SHIPPING.

>ORT OF LYTTELTON.

Arrived. Yesterday

Wakatu, 9.8., from Kaikoura and Wel lington. Waikato, ship, from London. Sailed. Yesterday. Anthons* brigantine, for Greymouth. cutter, for Akaroa. _ Wakatu, as., for Kaikoura and Wel lington! ' ■■■*■ ' SHJFPING TELEGRAMS. \y, r .. .. . lew, Yesterday. * 5 Arrived—A Bell, from Rarotonga ; Prosper©, from Oamaru; Cleopatra,'from Lyttelton; Columbia, from Napier; Eloet- Wingn-fnHn Suva, via . Russell; Natal QoOenVfrOmßluS’. Wellington, Yesterday. : _, Arrived- —Hawes, from thei. North; from the South; Te Anau, Melbourne, via the South. ~ Rail Ad—Annie Melhuish, barque, for Hawea, for Lyttelton; Waka* tipu, for Sydney; Te Anau, for Auck* land, via tlie East Coast; Wallace, for ’iWWrfon.' ' ■ ■' - . Dunedin, Yesterday, j Arrived—Rotorua, Hauroto, and Oma cere, from the North., , . / Sailed —Waihora, for Melbourne. , . , • - Bluff, Yesterday. r from the North; Ke keno, from a cruise round the islands.

COMMERCIAL.

Ashburton Guardian Office, 1 r I Saturday-afternoon. 1 :lfCM| .PfiediiMider Bros., (in codjunction B. Wilkin -and Co., auctioneers) renorVoß the live stock-market for the week ForTast .Ttws-J Ashburton Association Yards,; ’ sqmfcktSyigecti cads&fes'b? fat sfiosp came for* ward, especially these nf itheWinchmore es-: —tatei-which -realised the top. market. - From opraijstgbTdhe sale, a brisk was maintained throughout, resulting in ad ad-; vance of is fid per head on last week’s quota tions! Fat crossbreds fetched from.! 6s 6d to 22s 6d ios fid to 14s fid.i Store sheep also, met a ready sale at prices a a3u»fcaft artVahce' of latff q notations. In fat jyryvctnall supply -earned© hand,. land 1 'Business in this line .was, very dull. In store teration in ’prices, and' we During the week we sold a splendid ,line, of hoggets, pri vately, 1,000 in number; at 13s each.' We. quote fat sheep from 3d to 3)4d per lb; fat cattle from 19s to 23s per xoolb. . .

DAILY MEMORANDA.

,r./nXTainAUOTION:.EALES ' r - gQil Os, JPCBSDAY/'OCTOBEB 9. .X ... • Matson, Cox and Go., at the Tinwald v T\ ~ Satoiwax, October 20. ftK frfewi- : Ba!lock.-at £he Arcade, Burnett <UBtc«etl iW)«wb SobMfnu •. . io nTSUMIT. ar V-*: -•"• , 7*, MteBaHSGS.-iAMDSBMBNTS; *o;f Tpbdat, Gotobib 9:^ ■'■' ' W»il8p»KI Chulrch* >Willowby Annual 3Qp.m. A: ’ .. . ; „ ,MpH»Ay,pQqiQBB» 15. jOouboil, at Borough Council at 7 o’clock. . Thubsdat, October Town ’.Ball—Caledonian Gathering, 7-30 1k18.“,. 4 v, n > [•.. : -(O Mimp&p**, JSrovwsßja 7. Ashbuciop .Counter, Council *— at Council GhamWre s li aim. Wsdwbspay, November 14. Ashburton Agricultural and Pastoral ■y, , ? Show.''

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna est Veritas et Prevalebit. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 6, 1883. The New Ministry.

The re-construction of the Ministry, consequent upon the retirement of the Hon. Mr Whitaker from the post of Premier, has caused the Auckland peo ple to cry out that now no member from that part of the colony has a seat in the Cabinet. The old cry of pro vincial representation has been raised, and some of our contemporaries have exhibited a highly virtuous indignation in denouncing a principle which, if

carried out, would limit the head of a Government in his choice of a Minis try, by impelling him to consider the claims of certain localities. The ob ject, we are told, should be to obtain the best possible men for the different governmental offices, without regard to where they happen to hail from. It must be admitted that as a general principle the contention cannot logi cally be gainsaid, but it is a somewhat curious fact that the indignation we have referred to should have found its loudest voice in Otago. In former years no other province in the colony was so strong an upholder ot the neces sity for provincial representation, and this sudden change of front is to say the least of it rather astounding. Let us see how the present Ministry is formed. Taranaki, Marlborough, and Canterbury each contributes a single member to the Cabinet, while the ba lance is made up with two representa tives from Wellington and two from Otago. From this it will be seen that the latter province has good-reason to be satisfied with the present state of things, and can well afford to reprove Auckland for the narrow-minded view she has *taken. We cannot help won dering if the Southern press would have shown the same feeling if Major Atkinson had displaced Messrs Dick and Oliver, and given the portfolios they now hold to two North Island re presentatives. And yet it is generally admitted that the Colonial Secretary and the Postmaster-General are dis tinctly the weakest points in the present Government. Nor does it require a very severe effort of the imagination to pick out of the House men who would fill these positions far more worthily than their present occupants. However sound we may consider the principle of selecting the best men for the highest positions without regard to anything else but their fitness for the places they hold, while the examples we have quoted are to be found in the present Ministry, Auckland is not altogether to be condemned for the attitude she has assumed.

