SHIPPING.

PORT OF LYTTELTON. ARRIVED. Jan. 3—Wanaka, s.s. .from Auckland, via East Coast and Wellington. Jan. 3 Huia, s.s., from Kaikoura and Wellington. . Jan. 4—Rona, schooner, from Kaipara. Jan. 4—Fawn, brig, from Newcastle. Jan. 4—Hopeful, barque, from New castle. Jan. 4—Prince Alfred, schooner, from Kaipara. j an . 4—Ocean Bird, ketch, from Amrhau. SAILED. Jan. 3—Penguin, s.s., for Wellington and Northern ports. Jan. 3—Wanaka, s.s., for Port Chal mers. Jan. 3—Rangitiki, ship, for London. Jan. s—Wild Duck, ketch, for D’Ur ville’s Island. Jan. s—Cornet, ketch, for D’Urville s Island. Jan. s—Owako, for Timaru. STEAMERS LEAVE LYTTELTON. For Wellington —Wellington, this day, Jan. C. Passengers by 2.40 p. nx. train. To be followed by Rotorua, Thursday, Jan. 8. For Napier, Gisborne, and Auckland —Rotorua, on Thursday, Jan. 8. Passengers by 2.40 p.m. train. To be followed by Wanaka, Saturday, Jan. 10. For Port Chalmers —Rotomahana, This Day, Tuesday, Jan. (5. Passengers by 2.40 p.m. train. To be followed by the Taiaroa, Thurs day, Jan. 8. Fob Melbourne, via Bluff—Rotoma hana, This Day, Jan. G. Passengers by 2.40 p.m. train. To be followed by Ringarooma, Tues day, Jan. 13. For Sydney Wakatipu, on Friday, Jan. 9. Passengers by 2.40 p.m. train. To be followed by Arawata, Thursday, Jan. 15. For Hobart Town —Rotomahana, This Day, Jan. G. Fob Picton, Nelson, Taranaki, and Manukau Wellington, This Day, Jan. C. Passengers by 2.40 p.m. train.

TERRIBLE COLLISION AT SEA. By the arrival at Liverpool of a Spanish steamer, Puerto Rico, information has been received of a disastrous collision, which resulted in the sinking of a large United States schooner and the loss of all of her crow. The disaster occurred in Chesapeak Bay, between the above-named steamer and an unknown schooner. It appears that the Puerto Rico, with a valuable cargo, principally grain, left Baltimore about mid-day on September 16, bound for Liverpool. About eight p.m. she was about GO miles off Baltimore, the night being fine, when the lights of a large schooner were seen, and shortly afterwards she came across the bows of the steamer. The latter was going at a good speed at the time, and struck the other vessel close by thebow with suchforce that she was entirely cut in two, and sank in three minutes afterwards. The engines of the steamer were immediately stopped, but the rate at which she was going car ried her a distance of a quarter of a mile from the scene of the disaster before a boat could be lowered. Immediately the collision took place, the pitiful shrieks of the perosns on board the schooner rent the air, whilst one voice was heard distinctly calling out for a boat to be sent to them. With remarkable promptitude a boat was launched from the steamer, and pulled to the scene of the mishap, followed imme diately by a second boat, for the purpose of picking up any of the crew, but although the boats cruised around for fully an hour, not a single living person could be seen on the spot which but a few minutes before rang with the despairing cries of drowning men, being then as silent as the grave. Both of the masts of the vessel were lying on the water, and bore evidence of the force of the collision, which had the effect of turning them completely out of the un fortunate schooner. The water around was remarkably clear of wreckage and no thing could be picked up which could give any clue to the identity of the vessel. The boats after theirfutiloEearch, returned to the steamer, which was only found to have been damaged in the rigging, the fore-topmast having been broken and a sail carried away. The steamer anchored and remained there until daylight, when he proceeded back to Baltimore, but on rrival there she was ordered to continue ner voyage to Liverpool. Even at Balti more the name of the vessel could not bo ascertained while the steamer was there, but when seen before the collision she ap peared to be a large United States built schooner, probably about 400 tons. She had two masts, and at the time of the collision she was proceeding at a smart pace under full canvas. Several persons were seen on deck, but the number of the crew was of course not known to those on board the steamer, though it was conjec tured that she would have at least six or eight hands.

POST OFFICE NOTICES.

Mails close at the Chief Post Office," Christchurch for tho following places (subject to necessary alterations) as under:—

Tuesday, Jay. G. For Otago, per Rotomaliana, at 1.50 p.m.; late fee letters, 2.10 p.m.; guard’s van, 2.40 p.m. train. For Northern porta, per Rotorua, at 1.50 p.m.; late fee letters, 2.10 p.m.; guard’s van, 2.40 p.m. train. Wednesday', Jan. 7. For Australian colonies, per express train to Port Chalmers, to connect with s.s. Rotomaliana, at 7.30 a.m. For Chatham Islands, per Island lily, at 1.50 p.m.; late fee letters, 2.10 p.m.; guard’s van, 2.40 p.m. train. For Northern ports and Westport, per Star of the South, at 1.50 p.m.; late fee letters, 2.10 p.m.; guard's van, 2.40 p.m. train.

Friday', Jan. 9. For Northern ports and Australian colonies, via Sydney, per Rotorua.

The next mail for the United Kingdom, via Brindisi, will be closed at Christchurch on January 16th, and will be due in London on March 4th. The next mail for the United Kingdom via San Krancisco will be closed at Christ church, on January 31st, and will be due in London on March IGth.

Mails lea% r e the Ashburton Post Office, as follows :

For Christchurch and North at 10.20 a.m, 4 p.m., and 7.30 p.m., daily. For Chertsey at 10.20 a.m daily. For Rakaia at 10.20 a.m and 4 p.m daily. For Dunedin, Tinwald Winslow, Hinds, Coldstream, Rangitata, Orari, Winchester, and Geraldine, at 10.20 a.m, daily. For Temuka. Timaru, and South at 10.20 a.m and 3 p.m daily. For Greeustreet, Ashburton Forks, IVlount Somers, and Ashburton Gorge on Tuesdays and Fridays at x 0.30 a.m For Ashton, Waterton, and Longbeach, at ,15 p.m. daily. For Wakanui and Seafield, on Mondays and Thursdays, 7.30 p.m. Sydney J. Dick, Chief Postmaster.

