The Ashburton Guardian, COUNTY AGRICULTURAL & SPORTING RECORDER TUESDAY, JULY 27, 1880.

There is not a little talk just now over the want of colonial enterprise in the establishment of manufactories for work ing up the raw material, for many in dustries, produced in Hew Zealand. It is one of the reproaches of the colony that, notwithstanding the quantity and varied character of her products, the extensive resources she has in soil, mineral deposits, timber, etc., she is almost wholly depen dent on the importer for everything she uses. In the article of clothing, for in stance, the market is stocked with goods made in England, in spite of the fact that Hew Zealand supplies no mean proportion of the wool from which these goods are manufactured. Several of her provinces are known to have plenty of mineral* that might be extensively used here, but as yet Hew Zealand iron has only a name, and every tool used by her workmen has to be brought across the sea. Hever in her history has she been so well supplied with oats, and some statisticians say she has as much of that commodity on hand as will supply her own wants for two years. Yet enter prise seems to be wanting to turn it in any quantity into oatmeal. We produce hides largely, yet out leather manufac tures are insignificant—and this in face of the knowledge that a numerous body of men are unemployed, hundreds of them possessing the skill that is required for working at many of those trades for which we could supply raw material, and which now supply us with the articles wa im port for our daily use. In a recent issue a correspondent called attention the suitableness of Hew Zealand both in soil and climate for the production of flax —bearing out what had already been said on the subject by Mr. Mur phy, at a recent meeting in Christ church, and suggesting the article of European flax as a product of Hew Zea land that would command a remunerative price in the English market. Some days ago we were presented with a bar of excel lent soap that had been made in Ashbur ton by a gentleman residing here. It was a good sample both for color, durability, and detergent properties, and he assured us that with proper appliances it could be made and sold in Ashburton at a fair profit. All these facts point out ways in which much of our now waste labor could be utilised. The handsome dividend given by the Kaiapoi Woollen Factory shows that there is plenty of room and inducement for the development of woollen weaving in the colony, and points to this industry as a suitable one to be prosecuted in such a county as Ash burton, where wool could be obtained straight from the shearing sheds, and where we know plenty of the proper kind of labor could be procured with out sending to the centres of the woollen industry at Home. We feel certain, also, that the manufacture of leather only wants a sufficient investment of capital to make it a paying speculation, for here the raw material could be obtained at very low prices. Regarding the manufacture of soap, we do not know that, beyond local supply, and, perhaps, Christchurch and Timaru, any very extensive market would open up for the article ; but even those limited outlets for the industry would be worth taking advantage of, and tallow would be at almost unlimited command. There are really plenty of industries that could be made local ones, the chief wants appearing to be capital and enterprise. Wa have heard it suggested that the Agri cultural and Pastoral Association should take the matter of local industries in hand, and do what it can to establish and foster them. We would be glad to see that body move in the matter, but we are afraid it has quite enough to do to attend to the interests of agricul ture. We would prefer to see companies formed of practical and energetic men, and industries started under their auspices. It was a company of local men that gave us our gasworks, why not another company give us a wool-mill, another a tannery, another a soap boiling establishment ? Mints of money are not absolutely required to make a beginning, and if some of those gentlemen who seem to be in earnest in advocating the cul tivation of local industry were to take the initiative, we doubt not something might be done. At least, information might be obtained that would be useful for guidance as to what success may be hoped for.

It is, of course, an easy thing to write in the strain we have done, because the want of manufacturing industries is patent to every eye ; it is quite another thing to act in the matter cf their insti tution, and not being experts in any of the industries at which we have hinted, we cannot very well advise ; but there can be no harm whatever, when we hear the industry subject talked of at every street corner, in urging the ventilation of the question, and the taking of steps to ascer tain what prospects would lie before any enterprising enough to take a progressive step.

New School. —Mr. J. E. Buchanan’ in another column announces that he has taken over Mr. Davidson’s educational establishment, and is prepared to receive pupils.

Postponed. —The sale advertised by Messrs. Edmiston, Gundry, and Co. to take place at Mr. W. C. Morgan’s, Alford Forest, has been postponed to Thursday, sth August.

The Christchurch Soup Kitchen.— Last week the number relieved at the soup kitchen averaged 108 per day. A large number of these were men travelling through Christchurch in search of work

The Unemployed. —There are now on the Government books at Christchurch 216 names of unemployed men, ninety nine having been received during the week. Mount Somers Road District.—A meeting of ratepayers in the Mount Somers Road district will be held in the Road Board office, Mount Somers, on the the Bth of August, to consider the pro posed change of a road on Messrs. Gould and Cameron’s property near. Methven.

Hood’s Crossing Bridge. —We learn that the bridge over the South Branch of the river at Hood’s, Mount Somers, is complete, and only waits the Engineer’s approval. A short time will suffice to complete the approaches, and the bridge will be opened for traffic.

Painful Accident in Christchurch. A man named Ralph Reading, while working a circular saw at Messrs. Hargreaves’ timber yard, Christchurch, yesterday was struck in the face by a splinter of wood. The splinter laid open the left cheek, split the upper jaw, and divided the palate.

Waeanui Library. —An entertain ment, with a dance afterwards, will be given in the Wakanui School on Friday evening, in aid of the local library. A full programme has been prepared, and the entertainment, apart from the object, ought to be an attractive one. Friends of the institution ought to see Mr. A. G. Earle about tickets.

R.M. Courts. —Pursuant to section 47 of the Counties Act, 1876, His Excellency has declared the R.M. Court, Asburton, to be the R.M. Court for the Ridings of Mount Somers, Upper Ashburton, and Ashburton, and the South Rakaia R.M. Court to be that for Mount THutt, and parties aggrieved with the rolls for these ridings must apply for relief to these Courts.

