SHIPPING.

PORT OP LYTTELTON. Arrived. Saturday. A. C. DeFreitas, barque, from Auck land. Yesterday. Wild Wave, brig, from Newcastle. Hero, cutter, from Wellington. Emerald, ketch, from Foxton. Falcon, ketch, from Anahau. Grafton, s.s., from Timaru and Oamaru. Sailed. Saturday. Aurora, schooner for Wellington. Penguin, s.s., for Wellington. To-day. Grafton, s.s., for Wellington.

COMMERCIAL.

English. Markets. Messrs Berry, Barclay and Co. report, under date London, January I2tli, ISBI : —Wheat — Since the opening of the new year we have had a very sluggish trade, both merchants and millers working from hand to mouth, with very small stocks, speculation being discouraged by the enormous “ visible supply” in America. After touching 30,000,000 bushels last week, if is quoted to-day at 28,600,000 bushels. To wards the close, however, a stronger feeling prevails, induced partly by easterly winds, which are keeping back supplies, and partly by the firmer attitude of American holders. Their shipments are very small, only 525,000 quarters for the fortnight, and it is not improbable that they may gain a temporary advantage, owing to our consumers pushing their policy of ab stention too far. The stocks of wheat on January Ist at the fourteen chief ports of the United Kingdom were only 811,000 quarters, against 1,642,860 quarters at the same time last year. Nevertheless, there is a genera want of confidence, and a belief that prices will give way as the spring advances. Austra lian being scarce maintains its value on the spot, and there are no sellers of good quality . below 51s per496lbs. Off coast Marmionsold at 48s 9 for Havre. On passage a cargo of 6,0c0 quarters nearly due per iron ship at 4° s gd United Kingdom. For January shipment of:tlie new crop, 46s 6d paid for a cargo 9,000 quarters per wooden ship, and 6d more would be paid for iron. Of New Zealand the sup plies consist mostly of ill-conditioned parcels, which sell slowly at previous prices, say 38s, 43s ; fair to good quality is worth 44s to 475, and sound long-berried 48s, 50s per 4g6lbs. Flour has been neglected, but holders generally remain firm, and little or nothing is to be had below 35s per 280113 S ex store for superfine Australian. Oats—New Zealand descriptions have been pressed for sale, and good heavy parcels weighing 47 to 481113 per bushel have been sold below 28s per 3S4H)-, but there is a rather better feeling at the close.

MAIL NOTICES.

' Mails close at the Ashburton Post Office, as follows: For Gliristchurch and North at 5.30 a. m. 10 a.m., and 5 p.m., daily. For Chertsey Eakaia, &c., at 10 a. m. and 5 p.m. daily. For Dunedin, Tinwalcl, Winslow, Hinds, Coldstream, Rangitata, Orari, Winchester, and Geraldine, at 10 a.m. daily. • For Tcmuka, at G a.m. and 10 a.m., daily. For Timaru and South, at 6 a.m., 10 a,in., and 4.20 p.m., daily. For Qreenstreet, Ashburton Forks, Mount Somers, and Ashburton Gorge, on Tuesdays and Fridays, at 10.30 a m. For Ashton, Waterton and Longbeach, 4.30 p.m. daily. For Wakanui, Elgin, Seafield, New land, and Kyle, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, at 6 a.m. Mails arrive at the Ashburton Post Office— From Christchurch and Eakaia at 10.25 a.m., 4.35 p.m., and 7.50 p.m. - From Chertsey, &c. at 10.25 a. ra. daily. From Dunedin and intermediate places at 5.35 p.m. daily. Fr»m Temuka and Timaru at 10.15 a.m. 5.35 p.m., and 8.15 p.m. daily. From Greenstreet, Ashburton Forks, Mount Somers, and Ashburton Gorge on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 3 p.m. From Ashton, Waterton, and Long beach at 10 a. m. daily. From Elgin, Wakanui, Seafield, New land, and Kyle, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, at 4 p.m.

DAILY MEMORANDA.

AUCTION SALES. To-morrow, Tuesday, March 8. TT. Matson and Co., at Tattersall’s (in conjunction with Mr. F. M. Rickman, Waimate) —Contractor’s Plant. Wednesday, March 9. Mr. T. Bullock —At the cottage lately oc cupied hy Mrs. Heffer, East Town Belt, Household Furniture. Thursday, March 10. ‘Mr. Alfred Harrison—At Anstee’s Board - ing House—Furniture and Effects, and Carpenter’s Tools ; 11.30 sharp. Friday, March 11. Mr. T. Bullock, at the farm of Mr. Thomas Hickman, about one mile from the Tinwald Saleyards—Dairy Stock ; 2 p.m. Saturday, March 12. Mr. W. J. G. Bluett, at J. T. Ford and Co.’s Salerooms—That valuable landed property, known as Elgin. At 2 o’clock. MEETINGS, AMUSEMENTS, &c. To-night, Monday, March 7. Borough Council, at Borough Council Chambers, at 7 o’clock. Wednesday, March 9. Templar Hall Company Meeting of Shareholders, Templar Hall, 8 p.m. Thursday, March 24. Ashburton Industrial Exhibition, Town Hall. Thursday, March 31. Ashburton Library—Annual Meeting of Subscribers, in the Librai’y, 8 p.m. Wednesday, April 6. County Council, at the County Council Chambers, at 11 o’clock.

BIRTH.

Stephens— At her residence, Tinwald, on Feb. 26th, Mrs S. Stephens, of twins.

DEATH.

Birtwell —At his brother’s residence, Melbourne, Victoria, William Har greaves Birtwell, aged 26 years.

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna Est Veritas Et Prevalebit. MONDAY, MARCH 7, 1881. The Civil Service.