UNCLAIMED LETTERS.

The following is a list of letters from places beyond the- colony received at the

Ashburton Post Office during the month of November, and remaining unclaimed on Ist January, 1880 : Appleton, Geo. Bishop, Jas. Dalton, Thos. Finnerty, John Gibson, Jas. (2) Jackson, David. Reilly, Jas. Ross, Aloxr.

Selbjq A. Sier, William Sturgeon, Mrs. J,

The Ashburton Guardian, COUNTY AGRICULTURAL & SPORTING RECORDER. TUESDAY, JANUARY 6, 1880.

Regarding the Boxing Day scenes at Tiraaru and Christchurch, it was broadly asserted that the plans of botli attacks had been arranged in hotels—the Timaru one in O’Driscoll’s, and the Christchurch one in Barrett’s. In fact, the Catholic mob on the one hand, who attacked the Christ church procession, trooped out of Barrett’s yard to make their pick-stall onslaught ; while on the other, a certain damaging letter found or one of the Timaru rioters was sufficient evidence that O’Driscoll was a moving spirit himself in the Timaru riot. The Magistrates at Christchurch failed to obtain evidence strong enough to connect Barrett, the landlord of the Borough Hotel, with the origin of the Christchurch row, and consequently he was dismissed, but the Timaru Bench have committed O’Driscoll for trial. During the excitement that followed both rows, the hotels in question were closed, and in Christchurch the populace felt so strongly in regard to the dastardliness of the attack on the Protestant Friendly Alliance procession that they smashed in the windows of Barrett’s Hotel, under a deep-seated impression that the landlord was concerned in the row. Those hotels have again been opened. We are rather surprised at this, as we , have known public-houses lose their licenses for less heinous offences than harboring mobs of men bent on disturbing the peace, and causing a riot in the public street ; still less, certainly, than for being occupied by a landlord who makes himself conspicuous in organising an attacking party whose movements necessitate the reading of the Riot Act, the swearing in ‘ of 350 special constables, thecosttothecountry of moving 50 members of the Armed Constabulary from Wellington to Timaru, and the call ing out of two companies of volunteers to prevent anticipated disturbances. But possibly, the Magistrates arc willing to believe that the aggressors have got such a scare as is likely to prevent them from again indulging in an outburst of mistaken patriotism, and their faith in the potency of this scare is perhaps such that they can afford to bo forgiving, and allow the publicans mixed up with the affairs to escape with a gentle admonition to be more careful. If this is so, it is a mis taken leniency. Of all men, a hotel keeper should be a loyal, peace-loving subject ; in fact, the conditions under which be obtains his license demand that he shall be conservative of the public peace as far as in him lies, and should a run of ill-luck follow him, and a few fights occur round his bar, or in his house, the police will very soon make out a case against him that will weigh with the Incensing Bench when renewal time comes. Such a case would be fatal to the licensee's chance of renewal. But with the damning evidence before them of O’Driscoll’s complicity in the Timaru riot, nay, more, of his being the chief instigator of it, and an energetic recruiting sergeant of the Green forces who made the at tack, we find the Timaru authorities again authorising O’Driscoll to open his riotous rendezvous, and thus they run the risk of a repetition at any moment of the _ Boxing Day row. “ Where the carrion is, there will be the eagles gathered together ” is a proverb with much truth in it, and as those Irishmen who attacked the Christ church procession had evidently made Barrett’s Hotel their rendezvous. It stands to reason that when the pro jected attack was known even to some of the Orangemen, the Irishmen’s inten tions could not have been unknown to Mr. Barrett. Both these hotel-keepers were just as much worthy to lose their licenses cnce for all for such responsi bility as rested upon thorn in connec tion with these riots, as is any publican who is found guilty of now and again allowing drunken and disorderly persons to congregate around his bar : for the

offence is greater. We know that a drunken row can be quelled by simply carting off to gaol the chief actors in it; but no one can measure the ex tent of the strength of either the Orange or the Green faction, and whether the hotel-keeper be of the one color or the other, if he allows his house, knowingly, to be made use of for meetings against the public peace, as has been the cause undoubtedly, at least in Timaru, then we should say, without doubt his license has been forfeited.

Txnwald Footpaths. - Ashburton’s little sister over the river is no better off under the Longbeacb Road Board than is Ashburton under the Municipal Council. The want of funds’ ailment, which is gradually spreading, has affected the Road Board’s purse, and as a consequence the formation of Tinwald’s footpaths has to he put off to a more convenient season, that is, till the Board is more flush of money.

The Subsidies. —The non-payment of the subsidies to Road Boards by Govern ment is causing trouble to such Road Boards as have pumped dry their pecuniary well. The Longbeach Board, at its meeting on Saturday, found from the statement of finances read that it owed the Bank L 1602 15s. lid., with a pay-sheet of L 548 6s. 4d. still to pass. Not a penny of the subsidy now due by Government, nor any other governmental money, had been paid to the Board, and the Clerk was therefore instructed to send an urgent telegram to the Treasury, ask ing when the half subsidy now duo for last year would bo paid.

Run Out.—Poor Mr. E. G. "Wright has allowed himself to be forgetful of the fact that while Parliamentary honors lay thick upon him, he had not resigned those given him by the Longbeach district rate payers, and that he was still a member of the Road Board. While attending his Parliamentary duties in Wellington he neglected to ask leave of absence from bis Board, and as a consequence his seat has been declared vacant, and an election to supply his place will follow, in due course.

Highland Dancing. —At the Oamaru Caledonian slants on New Year’s Day and day after, Mr. James M‘Rae, of Ashbur ton, was successful in gaining the Presi dent’s special prize for excellent dancing form. Mr. M‘Rae also gained second prize for sword dance, third prize for Scotch reel, and third for Reel of Tulloch gorum.

