COMMERCIAL.

CHRISTCHURCH CORN EXCHANGE,

The fallowing is the report of the Christchurch Com Exchange for the week ending Friday evening, the iGth inst. Another week oi extreme quietness in the grain trade has to bo chronicled. The demand for feed grain continues good, but there is little or no alteration to note in values. Oats are being enquired for, but holders, as.a rule, are unwilling to part for the money offered. Buyers, on the other hand, who are purchasing for ship ment cannot afford to advance the price, as it is solely on account of the low prices that they are operating. More specula tion in grain would he carried on were freights lower, and some are anticipating that this will shortly take place. Wheat. —The market for good sound milling quality is somewhat bare, and prices for this cereal are consequently im proved. For this’ quality of wheat, in large lines 1 suitable for shipment, holders are asking 3s. 9d. to 3s. 10d., f.o.b. in Lyttelton. Seed wheat, 4s. 3d. to 4s. Gd. per bushel; second quality, 3s. 2d. to 3s. 4d. per bushel; chick wheat, Is. 9d. to 2s. 4d. per bushel. Oats. —The inquiry still continues, but prices are not materially affected, good plump milling samples will meet with buyers at from Is. sd. to Is. 6d. per bushel; feed parcels, Is. 3d. to Is. 4d. in ferior quality, Is. to Is. 2d. Barley.—Samples of prime malting quality are now rather difficult to obtain, and the demand is fairly good for this class. 3s. to 3s. 3d. is readily obtainable, second rate samples are plentiful, with rather a slack demand, prices ranging from 2s. 3d. to 2s. Gd. per bushel, feed quality Is. Gd. to Is. Bd. per bushel. Potatoes.—Orders are coming to hand rather more freely, but values are un changed ; last week’s quotations must be repeated, 225. 6d. to 255. per ton, sacks extra. For forward delivery, 355. to 375. Cd. per ton, sacks extra. Grass Seed.—There is no inquiry at present. Good well-cleaned is worth 2s. 6d. to 2s. lOd. per bushel. Cheese and Butter. —4d. to for the former, 9d. to 9id. for the later. [by telegraph.] Dunedin, July 2. Prime beef, 275. Gd, per 100 lbs.; mutton, 3d. per lb.; good sample milling wheat, 3s. Gd. to 3s. lOd.; fowls’ wheat, 2s. 6d. to 35.; feed oats, Is. 4d. to la. 5d.; milling, Is. 5d.; malting barley, 3s. 6d. to 3s. lOd.; feed, 2s. to 3s. potatoes, L2 55.; old hay, L 4; new oaten hay, L 3 ; chaff’, L 3 ; straw, L2 ; bran, L 3 5s ; pollard' L 4 ; flour, L 9 10s to I,TO ; oatmeal, L 9 10s.; pearl barley, L 18; onions Id.; cheese, 5d.; bacon, rolled, 9d; hams, lOd.; sides bacon 9d.

ASHBURTON RETAIL LIST.

The Ashburton Guardian, COUNTY AGRICULTURAL & SPORTING RECORDER SATURDAY, JULY 17, 1880.

It is evident from the returns of the Victorian elections that the chances of of the Service Ministry remaining in power are not over-bright. Already 45 seats in the general election have been gained by the Opposition, and only 34 by the Ministerialists, while one of the lead ing journals expresses a belief that Mr. Service’s party will return to Parliament in a minority of 25 or 26, and it is there fore expected that Government will at once resign. From the tone of the telegrams we gather that the religious party who so often sway an election when they vote together—the Roman Catholics —have decided the fats of the Service Government by voting with the Opposi tion. From this it may be inferred that the many-sided Berry is fully prepared to buy his hold on power by being kind to the Catholics on the education question.

The great political cry of the day is “ Retrench, retrench, retrench/’ and every Parliamentary speech we now read, has for its refrain, “Economy.” It was this cry that turned out the Grey Go vernment, who stood convicted of ex travagence ; and itis the credit they have for possessing the virtue of thirft that re tains in power the Hall Ministry. It is needful that the whole country at a time like the present, should go into a “ pet ” of economy, for times are hard, and money scarce. Trade is dull and business slack, and the screw must be treated to an extra turn everywhere. Yet, in these hard times for the settlers Government find it awkwardly necessary to increase taxation to square income with expenditure. It is this ‘ ‘ hard-up ” state of the colony, from Government down to the humblest toiler that is the key-note of the economi cal refrain. It was this impecuniosity that gave birth to the Civil Service, the Rail way, and the Native Industries Commis sions, and that caused every member of the House of Representatives to be so economically virtuous in his criticisims of the estimates. All round, salaries are to be reduced, and every payment that can by any possibility be lessened, must be curtailed to its utmost. We say “ every ” with a reservation, for a matter has cropped up that is apt to shake one’s faith in the earnestness of Parliament in this economy pet. Abe Lincoln used to toll a story like this. A lady told her negro servant to stirthejam that was boiling on the fire, while she went out for a spell. She also gave him strict orders on no ac count to taste it. To make sure he would abstain she ordered him to hold up his lips to be chalked. With a dish of whit ing in her hand, she went through the motion of dipping in her finger, and then drew it across the negro’s lips. When she came back she found Sambo’s lips whitened from the one corner of his mouth to the other, notwithstand ing that her finger, when crossing his labials had been totally innocent of chalk. We very much fear that the New Zealand legislators are much in the position of Sambo, and that in regard to their own honorarium their lips are whitened an inch think, for we find a Bill read a second time which, despite their virtuous outcry, is to increase thishonorariumby£loayear to each member residing three miles out of Wellington. It is pleasing, doubtless, to hear Mr. Saunders move for a reduc tion of 10 per cent, on all salaries, and to hear Mr. S. P. Andrews attack the Speaker’s salary, the salary of the Clerk of the House, and that of the Usher, but it would be far more pleasing were we to hear that the members of the House all round were less ready to support a measure that increased their own Parliamentary “ screw.” We are quite willing to concede the principle that members should be paid for the time they spend in the colony’s service, and that all legitimate expenses incurred by them in going to and coming from Wellington should be borne by the colony. But surely the time to increase that payment is not during a session when the colony is in a financial extremity, and when the’watch word is to “ reduce expen diture to its very utmost, and save money at every opportunity.” The time to go in for increases of this kind is when the colony is well to do, not when its nose is at the grind-stone to make both ends meet. The Bill to increase the honor arium is entitled The Members of General Assembly Expenses Bill, and it is to the hon. member for Hokitika, Mr. Seddon, to whom we owe its introduction. His name appears upon the Bill, but the readiness with which it passed the second reading shows how exactly his ideas c oincide with the majority of the House.

