SHIPPING.

TORT OF LYTTELTON. Arrived. Yesterday. Rotomahana, b.s., from Auckland. Othello, barque, from Hobart. Miry EUen, schooner, from Gisborne. Hawea, a.s , from Dunedin via Akaroa. Sailed. Yesterday. Alice Jane, ketcb, for Akaroa. Magnet, barque, for Newcastle. City of Nankin, ship, for Newcastle. Rotomahana, s.s., for Southern ports and Melbourne. Hawea, a. a., for the North.

COMMERCIAL.

Ashburton Guardian Office, Wednesday Afternoon. Mr Alfred Harrison reports the week as follows; Tuesday, December 19th, and Wednesday, December 20th, 1 held a sale at my rooms by order of the trustee in an assigned estate of books, fancy goods, etc. The attend ances were very good, and all lots were cleared. Saturday, December 23rd, I held my weekly sale at my yards. Entries in ho.ses were not heavy, but several sales were effected from Ls to Lx 3. Pigs are a little lower again, bat all lots were cleared. Calves sold only moderately well. Fowls fetched 2s to 5s per pair ; ducks only -3s to 4s ; geese, 10s per pair; turkeys, ios to 16s per pair. Light trap, L 9 ISs ; ditto, Ll 6 ios ; dray, L 9 15s. Produce : Potatoes,*id per lb; onions, i%d per lb; chick wheat, 3s per bushel; bran, 4s per loolb; oats have fallen heavily, and sold at from 2s to at fid per bushel. Harness dull. A quantity of fumiture and effects sold well. The attend ance was a large one, and a capital sale found for most, entries.

DAILY MEMORANDA.

AUCTION SALES To-morrow, Thursday, December 28. J. T. Ford and Co., at the Homestead of Mr John Black, farmer, Wakanui— Contractor’s Plant ; 11 a.m. : Saturday, December 30. Uatson, Cox, and Co., at their Bazaar— . Horses, Cows, Pigs, Poultry, Sundries, &c. ; 11.30 a.m. tit t, Bullock, at the Bazaar—Horses, 1 p.tn. Mr Alfred Harrison, at the yards— . Horses, Pigs, Produce, &c.; 12 noon. Mr, W. F. Allen, at his rooms, Burnett street—Horses, Pigs, Poultj General Produce, &c.; 11.30 a.m. Tuesday, January 9. Uatson, Cox and Co., at the Tinwald , Yards-:—Stock. MEETINGS, AMUSEMENTS, .So Friday, December 29. Somerset Lodge, Monthly Meeting, in the Masonic Hall, Tancred street, 7.30. Monday, January 1. Ball—-J. Clark’s Grain Shed, Tinwald. Winslow Races and Sports. Wakanui Races and Sports. . ... Tuesday, January 2. ashburton Permanent Building and In vestment Society, Monthly Meeting, fa*<pji 6.30 to 8.30 p.m. Wednesday, January 3. County Council, at the County Council Chambers, at 11 o'clock. Thursday, January 4. L.O.L. —Monthly Meeting, Templar Hall. Saturday, January 6. Wakanui Road Board—Monthly Meeting, Road Board Office, Moore street

BIRTH.

Ranger.—On the 21st inst., the wife of Mr J. Bangor; of a son.

DEATH.

White —On 26th December, at East Bolt, Alwynne James, beloved infant child of J. Franklin and C. M. White, aged 6 months.

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna Est Veritas et Prevalebit. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27, 1882. Sir Julius Vogel.

One of the penalties a successful statesman has to pay for renown is that he must submit to all kinds of misrepresentation and vilipending from those petty-minded persons whose habit it is to be continually carping at the good work done by men whose shoe strings they are not worthy to untie. A striking example of this truth is afforded by the reception that has been accorded in certain quarters to Sir Julius Vogel, on the occasion of his revisiting a colony the interests of which he has done so much to further in the past. It is, however, creditable to New Zealand that the adverse criticisms on the Public Works and Immigration Policy of our late Agent-General .are neither numerous nor influential, and there are very few people in the colony who will not agree with the fervent words of praise spoken by Mr Macandrew at the recent banquet in Dunedin. The present visit of Sir Julius Vogel has admittedly nothing whatever to do with politics; he has come for the purpose of furthering a commercial scheme, but none the less are his utter ances on the past and present state of New Zealand worthy of careful con sideration. Indeed, the fact that he is now able to speak on a subject with which he is so thoroughly acquainted —totally apart from party feeling— gives his remarks a double value. He has retired from the field of battle, but he must still feel an interest in the progress of the good work he initiated, and he cannot fail to experience a glow of satisfaction when he sees the vast strides we have made since he left our shores. We have no intention of speaking in detail of Sir Julius’s Dun edin speech ; it will suffice to say that while introducing no debateable ques tion, he gave an able resumd of the pelicy followed by him when he held the reins of office. Especially note worthy were his observations concern ing immigration, and his arguments should be taken to heart by those who are only too ready to listen to those blatant demagogues who tell their constituents that the importation of fresh labor into the colony will injure the working classes. He pointed out what is undoubtedly true, that we could not too largely maintain immigration so long as the selection was properly managed. Dur ing the late election, it will be remem bered that several candidates, in order to catch the votes of the working classes, put forth the specious argument that if more men were brought out here the rate of wages would be lowered and distress ensue. It is well that a man like Sir Julius Vogel, who can speak with authority on the subject, should point out the fallacy of such an argument. But, without going further into the speech, we may say that in reading it through we can realise how great a loss it was to the colony when Sir Julius Vogel ceased to lake an active part in New Zealand politics.. A man of acute intellect, admirable tact, and great financial ability, he stands head and shoulders above any statesman that has appeared in this part of the world. No one pretends that he could have carried through his policy of progress single handed, and it was lucky that he had such lieutenants as Mr Macandrew and the late William Sefton Moor house to support him. Still, the fact re mains, that had it not been for the clear sighted genius of Sir Julius Vogel the colony would not be in the flourishing condition it now is, and it is to be hoped that the reception accorded to the late Agent-General in other centres will be as cordial and enthusiastic as that given him in Dunedin.