Accident at Rakaia. —On Saturday evening, Mr. Lyttelton, of Rokcby, was driving a buggy and pair containing three other persons, out from Rakaia, when the reins broke and the buggy came in con contact with the kerbing of the street, throwing out the occupants and breaking the arm of one, a woman, who was taken on to Ashburton for medical assistance. Mount Hutx Road Board. —The an nual meeting for the election of two mem bers to serve on the Mount Hutt Road Board, in place of Messrs. E. Chapman and J. Pannett, who retire by lot, was held at the Board office, Methven, yester day, at 12 noon. There was a very good attendance. The Returning Officer, Mr. Win. Compton, read the notice calling the meeting, and called on the ratepayers to nominate two gentlemen to serve on the Board. Mr. E. Chapman was proposed by Mr. MacMillan, and seconded by Mr. Pannett. Mr. Uiyett proposed Mr. L>. Cameron, and Mr. R. Patton seconded. Mr. Orr proposed, and Mr. Johnson seconded, Mr. J. Pannett. Mr. T. A. Winter proposed, and Mr. R. Patton seconded, Mr. D. G. Holmes. On a show of hands being called for, the result was —Mr. E. Chapman, 5; Mr. D. Cameron, 3; Mr. J. Pannett, 5; Mr. D. G. Holmes, 2. The Returning Officer de clared in favor of Messrs. E. Chapman and J. Pannett, on which a poll was demanded in behalf of Messrs. Holmes and Cameron. The poll will be taken at the Road Board office, Methven, and at the schoolhousc, Ban-hill, on Wednesday, 7th inat. The statement of receipts and expenditure will he delivered at the next Board meet ing, after the audit. The totals are—To cash received, L10,4C2 17s. 4d.; by works, Ac., L 2701 ss. (id.— L 7701 11S. lOd.

The Plains Water Supply. —A pub lic meeting of ratepayers was held at the Road Board office, Methven, to consider the feasibility of bringing water from Pudding Hill to supply the upper part of the plains in the Mount Hutt district by means of an open channel. Mr. E. Chapman occupied the chair. Mr. R. Patton said that he believed a scheme to meet the requirements of the people during harvest and threshing could be de vised at a probable cost of six or seven hundred pounds, and could be done in time for the coming harvest. After some discussion it was resolved that a Com mittee consisting of Messrs. Patton, Johnson, M‘Mil lan, Cameron, Orr, Pannett, Gaull, and Allen, inspect the locality of Pudding Hill Stream and Washbed Creek, with reference to their capability, and a deputation of throe members wait on the Ashburton County Council at its meeting on Wednesday next to ascertain how far the Council can assist the Committee in the matter.

Chiaeini’s Circus. —This great show arrived by special train at noon on Sunday, and the disembarking of the horses, &c., attracted a considerable crowd to the rail way station. The stud, both for quantity and quality, is far superior to Cooper and Bailey’s, there being some 20 horses and half-a-dozen diminutive ponies. In addi tion, a pair of zebras, a llama, and a bison were centres of attraction. All the animals, the horses especially, gave evi dence of great care being taken with them. They were in good condition, and gave no evidence of having had to put up with the discomforts of a sea voyage or long railway journeys. No time was lost by the workmen of the circus in getting the marquees erected, and the three huge tents occupy a large space of ground, the circus ring being by far the largest yet seen here. The afternoon performance commenced at 2 p.m., and was a very brilliant affair indeed. The troupe of equestrians—male and female—are the choice of the profession, and the acrobats are of the most superior class travelling. The performances of the various wild animals in the menagerie called forth repeated rounds of applause, notably those of Mr. Charles Warner, with throe huge Bengal tigers. The jthree tiger pups, cubbed on the passage over from San Francisco, were shown, and arc interest ing specimens of their tribe. They are the third litter born to their dam since she became the property of Signor Ghiarini, the first litter having been cubbed at Buenos Ayres, and the second at Panama- The other performing animals are the bison, a huge brute with no hind quarters to speak of, but he stands five feet high on his fore feet, with anything but an affectionate-looking head ; two prettily striped zebras; a huanaco ;a tribe of well-trained dogs ; and a fine stud of plump little Shetland ponies. The circus is quite gorgeously fitted up, the chairs being very comfortable and occupying th* best position round the ring. At the evening’s entertainment an excellent op portunity was given to a good counter of heads to get a fair estimate of the county’s population, for the inhabitants seemed to be all there. Signor Chiarini says his tent when quite full can hold at last night’s prices 3000 dollars, and we should say that LSOO of that sum jingled into his coffers lastf night, for every available seat on the raised galleries was occupied, and only a few of the circle chairs were empty. Visitors were at tho circus from every part of the the county, and every grade of, society sent its representatives of hothjjexea. The

programme was a very attractive one, and opened with the usual “grand entree” by the equestrians of the company, mid the pageant was a very gay one. Then the “ human serpent,” Signor Bartolo, entered, and astonished the crowd with his wonderful contortions : the perform ing zebras succeeded Signor Bartolo ; then Miss Jeannette Watson, a graceful rider, gained popular favor ; two acrobats oc cupied the ring after her ; then two well trained and splendid looking black horses, exhibited Signor Chiarini’s power as a trainer; Mr. Lava ter Lee did some very extraordinary equestriansm; and then Miss Sarah Fergus performed a la Airec on the trapeze ; then some tumbling feats by the whole company ; after which perhaps the cleverest performance came off in that given by Miss Rosa Lee in her jugglery feats on a bare-backed horse. Mddle. Lotta, the lady with the iron jaw, then gave her exhibition of strength, and Charlie Watson having done a bit of dashing horsemanship, the tiger tamer put his tigers through their , per formances, one of which, however, could hardly have been a rehearsed one, for the two male tigers bad a bit of a fight that caused a sensation for a time. After the animals had been fed, the entertainment closed, and shortly afterwards everything was packed up, and the company was en route for Timaru. The Well in East Street. —A trial was made on Saturday evening of the open well in East street, opposite the “Guardian” office, and after a ten minutes’ trial it was pumped dry. The Brigade thereupon determined to put on a gang of men and keep the engine going during yes terday to get the well down a sufficient depth to render it capable of standing any trial, and a depth of 25 feet having been at tained, it was found impossible to conquer the flow of the under current, and the work was considered as finished. Cricket Association. —A meeting of the Ashburton Cricket Association Com mittee was hold on Saturday evening, in Messrs. Saunders Bros’, office. Present — Messrs. Mainwaring (Chairman), S. Saunders, Poyntz, and Wilkie. Messrs. Saunders and Mainwaring were appointed a committee to confer with Mr. Ward, Secretary to the Domain Board, to fix on a site for a tube well in the cricket ground. Mr. Poyntz presented some im portant resolutions to the committee, and it was decided to postpone the considera tion of them and any other business to a meeting to be held in Messrs. Saunders’ office on Wednesday t at Bp. m.