TOWN EDITION. {lssued at 5 p.m. 'j

Some time ago, it will be remembered Messrs Batkin and Seed —the one As sistant Comptroller-General, and the other Commissioner of Customs—were despatched by Government on a ferrit ing expedition, with a view of finding out, if possible, whether or not there existed any further limbs of the great Civil Service tree that could with safety to efficiency and with advantage in economy, be lopped off. The an nouncement of their mission filled many officials with fear for the stability of their situations, and now we learn that there is every probability of a further cutting off —a wide sweep of the pruning knife—being the result of their journey over the North Island, which journey has just been completed. The South Island will be the next attacked by the Government ferrets, and it is believed that the knife will move round pretty freely there also, without, it is said, the colony suffering any from the loss of the valuable men whose death warrant they will sign. All this is very well; but the duty those two gentle men are undertaking is a thankless one, and there are unkind people who, while they are pleased to see the colony saving money by the cutting down of expenses, also wonder why it is possible for two valuable officials like Messrs Batkin and Seed to be spared from their important offices for the length of time they have been away. It is in sinuated that if it can be afforded for them to go careering over the colony devoting their whole time to investiga tions into the state of every subordinate office, and doing their best to cut down expenses —it is quite within the bounds of possibility that their own valuable services in their respective depart ments they conduct may be dispensed with. It is not to be supposed that the highest salaried officers in the colony’s service are discharging the duties that, in ordinary times, fall to be performed by Messrs Batkin and Seed; and the presumption is that the work is being done by such underlings as it is at this moment the mission of Messrs Batkin and Seed to look up, and say whether or not they can be dispensed with. To do without Messrs Batkin and Seed would be to save salaries equal to Lx,700 or Li,Boo a year, and it is just possible that in the

coming session of Parliament, after Government have spoken highly of the energy and judgment of the Commissioners in getting rid of a few subordinate officers, some bilious member may raise a suggestion get rid of the permanent offices those Com missioners hold. The Evening Post — Government inspired—comes to the rescue of the Commissioners before they are attacked, and explains that this journey they are now on is an annual tour of inspection which they have always made, and their tour has only been taken advantage of this year, so that their knowledge and judgment may be made use of in guiding the Government as to where to put in the piumng knife. That may be; but we an; afraid the explanation will not be satisfactory to the many sucking reformers in our Parliament, who will want to know, you know.

Athletic Club. —The Amateur Athletic Club, of Christchurch, held their annual sports on Saturday, but there was only a small attendance. Discouraging Thrift. —The Otahuhu (Auckland) D'stiict School Committee desired to establish a penny savings bank, but the Education Board refused per mission. A Woold-bb Ixceydiiry.—The young man named Henry Edwards, who recently threatened to burn down the offices of the Union Sash and Dooc Company, at Auck land, has been sent to the Lunatic Asylum. North v. South.—As we go to press a Nelson telegram informs us that the match North Island Rifles v. South Island has been won by the latter by seventeen points, +he scores being—South Island, 648 ; North Island, 631. Resident Magistrate’s Court. —At this court this morning before E. G. Kerr, Esq., Robinson Ruddick was charged with cruelly ill-treating his wife. The police not being prepared witli the evidence, the accused was remanded until Friday next, bail being allowed. Cricket. —The following are the team selected to play against Mount Somers to-morrow —Hodder, McLaren, Marsh, Andrews, Wix, Denshire, Fooks, J., Fooks, A., Amos, Fagan, and Jephson. The team will start from the Somerset at 4.30 a.m., in a drag driven by Mr. J. Mcßae. Play will commence at 10 o’clock.

An Austrian Opponent to Doctor Tanner. —An Austrian has announced that he is ready to compete with Dr Tanner in fasting, but he demands one difference in the terms in the contest between existence and hunger. For water, on which the American phenome non relied to keep body and soul together, the Austrian asks to be allowed to substi tute beer. Funeral of the Late Sir Ceacroft Wilson. —Shortly after two o’clock on Saturday, the remains af the late Sir Cra croft Wilson, K.C. SI. ,C. 8., were con veyed to their last resting place in Hals well Churchyard. A cavalcade consider ably over a mile in length testified to the universal respect in which the deceased gentleman had been held. Pioneer Bjcvcle Ccub.—The Christ church Pioneer Bicycle Club Paces took place on Saturday. The weather was tine, and there was a large attendance. The Club handicap, of one mile, resulted as follows, after a good race : —Morris, 275yds, 1 ; Dalton, 250yds, 2 ; Clark, 3'JOyds, 3. Time, 3mins Ssecs. A Sensational Cablegram. —A cable gram appeared in the morning papers to day, announcing that the Cerberus, the Victorian turret ship, had been blown to atoms by the explosion of J a torpedo. It appears the message got mutilated in its transmission, and that it was not the Cer berus, but one of her gigs which met with the accident referred to. The corrected message will bo found in our telegraphic columns.

