SHIPPING.

.PORT OP LYTTELTON. ' Arrived. Yesterday. Magnat, barque, from Boston. Olio, schooner, from Waitapu. [*Awaroa, schooner, from Kenepuru. y Anne, ketch, from Dunedin. Sailed. h’ Yesterday. Rotorua, s.s., for Port Chalmers. Wanaka, s.s., for Wellington. Wakatu, s.s., for Kaikoura, Keke rangu, and Wellington. f , SHIPPING EELEQRAMS. Auckland, Yesterday, r : Arrived—Wairarapa, from Sydney. i A Sailed— Arawata, for Sydney. 1 Wellington, Yesterday. Sailed —Kentish Lass, barque, for Kai tu, para; Sophia R. Lohrs, barque, for New vi ni castle, m , Timaru, Yesterday. ~tv Arrived—Spray, from Lyttelton. * Dunedin, Yesterday. . Arrived —Manapouri, from Melbourne, via the Bluff. , Dunedin, To-day. Arrived Beautiful Star, s.s., from .*/ Timaru- v -

MAIL NOTICES.

' ■ Mails dose at the Ashburton Post Office as follows: — For Christchurch and North at 6a.m. f,-10.3Q a.m., and 5 p.m., daily. For Chertaey Rakaia, &c., at 10.30 a.m. ..j andfi p.m. daily. ■ _. . For Dunedin, Tinwald, Winslow, Hinds, Coldstream, Rangitata, Orari, Winchester, and Geraldine, at 10 a.m. daily. For Temuka, at 6 a.m. and 10 a.m., daily. ; For Timaru and South, at 6 a.m., 10 A.m., and 4.30 p.m., daily. ; For Greenstreot, on Tuesdays and Fn " days, at 10.30 a.m. For Ashburton Forks on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 3.30 p.m. < For Mount Somers, on Tuesdays and / Saturdays, at 6 a.m. and 4.30 p.m. For Mayfield, on Tuesdays and Satur days, at 6 a.m. , For Ashton, Waterton and Longbeach, ■i »t 4.30 p.m. daily. For Fleming ton, on Mondays, Wednes days, and Fridays, at 4 30 p. in. •' For Wakanui, Elgin, Seaview, Seafield, . New land, and Kyle, on Tuesdays, Thurs days, and Saturdays, at 6.30 a.m.

■ ° Maila arrive at the Ashburton Post Office — : From Christchurch and Rakaia at 10.15 sum., 435 p.m., and 7.20 p.m. r From Chertsey, &c. at 10.15 a.m. and !:4.36p.m. daily.- !j r From Dunedin and intermediate places at 5.30 p.m. daily. From Temuka and Timaru at 10.40 a. in. 75.30 p.m., and 8 p.m. daily. From Greenstreet, Tuesdays and Fri days, at 3 p.m. From Ashburton Forks on'Wednesdays and Saturdays at 10 a.m. r . From Mount Somers, on Tuesdays and Saturdays, at 10.5 a.m. and 8.16 p.m. From Mayfield, on Tuesdays and Satur days, at 10.5 a.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.

DAILY MEMORANDA.

auction sales To-moreow, Mr Alfred Harrison, at the Wakanui Mill —Hpraes, Cattle, Implements, <fec.; 11,30 a.m. ‘ Saturday, December 2. Matson, Cox, and Co., at Tattersalls, Barnett street—Land ; 13.30 a.m. Mr. T, Bullock, at the Bazaar, Burnett ttreat —Landed Property ; 1 o’clock. TV Bullock, at the Bazaar —Horses ; L3O p.m. Mr Alfred Harrison, at the yards— Horses, Pigs, Produce, &c.; 12 noon. Mr W. F. Allen, at his rooms, Burnett street —Horses, Pigs, Poult) General 1 Produce, S~c. ; 11.30 a.m. Tuesday, December 6. Matson, Cox and Co., at the Tinwald • .Tarda —Stock. / Friday, December 8. R. Wilkin and Co., at the Ashburton County Saleyards—Bo Horses. MEETINGS, AMUSEMENTS, &c To-Night, Wednesday, November 29. Entertainment and Ball—Elgin District School, 8 p.m. To-morrow, Thursday, November 30. Musical Entertainment, in aid of the Funds of the Presbyterian Sunday- School—Templar Hall, 7 p.m. Saturday, December 2. Wakanui Road Board—Monthly Meeting, Road Board Office, Moore street Tuesday, December 5. ashburton Permanent Building and In vestment Society, Monthly Meeting, from 6.30 to 8.30 p.m. Monday, December 11. Borough Council, at Borough Council Chambers, at 7 o’clock. Saturday, December 16. Grand Temperance Demonstration —Ath- letic Sports, Tea Meeting, and Conceit. Friday, December 29. Somerset Lodge, Monthly Meeting, n the 'Masonic Hall, Tancred street, 7.30. Monday, January 1. Winslow Races and Sports. Wednesday, January 3. County Council, at the County Council Chambers, at 11 o’clock.

TRAVELLERS’ GUIDE.

Trains Leave Ashburton fob Christ church and intermediate stations at 7.10 a.m., 10.55 a.m., and (Express) 5.39 p.m. Trains Leave Ashburton fob Timaru and .South, at 6.50 a.m., 10.25 a.m. (Express),and 4.45 p.m.—-the latter pro ceeding no farther than Timaru. Trains Arrive at Ashburton from Christchurch at 10 20 a.m. (Express), 4.35p.m., and 7.20 p.m. Trains Arrive at Ashburton prom Timaru and South at 10.45 a.m., 5.28 p.pi. (Express), and 8 p.m.

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Veritas, et Prevalebit. WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1882.