The truth is that when Mr Whitaker retired, the present Premier did not make the best use of his opportunity. Then was the time for a complete re distribution of portfolios, and if this had been done the Government would not have been weakened, as, under existing circumstances, it has un doubtedly been. What, it may fairly be asked, has Mr Oliver ever done to warrant him being made a Minister? It cannot be said that during the time he had the control of the Public Works Department he showed exceptional brilliancy, while his duties as an un salaried member of the Cabinet seemed to be limited to dancing attendance on the Governor, when the latter was making his first tour of the the colony. If there is any advantage accruing to a province from the fact that it has two representatives in ithe Government, we fail to see why Otago should have that advantage, unless the members chosen possess some transcendent merit to warrant them being singled out for special favors. At any rate it is easy enough for the Southern press to con demn thfe system of provincial repre sentation frpm which they have hitherto derived so much.benefit, for if Messrs Dick and Oliver do not owe thtir present positions to the following out of the very principle that is now so hotly deprecated, it is difficult to see why they are members of the Govern ment.

A meeting of the Committee appointed to prepare evidence to place before the Mount Somers Railway Commission was held yesterday in the Borough Council Chambers. His Worship the Mayor occu pied the chair, atid there were present Messrs Ivess, Tucker, Jameson, Harri son, Leggett, Sealy, and A. Orr. Mr Albert Roberts wrote stating that he de clined to act on the Committee, and Mr 0. P. Cox’s name was added. It was re* solved that a sub-Committee, consisting of the Mayor and Messrs Ivess, Thomas, J. Orr, H. Friedlandor, A. Harrison, and J. Tucker be appointed for the purpose of

collecting evidence, and that the Com mittees at Mount Somers and Alford Forest be communicated with, asking if they could meet the Ashburton sub-Committee on the 13th to consult on the matter. The Town Clerk was instructed to com municate with the Minister of Public Works, asking him when the Commission would be in Ashburton, Gorged Livers, Bilious conditions, consti pation, piles, dyspepsia, headache, cured by " Wells’ May Apple Pills.” 5d and is boxes at druggists. Moses, Moss and Co., Sydney General Agents fer Australasia, 3

The lonic will take 5,000 carcases of frozen mutton from Wellington, and the Triumph about 4,000. At the next meetin; of the Now Zea land Rifle Association, in Auckland, the amount of prize money will be from LSOO to L6OO. This is less than half the amount givenjast year. The Methven contingent of the Canter bury Yeomanry Cavalry passed through Ashburton to-day, en route to Timaru, where the usual drill of the regiment will commence on Monday.

It i? intended, if possible, to hold a large Volunteer review at Wellington next Easter. The Colonel in command of the district will wait on the Defence Minister on his return from Kawhia to ascertain what assistance may be received from the Government. The annual balance sheet of the Canter bury Farmers’ Association (Timaru) just issued to the shareholders shows a net profit on the year ended September 20th, 1883, of 26£ per cent on the average paid up capital. The amount of assets over liabilities is stated at L 14,904. Aropeta, the Murimotu native, was brought before the Resident Magistrate’s Court at Wanganui yesterday and re manded till Monday, on the application of

the solicitor for the defence. The charge is for stealing a theodolite of the value of L 25, the property of J. A. Thorpe, sur veyor. Aropeta was liberated on bail, himself in LSOO, and two sureties of L 250 each. ,

A squad of the Ashburton Volunteers went.out this morning at 5 o’clock for the purpose of target practice. The strong wind which blew across the range pre vented anything like good firing, and the scoring was consequently smill. The distances were—2oo, 300, 400 and 600 yards, and the following scores were made :—Private Jephson, 45 ; Sergeant Vaughan, 45; Private Ashton, 36 ; Pri vate Gates, 31; Private Fyfiold, 24 ; Bugler Savage, 23; Corporal M'Donaldi 8. Sergeant Vaughan was in charge of the party, ■

An inquiry was held yesterday by Mr Lundon, collector of Customs at Wanganui, into the stranding of the St. Kilda whilst encering the river early on Thursday morning. The evidence showed that insufficient water was on the channel for the St. Kilda, but that the pilot allowed the steamer to enter think ing she was the Oreti, a vessel of much lighter draught. The St. Kilda received no damage whatever, and got off easily on the next flood time. The depositions and the report were forwarded to Wellington. Mr Joseph iPetrie, member for Grey mouth, addressed a large meeting of elec last evening on the work of the session and his share in it. Be spoke about two hours. He had a good reception, and ex pressed his confidence that the East and West Coast Railway would be made with in the next five years. No matter what Government would be in power, they would not bo strong enough to refuse it. He also thought that the majority of local bodies now borrowing under the Roads and Bridges Act would not meet their payments, and that Government would have ultimately to do it for them. At the close, of his address he received a unanimous vote of thanks and confidence. One of the most successful concerts ever held in the district was given in the Flemington schoolroom last evening by the Flemington Tonic Sol-fa Glass under the leadership of Mr Dunn. There was a large attendance, the schoolroom being crowded to excess. The class rendered several anthems and choruses in grand style. Mrs Harding presided at the har monium. A great number of songs and duets was also given by Mrs Dunn and Mrs PeaterS, Miss Anderson, the Misses Howland,? Mr and Mrs Dunn, and Messrs Thomblen, Dacress, Mitchell, Addas, Stockdale, and Master Hunt, all of which were loudly encored. The usual votes' of thanks and the singing of the National Anthem brought a* most enjoyable even ing to a close. A meeting Was hold by the Flemington School Committee on Wednesday, the members present being Messrs Dunn, Dacres. Smith, Holland, Cowan, and Fleming. The minutes of the last meet ing were read and confirmed. An. account for cleaning the school of L2 2s was passed for payment. Mr Smith said the trees wanted cleaning, as they were choked with grass. Mr Dunn and Mr Dacres agreed to clean the trees and erect a gymnasium at a fair charge. With regard lo p izos for the coming season, Mr Smith inquired how much was expended in prizes last year, and it was ascertained that the amount was eight pounds. It was resolved that prizes be given and a tea meeting be got up to cover the cost of prizes A meeting of the Mount Somers Road Board was held on Tuesday last. The members present wore Messrs Peache (Chairman), Walker, Edson, and Mcßae. The former minutes were read and con firmed. Mr Herring, of the Alford Es tate Company, Limited, interviewed the Board re the alteration of the road through the company’s estate, running from Tay lor’s stream to the North Ashburton river. It was resolved that the ordinary

