SHIPPI NG.

ROUT OF LYTTELTON. Arrived. Yesterday. Elizabeth Curie, schooner, from Pelorua Sound. Sunbeam, barque, from Calcutta. To-day. Arawata, s.s., from Wellington, Waitaki, s.s., from Port Chalmers. Alhambra, s.s., from Wellington. Sailed. To-day. Waitaki, s.s., for Wellington. Wanaka, s.s., for Picton, Nelson, Tara naki, and Manakau. Arawata, s.s., for Melbourne, via Southern ports. SHIPPING TELEGRAMS. Auckland, Yesterday. Arrived —Rhoderick Dhu, from Mel bourne ; Coromandel, from London, with thirty passengers, all well. Welt.incton, Yesterday. Arrived—Hineraoa, from Kelson; West port, from the South. ! Sailed—Hawea, for Picton and iN'Clson. Poet x'o-day. Arrived—Albion, s.s., ftOra Melbourne, via the Bluff; MoUtftihere, barque, with 312_tona sugar from Mauritius.

COMMERCIAL.

London Seed Trade. Messrs John Shaw atid Sons, of 37, Mark Lane, E.t3., report through their agent ! IMt Leonard W. Blake, of Christchurch,) that the market during the fortnight ending November 3 continuod "extremely quiet, but a very firm tone pervaded the trade for all varieties of •teds. In red clover, really fine English promises to be very scarce, and to com mand fancy prices later on. American was still neglected on the English market, but owing to some operations on the part of the Germans, quotations had advanced shout Is per cwt., and freights for it are higher than they were. A few parcels of English cow grass were being shown, of poor quality generally, while prices asked were high. White clover decidedly tending upwards in price ; fine qualities fetching tremendous prices already, and notwithstanding were eagerly looked for. Alsyke continued very firm for ordinary ; fine quality must be noted dearer. Trefoil snd Italian rye grass quiet but firm. Timothy very scarce ; indeed it is probable that there never was so little seed left over before as is the case this year ; but little «■ known of the crop so far, but it is re ported to be small. Canary is quoted better, but no great improvement is per ceptible in the demand.

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, OB Tuesdays and Fridays, at 10.30 a.m. For Ashton, Waterton and Longbeach, at 4.30 p.m. daily. For Plemington, on Mondays, Wednes days, and Fridays, at 430 p. in. 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., 4.40 p.m., and 7.50 p.m. From Chertsey, &c. at 10.25 a.m. and 440 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 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 his rooms, East street —Leasehold Property ; 1.30 p.m. Mr T. Bullock, at the Bazaar—Horses ; 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 Tarda—Farm Stock and Plant. MEETINGS, AMUSEMENTS, &c To-night, Tuesday, December 20. Musical Festival, Town Hall, 8 p. m To-morrow, Wednesday, December 21. Local Industries Association, Monthly Meeting, Upper Room, Town Hall, 8 p.m. Monday, December 26. Caledonian Society’s Annual Gathering. Monday, January, 2. Winslow Anrual 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 LlO.L. —Monthly Meeting, Templar Hall.

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Veritas, et Prevalebit. TUESDAY, DECEMBER 20, 1881. Agricultural Shows.

TOWN EDITION. [lssued at 4.30 p. m. j

We regret to hear that the Ashbur ton Agricultural and Pastoral Associa tion is not nearly as well supported by our farmers as so valuable a society should be. Considering the produc tiveness and talent of the farming dis trict, and the comparatively large amount of enterprise possessed by our local agriculturalists, this seems strange. The late electoral district of Coleridge, of which Ashburton was the centre, is stated to have produced more than a quarter of the whole quantity of grain grown in the colony. It might, there fore, reasonably have been expected that the Ashburton Agricultural Asso ciation would have been one of the most flourishing in New Zealand, per haps the most of all, with the exception of that of Christchurch. But special advantages are some time the causes of special difficulties. It is asserted by several farmers that some two or thre of thee more wealthy of their number, encouraged by the quality and extent of the grazing land in the district have either imported or purchased in the colony stock of so superior a quality that it is idle to at tempt to compete with them, and that is therefore useless either to compete at the annual show, or even subscribe, because it is impossible to obtain a prize. Now granting that the result specified is so certain, we fail to see that the conclusion mentioned follows. The object of all agricultural exhibi tions is not to repay every farmer the amount of his subscription to the so ciety, still less to send him away in pocket by the transaction, but to show what are the best kinds of sheep or cattle that can oe bred in the district, or that it may be worth while to introduce here. Surely no farmer or grazier with the slightest spirit would like to see inferior animals carrying, off :■ ' ; .0 !

