COMMERCIAL.

Ashburton Guardian Office, Friday afternoon. Since our last report a decided improved lone in the grain market is noticeable. Advices of a satisfactory nature from the Old Country have caused prices for all kinds of wheat to be very much firmer, lad several sales have been effected at higher rates than have ruled for some New Zealand wheat is now quoted In Lbhdon at 48s per quarter, having ~ , tisen during the past few weeks from 455. Bach nows cannot be otherwise than ex tremely satisfactory to farmers and others, greater encouragement is given to those •' engaged in agricultural pursuits. to put more land under crop, and thus give more employment for capital as well as labor. We hope the prices will continue to in crease, and so recoup our farmers for the ' ; heavy losses they have experienced during > ihe past few-years. The weather has been -tieUghtfully-fine for all outdoor work, and V ipe serious frosts have as yet interfered I' ' with the fanning operations necessary at this time of the year. On the wheat lands the early sown crops are coming up t ; well, and the benefits of our sparrow clubs are beginning to be felt already, as a con siderable diminution in the number of ■ sparrows and other l small birds adds greatly to the appearance of the wheat crops. The prices of other cereals remain about .the same as last week, excepting ’- that oata aro still being enquired after, ■’ ~ 'and holders seem inclined to wait for better prices.

MAIL NOTICES.

Mails close at the Chief Post Office for -- the following places (subject to the neces sary alterations) as under : , r . Fbid at, July 8. For West Coast Sounds, per express train, to connect with the s.s. Wallace, at 7 a.m. Saturday, July 16. For the United Kingdom, via San Fran cisco, Continents of Europe and America, West Indies, Sandwich Islands, Northern ■Ports of New Zealand, &c., per Wanaka, act follows :—Ordinary letters at 6.30 p.m. ; late fee letters, at 7 p.m. ; hooks and ■' newspapers, at 6 p.m. ; money orders, at , 3 p.m. ; registered letters at 5 p.m. ; guard’s van, 8.30 p.m. train.

IWnila close at the Ashburton Post Office as follows; a.. For Christchurch and North at 5.30 a.m. j' lO&m., and 5 p.m., daily. . For Ohertsey Rakaia, &c., at 10a.m. and 6 p.m. daily. For Dunedin, Tinwald, Winslow, Hinds, 1 Oeldstream, Rangitata, Otari, Winchester, ’ and Geraldine, at 10 a.m. daily. For Temuka, at 6 a.m. and 10 a.m., .■daily. For Timaru and South, at 6 a.m., 10 , , a.m., and 4,20 p.m., daily. For Greenstreet, Ashburton Forks, Mount Somers, and Ashburton Gorge, OO Tuesdays and Fridays, at 10.30 a. m. For Ashton, Waterton and Longbeach, . “at 4.30 p.m. daily. ‘ For .Wakanui, Elgin, Seafield, New ’ land, and Kyle, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, at 6 a.m. '• 'Mmlm arrive at the Ashburton Post /Office— • ■ From Christchurch and Rakaia at 10.25 a.m., 4.35 p.m., and 7.50 p.m. From Ohertsey, &a at 10.25 a.m. and - 4.35 p.m.daily. From Dunedin and intermediate places at S.SS p.m, daily. From Temuka and Timaru at 10.15 a. m. 5.36 p.m., and 8.15 p.m. daily. • ..From Greenstreet, Ashburton Forks, tMount Somers, and Ashburton Gorge on Wednesdays and Saturdays' at 3 p.m. . From Ashton, Waterton, and Long beach at 10 a. m; daily. ( ..From Elgin, Wakanui, Seafield, New , land, and Kyle, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, • and Saturdays, at 4 p.m. (v* —————

DAILY MEMORANDA.

AUCTION SALES. To-morrow, Saturday, July 9. MW T, Bullock, at his Rooms, East street —'Valuable Town and Suburban Pro perties. Wednesday, July 13. "Mr Alfred Harrison, at his rooms— Trees; 12 o'clock. MEETINGS, AMUSEMENTS, &c ’ ' ’ • Monday, July 11. , - Borough Council, at Borough Council * y Chambers, at 7 o’clock. , ■ , " ■ • ■ Tuesday, July 12. Lecture, in the Wakanui Schoolroom, at ■ 7.30p.m. f ; ‘: ‘.jLO.L.—Dinner, Somerset Hotel, 8 p.m. ,' ' i', Aihbarton School Committee. “ Tuesday, August 2. x ‘- Ashburton Permanent Building and In 'Vestment. Society, Monthly Meeting, w • -from 6.30 to 8.30 p.m. Wednesday, August 3. . County Council, at the County Council Chambers, at 11 o’clock.

TRAVELLERS’ GUIDE.

■■■ ■ ■ Trains Leave Ashburton fob Christ ; chueoh and intermediate stations at G • a.m., 10.30 a.m., and. (Express) 6.48 p.m. '' Trains Leave Ashburton for Timaru and South, at 7 a.m., 10.36 a.m. (Ex - - press), and 460 p.m.—the latter pro ' - ■ Deeding no farther than Timaru. ’ Tbaxhs • Arrive at Ashbubton from ; Christchurch at 10 24 a:m. (Express), t-436 jun., and 7.50 p,m. 1 Trains Arrive at Ashbubton from - ■' Tocarh and South at 10.15 a,m., 5.34 ‘ X! ■’ - p.m. (Express), and 8.16 p.m.

NOTICE TO ADVERTISERS.

All orders for insertion of advertise ments must be written legibly bn the face af the advertisement. When no order is given the advertisement will be inserted until countermanded, and charged accord ingly. All notices of Births, Marriages, -or Deaths must be accompanied by the sig nature of the sender, as a guarantee of good faith. All advertisements and business letters to be addressed The Manager ; literary communications should be addressed to The Editor.

MARRIAGE.

Nolan Gibson. —At the Catholic Church, Timaru, by the very Rev. Father Ohataigner, P.P.S.M., Thomas, third son of John Nolan, Ordrahan, late of Kerry, Ireland, to Mary, second daughter of Martha Gibson, Wakanui, Ashburton.