steps bo taken to carry out the alteration. The overseer’s report was read, and the clerk was instructed to write to several persons who had failed to clear the gorse off the roads, according to the notice ad vertised by the Board. A letter from the County Council re the Mount Somers railway extension was road Also, one from the Minister for Public Works, stating that it would be publicly notified when the Commission on the Mount Somers railway extension would be ap pointed. A letter was read from the Pro perty Tax Commissioner re the return of Crown lands liable to pay rates. It was resolved that legal opinion should be taken on the subject; also, that the Colonial Treasurer be written to, asking for a guar antee from him that a halfpenny rate would be paid on such lands as soon as the roll was completed. The usual monthly meeting of the Wakanui Shcool Committee was bold in the main school on Wednesday evening, the members present being Messrs J Kilgour (chairman); T. Dalton, P. Ste wart and W. J. Wilson. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and con firmed. Correspondence was read as fol lows From the Board, informing the Committee that when"’they received a certified account of expenditure incurred in fencing the school grounds, the account would be paid to their credit; also in forming them that the articles asked for the use of the main school would be for warded shortly. From Mr Angus, side school, stating the number on the roll at the end of the quarter to be 32 ; strict average 22 33 : working average 24 T0. It was decided that Mr Pitt be not charged for the use of the side school for the evening of the 21sb ult, having given the school children a treat on the day follow ing. It was resolved unanimously—“ That Mr G. W. Leadley be appointed a mem ber of the Committee.'’ A discussion took place with regard to the present system of keeping the school book ac counts. The Chairman said it would be far less trouble if the masters were allowed a certain amount of books or cash to start with, and at the expiration of their term cf office, to hand that amount back to the Committee. A motion to this effect was proposed and carried, Mr Stewart re ported he had had the trees, cleaned and oauks filled up, and gorse trimmed at the side school, It was decided that the amount incurred bo paid. After transact ing some further business .of a routine nature, the Committee adjourned. Nothing purifies and enriches the blood and destroys all poisons in the system like flop Bitters. Read.—[Adyt,]

On Wednesday next the new ground formed by the Ashburton Circket and Athletic Sports Ground Co., will be for mally opened, as will also the cricketing season in Ashburton. We understand also that at the same time and place the Lawn Tennis Club begin operations. The cricket match will be Twelve v. All Comers. The twelve will consist of A. Fooks (captain), Buchanan, Curtis, Cox, Caygill, Denshire, Kemp, Leahy, Main waring, Strachey, Simpson and Vi rough ton ; while the All Comers will comprise Thomas (captain), G. W. Andrews, Baddeley., J. Fooks, 35. Fooks, S. Saun ders, Prebble, Napier, Jephson, F. Raine, Hogg, Hutchison, Jones, Polhill, Polhill junr, Dobson, B-»ylo, Maples, Makeig, Maclean (2), Field, Crisp, Quinlan, Quano, Mullins, Bradley, Howorth, Johns, Hugo uin, L Lee, 0. Lee and all others. Play will brgin at 2 p.m. sharp. The ordinary monthly meeting of the W.aslow District School Committee was held in the new schoolroom on Saturday last. The following members were pro gent—Messrs Marlin (chairman), Rainey, Wilson, Harris, Lovett and Grace. The minutes of the last meeting were read and confirmed. The Chairman read a large amount of correspondence from the Board of Education referring to various school matters, and a letter from the Chairman of the Concert and Ball Com mittee, stating that the sum of Ll 4 16s 10s had been voted by the Committee as a donation to the incidental fund of the Winslow school. The master’s salary.to gether with some other accounts were passed for payment. It was resolved that a person be appointed to keep the school clean, the Chairman undertaking to write out the conditions of appointment. It was further resolved that anyone to re i quiring the use of the schoolroom a fee of 10J be charged ; but religious denomina tions requiring its use for divine service be exempt from this charge— allbeing subject to the approval of the .Chairman* On the motion of Mr Rainey, and seconded • by Mr Grace, it was resolved t’vit a sewing mistress be appointed to the school, and that the Chairman advertise for one. The Chairman said that a pair of candlesticks were required for use at the Committee meetings, which were ordered to be procured. A motion. Was brought forward by Mr Wilson, seconded by Mr Lovett, and carried—“ That the tussocks and thorns be cleared around.the master’s house, and also that a pathway be made leading from the same to the school. The Chairman called the atten tion of the Committee to the 71st clause, third part of the Education Act, referring to the Treasurer and Clerk being one per son, and therefore Mr Harris would either have to act as clerk or resign thf tr-asurership, whereupon he decided to adopt the latter course. The meeting then adjourned. The gross proceeds of the late concert and ball at Winslow, in aid of the school fund, were L2l 11s, the: expenses amounted to L 6 14s 2d, leaving a net balance of LI 4 16s lOd.

WAKANUI ROAD BOARD.

The usual monthly meeting of- the Wakanui Road Board took place at the Board’s office to-day. Present-‘-Messrs F. T. Mayo (in the chair), Megson, Brown, Walsh, and Bruce. j.l : 'i THE MINUTES.

