COMMERCIAL.

Messrs. H. Matson and Co. report—On Tuesday, we held our usual fortnightly sale at the Ashburton Yards, when a very large number of sheep, mostly merinos, were entered for sale. Our catalogue con sisted of 2460 sheep, 17 head of cattle, 12 horses and a very large number of sun dries, the property of a farmer leaving the district. In sheep, we sold 110 merino ewes and lambs, all counting, 4s, 6d ; 161 three-quarter fat merino wethers at ss; 11 lambs, ss. 6d; 46 crossbreds at 7s. 3d ; and 100 store merinos at 4s ; the balance of our entry being turned out unsold. In cattle, we cleared our. entry at fair prices. In horses, we sold two at L3O each and one at L 8 ; the clearing sale of sundries being fairly satisfactory. [by telegraph.] Dunedin, April 16. Prime beef, 20s. per 1001 b.; mutton, 2d. per lb. Good samples wheat, 4s. 3d. to 4s. 6d.; fowl wheat, 3s. to 3s. 3d.; oats. Is. 3d. to Is. 4d.; barley, 4s. to 4s. 6d.; feed, 2s. 6d. to 3s. Potatoes, L2 15s. to L 3. Old hay, L 4 ; new oaten hay, L 3 65.; chaff, L 3 ; straw, L2.; bran, L 3 10s.; pollard, L 4; flour, LlO 10s. to LlO los. per ton, large sacks ; pearl barley, L 22 ; oatmeal, LlO. Onions, 65.; new cheese, sd. Bacon, rolled, lOd.; hams. Is.; sides bacon, lid. CHRISTCHURCH CORN EN CHANGE. Corn Exchange report for the week end ing Friday evening, 16th April, 1880 . The one noticeable feature of the week that has elapsed is the decline in wheat. Latest English advices report a fall of Is. 6d. per quarter. This apparently is at tributable to the reports of very heavy stocks in America, coupled with the pros pects of a good harvest at Home and abroad. Millers are purchasing sparingly, doubtless from a further anticipated re trogession, while shippers do not evince the same eagerness to purchase. This is the state of things at the present moment and causes the market to be heavy. - Wheat—At the beginning of the week prime milling samples were saleable at 4s. f.o.b. Later on when the telegraphic ad vices were received, a decided fall of 2d. per bushel was experienced ; prime mill ing quality cannot be quoted at over 3s. 9d. to 3s. KM. Chick wheat—Large quan tities are in the market, and buyers are somewhat fastidious. The prices range from 2s. 6d. to 3s. according to quality. Oats. Large holders are somewhat puzzled to find an outlet for their stocks. Many are stacking to wait a more propi tious season. Others are making trial shipments in the London mai’kets and elsewhere. Large lines are not coming to hand in this market. The local demand is fairly good, and prices remain as before, Is. 4d. to Is. 6d. per bushel. Barley.—Large quantities continue to come forward, the great bulk of which is of second-rate quality. The large quan tity offering has a most depressing influ ence on the market. Malsters and ship pers are exceedingly dainty, and nothing but really prime quality meets with any attention. Prime samples cannot be quoted at over 3s. 9d. to 3s. lOd. per bushel, with a rather sluggish demand. Feed and inferior parcels are in great abundance, and will not command over 2s. 6d. to 2s. 9d. per bushel.

Grass seed continues to be dull of sale, and prices have not varied from last week’s quotations. Cocksfoot Small sales are taking place at 2-Jd. per lb. Potatoes. —Orders are coming to hand rather tardily, and purchasers do not yet appear to have made up their minds as to prices. Nothing definite has as yet been established. Approximate values, there fore, only can bo given, being 30s. to 355. per ton, sacks extra. Cheese and Butter.—The state of the market for this class of produce is pre cisely what it was last week, sd. to sid. for the former, Bid. to 9d. for the latter.

ASHBURTON RETAIL LIST.

MEMORANDA.

AUCTION SALES. Monday, April 19. Messrs. J. E. Buchanan and Co., at Mr. Spring’s Farm, North Ashburton- Adjoining Sule of Wheat, Oats, Ac. Sale at 12 noon. Wednesday, April 21. Messrs. J. E. Buchanan and Co., at the Chertsey Hotel—4oo acres first-class Land. Sale at 2p. m. Messrs. J. E. Buchanan and Co., at the Chertsey Hotel—9B acres land, at Soa field,and one corner Section in Chertsey. Sale at 2 p. m. Thursday, 22nd April. Messrs. J. E. Buchanan and Co., at Chertsey—Horses, Sheep, Pigs, etc.; also a large area of land. Sale at 1 p.m. Messrs. Matson and Co., at the Town Hall, Ashburton—The Fairfield Estate, com prising 2,000 acres of land. Luncheon at one o’clock. Sale at two o’clock. Also, at the same place, and immediately following the above—Large area of land at Chertsey, Droraore, and Ashbur ton. Wednesday, May 5. Mr. Alfred Harrison, in conjunction with E, Davies and Co., Eakaia,at his rooms, Ashburton—Farm of 625 acres at Sea field, in the occupation of Mrs. Dannihy. Sale at 2 o’clock.

MARRIAGE.

Cape- Williamson— Strien. —On April 10th, by the Rev. A. M. Beattie, at the residence of the bride, Burnett street, Ashburton, H. Cape-Williamson,Master of the Cambridge School, to Hermino Ernsttine, fourth daughter of E. L. Strien, Esq., late of Hokitika. S24c

The Ashburton Guardian, COUNTY AGRICULTURAL & SPORTING RECORDER SATURDAY, APRIL 17, 1880.