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna Est Veritas et Prævalebit. FRIDAY, JULY 8, 1881.

TOWN EDITION. [Jssucd at 4.10 p.m.]

Government Insurance. —The Govern ment has received a cable message from the London actuaries, to whom were sub mitted the Insurance Department ac counts, stating that they find the sum of L 50,000 is divisible amongst the assured for the quinquennial period. This sum closely approximates to that arrived at by. Mr Knight, the actuary to the depart ment.

Old Men’s Home. —A capital entertain ment was given at the Old Men’s Home on Wednesdey night, and like those that have preceded it, passed off remarkably well. The concerted pieces, under the leadership of Mr C. Ray, were given with much spirit and effect; and several solos, both sentimental and comic, evoked rounds of applause, both from the old men themselves and the public, who had assembled in large numbers; in fact, these entertainments seem to be growing increasingly popular with a section of the Ashburton community. Sundry readings and recitations —descriptive, sentimental, and mirth-provoking—were given at in tervals, and the hearty peals of laughter proceeding from the old men gave sub stantial evidence of their appreciation of the fare set before them. At the con clusion of the programme, a vote of thanks, proposed by a visitor, on behalf of the inmates, was put and carried by acclamation to the ladies and gentlemen who had Veen the means of providing such a pleasant entertainment.

Photography. —ln another column will be found an announcement to the effect that Mr W, Ferrier, late of Messrs Ferrier and Rooke, Oamaru, has opened a studio in Timaru, and is now prepared to execute pictures, views, &c., at the shortest notice. Mr Ferrier’s name is so well known to the public that we need not further comment on the probable success of this new venture, but regard it as assured.

The Cheese Shipment. —We regret to learn that the shipment of Akaroa cheese by the ship Orari has proved a failure. We understand that the result is due to various causes, principally, - however, owing to the defective arrangements on board the ship for the proper carriage of the cheese on a long voyage. Although special care was taken with this shipment, we hope its defects will soon be rectified and any further trials not prevented.

New Zealand Wheat.— On reference to our telegraphic columns it will be seen that New Zealand wheat has risen to 48s per quarter in England, being only Is under best Adelaide wheat. Personal. Wo have been informed that, contrary to expectations, the Rev. Thomas Spurgeon will not preach in Ash burton as he proceeds North, but will occupy the Presbyterian Church pulpit in this town on his return to Dunedin. Mrs Hampton. that this earnest lady evangelist would have held a series of services in Ashbur ton prior to leaving for Auckland, but in consequence of feeble health she has been obliged to postpone her visit here for an indefinite time.

Public Library. —The monthly meet ing of the Committee of the Public Li brary was to have been held last night, but as there were only three members present half-an-hour after the time ap pointed, the meeting lapsed.

Lecture. —Yesterday evening a lecture was given in the schoolroom, Chertsoy, by the Rev. Elliot E. Chambers, on the subject of “ Canada, as seen from the river St. Lawrence.” The lecture was in aid of the church funds. The chair was taken by Mr Mangham. After a few introductory remarks about our right to claim the Americans as our kindred, the rev. lecturer gave a description of the beautiful scenery along the bank of the river St. Lawrence, a noble river of 1,800 miles in length. An interesting account was given of the river steamers, which were praised as being perfect floating palaces and of great size though only drawing four or five feet of water. He also gave a graphic description of Quebec and Montreal, and of the heights of Abra ham where the gallant Wolf? met his death. After dwelling again for a short time on the American steamers, with their multiplying mirrors, grand dining rooms, and sleeping apartments, the rev. lecturer gave a sketch of the navigation among the thousand islets of the St. Laurence ; described the habits of the Indiana and their skill in boating ; he also referred to the large timber rafts on the river, 400 feet long and 200 wide, pro pelled by oars of immense sweeps. Mr Chambers also gave an amusing account of the insect plagues of this part of the world, the mosquitoes, etc. At the close of the lecture, the usual vote of thanks was put and carried.

Chicory. —We learn that the local chicory of Ashburton is rapidly getting into favor. Mr Pearce, the enterprising grower and manufacturer, has already orders from the south of the colony for eight tons of the commodity at LSO per ton.

CABLE NEWS.

LATEST FROM EUROPE. [per reuter's agency.] Mercantile. London, July 7. Consols have declined to New Zealand securities are unchanged. Adelaide wheat, ex warehouse, has ad vanced to 495; New Zealand wheat, ex ship, has risen to 48s; Adelaide flour, ex warehouse, to 345. Austra lian tallow is unchanged. The Land Bill. In the House of Commons Mr Forster, Chief Secretary for Ireland, proposed, as an amendment to one of the clauses of the Land Bill, that the Government should be authorised to lend one-half of the arrears of Irish rents for the years 1878 and 1879 in cases where tenants are L3O under the amount of their agreements with land lords. The proposal was debated at some length, but its further ! discussion was adjourned till to-day’s sitting.

More Discord. Calcutta,- July 6. Intelligence is to hand firfem Canda har that serious - discord has arisen among the officers of the Ameer’s troops, stationed at Girishk and Canda har. The dissension has been apparent for some time past, but is now daily increasing, and is creating considerable disunion, in the ranks of the Ameer’s army in Candahar. The Health of the President. Washington, July 7. This morning’s bulletin reports that President Garfield continues to make satisfactory progress towards recovery.

TELEGRAMS.

[PEB PRESS ASSOCIATION.] Quarantine. Wellington, To-day The Now Zealand Government have de termined that all vessels arriving from

Chinese ports shall be quarantined. A proclamation to this effect will be issued immediately. It has been shown that vessels arriving at New South Wales from Chinese ports have brought small-pox patients with them, and the Government in that colony have decided to quarantine vessels arriving from China. Fatal Accident to an Old Miner. Dunedin, To-day.

Elliot, a very old miner in Mount Ida district, has been killed by a fall of earth in his claim, on the Kyeburn diggings.

The Customs.

