SHIPPING.

PORT OP LYTTELTON. Arrived. To-day. Botomahana, s.s., from Wellington. Hawea, s.s., from Port Ob aimers. SHIPPING TELEGRAMS. Auckland, Yesterday. The Wanaka left this afternoon with the Southern ’Frisco mails. Wellington, Yesterday. Arrived—Penguin, from the South ; Beautiful Star, from Westport. Sailed —Penguin for Picton and Nel son ; Tui, for Kaikoura and Lyttelton ; Grafton, for Nelson and the West Coast. Timaru, Yesterday. Sailed—Edith Reid, for Stewart's Is land. Dunedin, Yesterday, Arrived—Merksworth and Southern Cross, from Westport; Durisdeer (for merly City of Lahore), from London ; Lohengrin, barque, from Liverpool.

DAILY MEMORANDA.

AUCTION SALES Thursday, July 29. B. Davies and Co.—Monthly Sale, at Methven. Saturday, July 29. Mr T. Bullock, at the Bazaar—Horses ; 1.30 p.m. Mr Alfred Harrison, at his yards— Horses, Pig 3, Produce, &c.; 12 noon. Tuesday, August 1. Matson, Cox and Co., at the Tinwald Yards—Stock. MEETINGS, AMUSEMENTS, &c To-Night, Tuesday, July 25. Meeting to consider the Railway Tariff — Town Hill, 8 p.m. To-morrow, Wednesday, July 26. Concert and Entertainment, in aid of the Library Fund—Town Hall, 8 p.m. Thursday, July 27. Ashburton Racing Club —Annual General Meeting, Quill’s Hotel, 8 p.m. Tuesday, August 1. »shburton Permanent Building and In vestment Society, Monthly Meeting, from 6.30 to 8.30 p.m. Wednesday, August 2. Ccunty Council, at the County Council Chambers, at 11 o'clock.

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Veritas, et Prevalebit. TUESDAY, JULY 25, 1882.

TOWN EDITION. j [lssued at 4.20 p.m. i

The Library Funds. — Mr George Gould, we learn, has promised the Com mittee a subscription of ten guineas to wards the new building fund,

A Rare Chance. —lt will be seen on reference to our advertisements that there is a vacancy in a bachelor establishment for one. A player of poker and the piano will be preferred. This sounds like a happy home, although the refer ence to “ poker ” is suspicious. Canterbury Saleyards Company.— We hear that the shares in newly formed company are going off rapidly, as we expected, applications having been re ceived from Christchurch and other out side places. The greater portion of the shares have been sold. Library Concert and Entertainment. —To-morrow evening the first entertain ment in aid of the building fund of the new Library takes place at the Town Hall. A very excellent programme has been arranged, which appears elsewhere, to conclude with the performance of a farce entitled “ Betsy Baker,” by local amateurs, who have kindly proffered their assistance. The temporary reading room in the hall will be closed during the enter tainments.

A Nondescript. —There is just now on view at the premises recently vacated by Mr Doyle, in Havelock street, handy to the Courthouse, a curiosity in the shape of a double-bodied double-headed calf, the two bodies being united in a way similar to the manner in which the Siam ese twins were held together. The calf (or calves), however, rather have the pull over the Siamese people, inasmuch as they possess an eye the size of a bullock’s on their back, which is doubtless an ex ceedingly useful place to be able to see from. The admission to gaze upon this freak of nature is only sixpence, and those interested in such things are ad vised to go and have a peep at the animal under notice.

The Exhibition- —The sale of the Ex hibition builds commenced yesterday, and realised a sum of L 2,110. The sale was continued to-day, when fairly satisfactory figures were obtained. While upon the subject of the Exhibition, we may state that Mr Thomas Quill has received the following letter from M. Jonbert:—'‘New Zealand International Exhibition, Christ church, July 24th, 1882. Thos. Quill, Esq.—My dear Sir, —Prior to leaving Christchurch, and now that the New Zea land International Exhibition is closed, and we are both about leaving to return to our respective homes, I wish to express to you my thanks for the way yon have managed the catering and bar business of this large undertaking. Your venture, like “ours” was a bold one—and you paid a high price for the privileges you bought. I hope and trust the venture has paid you. This you may safely reckon, at all events, namely, having given entire satisfaction to a large number, if not all, who have visited the Exhibition. Wish ing you every prosperity.—l remain, My Dear Quill, yours truly, Jules Joubert.”

Wesleyan. —The public meeting in connection with the Wesleyan Christim Temperance Society held m the church last evening, was very well attended, and the proceedings throughout of a moat interesting character. The Rev. C. 11. Standage occupied the chair, and after a brief reference to‘the programme, called on Mr Thos. Williams to address the meeting. Mr Williams, who is warm advocate for total abstinence, gave a capital speech on the advantages possessed by this Society over other temperance societies not based on Christian principles. Mr Robert Alcorn then spoke on the necessity of forming a Band of Hope in connection with the Society ; and after Mr Alison had spoken in similar strains, the latter gentleman proposed that a Band of Hope should be started, to be incorporated with this Socisty. This was seconded and carried unanimously. Mr J. E. Buchanan followed with one of his laughter-provoking speeches, in the course of which, however, wore some instructive remarks bearing on the subject of total abstinence. Mr T. Williams then brought forward his motion, notice of which had been given at a previous meeting, to the effect that this Society recommend the officials of the Ashburton Wesleyan Church to procure in future unfermented wine for use at the Communion Service. The speaker brought forward some forcible reasons why the action suggested should be taken ; and Mr Alison second ing the motion, it was carried. During the evening the choir, under Mr Ray’s leadership, rendered several of Sankey’s hymns, Miss Murray presiding at the harmonium.

