SHIPPING.

PORT OF LYTTELTON. Arrived. To-day. Albion, s.s., from Wellington. Oreti, s.s., from Port Chalmers. Hawea, s.s., from Port Chalmers. Sailed. Yesterday. Esther, brigantine, for Pelorus Sound. To-dat] Albion*, s.s, for Melbourne, via the South. Hawea, s.s., for Northern Ports. Beautiful Star, s.s., for Westport, Grey mouthy and-Hokitika. SHIPPING TELEGRAMS. V 1 Wellington, To-day. Sailed—Wan aka, for Picton and Nel son ; Go-Ahead, for Nelson. Timaru, Yesterday. Arrived — Good Templar, from .Gatlins River Pelican, frqin Picton; " Melbourne, Yesterday. Arrived—Tararu, from the Bluff; P. andU. Company’s s.s., Cathay with the inward'Suez, mail. Dunedin, To-day. 'At the Heads, William Davie, ship, from LondorS,'all weli.

MAIL NOTICES.

Mails close at the Ashburton P ost Office, as follows: — For Christchurch and North at 6.30 a. m. 10 a.m., and 5 : p.m., daily. For Chertsey Rakaia, &c. , at 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. daily. For Dunedin, Timvald, Winslow, Hinds, Coldstream, Rangitata; Orari, Winchester, and Geraldine, ] at 10 a.m. daily. ■ For Teniukn, at G a.m. and 10 a.m., daily. : 1 For Timaru and South, at 6 a.m., 10 Ami, and4.2o p.nl;, daily; ■ ■ For ; i Hreefnstreet, Ashburton F orks, Mount Somers, and Ashburton Gorge, on and Fridays, at 10.30 am. . For Ashton, Watortun and Longbeach, 4.30 p.m. daily. -For Wakaniii, Elgin, Seafield, New laud, and Kyle, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, at G a.m. i Mails arrive at the Ashburton Post Office— ' From Christchurch and Rakaia at 10.20 aim., A 3& p.m., and 7.50 p.m. From Chertsey, Ac. at 10.25 a.m. daily. From Dunedin and intermediate places at 5.35 p.m. daily. From Temuka and Timaru at 10.15 a.m. 5.35 and 6.15 p.m. daily. From Greenstreet, Ashburton Forks, Mount Somers, and Ashburton Gorge oh-Wednesdays and Saturdays at 3 p.m. -From Ashton, Waterton, and Long beach. at 10 sum. daily. ■ From Elgin, Wakanui, Seafield, Now land, and Kyle, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, at 4 p.m. 1 -

DAILY MEMORANDA.

: : AUCTION SALES. Monday, March 28. Mr. W. J. G. Bluett, at the Homestead, and Dead Stock, &c.; 12 • ■' Friday, April 1. Matson, Cox, and Co., at their salerooms, Ashburton —Building Sites j; ,1 p. in. Matson, Cox, and Co., at their rooms, Ashburton —f-Valuable Freehold Farm, . -in the Hinds district; 12, MEETINGS, AMUSEMENTS,; &c. Thursday, March 24. Parade Ashburton Rifle Volunteers, with Band, at 12 noon sharp. Ashburton Industrial Exhibition, Town , Hall. . Tuesday, March 29. Ashburton Pacing Club—General Meet ing, Quill’s Hotel, 4 p.m. Thursday, March 31. Ashburton Libraiy—Annual Meeting of . Subscribers, in the Library, 8 p.m. - > Wednesday, April 6. County (Council,) at the County Council . Chambers,, at 11 o’clock.

TRAVELLERS’ GUIDE.

Trains Leave . Ashburton fob ■ Christ r hhußch iahd intermediate' stations at 0 a.m., 10.30 a.m., and (Express) 5.48 p.m. : ' Trains Leave Ashburton for Timaru •Altn SotrTH, Ut 7 a.m. j 10.36 a.m. (Ex press), and 4.50 p.'nf.—Lie latter pro ibfefedirigiK) farther than Timaru. Trains Arrive at Ashburton From Christchurch at 10 24 a.m. (Express), 4.35 p.m., and 7. 50 p. m. Tbazns Arrive at Ashruhton from ‘TIMARtr and South at 10.15 a.in., 5.34 p.m. (EJxpross), and 8.15 p.m.

NOTICE TO ADVERTISERS.

All orders for insertion of advertise ments must be written legibly on the face of 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 bo addressed Tub Manager ; literary communications should be addressed to The Ewtok.

BIRTH.

Field.- —On March IGth, at Dunedin, the wife of E. A. Field, of a son.

TOWN EDITION. [lssued at 5 p.m. ] The Ashburton Guardian. Magna Est Veritas Et Prevalebit. TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 1881. New Zealand Grain.