Escape of a Lunatic. —A man named Thor, an American, ag d 28, eacaped from the Sunnyslde Asylum yesterday, and when last seen was making his way to Timaru. He is said to be quite harmless. He was formerly a diver at Lyttelton.

The Crops. —The recent warm weather has brought on the crops unusually fast. Towards Seafield some very fine crops of oats are to be seen. On Mr Megson’s farm a fine field of oats, containing about 30 acres, is out in ear, and the straw is fully 3ft Gin long, and altogether a rery heavy crop is expected.

Cheap Excursion to Dunedin. —Our readers are reminded that a cheap excur sion leaves Ashburton for Dunedin to night at 10.40 p.m., arriving at Dunedin at 8 'a.m. to-morrow morning. A return special night train will leave Dunedin on Dec. 2nd at 8 p.m., arriving here at 5 a.m. on the following day. A Crab Race. —The Pall Mall Budget says :—There seems no end to the invent ive faculty of our neighbors over the water. A few days ago we chronicled a novel form of betting on oysters. The latest development of le sport, which serves both to fill the columns of our ser iouscnntemporary, the Journal des Dehats, and the vacant hours of its less serious readers, who are making holiday on the coasts of Normandy in crab-racing. The ‘‘interesting crustaceans” are weighed and handicapped. They are then placed in line. Each “ sportsman ” lays his first finger on the back of the crab which carries his colors ; the starter waves his handkerchief for a flag ; the backers lift their fingers and let their crabs go, and impelled by instinct (a Frenchman must be scientific even in his sporting descrip tions) the crabs race zigzagging to the sea. The sport has become so developed that the length of the course has been defin itely fixed at twenty metres. For those who must have something to hef upon crabs have the advantage over rain-drops on a window pand for racing purposes, that they cannot defeat their backers by running into one another, and crab-racing has the advantage over coursing that it is not attended with pain to any animal. Lecture. —The Yen Archdeacon Harper (of Timaru) lectured last evening at the Town Hall on the .approaching transit of Yenus. The hall was comfortably filled. The interval between the taking of seats and the Archdeacon’s appearance was agreeably filled up by some vocal and in strumental selections. Miss Gates and Miss Permain played a pianoforte duett very pleasingly, and the choir of St Stephen’s rendered a part-song in excel lent style, and Mr H. Gates sang a song entitled “The Silver Cup.” The Arch deacon now appeared and assisted by a number of carefully prepared diagrams of his own making managed to invest a rather dry subject with a good deal of interest. The lecturer pointed out the great scientific importance of the transit of Venus—or, in other words, the passage of that planet across the sun—and the interest with which the operation was watched, when it occurred, by the whole civilised world. Such a lecture was a fitting preparation for the transit which takes place next Thursday week. The lec turer was applauded at the close of his remarks, and was accorded a vote of thanks by all present. The choir having rendered another part song, the singing of the National Anthem brought the pro ceedings to a close.

St. Andrews’ Day.—'Jjdvieorrow being a bank holiday, the respective banks in Ashburton will be closed, ’ -’i „ '; '

County ‘Council. —-Mr W, 6. Walker was re-elected Chairman at to-day’s meet ing of the Council, and was also voted an honotarium of LIOO for his past services. Presbyterian " Sunday School.—A musical entertainment in aid of the school funds is announced for Thursday, 30th inst., at 7 p.m., at the Templar Hall.

An Absconder. John Johnstone, another Timaru defaulter, was brought home last evening in custody from Gis borne for obtaining money under false pretences. Timaru is gaining quite a notoriety for runaway debtors. Tus Agent-Comet Match. We, amongst other papers, appear to have been premature in reporting the match between Comet and The Agent off, as al though both owners have agreed to that course, a third gentleman interested is not yet a consenting party. Presentation. —‘ A handsome testi monial has been presented to Mr Phillips, the chief gaoler at Lyttelton, by his fel low officers, on the occasion of his leaving, to take charge of the Dunedin Gaol. Mrs Phillips was also the recipient of a neck let and bracelet, as a memento. The Steel Dust Case.—The stewards of the Racing Club met a Quill’s Hotel last evening to enquire into the running of Steel Dust in the Selling Hack Race. Having taken a quantity of evidence, the enquiry was adjourned for the attendance of the owner of the horse—Mr J. Thomp son.

Otago Book Society.—Mr McDonald, agent for the above Society, notifies else where that he has a choice collection of Boy’s Own and Girl’s Own Annuals, be sides a large quantity of other books, amounting in all to some thousands, and weighing upwards of 20cwt. Mr McDonald leaves on the sth Dec., so no time should be lost in making purchases. Half-Holiday.—ln compliance with a numerously-signed requisition (which ap pears in another column) his Worship the Mayor has proclaimed Friday next a holi day from noon, on which date the cricket match, Auckland Eleven v. Ashburton Fifteen, will be played, on the Domain ground, and no doubt, should the present favorable weather continue, a goodly num ber will avail themselves of the oppor tunity thus afforded of 1 witnessing the prowess of the knights of the willow from the northern capital. Ashburton Racing Club.—The com mittee of the A.R.C. met at the Club’s room last night. Present—Messrs R. Friedlander (in the chair), M. Friedlan der, Quill, Fooks, E. Saunders, W. Saun ders, Crawley, Drs Roas and Leahy. ,An interim, statement of accounts was sub mitted by the Treasurer, showing the finances of the Club to be in a highly satisfactory position. A letter was read from Mr Wilkie, thn consideration of which was deferred until next meet’ng It was determined to hold the general half yearly meeting of the Club on Tuesday, Dec. sth. The meeting then adjourned.

