DAILY MEMORANDA.

AUCTION SALES. Frida v, November 5. Messrs. Matson, Cox, and Co., at their new auction rooms, the Privileges for the Agricultural and Pastoral Associa tion’s Show.

Saturday, November 6.

Quill and Co.—Privileges, Ashburton Racing Club Spring Meeting, at 12 o’clock ; also, one large Tent.

MEETINGS, AMUSEMENTS, &o.

To-Night, Wednesday, November 3.

Horticultural Society, Monthly Meeting, at Mr. Jacobson’s office, at 8 o’clock. Comedy and Burlesque Company, Town Hall, 8 p.tn.

TOWN EDITION. [Jsstted at 5 p.-m.]

The Ashburton Guardian. WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1880.

Crowded Out.— Owing to the extreme pressure on our space we are compelled to hold over our leading article. Ashburton Spring Meeting. The entries for the forthcoming meeting of the Ashburton Racing Club appear in another column.

Acknowledgment. —The Master of the Old Men’s Home desires to acknowledge, with thanks, a bag of clothes and papers from Mr. T. H. Zouch, ef Ashburton.

Correction. —By a slip of the pen a material error occurred in our report of the judgment given in the case of Jones v. Jones, heard at the District Court yes terday. The judgment was for Ll 3 9s. the amount paid into Court; the plaintiff —not the defendant—being ordered to pay costs.

The New Hebrides Murderer. —At a meeting of the Executive Council held at Government House, yesterday, the case of the murderer, Joe, was finally decided. It being proved that he had suffered from insanity on two previous occasions, and there appearing reason to believe that he was not accountable for his actions in this instance, it was resolved that he should be reprieved and the capital sentence com muted to imprisonment for life.

Bad for the Brewers.— The judges at the Timaru Agricultural Show had their tastes so disorganised by the cheese and butter they bad had to sample that they were unable to discriminate between the exhibits of ale and porter sent in, and in consequence the Timaru brewers are still left without the prize “bowsts” being decided. Hard lines ! It ought not to have been difficult, in Timaru at least, to find a judge of beer—aye, a hundred— willing to take the places of the butter cloyed officials.

Tinwald Cricket Club. —A new cricket club bas just been formed at Tinwald, and already about twenty members have paid their subscription fees, which have been fixed at 7s. 6d. per year. Several, how ever, have subscribed LI Is. The club has got a fine set of bats, balls, stumps, &c., purchased in Christchurch, and has held two meetings and been out at three practices, the regular evenings for prac tice being Tuesdays and Fridays, at 5 p. in. The following are the first officers: — Captain, Mr. Jephson; treasurer, Mr. M. Scott; secretary, Mr. Richard Reeve; custodians, Messrs. Hawkins Brothers. The president and vice-captain have not yet been appointed, but it is intended to ask Mr.’ John Carter to be president.

Ashburton Racing Club. —The Com mittee of the Ashburton Racing Club met at Quill’s Commercial Hotel last evening at nine o’clock. Present—Messrs. Crisp (in the chair), Fooks, Wilkie, Quill, and Saunders. The minutes of last meeting having been read and confirmed, the question of contributing a sum of money towards the erection of a railway platform near the race course was discussed, and it was determined to leave the matter with the secretary, there being a general ex pression of opinion that the Committee would not be justified in expending the Club funds on such a work. The condi tions for the sale of the privileges in con nection with the Spring Meeting were submitted by the secretary and approved. The secretary was requested to arrange for the purchase of hurdles, removal of stones from the course, erection of distance posts, ana planting of gum seed.

The Ashburton Dramatic Club.— The Ashburton Amateur Dramatic Club gave a very successful entertainment in the Town Hall, Rakaia, on Tuesday evening. The house was not quite so large as might have been desired, but this was owing probably to most of the people having taken tickets for an entertainment to come off on Thursday in connection with the Presbyterian Church, which had not been advertised, and consequently was unknown to the people of Ashbuiton. The pieces played were “Josephine,” or “ Daughter of the Regiment,” and “Nan, the Good-for-nothing. ” Both pieces went very smoothly, and were highly appreci ated, the performance being generally considered as one of the best ever held in Rakaia. Had there been more notice given than from Friday to the Tuesday it is most probable that a better house would have been the result. The Ashburton Dramatic Club have shown at Rakaia what they are capable of, and we have no doubt when they again favor the town ship with » they will receive a bumper house.

A Colonist Returned. —Mr. G. M. Reed, late emigration, agent in Ireland, arrived in Auckland by the Te Anau, yesterday. Ah Lee. —A Wellington telegram states that the Government have finally decided not to interfere with the sentence passed on Ah Lee, for the Kyeburn murder. The Comedy Company. —The Comedy and Burlesque Company give the first of their entertainments to-night in the Town Hall, at which there ought to be a good attendance. A Depraved Celestial. —A Chinaman named Ah Ji, of Hong Kong, was brought up at Auckland, yesterday, and fined for drunkenness. This is the first case in Auckland of a Celestial toper.

The Presidential Election. The election of President for the United States was to have taken place yestei’day, but some little time will elapse before the result reaches this colony.

Mr. Guinness. —Mr. F. Guinness left Ashburton yesterday morning for Colling wood, to which place he has been trans ferred. A number of Mr. Guinness’s friends were oh the railway platform to bid good-bye to him on his departure for his new sphere of magisterial labor.

Supposed Suicides. —A married woman named Rickards has been found hanging by the neck in a place at Maheno, near Oamaru. It is supposed that she com mitted suicide. During the passage of the Rotorua from Melbourne, a passenger named Mrs. Galbraith jumped overboard, and was drowned. Tinwald Temperance Hall. The Directors of the Tinwald Temperance Hall Company held their usual fortnightly meeting last evening, when it was reported that the building would be ready for occu pation in two or three weeks. It was decided to celebrate the opening by a concert and ball, about the first Tuesday in December. The secretary was instructed to collect the unpaid calls as soon as possible. The next regular meeting being on the 16th, the night of the Agricultura. and Pastoral Association’s show, it was adjourned to the 18th inst.

