SHIPPING.

PORT OP LYTTELTON. Arrived. Yesterday. Tui, s.s., from Amuri and Kaikoura. Cutty Sark, sch loner, from Havelock. To-day. Albion, s.s., from Port Chalmers. Sailed. Yesterday. Tui, s.s., for Kaikoura. Edith Reid, schooner, for Greymouth. Alhambra, s.s., for Wellington, West Coast, and Newcastle. To-day. Albion, s.s., for the North. ' Hawea, s s., for Akaroa and Dunedin. SHIPPING TELEGRAMS. Wellington, Yesterday. Arrived —Waitaki, from South. Dunedin. Yesterday. Arrived —Arawata, from North; Edith May, from Newcastle. Sailed—D’Arcy Pratt, for Greymouth; City of Lucknow, ship, for Oregon.

MAIL NOTICES.

Mails close at the Ashburton Post Office «s follows: — For Christchurch and North at 6.30 a. m. 10.30 a.m., and 5 p. m., daily. For Cheitsey Rakaia, &c., at 10.30 a.m. and 5 p.m. daily. For Dunedin, TinwaM, Winslow, Hinds, Coldstream, Rangitata, Orari, Winchester, and bit 10 a-m. daily. For Temttka, at 6.30 a.m. and 10 a,m., daily. For Timaru and South, at 6.30 a.m., 10 Im, and 430 p.m., daily. For Greenstreet, Ashburton Forks, Mount Somers, and Ashburton Gorge, Oa Tuesdays and Fridays, ‘at It). 30 a m. For Ashton, WatetthU and Longbeach, at 430 p.m. daily. For Flemington, on Mondays, Wednes days, and Fridays, at 4 30 p. m. For Wakanui, Elgin, Seafield, New land, and Kyle, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, at 6.30 a.m. Mails arrive at the Ashburton Post Office — From Christchurch and Rakaia at 10.25 *.m., 440 p.m., and 7.50 p.m. From Chertsey, Ac. at 10.25 a.m. and 4.40 p.m. daily. From Dunedin and intermediate places at 5.35 p.m. daily. From Temuka and Timaru at 10.50 a.m. 8.35 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. Prom Ashton, Waterton, and Long beach at 10 a.m. daily. From Flemington on Tuesdays, Thurs days, and Saturdays, at 10 a.m. From Elgin, Wakanui, Seafield, New and, and Kyle, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, at 4 p.m. W. St. G. Douglas, Postmaster

DAILY MEMORANDA.

AUCTION SALES. Saturday, December 24. Mr T. Bullock, at the Bazaar—Horses ; 3-30 p.ra. Tuesday, December 26. Mr J. Ivess, at Grange Farm, Furniture ; 12 o’clock. Saturday, December 31. Mr. T. Bullock, at his rooms, East street —-Leasehold Property ; 1.30 p.m. Tuesday, January 3, Matson, Cox and Co., at the Ashburton Yards—Stock. Thursday, January 5. J. T. Ford and Co., at the Tinwald Yards—Farm Stock and Plant. MEETINGS, AMUSEMENTS, Ac Monday, December 26. Caledonian Society’s Annual Gathering. Monday, January, 2. Winslow Annual Races and Sports ; first event at 11 a.m. Wakanui Annunl Races and Sports. Tuesday, January 3. Ashburton Permanent Building and In vestment Society, Monthly Meeting, from 6.30 to 8.30 p.m. Wednesday, January 4. County Council, at the County Council Chambers, at 11 o’clock. Thursday, January 5. Wakanui Road Board—Monthly Meeting, Road Board Office, Moore street L.O.L. —Monthly Meeting, Templar Hall.

TRAVELLERS’ GUIDE.

Trains Leave Ashburton for Christ church and intermediate stations at 7.10 a. no., 11a.m., and (Express)s.4o p.m. Trains Leave Ashburton For Timaru and South, at 6.50 a.m., 10.32 a.m. (Express), and 4.45 p. m. —the latter pro ceeding no tether than Timaru. Trains Arrive at Ashburton from Christchurch at 10 20 a. m. (Express), 4.35p.m., and 7.50 p.m. Trains Arrive at Ashburton prom Timaru and South at 10.45 a.m., 5,28 p.m. (Express), and 8.10 p.m.

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Veritas, et Prevalebit. THURSDAY, DECEMBER 22, 1881. The Mayoral Election.

TOWN EDITION. [lssued at 430 p. m. j mm»mm ■■la^aWßßga—H—BPCß—■——>B—aPtgPMWace

When any individual member of our local government —we allude, of course, to that well-meaning body our Borough Council —has been found during his public career to have merited a share of the thanks of the commuity for a zealous and painstaking performance of his duties, whether as a Councillor or in the more distinguished of Mayor, we shall not be found wanting in our position as journalists to draw the attention of the public thereto. Indeed it would be an unfair thing to do otherwise, especially when it is so patent to every ratepayer in the Borough that during the past year our late Mayor has signalised his term of office witii no mean record of genuine work for the health as well as the prosperity of the town. Ot course we do not a.,ree with all our late Mayor’s ideas, but to any thoughtlul person they commend themselves, because he had in view the laudable intention of endeavoring to reduce our rates to a very nominal sum by letting one of the vacant squares, and further by purchasing the gasworks and so reducing the cost of street lighting. Both these schemes are sound, financially, and with a Council composed of men like Mr Friedlander there can be no doubt that the gasworks question would have been an eminent success. But both have their drawbacks. The public do not like to lose their squares, and they do not like to risk the management of an establishment like the gasworks to the tender mercies of the Borough Council, and hence, no doubt, the reason these schemes were not carried into effect. The revenue derivable from the letting of Baring Square West would be a large one, and may possibly be decided upon yet, but we think seriously that there are other ways of getting a revenue. There are a large number of idle reserves in the