Colonial Defences. —The Government have received a reply from Colonel Scratchley to their request that he should visit New Zealand and report further on the defences of the colony. Colonel Scratchley regrets that he is unable to come earlier than September, which of course would be too late for any vote to be taken this year. He has, however, pro mised to write as fully as possible, review ing his former proposals and revising the estimates of the cost, which he prepared in 1880. It is also the intention of the Government to select at once a small number of the Armed Constabulary force, who already have some knowledge of ar tillery work for special training in ar tillery knowledge, especially in the management of heavy ordnance, so that when our big guns are mounted they might act as instructors to the force, whether volunteers or paid men be de tached to work them. The Wellington correspondent of the Press rolegraphing on the same subjects, says:—Colonel -'cratch ley intimates, however, th it his general views as to defensive inea urea remain practically unaltered. Come modification in regard to position of batteries may be made, but, in the main, he is disposed to adhere to hu former opinion. He still advocates spar torpedoes in preference to other kinds, and advises the Government to procure a supply at once from Home, as also one torpedo launch for each port to serve as a pattern, which can after wards be multiplied as needed. It is the in tention of the Government to act on this suggestion without delay, and directly the boats aro received to have others con structed in each port as occasion may re quire.

Melancholy Suicide.— From Auckland we learn that Captain Johnston com mitted suicide at Raglan on Thursday, by shooting himself through the heart. II o had been in a low state of mind since the death of a favorite daughter two months ago. He wrote an obituary notice for the Star before committing the rash act. Another account to hand of the melan choly occurrence states that for some years past Captain Johnston has not been on good terms with a Justice of the Peace for the district of Wallace, who also acts as Coroner, and in his statement the de ceased says no doubt that gentleman will be glad to have an opportunity of sitting on his body. The following obituary notice was written by the deceased prior to his death and forwarded under cover to the Press :—“ News has come to hand of the death on the 20th July, suddenly, at To Haurota, of Captain John Campbell Johnston, formerly commandant of the 20th Regiment Punjaub Infantry. Fie was the second officer in the Royal army appointed to the command of a regiment while yet a lieutenant. He left instruc tions that his body might, if possible, be burned, and that his family would not go into mourning.—Te Haurota, 20th July, 1882.” The deceased loaves a family of eight or nine sons and one daughter. His wife is the daughter of Major Speedy, of Abyssinian fame. The deceased owned 2,000 acres of land of poor quality at Raglan, and was known for years as a rather eccentric person, having sustained sunstroke in India many years ago. It ap peals, on the day before his death, he received a summons to appear as defend ant in an assault case, the prosecutor being Charles Sutton.

The Rilway 1 abler Meeting. —The meeting to consider the railway tariff, and also Mr Wright’s letter re the Ashburton traffic bridge, takes place this evening at 8 o’clock, in the Town Hall. accident at Rakaia. —Yesterday a man named Dennis Murphy, employed by Mr Sprott, at Rakaia, fell off a dray he was loading with straw, and sustained a severe sprain of the left leg. He was removed to the hospital. The ’Frisco Mail. —The Wanaka, with the Southern portion of the ’Frisco mail, is expected at Wellington on Wednesday morning, when the Penguin will be wait ing to bring on the mail bags to Lyttel ton.

The Camaru Tragedy. —Alex. Beattie was yesterday committed for trial on the charge of murdering Sarah Adams at Oamaru. The prisoner will he tried at the next Supreme Court sessions at Dunedin.

Sale oe Immigration Cottages. Messrs R. Wilkin and Co. to-day sold, at the offices of Messrs Jameson and Roberts, soveial immigration cottages, the property of the Borough Council. There was a large attendance, and the bidding was very spirited, indeed the auctioneer said that he could have sold three times the number of cottages had he had them to dispose of. The sale resulted thus;—No. I cottage, LI3; No. 2, L 10; No. 3, Ltl; No. 4, Lll 10s; No. 5, 1 13.

Shepherd the Levanter. James Martin Shepherd, the levanter, after leaving Auckland by the outward mail steamer for ’Frisco, remained in Hono lulu for one or two trips, and then pro ceeded to San Francisco. According to his own account he lodged at the Palace Hotel, where he was constantly drunk for five weeks. How he got on board the mail steamer here he does not exactly know, but he states he intended to sur render on his arrival, and further alleges he wished to do so to save another man, who was supposed to be implicated in the transaction, but who is innocent. All the prisoner’s luggage is labelled for Christ church, and that fact in some measure bears out his statement. Shepherd was brought up at the Christchurch Police Court, charged with forging and uttering, and remanded to Timaru.

Political Gossip. Says the Press’ special at Wellington, wiring yesterday:— The answers of the local governing bodies to the Treasurer’s circular were laid on the table to-night. They fill no less than 130 columns of closely printed matter of small print, giving the views of over 200 different bodies. I need hardly say there fore that anything like a precis of their general purport is utterly impracticable, and as regards their main effect it has been pretty accurately conveyed by my former telegram on the subject. On the question asked as to the election of chair men of local bodies, however, there is almost an absolute unanimity in favour of the existing system and against the pro posal to elect as mayors are, only seven out of 200 odd having approved the sug gested change. There is also, as I re marked in a former telegram, a remark able consensus of opinion iti favor of ad ditional financial assistance being afforded by the colony to local bodies. The only report of a Select Committee to-day is that of the joint sub committee of both Houses to the effect that the following re solution was passed at the meeting on Saturday: —“ That the following be the sub-committee of the lawn-tennis ground, three to form a quorum: The tlon. G. R. Johnston, Hon. W. B. D. Mantell, Mr Dargaville, Mr Beetham, and Mr J. Wilson.” I quote this important resolu tion to show the valuable public business on which hon. members expend their energies, and to which they devote their powerful intellects in the interest of the country in general and of their constitu ents in particular. It is perhaps not sur prising that Parliament has now entered the third month of its session without doing anything worth speaking of. The revised order paper for this evening shows that the number of Bills in various stages has now increased to 91. The list of peti tions has grown to 320, and the papers presented to 131.

