lowed-—“ The Cruiskeen Lawn”—by Misses Butler and McTeague, in which tbb voices blended remarkably well, and the audience insisted on the final verse hieing repeated. Master Donald Mcßae showed considerable agility in dancing the 1 * * Ghillie Galium. ” Mr Piischel was fairly successful in his rendering of ** Alice, where art thou,” but some of the notes in the upper register seemed to be rather forced. Molloy’a “ Thady CFElynn,” aa sung by Mrs R. J. Harrison, brought down the house, and on being recalled she favored the audience with a quaint and effective little ballad. The local hits in an original contribution, con taining some striking peculiarities in esetre and rhyme, by Mr J. MacLsan Bunn, were heartily appreciated. Thq first part of the concert was brought to a close by.Mr.J. Murray dancing thoSeaun ISceus in his well-known excellent style. Ip the second portion of the programme, Messrs Branson.and Piischel gave “ The Moon hath raised her lamp,” which was succeeded by the Glee Party singing (‘■Ever True.” The Highland Fling, danced by Mr J. W, Mcßae, was so well liksd by the audience that its repetition Wagtinsisted on. “ The Lost Chord,” was scarcely a happy choice on the part of Mr Ihomson, .but he tang it with such exqui site feelipg and taste that he received a decided encore. Mrs Craighead’s “ Come bacli.to Erin ” was one of the most success ful items of the evening, but Mr Piischel’s rendering of “My Queen ” showed that he has hardly sufhcient ability to justify his ambition in choosing so very difficult a song. .. Mr Cullen then gave an imita- negro minstrelsy, and the enter tainment was concluded by Mrs R. J. Harrison singing Eileen Allanah,” which was vociferously encored. Mrs and Miss Gates were the accom panists,. and Mr D. Campbell was the plppr. | The. concert was on the whole suc cessful, bilt the audience were sometimes over demonstrative in their expressions of approval This, however, may be excused oh account of the festive season of the ycar', and as the performers responded to the encores with perfect good will, there Is perhaps not much reason to complain. At the conclusion of the concert the hall Was cleared for dancing, which was kept np for several hours, a large number of persons being present. Mr J. Murray ably officiated as Master of the Cere monies.

ST. STEPHENS.

‘'’The decorations at this Church on Christmas daywere of an extremely pretty and tasteful character. The font was beautifully decorated with lilies and flowen of various hues, surmounted with toi-this. The pillars were twined with hrarhl wreaths interspersed with flowers. The lectern and pulpit were also nicely Over the communion table the text “ Unto us a child is born ; unto us a Son is given,” was worked in scarlet letters on a white scroll, and surmounted with a qross of lilies. Over the chancel arch the taxt, “Peace on earth, good will towards men,” was worked with laurel leaves. The ladies deserve great praise for the taste displayed and the way they exerted themselves in making the decorations. The service was conducted by the Rev. E. A. Scott.

CRICKET.

ASHBURTON BOROUGH 0.0. v. AN ELEVEN OP THE UNITED 0.0.0.

A match was played yesterday on the Usgley Pqrk ground between the above Elevens, and, as will be seen by the an nexed scares,, the Aehburtob men sus tained a crushing defeat. Andrews, Soaking, Crocker, and Marsh were the qiily members of the visiting team who managed to make , double figures. H. R. Matthias, with 48, made the highest score for the Christchurch men, and L. Mat thias and Harman also did good service. Subjoined are the scares : :1 • - ' Ashburton. Ist Innings. 2nd Innings. Crocker, run out ... 8 c Hannan, b r. ~, Cox ... 10 Robinson, b Cox ... o b 11. R. Mat .... , thias ... 8 G. Andrews, c Malet, b H.'H. Matthias... o c Harman, b Cox ... o Johnstone, c and b Cox 7 c Cox, bH. R. ; • Matthias ... o L. ’F. Andrews.'*' c Malet, b Arundell I© c H. H. Mat vl: y: ’■ thias, b Cox 6 Hosking, run out ... 13 c Malet, b Cox 15 Purchase, st Malet, b t , r .; Cox . 1 st Malet, b Cox o Amos, c Cox, b Arun rdell ... ...4 b H. R. Mat thias ... 5 March, c Arundell, b > .Cox , . .ob H. H. Mat " 1 thias, b Cox 12 C- R. Andrews, c H. ■ R. Matthias, b Cox 7 notout ... o Venables, not out ... 3 b Cox o Extras 4 Leg-bye ... r f . ' 57 57

United C.C.C.—ist Innings. ' H. H, Matthias, b Hosking ... 14. • J .! -E. Cox, sun out ... ... ... 8 H. R.'Matthias, Ibw, b Hosking 46 L. Matthias, b Hosking ... ... 2 R. Hannan, b Andrews ... ... 22 ; . Malet,, not out ... .. ... 26 ' • R, Mainwaring, b Johnstone ... 15 T. B. Arundell, b Johnstone ... 1 Watson, b Robertson ... ... o Harvey, b Robertson ... ...,, o -j- E. Donald, b Johnstone o Extras 10 ; 136 NELSON V. MARLBOROUGH. Nelson, To-day. The cricket match Marlborough v. Nel son was won easily by the latter on the first innings, in which they made 224 runs against Marlborough’s 64. The weather . wm wet, and it was blowing. VICTORIA v. NEW SOUTH WALES.

