SHIPPING.

t PORT OP LYTTELTON. Arrived. " Yesterday. 'L , Go-Ahead, s.s., from Timaru. To-day. Hawea, b. 8., from Wellington. Sailed. Yesterday. Go-Ahead, b.s , for Wellington and Napier. , Saucy Lass, schooner, for Wellington. Smerald, ketch, for Foxton. Croydon Lass, schooner, for Napier. Grafton, s.s., for Timaru. and Oamaru.

SHIPPING TELEGRAMS.

Auckland, Yesterday. Sailed—Gael, for Hokitika ; Vanguard, for Chili ; German warship Carola, for Tahiti; Penguin, for the South. Wellington, Yesterday. Arrived—Hawea, from Picton and Nel son ; Wanaka, from the South ; Lady bird, from Westport. Sailed—Hawea, for the South; Eller ton, vhree-maated schooner, for Grey mouth. Captain Kennedy, of the steamer Hawea, reports that the French Pass buoy has disappeared. Gbeymouth, Yesterday. There was a large clearing out of coal vessels to-day. The Wallace and Ken nedy sailed North. Invercargill, Yesterday. The barque Carl Grafatems, from Liver pool to Invercargill, with general cargo, has arrived off New River Heads, after a passage of 127 days. WBiJWl—■————.

MAIL NOTICES.

.Mails close at the Ashburton Post Office as follows: —

Pot Christchurch and North at 6.30 ,a. m. 10.30 a.m., and 5 p.m., daily. For Ghertsey Rakaia, &c., at 10.30 a. in. and 5 p. in. daily. ; For Dunedin, Tinwald, Winslow, Hinds, Coldstream, Rangitata, Orari, Winchester, and Geraldine, at 10 a.tn. daily. =■ For Temuka, at 6.30 a.m. and 10 a.m., aily.’ For Timaru and South, at 6.30 a.m., 10 A.m.,,and 430 p.m., daily. For Greenstreet, Ashburton Forks, Mount Somers, and Ashburton Gorge, 0t& Tuesdays and Fridays, at 10.30 a.m. For Ashton, Waterton and Longbeach, it 430 p.m. daily. ForFlemington, on Mondays, Wednes days, and Fridays, at 4 30p.m. For Wakanui, Elgin, Seafield, New land, and Kyle, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, at 6.30 a. m.

MVmlh arrive at the Ashburton Post Office From Christchurch and Pakaia at 10.25 а, , 440 p.m., and 7.50 p.m. From Ghertsey, &c. at 10.25 a.m. and 440 p.m. daily. I From Dunedin and intermediate places at 5.35 p.m. daily. From Temuka and Timaru at 10.50 a. m. б. p.m., and 8.15 p.m. daily. From Greenstreet, Ashburton Forks, Mount Somers, and ’Ashburton Gorge on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 3 p.m. From Ashton, Waterton, and Long beach at 10 a. m. daily. From Flemington on Tuesdays, Thurs days, and Saturdays, at 10 a.m. From Elgin, Wakanui, Seafield, New and, and Kyle, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, at 4 p.m. W. St. G. Douglas, Postmaster

DAILY MEMORANDA.

AUCTION SALES Saturday, July 22. Mr T. Bullock, at the Bazaar—Horses ; LBO p.m. Mr Alfred Harrison, at his yards— Horses, Pigs, Produce, &c.; 12 noon. Tuesday, August 1. Matson, Cox and Co., at the Tinwald Yards—Stock. MEETINGS, AMUSEMENTS, &o To-morrow, Friday. July 21. Ashburton Racing Club—Annual General Meeting, Quill’s Hotel, 8 p.m. Ashburton Poultry, Pigeon, and Canary ' Association—Annual Exhibition, Town Hall. Monday, July 24. Borough Council, at Borough Council t Chambers, at 7 o’clock. V*-.; Tuesday, July 25. Meeting to consider the Railway Tariff— ,, . Town Hall, 8 p.na. Tuesday, August 1. , *shburton Permanent Building and In < t vestment, Society, Monthly Meeting, ( from 6.30 to 8.30 p.,m. , Wednesday, August 2. Ciiunty Council, at the County Council Chambers, at II o'clock. Saturday, August 5. Wakanui Road Board—Monthly Meeting, Road Board Office, Moore'Street t

TRAVELLERS’ GUIDE.

Trains Leave Ashburton foe Christ- A CHURCHand intermediate stations at 7.10 a.m., 11 a.m., and (Express)s.4o p.m. Trains Leave Ashburton fob Timaru and South, at 6.50 a.m., 10.32 a.m. (Express), and A 45 p.m. —the latter pro ceeding no'farther than Timaru. bains' Arrive at Ashburton from Christchurch at 10 20 a.m. (Express), ' 4.35 p.m., and 7.50 p.m. Trains Arrive at Ashburton from 'Timaru and South at 10.45 a.m., 5.28

NOTICE TO ADVERTISERS.

Advertisements for The Ashburton Guardian must be sent in not later than 3'p.m., with the number of insertions written plainly on the copy, otherwise they will be inserted until counter manded, and charged accordingly. Re place Advertisements must be supplied the day previous to that on which they are to be inserted. Special notices can be received up to 3.30 p.m. for insertion over the Leader, but will be charged double rates. All notices of Births, Marriages, or Deaths must be accompanied by the sig nature of the sender, as a guarantee of good faith. All advertisements and business letters to be addressed The Manager ; literary communications should be addressed to The Editor.

