SHIPPING.

PORT OF LYTTELTON. ARRIVED. f Feb. 7. —Jane Douglas, s.s, from Kai koura and Wellington. Feb. B.—Wanganui, s.s., from Oamaru and Dunedin. SAILED. Feb. B.—Hawea, s.s., for Wellington and Northern Ports. STEAMERS LEAVE LYTTELTON AS UNDER. Fob Wellington— Waitaki, This Day, Tuesday, Feb. 10. Passengers by 2.40 p.m. train. To be followed by Rotorua, Thursday, Feb. 12th. Fob Napier, Gisborne, Taubanga, and Auckland —Rotorua, Thursday, Feb ruary 12th. Passengers by 2.40 p.m. train. To be followed by Penguin, on Satur day, February 14. . Fob Port Chalmers — Arawata, This Day, Tuesday, February 10. Passengers by 2.40 p.m. train. To be followed by Wellington, on Thursday, Feb. 12. Fob Melbourne, via Bluff— Arawata, This Day, Tuesday, Feb. 10. Pas sengers by 2.40 p.m. train. Fob Sydney —Rotorua, Tuesday, Feb. 12th. For Hobart Town Ringarooma, on Tuesday, Feb. 17. Fob Pioton, Nelson, Taranaki, and Manukau Waitaki, This Day, Tuesday 10. Passengers by 2.40 p.m. train.

COMMERCIAL.

* Ashburton Guardian Office, Monday afternoon. Mr. Harrison reports having sold on Saturday last—Pigs, about 201bs. weight, at 19s. each ; horse, cart, and harness, L 22 ; quantity of apples at an average of Gd. per lb. ; apples, 9s. per case ; pine apples, 2s. 6d. to 3s. per dozen ; geese, 7s. to 12s. per pair ; T. S., No. 467, L 69. The tone of business is improving.

POST OFFICE NOTICES.

Mails close at the Chief Post Office, Christchurch, for the following places (subject to necessary alterations) as under:— Tuesday, Feb. 10. For Otago, per Arawata, at 1.50 p. ra.; late fee letters, 2.10 p.m.; guard’s van, 2.40 p.m. train. For Northern Ports, per Waitaki, at 1.50 p.m.; late fee letters, 2.10 p.m.; guard’s van, 2.40 p.m. train. For Kaikoura and Northern ports, per Huia, at 4.20 p.m. ; late fee letters, 4.35 p.m.; guard’s van, 5.25 p.m. train. The next mail for the United Kingdom, via Suez, will be closed at Christchurch on February 12th, and will be due in London on April Ist. SYDNEY J. . DICK, Chief Postmaster.

The Ashburton Guardian, COUNTY AGRICULTURAL & SPORTING RECORDER TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1880.

One of the leading features in the work of last session of Parliament was the passing of two measures intended to hring about some extent of electoral reform. The first of these was the Qualification of Electors Act, and the other the Kegistra tion of Electors Act. The former simply defines who are entitled to exercise the franchise in this colony, and who may be elected under the franchise to the House of Kepresentatives; while the latter—a

