SHIPPING.

»ORT OF LYTTELTON. Arrived. rESTERDAY. Fenstanlon, b.b., from London, via Port Chalmers. .Kakatiri, 8.8., from Westport. . Sailed. Yesterday. Clematis, ketch, for Pelorus Sound. Comet, ketch, for Havelock. Ocean. Bird, ketch, for Anahan. Olio, schooner, for Waitapu.

SHIPPING TELEGRAMS.

Wellington; Yesterday. ? .'Arrived—Binemoa, from Manukau apd Opunake; Ringarooma, from Melbourne, via the South; Go-Ahead, from Dunedin; Wallace,-Irohi the West Coast; Rotorua, from tire North. Sailed Ringarooma, for Auckland, via the East Coast. > Dunedin, Yesterday. ■jj Arrived—Pet, from Hobart; Wanaka, from the North. Sailed—Wairarapa, for Melbourne, va the Bluff; Stella', for the South.

TRAVELLERS’ GUIDE.

Trains Leave Aehbckton for Christ church and intermediate stationsat7.lo a.m., 10.65 a.m., and (Express) 5.37 p.m.

Tbains Leave Ashburton for 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 15a.m. (Express), , 4.35 p.m., and 7.15 p.m. , Trains , Arrive at Ashburton from Timaru and South at 10.40 a.in., 0.2? p.rn, (Express), and 8 o.tn.

DAILY MEMORANDA.

AUCTION SALES Saturday, October 6.

Matson, Cox, and Co., at their rooms— -89 aojre Farm.' Messrs-Mat son, ; Cox and Co., at Tatter aall’a—fTowii Sections.. .- ■Mr Thos- Bullock, -at the Arcade, Burnetl f ' l Street—Town Section. .

■ ■ Tuesday, October 9. Watson. -Cox and Co., at the Tinwald Tarda —Stock.

MEETINGS. AMUSEMENTS. &o -r ■ ■■■■*'. This Evening. Somerset Lodge, Monthly Meeting, in the .'Masonic Hall, Tancred street, 7.30. . .Saturday, September 29. -Timaru Agricultural and Pastoral Asso ciation—Annual Horae Parade. Monday, October 1. Borough Council, at Borough Council ■ Chambers, at 7 o’clock. Wednesday, October 3. Ashburton County Council at Council " Chambers ; 11 a,m. , . Saturday, October 6. Aabbfirtpn Agricultural and Pastoral •' Association —Horse Parade. Wednesday, November 14. ‘Ashburton Agricultural and Pastoral ! ■ Association—Annual Show.

MAIL NOTICES.

Maih close at the Ashburton Post Office as follows;

For Christchurch and North at 6s.ni. 10.30 a.m., and 5 p.m», daily. VFor Chertsey Bakaia, &a, at 10.30 a.m. Abides p.m. daily. For Dunedin, Tinwald, Winslow, Hinds, jOaldsfcream, Rangitata, Orari, Winchester, toi-Geraldine, at 10 a.m. daily. , V'For Temiika, at 6 a.m. and 10 a.m., For Timasru and. South, at .6 a.m., 10 m.,and 4.30 p.m., daily. ’■'Fop Greenstreet : and Ashburton Forks, oa 'Wednesdays and Saturdays, at 3.30 .fun-;- ‘’L For Mount Somers, on Tuesdays and Saturdays, at € a.m, and 4.30 p.m. ‘ iTor Mayfield, on Tuesdays and Satur day^’ v -For" Aahtsa, Waterton and Longbeach, at 4.30 p.m, daily. For Flemington, bn Mondays, Wednes fiays, and Fridays, at 4. 80 p. m. For Wakanui, Elgin, Seaview, Seafield, and Kylo, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and. Saturdays,at-6.30 a.nL _ For Newlands, on Tuesdays and Fri days at 10.30 am.

Mail« arrive at the Ashburton Post Office-

From Christchurch and Rakaia at 10.15 4.35 p.m., and 7.20 p.m. FromCbertsey, &c. at 10.15 a.m. and 4»35 p.m. daily. From Dunedin and intermediate places at daily. . ' ■ From Temuka .and Timaru at 10.40. a. m. 6.30 p.m., and 8 p.m. daily. , From/: Greenstreet and Ashburton Forks, Wednesdays and Saturdays, at 10 • alnL. : . ' .-i FrbnfcMount Somers, on Tuesdays and Saturdays, at 10.5 a. m.' and 8.15 p.m. From Mayfield, on Tuesdays and Satur days, at 10.5 a.m. Fiona/ Ashton, Waterton,. and Long . beach at 10 a.m. daily. , Frotn Elgin, Wakanui, Seafield, and ' Kyle.ron Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sat urdays, at 4 p.m. From Newlands, on Tuesdays and Fri- From Flemington oh' Tuesdays, Thurs days, and Saturdays, at 10 a-m. -

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna Est Veritas et Prevalebit. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 1883. A Serious Situation.