South Rakaia School Committee. — The South Rakaia School Committee held its. ordinary monthly meeting on Tuesday evening. Present —Messrs. C. Tucker (chairman), G. Shellock, William Cox, and N. Welsh. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and confirmed. The chairman stated that in accordance with a resolution passed at the last meet ing he had called for tenders for cutting about twenty chains of the gorse fences surrounding the school grounds and repairing the fences, and also for remov ing the outer offices belonging to the school, and that he had accepted the tender of Mr. Dunn, who had carried out the work satisfactorily. The master’s report was read, in which he apologised for being absent from the school on a certain day, stating that he had gone to Christchurch on the Saturday and had accidentally missed the train on his return. It was resolved that the master be written to and informed that should he absent himself again without leave a complaint will .bo made to the Board of Education in due form. It was resolved that the school be closed on the 9th instant, the Prince of Wales' birthday. Fire Brigade. —The regular meeting of this body took place last evening at the Borough Council chambers. Correspon dence was read and received as follows : from Borough Council, stating that a tender from Mr. Hardley had been ac cepted for sinking a ■well at the Brigade station; from Stephen Poyntz, A. D. C., stating the Amateur Dramatic Club could not allow' the Brigade the use of the Town Hall on the 18th instant, but would be happy to oblige them at any time. A discussion occurred re the letter in the Guardian signed “ Hon. Sec. A.D.C.,’’ replying to one from “ Only a Fireman,” when it was very generally expressed that the latter had only done his duty to the public in drawing attention to the subject in question, though there was a feeling that an unnecessary remark re “ parsons,” &c., had been better omitted. In accord ance with a resolution passed, the Town Hall has been engaged by the Brigade for an evening’s entertainment, *o be held upon Hew Year’s Eve, the promises of support being such, from all manner of talent, as to leave no doubt of a thorough financial success. The matter is one of public interest, and well deserves the sup port of the public. A committee was appointed to carry out the arrangements, who have already started work.

CABLE NEWS.

LATEST FROM EUROPE.

(Per Reuter s Agency.) Suez Mails-

London, Nov 1,

The homeward mail via Brindisi, per Orient steamer John Elder, were delivered in London to-day. The Irish Land League. London, Nov. 2.

A. N, Walsh, a prominent member of the Irish Land League, and Healey, private secretary to Parnell, have been committed for trial oh a charge of intimi dation.

Can’t Move. Athens, Nov. 2. Dervish Pasha, who has been instructed to .arrest and deport obstinate Albanians, is now stormbound with ships and troops at the Island of Corfu.

Occupation of Hasken. Constantinople, Nov. 2. It is stated that Riza Pasha has occu pied Hasken. Garibaldi. Rome, Nov. 2. General Garibaldi is now on a visit to Milan. The Basutos —The Cape Forces in Danger. Capetown, Nov. 2.

Official reports from officers who are conducting operation in Basutoland, state that the position of the Cape forces is most critical. Several other hostile tribes, in addition to Pindo’s, have joined the Basutos.

AUSTRALIAN.

(Per Renter h Agency.)

Difficulty With the Coal Miners. Sydney, Nov. 2.

The Wallsend co-operative miners have struck, and other threaten to do so un less they receive back pay in accordance with the recent arbitration. The Exhibition.

Melbourne, To-day,

The exhibition returns for yesterday, show that over 20,000 persons visited the building during the day. Tramways for Melbourne. Mr. Proudfoot, contractor, of Dunedin, has made an offer to the authorities to construct tramways in Melbourne, and his proposal is now under consideration.

NEW ZEALAND

(Per Press AsoociaHon.) An Hon. Debtor Arrested. Auckland, To-day.

The Hon. Claude Park, of Katikati, has been arrested at the suit of a Tauranga solicitor, for a debt of LIOO, on board the Ringarooma, en route for England. Abbott's Consultations.

The following are the winners in Abbot’s sweeps on the Melbourne Cup : (No. 1 sweep, L 5,000,) First prize, J. P. Robertson, Whangerei ; LI,OOO ; second prize, W. Foss, L 40 0; H. P, Bartlett, Auckland, L2OO. (No. 2 sweep, L 2800) First prize, T. Skellan, Whangarei, L 624 ; se c nd prize, W. G. Harper, L 416 ; the third prize of L2OB Jwas secured by 'an Auckland gentleman.

Presentation. Grahamstown, To-day. Kenny, late sub-inspector, is to be pre sented this afternoon with a complete set of surveyor’s instruments, with an address from the citizens and men of the Armed Constabulary. The Te Aroha Goldfield. The Government intend granting the Te Aroha prospectors nine men’s ground. The field will be opened about the 28th inst. Narrow Escape. Greytown, To-day. Hammich’s Rising Sun Hotel was dis covered on fire at 2.40 this morning. The inmates had a narrow escape, some having escaped by sliding down the verandah posts. The hotel, stables, and outhouses were completely destroyed. It is not known how the fire originated. In surances—South British and Mercantile, LI,OOO ; United, LSOO ; Imperial, LSOO ; Union, L 250 ; Colonial, L 250. The Lucky Dogs. Dunedin, To-day. In Cameron’s consultation, the first prize goes to a country settler, the second to a Dunedin insurance agent, and the third to Jock Graham.

SPORTING.

V.R.C. SPRING MEETING.

(By Cable.)

Second Day—Tuesday, Nov. 2.

THE MELBOURNE CUP. (Condensed from the Lyttelton Times.) Melbourne, Nov. 2. The great event of the racing season took place to-day. The weather was beautiful, despite the threatening appear ance of the sky yesterday, and there was an immense traffic toward* Flemington. The Governor drove out in his own drag, and amongst the Vice-regal party were the Duke of Manchester, Sir W. Jervoise, Sir Francis Smith, the Chief Justice of Tasmania, and others. The course pre sented a magnificent spectacle ; in point of fact, the attendance is the largest ever known, the number of visitox-s being esti mated at fully 100,000, and the scene'will long be remembered as a red letter day in the annals of Victorian racing. As the time for the great race approached the excitement became intense. The chief favorites were Progress and Grand Flaneur ; then came Lord Burghley and Mata. Besides these, Richmond, Napper Tandy, and Auckland were much fancied, but the ring was laid so heavily about the favorites that the betting was almost paralysed. Mata since his arrival has been greatly fancied, and would have been the worst winner for the ring, for he carried no less than L 70,000 of public money. After the preliminary canter, in which Grand Flaneur, Lord Burghley, and Progress were mostly admired, 22 horses toox op their positions for the Melbourne Cup, a handicap sweepstakes of 20 sovs each, 10 ft, or 5 if declared, with 500 added. The winner of any handicap race of the value of 100 sovs after the declaration of weights to cai’ry 31b extra ; of any such race of the value 200 sovs 51b extra ; of any such race of the value of 500 sovs, 71b extra. Penalties not accumulative. The second horse to receive 200 sovs and the third 100 soys oxxt of the stakes.