Drowned. —Captain J. S. Patersen, of the barque Hudson, fell off the wharf at Lyttelton on Thursday, and was drowned.

In Bankruptcy. —A meeting of Alex- Spring’s creditors will be held in Saunders Brothers’ office to-day at 2 p.m. Plantation Reserves. —Several plan tation reserves in the Ashburton district and elsewhere are advertised to let on lease.

Tenders. —The South Rakaia Domain Board Secretary, Mr. A. Makeig, wants ninety chains of a sod wall fence built, and fifty acres of tne Domain ploughed.

Earthworks. —Tenders are wanted for forming an enbankment at Messrs. Homersham’s wool-scouring works, Messrs Fooks and Son having charge of the plans and specifications. The San Francisco Mail.—Supple mentary mails for the United Kingdom, &c., via San Francisco will close to-day (Saturday), at 5 o’clock, for despatch per express train. Late fee letters may be posted in the mail van as usual.

The Rakaia Unemployed. About thirty men, mostly heads of families, liv ng at Rakaia, have petitioned the South Rakaia Road Board to put some work in hand in the district so as to find employ ment for them during the winter. They have no prospect of obtaining any for some time to come. Sporting Publication. —We have re ceived Mr. J. J. Millar’s pocket pamphlet for the forthcoming racing season, which contains a large amount of matter which will be read with interest by sportsmen. In the preface to this neat little publica tion, Mr. Millar states that last season he distributed in eweeps no less a sum than L 34,000. Christchurch Industrial Exhibition —The Industrial Exhibition was opened by the Mayor on Thursday. There was a largo attendance. Mr. R. Allan, Chairman of the Committee of Management, delivered the inauguration address, sketching the progress made in manufactures, art, and science in New Zealand. The display of exhibits was very imposing, and include many valuable articles. The machinery comprises a weaver’s loom, tile press, boot sole sewing machine, potter’s wheel, etc., all at work. Nail making, lens grinding, and other interesting processes are being shown. Altogether there are nearly 200 exhibits. The exhibition will be open till Saturday, and possibly next week.

The Fancy Fair.—lt will bo observed from an announcement in another column that Mr.-Montague intends to keep open his fancy fair and bazaar for another week only, a broad hint to those who have not favored his attractive show with a visit, that further procrastination may result in disappointment.

The Library Readings. —The next reading of the series will not be given before Thursday week, as the Town Hall is not disengaged on a suitable evening till that date. We hear that a varied pro gramme has been prepared, and that talent for the occasion has been recruited from all sources.

Sunday School Celebration. —The St. Stephens Sunday school celebrated the Centenary by a meeting in the Town Hall on Thursday, at which addresses were delivered by Rev. Mr. Hands and Mr. Fooks, and scholars gave .recitations and vocal music, Miss Gates playing the piano. There was a large attendance. Earthquake up North. —On Tuesday, about half an hour past midnight, a very severe shock of earthquake was felt at Wairoa, a few miles from the Rotomahana Lake and terraces, which lasted about thirty seconds. Although the middle of winter, the weather is glorious, and a number of tourists have been visiting the lakes and terraces.

Unregistered Dogs. —At the Resident Magistrate’s Court yesterday, the follow ing owners of unregistered dogs were mulct in the ‘sura of 20s :—Gordon Jonas, Richard Bolton, Rickard Fergus, Louis M'Gregor, Thomas Simpson, John Murray, and Robert Todd, for having two unregistered animals had to forfeit an ex tra 20s. for the second dog. Sporting. —The Geraldine Racing Club have issued their programme. for two days’ sport in September. The prizes offered are liberal considering the state of the finances of the country. The first day has prizes offered of a total of L2OO, and Ll7O are offered for the second. We trust our local club will soon see the necessity of calling a meeting to- decide upon our own spring meeting in Novem ber.

Rakaia. —The most reverend the Primate will open Chertsey Church, at 11 a.m., on Sunday next, and will confirm one or two young persons who were unable to be presented at the late confirmation at the Parish Church (St. Mark’s Rakaia). His Lordship will also preach at Bakaia in the evening of the same day. At a vestry meeting held on Thursday, in connection with the Church of England, at Rakaia, it was decided, as the funds are available, to proceed at once with the projected ad ditions to the church.

The Borough Water Supply. —All the impedimenta, legal and other, having been cleared away from the water supply, the hatches at the head of the race were opened again on Wednesday afternoon, and the water in a few hours found its way to the upper part of the Domain ; it has only as yet reached the cricket ground, and the gully here seems to possess absorbent properties of a very craving nature, and the stream having reached a certain point appears to have a tendency to disappear. It is evident that unless a heavier stream is turned on at the intake, that it will be a matter of time for the supply to reach the town.

Alarming Fire at Rakaia.—Yester day afternoon, about four o’clock, a tussock fire mysteriously commenced at the rear of the most populous part of the township of Rakaia, and in consequence of the fresh breeze blowing at the time from the west, threatened a considerable amount of des truction to property. The danger was so imminent that a large number of residents turned out to beat out the fire, which they succeeded in doing where there was any danger. The smoke was so dense that a woman named Hughes, whose husband was absent at the time, got almost suf focated. At seven p.m., when the train left, the fire was nearly out, and all danger past.