The indefatigable Mr. Macandrew in 1-778 did his best to establish steam com munication direct between the Old Country and this colony, and wished it done under Government auspices. He brought the matter up at a late period of the session, and members, wishing to be home to prepare for the enjoyment of a merry Christmas, were not in a mood to finish up an already too lengthy session by debating what might have been an endless question. Besides, the establishment of direct communication was a subject in volving a large outlay of money, with no assurance that a commensurate benefit would follow. But during the recess Mr. Macandrew, who had evidently taken the matter to heart, set about making the experiment, and before Parliament again met the Stadt Haarlem, steamer, had come and gone. . Her voyage was not the greatest financial suc cess possible, even though she did bring a large cargo of immigrants, and consequently she is the last steamer that has visited the colony direct from Europe. But we learn from recent telegrams that the Stadt Haarlem experiment is not to be the final one, and that before all hope lea.-es us of ever seeing a direct line of steamers plying between our shores and those of the land we have left, we are to be treated to a visit from one of the boats of Messrs. Money Wigram, and Co. It was this company who ran the splendid line of steamers between London and Melbourne before the Orient Company entered into competition with them, and it is their intention, now that to a certain extent their Australian trade has been crippled, to measure the bounds of possi bility of a payable trade between New Zealand and England. The first steamer is to start some time this month, if she has not already left, and should the venture meet with fair encouragement, a direct line of steamers will continue on the passage, the fine fleet of Messrs. Money Wigram and Co., being available for the service. Should the venture prove suc cessful, the Company, it is said, purpose re linquishing the Melbourne trade, and devot ing their attention to New Zealand. Their fleet of steamers comprise some splendid vessels, and considering the large passenger trade that has tins year been done from Lyttelton, per sailing vessel, and the contributions of voyayers by the Orient line that New Zealand gives, there is a good prospect that, if freight is forth coming in keeping, the cabins of Money Wigram’s steamers will be in demand. It is to be hoped the venture will bo a suc cessful one, and that at last a steam line will be established between this colony and Home.

CONSECRATION OF THE NEW MASONIC HALL.

The ceremony of consecrating the Somerset Masonic Hall took place yester day afternoon, in the presence of a large number of Masons,'conducted by D.D.G. Master Bro. Henry Thomson and Grand Lodge officers, Bro. P. M. Webb acting as D.S.G. Warden, Bro. P.M. Shearman as D.J.G. Warden, and Bro. Paige D. G. Chaplain. The lodge was first opened in the temporary lodge-room at Bro. Shear man’s sample rooms, after which the brethren inarched in procession to the new hall in Tancred street, which was taste fully decorated for the occasion. On arriving at the new hall, the D.D. Grand Master and officers first entered, followed by the brethren of the lodges here and many visitors, numbering in all about 80. The officers and brethren having assembled in due form, the choir commenced with the anthem, “ Behold how good and joy ful a thing it is for brethren to dwell together in unity,” followed with prayer by the D.G. Chaplain, and “ Sanctus,” by the choir. The Lodge Architect then certified to the due completion of the hall, and was congratulated by the D.D.G. Master upon the completion of the very fine structure about to be dedicated to Masonry. The choir sang “ Hail, Eternal. ” The Lodge was then first dedi cated to Masonry by the Grand Lodge representatives; secondly, to Virtue ; and, thirdly, to Universal Benevolence ; followed by grand honors by all the brethren. The D.G. Chaplain then offered the dedication prayer, followed by musical response, 'and the ceremony was con cluded by the choir chanting the 100th Psalm. Before closing the Lodge the D.D.G;. Master spoke of the grand principles of Masonry, and commended that of Charity one towards another, which should be particularly remembered among themselves as brethren, and also to all mankind. He then con gratulated them on having erected such a fine hall in so short a time, remarking that the building was ample for all the requirements of Masonry ; and now that all the outward work was finished, he would strongly urge them to carry on the true work of the Order in their hearts and put their principles into effect. After receiving congratulations and a vote ©f thanks had been given to the D.D.G. Master, the Lodge was closed and the brethren were dismissed to prepare for the ball. At the proper places in the ceremony the Masonic Choir sang the following pieces : divine ; ” “ Come, Charity; ” and “ Come holy Virtue. ” THE BALL commenced at nine o’clock, and a very large number of couples were present. The hall was neatly decorated, and excel lent arrangements w’ere made for the com fort and convenience of the brethren and their lady friends. The upper room and the two ante-rooms on the ground floor

were devoted to the ladies, while a large marquee, erected at the back of the hall, did duty as a refreshment room, and was under the care of Brother Quill. A covered way was also made from the door of the hall to the .marquee, so that the dancers could avoid the necessity of going into the open air in their passage to and from the hall. The music was supplied by an efficient orchestra from Christchurch, and altogether the event was the most pleasant and successful of its kind that has yet been held in the township, and was fully enjoyed by all concerned up till a late hour in the morning.

Postal. —The alterations in the running of the railway trains has necessitated a re-arrangement of the postal time table.

The Borough Waterworks. —The con tractor lias made a fair start in the Borough Waterworks contract, and, with favorable weather, we hope to see the water supply an accomplished fact within three weeks. The Mount Somers Cricket Match.— This match played on Thursday resulted in a victory for the Ashburton team in the first innings, the following being the scores ;—Mount Soriiers, Ist innings, 45, 2nd innings, 119 ; Ashburton, Ist innings, 56, 2nd innings (with seven wickets to fall), 35. Messrs. Anderson and Curtis did good service for Ashburton.

The Winchmorb Drainage Works.— Mr. William Baxter, County Engineer, escorted by a large number of contractors, •n Thursday went over the ground preposed to be dealt with by the drainage works between Winchmore and Methven. The work was pointed out to the contractors by Mr. Baxter, and there will probably be considerable competition for the contract. Hospital. —Mr. and Mrs. Madden, late of the Timaru Hospital, have been appointed Master and Matron respectively to the Ashburton Hospital. They are spoken very highly of by those who have known them officially in Timaru, and we think we may congratulate the County Council in having made a wise selection from the number of appications they had to deal with. Civil Service Commission. The Civil Service Commission sat in the Pro vincial Hall, Christchurch, on Thursday and Friday, and examined the General Manager of Railways, Mr. Back, the manager of railway stores, the engineers, Messrs. Cuthbert and Austin, and Mr. Knight, Inspector of Permanent way To-day they will visit the railway work shops and cattle yards.