THE WAR IN EGYPT.

[by cable. [SPECIAL TO “ THE AGE.”] London, July 22, 5.23 p.m. The French contingent consists of 40,000 troops. Earl Granville has urged M. Freycinot, Minister of War, to hasten their despatch. Arab! Pasha’s strength is said to be 12,000. A Stamboul mailer has been embargoed at Alexandria, having been suspected of carrying letters to Arabi. July 24. Arabi Pasha is now menacing Abourki.. That he intends to destroy Cairo is not considered certain. The following additional appointments ave announced in connection with the despatch of the British army to Egypt : In command of the First Division of the Line, Major-General F. A. Willis ; Second Division, Major-General Sir E. B. Hamley; Cavalry, Lieut.-Colonel A. S. H. Lowe ; Artillery, Lieut.-Colonel W. H. Goudenough ; Engineers, Colonel 0. B. P. Nugent. The Infantry now under orders for Egypt will sail on the 4‘h of August and the Cavalry on the 9th. Alexandria, July 23. One thousand one hundred British troops arrived here to-day from Malta. [special to “the argus.”] London, July 22. Arabi Pasha denounces the Khedive as being in league with foreigners against the country and religion. Arabi Pasha is stiongly entrenched at Kafradowar, seventeen miles from Alex andria, and has taken up a position be tween two lakes, which can only be ap proached by means of a causeway de fended by earthwork. He has advanced his outposts to within eight miles of Alex andria. Skirmishes have taken place be tween his troops and the advance guards of the British. The Europeans remaining in the coun try are in most dire peril, and throughout the interior are hunted down and mur dered. Thirty-six were massacred in Arabi’s presence. The horrible details of the outrages have in England excited a great outcry. The Government are blamed for insufficient preparation. The vote of credit asked is considered to bo altogether inadequate. Arabi convoked the Assembly of Notables, and compelled the Chamber to issue a decree declaring the deposition of the Khedive.

Port Said i« crowded with fugitives who fled from Alexandria, Cairo, and the in terior.

An attack upon the European town is greatly feared, and precautionary mea sures are being taken.

A CONVICT OUTBREAK.

[by telegraph.] Auckland, To-day. The captain of the schooner Tele grapher, which arrived from Noumea to day, reports an outbreak amongst th convicts, who attempted to escape with a view of seir/ng one of the vessels in th harbor. Several were shot down by the military, and the outbreak was quelled The authorities succeeded in keeping the matter out of the New Caledonian news paper, and to-day spoke hopefully of the Melanesian mission.

BOROUGH COUNCIL

The ordinary fortnightly meeting of the above was held last evening. Present — His Worship the Mayor, and Councillors Roberts, Bird, Friedlander, St. Hill, Harrison, Parkin, and Orr. mayor’s statement. The Mayor reported the debit balance at the bank to be L 866 IGs 7d. Amounts received since last meeting : excise licen ses, 5s ; earth sold, L2 12s ; rates, L 44 sa. His Worship also reported that since last meeting he had effected an exchange of safes with the Upper Ashburton Road Board, the Board taking the Council’s safe at its full value, and the balance due in cash. The safe secured was large enough to hold all the Council’s papers, books, and valuables for some years to come. correspondenc e. Correspondence was read from the Springfield Coal Company, asking the Council’s co-operation in getting the tariff on the railway reduced.—A letter was also read from Mr Ivess, acknowledging receipt of Council’s letter relative to the railway tariff, and the opening up of Havelock street across the railway line, and stating that the matters referred to would receive his best attention.—With regard to the Springfipld Coal Company’s letter, it was resolved to inform the Com pany that the Council had already taken action in the matter.

From Sergeant Felton, pointing out that some one should be appointed, under section 13 of the Dog Registration Act, 1880, to look after unregistered dogs.— The Mayor promised to interview Ser geant Felton on the subject of his letter. —Or St Hill characterised the dog collars supplied as simply rotten paper, and Cr Parkin endorsed the statement.

From same, asking that some place might be appointed for the reception of dogs without owners. The matter was left in the hands of the Mayor.

