SHIPPING.

- PORT OP LYTTELTON. Arrived. Yesterday. Odalisk, brigantine, from Port Chalmers. To-day. Albion, s. s., from Port Chalmers. Sailed. Yesterday. » Wanaka, s.s., for Wellington and . North. Bowen. s.s., for Port Chalmers. SHIPPING TELEGRAMS. Auckland, Yesterday. Sailed —Marion Fox, for Sahara; Sybil, for Tahiti. Wellington, Yesterday. Arrived—Hawea, from Manukau and Taranaki ; Star of the South and Murray, from the West Coast. Port Chalmers, Yesterday. Arrived Rotomahana, from Mel bourne. Sailed— Napier, ship, for Portland, m . ballait.

MAIL NOTICES.

Mails close at the Ashburton Post Office as follows: — For Christchurch and North at 6.30 a. m. 10.30 a.m-, and 5 p.m., daily. For Chertsey Rakaia, &c., at 10.30 a.m, and 6 p.m. daily. For Dunedin, Tinwald, Winslow, Hinds, Coldstream, Rangitata, Orari, Winchester, and Geraldine, at 10 a.m. daily. For Temuka,' at 6.30 a.m. and 10 a.m., daily. For Timaru and South, at 6.30 a.m., 10 a,m., and 4.30 p.m., daily. For Greenstreet, Ashburton Forks, Mount Somers, and Ashburton Gorge, Oir Tuesdays and Fridays, at 10.30 a.m. For Ashton, Waterton and Longbeach, at 4.30 p.m. daily. For Wakanni, Elgin, Seafield, New v land, and Kyle, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, at 6.30 a. m. ' Maila arrive at the Ashburton Post Office— From Christchurch and Rakaia at 10.25 juel, 4.40 p.m., and 7.50 p.m. From Chertsey, &c. at 10.25 a.m. and A4O p.m. daily. ' From Dunedin and intermediate places at 5.35 p.m. daily. From Temuka and Timaru at 10.50 a.m. 5.35 p.m., and 8.15 p.m. daily. ' From Greenstreet, Ashburton Forks, Mount 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, Wakanni, Seafield, New- Jand, and Kyle, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, at 4 p.m. W. St. G. Douglas, Postmaster

DAILY MEMORANDA.

AUCTION SALES. To-morrow, i Thursday, July 21. Mr. Alfred Harrison, at the Alford Forest Hotel—Horses, Implements, &c.; 11.30 o’clock. MEETINGS, AMUSEMENTS, &o To-Night, . Wednesday, July 27. Public meeting, Elgin Schoolhouse, 7 p.m. Public meeting, Town Hall, 8 p.m. XO.G.T.— Open meeting, Will and the Way Lodge, Tinwald Hall, 8 p.m. To-morrow, Thursday, July 28. 1 Amateur Dramatic Club, Meeting of Members, Town Hall, 7.30 p.m. Saturday, July 30. Phrenological Entertainment, by Profes ‘ sor Simon, Town Hall, at 8 p.m. Tuesday, August 2. Ashburton Permanent Building and In vestment Society, Monthly Meeting, from 6.30 to 8.30 p.m. Wednesday, August 3. County Council, at the County Council Chambers, at 11 o’clock. ' Monday, August 8. Borough Council, at Borough Council Chambers, at 7 o’clock. Rangitata Road Board —Monthly Meet ing. Wednesday, August 10. Local Industries Association Annual meeting, upper room, Town Hall, at 8 p.m. Thursday, August 11. Library Committee —Monthly meeting. Mount Hutt Road Roard, Monthly Meet ing.

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Veritas et Prevalebit. WEDNESDAY, JULY 27, 1881.