first prizes, even though the exhibits to which they are awarded are thdir own. If the idea of agricultural shows was that by means of the prizes awarded every man would get his subscription money backj there would vei'y soon cease to be any subscribers and conse quently any shows at all, because they would not be worth looking at. In looking on at any game of skill, one likes to see the best thing of the kind that can be seen, not some fair medium play ; in cricket the bowling of a Spof forth, the batting of a Bannerman, or the wicket-keeping of a Blackham; m billiards the wonderful spot strokes and cannons of a Roberts or a Cook ; and in chess the brilliant strategy of a Zukertort, a Blackburne, or Morphy. We have local men who can play these games with more or less skill; but who cares to look a t them ? So also in showing animals, grain, or other pro ducts, what people want to see is the very best thing of the kind that can be seen. The effect of this is that in course of time emulation is aroused, and no one, two, or three men can have everything their own way, and carry off all the prizes. It might, perhaps, be desirable—we do not assert that it would be—to confine all exhibitors to one prize in one class, instead of award ing, as is sometimes the case, a first, second and third pri2e in the same class to the same persorl. This is the only concession which it seems possible to make. And even this we Should scarcely care to suggest if it were not that the advantages 'ff Agricultural Societies and the importance of Agri cultural Shows are so great that it is worth while to go out of the way in order to interest all farmers to join and take part in them. We hope to see during the winter months that the usual monthly meetings of the Ashburton Society are held, at which papers can be read by practical farmers on various subjects connected with agriculture. These meetings do a great deal of good, and nothing tends to develop an active interest in farming matters so much as the full discussion of them amongst the farmers themselves, and this can only be done by getting the latter to meet periodically at some central place, after the anxiety and work of a harvest season. By en couraging these meetings, we feel that our Agricultural Association will have increased its popularity as well as its funds before next show day comes round. .

Timely Rain. -The much wished for rain fell last evening, and at intervals throughout the night. It was hardly so heavy as might have been desired, but has still had a wonderful effect in freshen ing up the parched and brown grass here abouts. Rain has fallen again to-day at intervals. Had this rain come a little earlier, it would have been far more welcome, for the long drought has done the crops irreparable injury in some places. A farmer residing not many miles from Ashburton was heard to say on Saturday that two months ago he could have reckoned on 40 bushels of oats to the acre. Now he said he thought he would ho fortunate if he got a quarter of that quantity. In fact, the oats in many paddocks have gone to ear, and are be tween three and four inches in length, and therefore beyond the power of any reaper to cut. The wheat will not suffer so badly as the oats, of course. From the hills accounts reach us of splendid harvest prospects. There the rain has fallen in ample quantities, and the hill farmers are consequently jubilant, for their crops of all kinds are looking Al. Town Hall. —To-night will he per formed at the Town Hall the great ora torio of the “Messiah.” No pains have been spared by the vocalists—sixty in number—to render the performance a success, and we hope to be able to chronicle a very large attendance. R. M. Court. —At the Court to-day, before Mr R. Alcorn, T.P., a first offender charged with being drunk in a public place, was discharged with a caution. A man, supposed to be of unsound mind, was also brought up and remanded for medical examination. This poor fellow is a hard working man who was suddenly attacked with a dizziness in the head, ac cording to his own statement, which in capacitated him for work. He has now a rather vacant look, but is perfectly quiet and obedient. We trust his attack may not be a serious one.

Rangitata Road District. The annual meeting of ratepayers will be held at the Lismore schoolroom on January 3rd, and immediately afterwards the election of two members will take place to fill the vacances caused by the retirement by ballot of Messrs Trevor and Morrow. The poll will, if necessary, be taken be tween 12 and 4 on the same day.

Improving the Shining Hour. —Last night a party of iiussi'.n sailors got leave to go ashore at Auckland from their ship Africa, and visited in the course of their rambles the Greyhound Hotel. One of the men managed to creep upstairs and succeeded in robbing a bed-room of L 6 worth of jewellry. This transfer of pro perty effected, the thief lost no time in transferring himself aboard the Africa. The man’s surrender will not, it seems, be asked for, but the Admiral will Court martial the unscrupulous mariner.