After reading the minutes, a desultory discussion took place re the action of the Chairman in expanding from the minutes certain business which had been transacted at a previous meeting, and it was moved by Mr Megson, seconded by Mr Walsh “ That the words relating to the dismissal of the Board’s officers which had been ex punged be reinstated.” It was moved as an amendment by Mr Brown, seconded by; MrJßruce—“That this Board is of opinion that the minutes should be a correct re cord of its proceedings, and that the Chairman’s ruling in accordance with the Road Board Act should not again be called into question, and declines to con sider Mr Megaon’a motion.” The amend ment when put was carried. ; The motion “That the minutes bo passed as read ” was carried on the csst ing vote of the Chairman. CORRESPONDENCE. - A petition was read signed by several residents in the Newlands district, asking that the road between Ellen’s and the junction of Seafield road be re-formed and shingled. Referred to the Engineer. The Secretary of the County Council wrote acknowledging the receipt of the Board’s communication re Road , Board cottages, and staling that the Council had decided to leave the matter in the bands of its Chairman to meet the Board’s views as far as possible. In another letter from the. same source in reply to one sent by the Board urging the necessity, for : pro viding footbridges over water-races, it was suggested that the Road Boards should take the matter in hand,— It was resolved that planks be p#t across the races where applied for. The Town Clerk wrote stating that action had been taken in tfie matter of the trespassing on the -East Belt-. foot path. , Tbo Inspector of Nuisances reported that. ihe accumulated manure at Jamie son’s had been removed a id the nuisance abated. .

engineer's report. The following report was read Gentlemen, —We have the honor to submit our monthly report as follows : —(i.) Seafield road. No. I section ; The contractor is pro gressing with his work, but will not be fin ished for some sveeks, as owing to the wet weather at the commencement of the work he could not make that progress that he expected. His contract time expire lon Sept. 30, He has applied for two weeks’ extension. No. 2 section; The contractor for this portion of the road has just reported the completion of his work.—(2.) Gardiner's road : As autho rised at last meeting we have let the clearing of tussocks of! 14 feet of the centre of De road to H. Evans, af 6d per chain. He is pro gressing with the work. —(3.) Rule’s road : The contract for clearing tussocks off this road has been completed..—{4.) Chertsey road. Re formation : The contract for this work is just upon commencing. The reason of delay was the completion of re-forming Seafield road, No, 2 section, which he also had.—(s.) Great South road : The metalling of this road : from the I’own Belt to t-aleyards corner has been completed.—(6.) Maintenance of roads : We are still employing labor on the roads, so that they shall be in good repair.—(7,) Roads ap plied for to be formed in No. 3 Ward.—As instructed at last meeting we have to report on the following roads with a view of deter ming which are most required to be attended to, viz.Cochrane’s road, from the end of the present metalling at Mrs Ellen’s corner to Seafield road, Winter’s road, Hampton’s road, Denshire’s road, Gar diner’s road.—We- should say that Coch rane’s road has most traffic on it; this road has already been formed some time ago, but as the matter of having an uniform grade has been overlooked it is if possible worse than when in its natural state. We may state that Rule’s road from the Chertsey road to where it connects it with this road is metalled, and as the; road connects it with the main road to Ashburton,

viz., the Seafield road, we should think it was undesirable work to undertake.—Winter’s road continuation : This road we consider the next claiming attention, and with regard to this and the other roads we think that a light formation is all that is necessary. The other roads only require attention in order to prevent the large growth of tussocks, thereby endangering fences -in t nlantations from fire, which is 110 doubt a

serious matter to farmers. We have endeavored to the best of our ability to judge which roads require attention, and put their order as fol lows with "estimated . cost ;—i j: Cochrane’s road (continued), L 96; 2, Winter’s road, L4l; 3, Hampton’s road.' L3J ; 4 Denshire’s road, L3O; 5, Gardiner’s toad, 24. (8.) Timber shoot outfall, Walsh’s Road,—The timber shoot |put in some time ago is now a complete wreck owing to the unusually large quantity of water at last rainfall working under it, and re excavating the gully which is now fully half a ehain/urthpr fromjthe seashore than previously.

ft is of no use putting in a.amilar one ae there is always a danger of a scourtaking place at the supports, we should recommend a shoot about 20ft long and guyed strongly: to posts on the top of the terrace, then any scour: -below from the driving back of the watpr daring a gale would not affect the. shoot ; also at the connec tion of the drain and shoot there should be concrete walls and floor, the , end of the shoot being let into the concrete. The face of the terrace should be protected with gorse, etc; the cost of material we do not think would be more than Ll2. The Board, we believ*, would get more, than this for the timber in the, old shoot, a large quantity of which is in good order. (9.) Concrete falls, Leadley and Bu'.- terick’s Drain.—Some damage has been done fo these falls during the last heavy fresh. The necessary repairs would not cost more than a few pounds, which should be done before the wet season commences, otherwise the damage wpuld be very considerable. 'Gbrse on roads. —We have issued 110 notices to persons to clear gorse off roads, etc , most of whom are complying with the notice. . ‘ Clause 1.--It was decided that two weeks’ extension be granted. Clause VII.—It was resolved that ten ders be called for 1,2, 3 ; also that Win ter’s •, and. Hampton’s roads have light formation.

Clause Vlll.—Decided that material be found on condition that Messrs Wilson and Stewart provide labor and carting. Clause IX.—Agreed to. The report as read was adopted. XSE SMALL BIRD PEST.