Thefts of Trees from the Domain. —We are pleased to know that the desire for planting is growing amongst the resi dents of the town, but it is a pity that anyone amongst us should think of culti vating the planting taste at the expense of his honesty. Someone is doing this, how ever, for sixteen young trees were stolen from the Domain on Friday, and seventeen last week, besides innumerable single trees at occasional intervals. This sort of thing is particularly distressing to the caretaker and greatly hinders the work of beautify ing the Domain. Should the thief be caught we can assure him that justice will be both swift and sudden. Police Cases. —In the absence of Mr. Guinness, through indisposition, his Wor ship the Mayor occupied the Bench yesterday at the R.M. Court. John Thompson was charged with being drunk and disorderly and resisting the arresting constable. Prisoner acted in a somewhat eccentric manner while the case was pro ceeding, and evinced, by his actions a desire to [persuade his Wosship that he was hard of hearing, but on being fined 30s. for misbehaviour, muttered the retort that he would take it out. John Downie, for a like offence, pleaded guilty, and there being a similar charge against him, of only a recent date, his Worship gave him eight days’ imprisonment, with hard labor. A first offender escaped, with a caution.

St. Stephen’s Chuech. —The new in cumbent, the Rev. A. Watson Hands was officially inducted into his charge on Sun day. The morning and evening services were largely attended both by members of the church and others. The services were ably conducted in the morning by the Rev. Mr. Harris, 8.A., of Christ church, who read the lessons and de livered an address, and read the Bishop’s letter authorising the induction of the new pastor, and the ceremony of handing over the keys was performed by Mr. Bul lock. Mr. Hands then preached a most impressive sermon from Solomon’s Song, chapter Gv. 3. “lam my beloved’s, and my beloved is mine.” The evening ser vice was largely attended, and the Rev. Mr. Harris preached the sermon fron 11. Corinthians, chapter 2, v. 16. “ Who is sufficient for these things?” the lessons being read by Mr. Harris. There was a full attendance of the choir under the well known guidance of Miss Gates. “The Disruption.” —We publish in this issue the first instalment of a Scotch story of the “Disruption” that is, the secession of thenowflourishingFreeChurch from the Established Church of Scotland. The angularities of the Scottish character on ecclesiastical matters are most amus ingly hit off, and the story, which bristles with humor, is all the more welcome that it is the production of one who was a student of the Free Church and figures in the tale. The book went out of print long ago, not, however, before a large number of copies had been sold, and the tale had caused quite a sensation throughout the country. It was withdrawn from sale, we believe, because the author, having been offered a good Established living, saw fit to go back to that body, and could not, of course, reconcile the authorship of such a book as the “ Disruption” with his new position. We have been asked to re publish the story because of its own merit, and because of the great difficulty there is in procuring a copy of the work, that from which we are working being, we under stand, the only one in the'colony. Scotch words occur here and there, that may trouble our southern readers, but the pawky Scotchman who kindly gave us the tale has also undertaken to supply a glossary of the hard words which will be published as they occur. The “ YekticalFeed.” —Quite a crowd of people thronged the window of Orr and Co. ’s drapery shop on Saturday evening, to witness the working of the new Davis Vertical Feed Sewing Machine. The machine was attendedbyan American lady, Mi's. Fiske, and her movements were very closely watched while she was work ing it. We say “-working”—but wo are somewhat in error here, for to our un initiated eyes her work seemed to consist of simply putting the articles to be sewed into the machine, and then sitting with folded arms till the machine did its work. We don’t know anything about sewing machines —don’t want to ; when sewing labor has been reduced to a minimum, and made as easy as lighting one’s pipe, we may have saddled on to us the extra duty of making our own starched gar ments, and if machine makers go on as the Davis people seem to be going that is what it is coming to. We saw a cup and saucer made with the machine ; we saw a breakfast plate turned out; we saw six thicknesses of tweed sewed together at one time “ without alteration of tension or stitch ” whatever that may mean, and we saw seven thicknesses of calico sewed, a change from that to the finest frilling, without a change of stitch, tension, needle

or thread. In fact it was pointed out that the most extraordinary things imaginable could be done with this machine, but in consequence of' our conservative notions regarding the duties of the head of a house, we were afraid to become too learned in this machine’s abilities. We would advise all the Ashburton ladies to visit Orr and Co. ’s, and see this extra ordinary Yankee affair,

Lecture. —The Rev. A. W. Hands is to give a, lecture in the Templar Hall this evening under the auspices of the recently formed Temperance Association. We understand the rev. gentleman’s subject will be- —“ The Wines of the Bible.” Compensation. —Mr. David White, who claimed LI, 500 from Government for 3« roods of land taken for the Addington workshops, was yesterday awarded by the Compensation Court L 786. Government offered L6OO. The Library Readings. —The next reading of the course in aid of the Library will be given on Thursday evening in the Town Hall. The vocalists are Mesdames Craighead and Dunn, and Miss Permain ; and Messrs. Craighead and Dunn, and songs, duetts, and glees, will be given. The String Band will play three pieces, and the readers will be the Revs. A. M. Beattie, and B. J. Westbrook, and Mr. T. A. Gates, while recitations will be given by Messrs. Minnis, Rowe, and Twomey. Parish Meeting. —A meeting of the parishioners of St. Stephan’s was held in the Library last night to elect two Vestry men in place of Messrs Boyle and Felton, resigned. Rev. Mr. Hands occupied the chair. Mr. Ward raised the question of the legality of Mr. Bullock’s acts as Church warden, seeing that he had not been con firmed in the office by the Bishop. Rev. Mr. Hands said Mr. Bullock had been verbally confirmed by the Bishop, who*: had promised to send a confimatory but had evidently forgotten to do so.| Ultimately it was resolved that Mr. Hands write to the Bishop asking him to give a formal confirmation to Mr. Bullock’s appointment. A question as to the Vestry men having a voice in the control of the Church’s finance having been disposed of, the election of two gentlemen to fill the vacancies on the vestry was proceeded with. Messrs Joseph Hunt, F. Mayo, and R. Bean were proposed. All three gen tlemen were highly spoken of by the pro posers and seconders, but eventually Messrs. Hunt and Mayo were elected. Mr. W. 0. Walker in the course of some remarks on the representation of Tinwald at the Vestry said he would be pleased to see a resident of Tinwald holding a seat. Mr. Fooks desired Mr. Carter to stand, but that gentleman declined. After the election of Vestrymen, and Mr. Ward had stated his willingness to attend to' the interests of Tinwald, the meeting ad journed, and a meeting of Churchwardens and Vestrymen took place.