Butter Factory.—lt is scarcely neces sary to remind shareholders that a special general meeting of the Ashburton Cheese and Butter Factory will be held in the Town Hall on Friday next.

Important Sale.—Messrs J. T. Ford and Co. (in conjunction with Messrs Friedlander Bros.), will hold a clearing sale of farming and contractor’s plant, at Mr Black’s premises, Wakanui, to-mor row.

Civil Service Examinations. —We learn from the returns published in the last New Zealand Gazette that two boys, T. R. Hodder and A. T. Ennis, who lately attended the Ashburton School, have successfully passed the Civil Service Junior Examination.

Gaelic Sermon. On Monday the Ashburton Presbyterian Church was well attended, principally by Gaelic speaking visitors, a large number of whom had ar rived in Ashburton for the purpose of at tending the Caledonian Sports. The Rev. Alexander McLennan delivered an able discourse in Gaelic, which was listened to with much interest throughout by the congregation. Mr Colin Campbe'l acted as precentor, and the 103 r d, the 23rd, and the 107th Psalms were sung by the con gregation in Gaelic. A call to Mr McLen nan from the Hills district was signed by a large number of people at Springburu on Saturday last. Thanks —MrT. Harris requests us to return his sincere thanks to the under mentioned ladies and gentlemen who so liberally provided the inmates of the Ash burton Home with “ good things,” which, he adds, were thoroughly appreciated and enjoyed by all, and ho is asked on be half of the “ old folks,” to wish nil con tributors “ A happy New Year.” Mr Hepburn, 5* and 2 galls, milk ; Mr R. Bird, 10s ; Mrs Dempsey, 2 cakes; Messrs Wilkin and Carter, 501bs beef ; Mr Thos. Quill, 1 case stout ; Messrs Digby and Wood, 5 galls, ale; A Friend, 5 galls ale ; Mr J. Moore (late Wood), 10 galls, ale ; Mr T. Taylor, 20ibs cake ; Mr A. Orr,' a parcel of oranges ; Mrs L. B. Crosbie, Ringwood, a quarter of veal ; Mr Britton, cordial manufacturer, 6 bottles of medical comforts.

Death of “ The Hook.” —In another column will be found the intelligence of the death of the veteran Fishhook, who m-t with an accident yesterday while run ning in the Inangahua Cup. Fish hook was a son of the defunct Traducar, out of Laurel, and will be, perhaps, best remembered from his victory in the Dun edin Cup in 1877, beating fourteen others, At the Oamaru meeting the s irae year he was disqualified, and it was not till 1881 that the disqualification was removed, when was again pulled out for the Dun edin Cup, but he appeared to have lost his brilliant form during his temporary re tirement from the turf arena, and he was nowhere at ths finish. Shortly after he was purchased by a West Coast sportsman, under whose flag he was running when he met with the accident wh'ch necessitated his death. Fishhook was nine years od, and a gelding.

Christmas Song. —The music and words of “ Our New Zealand Christmas Song ” has been beautifully photographed, cabinet size, with a pretty view of Otago Harbor, encircled with ears of corn and flowers. The following is the chorus of the song ; “ A merry Christmas may it be, And that from shore to shore ; May plenty reign within your hall, And grace stand at your door.” This beautifully-executed card is got up for Is, obtainable at H. J. Weeks’ Music Depdt, Tancred street, where there is to be seen a fine collec tion of pianos by Brinsmead and other well-known makers ; also, the famous Smith American organs. 88,000 of these organa having been sold is a sufficient guarantee. The celebrated pianoforte tuner, Herr Otto Schweers, will pay his regular visit very shortly to attend to cus tomers only. Orders can be sent to the Music Depot.—[Aovx.]

Summer Flower Show.—Wo are re quested to draw attention to an adver tisement in to-day’s issue concerning the prizes offered at the above Show, which takes place on Saturday next. No fewer than nineteen special prizes are offered by private individuals, and the beneficial showers of yesterday should revive the desponding hopes of intending exhibitors. We have always advocated the reasonable ness of holding a summer show, as at this time of the 'year amateurs are more able to compete, and though the time selected is a little later than the promoters would have liked, still we hope 10 see all lovers of horticulture rally round them, when we have no doubt of being able to chronicle a successful show. The Secre tary wishes us to intimate that he would be glad to receive entries as soon as con venient, so as not to drive all the work to the last. The entry fee is very low, being Is for first entry, and fid for every suc ceeding one. The show will be open to the public at 2 p. m., and close at 10 p. m. Young ladies desirous of competing for the bouquet prizes are requested to be at the Hall by 9 a.m.