TELEGRAMS —COPYRIGHT.] i l iJ Melbourne, Deo. 23. The intercolonial cricket match between representative teams of Victoria and New South Wales commenced here to-day. The ■: weatherO rwaso very fine, and a capital wicket was pitched, the ground being in good order. The home team went in first, and were all disposed of for 148 runs. A t the close of the day’s play the Hew South Wales team had lost one wicket for 76 runs. Melbourne, Dec. 26.

The cricket* match between the Vic torian and New .South Wales E’cvens was resumed to-day, when the visitors, with one wicket down for 76 runs to their | credit, continued their first innings, which ■ dosed for a total of 247. The highest seorerai(were—A. Bannerman, 78; W. L. : Murdoch, 71; and Spofforth, 31. At the ..PioliiiMfoC the day’s play the home team, in ' 4<theui second innings, had scored 60 runs fi for-the joss pf one wicket.

EUROPEAN ITEMS.

t . lV4 ,' , • London, Dec. 27. , ‘/"-’T A-dissstroos fire, involving the destrue ns, tjon of a. large amount of valuable pro fthacty at Calcutta. jßliiaw ‘Lefevre Chief Commissioner Works and Buildings, has been Acting Postmaster-General, and f, ;wiu*Wutintte’'to discharge the duties of fcgftr office _ until Professor Fawcett is recovered to attend to the < 'imaSnetSß of hisdepartment, ffr. EMtejn-’ 'appearing in the English and t .orntmaidV press on the 1 position of Turkey have ; given great V T Offitnotr to 1 tfie J Sultan and his Ministers.

A strict has therefore 1 een established over the dispatches in the Special CorrespondentSofvariousEuropean newspapers. The Fenian Agitation in Dublin is again assuming alarming proportions. The low dram shops of the city are the constant resort of conspirators They have, there fore been strictly watched for some time, and recently carefully searched by the Dublin police. Nothing was found, how ever, to justify any arrests, nor were any concealed arms discovered.

A large number of persons have been rendered homeless, and in several cases ruined by the fire at Kingston. The Governor of Jamaica, Sir Anthony Mus grave, has suggested the formation of a fund for the relief of sufferers by the calamity, and there seems every proba bility of the matter being warmly taken lip throughout England.

CABLE NEWS

LATEST FROM EUROPE.

[reoter’s TELEGRAMS —CO I’YRIGHT. ] An Irish Member Prosecuted. London, Dec. 22. A prosecution has been instituted against Mr Biggar, M.P., in conse quence of a speech which he recently made vilifying Earl Spencer, Viceroy of Ireland. Anti-Austrian Agitation in Italy. Rome, Dec. 22. A popular demonstration occurred to-day in this city, arising out of the recent execution at Trieste of a man named Oberdank, who was arrested in September last with Orsini bombs in his possession, and found to be impli cated in a plot (said to be of Italian origin) against the life of the Emperor of Austria. The demonstration was of a strong anti-Austrian character, and culminated in attacks upon several Austrian residents. Similar disturb ances have also occurred at Milan and Trieste, where an anti-Austrian feeling was warmly manifested. Germany and Russia. Berlin, Dec. 22. The Nofth Gervtan Gazette publishes an article to-day in which it is affirmed that Prince Bismarck is the staunchest advocate of friendship between Ger many and Russia, and is in no way desirous of disturbing the relations be tween the two Empires. [Received Dec. 26, 1 a.m.] Dec. 23. The semi-official statement which appeared in the Nofth German Gazette regarding the pacific Russian policy of Prince Bismarck has had a reassuring effect throughout the Continent, and has greatly caimcd the Russo-German scare.

[Received Dec. 26, Professor Palmer’s Murderers. Cairo, Dec. 23. Two of the Bedouin Arabs who were participators in the murder of the late Professor Palmer in October last have been surrendered by the Governor of El Arish, and it is expected that all who were concerned in the murder of Professor Palmer and the British officers, Lieuts. Gill and his companions will be captured within a fortnight. Arab! Banished. [Received Dec. 27, 11.30 a.m ] Cairo, Dec 26. Arabi and the leading rebel officers were to-day publicly degraded and then started on their-journey to Ceylon, their place of exile. Reinstatement of Cetewayo. Capetown, Dec. 23. Sir Theophilus Shepstone, who crowned Cetewayo in 1873, h as been delegated by the British Government; to perform the approaching ceremony of his reinstatement. The authority which, since the Zulu war, has been held by John Dunn, will be superseded by that of King Aschead, of the Zulu tribes.

Ministerial Changes. • London, Dec. 25. * Sir Charles Dilke enters the Cabinet as President of the Local Government Board, to which position he has been appointed, vice Mr Dodson, who has accepted the post of Chancellor of the Duchy of I ancaster, resigned by the Right Hon. John Bright in August last.

Prosecution of an Irish Editor. The Irish newspaper United Ireland has been seized by order of the Execu tive, and a prosecution has been insti tuted against the editor for publishing articles of a seditious character. Sir Arthur Gordon. It has transpired that the Governor ship of Jamiaca has been offered to but has been declined by Sir Arthur Gor don.

