SHIPPING.

POET or LYTTELTON. Arrived. Ykstkrdat Dunedin, schooner, from Bluff. laca, yacht, from Wellington. Takapuna, s.s., from Manukau and way ports. Mary Helen, schooner, from Pelorus Sound. Manapouri, as., from Melbourne, via Southern ports. Sailed. w.v Yesterday. Annie, ketch, for Oamaru. Olematis, ketch for Pelorus Sound. Manapouri, s.*., for Northern ports. SHIPPING TELEGRAMS. - Wellington, Yesterday. Arrived— Charles Edwards, from Nel aon; Grafton, from Nelson; Wanaka, from the South. Sailed—Waiiska, for the North; Hau nki, for Opunake and Waitara; Hawea, for the South.

COMMERCIAL.

- Asheurton Guardian Office, Monday aftemoen. The following is the Christchurch Com Ex change report for the week ending Friday evening, the aßst hist. In consequence of the holidays, business in grain during the past week has ibeea almost entirely neglected, very few having changed hands. Prices are a repetition of last week’s quotations. Wheat Sound milling, 3s tod to 4s 2d per bushel, £o.b. ; second quality, 3s 3d to 3s 8d ; chick wheat, is; iod to 2s 3d per bushel. Oats— Prime milling, 2s id to 2s 2d per bushel, f.o.b. bright short feed, is lid to 2s; inferior and discolored, is Sd to is led per bushel. Barley —First class malting, 4s to 4s 3d per bushel; second quality, 3s 3d to 3s 6d ; feed, is iod to 2s per •bushel. Cheese and butter— to jd for the former, 6j£d to yd for the latter

DAILY MEMORANDA.

AUCTION SALE-. Monday, December 31. Matson, Cox and Co., at the Ashburton Kaleyards—Stock. MEETING- 3 , AMUSEMENTS, Etc. This Evening. Wednesday, December 26. Town; Hali—Loyal Orange Concert and Ball, at 7.30 p.m. Odnfellows' Hall—Oxford Dramatic Com pany, at 7.30 p.m. . Thursday, December 27. Ashburton Summer Races Mount Somers Annual Races and Sports. Tuesday, January 1. Winslow Annual Races and Sports. Meth-TOn Annual Races and Sports. Friday, January 4. Ashburton County Council— At Council Chambers, 11 a. m. - Friday, January 4. Longbeach Road Board, at Road Board office, 'Longbeach ?iv Saturday, January B. Wakanui Road Board, at Road Board office, Moore street, at 10.30 a.m. r: Monday, January 7. Upper Ashburton Road Board, at Road Board Office

MAIL NOTICES.

Muilm dose at the Ashburton Post Office follows - For Christchurch and North at 6 a. ir. 10.30 a.m., and 5 p.m., daily. For Ohertsey Rakaia, &a, at 10.30 a.m. and 6 p.m. daily. For Dun Odin, Tihwald, Winslow, Hinds, Coldstream, Rangitata, Orari, Winchester, and Geraldine, at 10 a.m. daily. ]&r Temuka, at 6 a.m. and 10 a.in., For Thna.*u and South, at 6 a.m., 10 a.m., and 4.50 p.m., daily. For Greenstreet and Ashburton Forks, on Wednesdays and Saturdays, at 3.30 p.m. For Vlount Somora, on Tuesdays and Saturdays, at 6 a,m. and 4.30 p.m. For Mayfield, on Tuesdays and Sa'ur iayr,at 6 a. in. For Ashtrn, Waterton and Longbeach, at 4.30 p.m. daily. For Memiiigton, on Mondays, Wednes days,and Fridays, at 4.30 p. in. For Wakanui, Elgin, Seaview, Seafield, and Kyle, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, at 6.30 a. m. For Newlands, on Tuesdays and Fri days at 10.30 ».m.

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna Est Veritas et Prevalebit. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 28, 1883.

McMahon, an old 58th man, formerly landlord of the Nottingham Castle, was found dead on his verandah at Auckland yesterday. The cause of death is be lieved to have been heart disease. The master of the Old Men’s Home de sires to acknowledge the receipt of 20s from Bobert Wilkin Esq. of Christchurch, and also a large cake from Mr Thomas Taylor, of Ashburton, for the inmates’ Christmas treat. The steamer Kangaroo has been char tered by the Caswell Sound Marble Com pany to proceed to Caswell Sound for the purpose of bringing up the first shipment of marble, consisting of about 200 tons. A notice in the Gavette declares all the machinery used for or in connection with lifts and elevators of any kind which are worked by steam, water, or gas, shall be subjected to the provisions of the Inspec tion of Machinery Act, Mr J. W. Robinson, architect, states that he intends bringing a libel action against the Dunedin Star for alleged im proper comment on his architectural drawings, now being exhibited at Christ church Industrial Exhibition, damages being laid at LI,OOO. There are eleven criminal cases for trial at the next Supreme Court at Dunedin, but all except two are petty offences. The exceptions are Annie Whiteley for man slaughter in overlaying her child while in toxicated, and John Newton for felony. The cutter Margaret Scolley, owned and captained by Captain Hogarth, while discharging a cargo of timber at Ohau Bay, Terawhiti, was driven on to the rocks and became a total wreck. The crew were saved. Captain Hogarth estimates his loss at 1300.

The bowling match between the Cale donim Club of Dunedin and the Inver cargill Club came off yesterday under moat unpleasant conditions, ,rain falling steadily nearly all the time. Invercargill won on all the three rinks. The visitors were entertained at the Albion in the afternoon.