TOWN EDITION. [lssued at 4.10 p. m. j

Postal. —Mails for the United King dom and Australian colonies, per Albion, close at the Bluff on Friday next, at noon. Intercolonial Exhibition in Christ church. —At a meeting of the Christ church Industrial Association it was re solved, on the motion of Mr J. P. Jame son—“ That it is desirable to hold an Intercolonial Exhibition in Christchurch about the close of the year 1882.” Revised New Testament. —As will be seen from announcements elsewhere, copies of the revised edition of the New Testament can be obtained from Mr H. M. Jones and Mr L. F, Andrewes. We have to acknowledge receipt of specimen sheets from Mr R. Beavin, bookseller. The San Francisco Mail.—By tele gram we learn that the s.s. Taiaroa, with the San Francisco mail, left Wellington for Lyttelton at 10.30 this morning. She will, consequently arrive at the latter port early to-morrow morning, and the mail will reach its destination by the ex press train. The Rangitata Traffic Bridge. —We learn from the Timaru Herald that a public meeting is called for Monday, Ist August, at 7 p.m., to be held in the Road Board Office, Geraldine, to consider the matter of the extension of this bridge and other subjects of local importance. The meeting is convened by Mr Postlethwaite, the Chairman of the Geraldine Road Board. Increased Parliamentary Repre sentation. —We desire to call the atten tion of our readers to the public meeting which is to be held this evening in the Town Hall to consider what steps should be taken to receive additional Parliament ary representation for the Coleridge dis trict. It is very desirable, for the most obvious reasons, that as many persons as possible should attend. As the hour for commencing the business of the meeting has not been named in the advertisement, we may mention that it will he eight o’clock. The Political Crisis. —The Welling ton correspondent of the Press tele graphed yesterday as follows It is cur rently rumored to-night that Mr Finn will vote with the Government, and that Mr Driver will not return from Dunedin in time for the division. If this be so, it will increase the Ministerial majority to five or six. Some of the Opposition still profess to be jubilant, and talk about their victory being certain, but the majority admit frankly that they are beaten, but console themselves with the idea that in any case they have prevented the Go vernment measures being carried, as .they consider that they will almost certainly be withdrawn, even if the Government win. Extension of the Ashburton Forks Railway. —A meeting held at the State school, Alford Forest, on July 24th, to take into consideration the further extend ing of the Rakaia and Ashburton Forks Railway. The meeting was very well attended, and the interest taken in the matter seemed to be very keen. Mr Peach was voted to the chair. The Chair man read the advertisement calling the meeting, and stated that certain resolu tions should be passed to lay before the meeting to be held at Methven, on Monday, the Ist of August, concerning the same, and he called on those present to propose some resolutions. After a good ..deal of talk, it was proposed by Mr Philip Tisch —“That this meeting appoint from amongst them a committee to attend at the Methven meeting and express their views on the matter regarding the taxes for the same, and also it would be necessary fer this committee to wait on the Board of Directors at Christchurch and ascertain their views on the matter.” On the proposition being seconded by Mr MeFarlane, Mr Taylor .proposed as an amendment—“ That the district be can vassed to see what shares could be taken up so as to assist the Company and further the interests of the district generally.” Much discussion followed regarding their being taxed at all for the line, which the meeting seemed to be altogether against, unless the railway was further extended. Mr Taylor then with drew, and the proposition was put and carried. Mr Oorsbie explained to the meeting his views on the further extension of the railway, and the taxation for the purpose, said he thought that it should be met in a good spirit, and he, as represent ing a large firm, .would do his best for its advancement. Mr Puddicombe thought that any committee or deputation ap pointed could do no harm by waiting on any of the bodies in authority, if they were empowered by this meeting’s resolu tions to do so. Mr MeFarlane thought that all would be taxed for the railway whether it benefited them or not, and this ho strongly was opposed to unless they all bonefitted by it in some respects. Several other gentlemen also spoke on the subject, when the Chairman at length said he thought they should propose their committee, and the following gentlemen were then proposed and seconded, and ap pointed :—Messrs Philip Tisch, Peach, Corsbie, Syams, MeFarlane, Hood, Pud dicombe, and G. T. Ford. The usual vote of thanks to the Chairman was passed and the meeting dispersed.

CABLE NEWS.

LATEST FROM EUROPE.

[per eeuter’s agency.] Funeral of Dean Stanley. London, July 25. The funeral of the late Dean Stanley took place in Westminster Abbey to day, in the presence of a large number of dignitaries of the church, members of the Ministry, and others of high rank, who assembled to do honor to his remains. Many of the deceased’s private friends, and numerous specta tors, were also present. The ceremony was conducted throughout with great impressiveness. The Infernal Machines Confiscated. In the House of Commons to-day, the question was put to the Home Secretary in regard to the reported seizure of infernal machines which had been brought from America to Liver pool among the cargo of the ship Malta. In reply, Sir W. Vernon Harcourt confirmed the and said ,

that the machinesjhad been confiscated by the authorities at Liverpool. Monetary and Commercial. Consols have declined to 100^5; New Zealand securities—s per cent. 10.40 Loan, 105; 4 per cent., 1889 Loan, 105 ; per cent, 1889 Loan, 103. Adelaide wheat, ex warehouse, 48s fid; Adelaide flour, 34s 6d. New Zealand wheat, ex ship, 48s 6d. Au stralian tallow, best beef, 34s fid; best mutton, 365. A Vote of Censure Negatived. In the House of Commons to-day a motion was introduced by Sir Michael Hicks Beach, censuring the Government for the terms of peace concluded in March last with the Transvaal Boers. It was, after a lengthy debate, negatived by a majority of 109, the voting being 314 to 205. Further Bombardment on the Tunisian Coast. Paris, July 25. Telegrams are to hand from Tunis announcing that in consequence of the hostile attitude of the Arab tribes at Gabis, on the Tunisian coast, the French war vessels are now engaged in

bombarding the town.

AUSTRALIAN.

[per reuter’s agency.] Satisfactory. Sydney, July 27. Admiral the Earl of Clanwilliam is now out of danger. Awaiting Orders. Instructions have been received by telegraph from the Admiralty for the detached squadron to wait further orders before proceeding on its voyage. The Ministerial Elections. Melbourne, July 26. The elections for West Boukc and Ararat took place to-day, and resulted in the return of Sir Bryan O’Loughlen for the former by a small majority. Mr David Gaunson, the new Minister of Lands, was, however, defeated for Ararat by a large majority. The re turns from Moira and Delatite are not yet complete, but the re-election of Mr Bolton (Postmaster-General) and Mr J. H. Graves (Minister of Customs) for these constituencies is considered certain.

TELEGRAMS.