[Received Dec. 27, 0.50 a.m.] Money and the Markets. London, Dec. 26. Consols are unchanged at New Zealand securities are firm at last quotation. The market rate of dis count has advanced and is no nr at 4 per cent. The bank rate is five. The total quantity of wheat afloat for Great Britain is 2,300,000 quarters, being a decrease of 3,000 quarters dur ing the week. Adelaide wheat, ex store, remains at 495, and New Zealand ditto at 43s 6d to 46s 6d 3 Adelaide flour, ex warehouse, 345. Australian tallow is unchanged at 42s for best beef and 44s 6d for best mutton.

Military Disturbance. A serious affray occurred last night at Canterbury, arising out of the ill-feel ing existing between the men of the and Dragoon Guards and the 6th Dragoons. Fully two hundred troops of these regiments took part in the disturbance, which lasted for some time. The fighting on both sides was severe, and many of the combatants suffered serious injuries.

Tonquin. Paris, Dec. 24. A French expedition to Tonquin will in the first place only consist of a detachment of 750 troops, but the force will, it is expected, be increased later.

AUSTRALIAN.

[REUTER'S TELEGRAMS—COPYRIGHT ] [Received Dec. 25, 12.40 a.m.] The Melbourne Musical Festival. Melbourne, Dec. 25. The Musical Festival was opened this afternoon by His Excellency the Marquis of Normanby. A large num ber of persons, including members of both Houses of Parliament, ‘ were pre sent.

[Received Dec. 27, 0.50 a.m.] Melbourne, Yesterday. The oratorio “ The Messiah ” was performed at the choral festival last night, and was a great success. The audience numbered fully 8,000 persons and the band and chorus 1,400. The Wool Clip. [Received Dec. 24, 11 a.m.] Adelaide, Dec. 23. The South Australian wool clip for

the present season is valued at Li,030,000, a decrease of Li 14,000 compared with last year.

TELEGRAMS.

[PER PRESS ASSOCIATION.] Serious Altercation. Auckland, To-day. During a fracas between two men at North Shore, one of the disputants, named Johnston, stabbed Scon Jar, the other, in the back with a pen-knii'e. The injury caused is serious, but is not con sidered mortal.

Fatal Boating Accident. On Sunday last Mr Wallis, J, P., was taking a, number of people home in a boat from the Wesleyan service at Raglan when the craft capsized. Miss Minnie Lavers, the daughter of an Auckland builder, and Miss Edith Wallis were drowned. Welcome Rain. Wellington, To-day. A much needed rai>> is now falling. Sir Julius.

Sir Julius Vogel arrived at one o’clock, and was met by Major Atkinson and seve ral leading citizens. There was no cere mony; ha will be entertained at luncheon to-morrow.

A Successful Divorce Case. In the divorce case, M‘Kay v. M‘Kay and Campbell, co-res; undent, a verdict was given for the petitioner for L2OO damages. The petitioner claimed LI ,000. Judge Richmond said it was the first case in New Zeeland where damages had been claimed in a divorce suit. A rule nisi re turnable in five months was granted for the dissolution of the marriage. A Popular Opera- There was an immense attendance at the Theatre Royal last night to witness the second representation of Tambour Major. Hundreds were unable to secure admission. Forester’s Fete. The Forester’s fete was well attended during the day, and wound up by a torch light procession at night. A Sudden Death. Christchurch, To-day. A stout, middle aged man, who arrived by the South train last night in a state of intoxication, and was taken to the police depot, • was found dead in the cell this morning. When taken to the depot ha gave the name cf Samuel Marshall, but it is doubtful whether this is his proper name. When visited in the cell at three a.m. he appeared all right, but when the constable; next; went in at six o’clock he was dead.

CALEDONIAN SPORTS.

Festerday morning broke cloudy and sombre, and many were the anxious glances directed skyward by intending holiday makers. About 2 o’clock the sun made-an effort to break through the heavy grey clouds but could not manage it and retired in disgust. Up till nearly three the day was making up its mind whether it .would be fine or not and it at length settled the question in the nega tive. Down came the rain, at first lightly and then in downright earnest, casting a “damper” literally and figuratively on the whole proceedings. At 3.30 it was raining in the fashion known as “ cats and dogs,” and all idea of continuing the sports had to be abandoned, and, like half drowned rats, , the public bad to return to their homes when little more than half the programme had been completed. About L 46 was taken at the gates during the day, the attendance being about the same as last year. Mr Orphin, of the Ashburton Hotel, had the publican’s booth, a big affair with a grand display of bottles and kegs. The tent was apparently well patronised while the weather held up, but when it commenced to rain the patrons largely increased in number, being apparently desirous of confining the wetting process to their interiors. Mr W. T. Davison, always to the fore on an occasion of this sort, had a big booth de voted to the sale of non-intoxicants, cakes, fruit, lollies, etc., etc., and was kept busily employed in ministering to the wants of numerous customers. The Ash burton brass band was on the ground, and played a number of capital selections at interval during the day. Everything passed off in first-rate stylo, not a single protest being lodged, and the only thing that marred the pleasure of the meeting was the weather. We must not omit to mention that ■Mr John Bland, the acting secretary (Mr Dun can being unavoidably absent) proved himself fully ciual to the duties he un dertook to perform, discharging them to the satisfaction of all., Mr C. Reid, a pro minent member of the Society, also assist ing in the secretary’s tent, his time being apparently fully occupied. Several other “Caledonians” helped in one way and another. The Rev. A. McLennan was on the ground, and was presented during the morning with a purse of sovereigns by the Gaelic speaking visitors present. The gift was intended to go towards defraying the cost of a horse and trap for the rev. gen tleman, who is in the habit of making long journeys in the discharge of his ministerial functions. The presentation was made by Mr J. W. Mcßae on behalf of those present, and Mr McLennan having very briefly responded the cere mony concluded with cheers from the “kilted men” and the tossing of “ bon nets” in the air. The following were the sports up to their abrupt stoppage by the rain :