Borough, and these can be utilised first, and if the square in question is valuable now, it will soon bring far more revenue if all the other vacant places are built upon, and it is decided to let it hereafter. For the present we think that as regards “ breathing places,” Ashburton is pretty well supplied, and as far as “ breathing” is concerned, we can see no reason why the change should not be made. The most successful works that have been carried out during Mr Friedlander’s term of office are the out fall draiti; the water supply, street channelling, and asphalt paving. These are all important works, and anyone cannot feel but thankful for a good footpath on one side of our principal street, and we almost wonder why a small medal has not been struck to commemorate the day when our first 50 chains |vvas completed. The many matters affecting the business of our Council and its finances which will always connect Mr Hugo Friedlander’s Mayoralty with a very satisfactory period in the history of Ashburton Borough and its improve ments. Indeed the sentiments ex pressed by the late Mayor’s Council, on his retirement yesterday, show concu sivelythathehaswon their good opinion. In Mr Donald Williamson, the newly elected Mayor, we fully believe the burgesses of Ashburton have found a sterling man, and one ih wfiom they will find no rash or unbecoming actions in his capacity as chief magistrate in this town. During his public career, whether as a member of any of our public institutions or as a town coun cillor, he has always endeavored to act tborougly independently of any party, has never shown any factious opposi tion-, but has worked harmoniously with his colleagues in every thing likely to benefit the Borough. Although entering upon his office with an empty exchequer and overdraft of some his popularity will in no way diminish, although his Council are unable to take in hand any works, but those most urgently need for the health and safety of the inhabitants; The debt is only a very small one, however, and we have every reason to believe that it will be soon wiped off.

Td Our Readers. —We have to apolo gise to those of our subscribers who did not get their papers last night, and we fear that. many did not get, them. The calamity that befel our head runner, Mr C. BourF, during the afternoon of course prevented his making his usual rounds, and a substitute for him had to be pro cured. But the substitute was but very imperfectly acquainted with the run, and consequently many of our readers were deprived of their papers. We trust, under the circumstances, the matter will be over looked.

A Suggestion. —As will be seen on reference to another column, MrC, Bourk is a heavy loser for a man in his circum stances, that is by the fire which destroyed his home yesterday. Beyond a few articles of small value the whole of his effects and.those of.hia family were burned. He waft wholly uninsured, and estimates his loss at over L3O, reckoning the things at their second-hand value, but .to buy them new would cost him over L7O, and some of the things destroyed cannot be replaced at all. We are sure the public sympathise with Mr Bourk, who is a hard working and most respectable man, and we would like to make a suggestion, aud that is that the Amateur Dramatic Club, to which Mr Bourk is scenic artist, and whose assistance has been invaluable on many occasions to the successful produc tion of the Club’s pieces, should call a meeting and arrange a benefit entertain ment at the Town Hall. We are quite certain the public would support such a step and for our own part we should bo happy to print the tickets and advertise the performance gratis We trust the Club will act upon this suggestion.

Local Industry. —We have been shown this morning a very neat specimen of local workmanship, in the shape of a silver medal, which has been manufactured by a local jeweller, Mr Robert Murray, of East street. As a specimen of the art, it is indeed very creditable, and reflects great credit to the maker for the excellent design as well as execution, and prove that we can obtain work of this kind in our own town without going elsewhere. On one side of the medal is ihe Harp of Erin in richly chased relief, sur mounted by sprigs of shamrock. On the the reverse side is a plain surface for engraving the winner’s name, and so much has already been engraved thereon that we find the medal is presented by Mrs Butler for the best dancer of the Irish jig at the forthcoming Caledonian sports. The medal, which is a very solid one, is suspended from a silver clasp by means of a green ribbon, and on the clasp are engraved some more shamrocks, making it altogether a fit emblem of the nationality of its donor, as well as a handsome gift, and no doubt there will be plenty of competition for it. As one People. —At Auckland, Te Ngakau, Tawhiao’s private secretaiy, paid a visit to the Hon. F. Whitaker yesterday morning, in company with Mr Sheehan. A long conversation took place, in which Te Ngakau declared plainly that in a short time matters between Maories and Europeans would be as they were thirty years ago—that they would be as one people. After the interview the Kingite dignitary drove round the town with Mr bheehan, and expressed his pleasure at the prosperity and advancement which was everywhere evident. Encouraging. —lt is proposed to in crease the capital of the Oamaru Woollen Factory to L 50,000, and to place a number of shares on the Victorian market, from which place promises of support have been received.

Gratifying. —From Invercargill it is stated that the Nightcaps Coal Company have received an order from the Govern ment to supply from thirty to forty tons per week for the use of the locomtives.