Extensive Stock Sale. —We would call the attention of farmers and others to a sale of stock on Monday, by Mr. W. G. J. Bluett, at the Brookland Farm, the pro perty of Mr. Robert Anderson. The stock comprises 120 head of cows and twenty-three horses, with the implements and dairy utensils on the Brookland Farm, and are to be sold because of Mr. Ander son’s intention to relinquish dairying and resort to sheep-farming. In the advertise ment of the sale the auctioneer says the Messrs. Anderson have long been famous, both in the Ashburton and Ellesmere districts, for the excellence of their dairy stock, and we can honestly bear out the statement. There will also be sold, on account of Mr. W. Anderson, 175 sheep, 40 bacon pigs, 6 colts and fillies, and 500 bushels of barley, and 3000 bushels of oats (long Tartars). Altogether the sale is one of the most important that has taken place in the district for some time, and is well worth the attention of farmers. Death of a Noted Colonist.— Our telegrams yesterday announce the death of the Hon. Nathaniel Edwards, M.L.0., at his residence, Nelson, on Thursday. The deceased gentleman arrived in the colony about the year 1848, and occupied the position of clerk to Messrs. Alfred Fell and Co. He subsequently, on the retire ment of that firm, took over the business, and as a business man proved himself possessed of great tact and judgment. In the early days of the West Coast dig gings he and his partners started the Anchor Line of steamers, by which the trade between the West Coast and Nelson is still kept up, and the firm realised a large fortune by that and other depart ments of their business. Mr. Edwards retired from the Nelson firm in 1867, and some six years ago started a large import ing and shipping business in Christchurch in connection with one of his old partners, Mr. George Bennett, and the firm of Edwards, Bennett, and Co. have made a name for themselves in the City of the Plains second to none. The late Mr. Edwardsnever tooka very prominent part in politics, and has for some years past been in a failing state of health. His portly form and jocular manner will be missed-by a large number of friends and acquaintances. Out of respect for Mr. Edwards’ memory the Legislative Council adjourned on Thursday after sitting only five minutes.

South Rakaia Domain Board. —The nominated members of the above Board met at the Road Board office on Thurs day afternoon. Present—Messrs C. N. Mackie, A. Makeig, J. N. Sharp, G. Robinson, J. Bruce, and 0. A. C. Hardy. On the motion of Mr. Sharp, Mr. 0. N. Mackie was elected Chairman. After briefly thanking the Board for the honor conferred upon him, the Chairman read the Gazette notice constituting the Board and appointing that day for their first meeting. A letter was read from the County Council conveying the fallowing resolution —“ That one hundred and fifty pounds out of the special fund be granted to the South Rakaia Domain Board.” It was resolved that the Board apply to the Council for the amount. It was resolved that the reserve of fifty acres vested in the Board for the purpose of a recreation ground be enclosed with a four sod fence with two wires. Straining posts to be five chains apart, with three intermediate posts and stakes of 3 x 1 V. D. L. timber ; tenders to be invited for the same, labor only. It was resolved to invite tenders for ploughing the whole of the ground. Tenders in both cases to be sent in by the 22nd inst. On the motion of Mr. C. N. Mackie, it was resolved that Mr. A. Makeig be appointed Secretary to the Board. The Secretary was authorised to obtain the neeessary books and stationery. It was resolved that the Chairman and any one member sign cheques. The Board adjourned to Thursday, 22nd July, at three p.m.

Lecture.— Mr. H. Cape-Williamson, schoolmaster at Cambridge, is to deliver a lecture next Friday evening in the Cam bridge school on “Agricultural Che mistry. ” This is a subject in which Mr, Williamson is particularly well up, and he will doubtless treat it in a sufficiently popular manner to be interesting and instructive to his farming hearers. We learn that the lecture will be illustrated with experiments, and this, with the fact that the proceeds will be devoted to aid in the purchase of a school harmonium, ought to bring out a good audience.

PUBLIC MEETINGS AT METHVEN.

THE COUNTY WATERWORKS BILL,

A largely attended meeting of rate payers washeldat Methven on Thursday for the purpose of considering the Ashburton County Waterworks Bill, now before the General Assembly.

The Chairman of the Mount Hutt Road Board, Mr. Chapman, was voted to the chair, and introduced the subject by saying that to his mind two main points presented themselves for consideration. It would be for the meeting to decide, but he should like to know—or at any rate to have it more satisfactorily explained than it has been so far, what is the ex tent of the district which the Council purpose to provide water for. At present they had nothing to go upon— no plans or maps for their information; — and he felt sure those outside the area supplied would not care to pay rates for that from which they received no benefit. Further, he looked upon it as being ad visable that legal opinion should be ob tained upon the Bill in its entirety. As to whether the Council could levy rates on the outside districts, he was not in a position to state, but as some of the mem bers of the Council were present, no doubt they would enlighten the meeting on the matter. It remained with the meeting to propose any resolutions hearing upon the subject. Mr. J. Jackson said the County Coun cil proposed to publish in the various newspapers the numbers of all sections included in the district, so that all rate payers could see for themselves, and would have the opportunity to object or otherwise to their property being in cluded in the rateable district.

The following resolution was then pro posed by Mr. G. H. Alington—“ That this meeting considers the Ashburton County Waterworks Amendment Bill unnecessary; that it is decidedly against granting any borrowing powers to the Council; and con siders the Bill passed last session gives the Council sufficient power to supply the wants of the district with water.”

In seconding the resoulution, Mr. McMillan said he would like to ask why the petition sent to the County Council pointing out that if a proportionate share was granted to their district of the LIO,OOO already granted it would be sufficient for all their requirements, had not received any attention, and why they had heard nothing of it till the question of the LIOO,OOO loan was brought forward ? Mr. Julian Jackson, in reply, said he re collected a letter coming to the Council from some few ratepayers [A Voice—All the ratepayers were represented.] in Mount Hutt District, and as the original motion included the whole district between the Ashburton and Rakaia rivers, the Coun cil could not see their way to take any notice of this, coming as it did from a minority. In reply to Mr. Patton, Mr. J. Jackson thought that confining the scheme to the amount of the money already voted, would be prejudical to the community at large. Mr. T. Jackson, though on a farm em ploying twenty-seven horses, and having to cart all their water from the Rakaia (which they all knew entailed a great amount of expense) would naturally be glad to see the water brought through the plains, but would rather remain as at present than see the district weighed down by borrowing such a large sum of money as was proposed to do. The scheme, so far as he could see, ought rather to be a very primitive inexpensive one, than one so expensive as the Council pro posed to provide. They must be for the present satisfied by getting their horse troughs supplied, and he-thought they could all do that for less than sixpence per acre, while the County Council propose to borrow LIOO,OOO to do this, and he would venture to say that a large per centage of this money would be swallowed up in officialism. It was deemed neces sary by the higher powers now in Welling ton to give up borrowing, and why should the Council strive to take up the matter. The late reckless method of borrowing had brought the country almost to ruin, and he thought that if every one now swept their own doorstep, as the Jews did before there were scavengers in Jerusalem, they would be kept clean, and would get on all right. He would move as an amend ment —“ That this meeting considers the Ashburton County Waterworks Amend ment Bill unnecessary, and that it is de cidedly against granting any borrowing powers to the Council for that purpose, and further, that this meeting is of opinion that further borrowing on the part of the country at large is antagonistic to the farmers of the community.” At this stage Mr. Alington, by consent, withdrew his motion, so that the amend ment stood as the motion, and was seconded by Mr. McMillan. The motion was then put and carried, with but one dissentient.