It was resolved —That the Clerk be authorised so continue to pay 2d per dozen foe eggs and ;heods of small birds colleoted in the district, and that the Chairman commuicate with all,the School Com mittees in the district to render what assistance they can.” . ■ ! - -"NEW BUSINESS. ' 5 Mr Brown drew attention to the dan "goroua state of'the bridge neav’Mr Ihnis .property, and the matter was referred to the Engineer. • - lb 1 was■ also decided to -fence-off the River road-to prevent;accidents. THE RATES. It was moved-by~Mc- Megson aud se conded by Mr Bruce—“ That action be taken to recover all rates unpaid on Nov. 3rd.—Carnecl.' ' a ‘ w

Mr Brown, moved, and .Mr Walsh se conded—-‘ f 'Phat for the present year the Clerk keep a separate account of all rates collected in each' ward aftd that each ward be debited with the coat of all work ddiie by the Board within its bound#, and also with the interest of any overdraft, should' there ■ be any, for its benefit in order that each ward shall bear the whole cost- of -all road works within its bounds ; but of no other works except •done for its special,benefit, and. that ■be-' fore" any works be 'let in any ward, the cost of which shall exceed its jratea for tha year, 1 the Clerk be instructed to bring such ’ matter before' the liotice of the’ Board. Carried. " : j ■' V ■ accounts; ;’ : 1: ‘Accounts to the aindunt bf Lifil were passed for payment, and the Board adjourned.

THE VOLUNTEERS.

The New Zealand Rifle Association.

The sixth prize meeting of the New Zealand Rifle Association will be held at commencing on. Thursday, the 28th February next. Special free railway passes will be issued by: the Government to those Volunteer- members of the As sociation who may require to travel to and from Auckland. These passes will

be issued by the officers commauding the several districts to those Volunteers only

who actually intend to take part in the contest, but such Volunteers must send in to the Secretary of the Association at Wel lington not later than the 10th February an intimation of their intention to com pete, as without notice no free passes will be issued under any circumstances. The passes, ‘moreover, will only be issued to enable to arrive at Auck land by Wednesday, the 27th February, and will be available for the return journey by the first op , portunity after the. completion of firing. The Union Company will convey mem bers of the Association intending to com-: pate at single fares for return tickets. The programme comprises the following matches

Nelson Match, for rifle or carbine belt, 300 and 500 yards, seven shots at each distance ; fifteen prizes, representing L6O, made up as follows—one each of Ll2, HO, LB, L 6, L 6, two of L 4, three of L2, and five of LI. ‘

Canterbury Match, for rifle or carbine belt, 200 ydb, ten rounds. ' Twenty prizesi will be offered in this match, amount ing to LSO, as. follbvra : —One'oach of LIO, LB, L 6 and L 4, and six of L2 and ten of 1.1. : *'■ ; ’ ' * ’ i

Otago Match, for rifle or carbine belt, 300yds, ten rounds. Twenty prizes, amounting to LSO, as follows :—One ea<fh of Lit), LB, L 6 and L 4, six of L2, and ten of LI.

Auckland MaToh, for rifle bait, 200yds, 500yds and 600yds, seven rounds at each distance. Twenty-five prizes, representing L7O, as follows:—One each of Ll2, LlQ,’ LB, L 6 and L 5, two of L 4, three of L2, and fifteen of LI.

Wellington Match, for* carbine belt,* 200 yd a, 300yds and 600yds, seven rounds at each distance. . Twenty prizes, repre senting LSO, as follows One each of LlO, ;L8 and L 4, six otL2, and ten at LI. :

Marlborough Match, for rifle belt, 500 and 609yds, ten shots at each distance, twenty prizes, representing LSO, made up as in the case l of the Wellington match. Union Match, for carbine belt, 300 and 500yds, ten' shots at each distance, four teen prizes, representing L4O, made up as follows—One each of 110, L 6, and JU4, two of 12, and eight of 1. '£ho National iiiflj Association silver medal will be awarded to the 1 highest aggregate scorer in the seven foregoing matches. Ihe twenty highest aggregate scorers, who must bo volunteers on the active list in Nelson, Canterbury, Otago, Auckland and Marlborough matches, armed with rifles, who will be represented with, suitable badges, will then- fire a second stage match of ten shots etrOOOyds, the scores of which will be added to the aggregates made in .the previous matches, when the highest grand aggregate score will be the rifle champion of New Zea land for 1883-4, and entitled to hold the rifle champion belt for twelve months. In the event of there being a tie for places among the highest twenty, it will be de cided by firing shot for shot at about 600yda. In case of there being a tie for the grand aggregate prizes, the twenty highest a<gregate scorers arniad with car-, bines will fire a second stage match of tea shots at 500yds for the carbine champion ship of New Zealand for 1883. If either of the champion bolts is won two years in succession (or three years at! intervals) by the same person, it will be come the absolute property of such winner, former -winners under the Government prize regulations being allowed to count.

The following is a list of the aggregate, prize* for the rifles :—lst prize, Rifle; Champion Belt of New Zealand, Rifle Association's Gold Star, and U 2 5; 2nd, New Zealand Rifle Association's Silver Star and Ll2 10s ; 3rd, New Zealand Rifle Association’s Silver Star and 18 ; 4th, L 5 ; sth, L 3. For carbines—lst, Carbine Champion Belc pf; New Zealand, Rifle Gold Star and L2O ; 2nd, New” Zealand Rifle ' Association's Silver Star, and X. 6 ; 4th, L 4. i here will also be a civilians’ match to be fired.at 200 and 500 yards, seven show at each distance, for which six prizes,; amounting to Ll 3, will be offered. The Union Company’s Cup will be fired

for by the twenty highest scorers in the Nelson, Canterbury, Auckland, and Wel lington matches, ten shots at 500 yards. Four prizes are offered in the Rifle Com pany’s Challenge match, and a similar number in the Carbine Company's Chal lenge match.

