COMMERCIAL.

Ashburton Guardian Office, ; Monday evening. Mr. Alfred Harrison reports for the week ending Saturday, 22nd May, as follows On Thursday, 20th May, at the Tmwald sale yards, the following stock was dis posed of 13 draught horses and hacks sold at prices varying from £lO to £22 ; 14 cows, from £4 7s. 6d. to £7 ; 8 yearling jealves, at £1 13s. each ; G pigs, at £1 7s. 6d. each, or about 6d. per lb. A quantity of implements were also disposed of at fair prices. Saturday, May 22.-3 hacks sold at from £8 to £10; implements realised satisfactory prices, and produce as fol lows -.—Onions, £d. to Id.; potatoes, 505.; carrots, 355.; peas, green, 2s. per bushel ; peas, white, 3s. per bushel ; apples, from ss. to 7s. per case ; cheese, from 4d. to sd. per lb. ; fowls, 2s. 6d. to 3s. per pair ; ducks, 3s. 9d. per pair ; pigs, Cd. to 7d. per lb. On the same date, the Steeplechase privileges were disposed of as follows : No. 1, publican’s booth, £l7 10s. ; No. 2, refreshment tooth, £2 ss. ; No. 3, gate, £23; No. 4, sports, £2 ; No. 5, cards, £1 11s. ; horse yards, £l.

MAIL NOTICES.

Mails close at the Ashburton Post Office, is follows : For Christchurch and North at 6 a.xn. 9. a.m., and 5 p.m., daily. For Chertsey Rakaia, &c., at 9 a.m. and 6 p. m. daily. For Dunedin, Tinwald, Winslow, Hinds, Coldstream, Rangitata, Orari, AVinchester, and Geraldine, at 10.15 a.m. daily. For Temuka, Timaru, and South at 6 a.m. and 10.15 a.m. daily. For Greenstreet, Ashburton Forks, Mount Somers, and Ashburton Gorge, on Tuesdays and Fridays, at 10.30 a m. For Ashton, AVaterton, and Longbeach, at 3.15 p.m. daily. For AVakanui, and Seafield, on Tues days and Fridays, at 6 a. m. AV. St. G. Douglas, Postmaster. Mails close at the Chief Post Office, Christchurch, for the following places (subject to necessary alterations) as ttnder:— AVednesday, May 26. For Australian Colonies, per express train (to connect with the s.s. Rotorua at Port Chalmers), at 7.30 a.m. The next mail for the United Kingdom via Brindisi (for correspondence specially addressed only), will be closed at Christ church on June 3rd, and will be due in London on July 24th. SYDNEY J. DICK, Chief Postmaster.

AUCTION SALES.

This Day.

Mr. J. L. AVilson, near to the Chertsey Railway Station —Sale of stock and im plements. Sale at 12 noon. Wednesday, May 26.

Alfred Harrison —On the premises, at the corner of Tancred street, Furniture and effects of S. J. Zander. Sale at 12 o’clock.

J. Lloyd Crawley—6,ooo bushels of oats, &c., on a farm near the Westerfield Stables. Sale at 1 o’clock sharp.

Thursday, May 27.

Alfred Harrison, at the Winslow Rail way Station—4o,ooo feet of Building Timber. Sale at 11 o’clock sharp.

Edmiston, Gundry, and Co., at their Rooms, East street —G2O acres of Land at Seafield.

Friday, May 28,

Edmiston, Gundry, and Co., at the home stead of D. Hoare, Esq., Alford Forest .—Farm Stock and Implements. Sale at 12 o’clock.

Tuesday, June 1,

J. E. Buchanan & Co.- menis.

-33 building allot

Tuesday, June 8.

Acland, Campbell, and Co. —On the estate of Mr. Thomas Simpson, AVakanui road, Ashburton, 120 acres of freehold land.

DEATH.

Bland— On the 23rd ; Ai£ay, at Ashburton, from the effects of agnfi'accident, George Henry Bland, aged 19. 888»

The Ashburton Guardian, COUNTY AGRICULTURAL & SPORTING RECORDER TUESDAY, MAY 25, 1880.