A Bad Half-Hour. —At the R. M. Court this morning a man named John O’Connor, a laborer, was in the dock, charged with drunkenness and disorderly conduct, also with having been illegally on private premises, and moreover with having made use of abusive and obscene language. These charges are common enough in the R. M. Courts of this colony, but the public were scarcely prepared for the de tails that were given against the poor wretch against whom they were laid to day. John O’Connor is an old customer in our local Courts, and when he entered the dock the reporters were prepared for another story of rowdy drunkenness. He was as usual very penitent, very willing to admit everything, had been drunk and supposed it was all right; but when the evidence was led, it was found that John was all wrong. Mr Alfred Harrison with his family had retired to rest as usual on Xmas night, and was aroused at an unseemly hour, by somebody wanting to got into the house. It was John who was impudent and abusive, and threatening and obscene. Mr Harrison would not have the sanctity of his home outraged, and like a true Englishman elected to defend it; He did so with a poker, and John’s head re ceived the iron compliment, but John still stuck to his desire to got into the Harrisonian home, and Mr Harrison had again recourse to the poker. This time John’s hands received the caress of the fire iron. At last the end came and the hospital master came to help; Mr Mad den went 'or a policeman and Mr Harri son did “ sentry go ” on John O’Connor till the strong man Hicks came and officially bundled the offender off to gaol. The Mayor and Mr Alcorn after taking the mvtter to “ avizandum,” as the Scotch lawyers call the consideration of a judg ment, sent John O’Connor one month to gaol to do penance and meditate repen tance, meanwhile labouring for the country whose laws he had outraged.

JOTTINGS PROM A TRAVELLER'S JOURNAL.

Montreal— Something About the City —The Church op “ Notre Dame ” A Big Bell—The Commerce op the City—An Excursion to Ottawa —A Progressive City- Public Buildings —A Monster Timber Trade —Toilers by Night —Six Million Feet' of Sawn Timber Turned Out at One Mill in the 24 Hours—Off to Quebec The Gibraltar of North America —The Sights of the City— Montmorency Falls—Mount Royal —A Tremendous Bridge Plats burgh ; “ And so to Bed.” In my last I brought those of your

readers who have had patience to accom pany me, to Montreal, and I presume they will expect me to tell them some thing about the city that claims to be the commercial capital of Canada. Originally the settlement was called Yille Marie. It is situated on an island formed by the Ottawa river, debouching into the St. Lawrence. Jaques Cartier is said to have been the founder of Montreal. He first visited the locality in 1535, landing at a point called by the Indians “ Hochelaga,” and a village not far from the present city still retains the name. Cartier was conducted by Donnecona, a friendly chief, to the high land that forms the back ground of Montreal, and the Frenchman were so delighted with the view he ob tained from the elevation on which he stood, that he called the place Mount Royal—lienee the name of the city, Mon treal. Some of the streets axe narrow, and the buildings primitive and old fashioned. But this only applies to the ancient quarters of the city. St. Paul street is the commercial centre, and stands along the river side. Another principal thoroughfare, called St. James street, contains some very handsome buildings; and Great St. James street, and Notre Dame street are fashionable promenades. It would occupy too much of your space if I attempted to describe minutely the various public and private edifices that attracted my attention. I can but mention Nelson’s monument, the Court House, Molson’s Bank, the City Hall, Bonscour’s Market, Place d’Armes, and the new Post Office. These are all noble structures, and would adorn any city. But I must make an exception in favor of the parish church of Notre Dame. It is worthy of particular descrip tion. The early French colonists did not neglect to provide temporary buildings for the worship of God. But it was not until the year 1823 that the foundation stone of the present church of Notre Dame was laid, and in 1829 it was completed. Two lofty towers form prominent features in the front elevation ; these are connected by a handsome portico sixty feet in height, and adorned with colossal statues of the Virgin Mary, St. John the Baptist, and St. Joseph. An architect, in techni cal language, would probably describe Notre Dame as belonging to the Gothic Pointed Arch School—a style hallowed by time, as calculated to elevate the mind of man, and considered to be most in har mony with Ohristain thought and Bibli cal tradition. I ascended one of the towers, and from its summit, 227 feet above the level, obtained a good bird’s eye view of the city and its surroundings. On my way up, I paused in a chamber about midway, to examine “Le Gros Bourdon,” an enormous bell, weighing 24,7891b5, six feet high, and measuring eight feet seven inches across its mouth. It bears a Latin inscription, which reads :

I was cast in the year of the Christian era 1847, the 202nd since the foundation of Mon treal, the first of Pius the Ninth’s Pontificate, and the 10th of the reign of Victoria, Queen of England. I am the gift of the merchants, the farmers, and the mechanics of “ Ville Marie.” I was cast in London by Charles and George Mears. The body of the bell is adorned by images of the Virgin and St. John the Baptist, and emblematical representations of commerce, agriculture, and industry. Its sonorous voice is only heard on great occasions, and its tone is worthy of its size—grand and loud, and full. A peal of ten smaller bells hangs in the eastern towers, and when “Le Gros Bourdon ” joins in concert with the juniors on festi val days, the effect is very striking.