[per press association.] Death of Major Hay. Auckland, Yesterday. Major Drummond Hay, formerly Native Land Purchase Commsssioner, died at Cambridge. The Coffee Palace, The directors of the new Coffee Palace Company are inviting competitive designs for the coffee palace. The Vogel Prize. The Vogel prize given to the Auckland Grammar School was won by Lippott with 419 out of 500 marks. Will he Accept It 7 Auckland, To-day. The Proprietor of Kain’s colliery has offered the captain of the ship Dunkeld a good freight to take coal instead of ballast on his voyage to San Francisco. A New Trial Refused. Judge Gillies to-day refused an applica tion for a new trial in the slander case ot Crawford v. Johnson, heard last civil sessions, when a verdict was returned for the defendant. He said that he thought it was proved that the defendant had made a false statement affecting the plaintiff’s chastity; he had done so in confidence to the girl’s late employer, and the surround ing circumstances showed that the state ment Was not made maliciously. Tawhiao’s Movements. Tawhiao received an ovation at Hamil ton, Waikato, to-day. Addresses were presented to him and Major Mair, con gratulating them on their visit. Wet Weather. Wellington, Yesterday. There is but little sign of any cessation in the continually wet and boisterous wea ther which has continued for the past ten days. The Maggie Patterson. A preliminary enquiry was held to-day into the circumstances connected with the wreck of the schooner Maggie Patterson, at the Heads. The evidence went to show that the casualty was due to a mistake made by the mate when entering the Heads, he having mistook a rock near the lighthouse for one at the extreme end of Barrett’s reef. The vessel is now a total wreck. She was sold by auction this after noon forLs2, and her cargo of coals, hides, and zinc realised L7B. Slips on Rimutuka Incline. The slips on the Rimutuka incline are more serious than were first anticipfted. It appears that in addition to the slip it self, which came down from the hills above, the line was cut away for a distance of fifty yaids, and a depth of 30ft. It will take over a weeK to com plete the repairs. The Rain. The rain which has fallen since last Friday week is more than three inches in excess of the average fall for the whole month during the previous sixteen years. To Rowing Men. Wellington, To-day. A meeting of the Star Rowing Club was held last night to consider the advisability of instituting an amateur sculling cham pionship for New Zealand. It was decided that the Club should take the intiative steps towards the accomplishment of the object. A committee was appointed to draw up proposals, which will bo sub mitted to all rowing clubs throughout the colony. The Eumara Water Races. Hokitika, J uly 26. At a special meeeting of the Westland County Council this evening, the follow ing resolution, proposed by Councillor McWerter, was unanimously agreed to : “ That this Council have heard with surprise the proposal of the Government to hand over the Kumara and Waimea water races to a company, and resolve to ask the Government whether it is really their intention to hand over this property to any company ; and, if so, this Council protest in the strongest manner against the proposal as detrimental to the beat interests of the mining industry in the district. ” (Windbound. JCaikoura, Yesterday. The cutter Paws., Captain Westlake, from Lyttelton, a fortnight .out, arrived here last evening after laying at Amuri eight days. She put in here for shelter.

SAFETY OF THE BRIG FIREFLY.

(by telegraph.) Christchurch, To-day. Captain Cleary, of the Emperor, reports that on July 10, when about 17 mile* this side of Cape Tprawhiti, he passed a brig which corresponded in rig and general description to the brig Firefly, reported by telegram as missing. The rig of the Firefly is uncommon, and the boatswain of the Emperor is almost sure that the Teasel seen was her. She had all sail set, so was not disabled in any way.

RESIDENT MAGISTRATE'S COURT.

ASHBURTON. — Yesterday.