The Famous War Correspondent.— Archibald Forbes has now arrived in New Zealand, and gave his first lecture last night in Invercargill. He was most en thusiastically received. The Scotchmen give him an ovation to-morrow, St An drew’s day, and this characteristic wel come we feel sure will be appreciated by the famous visitor. Arrangements are being made in Timaru by an influential committee to get Mr Forbes to lecture in that town, but it is not certain whether he can do so. We suppose that the Ashbur ton people will have to bo satisfied with a glimpse of the famous war correspondent as he passes through by rail, as nothing has been done yet to persuade him to stop and favor us with a lecture. Electricity v. Burglars. —The Gl is goiv Herald draws attention to a new use of electricity. Mr W. H. Akester, F.S.A., electrician to the Universal Electric Company, Glasgow, has been much annoyed for some months past by attempts to break into his residence at Balvaird, Rutherglan, near Glasgow. He had complained repeatedly to the police authorities of the ancient burgh, but they seemed helpless to defect the offenders. He eventually devised a plan of adapting electric beds so as to warn himself of the approach of burglars, and it has proved at once effective and inexpensive. Late one night, after the family had gone to bed, a couple of burglars opened the gate. Mr Akester instantly became aware ot their approach, and before long they took to thei heels and decamped. Mr Akester has had no further annoyance from them since. It is obvious that the application of electricity in the direction indicated above may be greatly extended.

Holloway's Pills.— Weary of Life Derangement of the liver is one of the mos dangerous of diseases, and the most prolific source of those melancholy forebodings which arc worse than death itself. A few doses ot these noted Pills act magically in dispelling low spirits, and repelling the covert attacks made on the nerves by excessive heat, impure atmos pheres, over-indulgence, or exhausting excite ment. The most shattered constitution may derive benefit from Holloway’s Pills, which will regulate disordered action, brace the nerves, increase the energy of the intellectual faculties, and revive the failing memory. By attentively studying the instructions for taking these Pills, and explicitly putting them in practice, the most desponding will soon feel confident of a perfect recovery.—[Advt.

WAKANUI WESLEYAN CHURCH.

The residents of the Wakanui district are to be congratulated in now having two places of worship in their midst. It is not many weeks since it was our pleasure to chronicle the opening of a neat and com fortable little church there for the Presby terian body, the celebration of which was carried out with commendable enthusiasm. We have now to record the opening of a Wesleyan Church in the district, brief notice of which has already been made in these columns. The church referred to, although not strictly a now one, has undergone such a transformation since its removal from Seafield, that anyone not acquainted with its previous history would hardly conceive that for nearly four years services at intervals had been held under its roof. It will bo remembered that the church was originally erected at Seafield, in the “good old times,” when, with other districts around Ashburton, there was a considerable influx of p ipulation to that plac ■. Latterly, however, it was found that, in consequence of several families leaving there for other parts— nnong whom were several who had taken much interest in the cause at Seafield— the attendance diminished to such an ex tent that it was thought desirable to re move the ohu.ch to a more populous neighborhood. Conditionally upon the Wesleyans . of Wakanui taking up the responsibility of finding funds for its removal, tenders were called for transferring the building to Wakanui. The undertaking was one en tailing much trouble and expense, and the process of locomotion very tedious. The weather at i-he time was not at all pro pitious, and hence the roads were any thing but solid. Perseverance was at last, however, rewarded, and the church eventually located on a half-acre of ground, the gift of a well-known Wakanui resident—Mr Edwin Thomas. The church has been well lined and varnished inside, and the addition of a communion rail has indeed added to its ecclesiastical ap pearance. Ample provision has been made for ventilation, unless, indeed, the trustees have reason t > expect such atten dances every Sunday as that of last night. The outside of the church has undergone complete renovation, and the cosy little place of warship, standing in the corner

of a is quite an ac quisition to “The sound of the church-going 1 fiell ” is not yet heard in . the district, but being the possessors of ! two places of worship, every facility now within the reach of the Wakanui* settlers for regular Sabbath services. The work of removing the church, and making necessary additions and alterations, was entrusted to Mr C. Ray, and, along with Mr S. Lucas, who has done the painting, etc., and has carried out his contract faith fully. The motive power for taking the church from Seafield to its present site was supplied by Mr Trevurza—Messrs Dalton, Leadley, and others also render ing material aid. The tea meeting held last night was a thorough success- Genial weather, a moat important auxiliary on such occasions, was experienced, and in ad dition to the Wakanui and con "try visitors,

a number of townspeople were also pre sent. The tea was held in the school, and the following ladies presided : Mrs Trevurza, Mrs M. Wilson, and Mrs Leadley, and the Misses Dalton (2), Cox, Jenkins, Moore, and Moffatt took charge of the bachelors’ table. After partaking of the creature comforts, an adjournment was made to the church, when it was found that the building was all too small for the number requiring admittance. The chair was taken by the Rev. C. H. Standage, who, after referring to the fact that since his ministry in Ashburton he had assisted at the opening of three new churches, and deduced from this fact that interest in religious services was not de clining, apologised for the absence of the Revs. A. M. Beattie and J. Nixon.—Mr Leadley then made a few remarks regard ing finance, during which it was elicited that the original debt on the church was L 32 10s ; cost of removal and improve ments, L 59; surveying and legal expeiises,

L 7 ; miscellaneous, L2. The results of the tea and opening services would probably amount to L 25, and a debt of about L 73 would be left, which it was hoped the congregation would clear off in two years. The Rev. W. Keall, with Messrs Bowron and J. E. Buchanan, also made capital speeches, which we are unable to give in extenso, and the usual votes of thanks were proposed—Messrs Hogg and Olsen respectively moving and sec mding those to the ladies, the former gentleman being ' remarkably felicitous. A tribute of thanks ; to the generous donor of tie church site —Mr E. Thomas—proposed during the opening remarks of the chairman—was 1 carried amid boisterous applause. The ‘ Ashburton Wesleyan Church choir, under Mr 0. Ray’s leadership, with Miss Murray ■ at the organ (kindly lent by Mr H. M. 1 Jones), contributed largely to the even ing’s enjoyment. Mrs Ray and Miss Blick each sang a solo, both of which • pieces were much appreciated.