more extensive and elaborate Act—pro vides the maahinery for registration. The Qualification of Electors Act de fines electors as follows :—(1) Every man of full age who has owned a freehold of twenty-five pounds value within the elec toral district for six months before the registration of his vote. (2) Every man of full age who has resided for one year in the colony, and for six months in the district in which he claims to vote, the six months’ residence in the district to be immediately preceding the registration of his vote— provided always that he is not registered under the freehold provision just quoted. (3) Every male Maori of full age enrolled on the ratepayers’ roll in force in the district in which he claims to vote, “ or who is seized in severalty of a freehold estate of the value of £25, whether subject to encumbrances or not ; but no Maori shall be entitled to a vote under any other qualification under this Act.” (4) Aliens, and persons found guilty of treasonable or in famous offences cannot be electors ; un less in the latter case they have obtained a free pardon or have undergone the sen tence or punishment to which they have been adjudged ; and persons so guilty in the future "shall have their names ex punged from the rolls, to be replaced only after twelve months have elapsed since the completion of their sentence or punish ment for the offences of which they may have been guilty, unless they have re ceived a free pardon. For the purposes of this Act, the day on which the regis trar places an elector's name upon the roll, shall be deemed the day of registra tion. None but an elector can be elected to the House of Representatives, and every elector is eligible unless he come within the meaning of the “ Public Of fenders Disqualification Act, 1867,” sec tion 2. A sitting member of the House if he happen to cease to be an elector, does not lose his seat from that cause. Holders of miners rights may vote upon their ex isting qualification during the year 1880. This Act does not affect or interfere with the special representation enjoyed by Maoris under the Maori Representation Act of 1867. , After the usual interpretation clause, the Registration of Electors Act provides for the appointment by the Governor from time to time, of such registrars, &c., as the provisions of the Act may require—such officers to hold office during the pleasure of his Excel lency. Clause G provides that as soon as conveniently may be after the com mencement of this Act the registrar of every electoral district shall form a new roll for such district, by placing thereon the names of all persons who are qualified in such district to vote for members of the House of Representatives, and who are on the roll of any electoral district in force at the commencement of this Act. “ Forth with, after a new division of the colony into electoral districts in pursuance of any law for the time being in force for the constitution of such districts, new rolls shall be formed in like manner as is pre scribed for the formation of the first roll.” It shall be the duty of every registrar to make the rolls as complete as possible,” and with that object in view to place thereon, or add thereto, the name of every person of whose qualification as an elector he is satisfied, and it shall fur liter be his duty to assure himself of the right of every man to have his name retained upon the roll, which shall be made up in the form pre scribed by the first schedule of the Act, and which is similar to that now in use. Persons desirous of having their names placed upon the roll are required to apply in writing to the registrar, the applica tion to be delivered at the office of the registrar or posted to him, and must con tain applicant’s name, place of abode, and occupation, and a declaration of the necessary twelve months’ residence in the colony and six months’ residence in the district. If the claim is made in respect of a qualification other than resi dence the particulars must be given, and the reference to residence omitted. This application must further bear the signa ture, address, and occupation of the claimant, the date of making the claim, and the signature of an elector in the dis trict as witness, or the registration officer, oraJ.P. A false declaration incurs a penalty not exceeding £2O. Fifteen days are allowed the registrar to assure himself of the claimant’s bona tides, at the end of which time he must add the name to the roll, or finding that proof of any par ticular is wanted, notify the claimant of such in writing. If, however, the claimant satisfy the registrar that the claim is valid, the name must be added forthwith. If within ten days after the registrar has asked for proof as above provided for, the claimant fail to satisfy the registrar that his claim is valid, or fail to withdraw his claim (which he may do in writing) the registrar shall summons him before a Resident Magistrate, where parties may appear personally, or by counsel, or by agent. Failure to appear on the part of the registrar shall entitle the claimant to have his name placed on the roll forth with ; failure on the part of the claimant shall cause 1 im to forfeit all right. If both appear, the onus of proof shall lie with the claimant, and if he substantiate his claim his name shall be ordered to be placed on the roll, and if he fail to prove his claim his name shall be withheld. In regard to witnesses, &c. , the R. M. shall possess the same power under this Act as he exercises under the Resident Magis trate’s Act, 1867. Names on the rolls may be objected to by the registrar or by any 7 elector, by notice given in writing to the person objected to, and such person must cause his name to be erased from the roll within fifteen days, or be summoned before the Resident Magistrate to show cause, but no grounds of objection will be entertained except such as are set forth in the summons. One pound must be de posited with the clerk of the R.M. Court, if the objector be other than the re gistrar, as security for any costs tha may be awarded against him. Provision is made in clauses 21, 22, and 23, for the transfer of an elector from one roll to another after he has resided in an other district for one month, and a name shall be deemed to be erased from the roll when a red line is drawn through it ini tialed by the registrar. Rolls shall be arranged alphabetically and numbered consecutively, additions being numbered consecutively in the order in which they are added, commencing with the number immediately following that affixed to the last proceeding name on the roll. The roll so formed, added to, and altered, from time to time shall be the legal roll of the district for which it is made. The roll of any district is to be kept at some convenient office to be fixed by the Colo nial Secretary, and notice of the situation of such office and every change thereof shall be advertised by the registrar. A notice shall be painted outside the office that the roll is kept therein, and such notice shall also intimate the days on which the roll is open to public inspection, which must be at least two days in each week, from 10 a.m. till 2 p.m. Copies of the roll, or extracts therefrom, may bo obtained on payment of Is. for every 72 words or part of 72 words. Four months after the first roll in any district has been formed the same shall be printed, with all the additions of names inserted in alphabetical order ; and at any time thereafter, when not less a hundred names have been addeu, a new roll shall be formed by the rearrangement in alphabetical order of all the names, and the same shall be re-printed, provided it has not been re-printed within the pre ceding twelvemonths. Rut it shall always be lawful at any time to print a supple mentary roll instead of reprinting the whole, and a supplementary roll shall be printed immediately preceding any elec tion. Copies of any printed roll may be obtained at the rate of one shilling for a

thousand names, and one-and-sixpence for more than one thousand. Registrars are exempt from Court fees in any proceedings under this Act, and are authorised to frank letters in conformity with instructions issued by the Post master-General. For wilful breach or neglect of the provisions of this Act, registrars shall be liable to a penalty not exceeding £SO.