(Before Mr J. N. Wood, R.M.) WILKIE V. WILKIE. This was an application for an order to protect informant’s earnings and goods, and also the custody of three children, under the Married Women’s Property Protection Act, on the ground of defen dant’s habitual drunkenness. Mr O’Reilly appeared for informant, and defendant conducted his own case. Isabella Wilkie deposed that she was wife of defendant, and that she lived by her own earnings. Her husband was an habitual drunkard, and about a fortnight ago he came in about 12 or 1 o’clock in the morning, and fell over the scraper. He was drunk, and kept them up all night. He went away at 4 o’clock. Next night her husband again came home drunk, and tried to take a horse away, which belonged to another person. He again came down on Saturday week, and was then sober. Witness sent for the police to take him away. The police came, but did not take him. He stayed that night. Was away during Sunday, but slept at the house on Sunday night, and went away in the morning. Defen dant had not been home since. He had been out gambling all night frequently. Defendant here asked some questions as to certain monies and property taken by defendant some seven months ago, but the Magistrate ruled that the evidence must be confined to the past six weeks. By the Bench: Defendant had not struck her during the last six weeks. Had received Ll 6 from him during that time. By defendant : Will swear you were drunk on two occasions. Was not in the habit of putting the door-scraper on the step to trip you up. My earnings have been by money from my friends. I have many friends you know nothing about. The property was settled on me previous to the first protection order. Ido not consider the way I lived whilst you were at Malvern extravagant. The defendant asked if a protection order could be granted without the hus band being notified of it, as it was done some four months ago. The Magistrate replied that it could if the husband was known to be absent from the district. Defendant then made some statements, which mainly had reference to previous transactions, but was stopped by his Worship. He then called the following evidence; — James Quigley, contractor, stated that he had known the parties for about seven years. Mr O’Reilly’objected to any’ evidence but for the past six weeks. Examination continued : Had seen de fendant nearly every day for six weeks. Had never seen him drunk. Knew him to be a hard working man, and kind to his family. His wife had, to his know ledge, always plenty of money from him. She took two of his horses from witness’ place last week. Timothy Keily, contractor, deposed : Have lived with defendant for the past seven months, nearly constantly, and dur ing the past six weeks have been living with him—in the same house most of the time. Have never seen him drunk, dur ing that time or any other. Have often had a drink with him, and been in his company till late at night, and never saw him the worse for liquor. James Wallace, publican, Chertsey, said ; Defendant had lived at his hotel, at Chertsey during the pasttwo months, offand on, about three weeks in all. The previous witness and he worked together. Looked upon him as a very proper sober man. Had known him for six years, and had never seen him drunk. By Mr O’Reilly : Look upon the two of them as very bad customers 10 the hotel. Constable Smart, deposed : Mrs Wilkie sent for the police on Saturday week, and told witness defendant was in the house. Saw defendant and left him there. Have never seen him the worse for drink. By Mr O’Reilly: Have seen him out late at night, but never drunk, or so as to require carrying home. Defendant : I have often seen you car ried home drunk, O’Reilly. Defendant, sworn, stated that his wife’s evidence was a tissue of falsehoods. By her violence, ungovernable temper, and filthy language, she had frequently driven him from home, and his forgiveness had only led to worse conduct on her part. She had ruined him by her extravagence and dishonesty, and now attempted to blast his character by her falsehoods. On the night alluded to as the one on which he had come home drunk, both his wife and another woman, a lodger, had used such aggravating language that he for once lost his temper, and told them plainly what he thought of them. He could not obtain possession of his clothes, books, tools, or anything from her. The loss he felt most regret for, was his college prizes, which in form ant had refused to give up. She had stolen his watch and chain during the past six weeks. He denied assertion of the in formant as to gambling, except on one oc casion about two or three year years ago. The Magistrate said the case was one which should never have came into Court, and he would refuse to grant the order. Case dismissed.

NEW ZEALAND PARLIAMENT.

—♦ LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL. Tuesday, July 26. The Council met at 2.20 p.m. In reply to the Hon. G. Johnston, The Hon. F. Whitaker said that Sir J. Coode’s report on all the harbors, includ ing Gisborne, would be laid on the table in a fortnight. On the Hon. F. Whitaker’s motion, the committal of the Licensing Bill was postponed for a week, until the question of confidence had been disposed of. The Married Woman’s Property Protec tion Bill and the Port Chalmers Drillshed Bill were passed through committee. The latter was read a third time. The Council rose at 5 p.m. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. Tuesday, July 26. The House met at 2.30 p.m. EEPORT. Mr Murray tabled the report of the In dustries Committee, recommending that the same duty be imposed on imported maize, except from Fiji, as on other cereals, and that the duty on tobacco grown in the colony be reduced to one shilling per pound fora period of five years. QUESTIONS. In reply to questions, various ministers stated, that Government was not aware of any members of the Waste Lands Board, Auckland, having resigned, but inquiries on the subject would be made preparatory to stating whether or not it was their in tention to vest the powers and functions now vested in the Board in the various County Councils within the provincial district of Auckland.—That in reply to petitions of the unemployed at Oamaru Government hadjoffered to transport these persons to such parts of the colony as they might be likely to succeed in getting em ployment in, but none had taken advam ta»e of the offer. Since then another petition had been received, and on the same offer being made a limited number took advantage of it. NEW BILL. Mr Murray moved for leave to intro duce, a Bill to* regulate the duration of Parliament, to come into force after the dissolution of the present Parliament. Mr Barron objected, contending that