CAMBRIDGE.

(From our own Correspondent.)

Things down our way are not very lively. Life, down here, like a pendulum, goes on with a never ceasing I-go-on-for ever kind of monotony. The weather for the last week or two has been remarkably dull, neither wet nor fine, and, one morning we had a fall of snow but not much to speak of. The farmers round about are busy getting in their seed and from early morning to dewy eve can be heard on all sides the familiar phrases “ get up Duke, now Captain.” Plough ing and harrowing are the standing orders.

Last Friday night, our dominie intended to give a lecture on “ Agricultural Chem istry ” in the school ; but owing to the un favourableness of the weather, clarty roads, and the prevalence of bad colds, &c., only ten rolled up to hear it. As that number would not pay for the advertising it was postponed. Disappoiniment was expressed by the few present at the non delivery, and the hope it would come off next full moon when the weather will be more settled. I have since heard that the date has been fixed for 20th August. A petition, pretty numerously signed was, some weeks ago, sent to the Post master-General praying for a mail service and post office to be established here ; but so far nothing has been heard in the shape of a reply. Parliamentary duties, I sup pose, are too heavy for any attention to be paid to us. We must exercise patience. Service was held in the Primitive Methodist Chapel yesterday, conducted by the Rev. Mr. Keall in the absence of the regular minister Mr. Smith. A very able sermon was delivered, the rev. gen tleman taking for his text the eleventh verse of Mark eleven. Cambridge, Monday.

ASHBURTON BOROUGH COUNCIL.

The Borough Council held its usual fortnightly meeting last evening. There were present all the members except Messrs. Robinson and Bullock. Mr. Alfred Harrison, the newly elected coun cillor took his seat for the first time, and received the usual congratulations. fire inspector. Before the reading of the minutes, his Worship desired the appointment of Fire Inspector to be reconsidered. Personally, he was not in favor of the Fire Brigade captain being Fire Inspector, but thought the captain of the Fire Police should hold the position, as the latter was an insurance agent. Mr. St. Hill hoped the Mayor’s sug gestion would not be entertained. He would oppose it in every way. Mr. Parkin said the brigade would not work under the control of the Fire Police, and as for the in surance agents none of them turned up at the last fire until nine o’clock next morning. Mr. R. Friedlander denied Mr. Par kin’s statement about the insurance agents ; and Mr. Parkin explained that they did not appear officially. Mr. Williamson having pointed out that the discussion was irregular before the minutes of the previous meeting were confirmed, the matter dropped. The minutes of the previous meeting were then read and confirmed. mayor’s statement.

His Worship, in his opening remarks, stated that the balance in the bank was L 344 9s. Cd.; dog taxes, L 5 ; total col lected, L 990 14s. 9d. With reference to Mr. Crisp’s salary, that gentlaman had consented to a reduction of ten per cent. The by-laws came into force on Saturday last, and several applications for licenses had been received. One of the carriers had interviewed him regarding the hard ships which they would be liable to in having to pay for their licenses now, and then again in two months. A Crown grant, at a cost of L 3 35., had been re ceived of reserves in the Borough. Several applications had been made for these reserves. THE WATER SUPPLY. In reply to a telegram, the Town Clerk of Tiraaru wrote, informing the Council that the Timaru Borough Council had their waterworks plant on hand, but should it be found that additional pipes were required, further communications would be made. Mr. F. Mainwaring, Clerk to the County Council wrote, forwarding the following resolution re water pipes, passed by the County at its last meeting : —“ Resolved —That the County Council approves of the course proposed in the Mayor’s letter, and that from all pipes sold the proceeds bo placed to the water supply vote, to be operated upon by cheques signed by the Chairman and the Mayor.” A VERANDAH. From Mr. R. Bird, asking permission to erect a verandah in front of Mr. Har rison’s auction room, Havelock street. Referred to the Works Committee. THE BRIDGE APPROACHES. The Clerk to the County Council wrote, forwarding copy of a letter received from the Assistant-Engineer, Railway Depart ment, referring to the very bad state of the approaches to the Ashburton bridge, and asking the Council’s immediate atten tion to the approaches at the northern

end. Mr. Mainwaring’s letter also in formed the Council that the, gates at the commencement of the bridge were likely to be removed to the foot of the ap proaches. The matter was left in the hands of the Mayor. POSTS FOR HORSES. From the Clerk to the County Council, asking permission to erect two posts, with cross-rail, for the purpose of tying up horses opposite the County Council chambers. Referred to Works Committee, with the suggestion that posts be allowed, but no cross-rails. RESERVES. From Messrs. Poyntz and Co., asking what rent the Council required for that part of R.S. (1642, No. 502) abutting on T. S. 505, for a term of twenty-one years. To- be replied to, to the effect that the re serves would shortly be put up to auction. a withdrawal, i' From Mr. S. Porter, withdrawing his tender for the cottage on Reserve No. 1'689, in consequence of his being misin formed as to which cottage out of two others the Council wished to dispose of. To be laid on the table. - A complaint. i From Mr. J. Mcßae, drawing the at tention of the Council to the fact that Richard Bird had applied for a license for a hansom cab, of which he was not the owner, and that such cab was the pro perty of Charles Royle, who had been to three months’ imprisonment for vagrancy, and intimating that the said cab was used for driving about dis reputable characters. Consideration de ferred. PETITIONS. i, Mr. Harrison presented a petition from the carters and carriers of the township complr/ining of the hardship entailed on them through having to pay for their lie eryies at once and then again in two months. Mr. Harrison pleaded with the Council on behalf of the petitioners, as he considered their complaint was certainly one worthy of the Council’s considera tion. The petition asked that the Coun cil would not claim the fee until, the next fiscal year commenced, and would remit the fee now payable, on account of the very indifferent state of business. Mr. St. Hill questioned whether the Council had power to remit the fee. Mr. Harrison thought it would be hardly legal to charge twelve months for two months.

Mr. Parkin said, through the Coun cil not having the By-laws in operation, the carriers had received the benefit of the roads of the Borough while it had been in existence. The ratepayers had had to pay rates, and he could not see why the petitioners should be exempted from paying the fee. His Worship said the Council had the power to inflict penalties, but he did not know whether they had the power to re mit them.

