounded a reef. Several men, mounted the hill-side to look for tho vessel, but she W'as not to be seen any where. Captain Shepherd and one man were on board. Libel. —At the Resident Magistrate’s Court, Christchurch, yesterday, William White Fraser, Joseph Carnahan, and Samuel Johnston, proprietors of the Echo, were charged with committing a libel on Joseph Izett, editor of the Star. The alleged libel was contained in an answer to a correspondent in the Echo, which is said to contain a serious reflection on the prosecutor’s private character. The .ac cused were committed to take their trial at the next sitting of the Supreme Court, but were liberated on entering into per sonal recognisances of LlOOeach.

The Principle of the Thing.— “We should insist on the reductions- being carried out upon a sliding scale,” said Mr. Seddon (in the Civil Service debate). “It is the principle lam fighting for. The other day I saw little children going to school in the wet and cold with no shoes on their feet, and I saw a Government official in the receipt of LBOO a-year driving past. This caused me to reflect. We are sroing to impose additional taxa tion on the parents of these children. The 20 per cent, which we take off the salaries of these highly-paid officials would put boots upon those little children. We should look at the matter in that light. We should make some distinctions, and the sooner we do so the better.”

The State of Ireland.

* (From late Cablegrams and by the Eng* lish Mail.) London, Aug, 24. A long debate took place in the House of Commons to-night in regard to the sedi tious speeches recently delivered by Mr. Dillon, the Home Rule member for Tip perary. At meetings at Kildare and at other places Mr. Parnell and other Home Rulers endorsed the language used by Mr. Dillon. Mr. Forster, Chief Secretary for Ireland, said that he would not be de terred by such language from taking steps to protect life and property, and to im prove the relations between landlords or tenants in Ireland. Aug. 25. A further debate took place in the House of Commons to-day on the existing state of affairs in Ireland. Mr, Parnell made a vehement speech, in the course of which he said that the constitution of a native Parliament in Ireland was the only remedy to meet the grievances of the Irish people. The Right Hon. W. E. Forster, Chief Secretary for Ireland, sjiid that the action of the House of Lords in rejecting the Irish Tenants’ Compensation Bill was much to be regretted, and would possibly prove a great calamity. He added that if coercion should prove neces sary in Ireland he would introduce a Bill to effect the same, and one which would relieve the Government from the conse quences of unjust landlords. Aug. 17. The state of Ireland is alarming and dis tressing. London papers contain lengthy and sensational accounts of disturbances that are taking place in various parts of the country. Rioting is general in the northern counties. The tenantry are organising for offensive and defensive operations. They have combined for mutual protection and assistance against the landlords. Prospects of a good harvest have stimulated the people to increased activity in resisting evictions. Inflamma tory speeches continue to be delivered throughout the country by excited orators, exhorting the people to fight for their rights. Every eviction that occurs is accompanied by acts of violence and fre quently rioting. At Dungarvan, County Tyrone, a hot and sanguinary riot took place. The police fired into the riotous crowd, and killed several persons and wounded others. Scenes of disorder and distraction are recorded from many dis tricts in the northern counties.

In consequence of repeated threats and covert acts of violence the police authori ties at | Cork have established a system of espionage, with the object of detecting offenders. The system, however, has proved ineffectual, and in consequence of the obliquy heaped upon officials con nected with it they are becoming dis couraged, and hesitate to follow their [in structions.

Since the late acts of coercion in Ire land, large purchases of arms are being made in that country, and trouble is ex pected after the harvest, when landlords will claim back rents. The language used at public meetings is increasingly aggressive, and speakers urge the forma tion of a union in Ireland, numbering 300,000, and advise the tenants to refuse

to 'pay rents and to harrass the landlords. Serious religious riots have occurred at Portadown, Downpatrick, and Dungarvon, and at the latter town the police.fired at the mob, killing one man and wounding six.