At the Hibernian Society’s sports held in Otago great interest was taken in the wrestling. William Hudson threw both Tyson and the Maori Robertson, with the latter of whom ho had a prolonged strug gle. A match has been arranged for the Caledonian gathering between Donald Dinnie and the Maori, catch as catch can. The Interprovincial Cricket Match be tween Canterbury and Auckland is ex citing great interest. It commences to day. The betting is very eren. Auck land’s great weakness at present is in the bowling, and with the object of remedy ing this, there is a likelihood that either Dewes, Blair, or Bowden, wili be dropped out to make room for Buckland or Mills.

The Salvation Army have been holding high festivals at Dunedin during the last three days, contingents with brass bands having come in from Ivercargill, Christ church, etc. They held a sort of camp meeting yesterday at the CV.edonian grounds, thirty officers being present. The movement was begun in April last, and the Army in New Zealand now num bers fully 2,500 persons, who are com manded by thirty-live salaried officers. The Ryno, from the South Sea Islands, reports the total wreck of the Auckland schooner Pirate on Mahinaka Island. No lives were lost. The hull was sold for twenty-one dollars. The larger part of the cargo was plundered by the natives shortly after going ashore. A portion was returned through t l :e influence of a missionary. The vessel was owned by James MacFarlano, and insu. ed in the Union for LI,OOO. The cargo was insured, but the extent and effices are not known.

At the Court this morning, before Mr Baddeley, R. M., three first offenders were fined 6s for drunkenness, with the usual alternative. John Johnston, a fo reigner, was charged with committing a breach of the Gaming and Lotteries Act. The evidence went to show that the ac cused had a lottery on the racecourse yes terday, and that he had swindled a boy named Walker. The latter had drawn a number which entitled him to a pound note, but Johnston refused to give it to him, and awarded him a pipe instead. His Worship considered it a bed case, and inflicted a fine of LlO, with the alternative of a month’s imprisonment. An unseemly occurrence took place in the saddling paddock during yesterday’s races, and we are glad to say that the stewards dealt with the offender in a pre emptory manner. Something was said by a gentleman present in regard to the running of one of the horses, and a book maker named Le Sueur expressed himself in very emphatic language concerning the matter. The stewards accordingly held a meeting, and the result of this was that the following resolution was passed: —“ That for highly improper language used on the racecourse, Le Sueur be warned off all courses in use by the stewards of Ihe Summer Races, and that the case be reported to the Ashburton Racing Club.” Our Rakaia correspondent writes :—On Wednesday evening the Rakaia race ball was held in the Town Hali, and was a decided success as was the case in all events during the day. There was a nu merous attendance, and Mi s Sharp (who before came forward to the ball in aid of the Library funds) again presided at the piano during the whole of the dancing, which was kept up till daylight. Thanks to Mr Sharp, who kindly gave the free use of his piano, the expenses were almost nil, and the sports committee will now havs a considerable surplus at their c immand for the improvement of the couise Du ring the evening the principal sports prizes were distributed by Mr Makeig (in the absence of the President), suitable re marks being made to the fortunate ones. The few protests which wore handed in will be considered by a committee ap pointed for the purpose in a day or two, when their decision will be made public.

Sixteen thousand passengers were car ried on the Dunedin tram cars on Boxing Day. The thoro'ighbre I four-year-o’d colt Ike, by Piscator—Lady, arrived at Lyt telton by the s.s. Manapouri yesterday morning, consigned to Mr Stead. At the inquest on Charles Christisnn, who was killed on the Christchurch tram way on Chr slims Day, a verdict of acc - .- dental death was returned. The jury ex pressed the op'niou that tramway guards should bo of mature age, and that a separate guard should be allowed to each car on excursion days. There was not a very largo attendance at the Oddfellows’ Hall last evening when the Oxford amateurs gave their second performance, Lady Audley’a Secret ” and “ FatniK Jars the pro gramme, but it is impossible to accord praise to the manr«- in which they were played. As on the previous night, the prompter’s voice was heard too often. From a piece of “ gag ” introduced into the farce wo were made aware that this c mpany were not pleased with the notice of them in our last issue, but we think that their visit here must have taught them the folly of coming to a place where they were not known. No doubt the Oxford people can appreciate the efforts of their local amateurs, but it is asking a 1 ttle foo much of strangers to expect them to patronise such entertainments as those given in the Oddfellows’ Hall dur ing the last two evenings. The amateur actor will find little honor out of his own country, as the Oxford gentlemen have no doubt realised by this time.

Ar extraordinary case of a loss of a child occurred at Invercargill on Christmas Day. Mr Shepherd (warehouseman, Guthrie and Co.), family and other friends went to Riverton beach in traps toa picnic. The beach is a desolate tract, backed by a broad belt of continually moving sand hills. On returning it was found that Maud, four years old, the child of Shep herd, was missing. As theie was a large party cf women and children, it was ne cessary to drive home to Invercargill with them. Mr Shepherd and one or two friends returned to the beach, an I with the aid of a trooper searched all next day among the blinding sand drifts without avail. No steps were taken to obtain the aid of inhabitants, and those who hoard of the affair were under the impression the child had been found. On Wednesday afternoon, however, it transpired that tho child had not been seen, and several parties went out in tra; a to the beach. It was then found that the child was dis covered yesterday morning on the edge of a lagoon about a mile and a-half from the beach, and taken home to the house of one Hitchcock, who took no immediate steps to allay the alarm and stop the s arch. The child was much exhausted, yesterday being a very bleak squally day, and last night rain fell continuously. The girl was forty four hours without food or shelter.

“ Rough on Rats.” —Clears out rats, g ice reaches, flies, ants, bed-bugs, beetles, insects, skunks, jack-rabbits, gophers. Drug gists. Moses, Moss and Co., Sydney, General Agents, 2 To produce real genuine sleep and childlike repose all night, take a little Hop Bitters on retiring. Look for.— [Advt.]