From the same, reporting the miscon duct of Robert Walsh, cab-driver. Walsh had recently been fined for leaving his cab unattended. He was not a fit person, for other reasons (which were stated) to hold a license.—From Robert Walsh, stating that it had come to his knowledge that Sergeant Felton had written to the Coun cil about him, and asking that the Council would deal leniently with him as he was a very heavy loser by the late accident to his cab, the repairs to which would coat him L3O. He had been for seven years in Ashburton, and had been fined twice during that time for leaving his cab un attended. He thought, therefore, he might be called “ a respectable person.” Seeing the loss he had recently sustained he was of opinion that he had been suf ficiently punished for his fault.—Cr St Hill thought that Walsh should bo given another chance. He had been already punished enough. If Walsh was to blame for the purposes to which ho sometimes applied his cab he was not the only black sheep in the flock. He would move that Sergeant Felton be thanked, and, while duly appreciating his conduct with reference to Walsh’s case, the Coun cil severely reprimand the latter, and warn him that if ho again offends his license will be cancelled.—Cr Parkin would second the resolution, and thought, that Sergeant Felton was mistaken with regard to Walsh.—Cr Friedlander rose to take up the cudgels on behalf of the Ser geant. —Cr Harrison said that the Council were bound to sit upon any objection able purpose to which cabs might be ap plied, but at the same time, Walsh had been a severe sufferer by the late acci dent, and he thought that he should be given another chance. Let him be tried for the next two months, at the expira tion of which time his license would ex pire.—Cr Bird expressed himself to the same effect. —The Mayor and Cra Fried lander and Orr appeared to think that Walsh had brought his trouble on him self. —Ultimately, Cr St. Hill’s motion was carried, and it was resolved to give the cabman another chance. From Mr Beecher, of the Central Hotel, asking the Council to extend the water channel past the hotel. The Mayor said the matter had already been referred to the Works Committee. engineer’s report. The report was read as follows : I. Alford Raid Drainage : With respect to the application of the Upper Ashburton Road Board ?-e drainage of the Alford Forest road at its ju .cture with the Town Belt, the Works Committee recommended that the sum of L 5 be given as the Council’s share ot the work to be dune by the Road Board in altering and adding to the present outfall, and providing for taking away the drainage on both sides of the Alford Forest road.—2. Water Supply, north west side.—Mr Bradley, the contractor, is now prepared to lay down the lengths of kerbing and channelling at the junctions of streets where the footpaths are formed. We would recommend that a sump be put at each junction (eight in number) at the same time. The con tractor offers to do them at the same price as before.—3. The labor gang have been en gaged in lowering ’site for engine-house in Havelock street west, forming footpath in Havelock street, and crossings over railway, Burnett und Tancred streets, finishing foot paths in Cameron and Cass streets, preparing immigration cottages for removal, and fitting same for fire engine, spreading shingle on West street, Cameron street, Cass street, etc., attending to water supply. The men at day wages have requested us to submit to the Council an application for sixpence per diem. There would be six in number to whom this advance would -apply. They are all good men, and wc think the Council might entertain the application favor ably.— 4. Baring square W. : We have cal culated the quantity of earthwork, fencing, and planting, if the whole is to be completed simi larly to the square on the north-eastern side of the railway, and estimate the cost as follows : Eatthwork ... ... ... o O Fencing ... ... ... 63 o o Planting, grass seeds, etc. ... 1500 Total j£iS3 o o If, however, a belt, say 15ft. wide, round the square be levelled, prepared, and planted, and a fence erected similar to that in Mona square, the cost, inducing planting, we estimate, would not be more than L4l. This plan would leave the centre of the square rough as at present, to be levelled hereafter. It must be borne in mind that the earth removed would be either sold or used in street formation, so that the sum of, say, L?o in the first case, and Ll2 in the latter estimate, might fairly be deducted from the amount stated.

On Clause 1, it was agreed on the motion of the Mayor—" That the road bo placed in the same state as it was prior to the work carried out by the Council.”— Clause 2 : The matter was deferred till next meeting to allow of a fair trial being made of the new arrangement to super sede sumps. —Clause 3 adopted.—On Clause 4, Cr St. Hill moved that the second estimate be adopted, which was seconded by Cr Harrison and carried. INSPECTOR Oil' nuisance’s REPOItT. This report was read and adopted. PETITION. A petition was read from a number of res dents in Peter street, asking that a lamp might be erected at the corner of Peter street and Cass street, as the locality indicated was in a stale of total darkness after nightfall, to the great inconvenience of ratepayers and pedestrians generally. —lt was resolved that the request be granted. A QUESTION. Cr Roberts asked by whoso authority there had been a greater fall in the asphalting at the corner of Moore street than elsewhere in the town. There was a difference of nine inches. —The matter was referred to the Engineer. VERANDAH POSTS. Cr St Hill drew the Council’s attention to the dangerous way in which the veran dah posts in front of Mr Patching’s shop were placed.—Referred to Engineer. NOTICE OF MOTION. Cr Orr gave notice of motion for next meeting—" That wood bridges be placed

at all street crossings and footpaths where formed. ACCOUNTS. Accounts amounting to Ll6B 18s 9d were passed for payment, and the Council adjourned

ST STEPHEN’S CHURCH.

A parochial meeting of the members of the above church was held last evening in the upper room of Saunders’ Buildings, to elect two {vestrymen in the places of Messrs Ward and Boyle resigned, and to consider the financial state of the church. There were about forty persons present. The proceedings opened with prayer, after which the Rev. E. A. Scott (incum bent), who occupied the chair, stated that the Yen. Archdeacon Harris had exam ined the Sunday-school children last Sa turday and Sunday, and had awarded certificates to three boys and four g’rls for general knowledge. There were forty one children on the books, with an aver age of twenty-five each Sunday who at tended the Trevorton branch, at the Par sonage. Those ladies who had formed themselves into a sewing committee were doing good work, and had contributed LlO to his (Mr Scott’s) predecessor, which had been given by Mr Hands to him (Mr Scott), and had paid for pew rents a fur ther sum of fifteen guineas since Mr Hands went away. He had held a ser vice at Seafield last Sunday week, and intended to continue the services fort nightly. He had also founded a temper ance society last Thursday in Ashburton, and proposed inaugurating a Bible class for young men, to be held at the Parson age. The Sunday services at St Stephen’s were well attended, but he could not say so much for the Friday evening services. The election of vestrymen was then proceeded with, and resulted as follows: Messrs W. H. Felton, 1C; T. H. Zouch, 15; C. Seager, 10; W. Townshend, 2. Messrs Felton and Zouch wore therefore declared duly elected. The financial statement was read and approved. Dr Trevor referred to the original lia bility on the church of LIG6, and to help pay off the amount which had to be met by next Easter, the Yestry pro posed to get out subscription lists. He trusted those present would lend their assistance to the object. One gentleman had very generously promised to give LSO if the Vestry could by any means raise L4OO more before Easter. That offer was made some time ago, and now the amount to be raised was only L 225. It was then resolved that a thorough canvass of members of the Church of England be made, and that those present form themselves into a committee to carry out the above object. It was also resolved to hold the paro chial meeting once a quarter insteid of annually, as at present. The meeting terminated with the usual vote of thanks to the chair.