'■‘‘‘ln the House of Commons the Bight Hon. W. B. Forster, Chief Secretary for Ireland, in course of a speech; on the present state of affairs in Ireland, took occasion recently to denounce in strong terms the wickedness and cowardice of the speech delivered by Mr. Dillon, mem ber for Tipperary, at Kildare, in which he made use of seditious language against the Queen and Government of the country. Replying to a question whether Ministers intended to adopt steps against Mr. Dillon, Mr. Forster said it was not pro posed to institute legal proceedings although the Government considered the language made use of was of the most reprehensible character.

July 16.

Parliament is still occupied .with the Bill granting compensation to evicted Irish tenants, and progress is very slowj partly owing to the vacillation of the Government, and partly to obstructionist tactics of Parnell, the tone of whose re marks indicate that the Irish party wish to dictate terms to the Government, who ai v e accused in some quarters of undue defer ence to the Irish extremists. The Bill was originally introduced as an additional clause to the Relief of Irish Distress Bill, was advocated as a relief measure, and was next transferred into the Land Bill Amending Developing Act, 1879. The debate on the second reading showed that Mr. Parnell’s followers were satisfied with the measures, but that the moderate sup porters of the Government were alarmed. Lord Landsdowne resigned, several pro minent representatives of the great Whig families voted against it, and many other Liberals abstained from voting. On the 9th inst. the Irish Attorney-General intro duced an amendment giving landlords the option of escaping from the penal opera tions of the Bill by offering defaulting tenants the opportunity of selling their interests in their holdings. Thereupon the Irish party lustily declared that the amendment was worthless. Mr. Glad stone was at first unmoved by the denun ciations, but on the 12th he gave notice of substitution for previous amendment. The Premier’s new proposal relieved the landlord from penalties for disturbance,' only in cases where he offered the tenant a reasonable alternative before proceeding to eviction, A heated discussion followed, and since then the Irish members have generally sided against the Government. Aug. ,1. v

The weather all over Ireland is most favorable, and it is expected that the potato crop will bo enormous. It promises tc exceed anything seen in Ireland since the period anterior to the famine of 1848. The root and cereal crops are also luxu riant.

There are encouraging reports of the improved condition of the West, of Ire land. The annual report of the Local Government Board says that no deaths from starvation have occurred. Mr. Parnell has summoned the Home Rule Convention in England at Newcastle; on-Tyne for August 9.

TELEGRAPHIC.

LATEST FROM EUROPE.

(Per Peuter’s Agency.) London, Aug. 21.

The Merchant Shipping and Under writers’ Association report the arrival o: the Hopeful, from Oamaru, on Ist May.

The cricket match between the Aus tralians and Eighteen of Scarborough was resumed to-day. The second innings of the Australians was alone necessary, to complete the match, and they were alidis; posed of for 80 runs, leaving the Scar borough men victors by 90 runs. August 23.

A match, Australians against eighteen of Yeidon, at Yeadon, •; was commenced to-day. The Australians first went to the wickets, and when the stumps were drawn or the day had lost five wickets for 181 runs. Bannerman was nbt but for 48. Blackham retired hurt after scoring 14. Spofforth was absent, suffering from an injured hand. The Hon. W. E. Forster, Chief Secre tary for Ireland, has returned to London. The land meetings held ip Ireland on Sunday last were of a peaceful character, the prominent Home Rulers being absent.

It is announced that the Ambassadors of the Great Powers at Constantinople have been instructed by their Govern ments to declare to the Porte that they must refuse to discuss further the line of demarcation of the Turko-Greek frontier, as fixed by the Berlin Conference. The Ambassadors will, however, express their willingness to negotiate with the Porte regarding the evacuation of of the terri tory to be ceded to Greece.

The market rate rate of discount is I below the bank rate.

The Homeward English mail via Brin disi, which left Melbourne on July 9, was delivered here to-day. The Orient Company’s steamer Acon cagua sailed from Plymouth on Saturday for Melbourne.