Guide to the Property Assessment Act.— Messrs. Lyon and Blair, Lambton Quay, Wellington, have published a “ Guide to the Property Assessment Act, 1879,” by Mr, Chaa, M. Crosbie, Deputy Property Tax Commissioner, Wellington District. The cost is only a shilling, and we would advise all who are affected by the above Act to procure a copy, as the fullest information, and the most careful instructions are given in the little book. Degree Temple— A meeting of the De gree Temple was held at the Templar Hall, on Wednesday. There was a good attendance of members. The Temple -was opened by the Degree Templar, Bro. Poyntz, in the third degree. The Degree of Charity was conferred on two sisters, after which the Temple closed and opened in the second degree—when two brothers and one sister received the Degree of Fidelity. Five new members were ad mitted to the Temple, and after transact ing a large amount of business, the Temple was closed in due form. New Presbyterian Church at Tin yvald.—The Presbyterian cause in Tin wald has been particularly healthy of late, a week night service having been held every Thursday since the commencement of the Eev. Mr. Beattie’s pastorate. It has now been decided to take definite steps for securing a building to worship in, and this will be all the more easy seeing that the Church already possesses an acre of ground in the township. On Thursday evening, 22nd inst., a meeting is to be held in the schoolroom at Tinwald to set on foot a movement for raising funds to defray the cost of a building, and from the strength of the Presbyterians in the district, this should not be difficult. The. Bellringers. —Perhaps the most talented company in their particular line that have ever visited New Zealand are the Lynch family of bellringers, and we are glad to notice their intention of giving two entertainments in Ashburton in the Town Hall—one to-night, theotheron Mon day night. The fame of the campanologists is so well established, and their extraordi nary powers are so well known that it is needless for us to speak of the pleasant even ings we have spent in listening to them. They are not alone, however, and do not wholly depend upon their own manipula tion of their little “peals” for keeping the good graces of an audience—though they might well do so—and in the com pany is to be found an excellent ventrilo quest in Mr. C. Lyudhurst, and Mr. Alfred Santly, comique.

Village Settlements. —ln the “Gazette” of Bth April it is notified by an Order in Council that 83 acres town ship of Dromore, 114 acres township of Hinds, 75 acres township of Aylesbury, and 653 acres of reserve Ho. 265, town ship of South Rakaia, are set aside as village settlements upon deferred pay ments, under the Land Act, 1877, Amendment Act, 1879- These lands may be applied for at the Lands Office, Christ church, in allotments of not less than one nor more than five acres in extent, on Monday, 17th May next. The same “ Gazette” publishes an Order in Council, under the Public Reserves Sale Act, 1879, by which lands in the above townships are set aside for sale by public auction. Of this sale ample notice will be given, the upset prices per acre being—for Dromore, L 5; Hinds, L 5 ; Aylesbury, L 4 10s, ; South Rakaia, LlO.

Coin. —On the last trip from Melbourne the Rotomahana brought 30,000 sove reigns for the Bank of Hew Zealand in Wellington.

The Invercargill Shooting Case.— Arthur Cox, the lad charged with shooting a boy on Easter Monday, was on Thurs day committed for trial for murder.

The Missing Duck Shooters.—Por tions of the clothing of the young men who went shooting on the Wairarapa Lake have been found, which leaves no doubt but that they were drowned. Sporting. The Wanganui Steeple chases are fixed for June 9. The pro gramme includes a Handicap of 17550v5., a Maiden of 75sovs., a Weight-for-Age of 50sovs., and a Consolation of SOsors. no minations for the Handicap close on loth May. The Postal Revenue. The postal revenue, for the March quarter in 1880 is L 46,625 18s. For the corresponding quarter in 1879 the amount was L 34,615 13s. Id. The total postal revenue for the financial period from July Ist. 1879, to March 31st, 1880, is L 115,680 14s. 3d.

Gold. —A Hokitika telegram says : Some six or seven shafts have bottomed on good payable gold at a new rush at the Forks, Okarito. The ground is about 400 ft. in breadth, and if others bottom who are sinking on the same line, it is thought that a considerable rush will shortly set in. Toads. —Toads are the friends of gar deners, destroying the injurious insects in large numbers. In the extensive vege table gardens around London and Paris, the toads are looked after with great care, and are even a part of the stock invested in the business. Many of the toads in and around London are brought from France, where they pay as high as six shillings a dozen for them.

A Lucky Trooper. —Michael Simeon, in the Armed Constabulary, stationed at Opunake, has been left a fortune of nearly LSOOO by a relative in the South Island.

Good News. —We (“Post”) learn from a private telegram received in town, that the Newcastle miners have consented to the reduction in the getting price pro posed by the owners, and that a reduction of 4s. per ton will be made in the price of coal at the pit’s mouth. A reduc tion will be made in Wellington early mext month. It is to be hoped it will also reach as far as Ashburton. A Strange Yow. — A witness caused some surprise in the R.M. Court at Wel lington the other day by refusing to sign her depositions. On being asked if she could not write, she replied that she could, but that fifteen years ago she had taken a vow never again to write her name. The Magistrate asked her if she had any objec tion to affixing a cross. She said she had not, and this method of signature had to be employed. It would be interesting to know what were the reasons which in duced the witness to make such an extra ordinary vow.

Pleuro in Auckland. —Messrs M'Leau and Co. gave notice on Wednesday to the Auckland Cattle Board that their herd of Cheviots were infected with pleuro-pneu monia. Messrs. Runciman and Nader have been sent to the Piako station with instructions to kill all the infected cattle. Pneumonia appears to be spreading in the Waikato, and there is a general feeling of uneasiness. Rangers have been appointed from the Armed Constabulary, and it is expected that orders will be issued con fining all infected cattle to one paddock.

The Dunedin Murder. —When the- Court-house doors were thrown open on Thursday there was a greater scramble for seats than was ever seen in the place before. Hundreds were unable to gain admission, and throughout the day the. police were hardly able to keep the ap proaches to the front door clear. The Crown Solicitor, Mr. B. C. Haggitt, con ducted the case for the prosecution. The prisoner, Butler, defended himself, the Judge remarking that he was sorry he had determined to do so. Mr. Haggitt opened the case in an exhaustive speech. A num ber of witnesses were examined, and the Court adjourned till next day.