Quoits. Ist prize, L2 ; 2nd, LI. R. Hepburn 1 J. Small 2 Open Handicap Hurdle Race, ,440yds, six hurdles (men). Ist prize, L2 ; 2nd, LI. h'rank Woods (scr) ... ... 1 J. Atkinson (15yds) ... ... 2

Several others ran. Atkinson foon assumed the lead, maintaining it for half the distance, when he was cellared by Woods, the scratch man, who landed a winner by about 10 yards, Atkinson second,' the rest coming in in very strag gling order. Time—lmin 6 4-sths sec. One Mile Handicap Walking Kace. Ist prize, L2 ; 2nd, LI. H. Lambert (50yds) 1

J. Lawry ... ... ... ... 3 J. Groves was the only other starter, although a dozen figured on the card. Groves was conceded ten yards, but before the conclusion of the first lap he retired, leaving the race to Lambert and Lawry. The former had by this time obtained a streng lead, Laury spurting, but in vain. In the last lap Lambert had slightly improved his lead, Lawry trying all he knew to got up to him. In fact, towards the finish Laury was almost running ; Lambert, however, was quite safe, and won with ease by about a dozen yards.

Pipe Music (pibrochs and marches). Ist prize, L 3 ; 2nd, LI. D. Campbell ' 1

A. McKay 2 100 Yards Flat Race (open). Ist prize, L2 ; 2nd, LI. Hulston ... 1 F. Woods ... ... ... ... 2 Three or four others ran. Owing to a dispute as to the start, this race was run twice, the first resulting in a dead heat, or nearly so, between Hulston and Woods. In the second race Hulston won by half a yard. Time—lOs^cs. Running High Jump (men). lst£l 10s ; 2nd, 15s. Johns (4ft 6in) ... 1 F. jßetts 2 Running high Jump (boys). Ist prize 10s ; 2nd, ss. • J. Jameson (4ft 3in) 1 Johns 2

Scotch lied (in Highland Costume). Ist piize, £3 ; 2nd, £L J. Murray 1 J. W. MMlio 2 Grand Hiudicap Flat ii.iC", of 200yds, 300yds, and 440. F. <■' (Is (<cr) 1 D. tly'aud (scr) ... 2 F. [>ytis (7;. ds) J Lechnor, Groves, and Paterson also lan. Woods cut rot the running and won hands down. Time—2ssecs. 300yds Heat.

F. Woods 1 F. Letts 2 R. Lechner 3 Wood appropriated this race by about 10 yards. Time—37secs. 440yds Heat. R. Lechner 1 F. Betts 2 F. Woods 3 This, the concluding heat, was run < ff

in pouring rain, Wo jds wearing his over coat. Had it not been that Woods wished to return to Christchurch by the express, this last heat would have been postponed. Tossing the Caber. Ist prize, L2: 2nd, LI. J Daley (2Gft Sin) ... ... 1 Morris (25ft 9m) ... ... ... 2 Noble (22ft 2m; ... ... ... 3 Standing High Jump. Ist prize, LI 10a; 2nd, 15s, Hulston (3ft Sin) ... 1 Atkinson (3ft 7in)... ... ... 2 Pipe Music, (Reels and Strathspey t). Ist prize, L 3 ; 2nd, LI. D. Campbell ... ... ... 1

A. McKay 2 Sword Dance, or Ghillie Callum. Ist prize, L 3 ; 2nd, LI. • J. W. Mcßae 1

Murray ... ... ... ... 2 Young Donald Mcßae also competed, and his style was considered by the judges

the best of any, but he unfortunately touched the swords in dancing and wa-> “ out of it.” He undoubtedly possesses a very pretty style, however, and with more practice will be a formidable opponent in these competitions. Pole Vaulting. Ist prize, L2 ; 2nd, 15s. This event was the last, and the compe titors got drenched while jumping. By

this time the visitors had sought all the shelter available, but the rain, instead of moderating, got worse, and so there was nothing for it but to go home.