Accounts from the hop-growing districts are very favorable, the crops being im proved by seasonable weather. At the wool'sales to-day 6,300 bales were offered, making a total of 54,800 bales catalogued since the opening. The tone of sales showed a hardening tendency. The next wool auction will open on Nov. 23rd. In the House of Commons Mr. W. E. Forster, Chief Secretary for Ireland, stated that the Government would not hesitate to summon Parliament for the purpose of asking additional powers to deal with Irish affairs, but the necessity for this was not anticipated.

London, Aug. 24

The Anatralian cricketers were enter tained last night by the fjMayor of Leeds at a public banquet. Mr. Murdoch, in replying to the toast of the evening, took occasion to allude to the Sydney cricket disturbance last year, and defended the Sydney cricketers, who, he said were quite blameless in the matter. The match Australians v. eighteen of Yeadon was continued to-day. The for mer resumed their first innings, but were not disposed of until they had made 217 runs. Bannerman was the highest scorer with 58 runs. Boyle scored 42. Both men were caught out. The Yeadon eighteen then went in for their first inn ings and scored 105 runs. Boyle bowled splendidly, and took 10 wickets. The Yeadon men being 112 runs behind their opponents bad to follow their innings, and when the stumps were drawn for the day had only scored seven runs for the loss of five wickets.

At the wool sales to-day, 8,200 bales were offered, making a total of 03,000 bales catalogued since the opening. Prices are firmly maintained.

Aug. 25. _ The cricket match, Australians v. eighteen of Yeadon, at Yeadon, was re sumed to-dry. The Australians won the match in one innings with 65 runs to spare. Boyle took eight wickets and Alexander nine.

At the wool sales to-day 9,500 bales were offered, making a total of 72,400 bales catalogued since the opening. The tone of the sale showed a good demand. New Zealand wheat, c.f.i., 445.; best Australian beef tallow, 345. 6d.; best mutton tallow, 365. 6d. Mr. Gladstone has now quite recovered from his recent illness and leaves Graves end to-morrow on a cruise off the coast of Ireland and Scotland, in Messrs. Donald Currie and Co.’s steamship Grantly Castle.

Berlin, Aug./ 23. The North German Gazette publishes an; article deploring M. Gambetta’s /recent speeches, and says/Germany is compelled, to consider the peace of Europe insecure. New Orleans, , Aug. 21. A great storm has taken place which partially destroyed the towns -of Brown ville and Matamoras. Several steamboats have also been wrecked. St. Petersburg, Aug. 21. Friendly relations between Russia and China are reported as being on the in crease. . Constantinople, Aug, 23. In consequence of the pressure brought to bear by the Powers on the Turkish Go vernment, it has at last decided to- take ■firm steps for the settlement of the Albanian and Montenegrin; difficulty. It was arranged a fortnight' ago .to send a force of 2,000 against the Albanians, but Ali Riga Pasha has been ordered to pro? ceed with 40,000 Turkish troops to Dalcigno, on the Adriatic, to enforce the surrender of that port and the surround ing district to Montenegro, in accordance with the decision of the Powers. Calcutta, Aug. 23. ; Further intelligence has been received from Candahar, which states that the garrison had made a sortie on Ayoub Khan’s army, inflicting heavy loss. Hostile tribes of Heratees have gathered in force north of Khojah. , Calcutta, Aug. 24. i Reports have come to hand that a por tion of Ayoub Khan’s force is advancing to oppose General Robertr, Further intelligence from Candahar states that the British loss in the sortie which was made from the citadel a fevv days ago on- Ayoub’s besieging force was heavy.. Fourteen , British officers and many rank. and file were killed and wounded. Ayoub is now shelling' the city and riddling the ■ ramparts. News has been also received that General Roberts, with his relieving force from Cabul, will arrive at Kalat-i-Ghilzai to day-on the road to Candahar. . Mauritius, Aug 12. The Admiral Ruyter is loading with 400 tons of sugar for New Zealand. Sugar operations have been : hindered by the bad weather., ' AUSTRALIAN. ' {Per Reuter's Agency.) Melbourne, Aug. 23. Captain Thomson, ,of the barque Tro chraque, has been sentenced to three months’ imprisonment for neglecting to rescue the crew of a catamaran in the Java seas while on his voyage to this port. Petitions have been lodged against the elections of Dr. Madden for Sandridge, and Mr. Gillies for Rodney. Melbourne, Aug. 24. Arrived—P. and O. Co. 's steamer Bangalore, with the inward Suez mail which left London on July 16. Sailed —Union. Co.’s steamer Roto inahana, for Bluff. Melbourne, Aug. 24. It is announced that the Duke of Man chester will visit New Zealand during his stay in the colonies. It is proposed to hold a race meeting here in Sir Hercules Robinson’s honor when he visits Melbourne .on..his way to England. The proposal meets with general 5 approval in sporting circles. - -.-. ' Aug 26. . , Sir Hercules Robinson has accepted the invitation to the race meeting to beheld here on September 16. There will be a largo amount of added money to the chief events. Sugars an from id. to fd. higher. Sydney, Aug. 24. In connection with the recent libel actions, the judges require the Evening News to show cause why they should not be charged with contempt of Court in passing comments on Judge Windeyer’s summing up. The Daily Telegraph of to day animadverts on the judges’ action. Sydney, Aug. 25. The race for the Hawkesbury Guineas resulted as follows : Geraldine, 1; Sapphire, 2 ; Kamillaroi, 3. Time —Im. 45 8-10 secs. Won by a length. Adelaide, Aug. 24. The Government has taken action to recover L 25,000 against the insurance Companies for losses on the wreck of the ship Hyderabad, at Otaki, on. the wqst coast of the North Island of New Zealand, in ,1878. ' "" ' 1 Adelaide, Aug. 25. In. the Legislative Assembly,. Mr. Bray has tabled a vote of want of confidence in the Government on the Estimates. Brisbane, Ang 26. The Opposition have revived their ob struction in the Assembly to the mail contract, and the Government now threaten to . adjourn for three months without supply.