The people of Ashburton are proud, and justly so, of having been among the first to establish upon a large scale such an important colonial industry as the manufacture of cheese and butter. Our example has been followed by several places in the North Island, and wherever Mr Bowron, the gentleman appointed by the Government to dis pense knowledge on this particular subject, has lectured, he has invariably pointed to the Flemington factory as a model institution of its kind. Bearing this in mind, we had reason to con gratulate ourselves on having founded an industry in our midst, which would benefit not only the shareholders, but also those settlers who practised dairy farming. The reports that reached us of what was being done at the factory were eminently satisfactory, and it must have been a surprise to our readers to see a paragraph in our issue of Tuesday last, stating that an extraordinary meet ing would be held on the and proximo to determine whether or not should be suspended during the coming season. Advices from England, it was said, had arrived of such a nature as to make an immediate decision com pulsory, and from this it would appear that the situation the shareholders are called upon to meet is a serious one. What is the precise nature of the mes sage received from Home will of course be divulged at the meeting, but evi dence is not wanting to enable us to hazard a conjecture of its purport. Re cent papers from England tell of the prospect ot large importations of cheese from America, and these will, it need scarcely be pointed out, cause a very de cided decrease in the price of that commodity—a decrease which may fairly be estimated at ios or 12s p r cwt. The product of the Flemington factory, as everyone who has tasted it can testify, comparts favorably with the average cheese manufactured at Home, but it stands to reason that any thing like a paying price cannot be realised in a glutted market. As a matter of fact it is doubtful whether the net amount obtained for the En glish shipments will be more than four pence half-penny a pound, a price which in the present state of things would not pay —in fact this is the quo tation just now for Akaroa cheese in Christchurch, and even at that it is diffi cult of sale.

Having indicated the position of affairs, we may say a few words as to the remedy. Up to the present farmers supplying the Flemington factory have been receiving fourpence a gallon for milk weighing ten pounds, but as it takes eleven ounces beyond that weight to make one pound of marketable cheese, it is apparent that no margin will be left for labor in manufacture and for carriage, if the cheese is to be disposed of at its present market value, either at Home or in the colonies. The situation, although certainly not pleasant, is sufficiently clear. Either the farmers must supply milk at a lower rate or, the factory must be stopped. If those who make the greatest profit from the industry are not willing, to sacrifice themselves, the Directors will have no other resource than to cease operations, at any rate for a season. Under the present cir cumstances threepence half-penny is the highest possible price settlers must expect to get for milk sufficient to manufacture a pound of cheese, that is, a little over a gallon. Whether the farmers will submit to this material re duction in their profits remains to be seen, but as there is no alternative ex cept to cripple an important industry, which must ultimately return a hand some profit, we hope that the sacrifice will be submitted to. , At any rate, the final decision rests with the farmers themselves, and as the issue is so im portant to them they should attend the meeting next week en masst so that the matter may be thoroughly discussed and a resolution come to.

Mr Wright will occupy the Rev A. M. Beattie’s pulpit at to-morrow morning’s service.

Mr J. D. McCormick, formerly leading barrister in Auckland, was arrested yes terday on a charge of- perjury and ad mitted to bail.

Mr Dargaville will address his consti tuents in the Theatre Royal, Auckland, on Wednesday. The meeting is likely to be a lively one. The Hawke's Bay runholders, acjing in concert, have now definitely decided to erect a rabbit-proof fence along the sou thern boundary of the province. The work will be commenced at once.

Mr J. E. Redmond, M.P., has finally made up his mind not to visit New Zea land, as his time is fully occupied in arranging for the meeting of the M elbourne convention.

Five declarations of insolvency have been made in Dunedin during this week, all of persons in the liquor trade, four of them being hotelkeepers in a small way of tusiness.

The Mataura’s meat cargo was insured in the iiew Zealand Go. for L10,62G, of which L 7,626 is re-insured in various colonial and other offices. Only one* third of the meat is damaged.

A heavy fall of snow took at Methven yesterday evening, and this morning • the ground was covered to a depth of several inches. = We learn from a Wellington telegrapi received this afternoon that New Zealand will be represent at the An negation Conference to be held in No vember, ly the Hon. Major Atkinson and the Hon. F. Whitaker, the late Pre mier.

Yesterday Detective Thos. Neil ar rested a passenger by the Doric, from Auckland, at the Christchurch Temper ance Hotel, for having in his possession a quantity of smuggled jewellery. The goods comprised watches, rings, etc., and the case will be brought on at the Resi dent Magistrate’s Court on Monday.

The sermons in connection with the Wesleyan annual home and Maori mission meetings will be preached in the Wesleyan Church, Cameron street, to-morrow, by the Rev W. Tinsley, of Christchurch. As Mr Tinsley is one of the popular preachers of the Wesleyan Church, and as the cause he advocates is also popular, large congregations may be expected. Notice of the meetings appears elsewhere. Mr Duncan WrightWwork in this town appears to be growing in popularity. This day at noon a prayer meeting was held in the upper room of the Town Hall which was more numerously attended than any previous meeting at that hour during the week. After this meeting the friends of the mission proceeded to Bar ing Square where a short open air service was gone through. uwing to the cold ness of the air and prevalence of wind the stewards had determined to finish the mid day service in the Town Hall rather than continue in the open air. The hall was again thronged. The evangelist called

the attention of the large audience to the gospel narrative of blind Bartimeus. The speaker argued that all men are blind, and that Christ gives immediate sight. The choir, under the direction of Mr Weeks, again contributed the’r valuable assistance. To-night is to be devoted to the claims of gospel temperance. The stewards have been much encouraged by the earnest sympathy of the public evinced in the large congregations which continue to flock to the sound of the old song of “Jesus and His love.” At a meeting of the Methven School Committee, held on Tuesday the following members were present Messrs Pocock (in the chair), Morgan, Patton, McWilliams, and Hitch -

cock. The minutes of the last meeting were read and approved. Letters were read from the Board of Education, stating that they could not grant more than HO for planting, and that the Board did not supply trees. The Secretary reported having car-ied out instructions from the Chairman since the last meeting, and had ordered 500 trees for planting the school grounds, from Messrs Sealy Bros, of Ash burton, and that they had arrived and were being planted as fast as possible. Copy of letter from the late Chairman to the Board of Education was also received and considered. The master’s report for the month on the progress of the school was also received and considered ; also a complaint from Mr Murray as to the treatment he had received from members of the dancing class and the Good Temp*