The Chairman then requested those wishing to act on the Canvassing Com mittee to remain, and more than thirty did so. The committee then adjourned to Saturday evening at seven o’clock, at the parsonage.

DINNER AND PRESENTATION TO MR PILKINGTON.

Last evening a complimentary dinner took place at Quill’s Hotel, at which a presentation was made to Mr Pilldngton, station-master, who has lately been pro moted to the Oamaru District. There were 30 persons present, his Worship the Mayor occupying the chair, the guest of the evening being seated on his right, and Mr W. H. Gundry filling the vice chair. After the removal of the cloth, ‘■■he usual loyal toasts followed in quick suc cession.

Mr Henderson then read the following address, which was signed by the mer chants and the principal residents in the town :

To B. Pilkington, Esq. Dear Sir, —We, the undersigned residents of Ashburton, beg to tender you our hearty congratulations on your well-merrited promotion to Oamaru, and we cannot permit you to leave us without express ing our high appreciation of the gentlemanly, courteous, and impartial manner in which you have discharged the duties of your important position whilst amongst us. Permit us to wish you and your family all health, happiness, and prosperity, and beg your acceptance of the accommanying small purse of sovereigns as a slight, though more substantial mark of our respect and es'eem.

His Worship said he had a very plea sant duty to perform, and was sorry that a more able person than himself had not been asked instead. However, it was not a fine speech that always conveyed the kindest wishes. Mr Pilkington had shown himself to be a thoroughly able station master during the time he was in Ash burton, and it gave him (the Mayor) great pleasure to see that his abilities had been recognised by the Railway Department. It was always pleasing to reward public servants, especially when they proved themselves ever ready to do their duty, and the address they heard just read testified to the fact that Mr Pilkington departed from Ashburton with the best wishes of the community. These wishes were genuine, as the weight of the little purse he had in his hand convinced him that it contained a good round sum. He was sure that Mr Pilkington would be as well appreciated wherever he went, as his strict integrity and the painstaking, oblig ing way in which he always acted would soon command the respect of the em ployes and the public generally. He would conclude by handing Mr Pilkington a purse of sovereigns, which was principally the gift of the railway employes them selves. The guest’s health was then drunk with musical honors. Song—Mr Stephenson. Mr Pilkington, in reply, said he was taken by surprise at the handsome pre sent made by the people of Ashburton, and he did not feel that it was altogether deserved. As a Government servant he had always endeavored to do his duty by promoting the welfare of the public, and by making the railway as popular an in stitution as possible. It was in the power of officials, on many occasions, to divert traffic from the railways by making them selves obnoxious to passengers. Since he had been connected with the railways he had always received the greatest courtesy and consideration from the Traffic Mana ger. (Hoar, hear.) The staff on the Ash burton station wore all of a,good sort, and they played second fiddle to none other. (Laughter.) Generally railway employees were looked upon by outsiders as always doing the “ Government stroke,” but he could safely say that, as far as Ashburton was concerned, there were no drones and all earned their wages, and did their utmost to serve the public and the depart ment. Whilst he had been in Ashburton there had not been any serious complaints made to the Government by the public, cither with regard to the clerks, guards, porters, or other servants under him, and this was saying a good deal. (Cheers.) When ho came first to Ashburton the strong nor’-westers made him feel uncom fortable, but he had now got used to them and felt sorry to leave them (Laughter.) He was now going down into Scotland, and he did not know how he should get on as he was an Englishman but he did not doubt that many friends would soon be found by him in Oamaru. His successor, Mr Arthur, would have the benefit of an excellent staff under him, and he (Mr Pilkington) hoped that he would meet with as efficient a staff in the locality to which he had been called. He would concludebythanking them for their kindly expression of good will towards himself and family, and for their hand some present. The testimonial was par ticularly valuable to him, as it might

prove the means of getting another situa tion in life should he require it. (Ap plause. ) The vice chairman proposed the “ Mayor and Borough Council of Ash burton,” coupled with the names of the chairman and Crs Harrison and St. Hill, who suitably responded to the toast. Some excellent songs were then sung by Messrs Dunn, Newton, Canning, and Harrison.

Mr Moss proposed “Our Host,” coupled with the names of Messrs Stephenson and Henderson, to which toast both replied. Mr Zouch proposed “The railway employees,” coupled with the names of guards Macfarlane and Breeze. Both gentlemen responded to the toast. The chairman said he had to apologise for the absence of Messrs Bullock and Horne, who were unable to be present, owing to previous engagements. Song—Mr Canning.

Mr St. Hill said he would like to men tion one fact before the proceedings ended, and that was to thank Mr Pilking ton for the care and attention shown to wards the 300 children who recently visited the Christchurch Exhibition ; and also to thank Guard Macfarlane for his valuable services on the same occasion. Song—Mr Harrison. Mr Moss is a humorous speech pro posed the health of their new station master, Mr Arthur, which was heartily drunk.

Mr Arthur suitably replied. Several other toasts (including the the “ Permanent Way men, coupled with the name of Mr Hawkins,” “ The Ladies,” and “The Press,” were duly honored, and a very pleasant evening terminated after singing “ Auld Lang Syne.” We must not omit to mention that Host Quill provided an excellent spread.