Reaper and Binder Trial. —A trial of the Walter A. Wood improved twine binder came off at Mr Hudson’s farm, Wakanui. The place selected for the trial was a paddock of self-sown oats, very thin and uneven, and the bottom not having been rolled was very rough. Some little time was lost in setting the machine to tie such short stuff, but when fairly at work the machine surprised the by standers by the efficient way in which it performed its work. With an ordinary crop to work on, it would certainly prove invaluable. The twine broke once or twice, but this made no difference at all, as the needle threaded itself automatically. This is one of the improvements over last season, and was much appreciated by the farmers present, of whom there was an excellent attendance. The genera! opinion seemed to be that the machine would be extremely useful in tying up grass for seed. The binder has been working on the same ground to-day, and will remain at work there over to-morrow. Already Messrs Poyntz and Co., the local agents, have disposed of a large number of these useful implements this season, and orders are still flowing in. Under the Hammer. —Mr T. Bullock will sell by auction at his rooms, on Satur day, the lease for ten years of two sites for stores in Chertsey station yard. Further particulars elsewhere.

Mysterious Disappearance. —Fred. Bain, Corporation Messenger, and well known in Hokitika, has been missing since Thursday last, and neither the police or the public can discover any clue as to what has become of him. There was no reason whotever for his disappearance. Mount Somers. —The annual meeting of ratepayers will be held at the Road Board office, at 11 a.m. on Thursday, January sth. Afterwards the election of two members will take place to fill the seats vacated by Messrs J. E. Taylor and A. E. Peache, who retire by ballot, but are eligible for re-election. A poll, if necessary, will take place the same day, closing at 4 p.m.

Ploughing. —Mr John Grigg, Long bCach, wants a number of ploughs for the Ashburton Terrace paddocks.

Going for Him. —The editor of the Auckland Observer has instituted proceed ings against Weston for knocking him down the other day at Tattersall’s for writing something that offended him. Electioneering. Charles Mirfin, editor of the Inangahua Herald, was brought before the Reefton Bench, yester day morning on a criminal information charging him with having forged the name of Mr Jones, a solicitor, to five telegrams. Mr Jones was Chairman of Mr T. S. Weston’s election Committee, and it is alleged that defendant, on the polling day, presented for transmission five telegrams purporting to be signed by Mr Jones, and addressed to Mr Weston’s principal sup porters at Brunnerton, saying that Mr Weston’s return was impossible, and ask ing receivers to do their best for Mr M‘Lean, an opposing candidate. After hearing the evidence for the prosecution, defendant wrs committed for trial at the next sittings of the District Court, hail being allowed. The Christmas Holidays. —On Mon day, the 26th inst., and Monday, the 2nd January, all Post and Telegraph offices in the colony will be closed, except from 9 to 10 o’clock in the morning, and from 7.30 to 8 o’clock In the evening. Opening of Telegraph Office at Parihaka. —A Post and Telegraph station has been opened at Parihakaj and the Rahotu office is now closed. The former telegraph office would have been very useful a few weeks ago. Industrial ASsociAtion. —As _ the meeting advertised for to-morrow is of more than ordinary importance, involving the question of establishing a woollen factory, the necessary plant for which is under offer at a very low price and very easy terms, it is desired that all those interested, as well as the members of the Association, will attend. Those who desire to encourage local industry in one of its most useful forms should certainly attend the meeting. Trap Accident. —Shortly after 9 o’clock last evening, the occupants of a trap proceeding from Duff’s stables had a narrow escape of a serious accident. It appears! the harness was minus a breeching strap, and this caused the horse to be come at first restive and at last unmanage able, and on turning the corner of Tanored street into East street, the vehicle came into violent collision with a post, the occupants were pitched out on to the foot path, and the pole of the trap was smashed. Beyond a severe shaking, the persons thrown from the vehicle escaped without injury. Road Board Elections. —-Notifications respecting the Road Board elections ap pear in another column.

■ Christmas Tree. —To-morrow after noon and evening the ladies of the Primitive Methodist congregation intend to hold a sale of fancy goods and useful articles in the Wills street church, where one cf the principal attractions will be the ever-popular Christmas tree, the branches of which we are led to understand are already bending beneath the weight of an un limited supply of most fascinating articles to meet the demands of young and old. Vocal and instrumental music will be discoursed during the proceedings, and as a prelude to other festivities common to this season of the year, we would recom mend our readers to invest a shilling and see this wonderful display of goods.