A CLERICAL SCANDAL.

At a meeting of the 'Presbytery of Christchurch, held yesterday, the follow ing resolutions were passed in reference to the charges against the minister of ; St Andrew’s Church, whicn have been occupy ing the attention of that body for some time past—“ That, having heard the report of the committee appointed to enquire into certain charges affecting the character and ministerial standing of the Rev. Charles Fraser, and having heard also and carefully con sidered the depositions of witnesses for and against, and also the explanations and rebutting evidence adduced by the Rev. 0. Fraser laid upon the table, the Presby tery resolve to proceed by way of libel in strict accordance with the law of the church. That a Committee be appointed this day to prepare the libel. That Mr Fraser be suspended from the office of the Holy Ministry forthwith; and that the Moderator of the Presbytery (the Rev. A. Blake) be now appointed Moderator of St. Andrew Kirk session, and to preach in St. Andrew’s Chur h next Lord’s Day.” '“That the Presbytery express the strongest disapprobation of Mr Fra ser’s conduct in excluding them this morning from the usual place of meeting, and in his unworthy attempt to escape from the discipline and withdraw from the jurisdiction of the Church, in direct contravention of his ordination vows.” A committee was also appointed to enquire into and report upon the position of the Cemetery Trust. The second ot the above resolutions was occa sioned by t 'e face that the meeting, which was appointed to be hold in St. Andrew’s Church, found the doors locked. The meeting was held in the Church grounds, and formally adjourned to St. Paul’s Church. Mr Fraser has threatened to commence a libel action against some papers, which, we believe, includes the Telegraph and Society, in connection with this case.

BARLEY—PAST AND PRESENT.

It is a matter of common remark that brewers, in spite of the teachings of science and the advantages arising from the use of numerous modern ap pliances, are now often unable to pro duce beers that can be kept sound, in this respect being much inferior to the products obtained many years ago. There are several ways in which this may be accounted for. In olden days beers were brewed of much higher gravity, and consequently, after fer mentation, were much more alcoholic than those at present in vogue. This excess of alcohol exerts its well-known preservative action, and led to the destruction of numerous organisms which are capable of existing in less alcoholic beers. The beer-drinker of the present day is also far more exact ing on the matter of condition and brilliancy than the beer-drinkers of old, and much beer that would have been considered drinkable at the commence ment of this century would now be alto gether rejected. Over and above this more refined taste and the less alcoholic character of our modern beers, to which we have alluded there is also, probably, another reason why brewers now find it so difficult to produce a beer that will keep sound, "the barley that is now grown is very different from that yielded at the commencement of this century ; the old-fashioned long and husky grain of barley has, by careful cultivation, and by oft-repeated selec tion of seed, gradually developed into a plumper and altogether differ ent grain. Not only in general appearance has barley altered but also in chemical composition, al though we are unable to bring any well authenticatd analysis to corrobo rate this view. Improved cultivation, and the repeated application of large quantities of nitrogenous manures to our barley fields have, without doubt, led to the barley of the present day being also more nitrogenous, and the consequence has been that the modern brewer has to operate upon a wort highly charged with certain constituents which are excessively prone to decom position and putrefaction.— Breiaers ’ Guardian,

COUNTY COUNCIL.

The December meeting of the above was held to-day, probably on account of the Christmas holiday season, and the de sire of the members not to interfere there with. Present : Mr W, 0. Walker (chair man), and Messrs E. G. Wright, T. Bui

anf. Jackkonl®'''-, vpi 1 ■- TOe as follows i: — %iip|Upper‘ me that ltsey wijjfc co-operate with ■tho|Gt)unc>l Ve. ew&ructioiß' of small birds, andrihe Mount Hutt ,'tßoad Boar,' rate alio do the same, with the ex ception that'they do not consider the amount decided on by the Council suffi cient, have the price by 2d per 100, y The, Geraldine County'"Council intimated that it would prefer to have its own ferryman at the Rangit*t»'f«rry,;btt (Ke of the river', ir anT suggested- that the L4O should be divided between the two ferry men. Mr D. Jacks in has accepted the appointment of ferryman at L4O, offered by this Council. The Government have in formed you that the re-construction of Licensing Districts can only be made by a petition of the majority of ratepayers in each district. Tenders for dog collars for 1883 and for ploughing round plantation blocks will be placed before y m to-day, also for water-races. The water supply Committee and the M.mnt Somers Rail ■ way Committee will report to you to-day. i The Engineer’s report was read as fol lows :