About that Rabbit Skin. —Mr Robert Eill, through our advertising colum is, offers to return a gold ring, supposed to have been lost while some benevolently disposed person was in the act of tying up a rabbit skin for the purpose of presenta tion to the above urbane gentleman. The Christmas Tree. —lt will be seen from an announcement elsewhere that the sale of fancy and useful goods at the Primitive Methodist Church is to be con tinued to-morrow afternoon and evening, when the balance of goods not disposed of yesterday will be offered for sale.

In Bankruptcy. —James Gardiner, con tractor, has filed a declaration of in solvency. That Terrible Wind. —The nor’-wester which commenced yesterday morning has been hard at it ever since, and behaving in the most boisterous and blustering manner. The blow seems to be general, for accounts reach us from several parts of the colony to that effect. The crops are suffering severely in some places by the high wind.

Gas Explosion. —A serious explosion of gas occurred last night at Spedding’s auction stores, Dunedin. Two windows were blown clean out, and two employees thrown down but not injured. It is be lieved the accident was caused by rats gnawing the gas pipes.

Local Industry. —lmportant meetings of the provisional directors of the Cheese and Butter Factory and the Industrial Association were held last night. Reports appear elsewhere. Yesterday’s Fire. —From further par ticulars to hand, respecting the fire on the North Belt yesterday, we learn that the fire originated in the kitchen of the house occupied by the Bourk family. Mrs Bourk had been washing in the kitchen, the infant being asleep in its cradle in the bedroom. The mother who was washing in the kitchen, Heard the child moving, and went in to see to it. She sat in the bedroom for a few minutes, when a loud noise like a gun exploding caused her to run out of the bedroom. She found the floor ’of the kitchen in ashes, and the flames creeping np the walls The noise that had attracted her attention was the tin containing the kerosene exploding. Mrs Bourk was naturally terribly frightened, but still had presence of mind enough to rush in to the house and seize the child, which she placed in the back yard, after which she says she remembers nothing more. Mrs Miller, the next door neighbor, fortunately saw and rescued the little one from its perilous position, for the sparks and charred wood were flying about at the tinie ill all directions. Mrs Bourk sustained a severe cut on the arm, and another on the finger, and has suf fered severely from the shock to the ner vous system occasioned by the disaster. Mr Bourk has also been a sufferer, both personally and pecuniarily. The sudden news of the fire yesterday brought on a fit to which He is subject, and his anxiety about his wife and child was of course very great. He estimates his loss at L3O. That is the goods destroyed were intrin sically worth that sum, but their loss is a much more serious matter to the owner, who has had things destroyed which money cannot replace. Beyond a sofa, bedstead, a box or two, and a few drosses, the family has lost everything, being wholly uninsured. As we stated yester day, the house was the property of Mr Martin, and was insured for LIOO in the South British office ; the unoccupied house burnt belonged to Mr Slade, and was insured ( ,for LSO in the South British. Mr Bourk asks us to return his heartfelt thanks to all those who assisted at the fire to save his property, and also to Mr Miller for her promptitude in rescuing his child from the danger threatening it. Mr Miller also desires to £ thank all those who helped. Borough School —The Boroiigh school breaks lip to-morrow for the Christmas holidays, and the distiibution of prizes will take place, after which a presentation will be made on behalf of the scholars to the head master and , mistress, consist ing of a handsome locket and a signet ring. Mount Hitt Road Board. —The annual meeting of ratepayers is fixed for

Jan. sth. Ashburton’s Volunteers. —At the weekly drill of the Ashburton Rifles on Tuesday evening a telegram was read from Colonel Pscke stating his intention of paying the Parihaka men on Thursday (this) evening. A full parade of the com pany, band included, is called for seven o’clock, and a largo muster is expected.

R. M. Court -There was a clean sheet at the Posident Magistrate’s Court this morning.

Called Away. —Amongst the passen gers on. hoard of the ill-fated ship Clan Mac Duff, and who went down with her, was Miss Ada Lester, the well-known actress. Miss Lester was respected by all who knew, her, while her talents as an actress wore justly admired. Mias Lester was performing with a comedy company, which visited Ashburton about throe years ago. School Treat. —The children attend ing the Borough School, some 500 in number, mustered at the school-house at nine o’clock this morning, and marched, with flags and banners gaily waving in the nor’-wester, for the railway station. There a special train of ten carriages con voyed them to Windermere, where they went at the kind invitation of E. G. Wright, Esq., to enjoy a day’s outing. A number of adults, friends and parents of the children, teachers, etc., accompanied the youngsters, who, we hope, managed to put in the time agreeably. They re turn about six o’clock this evening. Christmas Holidays —The railway arrangements for the Christmas holidays will be found in another column. Lotti Wilmot Again in Court.— The notorious Madame Lotti Wilmot appeared at the Christchurch Magistrate’s Court yesterday, in answer to a judgment summons, calling upon her to “ ante-up ” the L 5 damages awarded to Mr Moon for the assault upon him some time back, together with costs of Court, amounting in all to L 9. Madame Wilmot pleaded poverty and said her business as a lecturess had been unproductive since the affair at the Popanui Town Hall. She was at pre sent without means. Although living at an hotel she was unable to pay for her accommodation. She had no difficulty in getting credit for that. She was known to many hotelkeepers, and as she punc tually paid her debts when in funds, they never refused to trust her. She had got a verdict against the directors of the Papanui Town Hall, but had not yet re ceived the money. After some discussion between Bench, Bar, and Lotti, the Magistrate said that the Bench, under the circumstances, saw no reason why defen dant should be protected by that Court. The debt was a small one, had been owing a long time, and must now bo paid im mediately, or, in default, defendant would be imprisoned for fourteen days. Tenders. —Mr J. Stanley Bruce invites tenders for cutting, stocking, carting, and stacking sixty-eight acres wheat. The Railway Department invite tenders for Tiniaru engine-shed contract.