Mr. Alexander Orr proposed, and Mr. G. Pannett seconded—“ That a copy of the resolution just passed be sent to both Houses of Parliament, also to the different Road Hoards between the Ashburton and Rakaia rivers, asking their co-operation in opposition to the Bill.” This was carried unanimously.

Mr. T. Jackson would like to hear from, one of the members of the Council present if, in the event of the district proclaimed being too small, and not raising sufficient money to pay interest on sinking fund, etc., -whether the Council would be able to rate those who had formerly dissented from the scheme.

Mr. D. Cameron could not give a defi nite answer, but was of opinion that such could be done—that a general rate could be raised if the area set aside at present be insufficient. In justice to the Council, he would say that, although they asked power to borrow LIOO,OOO, they only in tended to borrow sufficient to complete the scheme.

Mr. J. Jackson thought the meeting was unanimous against the scheme, yet he saw several in the room who, when the County sent round voting papers, voted for the Bill. . He should like to know what had caused them to change their opinion. Several present explained that they had signed the paper, but understood it was for an open course, and had no idea of giving assent to the passing of a Bill to borrow more money. Others expressed their opinion that there had been some ratepayers neglected in the matter, as many had not received any voting paper. Mr. T. Jackson, preposed—“ That the Chairman of this meeting write to the Chairman of the Ashburton County Coun cil, asking whether the Council considers it has the power at this moment, or are likely to have under the amended Bill such power, to levy rates on land outside the district proposed to be supplied with water, and to apply such rates towards the general expenses of their scheme.” This was seconded by Mr. C. S. Ailing ton, and carried. Mr. Coward asked if the Engineer of the County had given an estimate of the cost of the scheme proposed.

Sir. D. Cameron replied that the whole matter, even after the passing of the Bill; would rest with the ratepayers; and therefore the Engineer did not arrive at any conclusion as to the cost of the several schemes which had been brought before them. The cost of the pipe scheme would be L 75,000 at the most.

The Chairman then read the following petition, which was signed by the greater number present : To the Honorable the Legislative Council of New Zealand. We, the undersigned landowners and rate payers in the Ashburton County, being strongly opposed to the Bill for amending the Ashbur ton Waterworks Bill of last session, desire to petition your Honorable House against the said Bill, on the following grounds : First—That there is no general desire among landowners in the defined district for any water supply requiring a large expendi ture, and that we believe that there this a general feeling against entrusting the County Council with the large borrowing and rating powers applied for. Secondly—Because the signatures obtained by the travelling agents of the Council were so obtained without the persons signing under standing the question at issue, and that, in fact, the agents were canvassers. And also, that many signatures have been obtained from people not permanently interested in the land ; and we consider that those only on whose shoulders the burden of the rates will ulti mately fall should decide as to the desirableness of such borrowing, and that being a new dis trict, only partially occupied, no means exist for deciding who should be entitled to vote. Thirdly—That a great part of the district proposed to be supplied with water is of such a nature that it would be unwise to burden it to the extent of 6:1. per acre, in addition to the local and general taxation to which it is liable, and the private burdens which exist upon it; and that the time has not arrived when any conclusion can be arrived at as to « hether the land will repay sucli expenditme, fourthly—On the ground of the general want of equity shown in the defining of the district, which can only be explained by refer ence to the map. Fifthly—That, as the amount of the rate is limited to 6d. per acre, and, as explained pub licly by the Chairman and members of the County Council, any balance required will have tc come out of the general County funds, and as it is possible, owing to the nature of the land, that a considerable part of the rate might not be paid, the burden on the whole district is indefinite, and all the ratepayers in the County are entitled to vote on the question of raising the money. And we pray your Honorable House to take evidence on these points. Upon these and other grounds we pray your Honorable House to reject the aforesaid Bill- And furthermore, your petitioners will ever pray. On the proposition of Mr. D. Cameron, seconded by Mr. J. Jackson, a vote of thanks was accorded to the Chairman, and the meeting closed. A NEW SCHOOL. A meeting of those interested in the establishment of a school at Methven was held in the Road Board office, on Thursday. Mr. Edward Chapman was voted to the chair. The Chairman read a letter from J- Colborne Yeel, Secretary to the Board of Education, stating that .at present the Board had not funds at their disposal for building purposes ; therefore, until addi tional supplies were received, the applica tion from Methven would have to be held over. In the meantime, the Chairman was requested to furnish a tracing of the district, with the ages of children able to attend school, for the future guidance of the Board. * The Chairman stated that he had inter viewed the Chairman of the Board, who had informed him that if the district would provide accommodation the Board would find the salary for a master or mis tress, as the case demanded. A memorial to the Board was then read and signed by those present. The memo rial requested the Board to form an edu cational district for the township and dis trict of Methven. It showed that there were fifty-one children in the district, of whom, twenty-seven were of an age to at tend school ; and that, while the children were sufficiently numerous to entitle Methven to the advantage under the Edu cation Act of being an educational dis trict, the residents were not in a position to bear the expense of putting up a school. It pointed out, also, that the Board drew from the district no less a sum than L6OO jier annum in the shape of rentals of reserves, and that there are several sections in the township available at once for school purposes. The Chairman was of opinion that on receipt of this memorial the Board would do what they could to meet their wishes. A NEW LIBRARY. The meeting took into consideration the necessity of forming a Library for the township and district. After some discus sion on the matter, the following gentle men, with power to add to their number, were appointed a committee to solicit subscriptions for this purpose—Messrs. Patton, Morgan, O’Hara, Johnston, Hibbs, McMillan, and Alington. After the customary vote of thanks to the Chairman the meeting closed.