Of course, it could never for one mo ment be imagined that the people of Great Britain could become weary of a Conservative Government because of its doings. Such a possibility could never arise. So apparently thinks Earl Beacons field. When he gathered hia friends around him on Thursday last to bemoan the most emphatic “dishing” his party has ever sustained at the hands of their opponents, he glossed over the whipping with a very tame explaining away, to the effect that the change had been brought about simply by a desire for change that had suddenly come upon the country. Yes, the electors are very capricious, no doubt, and they give about their votes in a strange and unaccountably inconsistent fashion sometimes. But one wants more than the reason given by Benjamin Dis raeli when one seeks for the cause of the Conservative collapse. Had Mr. Disraeli returned from the constituencies just slightly in the minority, with a few seats lost amongst the boroughs, whose fidelity to either side cannot always be relied upon, we could have accepted his explana tion of implied caprice. But Conser vatism has been dethroned in its strong holds —in the counties where many-acred squires, who represented constituencies of yeomam-y bound to Conservatism by all the interests and instincts and traditions of landlord and tenant, have been un seated, in some instances by men of pro nounced and even advanced Liberal views. The Liberal gains have been enormous, and Mr. Gladstone’s following is a solid and a powerful one ; it is recruited, not to bo sure from the Conservative ranks, but from Conservative constituencies that have most emphatically become Liberal. And why ? Not from the caprice that Mr. Disraeli hints at. Not because the people were idle and frivolous, and wanted a change for change’s sake. But because there never has been more cogent reason amongst the the farmers of Britain for a change of Ministry than existed just at the time agricultural constituencies brought that change about. During the last three years the whole population of Great Britain have been under a wave of adversity. First manufactures came to a standstill and thousands of toilers verged on starvation. That was the time when, our readers will remember, Sir George Grey’s loyalty to his parent land impelled him to offer room amongst the almost equally distressed New Zealand working men for GOOO of the English un employed. The manufacturing dullness was felt in every corner of the land, and scenes of want were visible in every centre of population that have not been heard of in their intensity and frequency within this generation. Then agriculture suffered, and suffered as it never did before within the memory of living man. Hundreds of farmers have been ruined, and hundreds more are only kept upon the land by large concessions on the part of the landlords. In almost every county farms can at this moment be rented at a figure far less than the most far seeing could have prophesied. The competition of American wheat kept the price low of what little grain was raised, and our own Southern contribu tions thrown into the scale kept the balance even for the English consumers, and pre vented the British farmer from benefiting in price by the scarcity. In Ireland there was literally a famine that the heart of ever}” Briton throughout the world was appealed to to relieve ; hut we have no need to recapitulate the sufferings of that unfortunate people. While this distress and poverty were riot ing at home, Disraeli’s Government were carrying on wars in Afghanistan and at the Cape, and troubling themselves about the affairs of the east—spending money and lives, and intensifying the suf fering. Against these wars Mr. Glad stone never ceased to declaim. The Com mons of the last Parliament supported Mr Disraeli in his foreign policy, “ spirited ” in the extreme, if not always in the right, and readers of the Commons debates and divisions must have fancied that the foreign policy of.the Conservatives was the policy of the peo*ple if the House of Com mons was any criterion. But the elections just closed have shown, and shown con clusively that the last Parliament did not represent the people, whose opinions had changed as they felt the grinding power of adversity. It is all very well to talk of patriotism, to sound out warlike phrases about the honor of the flag, and the dignity of our country’s name ; but with hunger gnawing the very vitals of the nation, and famine stalking with gaunt front over the land, and a voice like AY. E. Gladstone’s sounding condemnation of the wars at every opportunity, it is not difficult to understand why the people should desire the cessation of hostilities, and oppose at the polling booths the party that was continually flaunting the war flag, and sounding the martial trump. Had the Conservative policy been more peaceful it would have been more popu lar, and the multitude would have borne with it better. But the real loss Conserva tism has suffered is in the yeomanry, who are now beginning to see that their in ter* sts will be best fostered under a Government led by Mr, Gladstone, and bis LiberaPcolleagues, than under a Ministry drawn from the squirocracy Earty of the land. Mr. Gladstone has egun early, for we find in a cablegram of May 22, from Calcutta, that the Viceroy, in accordance with the views of the Liberal party, has been officially in structed to close the campaign in Afghan istan as soon as possible. Its end is, however, considered doubtful, owing to hostile tribes still continuing fighting, although not of a very serious nature.

FATAL GUN ACCIDENT.

On Sunday a melancholy accident occurred, which unfortunately resulted in the death of the sufferer, and quite a sadness has been cast over the neighbor hood by the event. It appears that on Sunday morning Messrs. Purchase and George Bland, of this town, set out on horseback for Mrs. Bland's, Greeiistreet, intending to spend the Queen’s Birthday holiday there. For this purpose the two young men took with them a gun each, meaning to go duck shooting, as well as to take part in the pigeon shooting match at Mr. Tisch’s yesterday. On the way up the river, however (and they entered the bed of the river at the bridge), a stray shot or two presented themselves, and the guns were brought into use. It was found that the piece carried by Mr. Bland was choked in some way, and would not fire, so it was found necessary to shoot alter nately with Mr. Purchase’s gun. About four miles upf the river, towards jGreen street, in a swamp of deep flax and tus sock, two shots had been missed through Mr. Purchase having to put up his gun hammers after the birds had risen. At this time Mr. Purchase was on foot, Mr, Bland riding, and leading Mr. Pnrchase’s horse. Mr. Bland, annoyed at losing the shots, urged his com panion to carry the piece at full cock, so that he might he ready for the next duck that might rise. The right barrel of the fowling piece was discharged at the first bird that rose after these hi st r actions had been given by Bland, but the game was missed by Purchase, who then proceeded to re-load. Finding that

Mr. Purchase’s ammunition was in his groat coat behind the saddle of the led horse, Mr. Bland, who had his in his belt across his body, volunteered a charge from his pouch, to save un doing the straps on the led horse. The gun was carried in between the horses by Mr. Purchase, and Mr. Bland leant o ver and poured the ammunition from the belt into the fowling piece, Mr. Purchase meanwhile holding the gun. The led horse swerved a little, and threatened to close up on the other. Mr. Purchase, to avoid being crushed be tween the two beasts, and afraid of an accident with the gun while in that posi tion, drew out suddenly from between the horses. In getting away he gave the gun a smart jerk towards him, to get it out of harm’s way, and somehow the trigger of the left hand barrel, which was still on full cock, got caught in his clothing, and the gun went off. Being so near to his companion, the full charge was lodged in the calf of Mr. Bland’s right leg. Mr. Purchase helped his friend to dismount, and laid him on the tussock, immediately thereafter starting off for aid. After a long run he met Mr. and Mi’s. Harris, and eventually other help was procured. On Mr. Purchase’s return he found Mr. Bland sitting up examining the wound. Mr. Purchase was away about an hour, and during this time the wound in Mr. Bland’s leg had been left unbound. Such extempore dressing as the circumstances permitted was given by those present to the wound, which was a deep and dangerous one, from which a considerable quantity of blood had been lost. A dray having been procured the young man was taken to Mr. Harris’s, in the neighborhood, and after a short time Dr. Stewart, who had been found by a messenger despatched for a medical man, arrived, and examined the sufferer, ordering his removal at once to Ashburton. This was accomplished, the doctor still in attendance, and Mr. Bland was brought into town about six o’clock, the accident having happened about four. He was conveyed to the house of Mrs. Dally, Wakanui Road, where the further aid of Drs. Trevor and Ross was obtained. Some hope of recovery was entertained for a time, though the medical men saw that the limb would have to bo ampu tated ; but at nine o’clock, or a few minutes after, die young man died, hav ing gradually sunk from his arrival in the township. What makes matters worse is the fact that Mr. Bland’s mother is seriously ill, and the news of the accident will be a heavy blow to her. Mr. Bland, the deceased young man, was an assistant draper in the employ of Mr. Wm. Gavin, Ashburton, and Mr. Purchase is a well known hairdresser in East street.