Bio Strawberries. —lf we are unable to chronicle any “ big gooseberries ” such as the newspaper man delights to expatiate upon, we can at least boast of having seen some big strawberries r this year. Six strawberries purchased of MrG. T. Smith, market gardener, last night by a gentle man residing in the town, turned the scale at 6J ounces. This giant strawberry is of a new kind, and the plant reached Mr Smith with a number of other varieties some weeks ago, but whether the monster strawberry comes from Australia or from some other part of this colony, Mr Smith is unable to say. It is very hardy and ex tremely prolific, the plant being laden with berries, which, if not particularly handsome to look at, are at least of ex quisite flavor. The berry is of the knobby sort (in more senses than one), somewhat resembling a fan or outstretched lingers in shape. It is much appreciated by Mr Smith’s numerous patrons.

Ashburton Amateur Dramatic Club. —Wo understand that the members of the above Club intend to give a special performance on Boxing Night, when they will produce a couple of popular pieces, namely, “Nan the Good-for-Nothing ” and “Betsy Baker.” Wo are sure the Club are acting wisely in abandoning heavy and elaborate dramas and substitut ing for them such favorite pieces as the above. They both afford plenty of scope for good acting, while they do not require elaborate scenery or dresses to make them “go.” The Club could not have selected a better night than Boxing night for their next performance. The sports and other holiday amusements will engage people during the day, and at night they will certainly be glad of a look in at our apology for a theatre—the Town Hall— and will be hard to please indeed if they are not amused with the history of Nan and the laughable adventures of Mouser and Betsey Baker. The trial scene from Pickwick would make a capital' piece for the Club tc put upon the boards, especially if it would go to the trouble of erecting a proper bench, jury box, &c., and cast the character of judge, counsel, and witnesses, &c., judiciously.

CABLE NEWS

LATEST FROM EUROPE.

[per reuter’s agency.] Money and the Markets. London, Dec. 16. Consols remain at 99 The market rate of discount has been raised to S/4', the Bank rale remains at 5 per cent. New Zealand securities are firm at last quotations. The market for Colonial breadstuff’s is quiet but steady. Adelaide wheat, ex store, 56s ; New Zealand ditto, 525; Adelaide flour, ex store, 41s 6d. The total quantity of wheat afloat for the United Kingdom is 2,809,000 quarters. Australian tallow is firm at 39s 6d for best beef, and 44s 6d for best mutton. Raised to the Peerage. London, Dec. 18. It is announced that Sir George Bramwell, who resigned the position of Lord Justice of Appeal in September last, has been raised to the peerage. Hartingdon on Ireland. The Marquis of Hartingdon made a speech to-day at Burley, in Lancashire, in the course of which he stated that although the Leaguers were continuing a guerilla warefare in Ireland, there were hopeful signs that the agitation in the country was gradually diminishing. Among the chief of these was the fact of the increasing tendency which has of late been shown on the part of juries to convict for agrarian offences. A Rare Event. It is announced that her Majesty the Queen will attend in person at the open ing of Parliament in February next. Another Great Storm in England. London, Dec. 19. A storm of unqsual severity was

experienced over a great part of England last night. The wind blew with hurricane force, and caused immense destruction to property in several places. Police Seizure of Dynamite and Gun powder in Dublin. News is to hand from Ireland that the police yesterday proceeded to a House in Dublin and made an exten sive seizure of dynamite, gunpowder, and arms, and in addition a number of documents implicating several people. The persons in charge of the house were arrested, and the arrest of others will be made forthwith. Obituary. George Edmund Street, the eminent architect, aged 57. Too Good to be True. The statement which has been current to the effect that the Queen would open Parliament in person is officially denied. Frozen Meat, Alexandria, Dec. 18. The steamship Europa, from Aus tralia for London, with a cargo of frozen meat, has passed through the canal. Iter cargo is reported to be in perfect condition;

AUSTRALIAN.