PARLIAMENTARY.

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. Monday, July 24. The House met at 7- 30 p. m. PAPERS. The following reports and papers were laid on the table :—Report of the Trans fer and Deeds Registration Department; circular to local bodies, and all the answers received ; fees received in the Supreme Court at Dunedin, Christchurch, Wellington, and Auckland. LOAN BILLS. A message was received from the Go vernor containing the two Loan Bills. The message is to be considered in committee to-morrow. THE TEN PER CENT. REDUCTION. The Hon. Major Atkinson rose and moved that the Speaker leave the chair in order that the House might go into Com mittee of Supply. Mr Smith moved as an amendment — “That, as the 10 per cent, reduction, made for the purpose of temporary re trenchment in the salaries of the civil servants has how been restored, in the opinion of this Heuse, the same advantage should be extended to the platelayers and other wages men employed by the Govern ment on the railways and other public works of Now Zealand, they having re ceived a similar reduction on their wages, which in their case has not yet been re stored.” He said he moved this motion to fulfil a pledge given to his constitu ents. It was argued that the Government could get men at the present wages. Men could be got to do the work at one-third of the present rate, but they would not be competent workmen. If the increase was not given the best men would leave. He hoped an increase would be given. If not a shilling, at least of sixpence a day. After discussion, in which Messrs Shep herd, Johnston, Duncan, Weston, McKenzie, Moss, and Sir John Hall took part, Mr Seddon said he was sorry Govern ment had determined to make this a no confidence motion. The wages of the platelayers in other Australian colonies, including Victoria, were a shilling a day higher than the wages in this colony, and cottages were provided for them there. He trusted the amendment would be car ried. He was forced to vote for it, be cause he felt that those men had not re ceived their dues in the past. He hoped the Government would accept this motion as it had done other motions, and not treat it as a want of confidence vote.

Sir George Grey said this was not a vote of want of confidence. That would come in due time. Simple justice was asked for these men.

Mr Macandrew said he did not regard this as a censure or vote of want of con fidence, but would vote for the amend ment.

The Hon. Major Atkinson said the dif ference between Mr Saunders’ motion and the present was that in one case taxation was to be taken off the people and in the other it was to be increased, and this could not be done on the motion of a pri vate member without the consent of the Crown. Anybody reading the amendment would see it was a very serious vote of censure. The question was not the jus tice of the case under discussion, but whether the House was to interfere in a way which must destroy all discipline by its Executive Government. He asked the House to decide the point, and he would accept it cheerfully which ever way it did so. Members should stand together and resist the pressure of any class of public servants. He invited the House to vote against the resolution ; but whatever the result was, he was quite prepared to ac cept the responsibility of it. Mr Montgomery said he was told that the Government was going to accept the resolution in a friendly spirit. The salaries of these men had been reduced, and should be readjusted the same as other public servants. He would support the amendment. After further discussion,

Mr Levin said lie was sure the Minister of Public Works was fully determined to do the railway employees justice. The proposal of the member for Waipawa had been rightly treated as a vote of want of confidence. The mover of the resolution should have been advised to withdraw it. If there was heart in the Opposition they should have tabled a direct vote of want of confidence. Mr Sheehan said he would vote for the motion, because he believed it to be a fair and proper action. The restoring of salaries should have begun with the labor ing classes. He hoped the proposer of the resolution would withdraw it. Mr Buchanan understood that the Government had the question under con sideration. He would vote against the amendment. Mr Bracken condemned the action of the Government in treating the question as a “ no-confidence motion.”

Mr Smith, to put himself in order, moved the adjournment of the debate, and explained that he brought forward the motion solely on his own responsibility as a private member. He would now with draw the amendment if it was the wish of the House, Mr Hutchison said if it had not been for the discussion on the amendment the railway employees would not havereceived anything extra, as the Min ster of Public Works had repeatedly stated he would not increase the pay of these men. Mr White (Sydenham) said the em ployees on the railways and other labor ing classes were entitled to a rise in pay. A man could not fairly live on six shil lings. He might exist. It would be better for the colony if the lowest rate of wages was eight shillings. He thought the Minister of Public Works would give an increase, but he would go further than the member for Waipawa, and provide for the men receiving extra pay for overtime.

Mr Shrimski did not agree with the course taken by the member who proposed the amendment. Mr Allwright said he knew that it was the intention of the Government to do justice to these men. He would oppose the amendment.

Major Harris said he would have thought the restoring of the rate of pay would have been granted to labor men before others.

The question was put that leave be given to the mover to withdraw the amendment, but it was refused.

Mr Barron protested against the action of the Government in refusing to allow the amendment to be withdrawn.

Colonel Trimble supported the action of the Government, and condemned the Op position which did not follow an appointed leader or party.

Mr Moss said the Government was re sponsible for the disorganised condition of the House. They should have resigned months’ ago, when they were in a minority. Mr Weston said when the Government had the opportunity©! testing theirstrength with the Opposition, they had not done so. He could not submit to the action of the Government, and had deserted them, and was proud to say so. The House waa held up to contempt and ridicule by all the newspapers of the colony, and the Go vernment was responsible for this, and the sooner a vote of no confidence was pro posed and carried and new men perched on the Government benches the better. Mr Whitaker condemned the action of the Opposition. Mr Hurst begged the Government to allow the question to go on the voices. Mr Thomson (Clutha), said the Govern ment was responsible for the disorganisa tion of the House, delaying the business, and waste of time.

Mr Morris said the Government side wished a no-confidence motion to be brought on, and decided one way or the other, and the business gone on with. As to the wages of railway employees, if there were plenty of applicants, he did not see why their pay should be increased unless the Government wished to do so.