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Veritas, et Prevalebit. THURSDAY, JULY 20, 1882.

TOWN EDITION.

[lssued at 420 p.m. i

Police.—There was no business at the Court to-day, but to-morrow promises to be a field day compared with the Friday sittings of late. There is a stabbing ca*e, an assault on a female, and a case of alleged forgery and uttering already set down for hearing, and to be disposed of by the R.M. Poultry, Pigeon, and Canary Show. —lntending exhibitors at to-morrow’s show are reminded that all exhibits must be at the hall by 9 a.m. sharp. The hall will be thrown open to the public at 2 o’clock p.m. to-raprrow, and will be open on the following day (Saturday) from 9 a.ra. to 9 p.m.

A Handsome Present.— On the 25th April, 1882, the employes of Messrs John Brinsmead and Sons, of London, presented to Prince Leopold, Duke of Albany, and Princess Helen, of Waldeck, a grand oblique pianoforte, in a very handsome ebonised case, decorated in Adams’ style. It is 7 1-3 octaves in compass, and con tains all the recent improvements of the firm, including a third pedal that pro duces most melodious effects, the sound being sustained to an almost indefinite length of time. —Morning Post.

A Happy Home. —An unfortunate woman, the mother of a family, was sent to the lunatic asylum recently, says a Wellington paper, on the certificate of two medical men, a third refusing to certify that she was insane. For three or four weeks past she has labored under peculiar hallucinations, saying among other things that she was continually sur rounded by spectres. Her state of mind is ijttributed to the treatment she received from her husband—formerly a clerk in a good position, but now a laborer—who, among other cruelties, recently turned her out in her nightdress in the middle of the night, and refused to permit her to re enter the house. The children of the un happy woman are now being cared for by the Benevolent Institution.

Temperance. —Last night a meeting was held in St. Stephen’s Church for the purpose of establishing a branch in Ash burton of the Church of England Temper ance Society. There was a good attend ance, the Rev. E. A. Scott occupied the chair, and opened the meeting with prayer, after which the rev. gentleman stated that the object of the meeting was to form a branch of the Church of Eng land Temperance Society—a Society that had been long established in England. He stated that there were two pledges— one a total abstinence from intoxicants, except for medicinal or religious purposes; and the other a pledge to be taken by persons not wishing to rigidly abstain from the use of intoxicants as a beverage, but who will, by example and self-denial, endeavour to reduce the evils of intemper ance. After the objects of the meeting had been fully explained by Mr Scott, the enrolment of members was proceeded with. Sixteen signed the total abstinence pledge, and four signed the other one. A very efficient Secretary and Treasurer combined was chosen in Mr Ferriman, and a connnitt e of twelve were elected. The subscription was fixed at four shil lings a year, each quarter payable in ad vance, and it was resolved to hold the meetings fortnightly. The minimum age of full members is fifteen. The Rev. Mr Scott suggested that at the next meeting a paper be read by a member on some feasible method of dealing with intemper ance, and also at future meetings that de bates on the same subject should take place. The next meeting will be duly advertised.

Shorthand. —Mr Jacob Pitman, brother of the celebrated “ Shorthand Pitman ” is touring in Auckland.

Lucky Christchurch. — A number of the English exhibitors at the “World’s Fair ” at Christchurch have donated the Museum with their exhibits,and the latter institution is in consequence considerably enriched. One donation consists of about LIOO worth of show cases.

A Public-House Quarrel and its Consequences. — A stabbing affray took place at Te Aro, near Wellington, yes terday. A public-house quarrel was the cause, during which one Leydon stabbed a man named O’Keefe in the neck and back. The stabber is in custody.

The Wellington Conspiracy Case.—

At the Wellington Magistrate’s Court, John Adams and his daughter, aged nine years, were committed for trial yesterday on a charge of having conspired to convict George Longhurst for indecent assault in 1880. The charge against Mrs Adams will not be proceeded with. The Rev. Mr Wyatt. —The Rev. Mr Wyatt, who will probably be remembered by most of our Ashburton readers, he having formerly resided in this district for some time, has, we learn, just been appointed to the incumbency of the Kaianoi church. The Gust people, with whom Mr Wyatt appears to have become a favorite, are up in arms at his proposed removal.

Invercargill Items. —A colored man, named Harry Davis, cook to the survey party near Orepuki, has been found dead in the bush. It is supposed that he died from heart disease. The police have received information that William Clinn, who went out shooting at Waiau on Sun day with three other men, has been found dead, having evidently been killed by a discharge from his gun, after stray ing from his mates. An inquest will shortly bo held.