TEMPLAR ANNIVERSARY.

Last night the sixth anniversary of the Star of the East Lodge of Good Templars was celebrated in the Town Hall by a tea meeting and concert. As is usual with the anniversaries of this Lodge, both the tea meeting and the concert were well ar ranged for, and success rewarded the labors of the committee, who entrusted to Mr. Thomas Taylor the duty of purvey ing ; and the satisfactory display of good things provided showed the wisdom of the committee’s choice. The tables were well patronised during the evening by a large number of Templars and friends of the cause, and the good things were dispensed by the following ladies : —Mesdames Tur ton, Tippets, St. Hill, Cook, Craighead, Vaughan, Stokes, and Ibell, and Misses Davis and Richards. After the tables had been cleared, the concert began. It was intended that the chair should have been taken by Mr. Alfred Saunders, M.HE., but owing to that gentleman’s unavoidable absence, his place was supplied by Mr. Isaac Scott. The meeting was addressed by the Rev. Mr. Keall, and the Rev. Mr. Smith, and Rev. Mr. Hands’ name was also on the programme, hut that gentleman was de tained at Mount Somers by other duties, and therefore his address was wanting. Mr. Keall,afterashortreference to the suc cess of Tcinplaryand the temperance cause in Ashburton, read an extract from a Home paper that had been quoted by a Christchurch newspaper, and which we give elsewhere. The incident was one in which a gallant sailor saved the lives of a Swedish crew ; thoroughly exhausted, he was offered some brandy which he de clined. He was told by the doubt less well meaning by-standers that un less he partook of the offered stimu lants he would die. He elected to run the risk of death rather than break his pledge, and chose to die sober if he were to die then. He didn’t drink the liquor, and he didn’t die, but is as well as ever. Speaking from this incident Mr. Keall in culcated the lesson of steadfastness in the cause which Templars had espoused, which he felt sure would eventually triumph. The Rev. Mr. Smith spoke of temperance as a philanthropic, patriotic, and benevolent cause—that had outlived a strong and continued opposition, and had triumphed most when most down trodden—and he claimed for it the hearty and earnest support of the Christian Church. The rev. gentleman made use of some very happy anecdotes and apt illustrations in the course of a racy, but withal telling speech. The musical part of the entertainment was under the care of Mr. Alex. Craig head, who, himself possessed of a good baritone voice, which he can use to ex cellent purpose, took part in the concerted pieces and sang one or two solos with great effect. The accompaniments were played by Miss Reynolds, a young lady only a few weeks from Home, who has made the piano her profession, and dis plays a thorough mastery of the instru ment, Her accompaniments were accu rate and tasteful, and the two pieces she played, one at the opening and the other after the internal, were loudly applauded. The National Anthem was sung in solo and chorus by the little glee party very spiritedly as an opening piece, and during its performance the audience rose to their feet in honor of her Majesty and joined in the last chorus. The glee party was made up of Mr. and Mrs. Craighead, Mrs. Vaughan, and Mr. Pickford, and the pieces sung by them were “ See our oars,” “ Winds gently whisper,” “ Come where my love lies dreaming,” and “ May Day,” Mr. Craighead’s “ Sexton ” was admirably gung, while Mrs. Craighead was very effective in the sweet little song “ Kil larney.” Mrs, Vaughan also pleased the audience much with her two songs, and Mr. Higgins sang “ Rule Britannia” very well. Encores were frequent throughout the evening, which altogether was a very enjoyable one.' Throughout the pro graine readings and recitations, both grave and gay, were given at intervals by vari ous members of the order, and at the close the usual votes of thanks were given, as also the customary invitation to join the order of the Good Templars.

INSPECTION PARADE.

Last night the Ashburton Rifles were inspected by Major-General Davidson, who is now making a tour of inspection round tho Volunteer depots of the colony. The company assembled at half-past six at the parade ground, when 33 of all ranks answered roll call. These included Captain Bullock and Lieutenant Douglas, and a fair sprinkling of non-commissioned officers, but there were no less than 23 members of the corps absent without leave, and only five had obtained the regimen I al permission to be away from duty. This is to be accounted for by the short notice that was given of the General’s coming, and the fact that the holiday had drawn a large number to Christchurch, while several enthusiastic Good Templar mem bers who had promised to take part in the

anniversary celebration of tlieir lodge, elected to f-jlfil their promises. After an hour and a half of strict drill under Sergt.- Instructor Dolman, the company, headed by the band of the corps, under Bandmaster Savage, were marched to the Commercial Hotel, which the General had made his temporary head-quarters. In front of the hotel the manual exercise and some diffi cult movements in company drill were gone through before General Davidson,' who expressed his pleasure and surprise at the efficiency displayed by the corps, considering that it had only been a few months embodied. The General’s sur prise was heightened when he learned that the only instructions the company had re ceived were given by Sergeant Dolman, who has only a Volunteer training. Major-General Davidson felt so sure that Sergeant Dolman had been military bred that he asked him to what arm of the service he had originally belonged. He paid a high and well-deserved compliment to the sergeant, for the manner in which he drilled the Volunteers, and expressed his gratification that they possessed so efficient an instructor. AVe might here add that the efficiency of the corps is as much due to Sergeant Dol man’s tact and popularity, as it is to his excellent qualities as a drill ; in fact, but for the possession of Sergeant Dolman’s regular and ever available services, the corps would to-day present but a very sorry appearance, both in numbers and drill. As it, is the town has no reason to feel other than proud of its little band of soldiers. At about nine o’clock the com pany was dismissed.