A Miscarriage of Justice.— At the criminal sittings of the District Court at New Plymouth on Thursday, the only case on the list was a charge against John Dale for indecent assault upon his daugh 7 .. ter, ten years of age. Very conclusive evidence was adduced of the crime, after which the solicitor for the prisoner took exception to the indictment, which was not signed by the Crown Prosecutor, and, therefore applied for the discharge of the prisoner. Mr. Standish, the- Crown Prosecutor, was not in the place, having left by the steamer on Sunday for Aus tralia, so his Honor discharged the prisoner in consequence of the objection raised, at the same time commenting strongly on what he termed a “miscarriage of justice.”

CORRESPONDENCE.

We do not hold ourselves responsible for the opinions expressed by our correspondents.

THE PUBLIC LIBRARY.

To the Editor.

Sir,—Many letters of complaint as to the existing state of things in the Public Library have appeared in the several newspapers from time to time, without eliciting any reply from the directorate of the Library. I would suggest that all parties interested therein meet in the reading-room of the Library, on Monday, the 19 th inst., at 8 p.m., to consider what steps should be taken to alter the present and provide for the future management of that institution. Heaven helps those who help them selves, and unless some one moves in the matter the present miserable state of things will continue.—l am, Ac., J. Youxg. Ashburton, April 16, 1880. To the Editor. Sir, —As one interested in the Public Library, I should like to be informed how it is managed. I was told some time ago by the secretary that the annual meeting of members would he held in March. That month lias gone and yet no meeting has been called ; in fact, it has been stated that this is the second year no annual meeting has been held. Perhaps no com mittee meetings have been held. Is there any Committee in existence ? I question it if no annual meeting was held last year, as the Committee are only appointed for one year. Nevertheless it is true some steps were taken to make the library what it should he, more especially in view of the long winter months coming on. At present the whole concern seems (to say the least of it) very higgledy-piggledy. I notice that the Board of Education have advertised for applications from libraries desirous of sharing in the grant of LBOO voted—another reason for exertion on our part. Would the Secretary kindly call a meeting of members to consider the matter, otherwise those interested will find it necessary to try some other means of resuscitating our now almost defunct Public Library.:—l am, &c.. Lover of Literature.

THE ALLEGED EMBRACERY AT AUCKLAND.

[By Telegraph.] Auckland, April 16. It having been stated that an attempt ■was made to tamper with the jurors in the case of the man Hughes, charged with indecent assault upon his servant girl, some jurors, with whom influence was attempted, to-day waited on the Attorney- General, and stated what had actually j taken place, as far as they could speak 1 from personal knowledge. They respect fully urged upon him the necessity of causing an inquiry to be made, and of talcing such steps as will protect jurors from any attempt at influence in future. The Attorney-General thanked the depu tation cordially for the straightforward coui’se pursued in the matter by them, which was one that struck at the very foundation of the administration of justice. He would at once communicate with the Minister of Justice on the sub ject, with a view to having the whole matter investigated.

DISTRICT COURT.

ASHBURTON— Thursday, April 15. [Before His Honor Judge Ward.] E. Sarnighauson v. W. H. Zouch, Claim L6O. Mr. O’Reilly, for plaintiff; My. Branson, for defendant. This was a claim for the value of a horse and cart seized by the defendant out of the bank rupt estate of Sando and Bowling. Mr. O’Reilly said that the objection had been raised by the defendant that no tice had not been given in accordance with the Act to the defendant who is trus tee in the estate of Sando and Co. Coun sel argued that the notice was not re quired, on the ground that the defendant was not sued as trustee in the estate, but merely as a case of trespass, and the trus tee had not obtained an order under Section 57. Ultimately Mr, O’Reilly ac cepted a nonsuit. On the question of costs being discussed, counsel’s coats only were granted. Re James Stephens, a bankrupt. Mr. O’Reilly made application for payment of costs in this case, which, was granted. This concluded the business, and the Court adjourned.

RAILWAY ACCIDENTS.

Take the system as a whole, railway accidents traceable to negligent conduct on the part of servants, bad management, inefficient switches, or defective plant, do not occur frequently on our lines. But it is remarkable that cases of fatal accident, from being “ spilt” from the trains, occur more frequently in New Zealand than they do at home, and the number of ac cidents of this kind, we feel assured, is as great in proportion to the extent of our lines as it is in America. In England, the old fashioned carriage is in vogue still, and probably always will be—the carriage divided up into compartments with two doors to each. The railway companies at Home could never brook the loss of sitting room in their carriages that our platforms at either end entail, and consequently passengers on their trains have to be con tent to perform their journeys without en joying an airing outside, and are literally locked in, thus being protected without choice from the sort of accidents that are common here. The absence of platforms from the English carriage thus gels rid of the chance of “spilling” passengers, and so coroner’s inquests on cases from that cause are unknown. In America, again, the platform is in use, but precautions are taken there to prevent accidents—precau tions that might with advantage be adopted here. Our carriages are con structed almost exactly on the American model, but there is one important omission; the strong canvas sheet that extends from one carriage to another, just above the couplings, and prevents anything that may fall from the platform reaching the rails. This canvas sheet, it will at once be seen, is a safeguard against death, from being run over by the wheels, to any un fortunate who may fall between the carriages. If he fall from the side of the carriage, he may just as readily as not get injured by the shock, but almost all pos sibility of being run over is prevented, as he is bound to fall clear of the rails. We do not know whether the Yankees’ idea in this is more to save life than to keep their carriage wheels clear, but certain it is fatal “spills” are less frequent in America than they are in this colony. The accident that occurred near Rakaia on Saturdaj r last leads us to make the foregoing remarks, and though possibly the canvas sheet would not be much of a protection to a drunk man, as Clark was proved to have been, it certainly would be a protection against danger to children who by any unfortunate chance may fall under the rails of the platform, and down between the carriages. It was the want of this sheet, as far as we can gather, that killed the child recently at Burnham station. Well, we are not perhaps strictly in accordance with facts when we say “ killed ” the child, as the coroner’s jury found the immediate cause of death to be something else ; but she undoubtedly came by her mutilation from falling from the carriage platform, and had the sheet we refer to been a part of the carriage furniture, she would not have fallen before the wheels of the carriage, and con sequently would not have been run over. The authorities are not required to provide protection for drunk passengers, that is— drunk persons are not permitted to travel; and had Clark’s intoxication been observed at Ashburton by the station master the man would probably now have been alive well to-day. It is not a pleasant thing for a rail way official to do—to turn out a man from a train for being drunk ; but is a duty that ought to be performed, notwithstanding, as well in the man’s own interest as in the interest of his fellow passengers; for if it is unpleasant to a chap to get run over, it is equally unpleasant to those who are travelling with him to have to be eye witnesses to the • accident. Then a large number of second class passengers have a fondness for sitting on the plat forms witii their legs hanging over the side. This practice is most reprehensible, 'as it encourages young boys to follow the example, and it is a difficult thing to pre vent children from following a bad example like this set them by their elders. This habit of sitting on the platforms should be discouraged as far as possible by the authorities, as we feel certain that its extinction would prevent many accidents. We have happily enjoyed a pleasant im munity from collisions on our railway lines, and no smashes of any consequence have yet occurred to harrow our feelings. We would fain see those frequent accidents from falling off the trains prevented, and will be glad to see the American “catcher” introduced to our system. It is not an expensive thing, it is easily fitted, and being a successful contrivance for saving life, its adoption is worth con sidering.