SPORTING.

WANGANUI J 0. SPRING MEETING The following weights have been’ de clared for the W.J.C. Spring Meeting : Hurdles— Mount, list 101 b ; Bugler, lOit 31b ; Hina, 10*tf Re liance. 9st lOlb j Chevalier, 9st. " “ Handicap —Sir George, 9st 2H>} Buz zard, Sat 61b ; .Fame, Bst 4lb=;iDaa, 7st 121 b; Bayard, 7at 111 b; Hinsmoa,, 7at 101 b ; Hippona, 7st 61b ; Witoa f Sat fWb ; Lady Florence, Raphael, Ngata, “* and Patience, 6st 71b. . 1 :

CORRESPONDENCE.

We do not hold ourselves responsible? ftjr'the opinions expressed by pur correspopdeqts.

AN EXPLANATION.

To the Edixojb. : .

Sir, — In your issue of the sth inst yea state Mr Nicholls, of Ashburton Forks, had a narrow escape from a aerioug aepl dent, his horse coming .in contact jrith a rope drawn across thatpartof thfl’Alford Forest .road at present under repairs. I may mention.: that tbe; statement is/at varianpa with the facts of the caae. j .{There has bach no rope acrois the rpad.ajtebfl p.m. for this last 7 days.' lam ttflaomto say what caused the Resident, bat some of the residents in Burnett f remember the furious horsesand shouting .of men. in rather an excited manner on the evening in jgnee tion about 9 p.m.. Of conyafi,,!.; do not say Mr Nicholls was.among the number, bub that there was furious gallpptngr V » f*ct, and that the .accident was eapfecjFby a rope is not a'fact. 1 mqatlevq.the ratepayers to- solve the- enigma .■: bpif, the apeidept occurred,—l ajn« ota.,y GeorgeSt. Hi 11,.,,; : ; Chairman *ftheßpMugh..‘i Council Works Committee

HORSE PARADE.

The Ashburton Agricultucal skHd dcflP* toral Association -have every reason to congratulate themselves on- the of the horse, parade, ’ ’held. , ? qnder their auspices at the Show. Ground;* tqtday. Fdrtunfttely ;; they ' were ’ fhVbred / *vdUh bflght ■' weatherj* sdtheogl?’'’i - Itiwtt northerly Wind raißed : ap' ; clwd#’of which ■ interfered ’ with {ledektriahs !i 4nd others on the roads .ThwOpmipit#ee of Management, Messrs". J. 1 aJ Loa tham, F. T.; . May#, M., Stitt, and R. Miller, carriedout.their duties admirably, and the/secretary of, the Association,; Mr , 6. Jameson, was on the? ground. *«pefin tending affairs. The oqttina>. .nomfeered twenty-two, which were-madd up .a#'fol lows:—Draught horses, 10.;. •{Aciplllgh bredsj 7;'carriage and;;hacknoj*a» S trand ponias, 3, ; 0{ these theroK«ais, , only one absentee, the .Geraldine .fttnd - Company’s Renfrew Jock not putting appear ance. ; The quality ; .of thei stock-ww a decided iraprovemeut on anything pre viously, shbwn in this dietriet. aod? the hprsek were greatly admired by; those pre sent. ■ DKAUGAI HORSES. ' i.fo Mr Edwin Thomas’s:.Commander led the van in the draught class, and he Is certainly a grand animaL. ' At first sight the spectator might fancy .that ihsriii* • little ; too heavy, but when: he trotted round the circle itwas seen that his action •was excellent : As he was exhibited at last ..year’s parade, there ismoneed tosayffiore thanthat ; he looks' aa , ; well as ever. Heather Jock is. as. good a-hone as ever, and. looks remarkably fit-; indeed there were very few in the show. that,;appeared to better advantage. Mr Carter’s Dundee m vel well, and la evidently a : serviceable horse ; but Kelvin appeared to be scarcely equal to the company^he was inland sijf fored in comparison With what hd,vnilast year. Nothing.on the. more admiration than dtdMr QriggV noble looking beast Lord t ßeaoonsfield, whowas: in. splendid; fettle,;.;lus action being very, easy, and; ho trotted like * pony. Mr’Grigg. did notßead.ithis horse to the parade, last year, is very well known throughout /-the. district,: and . has taken. several prizes, at Agricultural Shows. Young Sir Colin is notjwanting in .good qualities, but there :1a 1 nothing specially worthy of note aboukjuni, his condition seeming to be scarcelyas-good as the majority of his companions. Pre tender is a big upstanding dark, bfty horse, showing considerable strength. Breeden in the county.know this horse well, and he has -bean a very successful toft l.get tor iu the Mount Somers; andother diswiet*. Drayman, though somewhat cumbrons in appearance, evidently possesses great , nqwer, ' and for general pofpofoi should prove a useful animal. ;■ Wo. Shnuldsieey that he would get excellaat hoavy . weigbfc horses; out of light weight mares..; ,• Messrs Pocock Bros’ Prince Victor is,..be lieve, a stranger bqre, and was certainly one of the mosttaking pieces olhprse-flesn on the ground. When he was standing he looked a splendid animal, and. the crojd that gathered roand;him.were loudmex pressing their admiration of his points. (However, when he stppped.qut.jn.the ring his action was a trifle disappointing, as he did not with such ease as Lord Boaconsfiold, Heather J ock, or Comman der. .; T, ■; . ... •