“Much Ado About Nothing.” —The Cambridge correspondent of the Press Association telegraphs that the reported Maori outrage at Horahora has been greatly exaggerated. The statement about the bags of bonedust belonging to Messrs McLean having been thrown into the river, and other destruction caused, is false. The Maoris simply attempted to prevent the destruction of an old burial ground. A Disappointing Sweep. —A Welling ton exchange says :—“ A Wairarapa re-i ---sent drew the winner in a ‘ L 5,000 sweep ’ on the Dunedin Cup, and for a time was revelling in imaginary riches and building all sorts of castles in the air with hia un expected wealth. All his anticipations, however, received a cruel check when he found that only 118 tickets were tilled out of the 5,000, and that consequently the prize was very paltry indeed compared with what he had been expecting, iMI pccjant.? ajain.-it ihe Hoi .iculiu’-al Society ate eouested to be rendered to ibe sec elavy befo e ne a Thursday. The Exhibition Com.nwlee. wishing to preserve a : l perishable exhibits from belnj damaged, request any persons wiMinj to lend glass ca.ws to com mmicale :t once with the secretary. Tarpauhns. u.ieu.l things dii ’ing iVs per-od of Uie year, are to be cKj-po ed of by S. S'ephens. TinwDa. ConlractO 's arc rc ninded that ou rcre-'c ice to our advcrti.’ng cohimns, ‘hey wIU see th.it are required for various works in the Upper jEabmtou Road District. The members of the Fire Pol'ce have to meet on Wednesday next, at the ibigacc sta ion.

GABLE NEWS.

LATEST FROM EUROPE

(Per Renter’s Agency.) Convalecent. London, March 3. The Right Hon. W. E. Gladstone has so far recovered from injury to his head as to be able to again attend the House of Commons, where he was present to night. Commercial. March 4. Consols unchanged, at 99 3~Bths. The total quantity of wheat afloat for the United Kingdom is 2,240,000 quarters. Australian tallow, best beef, has declined to 32s 6d, and best mut ton to 36s 6d per cwt. The Wool Sales. At to-day’s wool auction 7,500 bales were catalogued. The tone of the sale was firmer. Sir Evelyn Wood. Sir Evelyn Wood, who temporarily commands the British troops in Natal, has been appointed a Major-General. Cape Items. In the House of Commons to-day, Mr Gladstone announced that negotia tions had again been opened between the Cape forces and the Basutos for the termination of hostilities, and that a prolonged armistice has therefore been declared. Major-General Edward Newdegate will accompany Sir F. Roberts to the Transvaal. Candahar. March 5. After a two days’ debate the House of Lords has, by a majority of 89, adopted the motion tabled in favor of the reten tion of British forces in Candahar. The Arms Bill- In the House of Commons, to-day, the Irish Arms Bill was read a second time. An Exodus of Land Leaguers. The Coercion Act has been declared in force in those districts in Ireland

which have been most disturbed, and owing to fear of arrest, a considerable exodus of Leaguers and other agitators is taking place. The United States President. Washington, March 4. General Garfield was to-day inaugu rated as President of the United States with the customary ceremony. The Panama Canal. March 5. In his inaugural message to Congress on assuming office, President Garfield refers to the projected Panama Canal, and in the course of his remarks main tains that the same should alone be under the supreme control of the United States.

AUSTRALIAN.

(Pet Reuter's Agency.) Sugar Refining. Melbourne, March 5. A company is being formed here to undertake the refining of sugar. The capital will be L 100,000. Sporting. The third days’ racing of the V.R.C. Autumn Meeting took place this after noon at Flemington. The Newmarket Handicap, three-quarters of a mile, was won by Aspen easily in xmin Waterford was second and Terrific third. Twenty-seven horses started, and it was a very pretty race. The Town Plate was won by Grand Flaneur, with Sweatmeat second and Progress third. Blown Up. Melbourne, To-day.

As the turret ship Cerberus was practising yesterday afternoon, in Port Phillip, one of her gigs which was out was suddenly blown up by a torpedo. Five men were blown to atoms, but one escaped. Cricket. Sydney, March 5. The cricket match between the Aus tralian team and a Combined Eleven of New South Wales and Victoria was re sumed to day. The Australians in their first innings were all disposed of for 155, being 42 runs less than the total of their opponents’ first innings. Murdoch with 65 and Blackham with 36, both bowled, were the highest scorers for the Aus tralians. The combined team went to the wickets Tor their second innings, but play was stopped byj|the inclemency of the weather, when they had put to gether 74 runs for two wickets. Massie was bowled for 50. There was a large attendance at the match. Declined with Thanks. Adelaide, March 6. Earl Kimberley, the Secretary for State for the Colonies, has telegraphed to the Governor, declining with thanks 1 the offer made by a number of volun teers of this city to proceed to the Cape for service against the Boers.

NEW ZEALAND.

(Per Press Association.) Trespass, Timaru, To-day. Two men, for trespassing on land at the Washdyke with dogs, in search of game, were fined five and ten pounds re spectively at the Magistrates Court this morning. Fire. Dunedin, To-day. A five-roomed’cottage at Mansford’sßay, owned and occupied by John Pearce, was burned down on Saturday night, and an adjoining cottage was pulled down to save the fire from spreading. The insurances are L 450, in the Colonial Company. An Invitation. The Southland branch of the Land League numbers over a hundred mem bers. At a meeting on Saturday it was decided to invite Mr Robert Stout to visit Invercargill and deliver a lecture on the land question.

ASHBURTON HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.

♦ Annual Show. The following additional report of the show was held over from our Saturday’s issue, owing to the prize list not coming to hand in time : The attendance during the afternoon was very fair, but towards evening the hall was crowded to excess. An Ash burton band enlivened the evening with a capital selection of music, and the hall was kept open until a late hour. Appended we subjoin a short account of the flowers and vegetables shown on Saturday. VEGETABLES. The show of vegetables was a very fair one, but was not so good as might have been expected had favorable weather been experienced during the past month or so. The vegetables exhibited by amateurs were certainly far superior to those shown in the open classes. The cucumbers shown in the open class by Mr Smith (gardener to J. McLean, Esq., Lagmohr), were fine and well formed, and took first prize, as well as a special prize. Mr G. T. Smith exhibited some very fine red cabbages, carrots, potatoes, and rhubarb. The two latter were very fine samples, and,