TRIAL OF GANG PLOUGHS.

(From Press*)

Messrs. G. King and Col, agents for Carr and Hobson’s gang ploughs (which completely upset all preconceived ideas of celerity in breaking up the soil), exhibited them on Thursday at work at the farm of Mr. John Overton, of Prebbleton. In these ploughs the handles are entirely dis pensed with ; the mould boards are firmly attached to a. moveable or side swinging gang of two or three beams (if double or treble furrow); it has a powerful lever, by means of which the mould boards are shifted from a working to a travelling posi tion, or by the same means lowered again for work. When about to turn corners a slight upward jerk on the lever unlocks the joint, whilst a forward motion brings the ploughshares to the surface, and at the commencement of new furrows the lover is thrown down, and the ploughshares enter the soil. The double furrow plough is drawn by two horses, and the treble furrow plough by, three horses, driven from an elevated perch exactly similar to that on the well-known reapers and binders. The depth of work is regulated by a simple device at the forward end of the beams, and as the draught is direct from [ the work, the carriage receives no strain. It has a single straight axle—the off-wheel running on the top of the first furrow, and is always in a level position, either in work or transit. Both ploughs were tried in a stubble field, where at least a foot of stubble and a dense undergrowth of clover and wqeds had to be contended with, but each plough did its work well. The double furrow, with two horses, turned over a width of 2ft., wdiilst the treble furrow, with three horses, turned over a width of 2ft. Sin. Several of the neighboring farmers were present, and at their request the ploughs were altered from skim ploughing at 2in. depth to a depth of 9in., and they answered the demands made upon them admirably. It was sug gested that the ploughs should be tried in grass land. Immediately, with his usual courtesy, Mr. Overton placed a grass paddock he intends break ing up this season at Messrs. King and Co.’s service. The machines were at once removed to the grass land, and here they excelled their previous performance, the various gradations from skim ploughing to full depth work being again gone through, and to the entire satisfaction of all the agriculturists present. One retired farmer remarked —■“ If these ploughs , had been invented before I sold my farm, I’d have stuck to it.” It is intended to give a further public trial of these ploughs near Leeston, of which due notice wall be given. ,

Fruit .Wests. -—A number of Swiss and Germans have petitioned the Auckland Waste Lands Board to open for selection under the homestead system portions of land at Matapoui and Wharanake (north of Wanganui)- They desire to engage in fruit wine culture, and they picked out the lands mentioned after a careful inspec tion of the country. It was decided to set apart an area of 26,000 acres for selection.

THE DUNEDIN MURDER.

Bv Telegraph. Dunedik, April 17. Inspector Mallard was submitted to a rigid cross-examination by the prisoner, who animadverted strongly on huh question ing him (the prisoner) after he was charged with murder. The Judge’s remarks im plied that whilst a certain amount of dis cretion was' left to the police, it would have been better if Inspect jr Mallard had refrained from questioning him. The Judge, however, made a memorandum im mediately afterwards, that the evidence was admissible. Inspector Mallard said that he debated with himself for two hours as to what course he should pursue, but he ultimately decided to make a memorandum leaving his superiors to censure him if they thought necessary. He, however, swore positively that the prisoner began the questioning. Inspector Mallard, on his examination in chief, de tailed several conversations with the prisoner in March, when he came seeking the inspector’s assistance for obtaining employment. Butler discussed all the recent great crimes, particularly Peace and Moonlight’s, and observed how easy it was to destroy traces of crime by arson,, adding, in conclusion, “If some great crime were committed here like this, I suppose you would blame me for it.” Mallard replied, “No ; I should look for suspicious circumstances, and if they pointed to you, Ishoixld certainly be after you.” The case for the Crown is ex pected to close to-night. To-morrow the prisoner will enter on his defence, which he says will occupy a considerable time. He cross-examined the witnesses at great length, complaining that the prosecution had been conducted in a treacherous and vindictive manner.

CHARGE OF PERJURY AGAINST A NELSON M.H.R.

(by telegraph.) Nelson, April 15.