On Wednesday L 4,383 was paid as Customs duty, probably in anticipation of tariff changes. This is the heaviest amount in the year. The Coming Election. Invercargill, Tc-day.

Private persons are actively enrolling voters for the new general election. Since the main rolls were issued supplementary rolls, bearing two hundred names each, are printed for Wallace and Riverton. The Invercargill registration officer has three hundred names additional. A Sensible Remark.

The Town Council last night voted half the expense of the Tararua Relief Com mittee. A remark was made by a coun cillor that the Union Company should have paid it.

WAKANUI ROAD BOARD.

The usual monthly meeting of the Wakanui Road Board was held yesterday. There were present —Mr .1 amca Brown (in the chair), and Messrs Earle and Mayo. CORRESPONDENCE. Letters were read by Mr Gundry on behalf of the Parsonage of St. Stephen s, and by Mr Maclean on behalf of the Presbyterian Manse, asking that the rates on these church buildings should be re mitted.—lt was resolved that the matter should stand over for a full meeting of the Board. . Letter from the Wakanui School Com mittee stated that the school had in creased, and asking for a grant of part of the shingle reserve as a playground. The Chairman said that the place was of no use for shingle reserve. Moved by Mr Earle, seconded by Mr Mayo, and carried—“ That Mr Fooks be instructed to take such steps as may be necessary to transfer part of reserve 1420 to the School Committee.”

The Surveyor stated that an application had been made to him to get reserve 1413 leased to the School Committee for 7

years, at its previous rental. The Chairman moved —“That the Surveyor be requested to bring up, as soon as convenient, a full report of the Board’s reserves.” The motion was carried. small works. It was agreed that a small drain, 8 chains in length, should be cut alongside of Loddy’s property, and also that the Seaside road through Mr Wilson s pro perty should be made possible. SURVERORS’ REPORT. The Surveyors reported as follows: — “ 1, Boundary road : The contractor has completed the work on this road.—-2. Fitzgerald’s road ; A contract has been let to Mr Fitzgerald for cutting a drain and putting in culvert at the sum of Ll 3 The work is nearly finished.—3. Beach road metalling : The shingle con tracted for has been delivered and spread. The quantity originally intended has been somewhat exceeded, but it was found necessary to put an extra thickness on some slack places in the road. 4. Wakanui road footpaths contract has been commenced. We would suggest the advisability of re-forming the road way for the same distance for which the contract is let for forming the footpaths. The present formation is far too round, in some places dangerously so, and there is now considerable traffic on the road.—s. Paynter’s road : We have examined this road, and are of opinion that it would be inadvisable to form a width of more than 30 feet, as the ground is very uneven and the traffic small. A specification of the necessary work has been drawn up and tenders invited, which will be laid before you to-day.—6. Fencing gravel reserves : Posts and rails for the fencing of your gravel reserves have been prepared. Two of the reserves are just on completion, and the remainder will be finished shortly. —7. Stanley’s road : We have had a pipe culvert laid across this road at its junc tion with Butterick’s road, in order to drain a large stagnant pool in a gravel pit on R.S. 21688.—8. Suburban road, off S.E. Belt. A culvert is needed at the junction of this road with the S.E, Belt.—9. Seaside road : Owing to the closing up of an old track on private land, it will he necessary to make the road passable in the gully leading into R S. 4844 . We believe the cost would be about L 5. ” Mr Bruce has made a statement to the Board about some ruts in the road near his house on the Albion road.

The applicant was told that the matter would be attended to, and it was resolved that Patterson’s attention should be called to the matter. TENDERS. Tenders were opened for formation, &c, on Painter’s road, and that of Wil liam Silcock, at 3d per yard for side cut ting, and 6s per chain for formation, Ll 9 14s 8d for the job, was accepted. BANK BALANCE. The Clerk stated that the balance at the Bank, exclusive of L6OO on fixed deposit, was L 1,106 8s 3d. About L 65 had been received for rates since last meeting. As the term of the fixed deposit had ex pired, on the motion of Mr Earle, it was resolved—“ That LI,OOO be placed in the Bank on fixed deposit for four months. REPORT OF INSPECTOR OP NUISANCES. The report of the Inspector of Nui sances was read and adopted. ACCOUNTS. Accounts amounting to Lll7 10s were passed for payment. The Board then adjourned.

ALLEGED ARSON IN PETER STREET.

At the Resident Magistrate’s Court this morning, before Mr J. N. Wood, R.M,, his Worship the Mayor, Dr. Trevor, and Newman Alcorn, Esq., JJ.P., Robert Gould Ruxton, Marjorie Theresa Ruxton, and Mary Buckman were charged with setting fire to the shop of Robert G. Ruxton on the 24th June. Mr Branson appeared for Ruxton and his wife ; Mr O’Reilly appeared for Mary Buckman ; Inspector Pender pro secuted for the Crown. After a preliminary objection by Mr Branson as to his appearing both as pro secutor and as witness had been disallowed by then Bench, Inspector Pender deposed : 1 am In spector of Police at Timaru. On the 3rd inst. I went with Sergeant Felton to a house occupied by Ruxton and his wife. I had a warrant with me. Mr and Mrs Ruxton occupied a bedroom, and Miss Buckman the parlor. The Sergeant arrested them on a charge of arson. In the bedroom I saw a large quantity ol wearing apparel, male and female, claimed by Mr arid Mrs Ruxton. It was left in charge of a constable. Next daj