The interior of the church is even more imposing than the exterior. The decora tions, I was told, are not yet complete in every detail, and visitors are reminded that contributions are needed and will be thankfully received. But in its present state the sacred edifice is very grand. As I stood and gazed I seemed to sympathise in some degree with those who think that art and beauty are aids to devotion. I could easily imagine that the vast nave of Notre Dame, its spacious two-storied galleries, the paintings, the sculptures, the richly-stained windows, admitting a “ dim religious light,” a id the lavish em bellishments everywhere apparent, might have the effect of impressing certain orders of mind and tend to lift the thoughts of some from earth towards heaven. While I was in the church many devotees came in, and with real reverence bowed before the altar, or made obeisance at the shrine of the Virgin, repe iting their prayers, altogether unconscious of, or utterly disregarding the presence of strangers who came merely to gratify curiosity. I could not help saying to my self, “ There may be ignorance and superstition mixed up with this devotional fervor, but still the fact remains—these people, unlike the masses outside who are absorbed in the pursuits of the hour, have withdrawn from the world, and come into the sanctuary influenced by a desire to worship. Who dare say that their motives are not understood and appreciated by Him who knows the secrets of all hearts?” In the western aisle there is a white marble baptismal font of elaborate work manship and design, supported bv four angels in graceful attitudes. Close by is a painting representing the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist, copied from the original picture by Maratta that adorns the baptismal chapel in St Peter’s at Rome. Further on are the chapels of St. Amable, St. Joseph, and the Blessed Virgin, all highly ornamental. In the eastern aisle is the chapel of the Sacred Heart, of St. '-mi, and of the Souls in Purgatory. Every morning during the month of November, and occasionally at other times, masses are celebrated here for the purpose, as it is supposed, of ob taining the pardon and release of suffering souls. The walls over the second gallery are adorned with twelve exquisitely wrought frescoes, illustrative of as many incidents in the life of the Virgin Mary. The main altar and sanctuary are very grand. Groups of sculpture represent the atoning work of the Lord Jes is Christ as foreshadowed in the prophecies of the Old T. stament : Abraham ready to offer up his son Isaac. Aaron in the act of offering the lamb, ’vlolcbisedek offering bread and wine, Mosesbofore the Ark of the covenant, Christ hanging on the Cross. In the centre is the altar and Tabernacle and a crucifix surrounded by a host of adoring angels, and above all a group representing the coronation of Mary as Queen of Heaven. The tout ensemble is very fine. Notre Dame presents to the visitor a spectacle of solemn magnificence not often to be seen.

The commerce of Montreal ia extensive. Though the city is distant from the sea five hundred miles, its position at the head of the navigable waters cf the St Lawrence and at the foot of the chain of improved inland water communication extending to Lake Superior, secures for it the advan tages and entitles it to be considered the first shipping port of the Dominion of Canada. From Montreal I made an excursion to Ottawa, the seat of Government. Your readers may perhaps be aware that Ottawa was selected by Her Majesty Queen Vic toria to be capital of the dominion. Prior to this selection the functions of Govern ment were carried on alternately at Mon treal, Toronto, and Quebec. Endless rivalries and jealousies grew out of this itinerant system To put an end to this it was necessary to choose some perman ent sito for the Governmental establish ments, and Ottawa was fixed upon as in every respect a suitable locality. Origin ally the settlement was called Bytown, in honor of the surveyor who laid it out. By whom or at what period the name was changed I cannot say. Ottawa cannot yet be compared with Montreal, Toronto, and other cities in size, appearance, and popu lation ; but being the seat of Government

it is rapidly progressing. The public buildings are exceptionally superior and costly. The Houses of Parliament and Departmental offices occupy three sides of a square, on an eminence overlooking the river. The Senate House was closed and I could not see it; but judging from f ’"' hall appropriated to the Commons, if it. be superior, it must be grand indeed, for the chamber of the Lower House is very elegant. The floor is composed of inlaid ornamental woods of different color and grain, and highly polished. A wide space divides the Ministerial from the Opposi tion benches. Each member’s seat is pro vided with a convenient desk with drawers. A gallery for ladies, the Speaker’s gallery, and galleries to accom modate the public and representatives of the press, run round the sides of the chamber. It is lighted from the roof at night, and during the daj' from u row of gorgeously stained windows. The library is a splendid apartment, circular in shape with two tiers of galleries and eight pro jecting alcoves,’all filled with books. Up wards of 80,000 volumes are here col lected, and they relate to almost every branch of literature and science. The floor of the library is occupied by a variety of ornamental tables, on which are dis played many natural cariosities and articles of vertu, busts of eminent men, and in the centre is a large statue of the Queen. The exterior of the buildings is in every way worthy of the interior. They are s arcely inferior in size, and in some respects are similar in design, to the Imperial Houses of Parliament at West minster. The grounds around these noble structures are large and beautifully laid out in lawns and parterres of flowers, and command a fine view of the river and adjacent country. Ottawa is the centre of a great trade in lumber. There are ‘everal sawmills on the banka of the river, some of them on a vast scale. Logs of timber, lyin > in the water by.thousands, are drawn up to the mills on an inclined plane by machinery working an endless chain armed at inter vals with timber hooka. Thus grappled, the logs are brought into contact with saws that cut them into square form. They then go on until they meet revolving circular saws, set according to the size reouired, and almost before you can say “ Jack Robinson,” the logs are cut into scantling or boards or battens as the case may be In some mills the work goes on day and night without cessation. Elec tric lamps illumine the premises and en able the workmen to carry on their busi ness when deprived of the light of the sun. I was told that it is a common practice at one establishment to turn out six mi lion feet of sawn timber in twenty-four hours 1 , From Ottawa I returned to Montreal by steamer. The scenery on the river above its junction with the St Lawrence reminded me, in places, of the scenery on the Wairoa in the Kaipara district, about Tokotoko. On this trip I en joyed the novel feat of' shooting the rapids. The first of these is at a part of the St Lawrence called Long Sault. ‘For nearly nine miles the steamer c»roers alone through broken water at a rate of speed of which the passenger is hardly conscious. It is an exciting race, but still tame in comparison with the iisky naviga tion of the more turbulent though shorter rapids of La Chine Here the channel is scarcely broader that twice the breadth of the ship. Rocks are visible on either hand as the swirling waves that foam around and overflow them at times retire and leave their threatening sides all bare. Steam is shut; off, and under the silent but significant gestures of the pilot, and the watchful manipulations of four pairs of hands at the wheel, the vessel’s head is kept in a line with the roaring current, and rushes along at the rate of twenty miles an hour. Though the waters of La Chine “ roar and are troubled," the steamer does not roll and pitch as in a tempestuous sea ; but there is a peculiar motion causing one to feel as if she were about to settle down in the seething vortex. The unaccustomed passenger almost involuntarily holds his breath, expecting every moment either to be dashed against the rocks or engulphed in the resistless current. But long prac tice has given such skill and confidence to the commanders of steamers navigating the river and shooting the rapids that ac cidents are of very rare occurrence. On reaching Montreal I jumped into a cab, ho iing to catch another steamer, lying at a distant wharf, about to start for Quebec. I was just in time. It was growing dark when we got under weigh, and, consequently, I obtained but a very imperfect idea of the scenery on the St. Lawrence between Montreal and Quebec. It was quite dark when we reached the point where the river widens into a lake called St. Peter’s shallow on all sides except in the channel, which has been ( excavated for steamers and coasting ves sels. When the wind is strong a nasty cross sea is raised on the shallow waters, and the lake is dreaded by lumber men as the scene of many a disaster to their cumbrous rafts.