“ The Froliques.” —Martin Simon sen’s Froliques appear at the Town Hall on Wednesday. Wakanui Road Board. —The survey ors to this Board invite tenders for the re-formation of the Seafield road, adjoin ing Fairfield Estate, and for making foot paths on the east side of Beach road. Railway Time Table. —Those of our readers who travel up and down the Rakaia and Ashburton Forks line are re ferred to an advertisement, notifying im portant alterations in the time table. Fire at Rakaia. — A fire took place at Mr. Peter Drummond’s, at North Rakaia, on Thursday night, which destroyed a combine and about 1,000 bushels of oats. It is not known how the fire originated. The combine was insured, but the oats were not. Elgin School. The master, Mr. Proudlcck, appointed to this school has arrived, and is making arrangements for removing here permanently. The school is expected to be opened on Monday, 21st June. Mr. Proudlock leaves a much larger school at Weedon’s but the master’s house at Elgin is very much superior. Tenders. The Ashburton Borough Council are desirous of receiving tenders for 100 to 200 casks cement, and for 20,000 feet of timber ; also, for repairing immigration cottages and executing the work of concrete channellings. The Upper Ashburton Road Board are likewise calling for tenders for several descriptions of work. Accidents on the Race Course. —ln riding Magic for the Cup yesterday at Christchurch, Hankins, the well known jockey, got a nasty fall, and was carried from the course to the weighing room in sensible. In the Consolation Race, Keith, who rode Micky Free, got a severe spill, by which he was very much cut, and had a leg broken. , Farmers’ Supplement. —We have much pleasure in announcing to the readers of the Guardian that it is our in tention to supply them once a month with an eight-page supplement, the contents of which wiil be principally devoted to matters of interest to our farming friends. The May number will appear with our next. Thursday’s issue. Farewell. —Mr. S. J. Zander, who has for about 12 months been connected with the counting-houso department of Messrs. Friedlander Bros’, establishment, left by the train on Saturday with Mrs. Zander andjfamily for Mexico. In leaving, Mr. and Mrs. Zander had to part with several near and dear friends, whose esteem they had gained during their brief residence in Ashburton. Confirmation. —A Confirmation Ser vice was held at St. Mark’s Church, Ra kaia, on Sunday, when fifteen candidates of both sexes received the rite. The Pri mate delivered a most impressive address to the candidates and the congregation present. The church was crowded, and many persons were unablo to find either sitting or standing room, and had to re main outside. At the conclusion of the service the candidates —some of whom had come from a distance-adjourned to the parsonage, where they were entertained by the Incumbent, the Rev. W. H. Elton, at luncheon. In the evening the church was again crowded, the Bishop preaching the sermon. Racing Privileges. —The racing pri vileges in connection with the forthcoming Steeplechase meeting, to take place on Saturday next, were submitted to public competition on Saturday, by Mr. Alfred Harrison. There was a hu’ge atcendance, and the bidding spirited. Subjoined is a list of the prices realised; —Publican’s booth, Ll 7 10s., Mr. J. F. Butler ; con fectioner’s booth, L2 55., Mr. J. S. Savage ; gates, L 23, Mr. James Wilkie ; right of sports, L2, Mr. Jacob Mooar ; cards, LI 11s., Mr. Watts ; horse-yards, LI, Mr. M'Farlanc ; total, L 47 Gs. These prices compare favorably with the prices obtained for the Grand National at Christ church for Monday next. A Noble Sailor. —A noteworthy in cident, which occurred in one of the late gales, a little to the north of Boddam Harbor, not far from Peterherd, is re corded by a correspondent. A Swedish schooner was there driven on the rocks, and thence on the beach, where she stranded, the sea making a clean breach over her. By means of the Manby rocket apparatus a line was flung on board, but the crew either did not know what to do with it or were paralysed by fear and cold. Seeing this, a noble fellow named George Oatley, a gunner’s mate and drill in structor of the Naval .Reserve at Peter head, stripped and swam out to the vessel through the breakers. He reached her in safety, made fast the line, and then put on a few clothes which the crew gave him, after which he sent the crew—who numbered five in all —ashore in a cradle, one after the other. Last of all he came back himself, and as his form, cut and bleeding from contact with the rocks, and benumbed with cold, was drawn to land, the crowd of spectators who had witnessed the gallant deed cheered him to the echo. He was pressed to take some brandy, but refused it, saying he wag a teetotaller : and on being told he would flip if he did not take it, he replied that he would rather die than take it, He did not take it, and he is as well again as over he was. Oatley is thirty-six years of age, has been in the Royal Navy for twenty years, and has the China and Abyssinian medals. The Duke of Edinburgh has marked his appreciation of his gallant conduct, as above narrated, by recommending him for the Albert tnedal of the first class. The Earl of Errol, whose seat is near Peterhead, started a subscription for a testimonial to him, and the movement was officially taken in hand by the Prov«st and Council of that town, who have re ceived many donations from all parts of the country. ' .

Safety of the Manawatu and Patea. —The steamers Manawatu and Patea, about which considerable anxiety existed, owing to their non-arrival, arrived safely at their respective destinations this morn ing, they having sought shelter from the recent westerly gales, . ;i . _

CORN EXCHANGE AND FARMERS’ CLUB, CHRISTCHURCH.