The charge of perjury against Mr. Acton Adams has occupied a Bench of Justices, consisting of Messrs. John Sharp, Hon. N. Edwards, B. Reeves, P. McDonald, T. McCay, for two days. At the close of the case for the prosecution, Mr. Conolly, who appeared for the de fendant, was stopped by the Bench, who said that they warded to adjourn fora few minutes. At the expiration of the ad journment, they dismissed the case, saying that there was no perjury, and that the defendant, in alluding to the agreement, meant such an agreement as would he binding under the Statute. Mr. Conolly asked the Bench, owing to the position that the defendant held, that they should further state that there was ho ground for bringing the charge. The chairman, after consulting with the others, said they had stated already that there was no perjury. At the conclusion of the case a fracas oc curred at the door of the Nelson Club. Mr. Bunny, who was junior counsel for the prosecution, was returning to his chambers, when he was assaulted by Mr. Percy Adams, brother of the defendant, who struck Mr. Bunny with a horse whip over the head. They closed, and blow’s passed freely, blood streaming from Mr. Adams’ moustache. Mr. Teschemaker and Mr. Langley Adams were then drawn into the- fray, which appeared likely to result in a serious breach of the peace, but on the advice of friends the parties entered the club and separated. When Mr. Teschemaker re-appeared in the street he was cheered by a large crowd which had congregated together.- Shortly after Air. Bunny on leaving was vociferously cheered. He addressed the assemblage, claiming that he had done but his duty as a solicitor of the Supreme Court of New Zealand. He w r as further cheered, and groans were given for the Bench. April 16. Regarding the fracas outside the Club last evening, the police have summoned Messrs Percy Adams, Langley Adams, Bunny, and Teschemaker, for creating a breach of the peace. There is to be held to-night a public meeting to consider the late charge against Mr. Acton Adams.

LOSS OF THE CALYPSO.

[by telegraph.] Dunedin, April 15. A telegram was received in town to-day announcing the loss of the ship Calypso, which was run down off Margate. All hands were saved. The Calypso was com manded by Captain Hird, and left Port Chalmers for London on January 19th, with the following passengers —Mr. and Mrs. Grant, Mesdames: Nichol, Gibbs, Imrie and family (5), . Miss Thomas, Messrs. J. Closs, G. Montgomery, W. Will, J. Gallagher, H. Benewith, T.. A. Miller, and A. D. McConnell. Her cargo con sisted of 4,376 bales of wool, and sundries, of a total value of L 87,896. She was owned by Captain Leslie and others, and was fully insured, all the colonial offices having full lines upon her. [Our London message to-day announces the, Calypso’s arrival. This would probably be at Deal.] Dunedin, April 16. The following is the ascertained list of insurances on the Calypso effected through the Dunedin offices and firms :■ —Cargill, Gibbs, and Co., per Marine Insurance Co., of London, L 16,000 ; ditto, per open policy in London, LIO,OOO ; New Zealand and Australian Land Co., per open policy in Glasgow, about L 10,500; Victoria In surance Co., L 5,000 ; South British, L 4,000; Standard, L 3.000 ; National, L 2,000 ; Colonial, L 2,000 ; Globe, L 2,000; Union, L 1,745 ; United, Lll2 —total, L 56,357. It has been stated in addition that the Batavian had a risk of L5,C30 on the vessel,' but the local agent knows nothing, of it. The above insurances are of cargo alone, the hull being Underwritten in English offices.

SIR W. FOX AND THE BULLS ELECTORS.

[BY TELEGRAPH. | Bulls, April 16. Sir William Fox addressed the electors at Bulls last night. He avowed himself a warm supporter of the present Ministry. He attacked the Liberal party, and said they followed the democracy of France, while the Constitutionalist party,' with which he was connected, followed the American democracy. Speaking of native affairs, he said there was no probability of another disturbance. On being asked if he would accept office if elected, he said that he did not desire office, and only in extreme circumstances would accept it. A vote of thanks fer the address, and for coming forward as a candidate was moved. Thirty voted in favor and none against it. About 150 persons were present. It is not yet known definitely whether Mr. McLean will come forward to contest the seat.

TELEGRAPHIC.

BRITISH AND FOREIGN.

(Reuter's Telegrams.) London - , April 13. Three per cent, consols, 98|. The homeward mails, via San Fran cisco, were delivered in London to-day. = The ‘‘ Standard” publishes a paragraph stating that the present Ministry only delays its resignation in consequence of Her Majesty being on the Continent, but further states that its resignation will be tendered immediately the Queen returns, London, April 14. New Zealand securities remain firm at last quotations. 5 per cent new loan, .109; 41 per cent loan, 981. "New Zealand wheat remains at 475. 3d. to 475. 6d. per 49G lbs, ex warehouse. Adelaide wheat and flour unchanged. Australian tallow—Best beef, worth 32s ; best mutton, 345. London, April 15. The elections are nearly concluded, and the returns so far show that 340 Liberals and 235 Conservatives have been elected, thus leaving a majority of 105 for the Liberal party. Sixty-three Home Rulers, including twenty-five followers of Mr. Parnell, have been returned. For the boroughs fifty-seven seats have been gained to the Liberals, and in the coun ties they have gained forty-seven seats, which formerly were held by Conserva tives. The Home Rule party has gained several seats. Arrived—Calypso, from Port Chalmers; Zealandia, from Wellington; Waimea, from Napier. Madhid, April 14.. Francisco Otero, who was found guilty of attempting the life of King Alphonso on 30th December last was executed to day. AUSTRALIAN.

(’Reuters Telegrams,} Sydney, April 14. The following additional _ awards have been made : —Messrs. Reid and Gray, Dunedin, broadcaster; Ferand, Clyde, syrups ; Kempthorne, cherry brandy ; Moffett, Invercargill, ginger brandy ; Smith, Nelson, wine, —Ml first. Mr. A. R. Stevens, who was injured some time ago on board the Wakatipu, is now improving. Sailed—"Wakatipu, s.s., for New Zea. land. The City of Sydney has arrived from Auckland. A destructive fire occurred at Bathurst last night. The flames were only mastered after great exertions. Sydney, April 15. Mr, Hungerford, has resigned his seat in the Assembly. The Exhibition closes on Tuesday, which has been proclaimed a public holiday. Messrs. Cohen Bros, have called a meeting of their creditors. Their liabili ties are set down at L 38,000, and assets at L 40,000. Melbourne, April 15. Considerable anxiety is felt concerning the ship Iron Duke, now 116 days out. She left London on December 21st. Sugar market firm. The Hon. James Service, Premier, addressed his constituents at Baringheep, in the electorate of Maldon, last night. In the course of his address, he said, that his programme would be unchanged, arid the question of the reform of the Consti tution would be just as it was introduced into Parliament, and he. was confident his measure would be carried through during the present session. Mr. Service inti mated that further re-instatements of the Black Wednesday victims would be made wherever the dismissal was proved to have been unjust. Adelaide, April 15. The South Australian Parliament will meet for despatch of business on the 21st May. Brisbane, April 15. Mr. Mcllwraith, Premier, who is now at Home, telegraphs he is unable to leave London until May. The meeting of Par liament is therefore postponed till July. INTERPROVINGTAL;