Cambridge School. —The Cambridge School Committee, from six candidates, selected Mr. H. Cape-Williamson for the position of Schoolmaster of the now school, to be opened in February. The Board of Education have sanctioned Mr. Williamson’s appointment, subject to the Minister’s approval of his certificate.

The Closed Hotels. —The two hotels —O’DriscoU’s in Timaru, and Barratt’s in Christchurch—that were closed during the recent troubles over the Orange pro cessions, have had permission given to their proprietors for re-opening. Long-beach Road Board. —Among the works lately completed by tin’s Board arc the erection of an office and residence for the surveyor. Both erections arc under one roof, and the building altogether pre sents a very ornamental mid substantial appearance. It is in the Italian style, the Board room being 20ft. x. ICft., plastered throughout, and all the necessary fittings and furniture are provided. The resi dence consists of a sitting room, two bed rooms, kitchen, and pantry, and a roomy hall, the whole having a very handsome verandah fronting on the Longbcach road. In addition to the residence, commodious stables have been erected, containing six stalls and a harness room, the studs being carried up to a sufficient height to allow of plenty of storage room for feed &c., on the upper floor. Mr. J. Stanley Bruce, the architect, having drawn the designs in his usual neat and substantial stylo, the work is of more than average excellence. The contractor for the office and dwelling house was Mr. George Parkin, at L 549, and for the stables Mr, George Compton at LlO4. All the necessary outbuildings have also been erected, and as the site is on a reserve of 13 acres the whole affair makes a very compact and desirable coun try residence. A Sad Loss.- —Mr. W. Swanson, one of the notable four who seceded from the Grey party last session was banquetted a fow nights ago by a section of his con stituents. The lion, gentleman arrived at the banquetting hall too soon, and he accordingly adjourned to the house of a friendly bonifice. On preparing for his speech some time afterwards he discovered to his horror that the manuscript had dis appeared from his coat pocket, in which lie had placed it along with some other documents. With a look of intense dis may upon his countenance, he x-oso to reply to the toast, and made a very discursive and rambling speech indeed. It appears he had offered LI reward for the recovery of the precious documents, but failing to obtain them, bad to stumble along as best he could. Shrinkage.—An old darkey caught a two-pound sucker one day, and was so well satisfied with his work that ho lay down for a nap, with tire fish beside him on the grass. Another darkey came along presently, picked up the sucker, and left a half-pound one in its place. When the first man and brother woke up, the first thing his eyes sought was the fish, and it took him some seconds to realise that something had happened. Then turning the prize over and examining it all round, he simply said—“ Golly, how dat fish am shwunked.”

The “Big Strawberry Season.”— The dull time with newspapers has com menced. An Otago paper finds out that Mr. J. Forsyth, shipping butcher at Port Chalmers, is in possession of a luaus natural, in the shape of a ewe lamb with five legs. The fifth log is jointed at the knee of the left fore leg, and is perfectly formed, although of course it is useless to the little animal. It is Mr. Forsyth’s intention to keep the lamb as a pet. It was bred by Mr. J. Shaud, of the Taieri, and is perfectly healthy and lively. Twenty Years in the Price of Corn. —in 1859 corn was worth 70 cents a bushel; and the price did not vary until 1854, when it went up to 1.10 followed by the remarkably high price of 1.75 dols. the the next year (1855). A fall of 85 cents came the next year, and a rise to 1.10 during the two suceeding years (1807 -’08). Since this time there has been a gradual fall to 40 cents, the price for last year. In 1875 there was an exception i» a rise of 10 cents (85) followed by a fall of 25 cents (00) for the next year. It is to bo seen that during all the 20 years corn was never so low as at the present time. New Mothod of Advertising.—A new, and not altogether commendable method of advertising has lately come into vogue in this city, writes the Wel lington “Post.” We refer to the practice of stencilling trade announce ments on the pavements. Lately, pedes trians have been implored by this chan nel to “Ask for Tiger Brandy.” This appears to have aroused the horror of of some teetotallers, for now we find the words “ Certain Death,” painted under neath the alcholic invitation.

A Eelic of Columbus. —On August 4, 1498, a small squadron of three vessels, under the order of Christopher Columbus, was anchored of the south-western ex tremity of the Island of Trinidad. Late at night Columbus, it is related by Washing ton Irving, suddenly saw a wall of water approaching towards the fleet from the south. His own vessel was lifted up so high by the oncoming wave that he feared it would be either submerged or

dashed on shore, while the cable of one of the other vessels parted under the strain to which it was subjected. The crews of the vessels gave themselves up for lost; but after a time the wave, which it is sur mised must have been caused by an ex ceptionally large body of water coming suddenly down one of the rivers flowing into the Gulf of Paria, ebbed back again. This sudden rise of the waters of the gulf is mentioned by Columbus’ son Ferdinand, who adds that the fleet suffered no damage, save the loss of one anchor. It is this anchor which has now been found ; and, strangely enough, it was dug up from a depth of sft. below the surface of the ground, at a spot 372 it. from the nearest point of the coast line. The land, it is well known, is gaining upon the sea along the shores of Vene zuela, so that whore ships once rode at anchor gardens are now planted. The anchor itself is of simple form and com paratively rude manufacture, the stock being Bft. long, and round, with a ring at one end l£t. in diameter, to which to make fast the cable, .and with flukes sft. long, the whole weighing HOOlbs.

TELE GRAPHIC.

BRITISH AND FOREIGN.