To-Day’s Sports. The weather to-day was again very showery, and at one time it seemed as if the sports would have to be postponed. A start was made about two o’clock, how ever, the attendance being but small. Half-mile Handicap Flat Race (open). Ist prize, L2 ; 2nd, LI. J. Lawry (15yds) ... ... ... 1 J. M. O’Connor (scr) ’ 2 J. Groves (15yds)... ... ... 3 Church, Cochrane and Page also ran. O’Connor, the scratch man, ran well, and had soon obtained a good place. At half the distance Page and Cochrane went out. Lawry now held first place, and landed a winner by almost six yards. He fainted on breasting the tape, but was quickly up

again. Three-Legged Race, 200 yds. Ist prize, LI 10s ; 2nd, 15a. Betts and Sproy ... ... ... 1 Johns Brothers ... ... ... 2 Betts and Sprey made all the running and won with ease. Putting the Stone. Ist prize, L2 ; 2nd, LI. M. Brosnahan (37ft 7in) 1 J. Morris (34ft 4in) 2 Throwing the Hammer. Ist prize, L2 ; 2nd, LI. J. Daly (76ft 2in) 1 Roach (72ft) ... 2 Best Dressed Boy in Highland Costume (under 14 years). Ist prize, LI; 2nd, 10s. “ Wee ” Rhodie Mcßae ... ... 1

D. Mcßae ... ... ... ... 2 “ Wee Rhodie” was received with im mense applause, and his dancing was watched by a large crowd. In addition to the prize money the little fellow carried off Mr Malcolm Miller’s silver medal for the best Highland dancer under 16. As soon as the medal was attached to the winner’s sash ho gave another dance to the great delight of the spectators. Handicap Milo Flat Race (open). Ist prize, L 3; 2nd, LI 10s. J. Lawry ... 1 J. Groves ... ... ... ... 2 O’Connor won easily, but was not re cognised, as he had not paid his nomina tion fees. Tug of War. Football Club v. Volunteers and others. Mr J. W. Mcßae captained the football men, and piloted his men to victory. This was one of the best events of the day. Handicap Consolation Race, 200yds. Ist prize L2 ; 2nd, LI. R. Lechner... ... ... ... 1 J. Groves ... ... ... ... 2 Irish Jig. Ist prizj, L 3 ; 2nd, LI. Rich. Fizgerald ... 1 M. O’Laughlan ... 2 C. O’Conor... ... ... ... 3 A protest was entered by O’Laughlan against the winner breaking down and not keeping time.

RAKAIA SPORTS.

These annual sports were held yesterday on a vacant section of land close te the railway station. The weather was very threatening, in spite of which there was a tood attendance.

The first event on the card only brought out a field of three for the district hack race, and resulted in an easy win for Mr Black’s horse Lucifer. The other two were both distanced, one of the riders hiving been thrown, and there fore no second prize was awarded.

There were five entered for the next event, a trotting match, and after the first two miles had been covered, three tailed off, Mr Kerr’s Kate coming in first and Mr Hampton’s Dairymaid second. The 100 yds men’s open handicap race brought five contestants. J. Hockiecame in first, and Matthew Dickie second, after a splendid race. For the hoys’ race, under 16, Thomas Hood was first, Frank McAnaulty second, and E. Morton third.

The men’s mile handicap race was won hy A . Davis, with McKelvy second. Brashen won the first prize for putting the stone, with 32ft, D. Dickie coming next;

The men’s running high jump, Doi"nelly first, sft 4in ; Dent second. In consequence of the rain now coming on, the committee decided to postpone all events to another day, hut owing to a misunderstanding on the part of some a few more races were run. For the married women’s race three entered. This created much amusement, and was eventually won by Mrs Cole, with Mrs Glenston second.

For the quarter-mile open handicap Dougherty came in first, M. Dickie second, A. Cox third.

The prize for quoits was won by Lohl, Dutton being second. The single women’s race was well con tested and caused much laughter. Miss J. Collins came in first, just in front of Miss J. Brown.

The long jump for men was won by Dickie, with Donnelly second. For the short race for boys under twelve, Coffey was first, Sharpe second, and M’Ooy third;

At, this time the rain came down heavier than before, and everyone left the ground. The Committee met at Howell’s Hotel and paid some of the prizes to winners having a distance to go. It was decided that toys and money to the value of L# be run for by the children on Saturday afternoon next. It was also decided that the balance of money after paying expen

se.s should be placed to the credit of the sports committee the next year. The meeting then adjourned till 8 o’clock this 6'. euing, whan nil prizes will be paid. About L4O will be on hand, so that next year, if an early start ’» made, there is no doubt that very good sports will be ar-

ranged, and by that time a much better ground will be available, namely the Do main.

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27, 188:



Thk Cimaocunr. —lt is not neces sary (says a Melbourne satirist) to pre cisely identify the Minister of Education who visited, soine time ago, a country state school in Victoria. The head master after conversation, expressed his regret that, “ the curriculum was not higher.” “Then get it made higher,” said the good-natured Minister, “ there will bo a carpenter up next week at the other school.”



Cruelty to a Cat.— A correspondent write;* to us giving an account of the fol lowing atrocious act, which he st.tes took place not a hundred miles from Chertsey a few days ago. Re writes :—Ahoy of ten der years had taken a kitten as a present to a resident. On rc'ccipt of the animal, the man—to teach the child a lesson in hu manity, perhaps—with the assistance of a boy who was present, struck off the tail of the creature with a knife, and allowed the animal to crawl off in agony. Such conduct deserves punishment. Per haps the individual in question is not aware that there is a Society for the Pre vention of Cruelty to Animals. The fact, however, that his conduct is known may serve as a prick to his conscience, :f he has any. ”



Holloway’s Pills. —lnvalids distracted by indigestion and discouraged in their search for its remedy should make trial of this never failing medicine. A lady, long a martyr to dyspeptic tortures, writes that Holloway’s Pills made her feel as if a burden had been taken off her. Her spirits, formerly low, have greatly improved ; her capricious appetite has given place to healthy hunger ; her dull, sick headache has departed, and gradually so mar vellous a change has been effected, that she is altogether a new creature, and again fit for her duties. These Pills may be administered with safety to the most delicate. They never act harshly, nor do they ever induce weakness they rightly direct deranged, and control ex cessive action.