Jars. The parties - complained - of were summoned to attend the meeting and ex plain the circumstances of the case, from which the Committee concluded 'there was some alight misunderstanding be tween them and the master, which they resolved to have set right immediately to prevent any further simi lar occurrence. It - was .unanimously agreed to aak Mr Murray to accept the appointment of caretaker of the school room and furnitu.o, and to inform him that the Committee had resolved to give him a percentage on all monies collected for the use of the room, the balance to go .towards defraying the incidental expenses; also that Mr Murray should not allow any person the use of the room until they had paid down LI as a guarantee that the roo,m and furniture,be left as found ; this resolution to apply ohly to parties whom the Committee have not previously made special arrangements,with. The tender of- IVir W. Williamson for labor in plant ing, etc., was accepted at per hole for digging, and 8s per chain for removing "and fe-erecting fence. The Chairman and Secretary were empowered to pass and pay all accounts connected with the planting and fencing. Mr Morgan pro posed Mr K. Drew as a member of this Committee in place of Mr W. B. Comp ton, which was unanimously carried. •Mr Hitchcock, on behalf of the Sunday School called the attention of the Com mittee to a notice that had been given out by the Rev Mr McLennan, Presbyterian minister, that he purposed holdingservices every alterna'e Sunday in the schoolroom at three o’clock in the afternoon. As this would materially interfere with the existing arrangements of the Sunday school, he wished to know if it was the. wish of the present Committee that such notice should be carried into effect. A considerable amount of discus sion took place on the subject, in course

of which it was remarked that the least the Rev McLennan could have done was to have consulted some of the parties in terested in the Sunday school before going so far as to give public notice of his intentions. At this stage Mr Morgan proposed—“ That the Presbyterian body be refused the use of the schoolroom

whilst required for Sunday school duties,

until application in the usual way be made to the Chairman of this Committee, and that he be empowered to make necessary arrangements to suit both parties if pos sible.” The meeting then adjourned.

;• Hop Bitters strengthens, builds up 5 arid cures continually, from the first dose. Be sure and see.—[Advt. ] Wells’ •* Rough on Corns.”—Ask for Wells’ “ Rough on Corns.” 7j£d. Quick re lief, complete, permanent cure. Corns, warts, bunions. Moses, Moss and Co., t-ydney, General Agents. x

METHVEN PLOUGHING MATCH.

[by our special reporter ]

President—J. C. Wason, Esq.—Vice-Presi : dent: Joseph Ivess, Esq. Committee i Messrs J. Loudon, A. Orr, G. Murdoch, R, Patton, W. Ullyet, George Gaul, G. Pocock, C. J. W. Cookson, junr., F. McCafferty.—Hon Secretary and Treasurer:

C. J. W. Cookson, junr. The first of what is intended to be an annual match for ploughmen in the Meth ven district took place yesterday, in an English grass paddock situate about a mile from the Methven township, which was kindly lent by Mr D. Cameron (Olunes). The weather up till four o’clock in the afternoon was all that could be desired, and a large muster of farmers was on the ground, who apparently took great interest in the match. The ground selected, so far as being conveniently situated, was all that could be wished, but, unfortunately, was of .insufficient consistency to give a good appearance, in the majority of instances, to the work done by the ploughmen. One fault was that the ground had been previously ploughed to a greater depth than the ploughs were set for yester day, and this ’ made the furrows have rather an uneven look, and ni de it a difficult matter to keep the ploughs to the proper guage. etc. Visi tors from Ashburton and elsewhere were somewhat numerous, and although the result of the match was not so satis factory as regards the number of entries for the first Methven match, the pleasing fact of such great improvement being ef fected in the appearances of the farms in the neighborhood, made up for all disap pointment. Indeed, it seemed surprising

that in four year’s time so many finely I cultivated farms could have sprung into existence from a tussock waste. There I can bo no doubt but that Methven now ranks amongst the best grain-growing 1 districts of Canterbury, and possesses farmers of the right stamp. 1 Mr Patton, of the Methven Hotel, had a publican’s and refreshment booth on 1 the ground, at which both liquid and I solid refreshments were served to a con- I Htant crowd of eager customers, and ap- 1 patently he did a good trade. A email 1 contingent of police, including Constable Smart, was present, but we ar» glad to state that their services were not called in to requisition during the day. The attendance was about 400. Messrs P. and D. Duncan had their patent disc har row on the ground, and Messrs Cookson also exhibited a dray and some other I implements of interest to farmers. Punctually at 9.30 most of.the teams were on the ground, but it Was nearly 11 o’clock before much progress was made by the ploughmen. The Committee and officers were most assiduous in the per formance of their duties, and the arrange ments on the whole were excellent. We must not forget to mention the courtesy of the hon secretary and treasurer, Mr 0. J. W. Cookson, junr. The following are the entries and prize list:—