PARLIAMENTARY.

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. Monday, August 23. . EVENING SITTING. After the usual formal business had been disposed of in the House yesterday after noon, the Premier moved the re-committal of the Electric Telegraph Act Amendment Bill, for the purpose of giving members an opportunity of further considering the new clause, inserted last week by the Premier, dealing with the special wire.t There was a good ,deal, of discussion on the subject, the majority of the speakers being averse to the terms of the clause in granting a special wire to any person or association. The result was that the clause was excised, and the Bill, as reported, makes no reference whatever to the grant ing or use of a special wire for press pur poses. The Colonial Treasurer moved the second reading of the Beer Duty Bill. In doing so, he referred to the question of saving effected in the expenditure. He pointed out that the Estimates calculated expenditure at L 3,473,000, but reductions had been made in Committee of Supply of L 167,000, and, including the 10 per cent, reduction on salaries, the net saving amounted to L 197,000. The surplus at the end of the year was estimated at L 134,000. So far as he could see he did not think it necessary to correct the Esti mates. 1 • The revenue would all come in, except perhaps in regard to the railways, the falling off in which would probably reduce the surplus to L 95,000. The savings effected this year, if carried into effect next year, would amount to L252,0Q0, and this the Government hoped they might be" able to increase. The House would, however, see that the pro posed taxation was the lowest they could do with, as next year they would have over LIOO,OOO to the bad. With regard to the Local Boards, and Eating Bills, the Government very much regretted that there would be no chance of passing them this session. He looked upon them as of very great importance, and for himself he was a thorough believer in them. It would, however, necessitate the extension of the session some four or six weeks to deal with them, as they required great consideration by the House and.country, and already members had been engaged in political matters some eight or nine months out of the last thirteen months. In regard to the subsidies the ment proposed to pay one-half for the re maining nine months of the financial year. This would amount to about LIOO,OOO. They might fairly expect to get about L 50,000 from the land fund to go towards the subsidies, and the other L 50,000 would come from the consolidated fund. The whole question would receive further consideration during the recess. As; to the Beer Duty Bill, it was practically the American Act, except that its provisions