Ashburton-Rakaia Plains Water Supply; During the month I have levelled and staked out several of the recently authorised water races on this portion of the plains, viz.—seven teen miles of the Lyndhurst and Dundas race, which leaves the test channel about one mile above Lyndhurst railway station, and crosses the main line of railway at north end of plan tation adjoining reserve 264. The greater portion of this length, as well as the branch, line for Mr Hussey and others, is already finished, and ten days hence the remainder of the road crossings on this race will be put in, so that a connection will then be formed with the recently constructed section through the properties of Messrs Griffin, Hampton, etc., thus giving a service over the entire length from the upper end to junction at Dundas.— Since last meeting of the Council, the Back Track race has been extended from Lauriston road downwards, across the Rakaia and Meth ven railway at Somerton, to join the Erace at the three-chain reserve.—The contractor for the fords on this race has hitherto been makirig very slow progress, thus preventing the con tractor for the race from leading the water to the lowet end.as stipulated for in hjs f contract, l am urging" Him to greater' speed, and hjs Is now increasing his force considerably.—The earthwork of the new race below Chertsey. for Messrs Doig, Coward, etc., has been com pleted, but the road crossings on that length are not yet finished. The race for Messrs Dent, Murray, Bright, and Lemon has, includ ing the , fords, been satisfactorily completed daring the month, aadl f have, staked .out, the further extension of itfrom Mr’Lemon's sec tion down to the authorised junction in reserve 2186. Messrs Kemp and Shepherd desire a deviation of this race near its lower end, and an extension through reserves 2186, 2187, 2184, and 2185, joining the Fairfield race in or some distance below the latter reserve. The exten sion of Power’s race has been completed to a point about twenty chains below the railway, opposite,, .racecourse, and,The fwater Has been flowing over the entire length, though as yet it is intermittent ; towards the ikMJrfcH'&id; This ts‘ accounted for partly by the shingly nature of the ground through parts of the face 1 had to be cut, but'is ptincfp’ally due to the insufficient size of the .tmnpprary,portion of the'fldheput in byMessiri'CteWamf'Camj eron near the lower end of their property, the delay in replacing which: their manager attri-, butes to the non-arrival cf timber ordered for tjie w0r1f..,. The wash at Chis ,poiritomust: be stopped' at once, especially in view of the im mediate extension of the'.race from the railway’ downwards to the Wakanui homestead district.’ I have staked out the route in detail for this extension, as authorised by the Council, and ; tenders for it will be placed before you to-day. Some additional work is necessary on E2 line before it will act efficiently, and a large supply: of water must also be let on for a time, in or-i der to charge it thoroughly. lam arranging to have these things done at Early' next week I hope to fake the necessary levels and stake out the extension of Bi race from. R. S. 27068 junction with present race in Messrs Collison’s R.S. 25267. .Next week,, also, Lintend examining iritb t fhfc Question of an additional race for the Drayton district, and also meeting members of the- Mount 1 Hutt and South Rakaia Road Boards, with reference to proposed storm wcter scheme. Some addi tional levels and further data will be required before the question can be considered exhaus tively. I shall report on this matter at next meeting of Council. Ashburton - Rangitata Water Supply : The races on this system are still working efficiently, with the exception of portion.of race next Rangitata;, j then supply of which is partly ‘dependent on connection not yet determined on front Limestone. This question has been left open, pending Mr T« enty man’s decision as to the alternate route which would join the present race on his propert}-. You will observe that he has brought up another proposal for the consideration of the Council. In any case I would suggest that one line be made through R.S. 32155, 32156, and 32453, as asked for by Mr Whitelaw and Mr Scott, who are willing to defray the expense, jaijd the other dolild be made later on when Mr Twenty man decides what he is prepared to do in the matter. I understand the requisite contribu tions from owners near Hinds for authorised water-race will be sent in in a week or two, and ifso, I will invite tenders for the next meet ing, or earlier, if the Council should wish it. With reference to the question of proposed .race from Willoughby to Dawson’s road, the owners do not seem inclined to take the matter, up .till after harvest. Regarding the supply of Wheat stone district, I sent the Hon. John M‘Lean’s solicitor.plan showing proposed route, 5 atid am preparing the additional information wanted by him previous; to the-preparation.; of deed of agreement. I also beg to annex estimate of the cost of the entire scheme, :comprisiQg-h.ead works riear river, clearing creeks, and distribut ing races.—Mount Somers ,S,upply : Since last meeting I have staked'but and given levels for the various lines necessary to complete the system of water races for this district. Messrs Dunlop and Furneaux, contractors, are now engaged in carry ing out the work, and are making rapid and satisfactory progress. I have also prepared plans and specifications for the small headworks at Taylor’s stream necessary for supplying the districts situated between 'Tay lor’s stream and Bovvyer’s stream, and tenders to include these and about four mile's- ot water race will be placed before you to-day. I anticipate there will be a balance of the vote remaining sufficient to provide for another small contract of water race,, which would complete’ the contemplated scheme for that district. The fencing of willow- plantations has been completed, and the willows are growing vigorously, both at the north and south Ashburton rivers.—Upper 'Rangitata Bridge : The contractor has now got a con siderable quantity of timber on the ground, and has commenced to fit up the caps, etc. W.m. Baxtkr.

Rakaia Water Supply. Messrs Kemp’s and Shepherd’s application was referred to Water Supply Committee. Extension of Power’s Race.—lt was re solved that the Engineer be instructed ,to see that'Messrs Oohld J and Cameron do all that is necessary to prevent waste of water on their property and' enlarge the flume. —Mr Tweutyman’s application : This application was left, with the Water Supply Committee. —North Hinds Water Supply : It was resolved that when the residents pay costs of flume, the Chairman be authorised to accept tenders for same. Race from Willoughby to Dawson’s road.-—The Chairman was authorised to accept tenders as soon as payment is con tributed. Mr McLean's Creek. —lt was resolved that the same committee as were ap pointed to revise deed of agreement be appointed to arrange with Mr McLean as to the clearing of the creek, and it was further resolved that in the event of the committee not being able to arrange with Mr McLean, that it should consider the feasibility of taking a supply from the river. Rangitata Traffic Bridge.—The Engi neer having informed the Council that the contract time for the above bridge would be up in a month, Mr Baxter was re quested to remind the contractor that he would incur heavy penalties unless the bridge was completed within the specified time. The Engineer was instructed to see to the cutting leading to the bridge. Annual Meeting.—The annual meat

ing took place at 12 o’clock, the same members being present. Mr Wright, in a eulogistic J little speech, proposed that Mr Walker should be re-electpd Chair man. Mr Taylor seconded the motion, which was carried unanimously. Mr Bullock then proposed, and Mr Lam hie seconded—“ That an honorarium of LIOO be voted to the Chairman for his ser vices.” This was also carried unani mously. Mr Walker brieflly replied, thanking the members for their -good opinion, and trusting to merit a continu ance of it.