The Wesleyan Conference. —On Thursday evening the Rev. Mr. Keall will give an account of the proceedings of the Wesleyan Conference, to which all interested are invited to be present. Cricket. — A match was played in the Domain on Saturday between a team re presenting the Springfield and the Ashbur tsn Clubs, which resulted in a victory for the latter by GO runs. The Templar Hall Co.—The meeting advertised to be held on Thursday next of the shareholders of the Ashburton Tem plar Hall Company is postponed, and notice will be given of the future date of the meeting as soon as it has been de cided upon. The Mormons. —From Auckland we learn that Elder Peace, President of the New Zealand Mormon mission, has sent for 10 more elders from Utah, who will bo allocated to various spheres of labour in the Colony. He has made arrange ments for the passages of the Southern converts en route to Salt Lake City by the next San Francisco mail boat. It is not yet definitely settled whether Elder Peace will go in charge of the detach ment and return or not. The Florence Concert. —We would remind our readers of the complimentary entertainment to-night, to Mr. and Mrs. Florence, who will be aided by some of the best talent in Ashburton. In the operatic selections Mr. and Mrs. Florence will be aided by Mr. Branson, the rich ness of whose voice is so well known. We are not simply using a conventionality when we say the entertainment will be a great treat, and we strengthen our assertion when we add that Mrs. Paige has kindly consented to play the accompaniments. Pastor Chiniquy in Ashburton. —lt was intimated from the Presbyterian pulpit that the Rev. Mr. Chiniquy would preach in the Ashburton Presbyterian Church next Sabbath forenoon, and also in the evening unless arrangements were made for the Wesleyan pulpit being occupied by him in the evening. It was further an nounced that the rev. gentleman would probably deliver one of his lectures in the Town Hall on Monday. Particulars, how ever, of Mr. Chiniquy’s programme while in Ashburton would be fully advertised in the course of the week. The Cabs. —Although the by-laws are as yet a thing of the future, the Council fully intend making good use of them when they reach that stage of develop ment which will make them available in the R.M. Court, and one direction they will probably assume is the prevention of the cabs being converted into advertising mediums for the demi-monde. The Mayor deserves the thanks of the respect able portion of the community for having the courage of his opinions, and speaking out on the scandal occasioned by the open manner in which the trade is plied. Important to Farmers. ing to us to announce to the farmers that every exertion is being made by grain buyers, not only to expedite the shipment of produce, but also to endeavor to find a market in other parts than London. Messrs. Iloyse, Stead, and Co. announce that they intend laying on first class vessels as long as there is grain to ship, and to forward it Home to ports of call so as to be finally sent to the best market. They are also prepared to ship wheat home on grower’s acount, making liberal ad vance. Wheat Freights —The shipping firms of Christchurch intend doing their best to assist the grain on its way to the Home markets. Messrs. P. Cunningham & Co., in conjunction with Messrs. Royse, Stead, and Co., have three large first-class ships already on the berth, which are expected to be despatched with their freights during next month. The New Zealand Shipping Company have also several on the berth, and Shaw, Saville, and Co. advertise three for the ensuing month, so that what with a rapidly gathered harvest, and plenty of teams to convey the grain to the railway stations on the line, and plenty of shipping to take delivery at the Port end, there is a considerable amount of work and anxiety before the railway hands for a month or two to come. The Tube Wells. —For the satisfaction of the Borough Council, another trial of the tube wells took place yesterday. His Worship the Mayor, and Crs. St. Hill and G. M. Robinson attended. The trial was made with a view of testing the utility of a single against a double tube well, and one of the latter was uncoupled opposite Montgomery and Co.’s buildings. After a few minutes 1 work the single tube on this site proved itself utterly unequal to thro wing a stream sufficient to be of any value in case of a lire in that locality, although when tried on the last occasion with the two tubes connected it was found to supply the best stream in the Borough. The doable well opposite the Bank of New Zealand was next tried, and a magni ficent jet was delivered, and the engine was then taken to the much maligned single tube near Mr. Harrison’s auction rooms, and a very few minutes showed the inutility of dexicnding on this for an extinguisher. Drunks. —His Worship the Mayor yes terday sat on two “ drunks.” One was J. Cunningham, an old offender, with 14 con victions opposite his name, who had been arrested by Constable Rouse. He pleaded to the Mayor that he was guilty, but had a job to go to at Mr. Mackie’s, and if let off' this time “ wouldn’t do it no more.” His Worship wouldn’t listen to Mr, Cun ningham’s pleadings in face of that terrible 14, and increased it a unit more, with 48 hours’ imprisonment to keep the conviction green in Mr. C’s. memory. The other offender Robt. Rogers—also one of Con stable Rouse’s importations from Rakaia, was dismissed with a warning and a dressing down. Not a Subsidy. —Councillor St. Hill supplied the usual amount of diversion to his fellow-members at the Borough Coun cil last night. His first attempt at “cut ting down expenditure ” was in the direc tion of not paying the printer. An account was submitted by Messrs Weeks and Dixon for a progress payment on the long-suffering Borough By-laws, which have been about a year in type, but have not as yet got beyond that leaden stage. The account was worded, “ To composition and proofs.” This at once brought the sapient Councillor to his feet, and he strongly protested 4 against the funds of the Borough being wasted in “ subsidising ” any newspaper by giving the proprietors “ compensation.” After delivering him self of an oration on economy in general, and the iniquity of spending the Council’s funds (?) on such extravagance, he was sat upon by his Worship’s explanation that “ composition ” and “compensation” were not synonymous terms. At the same time we would call Councillor St. Hill’s attention to the school master (or committee) being abroad on another point. A certain number of the Council forms a “ quorum ” and not a “ coram ; ” the latter word means face to face, and he would be a man with a tolerable amount of cheek who could brass out the talkative St. Hill, whose utterances are usually as sonorous and as full of meaning as Burns’ refrain, ‘ Ego and ago, iram coram dago.”

To-day’s Court. The police have : a heavy sheet for to-day One is a case against a man for having an illicit still in his possession ; two are cases of larcenv, and one is against a publican for alleged selling of drink in other than legal hours. The Lincolnshire Delegates. —Messsr Grant and Foster, after visiting the Long beach estate last week, over which they were shown by John Grigg, Esq., the pro prietor, left for Dunedin. They will re turn this week, and will inspect the Chat moss estate, and remain there for the night. As this part of the country is very similar to their own Lincolnshire fens, they will probably give a good account of it to their clients at Home.

TELEGRAPHIC.