I had engaged a cabin for the night, but I might have spared myself the trouble and my pocket the extra expense, for sleep was out of the question. At short intervals the steamer stopped at places on the river to land or take in ergo. The rattle of the steam winches and the shouts and songs of the lumpers created a din sufficient to keep anybody awake, if not to awaken the seven sleepers themselves. At early dawn I was up on deck. As we neared th'e city the banks of the river became higher and more abrupt. Villages and hamlets came more frequently into view. In most cases the houses are painted white, the roofs being constructed of some material of a bright red color—this gives a pleasing and picturesque appearance to the settle ments seen against the background of bright green foliage. Tin-covered spires of churches, rising above the level, add a peculiar feature to the scene. As wo ad vanced the river became more lively. Numerous rafts of timber were being towed to their destinations by small steamers. Not un f requently several rafts were linked together, forming as it were quite an island of floating logs. On the cen re of each raft a tent or shed was erected for the shelter and accommodation of the lumber men ; and various gay flags and streamers fluttered from the tops of the poles. Occasionally the voices of the hardy sons of the forest wore borne towards us on the morning breeze, and we caught the refrain of some wild song, re minding ua of— ‘ ‘ Row brothers, row, the stream runs fast,

The rapids are near, and the daylight past. ” We touched first at Point Levi to land some passengers, and then crossed the river, and were soon alongside one of the wharves of the quaint old city of Quebec. Quebec has been called the Gibraltar of North America. The Indian village of Stadacona once occupied the site. The city consists of two parts, the upper and the lower. The former is fortified, and but few tourist! fail to visit the citadel on Gape Diamond. The lower town is built on the slips of land on the side of the c’iffs, and the suburbs extend along the river St. Charles—a branch of the St. Lawrence—to the Plains of Abraham, where stands the monument erected in memory of the gallant Wolfe. The ter race at the toot of the citadel affords a fine view, and is a favorite promenade. It would be tedious and take up too much space if I attempted to describe the wind ings, turnings, steep ascents and descents of the streets of this unique city. It has a character and history peculiar to itself. I shall best convey a general idea of Quebec to the minds of your readers by saying that it is a city whose principal portions crown the summit of a lofty capo, and are some what difficult of access ; and as the primi tive paths of the Indians who walked,

about Stadacona have now become, without much change or improvement in width or direction, the streets and thoroughfares of the city, it will at bnce be understood that the visitor may look in vain for the regularity, breadth, and beauty which he has been accustomed to find in other cities. It must not be supposed, how ever, that Quebec is destitute of hand some, imposing appearance. There are many such, both private and public structures. . I can only make particular mention of one—the Roman Catholic Cathedral. I single out this edifice, not on account of its architectural pre-eminence, but because of the interest attaching to some of its belongings. It is neither so ornate nor so grand as Notre Dame at Montreal, but it contains some fine paint ings, mostly originals, with one or two copies of the old masters. The Holy : Family, by Blanchard ; Our Saviour in sulted by the soldiers, by Fleurat ; The Birth of Christ, by Annibale Carracci ; The Flight into Egypt, by Yanloo ; After the Temptation, by Restorat; The Imma culate Conception, by Lebrun ; St Paul's Eostacy, by Carlo Marratta ; Miracles of St. Ann, by Plamindon ; On the Cross, by Vandyk ; The Pentecost, by Vignoni.; The Annunciation, by Restoret ; The In-' terment, after Huton ; and the Baptism of Jesus, by Claude Huy Halid. 'Round the lateral chapels of the Cathedral there is a series of smaller paintings represent ing various “stations” of the Saviour’s passion. Besides the paintings there are vestments, not only exceptionally,splen-,, did in fabric but of historic interest. 1 special request the sexton allowed mb to see them. I am afraid I am not sufii* ciently well up in “ Church Millinery” to describe these gorgeous robes artistically. There is a suit in silver and' gold material ' composed of 29 pieces. It was manufac tured at Lyons in 1850. Another Of purple, exceedingly rich, consisting of 26 separate pieces, from the same celebrated looms ; a black set of 20 pieces ; and yet another, the chef d’ceuvre, of cloth of gold, studded over with precious stones. ; This' last was the gift of Louis the XIV. to tha : Bishop' of the period, and is more than 200 years old. These splendid, what shall I call them, robes or rags? are kept under look and key, only used on special occa sions, and exhibited to strangers as a special favour. Within easy distance of Quebec there are several fine lakes abounding with fish. It is no uncommon thing at. Snow Lake dr Lake St. Joseph for the anglers to catch trout weighing from 121bs to 201bs.