Champion Clvsses. 1 Judges—Messrs J. Latnbie, J. Pannett, and I G. Murdoch. I Double-furrow Ploughs. ] First prize, Lio ; second, L 5 ; third, L 3. En- I trance, 15s and 7s 6d, I First class. I Owner. Ploughman Maker. J J. Dunn Owner (1) Duncan J Loudon Bros. J. Allan (2) Reid and 1 • Gray | R. Magson OwnA (3) Blythe J S. Brown Owner Duncan I B. Travis Owner Blythe I Second class. I First prize, L 8 ; second, L 6 ; third, L 4. J Entrance. 15s and 7s 6d. I M. Sulivan Owner (1) Duncan I Gouldand. I Cameron T. Morris (2) Duncan Loudon Bros. J. Jones (3) Reid and Gray James Lemoh J. Bright Duncan Wi Reynolds D. Green Duncan P. Weldon J- Murray Blythe W. Orr Fawndyke Duncan 1 w! Orr J* Watson Duncau Third class. Boys under 18 years of age. Entrance, ss. J. -Good G. Good (1) Duncan Pocock Bros. P. Pilmer Reid and Gray Single-furrow —Men’s class. First prize, L 5 ; second, Lz 10s. Entrance, ios and 53. Gould andjj. Cameron(i) j Duncan Cameron 1 1 Boys class. Boys under 18 years of age. First prize, L 3 ; second, 30s. P. Weldon !C. Good (1) 1 Hor. shy Three-furrow class. First prize, L 6 ; second, L 3. Entrance, ios and ss. Gould andlF. Collins (1) I Duncan • Cameron | 1 Special Prizes. Judges for horses and harness—Messrs J. McKellar and Macfarlane. Champion class. For the best fiering, Messrs K. Wilkin and Co.’s prize, Li is—J. Dunn. For the best finish, Mr J. Gilchrist’s prize, one pair of blankets, value 20s—R. Magson.

Pecond class double-furrow. For the best .fiering, Messrs Friedlander Bros.’ prize. Lx is—M. Sullivan. For the best finish, Mr Mutter’s prize, a pair of blinkers—James Murray. Third c'ass double-furrow —For boys under 18. For the best fiering and best finish, Li—G. Good. Three-furrow class. For the best fiering, Li—F. Collins. For the best finish, Li—F. Collins. Single-furrow class. For the best finish and fiering, Li—Jas. Cameron. For the straightest ploughing on the ground, Li—Jas. Cameron. Single-furrow— For boys under 18, For the best fi ish, Li—C. Good. For the best ins and outs, Li—J. Mur ray. Oldest married ploughman, Messrs Hardy and Co.’s prize, box of tea, value 30s —R. Magson. For the best team on the ground, Messrs P. and I>. Duncan’s prize, I set of trees, value 40s —W. L. On, Ist for three bay horses. M* - Pcrimgeour’s prize of a wheelbarrow, value 30s —W. L. Orr, 2nd Best matched team, Li—Gould and Came ron.

Best kept harness, Mr Street's prize, one set blinkers —W. L. Orr (ploughman Fawn dyke), Ist; second prize, Li—W. L. Orr (ploughman Watson), 2nd. ' Best harness on ground, Mr Tait’s (saddler) prize, one pair blinkers, value 20s—S. Brown. Best groomed horses, Messrs Mitchell and Turner’s prize of one pair riding trousers, value 30s— W. L. Orr (ploughman Watson), 1. THE WORK.

Taking first the Champion class for double-furrows, we found an old prize ploughman, Mr S. Brown, of Wakanui, at work again. He had certainly the nicest piece of ground in the paddock, being very level and of better consistency than most of the other lands. [Before going further we might mention that the lands for this class comprised nearly | of an acre, being f of a chain wide by 8 chains long.] His fiering was very good, but the angle was deficient and the pack ing irregular. His imp’ement, a Duncan plough, evidently was not in good trim. His line was very straight, and the cut all that could be desired, but.the work was 1 by no means up to the previous perfor mances of the same ploughman. Kext to him, B. Travis, had a rather unsteady team, and the furrow horse did not con fine himself to walking in the .furrow, but rolled from side to side, making

good work an impossibility. The fiering was too low, and the line irregular and the furrow laid too flat, making a deficient seed bed. The plough (a Blythe) was a good implement, and would have shown good work but for the team. The nest land to Travis’a fell to another well-known champion prize-taker, , Mr J. Dunn, of Flemington. His work- from the first was keenly criticised, and it could be seen at a glance that it would take a deal of beat-

ing. His line was capital, though not quite ao good as Brown’s, but the packing and angle were perfection. The furrows were evenly laid from end to end, and his implement (a Duncan) made excellent work. Unfortunately his land was nearly a foot wider at one end of it than the other, and in consequence his finish, although very good, was not up to that of R, Mngson, who finished in a way that nothing better could be desired. Some critics were present who thought that Dunn’s work showed the cut too high, but whatever their opinion may be worth, the work on the whole was superior to any on the ground in the double-furrow class. R. Magsou had a very irregular line, the fiering was loose, and the angle deficient. He had a fine team of horses very evenly matched. Towards the finish this plough man improved wonderfully, and made, as before stated, the best finish in his class. W. Allan had a capi al line, and the fur rows were very well and evenly packed. The new description of share with which this particular implement of Reid and Gray’s manufacture is fitted, making the furrow to lie with a rounded edge, is said to be a great improvement on clay land. The seed-bed shown was to all appear ances the best on the ground, but the fiering'was crimped. Whether this im plement will satisfy our farmers here or in the northern district as to the depth or kind of furrow will have to be left to a future date. It may be stated here that several large farmers in the Methven dis trict consider that this plough i* just the thing for their lands. In the second class J. Bright, a young ploughman from Ashburton, did some fair work. His