THOROUGHBRBB3. Seven, thoroughbreds made sip a really excellent class, and. breeders in ; the J&fr triot have a better opportunity than they have hitherto enjoyed to select a «re likely to produce good hacks.and carriage horses, while tho ie who aspire. higher need not look beyond our own county for horse? calculated, tp gotjiunters and race* horses, if mated ' with7suitable , mare. Kingfisher is ,‘A very powerful brown, jrith splendid shoulder and nice legs - lest. This is his first appearance' in Can* terbury, but ho has left a fayor able impression in the ' Npr|p - ' land where his stock, are characterised' by ! great s|ze. atfd gopd tejnpp.if. 1 Hiavruhing career ;” Australia,‘ which was contCljS* porary with that of Warrior, Saladili, Priam, Prophet and many othergoOd horses, was a successful one, and we can see no reason why he should not repro duce his race and a larger field.ia oped to him here in adding size and style to our roadsters and carriage stock. Quainby has not yet hadquite time to be put in stud cAditiod after : his recent turf struggles, but the litHA-biy will doubtless retain the followers with have so persistently stuck to him through his unlucky but honorable racing_,pareer. Had ha not met such stars,, as j.Tba Agent and Clarence his steepleoha|9 , record would doubtless have ~ seeq a very brilliant one,., and eveeti Row many good judges thiuk that witlfr equal luck and condition he would have been a thorn in the side of these two giants, Caeiivelaunus shows all his. trwtoaatfw breeding, and although, he. has,.imt yet sired a brilliant racehorse, Wb have._fg§a mspiy of his stock Impressed witly his good leaks and' style. Cataract, oqepf- - Mt Grigg’s especial favorites, is much like his sire Traitor, airifle Ua&uy'in shoulder and vein, but should get very powerful stock, and the young ouse bfihiffi.w.fthwe seen promise remarkably well. ia commencing his Becond but he will a iw meet nith'lmud&.kdeheftdoia* petit on. The.i ‘horse is of 1 very>-. tractable temper and shows it .to . advantage, has a very nice heady'; good shoulder and legs, "and irjtß - I. Mhr.

THE ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, SATURDAY, OCTOBER 6, 1883.



o’ Hielafldßeels. sn^P& T ‘iAT)RENCE OXLEY'has been 4mrr *r Appointed Agent for the Aalibuir* South : Salkaia.! .;



PATTERN DEPOT. : sISB i>6B,. jDressmakerj :



the .Arcade),. to the Ladies of Aahbur ton ' and . neighbourhood ■ that sbo‘ b&& Winter Dress Materials that can be dia-



Dreauefl ftnd: Underclpthingmade <Jt t at’tWahortest notice.



* flgghtry Office for Bomestic Servants. , . ■ -.. , 8 320



Special B argains. PIT, MUST BE SOLD. Diawing-r<xwa 'Suites in splendid Vel : . .vet.walaut side-board with marble diiv; Small Tables in all patterns of walnut. _ , Dining-room Suites, in 0 ' /jDahofiliy, ad J aido-bpards {quatcli jfc.JO I •i‘2 ''** ® ••• 1: - Every class of Furniture; Utensils 6f every Irina for House Furnishing. Most be soidj.aftjl want to CLEAR OFF f , my; large and. varied Stock. . : “ w >foiui Meecli, ..WUftiHT®-BE WAREHOUSE, ■Buttibtt sfreet. • • ! " 9 484



V .IS£3 i 7 - 7 -' Ecclesiastical. ■i ■■■ k. W,SL S.JisE,Y. O H UROH, ? Willowby. ■ Sfeimons ■ "Of+heabore Church, will be Preached on SDNDaY, OCT?. Tthinat., Morning and 1 ftev. W. Kealx.



School. Tea on table 5.30,p m. An after meeting will bo held, Ad (df&aiaiO'iSU bo i delivered by the Revs. W. Standage, and others. Muiic by the Wiilowby Choir. ; 10 666 biiA XT*—s—“ 1 “



JpOR AN 'HONEST DOUBFER, has the aiboereat sym for honest doubters, 1 would strongly recommend; thutjOu the .chance of there being some truth in Scripture, the reader should take some such step as using the following line 6 (at lettt once every day), which are based on the prayer of a soldier ’before entering into, battle, “ O God, if -there be a God, have inercy upon my soul, BE I have a soul" t H j. i God, if God there be, And I’ve offended Thee, 1 7*xi T•- *ln mercy look on me. a. My soul, if soul there be, jfliotild’st thou 1 Salvation .see ? theSaviourjflee. 1 " "3. O Christ, if Christ there be, jAnd Thou hast died for me, ',.y > rr£Vl‘WOßld Salvation see. Spirit/if-such there be, IThpu would-’st plead with me, .ayllist tbTliee. 9 549



Wanted Wes Silted Locales. Scoteh Concert. \\T ANTED —A Bor who can drive. V V Useful in garden and about house. Apply at once. Albert Roberts, West street. 10 647 WANTED KNOWN—That Robert. Elston, Burnett street, Ashbur ton, having procured the newest appara tus, is prepared to Sweep Chimneys at very low rates. Any orders left at the Town Hall will receive prompt attention. Terms cash. 760 c fjflssd of til© Free. Scotch Concert. 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, eta Tickets— monthly 2s 6d, for use of Horizontal Bar, Trapeze, Single-sticks, Dumb-bells, Indian Clubs, eta Dan Lea is always at his post to give lesions in Boxing, lesson £1 -per mopth, or according to.arrangement. 1344 y; - Joany’s Bawbee. Town H, i; ißth October wn Mg—W——— Special Advertisements. STOP THAT COUGH! DON’T DELAY.—How ; can you Stop it? Where is the «Remedy. Bennington’s PECTORAL OXYMEL OF CARRA GEEN or IRISH MOSS (registered), can produce more evidence of real merit than any other article for the purpose. Sold everywhere. —G, Bonninoton, Christchurch. ' r,.S