I drove out to the Falls of Montmor-- ency. The body of water rolling over' the rocky brook which forms the locality of this cascade is vastly inferiur to Niagara, but the height of the fall is greater. Iu the winter season the spray freezes and forms cones of vary ing size and altitude, and ladies and gen tlemen, in want of amusement, bring hither their “ Toboggins,” and find grati fication iu sliding from the top to the. bottom of the icy incline with perilous; velocity. On my way to the falls I passed the Parish Church in which Father Chini quy officiated before he abjured the Roman Catholic fauh. His name will be familiar to many of your readers who re collect his visit to New Zealand. I found opinions very much divided in Canada on the question of the utility of Father Chiniquy’s labors, and the genuineness of his aims. I venture no opinion myself. I merely say that in Canada and the States, where he is best known, he is not univer sally admired, nor considered worthy of unlimited confidence.

Returning from Quebec to Montreal 1 took the opportunity of driving out to Mount Royal. The summit of the tower of Notre Dame afforded me a fine proa* pect, but when I tell you that on the top of Mount Royal I was four hundred and twenty-six feet higheV than when I stood on the tower, you may imagine the view I obtained. It was indeed a glorious pano rama. It would be vain to attempt a ver bal description. After this I bade farewell to Montreal, and resumed my journey. I crossed the stupendous bridge that spaas the St. Law rence—a marvel of engineering skill. This great structure rests on 23 piers of' solid masonry, and is nearly two miles long. Trains pass through an iron tube 22 feet in height and 16 feet in width. The bridge, with its approaches, cost 6,300,000 dollars. It was opened with great pomp and ceremony by the Prince of Wales daring his visit to America in the year 1860.

On arriving at Rouse Point—the divid ing line between Canada and the United States—my baggage was subject to exami nation by Custom-house officers. But they were very complaisant, and gave roe but little trouble. After a brief detention we started again and reached Platsburgh, on the borders of Lake Champlain, about 6.30 p. m. I found my way to .Wetherill House, a quiet comfortable hotel, and after a gooi supper v ry soon retired, and so for the present, good night. Viator.

SPORTING.

MANAWATU RACES [by telegraph. J Palmerston, To-day. At the Manawatu races yesterday 3,000 persona were present. The weather was favorable. The principal event was von by Dan, DEATH OP FISHHOOK. [by telegraph.] Reefton, To-day. In the race for the Inangahua Cup yesterday, the well-known horse Fishhook fell and broke his leg und had to be shot. Osborne, the rider, broke his arm and re ceived a sevare shaking. The races had to be postponed owing to the rain. A R C. SUMMER MEETING. The first day’s racing of the A.B.C.’s summer meeting, took place yesterday. Minerva won the Maiden Plate, Rubina being second, and Amazon third. Pisca torious appropriated the Free Handicap, Kenilworth second, and Kingask third. Canard finished first for the Hurdle Race, followed home by New Year and Clarence, in the order given. W jlcome Jack won the race of the day—the Auckland Oup— Tim Whiffler being second, and The Poet third, and the C.J.C. Handicap winner followed up his victory by placing the Railway Haudicap 4 to his owner's credit, for which Minerva was second and Pises torious third.

CONCERT.

The weather was so unpropitious last evening that it was scarcely expected that the concert given in the Town Hall In aid of the Orange Hall Building Fund would be largely attended. This expec tation, however, was fortunately not rea lised, as the building was well filled in every part; and, judging from the enthu siastic applause that greeted every item in the programme, the entertainment was thoroughly enjoyed. Miss Gates opened with a solo on the pianoforte, which was scarcely hoard to advantage, as the people had not taken their seats, and the shuffling of feet materially interfered with the en joyment of those who had arrived early. “ Where art thou, beam of light T' was given with precision and effect. The song, “ True till death,” was rendered by Mr Branson in a manner which . eyeked hearty applause, and Mr Minnie's secita* tion was also successful, although it was, perhaps, too long. Mrs Craighead’s; sing ing of “ Afton Water" created quite a furore , and the lady was forced to re spond to an encore, when she gave. *f Gin a body,” with enual success. A duet fol

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27, 1882.



OOIL COAL. COAL. We have now IN STOCK, ex Con ference, a large supply of the (>ld Lambton Coal. This is the BEST HOUSE COAL Imported. ■ 18n TUCKER, RESTELL & CO.



~VT OTICE TO BLACKSMITHS, SHEW US, AND OTHERS. Just 1»’ ded, ex Mary Campbell, from Greymouth, a'supply of the CELEBRATED Brunner Coal, The best, procurable for blacksmith and steam purposes. <aS7l TUCKER, RESTELL & CO.