in fact, all the potatoes shown were very good indeed. In the amateur class for vegetables, all the exhibits were very fine, and were a credit to any district. The exhibitors of cab bages, carrots, potatoes, and onions, deserve great praise for the excellence of their exhibits. Two very fine vege table marrows were shown by Mr E. G. Crisp, and took first prize. The seed from which they were grown was ob tained from Tasmania, and we learn that the plants are of a most prolific kind. Mr Mayo had a fine show of rhubarb, and Mr Williams had some fine lettuces and beets exhibited, all of which secured a prize. FLOWERS. In the open class Messrs Sealey Bros exhibited six very fine stove plants, and obtained first honors. The same exhibitors showed some very fine fuschias of various kinds, also some geraniums, including the double and single kinds, which were’ very much ad mired. Mr. G. T.-Smith showed some very fine dracoenas, some fuschias, and double geraniums, and took first prize for the latter. Messrs Sealey Bros, had also some fine petunias and collections of verbenas, which took a prize. . Mr. Smith took first prize for the best general collection of flowers. Mr Wright exhibited four fine foliaged bigonias, and took first prize. Messrs Sealey Bros, also showed a very nice collection of ferns which were very much admired. Messrs Sealey Bros, and Mi G. T. Smith, the local florists, have to be complimented on their very creditable display of flowers, ect.

In the amateur class, Mr Hunt ex-' hibited a very fine lilly, and Mr S. E. Poyntz some bigonias, and fuschias, and pelargoniums, which deserve special mention. Mr Poyntz also exhibited some fine single petunias and geraniums. Mr Savage also. exhibited some well grown and fine geraniums and a fuschia, for both of which he secured first prizes. In the class for cut flowers, Messrs Sealey Brothers exhibited some fine dahlias and verbenas, and took first prize. The phlox, herbaceous, and Drumraondii, and the asters, shown by the same exhibitors, were much ad mired. Mr Smith showed some fine roses, of is different varieties, also some very fine Zinnias. The hand bouquets were fair, and Mrs Sealey obtained the first and second prizes for her exhibits. Sealey Bros, were awarded first prize for a very nice floral design. Taking into consideration the very dry season that has lately been experienced, the floral show must be considered a great success, and both the Iccal florists and amateurs may be highly commended for their very creditable show of flowers in the respective classes. Amongst the extra exhibits Mr. G. T. Smith dis played two very fine vines in pots, which were laden with grapes, and were quite a treat to see. The amount taken at the doors was Ll 4 4s. This is an increase of L 6 over last year’s receipts. The following is the prize list: —

FRUIT — Open Class. Judges— Messrs E. G Wright, John Orr, and J. Wood. Two bunches black grapes---E. G. Wright, t ; G. T. Smith, 2 Two bunches white grapes —E. G. Wright, 1 ; E. G. Wright, 2 Twelve peaches —G. T. Smith, 1 ; G. T. Smith, 2 Six apricots—Sealy Bros., highly commended Twelve apples for dessert - G. T. Smith, I Twelve do. for culinary purposes—G. T. Smith, I and 2 Best collection of apples—G. T. Smith, I Six pears— G. T. Smith, l Collection of pears—G. T. Smith,- highly commended Six plums for dessert —W. Simmonds, 1 Filbert or corb nut (best dish) —G. T. Smith, 1 Best dish of red currants -G. T. Smith, 1. Best collection of fruit—G. T. Smith, I Amateur Class.

Twelve peaches —Jos. Hunt, 1 Twelve apples for dessert—S. Saunders, 2 Twelve do, for culinary purposes -- S. Saunders, I ; Isaac Sargeant, 2 ; Mrs Thomp son, highly commended ; J. Hunt, high y commended. Collection of apples—Jos. Hunt, I ; I. Sargeant, 2. Collection of pears —S. Saunders, r VEGETABLES — Amateur Class. Judges —Messrs E. G. Wright, John Orr, and J. Wood. Two cucumbers —J. S. Savage, highly com mended Two cabbages, red—F. Lewis, I Three beets—Thos. Williams, I Six parsnips—G. Permain, I Six carrots—B. Smith, I ; Permain, 2 Three lettuces —Thos. Williams, I Twelve kidney potatoes —H. Kooke, I ; J. Hunt, 2 Twelve round do—J. Lemon, I and 2 Twelve onions—T. Norgan, 1 Collection of tomatoes —J. S. Savage, highly commended Six sticks rhubarb —F. Mayo, I Collection ot potatioes—J. Compton Two vegetable marrows—E. G. Crisp, I Honey in comb—Thos. Williams, x Open Class. Two cucumbers —W. Smith, gardener to J. M'Lean, Es; , 1 Two red cabbages —G. T. Smith, X Three beet—G. T. Smith, I Six parsnips—G, Elliot, gardener to E. G. Wright, Esq., I Six carrots—G. T. Smith, I Twenty-five pods peas—G. Elliott, gardener to E. G. Wright, Esq., I Twenty-five do. broad beans—G. T. Smith, 1

Twelve potatoes (kidney)—G. T. Smith, I ; G. Elliott, gardener to E. G. Wright, Esq., 2 Twelve round potatoes—W. Smith, gardener to D. M‘Lean, Esq., I Twelve onions—G. Simmonds, I ; G. T. Smith, 2 Twelve giant rocca onions —G. Simmonds, I Six sticks of rhubarb —G. T. Smith, I and 2 Collection of potatoes—Sealey Bros, X Two vegetable marrows —G. T. Smith, I CUT FLOWERS— Open Class. Judges —Messrs Lewis (Timaru), Joyce (Christchurch), and W. Smith (Lagmhor). Twelve dahlias, varieties—Sea'ey Bros., 1 ; G. T. Smith, 2 Twelve roses, varieties—G. T. Smith, I Twelve verbenas—Sealey Bios., I ; G. T. Smith, 2 Six phlox herbaceous —Sealey Bros., I ; G. T. Smith, 2 Twelve phlox Drummondii —G. T. Smith, I and 2 Twelve asters, quilled—Sealey Bros., I rrd 2