TOWN EDITION. [lssued at 5.35 p.ru.] New Advertisements, 'ANTED, at once—A Servant GIRL, aged 14 to 16. Apply Mrs Med dins, Moore street, near Koval Hotel. d 27 nj 7 ANTED to Purchase—A good Car w rier’s EXPRESS and HARNESS, apply W. E. Bond, Longbeacli Coach. d 27 W 'ANTED TENDERS—For CUT TING, STOCKING, and STACK ING 300 Acres Crop at Coldstream. Par ticulars can be obtained from Messrs Jameson and Roberts. Ashburton, or C. H. DOWDING, d 27 Coldstream. HRENOLOGT. PROFESSOR LIO MEDO, the Great American PHRENOLOGIST, will arrive in Ashburton shortly, and will deliver a course of LECTURES, showing the in fluence of Phrenology on the Brain and Character of the Human Race. d 27 rpEN SHILLINGS REWARD. LOST, in ASHBURTON—A folded MAP. Apply, Office of this Paper. 27d T7IOUND A PURSE, containing 1. Money ; owner can have same by paying expenses. Apply, Office of this paper. LENDERS WANTED—For CUT i TING, BINDING, STOCKING, and STACKING 300 Acres of Oats, and 400 Acres of Wheat at Dromore, for Peter Grant. Tenders to be sent to H. Brit ton, Camferon street, Ashburton, not later than MONDAY, January Ist, ISS3.



THE TENDER of Messrs Holmes and O’Sullivan and Stringfellow and Sons, are Accepted for Harvesting my Crop W. H. RULE, . Pendarres. mENDERS wanted for CUTTING, 1 STOCKING, CARTING, and STACKING 400 Acres of Crop, in the Hinds district. Tenders to be sent in to Messrs Potntz and Co., on or before FRIDAY, sth January, either for the whole or in blocks of 100 Acres each. Mount somers road board ELECTION. I hereby declare Mr Samuel McCli- MONT, being the only candidate nomi nated, to bo duly bLEOTED a Member of the Mount Somers Road Board, in the place of Mr Isaac Edward Taylor, re signed. W. R. BOYLE, Returning Officer - . Road Board Office, Mount Somers, 23rd Dec., 1882. d 27 T7IOR SALE—A Decring Twine !IN fij DER, in good working order, now cutting oats for me. Delivery will be given on Thursday or Friday. H. W. PARSONS, Seafisld. Dec. 20, 1882. d 26 O T 1 C E. If all ACCOUNTS due to me in the South Rakaia district be not paid to my Agent, Mr L. Oxley, Rakaia, before January 31st, 1883, the same will be sued for without further notice. D. GAZE, Southbridge. Dec. 23, 18S2. Land district oe canter bury. Notice is hereby givi-n, that a SALE BY AUCTION of the undermentioned GROWN LANDS will be held at the Town Hall, Ashburton, on TUESDAY, 16th January next, at 12 o’clock, viz. : 36 Sections Town of Ashburton 5 Ditto Town of Orari 10 Suburban allotments, Orari 4 Sections within Reserve 1650, on the north bank of the Rangitata 1 Section within Reserve 1371. in the same locality, containing 316 a 3r 33p Deferred payment sections North bank of Rangitata, finwald, South Rangitata, and Orari 3 Village settlement allotments, Orari. Plana may be seen at the Survey Offices, Christchurch and Timaru, and sale lists obtained at the principal Railway Stations, or by application at the Land Office, Christchurch, personally or by let ter. JOHN MARSHMAN, Commissioner of Crown Lands. Land Office, Christchurch, 13th December, 1882, d 27



J. T. Ford and Co. WAKANUI. TO CONTRACTORS. FARMERS, AND (/Ti I ERS. OLE AKIN G SALE OF CONTR AC T O R’S PLAN T. \/TESSRS J. T. FORD & CO., from ill instructions received from Mr John Black, contractor and fanner, Wakanui, will sell at HIS HOMESTEAD, I Adjoining the Wakanui Schoolhouse, ON THURSDAY, 28th DECEMBER, At II a.m., The whole of his well-selected Plant,



Consisting of — 28 First-class DRAUGHT MARES and GELDINGS 2 3-Horse DRAYS, with Frames 7 TIP-DRAYS I 8-Horse WAGON 1 SPRING TRAP 2 3-Furrow PLOUGHS, by Reid and Gray 1 2-Furrow PLOUGH, by Reid and Gray 4 Single-Furrow PLOUGHS 1 McSherry DRILL 1 CAMBRIDGE ROLLER 1 Bentall 2-HORSE POWER and CHAFF-CUTTER 1 Bentall CORN-CRUSHER 2 McCormick’s REAPERS and BINDERS 2 Harvester Kings REAPERS and BINDERS 1 Deering STRING REAPER and BINDER 1 Osborne WIRE REAPER and BINDER 1 Samuelson’s REAPER and BINDER



Also, A large quantity of Plough, Leading, and Shaft HARNESS, Portable Forge and Anvil, 12 Road Scoops, Iron Tank, and a quantity of other useful articles.