SPORTING

ASHBURTON SUMMER MEETING. Judge, Mr S. Saunders; Stewards, Messrs J. Ivess, E. G. Crisp, C. C. Fooks, W. Saunders, A. Harrison, L. E. Corsbie ; Treasurer, Mr J. C. Bell Starter, Mr C. A. Calvert; Clerk of the Scales, Mr A. Har rison; Clerk of the Course, Mr W. Martin ; Handicappers, Messrs S. Saunders, E. G. Crisp, C. C. Fooks. The following are the results of the final events yesterday : Town Plate, of 20 sovs, for all horses that have never won an ad vertised stake exceeding 15 sovs; en trance, sovs ; weight for age. miles. Mr H. Brimble’a btn Polly, syrs, 9st 51b (including 2lb overweight) (Smith) 1 Messsrs M. and C. Hobbs’s b m Hine rua, syrs, 9at 31b... ... (Hobbs) 2 Mr P. Journeaux’s g g Steel Dust, aged, 9st 3b ... ... (T. Cotton) 3 Mr W. H. Strout’s bm Twilight, 6yrs, 9st 9£lb (including 6j>tb overweight), (Worner) 0 Mr D. Hyland’s br g Eclipse, syrs, 9st 31b (Lawson) 0 Mr G. Appleton’s b g Tramp, 4yrs, 9st (Ruding’s) 0 Mr T. Quill’s b f Gondoline, 3yrs, Bst 10. b (including 101 b overweight) (Elliott) 0 Comical, Wild Rose, Roseneath, and Mokhanna were scratched. The horses were sent away to an excellent start, Hinerua going to the front. It looked as if Messrs Hobbs’ mare was going to re peat her victory in the Counties Handi cap, as she appeared to be hard held and cantering at her ease. Rounding the home turn Smith called on Polly, who responded gamely, and coming up the straight she was leading by about a length. Hinerua was ridden hard, and the whip was out to Polly, and the latter was landed a clever winner by about a couple of lengths, twice that distance separating Hinerua from Steel Dust. Twilight was a bad fourth, the rest of the field tailing off. Time—2tnin 9£sec On the totalisator were 87 investors, 13 on the winner—dividend, L 6. Christmas Handicap, of SOsovs; weights to be declared after the Town P.ate is run. One mile and a-half. Messrs M. and O. Hobb’s b m Hine rua, syrs, 9st lib ... (Hlackmore) 1 Mr W. B. Colton’s blk m Brenda, 6yrs, 7st 121 b ... ... (Hicton) 2 Mr F. Glassin’s b m Mermaid, 4yrs, 9at 71b ... ... ... (Hobbs) 3 Mr H. Brimble’s b m Polly, 6yrs, bst 21b... ... ... ... (Smith) 0 Mr John Griffin’s g g Taipo, Bst 11b (Miller) 0 Mr F, L. Bozenberg’a g g Selim, aged, Bst (Walls) 0 Mr T. Quill’s oh m Roseneath, 4yrs, Bst (Elliott) 0 Andy, Why Not, Tam o’ Shanter, Steel Dust, Idalia, and Lady Florence were scratchel. Roseneath and Hinerua jumped away from the start, the rest of the field behind in a cluster, Mermaid lying last, Selim, as usual, bolted ofl the course and was put out of the race before the stand was reached. At the back ol the course Taipo ran up to second place, and Mermaid improved her position. Rounding the turn for home Hinerua was still leading, Brenda Being second. Qickton riding splendidly called on his mount, but she was fairly beaten at the post by Hinerua, who won easily. Mer maid ran through her horses during the last J2OO yards and secured third place, the rest coming in straggling, Taipo being last. There were only eight investors on the winner out of 162, tha totalisator dividend being LlB. Consolation Handicap of 10 sovs ; one mile. Mr T. Quill’s Lady Florence, Bst 101 b 1 Mr D. Hyland’s Eclipse, 7st 51b ... 2 Mr W. Furneaux’s Spider, 7st 7lb ... 0 Mr Grice’s Cigarette, 7st 121 b ... 0 Mr W. H. Strouts’ Twilight, Bst ... disq This race was run in the rain, and was generally considered a certainty for Lady Florence. Mr Quill’s mare, however, was beaten after a good race by Twilight ; bat the latter was disqualified by the stewards on the ground that the jockey had carried some 31b overweight, which ho had omitted to declare. The stakes were con sequently awarded to Lady Florence.

WINSLOW RACES.

c The following acceptances were re toived at Harris’s Hotel last evening for ho Trotiing Race. Mr Jephson’s Little Jim Mr Harris’s Dolly Mr Jensen’s Black Bess Mr Grice’s Boxer. In the other events, three acceptances not having been received, there will be post entries on the ground on the day of the races.

THU MARLBOROUGH CUP.

[by telegraph.] Blenheim, To-day, The following weights have been de clared for the Marlborough Cup. st. lb. st. lb. Sir George ... 9 0 Louis d’Or... 7 2 Albion ... 8 9 Artful Joe ... 6 12 Administrator 8 2 Wheel of For- Hercules ... 8 0 tune ... 610 Miss Juan ...7 11 Te Whiti ...6 4 Ruby King ... 7 7 Manfred ... 6 4 Comet ... 7 5 Refrigerator 6 0 Hero ... 7 2 Fairyland ... 6 12

SPORTS AT SOUTH RAKAIA.