BRITISH AND FOREIGN. [Heater's). London, Feb. 6. The result of the Liverpool election was the return of Mr. John Torr, a Tory, who was re-elected, and the election of Mr. Whitley, also a Tory, by a majority of 2000 votes over Lord Ramsay, the Liberal candidate, who, in consequence of agree ing to the desirableness of a parliamentary inquiry into the question of Home Rule for Ireland, received the block vote of the Irish electois. London, Feb. 7. In the House of Commons, Mr. W. A. Redwood, the member for Wexford, moved an amendment to the Address in Reply, condemning Government for not having taken steps to alleviate the distress in Ireland by making advances to the tenantry, and demanding from the Chan cellor of the Exchequer that detailed measures be at once taken. In the course of the debate which ensued the Hon. D. Plunkett, member for the Dublin Univer sity, denounced the course pursued by Mr. Parnell. The debate was adjourned. London. Feb. 8. It has been determined to suspend operations in the war between Chili and Peru until next autumn. Bombay, Feb. 8. Islam Khan has been wounded in a tribal quarrel, and fled to Candahar. (Argus Special.) London, Fob. 4. One hundred and fifty Australian colonists and others lunched on board the Strathlevon yesterday; all were very much gratified at the success of the ex periment. Melbourne mutton and beef were sold at Smithfield to-day, the market was low ; the first sixty sheep brought Gd. per lb., the remainder sld. to 6d.; beef, a fraction over sd. It is pronounced more saleable at Id. more than American, mut ton id. less than English. The leading butchers are highly pleased with the meat, which equals anything ever seen. Sales men could take 10,000 sheep weekly. {Age Special.) London, Feb. 4. The convention between England and Turkey, for the suppression of slavery throughout the Turkish Empire, is con cluded. The “ Morning Post ” expresses a belief that the Strathleven experiment will ultimately revolutionize the English meat trade. The Adelaide new loan is quoted at 2} per cent. The Home Rulers have submitted two amendments on the Address in Reply. Earl Beaconsfield in the House of Lords stigmatised the abettors of Home Rule as traitors to the Sovereign, and enemies of their country. London, Feb. 7. Latest news from Afghanistan states that Mahomed Jan has taken up a strong position with the army of the Kohistanis, beyond Gundamak, with the intention of intercepting supplies to Cabul. j The Marquis of Salisbury’s relapse has rendered his condition critical. The President of the Paris Chamber of Commerce publicly eulogised the enter prise of Yictoria, and promised the Exhi bition every assistance. Italy will arrange to be officially represented at the Exhibi tion. The Commissioner of Customs an nounced that the Victorian Government will abandon nomineeism, and. advert to 1 the fifth clause of the plebiscite. AUSTRALIAN. ( Renter’s Tel eg’ arns.} Melbourne, Feb. 6. The s.s. Omeo, Claud Hamilton, and Alhambra will be submitted to auction next Wednesday. The reserve is low. Melbourne, Feb. 7. Airived —City of London, from Ade laide. The Te Anau, steamer, arrived yesterday. The Tan j ore left Galle with the mails for Australia. PEE OUR SPECIAL WIRE. INTERPRO YIN Cl AL. Auckland, Feb. 9. The case of scarlatina on the British Empire at the quarantine station is a very mild case. There is no further outbreak, and the ship is being fumigated and will come up in the middle of this week ; but the passengers will not come for eight days. The engine ran for the first time on the Helensville railway to Kaipara terminus on Saturday. Grahamstown, Feb. 9. At the conclusion of Sir George Grey’s address, Mr. Speight, M.H.E., proposed a vote of thanks for his eloquent address. He spoke of Sir George Grey as the only member who stood forth without a motive or object of gain. The vote was carried enthusiastically. Grahamstown, Feb. 7. Walter Ratcliff was committed for trial for making a false declaration of the age of the girl he married a few days ago. The mother of the girl prosecuted. Mr. Whitaker again stated to a deputa tion, re the railway, that being personally interested lie would take no steps in the matter of the extension of the railway. • • Gisborne, Feb. 9. A petition signed by nearly all the run holders in the restrict has been forwarded to the Government, prajing that Mr. Campbell may be retained in the district as Sheep Inspector. An unusual case has been occupying the attention of the R.M. Court to-day. For the past three weeks the female population of Gisborne have been thrown into a state of terror every night by a nocturnal visi tor, who paid his calls about midnight to residences occupied by single women, widows, or women whose husbands wore away from home. The descriptions of the midnight marauder given by the women, differ in many respects, except in one, which was that he wore a white helmet hat. On Saturday a man named Mahon, answering the description, a mulatto said to have been engaged on trial on the “ Hawkes Bay Herald,” was arrested. The Court is crowded to-day hearing the evidence of a number of female wit nesses. Later. Mahon, at the R.M. Court, was sen tenced to three months’ imprisonment for being illegally on premises for the past three weeks. Complaints had bten made of a man visiting houses occupied only by women, and terrifying the inmates. On the sentence being given, the prisoner’s wife, a young and pretty woman with a baby in her arms, gave way to uncontrol able grief, and swooned at the Court house door. Napier, Feb. 9. The collection at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in aid of the Irish Relief Fund, yesterday, amounted to L6O. The Hiber- I