DISTRICT COURT.

Thursday, July 15. (Before His Honor Judge Ward.) FERGUS V. PETEK. This case was adjourned for a month. LUSCOMBE V. GRIGG. Claim L 35 Bs. 6d. This was an action to recover wages stopped by defendant for alleged bad threshing. A case for recovery of damages by Mr. Grigg from Mr. Luscombe had been decided in Mr. Grigg’s favor in the R.M. Court, and this was the action referred to, during the hearing of the R.M. case, as pending in the District Court. After argument it was agreed that the set-off be struck out, and if plaintiff re covered any judgment, execution to be delayed pending the hearing of appeal on the judgment of the R.M. Court in Grigg v. Luscombe. If appeal is not brought before the Supreme Court within three months, or if brought within that time it fails, then the two judgments to be set off, one against the other.

F. G. Luscombe, plaintiff, said that he was in the service of defendant, threshing grain, from January to May. The rate of wages to be paid was to be 255. per 1,000 bushels of grain. Was engaged by Mr. Button, Mr. Grigg’s manager, who asked me w r hat I had got for wages in previous years. I replied that I had previously been paid 255., and he said the price would be the same as in previous years. I had been threshing for Mr. Grigg four seasons. I threshed 54,4061/ bushels. When I got the account of my wages I told Mr. Grigg to alter the amount to 255. per 1,000 bushels, the same as had been agreed on between myself and Mr. Button. Last year my brother and I worked in partnership, and we divided the responsi bility of the work—he feeding, I driving. We took together L2 ss. per 1,000 bushels, and divided the money equally, thus getting each 225. 6d. This year I was to take all the responsibility myself, and therefore was to be paid 255. per 1,000 bushels.

By Mr. Branson—Am certain that Button told me the rate of wages would be the same as last year. Got LI per 1,000 last year for feeding ; my brother was then driving. Could not tell how many bushels I was paid at the rate of LI perl,ooo. Couldnotsayif Igot LI per 1,000 for 40,000 bushels and 225. 6d. per 1,000 for 9,000. Could not swear positively to how many seasons I have threshed for Mr. Grigg. Mr. Grigg fixed my rate of wages last year and Mr. Button this year.

Henry Martin, engine-driver Was engaged as driver this year. The usual rate of driving was 255. I was paid more ; 255. included tucker. I was found. Tor the defence, Mr. Branson called Edward Button, manager for Mr. Grig"— Recollected Luscombe coming to me and asking about the rate of wages for thresh ing. Told him, for aught I knew, they would be the same as last year. Luscombe last year was paid LI per 1,000 for 40,000 and 22s 6d per 1,000 for 9,000. Afterwards Luscombe asked me if the drivers’ wages wages were lower, and I told him I didn’t know.

Frederick Waymonth—The usual rate of wages paid in the district was LI per 1000 for drivers. Other machine owners have told me so. Luscombe demurred to his account, and to the rate paid. Mr. Joseph Clark has told me the rate of wages. His Honor said that this hearsay evi dence could not be accepted, and as the whole question between the parties was the rate per 1000 bushels, it -would be necesary to produce machine owners. Mr. Branson applied for an adjourn ment to admit of the production of machine owners.

Mr. O’Reilly objected. His Honor said it was apparent from the evidence that the plaintiff had been en gaged as driver this year, and not as a feeder. Mr. Button had engaged Lus comhe, and Mr. Grigg had ratified the en gagement by accepting the work, and pay ing for it. Judgment would be given for plaintiff for full amount, with costs. E. G. Wright v. Fletcher.—Claim L2OC. Adjourned for a month, on the application of Mr. Branson, for plaintiff. Stalker v. Megson—Claim L 123 16s. for threshing. For plaintiff, Mr. Branson, for defendant, Mr. Crisp. Mr. Crisp consented to judgment, on condition that execution be stayed, pend ing the healing of a cross action. Security fur the amount of judgment to bo given by defendant. IN BANKRUPTCY. Orders for discharge • were granted on the application of the several solicitors for the following J. Y. Ward, Henry Redfern, James Baylis, and C. B. M. Branson ; and orders for payment of costs re Risely Brothers and W. Frisby. Re John Moore, application by Mr. Branson for bankrupt’s discharge, his Honor said he observed that all the certifi cated accountants in bankruptcy had refused in turn to accept the trusteeship. These gentlemen had no right to refuse such a position simply because there were no assets, and unless good cause were shown -why they had refused he would appoint others in their stead. The appli cation was ultimately granted. lie Maclean and Winter.—Deed of assignment declared completely executed, on application of Mr. Branson.

lie Roberts v. Friedlander—Mr. Branson applied for an extension of time for pre paring an appeal, as he had received a letter from Messrs. Garrick and Cow- Ishaw, solicitors for plaintiff, stating that they declined to accept the case for appeal stated by himself, until they obtained his Honor’s notes of the case, for which they had written.

His Worship said two days ago he had received a telegram asking for these notes, and had telegraphed his readiness to let them be obtained, but no application had been made to the Clerk of Court. Ho affidavit was laid before the Court by Mr. Branson, and the simple statement of solicitors could not be accepted. He would not assent to the application.

R.M. COURTS.