Mr. St. Hill suggested that if the peti tion were complied with, possibly the merchants might put forth a similar plea for the remitting of the kerosene tax.

Mr. Harrison considered the cases were not parallel. Mr. Williamson was not inclined to entertain the petition, but if any indi vidual carrier showed the Council he was in a destitute state, then it would be time enough to discuss the question. Mr. Friedlander said he thought the carriers ought to be thankful to escape paying their fee for the previous year. If the By-laws had been in force, instead of having to pay L2, they would have had to pay L 3. Mr. Orr coincided with the remarks of the last speaker. Mr. Friedlander proposed, and Mr. Parkin seconded charge the carriers and carters’ the fees laid down in the By-laws. ” Carried, Mr. Harrison being the only dissentient.| A petition was read from residents "on the West side of the town requsting that the Borough would take into consideration the advisableness of planting the reserves in that locality. His Worship thought that in the present state of the Borough’s finances the matter could not be entertained, but if the gentlemen signing the petition would consent to pay half the cost, then the matter might be referred to the Planting Committee. Mr. St. Hill, although a resident in the locality referred to, and one of the petitioners, felt that he could not urge the work to be undertaken. Mr. Parkin questioned whether, even if the residents were to pay half the amount, the Council could supply funds for the other half. Resolved—That the Council cannot, in the present state of its finances, under take the work. engineers’ report. Water Supply. —The water was admitted into the race on Wednesday evening, and has been running since then without interruption. Finding, however, from the amount of absorption, and the large quantity of water required to fill some of the basins in the gully, that the stream admitted was not making headway beyond a certain point, we cut a channel across the Town Belt, and brought in about double the volume. This has made a considerable difference, and filled a length of about fifteen chains of the gully to a depth of from 2ft. to 3ft. The water has not, however, made any progress since Saturday, and we propose to try the effect of putting a few loads of clay in some of the thirsty-looking spots. From the experience of Messrs. Saunders, in bringing the water for the mill along the Wakanui Creek bed, we consider the filling of the reservoir in Wills Street to be only a matter of time and patience. The daily flow into the gully we now calculate at about 1,600,000 gallons. We are now completing the permanent works at the intake, deepening and strengthen ing the main channel, and constructing concrete dam.

Shingle Contract. —Mr. Black has com pleted this contract, and has picked off the large stones, and replaced them with finer shingle. We propose utilizing the boulders as a foundation for cab and carriers’ stands in East Street. It would be advisable to get a further supply of shingle to make the work 1 ! complete in East Street, and some now could be used with advantage in the Alford'Forest Road. About 250 to 300 yards would be required irrespective of Burnett Street West, if that should be shingled. Burnett Street Extension. —We expect that this work will be completed this week. The Labor Gang have been principally engaged on work connected with the water supply, also, in stacking and apleading shingle, laying culverts, etc. THE WATER SUPPLY. His Worship said he had authorised the extra work of putting down a culvert, for the quicker bringing in of the water. Resolved, that the action of the Mayor be approved. Mr. Williamson questioned the wisdom of filling in with loads of claj, and favored putting in a channel through the Domain to bring in the water to the reservoir. Mr. Roberts suggested using the torn pipes which were at the disposal of the Council. Mr. St. Hill deprecated such a course, and Mr. Harrison suggested that patience was all that was required, and before long there would be an ample supply. Mr. Friedlander cautioned the Council not to interfere with the Engineer who, up to the present, had had the entire control of the work, and the success or failure of the water supply would be on his shoulders. However, the Engineer might be referred to Mr. Williamson’s sugges tion.

Both Messrs. St. Hill and Parkin were

of opinion that the sump required raising to cause a greater flow of water. The Mayor thought it Was hot dewable the water should be in the town'■for the present, as he questioned who the£ they were prepared for it. SHINGLING. It was resolved that tenders be called for the supply of the shingle, as referred to in the Engineers’ report. LICENSES. Mr. Parkin wished to know whether butchers were compelled by the by-laws to take out licenses. His Worship said he was not sufficiently acquainted with the law to answer such a question, but if, on reference to the solicitor, butchers were required to take out licenses, then the latter would have notice given them. THE BOROUGH MAP. Mr. Roberts wished to know when the map of the Borough would be completed. The incomplete map had been hanging up for a considerable time past, . and he be lieved the work had been paid for. The clerk was instructed to request the Borough Engineer to get the map com pleted without delay. ADVERTISING. Mr. Williamson moved the resolution of which he had given notice at last meeting, namely—“ That one of the newspapers in the Borough be the official paper of the Council for a term of three months, and that the Ashburton Mail be appointed for the next three months, being the oldest established paper in the county. Mr. St. Hill seconded the motion. Mr. Parkin wished to know whether in case of emergency, advertisements could be put in the evening paper. The Mayor explained that the Council would not be prohibited by the motion from giving an advertisement to any of the papers,- but the idea principally was to give the public to understand that a par ticular paper was the official paper of the Borough for a given term. MAIN ROADS WITHIN THE BOROUGH. The Mayor said he had decided not to bring forward his motion re the control of roads within the Borough, and requested permission to postpone the consideration of the matter for a month, when ho hoped that some members of the County Coun cil, who would be energetic in the interests of the Borough, would have returned from Parliament. (Hear, Hear.) The matter was accordingly held over for a month. A BROKEN LAMP-POST. It was resolved that the account for the re-erection of the lamp-post and lamp at the corner of Tancred street be sent in to Messrs. Marsh and Groves.

EYESORES. Mr. St. Hill said that if they could not have the reserve on the west side of the railway beautified, he certainly thought the whares in that locality could he dis pensed with. The place was becoming a sort of canvas-town. If the people were in distress he would not move in the matter, but he thought it was merely avarice which prompted them to erect such dwellings. He would move—“ That the owners of the tents and whares on the Borough Reserves be ordered to remove them at once.”

Mr. Parkin seconded, and the motion was carried.