were not so stringent ; and it was similar to the Act of 1878, with very few altera tions. The total amount they had col lected up to the 3rd June last was at the rate of L 58,000 a year, but stocks were being held back. He very much regretted having to bring this Bill forward, but it was simply a matter of necessity. Upon going into Committee of Supply he would give particulars as to tke state of the loan, so that the House might know exactly the position in regard to that. Mr. Reader Wood objected to the proposed tax, and did not think, from the Premier’s own statement, that the amount of taxation which was proposed was necessary. He thought the beer tax should bo reduced to 3d., and the property tax. to s £d. Mr. Macandrew said the only ground upon which he could agree to s the,beer tax wfis the necessity of providing subsidies to local bodies., Mr. Gisborne said he in tended to oppose the tax altogether. After some further discussion, Mr. Bar ron moved the adjournment of the debase. The general feeling seemed to be that the discussion on the question of taxation should not be' fully' gone ■ into until the second reading of the Property' Tax Bill came on for discussion. In the evening Messrs. Shephard and; Reid and Sir George Grey next spoke in succession, and in opposition to the Bill, and Messrs. Hurst and Murray spoke in favor of it. The motion for the adjournment of the debate was then put and negatived; Mr. Moss endeavored to show that without the beer duty there would be a surplus of revenue over expenditure of L55,0Q0, and this, to his mind, did away with the ne cessity of imposing the tax. He expressed an opinion that before next session it would be found. necessary so revise the whole system of Government. A division was taken; on the second reading, which was carried by 51 to 2.0. The Premier then moved the second reading of the Pro perty Assessment Amendment Bill, merely explaining its provisions in a few word?. Mr. Reader Wood looked upon the Bill as opposed to the views of the people, gene rally. He moved the following amend ment :—“ (1) That in the opinion of this House the property tax should be reduced from Id. to -|d, ; that the exemptions from the opera don of the property tax should include steam engines r and all machinery used in manufacturing,' pump ing, mining, and mill purposes ; all books and wearingapparel actually in use, agricul tural implements actually in Use only, and all property below the sum, of, L3OO. (2) That the beer tax be.reduced from 6d., to 3d. per gallon. ” Mr. Saunders announced his intention to. vote'against the Bill, and do everything, in hia power to prevent its passing. It is needless to particularise the views of the various speakers, as the subject was fully discussed during the no confidence debate, and. Jt has frequently . cropped up since.., Suffice it to say. tflat the opponents of the proposed taxation based their objections on a great variety of grounds, while those in favor of it urged in extenuation the present, financial condition of the country. Sir George Grey pointed out what he considered a very awkward predicameht^viz.;'-that a no-confidence motion: was just raoved by one of the Government supporters,: and backed up by others of the same party ; while the other side did hot want the Go vernment to go out, not seeing at present who were to fill their places. Sir George was very humorous and satirical ... all through his long speech. Referring .to Mr. Reader Wood, who had moved the amendment; he said, although ! h’d’t(Sir George) did not wish to.turn out the Go vernment, he would follow the lead of Mr, Wood in this matter. The Govern ment ship was sinking at last, 1 and all knew who were the first to leave a sink ing ship. This palpable hit at the mem ber for Waitemata and one of the *‘ Auck land four” created a furore, of laughter. He advised all to take this opportunity to march boldly to the victory,which awaited them in carrying the amendment to the proposals of what he called “that semi naked and impotent rabble which now sit on those benches” (the Government). ..The debate continued in a somewhat ' flat manner in a thin House till 1.10 a.m., when, without any reply from the Go vernment benches, a division was called for, with the following result :—For the second reading, 31; against, 9. The second reading was consequently agreed to. The House rose at 1.20 a.m. Tuesday, August 24. The Speaker took the chair at 2.30. On the motion of the Hon. the Pre mier, the Speaker was 1 empowered to issue a writ for the return of a member to the House during the! present Parliament for the electoral district of Waikaia, in the place of the late Mr. Ireland. i > The following new Bills were intro duced :—A : Bill to enable !the'Govern ment to grant certain land and privileges to any person or company willitig i to con struct a railway between the City of Wel lington and Porirua (Mr. Brandon). The Railways Construction Bill (Hon. Mr. Oliver). The Hokitika Harbor; Loan Bill (Hon. Mr. Hall), and the Canterbury Roads Ordinance Amendment BilLv The report of the Committee on the Electric Telegraph Act, 1875, s-Amend ment Bill was brought up, and the amend ments agreed to. The Bill was then read a third time and passed. After several members had, spoken,, the House went into Committee on the Beer Bill, which was being considered when the House adjourned at 5.30.' h< •• EVENING • SITTING: *< 'H The House resumed at 7.30 on the Beer Bill and Property Assessmeiit Bill. Considerable discussion took place, especially on clausa 2/ which' fixed the duty, at fid. per gallon, and at least half-a dozen hon. gentlemen rose at once. Mr. Ballance moved that the . .word ‘ sixpence” be struck out, and the word “ threepence” inserted in lieu thereof.^ The Hon, the Colonial Treasurer assured the House that they would want every penny that the sixpenny tax would raise. He regretted as much as any member of the Committee .the necessity for this tax, but ;as it was really required,, he hoped the House would pass the Bill as it ,stood. After remarks and expressions of opinion from several members; on bqtjj sides of; the House, the amendment that the tax be thieepence was put and,- carried on the voices. ‘