(Monday, 4th), I again went to the house, and found in the bedroom a lot of goods (No. 4), consisting of 13 pieces of tweeds (produced), 2 pairs riding pants, 1 pair trousers, and sundry small goods, 2 other pairs new trousers, a piece of cloth, two pairs uf dressing trousers and jacket, one cloth vest (cut out), one leather hat case, and a parcel of shirting. Lot No. 5 (produced) I found in the bedroom (goods produced). The coat was in a corner covered up ; one pair trousers and one set harness. Lot No. 6 was found in the passage, and consists of. five coats. Lot No. 7 was found in the parlor. It con sists of a dark tweed piece, one whip, one top-coat. No. 8 was found in a back room. It consists of one box, claimed by Mrs Ruxton, containing abridlefcit rolled up, and five measuring rules. These I found behind a box in the corner. In the same room I found a pair of gun boots. I also found this mat, curry-comb, and brush. Far down in the case were several things

packed. In the soullerjrwas lot No. 9. It consists of two sides of bacon and one ham sown up in calico. At Timaru, on Saturday, I found two boxes— lot No. 10. On of them was large brown leather portmanteau. They were at the railway station. I brought them to Ashburton last night in the pre sence of Sergeant Felton and Mr Alfred Harrison. Had them opened in their presence, and had an inventory taken. Sergeant Felton has the inventory. In the pocket of the portmanteau I found the two memorandum books produced. One contained two photographs of Mr Euxton, and also an envelope addressed to him, and also an interim receipt for fire insur ance, also a very large quantity of gloves of various descriptions. (Mr Branson remarked the fire insur ance receipt was for an old payment last year.) Examination continued: The other box contained a large quantity of millinery goods, life belts, &c. By Mr O’Reilly: I went with Sergeant Felton to the house in Aitken street. We both went together. We had some diffi culty in getting in. I knocked at Miss Buckman’s door. She called out that she was not dressed. I saw her after she got dressed, but not then. There was no breaking in at all. When we went to Buxton’s his daughter said they were both out. 1 knew that was not true, as I saw Buxton’s head at the window, and I went in at the front door. It waa ten o’clock in the morning. Sergeant Felton deposed: I am Sergeant of Police, stationed at Ashburton. On the 25th June I saw Mrs Buxton in Aitken street. She said she did not know what to do, she was in such a state on account of the fire; that Mr Buxton was such a strange man, and that it would be a severe blow to him when he returned. She

would like to let him know, but did not know where he was, whether in Rangiora or at the White Hart,* Christchurch. The loss had been a very heavy one, about L 2,000, and everything had been de stroyed, that she had lett the house about nine in the evening, and _in about half ah hour heard the fire-bell ring, when she went to the fire. In reply to ques tions she said that most of her jewellery was saved. She said, “ Most of my jewel lery is over here, except a diamond ring worth twenty guineas, a plain gold ring, a diamond solitaire of Mr Ruxton’s, and a lady’s gold albert. When I came away the night before, I left the lamp burning on the table in the parlor. It was all right, and there was nothing the matter with it. A small fire was burning in the kitchen, with something for supper in the oven, and there was a small fire in the parlor of coal and wood, with a chair with some of my underclothing on it in front of the fire, in a safe position. When Mr Ruxton went to Christchurch he gave me strict instructions to sleep in the house and not leave it. 1 felt awfully frightened and nervous the first night at being alone. The children slept with Miss Buckman. The second night I got in my bed I was frightened terribly, so that I had no sleep. When 1 thought of this last night I got into such a state of un easiness I could not remain along, and I ran over to my sister’s to get some supper with her. I fastened the house and locked up the door when I went out, and left all safe ; there was no cat in the house. I can’t think how it was possible that the place caught fire. The reason why the lamp was burning in stead of the gas was that I smelt the gas escaping. She said, ‘ Didn’t you,’ turn ing to her sister, who had joined her just before. I had noticed it for three or four days before. I liked to keep a lamp burning to make people think there was somebody in the house. ” I said, “Are you sure there was L 2,000 worth of goods ; it

is a large quantity?” She said, “ Well . am sure there was over L 1,200 worth, bu I don’t know much about Mr Ruxton’i affairs. I know there was a ' aluable lo of English cloth which we brought oui with us, and a lot of valuable small goods, I brought a large quantity of goods ou myself, and I think about half them rausl be saved. They are over here. ” By Inspector Pender: After leaving Mi Ruxton’s I went to the scene of the fire. Searched among the debris, but could nol find any rolls of cloth. There were two or three rolls of lining burnt at the ends, two or three small remnants of cloth, about four or five yards each. Where the desk was described to be there were the re mains of some books and some papers. The books were burnt all round the edges. There was one board not burnt, with some cloth upon it. In the show room there were remains of what appeared to be a number of patterns and scraps of cloth, and there were some pieces of cloth on the carpet. The floor under the carpet was burnt. The boards under the tire place were not burnt. On Monday, 27th, in company with . Mr Gundry, X met Ruxton at the corner of Peter street. He accompanied us to the scene of the fire. He said he estimated his loss at 82,000, and ho had a lot of English cloth which he brought out with him, also a lot of valuable small goods. 1 requested him to point out where the cloth had been. He did so, and picked out a piece of light tweed in folds ; he said, “ I can identify this; .there were yards of this, it was on the shelf.” I saidi “If thisremnantis safe, where are the rolls.” “ Ohj he “ they have been burnt; it was out here.” He picked up another piece and said, this if as also on the shelf. I_ asked him where the rolls where. He 1 can t account for them. ”. He also pointed out the position cf the show EOORb and picked

ip a piece of light tweed used t ibout 57 yards, and said, “ I know this'.'. tVhat a fortunate thing I took my watch vith me ;it is worth LBS. _ I:was nearly eaving it in the desk. I did leave a set of reautiful studs and a-diamond ring. The studs Mrs Ruxton had put in a shirt. She lad brought them out with her. • I took them out of the shirt. The diamond solitaire was*worth L 8 10s.” On the 3rd July I arrested the prisoners on warrant. (Witness here recapitulated the evidence of the Inspector.) The cash box, No. 11, I found under the bed where Mr and Mrs Ruxton were sleeping. It contained a bank pass book (Bank of New Zealand), sundry papers, a gold bracelet, gold chain, gold necklet, two rings, one of them a diamond, the other diamond and pearls, two chanis, pair of gold ear-ridga, one of them broken, two scarf pins, Albert guard, one diamond stud. In the front room or parlor I found this roll of receipts on the mantelpiece. They had all been on the file. I examined the receipts ; they were of various dates up to June. I received the enclosed parcel from Mrs Felton. It contained a ring, bracelet, gold ring, locket and chain, gold brooch, pair of earrings, rings, and stud; a bunch of keys, a purse, and a pocketbook. On .Mr Ruxton’s person I found a parcel contain ing two gold rings, a gold chain, and purse, with a railway receipt for the box No. 9. Mr Harrison made a valuation of the goods. I produce the inventory. Mr Harrison took them down in my presence. By Mr Branson : I am positive Mrs Ruxton did not say the light was left in the kitchen ; she said either parlor or sitting-room. 1 knew which room they wore sitting in from what she told me. The room faces the street. lam quite