Grahamstown, April 16. The “ Star ” states that it may not be generally known that the expenses of the Lincolnshire delegates were borne by this colony, and will amount to LI,OOO. The “ Star ” objects. A fatal accident occurred this morning. A man named James Syverett was en gaged packing logs of about three tons, when the support gave way, and he was killed instantaneously. He was working in the Big Pumping Association yards. Auckland, April 16. Knorp’s survey party are still at work beyond Helensville, trying to discover the best route for the North Auckland Rail way. At the Supreme Court sessions Isaac "Wilson, of the Ohinemutu Hotel, chai’ged with shooting with intent to kill certain natives, was acquitted. Alexander Camp bell and John Farmer, for forcible entry, another phase of the Ohinemutu riots, was also acquitted. Napier, April 16. A .woman named Wilson was found by the roadside near Hastings in a very help less state. She was conveyed to Mr. "William’s woolshed, and a doctor was sent for, wh»-delivered her of twins. It turns out her husband is a carpenter unable to get work, and has been wander ing about the country in a state of desti tution . The woman is rapidly recovering strength, and Mr. Williams is paying all expenses. Nelson, April 16.

At the Magistrate’s Court this after noon, W. Carter Webb, late local manager for the New Zealand Insurance Company, was charged on remand with embezzling L 6 17s. belonging to his em ployers. After some evidence accused admitted the charge, and was sentenced to six months’ imprisonment with hard labor.

Wellington, April 16.

It is stated that some natives at Petone have dug trenches in the road leading to Gear’s slaughter yard. It is believed the latter intends taking legal proceedings against the offenders. The railway returns for the four weeks ending March 6 are—Receipts, L 60,306 18s. 7d. ; expenditure, L 42,980 11s. 7d. The body of Devereaux, ' one of the young men lost on the Wairarapa Lake, was found to-day, as the boat was found anchored by means of one of the guns getting caught in the chair of the boat.

CRICKET.

The following are the detailed scores in the match—Ashburton v. Mount Somers —played on the latter’s ground on Thurs day : ASHBURTON.—First innings. Eyion, b Flood ••• * Hodder, c sub, b Chapman ... 5 . Ede, b Hood ... ... ° Amos, c Hood, b Chapman ... 6 Anderson, b Chapman 6 Curtis, c Chapman, b Hood ... 8 Price, Ibw, b Chapman 3 Marsh, run out ... 2 Strangman, not out ... ... 3 Marlin, b Chapman 7 Grant, b Chapman . ... ... o Extras ... ... ••• *6 Total ... _ s<> Second Innings, Hodder, bTaylor... ... 5 Eyton, b Hood .. ... ••• 4 Strangman, b Chapman ... ... o Martin, b Chapman ... ...' b Curtis, b Chapman ... ••• *7 Marsh, not out ... ... " '' 2 Amos, not out ... ... ... S Total ... ... ... 33 ‘ MOUNT SOMERS—First innings, 1). Potts, b Grant ... ... 5 G. Potts, st. Anderson, b Grant ; .0 Cookson, c Amos, b Amos ... 15 Lovell, hit;'wicket, b Amos ... 4 Polhill, c Anderson, b Grant ... p Taylor, c Eyion, b Ede ... .1. 6 Tomlinson, not out ... ... o W. Hood, b. Grant ... ... 1 Falkner c Grant, b Grant ... 5 Chapman, run out ... ..i 2 Peach, b Ede ... ... ... 1 Extras ... ... ... 6 Total ... . ... ... 45 Second Innings. Tomlinson, b Grant ... : ... 38 - Lovell, st Anderson,, b Grant ... 1 Taylor, b Amos ... ... ... 2 Chapman, Ibw, b Grant ... ... 4 Cookson, b Anderson ... ... ..4 G. Potts, b Eyton ... ... 9 Hood, b Marsh ... ... ... 4 Polhill, st Anderson, b Grant ... 2‘ : Peach, b Amos ... ... ... 8 Falkner, c Anderson, b Grant ... o B. Potts, not out ... ... ... 38 Extras ... 9 Total ...119

EXTRAORDINARY REVELATIONS ABOUT THE TAY BRIDGE.

One of the most interesting items -of intelligence by the San Francisco mail is that in regard to the." famous Tay Bridge, the terrible collapse of which,'bn the 28th December, horrified the whole civilised world. It is now proved in evidence that the wonderful bridge, in appearance a triumph of engineering and mechanical skill, was really a sham, a delusion, and a snare—a gigantic death-trap, and that so far from its being at all, surprising that the bridge gave way when it did, the only wonder is that it did not go long.before. It is proved that one of - the immense columns which supported the high girders was actually cracked from top to bottom, and held together by four iron hoops ; that there were' flaws in the castings ; ; defects in the iron filled with putty and painted over ; that some of the hollow iron piers were filled with loose sand instead of solid concrete; that there were rivets without heads, nuts unscrewed, empty bolt-holes, loose bars, &c. There must Have been scan dalous rascality somewhere, andic will be a national disgrace if the whole affair be not thoroughly exposed and the guilty persons visited with condign punishment. . ,

SUNDAY NIGHT IN LONDON..