Mr. St. Hill moved—“ That Messrs. Jameson and Roberts be instructed to at once clear the merchandise, etc., off the reserves belonging to the Borough which they were using.” It was not fair that one merchant should have the use of re serves gratuitously, while other persons had to pay for them. Mr. Roberts seconded, and the motion was carried. FENCING THE DOMAIN. The Mayor said he had seen Dr. Trevor with reference to erecting a post and rail fence at the portion of the Domain where the fencing had been taken down while the waterworks were being carried on, and Dr. Trevor offered L 5 towards the cost. The Mayor said that he had ac cepted the offer on behalf of the Council. The Mayor’s action was approved. A DUCK-POND. Mr. Williamson complained of the existence of a sort of duck-pond on the Railway Reserve, nearly opposite his premises, in East street. He thought his Worship might be able to get the railway authorities to attend to the matter. His Worship consented to see the Manager of Railways regarding the work. REPAIRING FOOTPATHS. Resolved —“ That the repairing of foot paths in Cameron street, on the west side of the railway, and the footpath between William street and the East Belt be re ferred to the Works Committee, LAMPS, ETC. It was decided to obtain three or four lamps, and Mr. Williamson suggested erecting a lamp at the corner of West and Havelock streets. A kerosene lamp might be put there, and, in addition to being a convenience to the public, would also be a means of ascertaining which was cheaper —gas or kerosene. The suggestion was adopted. THE BOROUGH’S LEGAL ADVISER.

His Worship thought it necessary for the Council to appoint a legal gentleman to whom matters might be referred in cases where the Borough was concerned. Mr. Parkin proposed, and Mr. St. Hill seconded —“ That Mr. Crisp be asked to undertake the duties of Solicitor to the Borough. ” Mr. Orr suggested that Messrs. Bran son and Purnell should be appointed, and remarked that if Mr. Crisp wore to take up actions against the Council, ho would not be able to pull the By-laws to pieces, seeing he had compiled them. Mr. Williamson reminded the Council that Messrs. Branson and Purnell had somewhat slighted the Council on a pre vious occasion by not making application for the position. Mr. Orr proposed the amendment — “ That Messrs. Branson and Purnell be asked to act as Solicitors to the Borough.” The amendment was carried. THE SIX-ANO-EIGHTPENCB COSTS. Mr. St. Hill wished to know whether a letter written by Miss O’Gallaghan, asking for a refund of Gs. Bd. had been answered? His Worship said that such applications could not be entertained by the Council. ACCOUNTS. On the accounts and pay-sheet being presented for approval, Mr. St. Hill wished to know on what ground the Clerk charged L3s. 3s. as Re turning Officer. Footpaths and other necessary works were required, and while people were walking up to their necks in mud, and the Council was powerless to alter the state of things on account of the condition of its finances, the Clerk was charging L 3 3s. for a day’s work, in addi tion to which he was receiving his salary as an officer of the Council.

Mr. Friedlander asked his Worship whether L 3 3s. was the usual amount charged by a returning officer. The Mayor said he was of opinion that the amount was not too much when the responsibilities of the office were taken into consideration. He understood that L 3 3s. was the amount usually paid. Mr. St. Hill moved, and Mr. Parkin seconded, that the amount be reduced by L2 2s. Mr. Friedlander said that if no ar rangement had been come to with the Re turning Officer, the Council should pay the same as other bodies. He moved an amendment that the sum of L 3 3s. be paid. Mr. Orr seconded, remarking that it was not only a usual thing in the colony, but also at Horae for Returning Officers to receive L 3 3s.

Mr. Williamson would oppose the motion, as the clerk had not had the power of refusing to do the work at the reduced amount. The Council might take action for the future, but they should'cer tainly pay the present account.

.. Mr. Parkin rose to speak, when Mr. Friedlander, who had previously been called to order for;atterapting to address the Council after having once spoken, wished to know why other members were not like wise prohibited from frequent speaking. His Worship stated that Mr. Parkin was quite at liberty to address the Council, as he had not yet spoken to the amend ment. Mr. Parkin intimated his intention of retiring from the Chamber, if he were to be treated in the manner adopted by Mr. Friedlander ; and after a few remarks the amendment was put and carried. NOTICES OF MOTION. “ That this Council at its next meeting inform the clerk that his services are no longer required at the expiration of the usual three months.— (Mr. St. Mill.) “ That this Council advertise in the Wellington, Christchurch, and Dunedin papers for a competent person to under take the duties of overseer of Borough Council’s works, and the duties of the Council offices at present undertaken by the present clerk at a salary of L 225 per annum, said duties to bo terminable at three months’ notice.—(Mr. St. Mill.) “That in all cases when printing is re quired, sealed tenders shall be called for, and be opened by the Council, or in cases of emergency by some two members of the Council appointed at the previous' meeting.”— (Mr. St. Mill.) Mr. Parkin also gave notice of a motion to the effect that the Finance Committee draw up a statement of profitable receipts and expenditure for the ensuing year, with a view to curtailing the departmental ex penses. Then Council then went into Committee on the question of licenses, the reporters being requested by the Mayor to retire.

PARLIAMENTARY.

Friday, July 23. The House resumed at 7.30. COMMITTEE OF SUPPLY. Item—L3so, clerk’s assistant. Reduced to L3OO. Item—L2oo, second clerk assistant. Reduced to LIBO. The items—Llso, extra clerical assist ance, and interpreter, L2OO, were passed ; also, th; items, messengers and con tingencies, L 570. Vote—House of Representatives, Hon. Mr. Speaker (addition to permanent salary, Lfiso), L2OO. Struck out. Item—Chairman of Committee (addition to permanent salary, L 400), L2OO. Struck, out. Item—Chairman of Public Petitions Committee, LIOO. Struck out. A motion that the item be struck out was discussed. The items, Chairman Native Afl’airs Committee, LIOO, and Chairman of Waste Lands Committee, LIOO, were struck out. Item—Clerk of Parliament (addition to permanent salary, L 600), LIOO. Carried. Item—Clerk’s assistant ’ (addition to permanent salary, L 400), LIOO. Passed. Item—Second clerk assistant, L4OO. Passed. Item—Sergeant-at-Arms, L 250. Mr. George moved that the item be reduced to L2OO. They could get a member of the Armed Constabulary to do the work well for that amount. Sir G. M. O’Rorke spoke in favor of the item being retained, and reprobated the statement by the previous speaker about employing one of the Armed Con stabulary. Mr. Andrews supported the reduction, stating that LSO was sufficient. Mr. Shrimski said that the Sergeant had to attend upon the House, and LSO would be little for the work. Mr. Turnbull said there was no need for a Sergeant to attend at all. A message was read from the Upper House, stating that the Maori Prisoners Bill had passed. The Premier Said that the present Bill under which the Maori prisoners were detained, expired to-night, and the Bill would be assented to that night, so as to legalise their detention. The House resumed in Committee, when the item before the Committee was further considered.