Bill of this nature should not be intro duced during the last session of Parlia ment. The House divided—Ayes, 38; noes, 34. The Bill was introduced and read a first time. On the question that it be read a second time on Wednesday week, Mr Barron moved as an amendment — “ That it be read a second time that day six months.” He said he was quite certain that the measure would not pass, and such being the case, he thought it would be better to crush it at once. Mr Brown spoke in favor of the Bill, adding that it would be better for the country if elections were for life, with a proviso that on a petition being signed by a certain number ef electors, members should be forced to resign. A plan of that kind would bring about a unity in Parliament that could not otherwise be obtained. Mr Seddon spoke for the amendment, giving it as his opinion that a Bill of this kind should not be brought before an ex piring Parliament, Mr J. B. Fisher supported the motion, adding that it had now been shown that triennial parliaments were a mistake. The Hon. J. Hall said that Govern ment had no intention of interfering with triennial Parliaments, and when the proper time came they would be found objecting to any interference on that score. Still, there was no reason why they should object to the Bill being brought before the House. Mr Gisborne said that while he would object to any attempt to prolong the pre sent Parliament, constituencies at the next elections ought to see this Bill, and have an opportunity for judging it. He thought that the duration of Parliament should be not less than four years, and at all events, seeing it was not to interfere with the expiry of the present Parliament, there could be no injustice done in allow ing it to be brought forward. Mr Macandrew voted for triennial Par liaments, but he now questioned the policy of that measure. However, as it had only been passed two years ago, he certainly would not be disposed to see it interfered with now. Mr Bowen concurred in the opinion that triennial Parliaments were a mistake, but having been passed only recently it would not be politic to interfere with it already. Mr Levin had been returned to support triennial Parliaments, and he would support them, at all events until he had gone back to his constituents, and got their views on the point. Mr George would support triennial Par liaments, as it had only been passed during the present Parliament, but should the question come forward during next Parliament, and he be in the House, he would be found voting against them, as he thought it would be found that they were a mistake. The question was put that the Bill be read a second time on Wednesday week. Ayes, 37 ; noes, 34. SUPPLY. In committee of supply, The Hon. Major Atkinson moved for authority to move for deficiency bills to the amount of L 200,000. Mr Brown asked the Government to state when the Otago Central, Canterbury Interior, and Wellington and West Coast Railway Bills, and the new Representation Bill would be introduced. The Hon. Major Atkinson said that these Bills were in a very forward state, and would be introduced so soon as the no-confidence motion was disposed of. Mr Moss brought up the question of the West Coast Native affairs, and the connec tion of Major Parris with the West Coast Commission. He reprobated the arrange ment by which the native inhabitants of that part of the colony were placed en tirely at the mercy of an irresponsible commissioner, who was said to be entirely guided by Major Parris, who was the person mainly responsible for all the troubles on that coast for the last twenty years, and who, it was believed, most un duly favored the chief Honi Pihama. He held it to be absolutely necessary that these affairs should be placed directly under the control of the Native Minister. He proposed to read a letter re the manage ment of the commission, but on refusing to give the name of the writer he was not allowed to proceed. The Hon. W. Rolleston said that he held himself directly responsible for the administration of these affairs. The con duct of the previous speaker in making a cowardly and scandalous attack on a valu able public officer on the authority of an anonymous communication, was most un justifiable. The whole proceeding was one which reflected the utmost discredit on the hon. member. Mr Moss repudiated the imputation made against him, and reiterated the charges against Mr Parris in the adminis tration of native affairs. Mr Whitaker said that Mr Moss had attempted to under-rate the importance of Tawhiao’s visit to the Waikato, and as re presenting the constituency more immedi ately affected by that visit, he defined the importance and general significance of the same. Mr Sheehan said that the main proposal before the House was the issue of defi ciency bills, and he objected to the whole question of native affairs being revived and discussed on it. He admitted the importance of the king’s visit to the Waikato. It was merely the result of a gradual movement, and the present Go vernment had merely succeeded in putting the keystone upon that movement. He could not allow party prejudice to prevent him admitting the success of what had been done. The motion authorising the issue of the deficiency bills was put and carried and the resolution reported. The House adjourned at 5.15 p.m., and resumed at 7.30. NO-CONPIDENCE DEBATE. Mr Montgomery resumed the debate on the no-confidence motion. He declined to recognise anything as before the House but the proposal of the Government and the amendment by Mr Ormond. He objected to the House being called on to decide between the proposals of the Government and those of (Sir G. Grey. He was op posed to both. Whatever the result of the present debate, he held that the redistri bution of seats must take place this ses sion. He defended Mr Ormond's action. He objected to the proposed method of rating Crown lands, and to the constitu tion ot the Public Works Board, which would really place eleven Ministers in the House. He also strongly condemned the method of distributing local aid. Bad as it was there was the further objection that no guarantee existed that it would exist for more than a year. Local and general finance should be entirely separated. He contended that funds should be assured to local bodies without reference to any central body, and that they should be en abled to perform their functions without any interference from Wellington. These were three points on which he thought the House shou'd insist. Towards this end he would suggest a plan which had _ been approved by the Canterbury Provincial Council in 18G9, when South Canterbury raised such a cry as the whole of the out lying districts of the colony were now raising. Jt was then proposed to consti tute a Local B.oapd ,of fifteen members, elected by the people, and electing its own chairman, who would have generally the powers of a superintendent; the net and fund to be allotted to immigration and local works, and for Road Boards. Of course immigration was now out of the question. The Government, forced by the pressure of public opinion, had passed a number of measures prepared by their predecessors, but had failed miserably when called on ,

to originate new measures. They had done well as administrators, but had failed miserably as legislators, and even now they had not put a policy before the House. The Treasurer’s finance he regarded as thoroughly unsound in proposing to add to the public debt by means of a local loan. For these reasons he should vote for the amendment. Ho despaired of getting good measures from the present Ministry. Their prestige was gone, and whether de feated on this motion or not their days were numbered. Mr Bowen denounced these motions of want of confidence, as they produced a disinclination to attend to the practical business of the country. He was inclined to think that if they could get rid of this system af party government, a great im provement would be brought about. The ast great debate in this House was on abolition. That was a question worthy of the occasion, not like the present ques tion, which was one of no such import ance. He counselled them to bring the debate to a conclusion at once, pass the estimates and the Representation Bill, and then go somewhere else to address their constituents.