The staple product of our county being grain, and agricultural produce of all kinds the most essential export from it, any suggestions we may from time to time point out, which are gleaned from reliable sources, should be of some interest to our agriculturists. Those who make the grain trade their particular business are the most qualified to give suggestions that prove of value. We have before us a copy of the latest circular issued by the New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Agency Company, and from this we have taken some extracts, showing as they do the neces sity of shipping home none but the best samples, in order to keep up the name of New Zealand grain in the Home markets. If New Zealand wheat can only be managed to be sent home in good marketable condition, the good returns will be sure to follow. The Company state that the wheats received from New Zealand throughout the past season (1880) have been most dis appointing, and of a progressively in ferior character in the order of their arrival. “ This inferiority has been not only a matter of condition, for which, perhaps, growers were not entirely responsible, but of quality, proving that in far too many instances, old and worn-out seed had been em ployed, when new and more healthy varieties were required.” Now this is a question which requires the serious consideration of our farmers. But, first of all, it must be found out whether this is the cause, and the only one. As far as Canterbury grown wheats are concerned we should say, decidedly not. The most serious cause—and one that will.be felt yearly —is the way in which so many farmers treat their land after cropping. Year after year the land has been cropped and no return given it, by way of manure, for what has been taken out. Is it not a fact that, in this county especially, large acreages of land are found com paratively unproductive at the present time ? The answer is an easy one, and any real farmer with his eyes open can ascertain the cause. New Zealand wheats attained at one time—in 1878 and 1879—a fair, and even a high standard, but on giving a glance at the imports of 1880, in comparison, we find that a serious deterioration has taken place. The Company state “ That the large proportion of New Zealand wheat has passed into con sumption, but with difficulty; and fre quently at rates which importers were sadly inclined to accept, and the stocks then on hand, though moderate in extent, were in a worse case than those which preceded them, and are still the subject of anxiety tt) their holders. The fine bright Pearl* and tbe strong well developed Talevera, for which the pre vious years’ shipments were noted, have come to hand in very small and even 1 then mixed with oats and other objectionable grains, and clean, dressed samples have been a

rare exception, etc ” Those of the farmers who are sending home this season will do well to examine carefully the sample of the grain as it comes from the threshing machine. The con dition of the soil has nothing to do with the sample of grain being badly threshed. A good marketable sample of grain can only be made so, of course, by care in growing it and care in dress ing it. Both are essential, and must be studied by the careful farmer. With regard to the shipment of oats, we find also that the first few consign ments which reached London were of a very fine quality, heavy weight, thin skinned, and sound, and were bought eagerly at extreme prices, and on trial were found to be very valuable to a class of buyers who could afford to pay an outside price for a first-rate article. But what about the succeeding ship ments ? These, we find, were, to quote the Company’s circular, “ With few exceptions, of a lower type, both in quality and condition, and, as a natural consequence coming into competition with the plethoric supplies with similar inferior sorts which reach this market from a number of other sources, they yielded a proportionately lower range of values, and that they were only saleable upon urgent requirements.” It is to be hoped in the interests of all concerned that this will not be the rule with further shipments ot this cereal. 1 hen again, taking barley, that from New Zea land has proved to be very irregular. Some of the finer samples were tested and found to be eminently suitable for malt ing purposes, but others then on show, exhibited an unfortunate diversity of quality, thus giving to New Zealand growths a name and character, much to be deprecated. It behoves all those who have the interest of their adopted country at heart, to prevent, if possible, the growth, and more particularly the shipment of all in ferior kinds of grain, in order to foster a lucrative trade with the Old Country. At the forthcoming Exhibition we hear that a number of entries of grain have been made. We hope that the sampler exhibited will be found good and marketable ones for shipment Home, for if Ashburton is be hindhand in its display of grain and produce, in what districts of the colony are we to find a greater interest at stake ?

Crowded Out. —Pressure on our space to-day compels us to hold over the con tinuation of the story at present running in the (ruanlkm. The Governor. —His Excellency visited the head of Lake Wakatipu yesterday. Drowned. —A young man named Da . is was drowned in a water-hole at Waimea west, on Saturday. The Australian Eleven. —This team met with defeat in their final match against fifteen of Victoria, the latter winning by 71 runs. Triumphal Arch. —The work of erect ing a triumphal arch opposite the Exhi bition building was commenced this morning. The West Coast Railway. —A large number of shares in the proposed West Coast Railway Company have lately been applied for. The “ Waikato Mail ” Case.— ln the appeal case arising out of the M'Tavish v. Ivess, sureties were lodged yesterday in the Auckland District Court on the ground of appeal. The Judge declined to entertain evidence of intoxication in support of defendant’s plea of mismanage ment of the Mail. Ho More Diorama Prizes. —The case against Lieut. Herman and Mr Bachelder, as joint proprietors of the American War Diorama, for infringing the Lotteries Act,

by selling chance tickets for prizes given at the conclusion of the entertainment, was decided yesterday in the Auckland Police Court. The defendant was fined £5 and costs'. Welcome to Bishop Redwood.—A meeting of Roman Catholics was held last evening at Wellington for the purpose of arranging a hearty welcome to Bishop Redwood, who is expected to return from England shortly. The suscription lists presented showed a satisfactory result, and it was decided to present His Lord ship oh arrival with a testimonial and address of welcome. Mysterious Disappearance. —A miner named Bourke, working as tributcr in the Queen of the North claim, Coromandel, disappeared in a mysterious manner on Saturday last. He was last seen washing a prospect near the workings His coat, and some candles and tools were found at the works, when his absence from home was first discovered. A hundred men went out yesterday searching for traces of him.