(Argus Special.) London, Jam 2. A fund has been initiated to compensate Edmund Galey for his long illegal im prisonment. The Turkish Ministry, through jealousy of Sir H. A. Layavd’s influence with the Sultan, persisted in evasion for a time hut are now compelled to a decisive stand. The Homo Government regrets the inci dent causing the difficulty but supports Sir H. A. Layard and gives him carte hlanthe in dealing with the Porte, The Liberals approve the expected compromise. Ihe German and Austrian embassies re commend the Porte to arrange. (Age Special.) London, Jan. 2. Germany complains that Charzy, the French Ambassador at St. Petersburg, is entering into anti-Gorman intrigues, and fomenting discord between Russia and Germany. London, Jan, 4. The chiefs of the principal Kohistan tribes have submitted. Supplies arc abundant at Cabul, and are arriving at Jellalabad. The tribes are also friendly, and the convoys at Pcshawur were un molested. The Boers’ agitation for an independent Constitution is completely collapsing. Wagner is seriously ill. Gas shares are advancing. The quarter’s revenue shows a large deficiency. ( Reuter's 7elegrams.) London, Jan. 2. General Sir Evelyn Wood has, by com mand of Her Majesty the Queen, boon directed to accompany the cx-Empress Eugenie on her visit to Zululand. The Garonne sailed from Plymouth yesterday. Galvanized iron L 22 per ton. Mr. Parnell has gone to Now York. St. Petersburg, Jan.l. A grand review' of the .Russian troops was held hero to-day, followed by a military banquet. The Czar and Czarc witch were present at both. Their re lations were of a cordial character, and it is believed that their quarrel lias been ad justed. The basis of any understanding which may have been, arrived at between His Majesty and the Czar*witch however', is not yet publicly known. Constantinople, Jan. 3. The difficulties between England and Tux-key arc compromised, and resumption of relations are probable to-day. Paws, Jan. 3. At an interview- between Eroycinet, the _ President of the Council of Ministers, and Hohenlohe, the German Ambassador, friendly assurances were exchanged. AUSTRALIAN. (Renter's Telegram.) Sydney, Jan 3. As the result of the enquiry into the railway collision at Paramatta last week, the Minister for Public Works lias dis rated the engine-driver of the express train, and has fined the Traffic Manager (who was on hoard the engine at the time of the collision) a month’s salary. Sydney, Jan. 5. A petition is being signed in favor of the commutation of sentence of death passed upon Scott and Rogan, the Wanta bagevy bushi’angers. The execution of the prisoners is fixed for the 20th inst.. Brisbane, Jan. 5.

The revenue of the colony during the last quarter amounts to L 311,000, being a decrease of L 37,000 compared with last year. The actual expenditure shows an increaseof L 13,000. Melbourne, Jan. 3.

The cricket match between the Aus ralian Combined Eleven and Fifteen Vic torians was concluded'to-day, and resulted in a victory for the Fifteen by 82 runs. The Fifteen in their second innings scored 130, and the Eleven 80. Jan. 4. Mrs. Darrell, the actress, died on Saturday. INTERPROVINCIAL. Auckland, Jan. 3. Mr. Bennett, driving down Hobson street with his wife and child, met with an accident. A wheel slipped off and the occupants of the trap were precipated into the roadway, but not seriously hurt. Chiniquy lectures and moves about free!;/, without the slightest obstruction, the Catholics apparently taking no cogni sance of his proceedings. Not one of the Auckland operators have joined the strike. The Lincolnshire farmers’ delegates are visiting Waikato. They were enter tained to dinner at Cambridge. The Union Bank yesterday shipped gold to the value of LBO7O.

Sir H. Robinson left this morning in a special train for the Waikato, accom panied by the Hons. F. Whitaker and Messrs. James Williamson andß. Fcrgus son. On reaching Hamilton he was driven by Mr. R. H. D. Fergusson in his four-in-hand to Cambridge. Beyond the flying of flags, there was no demonstra tion at Hamilton or Cambridge.

At the Police Coiut John Sutton sur rendered to his bail, and appeared in answer to breaches of the Customs and Arms Act by importing side revolvers without being duly licensed under the Acts. After hearing the evidence, the Court ordered the full penalty of LIOO to he paid to the Collector of Customs, with costs L 4 13s. Sub-Inspector Pardy said that defendant was a new arrival, and had to suffer for a first offence. The police had no desire to press the charge under the Arms Act. His Worship said that had the police persevered in it, the result would have been three years’ penal servi tude.

The body of Tovey, the missing settler of Mahuranga, has been found. The boat was discovered in the river with a part of a bottle of rum in it, and the body was lying on the beacli a few yards off. At the inquest an open verdict was returned. Auckland, Jan. 5. The report that Te Kooti visits Cam bridge is positively denied. A proposal is made for the amalgama tion of the Domain Board and Acclima tisation Society, for the purpose of es tablishing proper Botanical Gardens. H.M.S. Cormorant sails for Welling ton to-day. The Albumin Mine has declared a LI dividend, and distributes LSOOO amongst

the shareholders. The Thames mines paid LIB.OOO this month. A gentleman in Auckland is suffering from erysipelas in the lip, through wear ing stockings with posionous coloring mat ter.

The Governor was well received at Cam bridge, Waikato, New Plymouth. Jan. 3.

A man named John Shaughnessy was drowned last night in the lagoon at Moturoa. His clothes were found along side the water, and it is supposed that he had gone for a bath after work, and had been drowned. The police went this morning to drag for his body, 'which has just teen recovered. Wellington, Jan. 3. A fine flock of rams from Murray’s famous South Australian flock arrived this morning for Mr. Iliddeford’s Te Awate Station, Wairarapa East. At'the inquiry into the recent founder ing of the topsail schooner Laurel in Cook Straits, evidence was given by Captain Abrams contradicting; the statement made at the last hearing by a previous witness, that the Laurel had sprung a leak by striking a rock on a trip to Waitara, which had been stopped by pieces of guernsey. Two seamen corroborated the evidence given by Captain Abrams. The Nelson Artillery Cadets won the gun competition against the Wellington Cadets by one point. Both teams wex - e complimented by Colonel Pcarco, the offi cer commanding the district, for the pro ficiency shown. The Armed Constabulary, who left here to take part in any disturbance which should occur at Timaru on New Year’s Day, returned this morning. All hut two operators here have re sumed work.