Explosion of Gas in a Mine.—A strange accident occurred in the Albion quartz mine, Paparoa range, Greymouth, yesterday, by which one man got severely burnt about the face and neck. On two men going into the tunnel in the morning a quantity of gas exploded on contact with a lighted candle. The explosion knocked both men down, but one, who had some experience of the gas, threw himself flat down and escaped uninjured. This is the first instance known here of the existence of such gas in quariz mines. Political Gossip.—The Press’ special writing of last night’s debate on the Con stilution Amendment Bill, and the motion for its adjournment advocated by Oppo sition members, says :—The question has just been put, and, contrary to expecta tion, has resulted in a victory for the Government by four members, being 44 to 40. Every safe Opposition member was said to have been in his place, but several Ministerialists were absent. The result conclusively proves that the weak ness of the Opposition is greater than was supposed. Sir George Grey’s Bill is now certain to bo thrown out by a large majority. Rabbit-Skin Travelling Rugs.--Says the New Zealcmd Times; —We were yes terday shown by Mr Evans, saddler, of Lambton Quay, some really first-class travelling rugs made from rabbit-skins procured from Kaikoura and Wairarapa, and prepared by means of the alum pro cess by Messrs Murray and Harvey, of Masterton. The rugs are suitable for all purposes that opposum rugs are used for, such as buggy or travelling rugs. The articles are not for sale, but manufactured by Mr Evans for exhibition, so that other traiesmen may be induced to make the article a specialty. As a proof of the durability of these rugs, it may be men tioned that Mr Evans has had one, made by himself, in use for five years, and it is now as good as new.

A Gnu at Victory. —The Government scored a great victory last night in the House. They announced that they would not proceed with any business, public or private, until Sir George Grey’s Constitu tion Amendment Bill was disposed of, and they were equally obstinate with regard to an adjournment,-to which they flatly refused to accede. Then came the tug of war. Should the adjonrnmenttalce place or not 1 That was the question, and the fate of the Ministry trembfed in (he balance. On a division being tiken, how ever, the Government carried he day by four votes —to the utter consignation of the Opposition, who were saiguine that a defeat was in store for other side.”

Boating Accident. —We barn from Blenheim that on Friday last oi accident occurred at the Ship Cove, Qisen Char lotte Sound, by which a mm named James Boon, aged 54, lost his Ife. In the afternoon Messrs Russell, Boot, and two sons left Ship Cove in a boat for Long Island. They had not proieeded far when the boat was struck by a iquall, and filled and turned over. All imceeded in gaining the bottom of the boat, which im mediately rolled over again. Young Boon, seeing hia brother \v»s unable to swim, swam off and graspec him by the collar of his jacket, and awaa back, only to be washed off again. Tlis happened three times. He never lost his grasp of his brother, and succeeded ii saving hi s life. Men on the schooner of Life, lying in the Cove, saw the ocident, but owing to the strong wind aid high sea, did not reach the spot for ully half an hour, by which time James Boon, father of the boys, became exhaustd and sank. The deceased leaves nine ouhans totally unprovided for. Gamblers Exposed. lie Tapanui Courier has been raising a hornet’s nest about its ears by exposing tb doings of a party of gamblers who cmmenced to play cards one evening af a house in Tapanui, played throughcn the night, and wound up at two o’cloc on the fol lowing afternoon. That he play was pretty high is evidenced bythe fact that one of the party, a mere la( had to pay over L4O for one night’s wor. Says the Courier, in a subsequent fticle, “ The gamblers alluded to did lot like our action in exposing their weaness, but we have, on the other hand, me with nume rous congratulations from eople of all classes commending our ideavors to stamp out the vice. Fathemnd mothers of families have accorded usheir hearty thanks; consequently wo do at dread the ill-natured remarks and tluats of per sonal violence and libel aions which have been so freely beatoweupon us by some of the offenders. We ope to hear no more tales of ‘ midnight aeetings for some time to come.’ ”

Debating Society. —The jgular meet ing of this Society was hold .at evening, at Saunders’ Buildings, the resident in the chair. After the confirntion of the minutes and the election of m new mem ber, the debate was comenced. The subject was, “Nihilism : it justifi able ?” Mr 0. Hogg led [untlio allirma tive, and Mr W. Zouch in le negative. A most interesting debate'ollovved, in which a number of membci took part. The time at the disposal of he meeting proving too short, it was duled to ad journ the debate until nex Wednesday week. The speakers who exported the opener of the debate, were Msrs Leggatt, Hughes, Stringer, llobinsoi and Brad ley, against Messrs Zouch ar Buchanan. From the large number of ambers pre sent last evening, great intest seems to be manifested in the procedngs of the Society, and at the next meeig arrange ments will be made for priding some more seats, as it is expectediere will be a large attendance of membe and their friends. After the next meing a debate on “ Government Assurancels it practi cable ?” will be held, Mr Lgatt taking the affirmative side, and Mdughes the negative.

Ashburton Cheese and Butter Fac tory.—An announcement interesting to farmers, in connection with the above factory appears in our advertising columns.

New Fire Engine. —The new hand fire engine for the west end station in Ashburton arrived to-day, and will be placed in the shed on the new site in this part of the town.

Sale of Immigration Cottages. —We observe from an announcement appearing elsewhere, that the sale of the five immi gration cottages decided to be sold by the Borough Council, has been definitely ar ranged for Tuesday, the 25th inst., when they will be submitted to the hammer by Messrs R. Wilkin and Co., at the stores of Messrs Jameson and Roberts, Ashbur ton.

Hard Drinking. —At the Christchurch Magistrate’s Court yesterday, George Wilson, who had been sent up from Ash burton as a lunatic, was brought up, after seven days’ medical treatment, and pro nounced cured, having only been suffer ing from the effects of excessive drinking. He was ordered to pay 10s 6d for his maintenance while at Addington, and L2 2s for a certificate of sanity, and dis charged.