Quo-Fellowship at Watbrton.—The annual summoned meeting for the election of oilicers for the Loyal Waterton Lodge, 1.0. O.F. ,M. U., took place last evening, there being a large attendance of members present. N. G. Bro. Thomas Williams (Ashburton Lodge) presiding. After the usual routine business had been gone through, the following officers were duly elected:—N.G., Bro. P. O’Shannassy ; Y.G., Bro. Wm. Bryans; E.S., Bro. John Pearson ; S., Bro. J. A. Clothier; Treasurer, Bro. J Davies ; R.S. to N. G., Bro. George. So .!; L K to N.G., Bro. Mor rison ; It.IS. to Y.G , Bro. Moses ; L.S to Y.G., Bro Gardiner; Warden, Bro. Bysh ; I. G., Bro. J. Barr ; Sick Visitors, Bros. Pearson and Moses; Auditors, Bros. 0. Schutt and W. Bryans ; Lodge Surgeon, Bro. Dr. Murdoch. The instal lation of the newly-elected officers then took place, Bro. Thomas Williams acting as installing officer, after which a very hearty vote of thanks was passed to Bro Williams for the able ard satisfactory manner in which he had filled the office of N.G. for the past six months. A vote of thanks was also passed to all the other retiring officers. Bro. Williams then took the chair of the G.M., which he holds for the next six months, and having been elected lecture master, responded to the vote of thanksinfew but appropriate words. After the close of the Lodge, the lectures were conferred and four minor degrees on brethren duly qualified to receive them. This Lodge is progressing very satisfactory, several new members having been made since the opening of the Lodge, and there having been no calls on the sick fund, which is steadily increasing, and the Lodge as a whole bids fair to become a very prosperous and creditable one. Christmas Cake.— lf you want a good substantial Christmas cake, give “Free Trade ” (otherwise called R. Lancaster) a turn. —[ Advt. ]

Shocking Accident. —A sad accident occurred at Lambton Quay, Wellington, I last night. At a quarter past seven a loud explosion was heard, and it was discovered that some blue fire composition in the rear of Messrs Barraud and Sons’ che mist shop had exploded. It appears that blue fire composition had been made during the afternoon, and that it had turned out badly, some of ic exploding and singing the hair of an assistant. About half a pound of the stuff remained in the mortar, and Mrs Anthony suggested washing out the vessel, and so getting rid of the dangerous powder. While in the act of doing this the explosion occurred. The report was heard half a mile away, and Mrs Anthony sustained such dread ful injuries that she succumbed to them at nine o’clock last evening. Destruction of our Forests. —Says a Home paper:—Considerable attention is being paid to the subject of forest de struction in the Australian colonies. In New Zealand the Kauri pine is being fast exterminated, and Dr Hector has pointed out that the average annual destruction of the New Zealand forests during the thirty eight years terminating in 1868 was at the rate of 23 per cent., while in the aucceed itig five years 20 per cent, in addition was destroyed of what remained, being at the rate per province as follows:—Auckland, 27 ; Taranaki, 11 ; Wellington, 25 ; Hawke’s Bay, 30; Nelson, 20; Canterbury, 33; Otago, 10; Marlborough 28. In Vic toria, New South Wales, and South Au stralia the evils arising from reckless and wholesale deforestation are beginning to make themselves felt in increased dryness of climate, longer droughts, and more numerous bush fires. A Philanthropic Rat. —The Stanford (Ky.) Journal says ;—At a recent fire in Madison county there appeared in a window up stairs, which had been opened in removing furniture, a venerable-looking rat, which svrveyed the ground and re tired. Presently he returned and sus pended himself from a broken lathe, head downward. Then one ran down him and swung off, keeping this up till eleven were suspended ; then giving one or two swings, they all let loose except the first that sus pended. Those that let loose escaped, but the patriotic old one perished in the flames.

CABLE NEWS

LATEST FROM EUROPE.