Twelve asters, not quilled—Sealey Bros., I and 2 Six double zinnocs—G. T. Smith, I and 2 ; Seale" Bros, highly commended. Best collection dianibus—Sealey Bros., I Best do. petunias —Sealey Bros., I ; G. T. Smith, 2 Best do. antirrh'niuras - Sealey Bros., X Best genetal collection—G. T. Smith, I ; Sealey Bros., 2 Amateur Class. Best hand bouquet, for competition by ladies only—Mrs Sealey, x Table do.—Sealey Bros., x Hand do.—Mis Sealey, I and 2 Floral design—Sealey Bros. I POT PLANTS— Amateur Class, One specimen plant —J. Hunt, I ; S. E. Poyntz, 2 Two begonias- S. E. Poyntz, I Three fuschias—S. E. Poyntz, x One fuschia—J. S. Savage, x ; S. E. Poyntz, 2 Show pelargonium—S. E. Poyntz, I Four geraniums--J. Savage, I Four do.—Mrs Poyntz, I and 2 Three do.—Mrs Poyntz, I and 2 One new or rote plant—Mrs Poyntz, I Three petunias, single—Mrs Poyntz, I and 2 Three do. do. —Mrs Poyntz, I Pot Plants (Open).

Six stove plants—Sealey Brothers, I ; G. T. Smith, 2 Four draconas —G. T. Smith, I Six fuschias —Sealey Brothers, I and 2 ; Smith, highly commended Three fuschias—Sealey Bros., I One fuschia—G. T. Smith, 1 ; Sealey Brothers, 2 Show pelargoniums —Sealey Brothers, I ; G. T. Smith, 2 Six geraniums, zonales- Sealey Brothers, I ; G. T. Smith, 2 Six do., variegated do. —Sealey Brothers, I ; G. T. Smith, 2 Six double do.—G. T. Smith, I and 2 Fourbigonias, fine foliage—E. G. Wright, xj G. T. Smith, 2 Six balsams—Sealy Bros., I Four petunias—G. T. Smith, I Collection of ferns—Sealy Bros., I Twelve conifers in pots —G. T. Smith, 1 ; Sealey Bros., 2 One new or rare plant—Sealy Bros., X ; G. T. Smith, 2 SPECIAL PRIZES. Best collection of gladioli, 10s 6d given by Mr. Jacobson- -Sealey Bros., 1 Best brace of cucumbers, 7s 6d given by Mr Simmonds—-Mr Smith, gardener to J. M'Lean, Esq. Best collection of auricula in pots, 7 s 6d given by Mr Broomfield—G. T. Smith , Best tri-colored geranium, 7s fid given by Mr Mayo—Sealey Bros. Best grapes —G. T. Smith, x Best six varieties of potatoes—Sealey Bros., I Four sugar beets—J. Hunt, 1 Best geranium—Sealey Bros., 1 Best eighteen tomatoes—G. T. Smith, I Heaviest pumpkin, 7s fid given by Mr Davidson—W. Byrne, I. Best two double fuschias, 7s 6d given by Mr Poyntz—Sealey Bros. Best six window plants, 2is —Sealey Bros. Best fuschia, 5s —Sealey Bros. Best collection of herbs, 7 s 6d—G. T. Smith

THE BOER REBELLION.

The Peace Negotiations. (By Cable.) London, March 5. The Government has received informa tion from the President of the Orange Free State regarding the overtures which he made at the request of the late Sir George Colley to the Transvaal Boers, for a cessation of hostilities with the British forces. Dr Braunde announces that the leaders of the Boer Republic, in reply to his communications, state that they are willing to • conclude peace provided -the terms are consistent with their demand for freedom and independence.

NEW ZEALAND RIFLE ASSOCIA TION-

On Saturday, the firing for the Carbine and Rifle Championships was concluded, and resulted as follows : Carbine —Armstrong (Thames—cham pion), 273 ; McLean (Wanganui), 273 ; F. France (Wellington), 271 ; H. Dixon (Wellington,) 267- Rifle—Paynter (Stoke champion), 269 ; Hutchinson (Otago), 361 : A. Sutton (Blenheim), 259 ; Hoskins (Taranaki), 258.

THE MINISTER’S DREAM-

♦ (I Continued..) “ He was trembling with excitement Kis face was of a ghastly pallor. His voice was that of a person suffering from some terrible shock—labonng under some awful fear.