nian Society are also making a collection, and expect to realise about L3O. At the R. M. Court this morning a man named Ford was charged with placing obstructions on the railway line, and was remanded. Detective Grace arrested him under a flax bush. He gave the name of Jno. Ford, but stated he was better known as Jno. Hutton. The account he gave of himself was that he arrived at Port Chal mers about eight years ago as an immi grant, and afterwards went to Melbourne, . Sydney, and other places in Australia, and returned to Wellington about nine months ago. He has been without em ployment ever since. He walked from Wellington to this district by the East Coast, calling at all stations, without get ting work. For eight months he had not had a day’s work, nor slept in a house, and he made up his mind that he would do something that would get him into prison. With that view he placed a large piece of timber on the rails, near the 37- mile post, on the 23rd January, and went on to Karamu. He thought the train would be upset, and that he would be looked for; but as he was not, he re turned and placed another log of wood on the rails last Thursday evening, and again on Friday morning. When arrested, ho went with the detective and pointed out the first log he had placed on the rails. The spot selected was one where an acci dent would likely be serious, it being at a sharp angle and on a steep incline, where the driver of the engine would be almost upon the obstruction before seeing it. It is somewhat curious that although Ford pleads such extreme destitution, he was in possession of a silver watch. Hawera, Feb. 9. Sir Dillon Bell, one of the members of the Royal Commission is at Hawera, stay ing at Lloyd’s Hotel. The old native office is being prepared for the sitting of the Commission. A native named Kurukaura, who was on Mr. Finnerty’s survey party, was drowned in the Patea river yesterday. He was swimming in company with a European named Thomas White down the river, in order to reach their camp, which was at the foot of some gorge, and had arrived in sight of the camp when he disappeared from his companion’s sight and was seen no more. White walked many miles into Hawera without his clothes to bring the news. Mr. Bryce left by the 4 p.m. train for Inglewood, and goes to Stratford in the morning, arriving at noon. He then leaves almost immediately for Wellington. Wellington, Feb 9. On Saturday the Government received a telegram to the effect that a dispute had arisen in reference to the Murimutu Block, between certain hapus of Wan ganui and Taupo tribes, headed by Taipea and Major Kemp respectively. Young Scott completed his 24 hours’ walking match on Saturday night, doing 108 miles in that time—thus losing the match by four miles. Great interest was shown in the event, and at the conclusion Scott was loudly cheered. About 4000 paid for admission. Llo was collected in the hall for the purpose of presenting Scott with a testimonial. The steamer Kangaroo left this after noon for Wakapuaka, to commence laying ' the new cable across the straits. She lays five miles at Wakapuaka, and then pro ceeds to Wanganui to lay five more, after which she will lay the main cable connect ing both ends. Dr. Lemon superintends operations, Captain Sims acts as pilot. 1 G. S. Graham, manager of the Colonial Insurance Company, leaves for England 1 to-day in the Arawata to inspect the Lon- I don and Indies offices of that company. H. M. S. Cormorant is expected to leave late this evening for the South. In the Carbine Match against the Christchurch Artillery, the Wellington Artillery made 632, the former making . 638. The body of a young man named Cochrane, who was drowned in the harbor on Monday was found on the beach at Kaiwarra to-day. The police are taking active measures to enforce the provisions of the Employment of Females Act. It is understood that three publicans are to be proceeded against for allowing their barmaids to remain in the bar after 11 p.m. Messrs. Blundell Bros., the proprietors of the “ Evening Post ” forwarded to-day, ’ to the Lord Mayor of Dublin, an instal ment of LIOO in aid of the Irish Relief Fund. The National Bank transmitted the amount free of exchange. Dr. Lemon has received the following : —“ Lord Mayor of Dublin acknowledge with many thanks subscriptions of LOGO, received from Christchurch.” Nelson, Feb. 9. Entries are now being received, and it is fully expected that 200 competitors will be present in March. Good progress is being made in preparing the ranges, and huts are being built for the accommoda tion of the competitors, in addition to the tents used last year. Grbymouth, Feb. 9. Protection was obtained to-day to con struct a tail race, 70 chains in length, at the Seventeen-Mile Beach Rush. Should the venture turn out successful, the flat will give employment to thousands. The miners embarking in the undertaking are some of the best men in the district, and are sanguine of success. In the R. M. Court to day the R. M., James M'Kay, commented on the neces sity of obtaining the services of a Euro pean interpreter in Chinese cases. At present the Court was completely at the mercy of the Chinese, who might or might not be interested parties. Christchurch, Feb. 9. Nineteen cases of infectious diseases have been reported during the past fort night. 17 were typhoid, 1 diphtheria, and 1 scarlatina. There was a case at the Court to-day in which a man was charged with drunken ness and resisting the police. He pleaded that he did not resist, but that two con stables badly ill-used him, tearing his clothes off, and punching him in the ribs. A bystander who interfered was arrested for obstructing the police. Several wit nesses swore that the constables did unnecessarily maltreat the man, but he was fined 10s. for drunkenness. The by stander brought witnesses to prove that he did not obstruct the police except by word, and that he had fair reason to do so. The case against him was dismissed, and the two constables were then charged with assaulting the original culprit, but the case was adjourned in order to give them time to get witnesses. The testimony sworn against them was of a grave nature. This afternoon one of the lately im ported American “ consolidation” engines drew 108 loaded wagons, equal to one thousand tons, from Lyttelton and Heath cote Valley to Christchurch with the greatest ease. Of this number, 77 wagons, equal to seven hundred tons, and a brake van were drawn through the tunnel. The coal used was from the Canterbury Spring field Colliery, and the distance was done at the rate of ten miles an hour. Txmaru, Feb. 9. , The Lincolnshire farmers left Tiraaru this morning toinspect the district between here and Waimate. Invercargill, Feb. 9. The “Home of Peace ” Good Templar Lodge, at a meeting on Friday, passed a resolution refusing to pay capitation dues to the Grand Lodge on the ground of not receiving commensurate benefits. The lodge then dissolved. An open meeting was subsequently held, at which it was decided to found a new organisation, to be called the “ Appleby Temperance Associa tion.” Several speakers expressed an opinion that the Good Templar constitu tion and ritual were capable of great im provement. This is probably the first secession from the ranks of the Order that ' has occurred in the colony.

The dates of the Invercargill raecs have been altered to the 4th and sth March. The Rev. 0. E. Ward, Primitive Methodist clergyman, is reported, in the course of a sermon last night, to have said that circus performances in too many cases were stepping-stones to vice and degra tion, and highways to Hell.

THE LATEST.

LATEST FROM EUROPE. [Reuter's. ) London, Feb. G. The iron trade has become active. Galvanised iron is quoted at L 23 10s. AUSTRALIAN. Melbourne, Feb. 9. Mr. Berry is to speak at Geelong to night, and unfold the Ministerial pro gramme. The general elections have been fixed to come off on the 28th February'.

NATIVE AFFAIRS.

[by telegraph.] Normanby, Feb. 7. The Hon. Native Minister and Colonel Roberts left here yesterdny for New Ply mouth and the North, to inspect the Con stabulary stations on this coast. The contract for metalling three sections of the Waimate road, was let to Daniel Hughes, Kakaramea, who has prospected fur gravel and found a supply sufficient for all purposes within a quarter of a mile of the contract. The gravel is said to be of fine quality', and the most exten sive gravel ptit y'et found on the coast. The formation of the road towards Kaupo kokonui is being vigorously pushed for ward by the Constabulary. Nothing new at the camp at Kaipipi.

SHOCKING TRAGEDY IN DUNEDIN.