sure she made use of the expression that I there was a small fire burning in the I kitchen. She told me she was suffering I from heart disease, and was not strong. 1 X am sure that she said, on the second 1 night after Mr Buxton loft, that the rat 1 got into her bed; Her statement was that she went away about 9 o’clock. At I 23 min urea to 10 I heard the fire bell. When I went to her, she told me at once the bulk of her jewellery was in Her house in Aitken street. It is not unusual for people, particularly women, when leaving their houses alone, to leave a light | burning She received a telegram from her husband on the morning after the fire, which was seized. I read the telegram. Mrs Buxton and Miss Buck man were in the house in Aitken street, talking to me. On going away I saw the telegraph boy, and he delivered a telegram to Mrs Buxton from her husband. She read it, and then handed it to me. I have got all the papers seized with me. It was • from the White Hart Hotel, Christchurch. A reply was sent to it; I wrote the reply. I signed it “Mary Buxton.” On the 27th, when I asked Buxton where the policies were, he said they were burnt, and he supposed it did not matter. He said if he had been offered L 1,500 to clear out the day before the place was burnt, he would not have taken it. He said “I was just getting a nice business together; now 1 shall have to stop at Christchurch. I asked him what was the jewellery lost in the fire, and he told me. He said the price of the solitaires was L 8 10s. He said it was the first time he wore a large tie. The diamond ring was. Mrs Buxton’s, and a wedding present to her. It was worth twenty guineas. He said that a plain ring and a lady’s albert had been lost, also | a set of butterfly studs. Am quite sure he did mention two solitaires as lost. ! When he told me that his watch cost him , LBS in London I told him I would not have believed him if that had been burned. ■ It was a very handsome gold watch, and , had a heavy gold chain attached. He asked me and Mr Gundry to go . over to ; Miss Buckman’s in Aitken street. He i said—“ I should like you to go over to Miss Buckman’s and see her stock. It is worth LSOO, and is only insured for Ll5O. ” ' He made no remark about his own stock. He told me he was insured for L3OO in i the Standard, and Ll5O in Mr Harrison’s company. He could not recollect the name the Transatlantic. He said— “ What is that to what I have lost 1” He said there was no insurance whatever on his goods in Aitken street. He said if Miss Buckman had been burned out he should not have believed the goods were worth as much as they were. I did not go over to Miss Buckman’s. I had sus picions at that time that the fire did not occur by accident. That was on the Monday. None of the jewellery described by Buxton was found at the fire. Con stables Smart and Neill were searching with me. It was from ten to eleven in the morning. Constable Neill remained in charge all night till eight o’clock in the morning, and then Constable Smart re lieved him. I should be surprised to hear that one of the constables mentioned picked up the solitaire in the debris. I have known Buxton for about twelve months. When I saw him first he was in the employment of Mr Hodder. Margaret Felton deposed: I am wife of Sergeant Felton. On the 3rd July I searched the female prisoners. Constable Neill deponed; I am a con stable stationed in Ashburton. Was on duty when the fire broke out. It was in Peter street, and occupied by Mr Buxton. It was totally destroyed by fire. When I came to the place the fire was in the back part of the house, looking through the roof. There was no light in the front part of the house. I went round to the front. The door was open. It was not locked. I looked into the shop and saw a chair inside the door, and and four rolls of cloth in the shop, also two small rolls on the shelf in the shop. That vms all I saw; if there had been more there I could have seen it. There were no goods of any sort in the window. I went to a window at the end of the house, and broke it in with a batten. I saw no one in bed. The place burnt very quickly. It was burnt to the ground within half an hour. Saw Miss Buckman that night. After wards saw Mrs Buxton. I asked her where Mr Buxton was 1 She said he was in Christchurch, Bangiora, or Raiapoi. She said she had left the house, and gone off to Miss Buckman’s with the intention of returning. 11 asked her how long she was in Miss Buckman’s ? and she Said till she heard the fire bell. She said it would be about half-an-hour from the time when she left the house until the time when she was talking to me. I asked her if anyone had been left in the house. She said no one except the dog. Tasked her if she had left any lights burning, and she said she had ; she had left a fire in the front room and one in the back, both small fires. She said there was a kerosene lamp in the kitchen, turned down. She locked this back door, went out at the front, and put the key in her pocket. She asked, “ Is there nothing saved.” I said, “ No.” I asked her if the place and the stock were insured. She said she didn’t know. I asked her what the value of the stuff in the shop was, and she said about L 2,000. I recollect going, on Sunday, 3rd July, to Hicks’ shop in Havelock street,. Mr Buxton occupied it. I saw Buxton there the day before. I took possession of some things there. They were these, things (produced), lot 12. It consisted of' three rolls tweeds and a quantity of cut up tweeds, one picture, two parcels iweed trousers and vest, tweed trousers and coat, and some papers. ; Mr Branson applied for all the papers seised on Buxton’s premises to be pro duced. The Bench said the papers could be produced and examined in the defence, t. ; Evidence continued: There was a roll of duck, pair of .scissors, and a sewing machine. By Mr Branson : I got the information ; about the fire from the waiter at|QutlTq s .Hotel. I did not see the - blacksmith/ opposite on that occasion to my lotonv