“‘What has happened, Edward?’ I asked. I had known him when he was a little boy. ‘I am distressed to see you in such a state. Rouse yourstelf; be a man ; whatever has gone wrong can possibly be righted. I have come over to do all that lies in my powet for you. If it is a matter of money— “ ‘ No, no; it is not money,’ he interrupted ; ‘ would that it were !’ and he began to tremble again so violently that really he communicated some part of his nervousnes to me, and put me into a state of perfect terror. “ ‘ Whatever is it Cawley, out with it,’ : I said ; ‘ have you murdered anybody?* ,• “‘No, it is worse than that,’ he s answered. ? “ ‘ But that is just nonsense,’ 1 de- : dared. ‘ Are you in your right mind* >j do you think ?’ . ■ “ ‘ I wish I were not,’ he returned. ‘ I’d like to know I was stark staring . 1 mad ;it would be happier for me—farj’ | far happier.’ a “‘lf you don’t tell me this minute; M what is the matter, I shall turn on iar| heel and tramp my way home'again* |t|9 said, half in a passion, for what I thought J| his folly angered me. >llfl “ ‘ Come into the house,’ he ea-jH treated, ‘ and try to have patience with *1 me; for indeed, Mr. Morisoh, I am 1 sorely troubled. I have been through j my deep waters, and they have gone clean over my head.’ ” We went into his little study and sat down. For a while he remained silent, his head resting upon his hand, straggling with some strong emotion j but after about five minutes he asked* in a low subdued voice, “ ‘ Do you believe in dreams ? ’ ”■ “ What has my belief to do with the matter in hand ? ” I enquired. “‘ It is a dream, an awful dream, that is troubling me.’” I arose from my chair. s “Do you mean to say,” I askfed, “you have brought me from my busi ness and parish to tell me you have had a bad dream ? ” J I J. “ ‘ That is just what I do mean to say,” he answered. “At least, it-was not a dream —it was a vision; no, I don’t mean a vision. I can’t tell you" what it was; but nothing I ever went, through in actual life was half so real, and I have bound myself to go through it all again. There is no hope fpr me, Mr Morison. I sit before you a lost: creature, the most miserable man on. the face of the whole earth.”

“ What did you dream ? ” I enquired. A dreadful fit of trembling again seized him ; but at last he managed to say, “ ‘ I have been like this ever since, and I shall be like this for evermore—till— till —the end comes.’ ” “ When did you have your bad dream ? ” I asked. “ ‘ Last night, or, rather, this morn ing,’ he answered. “ I’ll tell you all about it in a minute,’ and he covered his face with his hands again. “ ‘ I was as well when I went to bed, about 11 o’clock, as ever I was in my life,’ he began, putting a great restraint upon himself, as I could see by the nervous way he kept knotting and un knotting his fingers. ‘ I had been con sidering my sermon, and felt satisfied I should be able to deliver a good one on Sunday morning. I had taken nothing after my tea, and I lay down in my bed feeling at peace with all mankind, satisfied with my lot, thankful for the many blessings vouchsafed to me. I low long I slept, or what I dreamt about at first, if dreamt at all, I don’t know; but after a time the mists seemed to clear from before my eyes, to roll away like clouds from a mountain summit, and I found myself walking on a beautiful summer’s evening beside the river Deldy.’ “ He paused for a moment, and an irrepressible shudder shook his frame. “ ‘Go on,’ I said, for I felt afraid of: his breaking down again. .. “ He looked at me pitifully, with a hungry entreaty in his weary eyes, and continued : .

“‘ It was a lovely evening. I had never thought the earth so beautiful before. A gentle breeze just touched my cheek, the water flowed on clear, and bright, the mountains in the disr tance looked brightand glowing, covered. . with purple heather. I walked on and on till I came to that point where* {is V you may perhaps remember, the path) growing very narrow, winds round the base of a great crag that leads the way farer suddenly into a little green amphi-. , theatre, bounded on one side by the river and on the other by rocks that rise in places sheer to a height of a • hundred feet and more.’ ' “‘I remember it,’l said; * a little farther on three streams meet and fall. , with a tremendous roar into the Witches’. Caldron, A fine sight in the winter time, only that there is scarce any, , reaching it from below, as the path you mention and the little green oasis fair/ ; mostly covered with water. 1 ! - - : ; “‘ I had not been there before sinfch’ ! ’ - I was a child,’ he went on mournfully,, ‘but I recollected it as one of the most solitary spots possible, and my astonish'

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, MONDAY, MARCH 7, 1881.



Late Advertisements- TENDERS are invited for the EREC TION of a HOUSE in Burnett street for C. W. Purnell, Esq. Plans and specifications may be seen at our offi.ee until FRIDAY, 18th inat., when tenders will be received, not later than 4 p.m. FOOKS & SON, 283 a Architects, &c. FOREST. POSTS, RAILS, AND STAKES, Any length, also FIREWOOD, Bft and 4ft lengths, FOR SALE at Reduced Rates, by Gooper Brothers, Delivered in any part of the District. Orders by Post will meet with im attention. 226 a rfIHRESHXNGt BOOKS printed on the X'' 'shortest notice, at the Office of this Paper. Ball . programme cards in vfery neat styles, with Pencils and Ribbons, printed at the Guardian Office, Basfiistreet, near Railway Station f |IQEI GUARDIAN is published every V X b evening, giving every day’s news, .■ bp hour of going to press. This i .better than buymg a sixpenny weekly.--



T. Bullock. BURNETT STREET. WEEKLY SALE OF HORSES EVERY SATURDAY, Commencing at 1 p.m.



WEDNESDAY, 9th MARCH. Household F U ENITUEE. FOR SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION. MR. T. BULLOCK has received in structions from Mrs Heffer to sell by Public Auction, on Wednesday, 9th March, at the Cottage lately occupied by her, on the East Town Belt, opposite the Parsonage, AIL HER HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE, Comprising Sitting-room, Bed-room, and Kitchen Furniture, Consisting of— Chests of Drawers Chairs Tables Sofa Mirrors Single and Double Bedsteads Bedding Carpets Crockery &c., &c., &c. Sale at 2 o’clock. T. BULLOCK, 228 a Auctioneer. MONEY TO LEND, at a low rate of interest, in sums of £SO and up wards. Apply to T. BULLOCK. TO LET—At a low rental, BOARD ING HOUSE, in Tancred street, known as Anstee’s, Centrally situated. T. BULLOCK.