ASHBURTON.— Friday, July IG. ‘ (Before Mr. F. Guinness, R.M.) OBTAINING MONEY UNDER FALSE PRETENCES. Maurice Kane, who. had' been appre hended on a warrant, was charged with having obtained L 3 from James Hume under false pretences. Mr. Ireland for accused. Clement George Bushel, sworn, said— On the 11th June accused told me he had some work to do at Mr. Cameron’s, and that he would take me on, and give me a share of the work in common with the others who were going. I went on Satur day and returned on the same day, because we could not find the place, as prisoner was not with us. On telling accused we could not find the place, he said he would go and show us. He went with us on the Sunday, and left us at Mr. Tisch’s, where we stayed until Tuesday. We then found out that accused had no contract there. We were on Cameron’s ground, when the shepherd told us that if Mr. Cameron caught us there he would make it hot for us. 1 told him Kane had given us a job there on a contract for fencinsr. The shepherd said Kane had no contract there. Kaiie asked Hume on one occasion for L2 until the contract was done. Kane said he had money in the hank, but could not get it out. When he came hack he told me they would not give him any, as there was none in the bank to the credit of his name. By Mr. Ireland—Accused distinctly told me that he had the job. The money was advanced to accused to get things for the work. lam quite certain prisoner said he had obtained the contract at Mr. Cameron’s. Don’t know whether accused got anything with the L2. According to What the shepherd told us, I know that Kane had no contract at Cameron’s. P. H. Guy, sworn—l am ledger-keeper in the Bank of Hew Zealand. Ho one named Maurice Kane has an account in the Bank of New Zealand. James Hume, sworn, said —On the 11th June accused came ffo me, and told me he had got a job of fencing to do at Mr. Cameron’s place—“new-chum Cameron’s,” he said. The price he said, at first, was 3s. 2d., and then 3s. 4d. Showed accused a cheque for LlO 4s. He said his money had run out, and I told him I would let him have LI, and he was to pay it back after the contract was completed. He would not take the money unless I went with him. The same evening saw accused again. I asked him if I should take tools with me. He said he had sufficient tools. Before going to the job he asked me for another LI. He said he had money in the bank, and if ho could not pay it out of the contract, he would draw money from the bank to pay hack the advances. Heard him, on onet'occasiou, tell Mrs. Harper he had L2O in the bank. There were five of us when we went up to Cameron’s. Ted Ede drove us up. The conveyance was engaged by accused. He told us to go to Tisch’s, as it was too late to camp, and he went back to Ashburton on Monday. Went to Cameron’s, and was told that Mr. Cameron had no land there. Came back to Ashburron. Could not find Kane, and have not seen him since. Altogether he has had L 3 from me. which I let him have on the strength of the contract. Would not have let him have the money if he had not made the statement. William R. Metcalfe, deponed that he kept a boarding-house in Ashburton. When I asked accused for his week’s board, he said he would pay me, but he has not done so. After Mr. Ireland had addressed the Bench, his Worship characterised the con duct of accused as that of gross deception throughout, and sentenced prisoner to six months’ imprisonment, with hard labor. CIVIL CASES. Borough Council v. W. Smith. Claim L2 55., unpaid rates. Mr. C. Braddell appeared for the Council. Judgment by default for amount and costs ss. Little v. Bradshaw.—Claim LlO, balance of an unpaid order. Mr. Purnell for plaintiff; Mr. O’Reilly for defendant. After the plaintiff’s evidence had been taken, Mr. O’Reilly raised a nonsuit point, which, after argument, his Worship allowed, with costs. Mr. Purnell gave notice of appeal.

RAKAlA.— Tiirusday, July 16.

(Before Mr. F. Guinness, R.M.) STRAY CATTLE.

I. Boucher, for tethering a cow across a public thoroughfare, was fined ss. W. Doherty, for allowing one cow to wander at large in the township, was fined 10s. CIVIL CASES. • W. Hartnall v. H. ‘Bmithcrs. Claim Ll 4 19s. 6jd. Judgment for plaintiff, by default, with costs 15s. W. Hartnall v. Latto. Claim L2O 19s. ss. Judgment for plaintiff, by default, with costs 20s. James Wilkinson v. Scott. Mr. Pur nell for plaintiff ; Mr. Holmes for de fendant. This was a claim for board and lodging for defendant’s wife who came Rakaia to stay a few r weeks. Plaintiff swore that when Mrs. Scott came his place he told her as broadly as possible that she could not stay there, and offered to introduce her to Mrs. Ratter. She, however, stayed on, and finally had almost to be pitched out of the house. He did not know anything of the woman, but was on friendly terms with her hus band. Defendant stated that she had bean in vited to plaintiffs house to stay without ■anything being said about payment. She stayed there a week, and then went to Mrs. Ratter’s. Plaintiff wanted her to come back again to his place.

After counsel on both sides had ad dressed the Bench, his Worship gave jugment for defendant, with costs, L2.

J. Scott v. Wilkinson.—Claim Ll 6. Counsel for plaintiff, Mr. Holmes; for defendant, Mr. Purnell. John Scott, sworn, said —I am plain tiff in this case. In May, 1878, I sold defendant one cow for Ll2. I also sold him two cows for L 24. I also lent him one cow, for the hire of which he was to give me two heifer calves. I never got the calves. The fair value or hire for a cow in milk I consider to be ss. per week. After the cow I lent him came home I made 19s. a week on the milk I sold from her. Received Lll on the first cow I sold defendant, and L2O on the two others. Defendant got the cow in March, 1878. By Mr. Purnell -Defendarat agreed io give me heifer calves for the hire of the cow. I made no claim till sum moning defendant. I never made enquiry why the calves had never been delivered to me.

Mrs. Scott, sworn, said—l am the wife of the plaintiff in this case. Know the cow in question. Got her back from de fendant in March, 1879. I made 10s. a week from her milk. James Wilkinson, sworn, said—l am defendant in this case. The plaintiff bought a cow for me. The price was Lll. He charged LI for driving. I was to pay nothing for driving the cow. It is quite recently that plaintiff claimed for driving. In paying for the two cows I explained to him that the L 4 short paid was to pay me for expenses I had incurred on account of his daughter. Plaintiff offered to lend me a cow if I would rear her calf. It was agreed that I should give him two calves for the use of the cow. The value of the calves when weaned would be about Ll each. Plaintiff’s cow was near calving when I got her. She came to me in May, 1878. She calved in June. I kept her till March, 1879. Plaintiff never applied for the return of the cow. I was prepared to return her at any moment. She would be a good cow if in proper condition. She was as poor as a crow and full of vermin when I got her. I sent the two calves to Sydney Polls. The value of his calf was nil The cow was with me so long because Scott never fetched her away. Plaintiff never sent me a bill for this claim till he summoned me.

By Mr. Holmes—The cow gave about eight quarts of milk a day while I had her. I sold the milk at 4d. per quart. The usual charge for grazing a cow is 2s. 6d. per week. I sent the two calves to Sydney Rolls’, about two miles from plaintiff’s. After they had been there about twelve months, I fetched them away and sold them. I had to pay for their keep. By His Worship—Plaintiff never gave me orders to send the calves to Sydney Rolls.