The ordinary meeting of the Committee of the Corn Exchange and Farmers’ Club was held at the Exchange rooms, Cashel street, on Saturday afternoon last. There were present—Mr. Thomas .Bruce (chair man), Captain Willis, Messrs. Pcryman, Woodman, Bailey, Henderson, and Gam mack. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and confirmed. The Chairman stated that befoie pro ceeding with the business to be considered by the Committee, he would like to men tion, for the information of those members who were not in attendance at the last meeting, that a most exhaustive and studiously written paper, treating of the important subject of Farmers’ Corn Ex changes, and their utilisation by farmers, had been read by Mr. Wra. Batemen. Those who were then present had not only complimented the author, but had also unanimously expressed a wish to have the paper printed, owing to the valuable in formation afforded. Mr. Peryman hoped that the Com mittee would express its opinion in regard to the valuable nature of Mr. Bateman’s paper, and that the suggestions advanced by that gentleman would be entered in the minute-book, as a record and re cognition of the way in which the Ex change had estimated the efforts of Mr. Bateman, and—“ That he be elected an honorary member of the Corn Exchange and Fanners’ Club.” The suggestion and resolution, after being seconded by Mr. G. B. Woodman, wore carried nem. con. The Chairman then called attention to a letter written by Mr. E. B. Bishop, under the heading of encouragement to the farmers, and which appeared in Friday’s issue of the I/yttelton Times. Mr. Bishop, he might say, was well and favor ably known, both as a gentleman of long standing in Canterbury, and as one who had on many occasions interested himself in the promotion of objects dealing with the welfare of the community. In the present instance he had, at his own ex pense, circulated copies of the letter re ferred to. He (Mr. Bruce) could thoroughly endorse the views put forth by Mr. Bishop, and would like to see them carried into effect. One result would bo that the people would have “good beer;” and in order to accomplish this desideratum, there must be unity of action, as one individual could not act singlehanded in such a laudable cause, which was a philanthrophic one, and tended to advance the interests of both agriculturalists and consumers. Mr. Bishop’s sole object was, evidently, the production of a wholesome and palatable beverage : free from sugar. The Chair man then expiated upon the properties of “ good” beer and supported bis arguments by a reference to the certificates of eminent State analytic chemists and medical authorities. It is an universal and acknowledged fact that, if too much sugar is employed in the manufacture of beer it becomes highly injurious as a beverage, lie thought that it the members present should resolve to interest themselves in the movement emanating from Mr. Bishop, it might be for them to com municate with other kindred societies, Farmers’ Clubs, and Agricultural Associa tions, asking their co-operation. Mr. Peryman, with the Chairman’s permission, would like to make a few remarks before any motion was submitted to the members of the Committee, with respect to the matter before them. While concurring, to a certain extent, with the remarks of the Chairman with reference to the manufacturing of a good alcholic commodity, yet it struck him that there might be a principle involved, and upon which he wished to invite discussion, as to how it would affect the brewers. Might it not be said that the} 7 (the members) were involving themselves in this matter of principle as it affected others? For instance, m’uflit not the brewers justly consider that they had a right to interfere with the interests of the farmers with regard to the kind of implements used, or to the seeds they might sow ? It is a question dealing with a complication of interests, which had in part to he con sidered, and was one which affected not only the brewers, but the farmers too as growers of barley ; the more barley used by the brewers the better for the farmers. Captain Willis had listened to Mr. Peryman with considerable attention, but could come to no other conclusion than that his premises were bad. Perhaps that gentleman had overlooked the fact of the existence of an Act dealing with the adul teration of food, and, therefore, the mat ter of principle referred to did not arise. He, for one, “ liked a drop of good beer and they no doubt all remembered the good old saying, “ there’s nothing like malt and hops for good beer. ” He then referred to the effects produced by Colonial beer, in regard to the sugar it contained, and said that instead of its being a thirst quencher, it was generally admitted to be an inveterate thirst maker and stomach deranger. He asserted that it possessed all essential ingredients for the maker of bad vinegar ; and they were all aware of the injurious effects of such. Colonial beer was equally injurious when sugar had been largely introduced into it. He was of opinion that the Adulteration of Food Act was a sufficient reply to this matter of principle ; and to his mind, there was no principle involved at all. Under the circumstances of the case, he considered they would be doing their duty if they applied to the Government to pass an Act to prevent public brewers using sugar as a substitute for good malt. If good beer could be had the working class would not bo the victims of that vile com pound designated “Scotch whisky,” the inferior kinds of which were as highly im pregnated with that deleterious thing fusial oil. There was a fine liquid known as “negative spirit,” and from which was manufactured all kinds of spurious liquors. Captain Willis averred himself a Pro tectionist, and considered it was the duty of the committee to give every possible encouragement to those who did produce such food and beverages. Mr. Bailey saw no objection to support ing the views of the Chairman, provided they did not injuriously effect the brewers interests by bringing into the market cheaper and inferior beer. Mr. Henderson stated that although he was a thorough free trader, yet he believed in good food and beverages. After a little further desultory conversa tion, it was resolved “That the Com mittee of the Corn Exchange, Christ church, approve of the suggestion of urging the passing of an Act for prohibit ing the use of sugar in the manufacture of beer by the public brewers of this colony, and compelling the use of malted barley in lieu thereof “ That the Pre sident of the Exchange he requested to communicate with kindred associations with a view of further co-operation in the above matter,” Mr. Peryman suggested that lists be printed, with the name and address of each subscriber of the Corn Exchange, to gether with the rates, and that the same be circulated for the information of those directly interested. The suggestion was favorably received, and the subject postponed for further con sideration. After the usual vote of thanks to the Chairman, the meeting terminated.

FATAL ACCIDENTS AT WELLING TON.

(by telegraph. ) Wellington, May 24

A fatal accident occurred at the Upper Hutt this afternoon. A man named George Gilchrist- was shot dead by an other man who was practising rifle shoot ing. An inquest will be held to-morrow. A man named William Kemp, a saw mill hand, was killed on the Wellington - Greytown railway on Saturday. It ap pears the man was intoxicated, and sitting asleep on the platform of the Silverstream station. The steps of a first-class carriage caught his legs, and throwing him under the wheels, both legs were broken, and the body fearfully mangled. No blame is attached to the driver of the engine.

FIRE AT DUNEDIN.