Two miles. (109 subs.) Mr. W. A. Long’s Grand Flaneur,

Syrs, Yattendon—First Lady, Cst lOlbs (Hales) • 1 Mr. W. Branch’s Progress, 3yrs, sst lOlbs, including 31b penalty (St Albans) ... ... ... ~, 2 Mr. F. R. L. Rossi’s Lord Burghloy, syrs, 7st 51bs (Piggot) 3 At the start Mata went off with the lead, accompanied by Chester, Sccundus, and Auckland. Bosworth, Martindale, and Richmond were the three last to get aw r ay. Coming into the straight Napper Tandy showed in front, followed by Pro gress, Auckland, Lothair, Woodlands, Totalisator, and Grand Flaneur. Passing the stand, Totalisator took the lead, Lothair, Secundus, Progress, Auckland, Woodlands, and Riverton following in the order named ; Lord Burghley, Bosworth, and Richmond being last. At the river turn Totalisator was half a length in ad vance of Lothair, who was well clear of Chester, Progress, and Auckland, in the order given, Secundus dropping last, be hind Riverton, Totalisator, tapper Tandy and Lothair. Hear the bridge Riverton shot to the front, followed by Totalisator, Napper Tandy, Lothair, Grand Flaneur, Woodlands, Mata, Chester, Martindale, Auckland, Rivalry, Richmond, Secundus Banter, as named, Dairiwell absolutely tailing off. At the bridge Napper Tandy was in front, closely attended by Progress and Riverton, the three all of a heap, with Auckland, conspicuous at the head of the rest; then came Chester, Martindale, and Lord Burghley. Near the abattoirs Mata came up outside Grand Flaneur, Progress, apd Lord Burghley—all looking danger ous. Entering the straight, the last named was leading, with Progress and Grand Flaneur close up, followed by Richmond, Chester, Mata, Riverton, Martindale, and Wandering Jew ; Rivalry and Secundus being the two last. Coming home Grand Flaneur went to the front about two hundred yards from the winning post, and came in an easy winner by a length from Progress, who beat Lord Burghley by half a length. The others came in in the following order : Lothair, Richmond, Chester, Auckland, Martindale, Mata, Riverton, Wandering Jew, Rivalry, Totalisator, First Water, Napper Tandy, Secundus, Rothschild, Woodlands, Elastic, Banter, Bosworth; Darriwell absolutely last. Time —3min 34| sec. Betting —4 to 1 against Progress, sto 1 against Grand Flaneur, Lord Burghley, and Mata ; 12 to 1 against Richmond, Napper Tandy, and Auckland.

The following is the result of the other events :

Maiden Plate —Orient 1, Exeter 2, Heron 3.

.Railway Stakes - Monarquo and Dougalston ran a dead heat, Chatterer. Kensington Stakes — The Duke 1, Baltic 2, My Lord 3. The Baulina Stakes— La Trobe and Supplejack ran a dead heat, Hildo brandt 3.

Ashburton Racing Club. The following entries and nominations were received last night for the Ashburton Annual Spring meeting : Handicap Hurdle Race Mr. 0. W. Bourn’s Milo, aged. Mr. E. Barrett’s Levant, 6yrs. Mr. J. H. Lunn’s Lonehand, aged. Mr. J. Lukey’s Topthorne. District Handicap Hurdle Race.

Mr. W. Moss’ Terror, aged. Mr. John Smith’s Merlin, aged. Mr. T. Cotton’s Mungo Park, syrs. Mr. P. Husband’s Raven, aged. Mr. H. Muir’s Lonehand, aged. Ashburton Cup (Handicap).

Mr. H. P. Lance’s Marie Antoinette -lyrs. Mr. Walter’s Libeller, 4yrs. Mr. R. Mason’s Randwick syrs Mr. Mason’s Lara, aged. Mr. P Butler’s Laertes. Mr. W. S. Moorhouse’s Badsworth, Syrs. Mr. W, S. Moorhonse’ Holderness, Syrs. Mr. W. C. Webb's Virginia Water, 3yrs. Ladies’ Purse,

Mr. John Smith’s Minnie, 4yrs. Mr. O: B. Harrold’s Parlor Maid, aged, Mr. J. M'Gausland’a Orange Peel, aged. Mr. R. D. Pullar’e Lagmohr, syj?s,

Mr. Moorshead’a Dagrid, 4yrs. Messrs. Wilkie and Muir’s Tam o’ Sban ter, aged. Mr, H. Friedlander’s Zulu, 3yrs. County Steeplechase Handicap. Mr. T. Cotton’s Mungo Park, syrs. Mr. P. Husband’s Raven, aged. Mr. H. Muir’s Loneband, aged. Messrs. Wilkie and Muir’s Tam o’ Slian ter, aged. Racin» Club Handicap. Mr. E. Barrett’s Levant, 6yrs. Mr. H. P. Lance’s Marie Antoinette, 4yrs. Mr. Walter’s Libeller, 4yrs. Mr. R. Mason’s Randwick, syrs. Mr. R. Mason’s Lara, aged. Mr. J. M'Causland’s Orange Peel, aged. Mr. J. H. Lunn’s Loneband, aged. Mr. P. Butler’s Laertes. Mr. R. D. Pullar’s Lagmohr, syrs. Mr. W. J. Moorebouse’s Badswortb, Syrs. . Mr. W. J. Moorehouse’s Holdorness, 3yrs. Mr. W. C. Webb’s Yirginia Water, Syrs

Farmers’ Plate. Mr. John Smith’s Minnie, 4yra. Mr. G. James’ Steamer, aged. Mr. 0. Harrold’s Parlor Maid, aged. Mr. U. D. Pullar’s Lagmohr, syrs. Mr. M. Moreshead’s Dagrid, 4yrs. Messrs. Wilkie and Muir’s Tam o’ Shan ter, aged. Mr. H. Friedlander’s Zulu, 3yrs.