|jpER REUTER’S AGENCY.] An Unprofitable Transaction. London, Dec. 19. intelligence is to hand from Africa that a false prophet, who had collected 2,600 Negro fanatics in the Soudan, has massacred 300 Egyptian troops. Home Letters. The homeward mails via Suez and Brindisi, which left Melbourne on Nov. 8, were delivered here to-day. Money and the Markets. Consols have declined }4, and are quoted to-day at New Zealand securities are unchanged at the fol lowing quotations :—Five per Cent. 10-40 Loan, 105 ; Five per Cent. 1889 Loan, 104 ; Four and a Half pet Cent. 1879-1904 Loan, iois4. Ade laide wheat, ex warehouse, remains at 565; New Zealand ditto, 52s ; Ade laide flour, ex store, 41s 6d. Aus tralian tallow—best beef, 39s 6d ; best mutton, 445. London, Dec. 20. Consols have further declined to-day to Colonial breadstuffs are without quotable change. New Zea land securities, 5 per Cent. 10.40 Loan, have declined to 104; 5 per Cent., 1889 Loan, is unchanged at 104 ; and 4per Cent., 1879-1904 Loan, is at Best Scotch pig iron, No. 1. f.o.b in Clyde, has declined to 535. The Storm Continues. A very severe storm continues to rage over the greater part ot England. The gale has been blowing for the past two days; and has caused further seri ous destruction of property in many places. Correction. Yesterday’s telegram London, Dec. 19, should read :—lntelligence is to hand that a false prophet who had col lected 2,600 negro fanatics in the Soudan, has massacred 300 of the Egyptian troops. Disastrous Result of a Polar Expedition New York, Dec. 20. Intelligence has been received here regarding the Arctic exploring ship Jeanette. News to hand is to the effect that she was crushed by the ice in June last, and was abandoned, the officers and crew taking to the boats. One boat load was rescued by the natives on the Siberian coast, and then for warded on to Irkustak, in Siberia. An other boat reached the mouth of the Lena, and its crew were suffering fear fully. The other boat is missing, and it is feared all who were on board have perished. The Sultan Consents. Constantinople, Dec. 20. The Sultan has issued an order sanc tioning the settlement arrived at be tween the Turkish commission and the bondholders’ delegates regarding the payment of the Ottoman debt.

AUSTRALIAN.

(per reuter's agency.] Declined With Thanks- Melbourne, Yesterday. The Agent-Generalship for Victoria in London has been offered to Mr Murray Smith. He has, however, de clined the appointment. Not On. It is announced that Government has declined to co-operate with the otiier Australian Colonies and New Zealand, in measures which are being taken to induce the Government of the United States to reduce the duty levied on wool imported from the colonies.

Shipping. Arrived—Te Anau, s.s., from the Bluff.

TELEGRAMS.

[per press association.] Mayoral Banquet. New Plymouth, To-day. The Mayor’s banquet last night was largely attended; over 100 were present. Mr Bryce was expected, but was prevented by business from coming. Keeping it Up. At 'Drenui, on the 17th, the natives kept up the day with a feast, thus observ ing Te Whiti’s custom. A Fresh and its Consequences. Wanganui, To-day. A very heavy fresh in the river rose suddenly in the night, and carried away a punt containing the new steam crane, just made for use to connect with the dredge ; the crane was seen going over the bar, and it is feared has capsized. A

number of small boats were carried away. The boathouse staging is broken up, and other damage is done. We Can Sympathise. Christchurch, To-day, A furious north-west gale commenced last night, and still continues. No dam age is ns yet reported. The Runs Question. Dunedin, To-day. A public meeting to consider the runs question is convened for to-morrow. Another Fire. Two four-roomed houses at South Dun edin were burned down this morning and a third partially destroyed. Insurances L3OO in the Northern office, LIOO in the New Zealand, L2OO in the Standard, Ll5O in the National, L2OO in the Victoria. [For continuation of reading matter see first page.]

THE ASHBTTRTON GtJAftMAN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 22, 1881.



IJIHE ,A 0I D CURE. F. COUTTS and SONS’ Guaranteed ACETIC ACID is a safe and sure remedy for Rfaeuma ism, Neuralgia, Sore Throats, etc May be obtained from Mackat Beos, Manchester street, South, Christ church, Wholesale and Retail, or from Mr Thomas Collins, Main South Road, Timaru. AN AGENT WANTED FOR ASH BURTON. 734 c Christmas Presents AND NEW YEAR’S GIFTS. JUST Received, a Choice Assortment of Christmas and New Year Cards, Dolls, Humming Tops, and Shell Goods In great variety. Letts’ Diaries for 1882 ; Family Reader Sv. 42); Boys’ Standard (new series) ; test Novelties in Pipes. F. CLARK, Hairdresser and Tobacconist, Montgomery’s Buildings. 319 d John Meech, PRACTICAL CABINETMAKER, UPHOLSTERER, &c., BURNETT STREET, Opposite the Mail Office. .Easy Chairs, Couches, English and American Chairs, Single and Double Iron Wood Bedsteads. All kinds* of Carpeting, Matting, and Oilcloth. A large assortment of Repps and Cretonnes at lowest prices. Suites of Furniture from Ll 3 and upwards. All Hud, of furniture re-covered and repaired at the very lowest prices. All work guaranteed and completed at the shortest notice. Furniture exchanged, »rwl highest prices given for second-hand Furniture. Note the address —Cheapest House in Ashburton, opposite Mail Office, Burnett ftawet 816 c