T. Bullock, Auctioneer, estate, AND GENERAL COMMISSION AGENT, EAST STREET, AND AT THE BAZAAR, BURNETT STREET, Ashburton. PROPERTIES FOR SALE and TO LET with a purchassing clause : FARMS. 439 Acres, all fenced, and partly improved, situated at Wakauui. 266 Acres—a compact farm ; all fenced, well watered, and partly in English grass. Improvements consist of a comfortable 5-roomed cottage, stable, stockyard, etc., etc. Situated at Longbeach. 270 Acres, well cultivated, situated at Wakanui, about six miles from the town of Ashburton, all fenced and sub divided into seven paddocks, with live fences. Improvements—seven-roomed house, seven-stalled stable, chaff-store, and other buildings. 362 Acres, all fenced, and a portion of it in English grass, on Lagrahor run. 220 Acres, all ,fenced, partly improved and well watered, Longbeach. Would make a capital dairy farm. 65 Acres, about 3 miles from the town of Ashburton ; fenced and cultivated. To be sold cheap. 150 Acres, near the above, and adjoining Mr. George Aston’s. Fenced and otherwise improved. 84 Acres, subdivided into four paddocks, well watered with a never failing stream. Capital dwelling-house of five rooms, coach-house, store, etc. Situated on Mr Hart’s Run, about eight miles from the township of Ashburton. This is a very desirable residence. 162 Acres Freehold ) A well cultivated farm, 24 Acres Leasehold j all fenced and sub divided with live, well kept fences. There are also two wells with a plenti ful supply of water. The land is also broken up, part in crop, and part in English grass. Improvements consist of a well built comfortable six-roomed dwelling-house, also a four-stalled stable and granary capable of storing 2,000 bushels of grain. 2424 Acres, all fenced, situated near Alford Forest, most of which is in its native state. Improvements consist of a four roomed cottage and two Small paddocks, broken up. 236 Acres, situated near Messrs Gould and Cameron’s, close to the Ashburton Forks railway. 284 Acres, near Dromore, fenced and broken up, price low, a bargain, terms easy. 50 Acres near Winslow, partly improved. 70 Acres near Mr Davis’ Mill, Longbeach. 267 Acres about I mile from Hinds railway station, on Maronan run. TOWN PROPERTIES. That Valuable Town Section 159 Tancred street, will be sold very cheap and on easy terms. 539 —Eighth of an acre, terms same as above. 77 —Kermode street. 32 —Corner section, with a well built cottage erected thereon. 337 —Moore street, on which is erected cottage and blacksmith’s shop. 905,906, East street North, also T.S. 77L corner of Wakanui road and Cox street. This valuable section contains about half an acre, and has five chains front age. TINWALD TOWNSHIP. Lots 187, 188, containing about four acres of really first-class land, close to the bridge and fronting the river. This is a desirable site for a private residence, price low, terms easy. Lots 502, 503, 510, 511, four sections in one block, small deposit cash, balance by instalments. Lot 134 —Quarter-acre to be sold cheap. Lot 89 —Quarter-acre, cheap, and on easy terms. Lots 357, 358, each Quarter-acre, with cottage of four rooms erected thereon. 248, 249, fronting railway station, this is a capital site for a grain store. SUBURBAN PROPERTIES. Lot 2, half an acre on the East Town Belt, near the Parsonage, on which is erected a Dwelling-house of seven rooms ; this is a desirable property, and will be sold cheap. Lot 11, 12, 13, Alford Forest Road, with 5- roomed Cottage erected thereon. Terms, small deposit, cash; balance on mort gage for a number of years. Lot 34, 35, each '/£ acre, Mayo’s Block ; good land, and capital site for a house. Lot 12. Trevorton, on which is erected a well built 4-roomed Cottage, it is securely fenced. The garden is well stocked with fruit trees. This is a desirable property, and will be sold cheap, and on liberal terms of payment. 278 —First-class land, good site for private house. TO LET. At a very low rental, two two-roomed cottages. Butchers’ Shop and Dwelling House attached, I and situated in Havelock street, lately in the occupation of Mr Geo. Worner. There is a three-stalled stable, and other necessary buildings on the premises. Shop situated in the Triangle, Wakanui Road, near the Post Office. Shop with a cotnforlable House attached, fronting East street. .Four-roomed Cottage, Tinwald, facing the Great South Road, now in the occupa tion of Mr William Bradshaw. For lull particular, a^P I^gjgj jt ,p o K, 221 a Estate Agent



Wanted. TTfTANTED, by a single man, a VV SITUATION as Ploughman, or as General Hand on a Farm or Station Apply, Office of this Paper. 273 a WANTED —A smart LAD, about 13 or 14 years of age, as an appren tice. Apply, Office of this Paper. WANTED —A Family’s WASHING. Apply, Office of this paper. 178 a W' ANTED TO SELL—New and Second-hand TARPAULINS. Apply, S. Stephens, Tinwald. 278 a WANTED TO SELL Twenty-five SECTIONS, Wakanui Road. Apply to Patching, Tent-maker, East Street. 89»3 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, &c., has for sale the following Secondhand Piano fortes :—1 full-sized Brinsmead, £45 ; 1 ditto Mornington, £4O ; 1 Cottage, dial len and Hodgson, £3B ; Bord, £25 ; Broad wood, £26 ; also, American Organ, 5 stops, £3O; 1 Church Harmonium, 14 stops, £3O, a bargain. Address; Cameron st. 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. 6d.; 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. KNOWN. Ashburton V\ REGISTRY OFFICE for Male and Female Servants. —L. F. Andrewes begs to inform the public of Ashburton and surrounding districts that bo has opened the above. Male and Female Servants of all classes provided. Em ployers requiring servants, and all persons with good recommendations, who are in want of situations, are requested to apply to L. F. Andrewes, Labor Agent, Book seller, and Stationer, East street, South. 208 a