The sports held in the Domain on Boxing Day were the best held here for some years. The weather was every thing to be desired. Some seven or eight hundred people rolled up, and all seemed to enjoy themselves. The only thing to at all mar the day’s pleasure was an acci dent during the Hurry Scurry race, when a horse ran off the course and knocked down Miss Shannon, but it is pleasing te hear to-day that she is not so much hurt as it was at first feared. This is the first year that the Domain has been used for the sports, and the natural grand stand is only one of its beatuies. The course for the horse racing is sity-three and a half chains, which may be considered very good for a small place like this. The f blowing are the events, etc.: Qooxx Match. Curtis 1 Everet ... ... ... ... ••• 2 Hurdle Race (£ mile handicap). Welsh 1 Lambert ... ... ... ... ... 2 Putjing the Stone. Oullaty 1 Sheehan 2 Men’s 100 Yds Hanbicap. Tovey ... ... ... ... ... 1 Smith ... ... ... ... _ ... 2 There were eleven entries for this event, which was won by Tovey after a splendid race. Running High Jump, Boys Under 16. Brimicombe ... ... ... ... 1 O’Kee’e 2 Vaulting with Pole. Dent (Bft 4in) 1 Reid (Bft 3in) 2 Boys’ 100 Yds Handicap. McAnulty 1 Sharpe 2 Robinson 3 Men’s Running High J dmp. A. Mann (4ft 7£in) 1 A. Mangham 2 One Mile Walking Race. Lambert ... 1 Four entries for this race, but all but the winner were disqualified on account of breaking. For the Highland Fling only one entry was made, so the event did not come off Men’s Quarter Mile Handic p Doherty ... ... ... ... ... 1 Storry 2 Sack Race. Doherty 1 Osborne 2 Single Women’s Race. Mary McCoy 1 Maud Reidy 2 Throwing the Hammer. Oullaty ... ... ... ... ... 1 Sheehan ... ... ... ... ... 2 No one entered for the Old Men’s Race (over 50 years), none admitting that they were up to the required age. One gentle man in particular being much amazed on being told that he was over fifty. Wrestling Match (Cumberland.) Mangham 1 Married Women’s Race. Mrs Dunn came in a good first, with Mrs Bollough second. As is usual, this race caused considerable amusement. Men’s 1 Milk Handicap. Storry 1 Doherty ... ... ... ... ... 2 McLellan ... 3 This was by far the best of the athletic events, and was well run. Three Legged Race. Frederiokson and Cunningham ... 1 Lambert and King . ... 2 Tug op War (Married v. Single). As was expected the benedicts were the beat, although this is not admitted by cur single young men. The Obstacle Race caused a lot of fun, and was won by O. Hugonin, and Reid second. The horse racing was a fair success con sidering the course was rather rough. The Rakaia Cup. Mr Alexander’s Lauriaton ...(Derritt) 1 Mr Furneaux’a Spider ... (Cotton) 2 Mr Lampard’s The Masher (Osborne) 3 Thirteen started for this event, and after an excellent race it was won by Lauriston. Three-mile Tbotjinu Match. Mr Hood’s Polly ... ... ... 1 Mr Street’s Judy ... 2 Mr Kerr’s Kate ... 3 Hurdle Race; 2 miles; over ten hurdles. Hilmount ... ... ... (Cook) 1 The Masher ... ... ... (vVattsj 2 This was an excellent race between the first two horses, and it was through a mis take as to the winning post that The Masher did not win easily. For some considerable time there hai been much excitement over this race, everyone, of course, thinking his own horse beat. Five entered, Bones being fancied by a great many, but The Masher was well able to put the set on him. Hurry Scurry. Forest King ... ... ... ... 1 Polly ... 2 Beauty ... ... ... ... _ ... 3 Twelve entered and a good finish was made. Mr Holmes acted as judge, Mr Lyttel ton starter, Mr Oxley clerk of the scales, and Mr A. Makeig clerk of the course. The thanks of all are due to the secretary (Mr Clark) for the manner in which all the events were arranged. Refreshment booths and amusements in the shape of “ Aunt Sally ” shooting gallery, etc., were on tho ground.

CORRESPONDENCES.

We do not hold ourselves responsible for ihe opinions expressed by our correspondents.

ATHLETIC.

TO THE EDITOR. Sir— Among those who were witnesses of the athletic games held in Ashburton yesterday, were some who thought it a pity that the caber turned by Donald Dinnie should have been shortened to suit the inferior strength of others. Might it not rather have been put aside as a test of the ability either of other strangers or of the coming athletes of New Zealand. If nothing of the kind has been yet kept, might you not suggest the doing so, in some one at least of the towns of New Zealand.—l am, etc. , R. Campbell. Chertsey, Dec. 27,1883.

DRINK AND THE WEATHER.