Forty applications for nominated immi grants will be sent this mail. The Blenheim operators seem more de termined and confident than ever. Seven or eight have obtained employment else where. It is stated a public subscription list will be opened to assist them when their funds run short. Several cadets from Wellington arrived at Blenheim this morning. The steamer Jane Douglas, which left for Kaikoura and Lyttelton last evening, returned this morning with her engine damaged. Wellington, Jan. 5.

The barque Scottish Prince, 03 days from London, arrived this morning, after an uneventful passage. She brings GO adults and 44 children as passengers. One steerage passenger died during the voyage. Ross, Jan. 3.

A little girl aged two and a half years met with a singular accident to-day. She foil into a large vessel containing hot jam which had been set down on the floor to cool, and is so badly scalded that it is very doubtful whether she will survive.

Charleston, Jan. 3. Quite a small rush is setting into Cronan villc. Before Christmas two miners ob tained ten ounces of retorted gold as the result of eight days’ work. Plenty of water t > work the ground will be soon available. Prospecting and pegging are actively going on. Nelson, Jan. 5.

A man named Blanche, a fisherman, was found drowned in the harbor, near the new Commercial Wharf, this after noon. An inquest is being held. Dunedin, Jah. 3.

The “Star” and “Times” supports the operators on strike, saying they have never been dealt with, and urge Govern ment to make a searching enquiry before taking any decisive action against the strikers.

About 5000 people attended the Cale donian games yesterday. Carrisbrook won the cricket match easily, scoring 199 to Invercargill’s G2, and 00 for seven wickets.

The Interprovincial Match Committee have reduced their team for the Canter bury match, leaving fourteen players from whom to make a final selection. The names are —Cargill, Clarke, Coliinson, Conway, Cooke, Crawshaw, Haskell, M'Grcgor, M'Lennan, Paramor, Parker, Reade, Spring, and Vernon. Dunedin, Jan. 5.

'Die Mountain Water Race Company, and other claims at Tinker’s, washed up with excellent results, about 2000ozs. net. The criminal sittings opened to-day. In sentencing Thos. Chalmers Reid to eight years’ imprisonment, His Honor said that while it was impossible to exonerate from blame the directors and share holders of the company of which the prisoner had been manager, in entrusting him with unlimited control of the affairs of the company, that was no palliation of his offence, which he (the Judge) could characterise as nothingless than systematic plunder. Thomas Emlay pleaded guilty to larceny from a dwelling, and got twelve months’ imprisonment. Alex. Nicholson, for larceny, got six months. Nominations for 41 immigrants have been sent by the outgoing mail. No bills were found against Thomas Watson for rape, and Mitchell and Lees for horse-stealing ; Craig, manslaughter, asj engineer of the city tramways. The sentence of Betman, for stabbing, was twelve months, and that of Coughlin, for burglary, was two years, while Fell, for forgery, got twelve months. Judge Wil liams decided that ho cannot try Milton, charged with embezzlement, as he is a life member of the Athenaeum, so the case will be heard in Christchurch.

Invercargill, Jan. 3.

John Harford, steward of the May Queen, who was arrested for drunkennessjon Friday morning, was found to have seven watches, a sum of money, and a quantity of jewellery, gathered during visits to the Caledonian games and several hotels. He was remanded to Jan. 11, when seven charges of robbery will bo heard. Over L 270 gate money was taken at the sports in two days.

THE LATEST.

LATEST FROM EUROPE.

( Keuter's. ) London, Jan, 4.

Mr. Parnell’s visit to America is made chiefly with the object of making speeches appealing for relief of the distress existing in Roland.

Sr. Petersburg, Jan. 2.

There has been an extensive discovery of Nihilism in the ranks of the Russian army, and the penalties for Nihilists in the army reserve has been consequently largely increased. Hong Kong, Dec. 27.

A hurricane recently passed over Zebu, doing considerable damage to the ship ping. The Maria, a French barque lying there with 2015 bales of hemp for Mel bourne, was totally dismasted, and driven ashore on rocks, and now lies in a bad position with six feet of water in her hold.

PEE OUR SPECIAL WIRE,

INTERBED YIN 01AL. Wait aka, Jan. 5. The s.s. Hanna Mokau sails to-night forMokau, where her owners have made arrangements with the Natives for a cargo of coal, and they are willing to work the mine and bring the coal down in boats to the steamer, the river at present being unnavigable the whole distance. An ex perienced miner will accompany them. New Plymouth, Jan. 5. Major Atkinson leaves here to-morrow morning for Hawera. It is supposed that he will go right through to Wellington on Saturday. Several deputations waited upon him with regard to local matters.- He also attended the meeting of _ flip Harbor Board, and resigned his position as a member and Chairman.

Wellington’, Jan. 5. The Supreme Court Criminal business commenced tb is morning. Justice Rich mond, in his charge to the Grand Jury, referred to the calendar as being the average for this district; and most of the charges were not of a serious nature. With reference to the case of William Kales, for dual voting at last election for the House, His Honor spoke strongly m favor of the preservation of the Grand Jury as standing between Government and the people, and as able to prevent vexatious prosecutions. Although the committing Magistrates had hitherto executed their duties in a highly com mendable manner, yet they were liable to favor Government (from whom they obtained their bread and butter) for political purposes. He said a dangerous power would be given to Go vernment unless tire Grand Jury were preserved. He admitted that the Grand Jurysystem was somewhat cumbrous and capable of improvement, but it was a pro tection to the liberty cf subjects. The Grand Jury have found .as yet true I,ills as follows Thos. Wisdom, alias Ramsay, larceny ; Toko Macc, on three charges of horse stealing ; Francis Young, larceny from a dwelling. The latter was sentenced to six months’ hard labor. The native lad Take Moko was next arraigned, and pleaded guilty to three charges of horse stealing. Counsel for defence ap plied to have him sent to a reforatory. His Honor remanded prisoner until Wed nesday to consider the matter. Thomas Wisdom, alias Ramsay, and G. T. Lee, alias Smith, alias Webb, wore found guilty of larceny, and remanded for sentence. No bill was found against T. W. Henley, for larceny. This afternoon Justice Richmond re ferred to the gaols of New Zealand in strong terms of condemnation, terming them hotbeds of vice, in consequence of absence of separation between different classes of prisoners. The Hon. John Bryce has taken the portfolio of Native Minister in addition to the portfolio which be now holds. The passengers by the ship Bebington were admitted to pratique to-day. The steamer Grafton, which left on Saturday night for Westport, had to put into Nelson last night, having broken the piston rod of the circulating pump.