fiering was too low and the furrows laid too .flat. The angle was deficient but his finish was fairly well done. He will evi dently improve with more practice. 3. Fawndyko showed a good line, though the furrow wore not well packed, and the seed bed not as it should “be. His land, per haps, had'somethingto do with the appear ance of the furrows. His plough (by Duncan),was in capital order, and be had the finest team of geldings on the ground. D. Green evidently thought it was no use going on further with his work, as he gave up after the first furrow had been turned |by him This ploughman was evidently a novice, as he spoilt his neighbor’s chance of finishing properly. M. Sullivan made some splendid work. The fiering was good and the angle of furrow excellent, with good seed bed. He had his implement (a Duncan) in splendid trim, and his work was , much admired. The line was all that it should be, and his finish would have been ex cellent only for the cause iust named J. Jones did some good work with a Reid and Grey plough, similar to the one used by Allan. His furrows were evenly and firmly packed, making a good seed bed, and his finish was fairly done. The line was even and his fiering well laid up. D. Watson did some capital work with a Duncan plough, but the fiering was bad,- though he showed a good line. The angle of furrow was just the thing, and the seed bed good. T. Morris had a good line, and the furrows were well laid, giving a good seed bed, but in our opinion the angle was too high. The judges, how ever, differed, and awarded him second prize. His finish was very creditable. J. Murray did some very nice work with a Blythe plough. The furrows were evenly packed and his fiering and angle excel lent. He finished well and took second honors. G. Good, in the boys class, did some very nice ploughing. His line -was good, and the fiering fair, with well laid furrow, showing good seed bed. His finish was also very creditable. F. Col lins did some excellent ploughing with a three-furrow (Duncan) plough. We were sorry to see that there was only one com petitor in this class. The furrows were well laid, and his angle all that could be desired, considering the nature of his land. He made a very fair finish. He had a team of four fine horses belonging to Messrs Gould and Cameron, which were harnessed with the new rope and block tackle instead of the ordinary plough chains. In the single-furrow class, J. Cameron, who was the only competitor, did some capital work with a Duncan plough. The fiering was all that could be desired, and his angle and seed bed were.alike first-class. The furrows were evenly packed, and his finish was un doubtedly as it should be, the best on the ground. In the boys’ class, 0. Good did some fair work. The angle was fair but the farrows were loosely packed., His im plement was one < f Hornsby’s, and the only foreign makers in competition dur ing the match. HARNESS AND HORSES.

Mr S. Brown had a very fine set of plough harness, which was' made by Mr Ta't, of Ashburton. It was of a very substantial character, and reflected the greatest credit on the maker. Mr W. L. Orrtook first honors for the best kept harness. This gentleman’s beautiful three-horse teams were greatly admired, both for the appearance and make of the animals, as well as their somewhat gor geous trappings, which we believe were made in Scotland. In the best team of three horses, Messrs Gouldand Cameron’s team of three bay geldings took first honors, and Mr W. L. Orr took second pi ice with a well matched team of three mares. Mes rs Gould and Cameron were also successful in having the best matched team on the ground. THE DINNER.

Just before the dinner hour a heavy fall of snow came on, and a large number of visitors who would otherwise have been -present preferred to make tracks for home. Consequently only about 100 sat down to dinner in the repository ad joining Messrs Oookson’sjoffices. Mr W. Rowse, of the Canterbury Hotel, pro vided an excellent repast, on which a very vigorous onslaught was made by others besides the hungry ploughmen. Mr J. C. Wasm, President, occupied the chair, and Mr Ivess the vice chair. The usual loyal toasts were honored. The “ Army, Navy and Volunteers,” coupled with the name of Mr W, Morgan was then proposed. Mr Morgan responded and said that although he wis neither a sailor nor a soldier, he had just joined the volun teers and would “ take his first drill to morrow.” (Laughter, j Song—“ Motto for every man,” Mr Hussey. ' The Chairman proposed “ The General Assembly of New Zealand,” coupled with the name of Mr Ivess, the member for Wakanui. He was sure that this member had done his best for his constituents, but they must remember that any mem ber was but a unit in the House, and they must not expect too much. He alluded to the contest which he had fought with Mr Ivess at the last general election. That contest ho might say had been car ried out by himself without personal ill feeling of any kind and with purely poli tical tactics. Mr Ivess responded. He could not trespass upon the meeting with any politi cal matter. He v&s of opinion, however, that party politics were necessary for successful legislation. He thought that no fairer contest was fought than that with Mr Wason. He could not help referring to the heavy coats and the un fairness with which Mr Wason had been treated by the Government in defending his election, though it was no fault of his ewn.. He trusted that as the franchise extended the constitution would be en-

larged. He thanked them for the honor in drinking hia health. Song—“ To the West,” Mr Julian Jackson.

Mr Ivess proposed “The County Coun cil of Ashburton,” coupled with the names of Messrs Lambie, Macfarlane and Jack sdn. He spoke of the very able way in which the Council had always i arried out important works in the shape of bridges and water supply throughout the county. The toast was drunk with musical honors.

Messrs Jackson, Lambie, and Macfar lane Mr Macfarlane proposed “ The success-

ful competitors, coupled with the name of Mr John Dunn.” He hoped that the work done to-day would be an incentive to the unsuccessful ploughmen, and bring forward a larger competition in future. Song—“ The policeman’s lif->.” Mr Alexander proposed “ The unsuc cessful competitors, coupled with the name of Mr S. Brown.”

Mr Brown, responding, said that he hoped ploughing matches, would be held oftener throughout the county, as he took a great deal of interest in them.

The Chairman said that the next toast was the “ Working Committee,” coupled with the names of Messrs Loudon, Patton, Orr, and OookSon. Mr Loudon, in responding, said that the principal work fell upon Mr Oookson’s shoulders. He thought that the district had responded most liberally towards the day’s work, and a considerable surplus would be in hand for another year. Messrs Orr, Patton, and Oookson also responded. Mr Lambie said the most important thing they had to consider in ploughing matches was the welfare of the implement manufacturers. Without the improve ments in ploughing implements the work of to-day would not have been so well completed. He would couple the toast with the name of Mr P. Duncan.

Mr Peter Duncan responded, very pleased to see that alltßbimplfments on the ground to-day, except onej were of colonial manufacture. He bad great pleasure in being present to-day. He thought the work done was very credit able.