On resuming the ordinary business, a letter was read from Mr Arthur Appleby, Christchurch, complaining of the unfair division of water race between his sections 32801, 32800, and that of Messrs Green and Smiths’, No. 27783.—Left in the hands of the Engineer. Payments. —A number of accounts were passed for payment. • Waierton Library.—Mr Tomlin, Secre tary Waterton Library Committee, wrote asking for a grant of L 5 towards making additions to Library building. It was re solved that payment should be made on the additions being certified to by the Chairman of Committee.

Rangitata Ferry.—The Rangitata ferry question was again discussed, arid it ;was resolved that the ferryman being ap pointed, the Geraldine County Council be applied to for a half-year’s subsidy. It was further lesolved—That inasmuch as the ferry is legally under the control of this Council, the Geraldine County Coun cil be informed that no further altera tions re the ferry can be made this year, as the ferryman is already appointed, but next year the Council will take into con sideration the expediency of placing the ferryman on the south bank.

From Mount Hutt Road Board. —A letter was read from the above Board with reference to the fords on water races being kept in good order, and the painting of posts at the ends of culverts. The Board wanted to know who wae going to defray cost of the • work. The Council resolved to defray the cost. A letter was also read from the Board, having reference to the small birds* nui sance, and in which the opinion was ex preasedthat lOd par 100 eggs dr' heads was not enough, and offering to supple ment the sum by 2d per hundred. Licensing.—A letter was read from the Department of Justice, Wellington,' with reference to re-construction of licensing districts within the county of Ashburton, and stating that a petition, signed by a majority of the ratepayers in each dis trict, would be necessary, under the Act, before the change desired by the Council could be-adopted. Dobbin’s Ford Bridge. —A letter was read from the Selwyn County Council, stating .that a deputation of persons in terested in the above bridge waited upon the Selwyn Council at its last meeting, urging the construction of the bridge under the Roads and Bridges Construc tion Act. The co-operation of the Ash burton County Council was now sought. It was estimated that a combined road and rai i way br idge,costing about L 30.000, would be niost suitable, and it was thought there would be no difficulty in finding a eon tractor willing to undertake the work mid provideL7,soo, or one-fourth the estimated cost, to be rep rid by tolls, ~ The Selwyn Council would be glad to fake steps in connection with the Ashburton Councjl to give effect to the wishes of the ratepayers, and to learn the views- of the Ashburton Council. I r , was resolved—“ That the Council is not able to give a grant in aid, but the district interested —the boun daries of which have been approved by the Council—as a rating district has ex pressed its willingnes i to find half the re quisite amount. The Council is of opinion that the tolls would not satisfy the Act. The plans have been forwarded to the Government, and formal application made respecting the bridge. ” The New Railway Tariff.—Mr Wright moved, Mr Winter seconded, and it was carried—“ That this Council views with satisfaction the reductions made in the new railway tariff for the carriage of grain, and accepts the same as a just recognition of the claims of the agriculturists in this County. [The Council, at this stage, adjourned to 3 p.m., in order to allow time for the Mount Sonfers Railway Committee to bring up their report;] Mount Somers Railway.—On resuming, the committee appointed to investigate the question of diverting the Mount Somers railway across the south branchof the Ashburton river, viz., Messrs Wright, Jackson, Lambie, M’Farlane, and Walker, reported that daring the last month they had visited the district affected from Methven southwards, including Alford Forest, Mount Somers, Upper Ashburton; as'far as Lake Clearwater, Gawler Downs, and the Rangitata Plains, and had endeavored to discover the wishes of all classes of settlers on the subject. Iff preference to any of the three routes surt veyed by the Public Works Department; the committee beg to recommend the. foU lowing, viz.:—That the line should be car ried round by the traffic bridge, cm be strengthened at a amill cost fot railway purposes to Bowyer’s stream. 1 After some discussion, the report was adopted as read.

The Minister for Public Works.-—lt. was resolved that the Chairman should 1 communicate with the Minister fot Works as to w icn he will be in Ashbur ton, and that, if possible, three days’’; notice of the visit be given, and the Clerk’ was instructed to send notice by special’ messenger to County members. It wai; further resolved to send a copy of the’ foregoing report to the Minister.

Methven Recreation Reserve.—lt was moved by Mr Jackson, seconded by Mr'' Wright, and carried —“That in the opinion of this Council it is desirable that, 1 the portion of police reserve No. 2026,‘ Methven, lying on the north of road, be made a recreation reserve, and that the Government be requested to take steps to effect the same. High School Board. —It was resolved" that Messrs Walker and Jackson repre sent the Council on the High School' Board. Reserves.—lt was resolved to let re serves by tender, and not by auction. Christmas Holidays.—lt was resolved that the Council offices be shut from 24th December to 2nd January, Mount Somers Pound.—Mr Carney was appointed to be keeper. Tenders.—The following were accepted; —Ploughing round plantation blocks, D. Dalgetty, at 9d per chain. Water-races extension (Power’s), Phelan, lid per chain, and L 4 each for fords. Dog collars: Tait, 7d, for new collars ; for re-hedg ing. , Alford Forest Water Race.—Purneau* and Dunlop’s tender, at L 67 12a 7d, was ! accepted. , 5 Adjournment.—The Council then ad-, journed to first Wednesday in Janu»ry r >; 1883.