The Auctioneers beg to draw special at tention to this important sale on account of the Horses having all been carefully selected by Mr Black. Most of them are young, and are well known to be some of the beat workers in the district. The Implements have all been kept in first-class repair, and will compare favor ably with new. As it is Mr Black’s intention to retire from the contracting work, the whole of the Plant advertised will he sold. Full particulars at sale, or by enquiry to MESSRS J. T. FORD & CO., Christchurch ; Or, MESSRS FRIEDLANDER BROS., dlb Ashburton. Meetings. SOMERS ROAD DISTRICT TAKE NOTICE—The Mount Somers Road Board propose to CLOSE the ROAD running from the north-east corner of R.S. 31695 to the southernmost boun dary of R.S. 32249, near Messrs Gould and Cameron’s, Springfield, under Sec tion 4, Public Works Act, 1880. Plans of the above, showing the road to be ch sed (colored green), are open for in pection at the Road Board Office, Mount Somers. A PUBLIC MEETING of ratepayers will be held at the Road Board Office, Mount Somers, on January 2nd, 1883, to decide whether the above road shall be closed. A. E. PEACHE, 9d Chairman. Tenders.



npENDERS are invited for CUTTING, X BINDING, and STOCKING about one thousand acres of Crop at Lyndhurst, near Methven. Tenders for the whole or blocks of not lees than 200 acres to be sent in by December 31st, to L. & E. COSTER, Somerton, 21d South Eakaia. Tenders wanted for cutting about 500 (five hundred) acres Wheat and Oats, with string binders. Apply, LEE & CO., d 22 Sherwood. Tenders wanted for stocking, CARTING, and STACKING about 900 (nine hundred) acres Wheat and Oats. Apply, LEE & CO., d 22 Sherwood. WANTED KNOWN—That lam sel ling Venus Nailrod at 6a per lb.; Venus Twist, 5s 6d per lb.; Venus Navy Twist, 6s per lb.; Tricopherous, Is 3d per bottle. Enos’ Fruit Salt, 3s 3d per bottle. Also, Toys of every description, consisting of Dolls, Trumpets, Toy Drums, Tambourines, Wheelbarrows, Carts, Guns, etc., etc. F. Clark, EAST STREET. slB I F YOU WANT GOOD AND STRONG FURNITURE, GO TO DAVIS’S CHEAP FURNITURE AND BED DING MANUFACTORY, EAST STREET SOUTH. ASHBURTON. Sjl VERY article Sold at Christchurch A-i Prices and guaranteed best of material and workmanship. FUNERALS CHEAPLY & COMPLETELY FURNISHED



T. Bullock. FRIDAY, 29m DECEMBER. SALE OF Farming Plant, &c., IN THE RANG IT AT A DISTRICT. UNDER BILL OF SALE AND DISTRESS FuR RENT. MR T. BULLOCK has received in structions to sell by Public Auction, at the Homestead of the Farm formerly in the occupation of Mr A. J. Fountaine, on FRIDAY, 29ra DECEMBER, The whole of the FARMING PLANT, HORSES, &c. As follows— -5 Draught HORSES 1 Buggy » I 2 COWS 2 WOOD’S REAPERS and BINDERS Roller, Grubber, Ploughs, Harrows, Eamass, and other Farm Imple ments. Also, HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE. Sale at 1 o’clock prompt. 123 T. BULLOCK, Auctioneer.



Matson. Cox, and Co. TINWALD SALE YARDS. TUESDAY, JANUARY 9th, 1882. special Gentry. Messrs Matson, cox & co. have received instructions from Mr D. Oliver, Esq., Westerfield, to Sell A Splendid line of STORE MERINO EWES & WETHERS I AHA 2 and 4 Tooth Merino I,UUU ewes IAAA 2 and 4 Tooth Merino ,1/1/1/ WETHERS MATSON, COX & CO., d 23 Ashburton.



Matson, cox & co. have for sale upon reasonable terms, the follow ing Properties, besides others too numer ous to particularise : Ashburton, just outside the Belt, well watered, fenced, and in grass Ashburton, just outside the Belt, well watered, fenced, and in grass Alford Forest, improved ... Alford Forest, unimproved Chertsey, improved, plenty water Chertsey, improved, plenty water, large portion in crop Dromore, improved, plenty water Dromore, improved, plenty water Acres 13 water plenty Geraldine, improved, water Geraldine, improved Eakahu, improved... Kirwee, improved Mayfield, improved Shepherd’s Bush, unimproved Seafield, improved... Seafield, improved Prebbleton, improved Timaru, improved Tinwald, improved Wakanui, improved Wakanui, improved Wakanui, improved Waikari, improved Waterton, improved Waterton, improved Rangitata, improved Wakanui, improved Temuka, improved Rangitata, fenced Yivetta, unimproved Wakanui road, thoroughly proved Hinds, improved