[per reuter's agency.] Amicably Settled. Melbourne, Yesterday. The dispute between Professors Elk ington and Nanson, in regard to the fracas which recently occurred at the University Board meeting, has now been amicably settled, and the threatened action has been abandoned. Heavy Storm. Sydney, Yesterday. A storm of unusual violence, accom panied by heavy rain, with thunder and lightning, was experienced here to-day. No damage, however, has been done to buildings in the city; Fire. A destructive fire has occurred at Newcastle. The losses are covered by insurance in the various Australian offices. Shipping. Arrived—Pacific Company’s steam ship City of New York, from San Fran cisco, via Auckland. Prorogation of Parliament Melbourne, To-day. It is expected that Parliament will be prorogued this day. The Row at the Melbourne University The decision of the University Council in connection with the fracas between the Professors has been amended. Professor Elkington has been suspended for one month and Professor Mauson has been fined LSO.

TELEGRAMS.

[per press association.] Fire. -Auckland, To-day. A fire last night destroyed a two-story house, building for Captain Elliott. Pooley, the builder, was insured for LIOOO in the Colonial, half of which was re-insured. Native Intelligence. Wellington, To-day. Government received a telegram from Parikaka that the natives had a feast there on the 16th, but there was no speaking. It is understood that no formal native meetings have been held anywhere up the coast. It is stated that Mr Bryce has met most of the Wanganui natives, who were sent from Parikaka to their own homes, and that they appeared very cheerful. Two Wanganui chiefs, who had been known to be most surly amongst the natives at Parihaka appear to have got over their pouri. The Longed-for Bain at Last. Christchurch, To-day, Heavy rain fell for about seven hours this morning. It will be an immense boon to the farmers, as all the crops and grass had begun to suffer severely from the drought. The weather is still threatening. Something Like a Cake. Ddnedin, To-day. The Tipperary Company at Macetown sent down a cake of gold weighing 501 ounces. Resigned. The resignation of Sir F. D. Bell as a member of the Upper House has been re ceived. Called to the Council. The Hon. George McLean has been called to the Legislative Council by his Excellency the Governor. Supreme Court. Invercargill, To-day. The half-yearly sitting of the Supreme Court opened to-day. Thomas Kennedy, for stealing Masonic jewellery, of the total value of L2O, was sentenced to six months with hard labor.

A CHINESE JOSS HOUSE.

“ The Vagabond,” in one of his series of Chinese Sketches, contributed to the Argus, gives the following de scription of one of the most celebrated Joss Houses round Shanghai ; “ It has an ordinary mean outside. At the dingy entrance is a gigantic painted red and gold figure, with threatening sword. Guardian of the temple, this is meant to look fierce, but to our eyes is only comical, and it doesn’t seem to scare anyone. Through a side door we enter the first temple. Here on a large pedestal is a life-size gilt figure of jolly ‘Joss,’ who is de picted laughing-visaged, ' with fair round belly,’ around which his hands are complacently folded. A sort of iron grill is before the altar, on which, by the droppings of wax around, votive tapers have been burnt. The surround ings are all mean, the walls dingy. We pass through a court into another building. Here are two more bizarre figures which would do well outside a London tabacconist’s door, far eclipsing in attraction the smoking Indian or snuff-taking Highlander. Here is an another gilt joss, a little more reverend looking. Here, too, is a very large and beautifully-engraved bell, said to be chiefly composed of silver. It has a most musical sound. In old days, I am told, there was a golden joss here, but he has long since been melted down. Through a back door we pass into a well-kept court. In front is the entrance to the great temple. It is really very fine and interesting to a stranger, and the gigantic gilt figure of Buddha, which faces us as we enter, attracts us so much that we forget the disappointment caused by the Bub bling Well, and stand in admiration of this emblem of power gnd wistjom, •" i _ ■ ;i.j 1 i.O

“No longer a jolly larking ap jearance, no longer displaying ordi lary human passions, this figure s Budda, as he is personified n the Eastern World, the ‘ Light Df Asia, whose followers surpass those af any other forrh of creed, numbering it is said, 470 millions. It is the same face which one sees in temples of this faith everywhere. The same cross legged figure is represented from Dai Boodsa in Japan to furthest Ind. The calm, passionless features strike one with the same sense of sedate power which one recognises in many Egyp tian monuments. And there is more j a supreme unconsciousness, a wisdom far removed from the things of this world; there is ‘ perfect purity and tendernessthe eternal .nhvana, at which the believers in this religion hope that they will some day arrive. Whoever first made an image of Buddha, which has served as the type for the thousands in the East, was cer tainly an inspired artist. The many mysteries added to the simple Budd hist creed, the absurd ritualism which has been grafted on this as on other faiths, I cannot attempt to deal with, but to those who have read in a broad spirit Mr Edwin Arnold’s work, this personification of the princely founde of Buddhism, styled “ the Saviour of the World,” comes as a material revela tion. Artists whose genius has never been surpassed have left behind them enough sacred Christian subjects, but none have given us anything like the ideal figure of Buddha. It personifies the spirit as the Venus de Medici does the flesh. Raised on a high altar this herculean idol (as my missionary friends would call it) has by its side a standing female figure of life size, also gilt,