Trotting Race Handicap. Mr. Mordaunt’s Houser, aged. Mr. O. Digby’s Jess, aged. Mr. H. Muir’s Jack, aged.

Ashburton County Council.

The monthly meeting of the County Council was held to-day. ‘ Present— Messrs. W. C. Walker, (Chairman) E. G; Wright, Duncan Cameron, Thomas Bul lock, E. S. Coster, John Grigg, Julian Jackson and Alfred Saunders. chairman’s statement. In the course of his introductory state ment, detailing the business done by him during the month, and that to come be fore the meeting, the Chairman said the annual meeting of the Council as required by statute would fall to be held on the 24th inst. THE WINSLOW DEPUTATION. After some discussion, in which Mr. Grigg stated his belief that the Long beach Board Clerk was not ready with certain figures, but would probably be prepared by two o’clock, ic was decided to hear the deputation from the Winslow portion of the Longbeach Road District, Messrs. Graham and Carter, who were therefore introduced. Mr. Graham road the following : Tinwald, November 3rd, ISBO. To the Chairman of the Ashburton County Council. ' Sir, —In accordance with the desire of the Council, we beg leave, on behalf of the rate payers of the Tinwald-Winslow district, to reply seriatim to the statistics, &c., of the Long beach Road Board, which they have made in opposition to our petition for separation.

They state— “ Firstly.—That the rateable value at which land is assessed is not a question for either his Excellency the Governor or a Road Board to decide, ratepayers having the redress in their own hands at the Assessment Court. As a matter of fact, however, the land referred to in the petition, as being of a poorer and lighter quality, has this year been valued at ss. and ss. 6d. per acre ; and the swamp land, 12s. and 13s. per acre, etc., etc.” In reply, we beg to say that we are perfectly aware that the Governor has nothing to do with the assessment of land, and if our petition is carefully read no such infeicnce can be drawn from it; but, on the other hand, we maintain that the Longbeach Road Board could, ard would probably exercise a good deal of influence as to the favorable reception or otherwise of any objections as to valuations which might be lodged, It is, besides, well understood that Judges of Assessment Courts lean to, if not generally sustain, the official valuations, especially if the Chairman supports them ; and, as in this instance they were the production of the Clerk to the Road Board, ihe Chairman would probably do so. It is, besides, not a fact that no objections weie made, as several were- lodged at the time the Rate-roll was first made up in the early part of this year : and many ratepayers wished to appeal, but their action was rendered nugatoiy by the Longbeach Board causing the Roll to be tin own out ; and to appeal again would have caused more trouble and expense, with small prospect of success under the circumstances. We cannot also discover where the Long beach Board get their data from for making the foregoing assertions as to this year’s relative valuations of light land in the Tinwald district, and swamp land on the other side of the Boundary road—for, on examination of the Rate-roll (extracts from which will presently be given), it will be found that the Tinwald district is assessed seventy her cent, higher than the Longbeach estate, which, by common consent, is considered the best, land in the district; in any case it may be considered a fair average. The total assessment of the Tinwald-Wins low district amounts to L6,375> which, on the u,ooo acres or thereabouts comprised in this district, amounts to us. fd, per acre; whereas the Longbeach estate, comprising 20,937 acres, is assessed at only L 7,008 18s. 6d., or about 6s. Bd. per acre. It is true that the townships of Tinwald and Winslow are included in the Tinwald valuation, but if these are even deducted, the valuation will still remain 2s. yd. per acre, or 38 per cent, higher than that of the Longbeach estate. It is also worthy of remaik that more than one-third of that estate, or 8,694 acres, are valued at only ss. and ss. 6d. per acre ; but, outside, valuators assess them as being worth fully 103. per acre for grazing purposes. From the foregoing, it is clear that our peti tion was most accurate, when it stated that “ the Tinwald district was assessed higher than the Longbeach swamps.” Secondly.—The Longbeach Board states— “As for the roads in Tinwald, they are streets laid out by Messrs. vVilkin and Carter on then private land, and are still undedicated to- the use of the public, consequently the Board have not the power to spend the public money upon them.”

In reply, we beg to state that of the 43 buildings comprising the township of Tinwalcl, one half of them, and those the more important ones, comprising hotel, eight shops, three large iron store-houses, and the best dwelling houses, are all situated on the Government public roads, and are, therefore, most certainly entitled to attention from the Road Board. We concede, however, that the interior streets of Tinwald have not yet been dedicated, owing to a delay occurring through the demise of the late Mr. Hassal, a principal proprietor, In? structions have lately been giyen to have this carried out.

Thirdly.—As regards the so called statistics furnished to the Council. When we applied to the Clerk of the Road Board for the vouchers on which they were founded, or compiled, he informed us that, with the exception of the mileage of the roads, the statement given in as statistics was entirely an estimate. He pro duced, however, three sacks ofloose vouchers and old books, which he said he had just re ceived, and which would take him a week to arrange and another week to classify into an accurate statement. On the whole, we deemed it best to deal with the so called statistics in the form in which they were handed to us by the Council.

In the first place, then, we object to the Tinwald district being burdened with the cost of the metalled portion of the Main South road, because this road, as is well known, is common to the entire district, and even to'', the Upper Ashburton Road District, as some of their roads join on to it. It is, besides, understood' that special grants for main roads were given by the late Provincial Government, and if these moneys were not devoted to their legitimate purpose, or no account was kept of them, it is no fault of the petitioners. Again, as the Wheatstone, Ford’s, and Longbeach roads all converge on to the railway from the sea coast, having an average length of ten miles, and, whereas, the heaviest traffic on them accumulates on the last miles before they reach the railway, and which distance of them passes through the Tinwald district, we, therefore, claim ' a reduction ,of one-third of their cost for such distance.'