(by telegraph.) Dunedin, May 24

Shortly after 11 o’clock a fire broke out in a building in Hanover street. The fire had apparently obtained a powerful hold before it was seen, and wood being princi pally employed in the building’s construc tion, the fire obtained almost a complete mastery for a time. The place was com pletely gutted. A brick wall was between it and the adjoining shop, occupied by Mr. Hale, picture framer, so that his premises escaped entirely. Regarding its origin the fire may be best described as a mystery, but there are one or two somewhat singular circumstances about the alfair. The build ing is a two-storeyed one of six rooms. It was in the occupation of John Pattingson (known in connection with the firm of Armstrong and Pattingson, labor agents), whoso wife carried on a millinery business. He and his wife left the place a few minutes before the fire broke out, and were understood to have left Dunedin by the 11. p.m. South train. Pattingson was a tenant only, and had his stock insured recently in the Transatlantic office for Ll5O. Those who first got an entrance to the shop state they looked about for property to save, but could find nothing except a few books. It is not certain in which part of the building the flames originated, front or back, but they cer tainly spread with surprising rapidity. Pattingson did not return to discover the fate of his premises when the alarm rang. The owner of the building is Henry Hawker, a resident of Balclutha, who has an insurance of either L3OO or L4OO in the standard. The police are endeavoring to solve the mystery as to the origin.

SPORTING.

NEW ZEALAND GRAND NATIONAL

STEEPLECHASES.

Yesterday, for the third time since its formation, the New Zealand Grand Na tional Steeplechase Club held its annual meeting on the Christchurch racecourse. The fixture has for some time past been occupying the attention of sporting men, and the favorable weather secured a large attendance of the general public. As in connection with all the metropolitan race meetings, the trains between Christchurch and the course were largely patronised, and we noticed a larger sprinkling of the fair sex than usually grace our great cross country events. Mr.- Egan had provided a course sufficiently severe to thoroughly test the capabilities of the horses engaged, and in the big race only a small minority of the starters succeeded in reaching the winning post. Proceedings commenced with the Grand National Handicap, for which twelve faced the starter. Of these the well-worn Agent was made favorite, notwithstanding ru mors of lameness, which certainly was not apparent as he paraded previous to the race. He was ridden by Harry Lunn in a really masterly style, and won almost without an effort, the honost Royalty, well handled by Sheehan, being too slow to make his old opponent gallop. Baron jumped in very nice form, but had to con tent himself with third place, and Mr. Cullen signally failed to make anything out of Lonehand. The Maiden was won very easily by Venture, Stella and Clarence at long intervals being second and third respectively. Our local horse, Tara o’ Shanter, after holding a temporary lead at the start, would have nothing to do with the big fences. Agent was made a strong favorite for the Hunt Cup, and justified the confidence of his backers by wanning hard held ; and Clarence appro priated the Consolation New Zealand Grand National Handi cap, of 200 sovs., with a sweepstakes of 5 sovs. (for acceptors) each, to go to second hoise. Distance, 4 miles. Mi’. P. Butler’s ch ’g The Agent, 12st 71b (H. Lunn)...' 1 Mr. F. Brittain’s b g Royalty, list (Sheehan) ... ... ... ... 2 Mr. W. Douglass’ b g Baron, list Gib, including 21b overweight (J. Munn) 3 Lonehand, Grey Momns, Banjo, Black Prince, Thilo, Swindler, Harkaway, Mickey Free, and Little John also started. Betting—2 to 1 against The Agent, 4to 1 against the others. After some delay at the post, Lonehand and Baron led to the first fence, which all negotiated safely. At the stone wall there was a lot of hesitation, and at the next fence Baron, Agent, Banjo, and Royalty obtained a long lead, entering the straight the first time round in this order. At the far side of the course Royalty ran into third place, and half a mile from home Agent had Baron beaten. Royalty here came up under the whip, but could never quite catch The Agent, who won com fortably by a good length. Maiden Flats of 100 sovs., with a sweep stake of 5 sovs. each for acceptors to go to the second horse ; nominations of 2 sovs. to go to the fund ; weight for age ; distance, 2 miles. Mr. A. Keith’s Venture, aged, 13st. 71bs. (owner) ... ... ... ... 1 Mr. P. Butler’s Stella, aged, 12at. 31bs. (M‘lvor) ... 2 Mr. W. Clifford’s Clarence, aged, 12st. 31bs. (H. Lunn) 3 Blue Belle, Tam O’Shanter, and Miss Hungerford also started. Betting—7 to 2 agst. Clarence, 7 to 1 agst. Venture and Stella. Mr. Campbell effected a very good start. Tam O’Shanter led to the fence opposite the stand, but Stella went to the front immediately after. Clarence fell at the double, and although Lunn was soon in the saddle again, he could never regain the lost ground, Venture having taken a commanding lead, which w’as maintained to the finish, Stella being second twenty lengths off. Hunt Club Cup of 150 sovs., with a sweepstake of 5 sovs. each for ac ceptors to go to the second horse ; nominations of 2 sovs. to go to the fund ; weight for age. The winner of the Grand National Handicap to carry 101 b. penalty. Gentlemen riders allowed 71b. Distance, 3 miles. Mr, P. Butler’s Agent, aged, 12st. 31b. (Lunn) 1 Immediately on the flag dropping. Agent went to the front and was never caught, winning hard held by any number of length. In this race Hankins riding Magic suffered a very hoavyffall, and was still insensible at the time our dispatch left. Consolation Handicap of 50 sovs. added to a sweepstake of 2 sovs. each for acceptors : nominations of 1 aov. to go to the fund. Mr. W. Clifford’s Clarence (aged) ... 1 Eight sported silk for this race, which re sulted in a victory for Clarence after an exciting struggle with Royalty. Another accident occurred in this race, Mickey Free falling and breaking one of Keith’s leg?.

It is worthy of notice that “ Voltigeur” correspondent of the Lyttel predicted the results with singu ’mroccuracy as follows Grand National, ■Royalty, 1; Agent, 2 ; Baron, 3. Maiden ■ —Venture, 1; Stella, 2; Clarence, 3. 'Cup—Agent, 1.

TELEGRAPHIC.