The Wilcannia Diggings. —News from Wilcannia (N.S. W.), states that a thousand people are now on the diggings. Cargoes of potatoes are eagerly bought at a shilling a pound. Water is scarce. Chinamen still keep off. The coaches are overcrowded, and the horses arc over worked. Stores are now arriving, but prices are high. A permanent payable gold field is anticipated, but the present returns are not extraordinary. Accidents. —Dr Burrows, of Rangiora, was thrown from his buggy last night. He was severely injured, and now lies in a somewhat dangerous state.—Yesterday evening a little boy, named James Bird, aged eight years, while running alongside a tram car in Colombo road south, fell, striking his head against the car. He died early this morning. Deceased was ordered to go away by the conductor, but would not. Attempted Murder and Suicide.— There was a tragical occurrence at Sand hurst, on the Gth inst., when a Gorman named Schafer fired a pistol and inflicted three wounds on a young woman named Priscilla Hellier, for whom he entertained a passion. Hellier was sitting with a young man, James Soby, and while the latter went for the police, Schafer wounded the girl, and then put the pistol to his ear and blew out his own brains. The girl is expected to recover. The Dog Tax.- —Quite a crowd of de fendants, in cases of infringement of the Dog Registration Act, were present in the Resident Magistrate’s Court this morning. In the majority of the cases, enumerated elsewhere, fines of the nominal amount of one shilling and costs were inflicted, but in some, the cases being of a more aggra vated character, heavier penalties were incurred. The lines of defence adopted wore also somewhat novel, but only in instances where the mongrels in question were either under age or had since been destroyed, were these of avail. Strange, but True. —lt is a remark able fact that out of tho nine vessels belonging to H.M. Navy which “have been capsized or never heard of ” during the past 41 years, five were, constructed by Sir W. Syriiontls. These were the Norbudda, lost in 185 C ; Sappho and Heron, in 1859 ; Camilla, in 18G1 ; and lastly the Atlantic. Of these, tho Sappo is persumed to have foundered at sea on the Australian station ; the Heron foundered between Ascension and Sierra Leone ; and the Nerbudda, Camilla, and Atlantic disappeared and were not heard of. Truly the Symondite vessels are unfortunate.

The Timaru Races. —Billingsgate was omitted from the list of nominations for the Timaru Cup and other handicaps pub lished by us on Saturday. The Colonial Treasurer. This gentleman addressed his constituents at Patea last evening, and received a vote of confidence. A summary of his remarks appears elsewhere. Not to ee Denied. —An Auckland publican named Maddagon twice un successfully applied to the Licensing Bench for a license for a new house. The house has since been opened as a Working Men’s Club.

An Ashbuktionite in Trouble.—Yes terday John James Palmer, well known in this town by the sobriquet of “ The Rambling Reporter,” made his appearance in the Cambridge Police Court on the chaigo of the larceny of a watch. The accused was arrested at Ohimcmutu a week previous, and on investigation it was shown that the case was one of mistaken identity. The Magistrate re marked at the conclusion of the case that Mr Palmer left the Court without the slightest stain on his character

Suicide at Oamaru. —A commission agent, named William Spain, committed suicide by hanging himself on Sunday morning, at Oamaru. The deceased, partially dressed, loft his room about four o’clock in the morning, and did not re turn. About seven o’clock a lad going to milk his cows, missed a rope, and on pro ceeding to the stable to look for it, saw Spain hanging from a peg in the wall, his knees being bent and his feet dragging on the ground. The body was cut down ai;d medical aid summoned, but life was extinct. Deceased had been in a des pondent state of mind for some time past, and it is believe 1 that financial difficulties led to the cummital of the rash act. At an inquest yesterday the jury returned a verdict of temporary insanity'.

The M isses Honour are prepared to receive pupils in music, singing, and drawing, at their residence, Moore street.

Claims again*! the Rangilala Estate of the late S r Cracroft Wilson must be sent in not later than the 26th inst.

A. O, Aitken, baker, East street, wants to sell a number of second-hand sacks.

A horse and mare, impounded at bouth Kakaia, will be sold on the 30th inst., if not sooner released.

CABLE NEWS.

LATEST FROM EUROPE.

(Per Reuter's Agency.) Mr Parnell and his Followers- London, March 21. Mr Parnell has been in Ireland for some time past, and his prolonged absence is causing much comment and criticism on the part of his followers in the House of Commons. The Terms with the Boers. The Daily Naas to-day publishes information from Natal regarding the terms of peace with the Boers. These include, it is stated, an under taking that the Boers should disperse their forces and break up their garrisons forthwith, England at the same time agreeing to continue an enquiry into the Boers’ demands, through a Royal Commission, in order that a per manent settlement of the differences in the Transvaal may be arrived at.

AUSTRALIAN.

(Per Renter's Agency.) The Australian Eleven Defeated. Melbourne, March 21. The cricket match, Australian Eleven v. Fifteen of Victoria, was concluded to-day. The former were all disposed of in the second inning for 176 ; Groube being not out, 64, and Jarvis caught for 42. The Fifteen thus won the match by 71 funs.

NEW ZEALAND

(Per Press Association.) Ministers’ Movements. Dunedin, To-day. After an Executive Council meeting to night, the Hon Mr Oliver leaves for the North, the Hon the Premier returning with the Governor to-morrow.

SPORTING.

GREYMOUTI? J.C. RACES. Grkvmoutii, Yesterday. Tlie races to-day were a grand success, every event being fairly and honestly run. There were 1,000 people on the course. The following are the results of the various events ; Trial Stakes. —Greyhound, 1 ; Ken sington, 2 i The Tout, 3. Grey.mouth Jockey Club Handicap.— Hero, 1 ; York, 2 ; Whalebone, 3. Handicap Hurdle Race. —Whalebone, 1, The Bat, 2 ; Kensington, 3. Hack Race. —Kumara, 1 ; Butcher Boy, 2. Railway Stakes Handicap. Grey hound, 1 ; Whalebone, 2.

EUROPEAN ITEMS.