A Horrible Case. —At the Dunedin Supreme Court yesterday Thos. Rammage was charged with rape on his own grand daughter, aged nine, at Green Island. It was alleged that hehadcommitted thesame offence on previous occasions. He was found guilty and sentence deferred. This morning (a telegram from Christchurch informs us) Ramage was again brought up and sentenced to eight years. He is an old man.

The Dunedin “ Lambing-down” Case. —At the Dunedin Resident Magistrate’s Court yesterday the alleged “lambing down” case, in which Robert Wright, from the country, sued Henry Scott, licensee of the New Market Hotel, for LlB 13s, balance duo on a cheque deposited, was continued. The defendant gave evidence of a very con'used kind, and although he said he entered all his dealings in books he refused to produce them. The Magis trate said it was a disgraceful affair, and gave a verdict for Ll 4 13s, allowing L2 10s for board and lodging for twe days and a half, instead of L2l 18s as defen dant claimed.

CABLE NEWS.

LATEST FROM EUROPE.

|"PRR REUTER's AORNCY.] Money and the Markets. London, July 17. Consols remain at New Zea land securities:—Five per Cent. 1889 Loan, has advanced to 106 y? ; and Four and a Half per Cent. 1879-1904 Loan, advanced 102 to 103^; Five per Cent, 10-40 Loan, remain at Adelaide and New Zealand breadstuffs continue firm at 53s for Adelaide wheat, and 51s 6d for New Zealand, ex warehouse; Adelaide flour, ex warehouse, remains at 38s. Aus tralian tallow is also firm at 43s 6d for best beef, and 44s 6d for best mutton. The Australian Cricketers. The Australian cricketing team com menced a match to-day against Eleven of Yorkshire at Bradford. There was a very large attendance. The weather was fine, but the wicket was heavy, owing to the recent rain. The visitors went in first, and were all disposed of for 132. Bannerman was the highest scorer with 42 caught. The Home team then went in for their first in nings, and had put together 25 runs for the loss of Ave wickets, when stumps were drawn for the day. The bowling of the Australians was dead on the wicket, and the Englishmen could not take liberties with it. A Bad Look Out.

London, July 18.

Intelligence is to hand from Ireland that there are signs of disease among the potato crops, and it is feared the season’s yield will be materially af fected. What the “News” Says. The Daily News says in reference to the Maori deputation that the treat ment of the Maoris must eventually be improved. Probable Resignations. The resignations of the Right Hon. Jos. Chamberlain, President of the Board of Trade, and Mr H. Courtney, Under-Secretary for the Colonies, are considered possible. The Stolen Earl. The body of the late Earl Crawford and Balcarres, which was stolen from the mausoleum at Dunecht in February last, has been discovered concealed in the grounds adjoining. [The above telegram has been delayed in transmis sion beyond Australia.]

AUSTRALIAN.

[per rf.uter’s agency.] Produce. Melbourne, Yesterday. Malting barley is dull, at 5s 4d to 5 s sd. The wheat market is firm. Ship ping wheat has advanced to 6s fid, and New Zealand oats are rather weaker, at 4s id to 4s 3d for feeding, and 4s 3d to 4s 5d for milling. War Risks. A war risk is now demanded by the English insurance companies ol one half per cent., and not, as previously stated, 5 per cent. The Grafton Bank Sticking-Up Case. Sydney, Yesterday. Mcßride and his two accomplices, named Savage and Wilcox, were brought up at the Grafton Police Court to-day, on a charge of robbing the Aus tralian Joint-Stock Bank at that city. Mcßride, accountant of the Bank, was committed for trial. One of the ac complices named Savage was acquitted. Wilcox, who previously turned in former, gave evidence for the prosecu tion, and stated that he and Mcßride planned the robbery of the Bank.

TELEGRAMS.

[per press association.] Another iFire.—A Man’s Beard Burnt Off. Wellington, To-day. A cottage at Kilbernie, occupied by a man named Norling, was burned down during the night. It appears that a fire was discovered in the house during the afternoon, a spark or something having burned a hole through the carpet, and it was promptly put out to all appearances, and the place deluged with water. When the inmates retired to rest all appeared safe, but at one a. in. they were awakened by the place being in flames, and had barely time to escape with their lives. Norling’s beard was actually burned off before he got out. The cottage was in sured in the South British for LIOO, and the furniture for L 25. A Ticket of Leave. Lyttelton, To-day. John Cunningham, a prisoner under going a sentence of eight years penal sec*

vitude, whilst quarrying down some stone this morning, fell and broke his neck. Later. Deceased was quarrying stone on the face of the rock when the crowbar he was using slipped, and he fell backwards ten or twelve feet and broke his neck. Death was almost instantaneous. The police went out to the spot and had the body conveyed to the gaol. The deceased was transferred to Lyttelton from Timaru some time back.

Coursing. Timaru, To-day. 9jJThe Waterloo Cup was won to-day by Messrs McAuley Bros. (Oamaru) Bonnie Scotland, Mr Cookson’s (Christchurch) Seafield, being the runner up. Mr Bas sett’s (Christchurch) Banshee took third money. The Waterloo Purse was won by Mr James King’s (Timaru) Jewish Maid. MrE. Bell’s (Christchurch) Wizard was second, and Mr J. Crosbie’s (Otago) Briton Still third. The Waterloo Plate was won by Mr J. Oimmell’s (Oamaru) Psycho, Mr McPherson’s (Oamaru) Mermaid second, and Mr G. G. Stead’s (Christchurch) Russley third. This concluded a most successful meeting. The Oamaru Murder.