ioor'was burst open. I didnot bunt 111 .nSS ra. The back part or kitchen was what |£|p mis on pre when I came. There was a window 'facing Quill's back yard. The fire was coining out under the' roof at the back. 1 have been in the house before. I did not notice whether the window was open. I can’t saj whether the back door' was open or shut. She told me she had i-jpl placed the kerosene lamp on the table in *" "if the kitchen, turned down low. When ~lf she was speaking to me, the fire 'was still blazing. I saw her in East street. She -' was excited at the tiihe:’ iß< n6B l?HiSfPffiorn ing I was in charge until half-past 9. I could--not see anything there. I did i*ot pick un a stnfl/;ffiy.ny. body says he saw roe pick is mistaken. X was talking to jlr l£ggatt. > r , He lives close by them. If hejßweara he , «. saw me pick up a stud , I most deny that it is true. . . - A ’-a By Mr O’Reilly: I waj heamMont- M gomery’a buildings when the bell mhg. 1 */ ran up to the fire. There were' a few -' people there. X noticed there wdce at least eight or nine people at: the {tack of, the building when r I .got therei There' might have been many more. 1 went 2$ r in and looked’ round, ,bist ,d|d r not go further, because there-''’was a south-west wind blowing. back" m door was open. I .did- not see anything to save. I did not find any inconvenience from the smoke. I did not go back again. .V It was not smoke, that drove the out. There was no light in the shop, except , what came from the fire. 1 washable to ,y see the stock by the light "frotp’the’b-lrning roof at the back; I cannot-say'if I saw Mr Burn of the railway station there. , By Inspector Pender: I did nottske up

any thing, from whatever. The Court then adjourned until tiro o’clock p.m. ' 1 . - ■ l On the Court resuming— George Scott, a carrier ; I recollect the 23rd of June last seeing the' defendant, Mr Ruxton. He askednre - whether I could take some things to the. railway station the next morning. I wentj to Miss Buck man’s with my cart about 6.30 next morning. It was not light. I saw Miss i Buckman 1 took a portmanteau and one or two boxes. Couldmdt'swearto \-m there being more than two.' Ttook them '/ to the railway station. 1 . Mr' Ruxtom and Miss Buckman went to the : railway' plat form.. I was at the railway—first. I ■; asked whether more than one vfera going, as there wastob' for one 3 passenger without booking" itas excess. I asked whether I was to -get the luggage labeled. Ruxton said he w4s going to Timaru. I helped to pultihoT llggage ..| in the guard’s van of the Timara-itraiu. i Two ladies went in 'thd same train. 1 saw the same persons two ,ot three days afterwards in Ashburton... ..The. Jjoxes !) came from the parlor of .Misa house. I have seen the lot 12) often in Ruxton’s shop. It was.: then banging up in the shop. .Have.--* - , seen the coat (marked 6) r in thej-shop few days or so befdre-J;heL firei It was ' then , hanging up. It. tpoks. .like a coat that was offered.fpr sale tb m 1 ' recognise the. lining, / , y \ By Mr Branson ; I cannot swear to the. j. coat produced. J T was likd- one Ruxton offered me. : I was thefirsttrain in the ‘ s morning the luggage went by. J RIA. Keifip, a statipa, Timsru ; : : I the < .two ladies now before., the,Court .at the •Sj railway station, Timaru, on ,'the 14th?'. June. They came up by-the-10.JSD train from Ashburton, and had a largo?box and - portmanteaux with thenn. . I pnfi’a ticket on each box. lean swear to.?the two boxes in Court as the ones I saw at Timaru. -The -elder.of the two'ladies : staled that they wished the :I)QXMl6lored. I issued a storage.ticket,.ami asked what name to put on it. They hesitated for a short time time, and said “ Pot M-^ELR.; that will .do.” They paiff &f for the ticket, and said they would leave the box for a few days. The ookisa-. remained . from the 14th unclaimed. - Ihinded them *. one ticket and put the other on Kill box. (Ticket produced -by Sergeant Felton.) :j Inspector Pender said;thist-wai all the | evidence to show-the tracing rof the pro* .1 porty. He would now-call- ' J Thomas Quill,., who .deposed?'--I am licensee of the Commercial Hotel The -)j accused (Mr Ruxton) kented;>a !r lionsai d from me in Peter street;' . He: tented it for twelve months atlOs petweek- It J was a wooden house covered with shingles. | There was a room all fronting in street. At the back there was a &c. It was burned down <on the 14th June. The i| house was all iu»'good»m{psubijw£Ua was J laid on in the. front rpppi. The building, was insured by me' I was in.the premises , 1 the Monday previous to the fire. I was. ■'* then on business. ' Did not notice ther.-j stock particularly. I thought 3>.« had seen ’more stock in the \ shop. (Mr. Branson objected to this line j of examination;-) Examination continued. | I did not cohaider.that there was a very m large stock in the. shop, when I-was there; -'3 I should say thafc-there was not so much * as when Mr Ruxton'first opened. I no- j ticed a few rolls of cloth,,op the shelves. , t There was more in the winc&bout a month i before the fire Mr Ruxton used to dress' n| his window with rolls of cloth,&c. I did i| not notice any different ih : shto. I.'- was at the scene of the fire shortlyjttter it ji

broke duty There was no 'wind blowing at the time. . , By Mr Branson : 1 aacdllecfc'the occa* t sion when I went to Buxton’s shop. X: J never used the. expression that “ I had come to see his very valu able collection of tweeds.” I was -• only shown two rolhof;twead.and|a roll r of patterns of all kinds of se- - lected a* pattern out of the rolfc I did notO notice whether there Was tnbrbtihaA two rolls of tweed. There was a table in the shop close to the front .witfdo wT""J I would not be certain that it month } previously that I went'to ’Ruxion’s shop., I did not go into any other portion of the shop, nor did I know what stock there was ■ in the other rooms. About six or seven ; months ago, if not moreletrthe pre mises to Mr Buxton. The shop win- \ dow was dressed with gloves, collars, and ■. cloths, &c. I have, as auctioneer,, sold goods to Mr Buxton previous to Mr Buxton’s arrival. I sold a table at L 3 15s. Did not know when that table was placed in the .house. l ean give a list of the goods,land .the ’prices of. them, sold to Buxton. - William Anderaonoeponed : I am a saddler. Remember th£ night: ,qf Ahe fire in Peter street. I waa.thpre.' T|p fire was burning iii the back the inside. I could not see front room. ~ r -. V, ! By Mr Branson: Was. uo llght .in the front room whatever. There ‘ deal of smoke. The wind oame'froha the back of the house. It was "a vefyslight '

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, FRIDAY, JULY 8, 1881.