Dunedin, Feb. 7. A dreadful tragedy occurred in King street, this morning, at a house known as Lincoln cottage, situated between Union and St. David’s streets. The house was occupied by a family named Hayes, con sisting of the father, mother, son, and daughter. It appears that one of the sons, who has been in the employ of Mr. R. T. Wheeler, of this city, has been suf fering from ill health, and that this so preyed on his mind that he had became insane, and had to be confined in the lunatic asylum. This in turn is supposed to have preyed upon the mind of the father, Attwell Hayes, who is a contractor. He came home apparently all right last night, but this morning, on waking, he proceeded to cut his wife’s throat with a table knife. After succeeding in this at tempt, he made for the children with the intention of murdering them also, but they ran into the garden, where he fol lowed them, and succeeded in inflicting some wounds on the son. Not succeed ing in catching either of them, however, he returned to the house. At this stage a neighbor, named James Gilks, green grocer, was attracted by the screams of the children, and, throwing down abundle he was carrying, rushed into the house, and found Hayes in the act of cutting his own throat. This he prevented by taking the knife from him. He laid it down to attend to Mrs. Hayes, who was lying in the room. Whilst thus engaged, Hayes seized the knife again, and succeeded in severing his wind-pipe before Gilks ob served that he had again got hold of the weapon. It appears that there was a lodger in the house also, and that Hayes on coming in from the garden where he attempted to catch the son and daughter, made an attempt to murder him also. The boy, who is not seriously injured, is about 12, while the girl is much older. The son, who is at present in the lunatic asylum, is 22 years old. The eldest son is at Oamaru. Dunedin, Feb. 8. First accounts regarding the case of murder and suicide were exaggerated as regards the attempt made by Hayes to murder his two children and lodger after cutting his wife’s throat. He made an attempt upon his wife and himself, in both of which he succeeded but too well. The facts are as follows : —The lodger, named Trenwick, was aroused at 6 a. m. by screams proceeding from the bedroom. He found Mrs. Hayes at her last gasp, sitting on the bed, with her throat terribly cut. Hayes was in a chair in front of the looking-glass, drawing the razor across his own throat. Trenwick, with the assist ance of the two children, got the razor from Hayes, and then ran down the street for assistance. Gilkes and a warder from the hospital came, and all wont back and met Hayes, who got excited on seeing the lodger, exclaiming ti nt he had been the cause of all this. The lodger then went for a doctor, and Gilkes for his wife to attend Mrs. Hayes, leaving the warder to take care of Hayes, from whom he got loose, got a carving knife, and completely severed his windpipe. He died in a couple of minutes afterwards. Mrs. Hayes was dead ere Mrs. Gilkes appeared on the scene. Trenwick and others say that there was not the remotest cause for jealousy. It is presumed, therefore, to be a sudden attack of insanity, from which two sons had been previously confined in the asylum. (BY TELEGKAXUi.) Dunedin, Feb. 9. The verdict at the inquest was one of temporary insanity. The evidence showed that the illness of Hayes’ son had latterly preyed greatly on the deceased, causing excessive melancholy.

A TRIP TO THE SOUTH.

The rearrangement of the Port Chal mers railway terminus promises to he a great improvement on the present plan, and the new stone station is a pretty little structure. The beautiful bay from Port Chalmers to Dunedin has for the last few years been the scene of strange trans actions. The Dunedin Harbour .Board, which long ago gained notoriety, has no doubt done its best to accommodate the merchant princes of the city in the efforts it has put forth to give each warehouse a little wharf of its own, but, judging by appearances, it may be questioned whether any one importer is pleased with the re sult. Thousands of pounds have been thrown away for -which nothing is seen, except mud, half tide walls partly finished, basins of fantastic shapes, and plenty of worn-out plant lying in all directions. To survey the whole concern from the ter races at the back of the city does not by any means excite admiration, but rather disgust at the extensive waste of public money which has been going on there. Opinion seems to be getting stronger that Port Chalmers will remain the Port of Otago, for which it is so naturally fitted. If it does, the cheery little spot has a great future in store. The Dunedin tram cars are the latest novelties, and a great success in their way. With “ up ” and “ down” lines, some cars drawn by horses and others by steam, they start from their stations about every five minutes with a good batch of passengers, who ride any distance along the route at 3d. per head. Some of the cars are larger than the others, and have a strong spiral stair, by which travellers can obtain a roof seat. The wheels are all covered in, as also the engine, the smoko and noise of which is reduced to a minimum. The whole affair is very neat, and the wonder is how acci dents can possibly happen, except through sheer carelessness. The street horses take to them very naturally, and the rails being laid flush with the street, with one-half of the surface jagged, conveyances can cross them easily at any angle. The new Town Hall is a fine building, and is erected in the most commanding part of the Octagon.

On the top of the Hall is a very neat tower, on which is hung the large lire bell, lately cast by a Dunedin firm, and which is most sonorous in tone. With this and the electric signals which are being placed in various parts of the city, the in habitants will be greatly aided in their eli'orts to stamp out fires. Wain’s new hotel and the Royal Exchange Hotel were noted as new erections, both very hand some buildings in their way. The Bank of New Zealand is surely a prosperous in stitution. The old building at the corner of Princes and Rattray streets is being de molished, and a new palatial structure is to take its place. In the interim the Banking operations are being carried carried on in the premises lately occupied by the “ Daily Times and Witness Co. ” the said company having moved their business down High street in front of the railway station. One new erection was prominent in its ugliness, and for a while afforded an amount of mental speculation. It is near the High School and is called the “ Nunnery,” while adjacent to that is the imposing palace of Bishop Moran. The curiosity was why the home of the bachelor should bo so beautiful and that of the spinster so repulsive. Did any law operate in that 1 Might the fact be re garded as suggestive of one of many pro cesses essential in the formation of moral character. The thing was peculiarly striking. The Garrison Hall is a rare building of its kind, and a masterpiece of stone carving above its main entrance. It is a pity that the authorities should open the place for such low class feats as were lately witnessed there. It is very degrad ing to the building itself, let alone the question of immorality. “ So Long.”

ASHBURTON BOROUGH COUNCIL.