O a mart;, To-day. The hearing of the charge of murder against Alexander Beattie was continued | to-day. The only fresh evidence adduced was that on the lfith of June the prisoner gave an adze to a man named Willetts, who said he saw something like blood on the back of it, and handed it to the police. The case will probably last till Saturday next. £ s. d. Dunedin, To-day. The Colonial Bank's profits for the half year are L 17,218. A dividend was de clared at the rate of 7 per cent., absorbing L 14.000, L 2,000 was added to the reserve fund, and the balance carried forward. Rape. At the Supreme Oourt to-day Thomas Rammage was convicted of rape on his young daughter, aged nine years. He was sentenced to eight years. The Roxburgh Murder. In Kitto's case tho jury empan nelled to ascertain the prisoner's sanity, or otherwise, found him insane, and thereupon lie was re-committed to the Asylum.

THE WAR IN EGYPT.

Exodus of Europeans from Cairo. Arabi Proclaims a Crusade. Another Massacre of Europeans. The Radicals still want “ Peace.” The Khedive Hesitates! The Trouble is Not Over Yet. [by cable.] [per reuter’s agency.] Alexandria, July 18. The general exodus of Europeans from Cairo still continues. Very few now re main in the city. Several disturbances have occurred at Tantah, a large town at the junction of the railway from Cairo to Alexandria and Damietta. The natives attacked the European quarter in force, and several of the latter have been killed. [special TO “ THE ARGUS.”] London, July 18, 6.42 a.m. A crusade has been proclaimed by Arabi Pasha. It is reported that eighty Europeans have been massacred at Tantah. The Germans and Italians have quitted Cairo. M. Ereycinet, French Minister of War, is ready to send troops as soon as the Powers request him to do so. Mr bright, sitting below gangway, has, in a forcible speech, declared that a forcible intervention in Egypt is opposed to the law of nations. The Radical disgust is increasing.

[special to “the age.”] London, July 18, 4.48 p.m. There is delay in the action of the forces against Arabi Pasha, as the Khe dive hesitates issuing an edict of out lawry. An outbreak in Cairo is imminent. VERY LATEST. Restoration of Confidence at Alexandria. Recall of Dervish Pasha. The English and French Alliance. The English Occupation of the Canal. Alexandria Quieting Down. Arabi Threatens to Out Off the Water Supply. Suppression of Looting at Cairo. The Arabs Threaten Mischief.

[per redter’s agency.] Alexandria, July 19. The city continues quiet, and confi dence is being rapidly restored. Many of the native population who left the city at the opening of the bombard ment are now returning. Dervish Pasha, special Turkish Com missioner to Egypt, has been recalled by the Porte. Paris, July 19. In the Chamber of Deputies to-day, M. DaFreycinet, Minister of Foreign Affairs, announced that England and France had agreed to undertake the joint military protection of the Suez Canal, and further to co-operate in the joint occupa tion of Egypt should necessity for such a course arise. [special to “the age.”] London, July 19, 10.8 a.m. The English oeoupation of the Suez Canal is to be for three months. Alexandria is now quieting. Arabi Pasha commands the water sup ply for the city, and threatens to cut it off. The Governor at Cairo has suppressed the attempts which were made at looting. Ten thousand A rabs are assembled in the vicinity of the Canal. The Arabs at Oran are suddenly arm ing, and assuming a threatening demea nor.

CELEBRATION DINNER.

Mr John Beecher, of the Central Hotel, ast night entertained a numerous com pany at dinner, by way of celebrating the commencement of his reign. Between 70 and 80 guests sat down about 8 o'clock before tables fairly groaning beneath the weight of good things. The exceedingly tasteful way in which the tables were laid was commended by one and all, and the universal opinion expressed was *' Beecher knows how to do the thing as it ought to be done." The arrangements were indeed excellent, and the comfort of the diners was largely increased by the efficient waiting, four waiters being in attendance. Too often at public dinners the waiting is a weak point, and the hungry guests have devoured their meat before the vegetables are handed round, or vice versa. Last night there was nothing of this kind, and the " feeding " passed off without a hitch. Mr G. H. St. Hill occupied the chair, and Messrs Branson and Kirk filled the vice-chairs.

The dishes having been removed, the chairman rose to propose the toast of “The Queen and the Royal Family,” which was drunk wiJi the customary enthusiasm.

Mr Kirk followed with the toast of “The Parliament of New Zealand, coupled with the name of Mr G. D. Branson.” In sneaking to the toast, Mr Kirk said that he thought that our Par liament would conparo favorably with any similar Assembly on this side of the Line. He regretted, however, that Rir John Hall was not still the Premier. Mr Branson, in responding, said he was at a loss to conceive why his name should have been coupled with the toast—unless, indeed, they saw in him a “ budding legislator.” He thought it would have been far better that the local representa tives should speak for themselves. “ The Commercial Interests of Ashbur ton, coupled with the name of Mr H. Briton,” was the next toast, and was briefly responded to by Mr Briton. Song—Mr Stephenson. The toast “ The Members of the Borough Council, coupled with the names of Messrs St Hill and Parkin,” was then proposed by Mr Geo. Martin. The mem bers of the Council, said Mr Martin, were a good deal better hands at putting roofs over their own houses than over the houses of other people. (Loud laughter, in which Messrs St Hill and Parkin joined.) Still, the Borough Council had done good work, and were deserving of great praise. Mr St Hill humorously responded, as did Mr Parkin. Song—Mr Branson: “ Pull away, my boys, pull away. ” Mr Branson, who was in capital voice, was compelled to sing again, giving as an encore “ A-fighting we would g°-" ~ ,