Plaintiff recalled—by Mr. Holmes— Defendant never' sent me word till months afierjhat he had sent the calves to Ralls, and then they were gone. I never went or sent for the calves.

His Worship gave judgment for plain tiff for Lll os. and costs, LI 19s. A. Devery v. Trustees in estate of Wm. Leslie, Chertsey. Counsel for plaintiff, Mr. Holmes ; for defendants Mr. Purnell. Plaintiff had agreed to cut the crop on Leslie’s estate, he finding the horses and drivers ; defendant finding the machines. Plaintiff owed defendants for work done and repairs to machines. During the pro gress of the work Devery obtained a pro missory note from defendants for L 75, which he had some difficulty in cashing, naving to pay L 5 3s. 7d. for the accommo dation. Defendants contended that Devery had no authority to incur expense for repairs, that the machines were handed to him in good working order, and that the amount charged for cashing the pro missory note was excessive. They also claimed L 25, value of an Osborne machine which had been damaged through plaintiff’s horses bolting. A great deal of evidence was taken as to the value of second-hand machines, and also to the competence of Devery’s men, and the quality of his horses. The case occupied the Bench till nearly four p.m., when Counsel decided to leave the case in his Worship's hands without further argument. Verdict for plaintiff’, less L 25, value of the machine destroyed, and the commission on the promissory note, and costs.

CORRESPONDENCE.

We do not hold ourselves responsible for the opinions expressed by our correspondents.

THE BOROUGH COUNCIL’S CLAIM ON THE LONGBEACH ROAD BOARD.

To the Editor.

Sir, —Will you allow me to reply to some remarks contained in a letter written to the Ashburton papers by the Mayor of Ashburton.

I am charged, as chairman of the Long beach Road Board, with a desire to repu diate what he calls “a fair and just debt,” because I have, in my place in the County Council, maintained that the Borough Council could have no claim on the funds of the County Council, and that neither had they any right to nc oney after it had been paid to the Road Board. That there can be no claim against the County Coun cil is certain, as it would be illegal if granted. In order to ascertain whether the Borough have any right to the money paid to the Road Boards, it will be only necessary to state the mode adopted by the Council in the appropriation of the last grant to the several Road Boards. The sums were apportioned to the several Boards in exact proportion to the number of acres sold within each dis trict. . In fact, returning a portion of the money to each district as having been contributed by the same district. The question as regards the Longbeach Road Board is simply this : Did the claim of the Borough form any part in estimating the amount to be paid ; in other words did the Board receive any money for the Borough ? It did not receive one shilling. How then can it bo maintained that money can be “justly due” from the Board on their account'? This, I submit, sir, clearly proves the claim to he senseless as against the Longbeach Board only. If any sum he due to the Borough, it must be due equally from all the Road Boards in the County, as they have each shared the sum

divided, no sum having been credited to the Borough previous to the sub-division.. Clearly, therefore, if the Borough was en titled to any part, it should have formed a factor in the calculation previous to the distribution.—lam, Ac., John Geigg. Longbeach, July 12, 1880.

ASHBURTON LIBRARY.

To the Editor.

Sir,— On a review of what has ap peared in your paper, from last April, to date, concerning the Ashburton Library, something like a correct estimate of its state and condition may be found. With the light thrown upon it by the aid of the press the following items are seen :- 1. For more than two years, say since March 1878, the institution has not be eh a success. 2. From some unexplained cause, a sub scribers’ annual meeting was not held in 1879, and whether the officers and Com mittee elected in 1878 could hold office for two years is uncertain.

3. For reasons then satisfactory to the subscribers, the building was in July, 1878, so altered as to be available only for Library purposes, yet in May, 1880, the Chairman regretted the public did not ap preciate what had been done.

: 4. Though not open for other than Library purposes after July 1878, the building has been used by outside bodies, such as the Episcopalian vestry and the Gas Company; and though the public are tsked to believe that on the strength of a bye-law, a rent of 10s. 6d. has always been paid for the use of the building, there is no proof that this has been done. 5. The alteration of the building could not have been, undertaken, without some expense, and rents could not have been received without creating receipts; yet no statement of accounts was forthcoming last May, at the subscribers’ meeting, nor any reason assigned for the absence of it. 6. The Committee of 1878 evidently held office up to May, 1880, and acknow ledged they were partly to blame for the bad state of affairs, but left the public to say in what respect.

7. The same Committee were eager to stop persons from voting at the last meet ing, unless it was clear their subscriptions had been paid up, though it was by no means certain that all on the Committee had paid their own.

8. The tardiness of the Committee in responding to the wishes of the subscri bers in reference to calling a public meet ing caused a suspicion that there was something to conceal, and the absence of the balance-sheet, also the way they , sat on persons who had not paid up their sub scriptions deepened that suspicion. 9. Nothing was said at the public meet ing last held in reference to the state of the piano belonging to the library, whether anyone had free access to it, or whether it was earning money for the in stitution.

The present Committee have no blame attached to them, and they will have ac- 1 corded to them the warmest thanks of the subscribers if they 7 can show a financial statement for the last two or three years, publish the rules and by laws, take stock of the property, and generally satisfy the public mind, either that the Library is not to be used for any outside purpose, or, if it is, that the rent is duly' paid. An influx of subscribers will then most likely follow.'—l am, &c., . One Present at the Entertainment.

PARLIAMENTARY NOTES.