WANTED KNOWN—That a Church of England minister’s wife writes that she saves Ten Shillings a Fortnight by using Harper Twelvctrees’ Villa Washer, Wringer, and Mangier, com bined ; and, although she permits no rubbing, the clothes are beautifully white, and much cleaner than when done by hand, while the saving in mending has been astonishing. Sold by J. HERN, Range Maker and Importer, corner of Manchester and Tuam streets, Christ church ; Price—£9 10s. 700 WANTED KNOWN. SOMERSET LIVERY AND BAIT STABLES. JW. M‘RAE bogs to inform the , public that he has taken the above Stables from Mr. Bossenberg, and is making extensive repairs. Buggies and saddle horses on hire. Lowest prices and best attention. 852 Special Advertisements. Donald Williamson GENERAL STOREKEEPER, East street, Ashburton, HAS always on hand a good assort ment of General Merchandise, which ho is prepared to sell for cash as cheap as any house in the trade. Clothing —ln addition to former large stock, has just received a consignment of Kaiapoi Tweed Suits and extra heavy Trousers, which will be sold at less than imported goods. Boots, of old celebrated make, in men’s, women's, and children’s, at lowest rates. A well-assorted stock of Groceries, etc. Families in and about Town waited on weekly, or oftener if required, and as D. W. gives personal attention to the execu tion of all orders, customers may rely on getting j ust what they want in the best way possible. Wines and Spirits of the best brands. Celebrated Pultney Whisky. Implements.—Agent for P. &. D. Duncan, Christchurch, well-known makers. Everything at Christchurch prices, with carriage only added.



O. Carstens & Co., (Late Weston’s), PROSPECT BUILDINGS, rnOBACCONIST, FANCY GOODS, i. AND STATIONERY. Meerschaum Pipes, G.B.D. Pipes Nail rod, 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. 527a*



JMPORTANT NOTICE. O R R C 0., Having just concluded the the purchase of the balance of an importer’s stock of LADIES’ & CHILDREN’S BOOTS AT HALF PRICE, Will offer them during this week at the following Low Prices: — Ladies’ Boots, well made, 4s lid, worth 8a Cd Ladies’ Boots, different styles, 5s lid, worth 9s 6d Ladies’ Boots, best quality, 7s 6d, worth 12s Cd Girls’ Boots, real Morocco, 5s Cd worth 8s Cd Girls’ Kid Boots, best, ss, worth 7s 9d A few dozen of Children’s Overshoes, Is per pair, to clear Men’s Collars at Cd per box Men’s Hats at 3s Cd each. CHEAP SALE ON FOR TWENTY ONE DAYS. ORR & CO., IMPORTERS, Ashburton. Feb. 2Gth, 1881. 222 a m H E BEST VALUE JL FOE READY MONEY IS THE MEN’S AND BOYS’ CLOTHING MANUFACTURED BY THE NEW ZEALAND Clothing Factory, Which can be purchased at their Retail Tranches, all over New Zealand. A SINGLE GARMENT AT THE WHOLESALE PRICE. Thousands of the discerning customers testify that the New Zealand Clothing Factory’s Garments are the Very Best Value for Ready Money. Ashburton Branch EAST STREET. WM. SPARROW, 751* Manager.



Special Advertisements. Commercial and fancy hTATTONERY. Tho Undersigned has opened up a NEW ASSORTMENT of tho above. Cream, Blue, and Hand - made Notepapers ; Ruled, Plain, Fancy, and Repp ditto. Good Business Envelopes, No. 7, Court, Albert, Queen, Tinted, Repp, and others. Pens GTlott’s, Mitchell’s, Brandauer and Co.’s Inks—Stephen’s Blue Black, Walkdon’s Black and Colored, Antonine, Copying, Ac. Workboxes, Albums. Books, &c. h. m.Tones, STATIONERY AND FANCY GOODS DEPOT, East Street and Baring Square. 710



D. B. McLaren, Grain Broker & Seed Merchant, Christchurch, Has special facilities for the satisfactory disposal of Grain and Produce entrusted to him. Samples left with Mr S. Saunders, Ash burton, will be immediately offered in the best markets, and the highest value guaranteed. 25Ga TIC Bi- Fresh arrangements having been made in connection with the “ Ashburton Guardian,” taking effect from the Ist of March instant, I have to request that all Debts owing to me as Proprietor of the said Newspaper on the 28th February ultimo, be paid to Mr S. Saunders, on my behalf. AIL Debts now accruing to the Proprietor of the “Guardian” will be payable to Mr W. H. Zoucir. Dated this first day of March, 1881. 251 a MAX FRIEDLANDER.



PUBLIC NOTICE. TO INTENDING EXHIBITORS AT THE INDUSTRIAL EXHIBITION. His Excellency the Governor having consented to open the Exhibition on the 24th instant, it is notified that the date of OPENING has been POSTPONED to that date. Exhibits will, therefore, be re ceived from the 17th to the 21st inclusive. STEPHEN E. POYNTZ, 281 a Hon. Sec. JTNDUSTRIAL EXHIBITION. Exhibitors are requested to SEND AT ONCE PARTICULARS of their respec tive EXHIBITS, so that they may be properly described in the catalogue. Im mediate attention to this will ensure the exhibits fair public notice. S. E. POYNTZ, 248 a Hon. Sec. O T I C E. Persons willing to LEND the Exhibi tion Committee the use of GLASS CASES during the Exhihtion, for the better preservation of perishable articles, are requested to communicate at once with the undersigned. STEPHEN E. POYNTZ, 280 a Hon. Sec.