The succeeding in the Bill were then considered, and passed without dis sent. • 1 -',‘

Mi'. Seddon moved an extra clause,- to the effect that any brewer who shall wil fully affix any stamp to any cask, with a view tp mislead, shall be liable to a penalty for every offence. . The clause was accepted by the;Govern ment.and agreed to. ; The Hon. Major Atkinson said - ,that after the reduction which had been made in the beer tax, it would be Jiecessary.that the Government, should cqnsider the Pro perty Assessment Bill, and ho would therefore ask. that the consideration of that Bill be postponed. He would there fore ask that .progress be reported , to ' the House on the Beer Bill. It was resolved to go, into Committee on the Property Assessment Bill on the fol lowing day. . . , An important amendment to the., De ceased Persons Estates Duties ,Bill wan agreed to, on the motion of Mr., Downie Stewart, by which all estates under the v aide of LSOO are exempted > from ; succes sion duty, r V T-t.V Bhe Stamp . Fee Bill , having. had; no amendments in it, was read a third time and passed. The Stamp Act Ain'enciment Bill was also read a third time and passed. The Hon.: the Premier .moved, the second ; reading of the Waikato .Confis cated Land Billy :and,briefly..explained its object, i[The motion .was.agreed to,-qand the Bill was read a' .second.timei-i^-The

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, SATURDAY, AUGUST 28, 1880.



d. s . d. Butter, inferior to best $ lb IO 0 to 1 2 Eggs, t? dozen X 0 to 0 0 Cheese, prime quality, $ lb 0 6 to 0 8 Bacon, prime smoked, # lb 0 10 to I 0 Hams in cloth, $ lb X 2 to 0 0 Flour in bags, $ loolb 13 0 to 0 0 Oatmeal, D? 251b 4 0 to 0 0 Lard, lb - 0 7 to 0 0



tn.B evening Ol wit? »ame u ay au v.w. KAIAPOI WOOLLEN MANUFACTUR ING COMPANY (LIMITED.) CAPITAL £IOO,OOO IN 4000 SHARES j OF £25 EACH. j ISSUE OF NEW SHARES. Forms of application for SHARES, with full information, can be obtained of Mr. Weeks, Ashburton Guardian Office, by whom application for , Shares will be received. Deposit, 20s. per share; and 50s. per share on allotment. August 23, 1880. Advertisements received for the GUARDIAN up to 9 p.m. at the ucale charges, afterwards at double rates for insertion over the leader



AUCTION SALES. To-Day. Alfred Harrison, at his Sftleyards—Good Staunch Horse. Any trial given, Friday, September 3. Robert Wilkin and Co., at the Tinwald Saleyards—Horses, Cattle, Poultry, Implements, Potatoes, &c. Sale at 12 o’clock.