♦ The usual meeting of the Borough Council was held last night. Present — His Worship the Mayor, and Messrs. G. W. Robinson, R. Friedlander, E. Saun ders, G. Parkin, D. Williamson, G. St. Hill, W. Roberts, and A. Orr. mayor’s statement. The Mayor said that since last meeting several matters had transpired upon which he had acted. Firstly, the alteration of the trains. The midday had been dis continued, and he had telegraphed to the Chief Postmaster, who had kindly con sented to see the railway authorities about the matter. They had agreed to carry a mail by the 11.10 goods, and also to add a carriage to the train. Then, the Assess ment Court would be held on the 17th inst. Communications had been received in reference to subscriptions to the Row land Hill fund. As so many subscriptions were about just now, he did not feel justi fied in bringing the matter before the public without consulting the Council. Re the municipal delegates, it was resolved to postpone farther action until communica tions had been received from all other portions of New Zealand. He desired to call the attention of the Council to the manner in which the cab owners con ducted their business. It was now their principal business to carry prostitutes, often drunk, who caused a great annoyance to the respectable inhabitants of the Borough. He would suggest that the cab owners have notice given them that their licenses will be refused. As regards the dis tress in Ireland, at the'meeting called very few were present, and it would be seen that a public meeting was to be held on Wednesday. The debit balance at the Bank was L 675 9s. lid. ; receipts for the fortnight from all sources L 52 3s. 2d. The .arrangements with the Inspector of Nuisances expired that night, and it would be necessary to make fresh arrange ments in respect to that office. THE WATER SUPPLY PIPES. From Messrs. Cuff and Graham, re questing the Council to forward their claim for pipes short delivered ex Waitara; also informing the Council that the pipes ex Hereford had all been forwarded. Re solved that the matter be left in the hands of his Worship. THE FIRE BRIGADE. From A. Carrick, Chairman of the Canterbury Fire Insurance .Association, stating that the Association were unable to accede to the application of the Borough for an increase of their grant to the Ash burton Fire Brigade. His Worship regretted the manner in which the application had been received, and considered it was due to the Brigade that some better recognition of their services should have been made by the Association. He would suggest a deputa tion waiting on them. Mr. Saunders thought that as it would only be a waste of any Committee’s time to wait on the Association, it would be best to take “ No,” for an anwer. Mr. Robinson did not think the Borough was getting fair play, as had it not been for the exortiors of the Brigade at the late fire, there would have been a great destruction of property. It was “ save yourselves if you can ” with the In surance Companies. Mr. Orr said he had pointed out to the agents of the Insurance companies the risk they had run. Mr. Williamson suggested an applica tion to other townships for information as to the manner in which the Insurance Com panies subscribed to the Brigades, so as *o draw fair conclusions on the question. His Worship thought that a meeting of the sub-agents of the companies in Ash burton should be held to lay before the various offices they represented the unfair ness of the amount subscribed. A resolution to that effect was carried. THE BY-LAWS. Messrs. Weeks and Dixon wrote re locked up plant in connection with the bye-laws, and asking a progress payment of LlO. The Mayor said the delay had occurred owing to the absence of Mr. C. E. Fooks, who had informed him that a few days would settle the matter in conjunction with the Borough solicitor. Mr. Robinson moved the matter be de ferred. Mr. St. Hill seconded, saying he thought the claim should not be con sidered. No business man in his private capacity could consider such a claim and cabmen and others subject to the bye-laws only laughed at them. Mr. Saunders could not see the consis tency of Mr. St. Hill. The fault was the Borough Council’s, and Weeks and Dixon had no right, to suffer. He would move the account be paid. Mr. Robinson withdrew his resolution, and Mr. Saunders’amendment was carried. THE COUNTY COUNCIL OFFICES. The County Clerk wrote as follows : “ Sir—l have the honor, by direction of the Chairman to bring under your Connell’s attention the disagreeableness that is ex perienced in the Council’s offices during wet weather by the mud from the street, being brought into the office by persons attending oh business The Chairman hopes your Council will take this matter into their consideration, and will take steps to allay the inconvenience com plained of by forming the street fronting this Council’s offices.” Mr. Saunders suggested the purchase of a scraper by the County Council. Mr. Parkin pointed out that the street was formed but not shingled. It was resolved that the County Council be informed the work would be done when the Borough possessed the funds to carry out this important matter. THE RESERVES. Mr. G. Jameson wr«te asking on what terms the Council wpuld lease the reserve next to his grain store. Mr. Friedlander pointed out that all re serves must be let by public tender. Mr. Saunders said it was a matter for the Reserves Committee to deal with, and after discussion it was left in their hands.

A PROJECTED BONFIRE. The Works Committee’s report was read. Mr. St. Hill reported that an unoccu pied immigrant’s cottage was only fit for firewood, and recommended its sale at L 5 or its cremation. Mr. Friedlander proposed, and Mr. St. Hill seconded—“ That it be sold for Lsj and if that offer could not be got, to set fire to it, so as to give the Fire Brigade practice. ” Mr. Roberts proposed the matter be left to the Reserve Committee, and that tenders be called for the lease of all the reserves. Jttt' Mr. Williamson seconded. , A show of hands was taken, aim the votes being equally divided, the Mayor gave his casting vote for the “L 5 or burn” idea. Mr. Williamson protested against the manner in which the committee’s meetings were held, and considered that when two Councillors met in the street and had some conversation and called it a meeting, it was establishing a vicious principle. After a long argument it was discovered that the recommendation did not come from the Works Committee, but from Messrs. St. Hill and Parkin, and Mr. Friedlander begged to withdraw the reso lution, which had already been canned. Mr. St. Hill objected. He and Mr. Parkin had wasted a lot of time, and he proposed that the whole of the Council meet in the cottage at eleven next morn ing. The matter ended by the resolution standing, and a recommendat’on being made by his Worship that the Works Com mittee attend to its work better for the future. - WATER SUPPLY COMMITTEE. His Worship reported on the tube wells, as tried during that morning by the Brigade, and the result clearly showed that the single tube wells were quite in efficient for fire prevention purposes. Several members spoke on the matter, and they all agreed that the Havelock street well was worse than ever, and the matter dropped. SUBSIDY DUE. His Worship stated that he has com municated with the Longbeach Road Board, re the share of subsidy due. That Board was as impecunious as the Borough, but it would be paid out of the moiety due in March. The LIOO,OOO impounded land fund, due to Road Boards, he was glad to say, was to be paid in a week or so. THE BOROUGH SOLICITOR. Mi'. St. Hill wished to know the status of the Borough Solicitor. Hi knew of a case in which a claim had been made for rates to a lady, and attached to the claim was another for 6s. for the letter. He desired to know if such a thing was to be permitted. His Worship pointed out that such a charge was not legal. INSPECTOR OF NUISANCES. It was resolved that the Foreman of Works do the duties of Inspector for the present. COLLECTION OF RATES. The Mayor suggested that, as the Assessment Court would be held at an early date, it would be advisable to appoint a collector forthwith. Mr. St. Hill pointed out that this work had been settled, as Doing a part of the Clerk’s duties. This course was agreed to. DRAINAGE. His Worship remarked that at the next meeting he would be able to announce something definite regarding drainage. The Surveyor and himself had taken some trouble during the past few days, and a scheme was developed. NOTICES OF MOTION. Mr. Saunders gave notice of the follow ing motions for the next meeting :—(1) “ That a rate of one shilling be struck (2) “That of the drainage of the town be taken into consideration. ” THE CABBIES AND THEIR PATRONS. It was resolved to give notice to’cab owners that their licenses will be refused unless they discontinue the practice of carrying disreputable persons through, the main streets. Sundry accounts were passed for pay ment, and the meeting adjourned.