which, with clasped hands, appears to be appealing for that mercy ot which she is the goddess. On a raised plat form round the temple are twenty other gilt figures, life-size and life-like. They are all sitting, but otherwise in all sorts of postures. Some are reading, some in meditation, some in argument, some expounding, some threatening with uplifted fist* some en joying a dolce far nienie, one with a crozier would pass for a Catholic priest, one has a crook, another nurses some impossible animal, and one is decorated with a fine black beard. The expressions of all are very good. These I am told are some of the sacred followers of Buddha, canonised riot for their own good deed, but for those of their postefity. We could not find out what materials these were made of, and my companion, who wanted to buy one, could not come to terms. The priests or “ bonzes ” in the temple have no sacerdotal garments, and are only to be recognised by their close-cropped heads and absence of pig-tall, which they sacrifice when they take _up their presumed sacred profession. Many women and children are in this temple. On what would have been their feet if Nature had had its way, they slowly toddled over the pavement, there is very little reverence amongst them. One woman sat down on a bench and bound up her little girl’s tiny feet with the most perfect unconcern. In front of Buddha is a place to kneel on, a large tribute box, a stand for tapers, a pan where ‘joss-sticks’ and written prayers are burnt, and hanging in front of the altar a number of small oil or paste cokes, made up in silver paper like confections. These are reputed to be blessed, and are burnt in sick rooms or on board ships as omens of good fortune. All this to the stranger is very romantic, but shortly we are aroused to the practical by our atten tion being drawn to the printed an nouncement, in English, that ‘ sub scriptions are received here to defray the cost of building this temple.' I didn’t bow down in this house of Rim mon; worse, I gave my dollar. I am told that this new temple has been en tirely built out of the gifts of foreigners! How sad in this land of missionaries ! The societies should look to it.”

[ For continuation of reading matter see first page.]

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 20, 1881.



WANTED KNOWN—That Robert Elston, Eurnott 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. John Meech, PRACTICAL CABINETMAKER, UPHOLSTERER, &c., BURNETT STREET, Opposite the Mail Office. Easy Chairs, Couches, English and American Chairs, Single and Double Iron wilt 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 kinds of furniture re-covered and repaired at the very lowest prices. All work guaranteed and completed at the shortest notice. Furniture exchanged, and highest prices given for second-hand Furniture. > Note the address—Cheapest House in Ashburton, opposite Mail Office, Burnett Street 3160



Wanted., P loughing. WANTED—A number of PLOUGHS for the Ashburton. Terrace Paddocks. JOHN GRIGG. Longboach, Dec. 19. 385 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. 386 d WANTED —A Youth to make him self generally useful. Apply Office of this Paper. 387 d WANTED KNOWN— Mrs Hender son, Dressmaker, Burnett street, near Catholic Church. Ladies’ Dresses made from 5s 6d. Apprentices Wanted. 306 d WANTED KNOWN—During the Christmas Season, FRTEDLaNDER BROS, are selling NEW FRUIT', NEW FRUIT, Currants, Old \ Elemes, 7d ; Sultanas, 8d ; Candied Peel, Is 6d ; Best Butter, 6d; and General Groceries equally cheap for Cash. 318 d WANTED KNOWN—If you want to Grow a splendid crop of Turnips, Purchase some of Mayo’s Bonedust. —Address F. Mayo, Hamstedd Mills, 255 d