In presiding at the sixth ing of the St Panoras Total Abstinence ( Association, Dr B. W. Richardson, F.R.S., attributed the recent rise in the drink revenue to the weather. In ana lysing a series of tables collected by Messrs Mitchell and Buchan, of Edin burgh, on the subject of the weather and mortalities from various diseases, he found that the mortality from alcohol had its particular season, and that from the time when mortality returns began first to be collected up to the present the pe riods were well defined. Messrs Mitchell and Buchan indicated this law by what is knownas “Bloxbam’s curve " The months of the year were marked off in divisions, twelve in number, by vertical lines five eighths of an inch long These vertical or straight up and down lines were crossed in their centre by a horizontal line, which was called the mean line. The whole formed a scale on which the cause of mor tality from any disease was marked off by a third irregular line, which rose to or above the mean line, or fell to it or below it, according as the mortality fell or rose during the diffore.it periods. He found by this scale as applied to disease from the alcoholic poisons, that the line of mor tality was singularly marked. At New Year’s Day the line showing the alcoholic diseases, alcoholism and delirium tremens, appeared just above the mean line ; in January it fell below the mean line, and continued below it through February, March and April. In MayiTbegan rapidly to rise ; in June it rose and fell, but always remained above the mean, In July it ran up rapidly, and in the third week of July it attained its maximum. It began to decline in August ; continued steadily to decline in September ; fell below the mean in October, and continued below until the close of December, when it com menced to ascend, and yielded what was called the smaller maximum, which was reached in the first week of January,, after which it declined again below the mean until May. In the middle of Miy last, when the mortality from alcohol naturally rose by a lather sudden bound, the revenue from the sale of alcohol went up, giving an increase of L 30,000, and that increase continued in a smaller de gree during the next four months, yield ing an increase of L 15.000, or a total dar ing the whole period of maximum mor tality from alcohol—from the middle of May to the end of September —of L 45,000. The lesson he drew from these facts was that the increase of sale of the alcoholic poisons, and the necessary increase of mortality from them, were due to the weather. Every season had its diseases. Messrs Mitchell and Buchan defined six periods in which there were conditions of weather when the diseases were specially favored, viz., (1) of dampness and cold—fourth week of October to third week of December ; (2 of cold—fourth week of December to third week of February; (3) of dry ness and cold—fourth week of Febru ary to second week of April ; (4) of dry ness and warmth—third week of April t > fourth week of June ; (5) of heat—close of June and fourth week of August; (6) of dampness an I warmth —first week of September to third week of October. The mortality from alcohol showed that there was an increased action of the cause pro ducing it, namely, an increased consump tion of alcohol by the alcoholic popula tions, and the season explained why.

MAORI ARCHITECTURE.

The Napier Telegraph of Dec. 21st, gives the following description of a Maori whare runanga, or meeting house, which gives an idea of the substantial character of the architecture of their more important buildings : Our representative accepted an in vitation last week to visit the new Otiaro House, which the Maoris have just completed at Tahoraite. It is a large building, measuring Ix6ft by 35ft, with a stud of over 12ft, rising to 25ft at the top of the gable, and built en tirely of solid heart of totara, which is mostly in very massive pieces. The ridge pole consists of two pieces only, and contains 2,600 ft of heart of totara. The central uprights are massive and octagonal, and are sunk 10ft into the ground, and painted with red and while stripes. The studs are 6ft apart, 2ft 6in broad, and 6in thick, and have an inward lean of 3m at the top, thus sup porting the rafters without the beams. These are also painted red. The rafters are the same size as the studs, which will give an idea, of the solidity of the building, and are gaudily painted in a uniform device supposed to represent the “ gohai flower,” but the resem blance is certainly rather vague. The roof rises 9 inches higher in front than behind, the idea being that it must “ rise to the sun,” and all poles and timber used in the building are laid with the top end of the tree point ing towards the sun. Between the cen tral uprights, on the ceiling, are painted various curious devices. The central one represents the earth with the sun at a distance, the full moon with a clock drawn on its face, Saturn, the Southern Cross, and a very fine looking comet; the whole of this on a background of the sky, and national colors, red, white and blue, prominent in the whole. On the panels of the walls formed by the studs are painted most complicated de signs of ancient native plaiting work, and underneath them are plaited real mats, of later pattern, made by a con vention of girls from the neighboring pahs. The work is exceedingly well done, and fconsists of white and tinted flax and “ ghea-ghea ” entwined- with delicate red laths, placed about three fourths of an inch apart, and showing a background of toi-toi reeds most evenly laid side by side. Out side this comes a coating of weather boards, and then corrugated iron, of which four tons have been used. The entrance to the building has a quaint appearance, presenting a mixture of grandeur with absurdity, and is sur mounted with a huge carved human head, with the mouth open and in the act of swallowing another smaller head, which is suggestive of cannibal ism. Inside the porch is lined with massive carvings. On the left side of the door is a row of men supposed to represent politicians, who are all hold ing on to their tongues with their right hands. This is to show how advisable it is to curb that unruly member. On the opposite side of the door is a row of women, but these latter have had the entire lower jaw cut off, by which the natives imply that without recourse to this summary measure it is a matter of absolute impossibility to make a woman silent 1 . Another! carving repre sents a man who has fallen out with his tribe, and in his remorse has cut off his own head, aud is holding it up in both hands, and giving vent to his grief. All the carvings are symbolic of some an cient belief, and some evince a finer feeling almost than one would expect to find amongst the natives. The floor of the building is covered with linoleum and several looking-glasses are placed

for the edification ol the Maori ladies. Up to the time of the completion of the building no women were allowed to enter the house, as it was thought that the men would not work so well as when alone. The amount of labor that has been expended may be estimated from the fact that 20,000 feet of timber is comprised in the foundations alone, and an equal quantity in the building, all of which is solid heart of totara, either split or adzed out of huge logs. The cost of material is estimated at L6oo, and the labor only nearly double that amount in addition. The house was opened on Tuesday evening by a large gathering of natives from all parts.

CRICKET.

AUCKLAND v. CANTERBURY. [by telegraph.] Auckland, To-day. The Intercolonial cricket match, Can terbury v Auckland, commenced in the Domain at one o’clock, Auckland taking the field. Blair was at the wicket; Testro, long-stop- O’Brien, long-leg and l<>ng-off; Robinson, short-leg ; Yates, long-on and third man; Dawes, long off and leg ; Gill and Lanklmm, bowlers and slip ; Arniel, point; Bowden, cover-point and long-on ; Barton, mid-on and cover. WH. Dud ney and W. Y. Milton represented Can terbury at the wickets. Runs came quickly from both ends, twos, threes, and singles totting up the sco-' 1 !, I > 36 without eny chance presenting itself • f dissolving the partnership. Robinson th°-> relieved Gill and opened his over with stows

CABLE NEWS.