Mr Kirk had very great pleasure in proposing “The Health of our Host.” He was one of Mr Beecher’s oldest friends in New Zealand, having been intimately acquainted with him for sixteen or seventeen years, and so far as he (Mr Kirk) knew, Mr Beecher had faithfully and honestly discharged his duty to the public during that period, and he was quite sure from what he knew of Mr Beecher that he would prove himself while landlord of the Central heartily deserving of their confidence and sup port.

Mr Beecher, in responding, said he was not very good at speech-making, but he must thank them for the very kind manner in which they had drunk his health. He was very pleased to see so many old faces around him, and was also pleased to see so many new faces, that he trusted would in time become familiar too. It was his wish to conduct the hotel in a proper manner, and in the manner in which it ought to be conducted. He had had rather up-hill work, the house not being licensed when he took it, and it was closed for three or four days. That was no fault of his, but it had done the house no good. However, he was very pleased to find his friends beginning to rally round him, and he trusted that he would render the hotel all that could be desired. Song—Mr Shearman, “ When I am far away from Home,” which was greeted with loud applause, and an encore asked for, but not responded to. “ The County Council, coupled with the name of Mr Parkin,” was the next toast proposed in eulogistic terms by Mr Levin, who said he was comparatively a stranger amongst them, but yet could not forget the deep obligations the town was under to the Council. Mr Parkin briefly responded on behalf of the Council.

Song—Mr Hill (Somerset Hotel) “ Rid ing in a donkey cart,” which was loudly encored.

“ The Agricultural Interests, coupled with the name of Mr Sam. Browne,” was next proposed by Mr Shearman. Mr Browne said that some years ago he would have been able to tell them some thing about agriculture, perhaps, but latterly he had become a better judge of whiskey than of ploughing. (Laughter.) Song—“ The Gallants of England,” Mr Walter Martin.

Song—“ The picture on the wall,” Mr Walter Dolman.

“ The Legal fraternity of Ashburton, coupled with the names of Messrs Branson and Ireland,” was then proposed by Mr W. Martin.

Mr Branson briefly responded. Mr C. Ireland said that “ after the ex haustive remarks from his learned friend opposite, he had really little left to say. They would always find that lawyers were the most honorable of men—especially as long as their clients had got any money. ” (Laughter and applause.) Mr Nelson proposed the toast of “ Local Industries,” coupled with the names of Messrs Digby and Chambers. Mr Chambers briefly responded, im pressing on his hearers minds that there was “ nothing like leather.” Song—“ Union Jack of Old England.” Mr Jessop. (Loud applause.”) Songs—“ My ain countrie,” Mr S. Browne, and “ The pawnshop,” Mr Stephenson. “ The Press, coupled with the names of its representatives present,” was proposed in a felicitous speech by Mr Branson, who thought that they had nothing to be ashamed of in their local papers. Messrs C. A. Wilkins (Guardian), Reddin (Mail), and Paul (Press) re sponded.

Song—Mr Pope; “ The Pope he leads a happy life,” which was rendered in first rate style. Song—Mr Branson. “ The Ladies, coupled with the name of Mr Roddin,” was proposed by Mr Brett, and duly responded to. “ Auld lang syne ’ was then sung with much spirit ‘‘by the whole strength of the company,” and the guests dispersed shortly before midnight, having spent a most en joyable evening.

PARLIAMENTARY.

LE GHSLATIVE COUNCIL. Wednesday, July 19. ASHBURTON COUNTY COUNCIL BILL. Ou the motion of the Hon. Captain Bail lie, Standing Order No. 20 was sus pended to allow the Ashburton County Council Empowering Bill to be proceeded with. VAGRANT BILL. The Council agreed to the amendments

made by the House of Representatives in the Yagrant Bill. JUDICIAL. The following statute revision Bills were re id a first time;—Explosive Goods Bill; Imbecile Immigrants Bill; and Prisons Bill. DOO REGISTRATION BILL.. The remainder of the sitting was in Committee on the Dog Registration Bill, which was reported with amendments. The Council rose at 3.45. HOUSE OP REPRESENTATIVES. Wednesday, July 19. The House met at 2.30 p.m. LOCAL LEGISLATURES. Mr Moss gave notice of motion in favor of the re-establishment of local Legisla tures throughout the colony. NATIVE AFFAIRS. The report of the Native Affairs Com mittee was read, to the effect that Judge Smith should be summoned to attend to give evidence on the petition of Taiaroa and Tenui on the Middle Island Native claims. After a long debate the original motion for the report to lie on the table was car ried, an amendment to authorise payment of expenses being negatived. QUESTIONS. In reply to questions it was stated by Ministers that it was intended to proceed with the Natives Reserve Bill.—Govern ment had received information in refer ence to the culture of tea and silk’in the North Island. It was not satisfactory.— The Government were making enquiries regarding the fencing of railway linos.— Government would make enquiries con cerning spuiious coins alleged to be in cir culation in Christchurch. PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS.