The costs of roads of the Tinwald-Winslow District will then stand as follows, viz.: —> £ s- d. Cost as perLongbeach statistics 10,102 5 o

Deduct— -6 miles, or 480 chains Main South road at £5 Ss. 3d- per chain ;.. ... 2,526 00 Also cost of one third of miles of eachof Wheat stone, Fords and Longbeach roads or 600 chains, " at £5 Ss- 3d.— £s> I SS lod. Say one-third of above or ... 1,000 o o Net cost fairly chargeable to the Tinwald District ... ... 6,576 5 o The total amount therefore chargeable to this district will therefore be much reduced, and will compare favorably with such of the other blocks as consist of freehold land, con taining the average number of ratepayers ; and, bearing in mind the fact that it is rated '7O per cent, higher than swamp blocks, it is en titled to have a still larger sum spent upon it. We do now respectfully beg to call the Councirs attention to the extreme incomplete ness and one-sided character of the said statis tics, They give no details of the cost of drainage incurred in each block. No state ment of rates levied, or assessment per acre. The number of ratepayers living in each block is not given ; nor is any statement fur nished showing how much Government land still exists in some of these blocks, all which points have a most important bearing on the question at issue. A principal argument which they appear to rely upon is, that in our district, there are only four miles road remaining unformed, but this is simply the case, because Longbeach would be completely shut out, were it not for our roads, whereas theirs are rarely, if ever used by us. ; To sum up the whole question, rye claim, separation, bee ruse we are more heavily rated than the rest of the district—because our special wants are not attended to ; and because we consider we are able to manage our own roads, and disburse our own rates to greater ad vantage than under present arrangements.— We are, &c., Wilkin and Carter; JAm Carter, J. R. C. C. Graham, Mark Scott, members of deputation appointed by public meeting held at Tinwald, of ratepayers. Mr Grigg said that the Longbeach Board had not put forward any statements regarding assessments, but had only dealt with the costs of roads, etc. Mr. Graham said that he had gone down to the Longbeach Hoad Board. He was there'presented witli a large number of vouchers, which the clerk said it would take a week to arrange, and another week to make a statement from. It was not Mr. Graham’s duty to make a statement from these, and he could only say that the vouchers, etc., were in a state of great disorder. . ' Mr. Grigg said the vouchers had been procured from, the old Ashburton Road Board, and extended over some years. Mr. Wright, in reply to Mr. Coster, said that there were some eight miles of_ road, to his knowledge, still unformed, in the Tinwald district, and it was quite possible that when the Longbeach Board statement contained an error in this item it might also contain others. Mr. Bullock desired to know if the Tinwald district was prepared to agree to the introduction of the ward system into the Longbeach Board. Mr. Graham said that after the action of the Longbeach Chairman, the district did not desire to accept the ward system and remain in the Longbeach District, but wished for separation. Since the decision of the Longbeach Board to adopt the ward system a change of membership had taken place, which might materially alter the feeling of the Board in regard to the ward system. Mr. Wright said that two members of the Board had lost their seats by absence, and for some time those seats were not supplied. He did not cpipplain that he (Mr. Wright) had net been granted leave of absence, but he complained that the two seats had not been filled np.

Mr. Grigg explained how the seats had nob been filled, and after the matter before the Council was discussed, it was decided to be held over for a time, to admit of the Longbeach Board bringing forward figures in reply to those put forward by the de putation, The latter withdrew. THE engineer’s REPORT was then read as follows :

Approaches to South Ashburton River Bridge, Mount Somers.— The work of the approach on the south side of the river has been finished, and about two-thirds of the lequired excava tion has been removed on the north side of the river. The protective work in the branch, south side of the river is nearly complete. As guard rails have not been provided for this bridge, I would beg to suggest that these be supplied over the whole length, the cost would not exceed L 45. It will be necessary, too, to have all the surplus timber, &c.. for this bridge removed to some place where it can be looked after and be in safe keeping—say, in the Road Board yards, and I will be glad to have the Council’s authority for getting this done.

Taylor's Stream. —The small piece of pro' tective work authorised here is now being exe cuted.

Approaches , Pudding Hill Bridge. —The contractor is now at work finishing these ap proaches, and in a few days the work may be taken off his hands.

Protective Work, Pudding Hill Stream. — Mr. Black, the contractor, has not made a com mencement here as yet, and as the river is threatening damage, it appears to me that no further delay should be allowed. Dam, Pudding Hill. —With the exception of the putting in of thirty cubic yards of con crete, this dam is now complete. The works at the outlet have also been finished. Concrete Channel for Initial Main. —As re quested by the Council, I have made all necessary arrangements for starting this work, and the earthwork is now in progress. The first lot of cement is at Methven station, and the concrete work will proceed at once, and be carried forward with all possible speed. The earthwork is being done by piecework, and the putting in of the concrete" will be bv day’s wages, while the cartage of the shingle and cement will be in separate contracts. I have staked out at every chain and taken sections over the whole length of 145 chains, from Pudding Hill dam to Chapman’s creek. Of this length the concrete channel will extend over a distance of 67 chains, the remaining length consisting of earthwork merely. I have had trial pits dug from the south end of concrete channel to Chapman’s creek, and find that for nearly the whole length the formation can be executed so as to clear the shingle subsoil, there being generally from 20 to 14 inches of clay on the surface. So far the ewners over this first length seem willing to come to reasonable terms for the land. Mr, Aynsley, on whose property the first section is situated, has referred the ques tion of compensation to Mr. Julian Jackson, and I beg to submit for your consideration the terms which Messrs Grierson and Mackay are wilting to accept, so far as the race passes through their land, I have also looked out the line I should propose taking the first test channel, from the point of outfall in Chapman’s creek above West Coast road, near Methven, and am of opinion that the second line from the Rakaia river, as shown on theplan, would be the most suitable, with a view both to fix the limit of safe declivity, and of ascertaining the amount of absorption in the most porous sub soil. There would, however, be some advantages gained by keeping more to road lines, and should the Council think it advisable, the road line from Methven statioii.to Lyndhurst station might be chosen for the purpose, and an extension n.ade from the latter place along the line shown on plan. Unless these cuts are, however, made now, I fear some of the owners would object to any severance being made till after harvest. Filter Basin, Belmont.— This work, as con tracted foi, is now fir advanced, and at present rate of progress will be finished before the end of this month'.