LATEST FROM EUROPE.

[RRDTER's TELEGRAMS—COPYRIGHT. 1 £1 Madhi Advancing. Cairo, Dec. 26. A rumor is current here to the effect that El Madhi is advancing upon Khartoum, and is now within ten days’ march of it. Calcutta Exhibition. Calcutta, Dac. 26. _ The International Exhibition is still visited by a large number of persons daily, and up to the present time 140,000 persons have been admitted.

AUSTRALIAN.

[rEDTBR’B TELEGRAMS —COPYRIGHT.] Shipping. Melbourne, Yesterday. Arrived Yesterday morning, the Orient steamship Potosi, from London (November 17th); this morning, the Union steamship Te Anau, from the Bluff. Cricket. The Intercolonial cricket match was continued here to day, and the first in nings of the New South Wales team closed for 415. When the stumps were drawn for the day the home team had lost two wickets for 107. [Received Dec. 28, 2.40 p.m.] France and China. London, Dec. 27. A report is current to-day that the French Government intends to hold the Chinese Government answerable for the expenses the French may incur in despatching troops to Tonquin, in con sequence of the hostile attitude of China in that country. Fatal Biot. Telegrams are to hand from New foundland announcing that a serious riot occurred at the harbor of Grace port, in Conception Bay, between Orangemen and Catholics. The rival parties numbered several hundreds, and fighting was carried on for some time. Three contestants were killed and num bers seriously wounded in the affray.

TELEGRAMS.

[pbr press association.] Insurance. Auckland, To-day. The Pirate was insured as follows : Hull, LI ,000 in the Union, of which L?l0 is re-insured in the South British; cargo, insured in the Union for L7OO, New Zealand for Ll6O, Universal lor L 525. The freight was insured for LIOO in the Universal. Disappointed Qumdiggers. Eight gutndiggers who were induced by the representation of an ex-Auckland merchant named Oppenheimer to go to New Caledonia, write describing their ex periences. They declare the whole thing to be an atrocious se'l. There is no pay able gum on the island, and they are now suing Oppenheimer in the local Courts for compensation. Cricket. It is a fine day for the Inter provincial cricket match, which commences at noon. Ministerial Movements. Mr Bryce returns to Auckland from the Waikato to-morrow, having completed the arrangements for the survey of the boun dary of the King cnmtry lands, and he has also arranged a survey of a road from Alexandra to Kawhia. Mr Mitohelson remains in the North for three weeks, and then goes to Wellington. Theatrical. The Pomeroy season opened to one of the most crowded houses ever assembled at the Opera Houso. Hundreds were un able to gain admittance, and had their tickets endorsed for the following night. Murder. Captain Robinson of the schooner Three Cheers, which arrived from the Sooth Bea Islands on Thursday, reports the mur der of a Chinaman at Birtaritarl Island, where Captain Mailer was shot. A white trader is accused of the crime. The mur dered man, who was known by the name of Sa a (Chinese name.llkam) was partner in a large China firm trading from Sydney to these islands. He is said to have been a naturalised British subject. He was found dead in his house with a long knife through his body from the right shoulder out through the left riba. A Rich Mine.

At the annual meeting of the Prinoe Imperial Gold Mining Company, Themes, to-day, the report showed dividends to the amount of 39s per share were paid during the year, representing L 33,000, ana L 4,938 remained in hand. The value of the gold obtained in the year was L 69.425. Fatal Accident. Gisborne, To-day. A young single man named Edward Bradiah was killed at the South Pacific oil springs to-day. His hand caught in a rope coiling it round his arm. The next coil went round his neck, and death waa instantaneous. A Steamer Ashore. Wellington, To-dsy. A telegram from Nelson states that ike steamer Charles Edwaid struck on the Alligator Reef on her passage from Wei-, lington to Nelson. The forecastle iv full of water, but the watertight compartment prevented the vessel from sinking. She proceeded on, and arrived at Nelson this morning.

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 28, 1888.



Reward Books, Presents, Prizes, Toys, Dolls, &c. H. M. JONES, East street. 11 87 |J I N W A L D. Boots* Boots, Boots In consequence of the scarcity of money, 0. HAWKINS, who has just replenished his STOCK with all kinds of 3S ; QOTS AND SHOES For tius season of the year, is prepared to SELL at alarming Low Prices for GASH. All kinds Of Boots Made. Repairs done on the shortest notice. 13 1087



To Let and For Sale. Stock JjlOR PRIVATE SALE. OKfWT M® r * no WETHERS, 2,4, and 6 tooth, and full mouthed 4500 Br *° o ®wes Merino WETHERS «gOO e ” no ewes gQQ Merino WETHERS 'Merino WETHERS *| Afl'A Crossbred EWES, 4-tooth, with AUUU lambs at foot 1 AAA Merino EWES, with lyyy lambs at foot. For particulars, apply to 12 998 FRIEDL ANDES BROS. Auctions. fj ,HB NEXT SALE OF Live Stock Will be held at the AS H B URTON YARDS, ON MONDAY, 31sr DECEMBER. MILES & CO. -«fC ;>.-dt ' GEO. JAMESON, 12 1102 ; Agent, Ashburton, STOP THAT COUGH 1 PON ’ r DELAY.-^-How can you s*op it? Where. / 1 the Remedy. Ronnington’s P CTOBAL OXYMEL OF CAKRA GB ''Pfi o* IRISH MOSS (register )). can produce more evidence of real then any other article 1 for the purpose Sold everywhere. O Roknim'Ton, Ghnetchurch.