LATEST FROM EUROPE. ( Render's Tdegtams.) THE QUEEN’S SPEECH AT THE v OPENING OF PARLIAMENT. ADDRESSES IN REPLY BY THE LORDS AND COMMONS. (By Cable.) London, May 20. The first session of the twenty-second Parliament was formally opened to-day by Royal Commission. The Speech from the Throne was read by the Lord Chan cellor. It states that the relations of Great Britain with all Foreign Powers continue to be of a friendly character. Hope is expressed that in concert, with the Great Powers an early and complete fulfilment of the Treaty of Berlin may be promoted, and that effectual reforms in Turkey and erpial laws for the Turkish race may be brought about together with the settlement of the question of territorial rights. The strict ful filment of the Treaty of Berlin is deemed essential and necessary in order to avert complications in Eastern Europe. The Right Hon. G. J. Goschen has been de spatched as special ambassador to Con stantinople with the object of bringing about the fulfilment of treaty obligations. Unceasing efforts are being made to pacify Afghanistan; establish the institution,and secure the independence of a Government in that country. Confederation of the South African Colonies will be recommended, and British supremacy in the Transvaal will be maintained. The Act passed by the last Parliament for the preservation of peace in Ireland will not be renewed. The speech concludes by stating that the principal measures to be introduced by Government during the session will include a Burials Bill, and Bills for the renewal of the Ballot Act, for reform of the same laws, for declaring the liability of employers in cases of accidents to work men, and for the extension of the borough franchise to Ireland. The House of Lords have voted an Address in Reply to the Speech from the Throne after a short debate. The House of Commons voted an Address in Reply after a long debate. The amendments of the Irish members were rejected by a large majority. Mr. Gladstone in his speech .explained that Mr. Goschen’s mission to 'Constantinople was principally in reference to tlie Greek and Montenegrin questions .which were most pressing. It was neces sary to disabuse the Turkish mind that England was specially interested in main taining Turkey, nor did they desire to trespass on Turkish rights in Asia. The condition of affairs in Europe was not critical. London, May 20. The Australian cricketers commenced their second match against 18 players of Longsight to-day. .The English team went in first and scored 118. Spofforth took nine wickets. The Australians have six wickets down for 26. The bowling was dead on the wicket. Three per cent, consols, 99J. Adelaide wheat, per 4961b5., ex ware house, 525. : leather, ll|d. Five per cent. New Zealand Loan, 1889, 106 ; 4ir per cent. New Zealand Loan, 1879-1904, 98i. The total reserve in notes .and bullion in the Bank of England is L 15,250,000. At the wool sales to-day, 8300 bales were offered, making a total of 244,000 bales catalogued since the opening. The tone of- the ante was rather firm. 40,000 bales have been withdrawn since the opening. The P. and O. Steam Navigation Co. pays 2 per cent, dividend for the half year. London, May 21. The total quantity of wheat afloat for Great Britain is 1,910,000 quarters. Best Australian mutton tallow is worth 365. Leather is quoted at Is. At the wool sales to-day 10,000 bales were offered, making a total of 254,900 bales catalogued since the opening. There was a better demand for medium to common qualities, but others were ne glected. The cricket match between the Aus tralians and Eighteen of Longsight was resumed to-day. - The Australians made 214 in their first innings, Blackham scoring 81 and Bonner 74. The Long sight men, who had made 118 in their first innings on the previous day, then went in, and when the stumps were drawn had scored for their second innings 72 with the loss of eight wickets. Calcutta, May 22. The Viceroy, in accordance with the views of the Liberal party, has been offici ally instructed to close the campaign in Afghanistan with the least possible delay. It is, however, considered doubtful, owing to the hostile tribes still continuing fighting, although not of a very serious nature. Capetown, May 22. It is officially announced that Sir Bartle Frere has consented to remain as Governor and High Commissioner of Cape Colony it is understood for the ex press purpose of assisting the proposed confederation. Berlin, Mav 21. A. Ministerial Bill has been introduced into the Lower House of the German Parliament for the revision of the May Laws. The changes proposed will pro vide for large concessions to the Catholics in Germany, and endeavor to meet the views of the Vatican. AUSTRALIAN. {Pa- Reuter's Agency.) Melbourne, May 21. In the Legislative Assembly Sir John O’Shanassey has shown open hostility to the Government. Melbourne,- May 22. The Government offer LSO reward for the discovery of the perpetrators of the Knowsley Hall bottle hoax. The market for sugars generally is firmer than it has been for some time past. Sydney, May 21. The Lambton miners’ strike is assuming a most threatening aspect, and those out on strike are evincing open hostility to others who have filled their places. The demonstration of miners’ wives against laborers working at ■ Hamilton was committed to-day, when two' miners were arrested for assault. Tobacco, Is Id; Patna rice, Ll 9 per ton ; Hennessy’s brandy, bulk, quarters, 10s 6d to 11s ; oats, 2s to 2s 3d per 401bs; maize, 2s 5d to 2s lOd per GOlbs ; caudles, D.R. J’s 6|d per lb. Sailed—Rotomahana, for New Zealand. Adelaide, May 21. Flour, LlO 5s to LlO 10s per ton; markets dull; freights, 40s. INTERPROVINCIAL. (Per Press Association.) Auckland, May 23. A man named Drewhellan has been ar rested on suspicion of the robbery at Pokeno station. Napier, May 23. Mr. R. Millar’s annual report estimates the export of wool from Hawke’s Bay for the current season at L 550,000, an average of L 36 per head of the population in the province. He estimates the average of