Wesierfield Mill ; Shop and Dwelling in Chertsey ; Sections in Ashburton, Hinds, Chertsey, Waterton, Papanui, Rakaia, Prebbleton, etc.; Improved sec tions in Ashburton and Tinwald. Terras easy. 9d MATSON, COX & CO. Barristers, Solicitors, &c. C; W. Purnell, B ARRISTER AND EAST STREET. SOLICITOR, 45e Business Notices. "VTOTICE OF REMOVAL.— Hayes & J_V Co., Ready Money Drapers,' have REMOVED to Bullock’s ARCADE. au!2 c HRISTMAS PRESENTS. JUST OPENED UP, A Large and Choice Selection of FANCY GOODS TOYS PRIZE BOOKS. Ac., &c., Ac. Andrewes Bros., BOOKSELLERS. STATIONERS, Ac. East street soura, Ashburton. n!5 Andrew Orr XXTOULD cal the attention of the T V Public to the g r eat advantage of Purchasing their GROCERIES CROCKERY and GLASSWARE At his Establishment, Fowler’s Buildings, Tanqred street. Teas, from la 9d upwards New Currants, 6d per lb Valencia l-iaisiua Sultana Raisins Best White Sugar, 4id Coffee, lo se or in tins, best quality. It is useless to quote pi ices as every article will be Sold at the LOWEST POSSIBLE PRICE. Families waited on for Orders Weekly, and Goods Delivered in every part of the town. ANDREW ORR. Drapery and Clothing Establishment, East street. 23d Thermal springs district.— Pamphlet containing information relative to the Sale of the Rotorua Town ship ON SALE at the Office of this Paper



Business Notices. RONMON G E R Y. Ironmongery. We have lately ADDED TO OUR STOCKS LARGE QUANTITIES OF English and American HARDWARE,



Ex Rangitikei Ex Lutterworth Rakaia Thorne Coryphiu Pleiades Wairoa Waimate Hurunui Lurline Horsa City of Bombay T . FROM LONDON. Ex Amy Maine, FROM LIVERPOOL. Silver Lining, FROM NEW YORE, And to arrive, Triton, FROM LONDON ; and Rio FROM NEW YORK. The following are b mo of the lihes lately imported, which we are selling at LOWEST POSSIBLE PRICES— BINDING WIRE. “ WHITE CROSS SOFT STEEL, Acknowledged to be the BEST MANUFACTURED.



Binding Twine, Manilla Staming Twine, 5 ply Reaper and Binder Fittings, reduced prices '' ' Hornsby’s Plough Shares, Circle brand Corn Sacks, best quality, 4 bushels REAPERS & BINDERS/ OF ALL KINDS SUPPLIED AX CURRENT RATES. Galvanised Iron, 5 to 10 feet Sheet Lead, to slbs Sheet Zinc, plain and perforated Fencing Wire, 2 and 4 barb ~ ~ plain, Nos. 8,9, and 10 Fencing Staples, I£, ? Little’s Sheep Dip SPERM, OLIYS, LARD, CASTOR, and COLZA OILS, Neatsfoot Oil, for harness Oils, Paints, Colors, and Varnishes, great Variety Wire Nails, 1 to Gin Eubank’s Nails, 2 to 7in Wire Netting, £ to 2in mesh



BICYCLES, ON DEFERRED PAYMENTS. Bar and Sh et Iron Files and Rasps, all kinds Horse Nails, 7 to 14 Bolts and Nuts, all si?es Ranges, Colonial and English Grates, ground fronts and common Lamps, in great variety, from 2s 6d to 60s Lawn Mowers—“ The Easy ” Manilla Rope, 1 to Sin Plough Line, superior quality Milk Pans, Churns, and Buckets Baths and Sponges, of all kinds Fenders, fiom 5s to L 5 Fire Irons, from 5s to 50s Guns, from 25s to L3O NEW HAMMERLESS GUNS. Revolvers, Powder, Shot, Caps, etc. Carpenters’ Tools, a fine assortment of new goods BUILDERS’ IRONMONGERY “OF EVERY DESCRIPTION T Pumps and Piping ./ FURNISHING IRONMONGERY Table Cutlery an 1 Plated Goods, sups* rior quality Portable Boilers Portable Forges Scales and Weights Weighing Machines Holloware, tin, tinned, and enamelled PRESERVING PANS, Copper and Enamelled Washing Machines, Wringers, and Mangles » PRIZE FILTERS Gent’s Tool Chests, 56 tools Gorse Knives, Slashers, and Trimming Hooka Scythes and Handles Grindstones and Fittings Hay Forks and Bakes Garden Tools, all kinds Sewing Machines, Standard and Wheeler and Wilson Leather Belting GROCERIES AND PROVISIONS. We hold largo stocks of Superior Goods, and as quality is the test of value, we do not quote prices, but we will not be undersold by any respectable house. TEA. We import this brand Oku & Co., DIRECT FROM CHINA, And guarantee it for Purity Strength, and flavor. Orr and Co., Importers of ENGLISH AND AMERICAN HARDWARE, East and Tanored streets, Ashburton, 1 S H't Agents for ■ .x.'t The Australian - Mekcantiih UjtifON Insdsanor Covranv, i'l« <322