Tho following items of European news are from Australian papers received by the Rotorua :—■ London, March 18. The Globe to-day publishes an article on protection, commending the fiscal policy pursued by Victoria as one marked by an intelligent appreciation of its own in terest, and as well calculated to advance the material prosperity of a young country. Intelligence from the Transvaal states that leaders of the Boers exhibit pacific tendencies, and are desirous of bringing hostilities to a conclusion. They demand autonomy, but are willing to recognise the suzerainty of tho British Government. These proposals are under consideration by the Cabinet. Important changes in the management am! regulation of the army are indicated by Mr Childers in the House of Commons, and have excited much criticism in military circles. It is announced that Sir Garnet Wolsley will be entrusted with carrying into effect the new scheme of army reform. A serious railway collision took place at Baltimore, the chief city of the State of Maryland. Several persons were injured, and amongst tho passengers was Mr Hayes, late President of the United States, but he escaped unhurt. No improvement is manifest in the re lations between Turkey and Greece. The warlike feeling in both countries is very strong, and it is confidently expected that an outbreak of hostilities will take place at the commencement of spring.

Marked sympathy is evinced by the Irish in the United States with the agrarian agitation in Ireland. Branches of the Land League have been established in all the principal centres, and it is stated that they number no less than 920. Large contributions have been forwarded to the Head League at Dublin.

RESIDENT MAGISTRATE’S COURT.

ASHBURTON.— To-Day. (Before J. N. Wood, Esq., R.M.) Drunk and Disorderly. A first offender was fined 5a ond costs. Edward Jones was mulcted in a similar amount. Henry Miller (out on bail), who did not put m an appearance, was fined LI and costs. Joe Brown, an old offender, was

fined 5s and costs, there being a further charge against him. The Waterton Shootinu Case. — Samuel Norrish, a lad about fourteen years of age, was charged with that he did, on the 20th day of March, feloniously shoot Julia Monroe, at Waterton. Ser geant Felton applied for a remand for eight days, and put in, in support thereof, the certificate of the medical attendant on the girl, showing that she was at present in a very precarious sta*e. On the appli bation of the lad’s father he was released on his recognisance of LSO. Alleged Sly Grog-selling. Caroline M'Cann, was charged with having, on the 18th March, she not then being a person so licensed, sold to one Joseph M'Guire one bottle of beer. Mr Purnell appeared for the defendant, and pleaded not guilty. Sergeant Felton conducted the prosecu tion, and called the following evidence : Joseph M'Guire deponed that on Friday last he came into town, and in the evening went to a house in the outskirts of the town called the “Lean-to.” Could not swear ho saw defendant there, but there were several women present. He had some beer, and paid 4s for the first bottle, jibe cabman who drove witness to the house was present. Witness called for the beer. By Mr Purnell —He was drunk but not so drunk that ho was unaware what he was doing. Could not swear that the defendant served him with any drink ; some person did so, however. Could not state in what manner he paid for the beer, believe the coin he gave was silver. Did not recollect breaking two panes of glass. The women at the house asked him to shout, and he did so, other wise had no doubt he would not have called for the beer. Constable Smart deponed to serving the defendant with the information at the “ Lean-to,” a brothel, yesterday. Mr Purnell objected to evidence regarding the character of the house kept by the defendant. Such matter was entirely irrelevant. His Worship ruled the evidence admissable, but took a note cf Mr. Purnell’s objection. James Ashby, the cab-driver, who con veyed McGuire to the defendant’s house, deposed to seeing her there. He had a glass of beer, but could not tell who gave it him. Could not say if any of the women had any beer, but saw McGuire drinking. Did not see any money change hands. McGuire asked him to have a glass. It was one of the women who gave the beer to him. This was at about 9.30 p.m. The defendant gave him a second glass of beer in the front room, later on. Was there about an hour and a half. Saw no beer bottles on the

promises. When witness came away from the house he left McGuire there. He was intoxicated before he g)t there, but knew what he was about. Another cab-driver was there. McGuire paid him his fare, 3s, in silver, in the passage after he had the first glass of beer. Witness was a little elevated. By Mr Purnell—McGuire was “pretty well on.” Witness would not have known Mrs McCann gave him the glass of beer had lie not been told so yesterday by a gentleman he met. It was not a policeman in private clothes. Witness did not pay her for- the beer.' Mr Purnell pointed out that, on the evidence, there was not a shadow of a case against his client. Even had there been, there was a fatal objection to the case for the prosecution, which was that, although they had proven the licensing district, the police had not given evidence that she was not licensed under the Licensing Act in force in- : such district. M'Guire’s evidence was such that it could in no event connect the defendant with the sale of the liquor, even if it had been sold to him, in proof of -which there was only his statement of particulars occurring during a period of drunkenness.. He re quested a dismissal on these grounds. His Worship dismissed the information, declining to allow the costs of the witness Ashby.

Obscene Language. —Joe Brown was charged with using obsenc language, on Sunday evening last. A witness named Groves proved the offence, and the bench sentenced accused to 7 days hard labor. Dog Registration. —The following de fendants were fined Is each and costs, for keeping unregistered dogs :—S. Lucas, E. M‘Ghee, \V. Cochrane, R. Swan, J. Dow, R. Johnson, and B. Broomfield, Stephen Potter, and Joseph Ward, were fined 5s and costs, fora similar offence. The cases against F. Duncan, W. Randle, and T. Bullock, on similar informations were dis missed, the defendants proving that the dogs were either registered prior to the visit of the police, or destroyed sub sen uently.

CIVIL CASES, Montgomery and Co. v, Robinson. — Claim LI Os Gd. Mr Purnell for the de fendant. Plaintiff nonsuited with costs.