Christchurch, Jan. 5.

The following is that portion of Judge Johnston’s address to the Jury which refers to the riot cases :—I come to that portion of the present assize which neces sarily creates very painful reflections. It is not a very satisfactory thing that at this time of day, in a British colony, there should be traces found of the old feuds and dissensions which in old times in the mother country of the British dominions have created so much anxiety. One might have well hoped that in a community like'this, where wo may safely say there is alargeamount of personal civil and religious liberty and where prosperity is as extensive as in any part of the world at any stage of its existence, no person would have been so misguided and ill-advised as to disturb the peace under the excitement of evil passions. What one says in this place is so liable to be misunderstood that I think I shall best discharge my duty by saying little now. I only trust that the good sense, of the people, when they have recovered from the shock just given to them, will so demonstrate the inutility and folly of a small body of men attempting to act contrary to law, by as sorting their views and gratifying their passions at the expense of the community, as to prevent the necessity for laws being made of a coercive cearacter. If, however, the peace of the community cannot be otherwise preserved, such laws must bo passed. In the present cases it is gratifying to know that the co-re ligionists of the accused have not only expressed no sympathy with them, but have repudiated their action. The law permits persons to join to gether for purposes not illegal. There is no restriction against their going through the public streets with any demonstration they think lit, so long as they do not disturb the public peace. I understand the cases to be of this kind It is usual for various benefit societies to have meetings of a social and friendly character on what is commonly called Boxing Day. Among these societies there is one which chooses, quite within the law, to call itself by a name which suggests a political and religious difference. They are perfectly justified in doing so. The Orange Societies are, I understand bene fit societies. They use the Orange colors for reasons you all know, but which should be only discoverable from the pages of history ; for the causes which led to their being adopted have long ago disappeared. They are, however, quite whhin the law in using these colors and emblems, and in going through the streets in procession, so long as they do it with out provoking a disturbance or a breach of the peace. If they are interfered with in the exercise of this right, we may well protect them. The indictment will he for riotous assault and for unlawfully assembling. Ido not know whether there will be a count for assault with intent to do grevious bodily harm, though there is good ground for it. It is perfectly com petent for the prosecution to refrain from presenting an indictment for felony, and they may be satisfied with an indictment for misdemeanor. His Honor then re ferred to the similar cases at another place, pointing out that there the Rio: Act had been read, a fact which materially altered the nature of the offence. In this case, the charge is only one of riot, which is defined in "law as a tumultuous disturbance of the peace by three persons at least, assembled together of their own authoritj', with the intent to assist one another against anyone who shall oppose them in the execution of some private enterprise, and afterwards actually execut ing the same to the terror of the people. His Honor showed how the acts alleged to have been committed tallied with the letter of the law, and concluded by stating that if the accused were acting for a common purpose, the action of each was the action of all.

Yount' Pillow, who attempted a few weeks ago to come in the role of the Kellys, pleaded guilty to the charges both of larceny and attempted highway rob bery, for which he received one and four years’ penal servitude cumulative. David Grubb, a post office clerk, got eighteen months for stealing three letters from the office.

Roderick M'Lemian, from Rapier, received two years hard labour for forgery. The Customs receipts for December were L 15,720 4s. Gd. The receipts for the quarter wore LIS, 15b 45., and for the second quarter of the previous year L 56,347 2s. 9d., the falling off being due of course to the commercial crisis of the last few months.

Two lads were summoned in thp R.M. Court io-day for driving bicycles on a foot path. The cases being the first of the kind wore dismissed.

Blenheim, Jan. 0. The “ Marlborough Express” appeared as an evening paper to-day. The strike of telegraph operators still continues, not one of the twenty-throe having accepted the unsatisfactory terms offered by Dr. Lemon. Hokitika, Jan. 5. The Claud Hamilton took away last trip to Melbourne large parcels of gold, viz., 10,4360z5. 19dwts. 21grs., valued at L 41,748, shipped as follows : By the Bank of Now Zealand, G3o9ozs. Gdwts. 12grs.; by the Union Bank, 41270z5. 13dwts. 9grs. In addition to the above, the Claud Hamilton shipped from Greyraouth 73G20z5., making a total from both ports of 17,798 oza. The total amount shipped for the 12 nionthf} ended Dec. 3, 1879, ia GG,956 ozs, valued at L2G7,824.

Oamahu, Jan. 5. The amount realised by the Athnseum Bazaar is L 520.

Dunedin, Jan 3. The Dunedin telegraph operators are still on strike.

STRING BINDER TRIAL.

[By Telegraph.]

(From our own Correspoij^M®,) CHRiSTCHUECii.'fIain 5.

The trial of the string binder in Mr. John Overend’s paddock, at Prebbleton, to-day, was the commencement of a new era in harvesting in New Zealand. Nothing could be more complete than the work done, and no crop was ever better tied. It is a much more complete machine than the wire binder in many respects, and especially surpasses it in the uniform size of the sheaves, in tightness of binding, and in being entirely unaffected by the wind. Unfortunately there will be none to be had this season, but the}' will be used next season, as the string binder can bo attached in substitution of the wire binder. The coil of twine will be less than that of wire, the bight is perfectly secure, and the binding more uniformly tight.

ANNUAL MEETING OF RATE PAYERS AT MOUNT SOMERS.