Mr Vincent Pyke asked the Colonial Treasurer whether the Government will bring in a Bill during the present session to amend the law relating to elections of members of House of Representatives in following directions :—(1) To prohibit the placing of names on the electoral rolls within two months of any election, so as to prevent sham residential electors being improperly placed on the rolls; (2) to make it penal to personally canvass elec* tors for support by any candidate, his servants, or his friends ; (3) to prohibit the use of vehicles, whether hired, lent, or otherwise, for the conveyance of voters to or from a polling booth. In answer to the first question The Hon. Mr Dick said the Govern ment intended to take some action dur ing the present session. In regard to the other two the Government could nut deal with them this session. AN EXPLANATION.

Mr Sheehan, as motion of personal ex planation, stated that a few days ago, speaking on the question of payment of members, he had spoken of one -case in which a member had refused to accept the honorarium, and then applied for it after failing to secure re-election. He now found that he had been misinformed, and regretted having made the allusion. Mr DeLatour read the Treasury minute showing that Dr Hodgkiuson, who was referred to, had only drawn LSO put of the L 207 due to him, alleging that, the former sum was sufficient to cover his ex-

penses. The Colonial Treasurer and the Speaker confirmed this. ( CHATTELS SECURITIES ACT. The Chattels Securities Act Amend ment Bill was read a second time. CHARITABLE AND EDUCATIONAL TRUSTS. On the motion of Mr Peldwick, the debate on the second reading of the Religious, Charitable, and Educational Trusts, Corporations Bill was adjourned till the 10th of August. CORPORATIONS ACT.

Mr Moss moved the second reading of the Municipal Corporations Act Amend ment Bill. He said the Bill provided for an extension of time for which a borough could make a contract. It would be a useful measure for small boroughs. After an animated discussion the Bill was read a second time. AMENDMENT OF THE CONSTITUTION.

The Constitution Amendment Bill ad journed debate was resumed. The Hon Mr Rolleston said the Bill was one of the most extraordinary he had ever seen. He moved that the Bill be read that day six months. Colonel Trimble would oppose the Bill. It was the most tyrannic measure ever put before an Assembly of a free country. It would give the same power to the Legislative Council to alter the constitu tion of the country as was possessed by the body representing the people, r As a Liberal he protested against this , most illiberal measure, and would support" the amendment that the Bill be read that day six months. Sir John Hall agreed that the people of a free country should have power to alter their constitution in accordance with altered circumstances, but contended that this colony had this power. He wai} in favor of making the Legislative Council elective, and was sorry the Government had not seen fit to bring in a measure to effect this. He did not see the necessity for passing this Bill, which practically abolished a second Chamber. The most important part of the constitution of. the colony was not in the Constitution Act, but in the statutes of the colony, -The Bill practically abolished the representa tive of the Crown as a branch of 'the Legislature. If the two branches of the Legislature agreed to an alteration of the

constitution, these alterations could be carried out. There was not the least chance of the Bill passing. The Bill was the same as that of Victoria, but the cir-. onmstances here were entirely different, 1 and there was no necessity for a radica measure like this to ensure any necessary alterations in our constitution. The his-

tory of the colony did not point to the necessity of this Bill. It was a mis chievous thing to be always tinkering with their constitution. It was a step to the abolition oi the Governor and the Legis lative Council; a step to an elective Go vernor and the severance from the Mother Country. He would oppose the Bill. Mr Kelly could not assent to the second reading of the Bill.

The Hon. Mr Bryce said the Bill was subversive of the constitution.

Mr W. M. Green, with a slight amend ment, approved of the Bill. It simply provided for the will of the people being carried out. When the Council treated a Bill passed by this House with the dis courtesy the Council had shown yesterday in throwing out the Eight Hours Bill, it was time to make some change. The Speaker called the hon. member to order. He could not refer to the Council in such terms.

Mr Green withdrew the expression. He would like to see the Bill so amended as to require the House of Representa tives to pass a measure in two successive sessions before putting it to the popular vote. It would then prevent all chance of a dead lock. Mr Turnbull moved the adjournment of the debate.

The Hon. Major Atkinson said Mr Montgomery seemed to treat this Bill as a huge joke. The Government looked on it as a serious question, and would not consent to any adjournment of the de bate.

Mr Montgomery said if he had laughed, how could he or anyone else help laughing when he saw the con sternation existing on the Govern ment benches ? He thought the Bill de served full consideration and discussion; but who could help laughing at the ridicu lous attitude of the Government? He should vote for the adjournment, and speak on the Bill afterwards. Mr M. W. Green said that he had en tered the House with the earnest inten

THE ASH3UMON GUARDIAN, THURSDAY, JULY 20, 1882.



THE GUARDIAN is published every evening, giving every day "> -7.5, up to the hour of going to press. This is better than buying a sixpenny weekly. WINTER BOOTS 0. HAWKINS, Bootmaker, East street, Ashburton, and Tinwald, has just received a Urge assortment of Strong and Useful Boots for this season of the year, which he is selling at Christchurch prices. 998 e



ATCHMAKERS t|EW ELLERS, HjSI id *•*;.. CH-GH * v «a«. ~- ' i-V The Celebrated American Waltham Watches, in sterling hunting cases, from £3 10s. N.B.— None genuine unless en gravedWaltham, Maas.” on movement. n Rotherham’s Celebrated English Levers, ,firtin£s 10a. " Alt ;Watcbes Examined, Timed, and Guaranteed Two Tears.