Wanted WANTED— An experienced MAN to take charge of a Threshing Ma chine ; references required. Apply, by letter, MrF. T. Mayo. Hampstead. * 12 1137 WANTED— Man COOK for mens’ hut; must be a good baker. 0. H. Dowdino, Coldstream. 12 1119 WANTED Known—That Hayes and Co. are slaughtering 2,000 yards of Madras Muslin worih 1s 9d at 6i per yard. WANTED Known—For Sale, two COTTAGES on East Belt. Cheap, easy terms. Apply W. C. Davis or Ward and Sons. 12 1012 YTT’ANTED Known Novelty Em \\ porium ! Just opened up a case of American fruit preserving cans, gb ss fruit preserving bottles with screw tops, rubber rings, etc. N.B.—The American fruit can is the only one suitable for family use. There is no solderiug re quired. Sole agent for Ashburton, S. E. Poyntz, Burnett street. 12 1145



WANTED KNOWN— Robert Elston, Bill Poster, Theatrical Agent, etc., Town Hall, Ashburton. Theatrical companies and others visiting Ashburton should communicate with the above. Orders by post or telegram promptly attended to. 760 c WANTED —The public who are in want of Boots to inspect our win dow before purchasing elsewhere. As far as style and cheapness we are determined not to be excelled. Boots for everyone, and at any price. Large stock of women’s best prunellas from 7s 6d ; men’s half sole and heeling, 4s 6d ; women’s do, 3s 6d ; girl’s do, 2s 6d. Nokes, Leicester Boot Warehouse, Burnett street. 12 1107



WANTED Known —That in conse quence of the rapid increase of business, John Moison, Impermeable Bootmaker, has been compelled to get a large stock of Boots of a superior quality in the town in order to meets the demands of his customers, and those who may pur chase from him will find no deception as to price or quality. As J. M. has gained the public trust in the past by doing best work and fit, combined with neatness and style, he intends even to make greater exertions in the future. Fowler’s Build ings, Tancred street (opposite Arcade), Ashburton. 7 207 WANTED KNOWN—That Mr Dan Lea’s Gymnasium is the only place for real amusement; admittance free. Every kind of amusement to be ob tained on the premises calculated to please the general public—American Bowls, Skittles, Shooting, Boxing, Fencing, Horizontal Bar, Trapeze, etc. Temper ance Drinks, Cigars, etc. Tickets — monthly 2s 6d, for use of Horizontal Bar, Trapeze, Single-sticks, Dumb-bells, Indian Clubs, etc, Dan Lea is always at his post to give lessons in Boxing, lesson £1 per or according to arrangement. 1344



Special Advertisements. MERRY CHRISTMAS HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL. ANDREWES BROS., East Street South, IS NOW OPEN CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR GIFTS in great variety. Bazaar Fancy Fair AT



INTENDING PURCHASERS OF CLOTHING FOR THE SPRING AND SUMMER SEASON Should visit the NEW ZEALAND Clothing Factory’s BRANCH, Where they can select from the LARGEST VARIETY OP FASHION ABLE GARMENTS, Manufactured from sound and reliable New Zealand Tweeds. The well-known reputation enjoyed by the Firm of Selling a GENUINE ARTICLE AT WHOLESALE PRICE Has resulted in an increase of Business during the past season, and they can now boast of having Twenty - One Retail Branches in New Zealand, thus enabling them to increase the Factory produce, economising both material and labor, and ensuring to their patrons a further benefit in the shape of a still Lower Rate of Wholesale Prices. SHIRTS, UNDERCLOTHING, HATS & CAPS, PORTMANTEAUS, And every requisite at Wholesale Price. Ashburton Branch : EAST STREET.



F YOU WANT AND JHEAP FURNITURE AND RED DING MANUFACTORY, EAST STREET SOUTH, ASHBURTON. JjTVERY article Sold at Christchurch Prices and 0 .aranteed bea. of •naterial and workmanship. CHEAPLY & COMPLETELY FURNISHED STRONG FURNITURE, GO TO DAYIS’B FUNERALS



W. MAURICE, Tailor, .Etc. Gentlemen’s Own Material MADE UP. Perfect fit and newest style guaranteed. CL ANING and MENDING, etc , MOORE STREET, ASHBURTON. B.—The cheapest Tailor in the to* n. 12 1007



Special Advertisements. INTRODUCTION OF THE PARCEL SYSTEM. Fashion V *>vse, Cashel street, Ch. .itcharch. Great success has been achiever) in the Old Country by the introduction of the “Numbered Parcel System,” for the supply ard purchase of useful household drapery, thousands of parcels being for warded to the order of distant customers upon the distinct understanding that any article not proving satisfactory to the pur chaser, the money in all cases to be re turned. This system is now being intro duced by E. O. Brown & Co., FASHION HOUSE, Christchurch. The splendid stock of General Drapery in all departments has been purchased by E. C.'Brown and Co., from the Trustees in the Estate of the late firm of Craig and Smyth, at a very large discount off cost for cash. Thus articles sold under price leave a good margin of profit for the vendor, while giving unsurpassed value to the purchaser. In all parcels we stake our reputation on the values, and, as suggested above, re turn the money in all cases where the article is not satisfactory. Our No. 1,20 s Dress Parcel, contains— Worth £ a. d. 1 dress piece (12 yds) any shade, French costume cloth ... 018 6 l£ good velveteen to match dress 0 5 6 3 yds silesia, for linings ... 0 I 10 2 doz new oxydised buttons, to match ••• 0 16 1 pair warm lined fur-top spring cuff gloves 0 2 6 £1 9 10 Our No. 2,30 s household parcel, contains— Worth 1 pair good medium size blan kets 10 0 1 good honeycomb quilt 0 12 6 8 yds good wincey 0 5 0 1 pair good strong corsets, any size ... ... ... ... 0 5 0 £2 2 6 Our No. 3, dress parcel for £2, contains— Worth 1 dress piece (10 yds) celebrated I mpress black velveteen ... 1 7 6 3 yds good silesia for lining ... 0 2 0 2 doz new style oxydised buttons 0 16 1 handsome striped winter skirt 0 9 6 1 durable silk umbrella, paragon frame ... ... ... ... 0 8 0 1 choioe’silk chenille scarf ... 0 3 11