Mr. Swanson spoke of the absurdity of the office. If it was necessary to take any one into custody, they ought to have a policeman in attendance. If they gave L2O to one of the messengers, the thing would be done well. The Chief Messen ger had done the work previously, and that was evidence that what he advocated was tenable.

Mr. Seddon suggested that they should vote the item this session on the under standing that it would not be repeated next year.

Replying to Mr. Speight, The Premier said that the Sergeant had charge of all messengers connected with the House.

Mr. Turnbull proposed to omit the item altogether. The House divided on the question that the item be omitted. Ayes, 22 ; noes, 43. Mr. George’s motion that it be re duced L 240 was then put and lost on the voices. On a motion to reduce it by LIOO the House divided. Ayes, 36 ; hoes, 24. The item as reduced was passed. The item, Reader, L 175, , after an attempt at reduction, was passed. Vote general expenses. Item, passages of members, LI, 150. Reduced by L 250. Item—Expenses of members of both Houses, L 21,575.

The Hon. John Hall moved a reduction of twenty per cent amounting to L 4,315. Mr. Murray moved that the reduction be LIOjOOO,

Mr. M'Caughan moved a reduction of members of the House of Representatives twenty per cent., and Legislative Council lors fifty per cent. ' . Mr. Macandrew suggested the propriety of postponing the vote, so as to separate the members of one House from that of the other. It was anything but creditable that last session members of the Legislature should be paid two honorariums. Sir G. Grey moved that the item be withdrawn in order that the whole question might be considered, and the vote brought down on some future occasion in the supplementary estimates. He agreed in the opinion that the Legislative Council honorarium should not be fixed at the same rate as tile amount for the other branch.

Mr. Saunders said that by carrying the motion of the member for Bruce they would be deducting 20 per cent, from their own honorarium, and allowing nothing for the Legislative Council. He would support that proposition. Mr. Bowen said that by cutting off the honorarium altogether from the Upper House the effect would be to .close its doors against everyone but men of pro perty.

Replying to Mr. Swanson, The Hon. J. Hall said that members residing in the city were paid some Ll4O. Mr. Moss said it was to be regretted that the question was not fixed by Act. He did not believe that the amount fixed was a farthing too much, but if it was once reduced he would certainly object to allow it, as it was last year, to be again restored to its former rate. He knew of no Legislature so badly paid as they were.' Mr. Murray said that this proposal would bring the honorarium back again to the rate paid in 1871-2-3-4, and he did he did not think ■ that the state of the colony was any better to-day than it was in 1874.

The motion for postponement was nega tived on the voices.

The motion for a reduction by LIO,OOO was then put—Ayes, 15 ; noes, 58. The motion for the reduction of 20 per cent, was then put-ayes, 35 ; noes, 39. Mr. J. T. Fisher moved that the amount be reduced 10 percent.

Mr. Allwright said he was astonished: the members of the so-called Liberal party: should vote for the reduction of the civil! servants down to day laborers, and then 1 vote against any reduction in their honor arium. He moved'that it be reduced 15 percent.

Mr. Sheehan said that unless the hono rarium voted was a reasonable amount many true liberal minded men could not afford to go into the House. The basis of the liberal policy was the payment of members. The proposal made by the last speaker had been actuated by a desire for a little cheap popularity. The Hon. J. Hall supported the pro-, posal for the 15 per cent, reduction, and defended the last speaker from the impu tation of being actuated by improper motives.

The House divided on the proposal to reduce the vote by fifteen per cent Ayes, 33 ; noes, 37.

Mr. Fisher moved that the amount be reduced by ten per cent.—Ayes, 49 ; noes, 20.

Mr. Moss asked whether Government would now bring down a Bill fixing the amount at what the Committee had voted, so as to avoid such a discussion in future.

The Chairman ruled the question out of order.

Examiner of Standing Orders.—ltem passed as printed. Progress was then reported, and the House rose at 1.15 a.m.

PARLIAMENTARY NOTES.

(From our. own Correspondent.). Wellington, July 26. The Rail way Commissioners’ report was laid oh the table this afternoon, and the Public Works Statement was promised early next week. ! On attempting to get into Committee of Supply, the whole afternoon was wasted by Sir George Grey and ,Co. in'following up Mr. De Lautour’s attacks, on Mr. Bryce re tne Patetere block of’ land.' It took, however, a very mild form, and all the damaging accusations were practically withdrawn as untenable. Only the last ten minutes of the afternoon were spent on the Estimates, and nothing was done. Mr. Hall expressed a hope that they would be got through on Wednesday night, and that the session would close by the end of next month. It is difficult to understand why the Government insist upon getting through the Estimates before they have got through their principal Bills, as it is certain that they are losing a great deal of time in the attempt, and giving unlimited opportunities of hindering business to their opponents.

TELEGRAPHIC.