.■VTURSR—Mrs Patjuno begs to in . ’•11( timate that she baa opened a Private : tuning■ ,Establishment and Hospital for Ladies and Gentlemen, and is prepared to receive . Ladies to Nurse who require .medical attention. Address Moore street, near Presbyterian Manse. 104 c 1W AND LARGE DISCOUNTS, io 4s. in the £ 1 RETURNED to all Customers purchasing Mens' or Boys' Clothing, For this Month only, at Everett bros., Havelock street. . Two Shillings in the Pound returned ;t6 all customers purchasing in Mercery, Ureases,! Manchester, Millinery, and Fancy Departments. SAVE 2s in the £ or 10 per cent, on purchases, 4s in the £ or 20 per cent. ....... 822 a sk:. ,# •_ 1 -- 0 . MOUNT SOMERS AGENCY. t*' r J 8,1 1 E . .Mr W- H. Poddicombb is authorised to and transact'all business J connection with The Ashburton In the Mount Somers and st districts. ?| | • * ‘ ' W * ZOUCH » ; Proprietor. ■ if* f#B ii»d<PRIENDLY SOCIEi APTS, on Sale at the Paper.



Wanted. WANTED— 26,000 Bushels of GRAIN to Crush, at 2d per bushel. Mato and Hunt. , 201 c WANTED KNOWN—That the Under signed is prepared to put and keep in ORDER GARDENS, by the day or year, at very low rates. Apply, J. Lino, Mayo’s Block. 1850 WANTED immediately—CHlCOßY DIGGERS. Apply at Works, Moore street. E. B. Pearce. 180 c TTIT'ANTED EVERBODY to know that VV HORSE COVERS can be bought for 17s 6d (former price, 255), at S. Stephens’, Saddler, Tinwald. 726 a TA7ANTED KNOWN— That A. Farqu- V* har has leased BUTLER’S BIL LIARD SALOON, and requests a visit. Pool every evening at 9 o’clock. 93c WANTED KNOWN—That Robert Elston, Burnett street, Ashburton, having procured the Newest Apparatus, is prepared to SWEEP CHIMNEYS at very low rates. Any orders left at the Town Hall will receive prompt attention. 81c WANTED KNOWN.—Young Ladies’ Journal, Is 7d ; Bow Bells, Is 7d; Family Reader (Monthly), Is 2d ; (Quarterly) do., 2s 2d ; Family Herald, la; London Journal, Is 4d ; &c., &c. A large assortment of School Books and Stationery of every description. Hymn and Prayer Books, &c., &o. Subscribers wanted for every Newspaper and Periodical published. Books, Piece Music, &c., not in stock can be supplied to order, at lowest prices. L. F. Ajidrewes, Bookseller, Stationer, and General Newspaper Agent, East street South. 953 a WANTED KNOWN —That Miss Verrall is now showing her Winter Stock of Millinery, Drapery &c. Stay and Corset Manufacturer. Dressmaking done on Premises, Colombo street, opposite Cookham House. 630 a Special Advertisements. The best value for ready MONEY is the MEN’S AND BOYS’ CLOTHING Manufactured by THE NEW ZEALAND Clothing Eactory, Which can be purchased at their Retail Branches all over New Zealand. SINGLE GARMENT AT THE WHOLESALE PRICE. 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. 75c Manager.



Dr James Murdoch, JJAYING taken the House in Bur nett street, at present occupied by Mr Cambridge, Chemist, will COMMENCE PRACTICE in Ashburton, on MONDAY, 6th June, 1881. 951 a



George St. Hill, JgUILDER AND CONTRACTOR, Buenett street, Ashburton. Plans prepared and Estimates given at the lowest rates. Terms as may be arranged. 409 a



(i A LL work and no play makes Jack a dull boy,” consequently, bear ing the truth of this adage in mind, Frederick Clark, OF EAST STREET, HAIRDRESSER, Has just imported a quantity of NOVEL AND AMUSING GAMES wherewith to while away the dragging hours of winter nights. They meet the requirements of both old and young, and include playing cards, “ squeezero,” &c.; chess and draught men and boards, back gammon, dominoes, go-bang, race game, lotto, &c., &c. Those having favorite Authors should, to prevent disappointment, make their selections from his large stock of NEWEST NOVELS at their earliest convenience. THE SMOKER’S FRIEND is F. 0., and to preserve the right to this title he has juet imported the following Brands of TOBACCO : —Nail Rod, Vanity Fair, Ruby Twist, Twist, &c., &c. CIGARS and CIGARETTES: Havanna and Cuban, Vanity Fair Cigarettes, &c., &c., and a large selection of novelties in PIPE WARE. Haircutting, Shaving, and Shampooing Saloon, Montgomero’n Buildings. 720 a



SHBURTON BOOKSTALL. ON SALE. “ Canterbury Times ” and Dailies Weekly and Daily “ Press ” “Liberty” Dunedin “ Witness ” and “ Times ” “ Timaru Herald " “ Ashburton Guardian ” and “ Mail" “Home News” “ Australasian ” Sealey’s Pamphlet on New Zealand. Latest Novels, &c., &c., &c. CHARLES HAY. 1880 Proprietor. jy-USIC TUITION. NEXT TERM commences July Ist. Lessons on the Piano, Harmonium, Violin and Flute. Pianofortes and Organs on sale. Terms to suit purchasers. Pianos and Harmoniums tuned. 11. J. WEEKS, 931 a Cameron street West. John Meech, 3} RAOTIO AL CABINETMAKER, IT UPHOLSTERER, &0., BURNETT STREET, Opposite the Mail Office. Cheapest House in Town for New and I Secondhand Furniture. All kinds of Furniture repaired or ex changed. GOOD PRICE GIVEN FOR SECOND ' HAND FURNITURE. 819 Railway tariff. copies o* the New Scale of Fares and Charges >n the New Zealand Railways can now he’ procured at Office of this Paper.