Wanted WANTED KNOWN-LAST WEEK. The American Gem Studio will CLOSE on SATURDAY, 29th inst. Pot* traits la 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 Haves’ Coal and Wood Yard, East street. 669 e 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 IBs per week ; BOARD only, 13s. Meals at 760 c all hours.



Special Advertisements. The latest, novelty from PARIS. THE WONDERFUL ANTI POPIJIKUMPTUABI. On being wound up, it flies round and round upwards in the air, to an immense height, flapping its wings in the moat life-like manner. Price Is Od. ANDRE WES BROS., Booksellers, Stationers, etc., East street south, 334 e



PIANOS. —Wanted Seen, two DRES DEN MODELS, good as new, con siderably UNDEIi COST. H. J. Weeks’ Music Depot, Tancred street. LANDED. —Wanted Known, having cleared out a number of Pianos lately, new Pianos and Organs Just Landed. H. J. Weeks’ Music Depot. EXHIBITION, Wanted Musical public to know that very fine Piano and American Organ have been purchased from the Exhibition. Open to-morrow. H. J. Weeks, Music Seller.



The best value foe beady MONEY is THE MEN’S AND BOYS’ CLOTHING Manufactured BY THE NEW ZEALAND Clothing Factory, Which can be purchased at their Eetail Branches sill over New Zealand. A SINGLE GAEMENT AT THE WHOLESALE PEICE, Thousands of discerning customers testify that the New Zealand Clothing Factory’s Garments are the very best for EEADY MONEY. Ashburton Branch: EAST STEEET. W. SPAEEOW, Manager. 692 c



THE NEW ZEALAND GRAIN AGENCY AND MERCANTILE COMPANY, LIMITED. And upwards, on the security of Freehold Property, at Lowest Current Rates. 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. gPECI A L NOTI OE. TO THE INHABITANTS OF ASH BURTON AND SURROUNDING . DISTRICTS. £50,000 TO LEND, in sums of WILLIAM HORNE, 518 e



Gr. B. West and Co., MUSIC AND PIANOFORTE WAREBOUSEMEN, Princes street* Dunedin, Have great pleasure in announcing that they have appointed MrG. F. 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 mau ler 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 Duuedin all the latest novelties in MUSIC ! MUSIC ! 1 MUSIC 1! ! And G. F. Henry respectfully solicits a call from 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 5 p m., to receive Pupils for the Piano, Organ, and Harmonium. Terms on application. SAUNDERS’ BUILDINGS, East Street, Ashburton. 820 e



LOCAL INDUSTRY. John Meech, CABINETMAKER & UPHOLSTERER, Begs to invite his friends to inspect his arge stock of New and Second-hand Fur niture, 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, Bdrkktt stbkb Opposite the Mail Office,



Special Advertisement. Q. Carstens & Go., ' ' -■ (Late Weston’s), ; ; PROSPECT BUILDINGS, Tobacconist, fancy goods AND STATIONERY. Meerschaum Pipes, G. B. D. Pipes Nailrod, Twist, and Vanity Fair Tobacco A nice assortment of Accordions, Con certinas, Flutes, Violins, Mouth Organs, and Toys of every description, direct from Home. Haircutting, Shaving and Shampooing. FAST STREET ASHBURTON. SCHOOL BOOKS. SCHOOL STATIONERY. SCHOOL COMMITTEES SUPPLIED. Foolscap from 16s per Ream, Cash. Envelopes ~ Cs 6d per 1,000 ~ Note Paper, Five Quires, Is ~ A GOOD ASSORTMENT of Ledgers, Cash, Day Books, and Ledger Books IN STOCK. Toys Fancy Goods, Crewel Wools, &c. JEL M. Jones. Stationer and Bookseller,



o r i c e. MOUNT SOMERS AGENCY. Mr W. H. Pdddicombe is authorised to collect money and transact all business n connection with The Ashburton Guardian in the Mount Somers and Alford Forest districts.



rjIAKE NOTICE. Everett Brothers Are still in Ashburton, and are SELLING AS CHEAP AS EVER. Special. : CALICOES FLANNELS WUSCEYS, 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 ; EVERETT BROS,, Havelock street, Next Harrison’s Auction Rooms.



A Lady’s Claim. —It is by no means an uncommon occurrence at Home nowadays for parties to an action to conduct their cases in person, and the practice is by no means confined to male litigants. In a recent instance, where an action was brought by a lady against the Eight Hon. VV. H. Smith, the First Lord of the Ad miralty in the last Conservative Adminis tration, for alleged improper detention of certain securities and documents referring to her income and sanity, for not handing them back to her on his going out of office, and for libel, the plaintiff had ap parently prepared the pleadings herself in addition to coming into Court to support them in person. Her claim was certainly unique. It ran as follows : “ The plain tiff claims L 40,000 and all legal expenses and outstanding debts paid, and pawn tickets redeemed, a public apology, and all libels contradicted in all the public newspapers (foreign, domestic, and Eng lish), and the committal of those who slandered and libelled her, and forged and lithographed her name to Newgate for life, with twenty strokes of the cat-o’-nino tails on the back of each person.”