LONGBEACH ROAD DISTRICT.

The usual monthly meeting of this Board was held on Saturday, 7th Fob., 1860. Present Messrs. Grigg (Chairman), Chapman, Clark, and Wright. A letter was read from the Returning Officer, stating that Messrs. Wright, Clark, and Chapman, had been elected to fill the three vacancies lately occurring on the Board. On the motion of Messrs. Wright and Clark (the Clerk being temporarily in the chair) Mr. John Grigg was unanimously re-elected Chairman for the ensuing year. Mr Grigg then took the chair. Correspondence was read— From the Treasury, Wellington, stating that the Bank of New Zealand at Ashbur ton had been instructed to credit the Longbeach and Wakanui Road Boards with the sums of L 760 15s. 4d., in the proportion of 32 parts to Longbeach and 29 to Wakanui. From the Ashburton County Council, accepting the Board’s nomination of Mr, Samuel Holland to be poundkeeper for the new pound at Waterton. From Mr W. H. Smith, complaining of a culvert, situated on the road on the east side of R.S. 21,245, being to small. The Surveyor was instructed to inspect and report. From Mr. Jno. Studholme—two letters, complaining of the insufficiency of some roach) and drainage at Coldstream. Also a letter from Mr. Janies Wilkie, the Tate Surveyor to the Board in explanation of Mr. Studholme’s complaint. It was re solved that the Surveyor inspect these places forthwith, and report to the Chair man, who would reply to Mr. Studholme’s letter. From Mr. Thomas Taylor, complaining of the unfinished and uncomfortable state of the immigrant cottages at Waterton. It was resolved that these cottages be repaired before winter, and also to have a well sunk for the cottages situated at Long beach. From Mr. Jno. Black, again asking to be paid extra on his contract for shingling Bell’s road on account of having to cart the gravel farther than was originally specified. The Board again refused to grant the request on the grounds already given. From Mr. Dowding, manager of the Coldstream Estate, relative to the pay ment of the road rates for this year. The Collector was instructed to take proceedings in the Supreme Court if the same were not paid on or before the LOth February inst. A requisition signed by Mr. Jno. Carter and fifty-five other ratepayers was read, asking that the Board may take steps to have the district divided into wards, with a view to the more equitable representa tion of the district on the Board. The Board resolved —“ That the Chairman be asked to take the necessary steps to have the ward system legally introduced into the district.” The certificate of the District Auditor, that the accounts, up till 31st December, 1879, had been audited and found correct, was received '*•' The report of the Surveyor was and received ; and it was resolved not grant Mr. Lysaght’s application for a * culvert on Graham’s road ; and to have a coating of clay placed upon the thr§e swampy parts of the new formation of part of Ford’s road at once. Accounts amounting to L 644 17s. Cd. Were passed for payment, and the meeting adjourned.

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1880.



NEW TAILORING ESTABLISH MENT. . CRAIGHEAD & Co., MERCHANT TAILORS, TTAVE opened those premises situated JQ_ in Tancred street adjoining Messrs. Orr and Co’s General Store. A SPLENDID ASSORTMENT OF TWEEDS, FANCY GOODS, &c., &c., JUST ARRIVED. Mr. Craighead’s experience as Head Cutter in connection with First Class Tailoring Establishments in Edinburgh and San Francisco has extended over a period of ten years, and from the immense success which has always attended his efforts to please, he_ is prepared to guarantee a perfect fit in every case. TANCRED STREET, (Next Orr and Ci.’s.) CRAIGHEAD & CO. 982 a MESSRS. H. MATSON AND CO, AUCTIONEERS, &c., Hold fortnightly stock SALES at Ashburton and Tinwald. Next sale at ASHBURTON YARDS, on TUESDAY, February 17th, 1880. C. PERCY COX, 4270* Agent, Ashburton. WHEAT FKEIGKHT TO THE UNITED KINGDOM. nnHE undersigned, having JL completed their charters for the ensuing grain season, HhSvi 1 regularly despatch first class iron ships to various ports in the United Kingdom. bo B C 'rt .«« o w Ships. Class. '5 s ■ go to T 3 a £ Q Q The Bruce, 1146'“A j London Mar. 15 Capt South- direct, cott A port In all ritish . of call in March Empire, 1490 the U. Capt Mather Kingrl’m for ordr’s Remonstrant, 1045 100 A , A direct In all Capt. t-tod- /» 1 port in U March dart Kingd’m Several other equally high class iron vessels are also chartered, and will follow. For freight, apply to P. CUNNINGHAM & CO. ; Or to ROYSE, STEAD, & CO., 488g* Christchurch. ENGLISH WHEAT SHIPMENTS. TELE Undersigned are prepared to ship wheat to London or any other Port in the United Kingdom for farmers or others, making liberal CASH ADVANCES against same on favorable terms. Farmers placing their Wheat in our hands for shipment can rely upon receiving PROMPT ACCOUNT SALES. Intending shippers wishing to avail themselves of the present opportunity of testing the London and other English wheat markets, are recommended to make IMMEDIATE APPLICATION for space. ROYSE, STEAD, & CO., 489g* Christchurch.