CRICKET.

AUCKLAND v. TIMARU. [by TELEQKApp, J TjUfARD, To-day. The match Auckland v Timaru com menced here at 1.15 on the Club’s ground, two miles from town. The weather ig splendid. Robinson won the toss, and sent Timaru in. Shepherd and Smith . faced the bowling of Buckland and Av- s noil. A bye was run daring the second over, and then Shepherd was clean bowled by Buckland, 1—0—1. The score rose to.a ---10 by successive singles, and soon after- ’ wards Smith, who was batting prettily, hit his wicket, 2—l—lo. Raymond and , , King kept things going for a couple of . minutes, when the latter was run out by

THE ASHBUR TON GOAKDIAN, WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1882.



ATCHMAKERS EWEILERS is ifi IBM CH~GHi The Celebrated American Waltham Snatches, in sterling hunting cases, from £3 LOsi N.B.—None genuine unless en raved “ Waltham, Mass.” on movement. Rotherham’s Celebrated English Levers, rom £5 10s. All Watches Examined, Timed, and Guaranteed Two Years.



Wanted ■VTTANTED—A few young ladies as VV APPRENTICES to the Dress making. Apply to A. Orb. n2O WANTED— A good general BLACK SMITH, for up-country. Apply to E. Cookson, Ashburton. n 27 WANTED— A Good General BLACK SMITH. Highest wanes given. Apply to George Johnston, Methven, n 27 XTTANTED—Everybody to buy CAN VV TERBURY COMIC ALMANAC, ! to be had of J. C. Duncan and Agents everywhere. n 24 WANTED TO LET A Three- Stalled STABLE, Harness Room, Shed, and Loft above. Bent Low. J.“ S. Savage, Painter, Peter street. Au 26 WANTED EVERYBODY to know that Hayes and Co.’s is the Cheapest House in Town for CLOTHING and DRAPERY. au 12 WANTED —The Ladies of Ashburton to inspect my Large and Well selected Stock ofFANCY STATIONERY, BOOKS, NEW MUSIC, Etc., all at Dunedin prices. GEO. F. HENRY, au 5 ' Saunders’ Buildings. \V7ANTED KNOWN—That Robert VV Elston, Burnett street, Ashbur ’ ton, having procured the newest appara tus, is prepared t» Sweep Chimneys at very low rates. Any orders left at the Town. Hall will receive prompt attention. ANTED KNOWN.



That BONEDUST, specially prepared for drilling with carrots, mangolds, etc., can be obtained from the undersigned. F, MAYO, Hampstead Bone Mills. WANTED KNOWN —It is Mr Lan caster’s intention to extend his Bread Easiness, and he wishes his cus tomers to know he has secured Mr Thomas Hicks to manage that branch. A Cart will be run with Bread alone, independent of the other Two Carts, which will con tinue to run as before. The name of Mr Hicks will be a sufficient guarantee that, under his management, Bread of unex ceptionable quality will be turned out of the FREETBADE BAKERY, East street— R. Lancaster, Proprietor. 240 Special Advertisements. THE SCOTTISH IMPERIAL IN SURANCE COMPANY. Head Office: 151, West George street, Glasgow. Capital ... £1,000,000 FIRE RISKS taken at lowest current rates. Claims promptly settled here. W. R. BOYLE, n 7 ' Agent, Ashburton. Q_EEAT CLEARING SALE. 'cheap BOOTS AND SHOES. C. HAWKINS Invites his friends and the public to in spect his large stock of Boots and Shoes, at sweeping prices. O. HAWKINS, Ashbdkton and Txnwald. N.B. —AI) Accounts owing to the above must be settled at once.



p YOU WANT GOOD AND STRONG FURNITURE, GO TO DAVIS’S CHEAP FURNITURE AND BED DING MANUFACTORY, EAST STREET SOUTH, ASHBURTON. fjIYERY article Sold at Christchurch Prices and guaranteed beat of material and workmanship.



FUNERALS CHEAPLY & COMPLETELY FURNISHED 810 Great sale OF A LARGE SALVAGE STOCK OF FURNITURE! FURNITURE! Furniture ! Also, a large quantify of NEW and SECOND-HAND FURNI TURE-CHEAP, All kinds of Turnery, Carving, &c. Bedroom and Drawing-room Suites. John Meech, BURNETT STREET, Ashburton. Showrooms—Next Bullock’s Arcade Workshop—Next Mail )ffice.



The Smith Organ, Made expressly for churches, very strong and plain case, twenty stopq octave couplers, grand swell, twenty-nine pedal notes of two registers (equal to fifty-eight notes), double exhausting bellows (to blow by hand for full power, but a foot lever can be used for the soft organ!. Altogether a complete powerful church organ at a comparative small cost, and combining the stops and swells of the pipe organ costing four times the amount. Any ordinary player can use this organ. Guaranteed for five years. These organs are imporied at special low prices for churches, and sold on terms to suit customers. Organs exchanged if not satisfactory. Further particulars from H. J. WEEKS, MUSIC SELLER, ASHBURTON. Agent for C. Besg A; Co. Importers. npEB GUARDIAN is on every Tea *• Table in Ashburton.



Special Advertisements rjlßY THE NEW ZEALAND Clothing Factory For every article of MEN’S, YOUTHS’ AND BOYS’ CLOTHING, SHIPPING AND TRAVELLING OUTFITS; Also for CHOICE NEW GOODS In HATS, HOSIERY, SHIRTS, TIES, PORTMANTEAUX, RUGS, BLANKETS, &c. HIGHEST AWARD AND SPECIAL HONORARY MENTION At DUNEDIN INDUSTRIAL EXHI BITION ; Also, TWO PRIZE MEDALS AND SPECIAL CERTIFICATE Awarded at CHRISTCHURCH EXHIBITION. Seventeen Retail Branches now open in the Colony. A SINGLE ARTICLE AT THE WHOLESALE PRICE. Ashburton Branch: EAST STREET.