Soog—“ Marching through Georgia,” Mr Sullivan.

Mr Cookson proposed the health of the owner of the ground so kindly placed at the disposal of the. Committee —Mr Cam eron of Clunes.

Mr Cameron responded. He hoped that the new kind of ploughing which they had that day witnessed would be more freely tested, as ha felt sure the new kind of work done by some of the ploughs was the proper sort for land in that district.

Mr Hussey proposed, “The Judges, 1, coupled with the names of Messrs Pan nett, Lambie, and Macfarlane.

Messrs Lambie and Macfarlane re sponded. Mr Loudon proposed “ The Chairman.” In doing so ho thought it was due to Mr Wason to mention the fact that the Com mittee considered him the beat man in the district. (Cheers and laughter,) In ieed,

if Mr Wason intended to stand for re election he did not know but that he might support him, although he had voted against him at the last election. Mr Wason replied and thanked them

for the toast. It had given him great pleasure to preside at their dinner, and also to act as their President.

The toasts of the “ Ladies,” coupled with the names of Messrs D. Cameron (Springfield); D. Cameron (Clunes), and Angus Murray was drunk and amusingly responded to by Messrs Murray and Cameron. The “ Host ” : and ■ “ Press ”

being duly honored and responded to, the evening ended'with “ Auld Lang Syne.*'

SPORTING.

GERALDINE RACES. • Second,Day. [by our special reporter.]

Tlia attendance yesterday was even better than on Thursday, many people being tempted by the splendid.weather which prevailed in the early morning. Later in the day, however, the enjoyment was marred by a strong aou’-wester that sprang up, accompanied by a shower of hail, which, tater on ): changed to a steady downpour of rain, driving, those present to-seek shelter or leave the ground. The majority adopted the lat er course,' the final races being witnessed by comp ra tively few people. The racing was more interesting than was the case on the pre vious dayj the Oup and County Plate "con-; tests causing great excitement. In both these events JL'erritt distinguished him self, the County Plato victory being de termined almost entirely by his admirable jockeying. Two serious accidents occurred during the day, and a couple of riders ware spilled in the Hack Hurdles, but neither of them was hurt. In the Handi cap Hurdles, Mr P. Jones’s mare Lady Perdita fell and broke her back, injuring herself so badly that she had to bo destroyed. Her rider (Charley Joyce) received.a severe shaking, but fortunately no bones ; were broken. - In the County ‘Plate, Right Bower in coming round the corner ran wide, and being pulled round sharply, strained the muscles of his off fore leg, and also hurt his off hind leg. This mishap should cause the Club to make some alteration in what is certainly a defect in the course before next meet ing. The following are the details of the racingjafter we went to press yesterday: Gbkaldise Cup of 150 sovs. 2miies. Winner of the G.R.O. Handicap to carry 71b extra. Mr D. O’Brien’sJbr h Tasman, by St Alban’s—Zillan,syrg,9st 2lb‘(includ ing 71b penalty (Derritt) 1 Mr J. Stephenson’s c h Taiaroa, by Tubal' Cain—Ace of• Hearts, 4yrs, 7st 51b ... . ... (J. O’Connor).- 2 Mr G. Bate’s ch g The Poet, by : An teroa—Fancy, 6ya, 7st 31b

• (McCloskej) 3 Trickster, (6st 21b), Emir Bey (Bst), and Hazard (6st 51b), also ran. After a t ood deal of Addling at the post, for which The Poet and Emir Bey were chiefly responsible, the lot were got away well together, Emir Bey taking the lead with Taiaroa at his heels, the -rest well .up. At the back of the course Hazard showed in front with a clear lead of several lengths, and he was still ahead on coining into the straight. Near the stand, however, Tasman closed up, Emir Bey being third and the rest in a cluster. Derritt soon after took Tasman to the front, and Taiaroa came up and displaced Hazard for second place. The latter and Emir Bey were plainly losing ground, and at the home turn The Poet made a rush under the whip, but could not get nearer than third place. A most exciting race took place up the straight between Tasman and Taiaroa, the riders of both using the lash freely, but the favorite was landed the winner by about half a length. Time —3min 69sec.

County Plate, of 60 so vs (with cup pre aented by Mr L. Walker), far three year-olds, the bond fide property ol persons residing within the County ol Geraldine. One and a half miles.

Colts, Sat lOlbs; Allies and geldings, Bst

71b. Mr J. Keen’s b g Faust(Derritt) 1 Mr A. Mundell’s b o Maroon (Wyatt) 2 Mr C. Storey’s g f Queen Bee (Sharp) 3 Sweet William,. Kahikatea,; Miss Fen wick, Right Bower, V.inco, and Gondoline also started.

Queen Bee was the first to show in front, but at the first turn Right Bower came to grief and was out of the race. The grey filly kept the lead till approach ing the straight when she was challenged by Faust.and Maroon, Dorritt, by clever riding, landing his mount a winner by a neck from Mr Mundell’s colt, the Queen being a good third. 1 imo—3mfn 15sec. Flying Handicap, of 60 so vs. The win ner of the G.U.O. Handicap or Geral dine Cup to carry 71b extra, and the winner of both these races to carry 101 b extra. Six furlongs. Mr J. Stephenson’s be c Hyacinth, 3y£s, 7st Sib (O’Connor) 1

Mr T. Haines’ b g Statesman, 4yrs, 6st 61b (White) 2 Mr G. Bate’s ch m Minerva, syrs, 7st 91b ... ... ... (McCloskey) 3

Trinket (6st 7lb) and Marchioness Nor (6st 121 b) also ran. Siesta, Taiaroa, an Envious were scratched.