South Approaches, Rakaia Gorge Bridge. — The fencing has been executed, and some land slips there are being made good ; after which being done, these approaches should, I pre sume, be placed under the charge of the Mount Hutt Road Board, in whose district |this line of road is situated.

Timoald Drainage. —This work has been completed, and clover seed sown jn the space between the drain and railway, as the' Council requested. The outfall from the ford crossing Great South road, south of Tinwald, has also been deepened and enlarged for a distance of about 17 chains. County Saleyards. - With the exception oj the formation of entrance from Great South road, and the corrugated iron roofing of shed for cattle yards, the various contracts have been completed. The Committee wish some further alterations and additions, particulars of which they will place before you. Waierton Drainage. —A commencement has been made witli this work, and good progress is being made at the lower end of No. 1 contract, near the Beach road, also below Waterton township. Some delay has been caused in one or two instances owing to the owners, being absent from home, not having given their consent to the work, but I expect that in a short time arrangements can be made for starting work on these sections also.

Blood-water, Methven. —With reference to the Council’s decision to keep the flood-water channels open, the Mount Hutt Road Board have consented to place a ford across the West Coast road at a'point which I have arranged with their Overseer chains north of junc tion of roads at Methven. In the vicinity of this, too, there is a capacious gravel pit, which on the floodwater being let into it, will absorb a large quantity. Re-decking Ashburton Bridge. —As requested by you, I had an interview with the Assistan Railway Engineer on this matter, and his letter, containing alternative proposals as to t ime and mode of doing the work is now before you. Certificates. —I have granted certificates of all work under rny charge during the month of October.

William Baxter, County Engineer. It was decided to run the test channel proposed by the Surveyor in connection with the water supply along the road next to the Methven Railway. The erglneer's suggestion was approved of regarclag the placing of the approach to Rakaia Gorge bridge under the charge of the Mount Hutt Road Board. THE CATLLE YARDS. A letter from the A. and P. Association suggested several alterations to be made upon the new cattle yards before the Association ■ could agree to lease them. The shed should be removed to the other side of the yards, and four more pens be added. It would also be necessary to reverse all the hinges on the gates of the pens, as the way the gates were now hung caused much inconven ience and delay. The addition of the four pens mentioned woidd reduce the size of the selling yard which was now too large. A loading bank at the pig pens would also be a great convenience. The whole alterations would cost about L6O. It was decided to make the alterations, provided the Association pay 10 per cent, of the total cost of the yards as rent. BRIDGES AND PROTECTIVE WORKS. The Engineer’s suggestion re guard rails at Hood’s Bridge was adopted, and he was instructed to press the matter re Mr. Black’s contract. THE ASHBURTON BRIDGE. Mr. Burnett, assistant railway engineer, wrote on the subject of closing the bridge for repairs. He concluded that, the river being unfordable at present, it was out of the question to stop traffic during the day. He therefore proposed putting the work off till the middle of January, when the river might be expected to be lower, and pro posed then doing it by day, provided the bridge could be closed between the hours of 11 a.m. and 5 p. m. In the event of this proposal not being acceptable to the Council, Mr. Burnett would have to do the work by night, closing the bridge from 8.30 p. m. till 6a. m., and he would start this month. He hoped the Council would sanction blocking the bridge by day, as night work was very expensive. His in structions were to lay the planking in long lengths, reaching across the bridge with the rails on the top, and with crossing places where required, probably five throughout the length of the bridge, and one at each end, or at a distance of five chains. This he thought would be a far more economical and advantageous plan for the railway, and give greater strength and stability to the planking than the present plan, and he did not apprehend any danger or inconvenience from it. He thought it would be even safer than the present groove, the rail being more easily avoided, and the chance of getting wheels jammed lessened. The Rakaia bridge had been planked in this way for some time, without complaint. In the event of the Council persisting in their objections it would be necessary to refer the matter to Mr. Lowe, at Dunedin, Mr. Burnett’s immediate superior.

Mr. Wright moved, after discussion — “ That the Chairman, Mr. Saunders, and the mover bo a Committee to arrange with the Railway Engineer, as to the time and method of replanking the Ash burton bridge.” Mr. Bullock seconded, and the motion was carried. MR. butt’s claim.

Messrs. Garrick and Cowlishaw returned the papers in connection with Mr. Butt’s claim of L 43 IGs. sd. on the Council, along with an opinion that the claim for a refund of amount of duty on timber paid by him could not be enforced against the Board because not within the Customs Tariffs Acts, which onty applied to con tracts or agreements for the sale and delivery of goods duty paid. The Council, in view of this opinion, could not depart from their previous decision, and resolved to forward to Mr. Butt a copy of Messrs. Garrick and Oow lishaw’s opinion. POUNDS. It was resolved to ])urchaso another acre of ground at Mount Somers, at the same price as the original acre, and to forward to the Mount Somers Road Board certain information regarding Hood’s bridge. Mr. Little’s appointment as pound keeper at the Hinds was ratified. It was resolved that all pouudkeepers be instructed to advertise animals im pounded, whatever their number. Mr. Grigg moved, and Mr. Wright seconded, “That notice be given to the keeper of the Methven Pound that the Council has received notice that certain horses belonging to Mr. Brown were im pounded by him, and that certain charges were made by him for the srqne. This Council requests that an explanation of the matter be given.” The motion was passed, along wit ft a resolution to forward Mr. Win. Brown’s letter to the pounds keeper. The letter was to Mr. Cameron, and was to the effect that nine horses belonging to Mr. Brown had been im pounded off Mr. Cameron’s land while Mr, Brown was ploughing for him, and that a charge of LI 19s. had been made for one day’s poundage. WINSLOW CEMETERY. Regarding’’ the Winslow Cemetery, it was resolved to inquire if a portion of Reserve 1784 was not already reserved as a cemetery site. CATTLE YARD CHARGES. The report of the cattle yard charges for stock was adopted, an amendment to assimulate the charges to those at Adding ton having been lost. ACCOUNTS. The accounts for the month were passed for payment, to the sum of L 1077 13s. fid. NEXT MEETING. It was decided to hold the next ordinary meeting on the 24th Nov. in place of the Ist December. DOG COLLARS. The Clerk was instructed to advertise for a supply of dog collars. THE NORTH BRANCH. On the motion of Mr. Bullock, the Engineer was instructed to examine and report on the river banks of the north branch of the Ashburton, from Hart’s homestead to the township