Wanted. P LOXJGHING, WANTED—A. number of PLOUGHS for the Ashburton. Terrace Paddocks. ; JOHN GRIGG. Longbeach, Dec. 19. 3854 X'TTANTED —A COOK for a Station. VV Must be able to make good bread. Jameson and Roberts. 393 d WANTED— A GIRL, between 14 and 16 years of age, to attend to children and do light house work. Apply for address, Office of this Paper. 38Gd WANTED— TENDERS for CUTTING 68 acres of wheat with a string binder, and Stooking. Carting, and Stacking the same. The stacks to be built where directed. Tenders to be sent in not later than MONDAY, 2nd Janufirv, addressed to J. Stanley Beucb, Elgin. 405 d VtTANTED KNOWN— Mrs Hendeß \ V son. Dressmaker, Burnett street, near Catholic Church. Ladies’ Dresses made from 5s (3d. Apprentices Wanted. WANTED KNOWN—During the Christmas Season, FRTEDLANDER BROS, are selling NEW FRUIT, NEW FRUIT, Currants, Cid ; Elemes, 7d ; Sultanas, 8d ; Candied Peel. Is 6d ; Best Butter, (id; and General Groceries equally cheap for Cash. 318 d ITT ANTED KNOWN—If you want to W Grow a splendid crop of Turnips, Purchase some of Mayo’s Bonedust. F. Mayo, Hamstead Millfi. ~ .... 255 d IT TANTE& KNOWN. —SPRING VV AND SUMMER MILLINERY. MISS YERRALL is now Showing her First Display of Spring Millinery. Co lombo street (opposite CookhaM Hob Se.) ST/'ANTED KNOWN— That Robert V y Elatoh, 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. 760 c



WANTED KN OWN— Christmas and Nrw Year arrived, the Best and Newest Assortment ever seen, including Scented Satchets and Fringed Cards.—L. F. Andrewes, Book seller and Stationer, East street South, Ashburton. 766 c Special Advertisements. THE undersigned will be prepared, during the coming season, to supply the following articles at the lowest rates; — REAPERS and BINDERS EXTRAS for DO. RINDING WIRE CORN SACKS TURNIP and RAPE SEEDS PLOUGH SHARES And all kinds of Agricultural Imple ments. FREDK. PAVITT, Corn Merchant, &c., Ashburton. Agent for John Anderson, Canterbury Foundry, Chiistchurch; Geo. Booth and Sons, Importers of Agricultural .Imple ments, Christchurch; and Agent for the United Insurance Company. 150 d mHE COMPLIMENTS OF THE JL SEASON. Heads of Families, and all who wish to obtain suitable articles for Christmas Presents and NEW YEAR’S GIFTS Are respectfully invited to inspect the unrivalled assortment of Toys, Fancy Goods, Christmas and New Year’s Cards, etc., just opened up by the undersigned. Alsu STATIONERY, i’lain and Fancy Note Paper and Enve lopes, Account and Memorandum Books, School Books, etc. An extensive stock to select from. Schools liberally dealt with. H. M. Jones, EAST STREET AND BARING SQUARE. Pianos* Organs, Harmoniums, and all kinds of Musical Instruments on Deferred Payments. A quantity of SHEET MUSIC very cheap. Lowest Prices for Cash. 293 d



j£JIS LORDSHIP’S LARDER. THE ONLY ESTABLISHMENT IN THE WORLD WHERE A GRILLED CHOP OR STEAK, AND A GLASS OF BASS’ ENGLISH ALE, Can be obtained FOR ONE SHILLING. THE BEST MENU TO CHOOSE FROM IN CHRISTCHUBCH, Unequalled Accommodation for Ladies. Dinners, Banquets, Ball Suppers, Wedding Breakfasts, and Picnics pro vided for, in the very best possible style. W. H. MESSENGER, 360 d Purveyor. Back from the front,—The scare at Parihaka is over; our vo lunteers have proved themselves equal to the occasion, and although no fighting was done, they were the “ boys” to do it had it been required; a brush with the “ black fellows ” was what they went for. Nevertheless they did a good deal of hard tramping up hill and down dale; and the astonishing fact is that most of them, having been provided with STOUT BOOTS from C. HAWKINS’ never-to-be excelled Boot and Shoe Warehouse, came back with their “ understandings” nearly as good as when they left this go-ahead little township. Try C. Hawkins’ Shop before you go elsewhere. 998 c O. Carstens & Co., (Late Weston’s), PROSPECT BUILDINGS, Tobacconist, fancy goods, AND STATIONERY. Meerschaum Pipes, G.B.D. Pipes Nailrod, Twist, and Vanity Fair Tobacco A nice assortment of Accordions, Con certinas, Flutes, Violins, Mouth Organs, and Toys of every description, direct from Home. Haircutting, Shaving and Shampooing. FAST STREET ASHBURTON 257a* THE GUARDIAN is puhT-hed every evening, giving every day ■7 s, up to the hour of going to press. This is better than buying a sixpenny weekly, j



Special Advertisements. NEW ZEALAND LOAN AND MERCANTILE AGENCY COM PANY {LIMITED). AN AGENCY has this day been OPENED at Ashburton, with Mr Walter B. Moss in charge. TEMPORARY office — COR&ER OF WEST AND HAVE LOCK STREETS. JOHN COOKE, Manager. Christchurch, October 1, 1881. 782 c rj! H E NEW ZEALAND Clothing Factory, noted throughout the Colony for the best fitting and Genuine Well-made CLOTHING Of Every Description, are the LARGEST iIPRIZE-TAKERS Al the Dunedin Industrial Exhibition having been awarded FIRST ORDER OF MERIT, AND ALSO HIGHLY COMMENDED RV the intelligent .VurorA. One trial will prove the Superior Quality of all Products. A SINGLE GARMENT AT THE WHOLESALE PRICE. Branches at all the principal Towns. HATS, HOSIERY, shirts, Blankets, RUGS TWEEDS, At Wholesale Prices. NEW SEASONS GOODS NOW SHOWING, Ashburton Retail Branch : East Street. W. SPARROW, 692 c Branch Manager. rjIHE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN PENNY. PUBLISHED EVERY EVENING. Advertisers are reminded that The AshbUrToN Guardian was the FIRST DAILY PAPER published between Christchurch and Timaru, and com mands a LARGER CIRCULATION throughout the County of Ashburton than any other other Journal. AVI N G ASHBURTON. GIVING UP BUSINESS. EVERETT BROI. Will on Saturday, December 3, commence A GREAT CLEARING SALE Of their new and well-selected Stock of GENERAL DRAPERY, And to effect a speedy clearance will, in addition to the already very low prices, offer, as an extra inducement, .a DISCOUNT OF TEN PER GENT. The Shop To Let. The Fixtures, Fit tings, Ac., For Sale.