QR I.'OKBTINO MATERIAL, , Of every description, at OaRISTOHGRCH FRIOBS, f , ■ - '' • • •• • AT Andrewes Bros., EAST STREET SOUTH. 77



> L U S STOCK FANCY GOODS, TOYS, STA TIONER*, Etc. Must bo sold to make room for NEW : ‘ GOODS shortly to arrive. Our Prices Defy Competition. Andrewes Bros., BOOKSELLERS, STATIONERS, &0,, East stbkkt South Ashburton, nlo



Dimant and Coe* ABE Now Showing thoir 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. All goods marked in plain figures, and offered at prices to compete with any house in Christchurch or Dunedin. Y I 0 T 0 B I A HOUSE, Lower end East street, DIMANT AND COR, Ready Money Drapers, Clothiers, etc. 9528 j The Laird o’ Coekpea.



THE NEW ZEALAND GRAIN AGENCY AND MERCAN TILE COMPANY, LIMITED, Jj'.-A V B F O R SALE A VERY COMPLETE Threshing Plant, By Eansome—almost equal to new, and for which terms, are specially easy. Also, SEED OATS AND BARLEY RYE GRASS NEW CLOVER SEEDS WOOLPACKS, Exc,, Etc. All at lowest current rates. Wat HORNE, 12 au Agent.



Now Songsters-New Saags. T ; THE NEW v ZEALAND jOlotbtag Factory HAYS spared no effort to place before the public a MOST COMPLETE ASSORTMENT or NEW WINTER MANUFACTURES Comprising all the latest styles in , MEN'S & BOY’S CLOTHING Manufactured from the best 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 be found CHEAPER THAN’ EVER. '/A SINGLE GARMENT - AT WHOLESALE PRICE. SHIRTS, HATS, HOSIERY, and every requisite at Wholesale Prices. Nineteen Branches now open in New • Zealand; Agents for the Unrivalled



Special Advertisements INTRODUCTION OF THE PARCEL SYSTEM. Fashion House, Cashel street, Christchurch. Great success has been achieved 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. 0. Brown & Co., FASHION HOUSE, Christchurch. - The splendid stock of General Drapery in all departments has been purchased by E. 0. Brown and Co., from the Trustees in the Estate of the late firm of Craig and j Smyth, at a very large discount off cost for cash. Thus articles sold under cost 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 — W orth • £ s. d.



1 dross piece (12 yds) any shade, French costume cloth ... 0 18 6 1J good velveteen to match dress 0 5 6 3 yds silesia, for linings ... 0 I 10 2 doz new oxydised buttons, to match ... ... ... ... 016 1 pair warm lined»fur-top spring ~ cuff gloves ... ... ... 02 6



fl 9 10 contains— Worth 1 pair good medium, size blan kets ... ... _ ... ... 10 0 1 good honeycomb quilt... ... 012 6 8 yds good wincey ... ... 05 0 1 pair good strong corsets, any size ..; ... ... ... 0 5 0



Our Ho. 3, dress parcel for £2, containe— -1 dress piece (10 yds) celebrated’ Empress blade velveteen 3 yds good silesia for lining 2 doz new style oxydised buttons 1 handsome striped winter skirt, 1 durable silk umbrella, paragon frame ... 1 choice silk chenille scarf ... Worth 1 7 6 0 2 0 0 16 0 9 6 0 8 0 0 3 11



£2 12 .6 Our No. d, Ladies’ parcel for £2, contains—- Worth 1 dress piece (12 yds) French check costume cloth ... ...1 1 0 3 yds silesia lining for same ...0 2 0 2 doz choice buttons, to match dress ... ... ... ••• 0 1 fi. 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 ... ... ... 02 0



£2 19 6 Oar No. 5, household parcel for £2 10a, contains — Worth 1 pair large size good wifcney blankets ... ... ... 1 10 6



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 0 13 0 24 yds good strong brown or grey wincey 0 14 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 lowels 0 4 9



£3 15 3 Qur No. J 7, mourning parcel for £2 10a, 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 pairs 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 6 0 1 nice pattern hearthrug, to match 0 16 6



1 pair handsome lace curtains ... 0 14 1 pair medium lace curtains ... 010 2 pair full size good white sheets 0 18 1 pair full size good witney blan kets • ... ... ... ... 1 10 1 pair medium good witney blan kets ... ... 1 0 1 full size white honeycomb or toilet quilt ... ... ...0 14 1 choice pattern wool tabiecover 0 15 2 white Turkish bath towels ...0 3 6 white or unbleached honey comb towels ... ... ... 0 4 2 white antimacassars ... ... 0 2 2 white toilet covers ... ... 0 4 6 yds linen check glass cloth ...0 6 1 superior white linen tablecloth 0 11 6 0 6 0 0 0 G 0 6 0 0 0 G



£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 0 G 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— Usual price 1 Ladies’ handsome mantle ... 217 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 ones 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 parcel only. P. 0.0, made payable to E 0. BROWN & CO., Fashion House, Christchurch. __ 1862



Special Advertisements. Sillor-toagued Lassies. Oct. 18. YOU WANT GOOD AND STRONG FURNITURE, GO TO DAVIS-'S OHEAP FURNITURE AND BED DING MANUFACTORY, EAST ST RE ST SOU T 11, ASHBURTON. VERY article Sold at Christchurch JGI-- PEiCES and g ;%ranteed bes. of •natorial and workmanship.



F UN E SALS OHEAI>LY<fe COMPLETELY FtTKN’ISHED