THE RAILWAY TARIFF. The Chairman, Mr. Grigg, Mr. Coster, and Mr Wright were appointed a Com mittee to consider the new Railway tariff, with a view to recommending alterations to the Government. PLANTING. Mr. Wright thought that though it was perhaps too late to go in for planting this season, it may not be too late to set aside money for planting purposes. He would move that L 250 be set aside for this pur poso. Mr. Bullock supported the motion, and Mr. Coster was also in favor of planting, but thought the sum was far too small. LI,OOO should be apportioned. Mr. Grigg favored planting but was averse to the trees being planted on sites near the railway. Mr. Saunders thought whatever was done should be done now, and the sum should be a liberal one. He found that to plant trees in holes was a mistake. The ground should be ploughed to a depth of eight inches, and then a further depth of six inches. Mr. Jackson also supported a vote for planting. The Chairman did not see the use of spending money now on planting, but favored a vote. He thought that planting should be done right off, and the growth of weeds not waited for, as would be the case if the land. lay unplanted after ploughing. Mr. Wright was glad to find his motion so well received, and he was quite pre pared to increase the sum he had moved. The Plantation Board only had certain reserves at their dis posal and these were all near the rail way, and therefore in danger from fires. He only advocated the planting of gums and wattles, and these could very well be planted in a single furrow as suggested by Mr. Jackson. Deciduous trees would certainly require the treat ment spoken of by Mr. Saunders. |Jt would be better to appoint a Plantation Committee, who could then select suitable sites for plantations. Mr. Wright having obtained liberty to increase the sum to Li,ooo, the motion was passed, the ap pointment of a Committee being deferred till next meeting. NOTICES OF MOTION. A motion of Mr. Saunders to bring on the discussion of motions given notice of at an earlier period of the day was passed. THE borough’s SHAKE OF LAND FUND. The motion by Mr. Wright, to recog nise the claims of the Ashburton Borough in future allocations of impounded land came on for discussion. He held that the amount wanted by the Borough—some Lsoo—was but a small one, and its pay ment in the way he suggested would get rid of a chronic grievance. He recognised the claim as a perfectly just one. Mr Bullock seconded, and after Mr. Grigg had spoken, reiterating the objec tion he had previously raised to the pay ment of the claim made by the Borough ; and Mr. Coster had contended that the Borough water grant was in a great mea sure a County work, The Chairman spoke in opposition to the motion. He thought the claim was preposterously in excess of what it was entitled to.

Mr Saunders spoke in favor of the Borough’s claim, and Mr. Wright having spoken in reply, the motion was put and carried. The Council then adjourned.

An Eruption of • Newspapers over a Kiss.—We clip the following from an English paper ; —lf a young lady wished a young gentleman to kiss her, what papers would she mention ? No Spectator, no Observer, but as many Times as you like. We wish to add that, she would like to have it done with Dispatch, no Re gister or Journal kept of it and for him not to Herald it to a Recorder, nor Chronicle it abroad. Her lips should only be j ßepository. If a Messenger got it, the World would soon know it, for News is now carried by Telegraph, where it was formerly done by the Courier, who was always ready to Gazette it, In the act, the Dress upon her lips should be light, but perfect. That is our Standard of kiss ing, first assuring ourselves that no Argus eye was upon us, and the only Reflector present a Mirror. We have only to Ad vocate the above, and Express a hope that no Cross Guardian will object to the Union of his ward Judy with an Independent Mail Colonist in this Age of the Globe. These views are upheld by the Leader of London Society and the Irish Nation.

New Zealand Shells and Rabbit Skins.—According to “Tickle’s Colonial Export Prices Current and Trade Review’’ for September, it appears that there is a steady demand in the Home market for shells, or “ ear shells,” as they are called ; and the supply is kept up from Japan, the Cape of Good Hope, California, and New Zealand. The prices quoted for New Zealand are—Green, 45 packages sold at easy rates ; good to fine bold, Is. 6d. to Is. 7d.; mixed, part stale to fair, Is. Id. to Is. 4d.; medium lOd.; small 8d per dozen. The price paid to shell col lectors in the colony is, we believe, ss. per 100.—The same review furnishes the fol lowing information respecting rabbit skins :—On the 12th August, at the skin sale the large quantity of 732 bales New Zeland etc., was offered. There was a good demand, and the bulk was disposed of : winter skins at an advance of 2d.; but other sorts at last sales’ rates to a fall of Id. per lb.; average § to 2§ lb.; from 4|d. to 2s. 4|d.; onb lot, 3 16d. to 4Jd.

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1880.



Special Advertisements. THE BEST VALUE FOR READY MONEY IS THE MEN’S) CLOTHING (AND BOYS’) MANUFACTURED BY THE NEW ZEALAND CLOTHING FACTORY, which can be purchased at their Retail Branches, now established all over New Zealand. The Garments are thoroughly shrunk. The Fit and Style are perfect. The Workmanship is equal to bespoke. The Trimmings are of superior quality and strength. The Tweeds are of the very best descrip tion. The Stock is the largest in the Southern Hemisphere. The tall, short, lean, and stout can be equally well fitted. The Goods are all marked in plain figures. The system of business is to exchange every article that does not give satis faction. And, in addition to all these advantages, you can purchase A SINGLE GARMENT AT THE WHOLESALE PRICE. Mercery, Hats, Shirts, Ties, Scarfs, Bags, Portmanteaus, Rugs, and Blankets at Wholesale Prices. THOUSANDS OF DISCERNING CUSTOMERS Testify that the New Zealand Clothing Factory’s Garments are the Very Best Value for Ready Money. Ashburton Branch ; EAST STREET. WM, SPARROW, 910 c Manager.