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, iuul charged accord ingly. All notices of Births, Marriages, or Deaths must be accompanied by the sig nature of the sender, as a guarantee of good faith. All advertisements and business letters to be addressed The Manager ; literary communications should be addressed to The Editor.



Meetings CRICKET CLUB. A GENERAL.MEETING of MEM BERS of the above Club will be held at Quill’s Hotel, on FRIDAY, December 23rd, at 7.30 p.m. Business —To Elect two Committeemen. A. A. FOOKS, 398 d Hon. Sec. HUTT ROAD BOARD. The ANNUAL MEETING of Rate payers will be held at the Road Board Office, Methven, at 11 a.m. on THURS DAY, the sth day of January, 1882, to Elect Two Members in the place of Edward Chapman and John Avis Pannett, who retire by rotation, but who are eligible for re-election. Nominations will be received up to 12 o’clock noon. A Poll, if demanded, will be taken on Wednesday, the 11th January, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., at Schoolhouse, Barrhill, and at the Road -Board Office, Methven. W. B. COMPTON, 402 d Returning Officer. gOUTH RAKAIA ROAD BOARD. ANNUAL ELECTION. In hereby give notice, in pursuance of the Canterbury Road Board Ordinance and the. Regulation of Local Elections Act, 1876, that ah ELECTION of TWO MEMBERS of the South Rakaia Road Board, in the place of David Gordon Holmes and John Lambie, who retire by rotation and are eligible for re-election, will be held on THURSDAY, the sth day of January, 1882, at the Road Board Office, South Rakaia. Nominatians must be in the form prescribed iii, schedule 2 of the Regulation of Local Elections Act, 1876, must be addressed to the Returning Officer, and delivered at the Road Board Office, South Rakaia, before noon on Wed nesday, the 28th day of November, 1881. A. MAKEIG, 389 d Returning Officer.



J) A NGIT AT A ROAD DISTRICT. The ANNUAL MEETING of RATE PAYERS will be held at the Lismore Schoolroom, at 11 am. on TUESDAY, January 3rd, 1882, and an ELECTION to fill the vacancies caused by the retire merit by ballot of Messrs Trevor and Morrow (who are eligible for re-election) will be held immediately afterwards, and the Poll, if necessary, taken between 12 noon and 4 p. m. on same day. J. C. BELL, Clerk to the Board. 20th Dec., 1881. 381 d SOMERS ROAD DISTRICT The ANNUAL MEETING of RATE PAYERS will be held at the Road Board Office, Mount Somers; at 11 (Eleven) a.m. on THURSDAY, the sth day of January, 1882. After the Election of Two Mem bers will take place to fill the vacant seats of Messrs J. E. Taylor and A. E. Peache, who retire by ballot, but who are eligible for re-election. A poll, if demanded, will take place the same day, and close at 4 p.m. 0. J. WENTWORTH 000KS0N, Returning Officer for the Mount Somers 384 d Road District. Notices. J3 RESENT EXTRAORDINARY. The Party who kindly presented Robert Hi.'l with a rabbit skin, and unfortunately dropped his GOLD RING in the parcel whilst tying the same, can have it by describing it and paying cost of advertise ment. 411 d ROBT. HILL. MR JOSEPH SLADE desires publicly to acknowledge with grateful THANKS the assistance so kindly rendered him at the late fire by the members of the Fire Brigade and other persons. Ashburton, 22nd Dec. 1881. 415 d



rjl H A N K S. MR GEORGE MILLER desires to return his warmest Thanks to all those who so kindly assisted to save his property at the fire yesterday. 413 d rjlO-MORRO \v ! TO-MORROW! The Christmas Tree AND SALE OF FANCY GOODS, AT THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST CHURCH, Will be continued TO-MORROW (Friday) from 2 p.m., and during the Evening. Admission —Is, which will entitle visi tors to an equivalent in value from the Tree. 408 d V. R. Ashburton county COUNCIL. CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS. The County Council’s Offices will CLOSE to all business on the 24th De cember, 1881, at Ip.m., until 3rd Janu ary, 1882, at 10 a.m. By order. F, MAIN WARING, Clerk. Ashburton, December 19, 1881. 374 d Ashburton county COUNCIL. SLAUGHTER-HOUSE LICENSES. Notice is hereby given that those per sons wishing to obtain Renewal Licenses for 1882 should apply to the Council be fore WEDNESDAY, the 4lh January, 1882, the Council’s next sitting. By order. F. MAINWARING, Clerk. Ashburton, December 19,1881. 375 d UPPER ASHBURTON ROAD BOARD. RATES. The Clerk will attend at Mr D. Williamson’s Store to Collect Rates on Every Saturday, from 12 o’clock until 4 p.m. No further notice will be given. By order. ROBT. D. PULL AR, 268 d Clerk.