Mr Ballance said they had been dis cussing a great question of public policy, and they had been doing so at the invitation of the Government. They had been told that a motion of this kind should have been brought for ward by an organised party. The motion had been brought forward by one of the best organised parties that could be con ceived of. It was one of the strongest Oppositions this Government ever had to contend with. Under these circum stances be would like to knew what the previous speaker desired. If they were not to have party government, what were they to dol Were they each to act upon the dictates of their own sweet wills ? They heard dissatisfaction from all quarters concerning the existing state of local government. It had been said that there was no desire for amalgamation or for larger counties ; indeed he believed that the tendency of the counties was to reduce themselves to the status and func tions of Road Boards, and yet the Go vernment proposed to give them facilities to amalgamate and form themselves into larger counties. They wanted an inter mediate body between these and County Councils and the General Government. Referring to the Bill before them, he said that it propounded two great schemes, viz., racing Crown lands and rating native lands. Referring to the former, he said that the rates should have been wholly set apart for opening up the country, and no portion of them used for main roads. A better scheme than the one proposed would be to appropriate say 20 per cent, or 33j- per cent., to be handed hack to the local bodies for opening up the blocks and making roads to the land sold. Reference had been made to Sir G. Grey’s Bill. Without committing himself to all its details, he thought that the measure to a great ex-, tent outlined the form of local govern ment they required. The great blot on the county system was the large voting power given to property. Sir G. Grey’s Bill was a comprehensive scheme, and he entirely approved of the popular basis on which the local bodies were to be elected. He also agreed with distributing the funds on the population basis. He sup posed the amendment, on the ground that the proposals were objectionable, and that the Government had failed to show that they possessed administrative capacity equal to the occasion. Mr Pitt said that while the Government had been attacked on all manner of sub jects, the fewest number of .speakers had attacked them on the financial aspect of the measures now under discussion. He remarked as curious that none of the previous speakers had given them a scheme of local government finance such as they would wish to see introduced. He trusted that the amendment would be negatived, as it would entail a result which would not be for the good of the country at the present time. The Go vernment had rendered good service to the country, and they could not well spare them from the Treasury benches just now. Mr Andrews did not think that the House would ever think of passing the • Government Bills as they stood. He was astonished that they should make these Bills Government questions, seeing that it had been openly stated that what they desired was to make them acceptable to the country. Referring to the members of the Government individually, he had the highest opinion of them, but collectively they failed to lead the House. He ob jected to the proposal made for rating the native lands. The roads were not made for the convenience of the natives, and it was unfair to tax them. He spoke in favor of railways being placed under local control, giving it as his opinion that it would tend to make the railways pay bet ter. He was fully persuaded that the Government had not the confidence of the House or the country. Mr Levin contended that their first duty was to consider consequences. He did not entirely approve of all the Government measures, but still the Government had not lost his confidence, and would have to commit far greater sins before he would vote to turn them out. They had re deemed the finances from a deficit of L 1,000,000 to one little more than L 5,000. They had been instrumental in redeeming the credit of the colony both at Home and abroad. Then, again, they had passed those liberal measures which other Go vernments had kept dangling before the eyes of the country. He would have pre ferred something more bold than the scheme of finance proposed; still, his opinion on that score was not by any means weak enough to induce him to re ject it altogether. He referred to the fact that the Saving Banks returns showed an increase last year of L 116,716. That was, to his mind, a strong proof that the prosperity of the colony was reviving. To a great extent that improvement had been due to the Government, and the country at large had continued confidence in their administration.

Mr Reeves moved the adjournment of the debate, and the House rose at 11.15.

ASHBURTON PLOUGHING MATCH.

The Prize List. JUpGES. Horses, harness, &c.—Messrs M. Stitt, E. Saunders, and A. Lcatharp.—Treble and double furrow classes —Messrs D, Cameron} Good, and Lamb.—Single furrow—Messrs W. Gray, J. Brown, and A. McLeod. The following were the awards of the judges:— Class 1. Three-furrow plough prize, L 6, 0. Spray. Class 2.—Two-furrow plough—lst prize, L 5, John Morehead ; 2nd, L 4, T. Miller; 3rd, L 3, Jno. Keir. Class 3.—Two-furrow plough; for per sons who have never taken a prize—lst prize, L 4, Jas. Cochrane ; 2nd, L2, Johns. , , , Class 4.—Single-furrow plough Ist prize, L 4, John Dunn ; 2nd, L2, Jno. Maidens. , , . , Class 5. Single-furrow plough; for boys under 17 —Ist prize, L 4, J. Small; 2nd, L2, T. Bishop. srK JIAL PRIZES. Friedlander Bros.—Horse collar, for best team oh the ground—T. Hocking. Rpid and Gray—Set of harrows, value L 7, for the best work dope with their two or three-furrow ploughs—Henry Reeves. W. Anderson —Pair of blinkers, for the best kept set of harness — Henry Reeves. W. Patching—Horse cover, for the best groomed horses—T. Miller. T. Chambers —A pair of watertight boots, for the best finish in the two-furrow lass—Jno. Morehead.

Poyntz and Oq.—Set of Haxtcn and Beattie’s harrows,'for the best ploughing in the field —Jno. Dunn. D. Fitzpatrick—A parr of watertight boots, for the best fiering in the boy’s class—J. Small. P. andD. Duncan—lmplements, value L 5, 2nd prize in Class 2—T. Miller. J. Tait—Taken by T. Hookings.