WANfED KNOWN. —SPRING AND SUMMER MILLINERY. MISS YERRALL is now Showing her First Display of Spring Millinery. Co lombo street (opposite Cookham House.) WANTED KNOWN— Christmas and New Year Cards —Just 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. J7o6c Special Advertisements. CHRISTMAS TREE and Sale! of Fancy and useful articles, at the Primitive Methodist Church, Wills street, TO-MORROW (Wednesday.) From 2 till 5, and at 7 p.m. Music and Singing during the evening. Admission—la, which will entitle visitors to a present off the TREE. 391 d THE undersigned will be prepared, during the coming season, to supply the following articles at the lowest rates: — REAPERS and BINDERS EXTRAS for DO. BINDING 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



The compliments of the 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. Also STATIONERY. Plain 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



JTJIS 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. iw 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 CORNER OF WEST AND HAVE LOCK STREETS. JOHN COOKE, Manager. Christchurch, October 1, 1881. 782 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 (div. 42) ; Boys’ Standard (new series) ; Latest Novelties in Pipes. F. CLARK, Hairdresser and Tobacconist, Montgomery’s Buildings. 319 d rjIHE ACID CURE. F. COUTTS and SONS’ Guaranteed ACETIC ACID is a safe and sure remedy for Rheuma ism, Neuralgia, Sore Throats, etc. May be obtained from Maokay Bros, Manchester street, South, Christ church, Wholesale and Retail, or from Mr Thomas Collins, Main South Road, Timaru. AN AGENT WANTED FOR ASH BURTON. 734 p



Special Advertisements. BAGKj 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 “ blackfellows ” 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’ uever-to-be excelled Boot and Shoe Warehouse, came back with their “ understandings” nearly as good as when they left this go-ahead tittle township. Try 0. Hawkins’ Shop before you go elsewhere. 998 c O. Carstens & Co., (Late Weston's), PROSPECT BUILDINGS, r| TOBACCONIST, FANCY GOODS, I. AND STATIONERY. Meerschaum Pipes, G.B.D. Pipes Nailrod, Twist, and Vanity Fair Tobacco A nice assortment of Accordions, Con certinas, Flutes, Violins, Mouth Organs, and Toys of every description, direct from Home. Haircutting, Shaving and Shampooing. EAST STREET, ASHBURTON. 257a* rjT 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 PRIZE-TAKERS At the Dunedin Industrial Exhibition having been awarded FIRST ORDER OF MERIT, AND ALSO HIGHLY COMMENDED BY THE INTELLIGENT JUEORS. 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. ASHBURrON|RETAILjBIIANCH ; EASTgj Street. W. SPARROW, 692 c Branch Manager. Local industries associa tion. The ADJOURNED MEETING of the above will be held at the Town Hall on WEDN ESDAY, 21st instant, when the establishment of a Woollen Factory will be discussed, and the offer of a complete plant, at present in Christchurch, at a very reduced price will be submitted. All Members and intending members are requested to attend. S. E. POYNTZ, 370 d Hon. Sec. QHEESE AND BUTTER FACTORY. The ADJOURNED MEETING of Directors will be held at 7.30 p.m. on the 21st when a full attendance is particularly requested. S. E. POYNTZ, 371 d Hon. Sec. AVING ASHBURTON. GIVING UP BUSINESS. EVERETT BRO . 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 CENT. The Shop To Let. The Fixtures, Fit tings, Arc., For Sale.



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



Meetings y ONGBEACH ROAD DISTRICT* NO. i WARD. I hereby give notice that a Meeting of the Ratepayers of the above Watd will be held in Messrs W. Montgomery and Co.’S Four-roomed Cottage at Winslow, on the Fifth day of January, 1882, at 12 o’clock noon, for the purpose of Electing One Member to serve on the Road Board, iti the room of Mr John Carter, who ik nevertheless eligible for re-election. A Poll (if required) will be taken im mediately after the Nomination, closing at 4 o’clock p.m. EDWARD BELL, Returning Officer. NO. 2 WARD. I hereby give notice that a Meeting of the Ratepayers of the above Ward will be held at the Flemington SchoolhOuse on the Fifth day of January, 1882, at 12 o’clock noon, for the purpose of Electing One Member to serve on the Road Board, in the room of Mr Thomas Taylor, who is nevertheless eligible for re-elec tion. A Poll (if required) will bo taken im mediately after the Nomination, closing at 4 o’clock p.m. J. E. JACOMBS, Returning Officer. NO. 3 WARD. I hereby give notice that a Meeting cl the Ratepayers of this Ward will be held at the Road Board Office; on the Filth day of January, 1882, at 12 o’clock noon, for the purpose of Electing One- Member to serve on the Board, in the room of John Grigg, Esquire, who retires in con sequence of the District being .divided into Wards, but who is, nevertheless, eligible for re-election. A Poll (if required) will be. taken im mediately after the Nomination, closing at 4 o'clock p. ra. W. CDTHBERT, Returning Officer.