Same v. Rogers.—Judgment summons. Defendant ordered to pay amount of judg ment, Lll 15s, by monthly instalments of LI each, a similar amount to be paid forthwith or, in default, one month’s imprisonment, Hurly v. Gates.—Claim L 5. Mi Bran son for defendant. His Worship non suited the plaintiff with costs.

POST SESSIONAL ADDRESSES.

Major Atkinson at Patea, The Hon the Colonial Treasurer ad dressed his constituents at ■ Patea last evening. There was a crowded meeting, the chair being occupied by Mr Sherwood, Chairman of the Patea Harbor Board. Major Atkinson opened his address by explaining his not addressing his con stituents during the last recess, as oc casioned by want of time and the non necessity of his so doing when the recency of the previous election was borne in mind. The first duty devolving on the Government was retrenchment, the de ficiency existing when they entered office being no less than L 900,000. Tho elimination of the land fund from tho ordinary revenue, and the im position of fresh Customs duties and a Property Tax ware rendered necessary, for as the taxation of a country must be moderately heavy, the points to be con sidered in taxing wore that every subject should contribute to the support of Go vernment in proportion to his means ; secondly, that every tax-payer, should pay his quota in the best way and at the most convenient time to himself ; thirdly, that every tax should be certain and uu arbitrary, and that each man should know how much ho had to pay ; and fourthly that taxation should take as little as pos sible out of the pockets of the people. These rules were practically impossible of attainment, for .an income tax certainly would not secure these ends, and then came the question of which tax went nearest to the result. Taxes must be levied to catch different classes in different ways, and he claimed that the Property Tax possessed the merit that it caught classes which could not bo otherwise reached, while that class which received the benefit of exemption was amply taxed by the Customs He was sorry to say that the only effect of tho increase of Customs duties had been that tho total yield was no-more now .than it had been two years and a half before. That showed that much more economy was observed in the colony, and some might agree that it indicated decreased spending, but from- examination of statistics ho was convinced that the spend, ing power of the people of New Zealand was higher than that of any other part of the world. Then there was the Beer tax. There were various objections to that impost, but the only question which weighed with him was the inadvisability of commencing excise duties ; in creased basis . of taxation was, how ever,, absolutely .necessary, and, .con sequently, tho tax was unavoidable. It had been deemed inexpedient to im

poae an incorne tax, as it merely touch eel a man according to what he received- The Property Tax had been characterised as inquisitorial, but this was a fault from which no tax was free. Direct taxation being necessary, the Government must certainly know what a man had before they could tax him on it. One great virtue of the tax was that it discouraged speculation in the purchasing of land which was intended to be enhanced in value by the expenditure and labor of ad joining settlers. An income tax would not have this effect, because the essence of the income tax was that it touched a man according to what he received, and if nothing were received in respect of these investments the income tax would not roach them. Another advantage was that a man was taxed upon what he himself pos sessed and not upon what was owned by others. The Land Tax was very unfair in that respect 5 .also because the man who was thviftful and energetic and made good use of his capital, had to pay more than the lazy man. That was not so with the Property Tax, for a man was not taxed because he was indus trious and skilful, hut because be had amassed property which required protection. He objected to the Income tax because it was already paid through the Customs, and because it was necessary to n-ct at something besides income to maintain the finances in a sound state. This was really a practical question which would come before the electors for discus sion at the ensuing election. It was pro posed by some to impose a Land tax and an Income tax, but he confessed himself unable to find out what they meant, unless it, was to double the taxation upon the farmers and landholders. Income from land was just the same as income from anv other source, and he could not see where the line was to be drawn, but per haps they would come forward and ex plain what the proposal really meant. The Colony wanted no more Land tax —a tax which simply meant confiscation to the present holders. It was clear that it was so, because any one could at once sec that if a person went to buy land he would capitalise the tax at the valuation for the time being, and give so much less for the land. Thus the entire loss would devolve on the present owner. The Government re trenchments had extended to £252,000. He considered that there had been no breach of faith in the withdrawal of the, subsidies from local bodies., When they were promised, there was no idea that in 1878 there would be, a. new departure, a launch into an enormous and costly scheme of Public Works ; but when that stop,was. taken it altogether altered the position of affairs. It was. impossible to pay them and.pay the £300,000 -of addi tional interest and sinking fund involved by the polioy of 1873 without' special taxation. If there was to be taxation for subsidies, it was much better to let the local bodies do the taxing themselves. Regarding the Native policy, that which the Government had laid out for them selves they had followed, and intended still to follow. It was this : They would have no hampering ; they would keep a tight hand over the. reins, but they would deal with strict justice towards the natives. They would not be hurried by any man ; nothing would deter them from doing at .the right time what they thought to be necessary, and so far he claimed that their policy had been successful. With regard to the coming session, he sliould like to see the House look - care fully into the finances, so that the re trenchment which theGoverumeatclaimed credit for might be found real, and the finances secured on a firm basis. That would be a great work, and if, in addition, the House passed the necessary Repre sentatioa Act Bill, Charitable Aid and Hospital Bill, and a Licensing Bill, he should think the session by no means barren. What the country wanted -was careful administration and very little legislation. As to Public works he hoped an effort would be made to go on with the main arterial lines, but as for lines to suit par ticular districts ho thought-the past policy of the Government had been prudent and reasonable, and would be supported by the people, irrespective of local considera tions. If the country would accept this view and proceed steadily and cautiously, he had no doubt that their future prosperity would be even greater than that which they had passed through. An amendment of a vote of confidence, to a motion of a vote of thanks, was carried amidst confusion.