The Dinner. After the match was over a large number of farmers and others adjourned to the Somerset Hotel, where host Shear man had provided an elegant and sumptuous repast. The number of guests - exceeded considerably the available room provided for the dinner, but in a few moments Mr Shearman was equal to the emergency, and two other tables, were made ready in an adjoining room. Mr John Carter, the President of the As sociation, took the seat of honor, and was supported on his right by Mr C. P. Cox, and on his left by Mr Thos. Bullock, Mir Hugo Friedlander, the Mayor of Ashbur ton, in the vice-chair. After the removal of the cloth, the Chairman proposed the ’ usual loyal toasts which were heartily drunk.

Mr 0 P. Cox said public bodies were considered of great importance in Ashbur ton, and their doings, when directed towards the advancement of the district. generally, deserved the attention of all farmers, and on occasions of this kind they should not be forgotten. The County Council and Road Boards had done a great deal of good in opening up the dis trict, and farmers, and in fact everyone, could see for themselves that the assistance given by these two bodies had increased the value of properties to a large extent. Among the many things which the County* Council had taken in hand for the benefit of the district, was the construction of a water supply for our dry plains. As a consequence property had increased in value to an astonishing extent, and water was now placed within the reach of every one, where formerly it was almost unob tainable unless at a great expense. The agricultural and pastoral interests were always the principal ones ever held in view by the County Council, and they had shown their liberality in the erection of the commodious Sale yards, etc. Without this assistance those splendid yards would not have been erected for some time. He would propose “The Ashburton County Council,” coupled with the names of Messrs Cameron and Bullock.

Mr Cameron responded, and, in thanking them, said that the County Council had done their best to promote the due fulfil ment of their formation in the prosecution of large local works, and he was glad to find that their efforts had been so far successful.

Mr Bullock said that the Council had undertaken large and important works, which had proved so far to be of great benefit. A sum of LB,OOO had been ex pended on the plains water supply, and has nearly doubled the value of-land since its construction. He was glad to see that the efforts of the Council were appreciated, and thanked them for the toast.

Mr Edward Saunders said that although he was not now a member of the Borough Council he could speak with a full know ledge of the arduous duties of a Council lor. When he had the honor to be a Councillor there was considerable discord, and he found that they still main tained their name for word-fighting, but yet they managed to do a great deal of good. He had great pleasure in propos ing “ The Borough Council,” coupled with the name of His Worship the Mayor. The Mayor said he had a little difficulty in responding to the toast after what had fallen from an ex-Councillor. He was certainly one of the “ fighting men.” They all knew what had transpired in the Council, and if they didn’t they should read the reports which appeared in the Mail or Chiardian. (Laughter.) He thanked them for the toast. Song —“ Simon the Cellarer,” Mr Harrison. Mr Bullock proposed “ The Agricul tural and Pastoral Interests,” coupled with the name of Mr D. Cameron. He was sure every one in the room was convinced that very great strides had been made in this district, and this was mainly due to the energy and tact of the early settlers. He hoped that the ploughing matches would continue to flourish, and not be allowed to fall through, as ho was greatly pleased with the quality of the work done that day. Song —“ Barney Mackay,” Mr Millar. Mr Cameron thanked them, and said that the ploughing and the teams on the ground were iquite equal to any he had seen elsewhere. As an agricultural County Ashburton stood pro-eminent, as by looking at the statistics recently pub lished they would see that Ashburton was the largest grain-growing district in New Zealand. He thanked them for the toast.

The Vice-Chairman proposed “ The Successful Competitors,” coupled with the name of Mr John Moorhead.

Mr Moorhead replied, and thanked them heartily for the honor of the toast. Song—“ The Flag of Old England," Mr Jacobsen.

Mr Joseph Clark proposed “ The Judges,” coupled with the names of Messrs Saunders, Stitt, and Brown.' He was going to say a few words It was 19 years ago since he had seen the first plough* ing.match in Canterbury. This was held at Kaiapoi, and the first prize was taken by an old “ Barrowman” plough, with a team consisting of a bullock and a horse. [A voice : “ We have got the Bullock here.”] (Laughter.) As instancing the great strides made since, they had wit nessed that day the many improvements made in ploughs and ploughing after the Barrowman ” days. The double and treble furrow plough bed made quite a re volution in farming, and consequently they were able to grow very much larger quantities of grain. Then ploughing matches should not be left to fall into dis use, as the farmers and their men were en abled to get a holiday, and meet at a time of the year when they could wall afford it. He thought that the two principal holi days for the farmers were the Show day, and the Ploughing Match day, and these days were the only ones they could get just then to meet and discuss matters. On occasions of this sort it was a matter of importance to entertain those present with speeches bearing upon agricultural mat ters at greater length, as it was well known how difficult it was to get farmers to meet together, even <st the meetings of the Association. Ha thought that th§ farmers should still combine closer together, and be united in action. They had brought pressure to bear on the Railway Tariff when it was so oppressive, and they should try to remove other ob noxious matters which interfered with the well being of the farming community. Mr Brown returned thanks, and said ■that he was very pleased indeed with the result of the ploughing match. As one Of the judges, he found it rather a difficult matter to get at a proper decision, but at all events he hoped they had given satis faction, as he had heard of no complaints. He believed the previous judges who were selected had not turned up, and he was chosen to represent them suddenly. He considered the ploughing of Dunn, in the single - furrow class as excellent workj and that the ploughmen had in no way detonated, and there was evidently quite as much interest taken in these matches as there had been hitherto.' He had noticed several improvements in the plough, one of which was a sujall wing coulter, which made the furrow he evpneii. The three-furrow plough had done spied; did work, and he hoped they would come into more general use in Ashburton. . Mr Stitt replied, and said that it gave him very great pleasure to act as one of the judges. He had been selected to act, as one of the judges for the Papanui

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, WEDNESDAY, JULY 27, 1881.