NO. 4 WARD. I hereby give notice that a Meeting of the Ratepayers of this Ward will be 'held at Longlanda Out-Station, on the Fifth day of January, 1882, at 12 o’clock noon, for the purpose of Electing One Member to serve on the Board, in the room of Mr Edward H. Dobson, who retires, but ifl eligible for election in No. 5 Ward. ' A Poll (if required) will be taken im mediately after the Nomination, closing at 4 o’clock p.m. _ n j. arthur Winter, Returning Officer. NO. 5 WARD. I hereby give notice that a Meeting of the Ratepayers of the above Ward will be hold at Mr Charles Pye’s Farm House, on the Fifth day of January, 1882, at ; l2 o’clock noon, for the purpose of Electing One Member to serve on the Road Board, in the room of Mr Stephen S. Chapman, who is eligible for election in No. 2 Ward. A Poll (if required) will be taken im mediately after the Nomination, closing at 4 o’clock p. m. JAMES ISBISTER, 388 d Returning Officer. Pii.ii; Notices. IF the party who removed a Saddle and Bridle off my horse last Friday night does not return the same or leave them at this Office at once, the matter will be placedlin the hands of Sergeant Felton. C. SMITHELL. 10th Dec., 1881. 376 d jQ BERING TWINE BINDER. Only a few Machines left, for Which early application is necessary. JAMESON & ROBERTS, 337 d Ashburton Agents. BONES.— Wanted Known, that .Mr F. Mayo, is a Cash Purchaser of Bones in any quantity, at £3 pec ton. Address, F. Mato, Hampstead Bone Mills. 834 c To Let. TO LET-Three SHOPS and 3 OFFICES, in Saunders’ Buildings, lately occupied by T. R. Hodder and Co., as a Drapery and Clothing Establishment Apply. Robert Alcorn. 143 d Tenders. FRESH TENDERS will be received by the undersigned up till 4 p.m on WEDNESDAY, the 21st instant, for the ERECTION of a SHOP and DWELLING HOUSE for Messrs Andrewes Bros., Booksellers etc. Plans etc., can be seen at my house, Burnett street. The lowest or any tender not necessarily accepted. A E. INGRAM, 349 d Architect. For Sale. J 1 O R SALE BRIGHAM’S MOWERS & REAPERS. JAMESON & ROBERTS, 314 d Ashburton. F O R S E. Rural Section 28403 705 a Rural Section 28404 —95a 28r Rural Section 28405 —103 a lrl3p Rural Section 28406—387 a 2r 20p Rural Section 28407 —234 a 3r lOp All the above can be had as one com pact Farm—is nearly all laid down in English grass, and well fenced, with plenty of water. Apply, 213 d MATSON, COX & CO. O h SALE BY TELE SIGNED. UNDER- Andrews and Beaven’s celebrated Canterbury, Zealandia, and Austra lian Chaff Cutters, From £l3 upwards. Horse Gear from £lo los, simple strong and compact. 99Sa POYNTZ & CO. CALEDONIAN SOCIETY.—MEET ING of DIB GOTO RS in Secretary’s Office, WEDNESD Y Evening, at 7.30. J. Mac Lean Dunn, Secretary. WANTED KNOWN —That Visiting Cards, plain or mourning, can be obtained printed in various styles, at the “Guardian" office, opposite the Raßway Station, ,



i Meetings. It yTOUNT SOMERS ROAD DISTRICT The ANNUAL MEETING of RATE PAYERS will be held at the Road Board Office, Mount Somers, at II (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 1 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. | C. J. WENTWORTH COOKSON, 1 Returning Officer for the Mount Somers 384 d Road District. ANGITATA ROAD DISTRICT. The ANNUAL MEETING of RATE PAYERS will be held at the Lismore Schoolroom, at 11 a.m. on TUESDAY, January 3rd, 1882, and an ELECTION to fill the vacancies caused by the retire ment 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 QOUTH 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 an ELECTION of TWO MKMiiERS 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 in 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.