Special Advertisements. EBEAVEN begs to inform the in habitants of Ashburton and the n surrounding district that he will COM- o MENCE BUSINESS on SATURDAY g NEXT, as General Stationer, Bookseller, y Fancy Goods, Toys, <fco- _ i The largest and best selection of Litera ture, &c., ever offered for sal© in the dis- 1 trict. The best goods, choice selection, r and extremely moderate prices, being the § proprietor's moto, ha hopes thereby to merit a fair share of public patronage. t Note the time and address— c SATURDAY, JULY iith. ■ SAUNDERS’ BUILDINGS, - Next the Guardian Office, East street. 206 c • Pianos. Pianos. PIANOS, HARMONIUMS, and AMERICAN ORGANS For Sale on deferred payments. Also, on Hire, as may be required. (Anyone hiring an instrument and subsequently wishing to Purchase within six months, the amount paid for hire may be applied to purchase of same. H. M. JONES, Stationer and Bookseller, East street and Baring Square. 365 a B ONE DUST. Bone Bust ON SALE, in largo or small quantities. Price i, £6 10s and £6 10s per ton. _ 195 c MAYO & HUNT O. Carstens & Co., (Late Weston’s), PROSPECT BUILDINGS, Tobacconist, fancy goods, AND STATIONERY. Meerschaum Pipes, G.B.D. Pipes Nailrod, Twist, and Vanity Fair Tobacco A nice assortment of Accordions, Con certinas, Flutes, Violins, Mouth Organs, | and Toys of every description, direct from Home. Haircutting, Shaving and Shampooing. EAST STREET ASHBURTON. 257a* Hayes’ fj| IMB E R YARDS. Balance of Short Firewood unsold at auction sale will be SOLD CHEAP, for cash, in order to clear it. ALPHEUS HAYES. FRESH SUPPLIES of TIMBER, &c., to hand. 608 a OTICE OF REMOVAL. JOHN HARVEY, BOOT and SHOEMAKER, Begs to intimate to his numerous friends and customers that he has removed into his new Premises, next to the Panama House, TANCRED STREET, Where he hopes to merit a fair share of public patronage. Every description of Boots and Shoes made to order on the shortest notice. Repairs neatly executed. 199 c METHVEN AGENCY. MORGAN and BIBBS, General Store 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. W. H. ZOUCH, Proprietor. UMBRELLA Left in my office. Henry Z. Taylour, Ashburton Press Agency. 2230 MONEY TO LEND, at a low rate of interest, in sums of £SO and up wards. Apply to T. BULLOCK. TO LET.—BOARDING HOUSE in East street, lately in the occupation of Mr 0, Truckle. Apply to T. BULLOCK.



jp O R SALE. A FARM of 300 Acres, all sown down to wheat, well and securelj Fenced, abun dantly watered, and within easy access of a Railway Station. Also, 200 Acres of good LAND to Let for Cropping, or For Sale on a purchasing clause. Two well-finished three-roomed COT TAGES, situated on a Quarter-Acre of Land, on the East Town Belt, close to the High School. These cottages are now let to good tenants, at a fair rental, and will be sold on easy terms of payment. 695 a POYNTZ AND 00. TX7ANTED KNOWN—Every descrip » » tion of Plain and Fancy Printing executed on the shortest notice, at the Guardian Office, nearly opposite the Rail way Station. W. Jd. SPACEMAN’S Offices are now in Canterbury Chambers, Here ford street, Christchurch, next Miles and Co., having REMOVED from Messrs Wynn, Williams, and Deacon’s. 335 a S. Nashelski, WHOLESALE AND RETAIL IRONMONGER, HIGH STREET, CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand. 230 r CASH RECEIPTS Printed at “ The Guardian office. ANTED KNOWN —Promissory Note Forms on Sale, at the Guardian Office. WANTED KNOWN—That the “ Crown Lands Guide ” (No. 3), New Zealand Gazette, Parliamentary Papers, and all other Government Publi cations can be obtained by applying at Office of this Paper. Late Advertisements. jjl O WIRE FENCERS. TENDERS will be received for the ERECTION of about 12 miles Wire Fen cing, more or less, labor only, , until SATURDAY, the 16th July. Lowest tender not necessarily accepted. Specifi cations of work can be seen at offices of P. Cunningham and Co., Ashburton. 2250



Holloway's Ointment and Pills.— Though it is impossible, in this climate of changing temperature', la prevent ill-health altogether, yet its form and frequency may be much mitigated by the early adoption of remedial measures. When hoarseness, cough, thick breathing, and the attending slight fever indicate irritation of the throat and chest, Holloway's Ointment should be rubbed upon these parts without delay, and his Pills taken in appropriate doses, to promote its curative action. No catarrhs or sore throats can rpsist these remedies. Printed directions envelope every package of Holloways medicaments, which are suited to all ages and conditions, and to every ordinary disease to which humanity, is liable. —Advt,



Jones has discovered ' the' natures of a distinction,and f* He says that a fire* ? s; quently makes many while “a.'f little distinction ” attracts Hosts of friends, f to the one on whoniJife' is conferred. Holloway’s Ointment and Puls. — .. . Glad Tidings.—Some sonstimtfems ’ have a tendency 4a and .hlct haroigh wit i, the year home down by its protracted tortures. 3? Let j such 'sufferers bathe I$W / afflicted parts with warm and afterwards. Jub |n r.--r ; this soothing Ointment. They will find it the » best means qfJewenißeilheiF agqbv, and, * assisted by Holloway’s Pills, the sural way tu overcoming, their disease, r be said than to, few days’ trial of this i; safe and soothing by the disease.will ultimately ibe completely swept away. ' Pains that a giant shudder £ are-assuaged without'araemty by ffpllo way’s -j h easy and ‘inexpensive •by moderating the throbbing vessels and calm* i. : £ ing the excited nerves, •—Advt 5