** 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.C., and to preserve the right to this title he has just 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’a Buildings. 720 a 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, •nd Toys of every description, direct from Home. Haircutting, Shaving and Shampooing. EAST STREET ASHBURTON. 257a* John Meech, UIRACTICAL CABINETMAKER, Jr UPHOLSTERER, &0., BURNETT STREET, Opposite the Mail Office. Cheapest House in Town for New and Secondhand Furniture. All Irinda of Furniture repaired or ex changed. GOOD PRICE GIVEN- FOR SECOND HAND FURNITURE. 819 TTIORMS PRINTED “To Let ” and r “For Sale”—can be obtained at the QVAHntar Office.



Wanted. TTTANTED—To APPRENTICE at VV once, a respectable Youth, aged 12 ; the Bootmaking or any light trade preferred. Apply, E. A. Garnett, Hair dresser, Cashel street, Christchurch. 337 c WANTED A First-class General SERVANT. Apply, Mrs John Okr, Alford Forest Road. WANTED— 20,000 Bushels of GRAIN to Crush, at 2d per bushel. Mayo and Hunt. 201 c ANTED 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. 185 c T\7ANTED EVERBODY to know that VV HORSE COVERS can be bought for 17s 6d (former price, 255), at S. Stephens’, Saddler, Tinwald. 726 a WANTED immediately— CHlCOßY DIGGERS. Apply at Works Moore street. E. B. Peaece. 180 g WANTED BUYERS—Terms to suit purchasers. 1 Smith Organ, 6 stops, powerful, secondhand. 1 Mason and Hamlin Cabinet Organ, 5 stops, sweet tone, secondhand. 1 Bord Pianette, cheap for cash. 1 Broadwood do., L 26 cash. Dresden Models, newest style. Brinsmeads, bicord, 7 octaves, in plain case. H. J. Weeks, Dealer in Musical Instruments, Cameron Street West. 931 a 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 ; Bowßells, Is 7d; Family Reader (Monthly), Is 2d; (Quarterly) do., 2s 2d ; Family Herald, Is; London Journal, ls4d ; &c., &c; A large assortment of School Books and Stationery of every description. Hymn and Prayer Books, &c., &c. 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. Andbewes, 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 WANTED KNOWN, Ashburton REGISTRY OFFICE for Male and Female Servants. —L, F. Andrewes begs to inform the public of Ashburton and surrounding districts that he has I opened the above. Male and Female ■ Servants of all classes provided. Em ployers requiring servants and all persons with good recommendations, who are in want of situations, are requested to apply to L. F. Andrewes, Labor Agent, Book seller and Stationer, East street South. N.B. Orders by post or otherwise promptly aitended to. 102 c WANTED KNO’WN—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. Special Advertisements. VTEW TESTAMENT, REVISED EDITION. Wanted Known. ' ust received, a few copies. H. M. J ones, Stationer and Bookseller. 339 c Revised edition of the new TESTAMENT now on sale by L. F. Andrewes, Bookseller, Stationer, &c,, East Street South, 338 c



T. [a card.] S. LAMBERT, Architect, HEREFORD STREET, Christchurch. 325 c The best value for ready MONEY is the MEN’S AND BOYS’ CLOTHING Manufactured by THE NEW ZEALAND Clothing Factory, Which can be purchased at their Retail Branches all over New Zealand. A SINGLE GARMENT AT THE O 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. "VT-URSE.—Mrs Paulino begs to in- J3I timate that she has opened a Private Nursing 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. 1040 EW AND LARGE DISCOUNTS. 4s. in the So RETURNED to all Customers purchasing Mens’ or Boys’ Clothing, For this Month only, EVERETT BROS., Havelock street. Two Shillings in the Pound returned to all customers purchasing in Mercery, Dresses, Manchester, Millinery, and Fancy Departments. SAVE 2s in the £ or 10 per cent, on purchases, 4s in the £ or 20 per cent. 822 a T Hayes’ IMBER 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 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



Special Advertisements. MRS ATKINSON’S FANCY BAZAAR, VICTORIA STREET, CHRISTCHURCH, Desires to call the attention of the Ladies of Ashburton to the superb choice of Madam Weigel’s American cut PAPER PATTERNS. (Catalogue forwarded on receipt of four penny stamps.) All orders must contain the bust measurement j for children the age. The Monthly Journals paid in advance, 7s 6d yearly. Sole Agent for Christ church. 342 c THE GUARDIAN is on every Tea Table in Ashburton.