Mr Hobbs said the delay in the busi ness was caused by the disorganised state of the Opposition. Messrs Levestam and Holmes spoke against the Government. Mr Smith said he did not look on the question as a party question, he only de sired a public expression from the Minis ter of Public Works. Ha had carefully avoided making this a party question. He had the interest of the poor working men at heart, who were not re ceiving pay sufficient to support their families. He believed the debate had done good in getting an expression of opinion from members that these men had a grievance. He thanked the members for the good-natured manner they had debated the question. Mr Bryce said, in asking leave to With draw the amendment, Mr Smith had coupled it with a condition that it should be given practical effect to by Govern ment. He took it if a division was taken on this proposal all the Opposition mem bers would have voted for it, and been beaten.

Mr Montgomery said all the Opposition members would not vote for it. The motion that the debate be ad journed was negatived on the voices, and the original motion to go into committee of supply was carried on the voices. In committee a motion to report pro gress was made. The committee di vided.—Ayes, 19 ; noes, 42. Tho motion for reporting progress was lost. The Estimates were then considered. Class 2—Colonial Secretary, L 25,880. — Mr Duncan moved—“ That the item L 15,000 for ‘ repairs to dips, expenses of working Cattle, Rabbit, Sheep, and Brands Acts, and contingencies,’ should be reduced by L 12,000.” Mr Feldwiok pro posed—“ That item L 24,000, six chief inspectors, be reduced by L 200,” The question was put that the item L 2,400 be reduced L 200. Ayes, 33 : noes, 27. The motion to reduce the item was lost, and progress was reported and the House ad journed at 7.20 a. m.

CABLE NEWS.

LATEST FROM EUROPE.

[PER HEUTER’S AGENCY.] Infernal Machines. London, July 21. It is reported that a manufacturer named Holgate has admitted having made forty clockwork machines for the Fenians in America, some of them being those lately found at Liverpool in bar rels of cement. “Next-of-Kin” Frauds. A. Mackenzie, J. H. Shakespeare, J. S. Rodgers, D. A. and W. Evans have been charged with conspiring to de fraud. They had connection with an advertising agency, proposing to dis cover the next of kin and the heirs of unclaimed property. They were found guilty at Manchester assizes, and each was sentenced to two years’ imprison ment. Blasphemous Bradlaugh. Bradlaugh, together with another publisher of Ereethought journals have been committed for trial on a charge of issuing blasphemous publi cations. Doesn’t Like It. The Right Hon. John David Fitz gerald, Judge of the Queen’s Bench Division of the High Court of Justice, Ireland, recently appointed Lord of Ap peal in Ordinary, has resigned his seat on the Bench, refusing to take part in the administration of the new Crimes Prevention Act. Suspicious. London, July 22. Isaac Ogle, clerk, formerly in the employ of Duffett, solicitor, Melbourne, who was arrested at Manchester on June the 26th, on a warrant charging him with embezzlement, was brought up at the Magistrate’s Court, London, when he strongly denied his identity with Ogle. He was remanded for fur ther evidence. Yet Another! A team of English cricketers has been organised by the Hon. Ivo Bligh for an Australian tour, and they sail for Melbourne by the steamer Australia in October. [special to “the age.”] Another Rumpus in Zululand. London, July 22. Feuds have broken out in Zululand, and tbs population of one village has been massacred. The excuse offered is that John Dunn has misused the taxes.

AUSTRALIAN.

[per redter’s agency.] A Mishap. Melbourne, Yesterday. The steamship Te Anau, which ar rived on Saturday afternoon, was de layed on the voyage by an accident to the machinery. It is expected that it will take some time to repair the damage. How Money is Made. Messrs McLean Bros, and Kigg,

THE ASHBUBTON GUARDIAN, TUESDAY, JULY 25, 1882.



JIOR READY MONEY. 450 yards Black Patent Velvet, usual price, 5s 6d, now selling at 2s 9d, at 8. W. Alcorn’s Surplus Sale. 175 Ladies’ Velvet Hats, Satin-lined, now selling at Is, at S. W. Alcorn’s Sur plus Sale. ?40 Ladies’ and Children’s Black Straw Hats, now selling at Is and Is 6d, at S. W. ALCORN’S CHEAP SALE. O. Carstens & Co., (Late Weston’s), PROSPECT BUILDINGS, Tobacconist, fancy - goods and stationery.



Meerschaum Pipes, G.B. D. Pipes Nail rod, Twist, and Vanity Fair Tobacco A nice assortment of Accordions, Con ■ jertinas, Flutes, Violins, Mouth Organs, and Toys of every description, direct from Home. Haircutting, Shaving and Shampooing. FAST STREET ASHPHOTON. SCHOOL BOOKS. SCHOOL STATIONERY. SCHOOL COMMITTEES SUPPLIED. Foolscap from 16s per Ream, Cash. Envelopes ~ 6a 6d per 1,000 ~ ; Note Paper, Five Quires, la „ A GOOD ASSORTMENT of Ledgers, Cash, Day Books, and Ledger Books IN STOCK Toys Fancy Goods, Crewel Wools, &c. H. M. Jones. Stationer and Bookseller, Andrewes Bros., B‘ * OOKSELLERS, STATIONERS &0., Bast street South, Ashburton, v Have on Sale ACCOUNT BOOKS (Day- Books, Ledgers, Cash Books etc.), ', SCHOOL BOOKS, and STATIONERY, at Very Low Prices. School Committees • Supplied. Hymn and Prayer Books, ; Scraps (a beautiful assortment), Fancy Goods, etc. CIRCULATING LIBRARY. rT REGISTRY OFFICE for Male and I Female SERVANTS. 334 e



QUPPORT LOCAL INDUSTRY. John Meech, CABINETMAKER & UPHOLSTERER, Begs to invite his friends to inspect his «rge stock of New and Second-hand Fur aiture, consisting of Drawing-room and Bedroom Suites Chiffoniers Book Cases Wardrobes Chests of Drawers Tables Wash Stands Wood and Iron Bedsteads Cots, Cradles Perambulators And everything required in household urnishing at the very lowest prices. Practical workmen kept for all kinds of repairs. Furniture bought, and high prices given. Furniture lent, on weekly and monthly payments JOHN MEECH, Burnett str e b Opposite the Mail Office.