Wanted. WANTED, a . respectable GIRL, for the country, to take charge of two children and assist in the house work. References required. Apply at the office of this paper. 444 ANTED, LADIES to Join the Amateur Dramatic Club and assist at the Christmas Pantomime. 328 WANTED KNOWN. SOMERSET LIVERY AND BAIT STABLES. JW. M'RAE begs to inform the . public that he has taken the above Stables from Mr. Bossenberg, and is making extensive repairs. Buggies and saddle horses on hire. Lowest prices and best attention. 903c—2860 Gazette in Bankruptcy. Y. R. In the District Court of Christchurch, HOLDEN AT ASHBURTON. IN THE MATTER of the Debtors and Creditors’ Act, 1876, and the several i Acts amending the same, and in the bankruptcy of JAMES GIBSON and FRANK STEPHEN DUNFORD, • trading together in Co-partnership in the County of Ashburton as Con tractors, under the style or Firm of Gibson and Dunford, debtors. IVTOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that at the First Meeting of Creditors of the abovenamed Debtors held THIS; DAY, Frederick Pavitt, of Ashburton, Commission Agent, was appointed Cre ditors’ Trustee in this Bankruptcy. And further, that the said Frederick Payitt has this day filed in the above Court a written acceptance under his hand of the above Trusteeship. Dated tins 3rd day of November, 1880. G. CAVENDISH HURRELL, Clerk of the Court. E. G. Crisp, . , . Solicitor for Debtor, - 450



Tenders UPPER ASHBURTON ROAD BOARD. TENDERS are invited for the RE PAIRS and MAINTENANCE of all the Roads in this district for a term of three years ; each ward to be tendered for separately. Written tenders, endorsed, are to be sent in, addressed to the Chairman, not later than noon of MONDAY, the 29th day of November. The Clerk will be at the office every Thursday of each week, from nine to twelve o’clock a.m., to give the general conditions and specifications of the work. ROBT. D. PULLAR, Clerk and Surveyor to the Board. Road Board Office, Westerfield, Oct. 27, 1880. 408 Meetings. This Evening. HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. mHE usual MONTHLY MEETING 8 of the above will be held at Mr. Jacobson’s office on WEDNESDAY, Nov. 3rd, instead of Tuesday, at 8 p.m., when Mr. G. T. Smith will read a paper. r > Subject : History and uses of the apple. r S. E. POYNTZ, 419 Hon. Sec. Ashburton fire brigade.— Members of Committee will meet at my residence, bn SATURDAY, 6th instant, at 7.30p.m, i W. ADAMS, ‘ » 448 . Hon., Sec.., Amusements. TO-NIGHT, TOWN HALL. FOR TWO NIGHTS ONLY ! " rnHE COMEDY AND BURLESQUE J. COMPANY ! The most complete' ! Organisation travelling. Eighteen legiti mate Artists? Grand Opening Night, WEDNESDAY, November 3rd, j ; ■ When will be produced the glorious Burlesque, H.M.S. PIN BEHIND ! ! Including all the gems of H.M.S. Pina fore, as played by this Company with great success in Dunedin, Invercargill, Timaru, &c.—To be preceded by the Nautical Drama, ’ JENNY FOSTER I Thursday—Change of Programme I The great Comedy Drama, THE FACTORY GIRD! And a Grand CONCERT by the Com pany.—For particulars j see day-bills. 438 Barristers, Solicitors, &c. C. W. Ireland, jgARRISTER AND SOLICITOR, Saunders’ Buildings, Ashburton. 393 Branson & Purnell, JgARRISTERS AND SOLICITOR?,! EAST STREET. 394 Public Notices TO THE WRITER—To him as will accept the challenge, please send a note stating your position, age, height, complexion, and also your carte-de-visite. Butchers not accepted. E.S. 449 J ALL DEBTS due to Ashburton Herald and Guardian business .; must be Paid to Mr. S. E. Poyntz, on" behalf of the Assignees, at the Guardian Office, East street, Ashburton, arid his receipt alone will be a sufficient discharge. S. SAUNDERS, For Self and Co-Assignees. ASHBURTON AGRICULTURAL AND PASTORAL ASSOCIATION. rp H E ANNUAL SHOW OF STOCK, PRODUCE, IMPLEMENTS, &c., WILL BE HELD ON TUESDAY, 16th NOVEMBER. Entries must be made with the Secretary. ti not later than Tuesday, 9th November.- - Members will oblige by forwarding their Subscriptions at an early date. GEORGE JAMESON, ;} 326 Secretary. Public Companies. The national mutual life ASSOCIATION .OF AUSTRAL ASIA (LIMITED). Established 1869. Actuary and Secretary—J. M. Templeton, F. I. A. : The MOST LIBERAL and EQUIT ABLE OFFICE for Life Assurance in the Australasian Colonies. The best office for young men. Profits divided - every three years. Offices in Melbourne, ’ Sydney, Adelaide, Wellington, -.-. and Hobart Town. The New Zealand Branch—A- LOCAL INSTITUTION, investing all moneys in the colony. _ ' Resident Secretary Thomas Swain, ; Temple Chambers, Featherston street, Wellington. ; • Agent for the County of Ashburton— S. SAUNDERS (of the firm of Saunders • Bros.), Ashburton. Note the name—The National Mutual. : : - 169-218 co ■ THE NEW ZEALAND LOAN AND MERCANTILE AGENCY COMPANY (LIMITED). r WOOL SEASON—IBBO-1881. SPECIAL NOTICE TO SHEEP : > FARMERS. : THE Company makes LIBERAL CASH ADVANCES on WOOL entrusted4o ; ■ 1 ‘ its care for sale in the London market. ■ " '' This being one of the leading depart-” ments of the Company’s business; .and. an; : expert and practical staff being employed 1 ■ by its London House especially to superin tend the classification, valuation, and! die- .... posal of wool consignments, growers may. rely ‘upon their clips being carefully handled and placed to the best advan- i V’ tage. 1 ■ ~ r . ~. . . ■ ; v.r . Further information may be obtained - upon,application at the Company’s; J,! Cathedral Square Christchurch. , 283 q.. DO you Want the News .of the - Day . ■ , Read the. Ashburton Guardian;' ( Price, One Penny.