Mr Shrimski at Oamaru. Mr Shrimski, M.H.R., addressed his constituents last evening. There was a large attendance. ‘ His remarks generally were directed against the policy of the present Government. • He contended that by a proper disposition of the. Crown Lands of the colony taxation. might be greatly lessened. At the conclusion of his address a vote of thanks and confidence was passed.

The Tricks of War.

The tricks and stratagems of war in the Basuto country are something akin to those which gamekeepers adopt in the destruction of “ vermin.” The fol lo.ving extract from a private letter, written by a rifle volunteer, appeared in the Cape Times of the 20th December last:—“We went out for seven days patrol, which expired on the 14th inst., but on the 2nd, the colonel sent for fresh supplies for seven days. The first seven days were spent on the scene of our wood patrol, where we had two fights and a night attack. Before leaving, thinking the niggers would like some amusement, a hole was dug, in which was placed one pound of dyna mite. A carbine was buried, and fastened by a string to an ammunition case, so that when anyone opened the case the carbine would go off, thus causing the amusement. As soon as we started, I went off to the ridge, where we had lunch on the day of the wood patrol, to watch the effect, but the niggers funked the guns, and would not go near until we were well out of sight. Just before we arrived at our present laager we heard the explosion, and scouts on the ridge stated that a crowd of niggers assembled in the laager, and four spied the case and made for it at the same lime, one opening it, and three looking on ; the next instant there was an earthquake—and four Basutos disappeared. The crowd made tracks, forgetting in their hurry to take their horses, which gallopped all over the country. Doubtless this will have a wholesome effect, and cause them to fight shy of our camping places.”

ASHBURTON PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH.

‘‘ Eva.” Last night the musically illustrated service of “Eva” was performed by the Ashburton Presbyterian choir, at the church, Havelock street. The Rev. A. M. Beattie presided, and after prayer asked the audience to hear the service of song which was to be given by the choir. He felt sure they would the choir had provided. Ths following ladies and gentlemen acted iii the choir, and their rendering of-the hy inns and choruses which abound through:- out the piece was very pieising; theVmioeir blending well to gether and the time perfect.” " Mrs Savage, Miss Oliver and Mra pfrtett, Messrs Caird and Barrett (tenor and bass), Mr G. Savage (cornet), Mr J. Sc Savage (leader), and Miss Murray (organist.) • , , i The first part commenced witlf ther song “ Scatter seeds of • kindness,”'which was very musically rendered. Dr Stewart then read the first part of the connective.; history of “ Little Era St Glare," .bf whom all readers of Uncle Toms’ Cabin will be fully acquainted. The doctor read the short pieces very ,well t( , the r pathetic parts in which the tale abounds being particularly well given. Altogether there were 13 musical,selections jgivon by, the choir, those .which require particular mention being—“ The happy home,” “Far, far away,” “ I see a world of '• spirits light,” “ Thou art passing away,” “My beautiful home,” “ To r the land where Jesus dwelleth,” ; “ Peacefully sleep,” and “ Vital spark of heavenly flame.” The choruses in each of the . above were very niqely rendered, but we would like to hear some children’s.voices*, as those always tend to improve part,, singing, especially in 11 the subdued* ' choruses. ' V T

At the-conclusion of the service Mr Hogg proposed a Vote of tliankstdfthte choir, for theii very: efficient ■ renderiugjpf, the service, and which had proved such a treat; He was only sorry that elicit a few > were present. * Mr Andrew Orr had very much pleasure in seconding Mr Hogg’s resolu which was carried with acclamation.- ■ ■; . , Mr. Gavin proposed a vote of thanks'to -' the rev. Chairman and Dr Stewart ); .f<jr,\ their able assistance, and in doing so said" he hoped the choir would; be induced to give a second rendering of “ Eva,” af the Town Hall. .j . •, y The motion was seconded’by Mr. Pavitts and carried unanimously. , TV'.iri/ - Dr Stewart, in responding, said that lie ' was very pleased to see that the choir had met with such marked success: him-

self, was greatly pleased with the service. If the choir we r o asked to. give another service at the Town Hall, he thought they would gladly do so, but everyone present should endeavor to- make it known [to their friends, in order to secure a good. attendance, as it was Very disheartening to ! sing to a small house. Ho hoped also that a more able person than himself would be induced to give the connective readings, which required so pathetio a , rendering. The Rev. A- M. Beattie, in thanking ‘ those present for the vote of - thank* ■ passed, took occassion to refer tp r the excellent rendering f vice of song by * the choir. He had still a happy duty 16 perform,* which was, to mike a presentation to .ajs. lady who had for years interested herself in the singing in this church. The pre sent he was .about to make he hoped would be accepted by the lady as a token from her fellow worshippers.]lt had been ; well earned, and he trusted th»t4t - woald»- r be accepted as a feeling of-good-will-and esteem. The lady he referred to was . Mrs Savage. (Cheers). He had great pleasure in handing that lady r a purse of sovereigns, which had been collected by her fellow worshippers. ’ \ l Mr Savage replied on behalf his wife, thanking them for their handsome pre sent, which, he said, wis quite unexpected, and would be always remembered by .her as a token of the esteem in which sheyraar held by the members of this ehurclu The choir he hoped would be able to give a second rendering of “ Eva ” at the Town Hall, if they wished it,.and ,WQUfld tr/i.|b do their best. Mr Savage in fbw hutoor ous remarks, referred to the old days ef the Presbyterian Church choir in Ashbur- ) ■ton. ■ : : V .•? r; ■' 1. 0 i d The Rev. A. M. Beattie: .then pro nounced the benediction, and the proceed* ings terminated. ' " • 5

Ashburton Borough Council.