This was a gift to Hyacinth, who was never headed from the start, and came in an easy winner by three lengths, Minerva being a bad third. Trinket and Marchion ess Neil were never in it, and neither was persevered with. The Consolation Handicap was won by Wild Boy, who beat Hazard, Mar chioness Neil, the only other starter, be ing nowhere.

AUCKLAND SPRING MEETING.

[by telegraph.]

Auckland, To-day. The following nominations for the principal events at the Auckland Spring Meeting were received last night:— Spring Handicap. —Kalo, Fish woman, Taupiti, Gilderoy, Moorland, Lonehand, Kenilworth, Dewdrop, Mitrail leuse, Viperoy (late Victory), Moonstone,, Comet, Snider, Waipati, Maori and Re port, Hurdles. Woodpecker, Harlequin, Frostfish, Lonehand, Chandler, Hard away, Christmas, Quilp, Robert the Devil, I Comet, Trioetrin and Rawenata. ]

THE LAND LEAGUERS.

[by telegraph.]

Gretmouth, To-day. Mr Redmond delivered an address on Irish matters last evening. The pnblle hall was filled, about 400 being present, very many men and woman alike coming from the outlying districts. Mr Redmond met with an enthu-iastio reception, and the name of Parnell or Davitt whenever mentioned, evoked laud applause. Mr Walsh being called for delivered 'a sliort and vigorous speech. A subscription list was opened in the room, and with -thie money taken at the door, L 240 lected.

Mr Redmond lectures again to-night on ‘ • Recollections of Mr Forster and working of the Coercion Act in Ireland.” A ban quet will be held in the same hall, ffmts were not taken before midnight.

CABLE NEWS.

.ATtST FROM EUROPE.

[Reuter’s tkleokams —copyright ] Monetary and Commercial. London, Sept. 27. - The total reserve in notes and bul lion in the Bank of England has in creased by L 200,000 during the week, • and is now Li 4,000,000. The ptippor tiovof reserve to liabilities remains at 42 percent. The Bank rate of dis count is 3 per cent, market rate; Consols are unchanged at 101 and New Zealand securities are as Five pet cent. Loan, 103^; Five per cent Four and a half per tent’ 1879- 1904 Loan, j Four- :i per cent, inscribed stock, 'xopjlfL^ldaide wheat, ex warehouse, 45s 6dj New Zea land, 40s to 44s- Adelaidej]flo|iir, xx •store, 335; tallow, i beef, 40s, best muttoii, 41&, '■ The Wool Sales- I ; - ■ The catalogue at to-day's wool - sale comprised 10,100 bales. The* bf the sale was again fim. : ' Mr Parnell Reported Rhot. London, Sept. 88. A rumor is current here ; that :Mr Charles Parnell has been shot-* i The report, the origin of which has not been traced, caused some excitement) but has not gained much Credence. Irish Demonstration. I The meetings at Dungannon yester day were largely attended by 'Par nell’s followers, arid, notwithstanding the presence of a large number of Orangemen, nothing : approaching the nature of a riot occurred, the presence of strong bodies of constabulary;^ and military having been sufficient to *pre serve order. •?»•••

France and China. • - ■ Paris, Sept. 27. It is reported that-the Chinese' En voy has definitely declined the French proposals for the settlement of the Ton quin difficulty. Great been observed’ regarding the progress of negotiations, and no official an nouncement has yet been made; Bulgarian Affairs- Constantinople, Sept 29. Telegrams to hand from Sofia state that a large number of arms are being imported into Bulgaria: They are declared to be of Russian manufacture, and it is rumored the Russian Govern ment Is cognisant of the movement [Received Sept 29, noon.] 1 Ah Unfounded Report. London,. Sept 28. It Has been ascertained. .that the re port that Mr Parnell had been shot at is altogether unfounded; n j

Mr Shaw in England- The Rev Mr ihaw has been accorded a public reception to r day at Exeter Hall on his return from Madagascar. There was a very large attendance of sympathisers and the general public Mr Shaw gave a lengthy narrative of the treatment he received'at the hands of the French naval authorities show ing that he had been subjected to con siderable ill-usage both, on shore and on board the warship which took him to Reunion. The London /'press are unanimous in urging Mr Shaw f 6 ‘de mand from the French Government some reparation for the treatment he has received, . [Received Sept 29, 2.30 p.in.] ' : ' ’ Another AgrarianOritraie. London, Sept. 23, News is to hand that a fata! agra rian outrage has occurred in Ireland, the victim being a landlord -in Mayo named Grotty. No clue of the perpe trators of the murder has been 'o& tained.

Carey’s Murderer. O’Donnell was again brought up at the Bow street Police Court t<H&y. Mrs Carey gave evidence of the ’ ihur der, and testified that, O’Donnell, after he had committed the deed, stated that he had been sent out to assassi nate Carey.

An Impressive Ceremony. Berlin, Sept/ 28. ' The statue (Germania) which- haa been .erected at Mederwald- was..ua» veiled with great ceremouy to-day by the Emperot William, in the presence of an immense concourse of people.

AUSTRALIAN.