the whole colony at Lll. The average clip was nearly seven pounds per sheep. At the inquest on the body of Nicholls. who shot himself at Waipawa, a verdict of temporary insanity was returned. Wellington May 22. The body of the lad Macintosh, who was drowned in the flood at the month, was found on Lowry yesterday. At the inquest the virdicc was accidentally drowned. Wellington, May 23. A fresh slip occurred on the Welling ton-Fealherston line to-day, causing a baffast engine to get off the line, and mak ing a total obstruction. The Wairarapa passengers, both ways, had to change trains and walk about three quarters of a mile. Every effort is being made to get the line clear by Monday morning. The local volunteers intend holding a review on Monday. At the Police Court at Carterton this morning, George Loritner was charged with procuring abortion. After hearing the evidence the Bench dismissed the case. Greymouth, May 23. The Energetic Company, Reefton, struck a reef on Friday five feet wide, which is estimated to yield at least an ounce to the ton. The Golden Fleece Company cleaned up on Friday, with 963 ounces of retorted gold from 630 tons of stone. Mr. Seddon, M.H.R. for Hokitika, ad dresses the electors of the Grey Valley at Greymouth on Tuesday, when he is ex pected to reply to certain statements made concerning his course of action in Kumara and Hokitika. Oamaru, May 23. Mr. John Reid addressed a large meet ing of the electors at the Volunteer Hall last night. The address -was favorably re ceived. He said he would support the present Ministry in their policy of re trenchment, but would not bind himself to blindly follow them in all their mea sures. A vote of confidence was carried. Timaru, May 22. Considerable surprise has been occa sioned by a notification that Mr. Clulee, of the firm of Woollcombe and Clulee, has just been appointed Property Tax Assessor for the Levels district, to which another well-known resident named John Thomp son was appointed and gazetted originally. Since his appointment Mr. Thompson has applied in vain to the Deputy Assessor to be sworn in, and now, to his surprise, he has been informed that his appointment has been cancelled, the only reason assigned being “public opinion.” The singular affair is by many construed as a political job, and Thompson having given up a permanent situation to fill the ap pointment, intends sueing for his rights. Frank Fowler, a Chinaman, was arrested in Temuka yesterday for rape on a girl of weak intellect, aged sixteen. The alleged offence was coramited during the tem porary absence from home of the girl’s parents. Jamos Campbell, farmer, from Pareora, had his head and limbs severely crushed and bruised this morning by a cart that he was driving capsizing on him. Dunedin, May 22. An eight-roomed house in Fourth street was burned down early this morn ing. It was owned by a man named Wilson, and occupied by Mrs. Thomas, a widow. The house was insured for L7OO in the National, and the furniture for LSOO in the South British. At the Port Chalmers Police Court Henry .Kybred was trial on the charge, of stealing jewellery, valued at L 69, from Mr. Mandleston, a passenger per Te Anau. Invercargill, May 22. The ketch Annie, commanded by Captain Tall, foundered last Thursday night on the outer sand spit; about three quarters of a mile from the Bluff pilot station, when all hands were lost. Up to the present none of the bodies have, been picked up. The Kakanui haA towed the wreck into Bluff Harbor. Captain Tall leaves a widow and five children, who reside at Dunedin.

FRIGHTFUL ITALIAN SCOURGE.

A correspondent of the Lancet writes : —Ninty-seven thousand Italians (so I gather from the report lately issued by the Minister of Commerce and Agricul ture) are at this moment dying of pellagra. About one-half of the provinces of Italy are desolated by this scourge. The num ber of the victims represents 3.60 per -1000 of the total population of the Penin sula, or 0.21 per 1000 more than the worst cholera epidemic that ever swept over France. If we restrict our consideration to the infected region only, the proportion becomes still more terrible, arid oscillates between a miximum of 11.76 per 1000 in Lombardy, 11.80 per 1000 inYenetia,anda minimum of 0.09 per thousand in Latium. In France, in the cholera visitation of 1834-35, the proportion in the infected departments only was 10.42 per 1000 of the population for the sick, and 4.73 per 1000 for the dead. From the Mantuan Commission, appointed to inquire into the subject I gather that pellagra, considered per se, is so extended and so manifold in its symptoms as to appear, so far as exter nal phenomena are concerned, a general malady of the organism. Its developments are principally found on the skin, the mucous membrane of the mouth and the entire alimentary canal, in the muocular system, and in the nervous system in its threefold sensory, motor and psychical relations. For the most part its victims betray the first inroads of the disease by stupefaction, giddiness with a sense of traction from behind, and a general enfeeblement of organism. On the ap proach of spring the parts of the skin most exposed to the sun, the backs of the hands and feet, the face, the neck, and the median part of the chest at the part ing of the shirt, show an erythematous discoloration, with desquamation of the cuticle, and more rarely, in the severe cases, rough nodosities, vesicles and puckerings. Corresponding character istic altrahons manifest themselves later in the mucous membrane of the lips, the mouth and the fauces, and then there supervenes profuse, obsti nate, exhausting diarrhoea. The patient, becoming always feebler, is no longer fit for the slightest exertion; he totters rather than walks, with knees semi-flexed and curved, until finally he falls forward and lies with his mouth in the dust. The skin of the entire body becomes of an earthy colour, and hangs in loose folds, the muscles are attenuated, and the whole person becomes lean or emanciated, if indeed he docs not rather acquire a tume faction, down-dragging and semi-trans parent, from the infiltration of the sub cutaneous tissue with scerosity. The pel lagrosi complain for the most part of a pain as if from contusion on the head and spine, which often radiates in zones around the abdomen, and is pro longed to the thighs ; of a formiculation and sense of heat at the extremities, and of an internal tremor often visible in the hands and tongue. They have often a>- burning sensation in the stomach/SscemU ing the oesophagus; while nojt unfre quently there is laboured breathiflg, which sometimes approaches absolute aphoea. The .sight becomes clouded, the hearing first troubled with rumbling noises, and then blunted. The heart’s impulse gets weaker and diminished in bulk as the organ sometimes shrinks along with the other muscles. The radial pulse is feeble and generally raid, with venous stasis in dicated by the diffused leaden color, mottled with sporadic sanguineus blotches sometimes small, sometimes large, on the skin and mooous membrane. In many

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, TUESDAY, MAY 25, 1880.



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. 550c* MESSRS. H. MATSON AND CO., AUCTIONEERS, &c., Hold fortnightly stock SALES at Ashburton and Tinwald. Next sale at the TINWALD YARDS, on TUESDAY, May 25, 1880. C. PERCY COX, 27a* Agent, Ashburton.



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Impudent Robbery at Dunedin. A man named Kybred lias been arrested on a charge of impudent robbery. Ho went on board the steamer Te Anau last evening, representing himself as night watchman, and while the passengero were on deck, stole a quantity of valuable jewellery. The articles were found in his house by the police.