Eailway Notices, W ZEALAND RAILWAYS. EXCURSION TO DUNEDIN, INVER-' CARGILL, AND THE LAKES. EXTENDED PRIVILEGES. Passengers may Book on 26th Db& (per Express Train) at same Cheap Eases as on 24th, the Tickets being available for return for Fourteen Days from date of issue. W. M. HANNAIf, Traffic Superintendent. Traffic Superintendent’s Office, ' Dunedin, Dec. 20, 1881 414 d ZEALAND RAILWAYS. . (Christchurch Section.) TRAIN ARRANGEMENTS— BOXING DAY, 1881. On the 26th the evening train will leave . Christchurch for Ashburton at 5.20 p.m. No Goods Traffidi Fares: Christmas and New Year's Holidays. All ordinary Single Fare Tickets issued on 23rd December, or any day up. to and including 3rd January, will be available for return up to and including 7th January. speoial"notice. Ordinary Single Fare Tickets to. King ston issued at Amberley, Waitaki, or any intermediate station on same dates as above will be available for return up to and including 14th January. FREDK. BACK, Traffic Manager. Traffic Manager’s Office, Christchurch, Dec. 20th, 1881. 404 d ZEALAND RAILWAYS. (Christchurch Section.) IMPORTANT NOTICE. CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS. GRAND SOUTHERN TOUR TO DUNEDIN, INVERCARGILL* AND THE. LAKES (Including Waimea Plains). On the 24th DECEMBER Excursion Tickets will be issued as under:— Ist. 2nd. Ist. 2nd. Ist. 2nd. Christchurch 30s 20s 50s 35s 60s 40s Ashburton... 30s 20s 60s 35s 60s 40s Temuka ... 20s 15s 40s 30s 50s 36s Timaru ... 20s 15s 40s 30s 60s 36s Waimate ... 20s 15s 40a 30a 60s 36s Passengers from Intermediate places must take Ordinary Tickets by one of the Ordinary Trains to nearest of above Sta tions, and there re-bdok at Excursion Pares, and join Excursion Train. The Excursion Tickets will be available for Passengers to travel to Dunedin either by 8 .15 a.m. Express on 24th, or by Night Special same day, leaving Christchurch at 8.40 p.m., Ashburton at 11.10 p.m., Temuka at 12.45 a.m., Timaru at 1.30 a.m., Studholme Junction at 2.35 a.m., arriving at Dunedin at 8 a.m. (25th).



The Tickets are available for return at any time within 14 days from day of issue (i.e., the return journey must be completed by 9th January, 1882). Passengers for Kingston and Queens town may continue their journey from Dunedin on Monday, 26th December, by a Special Train which leaves at 6.15 a. m., . arriving in Kingston at 2.25 p.m., where a Steamer will be in readiness to leave for Queenstown; or Passengers for Invercar i gill and Kingston desirous of remaining a few days in Dunedin, or at any Station i south of Dunedin, and then going forward, may travel by any Ordinary Train. Kingston or Queenstown Passengers have the option of travelling either by Waimea Plains' Railway or via Invercar gill, when going or returning. W. M. HANNAY, Traffic Superintendent. Traffic Superintendent’s Office, Dunedin, Dec. 17th, 1881. 378 d Gazette in Bankruptcy. V. R. N OTICE—The Ashburton Guardian is a Gazette for all notices under the Debtors and Creditors Art* IN the District Court of Ashburton, Holden at Ashburton. In the matter of the Debtors and Creditors Act, 1876, the several Acts amending the same, and of the bankruptcy of JAMES GARDINER, of Ashburton, contractor, a debtor. This is to notify that James Gardiner, of Ashburton, in the Provincial District of Canterbury, contractor, has this day filed a statement that he is unable to meet his engagements with his creditors. The first meeting of creditors to be held at the District Court House, on TUESDAY, the 27th day of December, 1881, at eleven o’clock in the forenoon. Dated this 22nd day of December. 1881. VV. MARTIN, 410 d Clerk to Bench. Public Companies. SCOTTISH IMPERIAL INSURANCE ca Capital ... £1,000,000. Head Office, 151, West George street, Glasgow. General Manager; W. W. W. Reid. NEW ZEALAND BRANCH : J. STUART REID, General Agent, Wellington. Messrs Tucker andßesxell having been appointed AGENTS for the Ashburton District for the above Company, are now | prepared to accept risks at lowest current I rates. FRED. H. BARNES, 248 d Agent for Canterbury. N ORTH BRITISH AND MERCAN TILE INSURANCE COMPANY. Established 1809. Subscribed Capital Fire Fund Life Fund ... Premiums for 1880 £2,000,000 1,201,243 3,380,107 951,173 Ashburton Agency: POYNTZ AND CO., East street. 7740 | >ONES. —Wanted Known, that Mr JL> F. M ayo, is a Cash Purchaser of Rones in any quantity, at £3 per ton. Address, F. Mayo, Hampstead Bone Mills. 8340