(From our own Correspondent.) Wellington, July 15,

The even tenor of the Legislative way in the House of Representatives was somewhat disturbed last night, by a long and cowardly attack on Mr. Hurst. Mr. Seymour being unable to continue the double duty of Speaker and Chairman of Committee, Mr. Hall last night proposed that Mr. Hurst, who had on a previous occasion shown himself an excellent Chair man, should take the chair. All the old fury against Mr. Hurst at once burst out, and the whole evening up to the 12 o’clock adjournment was spent in various at tempts to annoy him. The Government supporters sat quiet, as usual, until Mr. Downie Stewart had the audacity to' join in the cowardly attack, 'and |to call Mr. Hurst “ the most objectionable man in the House.” This was too much for Mr. George McLean, who fired up, and gave Mr. Stewart a bit of his mind, and the House a little of Mr. Stewart’s history. In doing so he called Mr. Stewart “per fidious and impertinent” ; upon which he was called to order by the Speaker, and was called upon to withdraw the' words. He did so, saying—“ Well, sir, then I withdraw those words, and wish I could think of some ten times as strong to take their place that were Parliamentary. ” As if to show Mr. McLean how to manage it, Mr. Moorhouse rose and said—“ Sir, I don’t say the hon. member for Dunedin,; Mr. Stewart, is perfidious ; I don’t say that he is impertinent ; I don’t say that he has betrayed his party and his con stituents ; I don’t say that he is contempt ible ; —but I have my own opinion about him, for all that.” After several divisions, Mr. Hurst was elected by a majority of four, but, with good judgment and a very judicious speech, he declined to accept the position under such circumstances. Wellington, July 16.

The first Order of the Day was the Maori Prisoners Bill, over which much dreary discussion is proceeding. Thera was perhaps never a session when the pro ceedings of the House were so dull as they have been this year. The best speakers in the House are not heard at all, and Hansard is being crammed with such men as Seddon, Stewart, Turnbull, and Andrews, who will talk for any length of time to empty benches without throwing a particle of light upon any subject. They not infrequently spend LSOO worth of talk in some foolish attempt to take LSO from the salary of a clerk about whose value the Executive only can judge. Last night there was a fight over an Otago Harbor Board Loan Bill,’ which showed very plainly that in the present temper of both Houses the Ashburton Waterworks Bill has but a small chance of cutting its way through both Houses. Since Mr. Saunders’ speech last Monday night the Wellington papers have dropped the Civil Service report and Mr. Conyer’a letter like a hot iron with which they had burned their fingers. The great fight which was anticipated collapsed with a pitiful exhibition of Mr. Macandrew’s teeth, a dirge for the civil servants by Mr. Gisborne, and a reprimand from Mr. Thompson to the Ministry for having joined in the cheers when Mr. Saunders sat down. Messrs. Fox and Wood having stated that every word in the report was more than proved, Mr. Macandrew has' since found that he has no alternative hut to grin and bear it. It is evident that even the newspapers are uncertain that Mr. Conyers will be the source of future advertisements. • . •

The debate on the Maori Prisoners Bill is likely to be a long one. Messrs. Turn bull and Stewart have already given their valuable experience in Maori affairs, and Mr. Seddon has threatened a five hours’ speech. It is hoped that some of this will be put a stop to by a regulation limiting the number of Hansard pages that any member may occupy. Mr. Sheehan made his first appearance for this session to-day, and asked the House to suspend its judg ment upon him until they had heard his defence. His personal influence in Bel lamy’s, though much less than it was two years ago, is still very great. A publicans’ petition against the removal of licenses by magistrates at the Thames, although; sup ported by Sir George Grey, was refused consideration yesterday afternoon* in .a manner that showed the altered temper of

THE’ ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, SATURDAY, JULY 17, 1880.



s. d. d. Butter, inferior to best f? lb 0 10 to I 0 Eggs, I? dozen I 3 to 0 0 Cheese, prime quality, 1? lb 0 6 to 0 8 Bacon, prime smoked, lb 0 10 to I 0 Elams in cloth, 1? lb X 2 to 0 0 Flour in bags, 1j? zoolu [ 3 0 to 0 0 Oatmeal, 1? 251b 4 6 to 0 0 Lard, $ lb - 0 7 to 0 0



AUCTION SALES. Saturday, July 17. Alfred Harrison, at his saleyards—Horses, Implements, Harness, &c. Sale at 12 o’clock sharp. Monday, July 19. W. G. J. Bluett, at the Farm, Brookland, Ford’s Koad, Waterton—Horses, Cattle, Harness, Implements, &c. Sale at 11 o’clock sharp.



TOWN HALL, ASHBURTON. PRIMITIVE METHODIST CHURCH. GRAND OPTICAL Entertainment, CONSISTING of a large number of in teresting and DISSOLVING VIEWS, by. LIMELIGHT, both LOCAL and FOREIGN, On the 20th JULY, 1880, in Aid of the Church Funds. See Hand Bills for Programme. Prices or Admission— Dress Circle, 25.; Body of Hall, Front Seats, Is. 6d.; Back Sears, Is. ' Children Half-price to all parts of the House. Doors open at 7.30 p. m.; commence at 8 prompt. 643c-27g



NOTICE OF PARTNERSHIP. MATSON, COX, & CO. Messrs, h. matson & co. having taken Mr. C. PERCY COX, who has lately been acting as their agent at Ashburton, into partnership, their business at Ashburton will for the future be conducted under the management of Mr. Cox, under the style of MATSON, COX, & CO., A.nd they hope by erecting large business premises, and thus giving increased facili ties to their clients, to merit and obtain a fair share of the business hitherto so liberally accorded to them by the public. MATSON, COX, & CO. will hold Fortnightly Sales of Stock at Ashburton and Tinwald alternately. Next Sale at TINWALD, TUESDAY, JULY 20th. CHRISTCHURCH AGENCY. R, GEORGE MAULE, is authorised to receive orders and accounts for the Ashburton Guardian and Evening Herald. All orders fir Advertisements eft at his office, near Tattersall’s, will eceive prompt attention. 55g* WEEKS & DIXON. METHYEN AGENCY. A f ORGAN and HIBBS, General Store- Ivl keepers, Methven, are authorised agents for the Ashburton Guardian. Subscribers will please get their papers from the agents in future. Orders en trusted to them will receive prompt attention. WEEKS AND DIXON, 30o* Proprietors. NOTICE TO SUBSCRIBERS. SUBSCRIPTIONS for the Quarter ending June are now due, payable at the office, East street, near Railway Station. A Discount of Is. will be allowed on the Quarter’s Subscription, and 4s. on the wear’s subscription, if paid in advance. New subscribers are requested to send in their names and addresses as early as possible, to the Publisher, this being the first month in the Quarter. The Farmers’ Supplement will be pub- MATSON, COX, & GO., Ashburton. June Ist, 1880. 936 g 910 g MATSON, COX, & CO. lished every Month. WEEE 36q* WEEKS and DIXON, Publishers.