£2 12 5 Our No. 4, Ladies’ parcel for £2, contains— Worth 1 dress piece (12 yds) French check costume cloth ... ... 1 1 0 3 ydssilesia lining for same ... 0 2 0 2 doz choice buttons, to match dress ... ... ... ... 0 1 6 1 good warm Ladies’ tweed ulster 0 17 6 1 black quilted alpaca skirt ... 010 0 1 white or colored wool wrap ... 0 5 6 1 pair lisle lined fur-top spring cuff gloves 0 2 0 £2 19 6 Our No. 5, household parcel for £2 10s, contains — Worth 1 pair large size good witney blankets 1 10 0 1 nice large size good honeycomb quilt 0 14 6 1 pair good heavy white sheets 0 9 6 6 good value honeycomb towels 0 4 0 6 yds heavy Welsh flannel ... 0 8 0 £3 6 6 Our No. 6, family parcel for £3, contains— Usual price 12 yds super Roslyn flannel (pure wool) ... ... ... . ... 018 0 24 yds splendid white calico, heavy make ... ... ... 013 0 24 yds good strong brown or grey wincey ... ••• 014 0 6 yds tartan plaid 0 6 6 6 yds good brown holland ... 0 4 6 12 yds hemp carpet, dark stripe 0 7 0 6 pair Girls’ or Women’s warm winter hose ... ‘ ... ••• 0 7 6 4 large unbleached Turkish towels j|,.. 0 4 9 £3 15 3 Our No. ,7, mourning parcel for £2 10s, contains— Worth 10 yds good black French cash mere ••• 1 6 2 yds 4x4 celebrated rainproof crape 0 9 6 1 good black alpaca or sateen skirt 0 14 6 2 pair? Ladies’ black hose .*-0 3 0 1 pair Ladies’ two-button choice black kid gloves 0 4 6 £ doz Ladies’ cambric handker chiefs, in fancy box ... ... 0 5.6 £2 19 6 Our No. 8, furnishing parcel for £lO, contains — Worth 20 yds nice pattern good tapestry carpet 3 5 0 1 nice pattern hearthrug, to match ... ... ... ... 0 16 6 1 pair handsome lace curtains ... 0 14 6 1 pair medium lace curtains ... 010 0 2 pair full size good white sheets 0 18 6 1 pair full size good witney blan kets ... ... ... ... 1 10 0



1 pair medium good wilney blan kets 1 0 0 1 full size white honeycomb or toilet quilt 0 14 0 1 choice pattern wool fcabieoover 0 15 6 2 white Turkish bath towels ... 0 3 0 6 white or unbleached honey comb towels 0 46 2 white antimacassars ... ... 0 2 0 2 white toilet covers ... ... 0 4 0 6 yds linen check glass cloth ... 0 6 0 1 superior white linen tablecloth 0 11 6 £ll 15 0 Our No. 1, wedding parcel for £4, contains— _ Worth 1 dress (12 yds) pretty shade in cashmere ... ... ••• 1 17 6 2 yds pretty shade in satin, to match ... ... ... ••• 0 13 6 1 dress (12 yds) good costume cloth 110 2 yds rich colored velveteen, to match ... ... ... ... 0 7 0 6 yds good silesia ... ... 0 6 0 3 doz buttons, to match dresses 0 2 0 8 yds braid, to match dresses ... 0 0 8 1 pair two-button first choice tinted or white kid gloves ... 0 5 0 6 Ladies’ linen collars ... ... 0 3 0 6 Ladies’ linen handkerchiefs ... 0 5 6 3 pairs Ladies’nice hose... ... 0 4 6 £5 5 8 Our No. 2, wedding parcel for £lO, contains — A very complete trousseau. Our No. 9, Ladies’ (half-price) parcel for L 5, contains— Dsual price 1 Ladies’ handsome mantle ... 2 17 6 1 Ladies’ beautiful real sable muff and collarette ... ... ... 4 10 0 1 Ladies’ quilted satin skirt ... 1 0 0 1 fashionable tweed ulster, in leading shades 1 10 0 £9 17 6 A problem whereby Ladies may stay at home and order their drapery in perfect confidence Just try one parcel and see what you will save. Remember —Cash returned at once for any article returned in good condition. Samples post free on application to any part of New Zealand. In ordering any of these parcels, it is sufficient to quote number and name of p&rcel only. P. 0.0. made payable to E 0. BROWN & 00., Far'd op House, Christchurch. 1882



Canterbury:— For the Union Bank of Australia, Limited, JOS. PALMER, Chief Officer Now Zealand. For the Bank of A ustralasia, o » SCOW fmmmt o "2 2 3 3 "•P'S" s 2. B, » U D •“ ~ 3 I § «-( g .*■% CD O *< p-k-- ► td>s > c»=f a CD® B O cr ► *=« to I to 3 t u 2 ° :®!S - fcc, c.& Fide et Crede. ICTORIA HOUSE. In addition to the usual very low prices, during the present month (December) a DISCOUNT Of Is 6d on every 20s worth of goods purchased, will be returned to the purchaser. A large and well assorted stock to select from. Diinant and Coe, Ready Money DRAPERS, CLOTHIERS, Etc., Patching’s Buildings, East Street, 9528 Special Advertisement.