The ordinary fortnightly meeting of the Borough Council was held last evening in the Council Chamber, Burnett street Present —His Worship the Mayor and T Councillors Friedlander, St. Hill, Harri son, and Robinson. CREDIT BANK BALANCE. , . His Worship reported that the balance at the bank to the credit of the Borough funds was L 75 7s Bd. MINUTES. ' The minutes of the previous meetings . were read and confirmed. CORRESPONDENCE. Correspondence read included the fol- - lowing:— From Messrs Cunningham and .'Co., • requesting permission to construct a rail way siding across West- street to the he# grain store, recently purchased from Mr , Bullock. —Granted, subject to the 1 approval and supervision of the Engineer.- t From Mr Wendel Ely, applying for

permission to remove a cottage along the road from Peter street to Ross street.— Granted, under similar conditions. ; From Mr J. Clark, requesting the Council’s permission to erect a portion of a verandah, giving facilities for tethering horses, in Burnett street. This applica tion was at first granted, under conditions • similar to those imposed on the previous, applications, But, subsequently, the JShJfi* ; neer drew the attention of the Council to the fact that the portion of a verandah Mr Clark desired to erect was merely the posts, which would be utilised as sign . posts. The Council consequently wfth| £ drew its permission. . ■ , INSPECTOR OF NUISANCES’ REPORT. The report presented by the Inspector of Nuisances was as follows : Since last meeting, I have the honor,to (ten der my report as follows :— (l) Re closets— Some of the pit closets are already cleaned out . and pans instituted, and many more will bt 5 • done as soon as the Council have accepted the 5 tender for pans, and got Softie in'Sock. {s) Re pits—The pits referred to in my last report I have the honor to report are filled up, and in ’ ' all cases where 1 found them I shall have them filled up at once. (3) Re slops and other, refuse matter —As I mentioned in my last? report; these are generally thrown ou-theb* ground, and in cases where I consider if ;.'J detrimental to health, I. have them cleared: away, - ' '.-.b-i Cr St. Hill drew the Council’B attention. • to the necessity which existed for some , , provision being made by that body for the removal of refuse water. If the recom mendation of the- Inspector - {carried out, what would the ratepayers do ? .Ho . would suggest that the Council should y give permission for the construction of small concrete tanka, to be at short Intervals. It the case of ,- the. owner should be compelled to .sink -^i., 400 gal tank. . . Cr Robinson considered this was asub*,, ~ 4 jectfor the Inspector of Nuisances. 1 , u> '; Or Harrison (spoke in ’ <pr HilFs suggestion, Finally it was decided that such should be adopted,, permission being rto the burgesses to siok : con<n?etje tanks to a depth of two or throe |eetin^hft r Further consideration of the report Iraq deferred.

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 1881.



Late Advertisements. tUILL & CO.’S Auction Rooms will be\)PEN on THURSDAY, the opening day of ttie Industrial Exhibition, in order to-.give parties ivisi ting Ashburton on that day ab opportunity of seeing the very fine ; selection of Pictures (oleographs) onyiew and for sale there. SAUNDERS’ BUILDINGS. \JSHBURTQN COUNTY COUNCIL. TENDERS are invited for SINKING and LINING WELL at Winslow. Specifications' can be seen at Council Chambers, Ashburton, and Tedders, ad drdsised to the Chairman, sent in be sent in not later than Lt o’clock a.m. TUESDAY, 29th iistJ By order, , _ J i WILLIAM BAXTER, County Engineer. Every Description, NEATLY AND CHEAPLY . ... EXECUTED, AT rjHtE QUARDIAN O FFICE. PLACARDS AT AN HOUR’S • NOTICE. ■’- iT •' ■’ ,—■ -•ioane -o»j • TdS f; ASHBURTON GUA.RDIAN -Jll .-no ! : : ‘ :• - OFFICE, »!?**• I>l* ■ • * ’“■■■■■ !J SAUNTERS 1 BUILDINGS, n H.- -- ys-.f >• /t »-• -ri •, l . Arx i*.*•> ; /i ri -f 1 . ; i '■ .. iA .ii-.-jUj./r



Wanted. WANTED— TENDERS from suitable persons for the office of SEXTON to the Cemetery Board. All applications to be forwarded to the Chairman on or before twelve o’clock at noon on TUES DAY, the 12th April next. Particulars of duties required can be obtained on ap plying to the undersigned. The lowest or any tender not necessarily accepted. 347 a J. WARD, Chairman. w ANTED—A Family’s WASHING. Apply, Office of this paper. 178 a WANTED TO SELL Twenty-five SECTIONS, Wakanui Road. Apply to Patching, Tent-maker, East Street. 898 ITT ANTED. KNOWN That the VV undersigned is now lauding 100,000 feet Best Union KAURI, ex AratapUjfrom Kaipara. Joshua Tucker, next Jameson and Roberts, Ashburton. 302 a WANTED KNOWN, That HENRY’S PORTRAIT ROOMS, Saunders’ Buildings, East street, Ash burton, are Open DAILY, from_9 a.m. till 5 p.m. Portraits taken in any weather. Great Reduction in Price. 101 a WANTED TO SELL PIANOS. H. J. WEEKS, Teacher of Music, Tuner, Ac., has for sale the following Secondhand Piano fortes : 1 full-sized Brinsmead, £45 ; Bord, £25; Broad wood, £26; also, American Organ, 5 stops, £3O; 1 Church Harmonium 14 stops, £3O, a bargain. Pianofortes of any kind can be obtained on defended pay ments. Address; Cameron street west. 86a WANTED KNOWN—The Largest and BEst Stock of Saddlery is to be found at the shop of S. STEPHENS, Tinwald. Good strong Cart Collars from 135.; Cart Winkers, Bs. Od.; Plough Back-bands. 6s. cash ; Cart Saddles and Breechens, from 505.; Reaping Machine Pole- Straps, 2s. Farmers will make a great saving by buying of S. Stephens, Saddler, Tinwald. -t'TTANTED ENOWN. Ashburton W REGISTRY OFFICE for Male and Female Servants. —L. F. Andrewes begs to inform the public of Ashburton and surrounding districts that he has 1 opened the above. Male and Female Ser-ants of all classes provided. Em ployers requiring servants, arid 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. V 208 a ! WANTED KNOWN SOMERSET LIVERY AND BAIT STABLES. J : W. M'RAE bogs to inform the , public that he has taken the above Stables from Mr. Bossenberg, and is making extensive repairs. ■ Baggies and saddle horses on hire. Lowest prices and best attention. 852 WANTED KNOWN—That Visiting Cards, plain or mourning, can be obtained printed in various styles, at the “ n.inrrHnTioffice, opposite the Railway Guardian Station Special Advertisements. JNDUSTRIAL EXHIBITION. The Judges .are requested to MEET at the Exhibition Building, at NOON on WEDNESDAY, the 23rd inst., to enter on their respective duties. S. E. POYNTZ, Hon. Sec.