LATEST FROM EUROPE. (Reuter’s Telegrams.} London, July 22. Three per cent. Consols 98£; galvanised iron, LlB. The total reserve in notes and bullion in the Bank of England is L 16,750,000, The match between the Australians and the Yorkshire County team was com menced to-day at Huddersfield. , The Home team went in first, and were all out for 78 runs. In the first innings of the Australians thoy lost three wickets for 145 runs. Groube was not out for 50 runs. The bowling of the Australians was dead on the wicket. The weather was very fine throughout the day. Arrived —British Empire, from Lyttel ton. London, July 23. Another very severe earthquake was ex perienced at Manilla on Wednesday last, by which further heavy damage was done to the city. The match, Australians v. Yorkshire county teani, at Huddersfield, was re sumed to-day, .the former continuing their innings, and when the stumps were drawn for the day had lost six wickets for 229 runs. Groube was caught after making 61 runs. Spofforth was also caught, after patting together 41 runs. . Blackham was not out for ; 42. . Owing to the inclemency of the weather on the following day, play was stopped,’ and the match drawn in favor of the Australians. ; London July 24. Consols 98|-. Hew Zealand four and a half per cent. 1879-1904 loan has fallen 1 per cent., its present price being 99|. Adelaide and New Zealand breadstuffs continue quiet and unchanged. The total quantity of wheat afloat for Great Britain is 1,020,000 qrs. ' The homeward mails via Brindisi, which left Melbourne on June 11, were delivered here to-day. The mails per the Orient, ■ which left Adelaide on July 9th, were also delivered, via Brindisi to-day. Constantinople, July 25.

The Montenegran Ambassador has been recalled from Constantinople, and diplo matic relations have been broken off. The Great Powers have agreed to make a naval demonstration against Turkey in : favor of Montenegro. Berlin, July 23.

The German Government has intimated to the Ambassador of the Great Powers in the this, city, that the employment of Germans by the Porte is entirely without any political importance. , Calcutta, July 22.

The work of demolition of the British forts at Cabul having commenced, the British troops have formed a camp hear the city, where they will remain for the present. Important intelligence has been re ceived from... Candahar relating to the movements of Ayoub Khan, who was recently reported to have left Herat with a large force, with the intention of at tacking Candahar, and wresting it from Shere Ali, the newly appointed ruler. _lt is now known that Ayoub is continuing his advance, and it is; expected that he will shortly attack the British camp at Grishk, on the road to Candahar, whither the British troops were despatched to sup port Shere Ali. There is great excite ment amongst the Candahar tribes owing to the continued advance of Ayoub Khan.

AUSTRALIAN.

{Per Reuter's Agency.) Melbourne, July 23. In the Lfflwer House the Ministry maintained that the notification of the vote of want of confidence was out of order before the Governor’s speech.: ■ The Speaker ruled to the contrary, arid the Ministry quitted the House. The motion was ultimately parried. ;. " ■ Melbourne, July 24 The Age to-day withdraws its statement (in consequence of which a libel action had been instituted) to the effect that Messrs. Swallow and Ariel had influenced their workmen at the elections, and apolo gises to that firm for ipade such a 'statement.' Springwater won the Waterloo Cup. A terrible tragedy took place at the Opera House on Saturday. A young Irishman named Greer shot his wife, and a Frenchman named Soudrey, afterwards shooting himself. It is supposed to be caused through jealousy of Soudrey.; They are all dangerously wounded, ; Greer mortally. July 26. It is stated that Mr. Mclntyre, who was a candidate for Sandhurst in the Ministerial interest at the late election, intends suing the Age for LSOOO damages for saying he was bought over by Govern ment, who gave his son an appointment.

Sydney, J uly 23. . Heunessy’s brandy, in bulk, 10s. 6d.; Devoe’s kerosene, Is. 2d. per gallon; maize: per COlbs., Is. lOd. to 2s. 3d. / Sydney, J uly 25. An extensive fire broke out in George street at midnight. Gordon and Gotch’a and other premises were totally destroyed. The loss is estimated at LIO,OOO. The in surances on the buildings are heavy. Sydney, July 26. The insurances on the George street fire include LI,OOO in the New Zealand Insurance Company. Baker’s, property, photographers, next to Gordon and Gotch’s, was also destroyed by fire. Adelaide, June 23. Adelaide wheat, 4s. per bushel, market steady ; flour, L 9 155., market inactive. Freights to the United Kingdom, 375. 6d.; steamers, 555.

INTERPROVINCIAL.

(Per Frees Association.) Auckland, July 21. At a meeeting of the railway employees on Saturday evening, it was resblved to petition Government to rescind its decision of effecting a ten per cent reduction on the salaries. " Auckland, July 26. A committee was appointed at the ing on Friday, to arrange for the repre sentation-of Auckland in the Champion Outrigger Race at .the Intercolonial Re gatta to be held here in 1881, and it was decided to send an order for a boat to Swaddle and Winship, Newcastle-on- Tyne, England. The boat will be suit able for twelve-stone men,' without pro vision for a coxswain, and have -all the latest improvements introduced, including swivel rowlocks, sliding seats, self-steer ing gear, etc. Grahamstown, July 26. Some natives from Maui to-day report a cutter, with fire wood, ashore there j with out a crew. It is belived to be the missing Auckland vessel, V the Three Brothers, Captain Blair, which has 1 not been heard of for a month. - - - Gold has been got in the Golden Calf mine, next the Caledonian, which is ex pected to prove a rich shot.. The Kuru nui Hill find at the deep level has turned out payable, but nothing more.' A peti tion' is being signed for the re-appointment of Mr, Mcllhone as Inspector of Miners’ Rights. ' New Plymouth, July 26. Eight more natives have been arrested. Wellington, July 24. The following reply has been received in answer to a cablegram sent by the Liberals of New Zealand : J. E. Brown, Esq., M.P., Wellington. July 23rd. Many thanks for your welcome telegram. I believe Liberal party here are strong enough to settle constitutional reform. I trust before long to have occasion to return your congratulations with respect to events in New Zealand. Party authorised to sign on their behalf, — Graham Berry,: Melbourne.?’ ; ■ Wellington, July 25, Father O’Reilly was buried this after noon. The coffin was borne .to the cemetery by the members of the Hibernian Society. The city bands amalgamated and made one band, comprising over seventy players. The most prominent positions of the town were crowded by those who wished to gain a glimpse of the cortege. It is estimated that nearly two thousand followed the remains: of; the deceased. . , . _ At the Magistrate’s Court this morning, Henry Joseph Ross, second - steward of the steamer Arawata was fined LSO or in i default, six months’ imprisonment for smuggling. He was discovered atisixthis morning carrying up the, wharf a port manteau containing thirty four pounds of tobacco. .i • f ' Dunedin, 'July 24. Alexander Williamson, a youth em- ~ ployed at Pritchard’s reclamation con tract, while attending to the points; 5 was killed by the trucks passing over him. i Invercargill, July 10. The lease of run 415, 4,400 acres> was submitted to auction jtp-day, pur chased by a company of Tour, at , the . ypaet price of L 5 yearly, and an assessment of a similar amount. The run is over-run with rabbits, and it is believed the lessees intend to make profits from this source.