Edward King in Boston Journal. Along the embankment between Black-' friars and Westminster the student of social science may on Sunday evening ob serve the most remarkable , Europe. There is not a city oh the-Con tinent, not even Vienna, in which any thing like it can be seen. Under the gleam of the , electric lights j thousands upon thousands of men and women are ’ strolling, and it is easy to see that all of them belong to the humblest walks of life. It is no exaggeration.;to.say that thousands of young girls may be seen wandering unprotected by any male escort, and laughing, jeering, pushing, dancing, shouting, sometimes behaving in what the French would term an “unquali iiable manner. ”,,:These are the work-girls of London. Heaven help them! and they are so little conscious of their dpgra-f dation that they take a* positive delight in it. “Do you suppose they are happy?” I asked an old Londoner. “Happy,? They’re as pleased as Punch with.what they call a lark ! Law bless you, they don’t think they’re doing anything wrong. They’re not brought up in a way to know much about finer feelings, 1 can tell you.” They see imorality all around them, and never know anything else themselves. If; one of them remains reasonably pure, it is considered , : a great. stroke, of chance. They are as ignorant as savages .of ten thousand things which they ought to know for their own . protection;: ; They wander hero, by the river, talking soihe times in language that pen may not re cord. It is easy to see that many of them! have been visiting the public-houses, and by the time they reach the parental roofs, protecting shadow, some of them are oblivious to external circumstances. Large gangs of men and boys, of all. grades—from the coarse and dangerous villain in - hobnailed boots to the small city clerk with his too tightly fitting clothes and hill jargon of the counting-, house—parade the broad sidewalks, now engaging in an amateur dance with some merry party of girls, now talking to other groups in language that would be insult* ing, if they chose to consider it so Land: now getting into a sound encounter at fisticuffs. A light among -the . girls is not at all uncommon. And these are the future mothers of the working classes ; these the creatures that must be in the shop and market at sunrise and remaipi there until sunset every day oxceptSun day. And what a use they make of their Sunday ! Of : course the fathers and ’ mothers, careless and callous as the ma jority of them are, still would feel a certain compunction about allowing their daughters to wander through the streets alone long after midnight, 1 if it were tiftLa' custom which, has' become lime honored. What per cent, of the working girls of ' London are thus exposed to every danger : of the great metropolis I do not know, but t it must be very great. Judging from the language which, one hears, from/these Sunday promeiiaders on the embankment, they have been touched by n [ lora l in* fiuence whatever, nor any eathetical one, except that procured by a view of the; paper bn the public house walls, and the row of lights around Cleopatra’s Heedle.

RESIDENT MAGISTRATE’S COURT.

FjjjpaYj," April 16. (Befoi'? Mr. P. Guinness, R,M-) RATE?. i Loiigbeaoli Road Board v. Cairncrosg. Claim L 29 19s. for rates. Judgment for plaintiff, with costs. A DISPUTED CONTRACT. Guild v. Kingsbury. Claim, LOO, damages for breach; of contract, entered into by the plaintiff ; with defendant, which the latter would not allow to be,; completed. Mr. Branson, instructed by Mr. Ireland, for plaintiff ; Mr. O’Reilly for defendant. Mr. Branson, in opening the case, the facts of the affair were According to the contract entered into tween Guild and Kingsbury, which,was merely a verbal one, but to which there were two witnesses, the plaintiff was to cart and stack 400 acres of grain, which he was,

THE ASHBUETON GUARDIAN, SATURDAY, APEIL 17, 1880.



Butter, inferior to best lb s. o d, IO to S. ■ I V. Eggs, dozen I 6 to o o Cheese, prime quality, lb o 7 to o r o Bacon, prime smoked, 1? lb 0 0 to o o Hams in cloth, lb o o to o Flour in bags. loolb 14 6 to o Oatmea’. 1?" 2jlb 5 o to o Lard, 1/? lb - o 9 to o o



MESSRS. H. MATSON" AND CO., AUCTIONEERS, &c., Hold fortnightly stock SALES at Ashburton and Tinwald. Next sale at the TINWALD YARDS, ofl TUESDAY, April 27, 1880. C. PERCY COX, 2fat* Agent, Ashburton. NOTICE TO FARMERS. fjpHE undersigned will be prepared to treat with farmers and others in Ashbur ton, every Wednesday and Saturday, for the PURCHASE of GRAIN, or SHIP MENT on ACCOUNT of GROWERS. JOSEPH CLARK February 28, 1880. 550g* fJIHE NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY’S GARMENTS FOR MEN’S AND BOYS’ WEAR. Are Better Cut Are Better Made Are Better Shrunk, And therefore give more satisfaction than any other goods offered to the public. Fit Better BfLook Better 7ear Better Testified to by their Thousands of Cus tomers who purchase constantly at the NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FAC TORY’S BRANCHES, Now Established in Dunedin Invercargill Oamabu Timaru Ashburton Lyttelton Christchurch Wellington Nelson Wanganui New Plymouth Napier Thames Auckland A SINGLE GARMENT AT WHOLESALE PRICE. N.B.— Our New Winter Manufactures are now ready. “ TRY THE N.Z. OVERCOAT.” SHIRTS, HATS, and HOSIERY, of every description at WHOLESALE Prices. ASHBURTON BRANCH —East Street. War. SPARROW, Manager.



Too Bad.—A man named William Hayward Smith adopted a peculiar method of attempting to frighten his wife (from whom ho was separated) at Napier, the other day. The man got very drunk, and went and sat down outside his, wife’s gate. He told one of his children to go and fetch his wife, whom he said he wished to see very particularly. On her arrival he took out a paper from his pocket contain ing powder and swallowed it, telling her he had taken poison. She at once sent for the police, who took him to the lock-up. The matter-of-fact police officer in charge, however, refused to send for .a doctor until he saw the poison begin to “ work. ” This consummation was never reached, and the prisoner was brought in a repent ant state before the Resident Magistrate the next morning, and fined for drunken ness.



The Power op Imagination. —The “Lancet” is often very good reading, says an exchange, even to the folks who have nothing the matter with them, and are iiot looking for a “ parallel case. ” The last number describes a gentleman who swal lowed his false teeth, and felt them in the pharynx. A doctor was sent for, who in troduced a probang, which touched the teeth, so the patient said, but he was afraid to proceed to extremities with that instrument, because they were described to him as “a complete set of molars.” He then ‘ f bent a 10-inch military silver probe, and tried to hook the teeth up,” but the spasms Of the larynx -were too severe, and the secretions from the pharynx so excessive, that these dredging operations had’ to be suspended. The patient began to get in extremis : so pre sently another doctor was telegraphed for, who found the missing teeth on the top cf a chest of drawers. This gentleman, re porting on the matter, very justly observes that this curious effect of imagination upon a strong and healthy man throws light on many a case of supposed hydro phobia.