John Meech, Burnett street, Ashburton, CABINETMAKER & UPHOLSTERER. The above advertiser begs to intimate to his numerous friends and customers that .as he has • • ' EXTENDED HIS PREMISES He is now in a position to execute all kinds of FURNITURE at prices to meet THE TIMES. ; Second-hand Furniture bought and ■old. First Prize awarded at the late A. and P. Show. - Showrooms —Next Bullock’s Arcade. Workshop—Next Mail )ffice.



vsss : J n V ? t IVtilner & Thompson A SHBCTRTON, > !i 'H. M; JONES, Agent. XytPE ORGANS. —Especially suitable 'Jp; for Churches. Far superior to any Reed .Organ hear the price for richness JKeed Organ near tne price tor ncnness iimd j purity ’of tone, volume of sound, and durability of construction. Price—£l2o. REED ORGANS.—By Smith and Co., Mason, and Hamlin, Wood and Co,, Esby end Op., New England Company, and Cloiigh and Warner, —from £l2 12s. \ Hi AN O S.—Brinsmead and Sons, Rjrpadwopd, Collard and Oollard, ErarJ, Ployel and others, Dresden Model, and Genpan and French manufacturers, whh 11 lilb#ifl#rovbmenta. HEFERRED PAYMENTS. Wholesale and Retail. 014



Wanted CHEESE FACTORY. "^WANTED—A MAN, with a thorough knowledge of rearing and feeding pigs, to look after about 200 or 300. Applica tions, stating wages required, to be sent in to the Secretary by noon of FRIDAY, 29th instant, from whom all further par ticulars may be obtained. S. E. POYNTZ, d 23 Secretary. WANTED to LET, for Three Months, the whole or part of 180 acres English GRASS and 180 acres TUSSOCK. Will be Let cheap. Apply A. Gibson, Hinds. 23 d



WANTED KNOWN—That A. ORR is selling Best Currents, 6d per lb; Splendid Tea, 2s and 2s 6d. Every article equally as cheap. dl9 ANTED KNOWN—That a BALL will be held in Mr Clark’s Grain Shed, Tinwald, on New Year’s night Tickets, 2s 6d. The proceeds will be given to the Tinwald School Treat Fund. Doors open at 8 p.ra. 23d \\T ANTED KNOWN—That Robert Elston, Burnett street, Ashbur ton, having procured the newest appara tus, is prepared te Sweep Chimneys at very low rales. Any orders left at the Town Hall will receive prompt attention. 760 c



ANTED KNOWN. That BONEDUST, specially prepared for drilling with carrots, mangolds, etc , can be obtained from the undersigned. F. MAYO, Hampstead Bone Mills. ANTED KNOWN—The Leicester Boot Warehouse, Burnett street, is the cheapest shop in Ashburton for Boots and Shoes. Ladies Boots from 6s 6d per pair ; Ladies’ Prunella, 7s 6d per pair; great variety of Infants’, lid per pair ; Men’s Balmorals, 12s 6d per pair ; Men’s Bluchers, 8s 6d ; Men’s Shoes, 10s 6d ; Boy’s strong nailed Laceups, 6s 6d. Repairs neatly executed. J. G. GREEN & 00. bibn oo y Burnett street. 20d



ANTED KNOWN—It is Mr Lan caster’s intention to extend his Bread Business, and he wishes his cus tomers to knew he has secured Mr Thomas Hicks to manage that branch. A Cart will be run with Broad alone, independent of the other Two Carts, which will con tinue to run as before. The name of Mr Hicks will be a sufficient guarantee that, under his management, Bread of unex ceptionable quality will be turned out of the FREETRADB BAKERY, East street —R. Lancaster, Proprietor. 240



Special Advertisements. O T I 0 E. Wo have now IN STOCK and for sale, ex vessels from Kaipara, a large assort ment of DRESSED AND UNDRESSED Kauri Timber, including sizes to suit all requirements of the Building Trade. WELL - SEASONED TIMBER for Joiners and Cabinetmakers. Also, from Foxton, ex Awaroa and Forest Queen, Totaral Black Pine, of the best quality to be obtained. 021 TUCKER, RESTELL & CO.



gAYE YOUR GRAIN AND PURCHASE Walter A. Wood’s TWINE REAPER AND BINDER, Which obtained the FIRST PRIZE and GOLD MEDAL against all comers at the TRIAL neld last season in Christ church, under the auspices of tha Janter bury A. and P. Association. This Machine combines Lightness of Draught, Simplicity of Construction, Ease op Management, Durability, and with Quantity and Quality op Work. Ealing, 21st December, —To Messrs Poyntz arm Co,—Gentlemen. —In an swer to your enquiry 1 might state that the Wood’s Twine Binder, works to my entire satisfaction,and may mention that during last season, I cut 154 acres of wheat during a strong wind with perfect ease, and produced good work. Tours truly, Henry Herne, manager for J. E. Ruddenkiau. Newlands, 22nd December, —Messrs Poyntz and Co., Ashburton.—l have this day completed cutting 25 acres of rye grass on my farm at Newlands, with a W. A. Wood’s Twine Binder, purchased from you last year, to my entire satisfaction. The crop is now lying on the ground, and speaks for itself. Anyone wishing to see the crop can do so on visiting my farm. Yours faithfully, Martin Griffin,



FOR SALE— Second-hand GRASS-STRIPPER. FOR SALE— Second-hand McCormick REAPERS and BINDERS. FOR SALE— Four-horse DR^Y. FOR SALE— A WAGONETTE, in capital order. FOR SALE— An Eight-horse-power ENGINE, by Clayton and Shuttleworth, in good order. FOR SALE COMBINE, by Marshall. ON SALE BINDER TWINE, WIRE, and OIL, at current rates. Poyntz & Co., AGENTS.



Special Advertisements. fJiRY THE NEW ZEALAND Clothing Factory For every article of MEN’S, YOUTHS’ AND BOYS’ CLOTHING, SHIPPING AND TRAVELLING OUTFITS ; Also for CHOICE NEW GOODS In hats, hosiery, shirts, ties, PORTMANTEAUX, RUGS, BLANKETS, &o. HIGHEST AWARD AND SPECIAL HONORARY MENTION At DUNEDIN INDUSTRIAL EXHI BITION ; Also, TWO PRIZE MEDALS AND SPECIAL CERTIFICATE Awarded at CHRISTCHURCH EXHIBITION.