Miss Yerrall Wishes io inform the Ladies of Ashbur ton and the surrounding districts that she will be at ASHBURTON the THREE DAYS of the EXHIBITION to take orders and measures for Ladies requiring Stays, Corsets, Belts, and Shoulder Straps, &c. A case of these several articles will be at the Exhibition, of Miss Yerrall’s own.make. For any information required apply to Mr. Tuibi.e, Baker and Confec tioner, where Miss Yerrall will be in at tendance. COLOMBO STREET (Oposite Cookham House), Christchurch. March 10, 1881. 324 a



Craighead & Co., .fjIAILORS AND CLOTHIERS. In thanking our friends and patrons for the liberal support which they have ac corded to us in the jlast, we have much pleasure in announcing that Mr Craig head, having now completely recovered, will be found at his post ofduty as usual, in TANCRED STREET. We have also to intimate that we have just received a VERY SELECT ASSORTMENT OF WINTER TWEEDS, FANCY COATINGS, &c., For the approaching season ; and, as these comprise only the \ ERY BEST MATERIALS in the MARKET, they need no other recommendation. (A FEW SAMPLES WILL __ IBE SHOWN AT THE 333 YFORTHCOMING EX- V HIBITION. PERFECT FIT GUARANTEED. PRICES MODERATE, AS USUAL. CRAIGHEAD AND CO., Tancred street (Next Orr and Co.’s). 0. Carstens <& Co., (Late Weston’s), . PROSPECT BUILDINGS, mOBACOONIST, FANCY GOODS, 1. AND STATIONERY. Meerschaum Pipes, G.B.D. Pipes STailrod, Twist, and Vanity Fair Tobacco ■ A nice assortment of Accordions, Con certinas, Flutes, Violins, Mouth Organs, and-Toys of every description, direct from Home. flaircutting, Shaving and Shampooing. BAST STREET ASHBURTON. 627a* J. Sherriff, MO N uME NT A L .MASO N, Manchester street south, and Bar badoes street (near the. Cemetery). A large 'Stock nf Tombs and Monuments always on Hand. Designs for warded on application. 323 a



Special Advertisements. jyj"R W. H. 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. 3:15a The rest value FOR READY MONEY IS THE MEN’S AND BOYS’ CLOTHING MANUFACTURED BY THE NEW ZEALAND Clothing Factory, Which can bo purchased at their Retail Branches, now established all over Now Zealand. The Garments are thoroughly shrunk. The Fit and Style are perfect. The Workmanship is equal to bespoke. The Trimmings arc of superior quality and strength. The Tweeds arc of the very best de scription. The Stock is the largest in the Southern Hemisphere. The tall, short, lean, and stout, can be equally well fitted. The Goods arc all marked in plain figures. The system of business is to exchange every article that does not give satisfac tion. And, in addition to all these advantages, you can purchase A SINGLE GARMENT AT THE WHOLESALE PRICE. jsas~ Mercery, Hats, Shirts, Ties, Scarves, Bags, Portmanteaux, Rugs, and Blankets, at Wholesale Prices. Thousands of the discerning customers testify that the New Zealand Clothing Factory’s Garments are the Yerv Best Value for Ready Money. Ashburton Branch : EAST STREET. WM, SPARROW, 369a* Manager. Encourage local bnt er- PBISE, & KEEP THE MONEY IN THE PLACE. WANTED —10,000 customers Id Pur chase 100,000 Envelopes and upwards. 1,000, 7s Gd ; 0,000, (is 9d perl,ooo, for Cash. H. M. JONES, Stationer and Bookseller, East street and Baring Square. 305 a



The NatatohCa.se. the statement made by the South Canter bury Timex that Natator, at the time of his scratching for the h'orbnry Handicap, was in charge of Mr H. Prince, and hints at that gentleman taking legal steps to vindicate his name. Cool. —Slightly sarcastic was the clergy man who paused and addressed a man com ing into church after a sermon had begun with the remark, “Glad to see you, sir; come in : always glad to see those here late who can’t come early.” And decidedly self-possessed was the man thus addressed in the presence of an astonished con gregation, as he responded : “ Thank you, would you favor me with the text ?”