WEST COAST LAND PURCHASES

HOW THE MONEY WENT. The appendices to the West Coast Com mission’s report contain some reading : matter of a highly interesting and startling character, showing, as it does,jhqTjv money has been lavishly spent upon ‘the! natives for every conceivable kind of thing, and charged to “ land purchases.” We give a few specimens from the accounts paid storekeepers out of the LIOOO which was j obtained for compensation for 1 land pur chases omthe West Coast j : but which was really spent in supplying every conceivable sort of articles to the natives, in connection with the Waitara meeting. ; In one of the vouchers for LSOO, a sum 0fL339.11s was paid for what the Commissioners-- term * ‘ unusual items, ” such as ladies’ side saddles, habits, . velvets, silks,' French merino shawls, lockets, ribbons, .charged to the “ acquisition of lahcL” ' In.another voucher there is an expenditure for 'fancy biscuits, cocoa, salmon,; sardines, jam, port wine, brandy, old.tom, oysters, mullet, and tins of fruit. Another voucher'included lobsters, preserved peaches, and entertain ments at the theatre. The total sum charged in this way to the. acquisition of land was L2OOO. “Mr. ” Rewi pur chased in one day L2Ol 19s 3d worth of goods, and we quote his ‘‘little bill” in full, as giving a fair ■ , sample of the whole New Plymouth, 28th November, 1878. -—Mr. Rewi, bought of Walter Wright.—Hat, 5a 6d; umbrella, 15s ; coat, L 3 10s; tie, 2s ; portmanteau, L 7 10s ; umbrella,. 18s 6d ; suit, 45b; 2 chemises at 5s 6d; 3do at 3s 6d; 1 do, ss; 6 shirts at 7s 6d ; hat, 245,; 4 pair socks, at 2s; 17£ yards plaid at 3s 9d ;_46 yards blue flannel at 3s ; yards merino at 6s ; jackets, 255, 655, 20s, 245, 355, 15s ; 43J yards plaid at 3s 6d; featherslos 6d, . 25s ; 8 crimeans, 12s 6d; yards French merino at 4s 6d ; 2 .shawls, 35s ; J portmanteaus, 455, 50s ; corset, 8s 6d; umbrella, LI 4s; silk jacket 35s ; cloth jackets, 705,£03; 2 pinafores at ss; cloak, 27s 9d ; skirts, 255, 17s 6d; 3 do at 12s 6d ; 2 do at 9s 6d ; 1 do, 15s 6d ; boots, 10s 6d, 21s, 15s; fichu, LI; costume, L 5 ; 3 chemises at 3s 9d ; shawl, 42s ; 41 yards Turkey red at Is 9d; 3 shawls .at 18s; costume, 60s ; 4£ yards American cloth, 2s 6d, lady’s saddle, L7los ;. bridle, 30s ; whip, 15s ; saddle-cloth, 10s, 6d ;, shawl, 27s 6d ; 4 handkerchiefs,at 6s r 6d-; skirt, 15s 6d ; shirt, 12s 6d ; habit,. L9 ; 9s ; 18| yards merino at 2s 6d ; suit, L2..5s ; cos tume, L2 10s ; habit, L 5 5s ; carriage, 6s; trimmings, 49a ; haberdashery, 80s ; vel vets, 40s; 6 pair scissors at 2s; ribbons, 355; thimbles, 4s ; soap, 10s 6d ; ' ties and handkerchiefs, L 3 5s 6d; riding-hat, LI ss; collars, Is; hat, 21s; • locket, 17s. 6dcuffs, 2s 6d ; jackets,/ 18s, 50s; 3 shirts at 7s 6d ; ; 5; :scarfs at.Ss 6d.— Paid.—W. Weight.— L2ol 19s 3d. In other accounts there were boys’ suits, braces, belts, long-handled ; .shovels, plough-harness, red and white paint, car penter’s tools,; thimbles, .theatre tickets (Lll); special; trains, etc.' ~:The return of the approximate expenditure in.connec tion with the Waitara meeting in June, 1878, made up , as follows : Erection of buildings, L3BB 8s > <6d ;• special train, LlO5 15s; provisions, presents, etc., L3G3 5s 6d (Llsl 19s 7d yet remains paid); contribution to banquet, L 140; r horse (gift to u•• Rewi),v- L6O total, L 1057 9s. —Evening Post.

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, TUESDAY, JUDY 27, 1880.



AUCTION SALES. Wednesday, August 4. Alfred Harrison, at Ashburton Forks— Horses, Implements, Harness, &c. Sale at 12.30. Thursday, August 5. Edmiston, Gundry, and Co., at Mr. W. C. Morgan’s, Alford Forest —Postponement of Sale. BAH Framed BEE HIVES. T. A. Gates, Saunders’ Buildings. 828 g 'TO CONTRACT PLOUGHMEN. WANTED, Immediately, several TEAMS for Stubble and other Ploughing. For particulars, apply to GOULD & CAMERON. Springfield, 16th July. G7oc-52g MISSING FRIENDS. IF this should reach the eye of THOMAS ROACH, -who left Nelson about six years ago, last heard of at B. Mcßae’s, Richmond, he •will hear of some thing to his advantage by sending his address to the Office of this Paper. 24g EDUCATIONAL. IN retiring from my School Duties, I I beg to inform my friends and the public that I have DISPOSED OF my my interest in my SCHOOL to Mr. Buchanan, who will from this date re ceive Pupils on his own account. DAVID DAVIDSON. Concerning the above advertisement, 1 beg to say I can take a few more scholars, and shall be happy to receive the names of intending Pupils. JOHN , EDGAR BUCHANAN. Ashburton, July 26th, 1880. 710



The Fancy Faxk.—Mr. I. Montague offers a “ new and wonderful aboriginal puzzle ” to every customer at his bazaar during the ensuing week, which he an nounces as positively the last chance that will be given for making purchases of his fancy goods.