Seventeen Retail Branches now open in the Colony. A SINGLE ARTICLE AT THE WHOLESALE PRICE. Ashburton Branch: EAST STREET. W. SPARROW, Manager. s!9 CLAUS IS COMING. JSL M. Jones’ COMPLIMENTS TO ALL; And desires to call special attention to the following items, which have been carefully selected for the coming Festive Season : BOOKS ! BOOKS !! REWARD, PRESENTATION, and PRIZE BOOKS, NEW VOLUMES— Boys’ Own Annual Girls’ Own Annual Chatterbox Child's Companion Infanta’ Magazine, &c., &o. POETS— VARIOUS Authors; Sir Walter Scott’s Works, now edition, complete. TOYS ! TOYS !! TOYS !! ! GREAT VARIETY—in Wood, Tin, China, and Indiarubber.



DOLLS ! DOLLS !! DOLLS !! ! ALL SIZ S—From one inch to two feet—in Wood, Rag, China, Composition, etc. FANCY GOODS ! FANCY GOODS ! A NICE SELECTION of the above, suitable for Christmas Presents and New Year Gifts. ALL the above Goods are offered at the LOWEST Possible Prices for CASH. A LUBE UAL DISCOUNT allowed to schools on parcels of Toys, Books, etc. PIANOS. ORGANS, BRASS, and STRINGED INSTRUMENTS ON DEFERRED PAYMENTS. H M JONES BURNETT ST. & BARING SQUARE. 13d



NOTICE TO THE INHABITANTS OF ASH BURTON AND SURROUNDING DISTRICTS. G. R. West and Co., MUSIC AND PIANOFORTE WAREHOUSEMEN, Princes street, Dunedin, Hava great pleasure in announcing that it is their intention to cater for the Music loving population of Ashburton in such a manier as has never before been at tempted. Messrs G. R. West & Co. are the Largest Direct Importers of PIANOS, ORGANS, HARMONIUMS, BRASS, WIND, AND STRINGED INSTRUMENTS In the Colony, and a large and varied stock of the above can always be found. Mr G. R. West, being at present in England, is shipping direct to Dunedin all the latest novelties in MUSIC ! MUSIC ! ! MUSIC !! ! And the firm respectfully solicit a call from their friends, teachers, and the public in general to inspect their magnifi cent stock of Music, personally selected. d!4



SAMUEL SON’S PRIZE SHEAF TWINE BINDER & HARVESTER THE NEW ZEALAND GRAIN AGENCY AND MERCANTILE COM PANY, LIMITED, Have landing, ex Marlborough, their first shipment of the bamuelson PRIZE TWINE BINDER AND HARVESTER. The Machines, which are now being fast sold, have many material improve ments on the one exhibited by Messrs Samuekon last season. Among others we may mention especially the NEW AND STRONG MAIN GEAR FRAME CHAIN LIFTING GEAR ON TRA VELLING WHEEL RAISING AND LOWERING GEAR FOR GRAIN WHEEL PATENT OILING ARRANGE MENTS FOR DRIVING-WHEEL IMPROVED SHIFTING REEL. These, combined with the lightness of draught, lowness of cut, simplicity of con struction, and strength of material, render the machine the most complete offered this season. The Binder is simple and easy to oper ate and automatic, making sheaves regular in size and with perfect separation and good shape, with secure knot. Messrs Samuelson, in perfecting this machine, have avoided complication, and have carefully studied extreme simplicity and facility of adjustm nt. An expert from Messrs Samuelson’a Factory is now on the way out. and will arrive in New Zealand early in December, so as r.o bo present to render his services during next harvest. Early application is necessary to avoid disappointment in securing a machine. G. G. STEAD, Managing Director. P, CUNNINGHAM, Consulting Director. W, HORNE, 12au Agent, Ashburton.



Special Advertisements. rnHE SCOTTISH IMPERIAL IN -1 SURANCE COMPANY. Head Office: 151, West Geerge street, Glasgow. Capital ... £1,000,000 FIRE RISKS taken at lowest current rates. Claims promptly settled here. W. R. BOYLE, n 7 Agent, Ashburton. [With an apology to Green’s Shade.] CHEAP BOOTS AND SHOES.—The BIG SHOP in East Street, Ash burto' 1 , has just been opened with an entirely NEW STO n K of English, Foreign," and Colonial-nude BOOTS and SHOES, which will be sold at my usual LOW PRICES, which have given such satisfaction in Tinwald and else where. —O. HAWKINS, “ Munutbi" Warehouse, Ashburton ; also at Tin wald. CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR C.ARDS —A Large and Splendid Assortment, comprising all the Newest Designs in Great Variety.— Andrbwes Bros., Book sellers, Stationers, etc., East street south, Ashburton d 6 The mutual fire * marine INSURANCE COMPANY OF NEW ZEALAND, We are prepared to accept RISKS on Threshing Michines and Growing Crops. HATE—2S per cent. LESS than any previous season. o2 TUCKER, RESTELL & CO.



Thomas Taylor, •jgAKER AND CONFECTIONER, East street. WE DOING CAKES To Order. Manufacturer of CIDER AND OTHER OORDTAT.S.



Road Board Election.— Mr Samuel McOliraont has been elected a member of the Mount Somers Road Board. Phrenology. —We are promised a visit shortly from Professor Leo Medo, a phre nologist who has met with considerable succsss in different parts of the colony. Rakaia. — We learn from our Rakaia correspondent that welcome rain was falling in the district this morning, and there was* every appearance of it con tinuing.