ATCHMAKERS si EWELLERS is V * n iCHjiZ CH-CH. .Jb JT rjf* r - *a The Celebrated American Waltham Watches, in sterling hunting cases, from £3 10s. N.R —None genuine unless en graved" Waltham, Mass,” on mi veraent. '•.'■Rotherham’s Celebrated English L vers, 'from £5 10s. D3t ATI -Watches Examined, T’med| and Two Tears,



Wanted WANTED KNOWN—LAST WEEK. The American Gem Studio will CLOSE on SATURDAY, 29th inst. Por traits Is per dozen. Opposite the Mail office. jl 17 WANTED KNOWN—That the best place to get Short Firewood and the best Coals (delivered) is from Hayes’ Coal and Wood Yard, East street. Gb9e ANTED KNOWN—That Robert* Elston, Burnett street, Ashburton, having procured the Newest Apparatus, is prepared to SWEEP CHIMNEYS at very low rates. Any orders left at the Town Hall will receive prompt attention. ANTED Known—The late Proprie tress of the A 1 Restaurant has Removed to those new and commodious premises of Mr Quill’s, Wills street, now called the London Dining Rooms, ad joining Elz Bros., Coach Builders, and to cope with dull times she is now offering BOARD and LODGING at 18s per week ; BOARD only, 13s. Meals at all hours. 653 e Special Advertisements. THE NEW ZEALAND GRAIN AGENCY AND MERCANTILE COMPANY, LIMITED, And upwards, on the security of Freehold Property, at Lowest Current Rates. 760 c fit' A AAA TO LEND, in su £50,000 £3 0 0 TO LEND, in sums of



ADVANCES to FARMERS are also made on Growing CROPS of Grain ; and also on Growing Clips of WOOL. Seed Wheat, Oats, and Barley supplied to farmers on most favorable terms. They have For Sale at Lowest Rates— FEED OATS CHICK WHEAT FLOUR, BRAN & SHARPS CEMENT. WILLIAM HORNE, 518 e Agent. gPECIAL NOTICE. TO THE INHABITANTS OP ASH BURTON AND SURROUNDING DISTRICTS. GL E. West and Co., MUSIC AND PIANOFORTE WAREHOUSEMEN, Princes street, Dunedin, Have great pleasure in announcing that they have appointed MrG. P. HENRY, of Saunders’ Buildings, East Street, Asbur ton, as their Sole Agent and Representa tive in this district, and that it is their intention to cater for the Music-loving population of Ashburton in such a man ner as has never before been attempted. 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 will always be found at their Agent’s Depot. Mr G. R. West, being at present in England, is shipping direct to Dunedin all the latest novelties in MUSIC ! MUSIC ! ! MUSIC !! ! And G. F. Henry respectfully solicits a call frcm his friends, teachers, and the public in general to inspect his magnificent stock of Music, personally selected by himself in Dunedin. In connection with the above, we have retained the services of Miss Gates (organist of St. Stephen’s Church) who will be in attendance daily from 10 a.m. till spm., to receive Pupils for the Piano, Organ, and Harmonium. Terms on application. SAUNDERS’ BUILDINGS, East Street, Ashburton. 820 e



The best value for ready MONEY is THE MEN’S AND BOYS’ CLOTHING Manufactured BY THE NEW ZEALAND Clothing Factory, Which can be purchased at their Retail Branches all over New Zealand. A SINGLE GARMENT AT THE WHOLESALE PRICE. Thousands of discerning customers testify that the New Zealand Clothing Factory’s Garments are the very best for READY MONEY. Ashburton Branch: EAST STREET, W, SPARROW, Manager. C 92 c



Law and commercial STATIONERY. Foolscap (excellent quality), Is per quire. Fine Thick Note Paper, 4d ~ ~ Good Strong Envelopes 3d per packet. Considerably Reduced rates tor larger orders. Ledgers, Journals, Cash, Day, and Minute B ioks ; Counter Day Books, in various bindings and sizes. A Choice Selection of Books by various Authors. Hymn and Prayer Books in great variety. Toys and Fancy Goods —too numerous to particularise. Selling at prices so greatly reduced that cannot fail to give unquali fied satisfaction. R. BE VAN, Stationer and Bookseller, Saunders’ Buildings. Observe-NEXT QUILL’S HOTEL. j 122 INTER BOOTS. WINTER BOOTS. C. HAWKINS, Bootmaker, East street, Ashburton, and Tinwald, has just received a large assortment of Strong and Useful Boots for this season of the year, which he is selling at Christchurch prices. 998 e



AKE NOTICE. Everett Brothers Are still in Ashburton, and are SELLING AS CHEAP AS EVER. Special : CALICOES FLANNELS WIFCEYS, and DRESS STUFFS, Bargains in LADIES’ ULSTERS, COSTUMES, and WINTER SKIRTS. We have still a Large Stock of MEN’S SHIRTS, HATS, HOSIERY, &c Note the address : Next Harrison’s Auction Rooms. EVERETT BROS., Havelock street,