This meeting was held at the Road Board office yesterday at the hour of 2 p.m., owing to the business not being ready. “ >

At 2 p.m., the retiring Chairman, Mr. Walker, took the chair, and briefly apolo gised to the ratepayers present that, owing to circumstances beyond the con trol of himself or the Board, the meeting was held at the Road Board office in lieu of the school, where the Board had resolved that it should be held, in order to accommodate the ratepayers; and also for the fact that it had not been held at noon. He [the Chairman) had hoped that by this hour the annual statement would have been ready to be presented to the ratepayers ; but lie was sorry such was not the case. It was a position that lie and the Board were as sorry to be placed in as any of the ratepayers, and one in which they were as little to be blamed. Ho could only suggest that either the meeting adjourn until such time as the statement was ready, or else proceed with such business as the ratepayers chose to consider, and have the accounts published afterwards. Mr. Morgan stated that, so far as he knew, the School Committee knew nothing about the meeting being hold at the school house, the Committee never having been consulted. The Chairman stated that leave had been granted, and Mi - . Taylor, Chairman, of the School Committee, explained that on his own authority he had acceded to the application of the Board, considering that it was a proper place to hold such meeting; and that it was a request ha could grant without summoning a special meeting of the School Committee.

The following resolution was then carried Proposed by Mr. Morgan, “ That the Chairman adjourn the meet ing for fourteen days, and that the same be duly advertised (to enable ratepayers to attend) in the “ Press,” “Times,” “ Maty'-and' “ Guardian.” Also that; the Board be requested to prepare a de tailed statement, giving ratepayers a clear and minute account of every item of expenditure in each ward for the past 12 months.”

After some discussion it “ That the meeting adjourn tisodtime.” v

LONGBEACH ROAD BOARD.

The usual monthly meeting of this Board was held on Saturday, the 3rd of January. Present—Messrs. Grigg (Chair man), Clark, Dawson, and Taylor. A financial statement was read by the Clerk, from which it was seen that the debit balance at the Bank was L 1602 15a. lid., which would be still greater when the pay-sheet for L 548 6s. 4d. was passed for payment. Rates collected up to date amounted to L 725 11s. 4d., and neither the subsidy now due, nor any other sum of money had as yet been paid by Go vernment.

The Clerk was requested to send an urgent telegram to the Treasury, asking when the half subsidy now due for last year might be paid. Correspondence was read—From Mr. J. S. Bruce, Architect for the new office buildings, asking for payment of a sum of money which was deducted at the time his commission account was paid. The Board decided to pay the amount claimed. From Messrs. Branson and Purnell, solicitors, giving an opinion as to the manner in which the forthcoming annual election of members should be held. The letter was received.

From Messrs. Crowe and Lysaght, James Osborne, and Henry Hudson, ask ing for bridges over drains on Graham’s and Ford’s roads, and at Waterton, re spectively Those for Osborne were granted, and the Surveyor was desired to inspect and report as to the position and circumstances of the others.

Mr. George Wilcocks, lessee of the Wheatsheaf Hotel, wrote asking that gravel might be spread in front of the Hotel. The request was declined. From Mr. Jno. Black, asking that an additional sum of LlO might be' paid him on his contract for the shingling of Bell’s road, owing to one of the gravel pits from, which he had to take gravel being in a different paddock to that specified. The Board decided not to allow this claim, but agreed to pay for the repairs of the pump used in the work. From Mr. Jno. Bell offering to sell one and a quarter acre of land to the Board, as a gravel pit. The offer was accepted and the Olerk was instructed to ask Messrs. 0- S. Fooks and Son to make the necessary survey. Tenders were opened for re-shingling the road between Window and Willowby, and that of Mr. James Fletcher was ac cepted. The tender of Mr. Samuel Holland for the office of poundkeeper, for the new pound at Waterton, was accepted for recommendation fo the County Council. All the tenders for formation of footpaths at Tinwald were declined, in consequence of the very low position of the Board’s funds at present. The rate lists were examined, and the collector instructed to sue forthwith for all unpaid rates for the present year, as well as for the year ending 31st March, 1879.

Accounts amounting to L 290 10s. Bd. were examined and passed for payment. It being discovered that Mr. E, G. Wright, a member of the Jlpard, had been absent from four consecutive meet ings of the Board without having first obtained the Board’s sanction, his seat was declared to be vacant, and the Re turning Officer was instructed to take steps for holding an election to fill the vacancy. The meeting then adjourned.

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, TUESDAY, JANUARY 6, 1880.



MEMORANDA. MEETINGS, &c. January 6 Annual Meeting Upper Ash burton Road Board. January 7 Annual Meeting Wakanui Road Board. January 7 —Annual Meeting Longbeach Road Board. January 7 —Monthly Meeting Ashburton County Council. January B—General Meeting Ashburton A. and P. Association. . January 19—Adjourned Meeting Mount Somers Road Board. THE “ASHBURTON GUARDIAN.” NOTICE TO SUBSCRIBERS. Q( ÜBSCRIBERS are reminded that a O NEW QUARTER has just COM MENCED, and SUBSCRIPTIONS paid in ADVANCE arc subject to a DIS COUNT of 2s. on the Annual Sub scription. Intending new Subscribers are requested to send in their orders as early as possible to the publishers, or any of the agents in the country districts. Terms —In advance, 245. per annum ; and posted 30s. per annum. WEEKS & DIXON, Proprietors. SEALY BROS., SEEDSMEN AND NURSERYMEN, East Street, ASHBURTON. Farm, Garden, and Flower Seeds and Garden Requisites of every descrip tion at Lowest Rates. Nursery —Moore Street. 43*



NOTICE TO ADVERTISERS. All orders for insertion must be written legibly on the face of the advertisement. When no order is given, the advertise ment will be inserted until counter manded, and charged accordingly. Advertisements received after 10 o’clock each evening will be placed over the leader heading and charged double rates. All notices of Births, Marriages, or Deaths must be accompanied by the sig nature of the sender, as a guarantee of good faith. All advertisements and business letters to be addressed The Manager ; literary communications should be addressed to The Editor.



An Awful Complaint. —When ay-tflfflfr becomes afflicted with the awful com plaint of writing personal puffs of himself or a village newspaper, under a thin guise of news, he is not cured by a coldness on the part of the editor. The inveterate self flatterer simply carries “ the news” to the paper over the way, and lays the flattering unction to his soul that the world is blind. It is such things as these that keeps a newspaper man away from church. He stays at home and ponders on the thinness of the stuff of which humanity is sometimes constructed. —- American paper.