W. SPARROW, Manager. bIO LETTS’ DIARIES, Office and Pocket, for 1883. yOSEPH COOK'S LECTURES. I BLEST CHURCH SERVICES and PRAYER-BOOKS. RICKETING MATERIAL— Gloves, Footballs, etc. SCREENS, Stove Ornaments, clold and Silver Shavings. elqphones. melophones.— The newest and most wonderful Musical Instrument before the public— far surpassing the Orguinette in Utility, Sweetness Tone, and Price. Any child can play it. THE PICTORIAL HISTORY OF THE WORLD, just issued by the National Publishing Company of America, Contains a vast amount of information, admirably printeo, profusely illustrated, and handsomely bound. Subscribers wanted. A CO O U N T BOOKS- Various Sizes and Descriptions. s HOOL BOOKS And Requisites. E NYEL O P E Business, Official, and Fancy. S, T OYS, FANCY GOODS, WOOLS. CREWEL >IANOS, HARMON. YMS, ORGANS AND MUSIC. H YMNS (Ancient and Modern), Wes leyan and Presbyterian HYMN BOOKS. FOOLSCAP AND ACCOUNT SALES PAPER. N O T E PAPE Various Sizes and Qualities. R, H. M. Jones, BURNETT ST. & BARING SQUARE. Bookbinding Executed in Add Branches. W E have now IN STOCK, ex Maud Graham, the undermentioned first class KAURI TIMBER -10.000 feet 6k x li T. and G. 25.000 ~6k x \ „ 10.000 ~ 6| x 1 „ 3.000 ‘ „ 9in Shelving 2,500 „ 12 in „ 1.000 ~ 16 in ~ 1.000 „ 20 in Also, 20,000 feet undressed KAURI, following sizes:— 9x2 Dili 12 x 2“ 12 x li 12 x 1 • 12 x 3 14 x 1 021 TUCKER. 16 x 1 18 x 1 18 x 12x2 15 x k 16 x | 24 x 1 RESTS LL & CO-



JUST RECEIVED —ex “Thorne" (from London) —a splendid selection of FANCY GOODS, comprising—Writing Desks and Cases, Workboxes (rosewood, walnut, and mahogany), blotting Pads (papier mache), Fancy inkstands, Photo graphic and Scrap Albums (at all prices). Purses, Portmonnacs, Ladies' and Gents’ Spring Card Cases (pearl and Morocco leather), Pencil Cases, Stationery Racks, Ink (large and small jars), School Books, and Stationery of every desc iption. A large stock of Cricket e 1 s’ Materials of every kind. Children’s Balls, Dolls, Toys, &c. ANDRE WES BROS., Books sixers, Stationers, Ac. , East street south, Ashburton, nlo HOME, SWEET HOME I—Christ mas and New Years’ CARDS for posting to friends in Europe. The newest designs in great variety. Andrbwes Bros., Booksellers, Stationers, etc., East street south, Ashburton. TO FARMERS. X THE NEW ZEALAND GRAIN AGENCY AND MERCANTILE COM PANY, LIMITED, Are supplying Woolpacks, Full size and three-quarters, at LOW RATES. LIBERAL Cash Advances ON GROWING CROPS,



AND ON LARGE or SMALL CLIPS of WOOL, At LOW RATES of Interest. They are also Sole Agents for Messrs Samuelson and Sons’ now REAPER & TWINE BINDER. Mr Ernest Samuelson, during his recent visit to Now Zealand, was present at most of r.he reaper and binder trials, and the experience he then gained has enabled his firm to incorporate the latest English and American improvements in the Machines they are sending us for next season. We ha-'e every confidence in recommending them as the must DURABLE, COMPLETE, & SIMPLE Machines yet manufactured. G. STEAD, Managing Director. P. CUNNINGHAM, Consulting Director. W. HORNE, 12au Agent, Ashburton.



Special Advertisements. qoal. coal. coal. We have now IN STOCK, ex Con ference, a large supply of the Old Lambton Coal. This is the BEST HOUSE COAL imported. 18 11 TUCKER, REdTELL & CO. •VTOTIOE TO BLACKSMITHS, iM BREWfc.RS, AND OTHERS. Just larded, ex Mary Campbell, from Greyraouth, a supply of the CELEBRATED Brunner Goal, The beat procurable for blacksmith arid steam purposes. n 27 TUCKER, RESTELL & CO. rpHE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN. PRICE ONE PENNY.- PUBLISHED EVERT EVENING. Advertisers are reminded that The Ashburton Guardian is the ONLY DAILY PAPER published between Christchurch and Timaru, and com mands a LARGER CIRCULATION throughout the County of Ashburton than any other Journal. The Ashburton Guardian circulates largely in the Town and Suburbs, and also in Rakaia, Chertsey, Soafield, Meth ven, Alford Forest, Mount Somers, Wakanui, Longbeach, Ashburton Forks, Tinwald, Winslow, Waterton, an every part of the County of Ashburton within the reach of postal communicat thus being the best geneial as well as local medium for Advertising. The Ashburton Guardian will be forwarded to any address in the colony for 24s per annum (paid in advance), or 6s 6d per quarter, postage extra.



Thomas Taylor, JgAKER AND CONFECTIONER, East street. WEDDI N G OAKE S To Order. Manufacturer of CIDER A.ND OTHER CORDIALS,



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., 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.