[REUTER’S TELEGRAMS— COPYRIGHT.] The Timber Trade. Melbourne,-, Yesterday. Messrs C. S. Ross and Co. of this, city report, the sale of .kauri ex. Jules Marie, at the following average prices, at per rooft super, hewn logs, - 1253 d; sawn flitches, 14s gd; sawn boards, lin, 14s 6d. A Severe Storm. Sydney, Yesterday. A violent storm passed over the colony last night. Four and si half - inches of rain fell in the neighborhood. \ The Markets. New Zealand wheat has declined 3d per bushel, and is quoted at 4s ; New Zealand oats have fallen id, and are now, worth as 3d; maize has further advanced to 3s 4d. Sugar No. 1 pieces 1.35 per ton. , . Adelaide, Yesterday. Wheat remains at 4s pd; quotations are nominal. Flour: Town continue at about last week’s .prices, viz,, LlO 15s to Lnj country ditto have fallen 2s 6d to 5s per ton, 1 and | are now quoted at L 9 17s, 6d to Lib,- "’

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 1883.



fTIHE GUARDIAN every X news, •up tdAhehoiirbf going to press. This is better thar> baying a sixpe»' r 'v weekly. HGRSS CARD* .neatly and cheaply printed in all colors and designs at tbeGPAßDia3ioffi.ce. FROM COUGH IN FIVE MINUTES’..— Bonnington’s Pec- op Carrageen or Irish Mbaa (Registered).—The most certain and speedy remedy for disorders of the Chest and Lungs. May be obtained at moat of the Storekeepers and Chemists throughout thePrbVince. : Sold everywhere.— Qeoeob Bohmngton, Christchurch. Special Bargains. gELLISG OFF, MUST fcE SOLD. Drawing-room Suites in splendid Yol ▼et, walnut, side-board with marble top Binsll'Tables in all patterns of walnut, ■ *eto Baal Leather Dining-room Suites, in ■ : mahogany, and side-boards to match liture. Utensilsof every lonsQ Furnishing. Most be soldy as I want to CLEAR OFF all my large and varied Stock. Sbim Meeeli, BE. WAREHOUSE, 1.-wiv yi ‘t■ rUv-. * i'-' •’k v c 9 m



Wanted WT ANTED—A General SERVANT, V\ with good references. Apply to Mrs Hugo Friedlandee, Tancred street. 9 620 WANTED Known The Opening Match of the Borough Cricket Club is postponed until Wednesday next, the 3rd Odt., when all members wishing to play are requested to roll up on the Domaiq Ground at 3 o’clock sharp. 9 626 TT7ANTED KNOWN—That Robert W Elston, Burnett street, Ashbur ton, having procured the newest appara tus, is prepared to Sweep Chimneys at very low rales. Any orders left at the Town Hall will receive prompt attention. Terms cash. 7600 WANTED Known—TO LET, that very conveniently situated COT TAGE in Burnett street, lately occupied by Thomas Dudson. Only three minutes’ walk to any part of the town. ALBERT ROBERTS, . 9 629 W st street, Ashburton. 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 lesmns in Boxing, lesson £1 per month, or according to arrangement. 1344



Special Advertisements. NDBEWE S B R O S. Are now selling everything at a GREAT SACRIFICE, For Cash. QREAT CLEARING SALE. FOR ONE MONTH ONLY, Commencing Saturday, August 18th. STATIONER!, FANCY GOODS, TOYS, Etc. A GREAT REDUCTION PRICES OF ALL OUR GOODS. An Inspection Solicited. • Andrewes Bros., BOOKSELLERS, STATIONERY, &c., East street South Ashburton. nls 77 IN THIS



Dimant and Coe, A EE Now Showing their first parcels of SUMMER GOODS, Comprising, Trimmed and UuntrimmedHats, Laces, Prints, Plain and Fancy Sateens, Galeteas, Dresstuffs, Mens’ and Boys Clothing, Shirts Also, A splendid assortment of Mens’, Ladies’, ' and Childrens’ Boots and Shoes. Ail goods marked in plain figures, and offered at prices to compete with any house in Christchurch or Dunedin. VICTORIA HOUSE, Lower end East street, DIMANT AND COR, Ready Money Drapers, Clothiers, etc. 9528



THE NEW ZEALAND GRAIN AGENCY AND MERCAN TILE COMPANY, LIMITED, JJ A V E FOR SALE A VERY COMPLETE Threshing Plant, By Ransoms—almost equal to new, and for which terms are specially easy. Also, SEED OATS AND BARLEY RYE GRASS NEW CLOVER- SEEDS WOOLPAGKS, Em, Etc. All at lowest current rates. Wm. HORNE, 12 au Agent.



THE NEW ZEALAND Clothing Factory HAY ti spared no effort to place before the public a MOST COMPLETE ASSORTMENT NEW WINTER MANUFACTURES Comprising all the latest styles in MEN’S & BOY’S CLOTHING Manufactured from the beat qualities and newest Designs in COLONIAL, SCOTCH, BRITISH, AND CONTINENTAL TWEEDS. The large and increased trade has en abled the Proprietary to offer their.cus tomers still further advantages than hitherto, and THIS SEASON’S GOODS, upon, inspection, will bo found CHEAPER THAN EVER. A SINGLE GARMENT AT WHOLESALE TRICE. SHIRTS, HATS, HOSIERY, and every requisite at Wholesale Prices. Nineteen Branches now open in New . Zealand; ' , ■' Agents for the Unrivalled WERT HEIM SEWING MACHINES Ashburton. Branch: EAST STREET.



Special Advertisements. J-F YOU WANT GOOD AND OHEAP FURNITURE AND RED DING MANUFACTORY, EAST STREET SOUTH, ASHBURTON. VERY article Sold at Christchurch Prices and guaranteed bes. of material and workmanship. FUNERALS CHEAPLY & COMPLETELY FURNISHED STRONG FURNITURE, GO TO DAVIS'S



Thick Heads, heavy stomachs, bilious cjp* ■ ' ditions—Wells’ May Apple cathartic. Sd andls. Moses, Moss abd Cd., General Agents- ’*r Ddii’T Die in‘ The mn Rats ” clears out rats, mice, ' r beetles, roaches, bed-bugs, flies, ants, insects, moles, jack* rabb.tSjjgophers, J}£d. Moses, Moss and Co., Sydfief, General Agents, |